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FALL LECTURES Building ’ resilience cause parenting is a trip! PAGE 44
More
special needs issue Aging up with autism Navigating the transition from childhood to beyond
Traveling with a child learning earning taking flight who has special needs 23 guide inside MEET THE MELODIC FINDING YOUR Good Growing The state of newsletter inside CARING PROJECT TRUSTED COUNSEL Heroes bring concerts to The guide to when your OCTOBER 2014 play hospital-bound kids 50 tween needs therapy 45 Some schools are reinventing recess to SPONSORED CONTENT tackle bullying and childhood obesity. But at what cost?
parent ap co learning 2014 CON UER HOME OR EARLY LEARNING PARENT TEACHER ATTLES NO DISCO ERIES CONFERENCE JITTERS 5 steps to stop nagging and Neuroscience explores the Know what to ask so you foster responsibility beginnings of language 0 come away informed
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The Arc of King County helps people with intellectual and developmental disabilities establish meaningful, independent lives of their own choosing. We build community through shared experience, and provide access to vital services that honor the unique needs of each individual. We embrace all ages and abilities, because we can all live, love, and thrive—together.
“When I moved here from Brazil, I didn’t know how to help my daughter. The Arc held my hand and showed me the way. They explained everything and helped me find the right resources. Eighty years ago, parents like me got organized and started The Arc… now I don’t have to fight this battle alone.” —Ana Leite
What we want for ourselves, we want for everyone.
Come join The Arc at Living a Glee-ful Life where Lauren Potter—star of the television show “Glee”—will share her story on Saturday, Nov. 15 at 2:00PM at Bellevue College. www.ArcOfKingCounty.org | 206.364.6337
1014_arc_of_king_county_fp.indd 1 9/12/14 12:49 PM Healthy Kids Cook Apple Pie Morning Oatmeal Hearty and healthy steel-cut oats are cooked with almond milk and served with sweet, caramelized apples.
SERVES 4
1 1 /2 cups water
1 1 /2 cups almond milk 1 cup steel-cut oats
1 /4 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon butter 2 apples — peeled, cored and sliced into wedges 3 tablespoons brown sugar, divided 1 tablespoon flax or chia seeds (optional) 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 /4 teaspoon ground cinnamon watch Bring water and almond milk to a the video boil in a medium pot. Stir in oats and scan the QR salt. Reduce heat to low and simmer, code below uncovered, for 20 to 25 minutes. Meanwhile, melt butter in a large The apple of your eye skillet over medium heat. Add apple slices and cook, stirring occasionally, Watch how PCC Chef Jackie Crunchy, sweet-tart apples are a favorite with for 5 minutes. Stir in 1 tablespoon Freeman gets eight-year-old sugar. Reduce heat to low and cook Mayah and nine-year-old kids, but this fall you’ll have an extra reason to until apples are soft and caramelized, Ryleigh involved in cooking love them: Our Farm to School bagged organic Fuji about 10 minutes. as they make healthy, apples help fund local farm-to-school education When oats are creamy and tender, stir in remaining sugar, flax or delicious Apple Pie Morning programs. Last year, we were able chia seeds, vanilla and cinnamon. Oatmeal together. Divide between four bowls, top pccnaturalmarkets.com/ to donate more than $42,000 to with caramelized apples and serve healthykids the Rainier Beach Urban Farm immediately. and Wetland from these apples. RECIPE BY JACKIE FREEMAN, PCC CHEF EACH SERVING: 240cal, 7g fat (2.5g sat), The fruit appears in our stores 10mg chol, 220mg sodium, 43g carb, timed to the annual harvest, 5g fiber, 13g sugars, 7g protein so keep your eyes peeled!
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4• October 2014 • parentmap.com 1014_04_05_TOC_A_1014_04_05_TOC_A 9/19/14 2:09 PM Page 5
inside
OCTOBER 2014
feature PAGE 14 Aging up with autism Navigating the transition from childhood to beyond
SPECIAL NEEDS ISSUE
REGULARS OUT + ABOUT ADVERTISING SECTIONS 23 6 PAGE 6 TAKING FLIGHT 19–21 NWAIS SCHOOLS Red-hot Halloween costumes, harvest Traveling with a child who has special needs 25–28 24+29 GOOD GROWING photo contest + prizes, sick-season OCTOBER CALENDAR Seattle Children’s Hospital’s stay healthy tips, preschool primer AGES + STAGES health newsletter 38 ARTS + ACTIVITIES 8 DEAR READER 36 0–3 ‘WHY DOES YOUR BABY LOOK 41–43 SCHOOLS + PRESCHOOLS To advance our village, it takes a village LIKE THAT?’ Living (and thriving) with cleft lip and palate 11 COMING IN NOVEMBER VOICE 39 4–9 SENSE AND SENSIBILITY It’s time to create autism-friendly schools • Living hungry: Families in need, An introduction to sensory processing safety nets in action disorder 12 AFTER-SCHOOL SPECIAL • DIY gift guide: Make it, give it! 45 10–14 TRUSTED COUNSEL Cultural competency: • Someone you should know: Moms Demand Does your tween need therapy? True connections for kids Action founder, Shannon Watts 48 15–18 PAYING ATTENTION 50 SOMEONE YOU SHOULD KNOW With diagnoses on the rise, teens and plus : Family Adventure Guide! The Melodic Caring Project families find new ways to manage ADHD COVER PHOTO: RYANKING999 / iSTOCK
36 23 39
parentmap.com • October 2014 • 5 1014_06_07_page_6_staff_D_1014_06_07_page_6_staff_D 9/18/14 3:04 PM Page 6
ParentMap October 2014, Vol. 12, No. 10
navigate great stuff daily! PUBLISHER/EDITOR Alayne Sulkin
EDITORIAL MANAGING EDITOR Natalie Singer-Velush OUT + ABOUT EDITOR Elisa Murray EDUCATION EDITOR Alison Krupnick CALENDAR EDITOR Nancy Chaney PROOFREADER Sunny Parsons CONTRIBUTORS Universal Sick season signs, Gemma Alexander, Will Austin, Hilary Benson, √ Lauren Braden, Deanna Duff, Malia Jacobson, ■? Laura McKenna, Joanna Nesbit, Kristen A. Russell preschool symptoms and safety PARENTMAP.COM Are you confused about the The cold and flu season is already upon us, CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER Julian Haight SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR Rory Graves competing preschool initiatives ushered in by enterovirus D68, a nasty respira- ADVERTISING SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE, SEATTLE on the November ballot? tory virus. To minimize exposure to germs, doctors Anne Doss Hardy Learn how to sort through recommend frequent hand washing, staying home sick from school or ACCOUNT MANAGER, EASTSIDE Ida Wicklund the different perspectives on work when contagious, getting flu shots plus enough rest, and putting ACCOUNT MANAGER, bringing universal, high-quality family members with asthma on a daily management plan before illness NORTH SEATTLE AND SNOHOMISH COUNTY Dani Carbary preschool to Seattle: strikes. For more information about enterovirus D68, managing germs, ACCOUNT MANAGER, PIERCE AND THURSTON COUNTIES Stephanie Brandt parentmap.com/preschoolplans. and other family health issues, check out parentmap.com/health. AD TRAFFIC + DIGITAL PRODUCT MANAGER Elisa Taylor SALES SPECIALIST Jessican Collet Fall-color fun SALES COORDINATOR Lisa Salkind MARKETING/EVENTS We asked the experts — you, our readers! — for the best MARKETING DIRECTOR Jo Gubas nature parks, hikes and other flora-and-fauna-filled spots MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER Ayva Larson around the Sound to jump in a pile of crackly leaves and EVENTS MANAGER Merideth MacRae ART + PRODUCTION get a hit of autumn color. parentmap.com/fall DESIGN + PRODUCTION Emily Johnson PRODUCTION DESIGN Amy Chinn ADMINISTRATION Extra-special outings DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Natalie Wells From children’s museums with sensory hours and autism- BUSINESS MANAGER Barbara Cohen ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT Tara Buchan friendly exhibits to new playgrounds with features such ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT/DISTRIBUTION as a wheelchair-accessible lookout tower, we round up Angela Goodwin ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT Taracina Ullevig the best local outings for kids with special needs. PARENTMAP EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD parentmap.com/specialoutings Benjamin Danielson, M.D. ODESSA BROWN CHILDREN’S CLINIC Joan Duffell COMMITTEE FOR CHILDREN Win big in our photo contest! John Gottman, Ph.D. THE GOTTMAN INSTITUTE Enter your family’s pumpkin patch, fall and Halloween- PROFESSOR EMERITUS, UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON themed photos in our Harvest & Halloween Photo Contest Michael Gurian THE GURIAN INSTITUTE for the chance to win awesome prizes! Pipsqueak pumpkins, Laura Kastner, Ph.D. PSYCHIATRY + BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES, outdoor adventures, awkward family costume photos — UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON Bea Kelleigh VICE PRESIDENT AT DOVETAILING, LLC we want ‘em all! Visit parentmap.com/harvestphotos. Yaffa Maritz, M.A. LISTENING MOTHERS + COMMUNITY OF MINDFUL PARENTS maaaaan Ron Rabin THE KIRLIN FOUNDATION Do you want to be a snow Daniel J. Siegel, M.D. for Halloween? EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, MINDSIGHT INSTITUTE ADVERTISING INFORMATION Are your kids begging to dress up as Olaf, Elsa, Emmet, R2D2 or other 206-709-9026 or [email protected] Fax 206-709-9031 favorite animated characters? Check out our new round-up of ideas for CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS [email protected] how to pull off the most wanted Halloween costumes of 2014, without EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS [email protected] DISTRIBUTION [email protected] breaking the bank or your sanity. parentmap.com/moviecostumes SUBSCRIPTIONS [email protected] ParentMap is published monthly. PMB #399, 4742 42nd Ave S.W. Seattle, WA 98116 Admin: 206-709-9026, parentmap.com Subscription rate: 1 year: $24; 2 years: $40 All rights reserved; reproduction in whole or part without permission prohibited ©ParentMap 2014 • Printed in Oregon
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6 • October 2014 • parentmap.com 1014_06_07_page_6_staff_D_1014_06_07_page_6_staff_D 9/18/14 3:04 PM Page 7
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parentmap.com • October 2014 • 7 VCU_CartwheelPromo_ParentMap_4x10.pdf 1 9/10/14 7:44 PM
dear reader
To advance our village, it takes a village very mother and father prays that their child will be born healthy and “normal.” Of course we do. Life, when it’s rosy on all fronts, is Esimply challenging enough. We pride ourselves on getting our pride and joy off to school without any emotional breakdowns (us, not them!). We congratulate ourselves and enjoy immense satisfaction when a healthy dinner is cooked and makes it to a table before the lovelies run off for screen time … I mean homework. We get caught up in that false image of Facebook family life perfection. Guilty. But it’s when we’re in the thick of challenge and strife and then, somehow, make it to the other side that our humanity and humanness is elevated. Those moments are seldom shared with the public. If you’ve been there, then you know what I am talking about. It may sound cliché, but what does not kill us (or break apart our marriages and families) makes us stronger. C No doubt, becoming a parent of a child with special needs — whether it M is autism (“Aging up with autism,” p.14), ADHD (“Paying attention,” p. 48) Y or any number of other physical or developmental challenges — changes CM everything. We repeatedly hear from parents of kids with special needs that
MY despite the struggle they are taught magical lessons and feel, ultimately,
CY that they are better people for their experience.
CMY This issue explores the collaborations between parents, grade schools, corporations and colleges to get kids to “interdependence, not complete K independence.” Our story “Taking flight: Traveling with a child who has special needs” (p. 23) demonstrates how popular destinations are now adding long- awaited accommodations. Why? Because there is no force greater than parents uniting and advocating for their kids. Beyond these pages, we are bringing you live and essential parenting guidance this season! If you’re the parent of a tween or teen, I urge you to experience the dynamic duo of Marsha Linehan, Ph.D., and Laura Kastner, Ph.D., as they present Teen Extremes: Regulating Moods in the Age of Anxiety on Oct. 27! And Glee’s anti-bullying activist Lauren Potter joins us Nov. 15 for Living a Glee-ful Life: Possibilities and Potential for Families and Young People Growing Up with Special Needs (p. 18). We hope you’ll join us as we kick off our exciting fall event season! WISE ONE, WE’RE LISTENING! Take our survey and enter to win $500 and a night at the Fairmount Olympic Hotel parentmap.com 8 • October 2014 • parentmap.com /wiseone presented by Delta Dental of Washington
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parentmap.com • October 2014 • 9 Established 1983 Hamlin Robinson School
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10 • October 2014 • parentmap.com voice Parent stories as real as life: parentmap.com Let’s create autism-friendly schools /parentstories By Laura McKenna, Ph.D.
ublic schools are struggling to keep up with the growing number of students with Pautism. Nationwide, one in 68 individuals 5 easy ideas for making autism-friendly schools is diagnosed with an autistic spectrum disorder. The ? rate of autism is particularly high in the Northeast 1 ADAPT AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES than from a teacher’s lecture. Keyboard instruction can help the kids with poor ?Traditional public schools and local and on the West Coast. The recent hike in rates is fine motor skills. They enjoy self-directed communities offer a huge assortment of probably due to increased recognition and educational software. activities for typical children. Parents of children Access to technology also helps autistic kids professional diagnosis of high-functioning autism. on the autistic spectrum often complain that develop their strengths. Many kids with high- Kids with severe autism need specialized these activities are not appropriate for their functioning autism have excellent computer environments that can only be provided by private children. Many of these activities have high skills and will later find work in a technical field. schools. But kids with high-functioning autism language and attention expectations. Sports Why not give them a head start? can and should be folded into the public schools. are out of the question for most kids with mild autism. Often, teachers and parents run these Keeping these kids in the local schools is good for 4 COLLABORATE WITH NEIGHBORS programs without any training or preparation ?Traditional public schools usually operate like the autistic kids, for the typical kids and for the for dealing with kids with special needs. These little islands and rarely interact with schools bottom line. activities need some alterations to become even a few miles away. This island mentality is a Through interactions with typical kids, mildly accessible for kids on the autistic spectrum. huge barrier to creating autism-friendly schools. autistic kids can learn appropriate social skills and Autistic kids need activities that are hands- To fully serve kids on the spectrum, neighboring on, rather than social. They need aides to expand their pragmatic language skills. Quirky kids districts must work together to pool resources. help guide them or make adjustments. Simple Three separate middle school autism can gain more from a natural, normal environment modifications, like opening up the computer classrooms in three nearby towns, each with than an isolated, lonely, understimulating one in a lab for Minecraft during school dances, can their own teachers, aides and administrators, special education school. They may even make real include autistic people into the life of the school. can be combined into one classroom in one friends. Noncompetitive sports activities can lessen the school. This would mean a huge savings for stress that autistic kids face on a ball field. Blending autistic kids into local schools benefits those three school districts. It would mean greater resources for the kids in the classroom mainstream kids, too. They can see that people 2 BRING BACK SHOP CLASS and more opportunities to meet like-minded kids. come in all shapes and sizes. Autistic kids have ?In the past 20 years, public schools have moved away from the traditional shop class and unique talents along with their weaknesses. In a 5 FORM A PARENT/SCHOOL COMMITTEE home economics toward curriculum aimed at ?Fostering autism-friendly schools requires a world that puts too much emphasis on perfection, improving schools’ test scores. We need a return great deal of parental involvement. In many these kids show us beauty in imperfection. It’s also to fun, hands-on special classes, like sewing, cases, parents of autistic kids know more nice for mainstream kids to have their autistic cooking, woodworking, technology, art, music than school professionals about how to guide brothers and sisters in the same school. and car repair. their children. After all, they have been in the Kids with mild autism need these hands-on, Keeping these kids in the local schools saves trenches of autism education for years. They nonacademic classes. They would rather do network with parents in other school districts school districts a great deal of money. Tuition at things than hear about them. Home economics and may have experiences in private schools private schools for autism can cost as much as and shop class let them tinker and touch, mix that can benefit their public school district. $100,000 per child, per year. Small changes in an and spill. They can overcome their language A formal parent/school administration existing school system can reap huge savings. deficits in classrooms that encourage creativity oversight committee can provide the necessary Public schools can absorb the new cohort of kids and building. Some autistic kids may even dialogue between parents and administration. outshine the typical kids in classes about This committee can guide PTAs to provide with high-functioning autism. It will take some technology. n modifications for their children. They can flexibility and coordination, but it can be done. discuss problems and create solutions before 3 TEACH WITH TECHNOLOGY tensions lead to litigation. They can steer ?The special-education classroom should have special-needs families toward appropriate clubs Laura McKenna, Ph.D., is an academic and a writer more technology than a typical classroom. Most and after-school therapists. They can fundraise who contributes regularly to The Atlantic and Pacific kids with autism are visual learners. They can to provide special programs for this population. Standard. She is a mom of two awesome boys, one learn math and social studies faster when the of whom is on the autistic spectrum. She blogs at information is presented on a screen rather — Laura McKenna apt11d.com.
parentmap.com • October 2014 • 11 special series
AFTER-SCHOOL SPECIAL: Cultural competency Kids & Quality Creating true connections for kids Programs By HIlary Benson
oly Chea grew up in an area of south standards, aiming high to meet the bar of quality The YMCA of Greater Seattle’s Aaron Norikane Tacoma that was marked by poverty and sustaining it,” says David Bowermaster, a oversees five after-school programs at the Hand gang activity. And while there were spokesperson for Raikes. elementary school level. With younger students, caring adults in his life, “There was an attitude The effects spill over far beyond after-school Norikane says, the role modeling and trust with [around the school environment] of ‘Let’s just get hours. staffers is no less important than with older kids. the students through,’” Chea says. After-school Research by the Afterschool Alliance shows “Kids sometimes download if they’ve had a bad programs, while offering safe havens, lacked that students who regularly attend high-quality day. The staff may problem solve or tackle the issue focus on learning or academics, nor was there an after-school programs are less likely to be as a group,” Norikane says. And that is where good expectation of success in school. involved in teacher-reported misconduct and use after-school programs, whose staffs are trained Now, as a program associate for the Greater drugs and alcohol. to be sensitive to kids’ challenges and respond Tacoma Community Foundation (GTCF; Safe Streets, one of the GTCF’s partner productively to them, can also boost the student’s gtcf.org ), Chea is helping to raise the bar for organizations in implementing quality initiatives, attitude and performance in the classroom. students like the one he once was, kids from a wide turned around the life of a young man named Anyone who works with teenagers knows force is variety of cultural backgrounds and economic Justin Huey. not often the best course of action. circumstances. He is part of a movement in On a recent visit to his former Safe Streets’ Hector Farias says that before his Washington state to transform after- school, Washington High School group adopted the YPQI during the 2011–2012 school hours from wasted time in the Franklin Pierce school school year, “We didn’t understand why we didn’t to engaging programming. For district, to talk with this have big numbers of kids attending our program. many existing extracurricular reporter, Huey sat outside But what we learned is that we hadn’t been programs, that means learning the imposing building and approaching them in a way where they felt like how to better understand spoke of how he nearly kids’ cultural and community didn’t make it out of his they belonged. framework in order to connect junior year. “Before [the program went through this meaningfully with them. “I was struggling. I process], there was a sense of telling [the kids] “When there is staff of color felt like I didn’t have a what to do, that there was only one way. Now interacting with students [of voice.” With a lot of negative there are two ways, us and them, and actually it’s color], just by physically looking at behaviors and choices going on more them since they are the ones taking the lead, them, kids can remove that barrier and around him, the now 21-year-old making the changes in their schools,” Farias says. see staff as role models,” Chea says. “It’s about says he did not see much of a future for Now, “I feel great because kids come to our mentorship,and even respect, where kids will learn, himself. His after-school time was spent hanging program because they want to come.” n for instance, to shake one another’s hand — things out at friends’ houses, at risk of playing into Hilary Benson is a veteran award-winning journalist like that that a lot of young men struggle with.” cultural stereotypes and a self-fulfilling prophecy. and mother of three active children. She and her In 2011, the GTCF partnered with Seattle-based But as it turns out, Safe Streets’ Youth Leading family live in the Seattle area. Raikes Foundation on a broad project to help Change program, which he began attending two organizations in Washington state implement new afternoons each week, elevated Huey, drawing out standards for after-school programs. Called the leadership qualities that also positively influenced Editor’s note: In this series, we explore how new Youth Program Quality Initiative (YPQI), the others at his school. voluntary standards developed in Washington effort offers training and support for organizations “This was a breath of fresh air, when you’re told, state are impacting the quality of after-school that serve students outside of school hours. ‘We see you being a leader at your school,’” Huey programs that serve about 134,000 youths. We The voluntary standards are divided into nine says. “I found a group of friends that are actual explain what parents should seek in a program, domains, one of which is “cultural competency friends, and I realized how much I was missing look at research on the impact of quality care and responsiveness.” In programs that are strong in from my other so-called ‘friends,’ who were going a on kids’ development and academics, and visit this area, students are encouraged to express their different direction.” with programs and kids. After-School Special’s own cultural identity, and administrators hire and Now a student at Tacoma Community College, independently reported content is funded by a develop qualified staff that reflects the diversity Huey also works as a Starbucks barista, a job that journalism grant in partnership with the Raikes and culture(s) of the community being served. he hopes to parlay into a bachelor’s degree from Foundation and School’s Out Washington. One goal is “to get programs to want to meet these Arizona State University.
12 • September 2014 • parentmap.com Pediatric Speech GREENWOOD AND DOWNTOWN LOCATIONS & Language Therapy Communication Assessment and Intervention Birth through Adolescence • Articulation/ • Down Syndrome Motor-Speech • Language Delay • Autism Spectrum • Social Skills Disorders • Fluency/Stuttering Largest Selection of Learning here IS fun and games Toys in Seattle Appointments available in Seattle/Wallingford, Bellevue, and West Seattle In 206-547-2500 • [email protected] • www.pediatricspeechtherapy.org Business 2014-08 Ad - ParentMap Learning.pdf 1 8/28/2014 4:30:47 PM 26 Yrs Keeping Healthy
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parentmap.com • September 2014 • 13 THE BOXTROLLS PARENTING MAGAZINE - Mag - Mag
AD SIZE: 3.75" x 4.75" 4C PAGE 1 OF 1 DUE: Monday, 9/8/14 September 8, 2014 11:43 AM BT_Prnting_4C_Mag_Mag_1_Fnl 2082-1 w
feature
Aging up with autism Navigating the transition from childhood to beyond
BY MALIA JACOBSON
t first glance, Alex Brenner looks like any of teens and young adults with autism spectrum Although Alex was diagnosed at the tail end other University of Washington student, disorders (ASDs) navigating, or preparing to of this bubble, at 14, the symptoms of autism Asharing a crowded Seattle apartment navigate, the world beyond high school. — avoidance of eye contact, social ineptitude, with a roommate and using a smartphone to stay inflexibility, preoccupation with repetition organized as he juggles homework, exercise and Rising tide — often appear as young as age 2, and autism socializing. Alex isn’t a typical student, though. According to a 2014 Centers for Disease Control and is commonly diagnosed around age 4. That Diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome as a young Prevention report, one in 68 8-year-olds has been means that the kids diagnosed in the wave of teen, he finished high school with severe academic identified as having an autism spectrum disorder, the 1990s are now washing up on the shore of deficits and an uncertain future. a 30 percent increase over 2012 estimates. But this young adulthood, or, like Alex, are already there. Alex is now on track to graduate in 2015 with a uptick is nothing compared to the surge seen two Approximately 50,000 youths with autism turn bachelor’s degree in geography, but it hasn’t been decades ago. Between 1993 and 2003, the number 18 each year, according to the A.J. Drexel Autism an easy road. He’s part of an unprecedented boom of new autism diagnoses ballooned 500 percent. Institute.
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14 • October 2014 • parentmap.com
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Tips for adjusting to a developmental disability diagnosis: parentmap.com /diagnosis The world is scrambling to keep But once students have that hard-won Social savvy up with the needs of this swelling diploma in hand, they’re on their own. While many students with spectrum disorders, population, but it may not be changing Support services, once assembled for each particularly Asperger’s, don’t have an intellectual fast enough, says Benjamin Wahl, MSW, program individual student by a team of professionals, must disability, they experience unique social challenges director for Seattle-based Ryther’s Aspiring Youth be coordinated piecemeal by shell-shocked parents that make college life difficult. (In 2013, the Program, a 9-year-old initiative offering social accustomed to person-based support. American Psychiatric Association removed skills and leadership development for spectrum When it comes to support for autism and other the diagnosis of Asperger’s syndrome from the youths ages 8–18. developmental differences, “the K–12 system is not Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Many kids were left without programming adequately preparing these students for college,” Disorders; it is now recognized as a form of high- during the critical stage that follows high school. Jine says. functioning autism. But many so-called “Aspies” “We saw our 8- to 18-year-olds having success, Legislators see the need for more support. To continue to identify with the term.) then kind of dropping off after graduation,” Wahl address these issues, a statewide Disability Task Classic ASD symptoms, such as avoidance of says. So five years ago, the Delphi Young Adult Force was created by Senate Bill 5180 (sponsored eye contact, difficulty reading social cues and Program was created to offer transition support by Sen. Paull Shin, D-Edmonds, in 2013). And inflexibility, make it hard to socially navigate the for spectrum individuals ages 18–28. while the state does provide a plan for transition, young adult’s world, Wahl says. And the executive “Half of spectrum individuals have zero because the K–12 and higher-ed systems are function deficits familiar to many ASD students structured activities in the two years post high largely independent, parents have to engineer and render making and carrying out social plans school. There’s a steep decline in support,” direct the process independently. And because extremely challenging, if not impossible. Wahl says. each diagnosis of autism is unique, there isn’t a set Navigating a conversation is daunting for Case in point: Many people don’t realize that course that any parent can follow. someone who can’t read cues such as facial most students’ IEPs (individualized education The Achieve program coordinates resources and expression, body language and vocal inflection. program, a plan created for special-education transition planning on a local level for students, Add in the complexities of socializing and dating students) end when high school does, says Jine says. “Too many students are falling through in the hyperconnected world of social media and Jenni Sandler, M.Ed., director of access services the cracks.” it’s a formidable challenge. for Highline Community College’s Achieve Often, “falling through the cracks” translates to “It’s a myth that those with ASDs are antisocial. program. Designed to help a student succeed in newly minted high school graduates with ASDs They want to socialize, but they need to actively K–12 schooling, an IEP pulls together an array spending years sitting on the couch, playing video learn the skills they’ll need,” Wahl says. of specialized services, from speech therapy games or surfing the Internet without a road map Compounding the challenge: As many as 65 to occupational therapy to support for regular for the future. Parents, on the other hand, are percent of people with ASD have a coexisting classwork. suddenly thrust into the role of full-time schedule mental health problem, such as depression or The IEP exists to ensure adequate assistance engineer or chauffeur for a nearly grown child anxiety. These issues commonly surface during through high school, and it does that, says Julie while they try to balance competing demands — the teen and young adult years and can feed the Jine, Achieve’s educational services coordinator. their own career, other children and aging parents. crippling loneliness and isolation, Wahl says. >>
• Biomedical evaluation and treatments for children with Special Needs • Nutritional Counseling/ Dietary Therapy An independent K-12 school • Immunization Questions and Support for typically-developing • Address issues with sleep, picky eating, gastrointestinal and students and those across behavioral concerns the autism spectrum 206-518-8938 • www.vitalkidsmedicine.com [email protected] Healthier Children Lead to a Healthier World
parentmap.com • October 2014 • 15
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Aging up with autism continued from page 15
Young adults with ASDs find intellectually handle the material just social connection online — fine, Wahl says. But students with interacting on a message board may ASDs who thrive on predictability be easier than navigating face-to-face and routine can struggle with the conversation — but struggle with ever-changing slate of professors, finding the same connection locally, shifting class formats and discussion- says Lisa Iland Hilbert, M.S., founder based classes. of Social Bridge Seattle, a social skills All college campuses have a and life coaching service for teens disability resource center and allow and adults with spectrum disorders accommodations for students with or other developmental differences. learning disabilities, including quiet study spots and extra time to College core complete exams. But colleges are Academically speaking, a college just beginning to grapple with the education is a realistic goal for many needs of a growing ASD student students with ASDs; many can population, says Sara Gardner, program manager for Bellevue College’s 4-year- there’s an app for that old Autism Spectrum Navigators program. Like Ryther’s Delphi 30/30 program, Autism Task manager that Spectrum Navigators arose breaks the day into to meet a burgeoning need. 30-minute increments “We saw that students with spectrum disorders had this roller coaster Dragon experience in college,” she Text-to-speech app says. “They would enroll, maybe do well for a while, then fail and withdraw. We Erudio wanted to see if providing Student organizer some extra support could that manages class schedule, assignments, smooth out that roller homework, exam dates coaster.” and study schedule It did. During the program’s pilot year, AudioNote students in the test group Note taker and voice had access to “translators,” recorder support personnel who replicated some of the person-based support provided through a K–12 Evernote Multiplatform note IEP. Students in the test taker group completed 85 percent of classes they attempted with an overall
16 • October 2014 • parentmap.com 25 Years Serving Families In The Pacifi c Northwest
GPA of 3.04, compared to a 67 prepare them for interviewing and percent completion rate and GPA of what to expect on the job,” Pacelli says. 2.35 for ASD students who received Under the ADA, individuals no support. with ASDs have a right to certain “It was clear that we needed accommodations, even having a to keep providing these types of job coach at work, Pacelli says. And mproving the lives of individuals with supports to students,” Gardner says. a growing number of companies, own syndrome and their families by focusing on including Walgreens, Lowe’s, education, communication and advocacy Work woes Microsoft and SAP, are seeking For most, a good job is the endgame candidates with autism. . o n n romecomm n t .or for college, and employment That’s because individuals with contact o n n romecomm n t .or is a precursor to any type of autism bring unique, often desirable independence. Youths and young traits to the workplace, including SC e p ne adults with ASD can thrive in the passion, integrity and intense focus. working world but often struggle 1 1 to first get a foot in the door, says Less is more o nS n romeComm n t Seattle-based Patty Pacelli, author of Parents of kids with autism should Six-Word Lessons for Autism Friendly start thinking about transition as soon SComm n t Sea Workplaces (2014) and mom to a as they get a spectrum diagnosis, even grown autistic son. in early childhood, Sandler says. One of the biggest challenges Planning for independence is interviewing, she says. “Most from day one runs counter to most LM14_down_syndrome_community_br_1-4.indd 1 9/8/14 3:59 PM individuals on the spectrum simply parents’ thinking, Jine admits. As don’t interview well, because they soon as parents get a diagnosis for find it more difficult to quickly form their young child, they want as responses to verbal questions and much support as they can get: a thus don’t communicate very well dedicated aide at school and maybe about their skills and suitability for at home, extra help with schoolwork, the job.” and accommodations for tests and On the job, young adults with assignments — the works. ASD may struggle to understand She proposes the opposite: Instead, “work culture” and fit in. Work use the least amount of support chitchat, jargon and small talk don’t possible. Providing students with come naturally. It’s also difficult to the support they need to succeed, deal with physical and sensory issues and no more, builds skills they’ll at work, such as noise and bright desperately need later on, skills such lighting, Pacelli says. as time management, self-advocacy These challenges don’t mean that and self-care. (Because coverage on young adults with ASDs should opt parents’ insurance plans ends at age for a life on mom and dad’s couch, 26, most young adults with ASDs will though. “Parents should know that need to learn to manage at least some 425-890-0896 there are agencies that work with of their own medical care, calling on companies to help place adults with organizational and communication autism in good jobs (such as Seattle’s skills that can take years, if not Mainstay employment services), decades, to master.) and there are job coaches and other Valerie Brenner, mom to Alex, consultants who can help train and agrees. By the time a student with
parentmap.com • October 2014 • 17
1014_eye_level_1-4.indd 1 9/16/14 12:49 PM feature Special Event Living a Aging up with autism continued from page 17
ASD reaches high school, it’s time skills he still uses: To this day, he Glee-ful Life: to start “weaning off” some of those keeps track of his daily schedule and Possibilities and Potential for Families and strong supports in place, including assignments on a large white-board Young People Growing up with Special Needs full-time behavioral aides, she says. calendar in his apartment. Students should start learning to self- That doesn’t mean Valerie isn’t in manage school deadlines, planning the picture. “We’re always there in enough time to complete schoolwork his life. After college, he may need to and learning how to ask for help if move back home while he looks for a needed. job. We’ll face another transition soon. That means some assignments will We don’t know what the next thing is.” get turned in late. That’s OK, Sandler For young adults on the spectrum, says. “Allowing for safe failures allows it’s about interdependence, not for growth.” complete independence, Gardner says. Valerie carried this concept “We want parents to understand that through to Alex’s home life, too. As a their young adult may always depend way to prepare him for college living, on them for certain things, but that she turned his home bedroom into everyone has strengths they can bring an apartment of sorts, complete with to work and life. We help students a “mailbox” outside the door, a fridge learn to build on those strengths.” n and a personal calendar. After high school, she had Alex start handling Malia Jacobson is an award-winning his own mail, laundry, meal planning health and parenting journalist based in and schedule. Tacoma. Her adult sister was diagnosed Celebrity keynote: Actress, anti-bullying This approach forced Alex to learn with Asperger’s syndrome as a toddler. activist + Special Olympics ambassador Lauren Potter, resources Division of Vocational Mainstay AKA “Becky Jackson” Rehabilitation mainstay.org dshs.wa.gov/dvr Autism Speaks Transition from Glee Ryther’s Aspiring Tool Kit Youth Program autismspeaks.org/family ALSO: Expert speakers • Resource Fair ryther.org/aspiring-youth -services/tool-kits/transition-tool-kit Autism Spectrum Navigators, Center for Change SAT, NOV. 15, 2–5 p.m. Bellevue College in Transition Services bellevuecollege.edu/ seattleu.edu/ccts BELLEVUE COLLEGE autismspectrumnavigators Thrive Housing TICKETS Achieve, Highline thrivehousing.com Community College ON SALE achieve.highline.edu Social Bridge Seattle NOW socialbridgeseattle.com parentmap.com/glee PAVE wapave.org Seattle Children’s Alyssa Burnett Adult Life Center GOLD SILVER The Center on Secondary seattlechildrens.org/contact Education for Students with /alyssa-burnett-adult-life-center Autism Spectrum Disorders (CSESA) College Support csesa.fpg.unc.edu/resources collegesupportseattle.com
18 • October 2014 • parentmap.com
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Date: 9-8-14 Bleed:parentmap.com n/a • October 2014 • 19 Advertiser: Charles Wright Printing: 4c, cmyk File name: CW Parent Map 4x5 Production Contact: Oct14 mech.pdf Amy Senftleben, 253-620-8870 Pub: Parent Map Live Area: n/a Trim: 4” x 5” S C H O O L S
ENTM AppsEasing for back kid into scientists the groove R A A P From physicsYou’ve bought to stars, school bones supplies to chemistry, and clothes. study You primedour P P roundupearly of morning some of reveille iPhone, by iPad having and them Android get to science bed on S O R apps! time.Find 9Now more it’s appsSeptember, at parentmap.com/stemapps. and despite your preparations, I N T E your family is having trouble adjusting to a new schedule. Here are some tips to GAZZILISCIENCE.help make the summer-to-school An app suited transition to the smallestless bumpy: x of scientists, GazziliScience gives toddlers and x 1. Bid farewellpreschoolers to summer. basicPlan something lessons in low-key the water yet special cycle, forthe x Labor Day seasonsweekend andthat more.allows yourAnd familythe clear to revel narration in summer and memories. As you walk your kids to school on the glorious September x cute characters are irresistible. Recommended for days ahead, admire the glistening spider webs and changing leaves. x ages 5 and younger; on iPhone/iPad. x 2. Invest in mealGRANDPA planning. INThe SPACE. days of Space free-range is fascinating summer grazing as are over, and mealsit is, butmust throw happen an onendearing schedule. grandpa As a family, in agreea rocket on some favorite, easy dinner options for the first few weeks of school. Let up there, and you’ve got an app that will keep the kids help choose healthy after-school snacks to have on hand. kids coming back for more. Pick a planet, build 3. No weekendyour sleepovers. own rocketAnxious ship, toand reclaim blast theiroff intosummer learning. freedom, EARLY CHILDHOOD TO GRADE 8 your kids mayRecommended be begging to for sleep ages over 6–8; at onfriends’ iPhone/iPad. houses. Some parents swear by the “no September sleepovers” rule. Don’t under- TOCA LAB. Kids can experiment on over 100 estimate your kids’ needs for sleep and downtime. WALDORF = “elements” with heat, ice and more to create 4. Take it easysomething on yourself. newYou to don'texamine have in to the cook lab. gourmet While the 2 dinners daily,game host isn’t nightly scientifically discussions accurate, about current it does encourage EDUCATION events andexperimentationclean your house andfrom discovery. top to bottom. Recommended Arranging carpool,for ages overseeing 6–8; on iPhone/iPad homework and Android. going to weekend soccer games is enough for now. 425.401.9874425.401.9874 BOBO EXPLORES LIGHT. Kids can dive into the threecedarswaldorf.orgththreeceedad rswaalaldldlddorfororfrf.o..o.oorrg The rain will bescience back soonof photosynthesis, enough. You can holograms dive into and more. getting organizedThis appthen. is a science storybook covering 21 topics all related to light,— Alison and Krupnickit includes videos and mini-games. Recommended for ages 9–11; on iPad. — Kelly Knox OPEN HOUSE NOV 18 • JAN 15 Teaching the way your child learns...
Intellectually... ENTM FilmsEasing with back powerful into the heroines groove R A challenging academic A P According to a recent study, only 13 percent of movies P You’ve bought school supplies and clothes. You primed featureprogram a cast for whereevery atlearner. least half of the characters are P early morning reveille by having them get to bed on S female. And male protagonists outnumber female ones O R time. Now it’s September, and despite your preparations, I E Emotionally…5:1. Here are some films (and their heroines) that are N T your family is having trouble adjusting to a new schedule. Here are girl-powerful;nurturing confidence, find more at parentmap.com/femaleheroes. some tips to help make the summer-to-school transition less bumpy: independenceKIKI’S and DELIVERY empathy. SERVICE. (1989); rated G; recom- 1. Bid farewell to summer. Plan something low-key yet special for mended for ages 5 and up. Heroine: Kiki. You need to C Socially…Labor Day weekend that allows your family to revel in summer find your place in the world. Sometimes that place M teachingmemories. communication As you walk your kids to school on the glorious September M teaching communicationinvolves honoring your commitments and being nice to and collaboration.days ahead, admire the glistening spider webs and changing leaves. Y people, sometimes it involves saving a friend from 2. Investfalling in meal to planning.his deathThe from days a crashed of free-range Zeppelin. summer grazing are CM over, and meals must happen on schedule. As a family, agree on some Open HouseTHE INCREDIBLES. (2004); rated PG; recommended favorite, easy dinner options for the first few weeks of school. Let MY for ages 7 and up. Heroines: Elastigirl and Violet. Gradesthe 1-8: kids Nov. help 18, choose 2014 healthy after-school snacks to have on hand. Elastigirl is a strong (and very flexible) mother who CY Jan. 13, 2015 3. No weekendtakes care sleepovers. of the family,Anxious while to reclaim the shy their Violet summer learns freedom, CMY Pre 3-K: Jan. 24, 2015 CMY Pre your3-K: kidsthat Jan. may with 24, be self-confidence 2015 begging to sleep herover abilities at friends’ make houses. her Somea parents swear by the “no September sleepovers” rule. Don’t under- K Scheduleformidable a Visit hero. estimate your kids’ needs for sleep and downtime. Excellence Today, the World Tomorrow 425.881.4230WADJDA. (2012); rated PG; recommended for ages 9 French American School of Puget Sound 4. Take itand easy up. on Heroine: yourself. Wadjda.You don't Do have you to want cook to gourmet wear Pre-elementarydinnershigh-tops daily, host with nightly (Agepurple discussions laces? 3) throughDo about you wantcurrent to Graderide a bike? 8 BILINGUAL EDUCATION ☆ NoNo FrenchFrench languagelanguage experienceexperience eventsWadjda and clean is the your story house of froma girl topin Saudi to bottom. Arabia who aims to FROM YOUNG PRE-K (AGE 3) required through Kindergarten Arranginglive life carpool, her way overseeing despite homework her culture’s and expectations for BEND IT LIKE BECKHAM. (2002); rated PG-13; recommended for TO GRADE 8 ☆ InternationalInternational communitycommunity going howto weekend women soccer should games behave. is enough for now. ☆ ETON SCHOOL ages 13 and up. Heroine: Jess. This feel-good soccer SmallSmall classclass sizesize ETON SCHOOL ☆ The rainWHALEBased will be on back RIDER. Montessori soon (2002);enough. Philosophy rated You can PG-13; and dive Educational recommendedinto Research for movie is more than a decade old but worth a revisit Applications Now Accepted! ☆ TuitionTuition aidaid availableavailable Weekly Tours: ☆ getting organizedages 11 and then. up. Heroine: Paikea Apirana. Paikea is the — after all, the Women’s World Cup is coming in Weekly Tours: ☆ Daily bus and hot lunch service 2701 Bellevue-Redmond Road Check website ☆ 206-275-3533 latest in the line of Maori leaders descended from the 2015! Jess’ parents want her to settle down but her AccreditedAccredited by:by: NWAISNWAIS && FrenchFrench 206-275-3533 Bellevue, WA 98008— Alison Krupnick (206)275-3533 275 ☆ 3795 East Mercer Way legendaryBellevue, Whale Rider. WA But, 98008 she’s a girl and her traditional love of soccer beckons. She needs to find the balance (206)275-3533 ext 275 Ministry of Education Mercer Island, WA 98040 [email protected] www.fasps.org father can’twww.etonschool.org accept that she could be a leader. Pai needs to between her Indian ancestry and her modern British break through the prejudice and prove that she is worthy. life. October 2014 20 • October 2014 • parentmap.com — John Kubalak
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parentmap.com • October 2014 • 21 Visit our PUMPKIN PATCH & CORN MAZE Live On Stage! this October FAMILY ADVENTURE FARM Pumpkins • Corn maze • Hayrides Giant jumping pillow • Barnyard animals Pumpkin cannon • Barrel train Spookley, the square pumpkin and much more Enjoy more family time!
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22 • October 2014 • parentmap.com out + about
TAKING FLIGHT Traveling with a child who has special needs BY LAUREN BRADEN
hen you have a child with special needs, the prospect autism or hearing impairment to those who have physical disabilities of planning a real family vacation can be so over- and depend on wheelchairs for mobility. All children are different; whelming, it seems easier and more relaxing to just therefore, each family’s challenges when traveling will be unique. If Wstay close to home. But in spite of the formidable challenges, the your kid is autistic with sensory issues, a scenic road trip may trump benefits of expanding your family’s perspective through travel crowded airplanes and theme parks. A child who depends on a and creating memories together are often worth it. wheelchair would have little to do at a Wyoming dude ranch, but he Two years ago, when my son, Isaac, was diagnosed with autism at age may love the wide boardwalk trail through a field of geysers at nearby 3, I had to make a choice as his mother and a travel writer: Find new Yellowstone National Park. ways to meet his special needs on family trips, or find a new occupation As daunting as planning a family vacation appears, take heart in the that would allow us to stay home in our comfort zone. We take fewer positive trends emerging. Popular destinations such as theme parks, getaways these days, and our trips require much more effort to plan, but museums and even beach resorts are adding accommodations, from every time Isaac spots a dragonfly on a trail or feels sand between his better wheelchair accessibility to sensory hours to allergy-friendly toes at the beach, I am reminded of how much travel enriches his life. restaurants. Planning special-needs family travel is not simple, but it’s The “special needs” label spans a range of issues in children, from getting easier all the time. continued on page 31
parentmap.com • October 2014 • 23 calendar SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY October PICKS
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Issaquah Salmon Days. Honor our The Science of Ripley’s Believe It or Do You Know Bruce? Visit Wing Luke Tools to Help Teens: ParentMap Fall region’s flagship fish with a parade, food, Not! Explore the super-strange items, feats Museum to learn more about Bruce Lee, Lectures arts and super cool Field of Fun for kids. and facts collected by Robert Ripley, like the Seattle icon and martial arts legend. Open Our three October lectures bring you real Saturday–Sunday, Oct. 4–5. FREE; items Einstein portrait made of toast. Daily, open- Tuesday–Sunday from Oct. 4. Included with for purchase. Veterans’ Memorial Park and ing Oct. 4. Included with admission. Pacific admission. Seattle. wingluke.org tools to help you help your kids. Rob other venues, Issaquah. salmondays.org Science Center, Seattle. pacificsciencecenter.org Top Ten Toys Story Hour. As if you need Evans, Ed.D, offers strategies forfostering Apple Festival. Visit this Olympia farm to Toddler Time at the Aquarium. Marine another reason to visit the fantastic TTT, resilience and other key traits that will celebrate our state’s finest fruit, plus buy science activities engage little minds at bring the tots for Tuesday story time; two aid your child in life, in Kirkland (Oct. 14) apples and pumpkins to take home. Satur- this drop-in program. Select Mondays and sessions available. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. and Tacoma (Oct. 15). Marsha Linehan, day–Sunday through Oct. 26. FREE entry; Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m.–noon. Included with Tuesdays. FREE. All ages. Top Ten Toys, items for purchase. Lattin’s Country Cider admission. Ages 0–5 with caregiver. Seattle Seattle. toptentoys.com ONGOING EVENT Ph.D, and Laura Kastner, Ph.D, shed Mill & Farm, Olympia. lattinscider.com Aquarium. seattleaquarium.org light on helping teens and tweens manage intense emotions and build mindfulness, in Seattle (Oct. 27). $15–$25. 12 13 14 parentmap.com/lectures Seattle Children’s Festival. Northwest Cedar River Salmon Journey. View Raising Resilience: How to Build Charac- Folklife’s new multicultural family fest show- salmon on their spawning journey daily ter, Confidence and Grit. Rob Evans, Ed.D. cases performance and activities from Brazil- through Oct., and learn from naturalists on offers strategies for parents to help kids ian capoeira to breakdancing to cooking. 11 Saturdays and Sundays, Oct. 4–26. FREE. develop key qualities of resilience, persever- a.m.–6 p.m. FREE. All ages. Seattle Center, Jones Park, Cedar River Park, Cavanaugh ance and optimism. 7 p.m. $15–$20. Adults. Seattle. nwfolklife.org Pond Natural Area, Renton, and Landsburg Kirkland Performance Center, Kirkland, on GeekGirlCon. This female-friendly geek/ Park, Ravensdale. cedarriver.org Oct. 14 and Annie Wright Schools, Tacoma, science fest is designed to inspire and Play to Learn. Gather for play, stories and on Oct. 15. parentmap.com/lectures entertain, from a panel on women in science learning time together. 1:30–3 p.m. Mon- to games galore. Saturday–Sunday, Oct. 11–12. days. FREE. Ages 0–6 with caregiver. Pierce $10–$30; ages 5 and under free. Washington County Library System, South Hill Branch. State Convention Center, Seattle. geekgirlcon.com piercecountylibrary.org ONGOING EVENT Ripley’s Believe It or Not! A new Pacific Science Center exhibit leads you deep into the science behind the 19 20 21 bizarre array of facts, artifacts and Camp Korey Fall Festival. Hay rides, Lil’ Diggers Playtime. A sandbox bigger PEPS Lecture: You Really Are Your optical illusions Robert Ripley loved pick-your-pumpkin, animals and s’mores. than your whole backyard with lots of toys Child’s First Teacher! I-LABS researchers to collect and share. How can a man 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Friday–Sunday, Oct. 17–19. and wi-fi for grown-ups. Monday, Wednes- share latest insights on early relationships grow to be 8 feet, 11 inches tall or a calf FREE; some activities have fee. All ages. day, Thursday, 9:30–11 a.m. or 11:30 a.m.–1 and how they lead to learning. 7 p.m. $15 be born with two faces? Opens Oct. 4. Carnation Farm, Carnation. campkorey.org p.m. $7. Ages 5 and under. Sandbox Sports, or pay-what-you-can. Caregivers of ages Included with admission. Pacific Science The Haunted Theatre: Backstage Tour Seattle. sandboxsports.net ONGOING EVENT 0–5. Verity Credit Union, Seattle. peps.org Center, Seattle. pacificsciencecenter.org & Eerie Dances. Come in costume for Dr. Maze’s Farm. Visit the farmyard and Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. Spec- this spooky but kid-friendly haunted tour, wend your way through the sunflower-corn- tacular sets, lavish music and a story every followed by Halloween-themed ballets. field maze; pumpkins for purchase and $2 little princess will love. Oct. 21–26. $25 and Friday–Sunday, Oct. 18–26. $5–$6. All ages. hayrides on weekends. Daily through Oct. up. Ages 5 and up. Paramount Theatre, Tacoma City Ballet at The Merlino Art Cen- 31. $6–$9. All ages. Dr. Maze’s Farm, Red- Seattle. stgpresents.com ter, Tacoma. tacomacityballet.com mond. drmazesfarm.com
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Sunday Untuxed: Baroque. This afford- Teen Extremes: Regulating Moods in Hallo-wee! Story Time. Preschoolers are able, family-oriented series of one-hour the Age of Anxiety. Marsha Linehan, invited to wear their costumes for not-so- concerts takes listeners through 300 Ph.D. and Laura Kastner, Ph.D. share tools scary stories, songs and rhymes. 11–11:45 COURTESY OF LEILA CORRALES to help teens learn manage overwhelm- a.m. FREE. Ages 3–6 with families. King Halloween and Harvest Happs years of musical history, starting with the Baroque era. 2 p.m. $17 and up. Benaroya ing emotions, stay mindful and maintain County Library System, Shoreline Branch. Scare away the end-of-summer blues Hall, Seattle. seattlesymphony.org relationships. 7 p.m. $25. Adults. Town Hall, kcls.org with more pumpkin patches, fall festivals, The Great Pumpkin Glow. Get your free Seattle. parentmap.com/lectures Conservatory Pumpkin Patch. Decorated corn mazes, wagon rides, haunted pumpkin and carve a face to have it lit for Baby Jam. A multi-lingual, drop-in musical pumpkins and lovely flowers make for a su- houses, cool crafts and Halloween a (friendly) Harvest Witch’s story telling. exploration. Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays per seasonal photo backdrop. 10 a.m.–4:30 shows than you can shake a glow stick at. 4–7:30 p.m. FREE; additional activities $8. 11–11:30 a.m. $10–$12. Ages 0–5 with p.m., Tuesday–Sunday, Oct. 14–31. $3; ages All ages. Craven Farm, Snohomish. caregiver. Balance Studio, Seattle. 11 and under free. W.W. Seymour Conser- Find the cream of the crop at cravenfarm.com babyjam.org ONGOING EVENT vatory, Tacoma. seymourconservatory.org parentmap.com/harvest
24 • October 2014 • parentmap.com • S+SO
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A Seattle Children’s Publication | Fall 2014
Parents Can Help Kids Find the Right Balance
We all strive for balance in our lives. It’s an they need to drop an activity, or simply get ongoing, sometimes tricky challenge to better organized to make it all work. balance work with play, and being busy with Other kids seem to crave lots of down- down-time. Kids must learn to balance time, or would rather make their own fun school, homework, sports, lessons, time with rather than having it provided for them. friends, family activities and free time — plus, For example, some love nothing better of course, enough sleep each night! Parents than to read all the time, and others will can help kids discover and maintain the right happily build with Lego for hours on end. mix to keep their minds and bodies healthy These kids may need a little push or structure and happy. to get enough physical exercise; parents Some kids are by nature happiest when can help them find a sport or activity they they are busy. They seek out new activities, really enjoy. And keep in mind that no child and may even push their parents to let them should have more than two hours of take on more. This is usually okay as long as recreational screen time a day. the child is happy and well-rested — and not Leading a balanced life means making anxious or struggling with homework or thoughtful choices each day. We can model grades. If a child seems over-scheduled, then this decision-making to our kids from a parents can step in and help them decide if young age. For example: “I need to pay some bills and organize this paperwork, and I know you have homework. Let’s set a timer for 60 minutes for our work, then we can take the dog for a walk.” Or: “You had a long day at 37th Annual Festival of Trees school and a tough soccer practice. Would for pre-purchase or bid. you like to take a shower and then we can Sunday, Nov. 23, 2 to 5 p.m. Guests enjoy cookies, cocoa, snuggle on the couch and I’ll read to you?” The Fairmont Olympic Hotel live musical entertainment, a Show your kids that family time is a 411 University Street, Seattle holiday boutique and pictures priority. If you are often going in opposite with Santa. directions, make a point to come together for Mark the beginning of the regular dinners, game nights or movie nights. holiday season by viewing a TO LEARN MORE: At any age, family is one of the biggest keys display of 21 designer Christmas For more information and for a balanced life! trees. Each tree is dedicated to a to view and bid on the courageous Seattle Children’s trees, please visit TO LEARN MORE: Hospital patient and is available www.seattlefestivaloftrees.com. Visit www.seattlechildrens.org/goodgrowing. 1014_25_28_GG_FINAL_1014_25_28_GG_FINAL 9/18/14 3:00 PM Page 18
High-Chair Injuries Are on the Rise
Every hour in the U.S., a child visits an harness that includes a crotch strap or a post. emergency room for a high-chair related injury. And check for product recalls: millions of A new study shows that in two out of three unsafe high chairs have been recalled in recent cases, children are climbing on the chair or years. Be sure the chair is placed completely out standing on its seat before the injury. Don’t of reach of any items that might cause harm. allow climbing on a high chair for any reason, and always fasten the straps snugly. (The tray TO LEARN MORE: alone will not keep a child in place.) Be sure Visit www.seattlechildrens.org/pdf/CE133.pdf for a your high chair has a 3-point or 5-point Safety Checklist for Home.
Hop Aboard Walking School Buses and Bike Trains
Have you heard about two fun ways kids are active. These programs also allow kids to socialize ‘commuting’ to and from school, on foot or by while parents get to know each other — thus bicycle? Walking school buses and bike trains are building strong neighborhoods. As a ‘zero-carbon catching on. Kids follow a set route to school, footprint’ commute, they benefit the and ‘pick up’ walkers or riders along the way. environment, too. Elementary students in West They reverse the route after school, ‘dropping’ Seattle recently had a special guest join their kids back at home. Parents or other responsible walking school bus: Governor Jay Inslee, who is a adults lead the groups to ensure safety. Last year, fan of the program. Ready to hop on board? Seattle Children’s researchers studied these There are helpful resources for parents interested programs in six Seattle schools that enroll large in starting a program in their neighborhood. numbers of low-income students, in an effort to extend these programs to underserved TO LEARN MORE: communities and help all students be physically Visit www.seattlechildrens.org/goodgrowing.
Speak Up About Immunizations: Ask, Share and Encourage
So far this year in Washington state there have Second, make sure your child’s caregivers are already been 27 reported measles cases — immunized. Ask your child care, preschool or more cases than in the past five years combined. school about their immunization rates. Doing Recent disease outbreaks here and across the so raises this as an important community issue, nation are raising questions and spurring and adds to a conversation that can promote discussions. What’s happening with immuni - health and wellness for all. (Find immuniza tion zation rates, and how does this affect the rates for kindergartners in Washington state safety of our children? Here in Washington, only at www.schooldigger.com/waimmunization.) 65% of children are fully vaccinated by age 3; Finally, speak up. Let others know that your the goal for our state and the entire nation is child is fully immunized. Make sure your family, 80%. For some diseases — including potentially friends and neighbors understand the risks of deadly ones like pertussis (whooping cough) travel has brought the disease back here, not immunizing, and the crucial importance and measles — at least nine out of ten of us where it spreads when it reaches populations of community immunity for everyone’s health must have immunity to keep the disease from without community immunity. and safety. spreading. This is known as community So what can parents do? First, immunize immunity. Although measles was eliminated your child on time. If you have any questions TO LEARN MORE: in the U.S. 14 years ago, the increase in world or concerns, talk with your child’s doctor. Visit www.seattlechildrens.org/goodgrowing. 1014_25_28_GG_FINAL_1014_25_28_GG_FINAL 9/18/14 3:00 PM Page 19
Kid Bits
Sudden School Phobia Health Insurance: What to Look For Aim for 0 Sugar-Sweetened Drinks Sometimes, a child may suddenly want to Are you due to sign up for health insurance, Improve your family’s health with this easy avoid school. It can happen at the start of a or to re-enroll? While insurance is now formula: 7-5-2-1-0. Eat breakfast 7 days a new school year or mid-year. Their phobia more available, it can be pretty tricky to week. Have 5 servings of fruits and may be caused by being away from you, a understand the choices. Be sure to compare vegetables every day. Limit screen time to 2 fear of failure, test anxiety, playground anxiety, the plans offered, and check the following: hours maximum every day. Be physically a ‘mean’ teacher, or worries about using the What is our monthly premium? What is our active at least 1 hour a day. And aim for 0 school bathroom. Or a child may feel there’s deductible? What services are covered? What sugar-sweetened drinks. If you’re on drink a threat from bullies, whether emotional or will we pay out-of-pocket for? Here’s another duty for soccer practice, skip the sports physical. A school phobia can trigger symptoms big question: Which providers can my family drinks and bring water instead — it’s the such as headaches or stomachaches — which see with this plan? Be sure you know what’s original and best thirst-quencher. You can disappear after school and on weekends. Be offered for your child’s care: Does this plan add slices of lemon or orange for a fresh caring but very firm about attending school. cover specialized pediatric medical care? flavor. Go easy on juice. A little is OK when Problem-solve together with your child or Talk with a plan representative if you have it’s 100% juice, but it still contains natural teen, and talk with their teacher. You may questions. Ask about providers by name, to sugar and extra calories. Preschoolers should also want to have your child’s doctor rule out be sure you can get expert care you trust. have only 4 to 6 ounces of juice a day. Water any physical causes. and low-fat milk are best! TO LEARN MORE: TO LEARN MORE: Visit www.enrollwithcare.org. TO LEARN MORE: Visit www.seattlechildrens.org/school-phobia. Visit www.seattlechildrens.org/obesity. e
Regional Clinics Online Resources Find us near you at one of our clinics: Visit www.seattlechildrens.org for the following: Quick Tip • Bellevue • Tri-Cities • Child Health Advice • Everett • Wenatchee • my Good Growing e-mail newsletter • Federal Way • Odessa Brown • Doctor Finder Working smoke alarms • Mill Creek Children’s Clinic • Seattle Mama Doc, Teenology 101 and Autism blogs • Olympia • Medical condition information save lives. Test yours • Safety & wellness information Main Hospital Numbers • Ways to help Seattle Children’s every month! 206-987-2000 • Research Institute 866-987-2000 (Toll-free)
www.facebook.com/seattlechildrens Heather Cooper is the Editor of Good Growing which is produced four times a year by the Marketing Communi - cations Department of Seattle Children’s. You can find Good Growing in the January, April, July and October issues of ParentMap and on our website www.seattlechildrens.org. For permission to reprint articles for non- www.twitter.com/seattlechildren commercial purposes or to receive Good Growing in an alternate format, call 206-987-5323. The inclusion of any resource or website does not imply endorsement. Your child’s needs are unique. Before you act or rely upon information, please talk with your child’s healthcare provider. © 2014 Seattle Children’s, Seattle, Washington. www.youtube.com/seattlechildrens 1014_25_28_GG_FINAL_1014_25_28_GG_FINAL 9/18/14 3:00 PM Page 20
Classes and Events To register or view more information, please visit www.seattlechildrens.org/classes. A phone number is provided for those without Internet access. No one will be denied admission if unable to pay the full amount. If you need an interpreter, please let staff know when you register, and one will be provided. These classes are popular and often fill up several months in advance, so register early.
Parenting Classes Preteen and Teen Classes For Girls Only: A Heart-to- Autism 101 Better Babysitters 3 Heart Talk on Growing Up 2 locations locations WHEN: Thursday, Oct. 23, 7 to 8:30 p.m WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 26, WHEN: Mondays, Nov. 3 & 10, FEE: Free 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. WHERE: Seattle Children’s main campus, WHERE: Seattle Children’s admin. building, WHERE: Overlake Medical Center, 4800 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle 6901 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle 1035 116th Ave. NE, Bellevue CALL: 206-987-8080 WHEN: Sunday, Nov. 9, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. WHEN: Thursdays, Nov. 6 & 13, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. For parents and caregivers of children recently WHERE: Overlake Medical Center, WHERE: Seattle Children’s main campus, diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder who 1035 116th Ave. NE, Bellevue 4800 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle wish to better understand this disorder. The class is also available through Children’s video WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 6, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. View more dates online and teleconferencing outreach program in various WHERE: Pavilion for Women & Children, FEE: $70 per parent/daughter pair; locations throughout Washington and Alaska. 900 Pacific Ave., Everett $20 per extra child CALL: 206-789-2306 View more dates online Autism 200 Series Two-part series for parents, guardians and FEE: $40 per person daughters ages 10 to 12. Focuses on the physical FEE: Free CALL: 206-987-9879 for all locations. changes of puberty and menstruation, what WHERE: Seattle Children’s main campus, For youths, ages 11 to 14. Topics for responsible girls need to know about boys, social issues 4800 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle babysitting include basic child development, and sexuality. The sessions use lectures, videos, CALL: 206-987-8080 infant care and safety, handling emergencies, group activities and humor to emphasize family For parents and caregivers of children with autism age-appropriate toys, business hints and parent values and communication. who wish to better understand this disorder. These expectations. classes are also available through Children’s video Events and teleconferencing outreach program in various CPR and First Aid for Babysitters locations throughout Washington, Alaska, Oregon Car Seat Check and Montana. WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 19, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. FEE: $60 per person WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 18, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Autism 210: You’re Not Alone — Preventing WHERE: Seattle Children’s main campus, FEE: Free Family Isolation 4800 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle WHERE: Seattle Children’s main campus, WHEN: Thursday, Oct. 16, 7 to 8:30 p.m. CALL: 206-987-9878 4800 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle CALL: 206-987-5999 Autism 211: We Have a Voice — A Panel of For youths, ages 11 to 15. Topics include pediatric Come learn how to safely secure your child in Individuals with ASD CPR, treatment for choking, and first-aid skills. the car. Child passenger safety experts will check WHEN: Thursday, Nov. 20, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Students receive 2-year American Heart Association completion card. your child in a car seat, booster seat or seat belt Babysafe and answer any questions you may have. First For Boys Only: The Joys and come, first served. No appointments needed. WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 13, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Challenges of Growing Up 2 FEE: $50 per family locations Ski Helmet Fitting and Giveaway WHERE: Seattle Children’s admin building, WHEN: Wednesdays, Nov. 5 & 12, WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 6, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 6901 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. (view more dates online) CALL: 206-789-2306 WHERE: Overlake Medical Center, 1035 116th Ave. NE, Bellevue FEE: Free For new and expectant parents and infant WHERE: Seattle Children’s admin building, caregivers. Topics include infant development, WHEN: Mondays, Nov. 10 & 17, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. 6901 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle baby safety, injury prevention and treatment. WHERE: Seattle Children’s main campus, CALL: 206-987-1569 Infant CPR is demonstrated and practiced. 4800 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle Come get your child properly fit for a new Child and Infant First Aid, CPR and AED View more dates online ski helmet. Kids must be 4 to 18 and present FEE: $70 per parent/son pair; $20 per extra child to receive a helmet. First come, first served. WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 12, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. CALL: 206-789-2306 No appointments needed. Learn more at FEE: $60 www.MakeSureTheHelmetFits.org. Two-part series for parents, guardians and sons WHERE: Seattle Children’s main campus, ages 10 to 12. Focuses on what each can expect 4800 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle as boys begin adolescence. Class covers body CALL: 206-987-9878 changes during puberty, popular myths about For parents and caregivers. Topics include how growing up, behavior and attitude changes, girls to treat bleeding, sprains, broken bones, shock and and how to communicate about the experience other first-aid emergencies. Also includes infant of adolescence. and child CPR and AED use. TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 1 2 3 4 Little Bookworms Story Time. Stop by Peppa Pig Meet and Greet. Children’s Busytown. Olympia Family Theater BrickCon 2014. LEGO maniacs alert! for stories, songs and a special treat. 11 television character Peppa Pig meets young presents its own, Scarry-inspired busy Visit BrickCon to marvel at creations from a.m.–noon Wednesdays. FREE. Ages 0–5 fans; related activities available. 11 a.m.– Olympia complete with songs, local sites around the world, build away and share with caregiver. The Shops at the Bravern, 2 p.m. FREE. All ages. Southcenter Mall, and celebrity cameos. Thursday–Sunday enthusiasm for LEGO. Saturday–Sunday, Bellevue. thebravern.com ONGOING EVENT Tukwila. westfield.com/southcenter through Oct. 12. $13–$19. Ages 3 and up. Oct. 4–5. $9; ages 5 and under free. Seattle In the Heights. An unexpected event Hula Babies. This active class combines olyft.org Center Exhibition Hall, Seattle. brickcon.org shakes up the community of Washington baby-wearing and the pleasing movements Candlelight Tour at Fort Nisqually. Go Innovation Day. See and hear about Heights in Manhattan in this song-and- of hula. Thursdays 10:30–11:15 a.m. $12 low-tech for a night and get a glimpse of life inventions from creative minds, designed dance spectacular. Wednesday–Sunday drop-in. Babies with caregiver. Gold’s Gym, by candlelight. Friday–Saturday, Oct. 3–4 to improve the lives of people around the through Oct. 26. $35–$67. Ages 12 and up. Mukilteo. ahonuworldofhula.com evening tour times. $8–$12; preregister. world. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. FREE. All ages. Gates Village Theatre, Issaquah. villagetheatre.org ONGOING EVENT Ages 4 and up. Fort Nisqually Living History Foundation Visitor Center, Seattle. Museum, Tacoma. fortnisqually.org gatesfoundation.org/visitor-center
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Walk/Bike to School Day. Take a step Thomasson Family Farm and Corn Maze. The Von Trapps. The real Sound of Music Kelsey Creek Farm Fair. Annual fall farm towards healthier living by joining commu- Navigate your way through the maze, pick family carries on the tradition, with four fun, with animals, crafts, hay rides, pump- nities from more than 40 countries to walk the best pumpkin, or get wild in the Kid’s great-grandchildren of Georg and Maria kins and more. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. FREE; some or bike to school. See walkbiketoschool.org; Corral activity area. Daily Oct. 1–31. $2.50– singing together in striking harmony. 7:30 activities have fee. All ages. Kelsey Creek it’s also International Walk to School Month; $12 for various activities. Thomasson Family p.m. $16–$54. Washington Center for the Per- Farm Park, Bellevue. bellevuewa.gov join an IWALK event at feetfirst.org. Farm, Enumclaw. thomassonfamilyfarm.com forming Arts, Olympia. washingtoncenter.org Fire Day at MOHAI. The Seattle Fire De- Student Wednesday at BAM. The muse- The Hayburners at the Market Stage. All Shook Up. Last weekend to see Mane- partment helps tots learn fire safety, try on um invites students to visit its collections This terrific local bluegrass duo plays its Stage Theatre Company’s musical comedy firefighter gear, and more. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. every second Wednesday of the month. lively tunes for a pleasant evening at our featuring the songs of Elvis Presley. Through FREE; includes museum admission during 11 a.m.–6 p.m. FREE for grades K–12 with most international mall. 6:30 p.m. FREE. Oct. 12. $11–$20. Ages 8 and up. Sumner event. All ages. Museum of History online coupon. Bellevue Arts Museum, Crossroads Shopping Center, Bellevue. Performing Arts Center, Sumner. & Industry, Seattle. mohai.org Bellevue. bellevuearts.org crossroadsbellevue.com manestagetheatre.com
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The Case for Early Learning. Join brain What the Griot Said - Storytelling at Pay-What-You-Can Friday at Sound- The Not-Its! Super-cool kindie rockers scientists, education experts and political NAAM. Griot is another name for story- bridge. Kids explore instruments and other entertain all generations with songs about leaders in a discussion of early childhood teller; all are invited to hear the tales the elements of symphonic music; musical story- flannel jammies, bees, scabs and other time- education and its benefits, in thisSeattle Griot tells. 11 a.m.–noon. FREE. All ages. telling at 10:30 a.m. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Donation ly topics. 11 a.m. $5; ages 12 and under free. Times LiveWire talk. 6 p.m. FREE; pre-regis- Northwest African American Museum, requested. Soundbridge at Benaroya Hall, All ages. Town Hall, Seattle. townhall.org ter. Adults. Microsoft Building 33, Redmond. Seattle. naamnw.org Seattle. seattlesymphony.org/soundbridge Black Cat Fun Run. Costumes, glow sticks, livewire.seattletimes.com Baby Sing-Along. The co-founder of the Shrek the Musical. Last weekend to enjoy flashlights and families dashing through Mad Campus. Tour 12 temporary, interactive, group Tickle Tune Typhoon leads caregivers this musical story of adventure, love and the dark make for an exciting night; 2.5- or outdoor art installations inspired by their sur- and wee ones for songs and creative move- one hilariously grumpy ogre. Friday–Sunday 5-mile routes available. 6:30 p.m. $25–$40. roundings. Daily through Oct. 25. FREE. Burke ment. 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. $17. Babies through Oct. 19. $20–$29. Ages 9 and up. All ages. Point Defiance Park, Tacoma. Museum of Natural History and Culture and with caregiver. Seattle Holistic Center. Tacoma Musical Playhouse, Tacoma. tmp.org metroparkstacoma.org surrounding area, Seattle. burkemuseum.org seattleholisticcenter.com
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Bricks and More Fun. Bring your pals for Seattle Symphony and Garfield High Hoot ‘n’ Howl. Take an evening tram tour Hilloween. A family Halloween carnival this drop-in LEGO building time. 3:30–5 p.m. School Side-by-Side Concert. Seattle to see what Northwest Trek’s animals are features The Not-Its! and Eli Rosenblatt, Wednesdays. FREE. All ages. King County Symphony musicians perform with Garfield up to at night. 6–10 p.m., Friday–Saturday, plus trick-or-treating along Broadway. Library System, Muckleshoot Branch. Symphony Orchestra members in this Oct. 24–25. $5–$13; ages 3 and under free. Noon–7 p.m. FREE. All ages. Cal Anderson kcls.org ONGOING EVENT FREE community concert. 7 p.m. All ages. All ages. Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, Park, Seattle. caphilloween.com Math Salon with Daniel Finkel. The Pied Garfield High School, Seattle. More Sym- Eatonville. nwtrek.org Hansel & Gretel. In this 45-minute original Piper of math leads families in math games phony community concerts Oct. 17, 18, 28. The Phantom Tollbooth. A boy trans- musical by StoryBook Theater, the witch is a and puzzles that illustrate math’s ubiquity seattlesymphony.org ported to another world finds adventure crazed Top Chef character who tries to turn in daily life. 5:30–7:30 p.m. FREE. All ages. Tugboat Story Time. Second and fourth in this pun-filled play based on the popular Hansel into her next meal. Saturday–Sun- Seattle Public Library, Greenwood Branch. Thursdays of the month, 11 a.m.–noon. FREE. children’s book. Friday–Sunday, Oct. 24– day, Oct. 25–Nov. 23; four locations. $11. spl.org Ages 2–5 with caregiver. Center for Wooden Nov. 2. $10. Bellevue Youth Theatre, Ages 3 and older. storybooktheater.org Boats, Seattle. cwb.org ONGOING EVENT Bellevue. bellevuewa.gov
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Bob’s Big Corn Maze. Test your maze Día de los Muertos Celebration and Pumpkin Bash. It’s not just a Halloween mettle in this 10-acre cornfield puzzle; plus Community Night Out. SAM invites the party. Watch how animals such as hippos a little kids’ maze, pumpkins and more. public to partake in activities and displays and bears literally bash their tasty pumpkin 10 a.m.–6 p.m. daily Oct. 1–31. $6–$8; inspired by cultures from Mexico to South treats. 9:30 a.m.–3 p.m., Oct. 18, 19, 25, 26 ages 4 and under free; fees vary for other Asia. 6–9 p.m. FREE. All ages. Seattle Art and 31. Included with admission. All ages. activities. Bob’s Corn & Pumpkin Farm, Museum, Seattle. seattleartmuseum.org Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle. zoo.org Snohomish. bobscorn.com The Garden of Rikki Tikki Tavi. A mon- Dracula. International Ballet Theatre pres- Don Giovanni. Seattle Opera presents goose, a bird and a muskrat band together ents this dark and dramatic love story while Mozart’s epic work with its lustful title char- to face their foe in this tale adapted from showcasing wide-ranging dance styles, from acter and shocking finale. Oct. 18–Nov. 1. Rudyard Kipling. Thursday–Sunday through classical ballet to folk to tap. Friday–Sunday, Seattle Symphony free $59 and up. Ages 13 and older. McCaw Hall, Nov. 9. $20–$36. Ages 5 and up. Seattle Oct. 31–Nov. 2. $25–$40. Meydenbauer community concerts, Seattle. seattleopera.org Children’s Theatre, Seattle. sct.org Center, Bellevue. ibtbellevue.org Oct. 17, 18, 23, 28
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1014_PM_Calendar Spread.indd 31 9/17/14 5:00 PM Oct 27th 5-8pm Halloween COMMUNITY NIGHT OUT: Spooktacular DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS Spooky Science, Eerie Art & Loads of Ghoulish Goodies! Presented by www.kidsquestmuseum.org Thu, Oct 30, 6–9 pm Seattle Art Museum 1300 1st Ave
Experience a night of culture inspired by art and tradition from all over the globe! Visit a tapete (sand painting) inspired by Oaxaca’s beautiful traditions, enjoy music and dancing from India and South Asia, and get creative with hands-on Pop art workshops!
In celebration of the exhibitions Pop Departures and City Dwellers: Contemporary Art from India.
First 500 free after 6 pm. Children under 12 are always free.
SAM Kids Media Sponsor Photo: Catherine Anstett
visitsam.org
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TAKING FLIGHT continued from page 25 STRATEGIES Here are strategies that can help you MAKE CHOICES TO plan travel with children who have REDUCE TRAVEL STRESS special needs of all kinds. If your child can’t sit still for long periods, choose a flight with a layover. START WITH PRACTICE If you’re nervous about accessibility GETAWAYS NEAR HOME at restaurants or about food allergies, Book an overnight trip at a hotel book a hotel suite with a kitchen so on the beach or a quiet cabin in the woods. These short trips help your that you can cook your own meals. child adjust to travel-related transi- Be prepared to relax the rules and tions, prepping her for longer trips routines from home a little to reduce in the future. They help you develop overall stress. a system and spot vulnerabilities, PRIORITIZE TRAVEL from hotel bathroom accessibility WITHIN THE UNITED STATES problems to meltdown triggers. Once Thanks to the Americans with you identify potential mishaps, you’ll Disabilities Act of 1990 and subse- know how to avoid them on longer quent legal rulings, accessibility in vacations. the U.S. is mandated by federal regu- PLAN EVERY DETAIL lation in municipal and public places, OF YOUR TRIP from city buses and museums to Gone are the days of spontaneity airports and hotels. Accessibility — predictability is the linchpin of includes physical access described in a successful trip. Think everything the ADA Standards for Accessible through: the best time of day to fly, Design and programmatic access how you would handle a medical that otherwise might be obstructed by problem, backup plans for missed discriminatory policies or procedures connections or rainy days. Before (e.g., waiving wait times at theme you book anything online, call ahead parks for people with developmental to hotels, airlines and theme parks disabilities such as autism). There is to have your questions and concerns much less certainty overseas when it answered by real people. comes to accessibility. >>
travel resources for special-needs families A MODERN HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL FOR CAPITOL HILL
Society for Accessible Travel & Hospitality: Travel tips and SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25 recommendations. sath.org Special Needs Travel Mom: Useful advice and trip ideas from a traveling mom of a child with both autism and physical disabilities. CAL ANDERSON PARK specialneedstravelmom.com WWW.CAPHILLOWEEN.COM Flying Wheels Travel: Guided group tours and travel agency for people with physical disabilities, chronic illness or difficulty walking, and their families. flyingwheelstravel.com ASD Vacations: Free travel planning for people on the autism spectrum and their families, from Caribbean resorts to cruises.
asdvacations.com BROADWAY BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT AREA
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TAKING FLIGHT continued from page 31
FIVE TRIP IDEAS the not-its n1 NATIONAL PARKS n2 FAMILY RESORTS energetic rock/pop music One of the best opportunities to con- For families that just need a (10/18) nect children with special needs to the relaxing vacation, resort hotels are natural world is found at U.S. national a good fit. Resorts have lodging, parks. Each individual park has a Web restaurants and activities all in one play date page on accessibility that describes its place, offering convenience and positive pop tunes ADA-accessible trails, campgrounds flexibility — two of the biggest for the whole family and restrooms. Visitor centers are considerations for families with (11/15) equipped with ramps, elevators and special-needs kids. Look for resorts restrooms that accommodate people that go above and beyond ADA ARTS & CULTURE SCIENCE TOWN HALL COMMUNITY CIVICS in wheelchairs. Interpretive programs regulations with offerings such as FREE for kids. $5 for their adults. and exhibits often include closed accessible swimming pools, paved captioning and Braille. Even historic trails, adaptive kayaking and beach WWW.TOWNHALLSEATTLE.ORG hotels have wheelchair-accessible wheelchairs. rooms. Your child with special needs series support Fales Foundation ATRY: Keystone Ski Resort provided by: may also be eligible for a lifetime Trust in Colorado boasts an extensive Access Pass, which admits him or her adaptive program for disabled to national parks for free. And while skiers and snowboarders. Great dogs are not typically permitted on Wolf Lodge (13 locations, includ- ParentMap Enews national park trails, certified service ing one in Grand Mound, Wash.) animals are allowed. is a giant indoor water park that ATRY: Yellowstone, Glacier has “zero-entry” swimming pools, and Everglades national parks are allowing kids in appropriately acclaimed for their many miles of equipped wheelchairs to join in fully accessible trails. the splashy fun.
Better than espresso and a puppy Happily caffeinated parenting tips, tools, adventures, and gotta-have giveaways si n up .com toda
32 • October 2014 • parentmap.com
0514_enews_1-4.indd 1 6/5/14 9:52 PM 140607 Crossroads ParentMap 4x10.pdf 1 6/7/14 11:41 AM
ds CrossroadsCross
n3 CRUISES n4 THEME PARKS An adventure at sea aboard a luxury Adventurous and fun, theme-park cruise ship offers one of the lowest- vacations are on every child’s dream stress family vacations around, and list. Many such parks accommodate all cruise ships sailing in U.S. waters special needs, yet they present are ADA compliant. The top cruise inherent challenges nonetheless lines go even further, with ame- (lots of ground to cover going from nities such as wheelchair-friendly ride to ride, sensory overload with swimming pools and menus for no quiet places to escape to, etc.). For passengers with food allergies. the smoothest possible experience, plan out every detail well in advance. ATRY: The Disney Dream and A Both Disneyland and Disney Fantasy ships each have 24 TRY: Walt Disney World are exceptional fully accessible, family-size cabins in the ways they cater to families with automatic doors. Youth with special needs. Many rides are counselors are trained to work with accessible. Disney’s Disability Access children with special needs, and the Service Card allows disabled children ships’ theaters offer wheelchair seating and their families to return to a ride and assisted-listening devices. Royal at a given time without waiting in Caribbean is proud of its autism- line (although some families with friendly ships; perks include priority autistic children preferred Disney’s check-in, gluten-free menu items and previous system, which skipped the sensory-sensitive films and toys. wait time altogether). Morgan’s Check out Special Needs at Sea for Wonderland, in San Antonio, Texas, accessibility equipment rentals that is the world’s first fully accessible are delivered right to a cruise ship. family theme park. >> Get your game on. With unique shops, live music, and dozens of international restaurant options—Crossroads is anything but ordinary. Make us your destination for date night, family night, any night.
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parentmap.com • October 2014 • 33 out + about City of Auburn AveKids series presents:presen TAKING FLIGHT continued from page 32
n5 BIG CITIES With attractions such as museums, Saturday, October 25 zoos, aquariums, parks and cultural Steve the Pretty opportunities, America’s major cities are very friendly vacation spots for Good Magician families that have kids with special Auburn Ave Theater | 2 pm needs, especially physical disabilities. With few exceptions, these big-city Saturday, November 1 attractions are ADA compliant and Hansel & Gretel wheelchair accessible. Cities also Auburn Ave Theater | 2 pm have large chain hotels with acces- sible rooms, and accessible public Saturday, December 6 transportation. ATRY: In Washington, D.C., his- Doktor Kaboom: Lauren Braden is a Pacific Northwest torical attractions, monuments and The Science of Santa writer who focuses on recreation and the Smithsonian museums are not Auburn Ave Theater | 1 pm local travel. She travels frequently only educational, they’re wheelchair with her child, who has autism. accessible. Both Metrorail and D.C. Tickets: $8 | www.auburnwa.gov/arts | 253-931-3043 Lauren blogs at buses are accessible as well. n NWTripfinder.com. Discover!
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34 • October 2014 • parentmap.com ?3 northwest trip ideas 1 NEWPORT, OREGON Oct ?This rugged stretch of scenic coastline — one of the 25-26 Northwest’s most spectacular — is accessible in places. You can explore barrier-free trails through tide pools filled with starfish and hermit crabs at Quarry Cove, part of the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area. The world-class Oregon Coast Aquarium offers barrier-free access to all of its exhibits. Beverly Beach State Park, nearby, rents wheelchair- accessible yurts.
2 NORTH CASCADES NATIONAL ?PARK, WASHINGTON In the summer months, this rustic eco-lodge on stunning Diablo Lake offers family getaways that are a great choice for autistic kids who need lots of flexibility. All of the facilities and campus pathways at the North Cascades Environmental Learning Center are ADA accessible, and it has a Wrangler PMV scooter with all-
terrain tires available. SCOTT KIRKWOOD
n 3 VANCOUVER, e ?BRITISH COLUMBIA e w o The Northwest’s most ll a metropolitan city boasts / H r g accessible public transportation um.o Se at tleAquari systems. Stanley Park’s 5.5- mile promenade is barrier free, and wheelchairs can roll right onto the horse-drawn carriages through the park. The Vancouver Aquarium has captioned exhibit videos, easy wheelchair access throughout, a restroom with an adult-size changing table and a 50 percent discount for visitors with disabilities. Its website offers a photographic preview to help prepare your child with autism for her upcoming aquarium visit.
parentmap.com • October 2014 • 35 ages + stages
‘Why does your baby look like that?’ 0–3 Living (and thriving) with cleft lip and palate By Gemma Alexander
hen we first considered special-needs Tse, M.D., a pediatric plastic surgeon at Seattle adoption, I had to research cleft lip and Children’s. “We have placed an emphasis on Wpalate to find out what it was. Now I team-based care, where the communication and see the telltale lip scar all the time. One in every continuity of care really make a difference.” 1,000 babies is born with some degree of cleft — a When we adopted my daughter, who was born gap where parts were supposed to fuse together with cleft lip and palate, there were 10 members on when the baby was forming in the womb. our support team. For biological families facing a A cleft can occur in the lip, the palate or both, new diagnosis, the social worker is a critical team and it can be on one or both sides of the face. member who offers coaching and encouragement Nobody really understands why cleft happens. as parents learn to advocate for their child in the Genetics and vitamin deficiencies are possible health care system, share the news with friends contributors, but not causes. and family, and cope with strangers’ responses. Cleft is usually diagnosed during a prenatal (Most adoptive parents are guided through these ultrasound. “It was horrible and scary, because concerns earlier as part of the adoption process.) I’d never seen it before,” says Burien, Wash., mom Manzanares wanted to stay at the hospital after Nolby Manzanares of how she felt when her and palate. “I had been in contact with this before Genesis was born — she worried that her new daughter, Genesis, was diagnosed with cleft lip through friends.” baby’s appearance would frighten her two older and palate. “They sent us to [Seattle] Children’s Rogers-Vizena recommends connecting with children. “I didn’t want to go out. I was afraid people Hospital, and they answered all my questions and other parents for support right away. “The best would say something to hurt my feelings,” she says. made me feel a little bit better.” advice a parent can get doesn’t come from doctors Eventually she overcame her fears, although she says Feeding is the first practical issue parents or nurses, but from other parents who have gone that younger kids often ask about how her daughter must face. “Because babies with cleft palate through similar experiences.” looks. She still struggles for an answer. cannot generate suction, most will not be able Cleft palate can be hard to explain to children, to sufficiently breastfeed and will need to use Going under the knife but adults understand that it is a physical anomaly. special cleft palate bottles. For mothers who were In the past, children with cleft lip and palate Other medical concerns, such as developmental planning to breastfeed, this is very disheartening,” suffered through dozens of surgeries. Today, better delays or eye problems, are extremely rare. The says Carolyn Rogers-Vizena, M.D., a craniofacial techniques, approaches and protocols have reduced most common related medical issue is frequent ear surgeon at Boston Children’s Hospital. the number of procedures. infections. “Other than a learning curve on the feeding “We have started to recognize the importance Treatment for most children with cleft palate will issue, life was normal,” says Ashley Harris of of caring for children in centers where there is include orthodontics and speech therapy, because Peoria, Ariz., whose son was born with cleft lip a concentration of expertise,” says Raymond the palate muscles cannot form certain sounds.
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0314_seattle_nanny_1-16.indd 1 1/28/141014_seattle_childrens_museum_.indd 11:21 AM 1 9/4/141014_olympia_fam_theater_1-16.indd 11:27 AM 1 9/12/14 3:11 PM Challenging and innovative Montessori experience in multiple languages
Toddler/Pre-K/K “Speech differences are very socially has great friends that never judged (Age 1-6 years) stigmatizing, and other children him,” Harris says of Andrew. “This is or adults may incorrectly make fixable and will not affect their ability Montessori assumptions about the intelligence to learn, grow, have friends and have Parenting Class or ability of a child based on their an amazingly normal life.” speech,” Rogers-Vizena says. Tse agrees. “Kids with cleft are Science Focused But surgeries are still the biggest like any other kid. They have had to Curriculum part of treatment. Genesis had deal with speech difficulties and to surgery to repair her lip at 6 months psychologically adapt to their facial Language Immersion old and an initial palate surgery at difference. I often see cleft kids who around 1 year. She can expect more have a better sense of self. Cleft is not Individualized n surgeries as she grows. “She’s a really going to hold them back.” Instruction strong little girl,” says Manzanares. Harris’ son Andrew, now 12, has Despite the positive, supportive undergone five surgeries. atmosphere at Seattle Children’s, IntlMontessoriAcademy.com Everyday adjustments Gemma Alexander prefers to spend Bellevue • Redmond • 425-223-5798 time online at gemmadeealexander. As children get older, Tse says, wordpress.com and @gemmadeetweet. involving them in decision making becomes important. Child life 0414_international_montessori_1-4.indd 1 3/18/14 1:55 PM specialists are available at many hospitals to help parents give kids family resources age-appropriate explanations. When my daughter was 4, the hospital gave Children’s Craniofacial her an anesthesia mask and a rag Association (ccakids.com) works to improve quality doll before her surgery. She played of life for people with facial “surgery” on that doll for months. differences and their families. She understood that her mouth Faces (faces-cranio.org) needed surgery, but she did not offers information, including become self-conscious about her about financial assistance, appearance until grade school. for families affected by Rogers-Vizena says, “Awareness of craniofacial conditions. difference typically begins around 3 Foundation for Faces of years of age. At that time, awareness Children (facesofchildren.org) LOOKING FOR QUALITY CHILD CARE? is not perceived as a bad thing. Peer helps patients and families teasing often begins around school learn about facial differences Ask your child care provider about and advocate for children with age.” Knowledge and preparation facial differences. EARLY ACHIEVERS can help kids respond. “For example, Operation Smile It helps ensure your child receives quality care if someone says, ‘Your nose looks (operationsmile.org) provides and education. It’s free for families and providers. funny,’ a child can say, ‘It’s because of free surgeries for children my cleft’ or ‘This is how I was born.’” around the globe. Learn more at: www.del.wa.gov/care/qris “He had someone call him a name Smile Train (smiletrain.org) once or twice in grade school. That’s performs free cleft surgery in it. He has such good self-esteem developing countries. that it didn’t bother him much. He
parentmap.com • October 2014 • 37 ENTM AppsEasing for back kid into scientists the groove R A A P From physicsYou’ve bought to stars, school bones supplies to chemistry, and clothes. study You primedour P P roundupearly of morning some of reveille iPhone, by iPad having and them Android get to science bed on S O R apps! time.Find 9Now more it’s appsSeptember, at parentmap.com/stemapps. and despite your preparations, I N T E your family is having trouble adjusting to a new schedule. Here are some tips to GAZZILISCIENCE.help make the summer-to-school An app suited transition to the smallestless bumpy: of scientists, GazziliScience gives toddlers and 1. Bid farewellpreschoolers to summer. basicPlan something lessons in low-key the water yet special cycle, forthe Labor Day seasonsweekend andthat more.allows yourAnd familythe clear to revel narration in summer and memories.cute As you characters walk your arekids irresistible. to school on Recommended the glorious September for days ahead,ages admire 5 and the younger; glistening on spider iPhone/iPad. webs and changing leaves. 2. Invest in mealGRANDPA planning. INThe SPACE. days of Space free-range is fascinating summer grazing as are over, and mealsit is, butmust throw happen an onendearing schedule. grandpa As a family, in agreea rocket on some favorite, easy dinner options for the first few weeks of school. Let up there, and you’ve got an app that will keep the kids help choose healthy after-school snacks to have on hand. kids coming back for more. Pick a planet, build 3. No weekendyour sleepovers. own rocketAnxious ship, toand reclaim blast theiroff intosummer learning. freedom, your kids mayRecommended be begging to for sleep ages over 6–8; at onfriends’ iPhone/iPad. houses. Some parents swear by the “no September sleepovers” rule. Don’t under- TOCA LAB. Kids can experiment on over 100 estimate your kids’ needs for sleep and downtime. “elements” with heat, ice and more to create 4. Take it easysomething on yourself. newYou to don'texamine have in to the cook lab. gourmet While the dinners daily,game host isn’t nightly scientifically discussions accurate, about current it does encourage events andexperimentationclean your house andfrom discovery. top to bottom. Recommended Arranging carpool,for ages overseeing 6–8; on iPhone/iPad homework and Android. going to weekend soccer games is enough for now. BOBO EXPLORES LIGHT. Kids can dive into the The rain will bescience back soonof photosynthesis, enough. You can holograms dive into and more. getting organizedThis appthen. is a science storybook covering 21 topics all related to light,— Alison and Krupnickit includes videos and mini-games. Recommended for ages 9–11; on iPad. — Kelly Knox ARTS ++ ACTIVITIESACTIVITIES
HALLOWEEN ENTM FilmsEasing with back powerful into the heroines groove R A AMILY EVENTS A P F According to a recent study, only 13 percent of movies P You’ve bought school supplies and clothes. You primed feature a cast where at least half of the characters are P HAMLIN HAUNT early morning reveille by having them get to bed on S female. And male protagonists outnumber female ones O R Paint Pottery • Make Mosaics Hamlin Park time. Now it’s September, and despite your preparations, I E 5:1. Here are some films (and their heroines) that are N T October 17 your family is having trouble adjusting to a new schedule. Here are Fuse Glass • Create in Clay girl-powerful; find more at parentmap.com/femaleheroes. 6:00-8:30pm some tips to help make the summer-to-school transition less bumpy: Walk-in Anytime ~ Birthdays KIKI’S DELIVERY SERVICE. (1989); rated G; recom- 1. Bid farewell to summer. Plan something low-key yet special for mended for ages 5 and up. Heroine: Kiki. You need to Classes ~ Workshops ~ Camps INDOOR PLAYGROUND Labor Day weekend that allows your family to revel in summer find your place in the world. Sometimes that place Spartan Recreation Center memories. As you walk your kids to school on the glorious September Fun for Kids and Adults! involves honoring your commitments and being nice to October 31 days ahead, admire the glistening spider webs and changing leaves. 9:30am-12:00pm people, sometimes it involves saving a friend from 3333 Rainier Ave S, Seattle 98144 Ages 1- 4 2. Investfalling in meal to planning.his deathThe from days a crashed of free-range Zeppelin. summer grazing are over, and meals must happen on schedule. As a family, agree on some 206-721-0450 Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services THE INCREDIBLES. (2004); rated PG; recommended www.shorelinewa.gov/recguide favorite, easy dinner options for the first few weeks of school. Let www.emeraldcityfiredarts.com for ages 7 and up. Heroines: Elastigirl and Violet. (206) 801-2600 the kids help choose healthy after-school snacks to have on hand. Elastigirl is a strong (and very flexible) mother who 3. No weekendtakes care sleepovers. of the family,Anxious while to reclaim the shy their Violet summer learns freedom, your kidsthat may with be self-confidence begging to sleep herover abilities at friends’ make houses. her Somea parentsformidable swear by thehero. “no September sleepovers” rule. Don’t under- 1113_emerald_city_fired_arts_1-16.indd 1 10/14/13 8:24 AM estimate your kids’ needs for sleep and downtime. WADJDA. (2012); rated PG; recommended for ages 9 4. Take itand easy up. on Heroine: yourself. Wadjda.You don't Do have you to want cook to gourmet wear dinnershigh-tops daily, host with nightly purple discussions laces? Do about you wantcurrent to ride a bike? eventsWadjda and clean is the your story house of froma girl topin Saudi to bottom. Arabia who aims to Come join the band! Arranginglive life carpool, her way overseeing despite homework her culture’s and expectations for BEND IT LIKE BECKHAM. (2002); rated PG-13; recommended for going howto weekend women soccer should games behave. is enough for now. ages 13 and up. Heroine: Jess. This feel-good soccer AllAll abilities abilities - Instruments providedprovided The rainWHALE will be back RIDER. soon (2002);enough. rated You can PG-13; dive recommendedinto for movie is more than a decade old but worth a revisit GroupFun percussion classes in band Lynnwood classes for in getting organizedages 11 and then. up. Heroine: Paikea Apirana. Paikea is the — after all, the Women’s World Cup is coming in Lynnwoodyouth -ages ages 6-17+ 6 and up Lynnwood - ages 6 and up latest in the line of Maori —leaders Alison descendedKrupnick from the 2015! Jess’ parents want her to settle down but her legendary Whale Rider. But, she’s a girl and her traditional love of soccer beckons. She needs to find the balance father can’t accept that she could be a leader. Pai needs to between her Indian ancestry and her modern British www.YouthMarimbaWorkshop.comwww.YouthMarimbaWorkshop.com break through the prejudice and prove that she is worthy. 206.676.2412 life. [email protected]@YouthMarimbaWorkshop.com — John Kubalak
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1014_38_41_AS_04_09_sensory_A.indd 38 9/18/14 3:45 PM ages + stages Learn about craniosacral therapy for kids Sense and sensibility with special needs: parentmap.com 4–9 An introduction to sensory processing disorder /craniosacral By Deanna Duff
leepless nights are a parent’s rite of passage, “Underresponsiveness means a child responds In search of diagnosis as is feeding a finicky eater. But for parents too slowly or not enough. They can fall during “It took a long time and continued persistence of kids with sensory processing disorder field day, cut their knees and be bleeding. S on my part to receive a diagnosis,” Fannin says. (SPD), these moments can escalate from common However, they may not feel it, stand up and keep “Hayley was meeting so many developmental to catastrophic. running,” Miller says. “For an overresponsive milestones that my concerns were being brushed “My daughter couldn’t fall asleep by herself. We child, something as simple as a breeze on their off by doctors.” were completely sleep-deprived for 18 months,” neck can induce a sense of danger and panic.” Many children are either misdiagnosed or not says Carrie Fannin of Seattle. “She [would] eat A third manifestation is sensory craving, which diagnosed at all. According to Miller, a height- hardly anything with texture, and transitioning Miller describes as constantly seeking input: fever- ened reaction is often mistaken for ADHD, from one activity to the next resulted in monu- ish movement, nonstop talking and an inability and a lacking response may be seen as autism. mental meltdowns.” to keep their hands to themselves. “Those three Detection is also inconsistent because SPD A pediatric neurologist diagnosed Fannin’s has yet to appear in the American Psychiatric daughter, Hayley, with moderate to severe Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical SPD when she was 6 years old. Manual of Mental Disorders, the official stan- Children with SPD have difficulty interpret- dard for diagnosis and treatment. “This is a ing and responding to sensory input acquired very real diagnosis, though,” Miller says. from both internal and primary senses, Portland, Ore., resident Ben Cavalcanti and including hearing, sight, smell, taste and touch. The brain either overreacts or underreacts to his wife noticed that their newborn resisted stimuli. A 2013 University of California–San sleep and rarely made eye contact. But it wasn’t Francisco study concluded that SPD affects 5 to until their now 5-year-old son was expelled 16 percent of school-age children. from two preschools that the first-time parents “Putting on socks became a four-hour became aware of his special needs. event,” Fannin recalls. “I sat up at 3 in the “Circle time — story reading — was par- morning feeling like she would never ride a ticularly difficult. He’d get swept away in the bike, never graduate from high school, never chaos of play and couldn’t settle down to sit drive a car.” and listen,” Cavalcanti says. “We took on guilt Today, Hayley is an independent 20-year- as parents of what we were doing wrong. I’m old college student with a job. And her mom is sure it also affected him, wondering why he the founder of Sensory Planet (sensoryplanet. was kicked out.” com), a networking site that helps connect Children are frequently diagnosed after parents with each other, resources and hope. together form a pattern,” she explains. “The infor- leaving home for the first time to attend day care, preschool or kindergarten. Without constant What is sensory mation comes in, and children cannot regulate how their brains respond.” parental supervision, problems become more processing disorder? SPD impacts lesser-known internal senses, too. unmanageable. Another influx of diagnoses occurs Imagine a light tap on the shoulder. For a child Vestibular input, or movement, comes from the around third grade due to educational accelera- with SPD, the reaction can vary from not noticing inner ear and impacts abilities such as balance tion, Miller says. at all to feeling assaulted. and coordination. Proprioception, or awareness “Sensory processing disorder is difficulty identi- between separate parts of the body, originates in Methods of treatment fying, interpreting and responding to sensory the muscles and joints. It’s responsible for such Cavalcanti begin researching symptoms and input,” says Lucy Jane Miller, Ph.D., founder of actions as being able to touch one hand to the connected with Portland-based Sensory Kids the STAR Center, an SPD therapy and research other with your eyes closed. (sensorykidsot.com), a clinic specializing in SPD institution in Denver, Colorado, and author of the Miller adds an eighth sense, interoception, to occupational therapy (OT). revised edition of Sensational Kids: Hope and Help the list. It refers to internal sensations, such as “Early intervention is important. The sooner for Children with Sensory Processing Disorder. hunger or a stomachache. you get into treatment, the more impact you’ll see.
parentmap.com • October 2014 • 39 201 PRESCHOOL previews Find the best preschool fi t for your child here!
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Sense and sensibility continued from page 39 I’ve treated infants under 2 months old,” says Lisa birthday parties and childhood activities.” Cavalcanti admits it’s often still “two steps Porter, who founded Sensory Kids in 2009. For maximum benefits, both Miller and Porter forward, one step back,” but things have In addition to her OT background, Porter recommend multiple sessions weekly. At STAR, improved. At Sensory Kids, 150 tiles painted trained at Denver’s STAR Center, which pro- one out of every five treatments focuses on par- by kids decorate the walls. The Cavalcanti tile motes a “smart-play method.” Both Sensory ent-only education. boasts a brightly colored bunch of balloons Kids and STAR work with children in a “My relationship with my son is so much floating into the sky. playground-style gym environment. Through better,” Cavalcanti says. “Before, my first reaction “I’ve found that people will only be what hands-on activities, kids learn to identify was to be punitive and stern. Now I understand they’re labeled to be,” Cavalcanti says. “If triggers, develop coping strategies, identify [better] what he’s experiencing, and I have the [children are] allowed to pursue their full emotions and regulate reactions. tools to work with him.” n “We also spend a lot of time talking about He and his wife now communicate more clearly potential, they’ll rise up and soar.” differences and how everyone has them,” Porter with their son, preparing him for transitions says. “A main focus is self-esteem, because between activities and ensuring that he always has Deanna Duff is an award-winning freelance SPD takes a toll on kids. They often struggle to access to a calm space. They carefully selected a writer who contributes to a variety of regional relate to their peers and miss out on attending kindergarten that will accommodate his needs. and national publications. SCHOOLS + PRESCHOOLS
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1014_nurturing_knowledge-1-4.indd 1 9/10/14 1:58 PM The Nature of Nurturing Fall Lectures
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44 • October 2014 • parentmap.com
1014_montessori_childrens_house_1-2v.indd 1 9/10/14LM14_fall 11:14 lectures_1-2v.indd AM 1 9/9/14 9:38 AM ages + stages Learn more about dialectical Trusted counsel behavior therapy: parentmap 10–14 Does your tween need therapy? .com/dbt By Kristen A. Russell
ucy* was 10 years old when lightning struck. “Most parents will have noticed their child the patterns stay relatively stable over time and Her father’s secret gambling addiction — struggling with intense emotions, difficult thoughts appear in multiple contexts, therapy may be Land the resulting financial devastation or behaviors, or problems in their relationships important to consider. — came to light, and her parents’ marriage was for several months or longer when they begin to • Are the patterns causing your child significant ending. Suddenly, Lucy was not only enduring the contemplate finding their child a therapist,” says distress? Are they interfering with important tremendous emotional upheaval of divorce, but also Katie McLaughlin, Ph.D., a licensed child clinical domains of life, such as school or relationships facing the loss of her Bellevue childhood home. psychologist and assistant professor of psychology with friends and family? If the answer is yes, Though Lucy’s sadness never seemed out of at the University of Washington. then finding your child a therapist might be the proportion with the situation, her mother worried If you’re wondering about therapy for your child, right step. about her own emotional bandwidth to ensure that McLaughlin suggests you consider the following: Margaret remembers the moment she knew she Lucy was OK. She wanted to be sure her daughter • Are the emotional and behavioral patterns in needed to look for help. Her 11-year-old son Theo’s had someone to talk to, as well as a safe place to question developmentally appropriate? Most behavior had slowly become stranger and more feel angry while sorting through some serious children experience challenging emotions and disruptive over the course of several years. “I knew emotions. She asked her pediatrician to recom- behaviors at certain points in development. Talk something was going on, because he’d get really mend a therapist. to teachers, child-care professionals and fellow stressed out over little things, and then he’d get into “Lucy has a real caretaker personality,” her parents about whether your child’s behaviors trouble at school,” says the Seattle mom. “He was mother says, “and I didn’t want her trying to nurse seem consistent with those of other kids the so anxious and having a harder and harder time me — let alone her little brother — through this same age. doing simple things.” >> mess. It was important for her to have a place to • Are the patterns consistent and go where she could worry only about her own stable? Most kids feel distressing emotions.” Therapy helped Lucy ride out the storm; emotions, such as fear, sadness and now 17, she returns to it from time to time when anger, or have problems regulating issues arise. their behavior in certain situations, Signs and struggles with certain people or for short Big events such as family traumas can be clear indi- periods of time (especially during cators for therapy, but sometimes kids struggle in important transitions — a new ongoing, less obvious ways. It’s not always easy to school, a new sibling, etc.). These know when it’s time to seek help for your child, but transient or context-specific pat- chances are if you’re asking yourself the question, terns are probably not significant it’s worth exploring. enough to warrant therapy. But if
counselor credentials
Psychiatrists (M.D. or D.O.) are specialize in treating children and teens medical doctors with advanced training and their families. Psychologists may and experience in psychotherapy and help clients manage medications, but pharmacology. They can prescribe they do not prescribe them. medications. Licensed clinical social workers Clinical psychologists (Ph.D., Psy.D. (LCSW) have a master’s degree, or Ed.D.) are therapists with a doctorate specialize in clinical social work and are that includes advanced training in licensed by the state.
the practice of psychology, and many Source: The Nemours Foundation/KidsHealth
*Names have been changed to protect privacy. parentmap.com • October 2014 • 45 ages + stages
Trusted counsel continued from page 45 One day, Margaret noticed Theo blowing on his The final step is determining whether a therapist is fingers repeatedly. She mentioned it to a friend, who a good fit for your child. Request a brief consultation thought the behavior sounded like obsessive-com- or phone interview (not all therapists have time to do types of therapy pulsive disorder (OCD), an anxiety disorder often this, and many charge a fee). You may need to speak accompanied by repetitive movements. “It sounded to a few providers before settling on one both you and Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): Focuses on the ways that right,” Margaret says, so she did some online research your child like. “Try not to be discouraged if the first a person’s cognitions (thoughts), and found Theo a psychologist at a clinic that special- therapist you meet does not seem to be a good fit, and emotions and behaviors are izes in treating anxiety disorders in kids. do not be afraid to shop around,” McLaughlin says. connected. Hinges on teaching Theo was indeed diagnosed with OCD, and he went “You know your child best.” children specific skills. to therapy several times a week for about six months. The effort can really pay off, she explains. “The right Psychoanalytic therapy: Usually used with tweens and Now 17, he still gets the occasional checkup, Margaret therapist can have an enormously positive impact on teens who may benefit from says. “He thinks therapy is exhausting — he never feels your child’s development.” more in-depth analysis of their like going — but it helps him a lot.” Theo’s mom, Margaret, agrees: “When you find problems. Does not focus on short-term problem solving in the right therapist, it makes all the difference in the The perfect provider the same way as CBT. world.” n It can take work to find the right therapist for your Group therapy: Kids meet child, but it’s well worth the effort, says McLaughlin. in groups of six to 12 to solve Kristen A. Russell is a Seattle journalist and the co- problems and learn new skills, “Many parents can feel overwhelmed by the numerous author, with Laura Kastner, of Wise-Minded Parenting: such as social skills or anger options available, or [they] feel unsure about how to management. Seven Essentials for Raising Successful Tweens + Teens. start the search process,” she says. “Therapists vary Family therapy: Counseling widely in the types of training they have received, the sessions with some or all family strategies they use to treat emotional and behavioral members to help improve communication with each other. problems in children, and their interpersonal style.” resources Dialectical behavior therapy An important first step, McLaughlin notes, is to (DBT): A form of psychotherapy • To read about evidence-based therapies determine what kinds of treatment have been found developed by University of and other resources for parents, child Washington researcher Marsha effective (are “evidence-based”) for the types of psychologist Katie McLaughlin recommends problems your child is experiencing. Speak to your Linehan that combines cognitive- the website Effective Child Therapy behavioral techniques with the pediatrician or consult reputable online resources (see (effectivechildtherapy.com). concept of mindful awareness. sidebar). Especially effective for self-harm • For an excellent overview of child behaviors, depression and Once you have a basic idea of what type of treat- therapy, including an extensive list of tips eating disorders. ment your child needs, search for providers covered by on selecting a therapist and preparing your Sources: American Psychological Association, your health insurance who offer that treatment. Most child for a visit, see seattlechildrens.org/kids- The Nemours Foundation/ insurance plans have provider directories on their health/page.aspx?id=34359738996. KidsHealth, The Linehan Institute websites.
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Paying attention 15–18 With diagnoses on the rise, teens and families find new ways to manage ADHD By Joanna Nesbit
rant Haskell, now 17, was a high-energy and 7.8 percent in 2003. Whether this uptick of Running on Ritalin and a longtime behavioral kid who hated the feel of clothing tags is due to better diagnosis, overdiagnosis or and developmental pediatrician. These days, he Gand cried when his fingernails were misdiagnosis is debatable, but experts agree that explains, kids who took meds when they were clipped. For years, his family thought he had ADHD is real. younger might stop due to insurance changes or sensory-integration issues. They even secured It’s also tricky. Two-thirds of diagnosed lack of family follow-up. Others continue, as in special classroom services to accommodate children have coexisting disorders such as anxiety, Diller’s middle- to upper-middle-class California Grant’s energy level. depression or a learning disability, so parsing community, where kids commonly stay on Faced with the multiple teachers and class- the disorders and medications is an evolving meds through adolescence because academic rooms of middle school, Grant became depressed process, as the Haskell family learned. Moreover, expectations are so high. as his grades plummeted. Antidepressants and symptoms change with age: Classic hyperactivity Grant’s parents had expected him to start therapy didn’t help. Then his mother, Kate, and impulsivity can fade by early adolescence and college right after high school, but their mind- suspected a sleep disorder, which can look like be replaced by conditions such as depression, so set has shifted since seeing his struggles. Now a hyperactivity in younger children. Grant was ADHD is less recognizable. senior, Grant feels so frustrated by the classroom diagnosed with periodic movement sleep disorder, “Until the 1990s, we typically stopped treating setting that he’s fulfilling elective requirements sleep apnea and restless leg syndrome. His mood kids ages 11–14 with ADHD medication because through a National Outdoor Leadership School improved with treatment, but his ability to pay (NOLS) course. He has found success in his we [had been] treating the hyperactivity/ attention in class didn’t. school’s Future Business Leaders of America impulsivity,” says Lawrence Diller, M.D., author Finally, Kate took Grant to the University of club, as well as an internship with a computer Washington’s Learn Clinic for a full evaluation, company. He is thinking about working or living and in eighth grade, he was diagnosed with abroad for a while after he graduates, and then attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) maybe trying college later. Grant’s parents are on and put on medication. As a family therapist who board with these choices. sees ADHD patients in Bellingham, Kate felt terrible for not recognizing the condition in her Finding and directing focus own child. Helping ADHD teens find success in something Another Bellingham teen, Eric*, went on they love is critical for self-confidence, says Lara ADHD medication in third grade. He had settled Honos-Webb, Ph.D., a psychologist and the down by fifth, so his dad and stepmom, Kerri*, author of The Gift of ADHD. She works with kids took him off meds because they didn’t like the to combat self-defeating beliefs, build confidence “zombie effect.” Then things began falling apart and develop motivation on their own terms. for Eric under the new pressures of middle ADHD teens are typically bright and creative, school, but because he has no coexisting disor- but they may struggle with emotional skills and ders, his family has stayed away from medication. executive functions, such as task initiation and Instead they’ve upped the structure of their home time management; in a classroom, this can life, managing Eric’s nutrition and monitoring his look like laziness or boredom. Homework sleep. The 15-year-old gets mediocre grades but may feel overwhelming, too. By high is managing. school, negative feedback from parents and teachers often spirals kids’ confidence The scope of ADHD into the basement. Add a complex sched- According to the Centers for Disease Control ule and more challenging academics, and and Prevention (CDC), 11 percent of children teens may give up. ages 4–17, mostly boys, were reported by their Elaine Taylor-Klaus, a certified parent parents to have been diagnosed with ADHD in coach and cofounder of ImpactADHD 2011 — an increase from 9.5 percent in 2007 (impactadhd.com), an organization that
48 • October 2014 • parentmap.com *Name has been changed. coaches parents in supporting ADHD overbearing parent, because I want kids, says that shifting expectations him to learn to self-manage, but to focus on a child’s gifts rather I’ll say casually, ‘Hey, let me know than deficits is critical for the family if you’d like help studying for that relationship. Taylor-Klaus, who has vocabulary quiz.’” ADD, three special-needs kids and a An academic and financial aid Ready to Learn husband with ADD, was frustrated for adviser at a university, Kerri has seen years in her search for help. Typically, first-year students with ADHD strug- Did you know? There are more than 700 school-aged she says, parents and teachers focus gle with being away from special children who are homeless in King County each night. on organizational systems —planners educational support, helpful parents and calendars — then give up if they and accessible medication. For some All children deserve to start the school don’t work. students, she says, it’s the perfect Three years ago, she and certi- storm. year Ready to Learn. This includes fied parent coach Diane Dempster She wants Eric to go to college — homeless children. You can help! created ImpactADHD to offer online and so does he — but she recognizes and phone coaching to parents. “That that top grades may not be part of the Learn more: www.wellspringfs.org. parent shift in perspective is really picture. It’s too early to say what he complex,” Taylor-Klaus says. “You will choose. Whatever it is, his family don’t just will yourself to think about has his back. n ADHD differently.” REQUIRED READING To support Eric, Kerri tracks Joanna Nesbit is a freelance writer his homework so she knows who lives in Bellingham with her hus- what’s coming and offers to help band and two children. Learn more him study. “I try not to be that about her at joannanesbit.com. t s a parent resources
SEATTLE AREA READING • The Learn Clinic, University • The Gift of ADHD: How to of Washington: 206-543-6511, Transform Your Child’s Problems web.psych.washington.edu/psych. into Strengths, Lara Honos-Webb php#p=373 • Driven to Distraction: Recognizing and Coping with Attention Deficit • Edge Foundation: Disorder from Childhood Through edgefoundation.org Adulthood, Edward M. Hallowell WEBSITES and John J. Ratey • Children and Adults with • The ADHD Workbook for Teens, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Lara Honos-Webb Disorder (CHADD): chadd.org • Smart but Scattered Teens: “An ideal guide book for parenting teens, Getting to Calm The “Executive Skills” Program • National Resource Center shows how emotional intelligence starts in the home. for Helping Teens Reach Their on ADHD: help4adhd.org Indispensable!” Potential, Richard Guare, Peg • ImpactADHD: Dawson and Colin Guare —John Gottman, Ph.D., author of Raising an Emotionally Intelligent Child impactadhd.com • ADDitude magazine: additudemag.com ORDER: Kindle • Amazon • parentmap.com
parentmap.com • October 2014 • 49
1014_kastner_books_1-4.indd 1 9/12/14 10:54 AM interview
Excerpt from a letter written by Alisha, a patient: Music is what feeling sounds like. Music is what Someone you should know healing sounds like. It has the power to bring By Gemma Alexander • Photograph by Will Austin people back to life. I’ve seen it. I’ve experienced it. It is powerful, and beautiful. And I will be The Melodic Caring Project streams live concerts to hospital rooms, creating a communal forever grateful to the Melodic Caring project experience for children who have been isolated by illness. At a Melodic Caring concert, for stepping in during some of my darkest days the kids are the rock stars, and the performers are their no. 1 fans. The nonprofit and saying, “We’re here for you, and we love was founded by singer-songwriter LEVI WARE and his wife, STEPHANIE WARE. Visit you. You are the RockSTAR.” melodiccaringproject.org to get involved.
What inspired Melodic Caring Project? Stephanie: We handle some of the booking ourselves, but mostly Levi: A buddy of mine is a middle school teacher. One of his students, we team up with people like Seattle Living Room Shows. We look into an 11-year-old girl named Katie, was diagnosed with leukemia. So who’s playing and research their songs and how they act on stage. And we put together a concert for Katie. But she ended up having to the thing is, the artists get on stage and know that they are speaking to be at Seattle Children’s to go through chemo, so she couldn’t be at kids on the other side and — the show. We thought, there’s got to be a way to get her involved Levi: They’re profoundly affected by it. We’ve had so she knows that we’re all here and we all care. We had a laptop a lot of artists come up after the shows and say, “This with a video camera on it, and a coffee shop a couple doors down is the most profound experience I’ve ever had with with an open Wi-Fi network, and we thought, let’s just stream it. music, because it gave my music purpose.” Afterward, we called her and her mom at the hospital, and they How does it work on the kids’ side? were both bawling, because after so much time alone it was Levi: Typically, the day or two before the actual really impactful that they weren’t forgotten.” concert is when most of the kids will sign up. Stephanie: We started telling people about what happened, They might be here in Seattle or in Tacoma or and they just told us, “You have to do this.” The people at Portland, [as far as] the East Coast. When we the shows know that they are part of something bigger than streamed Switchfoot, fans were watching from just the concert that night, that it’s reaching out and really around the world. They sent messages on the benefiting somebody else in a situation that most people live chat [like] “We’re watching in Belgium and don’t have to think about. It brings out the best in people. thinking about you.” How did the concert for Katie grow into Melodic Stephanie: We have a live-chat moderator Caring Project? at the concert. People can tune in wherever Levi: We realized right off that if we’re going to they are and offer words of encouragement dedicate ourselves to this, then we have to do it right to the kids. The kids can just watch and build a foundation that really supports the ability anonymously or participate in the live chat. of this program to reach kids. When we founded Levi: The kids can invite their friends to our board, we got very well-respected people in every be part of the show. So in a situation like with field. We’re tying the music field to the medical field and Katie, her friends didn’t know how to support technology. her — rather than rally around her, they [had] Stephanie: At the start, Levi worked construction. He’d kind of dispersed. When we stream the show, get home on Thursday nights, and we would devote every she can say, “Hey, watch this show,” and rather Friday to developing this idea. At the end of 2011, Seattle than focus on the illness that’s dividing them, now Children’s wanted to offer concerts to some of their patients, they’re focusing on this rock show. The artists call and we decided to jump into it full-time. Katie out and say, “Katie, you’re the rock star. We’re So how do you do a concert? your no. 1 fans,” then all the friends go “Oh my Levi: There are three sides. We have A&R [artists and God!” and the communication opens back up. n repertoire professionals] to reach out to musicians to line up artists; we work with the child life divisions of the Gemma Alexander is a freelance writer living in hospitals to offer the shows to their kids; and we Seattle with her husband and two children. She get applications from the kids to be the rock stars. blogs at gemmadeealexander.wordpress.com Then we send that show to their hospital rooms. and tweets @gemmadeetweet often.
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