Issue link: http://hvparent.uberflip.com/i/1178892
4 Hudson Valley Parent n November 2019 HVP: Since Landon was born at 26 weeks and weighed a little over two pounds, what struggles did you face? Erin: Staying for 12 weeks in the NICU was emotionally challenging. As a family we struggled with learning the needs of a preemie and ensur - ing that his nutritional, medical and developmental needs were being met. Having a preemie was also isolating for us, especially in the winter months as we did not socialize outside the home during cold and flu season. HVP: What has surprised you about Landon over the last two years? Erin: Landon is always surprising us with his sense of humor and eagerness to learn new things. HVP: How do you encourage your son to explore the world about him? Erin: Landon loves go for walks outside as a family-that is his favorite activity. He likes to listen for airplanes and birds and watch the cars go by. HVP: What has been your biggest challenge in raising Landon? Erin: Our biggest challenge has been learning that all children develop and meet milestones at different stages and to remind ourselves that Landon is on his own amazing journey! Meet this month's cover kid, Landon, 2 ½, and his parents, Erin and Chad Rowell from Poughkeepsie. In this issue FEATURES 8 I am a Hudson Valley Parent Celebrate National Veterans and Military Families Month with moms Chantel Robinson, Katrina Innocenti and Captain Lori Dan iels, who talk about raising their children while living on-base at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. 10 Me Time: Just for Women Learn about ways to improve your health and wellness with offerings from AromaGee, Pure Physique, Breath of Life and Minard's Family Farm 14 K-12 school guide Find the perfect school for your children, from holistic to play-en riched, faith-based and more. 16 A mother's intuition hits the mark Read about how a mom's hunches provide clues to her daughter's diagnosis and treatment of a rare disease BY REBECCA MILLS 18 Is your teen ready for college? Get tips from parents on how they prepared their kids for college BY KAREN MASERJIAN SHAN 21 Easy wholesome eating for kids Get the scoop on how to start kids on plant-based, healthy eating habits when they're young BY DR. PADMA GARVEY 24 We love our pets Meet the winners of our pet contest and get expert tips on flea and tick prevention 26 Calendar Step out and enjoy family time during this month's holiday events, Thanksgiving crafts and kids' theater programs 34 Boss Lady See how artist and entrepreneur Kit Burke-Smith enjoys her busy and fulfilling life as owner of Kit Burke-Smith Jewelry in Beacon and mom to a 7-year-old daughter Sponsored by: INCREDIBLE PARENTS RAISE