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