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Rockin’ at the Swamp – BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

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Rocks, crystals, and gemstones, oh my! Rockin’ at the Swamp has been a family favorite for years. Our boys enjoyed going year after year. In previous years we enjoyed the different learning stations, playing games, rock climbing, digging for shark teeth, and playing with the giant stones!

Rockin' at the Swamp

Photos from previous Rockin’ at the Swamp events.

Rockin’ at the Swamp

If you like nature’s earthly treasures, this event will rock your world!;) Join BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center to explore the world of rocks, minerals, gemstones, and fossils.  Add to your rock collection or find some unique gift items at the Rockhound Market. Try your skill scaling the rock climbing wall. Learn to identify different rocks and minerals and make your own take-home identification card on the Treasure Trail. Experience the excitement of the gold rush while hunting for iron pyrite in our Gold Mine. Try out some rockin’ crafts or paint your own Rock Animal in the craft corner. Explore ancient life forms in the Fossil Quarry. This is one rockin’ day of fun highlighting geology and earth science.

Rockin' at the Swamp

Food and beverage purchases are available from on-site vendors.

Rockin at the Swamp

Date: March 11
Time: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Cost: Adult 17+/$5
Child 3- 17/$4

For More Information
225-757-8905
sguidry@brec.org

Mardi Gras 2023 – Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Parade Schedule

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Contrary to popular belief, Mardi Gras can be family-friendly. The festival seems like it was made for children, with floats derived from the depths of the most ingenious imaginations, costumes, and masks that express unending creativity, bold colors, and joyous music abounds through parades. And, most importantly, the beads, doubloons and other treats thrown to the crowds from the floats are a child’s delight. It’s that time of year and we have your full Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Parade Schedule below!

Mardi Gras 2023 is Tuesday, February 21.

Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Parade Schedule

Madri Gras Fun Fact: Rex selected the official Mardi Gras colors in 1872 to honor the visiting Russian Grand Duke Alexis  Alexandrovich Romanoff, whose house colors were
purple, green and gold.

2023 Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Parade Schedule:

Please check the individual parade organizations’ websites for updated details.

Krewe of Oshun
Saturday, February 4th, 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM 

Krewe of Oshun

Parade will roll along Howell Boulevard. Festival will be held at BREC’s Scotlandville Parkway Conservation Park.

The parade starts on Harding Boulevard at Pembroke Street, west to Scenic Highway (U.S. 61), south to 72nd Avenue, and west to Howell Boulevard. The festival runs from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., with live music, carnival games, eating contests, vendors and family resources. For more information on the parade and festival, click here.

CAAWS MYSTIC KREWE OF MUTTS
Sunday, February 5th, 10 AM – 4 PM

North Boulevard Town Square

Join CAAWS,  the theme is Jurassic Bark: An Adventure 43 Years in the Making. All proceeds will fund our spay/neuter programs.

CAAWS signature annual fundraiser is the Krewe of Mutts Festival (which includes Bark in the Park, vendors, food trucks, pet contest, and the Mystic Krewe of Mutts Mardi Gras Parade). It’s a dog-gone good day filled with family friendly fun activities, food, shopping, a doggy costume contest and the main event – an entertaining and adorable waling parade with families can dress up their dogs, decorate floats, and strut through downtown.

10 a.m.-4 p.m.—Bark in the Park in North Boulevard Town Square (check out local vendors)
11 a.m.—Baton Rouge Police Department K-9 Demonstration; Galvez Plaza stage
12 p.m.-1 p.m.—Dog Costume Contest; Galvez Plaza stage
1:30 p.m.—Parade lineup along North Blvd.
2 p.m.—Parade rolls (see map)
Food: All Star Catering Food Truck, City Gelato, Fleur Delights
Music: DJ Mike Larry

Krewe of Artemis
Friday, February 10th, 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Starting on River Road near the Raising Cane’s River Center, the parade proceeds along River Road, turning right at Hollywood Casino to 3rd Street, then 4th, left on Main, right on 9th, left on Laurel, left on 6th, left on Convention, and left on River Road back to the River Center.

The Krewe of Artemis will roll through the streets of downtown Baton Rouge on Friday, February 10, 2023
at 7:00 p.m. Join the excited revelers as they line the parade route while joining in the festivities and
experiencing Baton Rouge Mardi Gras… Artemis style!! Revelers will be treated with themed throws, including the Krewe of Artemis’ signature High Heeled Shoe, along with footballs, light up tambourines, stuffed animals, float beads and lighted throws.

Krewe of Mystique de la CAPITALE
Saturday, February 11th, 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM

This family-friendly parade begins and ends at the intersection of River Road and St. Philip Street, next to the Raising Cane’s River Center. The route traverses much of Downtown Baton Rouge.

Celebrating 45 years of parading in Baton Rouge! Come out and see the oldest Mardi Gras Krewe that is family-oriented and fun for all ages. For additional information visit  https://krewemystique.com. 

Krewe of Orion
Saturday, Feb. 11, 6:30 PM

The Parade route starts at the intersection of St. Phillip Street and River Road and ends at the Raising Cane’s River Center.

The Krewe of Orion’s 24th annual Mardi Gras parade in downtown Baton Rouge will once again take place on Saturday, February 11, 2023, at 6:30 PM with the theme of “In Our Wildest Dreams”.

Parade goers will be treated to a line of exciting, colorfully-lighted, and tractor-pulled floats. On the floats, masked and costumed riders will throw plenty of themed parade medallions, Krewe of Orion signature footballs, lighted throws, and beads. Marching bands, dance groups, and marching units (all of 20 members or more) will be among the great sights and sounds at this wonderful family-oriented parade.

The parade ends as it runs into the Raising Cane’s River Center Exhibition Hall where our Masquerade is held.

Kroux of Barkus/Bark in the Park – Walker 
Saturday, Feb. 11, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

The ½ mile parade will begin by the Challenger’s Field parking lot and follow the walking path in the park.
Farmer’s/Vendor Market: 10am to 3pm
Pet Registration: 10:30am
Pet Parade: 11am
Zumba Demostraton: 12:30pm
Live Music: 1:00pm to 3:00pm
The ½ mile parade will begin by the Challenger’s Field parking lot and follow the walking path in the park.
This year’s parade will by lead by its Grand Marshall, Bayou; owned by Chris and Holly Reed and Mike and Laurie Mason. Bayou was the #1 competing Giant Schnauzer throughout 2021, winning the 2021 AKC National Best of Show Champion Title.
Bark in the Park will continue until 3pm. The activities will include live Cajun/Zydeco music with the Band Nouveaux and the Xpress Train, a Zumba demonstration, Line Dance instruction, Market and Food vendors, and pet themed booths, including a professional photographer for pet portraits.
All proceeds will benefit the Walker Animal Shelter.

Krewe Denham Springs

Saturday, February 11th at 3:00 PM

Begins at DSHS, travels down Range and turns right on Veterans. Free concert before AND after the annual parade!!

Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Parade Schedule

Krewe of Mid City Gras
Sunday, Feb. 12, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

The parade starts at the intersection of 19th Street and North Boulevard and ends at the intersection of North Boulevard and Foster Drive.

 

Mid City Gras is always the Sunday before Mardi Gras on North Boulevard, a road connecting North and South Baton Rouge.

Krewe of Ascension Mambo – Gonzales
Saturday, February 11th at 2:00 PM

Gonzales, La | Parade Route Begins on Irma Blvd and Ends at the corner of Hwy 44 and Hwy 30

 

Krewe of Southdowns
Friday, Feb. 17, 7 PM

Southdowns neighborhood

The 36th Krewe of Southdowns Parade, “Fetes de Louisiane”, rolls at 7PM.
Children and pets are welcome.
Attendees are asked not to park on the parade route itself.
Off-route parking will be available.

The parade route begins at Glasgow Middle School, across Stanford Avenue to Cherrydale Avenue and ends at Perkins Road. The Krewe of Southdowns is Baton Rouge’s first, and most unique, family-friendly night Mardi Gras Parade. Join them on February 17th, 2023, rain or shine, in the Southdowns neighborhood for our 36th annual parade. It’s showtime! For more information, visit our website at www.southdowns.org

Port Allen

Krewe of Good Friends of the Oaks 
Sunday, February 19th at 1 PM

The west side’s only nighttime parade. Lighted throws, street parties, family fun! The 38th Krewe of Good Friends of the Oaks Mardi Gras parade will begin and end at the corner of the LA-1 Service Rd and Oaks Ave. The parade route is as follows: east on Oaks Ave to Jefferson Ave, north on Jefferson Ave to Court St, west on Court St to Sixth St, north on Sixth St to Louisiana Ave, east on Louisiana Ave to Jefferson Ave, south on Jefferson Ave to Oaks Ave, west on Oaks Ave to LA-1 Service Rd.

This year’s theme is Rockin’ Thru the Ages! And we are gonna rock the streets of Port Allen.

Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Festival

Saturday, February 18th, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Free Family Friendly Annual Mardi Gras Festival held in North Blvd Town Square, Downtown Baton Rouge. Enjoy a whole day of live music, art, and great food. The event will showcase live bands and Krewes, with a Vendor Village, art exhibits, food and more.

 

Baton Rouge Family Fun is your Family Friendly Mardi Gras Headquarters!

View our comprehensive Family Friendly Mardi Gras Guide HERE!

Family Friendly Mardi Gras

Back to School: Ensuring an A+ start to the school year

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Back to school…three words that represent great joy to parents who are ready to get back to routine and bring great anguish and “pain” to kids who aren’t quite ready to give up their summer freedom. In order to ensure a smooth transition from the fun and less structured summer into a new school year, I think it is important as parents to take the time to talk to our children about their worries and concerns going into the fall semester.

Back to School

Back to School: Ensuring an A+ start to the school year

Back to School – Ask Questions

The question could be as simple as, “Is there anything you are worried about for this school year?” I know in my office when I ask this question, I have had many a parent be surprised by the answer their child might give. When we know what our children are worried or afraid of, it makes us, as parents, better equipped to give them the guidance they need to maneuver through the unchartered waters of a new school experience happily and successfully.

Back to School – Set Expectations

I encourage parents to teach children to view school as their job—what better time to start teaching children about work ethic than from the very beginning of school. As parents, we should set expectations for our children in regards to their “job” performance, and if these expectations are not met, then they should be held accountable.

Now, the expectations, as well as the consequences, will, of course, vary by age, but even the youngest child should understand that they should strive to be the best they can be at their job. Even my son, who is starting Pre-K 3, knows that mommy and daddy expect him to listen to his teacher, follow directions, and be a good friend to his classmates. If he doesn’t achieve these things, he doesn’t get to read books at night (his favorite pre-bedtime activity).

These expectations are established from the get-go so that there is no confusion about the “job description.”

Back to School – Establish a good rapport with your child’s teacher

I also encourage all parents, but especially the parents of elementary-aged children, to establish a good rapport with their child’s teacher. After all, the reality is that in many cases, their teacher will spend more time with them during the weekday than we will.

It is crucial to make sure there are channels of communication that exist between parents and teachers, and these should not be one-way avenues. Parents should feel comfortable bringing up concerns to teachers, just as teachers should be respected when they bring concerns back to parents.

A partnership between teacher and parent is vital to helping children achieve success in the classroom which often translates to increased self-confidence in kids.

Stay positive

So as everyone heads back to school, establish those expectations, let them know their “job description,” and then make sure your voice as a parent is a positive one with excitement, support, and encouragement for the upcoming school year.

As kids make the trek up the ladder to reach those expectations you have set, make sure they know you are their biggest cheerleader and will always be behind them to catch them when they stumble, to give extra little pushes along the way, and to celebrate all of their achievements all from a place of unconditional love.

“Ask the Experts” is a series on Baton Rouge Family Fun where local experts share their thoughts, opinions and answer questions relating to health, wellness, parenting, and living in Baton Rouge.Ask the experts Baton Rouge Moms

Disclaimer: The purpose of this site is to share family resources and Baton Rouge Family Fun’s experiences with food, fitness, and health as well as opinions from some of our local experts. This content is for informational purposes only and isn’t a substitute for professional medical advice.  When it comes to your health or the health of your child, please be sure to contact your physician.

Louisiana Summer Safety Tips for Kids

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Nothing says summer here in South Louisiana more than biting into a scrumptiously sweet Louisiana strawberry, having the juice drip down your chin after devouring a big slice of watermelon, or enjoying a strawberry cheesecake sno-ball made the Louisiana way (i.e. the right way) with condensed milk.  And, lest we forget, very soon the kiddos will be “free” for the summer, with swimming, vacations, sports, summer camps, and a seemingly endless supply of other activities (and energy) to take full advantage of that time off.  So if your family is like mine and beginning to prepare for the upcoming summer season, here are a few pediatric tips to keep your kiddos healthy so that they can soak up every last second of that summer break from school.

summer Safety Tips

It’s getting hot out here– As we all know, summer in Baton Rouge means temperatures in the 90s and humidity that seems to exceed 100% on most days.  In order to protect your little one’s skin from those intense sun rays, begin with thin, lightly-colored clothing covering as much of the body as possible, and pair it with a nice wide-brimmed hat.  For those 6 months and older, sunscreen is key.  You want to find a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF (sun protection factor) 15 or higher and remember – the most important part of using sunscreen is frequent reapplication.  We are talking at least every 2 hours, even with those sunscreens that are “waterproof”, “last all day,” or any other claims the manufacturers might make to entice you to buy their product.

What’s bugging you?- Have you seen those native Louisiana mosquitos that are nearly the size of small birds these days?  OK, so that might be a bit of an exaggeration (albeit a small one), but all joking aside, protecting your kiddos from mosquitos is of utmost importance.  Not only are mosquito bites just plain itchy and bothersome, but mosquitos can also be carriers of things such as West Nile Virus and other insect-borne illnesses.  The Center for Disease Control reported that there were 111 cases of West Nile Virus verified here in Louisiana last year, and there were 5 deaths.  In order to protect children from the nasty bite of these pests, use a mosquito repellent on children 2 months and older that contains DEET of 30% or less.  For infants and younger children, I recommend putting the repellent on your hand and then rubbing it onto the skin of your children to keep the bugs away.  You, of course, will want to avoid the area around the eyes and mouth, and for those infants and young children, avoid those hands as well since they will almost immediately make it to the mouth.

Drowning prevention–  Because of the number of water activities to stay cool during the hottest part of the year, this is part of summer that keeps me awake at night more than anything else.  Here are some startling statistics:

  • Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional injury-related death in children 1-4 years of age
  • 70% of preschoolers who drown were in the care of one or both parents when the incident occurred
  • 75% of children are “missing” for five minutes or less
  • For every child the dies from drowning, another 4 are treated in emergency rooms for near-drowning
  • Last year alone, there were 10 children under 16 years of age who died in Louisiana, and there are on average 390 children who die from drowning each year in this country

Drowning in children is often a silent event as children do not scream or thrash around.  It will not look like it does in the movies.  So what is the number one way to prevent drowning in children? Constant supervision!  When children are in the water, use the rule of “touch supervision” meaning that a child should always be within arms reach of an adult.  While age-appropriate swimming lessons are a good idea, never assume that a child is “drown-proof” no matter the number of lessons they have had.  Finally, protect pools with fences that are at least 4 feet high and have a self-closing and self-latching gate, just like the modern glass pool fences, and make sure to remove all pool toys from the pool and surrounding area when done at the end of the day (these can be VERY enticing for younger children).

For more on each of these topics and much more on parenting and pediatrics in South Louisiana, please check out my website The Mommy Doctor at  www.themommydoctor.com .   And as you and your kids head into the impending break, make sure and have a safe, healthy, and, most importantly, fun summer this year!

Ask the Experts Baton Rouge

“Ask the Experts” is a new series on Baton Rouge Family Fun where local experts will share their thoughts, and opinions and answer questions relating to health, wellness, and parenting. If you have a question for one of our experts, please leave it in the comments below and they might just answer in an upcoming post.

Disclaimer: The purpose of this site is to share BRFF’s experiences with food,  fitness, health, and life as well as opinions from some of our local experts. This content is for informational purposes only and isn’t a substitute for professional medical advice.  When it comes to your health or the health of your child, please be sure to contact your physician.

 

Car Seat Safety Choosing the Right Car Seat – GIVEAWAY

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“Ask the Experts” is a series on Baton Rouge Family Fun where local experts share their thoughts, opinions and answer questions relating to health, wellness, parenting and living in Baton Rouge. This week on Ask the Experts, Smith Shanklin Sosa, fellow Baton Rouge parents, are sharing car seat and booster seat safety tips and laws. Be sure to check out the helpful printables that can be used at home, for babysitters, grandparents, or anyone that might need a car seat safety refresher. The best way to keep your child safe in the car is to use the right car seat in the right way.

Smith Shanklin Sosa is also hosting a fabulous giveaway for a GRACO Extend2Fit® Convertible Car Seat below!

Car Seat Safety

Car seats have come a long way. In the past, they provided minimal protection and were only used for babies; toddlers and other young children simply used seat belts. Thanks to extensive studies on vehicular injuries and advancements in technology, car seats, and booster seats are now mainstays throughout early childhood. Choosing and installing car seats can be confusing, but understanding their basic features and functions will help.

The Three Types of Car Seats

Children under the age of 1 should ride in rear-facing car seats. Louisiana law states that, due to the superior safety of this position in car accidents, children should be kept rear-facing until they are at least a year old or 20 pounds. However, safety experts recommend using rear-facing car seats until children outgrow them or are at least 2 years old.

The next step is the forward-facing five-point harness option. Children should be kept in these car seats until they’re at least 4 years old or 40 pounds. Then, booster seats should be used until children are tall enough to sit unassisted with seat belts safely crossing their shoulders and chests. Parents can choose between high-back and backless booster options. Typically, high-back boosters are used for younger children who don’t yet meet the height and weight requirements of a backless booster seat. These size restrictions should be clearly displayed on the packaging of all booster seats.

Multi-stage Car Seats

Though each type of car seat can be purchased individually, some companies have introduced multi-stage car seats that can adjust to fit children as they grow. Some of these options include the following:

– Convertible: These seats can be installed as both rear-facing and forward-facing to last until the booster stage.

– Combination: Equipped with removable harnesses, combination car seats can be used as both forward-facing five-point harness seats and booster seats.

– 3-in-1: The most advanced option on the market, these complete car seat solutions last until children are ready to use seatbelts.

Properly Installing Car Seats

Each car seat has its own installation requirements, and their instruction manuals provide detailed directions. Car seats and some booster seats are installed using one of two systems, seat belts or lower anchors and tethers for children (LATCH). The LATCH system is available in most vehicles manufactured after September 1, 2002. LATCH systems should not be used when the combined weight of the child and the car seat exceed 65 pounds. For larger children or cars that do not have lower anchors, car seats can be secured by using the seat belt in a locked position. For parents who need assistance installing their car seats or want to make sure they’ve done it correctly, car seat inspections are available at local government facilities such as police stations, health departments, and fire stations.

Learning about car seats and booster seats can simplify the process of choosing the right one for your child. Car seats are safer than they’ve ever been, but accidents can still happen. If you or your child has been hurt in a car accident, the attorneys at Smith Shanklin Sosa may be able to help. To schedule a free consultation, call them at 225-223-6333 or contact us online.

In honor of Car Seat Awareness Month, check out these helpful car seat & booster seat tips to ensure you are keeping your child safe! Click on the image for the full free printables! 

Car Seat Safety Rear-Facing Stats Car Seat Safety

Car Seat Safety Forward-Facing 101Car Seat Safety

Car Seat Safety Booster 101Car Seat Safety
Car Seat Safety

Disclaimer: The purpose of this site is to share BRFF’s experiences with food,  fitness, health, and life as well as opinions from some of our local experts. This content is for informational purposes only and isn’t a substitute for professional medical advice.  When it comes to your health or the health of your child, please be sure to contact your physician.

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

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You know the feeling.  The sign posted on the door of daycare announcing the current illness that is floating around.  Oh the dreaded sign!  “We want to inform you that cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease have been diagnosed here at the center.”  GREAT!  There are likely two questions that are running through your head: 1) So what are we going to do when our child comes down with this latest illness? and 2) What exactly is Hand, Foot and Mouth disease?  Well, that first question is one that I have struggled with many times in my own household, and unfortunately, I can’t help you answer, but that second question…I CAN help with that one!

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

Hand, foot and mouth (HFM) disease is a very common viral illness in children, particularly those under 5 years of age.  Older children, teens and even adults can get Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease, but it is much less common as most people have had HFM by that time and therefore have natural immunity to these viruses.  This illness is typically seen in the late summer to fall, but especially here in Louisiana with our mild climate, I will see cases of HFM year round.  The virus is spread through contact with droplets of someone who is infected, so it is spread by sneezing and coughing as well as the saliva that children “share” with each other on toys.  It is not uncommon to see mini “epidemics” of HFM that spread through daycare centers or other child care facilities.  The incubation period for HFM is 3-6 days, so I generally tell parents to be on the lookout for signs of HFM for about 1 week after “the sign” is posted at daycare.

What are the symptoms of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

As with any other virus, each child may present differently, but most children will start out with fever.  In the next few days, children will often develop the classic rash that really can be anywhere on the body but, as the name suggests, most commonly is seen on the hands, feet, and around and in the mouth.  The rash looks like small blisters or ant bites, and you will find these spots on the palms and soles of the feet (there are not a lot of illnesses that will cause a rash on the palms and soles but HFM is one of them).

hand, foot, and mouth disease

Especially in infants and toddlers, I will almost always see the rash in the diaper area and on the backs of the thighs as well.  If you look inside the mouth, you may see ulcers on the inside of the lips or tongue as well as in the back of the throat.  These blister lesions will typically continue to pop up over the first 3-5 days of the illness.  After that time the rash will slowly begin to fade, and parents may even notice peeling of the skin where the blisters were located in the coming week.  Finally, some children will have changes to their fingernails or toenails about 4-6 weeks after hand, foot, and mouth disease, and it may appear like the nail is “splitting” horizontally and coming off.  No worries…there is a new nail under there!

hand, foot, and mouth disease

Since HMF is caused by a virus, antibiotics will not make the illness or the rash go away.  The mainstay of care for HFM is making sure children are drinking lots of liquids and using acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help with fever.  Sometimes the throat can be so painful for children that they will not want to drink liquids, and then the concern is that they could be become dehydrated.  When it comes to liquids to offer, I often say that when kiddos are sick, they can have free reign of the liquids…so that means juice, milk, popsicles, Slurpees or even ice cream.  Just something that has liquid form to it!  If your child is refusing to take liquids, make sure and call your pediatrician as there are some occasions where a special mouthwash can be used to help with the pain.  As far as the rash goes, most children are not bothered by the rash.  It doesn’t hurt or itch typically and may only cause mild discomfort when walking for those children that have their little feet covered in blisters.

Now for the last remaining question that every parent asks, “When can my child go back to daycare/school?” and the answer might surprise you.  Once your child is fever free for 24 hours and tolerating liquids well, they can return to school.  Unlike chicken pox, the hand, foot, and mouth disease rash itself is not contagious! The only time I would recommend keeping kids out of daycare in regards to the rash is if they have many open sores that they are itching as these could easily become superinfected with bacteria (this is not very common with HFM whereas with chicken pox, superinfections of the skin are much more common).  The virus that causes hand, foot, and mouth disease can be shed through respiratory droplets for 1 week after the illness and can be shed in the stool for several weeks following symptoms, so by no means are children kept out of daycare or school for this period of time.  This is again one of those times where you hope your daycare is doing a good job of wiping down toys, washing hands, and practicing very good diaper changing hygiene!

For those of you who have been “lucky” enough to experience Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease already, you may say, “Wait a minute! My daycare told me that she couldn’t return until the blisters were crusted/gone.”  Well, as I said above, fever free for 24 hours is the main criteria for return to daycare or school, but child care facilities are able to set their own return policies when it comes to infectious diseases like hand, foot, and mouth disease, so in many cases, their policy will be the “law of the land.”

So if the next dreaded sign on the door at daycare reads “Hand, foot and mouth disease,” take a deep breath as you are now armed and ready to deal with this unpleasant but all too common illness of childhood.  And as with any illness, if you have specific questions or concerns about your child, please make sure and give your pediatrician a call…it’s what we are here for!

“Ask the Experts” is a series on Baton Rouge Moms where local experts share their thoughts, opinions and answer questions relating to health, wellness, parenting and living in Baton Rouge.

Ask the experts Baton Rouge Moms

Disclaimer: The purpose of this site is to share BRFF’s experiences with food,  fitness, health, and life as well as opinions from some of our local experts. This content is for informational purposes only and isn’t a substitute for professional medical advice.  When it comes to your health or the health of your child, please be sure to contact your physician.

Baton Rouge Zoo Family Zoo Run Run

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Whether you are a turtle or a hare there is fun for all to be had at the Baton Rouge Zoo’s 16th annual Family Zoo Run Run on Saturday, November 13th, 2021. Run like a cheetah to the 16th annual Zoo Run Run 2-Mile Race and ½ Mile Kids’ Fun Run presented by Ochsner! At the run, enjoy the scenery as you scamper, trot or gallop your way through BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo. All proceeds from the race support your Baton Rouge Zoo and international cheetah conservation efforts. Again this year, all participants earn a medal! After the race, participants are invited to join the Zoo for food, refreshments, and an award ceremony.

REGISTER HERE! 

Baton Rouge Zoo Family Zoo Run Run 

Where else do you get to run alongside cheetahs, elephants, monkeys, and more? 

Race Day

Race day registration will be located at the front entrance of the Zoo. Located just 15 minutes from downtown Baton Rouge, take Exit 8A off of I-110 North and turn right onto Highway 19. Continue to the second stop light and turn right onto Thomas Road. The Zoo entrance is one mile on the left.

On-Site Registration Begins 6:30am

Kids 1/2 Mile Fun Run Begins 7:30am

2 Mile Race Begins 8:15am

Chip Timing

Only 2-Mile runners will be timed. Your RFID timing chip will be attached to your race bib.

Race T-Shirts

Only participants who are pre-registered by October 22nd are guaranteed a Zoo Run Run t-shirt in thier size on Race Day.

Entry Fees*

Adult/Teen Registration
  • Pre-registration (by Nov 13): $30
  • Race Day Registration: $35
Child Registration (ages 12 and under)
  • Pre-registration: $17
  • Race Day Registration: $22

REGISTER HERE! 

For more Family Zoo Run Run information check out:  BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo Website

For questions or to volunteer, please call (225) 775-3877 or email info@brzoo.org.

Flock on down and join the herd for a great event for competitive and casual runners, walkers, and families alike, all for a great cause. We hope to see you there!

 

Healthy Mamas research study – Pennington Biomedical

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Less than 15 weeks pregnant? Want to learn about healthy habits for you and your growing baby? Join the Healthy Mamas research study! Your child’s long-term health begins in the womb, and what you eat during your pregnancy influences the health of your baby.

Research has shown that excess weight gain during pregnancy can have long-term consequences for both mother and baby. In recent years, almost half of all pregnant women in the United States gained more than the recommended amount of weight over the course of their pregnancies. An estimated 1.1 million women in the U.S. each year enter pregnancy with obesity, and women with obesity before pregnancy have the highest likelihood of gaining excess weight during pregnancy.

Healthy Mamas Pennington Biomedical

The good news is that for women with excess body fat, staying close to the same weight throughout pregnancy and losing some body fat throughout pregnancy may help prevent health problems during pregnancy and delivery and improve long-term health for both mother and baby! Prior research from Pennington Biomedical Research Center found that women with obesity who maintained weight or lost a modest amount of weight during pregnancy did not lose precious water, placenta, or baby weight – they just lost unhealthy body fat!

Healthy Mamas Research Study

Researchers at Pennington Biomedical have developed the Healthy Mamas study to further research weight maintenance and determine the health effects of a lifestyle program that supports weight maintenance during pregnancy in women with obesity. Participation in the study lasts about 8 months, and study participants will complete 4 clinic visits and 3 or 4 short ultrasound visits in the Pennington Biomedical outpatient clinic throughout pregnancy until 2 weeks postpartum.

Every mom who participates in the Healthy Mamas study will receive at no cost:

  • Education on healthy behaviors during pregnancy
  • Follow-up during pregnancy to assess changes in weight, eating, activity, and health
  • Follow-up at 2 weeks postpartum to assess mother and baby’s health
  • Compensation of up to $400 for time and participation.

To qualify for this study, participants should:

  • Be a woman less than 15 weeks pregnant
  • Be 18-45 years old ·
  • Have a Body Mass Index between 35.0 and 55.0 [calculate your BMI here]
  • Be expecting one baby in the current pregnancy
  • Be willing to eat study foods
  • Be willing to enroll their infant for study procedures after birth

If you are interested in volunteering for the Healthy Mamas study, visit the website to screen online or to learn more! https://bit.ly/HealthyMamasStudy

You can also learn more by calling 225-326-0546 or emailing moms@pbrc.edu.

Disclosure: This is a “sponsored post.” The company that sponsored it compensated Baton Rouge Family Fun via payment, gift, or giveaway. Opinions expressed herein are that of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of the sponsor.

Giveaway: Mother’s Day Bundle – Baton Rouge Family Fun

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With Mother’s Day right around the corner, we wanted to do something special for one lucky local mama, so we partnered with some of our favorite local businesses to put together a Mother’s Day Bundle full of goodies VALUED AT OVER $450. It’s a selection of amazing gifts that any mom would definitely appreciate. 

Enter for your chance to win this giveaway using the widget below and learn a little more about our partners and the awesome gifts included!

Mother’s Day Bundle

Mother's Day Giveaway

Mimosa Handcrafted – $100 Gift Card

Mother's Day Giveaway

Mimosa makes wares and wears with story and soul, primarily focusing on handcrafted, locally inspired, and functional jewelry.
They are a husband and wife team armed with two degrees in landscape architecture, two brains spinning with creativity and curiosity, two kids, two dogs, and lots of heart for what they do and why we do it. Follow their work and life @mimosahandcrafted on Instagram!
 
 

Chicken Salad Chick (Baton Rouge) – $100 Gift Card

Mother's Day Giveaway

Chicken Salad Chick is THE place for chicken salad lovers to rejoice! They’ve taken this Southern favorite to a whole new level with over twelve flavors! They also offer tasty soups, sides, and desserts in addition to the chicken salad that started it all, and they’re giving away a $100 Gift Card to one lucky mama and her family!! 

 

Shannon’s Sugah Shack – Chantilly Cake & Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Mother's Day Giveaway

 Shannon’s Sugah Shack is blessing one mama with a personalized 3 layer 6” Chantilly Cake with strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, mascarpone cream, fresh whipped cream – boxed and bowed for Mother’s Day. Plus, 6-pack of hand-dipped chocolate-covered strawberries! Shannon specializes in decorative cookies, cupcakes, decadent cookies, cocoa bombs, southern desserts, and cakes! You can message her with any questions or orders on her Facebook page.

 

Meagan Jenkins Flowers –Flowers for Mama Arrangement

Mother's Day Giveaway

Meagan Jenkins brings bespoke, garden-style designs to your weddings and events as well as holidays throughout the year. No two couples, families, or celebrations are alike, and Meagan is passionate about helping your event reflect that uniqueness through custom designs, original color schemes, and personal details.

Celebrate the mamas in your life with a keepsake ceramic planter full of springtime! One of you will get this beautiful bouquet this mother’s Day!! Container and flowers are designer’s choice and will be a colorful mix of high quality, garden-style blooms. There’s still time to send one to your favorite mom; delivery on Saturday, May 8th in Greater Baton Rouge is included. Preorder ends Monday, May 3rd. Order on Meagan’s website: www.meaganjenkinsflowers.com
 
 

Sephora Favorites – Vacay All Day Set – Get ready for summer, mamas!! 

Mother's Day Giveaway

What it is: A set of Summer-ready faves for the perfect protection, waterproof holy grails, and luxurious lotions and scrubs to help you beat the heat.
What Else You Need to Know: This vacation-ready set includes three full-size, bestselling products from Tarte SEA, NARS, and Dr. Brandt Skincare.

Mother’s Day Bundle Includes:

To enter this giveaway on Facebook and or Instagram and use the Rafflecopter widget below for extra entries! USA only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Safe to Eat Cookie Dough – Eggless – Sponsored by Party Time

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The aroma of homemade Christmas cookies baking in the oven is one of the most glorious smells during the holiday season. In our home, there is not a more highly-anticipated (and delicious) Christmas task than baking cookies. With cookies comes cookie dough and kids and adults alike can’t seem to bake cookies without trying the raw dough. A few years ago a friend introduced me to a delicious, egg-less cookie dough recipe that is completely safe to eat raw! Find the full recipe below! 

safe to eat cookie dough

You can use this recipe for cookie-cutter cookies, Santa whiskers, chocolate chip cookies,  thumbprints, just about any recipe that calls for shortbread or sugar cookies. Of course, to bake the ultimate Christmas cookies, you also need cookie cutters and all the decorating fixings!  

Cookie cutters are timeless, and there’s a reason—they work. They save your sanity because mama doesn’t have time for freehand, the stainless steel will last for years, and they’re easy to clean! For a plethora of cookie-cutter options be sure to check out Party Time at Bluebonnet and Airline! When it comes to baking and gifting they have you covered with a wide variety of candy, sprinkles, icing and gifting containers! Take care of your holiday baking, candy making and decorating in one stop!

safe to eat cookie dough

Are your holiday decorations, plates, and napkins a little less than fa-la-la-la-fabulous, no worries, Party Time is where you’ll find everything that’s merry and bright! Buy two get one free Christmas plates and napkins until this Saturday and 40% off all ribbon until this Sunday!

safe to eat cookie dough

Safe to Eat Cookie Dough

This simple sugar cookie dough recipe is especially good for families with children that have an egg allergy because the recipe is eggless!

[yumprint-recipe id=’3′]

Disclosure: This is a “sponsored post.” The company who sponsored it compensated BRM via a cash payment, gift, or giveaway. Opinions expressed herein are that of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of the sponsor.