Issue link: http://hvparent.uberflip.com/i/931862
4 Hudson Valley Parent n February 2018 ON OUR COVER In this issue FEATURES 8 I am a Hudson Valley Parent Beth Verblaauw is a mom and self-proclaimed "doer" who stresses the importance of doing the right thing and giving back to the community BY PAUL SMART 10 Me Time: Just for Women Looking for a new hobby? Classes and clubs for you to join when you need a little extra time for yourself 14 Start planning for summer with our Camp Guide Choose from 185 of the best local day camps, overnight camps and summer programs for kids 22 Teens can find their first job at a summer camp Becoming a CIT is a great opportunity for teens to learn responsibility and independence. See if working at a camp this summer is the right choice for your teen BY MICHELLE PETERSON 26 Is meal time a struggle? Let your little one get involved in meal planning and preparation. Plus 5 more tips to encourage even the pickiest eater to try foods that taste good and are good for them BY OLIVIA L. LAWRENCE 28 Send your creative kid to the right camp Bust brain drain and foster creativity at a camp where your child learns through play and expresses their artistic side BY LISA IANNUCCI 30 Calendar Programs for every age! From story times to a zine club for teens and tons of family fun in between 38 New Mom Comic This new mom gives new meaning to the word 'organic' This month's cover kid is Dylan, a sporty 9-year-old from Walden. He loves football, lacrosse and running. Photo by Michael Bloom HV PARENT READER FEEDBACK We asked moms: What are your favorite healthy fast food options? We want to know what moms are feeding their kids when they are on-the-go and still looking for something nutritious and delicious to eat. Here's what they had to say! How many of these healthy options have you tried? Panera for sure! A salad and soup or one of their sandwiches and I'm good to go! — Christine F. Protein box from Starbucks. We pair them with a grande whole milk (not the box kind, ask the barista to make one). — Meagan K. I prefer Wendy's over other options. — Alicia T. Panera! Our kids love the PB&J with yogurt. I give them the apple or fruit from my salad. Yum! — Alexis B. Adams Fairacre Farms pre-made area or salad bar. — Katie A. Blend Smoothies! They have salads and sandwiches too. — Angela S. Veggie sushi from the grocery store. — Bailey B.