BACK-TO-SCHOOL ISSUE Curriculum Map • Meet an Education Champ Common Core Update • Grade Skipping

FALL LECTURES Building resilience ’cause parenting is a trip! PAGE 38

BACK-TO-SCHOOL ISSUE Curriculum map • Meet an education champ Common Core update • Grade skipping

September 2014 • parentmap.com fall arts Your theater-dance-music to-do list 31

YOUR CHILD’S BREAKING UP IS HEADS UP! KEEPING ANTI-BIAS LIBRARY HARD TO DO NOGGINS SAFE Best-pick books that teach tots Help your child survive a How to spot a non-sport the right lessons 39 fallen friendship 49 concussion 13 Go online. Why? To get a quote. Why? To save money. Why?

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6 eggs

Salt and pepper, to taste watch the video Preheat oven to 350° F. scan the QR code below Remove crusts from sandwich bread 1 and gently roll out to about ⁄4-inch thick. Lightly butter one side of each bread slice. Line 8 muffin cups with bread slices, buttered side down, A healthy start to the school year trimming the overhang, as needed. These mini quiches use whole wheat bread for the crust, so Evenly divide corn, ham, chives and they come together quickly and Get the day rolling with a hearty make- cheese between each muffin cup. work wonderfully for either Whisk eggs with salt and pepper, breakfast or a lling after- school ahead breakfast of our Mini Corn Quiches. and divide between each muffin cup. snack. Watch PCC Chef Jackie And to provide healthy fuel throughout the Bake until eggs are set and lightly Freeman make these avorful, golden, about 15 minutes. Let cool 10 portable meals with her helper day, we’ve put together a simple checklist minutes before serving or refrigerate Cainen and his mom Kerry. and serve chilled. pccnaturalmarkets.com/ suggesting healthy, appealing lunch RECIPE BY JACKIE FREEMAN, PCC CHEF healthykids ideas that give kids some control and EACH SERVING: 170 cal, 8g fat (3.5g sat), 170mg chol, 460mg sodium, 14g carb, flexibility as they rush through school’s 2g fiber, 2g sugars, 11g protein short lunchtimes. Download the list at pccnaturalmarkets.com/r/2774.

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4 • September 2014 • parentmap.com 0914_04_05_TOC_updated_0914_04_05_TOC_updated 8/20/14 8:45 AM Page 5

inside

SEPTEMBER 2014

feature PAGE 23 Curriculum map: Understanding your child’s universe of learning

REGULARS OUT + ABOUT ADVERTISING SECTIONS 6 PAGE 6 28 SEPTEMBER CALENDAR 18–26 SCHOOLS + PRESCHOOLS Indian eats, getting to the root of STEM, 31 FALL ARTS 42–43 BIRTHDAYS healthy food for families on the go Your theater-dance-music to-do list 46–48 ARTS + ACTIVITIES 8 DEAR READER 36 SEPTEMBER PLAY LIST From roots to wings 5 adventures to ease into fall COMING IN OCTOBER 10 VOICE AGES + STAGES OUR SPECIAL-NEEDS ISSUE 39 0–5 BABY GOT BOOKS Laid off, just in time for school • ParentMap’s Learning Guide, Our favorite anti-bias reads for tots 13 WELLNESS a special education insert 45 6–9 JUMP START Heads up: How to spot and avoid • Aging up with autism Facing fears and facts about grade skipping non-sports concussions • 49 9–13 BREAKING UP IS HARD TO DO A guide to sensory issues 19 EDUCATION MATTERS How to help kids survive a failed friendship COVER PHOTO: KALI 9 / iSTOCK Common Core, one year later 52 14–18 REALITY BITES 54 SOMEONE YOU SHOULD KNOW 10 things your kids need to know before Education advocate Bernardo Ruiz they leave home

45 13 31 MARK KITAOKA MARK

parentmap.com • September 2014 • 5 0914_06_07_page_6_staff_B_0914_06_07_page_6_staff_B 8/20/14 11:16 AM Page 6

ParentMap September 2014, Vol. 12, No. 9

navigate great stuff daily! PUBLISHER/EDITOR Alayne Sulkin

DIGITAL DIRECTOR Patty Lindley

EDITORIAL MANAGING EDITOR Natalie Singer-Velush OUT + ABOUT EDITOR Elisa Murray EDUCATION EDITOR Alison Krupnick AGES + STAGES EDITOR Mia Lipman CALENDAR EDITOR Nancy Chaney PROOFREADER Sunny Parsons CONTRIBUTORS Nancy Schatz Alton, Will Austin, Sharon H. Chang, Heather Rae Darval, Deanna Duff, Tiffany Doerr Guerzon, Jessica Minier Mabe PARENTMAP.COM CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER Julian Haight SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR Rory Graves PUBLISHING ASSISTANT Alyssa Johnson EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Christina Boyer ADVERTISING SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE, SEATTLE Anne Doss Hardy Little white lie ACCOUNT MANAGER, EASTSIDE Ida Wicklund All (OK, most) kids do it at some point. ACCOUNT MANAGER, They tell a lie, and we’re left figuring out NORTH SEATTLE AND SNOHOMISH COUNTY Dani Carbary how to turn this frustrating behavior ACCOUNT MANAGER, PIERCE AND THURSTON COUNTIES into a teaching moment. It turns out Stephanie Brandt Grub on the go AD TRAFFIC MANAGER Elisa Taylor there are developmental reasons for SALES COORDINATOR Lisa Salkind Many families find themselves in the same situation come fall: truth-stretching. Once you understand MARKETING/EVENTS school schedules, tons of activities, kids going in a million different MARKETING DIRECTOR Jo Gubas the whys, you can build honesty MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER directions. As much as we value a sit-down family meal, sometimes Ayva Larson successfully: parentmap.com/lying. EVENTS MANAGER Merideth MacRae we can’t help needing to feed on the go. Our fresh-from-the-fridge ART + PRODUCTION food roundup brings you brilliant options, from salad shakers kids DESIGN + PRODUCTION Emily Johnson PRODUCTION DESIGN Amy Chinn will actually love to sandwich sushi (say what?!) and crafty quinoa. ADMINISTRATION Dinner winners! parentmap.com/foodonthego BUSINESS MANAGER Barbara Cohen ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT Tara Buchan ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT/DISTRIBUTION Angela Goodwin ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT Taracina Ullevig Conference confidence PARENTMAP Have you ever wondered how to make the most out of a parent- EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD Benjamin Danielson, M.D. teacher conference? What should you focus on the first time you ODESSA BROWN CHILDREN’S CLINIC Joan Duffell COMMITTEE FOR CHILDREN sit down with your child’s teacher? What questions should you ask? John Gottman, Ph.D. Should you do homework? We’ve got your cheat sheet just in time THE GOTTMAN INSTITUTE PROFESSOR EMERITUS, UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON to kick off the school year: parentmap.com/teacherconference. Michael Gurian THE GURIAN INSTITUTE Laura Kastner, Ph.D. PSYCHIATRY + BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES, UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON Bea Kelleigh VICE PRESIDENT AT DOVETAILING, LLC Let’s hang out Get out of your Yaffa Maritz, M.A. LISTENING MOTHERS + (We like you!) restaurant rut COMMUNITY OF MINDFUL PARENTS Ron Rabin THE KIRLIN FOUNDATION Parenting is no fun without friends, Hungry to explore the nuances of Daniel J. Siegel, M.D. and it’s tough to be all parent, no Indian food with your family? From EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, MINDSIGHT INSTITUTE fun. Let us bring the good stuff to tandoori roti, saag paneer and naan of ADVERTISING INFORMATION 206-709-9026 or [email protected] you: Sign up for the newest parenting northern Indian cuisine to the tangy Fax 206-709-9031 CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS [email protected] news, stories and advice, as well as dosas and idlis of southern Indian food EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS [email protected] insider tips on the most fun family out- to street food such as papri chaat, DISTRIBUTION [email protected] SUBSCRIPTIONS [email protected] ings, food ideas to feed your brood, and Padmaja Ganeshan-Singh breaks down ParentMap is published monthly. inspirations for holiday and where to eat, what to order and how to PMB #399, 4742 42nd Ave S.W. Seattle, WA 98116 home. We promise, it’s better make your kids into lifelong fans of this Admin: 206-709-9026, parentmap.com than espresso and a puppy: flavorful cuisine. Holi moli, sign us up! Subscription rate: 1 year: $24; 2 years: $40 All rights reserved; reproduction in whole parentmap.com/enews. parentmap.com/indianeats or part without permission prohibited ©ParentMap 2014 • Printed in Oregon

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6 • September 2014 • parentmap.com 0914_06_07_page_6_staff_B_0914_06_07_page_6_staff_B 8/20/14 11:16 AM Page 7

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parentmap.com • September 2014 • 7 VCU_Mortgages_ParentMap_4x10.pdf 1 7/9/2014 12:04:49 PM

dear reader

From roots to wings “There are two things we should give our children: One is roots and the other is wings.” — Henry Ward Beecher

ach August, our big family is blessed to be able to convene on the shores of Lake Michigan before everyone heads back to the frenetic pace of Eback-to-school life. For a brief moment, time seems to stand still as we end our summer delighting in the country living of Union Pier, Mich. Life is simple in these parts. The essential daily decision: “Beach now or beach later?” Each morning our motley crew arises, then shuffles to The Whistle for coffee or cinnamon chip muffins. We hit the beach late afternoon, chill until sunset, play ferocious team charades, and embrace the day’s grand finale with a barbecue for 20. Magnificent! We’re accustomed to the sad September separation as the Chicago cousins head east and the Seattle Sulkins head back west. But there has been an even more dramatic change this year: Our kids seem to have all grown up. They’re C getting jobs, working in places as far away as Tel Aviv, and joining cousins on

M the East Coast.

Y The not-so-long-ago baby Maya (13) towers over every one of the near

CM dozen twentysomethings. She’s despondent at the prospect of being the only one of this assemblage to live at home this fall. MY In one fell swoop, our newly married daughter and her husband, along CY with our recent college graduate son, will head to New York to advance their CMY respective careers. Sadly, this reduces our ritual Friday night Shabbat dinners K by 50 percent. Thankfully, they will all be together. We feel these three have what they need as they venture out to seek their fortunes. Will your kids be Federally Insured by NCUA ready to leave home? Find out this month: (“Reality bites,” p. 52). In our family, we’ve hopefully given our children strong roots, which provide confidence, courage and determination, along with decades in an environment of unconditional love and acceptance. This often heard “roots and wings” quote above sounds a bit corny. But you just might find yourself relying on it one day soon to counteract your You are here - so are we. melancholy as blessed and once-battling offspring leave the family roost holding hands. For the lucky little ones left under our tutelage, flip fast to p. 31 to plan your fall arts frenzy! I feel the same as our superb Out + About editor, Elisa Murray, does — wanting to book as many of these fast-selling arts tickets as possible. Finally, in this moment at the start of another school year, take pause and consider this month’s feature (“Understanding your child’s universe of learning,” p.23). It offers a practical guide to better grasping (or questioning) the academic plans and powers in your child’s school in order to better help your child learn.

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8 • September 2014 • parentmap.com You could be reading a free e-book right now Choose from over 238,000 e-books

Something exciting is happening at Bright Horizons.

Join us for Curriculum Night this September and October! Learn how we prepare your child for academic success.

• Meet the teachers and learn more about the curriculum • See what exciting enrichments are included with the cost of tuition • Connect with other parents

Bring A Friend. We Are Open To The Community. For a list of participating centers and event details visit www.brighthorizons.com/cnpm

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parentmap.com • September 2014 • 9

0914_bright_horizons_1-2v.indd 1 8/18/140914_seattle_public_library_1-2v.indd 9:51 AM 1 8/12/14 1:02 PM voice Parent stories as real as life: parentmap.com/ parentstories Laid off By Tiffany Doerr Guerzon

ast September, I was laid off. After 14 years The feeling mirrored how I felt of backbreaking, emotionally draining labor, when I’d actually been laid off Lwith no vacation time or sick leave, and with from a job before I had kids. I’d workdays often lasting a full 24 hours, I was no known my last day was coming, longer needed. and I even welcomed the break Or at least that’s how I felt when the last of my from a job I’d come to dislike. But three kids started school. when the time actually came to Last summer, I joyfully awaited the big day. My walk out the building, I felt angry baby would enter first grade, and I would finally and sad. What do you mean you have all three of my kids in school full-time. My don’t need me anymore? Didn’t I children are spaced several years apart, which do a good job? How can you say I’m meant that I’d had at least one child home with a valuable employee when you’re me during the day for nearly a decade and a half. telling me you no longer need my I enjoyed this individual time with each of my kids services? immensely. We attended music classes, story time After spending 14 years at the library and play groups. We pieced together dedicating my energy and time puzzles and played games like Zingo and Sequence to being a full-time mom, the for Kids. Sometimes we just snuggled on the couch adjustment was not easy. Not and watched cartoons. All those things were lovely, only was I less needed, but now, but it was time for a new stage of motherhood. instead of me being the CEO of I had given up my career as a physician assistant our home — with final say over to stay at home when my first child had been born. our schedule — I was fully ruled I don’t regret that move, but I’ve observed other by the rhythms of elementary stay-at-home mom friends struggle emotionally school. when their kids finally joined the ranks of full-time asked. I assured her that I I was certain that In the end, I did adjust to my schoolkids. So I tried to ready myself. A few years would be fine. new stage of life after a couple ago, I started writing for magazines, slowly building I was certain that I I wouldn’t be one of months. I’ve found that my up my freelance business with the goal that it wouldn’t be one of those of those moms who constitute at least a part-time job by the time my last moms who cry as the hours alone are restorative, and I child entered first grade. I thought I was prepared. school bus pulls away cry as the school relish the time I do have with my As the lazy, hazy days of summer came to a close, from the curb on the first children even more. I’ve been I happily contemplated all I would do with my free day of school. After all, I’d bus pulls away able to devote more time to my time come September. I could go to exercise classes practically danced home from the curb writing, and I volunteer in my without paying for child care! I could watch the news from the bus stop after kids’ classrooms. I realize that I without my kids overhearing stories about murder putting my youngest into half-day kindergarten. am still needed, but on a part-time, on-call basis. and mayhem. I could complete home-improvement When the big day came, I didn’t cry. But for And besides, the end of the school day comes projects without constant interruption. I could the first couple of weeks, I felt uneasy. I wandered awfully quickly. enjoy silence. around the house, not motivated to do anything. I This summer, my full-time job was restored It seemed like everyone else had an opinion on felt melancholy. I was irritable and short-tempered. temporarily, but by September, I will be laid off how I should feel about my baby going into first grade. Maybe I should have cried after all. again. We’ll see how I feel this year. n Some acted like I was being released from jail. Others Instead of feeling like I’d been released from treated me as if I was graduating after a very long prison, or experiencing the euphoria of graduating Tiffany Doerr Guerzon is a freelance writer and the time in college. My teenage daughter was concerned. after a long stint of hard work and dedicated study, mother of three children. Read more of her writing “Won’t you get lonely, here all by yourself?” she I felt like I’d been laid off. at TDGuerzon.com.

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12 • September 2014 • parentmap.com wellness

Heads up How to spot and avoid non-sports concussions By Jessica Minier Mabe

ommy, I don’t feel good. I think I need to go to bed.” My 7-year-old “Mson, Henry, stood in front of me, glassy-eyed and nauseated. Normally, his asking to go to bed half an hour early would have set off alarm bells, but I was sick myself. Figuring he was coming down with whatever I had, I put him to bed. Looking back, I could easily have killed him. The next morning, I found out Henry had hit his head on the concrete floor of the garage while playing. I rushed him to the pediatrician’s office, but our regular doctor was away. The on-call pediatrician instructed us to stop activities that caused Henry any pain. This meant that for the Ninety percent of concussions do not result in treatment for adults who come to the ER. Moore and first two weeks of his recovery, my son played as loss of consciousness, so Ellenbogen suggests that her team developed SWIFT, an intervention method he normally would. He would usually stop after a parents think of a concussion as “any neurologic in which social workers offer education and resources moment, saying he had a headache. What we didn’t change that differs from the baseline.” Symptoms on TBI treatment and recovery. know was that the doctor’s advice was wrong, and include headache, nausea or vomiting, unusual The preliminary results have been promising we were causing brain damage to our son. behavior, irritability and sensitivity to light or noise. for adults suffering from TBI, preventing what’s According to the journal Continuing Education in A child who exhibits these symptoms after known as “functional decline” after they leave care. Anaesthesia, Critical Care & Pain in 2013, “traumatic hitting his head should see a doctor. While most Moore is working to develop a similar intervention brain injury (TBI) is the leading cause of death and kids recover quickly from concussions, Ellenbogen for families and children who come to the ER for disability in young adults in the developed world.” explains that “10 percent are more challenging and concussion treatment. This could help doctors Concussions are a mild form of TBI. Though there require treatment by a specialist.” has been a great deal of media attention about provide patients with another layer of treatment for concussion dangers in sports, “The majority of kids’ Emergency preparedness head injuries. concussions come from falling, riding bikes and If a concussion clinic is not available, the emergency Even when a concussion is clearly present, other accidents,” says Richard Ellenbogen, M.D., a room may soon be the best place to go. Megan Moore, knowing when to seek medical care can be difficult. neurosurgeon at Seattle Children’s Hospital. assistant professor at the University of Washington’s D’Lyn Lee of Auburn, Wash., struggled with what to This makes it critical for parents to learn to School of Social Work, has been studying the do when her then 10-year-old daughter, Sydney, fell recognize the signs of concussion themselves. possibility of social workers helping with TBI on the playground last year. >>

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0914_childrens_psychotherapy_nw_1-16.indd 1 7/14/140914_extreme 2:19 PM teens_1-16.indd 1 8/18/14 4:15 PM JOIN US NOW TO ENROLL wellness IN OUR ENGAGING EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE Heads up continued from page 13

“She had a headache, her head was homework. Four months of school visit our sore at the sight of impact, and she felt passed before he seemed back to online a little sick to her stomach,” Lee says. normal. gift Though she thought a concussion was The lifetime risks associated with registry Temple De Hirsch likely, Lee wasn’t sure if they needed a repeat concussions are still being Sinai’s Bridge Family trip to the doctor. This changed when discovered. “We don’t know everything, Religion School is the symptoms didn’t go away after but this is the area where research is being done,” Ellenbogen says. “We do recognized as a a few hours. Sydney’s behavior “just seemed off,” Lee recalls, so she took know that the benefits of sports and cutting-edge model her daughter to the emergency room, other physical activities for children program by the where Sydney was diagnosed with far outweigh the risks.” Parents should Union for Reform a concussion and had her activities help mitigate potential injury by Judaism. restricted until she was symptom-free. teaching kids to engage in physical To learn more, contact Temple Sending a child with a concussion activities safely, such as wearing at 206.323.8486, or visit our back to school is “a double-edged helmets when riding bikes. website at www.tdhs-nw.org. sword,” Ellenbogen says. “Children Although Henry does not have often can’t concentrate, can’t focus, but permanent cognitive difficulties three a child who is out for too long can fall years after his initial injury, he does behind.” He suggests sending children get migraines and is at greater risk for back for half-days until they show repeat concussions. Had we received they are ready for a normal schedule. the right treatment immediately, much A child who is still struggling after of this would have been prevented. Now the advised recovery time should be when Henry hits his head, we drive n reevaluated by a concussion specialist. straight to the concussion clinic.

Think fast Jessica Minier Mabe is a private tutor Rapid intervention is especially critical and writer who lives with her partner in preventing repeat concussions. and their three children. Though researchers are not yet sure why, Ellenbogen says, some children are at greater risk of second-impact concussion tips syndrome (SIS), which occurs when a second concussion follows an initial Dr. Ellenbogen advises: head strike before the first injury has Educate your kids: Children had time to heal. This causes the brain need to know to report any to swell rapidly and may lead to death. head strikes they receive. When parents worry about a child Watch for behavior changes: missing activities, Ellenbogen reminds A change in personality and mood them, “What’s more important than a after a head strike indicates the Ready to Learn child needs to see a specialist. practice or a game? The child’s life.” Did you know? There are more than 700 school-aged Repeat concussions may have long- “If in doubt, sit the kid out”: children who are homeless in King County each night. term consequences. My son’s recovery Children who have suffered a was made more difficult by the repeat concussion should not return to play until they have been concussions he sustained until we saw cleared by a doctor. All children deserve to start the school our regular pediatrician, who quickly Eyes on girls: Girls who play year Ready to Learn. This includes put him on a concussion plan. Henry the same sports as boys have was prone to sudden bouts of crying, a higher rate of concussion and homeless children. You can help! experienced visual migraines and take longer to recover. Learn more: www.wellspringfs.org. couldn’t complete even the simplest

14 • September 2014 • parentmap.com

SCHOOLS + PRESCHOOLS

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16 • September 2014 • parentmap.com EDITOR’S NOTE: In this nine-month series, we explore how new voluntary standards developed in special series Washington state are impacting the quality of after- school programs that serve about 134,000 youths. We will explain what parents should seek in a program, look at research on the impact of quality AFTER-SCHOOL SPECIAL: care on kids’ development and academics, and visit with programs that are successfully serving kids. Kids & Quality After-School Special’s independently reported content is funded by a journalism grant in partnership with Programs the Raikes Foundation and School’s Out Washington. By Hilary Benson

hen Rebecca Schneir’s son Eli started to the Afterschool Alliance (afterschoolalliance. take the lead in planning them for the group, and kindergarten last year, he loved his org), based in Washington, D.C. receive time to reflect on and process what they are Wteacher, the classroom and making As recently reported by the Weikart Center learning. new friends. It was what went on after school that for Youth Program Quality (cypq.org), a national In 2009, the Seattle YMCA’s program at Hamilton got bumpy. leader in this field, a study of more than 500 Nashville, International Middle School was one of the initial When his parents tried to enroll Eli in the well- Tenn., students found that youths enrolled in high- groups to implement the YPQI. “This initiative regarded after-school program at West Woodland er-quality programs had fewer disciplinary referrals. has been really transformative,” says Erica Mullen, Elementary in Seattle, where he attended school, Higher levels of program attendance combined with YMCA executive for education initiatives. “This isn’t there was a long waiting list. “That was the first crazy higher quality were related to greater improvement about high-stakes scoring of staff. Site supervisors thing, and I’d had no idea,” says Rebecca Schneir. in math grades during the school year. do assessments, but we also do cross-observations They opted for another program that transported As Joe Bertoletti, field services director at the so staff see things from a different perspective and kids to a nearby facility. Weikart Center, points out, “The great thing can say to each other, ‘I saw you do this; I want to At pickup time, Schneir would find her about out-of-school time is it’s flexi- do this, too.’” son — normally a social, energetic boy ble, so it can match the interests The initiative was such a positive experience for — sitting sullenly on a couch. And of young people.” the staff and 200-plus students at Hamilton that there were other red flags. What if your after-school the organization expanded to other sites and to the “I’d go to check him out, and program not only super- YMCA’s elementary-school-age programs in 2011. there was just a sign-out sheet vised your child and kept One afternoon during the YMCA’s program at by the door. No adult, no one him safe, but also helped Arbor Heights Elementary in West Seattle, Isaac saying, ‘Bye, Eli.’ It was odd,” uncover hobbies and pas- Hale, assistant program supervisor, asks the 20 or so his mother says. sions, encouraged better kindergartners through second-graders sitting in a One day after school, the academic performance, and circle if any of them want to share something about 6-year-old refused to get on the facilitated positive social and their day. bus and started to cry. The Schneirs emotional experiences — even Kids eagerly talk about a field trip they went on pulled their son out and ultimately filled in learning gaps left by the or an ice cream snack they had. Afterward, they vote found another program through the YMCA tightly packed school day? on their afternoon activities and are given leader- of Greater Seattle, where Eli now thrives. A group of youth advocates, seeing a lack ship roles in art or science projects. What makes one after-school program a posi- of consistent assessment and support for qual- tive experience while others fall short? The window ity programming, believed such a goal deserved “After-school programs are overlooked and between 3 and 6 p.m. was long viewed by some pro- focus and funding. Five years ago, the nonprofit underappreciated,” says Hale. But, it looks like things viders and parents as downtime, playtime or a dead School’s Out Washington (schoolsoutwashington. are working here — the Arbor Heights program has zone in a child’s day. Common thinking was that org), in partnership with the Seattle-based Raikes grown in four years from 22 kids to 55. kids needed to be supervised, but beyond that, what Foundation (raikesfoundation.org), rolled out a There are no uniform standards or guidelines for happened didn’t really matter. road map for youth-serving programs to achieve after-school programs in Washington or any other It turns out it does matter. highest quality. It is known as the Youth Program state. This past April, School’s Out launched a set While the importance of early childhood edu- Quality Initiative, or YPQI. of quality standards that all groups serving youths cation is well recognized, the field of after-school To envision a model ranking good, better and outside the classroom can now adopt voluntarily. youth and summer programs is now evolving in highest-quality care, imagine a pyramid: At the These standards cover everything from the cultural exciting ways. A survey of 68 studies of after-school base is a physically and emotionally safe envi- responsiveness of a program to students’ safety and programs found that students participating in ronment. Built upon that should be a supportive wellness to professional development for staff and high-quality programs went to school more often, environment, topped by solid peer interaction volunteers. behaved better, received better grades and per- and, at the apex of a high-quality program, youth “I wish I’d spent more time checking things out,” formed better on tests than their peers, according engagement where children choose their activities, mom Rebecca Schneir says. “I just didn’t know.” n

parentmap.com • September 2014 • 17 SCHOOLS + PRESCHOOLS Join Us! Kids love learning as much as they love having fun. So at Lakemont Academy, we focus on both! Contact us today to learn more Degrees & Certiﬁcates about our early learning programs. Lakemont Academy Co-op Preschools 5015 Lakemont Blvd., SE Bellevue, WA 98006 Parent-Child Center (425) 564-8200

Spanish Immersion Untitled-12 1 St. Joseph School 7/17/14 10:33 —AM and so difficult — to Over 100 years of excellence Classes 2014-2015 in Catholic education think aboutEnrolling the now greater Ages 1 – 10 Apply Online good for September 2014 www.stjosephsea.org By Alison Krupnick Arts, Math, Zumba, Music, and more while Grades K-8 Strong core curriculum learning Spanish! Small classes Learning Resource Center Open to children of all backgrounds www.zoomlanguage.com On Seattle’s Capitol Hill 206-329-3260 ext. 243

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• International Curriculum-Based Early Childhood Education Program We offer on the University of Washington Seattle campus: Transition School • UW Academy • Saturday Enrichment • 100% Immersion Mandarin Chinese, Spanish and Summer Programs • Professional Development German Preschool

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18 • September 2014 • parentmap.com • S/SO

0814_europa_kids_1-4.indd 1 7/14/14 2:20 PM SCHOOLS + PRESCHOOLS SCHOOLS education matters

Common Core, one year later By Alison Krupnick

omedian Louis C.K. joked about it. This summer, conservative Cradio talk show pundit Glenn Beck convened a “call to action” (broadcast in hundreds of theaters nationwide) to encourage citizens to stop it. One year after widespread imple- Some states are keeping the mentation, the Common Core State standards, but bowing out of the stan- Standards (also known by its acro- dardized tests associated with them. nym, CCSS), the national education There are two different Common road map for English language arts Core assessment consortia in the and math instruction that was barely U.S. — Smarter Balanced Assessment on anyone’s radar last September, Consortium and the Partnership for has become a political hot button Assessment of Readiness for College that could feature prominently in and Careers (PARCC) — with roughly the upcoming presidential election. half of the states that have adopted Presumed GOP presidential can- Common Core in each one. Both didate Bobby Jindal, governor of consortia will debut their assessments Louisiana and an early Common during the 2014–15 school year. Core supporter, has reversed his posi- How did an attempt to apply con- tion on the standards. Jindal is calling sistent education guidelines for for his state to pull out of Common America’s students as a means to Core and, as a result, is now subject increase academic rigor and be more to a lawsuit from the Louisiana State competitive with international stu- Board of Elementary and Secondary dents become such a hot potato? Education and other groups. Other Where do we go from here? presumptive candidates, such as Whose standards are New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, are these, anyway? carefully assessing which way the Common Core winds blow. The essence of the Common Core Want to have some fun? debate is over who should control Get on Twitter and search the education. Though the standards were hashtag #ThanksCommonCore to developed at the state level through a see the societal evils these new school collaborative process, the fact that they learning standards are associated are meant to be applied nationally and with. One example: the fact that hot are supported by the U.S. Department dogs come in packs of eight, but their of Education smacks of “big govern- buns come in packs of six. ment” control to some. #ThanksCommonCore. Education is mostly funded and The standards were originally controlled through state and local adopted by 46 states and the District jurisdiction. However, in recent of Columbia; three states (Oklahoma, decades, federal education funding South Carolina and Indiana) have pulled has been tied to compliance with fed- out of Common Core as of last month, eral education policy, as mandated with others threatening to follow suit. by No Child Left Behind (NCLB), a

parentmap.com • September 2014 • 19 SCHOOLS + PRESCHOOLS

puget sound ENTM Easing back into the groove R A A P community school P You’ve bought school supplies and clothes. You primed day school • grades 6-12 • collaborative • safe P early morning reveille by having them get to bed on S Spanish Mandarin O R * time. Now it’s September, and despite your preparations, I E PROSPECTIVE STUDENT French * Japanese * Hindi N T your family is having trouble adjusting to a new schedule. Here are OPEN HOUSE Classes for kids (newborn-10 yrs) some tips to help make the summer-to-school transition less bumpy: Sunday, October 26, 2014 Best after school + enrichment classes! Plan something low-key yet special for 12:30-2:30pm 1. Bid farewell to summer. Labor Day weekend that allows your family to revel in summer memories. As you walk your kids to school on the glorious September days ahead, admire the glistening spider webs and changing leaves.

2. Invest in meal planning. The days of free-range summer grazing are 660 s. dearborn street • seattle, wa • 98122 NOW ENROLLING: 206.324.435 • www.pscs.org FALL SESSION BEGINS 9/3 over, and meals must happen on schedule. As a family, agree on some favorite, easy dinner options for the first few weeks of school. Let the kids help choose healthy after-school snacks to have on hand.

3. No weekend sleepovers. Anxious to reclaim their summer freedom, 0914_sponge_1-16.indd 1 8/8/14 9:07 AM The Academic Institute, Inc. your kids may be begging to sleep over at friends’ houses. Some parents swear by the “no September sleepovers” rule. Don’t underestimate your kids’ needs for sleep and downtime.

An accredited college prep middle and high school 4. Take it easy on yourself. You don't have to cook gourmet specializing in serving students with learning disabilities. dinners daily, host nightly discussions about current events and clean your house from top to bottom. SMALL CLASS SIZES | TUTORING | SAT/ACT PREP | COLLEGE COACHING Arranging carpool, overseeing homework and going to weekend soccer games is enough for now. The rain will be back soon enough. You can dive into www.academicinstitute.com | Bellevue WA getting organized then. 425-401-6844 — Alison Krupnick

I was a bright student who struggled academically, having to rely on coping mechanisms yet expending extra effort continually to make up for my defi cits. • Highly trained and certifi ed teachers and staff • Secure webcams • Kindergarten prep programs Camp Adventure• Transportation Summer Camp provided to area schools Alexandra Dunnison, Director of Eaton Arrowsmith Academy and Eaton • Hot, nutritious meals served family style2011, 2012, 2013 Cognitive Improvement Centre in Redmond invites you to further explore WINNER the Arrowsmith Program and the success it brings to those who struggle 23445 NE Novelty Hill Road 22703 Bothell Everett Highway with mild, moderate or severe learning challenges. The Arrowsmith Program Redmond, WA 98053 Canyon Park Shopping Center identifi es, intervenes and strengthens the weak cognitive capacities that 425-654-1347 Bothell, WA 98021 affect learning. If you, your child, student or someone you know struggles 425-485-7200 with dyslexia, dysgraphia, non verbal learning disabilities, attention diffi culties, social diffi culties or dyscalculia, or generally has some degree of diffi culty keeping up in school without support, despite his or her intelligence, you’ll want to learn more.

Contact us at [email protected] for www.kiddieacademy.com more information and to arrange a visit. www.eatonarrowsmithschool.com/eaton-arrowsmith-academy

20 • September 2014 • parentmap.com

FD14_eaton_arrowsmith_1-4.indd 1 5/30/140914_kiddie_academy_bothell_1-4.indd 9:54 AM 1 8/12/14 11:19 AM SCHOOLS education matters More on the Common Core: SHORELINE parentmap.com/ Learn CHRISTIAN SCHOOL education Common Core German! continued from page 19 Children K-12 Summer camp & adult classes law that dates back to the George W. widespread community outreach • Learn about German language, culture and customs Bush administration and that many needed to successfully implement • Standard AATG tests & DSD exams feel is overdue for revision. The feds the standards differs among school • No previous knowledge required decide the steps that must be taken districts. German Language GLS School Seattle for schools to be deemed successful. Jessica Vavrus, assistant superin- www.germanlanguageschool.org If states and districts choose not to tendent for teaching and learning at www.facebook.com/GermanSchoolSEA comply with federal recommenda- the Washington State Office of the Why it’s so importantFriends. Preschool. tions, they risk losing funding. Superintendent of Public Instruction, Chapel. Math. This year, Washington state is concerned that professional — and so difficultMusic. Literature. — to became the first state ever to lose development for teachers suffers Art. Stories. Field its NCLB waiver (given to states when education funding is in jeop- think about theTrips. greater Reading. that agreed to adopt certain educa- ardy. But, she is optimistic that Sports. Bible. Washington state’s teachers can tap tion measures, such as tying teacher Recess. Drama. P.E. evaluations to test scores) because it into a library of high-quality teach- goodCinquegranelli failed to revise its state teacher eval- ing materials offered by the Smarter By AlisonMontessori Krupnick Science. Spanish. uation protocol. The result was the Balanced Assessment Consortium, Italian for 3–6 year olds Community. loss of control of nearly $40 million developers of the Common Core– Enriching little History. And More! in federal education funding for the aligned standardized tests that debut minds since 1989 state’s low-income students. in Washington in the spring of 2015. ENROLL TODAY

Last year’s release of New York’s 12 - grade in preschool students Educating Visit us @ What’s so special about Common Core test results was a 206-706-0803 shorelinechristian.org Common Core? touch point for the anti–Common In addition to providing academic Core movement. Critics said the tests were too rigorous, resulting in consistency from state to state, the 0914_shoreline_christian_school_1-8v.indd 1 8/6/14 9:29 AM Common Core State Standards distin- a widespread drop in scores. Some Spectrum Academy guish themselves in English language say the assessments posed an unfair arts by focusing on regular practice disadvantage to struggling students, with complex texts and vocabulary, who were not prepared for the signif- using these texts to build knowledge icant increase in rigor. Others say the in a variety of subject areas. In math, lower test scores are evidence that there is greater focus on fewer topics, previous academic standards were with conceptual understanding build- not rigorous enough. ing from grade to grade. What the future holds It’s important to remember that Common Core will be front and these are standards, not curricu- center, especially as school districts lum. One teacher I interviewed last prepare for the new assessments in year, responding to allegations that the spring of 2015. Common Core takes the creativity To quell the growing tide of crit- Whole-Brain Well-balanced Approach out of teaching, disagreed. “Common icism over the coming months, a Core gives me a clear destination to vigorous public relations campaign is Based on an Innovative Blend of Creative, Montessori get to, but also allows me the free- expected to get under way to dispel and Modern Child Development Principles dom to drive the bus.” the myths about Common Core and Problems with reassure parents that these standards For children ages 3 - 6 years implementation are a crucial tool in helping kids prepare for college and careers. Preschool & Kindergarten Common Core is an unfunded man- Learn more at corestandards.org. n date — which means that the ability to Now enrolling for Fall, please call 425-885-2345 purchase the new teaching materials, Alison Krupnick is ParentMap’s educa- for a tour of our Bellevue/Overlake and Redmond locations. provide teacher training and conduct tion editor. www.spectrumacademy.us

parentmap.com • September 2014 • 21

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Eastside Catholic

High School Open House Sunday, November 2, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.

Middle School Open House Wednesday, November 19, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Through our rigorous college preparatory program, Eastside Joy. Courage. Compassion. Catholic fosters intellectual curiosity, academic discipline and critical thinking in a supportive and caring environment for middle and high school students. Join us at an open house to learn more!

eastsidecatholic.org

SEATTLE ACADEMY preparing students for college and life

LIKE TO TRY NEW THINGS? THIS IS THE PLACE FOR YOU!

EVERYONE DOES EVERYTHING AT SEATTLE ACADEMY. SCIENTISTS ARE FILM-MAKERS. WRITERS Open Houses: Not only does Seattle Academy send its ARE ACTORS. MATHEMATICIANS October 16 graduates to the country’s most selective ARE ATHLETES. DEBATERS ARE & November 6. colleges and universities, but it features an SINGERS. DANCERS ARE INTO Both 6:30 p.m. internationally recognized performing and No RSVP visual arts program; championship-level POLITICS AND COMMUNITY necessary. athletics; nationally renowned teachers; and INVOLVEMENT. opportunities to travel all over the globe. An urban independent school on Seattle’s Capitol Hill • Grades 6-12 • www.seattleacademy.org • 206-324-7227 22 • September 2014 • parentmap.com FD14_seattle_academy_1-2h.indd 1 5/29/14 9:56 PM w

feature

Curriculum map: Understanding your child’s universe of learning BY ALISON KRUPNICK t’s a new school year. Amid the literacy, currently implemented in 43 states, standards — and the conflicting reactions to anticipation and flurry of back-to-school including Washington) and the Next Generation them — certainly don’t make it any easier. Ishopping for clothes, boots, backpacks Science Standards (adopted by Washington in Why are reading comprehension and and school supplies, there might be a question 2013), what kids learn has come under greater multiplication tables so important in third grade? lingering in the back of your mind: scrutiny. Many of us send our kids to school Why has there been a push for students to study What will my child learn this year? with blind faith that they will learn what they are algebra in eighth grade? Should kids be taught to With the increased focus on the Common supposed to, when they are supposed to. Many read, add and subtract in preschool? Core State Standards (a consistent set of learning parents, however, don’t necessarily understand Really, we all want the answer to one simple, standards in math and English language arts/ the whys and hows of learning. The changing elusive question: How do kids learn best? >>

parentmap.com • September 2014 • 23 S C H O O L S feature

Curriculum map continued from page 23 (DEL), in partnership with OSPI x Learning snapshot x As part of your family’s back- and Thrive by Five Washington; x to-school preparation, it’s worth the Graduation in Washington x moving beyond the school-supply toolkit, which lays out specific high x x check list and medical forms to school graduation requirements for take a look at the learning guides each year’s graduating class (during designed to give you a curriculum the 2014 legislative session, some preview of the year ahead. changes were made, impacting Did you know that children begin students in the class of 2015 and developing key self-management beyond); and postgraduation skills, also known as executive guidelines for technical education to function, at birth? Noticing how work in different industries. your child goes about trying The National PTA publishes The GIDDENS SCHOOL something new, how she responds to Parents’ Guides to Student Success. ALL-SCHOOL OPEN HOUSES new situations and challenges, can These Common-Core-aligned guides Thursday, Nov. 13, 2014 give you insights into her learning explain what students should be 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. style. Once he enters elementary learning in K–8 language arts/literacy Saturday, Jan. 10, 2014 school, you can expect your child and math. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. to learn specific concepts in specific Finally, the Council of the Great 620 20th Ave. South, Seattle years: Your kindergartner will learn City Schools publishes Parent giddensschool.org that writing can be used for different Roadmaps to the Common Core purposes; your second-grader Standards in English language arts/ will focus on punctuation; your Teaching the Way Your Child Learns literacy and mathematics for grades 0914_living_wisdom_school_1-16.indd 1 8/11/14 11:18 AM sixth-grader will learn about the water cycle; and your tenth-grader K–8. These grade-level guides will connect algebraic formulas to also provide three-year snapshots geometric concepts. showing how selected standards The Washington State Office of build on each other. Superintendent of Public Instruction Your child’s brain (OSPI) publishes learning benchmarks from birth through in school C grade 12 and beyond. Understanding more about M One of the most valuable resources the overlap between cognitive Y Enroll Now! for families is a brochure called Your development and grade-level CM Small Class Sizes Child’s Progress (yourchildsprogress. expectations can help us, as parents, support and build our kids’ MY Enriched Academics com), which includes learning excitement about learning, as well as CY highlights by grade level, along with Exploration of the Arts understand why they have trouble CMY information about the standardized Before & After School Care tests your child will be expected to when they do and intuit how to help K take. This year’s new digital version, them over learning humps. at the OSPI website, is interactive But one expert says that expecting ETON SCHOOL and contains links to the complete a child’s brain development to set of Washington State Learning perfectly dovetail with grade-level Age 3 through Grade 8 Standards; The Early Learning learning standards puts too much 2701 Bellevue-Redmond Road and Development Guidelines for faith in developmental psychology. A Bellevue, WA 98008 children from birth to third grade, better guiding star is the experience (425) 881-4230 www.etonschool.org developed by the Washington State of teachers, who are privy to a broad Montessori and NWAIS Accredited Department of Early Learning range of learning styles and paces. 24 • September 2014 • parentmap.com S C H O O L S

The Power of Childhood continued from page 23 Curriculum map We encourage each child’s innate passion for learning Daniel T. Willingham, Ph.D., across kids and within a kid. through intellectual exploration, is a psychologist at the University Development seems to happen in fits imaginative thinking and the of Virginia who researches and starts. One week, a student will practice of kindness. the applicability of cognitive understand a task, and the next week, Pre-K through 5th Gradede psychology and neuroscience to she won’t. You can give a student Open House: Decemberr 11th at 6:30 pm K–16 education. He is the author two similar problems and he will School Tours: Octoberr – January www.thevalleyschool.org

of, among other books, Why Don’t understand one, but not the other.” 98112 | 206.328.4475 WA E., Seattle 309 31st Ave Students Like School: A Cognitive Based on this refined understanding Scientist Answers Questions About of cognitive development, educators How the Mind Works and What It are focusing their efforts on seizing .com Means for the Classroom and the on the natural curiosity of young forthcoming Raising Kids Who Read: children, building upon concepts What Parents and Teachers Can Do. and integrating information across Education “The relationship between learning subject bands. science and practice is complicated “When we were developing the and non-straightforward,” says Common Core and Next Generation e Willingham, who also writes the “Ask Science standards, our guiding the Cognitive Scientist” column for principle was that children are born PK–12 School Guide • Open House Calendar • Enrichment American Educator, in which he has investigators,” says Jessica Vavrus, tackled topics such as math anxiety, assistant superintendent for teaching parentmap.com/education and blogs at RealClearEducation.com. and learning at OSPI. “Learning science at its best “Children are born ready to learn,”

describes things that are true about she says. “How do we capture that?”0914_Ed Expo_1-8h.indd 1 8/18/14 4:15 PM what kids learn.” But teachers may Civics in preschool? choose to use the information in different ways, he says. Darwin in kindergarten? For example, if a student excels at Willingham and other experts believe math or writing, some teachers might that a child is never too young to build on this strength. Others might be introduced to a broad array of see value in focusing the student on subjects, so that he or she can begin things he struggles with. building a knowledge base that will become critical in later years. How cognitive “I think we underestimate what development works kids are capable of,” says Willingham. Jean Piaget, the Swiss developmental “I don’t advocate earlier reading, but psychologist and pioneer in the introducing kids to science, civics field of cognitive development, and drama is important. There can be popularized the idea that young more of that, starting in pre-K.” children should be creators and that The Washington State Early ([FHOOHQFH7RGD\WKH:RUOG7RPRUURZ they develop best in a classroom Learning and Development )UHQFK$PHULFDQ6FKRRORI3XJHW6RXQG based on interaction. Guidelines are explicit about the Piaget believed that cognitive importance of knowledge acquisition %,/,1*8$/('8&$7,21 ☆1R)UHQFKODQJXDJHH[SHULHQFH )520<281*35(. $*( UHTXLUHGWKURXJK.LQGHUJDUWHQ development happened in concrete and alignment of learning from birth 72*5$'( ☆,QWHUQDWLRQDOFRPPXQLW\ stages, a belief that Willingham says to grade 3: “Young children learn 6PDOOFODVVVL]H $SSOLFDWLRQV1RZ$FFHSWHG ☆ is considered suspect now. best when new learning builds on ☆7XLWLRQDLGDYDLODEOH :HHNO\7RXUV ☆ 'DLO\EXVDQGKRWOXQFKVHUYLFH “Now, we think development what they already know and it relates &KHFNZHEVLWH ☆$FFUHGLWHGE\1:$,6 )UHQFK (DVW0HUFHU:D\ is much more likely to be gradual to their lives.” >> H[W 0LQLVWU\RI(GXFDWLRQ 0HUFHU,VODQG:$ SDWULFLDE#IDVSVRUJ ZZZIDVSVRUJ parentmap.com • September 2014 • 25

0914_french_american_school_1-4.indd 1 8/6/14 9:16 AM S C H O O L S feature

By the Zoo!

Curriculum map continued from page 25 Knowledge is the describes his own failure, as a fifth- key to reading grade teacher in a low-performing New York City school, to adequately We often talk about “teaching” kids www.kapkaschool.org to read, starting with learning letters teach his students grammar, sentence 510 N 49th St, Seattle, WA 98103 and their corresponding sounds, structure and other mechanics of Open House • Jan 31st • 2-4pm (206) 522-0350 which children then string together writing — tools they would need to Progressive Elementary Education Small Classes Caring Community into words. But building true literacy succeed in later grades and later in life. skills — the work that is happening Good writers, he writes, “have in early grades and later, as children knowledge of the world that enlivens progress and mature — actually their prose and provides the ability to requires exposure to information and create examples and analogies. They PRE-KINDERGARTEN ideas so that children have the con- have big vocabularies and solid through text to comprehend unfamiliar texts. command of the conventions of “If you’re not building knowledge, language and grammar. And if this is New EIGHTH GRADE you are not teaching reading,” says not explicitly taught, it will rarely building Robert Pondiscio, vice president develop by osmosis among children opens WEEKLY TOURS who do not grow up in language-rich summer call to reserve your space for external affairs at the Thomas 2015! B. Fordham Institute, a nonprofit homes.” www.westsideschool.org education-policy think tank. “Knowledge and skills go together,” Pondiscio is also a teacher and a says Willingham. “They can’t be torn reading curriculum expert. ap ar t .” “We have to stop thinking of How math fits reading as a skill to be taught, but as into the equation a condition to be created.” Inspired by E.D. Hirsch Jr., who Elham Kazemi, Ph.D., a professor of Learn more about pioneered the theory of “cultural mathematics education and associate St. Thomas School literacy” — the idea that reading dean of professional learning at the by attending an comprehension requires not just University of Washington, College decoding skills, but also wide-ranging of Education, believes that students background knowledge — Pondiscio need time to learn and fully under- is a proponent of a knowledge-rich, stand math concepts, building on this integrated curriculum starting in the knowledge as they grow. early years. “When you are beginning to “Kids can be interested in any learn a concept, to move from subject at any age,” he says. “It depends understanding to fluency takes a on the context.” For example, a couple of years,” she says. LeAD, InnOVATe, COLLABORATe preschooler can study ancient Egypt Kazemi recommends that preschool - 8th Grade and make mummies from Barbie preschoolers do as much counting as dolls, while a fifth-grader might possible to develop a sense of number Open HOuSe investigate Egyptian mythology. sequence and “one to one” counting. nov. 6th and Jan. 10th Along with exposing kids to ideas They don’t need to work with RSVp at stthomasschool.org so that they can accumulate symbols, but should be encouraged or call 425-454-5880 knowledge, which will aid reading to do lots of object counting and comprehension, Pondiscio also building, so that they think of things advocates teaching kids the mechanics spatially. She cites board games in of writing. In “How Self-Expression which objects are moved a certain Damaged My Students,” a 2012 essay number of spaces as particularly published in The Atlantic, Pondiscio valuable learning tools.

26 • September 2014 • parentmap.com saturday family Curriculum map continued from page 25 concerts “When you are it is developmentally inappropriate to rush through a sequence that doesn’t beginning to give kids enough time to learn cd release party! learn a concept, concepts.” caspar babypants In the future, she adds, we will see to move from high school math books that are ‘rise and shine!’ understanding to two-thirds smaller than the ones we (9/27 & 28) see today. the not-its fluency takes a To infinity and beyond couple of years” Though there are standards to guide original rock/pop music teachers, students and parents, in (10/18) the end, learning is an individual “The most important thing in process. The three most important play date elementary school is to understand components of a successful learning upbeat music the meaning of operations, working experience are the accumulation of with whole numbers, decimals and knowledge, excitement and interest for the whole family fractions,” says Kazemi. “If you don’t in new ideas, and perseverance when have that understanding, you don’t (11/15) the going gets tough. have a foundation, and new ideas are If, as has been said, teachers not resting on something solid. Then are guides to the universe, think it becomes hard to know why you are of learning standards as tools to doing what you are doing, and the understanding different galaxies. effort it takes to do things correctly Get to know what your child will be becomes that much more difficult.” learning this year and be excited right If a student falls behind, Kazemi along with him or her. Supplement advises parents and teachers to what he or she is learning in determine what the child can do, school with family excursions and what makes sense to him or her, and discussions that reinforce and at what point he or she has lost the broaden this new knowledge. ability to understand a concept or apply a procedure. Attend your school’s curriculum Most important, says Kazemi, is to night, which typically occurs a few nurture a child’s interest in math. weeks into the new school year. This “Ask your child what he or she is is the teacher’s opportunity to tell learning that is interesting and worth you not only what your child will be talking about,” she says. “Focus the con- learning, but how he or she plans to versation on what is interesting, not teach these new concepts. what is easy or hard. Math is funda- If you invest the time up front mentally about problem solving. You to understand what your child will should learn something that is inter- learn and how she will learn it, you esting to you and makes sense to you.” can make the most of your parent- SCIENCE TOWN HALL ARTS & CULTURE COMMUNITY CIVICS Kazemi appreciates that the teacher conferences, ensure your Common Core math standards put child is staying on track, and gain FREE for kids. $5 for their adults. fewer concepts into each grade, invaluable insights into her learning giving students more time to explore style, strengths and weaknesses. n WWW.TOWNHALLSEATTLE.ORG

and fully understand them. series support provided by: Fales Foundation OSPI’s Vavrus agrees that this is a Alison Krupnick is ParentMap’s Trust step in the right direction. “We know education editor.

parentmap.com • September 2014 • 27 calendar SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY September 1 2 Bumbershoot/Youngershoot. Last day to CoderDojo: Fall Coding Camps. Tinker, see a dizzying array of music and arts, plus play and work with mentors to learn how to a fantastic Youngershoot kids’ zone. $55/ code and develop your own websites, apps PICKS day and up; ages 10 and under free. and games. Sept. 2, 9 and 16. 3–5 p.m. Ages All ages. Seattle Center, Seattle. 8–18. South Hill Library. piercecountylibrary bumbershoot.org ONGOING EVENT Get Out of the Rut Celebration. Breeding Chocolate: The Exhibition. Indulge in the season, or the rut, for deer, elk, sheep and incredible chocolate journey. 11 a.m.– moose, is the most dramatic time of the 5 p.m., daily through Sept. 28. Included with year at Northwest Trek. Saturday–Monday, admission. All ages. Museum of History & Get Out of the Rut, Aug. 30–Sept. 1, Aug. 30–Sept. 1. Included with admission. Industry, Seattle. mohai.org Northwest Trek Eatonville. nwtrek.org ONGOING EVENT LAUREN BRADEN How About Them Apples 7 8 9 Pie, cider, crisp, slump, tart: These are Puget Sound Bird Fest. It’s bird-mania Rotary Centennial Sprayground. Splash Youth Civic Education Awards. Seattle just a few of the reasons to head to a with guided bird walks, talks, and kids’ and play at this awesome spray park, open CityClub recognizes ﬁ ve outstanding Wash- U-pick orchard to pluck some of our crafts and activities. Friday–Sunday, Sept. later than most in the region. Daily, ington State youth civic education programs. state’s fall bounty. Check out Parent- 5–7. FREE; select activities have cost. All 11 a.m.–8 p.m. through Sept. 27. FREE. Hear from this year’s winners as well as ages. Various venues, Edmonds. Forest Park, Everett. everettwa.org leaders such as MomsRising founder Kristin Map’s online apple-picking guide for pugetsoundbirdfest.org ONGOING EVENT Rowe-Finkbeiner. 6–7:30 p.m. FREE; prereg- where to go, from Jones Creek Farms in Live Aloha Hawaiian Cultural Festival. Bow-Wows and Books. Practice reading ister. Town Hall, Seattle. seattlecityclub.org Sedro-Woolley (more than 100 varieties) Entertainment, local Hawaiian food ven- with a new friend who is warm, friendly and Tot Trek: Things With Wings. Explore to The Farm at Swan’s Trail in Snohom- dors, music workshops, keiki activities and a perfect listener – a certiﬁ ed therapy dog. Camp Long and the wonders of nature ish (apples and pumpkins!) to Stutzman more. 11 a.m.–7 p.m. FREE. Seattle Center. Mondays 6:30–7:30 p.m. FREE. All ages. with your toddler. 10:30–11:45 a.m. $4 per seattlelivealohafestival.com Seattle Public Library, Northgate Branch. person. Ages 2–3 with an adult companion. Ranch in Wenatchee (crisp Fuji apples). spl.org ONGOING EVENT Seattle. seattle.gov/parks parentmap.com/apples

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Adventure Playground. Kids get to mess Homework Help. At several Seattle Public Lakewood Farmers Market. It’s the fi nal around outside with building materials and Library locations, volunteers assist students day of the season for this local Tuesday tools. Sundays, Sept. 7–28, 1–4 p.m. Admis- on a drop-in basis on select afternoons market. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. FREE; items for sion by donation. Under age 12 with adult. throughout the school year. 3:30–7 p.m. purchase. Lakewood City Hall, Lakewood. Deane’s Children’s Park, Mercer Island. Check websites for branch specifi cs. spl.org cityofl akewood.us mercergov.org ONGOING EVENT Hindi Story Time. Stories told in English Folding Paper: The Infi nite Possibilities of Mount Baker Day in the Park. Food and Hindi with puppets, music and games. Don’t miss this exhibit of intricate PATRICK HAGERTY Origami. trucks, pop-up bike park, kids’ parade, 7–7:30 p.m. Ages 2 and older with families. paper creations from around the world before Washington State Fair treasure hunt and more family fun. Sammamish Library. Registration not it leaves on Sept. 21. 11 a.m.–6 p.m daily Ease back-to-school angst with a wild day 10 a.m.–3 p.m. FREE. All ages. Mt. Baker required. kcls.org except Monday. Included with admission. at Washington’s biggest fair: Carnival Park, Seattle. Bellevue Arts Museum. bellevuearts.org rides, concerts, animal exhibits, mountbaker.org/day-in-the-park SillyVille, wacky treats, a kids’ tractor track, a rodeo and mutton-busting 21 22 23 competitions (kids ride sheep as if they were bulls). Sept. 5–21. $7.50–$10 Crush Rush. The family-friendly version Banned Books Story Time. Enjoy stories MiniMOHAI. Six stations featuring reading advance tickets; ages 5 and under free of the ArtsCrush event in Seattle is Crush and songs celebrating the freedom to read. fun, sensory activities and more. Second and Rush, a one-day arts bonanza with stage For children ages 3–8 and their families. (many discounts available). Shows and fourth Tuesdays, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Included with performances, busker musicians and art- 10:30 –11 a.m. FREE. Capitol Hill Branch, admission. Ages 3–5. Museum of History & rides extra. Washington State Fair Events ists, trivia contest, and opportunities to win Seattle Public Library. spl.org Industry, Seattle. mohai.org ONGOING EVENT Center, Puyallup. thefair.com free tickets to arts events. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Shake, Rattle & Roar at Zoomazium. Seattle Center Armory. artscrush.org Toddlers and caregivers are invited to sing, Cast Off ! Free Public Sail. Get out on the dance and play instruments to animal and water for FREE at Center for Wooden Boats. nature-themed music. 11:30 a.m. daily. Rides last about 45 minutes; sign up in person. Included in admission. Woodland Park Zoo, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Sundays. All ages. Lake Union Seattle. zoo.org ONGOING EVENT Park, Seattle. cwb.org ONGOING EVENT

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Go, Dog. Go! P.D. Eastman’s classic Imagination Theater. Watch and listen Biringer’s Black Crow Pumpkins and

BRIAN KASNYIK children’s book comes to life on stage in a as Jim French records America’s leading Corn Maze. It’s opening week for this Caspar Babypants at Town Hall pop-up-like exploration of movement, color radio drama series live – featuring Private pet-friendly pumpkin patch and 5-acre corn and space. Sept. 27–Oct. 19. $10; $5 for Detective Harry Nile and tales of Sherlock maze. Open daily from Sept. 27 through Oct. The kindie rock star kicks off Town Hall Sunday shows for ages 1–3. Second Story Holmes. 7:30 p.m. $12. All ages. Kirkland 31. $8 admission before 6 p.m. Arlington. Seattle’s awesome, aff ordable Family Repertory, Redmond. secondstoryrep.org Performance Center, Kirkland. kpcenter.org facebook.com/biringers.black.crow Concert series by performing sweet, Downtown to Defi ance. Bring your walking Baby Jam. A multi-lingual, drop-in musical Kaleidoscope Play & Learn. A group that catchy tunes from his eighth album, shoes or your bike to travel Tacoma’s water- exploration for babies to preschoolers. provides a fun and age-appropriate learning Rise and Shine. Saturday–Sunday, Sept. front, stopping along the way for fun fi tness Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays 11–11:30 environment for children ages birth to 5. 27–28, 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Free for activities. 8 a.m.–noon. FREE. All ages. Ruston a.m. $10–$12. Ages 0–5 with caregiver. 10–11:30 a.m. FREE. Lake City Branch, Seat- Way, Tacoma. metroparkstacoma.org Balance Studio, Seattle. babyjam.org tle Public Library. spl.org ONGOING EVENT kids 12 and under; $5 for accompanying ONGOING EVENT adults. townhallseattle.org

28 • September 2014 • parentmap.com

0914_PM_Calendar Spread.indd 30 8/18/14 3:59 PM TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 3 4 5 6 Matika Wilbur’s Project 562. Don’t miss Late Play Date. Stop by the museum for Kids ‘Krazy’ Carnival. This themed Pooch Pool Party. Pups take over the this extraordinary photography exhibit at fun crafts and activities. 6–8 p.m. FREE. family swim at Magnolia’s popular outdoor swimming pool. 10 a.m.–1:30 p.m. $5–$10 Tacoma Art Museum on contemporary Native Ages 3–12 with families. White River Valley Mounger Pool in Seattle includes games, for dogs; humans are free. Stewart Heights Americans. Wednesday–Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 Museum, Auburn. wrvmuseum.org activities, prizes and family fun. 5:30–7:30 Pool, Tacoma. metroparkstacoma.org p.m. Included with admission ($8–$10; ages 5 Free First Thursday. On the ﬁ rst Thursday p.m. $3.75–$5.25. Seattle. seattle.gov/parks Salmon Return Festival. Earth-friendly and under free or $25/family) or membership. of the month, many of the region’s muse- Washington State Fair Freebies. Open- art making, live performances and more. 10 tacomartmuseum.org ONGOING EVENT ums oﬀ er free entry to all visitors. FREE. ing day of Washington’s biggest fair is free a.m.–3 p.m. FREE. Olympic Sculpture Park, Play and Learn. Meet at the Crossroads All ages. freemuseumday.org/sea gate admission until noon; and Sept. 6–7 is Seattle. seattleartmuseum.org stage for music, stories, art and games. ONGOING EVENT BECU free kids’ weekend. Washington State Seattle Tilth Harvest Fair. Kids’ parade, Wednesdays 10–11:30 a.m. FREE. Ages 2–5. Fair Events Center, Puyallup. Find all Fair urban goats and, of course, amazing, Crossroads Shopping Center, Bellevue. discounts and deals at thefair.com/deals. fresh-harvested produce. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. crossroadsbellevue.com ONGOING EVENT thefair.com FREE. Meridian Park, Seattle. seattletilth.org

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Gracious Grandparenting. This talk, part North Bend Farmers Market and Waiting for Godot. Samuel Beckett’s ab- Tradin’ Past and Present. Relive the days of the PEPS Lecture Series, aims to help the Summer Concert. Last day of the season surdist, hilarious tragicomedy about Vladimir of bartering. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Included in triad of grandparents, parents and kids fi nd to enjoy North Bend’s lovely farmers and Estragon could be a great fi t for teens. admission. Fort Nisqually Living History their way to generational harmony. 7 p.m. market as well as live music in the park. Sept. 4–21. $25 and up. Seattle Shakespeare Museum, Tacoma. fortnisqually.org $15 or pay as you can. Verity Credit Union, 4–8 p.m.; entertainment begins at 6 p.m. Company, ACT Theatre, Seattle. The Slime Run. This adrenaline-fi lled, Seattle. peps.org FREE. Si View Park. siviewpark.org seattleshakespeare.org messy 5K race at Remlinger Farms is fi lled Student Wednesday at BAM. Every Tugboat Story Time. Story time aboard Preschool Trip to the Moon. A program with obstacles and “slime zones.” Kids’ race second Wednesday, BAM invites students the Arthur Foss (a 100-year-old tug) fea- introducing children ages 2-5 to the wonders for ages 10 and under. Starting at 10 a.m. to visit its temporary and permanent ex- tures stories about boats, kids and the sea. of astronomy in the planetarium. Days and $27–$65. Carnation. theslimerun.com hibits. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. FREE for grades K–12 11 a.m. FREE. Ages 2 to 5. Historic Ships times vary. FREE with admission. Pacifi c with online coupon. Bellevue Arts Museum. Wharf, Seattle. cwb.org Science Center, Seattle. bellevuearts.org pacifi csciencecenter.org ONGOING EVENT

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Tacoma Resident Free Day at PDZA. City In the Heights. This hip-hop musical, set in Center City Cinema Outdoor Movies. A Bug Blast. Examine bugs, enjoy buggy music, of Tacoma dwellers enjoy free admission to New York City’s Washington Heights, won a showing of Frozen at Cascade Playground, in and more. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Included with admis- the zoo and aquarium today; bring photo ID Tony Award for Best Musical and a Pulitzer the heart of Seattle. Pre-movie entertainment sion. The Burke Museum, Seattle. burkemuseum.org and utility bill. 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Point Deﬁ - Prize nomination. Choreographed by Daniel begins at 6 p.m.; ﬁ lm shown at dusk. FREE. Caspar Babypants & Recess Monkey. Two ance Zoo & Aquarium, Tacoma. pdza.org Cruz. Sept. 18–Oct. 26 (Issaquah), Oct. 31– Seattle. seattle.gov/parks/downtown of the Sound’s most beloved family-friendly Apple Games at Seattle Children’s Nov. 23 (Everett). Ages 12 and up. $30-$67. Skate for the Cure and Bellevue Skate bands perform. 10:30 a.m. $12–$22. All ages. Museum. Kids will try out apple-themed Village Theatre. villagetheatre.org Park’s 20th Anniversary Celebration. Rialto Theater, Tacoma. broadwaycenter.org physical activities, such as an apple toss, $1 Third Thursday Night. Get the wiggles This three-day skate extravaganza – also a Robothon. Robot enthusiasts share new apple balancing, and apple games with a out at KidsQuest’s monthly discounted fundraiser for boys with ALD – includes com- robotic technologies and creations and parachute. 1 p.m. Included in admission. admission evening. 5–8 p.m. $1. All ages. petitions, clinics, music, carnival games and compete in competitions. 9:30 a.m.–5:30 Seattle Center. thechildrensmuseum.org KidsQuest Children’s Museum, Bellevue. much more. Friday–Sunday, Sept. 19–21; tick- p.m. FREE to attend. Mural Amphitheatre, kidsquestmuseum.org et prices vary. Bellevue Skate Park. ezrocks.org Seattle Center. robothon.org

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Seattle Speaks: Universal Pre–K. A public- The Garden of Rikki Tikki Tavi. The Shrek the Musical. Based on the Os- Free Entrance to National Parks. ly funded, universal pre–K measure for opening show of SCT’s 40th anniversary car-winning DreamWorks ﬁ lm, the hilarious Venture out to one of Washington’s three Seattle is on the November ballot. What season is playwright Y York’s adaptation story of everyone’s favorite ogre is part spectacular national parks, FREE today in would this program look like and how of the Rudyard Kipling tale, set in an romance, part twisted fairy tale. Sept. honor of National Public Lands Day. nps.org should it be funded? Seattle CityClub, Seattle enchanted East Indian garden. Sept. 25– 26–Oct. 19. Rated PG. $20–$29. Tacoma Family Workshop: Recycled Cars. Build, Channel, and Town Hall host a live, interac- Nov. 9. $20–$36. Ages 5 and older. Seattle Musical Playhouse. tmp.org tinker, and learn together as you explore tive conversation. 7 p.m. FREE, but preregis- Children’s Theatre, Seattle Center. sct.org Kruckeberg Garden Tots. Last day this the world of cars every fourth Saturday. ter. Town Hall, Seattle. townhallseattle.org Super Circus Heroes. Ringling Bros. and season for this drop-in nature exploration 11 a.m–noon. Ages 4–12. $8 per project Movies at the Museum: Lady and the Barnum & Bailey Circus presents humans that includes a plant-themed activity and team plus museum admission; discount for Tramp. Playtime and a movie. 6–8 p.m. and animals performing eye-popping stunts craft project. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. $7/family. Ages members. Le May-America’s Car Museum, $5–$8, plus $3 for pizza and lemonade. and tricks. Sept. 25–28. $20–$70. All ages. 2–7. Kruckeberg Botanic Garden, Shoreline. Tacoma. lemaymuseum.org Bellevue. kidsquestmuseum.org ShoWare Center, Kent. showarecenter.com kruckeberg.org

In the Heights, Village Theatre Issaquah, Sept. 18–Oct. 26

E • parentmap.com • September 2014 • 29

0914_PM_Calendar Spread.indd 31 8/18/14 3:59 PM Puppet eatre! Baba Yaga and the Bag of Gold Gingerbread Boy

Momotaro Come to season opener (Peach Boy) at our new location! Little Red BUSYTOWN Riding Hood Sept. 26-Oct. 12

Tickets & info: ww.olyft.org 612 4th Ave E, 206-524-3388 Downtown Olympia www.thistletheatre.org MATINEE SHOWS KIDS SHOW

0914_thistle_theatre_1-16.indd 1 8/11/14Untitled-23 3:15 PM 1 8/11/14 12:42 PM

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Preschool Playschool (Age 3-4 years) September 16 – May 21; 9:30am – 12 noon; T/Th $996 (Resident) $1195 (Non-Resident) Children must be 100% toilet trained and must be age 3 by August 31, 2014. Crossroads Community Center myparksandrecreation.com 425-452-4874

30 • September 2014 • parentmap.com w

out + about

Your FALL ARTS to-do list BY ELISA MURRAY

Confession: As Out + About editor of ParentMap, I get a bit overwhelmed when working on our fall arts preview. (Thought bubble: I must stop everything to book tickets to all these shows!) This fall, for example, there’s Mary Poppins, The Garden of Rikki Tikki Tavi, a John Williams pops concert, A Chorus Line, Don Giovanni . . . it’s enough to make a family consider homeschooling just to fit more arts in.

To help you prioritize fall picks for your family, this year we’ve organized our highlights by type of show. Whether you’re looking for a splurge, a first show for your preschooler, a way to expose your kids to classical music or the show that will engage your teen, we’ve got the goods. As always, this is just a taste of the arts feast. See parentmap.com/fallarts for a

MARK KITAOKA complete list. (Two notes: If an age recommendation

Up, up and away: Mary Poppins is not included, it wasn’t listed. Holiday arts will be soars into Village Theatre on Nov. 13 covered in a future issue.) >>

parentmap.com • September 2014 • 31 out + about

FALL ARTS to-do list continued from page 31 THE BIG NIGHT Seattle Pops: The Movie Music (OR AFTERNOON) OUT of John Williams Benaroya Hall, Seattle The Garden of Rikki Tikki Tavi Oct. 10–12 explore Seattle Children’s Theatre, Seattle Turn your superhero-crazy children history Center into symphony-philes with one Sept. 25–Nov. 9 swoop of the conductor’s baton in Pause for a moment to be grateful this stirring pops concert featuring that our region is home to one of the John Williams’ unforgettable film miniMOHAI! top children’s theaters in the nation. scores, from Superman to Star Wars. Drop-in program for kids ages 3–6 Then run to buy tickets for the $30–$100; one free ticket for children 8–18 per purchased adult ticket. opening show of Seattle Children’s seattlesymphony.org 10 am–noon, second and fourth Come visit our retro Theatre’s 40th anniversary season. Tuesday of each month toystore, with classic Playwright Y York’s adaptation of the Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Paramount Theatre, Seattle For more information visit toys, gifts and books. Rudyard Kipling tale expands its mohai.org/learn Featuring Playmobil, Oct. 21–26 sweetness and color, touching on Lego and Corolle. Your little princess — and everyone 4859 Rainier Ave. S. themes of friendship, trust and Seattle, 98118 else — will love the spectacular sets, resilience. The set is designed to lavish music and story of this www.retroactivekids.com transport kids to an enchanted East Broadway production. Check Indian garden. $20–$36. Ages 5 and website for prices. Ages 5 and older. older. sct.org stgpresents.org/paramount

George Balanchine’s Jewels Mary Poppins Pacific Northwest Ballet, McCaw Village Theatre, Issaquah and Everett Hall, Seattle Nov. 13–Jan. 4 (Issaquah); Sept. 26–Oct. 5 Jan. 9–Feb. 8 (Everett) Why wait for Nutcracker to expose One night of seeing the inimitable English nanny fly around Village your kids to world-class ballet? Theatre’s stage singing “Spoonful of By turns glittering, graceful, sassy Sugar” and “Chim Chim Cheree” and and imperial, the three pieces in your family’s fall blues will vanish. Balanchine’s Jewels pay tribute to The wizards at Village Theatre should golden ages of music and dance. do wonders with stage magic, too. $30–$184. Ages 7 and older. pnb.org $35–$72. All ages. villagetheatre.org DOWN SYNDROME COMMUNITY presents Emerald city: Pacific Puget Sound Buddy Walk Northwest Ballet’s Jewels Sunday, October 5, 2014 t1-4pm Seattle Center Fisher Pavilion Rooftop

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'FBUVSFE(VFTU,BSSJF#SPXO 8FU4FBM.PEFM ANGELA STERLING Register or donate at www.downsyndromecommunity.org

32 • September 2014 • parentmap.com

0914_down_syndrome_community_1-4.indd 1 8/12/14 12:48 PM Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Big Top rocks ZinZanni The Paramount Theatre AMY BOYLE

A STARTER SHOW The Haunted Theatre: Hansel & Gretel Seattle Women’s Chorus sings FOR EVERYONE Backstage Tour & Eerie Dances StoryBook Theater, four locations spooky, moon-inspired choral Tacoma City Ballet, The Merlino Art around Seattle music in the perfect setting — Busytown Center Oct. 25–Nov. 23 the grandness of Saint Mark’s Olympia Family Theater Oct. 18–31 A project of Studio East, StoryBook Cathedral. Check website for prices. Sept. 26–Oct. 12 flyinghouse.org/swc Who needs a haunted house Theater produces original, highly Huckle, Lowly, Grocer Cat, entertaining 45-minute musicals of when you have a haunted ballet? Family Music: Beethoven Lives Farmer Pig — the complex, well-known fairy tales — an ideal Tacoma City Ballet’s popular Upstairs harmonious world of Richard first theater experience. Here, the Benaroya Hall, Seattle Halloween tradition includes a Scarry’s Busytown comes to witch is a crazed Top Chef character Oct. 25, 11 a.m. just-spooky-enough haunted tour life in this silly, joyful musical who tries to turn Hansel into her This concert, part of the Seattle produced by Olympia’s and ballet performances featuring next meal. $11. Ages 3 and older. Symphony series for 6-to-11-year-olds, storybooktheater.org excellent theater. $13–$19. bats, ghosts, witches, mummies, presents the music of Beethoven Ages 3 and older. monsters and skeletons. Book MUSICAL INSPIRATION through the story of a boy named Christoph who lives downstairs olyft.org early. $5–$6. All ages. Caspar Babypants and Recess from the master composer. It’s an tacomacityballet.com Monkey Baba Yaga and the Bag of Gold ingenious way to expose kids to the Rialto Theater, Tacoma Thistle Theatre, Bellevue and Big Top Rock riches of classical music. $15–$20. Sept. 20, 10:30 a.m. Seattle Teatro ZinZanni, Seattle seattlesymphony.org Beloved kindie rocker Chris Ballew Oct. 11– Nov. 2 Oct. 18–Dec. 28 performs his original brand of Jazz4Kids Featuring kindie rockers Recess Benaroya Hall, Seattle Thistle Theatre’s bunraku catchy tunes and inspired lyrics in Nov. 1, 3–5 p.m. puppeteers (who wear black and Monkey, ZinZanni’s family show a double show with Recess Monkey, The award-winning Seattle Repertory manipulate the puppets from is a high-energy, interactive the acclaimed trio of teachers turned Jazz Orchestra presents a concert just below with wonderful adeptness) performance of live music, rockers. $12–$22. All ages. for the short set. Kids can also “pet” stage a Russian folktale about the dancing and top-notch circus broadwaycenter.org instruments, watch demos and ask acts under the magical spiegeltent. son of a family who journeys to Hallows in the Cathedral: questions of famed artistic directors recover the family treasure from Wandering, dancing kids are Moonshadow Clarence Acox and Michael Brockman. a notorious witch. $10. Ages 3–12. encouraged. $19–$22. All ages. Saint Mark’s Cathedral, Seattle Tickets are free but must be acquired thistletheatre.org zinzanni.com/seattle Oct. 17, 18, 24, 25 in advance. All ages. srjo.org >>

parentmap.com • September 2014 • 33 140807 Crossroads GoldenTeddy ParentMap 4x10f.pdf 1 8/8/14 4:40 PM

out + about

FALL ARTS to-do list continued from page 33 A SHOW TO ENGAGE SCHOOL-AGE KIDS Hobey Ford’s Migration Edmonds Community College, Black Box Theatre Oct. 11, 2 p.m. Talk about a timely topic. Internationally renowned puppe- teer Hobey Ford explores migration through the story of a Mexican girl

JIM LEVITT named Beatriz, juxtaposing her jour- Reedy fun: Jazz4Kids ney to the United States with stories of other creatures’ migrations, from United Kingdom Ukulele monarch butterflies to sperm whales. Orchestra $10. edmondscenterforthearts.org Kirkland Performance Center Mr. Toad’s Mad Adventures Nov. 3, 7:30 p.m. Seattle Public Theater, Bathhouse Inspire young uke players with a Theater show by this irreverent troupe, which Oct. 17–19 will demonstrate the power of their All year, Seattle Public Theater’s chosen instruments by performing youth troupe stages high-quality the works of Robert Johnson, the productions that are free to attend. Sex Pistols and others. $20. All ages. This is a first-ever collaboration kpcenter.org with Woodland Park Zoo, based Total Experience Gospel Choir on The Wind in the Willows. Free; Centerstage Theatre, Federal Way suggested donation. Ages 6 and up. Nov. 9, 2 p.m. seattlepublictheater.org Inspiration embodied. This multi Alexander and the Terrible, award-winning ensemble is one of Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day the most sought-after gospel choirs SecondStory Repertory, Redmond in the world and will share the Nov. 1–23 evening with some of Centerstage’s In this musical adaptation of Judith favorite singers. Check website for Viorst’s novel, Alexander’s struggles prices. All ages. centerstagetheatre.com with life’s daily dramas — gum in his

Uke said it: The U.K. Ukelele Orchestra at the Kirkland Performance Center

34 • September 2014 • parentmap.com hair, no dessert in his lunch, no best Break out the zombies and blood- Soledad Barrio & Noche friend anymore — entertain and edu- curdling screams: Youth Theatre Flamenca “I Can Do That!”: cate. $10; all-ages Sunday shows, $5 Northwest’s annual Halloween show UW World Series, Meany Hall, A Chorus Line at for ages 1–3, free for younger than 1. isn’t just a haunted house, it’s an Seattle 5th Avenue Theatre Grade-school age. secondstoryrep.org entire interactive theatrical experi- Oct. 23–25 Charlotte’s Web ence inspired by the cult film classic. Noche Flamenca, one of the world’s Tacoma Musical Playhouse Check website for prices. Ages 10 and most authentic and acclaimed Nov. 1– 9 older. youththeatre.org flamenco companies, stages a world A new musical version of E.B. White’s Don Giovanni premiere, Antigona, based on the classic tale about friendship, loyalty Seattle Opera, McCaw Hall work by Sophocles. Watching one and mortality features music and Oct. 18–Nov. 1 of the world’s greatest tragedies lyrics by Charles Strouse (Annie, Bye Blast away any stereotypes of opera expressed by fiery flamenco should Bye Birdie) and book by national as a staid art form by spending an award-winning children’s playwright be extraordinary. $47–$52. Ages 12 evening with Mozart’s 1787 portrait Joseph Robinette. $12–$15. Rated G. and older. uwworldseries.org n of the unrepentant, passionate Don tmp.org Giovanni. Featuring glorious music, Short Shakes: Twelfth Night distinctively drawn characters and a Elisa Murray is ParentMap’s Out Seattle Shakespeare Company, shocking finale, it should be unfor- + About editor and a mom of a MARK KITAOKA Center Theatre, Seattle Center gettable. $25–$200. Ages 13 and 4.75-year-old boy, whom she intends Nov. 5, 8, 10, 11 older. seattleopera.org to drag to at least 10 shows this fall. In these two 90-minute productions of one of Shakespeare’s most popular comedies, two troupes of kids ages 8 tips for culture on the cheap 11–18 perform all the roles, acting on ? the same set as Seattle Shakespeare free for everyone. Find a list of Company’s mainstage production. 1 SUBSCRIBE TO A SEASON at 6 SEATTLE CENTER’S TEEN TIX ?your favorite theater or musical monthly free museum days at ?program lets teens buy $5 tickets Free; suggested donation. Ages 6 and organization, which cuts costs per parentmap.com/museumfree. for more than 40 Seattle-area arts older. seattleshakespeare.org show and helps you plan ahead. venues, including theaters and 4 GO TO STUDENT PRODUCTIONS ? museums. EDGY FUN FOR 2 FREE ARTS FESTIVALS are a AND CONCERTS. Some are free ?great way to sample many types and most are very affordable. 7 PREVIEW OR PAY-WHAT-YOU- TEENS AND TWEENS of performances in a couple of Many middle school and high school ?CAN SHOWS, often the first night A Chorus Line hours. This fall, try Crush Rush on productions are excellent. And kids in a run, are cheaper (example: 5th Avenue Theatre, Seattle Sept. 21 at Seattle Center Armory love seeing other kids perform. tickets for Pacific Northwest Ballet’s or Seattle Children’s Festival, a Friday preview nights are only $12). Sept. 3–28 5 LOOK FOR DEALS ON MUSIC. promising new multicultural fest- Or organize a group outing and get Puberty, gender, love, dreams, ?For every adult ticket purchased ival on Oct. 12 at Seattle Center. a discount as well as the fun of a to the UW World Series President’s perseverance: The Tony Award– shared arts experience. winning musical about a cast of 3 LOOK FOR MUSEUM DEALS Piano or Chamber Music series, ?FOR KIDS. They abound. Kids you can add two free youth tickets 8 PARENTMAP’S ONLINE CALENDAR hopeful performers explores all these ages 12 and younger are always (ages 5–17). The Seattle Symphony ?(parentmap.com/calendar) lists themes via raw backstories, unstop- free at the Seattle Art Museum offers a similar discount for hundreds of events a month and pable dancing and extraordinary and the Seattle Asian Art Museum; Masterworks or Pops concerts allows you to search for those that choral numbers and solos. $29–$73. kids ages 14 and younger are free through its Family Connections are free. Find more affordable Rated PG-13. 5thavenue.org at the Museum of History & program. Kids ages 12 and younger events and giveaways by signing Industry; and so on. A number of are free at Town Hall Seattle’s Family up for ParentMap’s weekly enews Night of the Living Dead local museums, including the Frye Concert series, which features (parentmap.com/enews) and “liking” Youth Theatre Northwest, Mercer Art Museum and the Bainbridge well-known kids’ musicians us on our Facebook page (facebook. Island Island Museum of Art, are always (accompanying adults only pay $5). com/parentmap). Oct. 17–25

parentmap.com • September 2014 • 35 out + about

SEPTEMBER play list

5 adventures ?to ease into fall

1 2 3 4 5 ?PASS THE REMOTE. ?HIKE BACK IN TIME. ?NAB A FALL FAMILY ?LEAP INTO A NEW ?FALL INTO FARM FUN. Everyone longs for a getaway Looking for a new fall PHOTO. Multitask by SPORT. If your kid is From the sunflower/ amid back-to-school family ramble? How combining a fall color walk less than inspired by corn maze at Dr. Maze’s craziness, but we have a about to a ghost town? with a family photo session typical team sports, Farm in Redmond to the better idea: a family retreat. Older kids will love the — the colorful leaves and encourage her to try Pumpkin Hurl that kicks Plan a fall camping trip to challenge of a history hike soft light make for ideal an off-the-beaten-path off the Snohomish Valley Hoh Rain Forest, one of the to the famous gold-and- family pics. Find ideas for activity this fall. Unique Festival of Pumpkins, quietest places in the U.S.; silver mining ghost town outings that double as pastimes such as parkour, fall harvest fun abounds journey by boat down Lake of Monte Cristo in the family photo opportunities, bouldering, karate and in September. Find a Chelan to a unique retreat Cascades, while younger from a colorful loop in circus arts are leaping in farmer’s dozen of ideas for center that welcomes kids will enjoy searching for Mount Rainier National popularity and offer many critter, corn and pumpkin families; or have an off-the- evidence of coal’s heyday Park to parks that benefits for kids, from adventures at parentmap. grid weekend adventure on an easy hike around are ablaze in color, at focus to flexibility to self- com/pumpkins. high in the North Cascades. Cougar Mountain. Find out parentmap.com/fallcolor. expression. See parentmap. Find details and ideas at where at parentmap.com/ com/coolclasses. parentmap.com/retreats. ghosthikes.

TOP PHOTO: DOROTHY WALKER 36 • September 2014 • parentmap.com 0112_sound_&_silence_1-8v.qxd:Layout 1

CityCity of Auburn AveKids series presentspresents::

BACK TO SCHOOL sound & SILENCE with America’s Car Museum Justin A unique approach to music lessons n Teachers rev up your Roberts school year by attending our and the HAa nuniqueds-on e approachxploration Teacher Workshop on Sept 20. Get clock hours and ideas for Not otof mmusicusic curriculum connections via Stories from the Road and our Ready andlessons instru mforen ts exhibit on Route 66. n for children 3+ and Parents don’t miss out for children age 3 on the fun of learning... Naptime beginning adults enjoy engineering, science, & design to adult challenges together with your child Players! at our monthly Family Workshops. n Teachers and Parents Leschi/Mt.Baker area sign your child’s class up for an educational experience at ACM. Grammy-nominated musicians & n one of the national “all-stars” of Visit lemaymuseum.org For more information or email [email protected] the family-friendly indie music scene. Free pre-concert music craft at 1pm please go to website to learn more. www.soundand.com Saturday,Saatturdday,daay SSeptemberepttetembe b r 2277 AuburnAu rnRn RiRRiversidei ersrs ded HighH gh SchoSchooloooolol TheaterT | 2 pm Jay Hamilton 206-328-7694 Tickets:ickc e s: $10$ 0 | www.auburnwa.gov/artsww ubbuu nww /a/ ts | 253-931-3043253-92 3 9 0114_sound_&_silence_1-8v.indd 1 12/16/130914_lemay_museum_1-8v.indd 8:45 AM 1 8/12/14 12:55 PM Discover!

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0914_annies_nannies_1-4.indd 1 8/12/14 12:25 PM Fall Lectures Raising Resilience Teen Extremes How to Build Character, Regulating Moods in an Age Conﬁ dence + Grit of Anxiety WILL AUSTIN PHOTOGRAPHY Rob Evans, M.Ed. Marsha Linehan, Ph.D. + Leading education expert and psychologist Laura Kastner, Ph.D. explores ways to instill qualities that matter most to a child’s future success. Help your teen/tween manage stress, stay calm and handle anything life sends their way, using TUE, OCT 14 DBT principles. KIRKLAND PERFORMANCE CENTER MON, OCT 27 WED, OCT 15 TOWN HALL, ANNIE WRIGHT SCHOOLS, TACOMA SEATTLE 7–9pm 7–9pm 2 x CEs Presenting Sponsor & STARS Professional Credits WILL SELL OUT! parentmap.com/lectures

0914_fall lectures_fp.indd 1 8/19/14 10:29 AM ages + stages

Baby got books Fall Lectures 0–5 Our favorite anti-bias reads for tots By Sharon H. Chang

s populations shift and cultures become reality of caring for young children, it can seem Jingle Dancer, Cynthia Leitich Smith, Ying-Hwa Raising Resilience Teen Extremes increasingly global, our children need to daunting. That’s why it’s so important to weave Hu and Cornelius Van Wright Arecognize and value the ways in which anti-bias practice into the fabric of daily life. One A special tale of empow- How to Build Character, Regulating Moods in an Age people are the same — and not the same. This of the most enjoyable ways to make this happen is erment especially for girls, progressive kind of learning is known as anti-bias by reading anti-bias children’s books with our kids. this is the story of Jenna, a Conﬁ dence + Grit of Anxiety education, and it not only encourages self-esteem This selection of our favorite titles is organized contemporary Muscogee but also helps kids understand and appreciate the under the four goals of anti-bias education, as (Creek) girl in Oklahoma experiences of others. defined by Louise Derman-Sparks and Julie Olsen who wants to honor her family’s tradition by jingle Conscious anti-bias parenting is a great way to Edwards in their book, Anti-Bias Education for dancing at the next pow- make the world a better place, but given the busy Young Children and Ourselves. wow — but she doesn’t have enough jingles for her dress. So Jenna turns to the women of her Native My People, Langston Hughes and Charles R. American family and community for help in giving Demonstrate Smith Jr. her dance a voice. self-confidence, Hughes wrote this family pride and positive striking 33-word The Colors of Us, Karen Katz social identities poem in the late A classic anti-bias book, The Colors of Us explores ABC for You and Me, Meg Girnis and Shirley 1920s. In setting the multitude of gorgeous skin shades through the Leamon Green images to Hughes’ eyes of 7-year-old Lena as words, photogra- she tries to paint her self- WILL AUSTIN PHOTOGRAPHY This classic-style ABC book is playfully presented by a pher and poet Smith portrait. Reading this story mixed-race cast of children wanted to show together is a wonderful Rob Evans, M.Ed. Marsha Linehan, Ph.D. + with Down syndrome. With that African Americans, like every other group of opportunity to discuss skin Leading education expert and psychologist Laura Kastner, Ph.D. bright photographs and simple people, come in “all shapes, sizes, shades, and ages, tone in a positive way with explores ways to instill qualities that matter text, it enables younger kids and that each of us is unique.” His work won the your kids. Katz’s illustra- Help your teen/tween manage stress, stay calm to connect happiness to living American Library Association’s Coretta Scott King tions are inspired by folk most to a child’s future success. Book Award for illustration in 2010. art from around the world. and handle anything life sends their way, using with a disability. Babies and toddlers will have fun looking at the cheerful faces Recognize and have TUE, OCT 14 DBT principles. and recognizable play objects, while preschoolers Express joy with KIRKLAND PERFORMANCE CENTER will enjoy following along with the alphabet. diversity, accurate language for language to describe unfair- I Am Latino: The Beauty in Me, Sandra L. differences and caring connections ness, and understand that it hurts MON, OCT 27 The Name Jar, Yangsook Choi TOWN HALL, Pinkney and Myles C. Pinkney Faces, Shelley Rotner and Ken Kreisler WED, OCT 15 Sandra Pinkney and Author, photographer and illustrator Rotner New immigrant Unhei is nervous to start school ANNIE WRIGHT SCHOOLS, TACOMA SEATTLE her husband have has produced many titles about “self-discovery in America, and she’s self-conscious that the other children won’t like her because of her Korean collaborated on many and awareness through observations and diver- name. In the end, she 7–9pm 7–9pm gorgeous multicul- sity.” According to Rotner’s website, she hopes finds that her class- tural children’s books that “these books act as mates are far more in photo-essay format, a catalyst to generate 2 x CEs accepting and open- including the NAACP conversation and help Presenting Sponsor minded than she & STARS Shades of Black Image Award–winning . Their focus children express their thought. Author and Professional is on portraying and celebrating the racial ethnic thoughts and feelings.” illustrator Choi grew diversity of all children. I Am Latino rejoices in the Faces shows our connec- up in Korea and moved Credits beauty of Latin descent by weaving moments of tions through sameness to New York City to tradition with strong self-affirmations. and difference. study art. >>

WILL SELL OUT! parentmap.com/lectures parentmap.com • September 2014 • 39

0914_fall lectures_fp.indd 1 8/19/14 10:29 AM Challenging and innovative Montessori experience in multiple languages

Toddler/Pre-K/K (Age 1-6 years) Listening Mothers is an eight week series Montessori for moms with babies 0-7 months old. Parenting Class Classes held all year long around the Puget Sound. Science Focused Curriculum For details: www.communityofmindfulparenting.com Language Immersion

Need help? Individualized Let us help you find a class – Instruction Email [email protected] IntlMontessoriAcademy.com www.communityofmindfulparenting.com Bellevue • Redmond • 425-223-5798

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Because kids will be kids. And stairs will be steep.

Accidents don’t conveniently happen during doctors’ hours. So when there’s a sudden ankle sprain or ear infection, turn to a Seattle Children’s Urgent Care Clinic. No appointment is needed and your child will receive expert treatment. Hours are Monday – Friday, 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. and Saturday, Sunday and holidays, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Serious emergency? Go to our Emergency Department or call 911.) Urgent Care Clinics Learn more at seattlechildrens.org/urgentcare. Bellevue Mill Creek Seattle

40 • September 2014 • parentmap.com CHILD 9356 Skateboarder_8.2x5_PM.inddCOPACINO+FUJIKADO 1 ROUTING 7/29/14 4:39 PM NEW PROOF APPROVED PDF Pub/s: Parent Map —1/2 page (Run date: 9/1/2014) Trim: 8.2”w x 5”h Live: N/A Bleed: N/A PROOF# ___4__ Art Director ______Acct Supv ______Epro ______Copywriter ______Jim ______Color: CMYK Laser%: 100% Author: TN, TH Prod Mgmt ______Acct Mgmt ______Mike ______ages + stages

Baby got books continued from page 39 Underground: Finding the Light to Demonstrate A Is for Activist, Innosanto Nagara Freedom, Shane W. Evans Emphasizing community, equality and social justice, In one of the best picture books empowerment and the skills this board book depicts what activism looks like in an about slavery we’ve seen for young to act against prejudice and/or accessible way for children, author-illustrator Evans discrimination babies through pre- does a phenomenal job of telling the A Tale of Two Daddies, Vanita Oelschlager, Kristin schoolers. While story without overwhelming readers. Blackwood and Mike Blanc the subject matter Much is conveyed through poignant This sleekly illustrated book shows a young girl’s confi- may seem serious, artistry rather than words, and there dent conversation with her the book is fun to are different entry points into a con- peers about having two flip through, with versation fathers. It’s a great example colorful, interesting with your of how children can deal art and a black cat kids, from with probing questions mascot to find on what it’s from playmates about every page. n like to be non-normative identities. scared all Her friends ask her about Sharon H. Chang has worked with young children and the way which of her dads does families for more than a decade as a teacher, administrator to what it what, and our protagonist and parent educator. She serves on the board of Families of means to answers with ease and Color Seattle, and as a writer she focuses on race, children be free. self-esteem. and multiraciality.

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We bring all the tools, benches, 1/16 Cutest cake pops! Bake your brick fan some adorable Lego 1/4 materials and safety glasses to you. mini-figure cake pops. Make your own by mixing together a 0614_giggles_grins_1-16.indd1.87”W 1 x 2.33”H 5/14/14 10:09 AMcrumbled, baked cake with a can of frosting or follow the 4”Wx5”H 425-281-2514 directions on a cake-pop-making machine. Once you have a “head,” top it off with an M&M. Insert a lollipop stick and set [email protected] the cake pops in the freezer, finish them off with a plunge in yellow candy melts and an application of features with a food decorating pen. Block Bingo! For a retro-fun party game, check out the Lego version of Bingo dreamt up by Jennifer on the blog Big D and Me (bigdandme.com). Featuring Lego images instead of letters and numbers, this game is perfect for even very young party guests. — Tiffany Doerr Guerzon

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44 • September 2014 • parentmap.com

0914_ed expo_1-2v.indd 1 8/18/14 5:44 PM ages + stages

Jump start 6–9 Facing fears and facts about grade skipping By Deanna Duff

rin Pinney’s 6-year-old son is a voracious Scale (IAS). Used nationwide, it outlines research, publications and citations. It was almost like grade reader who enjoys books well above his grade case studies, tools for assessing a child’s potential skipping gave these kids an extra head start. Elevel. As a preschooler, he was so advanced and guidelines for formulating an appropriate “I was fairly surprised,” he continues. “It seemed that his father suggested skipping a grade. education strategy. Among the factors considered to make a meaningful difference in the long run. “I was concerned about the social aspects, and are age, emotional maturity, family background, From the standpoint of career achievement, grade his preschool teacher and principal agreed,” says other school options, testing results and the child’s skipping is a positive kind of intervention.” Pinney, an elementary school teacher in Sioux City, personal feelings. The IAS is particularly useful The skipping state of mind Iowa. “Honestly, it turns out what we thought we for school districts that are unfamiliar with gifted knew was uneducated and based on fear and biases.” Perhaps the most pervasive concern parents face is education or do not have resources in place. A Nation Deceived: How Schools Hold Back how skipping might impact their children’s personal America’s Brightest Students, a seminal work development. Will they make friends and fit in? on acceleration, concludes that qualified kids “We know the benefits regarding academic benefit greatly from appropriate grade achievement, but the social and emotional skipping. Enduring myths — that it harmfully development also tends to be positive,” pressures children or hampers emotional Assouline says. “If there are emotional development — are generally unfounded. concerns, that is not solved by holding them “There is substantial evidence that there back. It needs to be addressed separately.” are a lot of academic and personal benefits to For many children, behavioral problems are students who are academically accelerated,” actually mitigated by grade skipping. Boredom says Jonathan Wai, a research scientist at Duke can result in acting out, while an engaging level University who studies exceptional talent. of learning focuses attention. Grade skipping is one way of achieving those “I definitely see him happier when he’s benefits for qualified students. getting to really learn,” Pinney says of her son. “His stress and anxiety are higher when he’s not Making sense of skipping Some school districts offer advanced learning being challenged.” The Pinneys opted to enroll their son in kindergarten programs, which enable similar-age cohorts of The behavioral and social problems Pinney’s as scheduled, choosing a dual-language classroom to students to work one or two grade levels ahead son experienced in kindergarten were often due to up the stakes. But even that proved too unchallenging. of the grade associated with their age. If you are boredom. He did not identify with his age group’s “For a while, he spent 50 minutes a day in the considering advanced learning for your child, level of play and conversation. first-grade room for reading,” Pinney says. “That check with your school district to understand the “Within two days of entering first grade, he was the only time when he wasn’t bored and getting programs offered and the requirements for entry. started coming home and saying how much he into trouble. He would come home and say how A commonly cited worry about skipping is liked going to school now. He’d also been having much he loved that time and the conversations.” student burnout, but research indicates the opposite. night terrors, and those immediately stopped,” After consulting with professionals who work Pinney recalls. Gregory Park, now a postdoctoral researcher at with gifted kids, she and her husband chose to Duke University’s Wai has a newborn and under- the University of Pennsylvania, analyzed data as advance their son to first grade after the semester stands the anxiety families may feel about grade a graduate student at Vanderbilt University that break. Pinney also read A Nation Deceived, which skipping. But he personally supports the practice, tracked a total of 5,000 gifted children over a was cowritten by University of Iowa psychology when appropriate, because of the social benefits. In 35-year period. About 10 percent of participants professor Susan Assouline. his eyes, the academic and career opportunities are “Grade skipping is for those kids who are skipped grades, most in early elementary school. bonuses. currently performing excellently but also have the Results showed that they excelled in later years. “Of course I want my son to be successful — but potential to continue being high achievers,” says “Grade skippers were far more likely to pursue I want him to be happy, and that’s about personal Assouline, who directs the school’s Belin-Blank graduate and advanced degrees,” Park says. “There fulfillment and engagement,” Wai says. “A child Center, an international leader in gifted education. was also evidence they achieved more once they loses out when they’re encouraged to be mediocre Assouline codeveloped the Iowa Acceleration earned their advanced degree: more patents, and not grow.” >>

parentmap.com • September 2014 • 45 ARTS + ACTIVITIES  INDOOR PLAYGROUND Spartan Recreation Center ENTM  Large balls, ride on toys, slides and Geek nation: Best Seattle R A A P climbing toys in a large gymnasium! P Seattle Girls’ Choir outings for young Jedis P We’re surrounded by high-tech, biotech, aerospace and S is scheduling placement auditions O R now for a September start. gaming companies — it’s no wonder geekery thrives in I N T E Seattle, which offers plenty of opportunities to have a blast with your Quality vocal instruction, WEEKDAYS favorite nerd-in-training. Here are some of our top picks. music theory, and ear training Opens Sept 22 If your kids don’t know what came before video games, for girls grades 1-12 9:30 -11:30am it’s time for a field trip to the Seattle Pinball Museum $2.00 per child (508 Maynard Ave. S), featuring 53 pinball machines from  the ’60s through today. Unlimited games with entry fee. Perfect for ages 1- 4!  Children 5 and older are welcome.  202 NE 185 St., Shoreline 98155 www.shorelinewa.gov/youth Greenwood Space Travel Supply (8414 Greenwood Ave. N), “the comprehensive emporium for all your space travel needs,” boldly goes where no store has gone before. Stop in for a biggifier (so you don’t overlook the small stuff) and 0814_seattle_girls_choir_1-16.inddYouth 1 7/10/14 3:55 PM other unique items. Conservancy Production A day at the Pacific Science Center (200 2nd Ave. N) means fun for every age group and area of interest. Highlights for pint-size science fans include The Lab Scrooge’s makerspace, the animatronic dinosaur display, the tropical butterfly house and the Wellbody Academy.

Christmas AUDITIONS Do your mini-geeks want new skills? Kids 8–17 can learn by Ken Jones AUDITIONS: Oct. 5 & 9 NOVEMBER 1ST / BOYS AGES 6-9 to write code and develop websites, apps, programs and by appointment only games from computer-science professionals (for free!) via PRICE: $525.00 Seattle CoderDojo. Locations vary; visit meetup.com/ 206-388-9212 206.524.3234 Seattle-Coder-Dojo for details. stonesouptheatre.org/education/ nwboychoir.org — Kali Sakai and Mia Lipman classes-and-workshops

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46 • September 2014 • parentmap.com ages + stages ARTS + ACTIVITIES

Skills for Theatre...Skills for Life Golden Teddy WINNER – Jump start 2 Years in a Row! continued from page 45 Motor Skills Classes • Sports Skills Classes Academically advanced students Award-Winning Birthday Parties are often socially mature for their age, Fall CLASSES Wai explains. He references A Nation NOW ENROLLING! Summer Camps • Zumba – Great Play Style Deceived and another Vanderbilt study, FREE TRIAL CLASS! www.greatplay.com/redmond “Top 1 in 10,000: A 10-Year Follow-up ISSAQUAH & EVERETT VillageKidstage.org GREAT PLAY OF REDMOND – 16510 Cleveland Street, Suite N, Redmond, WA 98052 of the Profoundly Gifted,” which Photo by Jean Johnson Call 425-885-3800 today for your FREE Trial Class! indicates that any long-term adverse social impacts of grade skipping are negligible. 0914_great_play_1-8h.indd 1 Enroll Now for 8/11/14 1:52 PM “Most students [who skipped grades] reported 10 or 20 years down the line Fall Classes that if they’d done anything differently, Ongoing preschool, children’s, it would have been to participate in teen and adult classes. Winter classes more [acceleration],” says Wai. Call for a FREE Introductory Class and winter break art camp. Misinformation also contributes Birthday Parties to hesitation about skipping. During Gift Certificates Available her own teacher training, Pinney The best place to learn and love dance of all forms since 1967. Downtown Bellevue 425-736-3060 Now enrolling new students does not remember instruction in ages 3 through adult www.bellevuestudio.com accelerated education. She now works (206) 243-6498 Crossroads Studio 425-643-2058 with student teachers on the topic. facebook.com/buriendancetheatre [email protected] “As a parent, I would have done it from the start if I’d known,” Pinney says. “Now I understand how essential 0914_the_studio_1-8h.indd 1 8/14/14 5:13 PM it is to identify our kids’ talents and help them develop those gifts to their full potential.” n

Deanna Duff is an award-winning freelance writer. short shakes after-school program read ahead

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parentmap.com • September 2014 • 47 ARTS + ACTIVITIES

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0814_wise_minded_parenting_1-4.indd 1 7/18/14 10:11 PM ages + stages

Breaking up is hard to do 9–13 How to help kids survive a failed friendship By Nancy Schatz Alton

he first time my oldest had a friend identity and help clarify what kind of person they Keep your ears open dilemma, she kept it to herself until she want to be. A friend might get mad when their It’s a relief to know that there are tangible ways to Texploded in fury at the thought of going friend is starting to hang out with someone else, and help when your child is enmeshed in friendship to school. I told her we would ask her teacher to this is a normal reaction,” she explains. drama. “One key message to remember is help, and this childhood expert walked us through As children enter middle school, they are the power of listening. You don’t have to fix the experience. “Don’t worry, Mom,” the teacher thinking about sameness and reestablishing group everything,” says Lawrence J. Cohen, Ph.D., a said. “Third grade is the year these things start identity, Metzger says. “Because it is the time with licensed psychologist and the coauthor of Best happening, but I got this.” the most physical developmental difference, what Friends, Worst Enemies: Understanding the Social During third, fourth and part of fifth grades, else would you want but to create sameness? Kids Lives of Children. “The reason they clam up is children build more primary relationships and are figuring out how to attach to a group safely, and [that] we lead to problem solving too fast. When the phrase “best friend” takes on importance, how to detach safely and how to be autonomous.” they are 9, 10, 11 and 12, if we try to solve the says Julie Metzger, cofounder problem, we are going to make of Great Conversations (great it worse. Say, ‘I don’t want conversations.com), which offers to fix this, but I want to hear classes on such topics as about it.’” friendship, puberty and parenting. What if your child is “Those friendships are your own obviously suffering but isn’t choice for the first time; your ready to talk? “Respect that your parents haven’t done this work for child has a different orientation you. There is an opportunity to be and doesn’t want to talk,” says disappointed and hurt.” Rachel Simmons, author of Odd Around this age, your child is Girl Out: The Hidden Culture of starting to develop her identity Aggression in Girls and cofounder and naturally gravitates to of the Girls Leadership Institute. different people to explore this, “While you’re in the car or in says Kirsten Cullen Sharma, the kitchen doing something, Psy.D., assistant professor of so the conversation is casual, child and adolescent psychiatry try saying, ‘I know something is at NYU Langone Medical Center. up, and I can see you are upset. I “Experiences with different want you to know that I am here people help them to develop their and I really want to listen, and

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Breaking up is hard to do continued from page 49 if you need me to not even say anything and to just community? Did I say yes to something outside of authentic communication, but with boundaries. hear it, I will.’” my comfort zone?’” Metzger says. “We as grown- Avoid getting emotional about your own friend Simmons recommends thinking of new ways ups can’t control these situations where our kids are betrayals, but let her know she’s not alone.” to communicate, such as email or texting. “Every working out issues with friends, but we can control This leads to the most vital piece of advice I heard parent should ask: ‘Is there any reason my kid if we become better people.” while researching this story: “‘I’m not having the doesn’t want to talk?’” she says. “Kids have weird Of course, don’t expect your child to start making same experience as you’ — knit that on a sampler. ideas of what we are going to do when we hear what new friends immediately after a primary friendship Our children come to us with their pain, and we add they have to say.” ends. “If they are not ready to get back in the saddle our own unresolved pain,” Cohen says. Be the change you wish to see and make new friends, honor that. They don’t have While you may want to tell your child all about After listening, consider next steps. “One thing that to do it on your timetable,” says Cohen. your own terrible fifth-grade year, sometimes the really helps at this age is not having all your eggs in When my own daughter was in the midst of her best form of empathy is keeping quiet. This is one basket — having a second social group outside friendship woes, she asked me, “When does it get their story, not yours. But maybe someday, just of school, in your neighborhood or church group or easier?” The clear answer was that learning how to like you, they will live to not tell the tale to their with cousins. This helps take the sting out of it when navigate relationships is a lifelong task. But she didn’t own kids, too. n trouble arises,” Cohen suggests. need an answer, she just needed my compassion. And don’t forget to model healthy relationship “Being able to accept that sometimes people When not navigating parenthood, Nancy Schatz behavior. “You really have to think to yourself, will disappoint you — and you can still love them Alton uses her brainpower to write, edit and ‘Am I being the very best community member and and move on in a relationship — takes a long time fact-check articles for websites and magazines. friend? Have I extended grace to someone in our to learn,” Simmons says. “Our children need real Find her blog at withinthewords.com.

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parentmap.com • September 2014 • 51 ages + stages

Reality bites 14–18 10 things your kids need to know before they leave home By Heather Rae Darval

hether your child is 6 or 16, you knife and stove skills, basic recipes and healthy meal her check in alone, then find her way to the lab and know you have to prepare them (and planning. Invite them to try writing a grocery list, back. “Sometimes parents, me included, get used Wyourself) for the day they leave home. observe while they shop, then go over the receipts to doing certain things for our kids, and it doesn’t You’ve taught them to be good people, think for together. That first solo trip can involve some sticker cross our minds to have them do it for themselves,” themselves and pursue their talents. But what shock! says Briggs, whose daughter has Down syndrome. about signing a lease or buying groceries? Staying We asked the experts for their list of 10 things Accessing safe every kid should know before leaving home. Let 4 health care 5 Wherever your child lives next, he’ll need safety their wisdom guide you toward acceptance — and Seattle University psychologist Aimee Coonerty- skills. Teach him to listen when his inner voice your teen toward autonomy. Femiano, Ph.D., sees many students baffled by warns that a situation or a person — even a friend their health plans. She suggests showing teens their Talking to adults with of a friend — is dangerous, Briggs says. Talk about insurance card, talking through their coverage, and respect, but not fear handling drugs and alcohol. She also suggests a 1 teaching them how to make an appointment and Young adults may not know that they can’t text a buddy system when teens go out. navigate the system. professor for an extension or that they might wind Nadine Briggs, founder and director of the Getting around up with a pushy landlord. For practice, give them Simply Social Kids programs in Tyngsboro, Mass., 6 a city chances to interact with adults in real-life situations. recently took her daughter to the doctor and had Beyond basic driving skills, teach your kids how to “The more I am dealing with adult use public transit: Have them pay their children, the more I see them getting own fare, then try reading maps and run over by the ‘adults’ they have to schedules on their own. Make sure they deal with, like landlords [and] college know how to use a GPS system and how admissions people,” says Denise Witmer, to walk safely, always staying aware of author of The Everything Parent’s Guide their surroundings. to Raising a Successful Child. Making big Managing decisions money 7 2 From renting an apartment to picking From credit cards to student loans, a college major, kids face huge choices money is a major part of a young adult’s after they leave home. “Sometimes life. Allowances are a great way to teach parents think we are being helpful by kids about saving and spending. You doing, [instead of] offering choices to our can also help them craft a budget and children or teens,” says Witmer. Let them talk to them about needs versus wants. start making decisions on their own while Use your old bills and play money to we’re there for support, she suggests, and introduce the concepts of “amount due” remind them to ask for help when needed. and “due date,” as well as how a salary might be divvied up. For more ideas, see Managing Mint’s resource guide at mint.com. 8 time Well before young adults require this Food shopping skill to survive a college course load or 3and cooking their first job, parents can ease the way “Your adult children don’t have to be by having them put chore or homework chefs, but they shouldn’t be scared of an schedules on a calendar and talking oven,” Witmer says. Get your kids into about how they plan to complete the kitchen, where they can learn safe assignments, Witmer says.

52 • September 2014 • parentmap.com This can be a hard sell, so your tone makes installed — and, of course, how much it will cost. You According to an article published in College a difference. “Try to switch from nagging and might also give her tech skills a trial run now: When Student Journal in 2012, says Coonerty- constant advice-giving to a different level of something breaks or you need new service at home, Femiano, the sole significant protective factor conversation,” says Joyce Fagel, an academic adviser delegate your teen to figure it out from start to end, for young adults is feeling supported by family, at the University of Washington. “For example, ‘I’ve stepping in only if she gets seriously stuck. friends and professors. “We tell parents that they noticed that you have not yet filed the financial aid Handling still have an important role to play and should application, and I’m concerned that you may end stress be involved in their young adult’s life. Give them up missing the deadline. Do you have a plan for 10 space to make choices and mistakes, but keep on completing this? What can I do to support you?’” In 2013, the American College Health Association (acha.org) reported that 41.7 percent of students supporting them,” she says. “Call them and send n Setting up Internet surveyed said they experienced higher-than-average care packages.” 9or TV service stress. Talk to your kids about recognizing signs of Life without Wi-Fi? Inconceivable! Prevent no-access stress, finding balance and seeking support when Heather Rae Darval is a former journalist freakouts by researching providers where your teen life gets too hard. Help them find a healthy stress- and web editor who lives and writes in plans to head after graduation. Then walk her through management habit that works for them, whether it’s Seattle with her husband, spirited dog and the steps of setting up an account, getting service yoga, running, therapy or another calming outlet. precocious toddler.

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0914_special_needs_event_SC_1-4.indd 1 8/20/14 12:54 PM interview See an expanded interview: parentmap Someone you should know .com/sysk By Alison Krupnick • Photograph by Will Austin A chance encounter with then Seattle Schools Superintendent John Stanford 17 years ago turned out to be a life-changing event for BERNARDO RUIZ. Ruiz, who was born in Mexico, was studying English and humanities at the University of Washington. Stanford encouraged Ruiz to become a tutor. He did, and the impact he had as a mentor spurred him on to work for Seattle Public Schools (SPS) as a bilingual instructional assistant. He moved up the ranks as a family advocate, a career coordinator, and the manager of school and family partnerships. Now, as director of Equity and Race Relations, School & Family Partnerships and Native American Education for SPS, Ruiz has been nationally recognized for his efforts to strengthen school and community partnerships.

How has your community engagement work on behalf of Some families think that our programs are only for Seattle schools evolved? families of color. When I started, we were a compliance department, and there I’m proud of our school-family engagement action was a lot of mistrust from families. Now, we’ve set up a strong teams, which focus on student achievement. They meet foundation to build meaningful, strategic relations with families, once a month and include school administrators, teachers, which are our most important stakeholders and partners. families, support staff, community partners and, The district leadership has realized that supporting at the high school level, students. school-family partnerships is a viable strategy. We’ve created a Family Engagement Equity and family engagement are part of Action Team book of promising SPS’s strategic plan. We currently have partnership practices that other schools family-engagement teams at 44 schools. can use. School action teams have created This year, we will add 20 more, and the year a number of programs to engage families after that, we will add 24. to learn along with their kids. Describe Family Connectors University. Equity and family engagement are not The concept started because of partnerships add-ons; they are part of the work we do. we developed at Vanderbilt University and Johns Hopkins You can’t be a good leader or teacher if you don’t University. We discussed ways of building capacity for engage families. I’m thankful to our families, families. We knew they were eager to learn and wanted principals, teachers, staff and school board for to be educated, so we re-created a family-engagement their commitment to family engagement. I’m model that had been developed for special-education also thankful to my wife for her support. I families in Florida. work long hours. It’s a free, 10-week program designed to build the capacity of families to serve as equal partners in the Do you ever get demoralized? education of their children. They learn how the school On a daily basis I talk to parents who are upset and system works and how to advocate for their children, and frustrated. But once we have the opportunity to can earn college credit for the classes they attend. Upon have a discussion, they have renewed hope. graduation, participants serve as community volunteers for a Every day we meet with families, principals minimum of one year. and teachers, and they renew my commitment We started in partnership with Seattle University with one that together we can build a better future for our cohort two years ago. Now we have three cohorts at Seattle children. When families are engaged, research University, six cohorts at North Seattle Community College and shows, there are fewer discipline problems, will offer three cohorts at the University of Washington this year. more mutual support, and teachers stay in the The graduation ceremonies are powerful. People cry and talk profession longer. about how the program has transformed their lives. I’m more than optimistic — I’m hopeful. We What else would you like Seattle Public Schools parents could be a model school district in the nation. I am to know about community engagement? a man of faith. I thank God every day that I have the One of our goals is to brand our work effectively so that chance to change the world for 52,000 students and more families are aware that we are there to serve everyone. 30,000 families in our school district. n

54 • September 2014 • parentmap.com CELEBRATINGTING 45 YEARS!S!

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