By Gena Hymowech
From A Christmas Carol to The Nutcracker, ‘tis the season for family-oriented holiday concerts, plays, and ballets. To make sure your child enjoys your favorites as much as you do:
• Think about his attention span. If he’s able to sit through a church service or a full-length movie, he’s most likely ready for a holiday show. If he tends to get fidgety, you may want to wait another year.
• If possible, let him choose. Narrow the options to events that will hold his interest (a musical, say, instead of a symphony performance), check to make sure tickets are available, then describe what he can expect to see at each.
• Make sure he’s well-rested but not antsy. If he’s tired, he’s liable to get cranky midway through the event. On the other hand, if he’s been cooped up all day, let him run off excess energy before you leave the house.
• Have him wear comfortable clothes. A new holiday outfit could spell disaster if it’s tight or scratchy.
• Bring distractions. Pack a quiet plaything or two, such as crayons or a favorite toy car, in case he starts to lose interest.
• Consider inviting a well-behaved friend. During intermission, the two can chat and help keep each other interested in the show.
• Don’t hesitate to walk out. If you’re child isn’t having a good time or he is disturbing other audience members, just leave. You can always try again next year.
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What A Deal!
You can get something for nothing (or at least at a discount) if you have twins or more. Scoop up these offers for some welcome money saving:
• A free package of Drypers diapers per multiple; mail copy of birth certificates to: AHP, Attn: Drypers Multiple Birth Program, P.O. Box 8830, Vancouver, WA 98666-8830.
• A free gift pack of various Evenflo products, including bottles, teethers, bibs, and more; quantity depends on number of multiples; call 800-233-5921.
• A free bodysuit, stretch sleeper, and undershirt. Get one of each per child (triplets or more only); mail copy of birth certificate to: Carter’s, Attn: Multiple Birth Program, 224 North Hill Street, Griffin, GA 30223.
• Free Enfamil powder formula. Choose from five varieties and receive one case per twin, a three-month supply per triplet or quad, or a one-month supply per quint or more; have your pediatrician’s office call a sales rep for you.
• A discount from Safe Beginnings catalog. Twenty percent off for parents of twins and triplets; parents of quads or more get 25 percent off. Call 800-598-8911 and mention the offer when ordering. – Gena Hymowech
