Issue link: http://hvparent.uberflip.com/i/1083997
4 Hudson Valley Parent n March 2019 In this issue FEATURES 8 Me Time: Just for Women HVP staff share their secrets on how they keep their physical and mental health in tip-top shape 12 Is your teen vaping? Know the warning signs and dangers of the new electronic cigarette trend BY OLIVIA L. LAWRENCE 15 The best places to play for children of all abilities A mom of a child on the spectrum lists her favorite local places for sensory-friendly playdates BY RIELLY GREY 18 Mothers share their struggles and triumphs with children who have obsessive-compulsive disorder Recognize the red flags and learn how to be your child's best advocate BY JILL VALENTINO 20 Explore the history in your backyard Celebrate Women's History Month with lessons about women that made history in the Hudson Valley BY GLORIA SMITH 22 13 things to know before your child with autism turns 13 A local mom shares what she wishes she knew while raising her son BY PATRICE ATHANASIDY 26 Are class parties terrifying for your child because of extreme food allergies? Meet a girl who doesn't let her food and environmental allergies hold her back BY ELORA TOCCI 28 Calendar St. Patrick's Day parades, maple sugar celebrations and more! 25 Years & G r o w i ng ! 1994 - 20 19 CELEBRATE CHILDREN OF ALL ABILITIES! Meet this month's cover kid Izaiah (middle) and his mom Precious (left), from Newburgh. HVP: What are some struggles you have had to overcome as a parent that you didn't expect? Precious: I would have never expected my son to have a disability. I had struggles in the beginning learning about his disability and G-tube feeding. I had to learn how to advocate for my son and build a support team for him. HVP: What makes you proud of your child? P: He is a wonderful son and never lets his cerebral palsy take away from his happiness. HVP: What makes Izaiah incredible? P: He is a fighter. Five years ago, he was hospitalized for six months and I was told he wouldn't survive. He fought for his life and ever since then he always has a smile on his face. HVP: What makes you an incredible parent? P: Izaiah makes me an incredible mom. He made me who I am today. He has changed my life for the better and I love him for that. HVP: Tell us more about Izaiah! P: He loves story time and being outdoors and attends Abilities First in Poughkeepsie.