knoxville parent - july 2013

J u l y 1 5 , 2 0 1 3 F r e e

July 15, 2013Volume II • Issue 7

3 Knoxville Parent • July 2013

July 15, 2013Volume II • Issue 7

Get Ready For School!

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Contents

K N O X V I L L E

Contact Info:Phone: 865.622.9680Fax: 888.457.9602E-mail: [email protected] Parent is published monthly and is distributed throughout the city of Knoxville and surrounding communities. Knoxville Parent is available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader. No person without written permission from the publishers may take more than one copy per monthly issue. Knoxville Parent may be distributed only by authorized distributors.

Knoxville Parent PO Box 52605Knoxville, TN 37950,phone 865.622.9680 • fax 888.457.9602The entire contents of this publication are copyrighted and property of Knoxville Parent. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner without the express written consent of the publishers. Knoxville Parent utilize freelance writers, and the views expressed within this publication are not necessarily the views of the publishers or editors. Knoxville Parent takes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or other materials.

Letters to the editor must include name, address and daytime phone number for verification. Knoxville Parent reserve the right to edit letters for space and clarity. Please keep letters within 500 words in length.

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Advisory BoardSr. Mary MartaAbbott, RSMThe Diocese of Knoxville

Marie AlcornUnited Way of Greater Knoxville

Mike BaileySmall Business Representative

Paul ParsonEast Tennessee Children’s Hospital

Tracey MatthewsKnox County Schools Family and Community Engagement

Elizabeth PooleyMarketing Professional

Lee TramelKnox County Sheriff ’s Department

Liza ZenniThe Arts and Culture Alliance of Greater Knoxville

Contributing WritersMarcin Gornisiewicz, M.D.Jeffrey Eberting, D.M.D., M.S.Katharine KillenJennie McGuigan, MSJames McIntyre, Ph.D.Erin NguyenMike O’HernMarek M. Pienkowski, M.D., Ph.D.Margaret StolfiLee TramelBarry Van Over

Contributing PhotographersJeremy DanielKyle FromanGina LappeJoan MarcusSteve McNicholasPaul NatkinMichaela Pruitt

Knoxville Parent is now online!

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Michael Kull and Eva Nations, Publishers

Get immunized for school“As families plan for the new school year, it’s not too early to get their child’s state-required immunizations.”

PAGE 9

Your kid’s lower back hurts? Really?“The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that a backpack weigh no more then 10 to 20 percent of the child’s body weight.”

PAGE 7

A message from Superintendent Jim McIntyre“[With the] 1:1 technology initiative (one technology device for each one student and each one teacher) we can fully leverage the creativity and expertise within our schools.”

PAGE 10

A letter from the publishers

Retainers…Are you kidding me??!!

Your kid’s lower back hurts? Really?

Healthy foods: Not always good for you health

Knox County Health Watch: Get immunized for school

A message from Dr. Jim McIntyre

Save the date: The 9th Annual Parent Conference and Transition Fair

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I’m never going to use this!: Believe it or not, math actually has a purpose

Ten terrific books about getting ready for school

Safe and sound: Child safety starts with you

Shared Nature Play: Good for the Whole Family

Get ready for a season of Broadway hits!

Helping build your child’s confidence: A little forethought goes a long way

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by Eva Nations and Michael Kull

A message from the Publishers

Dear Readers,

This month’s issue is devoted to getting ready for school! Even though summer isn’t over yet, and children are still enjoying camps or other summer activities, the new school year is just around the corner. In this issue, we point out a few things that can help parents become better prepared for the school year. We address topics from physical health (dental, orthopedic and general health) to building self-confidence in your child, as well as safety and state required school preparations.Of course, while there is still time before the school year starts, we offer information about ways to enjoy nature and to participate in entertainment activities tailor-made for families.

Enjoy the rest of your summer break!Eva and Michael

Marek M. Pienkowski M.D., Ph.D.Graduate of the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in

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A message from the Publishers

teeth in their final positions, any type will do. Most orthodontists use the clear, plastic retainers which fit over the teeth (called an Essix retainer). People my age remember the type of retainer that has a wire coming across the upper front teeth and acrylic

resting in the roof of the mouth (called a Hawley retainer). There also are cases where a wire may be bonded to tongue-side of the front teeth – either upper, lower or both – to prevent any relapse of the front teeth. We call these fixed retainers. How long does one wear these retainers? That varies by orthodontist and by patient. Most orthodontists have patients wear retainers for one or two years. I have noted that younger patients require a shorter retention phase while adult patients require a much longer retention phase.

A word of advice – please wear your retainers 24/7 and take good care of them. Clean them daily. And most importantly, please do not wrap them in a napkin and set them on your lunch tray. Hunting through the garbage bins behind the school cafeteria looking for your retainer is a not a fun way to spend your afternoon. I speak from personal experience.

Remember, summer is the best time to have your orthodontic evaluation or begin orthodontic treatment. Call us at Hardin Valley Orthodontics at (865) 690-7115, and we will be more than happy to set an initial consultation to evaluate your orthodontic needs. We hope you have a happy and safe summer!!!

You have gotten to the end of your orthodontic treatment. You have

tolerated two years of metal brackets cemented to your teeth. You have endured the week’s discomfort after each appointment that your wires have been “tightened”. YOU HAVE NOT BEEN ALLOWED TO CHEW GUM THIS WHOLE TIME!!! You see the light at the end of tunnel and are happy to have these things off.

So what’s this nonsense about retainers?Some patients and their families

view this phase of treatment as the quintessential buzz kill. “We’re supposed to be done with treatment! Why do I have to wear retainers? Are you kidding me??!!” The idea of having to wear and take care of a piece of plastic for up to two additional years can seem like more treatment than one originally set out to have. As always, however, there is a rationale behind the madness…

Orthodontic treatment addresses not only the teeth, but the supporting structures as well – more specifically, the bone and the gingiva (or gums). As teeth are straightened and aligned, the gums and bone have to reshape or remodel themselves. This process takes place at a much slower rate than tooth movement. The analogy I like to make is that at the end of orthodontic treatment, the teeth are at the finish line, but the gums and bone are only halfway through the race.

Theoretically, if I were to remove a patient’s braces and tell them to “have a nice life,” then one could reasonably expect the teeth to relapse to the point where the bone and gums had reshaped themselves. This explains the need for retainers. A patient’s retainers will hold the teeth at “the finish line” while the gums and bone continue reshaping themselves. This reshaping process may take up to two years. Usually, at the end of the retention phase, there is a need to evaluate having the third molars (or wisdom teeth) extracted. I recommend having these teeth extracted as soon as possible. Trust me, you do not want wisdom teeth trying to erupt, pushing on the teeth in front of them, and messing up the beautiful orthodontic work for which you paid with a lot of time and money.

The big questions I get about retainers are “what type?” and “how long?” There are many types of retainers, and so long as they hold the

“A patient’s retainers will hold the teeth at “the finish line” while the gums and bone continue reshaping themselves.”

Dr. Eberting holds degrees from Duke University and Temple University in both General Dentistry and Orthodontics. He is a member of the American

Dental Association, the TN Dental Association, the Second District Dental Society, the American Association of Orthodontists, the Southern

Association of Orthodontists, and the TN Association of Orthodontists. He is a Fellow in the Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Eberting enjoys

theater, music running, politics, reading and movies. He has three children.

By Jeffrey Eberting, D.M.D., M.S.

Retainers…Are you kidding me??!!

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A few years ago, Jessica Demby was struggling. After graduating from high school Jessica tried college, but soon realized it wasn’t for her. Jessica did not know what to do and felt she had run out of options. All she knew was that living at home and making minimum wage was not what she wanted.

Now, in less than two years she’s doubled her salary, has paid vacations and holidays, and is truly enjoying her work every day.

What did she do?Jessica enrolled in the Dental Staff School, run by Janet Waldron and her husband, Dr. Jon Waldron, practicing dentist. Today, the Dental Staff School offers students the same great opportunity to build a career Jessica has enjoyed. In just ten weeks, students learn professional dental assisting in a real-offi ce setting.

Each Saturday, the school hosts the current class of students and offers state-of-the art dental equipment for students’ lessons. From working on models to practicing with the dentists and fellow students, Jessica really enjoyed the hands-on learning. “It wasn’t boring,” she says, “it was a whole lot of fun!”

Dental Staff School (www.DentalStaffSchool.com) is a ten-week dental assisting school in Pelham, AL; Marietta, GA; Knoxville, TN and Franklin, TN. Classes are held on Saturdays at local working dental offi ces. The program is accredited through National Accreditation for Colleges and Schools, Non-public Postsecondary Commission in Georgia, and the Alabama and Tennessee Higher Education Commission.

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By Marcin Gornisiewicz, M.D.

Your kid’s low back hurts? Really?Backpack alert from a rheumatologist

the bag has one. The backpack should never hang more then 4 inches below the waistline.• Canvas backpacks are usually lighter than leather and are generally less expensive.• The shoulder straps should be adjustable, wide and padded to prevent interference with circulation and nerves.• Urge your child not to wear a backpack in a “cool way” over just one shoulder.

In some cases, non-specific back pain may be related to psychological problems such as depression, anxiety and stress in school. In such instances, a consultation with another health specialist may be appropriate.

20 to 40 percent of children and teens with back pain will be diagnosed with a specific condition with findings on examination and changes in imaging studies (x-ray or MRI). Here are the most common conditions:

1. A stress fracture in one of the vertebrae, which is called spondylolysis. This may occur during periods of rapid growth or with sports that repeatedly twist and hyper extend the spine, like gymnastics, weight lifting, diving, rowing, and football. It will usually heal with a change in activity and rest.

2. Slipped vertebra called spondylolisthesis. This usually occurs at the base of the spine, when one vertebra shifts forward on the next vertebra directly below.

3. Scheuermann’s disease. There is wedging of three or more vertebrae in the thoracic region, causing a rounded, or hunched back.

4. Scoliosis, a lateral (toward the side) curvature of the spine. While the majority have no specific identifiable cause and only require watching for worsening, some may need bracing or surgery.

5. Infection in a disc space (discitis), and rarely tumors.6. Inflammatory arthritis. A limited number of systemic

inflammatory conditions that can affect the spine. In summary, most episodes of back pain in children and adolescents are

not serious and resolve without treatment; however, certain congenital and acquired conditions must first always be excluded.













Back pain in adults has been extensively studied. Until recently, a complaint of back pain in a child or

adolescent was rather uncommon, but that has changed. Aside from specific medical conditions, long hours spent on computers, tablets and smart phones, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, heavy schoolbags, competitive sports all likely contribute to an increased number of kids with either acute or chronic back pain.

The vertebral column, commonly known as the backbone or spine, is made up of 26 bone discs called vertebrae. They protect the spinal cord and allow us to stand and bend. There are three general portions of the spine. The cervical portion (neck), the thoracic portion (mid-back), and the lumbar portion (lower back), which connects with the pelvis at the sacrum. The spine is not a straight line, and there are specific curves associated with each region. There are two inward curves called a lordosis and one outward curve called a kyphosis. These three curves maintain balance of the spine.

The majority of children with back pain have no definitive diagnosis, meaning the cause is unknown with normal physical exams and x-rays. This is especially true for children older then 10. The pain arises from within the muscles surrounding the spine rather then from the spine itself. This is often related to muscle sprain, strain and overuse, exacerbated by twisting and lifting. This type of pain usually responds to rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and an exercise program.

There is also a growing concern of back pain caused by heavy backpacks. If the backpack is stuffed with books and any other possible “stuff” that kids carry these days and worn incorrectly, a child may lean forward to compensate or arch the back, which can cause the spine to compress unnaturally. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that a backpack weigh no more then 10 to 20 percent of the child’s body weight. For example, if your child weighs 8O lbs., the backpack should weigh no more than 16 lbs.

Here are some suggestions for choosing the right backpack and wearing it the right way:

• Buy a backpack with multiple compartments to more evenly distribute the weight, and try to place the heaviest items closest to the back.

• Always use both shoulder straps, tighten them and use a waist strap if

Dr. Marcin Gornisiewicz graduated with an MD degree from the Medical School of Warsaw in Warsaw, Poland. He completed residency training in internal medicine at Saint Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, New Jersey. He completed fellowship training in rheumatology at the

University of Alabama at Birmingham in Birmingham, Alabama. He joined Rheumatology Consultants, PLLC (rheumatologyconsultants.org) in 2002.

He is board certified in Rheumatology.

“The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that a backpack weigh no more then 10 to 20 percent of the child’s body weight.”


by Marek M. Pienkowski, M.D., Ph.D.

Healthy Foods: Not Always Good for Your Health

and loss of consciousness. Reactions that develop soon after exposure to allergenic food tend to be more dramatic.

Allergenic food typically triggers an allergic reaction in many food allergic individuals. However, some people might

eat food to which they are allergic without noticing any symptoms. Some people may tolerate melons in the spring, but not in the fall, as melons share allergens with ragweed pollen, which is predominate in the fall. Other people may enjoy apples in the fall, but not in the spring, as birch pollen (prominent in the spring) cross reacts with apple allergens. Cooking food may make it less allergenic, but not always. Also, exercising prior to eating may precipitate itching and hives and even anaphylaxis (so-called exercise-induced food allergy) in some people.

Your risk of food allergies is high when you have hay fever or asthma. In addition, if a family member has food allergies, you are also more likely to have food allergies.

Food allergies decrease with age, so many infants or toddlers lose allergic reactions to milk, soy, eggs, or wheat. Unfortunately, allergies to tree nuts, peanuts and shellfish are likely to be persistent for life. Anyone with a persistent reaction to foods should seek medical attention, and especially those who experience an anaphylactic reaction.

Your allergy doctor will note a careful history of your reaction and the progression of your symptoms. Medical examination should reveal which organ system is involved. Your doctor will order a battery of tests, including skin tests for foods and, less commonly, blood tests. Further testing may involve a challenge test with the suspected food. A battery of blood tests may also be needed to assess other undetected medical conditions. Finally, you may be referred to a gastroenterologist.

The primary treatment for food allergies is avoidance of the offending foods, so proper identification and risk assessment is very important. Individuals with anaphylactic reactions (a loss of consciousness or swelling of the throat) will receive a self-injectable epinephrine kit prescription. For children or mentally impaired individuals, when avoidance (for example of peanuts) is almost impossible and the use of epinephrine is very difficult, they may undergo desensitization. Desensitization is a procedure that takes approximately 4-6 hours and effectively diminishes the chance of anaphylaxis. However, desensitizing an individual will require daily intake of a small amount of the offending food (like peanuts).

We anticipate the approval of anti IgE antibody (Xolair) for treatment of severe food allergies by the FDA in the not so distant future. Xolair has been shown in a number of research studies to effectively diminish the chances of anaphylaxis to a variety of foods. Other medications, such as antihistamines, steroids, and leukotriene inhibitors, have only limited value in attenuating symptoms.

Getting knowledgeable about your adverse reactions to foods will make healthy food truly good for your health.

The same foods, organic or not, may be perfectly nutritional for you but not for your neighbor. After just a single bite, some people develop severe reactions to foods. These reactions involve the immune system and specifically the allergenic antibody IgE. Symptoms may present in the digestive system, on the skin (hives); as swelling of the airways, or even loss of consciousness in the case of anaphylactic reaction.

Up to 30% of people think that they have food allergies; however, some 8% of children and 4% of adults suffer from true IgE-dependent food allergies. Others may have immunological reactions (IgG and IgA dependent), like Celiac disease or an enzyme deficiency (such as lactose or fructose), or food intolerance. These are both matters of concern, but unlikely life-threatening reactions.

Symptoms of food allergies can involve almost any organ in the body, and different foods may trigger different symptoms in the same individual.

Children typically develop eczema, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, and reflux, which is associated with ear inflammation. Over time, untreated food allergies leading to the aforementioned symptoms may result in poor growth, irritability, and sleep disturbance.

In adults, symptoms may include hives, swelling of the lips or tongue, itching of the throat, eczema, nasal congestion and drainage, as well as shortness of breath and wheezing. In addition, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, dizziness and fainting, and migraine headaches are common. Some people develop shock with light-headedness

Marek M. Pienkowski, M.D., Ph.D. was educated in clinical immunology at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in Baltimore and internal medicine at

Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit. Dr. Pienkowski has been serving patients in East Tennessee with allergies, asthma and immunological disorders for nearly 30 years through Allergic Diseases, Asthma & Immunology Clinic,

P.C.. Active both in biomedical research and academia, he has published more than sixty scientific papers as well as two books.

“Symptoms of food allergies can involve almost any organ in the body, and different foods may trigger different symptoms in the same individual.”

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As families plan for the new school year, the Knox County Schools and the Knox County Health Department (KCHD) would like to

remind parents that it’s not too early to get their child’s state-required immunizations. In Tennessee, students entering seventh grade are required to have the Tdap (tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis) vaccine and two doses of the varicella (chickenpox) vaccine. Parents must provide their school with an immunization certificate, proving their child has received the required vaccinations, before the first day of school.

“Pertussis, or whooping cough, can be very serious for those most at risk like infants,” said KCHD Director Dr. Martha Buchanan. “The Tdap booster protects seventh graders and their infant siblings at home who may be too young for immunization.”

While immunizations are required for students entering kindergarten and seventh grade, noncompliance is highest among rising sixth graders: approximately 50 percent of Knox County students enrolled in seventh grade last year either did not have the required immunizations or had not submitted the immunization certificate to their school by the first day of school.

Tennessee’s vaccine requirements follow recommendations from the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Both immunizations and the immunization certificates are available at pediatrician offices or at any KCHD location. KCHD clinic locations are:

Preventive Health Clinic140 Dameron Avenue (main KCHD facility); 215-5071. Hours: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Teague Clinic405 Dante School Road; 215-5500. Hours: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

West Clinic1028 Old Cedar Bluff; 215-5950. Hours: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Note: All KCHD locations open at 12:30 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month.

By Katharine Killen, Knox County Health Department

Get immunized for SchoolKnox County Schools and the Knox County Health

Department remind parents of state-required immunizations

The Knox County Health Department (KCHD) is a governmental agency dedicated to making every person a healthy person. KCHD wants to encourage, promote and assure the

development of an active, healthy community through innovative public health practices. For more information, visit www.knoxcounty.org/health.

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The Knox County Schools continues to prepare for a successful 2013-14 school year,

and we are excited about several initiatives that will take shape in our schools this year.

Technology plays a major role in our global society, and our schools are preparing to integrate technology like never before. Through the School Technology Challenge, administrators and teachers in 11 schools are spending the

summer learning more about instructional technology to expand the walls of the classroom and create opportunities to learn in new and different ways. By embracing this kind of 1:1 technology initiative (one technology device for each one student and each one teacher), we can fully leverage the creativity and expertise within our schools, build capacity for future expansion and demonstrate success in schools across our community. With this initiative, parents, teachers, stakeholders and taxpayers will be able to see how instructional technology is enhancing education right in their own neighborhoods.

The start of the school year also means full implementation of the Common Core State Standards. Tennessee has joined 44 states across the country in adopting Common Core, a set of standards that will provide students with a deeper understanding of academic content and greater skills in connecting and applying knowledge so that they are better prepared for college and career. All students must now be prepared to compete not only with their peers in neighboring communities but also with students from across the

country and around the world.I invite you to learn more about these and other initiatives by

visiting our website at knoxschools.org, or please feel free to call our office at (865) 594-1800 if we can assist you.

Finally, as summer winds down please remember to encourage your child to read. Reading keeps the mind engaged and helps your child be ready to learn on August 12, the official start of classes in the Knox County Schools.

Sincerely,Dr. Jim McIntyreSuperintendent, Knox County Schools

Dear Knox County Schools’ Families

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“By embracing this kind of 1:1 technology initiative (one technology device for each one student and each one teacher), we can fully leverage the creativity and expertise within our schools, build capacity for future expansion and demonstrate success in schools across our community.”


country and around the world.I invite you to learn more about these and other initiatives by

visiting our website at knoxschools.org, or please feel free to call our office at (865) 594-1800 if we can assist you.

Finally, as summer winds down please remember to encourage your child to read. Reading keeps the mind engaged and helps your child be ready to learn on August 12, the official start of classes in the Knox County Schools.

Sincerely,Dr. Jim McIntyreSuperintendent, Knox County Schools


what you want to do with your life.” But the question doesn’t come up as much, because with the math we learn in elementary and middle school, the uses of it are fairly obvious. We need to be able to make change. It’s nice to know how much this or that discount will really get you. We should be able to measure a board to cut or the flour in a recipe. So, I think we have it fairly well covered for our younger students.

But, if your older student shows no interest in one of the many math-related fields, why does she need to learn it? I would argue that the vast majority of students should take Algebra 1 and Geometry, if for no other reason than to further develop their brains. Algebra (which means “the reunion of broken parts”) is all about puzzles, patterns, and logical thinking. Geometry (which means “measurement of the earth”) is all about spatial reasoning and deep logical processes.

That’s not all, however. The basics learned in algebra and geometry will be used for a lifetime. Not daily perhaps, but they are used in business, construction, manufacturing, landscaping, product design, investing and personal finances, machining, drafting, interior decorating, fine art, and the list goes on. The fact is that the further up the ladder one goes in most careers, the more likely a general grasp of these concepts will be beneficial.

Yes, I teach math, but no, I’m not a math fanatic. I don’t think every student (by a long shot!) is cut out for Algebra II, Trigonometry and Calculus. Further, I think they would be right to question it, because the vast majority of people will never actually use anything they might learn in those classes. But, I do think the vast majority, if correctly and patiently taught, can, in fact, learn Algebra I and Geometry.

In any event, if you get that question from your student, you can go the simple route, “because you’ll need them for the ACT to get into a decent college, no matter what you want to study,” or you could use that question as a great opportunity to have a conversation about brain- and thought-development, goals and aspirations, and life in general. What a wonderful way to take a simple, common question and turn it into a true teachable moment!

With school about to start up again, you may as well get ready for the dreaded question when

math comes up: “Why do I have to learn this? I’m never going to use it.” This line of argument generally starts around the algebra level, but I’m sure many have heard it earlier as well.

It is true that a strong math education can lead to very successful math-related careers. According to Forbes’ “The 15 Most Valuable College Majors,” the most valuable fields require a great deal of math: Biomedical Engineering, Biochemistry, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering, Geology, Management Information Systems, Petroleum Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Mathematics, Construction Management, Finance, Physics and Statistics.

Of course, younger students probably don’t know what they will eventually want to pursue, so the answer to the dreaded question can be something along the lines of, “you should learn it to keep your options open as you start deciding

By Mike O’Hern, Center Director of Mathnasium of West Knoxville

I’m never going to use this!

As owner and director at Mathnasium (a math learning center with locations in West Knoxville and Chattanooga (www.mathnasium.com/

westknoxville) for the past five years, Mike has extensive experience teaching children and young adults the foundations of math concepts

that are crucial to building their confidence and engagement with math throughout life.

“The basics learned in algebra and geometry will be used for a lifetime. The fact is that the further up the ladder one goes in most careers, the more likely a general grasp of these concepts will be beneficial.”

Believe it or not, math actually has a purpose

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Ten terrific books about getting ready for schoolCompiled by Erin Nguyen

Children’s Department, Knox County Public Library


For library information in your area visit:

www.knoxlib.org/

By Mike O’Hern, Center Director of Mathnasium of West Knoxville

I’m never going to use this!Believe it or not, math actually has a purpose

Foxy by Emma Dodd

PreK-2ndEmily’s magic fox friend

tries to help her get ready for the first day of school,

but he often makes mistakes (like giving her

a penguin instead of a pencil and clown shoes

instead of boots).

Captain Awesome to the Rescue! by Stan Kirby1st-3rdWhen Eugene starts a new school, he must turn into his superhero alter ego, Captain Awesome, to find his homeroom’s class pet after it is hamster-napped.

Back-to-School Safety by Lisa M. Herrington

K-2ndKids just learning to read will find practical tips for

staying safe when they head to school in this

book from the Rookie Read-About Safety series.

Freshman Year & Other Unnatural Disasters by Meredith Zeitlin8th-12thFollow teenager Kelsey Finkelstein on her hilarious adventure through the ups and downs of freshman year.

This Girl Is Different by J.J. Johnson

9th-12thAfter spending her entire

school life being home schooled, independent

Evie decides she wants to experience (for research purposes) “normal teen life” for her senior year,

but she soon discovers she may not have been fully

prepared for the social minefield of high school.

Off to Class: Incredible and Unusual Schools

Around the World by Susan Hughes

3rd-6thWhen you’re feeling a little overwhelmed

by school, read this fascinating book to find out what lengths some

kids have to go to for the chance to even go

to school.

Monster School: First Day Frights by Dave KeaneK-2ndIn this funny easy reader, normal kid Norm is worried about fitting in at his new school where the students are all monsters.

Eddie Gets Ready for School by David MilgrimPreK-2ndYou’ll laugh out loud reading about Eddie and the tasks on his checklist for getting himself ready for school, from the practical (wake up) to the silly (watch cartoons and drink root beer).

There’s No Place Like School

selected by Jack PrelutskyK-4th

Try this collection of eighteen poems by

celebrated poets when you need to laugh about

school.

New Kid, New Scene by Debbie Glasser, PhD

and Emily Schenck4th-8th

Starting a new school can be a challenging experience, but this informative book is

full of practical advice about dealing with many situations

a new student might face.


When I sat down to put this article together, and thought about all of the issues that encompass child safety, I immediately thought about my own 11

year-old daughter. As a father, I believe it is my responsibility to ensure that she is safe, both physically and emotionally.

Our children are our most valuable asset. While I believe it is important to let them be children, I also think it’s important to educate ourselves and them about potential threats to their safety, and most importantly, ways to avoid those threats.

For example, the internet is an amazing tool that can, in fact, enhance a child’s educational experience. But the same qualities that make it such a useful and easy educational tool also leave them vulnerable to exploitation and harm. The FBI website has an excellent article about internet safety and children. Here is the link: www.fbi.gov/publications/pguide/pguidee.htm.

The article talks about signs that your child may be at risk from online predators. This, of course, is useful for older children. But for younger children using the internet, my advice would be to never leave them unattended, period. Always know what websites they are going to and why.

Nothing is more terrifying than the thought that your child could come to harm through either an online predator or someone closer to home. But following some simple guidelines and going over easy rules with your kids could make all the difference.

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Teach your children these basic rules of safety:

• Always get permission from your parents/grandparents before going anywhere or getting in a vehicle with anyone.

• Use the “buddy system” if possible and never go places alone.

• If anyone tries to take you, let people know you need help by yelling and screaming and trying to get away.

• Tell your parents or a trusted adult if anyone asks you to keep a hurtful secret.

• Always tell a parent or a trusted adult if anyone should touch parts of your body covered by a bathing suit or wants you to touch those areas on their body.

• You have the right to say NO to protect yourself.• Never go with anyone, even if they ask you for directions

or say they need help finding a lost pet, person, or anything else.

• Remember to call 911 if you need help.

by Chief Lee Tramel, Knox County Sheriff ’s Office

Child safety starts with you

The most disturbing issue to any parent is child abduction/exploitation. The most important thing to keep in mind is that a child abductor/exploiter can be anyone: a relative, a friend, a neighbor, or even a stranger. Despite well-publicized incidents of stranger abduction, this accounts for only 10-15% of all abduction/exploitation cases. The vast majority are committed by someone known to the child and/or family.

The old saying that knowledge is power is true. To help prevent people from hurting your children, know who your children are with and where they are at all times. Know the people who are acquainted with your children. Know the background and character of anyone who has charge of your children such as friends, neighbors, baby-sitters, or relatives. Know your children’s behaviors and be sensitive to any changes; sit down and talk to them about what has caused the changes. Know your children’s fears; listen and be supportive when discussing them.

I take my responsibilities as Chief seriously, and one of those responsibilities is helping to educate the public about child safety issues. At the Knox County Sheriff ’s Office, we do this in part by placing Child Safety Education Officers in Knox County Schools to teach elementary and middle school students throughout the year.

We are talking to your kids at school. Talk to your kids at home, using these tips and guidelines. As individual families, and as a community, it is our responsibility to protect our children. Together, we can really make a difference.

Lee Tramel is the Assistant Chief Deputy for the Knox County Sheriff ’s Office. During his 26 year career, he also served in the civil

warrants division and as Assistant Director of the Court Services Division. Lee is a Knoxville native, where he lives with his wife and

11 year old daughter.

The most disturbing issue to any parent is child abduction/exploitation. The most important thing to keep in mind is that a child abductor/exploiter can be anyone: a relative, a friend, a neighbor, or even a stranger. Despite well-publicized incidents of stranger abduction, this accounts for only 10-15% of all abduction/exploitation cases. The vast majority are committed by someone known to the child and/or family.

The old saying that knowledge is power is true. To help prevent people from hurting your children, know who your children are with and where they are at all times. Know the people who are acquainted with your children. Know the background and character of anyone who has charge of your children such as friends, neighbors, baby-sitters, or relatives. Know your children’s behaviors and be sensitive to any changes; sit down and talk to them about what has caused the changes. Know your children’s fears; listen and be supportive when discussing them.

I take my responsibilities as Chief seriously, and one of those responsibilities is helping to educate the public about child safety issues. At the Knox County Sheriff ’s Office, we do this in part by placing Child Safety Education Officers in Knox County Schools to teach elementary and middle school students throughout the year.

We are talking to your kids at school. Talk to your kids at home, using these tips and guidelines. As individual families, and as a community, it is our responsibility to protect our children. Together, we can really make a difference.

Annie Jessie Speirs “Nana” Harper was born January 3, 1906 in Govan, Scotland. She was the daughter of Rev. John Harper and Annie Leckie Harper. Her mother died giving birth to Annie. Her father was a Baptist Minister who became successful in Scotland before moving to London. In 1912 her father was invited to

minister at Moody Church in Chicago, IL. He agreed and made plans to travel on the Titanic. Annie’s aunt, Jessie Leitch, joined them and took care of Annie. The three boarded the Titanic in Southampton as Second Class passengers.

On the night of the sinking, Annie’s father bundled her up and carried her from her bed to the boat deck. There he kissed her goodbye and told her to go with her aunt before handing her to a crew member. The crew member placed her in a lifeboat with her aunt. Annie sat on her lap and watched the Titanic sink, listening to the cries of the people who were left behind. Her father never made it onto a lifeboat, instead choosing to stay on deck and minister to others still onboard. When Annie and her aunt arrived in New York, Annie asked for her papa, not understanding why he hadn’t arrived with them. “I left Papa on the big boat, and he told me to go with Aunt Jessie,” she said. “Now I want Papa.”

Annie and her aunt returned to England a week later. Now an orphan, Annie was sent to live with her paternal uncle. She was told to not talk about the Titanic, and obeyed that command until later in life. In 1934 she married Rev. Philip Roy Pont of St. John’s Rectory in Moffat, Dumfriesshire. She had at least one child, a son. In 1978 she was asked if she would like to see the Titanic raised. Her response: “I don’t see much point in it after all this time.” Her husband died April 15, 1985, on the 73rd Anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic. Annie died of a stroke in Ruterglen, Scotland on April 10, 1986, the 74th Anniversary of Titanic setting sail on her maiden voyage.

The Story of 6 Year Old Annie HarperONE OF THE 133 CHILDREN STORIES OF TITANICThe First and Only World Tribute to Titanic’s Littlest Heroes


nature also can intuitively set up moments for affective sharing about all the things a parent and child are experiencing. This can offer time to follow a child’s lead by responding to his or her cues, natural curiosity and interests. They even suggest that experiences in nature can bring out new things in a child, reduce symptoms associated with behavioral and emotional issues, reduce stress, improve coordination, and improve overall

health. In fact, “over the last decade, researchers have discovered many fascinating connections between nature play and children’s cognitive, physical, and emotional development. Time outdoors – especially unstructured time in more natural settings..” has been linked to all of these developmental benefits.

A perfect example of how impactful sharing nature with a child can be is a quote from a Missouri father describing a time when he and his son walked in the woods and lay down on the snow beside each other for the briefest of naps. He said it was the “best five minutes I ever spent with him.” It is so simple, so impactful…it’s something worth finding time for.

As a parent of two young girls, I will continue to make journeys to the ‘Chuck E. Cheese’ – type destinations, and enjoy them for what they are. However, as an experienced educator, parent and naturalist, I know there is tremendous value in spending quality time with children in natural settings. The value of nature play is extensive. It’s a free resource, waiting for parents to tap into it at every puddle, patch of weeds or tree stump. As parents, we need all the support we can get. Nature is one of our greatest and most prolific allies, and one the best resources for growing a stronger, closer family. Just walk outside your front door, hand in hand with your child, and a life-changing experience is waiting for you!

For more opportunities for your family to connect to nature, please visit Tremont’s website at www.gsmit.org.

Want some EASY ideas to try go to these links for more:http://www.childrenandnature.org/http://www.childrenandnature.org/downloads/CNN_FamilyBonding_2012.pdfhttp://theimaginationtree.com/2012/08/60-nature-play-ideas-for-kids.htmlhttp://www.forestfoundation.org/family-activities-in-naturehttp://pinterest.com/zdanilewicz/nature-activities-for-children/http://www.notimeforflashcards.com/2013/03/sticky-window-flower-garden.html

“Nature can offer solutions on many levels. Nature doesn’t have deadlines or ring tones. You can reach it without spending a penny.”

As School Program Coordinator at Tremont, and a parent of two, I think often about the quality

of the time parents spend with their children and the role nature can play in the development of parent-child relationships. Ron Swaisgood, biologist and cofounder of Family Adventures in Nature reminds us that, “nature can be co-experienced by parent and child in ways that Chuck E. Cheese’s just can’t.”

Now first, let me preface by saying that, I have nothing against Chuck E. Cheese, or other kid-centered destinations that have all the bells, whistles and other sensory stimuli. These places provide opportunities for children and their friends and family to experience fun together, share laughs, and make memories.

I found some thoughtful answers to my reflections about families spending time together in nature in a couple of publications: Together in Nature: Pathways to a Stronger, Closer Family, by the Children & Nature Network, and in Richard Louv’s, Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature Deficit Disorder. They maintain that, “strong early bonds with parents, grandparents, and caregivers help children feel a sense of trust and confidence throughout their lifetimes.” However, this can be difficult for some families because, “…nurturing those bonds requires things that are often in short supply in today’s world: time to slow down, focus, and block out the distractions of cell phones and other electronic devices; patience to listen and respond thoughtfully to a child’s needs and comments; and the capacity to keep daily stress in check enough to enjoy life’s small and great shared moments.”

The writers suggested that the solution could be boiled down to three main categories: Being more available to the child, affective sharing, and following the child’s lead. Luckily, these can be easily attained through things as simple as talking warmly to a child, listening, playing a very short game that requires your attention, allowing the child to choose an activity to share or even providing a quiet space when a child wants to be alone.

As parents look to develop ways to secure relationships with their children, it often persuades the adult to reflect on how they were cared for in childhood. This reflection is said to be “…as important as the actual care they received.” As environmental educators at Tremont, we are pushed to reflect heavily on our relationship with nature and the caregivers from our childhood, in order to make us better educators to others.

Nature can offer solutions on many levels. Nature doesn’t have deadlines or ring tones. You can reach it without spending a penny, and the myriad of health and quality of life benefits far outweighs any effort on your part.

Having a ‘shared nature experience’ can be one of the most memorable experiences a parent and child can have together. Martha Farrell Erickson, a developmental psychologist, writes this about parenting: “By following a prescription for more nature experience together, families will discover a win/win situation in which both children and adults benefit as individuals, even as they are strengthening those important family bonds that all children (and adults) need.”

The Children & Nature Network maintains that parents can have sensitive, profound experiences anywhere, but, “…in many ways, the natural world seems to invite and facilitate parent-child connections and sensitive interactions.” Time in

Jennie received a BS in Recreation Management with a concentration in Outdoor Experiential Education from Appalachian State University. After that

she spent 3 years, gaining experience working on educational farms, teaching at nature centers and leading back country travel expeditions throughout the US including being a Teacher/Naturalist at Tremont. She graduated from Western

Washington University in 2004 with a Masters of Education in Natural Science/Science Education with a certificate in Non-Profit Administration and Leadership.

by Jennie McGuigan – School Programs Coordinator at Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont

Shared Nature Play: Good for the Whole Family

Emerald Youth Photo credit: Michaela Pruitt

Frog Fun Photo credit: Gina Lappe



Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins. In March we’ll see what all the noise is about, as the explosive, innovative, witty and utterly unique STOMP explodes back on to the Tennessee Theatre stage for a return performance.

The Broadway at the Tennessee 2013-2014 season will close in the most sensational way with JERSEY BOYS. “TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE!” raves the New York Post for JERSEY BOYS, the 2006 Tony Award®-winning Best Musical about Rock and Roll Hall of Famers The Four Seasons: Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi. It is the story of how four blue-collar kids became one of the greatest successes

in pop music history and features electrifying performances of the hits that took them all the way to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Rag Doll,” “Oh What a Night,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” and more.

Subscription packages for the series are on sale now! Two packages with 4, 5, and 6 show options are available with up to a 10% discount. Subscriptions purchased via the Tennessee Theatre box office receive reduced service fees, guaranteed same seats for each performance, and free same-show ticket exchanges. Call the box office at 865-684-1200, extension 2 or visit in person on Clinch Avenue.

At the box office patrons can also learn more about the Spotlight Club. The Broadway Spotlight Club is a one of a kind VIP Broadway opportunity where

you can meet cast members, mingle with other loyal lovers of Broadway, enjoy great food and drink, and make your evening at the Tennessee Theatre all the more unique. Perfect for cultivating a young new Broadway fan!

The Broadway Spotlight Club package includes premium seating in Price Live 1 for all Package A shows, pre-show receptions, pre-order cocktails ready and waiting for you at intermission, post-show cast parties,

private backstage tours and your name listed in the Broadway program. A portion of the price is a tax-deductible gift to the Historic Tennessee Theatre.

More information on the Broadway at the Tennessee 2013-2014 season can be found at www.tennesseetheatre.com.

nature also can intuitively set up moments for affective sharing about all the things a parent and child are experiencing. This can offer time to follow a child’s lead by responding to his or her cues, natural curiosity and interests. They even suggest that experiences in nature can bring out new things in a child, reduce symptoms associated with behavioral and emotional issues, reduce stress, improve coordination, and improve overall

health. In fact, “over the last decade, researchers have discovered many fascinating connections between nature play and children’s cognitive, physical, and emotional development. Time outdoors – especially unstructured time in more natural settings..” has been linked to all of these developmental benefits.

A perfect example of how impactful sharing nature with a child can be is a quote from a Missouri father describing a time when he and his son walked in the woods and lay down on the snow beside each other for the briefest of naps. He said it was the “best five minutes I ever spent with him.” It is so simple, so impactful…it’s something worth finding time for.

As a parent of two young girls, I will continue to make journeys to the ‘Chuck E. Cheese’ – type destinations, and enjoy them for what they are. However, as an experienced educator, parent and naturalist, I know there is tremendous value in spending quality time with children in natural settings. The value of nature play is extensive. It’s a free resource, waiting for parents to tap into it at every puddle, patch of weeds or tree stump. As parents, we need all the support we can get. Nature is one of our greatest and most prolific allies, and one the best resources for growing a stronger, closer family. Just walk outside your front door, hand in hand with your child, and a life-changing experience is waiting for you!

For more opportunities for your family to connect to nature, please visit Tremont’s website at www.gsmit.org.

Want some EASY ideas to try go to these links for more:http://www.childrenandnature.org/http://www.childrenandnature.org/downloads/CNN_FamilyBonding_2012.pdfhttp://theimaginationtree.com/2012/08/60-nature-play-ideas-for-kids.htmlhttp://www.forestfoundation.org/family-activities-in-naturehttp://pinterest.com/zdanilewicz/nature-activities-for-children/http://www.notimeforflashcards.com/2013/03/sticky-window-flower-garden.html

The stage is set for another year of Broadway in Knoxville as the Tennessee Theatre announces the 2013-2014 Broadway at the Tennessee Theatre

season featuring the Knoxville premiere of JERSEY BOYS, one of Broadway’s biggest blockbusters and winner of the 2006 Tony Award® for Best Musical.

The Broadway at the Tennessee series has continued to flourish each year by bringing premier titles to Knoxville -- and the 2013-2014 season is no exception. This season consists of Disney classics, Tony Award® winning favorites and breathtaking, contemporary pieces.

A tale as old as time, DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST returns by popular demand and marks the start of the 2013-2014 season as the romantic, Broadway musical for every generation. Based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature film, this eye-popping spectacle and classic musical love story is filled with unforgettable characters, lavish sets and costumes, and dazzling

production numbers including “Be Our Guest” and the beloved title song.

Next up in the series is ELF THE MUSICAL, the modern day Christmas classic that is sure to make everyone embrace their inner ELF as it follows the tale of everyone’s favorite elf – Buddy! Followed by ELF will be MEMPHIS, a musical that turns up that dial and channels the underground dance clubs of 1950’s Memphis, Tennessee as it follows the story of a radio DJ who wants to change the world and a club singer who is ready for her big break.

January will bring the thrilling musical MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET, which gives an inside look at the famed recording session that brought together rock and roll icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash,

by Margaret Stolfi, AC Entertainment

Get ready for a season of Broadway hits!

JERSEY BOYS, April 29-May 4, 2014Photo credit: Jeremy Daniel

DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, September 30 & October 1, 2013Photo credit: Joan Marcus

ELF THE MUSICAL, November 16 & 17, 2013Photo credit: Joan Marcus

MEMPHIS, December 6 & 7, 2013Photo credit: Kyle Froman

MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET, January 24 & 25, 2014Photo credit: Paul Natkin

STOMP, March 7 & 8, 2014. Photo credit: Steve McNicholas


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Article provided by Premier Martial Arts

A little forethought goes a long way

Barry Van Over is the owner and president of Premier Martial Arts International, of which there are currently over 80 location

nationwide. Mr. Van Over has two locations in the West Knoxville area and been empowering families lives through the martial arts in

the Knoxville community for over 20 years. Mr. Van Over and his local studios can be reached at www.premiermartialarts.com.

Building our children’s sense of self-confidence is one of the most important duties we have as parents. It is with

us as we whisk them to ballet practice, make their lunch or rush them off to school. Parents are ideally positioned to positively build or raise their child’s level of self-confidence and self worth. The great part that it doesn’t take any extra time, just a bit of forethought and follow through. Here are the three rock solid suggestions to boosting your child’s confidence:

1. RetainThe first rule of building a child’s self esteem is doesn’t lose it in the first place! Trying to rebuild a child’s self esteem is much more difficult than to increase an already healthy one. Be conscious of what you say and the way you say it to your children.

Children instinctively look to their parents for approval and love. All it can take is one frown or off hand remark to level a child’s self esteem. So next time junior brings you his art project from school- the one that looks like it was created by a wild rabid animal with paint, don’t say anything negative. Just smile and follow the next suggestion.

2. ReinforceReinforce with your child constantly what they are doing right. When talking with your children focus on their strengths and successes. Dwelling on past failures and weaknesses does nothing to motivate a child or sustain her esteem. Sure, Billy didn’t score the winning goal at soccer, but his passing and ball handling improved tremendously.

Compliment them with phrases like “I am so proud of you because…” then give the reasons and supporting details.

3. Rein inRein in the need to be a permanent ‘fixer’ for your child. Being a permanent ‘fixer’ means stepping in, regardless of age or capability and fixing your child’s problems for them. This can send subconscious signals to your child that they are unable to deal with their problems productively on their own. It can sometimes lead to resentment and rebellion or indifference. Children are meant to make mistakes and learn from them. No one is suggesting not guiding and protecting them from harm- but if they know how to tie their shoes let them. Let them feel the triumph of having done it themselves- no matter how small the task. Point out to them often how everyday in every way they are getting better and better.

Standing up to peer pressure and saying no to drugs just doesn’t happen on its own. It is crucial that you take charge in protecting your child’s self confidence and esteem. Build up your child’s confidence to the point that just like basketball superstar Michael Jordan, who after being cut from the high school basketball team didn’t give up, but chose and was encouraged to stick with basketball and improve in the areas he needed to succeed. This same sense of self-confidence, no matter how small it starts out can be built up and stoked into a raging fire of indomitable spirit in your child. Once you get it started through consistent encouragement, thoughtfulness and patience it will never burn out!


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