Families Push for Racial Justice

Home , Giant Peach, Head Music, How the Earth Was Made

GOTTMAN RETURNS FEB. 11 ’cause parenting is a trip! SEE PAGE 2

Racism Families push for racial justice

super spring arts Tunes, shows and family fun 26

YOUR PRESCHOOL SCHOOL NURSES: GET YOUR GIRL ENCYCLOPEDIA MORE THAN BAND-AIDS PERIOD PROUD! Waldorf vs. Montessori? STEM? The demand for school nurses Apps are making ‘Aunt Flo’ FEBRUARY 2016 We’ve got your guide! 39 has grown, but funding hasn’t 12 less awkward 44 ParentLab The Art & Science of Parenting

ParentMap’s 13th Annual Lecture Series 2016 Making Love Last and Marriage Work John Gottman, Ph.D. FEB 11 WILL WILLOWS PREPARATORY SCHOOL SELL (FORMERLY WASHINGTON CATHEDRAL), REDMOND OUT!

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FEBRUARY 2016

39 34 16

XX Parenting 12 WELLNESS More than Band-Aids: Demand for school nurses increases, Regulars but funding doesn’t follow 6 PARENTMAP.COM Valentine’s headquarters, Black History Month, Racism: Families push 16 FEATURE breakfast and camps ideas for racial justice 8 DEAR READER Forget the college 46 SOMEONE YOU SHOULD KNOW fund and fall in love, again! Jennifer Spatz: Founder of Global Family Travels 11 PARENT FUEL Family news, Out + About snack-sized 24 FEBRUARY CALENDAR 26 SPRING ARTS Tunes, shows and family fun: Advertising Sections Top shows, concerts and films to shake up your family’s spring 15 NWAIS schools 34 MUSIC Nobody has to tell these teens to practice: 18–23 Schools + preschools On the eve of their second album release, the three members 28–40 Camps + activities of Bleachbear juggle music, school and life in a family band Ages + Stages 39 2–4 Preschool primer: How to find the perfect preschool for your child 42 5–10 Far-flung films: How to start a foreign- movie habit with your kids 44 11–14 Period proud: New apps, products and awareness help girls feel good about old ‘Aunt Flo’ 26 COVER IMAGE: iSTOCK 11

parentmap.com • February 2016 • 5 ParentMap February 2016, Vol. 14, No. 2 navigate great stuff daily! PUBLISHER/EDITOR Alayne Sulkin EDITORIAL EXECUTIVE EDITOR Natalie Singer-Velush OUT + ABOUT EDITOR Elisa Murray CALENDAR EDITOR Nancy Chaney PROOFREADER Sunny Parsons OUT + ABOUT ASSISTANT Ashly Moore Sheldon CONTRIBUTORS Nancy Schatz Alton, Will Austin, Make your great escape Michael Berry, Kim Eckart, Kristen Russell, We know how important showing love is to you and your fam. Kali Sakai PARENTMAP.COM This year, we want to help you escape for a night or two, with CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER Julian Haight or without the kids in tow. In “The Getaway Next Door” find SOCIAL MEDIA + DIGITAL PRODUCTS MANAGER Rory Graves awesome trips that are less than two hours away, from a foodie- PUBLISHING ASSISTANT Nicole Persun fun overnight to wintry lodges with firelight and snow adventure ADVERTISING SALES + PARTNERSHIPS Ida Wicklund to spare: parentmap.com/getawaynextdoor. Hoping to plan Dani Carbary just one romantic night out, sans kids? Don’t miss our Parents’ AD OPERATIONS MANAGER Elisa Taylor SALES + MARKETING SUPPORT MANAGER Night Out roundup, with options to make it an unforgettable night Jessica Collet for both kids and adults! You get a date night, kids have a blast. SALES ASSISTANT Jen Baird MARKETING/EVENTS parentmap.com/datenight EVENT OPERATIONS Tara Buchan EVENT + MARKETING COORDINATOR Mallory Dehbod Show me the love Mornings EVENTS ASSISTANT Zoe Bloom “Roses are red, violets are blue, COMMUNICATIONS ASSISTANT Christina Boyer managed! ART + PRODUCTION you changed the baby’s diaper and We know, we know: Mornings DESIGN + PRODUCTION, PRINT Emily Johnson boy, do I love you!” What would are crazy hectic. Some of the kids DESIGN + PRODUCTION, PRINT + DIGITAL your brutally honest love note to just will not get up. And where’s Amy Chinn ADMINISTRATION your Valentine say? Get brilliant that homework sheet?! Breathe BUSINESS MANAGER Sonja Hanson and unique ideas for a card he or OPERATIONS MANAGER Carolyn Brendel easy. We’ve got your solutions ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT + DISTRIBUTION she won’t forget at parentmap. here with fast and healthy Angela Goodwin ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT Lorraine Otani com/brutallyhonestlove. And is breakfast ideas for the most ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT Taracina Ullevig More Valentine’s Day sabotaging your goals hectic of mornings, from warm PARENTMAP EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD to cut back on sugar? Find super- oatmeal cups to berry yogurt Benjamin Danielson, M.D. ODESSA BROWN CHILDREN’S CLINIC sweet, treat-free ways to say “I love pops and beyond: parentmap. Joan DuffellCOMMITTEE FOR CHILDREN you” at parentmap.com/treatfree. com/fasteasybreakfasts. John Gottman, Ph.D. THE GOTTMAN INSTITUTE PROFESSOR EMERITUS, UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON Summertime, Celebrating Michael Gurian THE GURIAN INSTITUTE Laura Kastner, Ph.D. and the planning black history PSYCHIATRY + BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES, From a round-up of apps that UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON is easy Bea Kelleigh If you want happy campers honor and explore black history VICE PRESIDENT AT DOVETAILING, LLC and civil rights to a curated list Yaffa Maritz, M.A. this summer, step one for LISTENING MOTHERS + finding the best camp fit for of local events where you can COMMUNITY OF MINDFUL PARENTS Ron Rabin THE KIRLIN FOUNDATION find community and culture, we your kids is to attend one Daniel J. Siegel, M.D. of ParentMap’s four FREE have your family guide to Black EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, MINDSIGHT INSTITUTE camp fairs, where you can History Month: parentmap. ADVERTISING INFORMATION 206-709-9026 or [email protected] explore hundreds of ideas for com/holidays. Fax 206-709-9031 summer — including camps CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS [email protected] of every possible variety for A dad’s love EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS [email protected] preschoolers to teens. RSVP Read dad blogger Jonathan DISTRIBUTION [email protected] and enter to win prizes, Shipley’s bittersweet reflection SUBSCRIPTIONS [email protected] on being a dad to a girl who ParentMap is published monthly including a week of camp at 7683 S.E. 27th St., PMB#190 parentmap.com/campfair. is growing up fast and finding Mercer Island, WA 98040 ADMINISTRATION 206-709-9026, parentmap.com new loves of her own (read: Plus find camps advice and SUBSCRIPTION RATES 1 year: $24; 2 years: $40 content galore: parentmap. boys!). parentmap.com/ All rights reserved; reproduction in whole or part without permission prohibited com/camps. adadslove ©ParentMap 2016 • Printed in Oregon

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6 • February 2016 • parentmap.com Sunday, JEWISH February 21 2016 1:00 – 3:00 pm

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Forget the college fund and fall in love, again! strongly suggest you grab your iPhone and download an app that permits you to kick-start a travel fund, perhaps in lieu of a college fund. Consider this Isage advice from a slightly insane, nearly 60-year-old elder who is rebounding from the most magical family experience — a family safari to Tanzania. Our family of six, ranging from “baby” Maya (14) to birthday dad Bobby (60) spent two screen-free weeks in the wild, learning, observing and falling in love with the magical Serengeti. We were mesmerized daily by circle-of-life sightings of cheetah, lion, rhino, elephant and thousands of migrating wildebeest and zebra. Christmas was labeled “baby day” with recurrent “oohs” and “aahs” while observing precious newborn hippos and baboons riding on their mothers’ backs. Yet, these dreamlike images pale in comparison to what our little pride experienced. We fell in love with each other again and in a new Arielle, Maya, Bobby, Adam way. Some of our family and Eli with Masai family members’ general lack of outdoors enthusiasm 0216_tacoma_symphony_1-4.indd 1 1/11/16 1:17 PMcould have wreaked havoc on the trip’s happiness factor. To the contrary, our kids’ immeasurable wonder, incessant upbeat banter and laughter was the greatest 60th birthday gift for my husband. And yes, I think we had to go to Africa for this. Our journey is over, but in many ways, just beginning. Global Family Travel founder Jennifer Spatz’s (“Someone You Should Know,” p. 46) powerful purpose is to change the lives of children by building character and empathy while building bridges between people and different cultures. This was our family’s experience while touring the famous township of Soweto, caught between old squatter misery and new prosperity, and Cape Town’s District Six, where 60,000 inhabitants were forcibly removed during the 1970s by the apartheid regime. The memory most indelibly etched in our minds is sitting tightly in an unimaginably tiny, smoke-filled Masai mud hut built by a young mother, one of seven wives, who was no older than Maya, our 14-year-old. The exchange we had there, translated by our beloved guides, Moisanga and Rabin, along with the other powerful lessons acquired on our journey, could not have been taught any other way. Here at home, we delude ourselves that this economically strong bastion of supposed social justice is free of the racism so many sadly experience worldwide. The onslaught of violence and “unending stream of racially charged incidents” locally and worldwide inspired this month’s feature, investigating how our community is combating racism (p. 16). Our kids don’t simply learn math, EXPERIENCE IT IN IMAX® 3D reading, coding or smartphone limits by osmosis. So how would they learn racial and social justice that way? We need to challenge ourselves and institutions and OPENS FEBRUARY 12 IMAX® is a registered trademark of IMAX Corporation. ask, “Are we propagating or disrupting racial stereotypes?” We have a moral obligation to ensure we model the behavior we expect and aspire for our kids. Big love to you and yours!

Pacific Science Center is committed to providing accessibility for all guests. For detailed information about our facility and services, please visit pacificsciencecenter.org. pacificsciencecenter.org

8 • February 2016 • parentmap.com saturday family concerts pig snout!! family music rock (2/27) gustafer yellowgold music, animation, & storytelling July 11–29, 2016 (3/19) Monday–Friday, 9 am–3 pm After-camp care available till 5:30 pm

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parentmap.com • February 2016 • 9 Has screen time changed your family?

SCREENAGERS documentary sheds light on the impact screen time is having on families, and explores how learning, playing and socializing online aﬀ ects teens’ developing attention span, fragile self-esteem and moral instincts.

Documentary Premiere Screening Presented by February 24 • 7pm • Kirkland Performance Center March 1 • 7pm • Majestic Bay Theatre , cause parenting is a trip! Tickets and details : parentmap.com/screenagers

0216_screenagers_film_NEW_fp.indd 30 1/20/16 5:00 PM news JOHN GOTTMAN ‘Making Love Last and Marriage Work’ FEB.11 PARENT FUEL parentmap.com family news, snack-sized /lectures

Class act Candy crush Local child advocates are hailing the recent Candy-themed online games make you eat passage of the federal Every Student Succeeds more candy! Dutch researcher Frans Folkvord Act (ESSA), which essentially leaves behind the found that shortly after playing a game with outdated No Child Left Behind Act of 2001. The an embedded food advertisement, children ate new law includes language that emphasizes and 55 percent more of the candy offered to them supports the social and emotional competencies than children who had played a game with an of students. “We are deeply gratified to see such embedded toy advertisement. Folkvord discovered improvements in federal education policy,” that children don’t recognize the ads — even when says Joan Cole Duffell, executive director of the brand names are clearly visible. Committee for Children. “We know that focusing Snuggle bennies on children’s social and emotional development Scientists to brand-new moms: Take a cue from actually raises their academic scores. For years, a ’roo! A new study suggests that skin-to-skin education policy has ignored this research- contact directly after birth between mother and proven fact.” Among other things, the new newborn (known as “kangaroo mother care,” or law will allow school districts to target federal KMC) may reduce death risks for infants with a Fire starter low birth weight. Researchers think the contact resources to support evidence-based programs Here’s an idea for rekindling your romance, just helps regulate the newborn’s temperature and and strategies that further students’ collaboration, in time for Valentine’s Day: Download one of breathing rate — and also reduces maternal stress communication and critical-thinking skills. the Gottman Institute’s free “love apps” on your and leads to longer duration of breastfeeding. The smartphone, then follow the prompts to guide you Crumb-y news Harvard-led study found that very low-weight to some enlightening date-night conversation. Disturbing news for babies (less than 4.4 pounds) who survived and Whether you want to know your partner better cookie monsters: New received KMC were 36 percent less likely to die. (“Have any of your friends drifted away?”), share research finds that This is particularly promising in developing hopes and dreams (“What adventures would salmonella can survive countries, where incubators and other critical you like to have before you die?”), explore new for at least six months equipment are scarce, and where the vast majority terrain in the sack (bold and explicit!) or just have in the cream fillings of of neonatal deaths occur. cookies and crackers more fun together (“If you could change into any typically found in grocery Swipers in diapers animal for 24 hours . . . ”), there’s an app for that at gottman.com/couples/apps. n stores and vending Toddlers + touch screens = trouble . . . right? machines. Researchers Researchers in Ireland did a double click on — Kristen Russell at the University of touch-screen usage by kids between ages 12 Georgia tested four types and 36 months. They found that 87 percent of of fillings: chocolate and parents who own a touch-screen device allow vanilla in cookies, and their tot to use it for an average of 15 minutes cheese and peanut butter per day. An impressive 91 percent of the kids in crackers. Scientists studied were able to swipe the screen; 65 say they’re surprised that percent actively searched for features, and 50 salmonella can thrive for percent were able to unlock the screen. Is all so long in a relatively dry this savvy bad for bitties? Maybe not; researchers environment. Salmonella say that since touch-screen apps encourage sickens an estimated 1 engagement, they’re a bit more like traditional play million people a year in the than passive screen time — so, not as bad as TV. U.S. and kills about 380. Except for YouTube, which just is.

parentmap.com • February 2016 • 11 w

wellness

More than Band-Aids Demand for school nurses increases, but funding doesn’t follow By Kim Eckart

rom the time of the first bell, Kari Asadorian The demands Fis on the move. for plans and A registered nurse assigned to Seattle’s Cascadia Elementary School, Asadorian is responsible medication have for 775 students, handling everything from skyrocketed, while playground spills to daily medication. Because Cascadia is labeled as one of Seattle’s 18 “medically the process for fragile” schools — one that serves students with severe health conditions, where a full-time nurse assigning nurses is required — Asadorian also assists students in to buildings wheelchairs with basic needs. Asadorian, who wrote health care plans for 80 has remained students this past fall, considers herself luckier than unchanged. many school nurses. She works full time at Cascadia and has regular help from a licensed practical when determining how nurses are assigned. has definitely gone up, and that increases the nurse, who accompanies special needs students on workload,” says Terri Helm-Remund, president of the bus each day and can take care of, for example, Need on the rise the School Nurse Organization of Washington and a recess injury if Asadorian is with another student. The National Association of School Nurses a registered nurse who cares for approximately “There’s always something to do,” she says, and the American Academy of Pediatrics have 450 students at West Seattle Elementary. “Every pausing periodically to meet with students as they recommended one nurse per 750 students, but student that comes to school has a right to be here enter the health room. here in Washington, the state nurses association But at some schools, nurses aren’t always and access their education. Their health shouldn’t suggests that ratio doesn’t take into account the available. Largely because of funding, nurses in get in the way of that, and we need to know how to very issues Fleming mentioned. In other words, some districts must divide their time between react if they need help.” such an assignment might work in some areas, but buildings, while licensed practical nurses, not in others. Who should pay? substitutes and trained assistants fill in the gaps. Every school nurse is expected to handle a In 2011, a Pierce County jury found the Bethel In many schools, teachers and office staff dole out laundry list of duties: administering first aid School District negligent in the 2008 death of a Band-Aids on days when there is no nurse staffing. and care for sudden illnesses, annual vision and fifth-grader who suffered a fatal allergic reaction; And in many districts, increasing nurse caseloads hearing screenings, dispensing medication, and the school nurse wasn’t present when the girl and limited resources mean outside funders — developing care plans for students with severe and died, and care plans weren’t followed. The tragedy mostly PTAs — step in to cover some services. Now, pending a long-awaited increase life-threatening conditions. represents the worst-case scenario of insufficient in funding for schools following the 2012 But in recent years, the demands for those nurse staffing and resources. Washington State Supreme Court’s McCleary latter services — plans and medication — have Most parents assume their child’s health needs, decision, school nurses from around the state are skyrocketed, while the process for assigning emergency and otherwise, will be met at school, banding together to develop new guidelines for nurses to buildings has remained unchanged. and they often don’t know that a school nurse staffing. Recommendations could come in March. More students suffer from food allergies, diabetes, may have to split her time between more than one So, how does your child’s school compare seizure disorders and mental health conditions, all building, says Eden Mack, legislative chair of the to other schools in the state, and will its nurse of which can require daily services. Seattle Council PTSA and parent of three children staffing change soon? According to data maintained by OSPI, student in Seattle schools. The bottom line: There is “no one size fits all” health conditions have risen 75 percent since Mack’s twins, enrolled in kindergarten at Lawton for nurse-to-student ratios, says Robin Fleming, the 2005–2006 school year. During that same Elementary, suffer from severe asthma and food director of the Office of Superintendent of Public period, the number of registered-nurse hours allergies and have health care plans on file. The Instruction’s (OSPI) Health Services department. in school buildings decreased 40 percent. “How school nurse works at Lawton on Mondays and half- Demographics and health needs should play a role sick kids are and how in need they are — that days on Fridays, so the school secretary is available

12 • February 2016 • parentmap.com w

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to help administer the children’s school-based care plan for a student Call ANI today to book a Nanny! PRENATAL & POSTNATAL YOGA inhalers during the rest of the week. with a life-threatening condition. Ph: 206-784-8462 KIDS, TWEEN & FAMILY YOGA “It’s a safety issue, and it’s pushing School nurses must be certified, aniseattle.com www.8limbsyoga.com responsibilities onto people who have a bachelor’s degree in nursing aren’t trained medically. The secretary and maintain continuing education Evergreen City BalletKevin Kaiser, Artistic/Executive Director shouldn’t be in the position of doing the requirements. Often, secretaries nurse’s job, because she has so much can be trained to perform basic cy work just doing the day-to-day work of duties in a nurse’s absence, while a an F and the the school,” Mack says. “It’s scary, as a “parent-designated adult” can help Opening diabetic students check blood sugar Night r�aid parent, to be in this situation.” Celebration! Me The Lawton PTA helps pay for and administer medication. For March 11 Ballet the past decade, Seattle Children’s extracurricular activities, but not March 11, 12 & 13 hours for the nurse. Mack says she Hospital has offered a class for such The Theatre at Meydenbauer 3(7(55$%%,7$1'0( volunteers; attendance over the past Bellevue is considering asking the PTA to April 16 March 18- April 3 year has doubled. Based on Beatrix Potter’s “The Tale of Peter Rabbit.” set aside funds, but, she adds, PTAs Auburn Performing Of the 71 certificated nurses who Arts Center Recommended for All Ages shouldn’t be put in that position. Tex� copy�ight ©2009 by Jane O’Connor. Illustrations Copyright ©2006,2007,2008, work for Seattle Public Schools, 31 Tickets: 2009 by Robin Preiss Glasser. Used with permission of HarperCollins Children’s Books. 7LFNHWV ,QIR2/<)725* “We’re getting exhausted of having www.EvergreenCityBallet.org ~ 1-800-514-3849 are assigned to their buildings full to fund the basics of education,” time; that includes all comprehensive Mack says of PTSAs and PTAs high schools, and several middle in general. “People feel like it’s 0216_evergreen_city_ballet_1-16.indd 1 1/8/160216_olympia_family_theater_1-16.indd 9:59 AM 1 1/11/16 1:12 PM and elementary schools where the something they can do, so they step “medically fragile” designation in and do it. But the expectation is require them. The city’s Families and LOVEVE YYOUROUR KIDS WWITH ballooning.” Education Levy helps fund services “Our top issue is fully funding such as school-based health centers ALL YOUR education so that local PTAs, and additional nurses to, for instance, parents and teachers do not pay accompany special needs children on for something that is the State of a field trip. And at some schools PTA Washington’s paramount duty,” says money is available. Kathryn Hobbs, executive director Although not every school is of the Washington State PTA. “The likely to get a full-time nurse, Washington State PTA does not adds Katie Johnson, Seattle Public Being a parent means that your heart is no longer yours. It support, endorse or encourage local Schools manager of Student Health belongs to your children — now and forever. We know that PTAs to pay for nurses or staff.” Services and former interim Health parents want to always be there to care for their children, and Services director for OSPI, the district Filling the gap a heart healthy life can help make that possible. So during demonstrates a “strong commitment American Heart Month, visit your As it stands now, Washington school to student health,” whether in its primary care provider for a complete districts decide how to utilize their services to medically fragile schools wellness exam. There’s no better time. nurses in much the same way they or through the support and resources Do it for you. Do it for them. determine how many teachers they available to nursing staff. need — by enrollment and budget. Rural districts, though, tend to That often means a school nurse might lack such services. In 1999, the state For a physician referral, visit us online at work in more than one building, with established the School Nurse Corps, capitalmedical.com or call 1-800-798-5143. a trained staff or volunteer available for setting aside about $5 million every 3900 Capital Mall Dr. SW, Olympia • 360-754-5858 • capitalmedical.com certain duties when the nurse is out. biennium to pay for nursing services But it is only the school nurse who in small school districts. The money is

parentmap.com • February 2016 • 13 wellness

More than Band-Aids continued from page 13

educational service districts, financing, employees, the same category as for example, one nurse to serve some instructional assistants, cafeteria 1,200 students spread across six workers and bus drivers, and they school districts in Mason County. In are subject to a different pay scale some areas, the school nurse may be than teachers and librarians, who are the closest health care provider. considered certificated employees. “In many of the districts we serve, (Some districts consider nurses it’s not unusual at all for parents to certificated employees.) wait until they know the nurse is at Shoreline district spokesman Curtis school, and send their child in to Campbell says the district set aside have their child looked at,” says Lynn $781,000 this year for nurses at all 14 of Nelson, Nurse Corps administrator its school buildings — a staffing ratio it for a five-county region in southwest has maintained for at least 20 years. Summer Camps Washington. “Some of it has to do “It’s always been a high community with a lack of [health care] providers YMCA OF PIERCE AND KITSAP COUNTIES priority that there be nurses in the in the community, and some of schools during the school day,” he says. it is about poverty and lack of Shorewood High School nurse transportation for parents.” Paula Williams has worked at the Nurses hope the efforts of the elementary, middle and high school statewide staffing work group, level in Shoreline since 1999. along with potential funding from In her eight years at Shorewood, Initiative 1351 and enforcement of the she’s seen student health needs increase, McCleary decision, will trickle down along with her responsibilities. to student health services. Maybe, “It’s not just the numbers that we says Lorali Gray, School Nurse Corps see; it’s that the kids are getting more administrator for counties in northwest complicated,” Williams explains. Washington, there can be support for “They have more issues at home, other wraparound services, such as maybe family or financial issues. Each family advocates and counselors. kid we see doesn’t necessarily need a The effort to come up with nurse Band-Aid, but you might have to do staffing guidelines also aims to things like help them find a dentist.” identify duties that registered nurses Williams recorded about 1,500 must do, and what can be handled by student visits to the health room in a licensed practical nurse or health the 2009–2010 school year; five years assistant. It comes at the same time later, there were more than 2,000. that health reform is under way; OSPI Despite the increased demands on is working with the state Health Care her time, Williams enjoys her job. She Authority to find ways in which the feels fortunate to work in her building federal government might help fund full time. nursing services, Fleming says. Nearly “If I were going from building to NEW FOR 2016: half the students in the state are building, I wouldn’t have this level • Preschool programs eligible for Medicaid. of patient and student contact,” • Teen programs More than Band-Aids Williams says. “It’s the whole kid that • More specialty camp options we want to look at. Our goal is to • Extended hours Of Washington’s 295 districts, only keep them in school and make sure Shoreline has committed to assigning they’re successful.” n LEARN MORE AND REGISTER AT YMCAPKC.ORG/SUMMER one full-time nurse to each of its schools, according to OSPI. The Kim Eckart is a Seattle-area writer, district categorizes nurses as classified editor and mother.

14 • February 2016 • parentmap.com S C H O O L S Enrolling Preschool- Grade 8 Make in Shoreline mornings routine • Have everything ready the Giving Children an Education for Life! night before — bags packed, lunches made, clothes laid out — to avoid morning craziness and stress! • Wholistic & Individualized Learning • Small Class Size & Strong Academics, • Yoga & Meditation, French, Music, Drama, • Make and post checklists Nature Awareness that everyone can see and be Call to visit 425-772-9862 responsible for. LivingWisdomSchoolSeattle.org • The day kids bring stuff NWAIS SUBSCRIBER MEMBER home, it should either get FIRST LOOK recycled, signed and returned to their school folder, or 0216_living_wisdom_1-16.indd 1 1/15/16 5:29 PM FRIDAYS labeled/dated and placed in GET A GLIMPSE OF LEARNING an action inbox created for Feb. 26, Mar. 11, AT CWA that purpose. Each inbox has an owner who follows Mar. 25, Apr. 22 through once a week on RSVP at cwa.is/more (253) 620-8373 everything inside of it.

• Display a family calendar for events, work schedules, tests, practices and lessons, so that everyone knows what is coming up. Girls & Boys // Jr. K - Grade 12 // Bus Service

Date: 1-11-16 Production Contact: Advertiser: Charles Wright Amy Senftleben, 253-620-8870 Pub: Parent Map PRESCHOOL – 8TH GRADE Live Area: n/a February Issue Trim: 4” x 5” Distributes late Jan. Bleed: n/a Printing: 4c, cmyk

Excellence Today, the World Tomorrow FRENCH AMERICAN SCHOOL OF PUGET SOUND YOUR CHILD IS ECOLE FRANCO-AMÉRICAINE DU PUGET SOUND ☆ No French language EXCEPTIONAL BILINGUAL EDUCATION FROM experience required through Kindergarten YOUNG PRE-K (AGE 3) TO GRADE 8 ☆ International community At St. Thomas School children learn to be leaders, ☆ Small class size Weekly Tours: collaborators, critical thinkers, and people of ☆ Tuition aid available Apply Now! www.fasps.org ☆ Daily bus and hot lunch character. Learn more at www.stthomasschool.org service (206)275-3533 ext 275 | [email protected] ☆ Accredited by: NWAIS or schedule a tour by calling 425.454.5880. & French Ministry of 3795 East Mercer Way | Mercer Island, WA 98040 Education

parentmap.com • February 2016 • 15

0216_french_american_school_1-4.indd 1 1/12/16 12:35 PM feature rac sm Families push for racial justice BY KALI SAKAI

16 • February 2016 • parentmap.com rac sm LOOKING FOR QUALITY CHILD CARE? Ask your child care provider about n 2013, a small parent support group dedicated to EARLY ACHIEVERS multicultural families and families of color launched in South Seattle. Through the group, parents of babies and It helps ensure your child receives quality care young children connected, arranged playdates and found and education. It’s free for families and providers. resources. Learn more at: www.del.wa.gov/care/qris IBut Families of Color Seattle wasn’t destined to stop there. There were so many urgent needs; families of color wanted more. Since its inception, the nonprofit has created a play space and a cultural arts program that includes a new series of unprecedented community dialogues about race and families. Families of Color Seattle (FOCS; focseattle.com) serves more than 350 families and is growing quickly with its mission to “build a strong community for families of color with parenting programs, resource sharing and fostering meaningful connections.” This mandate could not be any timelier, given the seemingly unending stream of racially charged incidents that have erupted nationally and locally in recent years. From police brutality toward people of color to patterns of increased suspensions and harsher punishment for schoolchildren of color, local families are navigating racial bias all around them. The impact of bias can invade community and family spaces, COUGHS, from the hospital birthing room to the private dinner table. “Parents need to talk about race with their kids,” says Columbia SNEEZES, City Church of Hope pastor Darla DeFrance. “We don’t leave our kids to figure out math or reading or swimming on their own. Race is just as important, and we need to lead and guide them, GERMS, even if we’re not that good at it ourselves.” But while racism in the past was unmistakable, modern racism OH MY! isn’t as easy to pin down. “Today’s children are inundated with the colorblind message of ‘skin color doesn’t matter.’ [But] the impact GET ONE ON ONE CHILDCARE DURING of racism doesn’t change over time ― racial exclusion, othering, COLD AND FLU SEASON. discrimination [were and still are] hurtful,” says Onnie Rogers, NANNIES NEWBORN SPECIALISTS Ph.D., and professor at the University of Washington’s College of HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS Education and Institute for Learning & Brain Sciences (I-LABS). >> 206.525.1510 / ANANNYFORU.COM

parentmap.com • February 2016 • 17 SCHOOLS + PRESCHOOLS MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF SEATTLE

Children 2.5 - 6 years 720 18th Ave. East - 206·325·0497 Montessorischoolofseattle.com [email protected]

ParentLab The Art & Science of Parenting Making Love Last and Marriage Work John Gottman, Ph.D. FEB 11 WILL SELL parentmap.com/ OUT! lectures

0216_nurturing_knowledge_1-4.inddNOW ENROLLING 1 for 2015/20161/4/16 7:07 PM 0216_LS_1-16.indd 1 1/19/16 11:49 PM

Faith Lutheran School provides early childhood and elementary education in a loving Christian environment. • Small Class Sizes • Affordable Private Tuition Contact • Serving the Eastside For Over 30 Years us for a tour! 425-885-1810 • www.faithredmond.org 9041 166th Ave. NE, Redmond, 98052 International Montessori School • Half-day and full-day 0216_faith_lutheran_redmond_1-8h.indd 1 1/5/16 9:35 AM • Located in Edmonds and West Seattle • Weekly music and dance classes • Serving children ages 1-6 years • Spanish and Mandarin Chinese immersion • Preschool • Summer Camp • Swim Lessons • Fitness Classes • Before & A er School Program

(206) 395-8209 • worldkidsschool.com • [email protected]

18 • February 2016 • parentmap.com

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RACISM continued from page 17

Enter FOCS, one of the few organizations approximately five racial categories of people — But for me, straddling multiple, distinct groups solely dedicated to addressing how children and white, Asian, Latino/a, Pacific Islander, native, of people deeply internalized the concept of families of color are affected by racism in Seattle. black — and they are arranged in a hierarchy, coexistence. Seeing my Italian grandmother, As it has grown, FOCS has increasingly moved with whites at the top, blacks at the bottom, Russian Jewish grandfather and Japanese toward a focus on advocacy for racial justice and everyone else vying for middling positions grandparents at one table for Christmas Eve on a community-wide scale. After winning a between. There is no space for mixedness in this dinner as a child galvanized the ideas that City of Seattle Department of Neighborhoods ideology,” Chang told the crowd. She noted that everyone could be together and no one was lesser grant, FOCS introduced a special series of five mixed-race people are usually either shoved into or greater. community dialogues about race and family in preexisting categories or ignored altogether. Even with all of this in my background, an late 2015. With identity as the main focus, the event eye-opening takeaway of the FOCS event was Each event tackles a different theme, brought up some things for me. As a mixed-race that I needed to honestly examine what personal featuring keynote speakers, spoken-word Asian myself, I understand that sense of not fitting snap judgments and assumptions I make poetry readings, parent testimonials, updates into any one “box.” After years of self-examination, about others and whether I’m doing my best on community efforts and opportunities to talk I have made peace with who I am. But it’s often to approach all people with an open mind and about experiences in a safe, shared space. Food been a lonely experience, one that resulted in me heart. Every single person — whites, people of and child care are also provided. (See sidebar deciding what my identity would be, rather than color or mixed-race people — can play a role in for details on how to register for and attend the people telling me what it was. either propagating racial assumptions or actively final event in the series.) The core message of the A recent column in The New York Times by overcoming them. dialogues is that racism hurts families, so families Bonnie Tsui captures this reframing of racial The FOCS community event concluded with need tools to become resilient and thrive. FOCS identity discussions. Being of mixed race can some heartfelt testimonies of local parents, organizers hope the series creates effective allies often feel like its own unique “category” or which revealed a deep indignation about the against racism, inspires ideas about dismantling race. It’s a conflicting exercise to transcend treatment of nonwhite people and the issues racism and bridges gaps in understanding for the categorization while having the burden of they face. One of those parent testimonies was public at large. explaining all my parts if asked, “What are you?” from Teddy McGlynn-Wright, who wrote for Starting a dialogue FAMILY OF COLOR SEATTLE EVENTS On a rainy Saturday last October, I attended FOCS RACE SERIES Series 2: West African Drumming Dialogue 5: “Transracial Adoption Taught by Manimou Camara the first dialogue, “Talking Race, Identity Experiences”: Saturday, Feb. 27, 10:30 Dates: Saturdays, March 19–May 14 and Racism,” at Seattle Girls School in South a.m.–1 p.m., The Meridian School Seattle. What I witnessed, and the personal Note: Events have limited space and will fill Times: 10:30 a.m.–11:15 a.m., introspection it inspired, surprised me. Kicking up. Sign up in advance for complimentary newborn–3 years old; child care. 11:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m., 4 years and off the program, 16-year-old Carlynn Newhouse older of Youth Speaks Seattle riveted a full-capacity Registration and RSVP: focseattle. com/?tribe_events=dialogue-5-transracial- Both classes take place at FOCSArts crowd with an electrifying original poem, adoption-experiences (formerly Cornerstone Café) followed by an informative presentation about at Hoa Mai Vietnamese Bilingual efforts to fight for social justice by Youth FOCSARTS CLASSES Preschool, hoamaipreschool.org, Series 1: West African Dance and Music Undoing Institutional Racism (YUIR). Then, 2915 Rainier Avenue S. in Seattle. Taught by Afua Kouyate and Aboubacar author and activist Sharon H. Chang delivered an “Boka” Kouyate. kouyatearts.com/ Registration and more insightful and deeply relatable keynote talk about #!gallery/cff9 information: focseattle.com/?page_ id=113. how society tends to put people in race boxes. Dates: Saturdays, Jan. 16–March 5 These preconceptions, she said, shape what we Times: 10:30 a.m.–11:15 a.m., newborn–3 Cost: $15 per session or $110 for expect people to be like and what we believe they years old; eight-week series. New participant should do. 11:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m., 4 years and older registration fee: $20. “By the late 18th century, there were

parentmap.com • February 2016 • 19 SCHOOLS + PRESCHOOLS

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The King’s Schools Experience 1215_sammamish_montessori_school_1-8h.inddTO BE KNOWN, EQUIPPED 1 AND INSPIRED 11/9/150216_Lynnwood_kids_dentist_1-8h.indd 2:04 PM 1 1/19/16 9:05 PM At King’s we seek not only to provide our students with an exemplary education, but also to help them grow in faith and embrace virtues that will prepare them for life. Degrees & Certiﬁcates

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0116_kings_school_1-8h.indd 1 12/9/15 3:16 PM WEM The Whole Earth Montessori School Est. 1986 ree by e era er ey Integrity zz Excellence Community

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An exceptional academic program... Campuses in an authentic Montessori experience... Bellevue & Woodinville! To learn more about our programs please contact us for a tour infowemschool.org For Open House dates check out our website: bellevuechristian.org/visitbcs .emcoo.or

20 • February 2016 • parentmap.com

1215_whole_earth_montessori_1-4.indd 1 11/20/15 7:55 PM feature

RACISM continued from page 19

this magazine about what it’s like to be a modern Stephanie Jones Peguero, and antibias programs. FOCS dad in a piece called “Redefining Fatherhood” a black Korean mom of two has been asked to provide (parentmap.com/redefiningfatherhood). As living in Central Seattle, The impact trainings and consultations an activist and organizational manager for recognized a commonality of bias for some public and private Seattle’s Youth Violence Prevention Initiative, with other parents of color schools around the Puget McGlynn-Wright says, “I’ve seen families left at the event. “I was able to can invade Sound region. out of important conversations like this before. connect with the stories community Local families’ needs and But there’s a different depth, sharpness and level that the presenters shared experiences are fueling the of commitment from the parent demographic” that were similar to my own and family growth of such programs, and engaging in conversations like the FOCS story of race, identity and spaces, other organizations in the dialogues. A Leschi resident, McGlynn-Wright racism, as well as thinking from the region are partnering to further is a black dad of two young kids who believes through how I want to raise the conversation and build the urgency to make the world better for our my children in this world,” hospital strength in numbers. The FOCS children is what is currently motivating parents she says. birthing race dialogues, which include to break through uncomfortable insecurities and These opinions reflect topics such as “Anti-Bias talk about racism in a real way. a move by many families, room to Education and Schools” (last Other parents at the first dialogue echoed this organizations and the private December), “Antiracist Birthing sentiment. Kay Dumlao Doherty of Magnolia, communities to change dinner & Reproductive Justice” a Filipina mom of two, felt the event brought the narrative about race. (January 2016) and “Transracial together people who want a better world for their “The dialogue events have table. Adoption Experiences” (Feb. kids, particularly around issues of race, diversity had a great impact in the 27), have been made possible and equity. community for parents to partially through a fellowship “I wasn’t able to be as involved as I had once gather, learn and engage on grant from Rainier Valley been in community activism,” Doherty says. some issues most affecting children of color in Corps, which enabled FOCS to hire staff to “[But] the event gave me an opportunity to Seattle,” says Amy HyunAh Pak, FOCS executive manage programming and operations. With the connect once again with grassroots organizing director. In the past few months, new PTA team expanding, FOCS moved administrative and the community. I came away from the event groups have emerged because of the dialogues. offices to the Mt. Baker Lofts in the Mount Baker very inspired to keep fighting for what I knew Parents are now advocating and mobilizing to light rail station and formed a partnership with was right.” engage their school administrations for equity Washington state’s first Vietnamese bilingual SCHOOLS + PRESCHOOLS Nurture in Nature Preschool 16 SL I e 6 11am1pm or e 6pm Nurturing each child’s unique potential LL or ne tent an 1 ar 1 • Children ages 2 1/2 - 6 years Ages 15 months - 6 years • Nuture children’s social, emotional, and academic skills to build 24326 SE Issaquah-Fall City Road a foundation for lifelong success Issaquah 98029

• Offering Mandarin language lessons 425.557.7705 Bellevue 425-531-7586 issaquahmontessori.com (253) 591-639 www.tacomanaturecenter.org

parentmap.com • February 2016 • 21

1215_sunny_world_1-16.indd 1 11/13/150315_issaquah_montessori_1-16.indd 7:39 AM 1 2/9/150116_tacoma_nature_1-8h.indd 10:13 AM 1 12/15/15 4:01 PM SCHOOLS feature

RACISM continued from page 21

preschool, Hoa Mai Vietnamese Columbia City Church of Hope in Bilingual Preschool. Hoa Mai will South Seattle and led by its pastor, Upcoming New Bellevue be the new site for FOCSArts, DeFrance. The church recently formerly known as Cornerstone hosted two workshops focused OpenCampus Houses • Individualized Curriculum, tailored to meet the needs of each child Café. Starting in early 2016, families on kids and race called “Beyond Coming • World Languages can look forward to West African Colorblindness.” BellewoodFall 2013! Campus • Arts, Drama, Music dance and music as the first offering DeFrance and her team want February 4th 9 am • Science and Technology in the new Hoa Mai space (see box all parents and educators to look While(Elementary journeying only) towards • Gymnastics and Physical Education for details). Also, West African closely at how bias infiltrates our academic excellence, • Values Through Character Education drumming, Hawaiian ukulele and everyday lives and experiences. They Parkwe Highland are committed Campus to • School Houses and Clubs Spanish music classes are planned hope to give parents practical ideas Februarydeveloping 6th 10 ethical,am – 12 pm • Global Community Awareness for later in 2016. about ways to recognize and disrupt (Preprimarycreative and only) compassionate children. Now accepting applications in select Families can also find parent narratives that privilege whiteness. classes Preschoolfor the upcoming - 5th Grade school year. support groups for waddlers, “Superheroes, princess stories KIRKLAND newborns and moms of two or more — even train and animal stories To RSVP Please call 425-889-1111 to BELLEVUE BELLEVUE children as well as monthly pop-up — often presume that whiteness is please visit: schedule your personalized tour. KIRKLAND cedarcrestacademy.orgREDMOND playdates in North and South Seattle good and anything else is ‘other,’” www.cedarcrestacademy.orgREDMOND parks. This year, FOCS plans to add DeFrance says. new groups for black moms and To be sure, talking with kids QFOCS (a LGBT group). about a topic as complex as racism can feel daunting and nebulous. But 0216_cedar_crest_academy_1-4.indd 1 1/20/16 6:17 PMAnother that makes it even more important. Parents can approach it by starting CelebraAng 50 Years of Excellence ally to examine their own experiences in Montessori EducaAon! to fight with racism, and then consider the values of fairness and social justice. racism “A lot of white parents are Many advocates of opening the reluctant to say anything about dialogue about race and racism race, which leaves a culture that say there’s an urgency to engage in minimizes the impact of race even understanding and change with this as it continues to teach kids that new generation. whiteness is the norm. Remaining “Unfortunately, pessimism about silent is one of the worst things we the future of race relations in the can do,” DeFrance says. United States abounds,” explains Lee The unique challenges for M. Miringoff, Ph.D., director of the families of color remind us that we Marist Institute for Public Opinion. all have to actively acknowledge and “A majority of nonwhite residents, talk about the problems of racism. 54 percent, believes there will always Individualized learning with proven, hands-‐on By recognizing this struggle and be a lot of racial discrimination in Montessori curriculum all set in a beauAful getting to the root of the parts we [this] nation, and that figure has ndividualiedenvironment. learning with Come proven, be handson inspired! each play, there’s hope for a less changed little in decades.” ontessori curriculum all set in a beautiful racialized, more harmonious future Another family-focused AccepAng environment. ages Come be 2.9 inspired -‐ 12 for Fall for our kids. n To schedule a tour go to: www.bellmontessori.com antiracism effort working toward Accepting ages . for all opening the dialogue and creating Kali Sakai is a Seattle-based freelance change is being championed by the writer and mother of two children. To schedule a tour go to www.bellmontessori.com 22 • February 2016 • parentmap.com

0216_bellevue_montessori_1-4.indd 1 1/19/16 10:08 PM SCHOOLS + PRESCHOOLS NOW ENROLLING!

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parentmap.com • February 2016 • 23 february SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY 1 2 Math Moves at the Pacifi c Science Center, daily through May 1 Let’s Play: Aladdin. Giggles are guaran- Groundhog Day. Kids engage in activities PICKS teed at these fun, short shows designed for around shadows, weather and Punxsutawney the preschool crowd. Feb. 1, 5 and 6; 10:30 Phil, the groundhog with a very important a.m. $5. Ages 0–5 with caregiver. Olympia job. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Included with admission. Family Theater. olyft.org Ages 1–10 with caregiver. The Children’s Toddler Time at the Aquarium. Last Museum, Seattle. thechildrensmuseum.org dates this season for fi shy fun and ma- Art Rocks. Stop by Imagine Children’s rine-themed activities for little kids. Feb. 1, Museum’s art studio for a groundhog 2, 7, 8 and 9; 9:30 a.m.–noon. Included with project today, in honor of our favorite furry admission. Ages 0–5 with caregiver. Seattle forecaster. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Included with ad- Aquarium. seattleaquarium.org mission. Ages 1–10 with caregiver. Everett. imaginecm.org

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Jack and the Beanstalk. StoryBook The- Meet-up Monday. Meet up with friends for Preschool Playtime. Drop oﬀ your little ater stages an original, interactive 45-min- indoor play and receive $3 oﬀ admission. ones for play and social time. Tuesdays, ute musical version of the tale. Saturday– Mondays, 9 a.m.–9 p.m. $7 with discount; Thursdays; 9–11 a.m. or noon–2 p.m. $10; Sunday, through March 6. $12. Ages 3 and adults and under age 1 free. WiggleWorks call to reserve spot. Ages 3–6. Lynnwood up. Venues in Kirkland, Everett, Shoreline Kids, Bellevue. wiggleworkskids.com Recreation Center. ci.lynnwood.wa.us and Seattle. storybooktheater.org ONGOING EVENT Classical Tuesdays in Old Town. Last John Gottman on “Making Marriage Winter Stories and Crafts. Learn about Lil’ Diggers Playtime. Behold a giant, Tuesday of the season to hear musicians Work,” Redmond, Feb. 11 the watershed and make a craft. Select indoor sandbox with toys for kids and wi-fi play for the enjoyment of the community. 7 weekends through March 20, 1:30–3:30 for grown-ups. Monday, Wednesday, Thurs- p.m. FREE. All ages. Slavonian Hall, Tacoma. p.m. FREE; preregister. All ages. Cedar River day, 9:30–11 a.m. or 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. $7. classicaltuesdays.blogspot.com Axis Dance Theater’s Family Fun Watershed Education Center, North Bend. Ages 5 and under. Sandbox Sports, Seattle. Dance Jam, Edmonds, Feb. 4 seattle.gov/util/crwec sandboxsports.net ONGOING EVENT

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Kids ‘n’ Critters. Bring your crew to visit Presidents’ Day at NAAM. Dress as your Math Moves! It’s full-body “muscle math” Northwest Trek’s resident animals and par- favorite president, make a presidential exploration with interactive stations that take in a roster of special activities; up to fi nger puppet and enjoy storytelling by bring math concepts such as ratios and four children (ages 12 and under) admitted Eva Abram. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. FREE. All ages. proportion to life. Daily through May 1. free per paying adult. Saturday–Monday, Northwest African American Museum, Included with admission. Pacifi c Science Feb. 13–15. Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, Seattle. naamnw.org Center, Seattle. pacifi csciencecenter.org Eatonville. nwtrek.org Great Backyard Bird Count. Participate The Legacy of Seattle Hip-Hop. Rock

DAVID DESILVA Cast Oﬀ ! Free Public Sail. Bundle up and get in important citizen science! Tally the birds and pop at this interactive exhibit on local out on the water in winter. Rides last 45–60 you see in at least one 15-minute time span hip-hop culture and its connection to the Lunar New Year celebration, minutes. Sundays, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. FREE; sign from anywhere in the world during Friday– global hip-hop movement. Daily through Wing Luke Museum, Feb. 6 up in person. All ages. Center for Wooden Monday, Feb. 12–15. FREE; register online. May 1. Included with admission. Museum of Boats, Seattle. cwb.org ONGOING EVENT gbbc.birdcount.org History & Industry. mohai.org

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CD Release Dance Party with The Not- Luke’s Kids Drop-in Play Time. Preschoolers Arena Sports FunZone. Let the kids Its! The fave local kindie band invites all to and grown-ups are invited to play and meet bounce around like wild animals. Tuesday– a free, rockin’ dance party in celebration of other families at this Ballard church. Mondays, Friday, 9:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.; additional its new album, Are You Listening?. 11 a.m. 10 a.m.–noon. $5 suggested donation. Ages times and locations oﬀ ered. $9; caregivers FREE; preregister. All ages. The Vera Project, 0–5 with caregiver. St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, free. Ages 1½–12. Arena Sports, Redmond. Seattle. wearethenot-its.com Seattle. stlukesseattle.org ONGOING EVENT arenasports.net Introduction to Breakdancing. Member Maker Mondays. Here’s your chance to Shadow Lake Bog Self-guided Walking of local group Massive Monkees and break- try out 3D modeling and printing. Mondays, Tour. Enter a wonderland of green on a dancing champion shows kids some cool 3–8 p.m. $5; printing extra; preregister. boardwalk hike that’s the perfect length for

ALABASTRO PHOTOGRAPHY moves. 1–2 p.m. FREE; preregister. Ages Ages 11–18, under 15 with adult. Future little legs. Daily during daylight hours. FREE. 5–8. King County Library System, Bothell of Flight Aviation Center, Mukilteo. Shadow Lake Nature Preserve, Renton. St. Thomas School CampFair, Feb. 6; Branch. kcls.org futureoﬄ ight.org ONGOING EVENT shadowhabitat.org Seattle Camp Fair, Feb. 20 28 29 Great Backyard Bird Count, Feb. 12–15 Roald Dahl’s The Big Friendly Giant. A Leapin’ Lemurs. Hang out with ring-tailed 15-foot-tall vegetarian giant teams up with lemurs as they enjoy special treats on a little girl in this wacky Dahl tale. 2 p.m. Leap Day. Sunday–Monday, Feb. 28–29, 10 and 4 p.m. (sensory-friendly performance). a.m.–4 p.m. Included with admission. Point $15. Grades 2–6 with families. Everett Civic Defi ance Zoo & Aquarium, Tacoma. Auditorium. villagetheatre.org pdza.org The Lightning Thief. This family-oriented Shoreline Indoor Playground. Let the play, based on the book by Rick Rior- kiddos loose at this huge gym with balls, dan, follows Percy Jackson’s adventures hoops, toys and slides. Monday–Friday, wrangling with Zeus and other gods. 3 p.m. 9:30–11:30 a.m. $3. Ages 1–5 with caregiver. $12–$29. Ages 8 and up. Pantages Theater, Spartan Recreation Center, Shoreline. Tacoma. broadwaycenter.org shorelinewa.gov ONGOING EVENT

24 • February 2016 • parentmap.com

0216_PM calendar spread.indd 30 1/20/16 9:42 AM february SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 1 2 3 4 5 6 Math Moves at the Pacifi c Science Center, daily through May 1 Let’s Play: Aladdin. Giggles are guaran- Groundhog Day. Kids engage in activities Toddler Tales & Trails. Kids and caregiv- Nordic Stories. Hear stories by Scandi- Charlotte’s Web. This beloved, poignant St. Thomas School CampFair. Get a jump teed at these fun, short shows designed for around shadows, weather and Punxsutawney ers enjoy story time and a tot-size nature navian authors, then make a related craft tale follows Wilbur and Charlotte, a pig and start on summer camp planning by meeting PICKS a wide array of camp providers, from soccer the preschool crowd. Feb. 1, 5 and 6; 10:30 Phil, the groundhog with a very important hike. 10–11 a.m. $2. Ages 2–5 with caregiv- project, the first Thursday of the month. a spider, on their adventures in friendship a.m. $5. Ages 0–5 with caregiver. Olympia job. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Included with admission. er. Seward Park Audubon Center, Seattle. 10 a.m. FREE. Ages 3–6. Nordic Heritage and problem-solving. Through Feb. 14. to equestrian to overnight adventure and Family Theater. olyft.org Ages 1–10 with caregiver. The Children’s sewardpark.audubon.org Museum, Seattle. nordicmuseum.org $13–$19. All ages. Olympia Family Theater. more. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. FREE. St. Thomas Toddler Time at the Aquarium. Last Museum, Seattle. thechildrensmuseum.org Low Sensory Evening. KidsQuest invites Axis Family Fun Dance Jam. Join this olyft.org School, Medina. parentmap.com/campfair dates this season for fi shy fun and ma- Art Rocks. Stop by Imagine Children’s families with sensory needs to visit the mu- extraordinary dance company of performers Hana’s Suitcase. Last weekend to see this Lunar New Year Fair. Celebrate the Year rine-themed activities for little kids. Feb. 1, Museum’s art studio for a groundhog seum under controlled sensory conditions. with and without disabilities, for a workshop moving play that tells a true story of discov- of the Monkey with a thrilling Lion Dance (11 2, 7, 8 and 9; 9:30 a.m.–noon. Included with project today, in honor of our favorite furry 5:30–7:30 p.m. FREE; preregister. Ages 1–10 focused on positive body awareness, creative ery and understanding of a painful history. a.m.), making crafts and seeing The Monkey admission. Ages 0–5 with caregiver. Seattle forecaster. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Included with ad- with families. KidsQuest Children’s Muse- expression and contact improvisation. Through Feb. 7. $27–$40. Ages 10 and up. King. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Free outdoor perfor- Aquarium. seattleaquarium.org mission. Ages 1–10 with caregiver. Everett. um, Bellevue. kidsquestmuseum.org 6:30–7:30 p.m. FREE; pre-register. Francis Seattle Children’s Theatre. sct.org mance; other activities included with admis- imaginecm.org Anderson Center, Edmonds. axisdance.org sion. Wing Luke Museum, Seattle. wingluke.org

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Jack and the Beanstalk. StoryBook The- Meet-up Monday. Meet up with friends for Preschool Playtime. Drop oﬀ your little Story Hour at the Conservatory. Warm John Gottman, Ph.D. on Making Love is in the Air – Reflections on Ice. This Harlem Globetrotters. The legendary ater stages an original, interactive 45-min- indoor play and receive $3 oﬀ admission. ones for play and social time. Tuesdays, up with a cozy story time in the tropical air Love Last and Marriage Work. At this figure skating showcase features national team of super basketball tricksters makes ute musical version of the tale. Saturday– Mondays, 9 a.m.–9 p.m. $7 with discount; Thursdays; 9–11 a.m. or noon–2 p.m. $10; of the conservatory. 11 a.m. $3 suggested ParentMap lecture, Gottman shares how stars and local skaters with a Valentine’s three stops: Friday, Monday, Feb. 12, 15 at Sunday, through March 6. $12. Ages 3 and adults and under age 1 free. WiggleWorks call to reserve spot. Ages 3–6. Lynnwood donation. Ages 3–8 with families. W.W. to nurture intimacy with your spouse and Day-appropriate theme. Friday–Sunday, Feb. ShoWare Center, Kent; Saturday, Feb. 13 up. Venues in Kirkland, Everett, Shoreline Kids, Bellevue. wiggleworkskids.com Recreation Center. ci.lynnwood.wa.us Seymour Botanical Conservatory, Tacoma. create a loving environment for your family. 12–14. $12–$18. All ages. Sprinker Recreation at Key Arena, Seattle; Sunday, Feb. 14 at and Seattle. storybooktheater.org ONGOING EVENT Classical Tuesdays in Old Town. Last seymourconservatory.org 7 p.m. $25–$30. Adults. Willows Preparatory Center, Tacoma. reflectionsonice.com Xfinity Arena. $23.50 and up; under age 2 John Gottman on “Making Marriage Winter Stories and Crafts. Learn about Lil’ Diggers Playtime. Behold a giant, Tuesday of the season to hear musicians Story Time for Kids. Settle in for new School, Redmond. parentmap.com/lectures CulturalFest International Expo. free. harlemglobetrotters.com Work,” Redmond, Feb. 11 the watershed and make a craft. Select indoor sandbox with toys for kids and wi-fi play for the enjoyment of the community. 7 and classic kids’ books, plus activities and Oly Old-Time Festival. Celebrate foot- Students from around the world showcase Mercer Slough Ranger Hike. Join a rough- weekends through March 20, 1:30–3:30 for grown-ups. Monday, Wednesday, Thurs- p.m. FREE. All ages. Slavonian Hall, Tacoma. snacks. Wednesdays, 11 a.m. FREE. Ages stompin’ music, and participate in free work- the music, dance, food and culture of more ly two-mile jaunt through this fascinating, p.m. FREE; preregister. All ages. Cedar River day, 9:30–11 a.m. or 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. $7. classicaltuesdays.blogspot.com 2–5 with caregiver. University Bookstore, shops. Thursday–Sunday, Feb. 11–14. $5–$15; than 35 countries. 10:30 a.m.–3 p.m. FREE. in-city wetland area. 2 p.m. FREE. All ages. Axis Dance Theater’s Family Fun Watershed Education Center, North Bend. Ages 5 and under. Sandbox Sports, Seattle. Mill Creek. bookstore.washington.edu ages 12 and under free; some events free. All All ages. Husky Union Building at U.W., Mercer Slough Environmental Education Dance Jam, Edmonds, Feb. 4 seattle.gov/util/crwec sandboxsports.net ONGOING EVENT ONGOING EVENT ages. Olympia Ballroom. olyoldtime.weebly.com Seattle. fiuts.org Center, Bellevue. bellevuewa.gov

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Kids ‘n’ Critters. Bring your crew to visit Presidents’ Day at NAAM. Dress as your Math Moves! It’s full-body “muscle math” Northwest Flower and Garden Show. Baby Sing-Along. Caregivers and wee ones Classical Mystery Tour: A Tribute to the ParentMap Seattle Camp Fair. Browse Northwest Trek’s resident animals and par- favorite president, make a presidential exploration with interactive stations that Peruse the amazing displays and garden-re- gather for songs, lullabies and creative Beatles. The ultimate Beatles cover band, oodles of summer camp options and ask take in a roster of special activities; up to fi nger puppet and enjoy storytelling by bring math concepts such as ratios and lated wares while the kids do a treasure movement. 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. $17. led by Jim Owen as John Lennon, performs questions of camp providers. 10 a.m.–2 four children (ages 12 and under) admitted Eva Abram. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. FREE. All ages. proportion to life. Daily through May 1. hunt. Wednesday–Sunday, Feb. 17–21. $17 Ages 2–12 months with caregiver. Seattle Beatles faves with the Seattle Symphony. p.m. FREE; preregister to be eligible to win free per paying adult. Saturday–Monday, Northwest African American Museum, Included with admission. Pacifi c Science and up/adult; $5 ages 13–17; ages 12 and Holistic Center. seattleholisticcenter.com Friday–Sunday, Feb. 19–21. $30 and up. prizes. Safeco Field First Base Terrace Club Feb. 13–15. Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, Seattle. naamnw.org Center, Seattle. pacifi csciencecenter.org under free. Washington State Convention Gage Teen Art Studio at BAM. All teens Benaroya Hall, Seattle. seattlesymphony.org (indoors), Seattle. parentmap.com/campfair Eatonville. nwtrek.org Great Backyard Bird Count. Participate The Legacy of Seattle Hip-Hop. Rock Center, Seattle. gardenshow.com welcome to explore creative expression PJ Library Neighborhood Song and Sto- Peter and the Wolf. Cascade Symphony

DAVID DESILVA Cast Oﬀ ! Free Public Sail. Bundle up and get in important citizen science! Tally the birds and pop at this interactive exhibit on local Pre-K Open Jump. Little ones jump and and new artistic techniques; no experience rytime. Betsy Dischel and her blues guitar Orchestra presents its children’s concert out on the water in winter. Rides last 45–60 you see in at least one 15-minute time span hip-hop culture and its connection to the play among the inflatables. Tuesday–Thurs- needed. Thursdays, 4–7 p.m. through lead tots in musical, multicultural fun. Fri- featuring Prokofiev’s beloved instruments as Lunar New Year celebration, minutes. Sundays, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. FREE; sign from anywhere in the world during Friday– global hip-hop movement. Daily through day, 10 a.m.–noon. $6–$8. Ages 3–5 with March 31. FREE; preregistration recom- days, 9 a.m. FREE. Ages 0–5 with caregiver. characters; instrument petting zoo precedes Wing Luke Museum, Feb. 6 up in person. All ages. Center for Wooden Monday, Feb. 12–15. FREE; register online. May 1. Included with admission. Museum of caregiver. Pump It Up, Kirkland. pumpitup- mended. Ages 13–18. Bellevue Arts Muse- Jewish Day School, Bellevue. jewishinseattle. the show. 3 p.m. $2–$10. All ages. Edmonds Boats, Seattle. cwb.org ONGOING EVENT gbbc.birdcount.org History & Industry. mohai.org party.com/kirkland-wa ONGOING EVENT um. bellevuearts.org ONGOING EVENT org ONGOING EVENT Center for the Arts. cascadesymphony.org

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CD Release Dance Party with The Not- Luke’s Kids Drop-in Play Time. Preschoolers Arena Sports FunZone. Let the kids Side by Side Concert with Seattle Sym- Family Nature Class. Explore the natural Family Skate Night. Test out your long- Kehinde Wiley Family Day Celebration. Its! The fave local kindie band invites all to and grown-ups are invited to play and meet bounce around like wild animals. Tuesday– phony and West Seattle Community world with learning stations and a trail lost roller skating skills and let the kids give Discover the art of modern portrait painter a free, rockin’ dance party in celebration of other families at this Ballard church. Mondays, Friday, 9:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.; additional Orchestra. Musicians from these groups walk. Wednesday–Saturday, 9:30–11:30 it a go. Fridays through March 25, 6:30–8:15 Kehinde Wiley with art-making and live perfor- its new album, Are You Listening?. 11 a.m. 10 a.m.–noon. $5 suggested donation. Ages times and locations oﬀ ered. $9; caregivers and two young violinists play a free concert a.m. (plus Fridays, 1–3 p.m. for ages 4–8). p.m. $4, includes skate rental. All ages. mances. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Activities FREE; exhibi- FREE; preregister. All ages. The Vera Project, 0–5 with caregiver. St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, free. Ages 1½–12. Arena Sports, Redmond. for families. 7 p.m. FREE. Chief Sealth High $18 per adult/child pair; preregister. Ages Bitter Lake Annex, Seattle. seattle.gov/parks tion viewing included with admission. All ages. Seattle. wearethenot-its.com Seattle. stlukesseattle.org ONGOING EVENT arenasports.net School, Seattle. seattlesymphony.org 2–5 with caregiver. Washington Park Arbo- ONGOING EVENT Seattle Art Museum. seattleartmuseum.org Introduction to Breakdancing. Member Maker Mondays. Here’s your chance to Shadow Lake Bog Self-guided Walking OmTots Play Gym. Tots can bounce retum, Seattle. depts.washington.edu/uwbg How the Earth Was Made. This exciting Family Dessert Theater: Mercer Girls. of local group Massive Monkees and break- try out 3D modeling and printing. Mondays, Tour. Enter a wonderland of green on a around, swing and generally act like ONGOING EVENT documentary film takes the viewer to remote Enjoy this original musical tale of some of dancing champion shows kids some cool 3–8 p.m. $5; printing extra; preregister. boardwalk hike that’s the perfect length for monkeys. Monday–Friday, 9:30–noon. $10; Board Game Night. Learn and play a locations to plot the earth’s amazing journey; the founding mothers of our region; dessert

ALABASTRO PHOTOGRAPHY moves. 1–2 p.m. FREE; preregister. Ages Ages 11–18, under 15 with adult. Future little legs. Daily during daylight hours. FREE. discounts available. Ages 1–5 with care- plethora of fun games. Thursdays 6:30–9:30 popcorn provided. 5 p.m. FREE; RSVP request- included. 6:30 p.m. $5–$10. Ages 5 and up. 5–8. King County Library System, Bothell of Flight Aviation Center, Mukilteo. Shadow Lake Nature Preserve, Renton. giver. OmCulture, Seattle. omculture.com p.m. FREE. Ages 5 and up. Card Kingdom, ed. All ages. Mercer Slough Environmental Stroum Jewish Community Center, Mercer St. Thomas School CampFair, Feb. 6; Branch. kcls.org futureoffl ight.org ONGOING EVENT shadowhabitat.org ONGOING EVENT Seattle. cardkingdom.com ONGOING EVENT Education Center, Bellevue. bellevuewa.gov Island. sjcc.org Seattle Camp Fair, Feb. 20 28 29 JOHN FROSCHAUER Great Backyard Bird Count, Feb. 12–15 Leapin’ Lemurs at Point F5 St. Patrick’s Day Dash For Girls Only (2 part class) Roald Dahl’s The Big Friendly Giant. A Leapin’ Lemurs. Hang out with ring-tailed Defiance Zoo & Sunday, March 13, 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 9 and 15-foot-tall vegetarian giant teams up with lemurs as they enjoy special treats on Aquarium, Seattle Center, Seattle Wednesday, March 16, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. a little girl in this wacky Dahl tale. 2 p.m. Leap Day. Sunday–Monday, Feb. 28–29, 10 Feb. 28–29 Thomas Jeff erson Highschool and 4 p.m. (sensory-friendly performance). a.m.–4 p.m. Included with admission. Point Run, jog, walk, or crawl with the whole family at the 4248 S. 288th St, Auburn, WA 98001 $15. Grades 2–6 with families. Everett Civic Defi ance Zoo & Aquarium, Tacoma. 2016 St. Patrick’s Day Dash! All are welcome to run $80 per parent/daughter pair; Auditorium. villagetheatre.org pdza.org the 5K race, and kids 10 and under can participate $60 per additional daughter The Lightning Thief. This family-oriented Shoreline Indoor Playground. Let the in the 1K Leprechaun Leap. The event is presented play, based on the book by Rick Rior- kiddos loose at this huge gym with balls, by the Detlef Schrempf Foundation and supported This two-part class is recommended for girls 10 dan, follows Percy Jackson’s adventures hoops, toys and slides. Monday–Friday, by the Tailgaters Anonymous for Children’s Guild. A to 12 years old and a parent or trusted adult. wrangling with Zeus and other gods. 3 p.m. 9:30–11:30 a.m. $3. Ages 1–5 with caregiver. www.seattlechildrens.org portion of the proceeds benefi t Seattle Children’s The sessions focus on what the child and parent $12–$29. Ages 8 and up. Pantages Theater, Spartan Recreation Center, Shoreline. Autism Center. For more information and to regis- should expect as girls begin adolescence. Tacoma. broadwaycenter.org shorelinewa.gov ONGOING EVENT ter, please visit www.stpatsdash.com.

0216_Seattle_Childrens_cal.indd 1 1/8/16 9:51 AM 24 • February 2016 • parentmap.com parentmap.com • February 2016 • 25

0216_PM calendar spread.indd 30 1/20/16 9:42 AM 0216_PM calendar spread.indd 31 1/20/16 9:42 AM out + about

Top family shows, concerts and films to shake up your family’s spring nancy chaney + elisa murray

An Elton John score and electrifying dance numbers: Billy Elliot opens at Village Theatre on May 12

MARK KITAOKA 26 • February 2016 • parentmap.com Art on the Fly dances through South Lake Union, May 21

yes, it’s hard to make time for the arts. There’s soccer and school and required reading, and hey, don’t the kids go to a play with their class every term? And aren’t shows expensive? But check out this list of top performances for families to see this spring: From nearly free Saturday-morning concerts that will rock the world of your tots to worthy splurges, you’ll find something in the Puget Sound region’s extraordinary family arts scene. Find more shows we love at parentmap.com/springarts. Note: Shows for $15 and under are marked with vB$ . february Rhythmic Circus: Feet Don’t Fail Me Now! Pantages Theater, Tacoma, Feb. 19, 7:30 p.m. Admiral Theatre, Bremerton, March 19, 7:30 p.m. A troupe of 11 performers combines tap dancing, a big brass funk band and beatboxing. The result is a rhythmic, energetic and joyful expression of music and dance — stomping, shuffling, clanging and tapping. $15–$59. All ages. broadwaycenter.org, admiraltheatre.org The Not-Its! CD Release Party vB$ The Vera Project, Seattle Feb. 21, 11 a.m. Back from shows at Legoland and in Delhi (The Times of India called the group “kindie rock pioneers”), The Not-Its! celebrates its sixth studio album Are You Listening?, with a dance-ready, exuberant concert of fan favorites as well as new songs. Free. All ages. theveraproject.do206.com >>

parentmap.com • February 2016 • 27 out + about

continued from page 27 Brooklyn Bridge symphonic music mixed with hip-hop and Seattle Children’s Theatre other modern genres. They play a wide Feb. 25–March 20 range of tunes and employ their instruments Penned by Canadian playwright Melissa in different ways to put on a mesmerizing James Gibson and coproduced with the show. $19–$39. All ages. broadwaycenter. University of Washington School of Drama, org this thought-provoking drama tells the story of a fifth-grader named Sasha who ventures How I Became a Pirate vB$ out of her New York City apartment to SecondStory Repertory, Redmond find help with a report on the Brooklyn Feb. 27–March 20 Bridge. The everyday heroes who come to A boy signs on with a band of pirates and her aid are neighbors who teach her about discovers that while adventure brings bridges, community and what really matters. excitement, a different kind of treasure $33–$40. Ages 9 and older. sct.org might be the most valuable. The lively score Black Violin includes songs such as “Talk Like a Pirate,” “Soccer by the Rules” and “Pirates Dot Pantages Theater, Tacoma Black Violin $10; $5 for ages 1–3 for all-ages

Arrgh.” LISA LEONE February 25, 7:30 p.m. plays Tacoma, Sunday shows. Ages 5 and older, except for Violin duo Kev and Wil B. return to Tacoma Feb. 25 to perform an inventive blend of classical all-ages shows. secondstoryrep.org CAMPS + ACTIVITIES

Camp starts June 20th • $45 a day Register now to reserve your spot! We’ll keep your kids entertained with games, arts and crafts, science projects, and of course plenty of jump time!

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Enroll Now for 0216_skymania_1-8h.indd 1 1/19/16 9:06 PM Winter Classes Ongoing preschool, children’s, teen and adult classes. Winter classes Call for a FREE Introductory Class and winter break art camp. Birthday Parties Gift Certificates Available Downtown Bellevue 425-736-3060 www.bellevuestudio.com Crossroads Studio 425-643-2058 www.crossroadsstudio.com

28 • February 2016 • parentmap.com

1213_the_studio_1-8h.indd 1 11/13/13 10:39 AM march The Rising Star Project: How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying The 5th Avenue Theatre, Seattle March 4–5 Just after the professional production of the hilarious, Pulitzer Prize-winning musical closes at 5th Avenue Theatre, a group of talented teens mounts its own production with help from mentors from the 5th. $15–$25. Rated PG-13; see online parental guidelines. 5thavenue.org/ show/the-rising-star-project Footloose: Rhythmic Tacoma Symphony Orchestra’s Mini Circus performs on Feb. 19 and March 19 in Tacoma Maestros Series vB$ and Bremerton Schneebeck Hall at the University of Puget Sound, Tacoma James and the Giant Peach vB$ March 6, April 17, May 22 Madeline vB$ Tacoma Musical Playhouse Bellevue Youth Theatre — Crossroads TSO’s family series is a monthly musical March 12–20 March 18–26 adventure, ranging from March’s seafaring- Roald Dahl’s tale of adventure and teamwork gets The talented kids of Bellevue Youth Theatre themed musical voyage with a brass quintet to life as a new musical set to imaginative song. In produce the beloved story of the little girl, one of April’s “Around the World in 50 Drums.” $7–$10; zany Dahl fashion, a boy named James slips his discounted packages available. Ages 2–8 with 12, who lived in a vine-covered boarding school cruel aunties and meets up with some large bugs in Paris. $8–$15. All ages. bellevuewa.gov families. tacomasymphony.org inside a giant peach. An epic adventure ensues. Peter and the Wolf $12–$15. Ages 4 and older. tmp.org Seattle Men’s Chorus — Everything Broadway Benaroya Hall, Seattle My Heart Is the Drum March 12, 11 a.m. Renton Ikea Performing Arts Center, March 19 Village Theatre McCaw Hall, Seattle, April 2–3 Word is that Prokofiev composed his timeless March 17–April 24, Issaquah The famed community chorus sings a symphonic tale of boy versus wolf in just a week in April 26–May 22, Everett 1936. Since that time, the concert has introduced showstopping concert of Broadway songs, one A new musical about a young woman from a village generations of children to the instruments of of the last concerts to be conducted by retiring in Ghana who heads for the big city to pursue her the orchestra; this Classical KING-FM Family artistic director Dennis Coleman, who led the dreams is a celebration of the human spirit, with Concert is vaudeville-inspired and promises to group to become the world’s largest gay chorus a pulsing, engaging score inspired by the rhythms thoroughly engage and entertain. $15–$20. Ages (he also directs the Seattle Women’s Chorus). of Africa. $32–$68. Ages 12 and older, but check 12 and under. seattlesymphony.org Ages 7 and older. $10, Renton; $15–$73, Seattle. website for guidelines on presentation of mature flyinghouse.org/smc Tigery and Heavens-to-Betsey themes. villagetheatre.org Get Lost in the Salad Bar vB$ Little Orphan Annie, The Ballet v$ Seattle Public Theater B The Merlino Art Center, Tacoma March 12, noon March 19–20 Originally produced as part of last year’s sold-out Tacoma City Ballet debuts a one-hour, Saturday Morning Cartoon series at Greenwood’s family-oriented ballet version of the comic- Pocket Theater, this wacky play about two tigers strip-turned Broadway musical about a who get lost in a salad bar is staged in a new, plucky orphan named Annie who searches expanded version by Gillian Jorgensen and for home and family. $10. All ages. Free. Ages 5 performed by SPT’s youth troupe. Madeline at Bellevue Youth Theatre tacomacityballet.com >> and older. seattlepublictheater.org

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Boys will be paperboys: Newsies at The Paramount april Timber! Washington Center for the Performing Arts, Olympia, April 14, 7:30 p.m. Admiral Theatre, Bremerton, April 17, 3 p.m. DISNEY / DEEN VAN MEER Kirkland Performance Center, Leapin’ April 22–24 jugglers! Mud Bay Jugglers Hailing from a small town in performs May 7 Quebec, the circus troupe Cirque Alfonse performs a show that is a mash-up of thrilling acrobatics Le Corsaire: A Pirate’s Tale and other circus stunts, folk music and small- Pacific Northwest Ballet, Seattle town Québécois farming culture. $15–$55. All may March 20–26 ages. washingtoncenter.org, admiraltheatre.org, Mud Bay Jugglers vB$ PNB’s annual production aimed at children is an kpcenter.org Edmonds Center for the Arts 80-minute version of the Byron-based ballet about May 7, 11 a.m. a band of pirates, a pompous pasha and a magical Disney’s Newsies Based in Olympia, this troupe started 35 years garden that comes to life. The show is staged by The Paramount Theatre, Seattle ago when the three members began to PNB’s Doug Fullington, with music performed by April 26–May 1 experiment with gravity together. A typical the awesome Seattle Youth Symphony Orchestra. This Tony Award-winning musical, starring a performance is a wild mash-up of theater, $23–$60. Ages 3 and older. pnb.org cast of young actors, a heart-pounding score and dance, physical comedy and juggling. $10. All mesmerizing dance numbers, tells the ultimate ages. edmondscenterforthearts.org Grupo Corpo underdog story: In 1899, New York City paperboys UW World Series, Seattle Secret Life of Bugs — including a young homeless boy — go on vB$ March 24–26 Northwest Puppet Center, Seattle strike after publisher Joseph Pulitzer enforces The name Grupo Corpo roughly translates to May 7–15 new rules that make it harder for them to make a “Group Body,” and indeed, this internationally A Woodland Park Zoo entomologist helped buck. Check website for prices. Ages 6 and older. developed this science-tastic puppet show renowned dance company from Brazil is celebrated stgpresents.org for its virtuosity and ability to fuse classical ballet that spotlights the miniature world of insects with Latin dance rhythms, moving “in rippling, NFFTY through black light puppetry. Performed flickering, high-kicking unison” (The Guardian). Various Seattle venues by Spyglass Theatre. $9–$11. All ages. $35–$53. Ages 10 and older. uwworldseries.org April 28–May 1 nwpuppet.org Cofounded by a graduate of Billy Elliot Grupo Corpo at Ballard High School’s acclaimed Village Theatre UW World Series digital filmmaking program, May 12–July 3, Issaquah NFFTY (National Film Festival July 8–31, Everett for Talented Youth) is the world’s In a northern England mining town, it’s boxing largest film festival for emerging for boys, not ballet. But when a young boy directors ages 24 and younger. uncovers his talent for dance, he defies both his Not all films are for all ages, but family and societal expectations to pursue his JOSE LUIZ PEDERNEIRAS you’ll find plenty of super-creative dream. This musical features a fantastic score by films to inspire your young Elton John as well as electrifying dance numbers. creatives. Check website for Consult website for guidance on presentation prices. Recommended ages vary. of mature themes. $44–$72. Ages 12 and older. nffty.org villagetheatre.org >>

30 • February 2016 • parentmap.com shake, rock and roll — 4 cheap music series Pig Snout!! NORTHWEST FOLKLIFE AT for adults) and showcase top- 5), the French horn (April 23) and rocks CROSSROADS. Every third notch acts, from Tacoma family the flute (May 14). $10; kids 2 and Town Saturday of the month, from 6:30 band Pig Snout!! on Feb. 27 to under free. seattlesymphony.org Hall to 8:30 p.m., Bellevue’s awesome award-winning singer-songwriter KIDS ROCK SERIES. From Port Crossroads Market Stage hosts Frances England on May 14. Townsend’s dynamic duo The shows and dances from around townhallseattle.org Harmonica Pocket (March 12) to the world. Learn subversive square SEATTLE SYMPHONY FIRST rocker-schoolteachers Recess dancing (Feb. 20), Irish set dancing CONCERT SERIES. Bring Monkey (April 26), the beloved (March 16), clogging (April 16) and youngsters ages 3-6 to Benaroya series at Seattle’s Mount Baker more. nwfolklife.org/programs/ Hall’s music education center, Community Club provides a great crossroads-cultural-arts-series Soundbridge, for short, engaging reason to roll out of bed and rock TOWN HALL SEATTLE FAMILY concerts starring symphony out on a Saturday morning. $5 CONCERTS. These monthly musicians and their instrument of individual, $15 family ticket. All concerts are free for kids (only $5 choice, including the violin (March ages. kindiependent.com CAMPS + ACTIVITIES Swim LeSSSSononS New locatioN at AL STUDIO HigHliNe atHletic club

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Cirque Alfonse performs Timber! museum must-sees in Kirkland, Bremerton and Olympia PACIFIC SCIENCE CENTER

THE ART OF THE BRICK AT PACIFIC SCIENCE CENTER. Bring your brick- crazy kiddos to this mind-boggling display of Lego art, which has been JANE HOBSON named one of CNN’s top 10 “Global Harriet the Spy Must-See Exhibitions.” May 28–Sept. Art on the Fly vB$ 11. Check website for ticket prices. Youth Theatre Northwest, Mercer Island Locations in South Lake Union, Seattle pacificsciencecenter.org May 13–29 May 21, check website for hours PAINTED JOURNEYS AT TACOMA It’s an all-kid production of an adaptation This free outdoor event, associated with the Seattle ART MUSEUM. TAM continues its of the beloved novel about young Harriet International Dance Festival, takes over South series on Western art with this show Welsch, a spy in training who keeps tabs on her Lake Union for a day with wonderful, roving of works by John Mix Stanley, a leading 19th-century painter who created a classmates in her secret notebook — until it’s performances of dancers from around the world, discovered. stunning visual record of the American plus food trucks and a family activity area. West in the mid-1800s. Jan. 30–May 1. $13–$17. Ages 6 and older. youththeatre.org All ages. seattleidf.org $12–$14; ages 5 and younger free, or $35/family; free on third Thursdays. A Year with Frog and Toad tacomaartmuseum.org Olympia Family Theater May 13–June 5 INSPIRING BEAUTY: 50 YEARS OF EBONY FASHION FAIR AT BELLEVUE You’ve read the timeless tales by Arnold Lobel ARTS MUSEUM. Explore the to your kids over and over, now go see an intersection of fashion, culture and excellent musical adaptation at Olympia Family race at this exhibit about the Ebony Theater. The play, as in the books, spotlights Fashion Fair, which traveled to different cities from 1958 to 2009, showcasing themes of friendship, differences and what designer fashion for African-American matters in life. $13–$19. All ages. olyft.org communities. May 20–Aug. 14. $10–$12; ages 5 and younger free; $30/family. Sci-fi at the Pops june bellevuearts.org Benaroya Hall, Seattle Skippyjon Jones vB$ WILD NEARBY AT THE BURKE May 20–22 Green River College Performing Arts Building, MUSEUM. During the National Parks Fans of Star Wars and Harry Potter: The Auburn Service’s centennial, the Burke Museum Sorcerer’s Stone (isn’t that everyone?) will thrill June 17–25 celebrates North Cascades National Park to this Seattle Symphony concert of movie and The antics of Skippyjon, a Siamese “kitty boy” with with an immersive, multisensory exhibit on one of the most intact wildlands in TV classics including “Darth Vader’s March” outsized ears, are brought to life in song in this the U.S. June 18–Nov. 27. $7.50–$10; by John Williams and “The Batman Theme” by Heavier Than Air production based on the popular ages 4 and younger free; free on first Danny Elfman. $35 and up. Ages 4 and older. book series by Judy Schachner. $8–$10. Ages 6 and Thursdays. burkemuseum.org seattlesymphony.org older. heavierthanair.com n

32 • February 2016 • parentmap.com CAMPSParentMap Quarter Page (FA1).pdf 1 1/5/2016 4:37:19 PM + ACTIVITIES

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out + about

Nobody has to tell these teens to practice On the eve of their second album release, the three members of Bleachbear juggle music, school and life in a family band By Michael Berry

always wanted to make a band, even “I started taking when I was in elementary school. guitar lessons in “II remember I tried to recruit band middle school,” she members on the playground, but nobody really continues. “I started had any musical skills back then, so that was a more seriously writing flop,” recalls Tigerlily Cooley, the lead singer and songs when I learned guitarist of Bleachbear. how to play guitar, Bleachbear is an indie-rock trio that was the and that coincided youngest band to place in last year’s Sound Off!, with my sister taking drum EMP Museum’s annual competition for under- lessons.” When Bird’s drum 21 bands. Band members include 17-year-old teacher suggested they play Tigerlily, a senior at Ingraham High School; her some of their songs together 16-year-old sister, Annabella Bird, a sophomore at the University District at Roosevelt High School; and their 15-year-old Street Fair in 2012, the sisters cousin Emiko Gantt, a sophomore at Ingraham. asked Emiko if she would The band, which was named Best Underage Band sing harmony. “We were both of 2014 by Seattle Weekly, placed fourth in Sound really shy and didn’t want to The three members of Bleachbear (from left) are Tigerlily Off! and is set to release a much-anticipated go up alone,” Tigerlily says. Cooley, her sister, Bird, and their cousin Emiko Gantt second album in March. That was Bleachbear’s first The girls’ exposure to music started early. show. also to overcome their stage fright. Tigerlily bought “We grew up with my dad showing us old “After that, we started practicing together and an electric guitar and effects pedals, which brought concert videos,” Tigerlily remembers. “My mom getting serious, and Emiko started learning bass,” about a change in the band’s sound from acoustic would always get mad, because we’d be doing she says. folk to more straight-ahead rock. our homework and he’d say, ‘No — this is more The band began playing more shows, which Bleachbear released its debut album, Lost important! Come look at this old concert!’ allowed the girls not only to hone their skills, but Parade, in April 2014 to enthusiastic reviews from

bleachbear’s tips for aspiring bands

TAKE THE PLUNGE. “I think the PERFORM, PERFORM, PERFORM. CONNECT. Tigerlily recommends finds performance opportunities hardest thing is getting started. You “Just get [your songs] out there, several organizations that help for aspiring musicians between need to recognize that, whatever’s because as long as you’re playing, young musicians, including the the ages of 9 and 25; Fremont holding you back — whether you’re you’re going to improve. If you Rain City Rock Camp for Girls Abbey (fremontabbey.org); which too nervous to go on stage, or that spend all of your time sitting at (raincityrockcamp.org), which offers classes, lessons and other you don’t think your songs are good home and don’t actually go to play helps girls build self-esteem and opportunities; and School of Rock, enough — you just have to put or try and release something, even foster self-expression through a national chain that offers music that behind you and go for it,” says if it’s bad, then you’re never going to music; Seattle Teen Music lessons and organizes student bands Tigerlily Cooley. progress.” (seattleteenmusic.com), which (schoolofrock.com).

parentmap.com • February 2016 • 35 CAMPS + ACTIVITIES Special camps for special kids Summer camp is a place for kids to be themselves while making friends and trying out new experiences. Kids with special needs can pursue all this — plus have a rollicking good time — at camps equipped with adaptive facilities and skilled staff. Find many more at parentmap.com/specialneedscamps.

Aspiring Youth Summer Camp. A traditional day camp in various Seattle and Eastside locations, plus themed camps focusing on EARLY BIRDS video production, theater and building and inventing, Aspiring Youth welcomes all campers who would benefit from small-group SAVE $30! settings and social skills support, including those with Asperger’s, learning disabilities or similar traits. aspiringyouth.net/summer_ 10 Locations in camps.php King County! Apex Summer Camp. Kids with autism spectrum diagnoses can attend camp along with their siblings and peers at this camp, a program of the UW Autism Center. Over the five-week camp session, campers engage in structured activities and recreation, while working to build confidence and social skills.depts.washington. DESTINATIONSCIENCE.ORG edu/camp2013/Apex_Summer_Camp/Home.html 888-909-2822 Camp Korey. Campers with serious medical conditions find carefree fun and games on a huge farm at Camp Korey at Carnation Farm. Medical personnel are on staff to support campers as they focus on activities like boating, horseback riding, arts and crafts and drama. Camp Korey’s week-long camps target different types of medical needs. campkorey.org

Seattle Children’s Playgarden. The Playgarden offers campers an oasis of nature, right in the city. Kids of all abilities get to dig around in the garden, meet chickens and rabbits, and climb in the tree fort. The founder of the Playgarden sought to create a safe, fun place for kids with special needs to just play. Siblings are welcome at the Playgarden’s inclusive programs. childrensplaygarden.org

Outdoors for All. This aptly named nonprofit encourages youth S OF SU FUN! YEAR MMER of all abilities to dig into outdoor sports and recreation. Outdoors for All’s day camps focus on sports like kayaking, rock climbing, cycling and swimming, plus offer field trips to local destinations. outdoorsforall.org

Little Bit Therapeutic Riding Center. At Dunmire Stables in Redmond, Little Bit Therapeutic Riding Center works its magic, with the help of four-legged equine friends. Through its therapeutic riding program, Little Bit strives to “improve the bodies, minds and spirits of children and adults with disabilities.” Weekly summer day camps welcome all kids, with and without disabilities.

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36 • February 2016 • parentmap.com out + about

Nobody has to tell these teens to practice continued from page 35 publications including Seattle Weekly, Eclectic of a working band with schoolwork and Arts and IndieVerse. The album’s eight tracks extracurricular activities can be challenging, juxtapose themes of teen love and heartbreak but having a supportive family helps. sound off! turns 15 with a touch of grunge’s darkness, all against a Tigerlily manages the band’s social media glittery folk-pop backdrop. presence, and she and her mother work Sound Off!, an annual battle of the bands Tigerlily is head songwriter. She says together to book shows and manage finances. sponsored by EMP Museum for under-21 she was influenced early on by grunge (the How does she fit it all in? “I don’t really bands in the Pacific Northwest, turns 15 this “Bleach” in Bleachbear is a nod to Nirvana’s watch Netflix and TV,” she says. “If you cut year, a good time to appreciate its role in giving first album), and by the music of singer- out things like that, it’s actually not that hard young bands a chance to perform, find an songwriters such as Sara Bareilles and Ingrid to manage, because you’re not wasting your audience and shape their sound. In addition to Michaelson. time. I’ll come home and go straight to my Bleachbear, notable alumni include rapper Sol, Working together isn’t always easy, even homework, and then I’ll have time for band Kithkin and The Lonely Forest (whose songs though they’re family. It “actually kind of practice.” have appeared on the CW television network’s makes it harder, because you’re so honest with The group doesn’t have a fixed practice show The Vampire Diaries). each other,” says Tigerlily. “You have to learn schedule, but when they have an upcoming Young bands apply to enter Sound Off! by submitting four tracks of original music, which how to get along, how to write songs together show, they practice as much as three hours a are judged on composition/arrangement, balancing each other’s ideas, making sure no day, four days a week. creativity/originality and technical ability/ one’s feelings get hurt.” Bleachbear has taken a break from shows musicianship. Bands that advance to the A second key turning point for the band to focus on recording its second album, Cowboy Movie Star, which, says Tigerlily, semifinals play a 30-minute set; finalists play a was applying — and earning the chance — to reflects the influence of bands like Radiohead 40-minute set. (An audience favorite award is compete in last year’s Sound Off! (see sidebar and Best Coast. also given each year.) “Sound Off! turns 15”). Fans can look forward to shows promoting Bring your young rockers to one of the As a result of placing in Sound Off!, their new album in the near future. Looking semifinal rounds (heldFeb. 13, 20 and 27) to Bleachbear has played high-profile gigs ahead to summer, Tigerlily says she’d like to see see four bands perform in a thrilling head-to- including a performance at EMP Museum’s the band play music festivals as well as shows head music competition. The winners advance birthday party in 2015 and an appearance on to the finals, which take place on . All in other cities in the Pacific Northwest. Check March 5 KEXP-FM’s Music That Matters podcast. performances are open to all ages and take for updates at bleachbear.bandcamp.com. n The band members continue to maintain place at EMP’s Sky Church. Tickets are $10–$14 other extracurricular commitments, from Michael Berry teaches music classes at the per show. Listen and watch the bands and buy sports to serving on the board of youth University of Washington and is active as a tickets at empmuseum.org/soundoff. music organizations. Balancing the demands freelance double bassist in the region. CAMPS + ACTIVITIES BEST SUMMER CAMP EVER WHAT DO Horses, friends and fun! Swimming, Gymnastics and Diving HAVE IN COMMON?

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38 • February 2016 • parentmap.com ages + stages CAMP CRAZINESS! Find a perfect camp for any age child at our free camp fairs Preschool primer parentmap.com 2–4 How to find the perfect preschool for your child /campfair By Kali Sakai and Ashly Moore Sheldon

t may seem like only yesterday that your baby took those first steps and Iyet, suddenly, it’s time to think about preschool. With so many choices and Knowing types of preschools, it’s easy to become overwhelmed and paralyzed by the pressure the types of to pick the “right” one. preschools out You may worry that your choice will have serious long-term impacts on your child’s life. there and what There are many factors to consider, from basic distinguishes logistics, such as tuition cost and the length of the school day, to overarching concerns, such one from as your child’s personality and which type another will of education would be the best fit. However, knowing the models of preschools out there help simplify and what distinguishes one from another the process. will help simplify the process. Most preschools are described as either child-directed, meaning that the children lead, and teachers simply guide the learning process; or teacher-directed, meaning the STEM-BASED teacher structures the activities and tells the Preschool models children what to do, explains Myriah Rosengarten, and approaches STEM, which stands for science, technology, a nationally certified school psychologist. MONTESSORI engineering and mathematics, is a term often used in reference to science education. Based Schools can also operate under a guiding Montessori is a child-directed approach that on research suggesting that it is important for philosophy of play-based or academic learning. originated with Italian pediatrician/psychiatrist students to be exposed to science at young ages, Play-based programs are guided by the central belief Maria Montessori and emphasizes the STEM-focused preschools seek to engage young that children learn best through play. Academic development of the whole child. Classrooms children in scientific exploration by applying programs emphasize reading, math and science, are of mixed ages (usually from 2 and a half an inquiry-based approach to experiential and use structured, teacher-directed activities to or 3 to 6 years old), which helps to foster peer promote foundational skills in these areas. activities, such as playing with building blocks. learning. Children are encouraged to learn at You might be looking for a specific kind of Children may be given materials and invited to their own pace, with the goal of establishing experience for your child or have the sense that “experiment.” The teacher may introduce relevant independence, discipline and self-esteem. your child will respond to certain approaches/ challenges, such as building the tallest possible Teachers carefully prepare the environment environments better than others. Perhaps all the structure. Activities are followed by discussion, with open shelving and specialized educational programs sound good. Some preschools offer a blend during which students are encouraged to share materials, including many wooden materials, of styles, and many preschools label themselves their questions, observations, designs and math materials, beads and practical life items more broadly as “play-based” or “academic.” conclusions. STEM-based programs integrate that are accessible to the children, such as The more questions you ask a school’s science exploration into daily activities, such as small brooms and zipper and lacing boards. In representatives, the better you will understand gardening and outdoor play. how the curriculum works. Here’s a guide to the Montessori schools, children are given ample major preschool models. (Also, check out part two time to “work” individually at their own pace, HIGHSCOPE of our preschool primer, “10 steps to finding the and it’s common to see children of all ages Highscope is a research-based curriculum that right preschool,” and more preschool content at intensely focused on their chosen project at a uses “active participatory learning” to help parentmap.com/preschool.) tiny table or mat just for them. children build language and cognitive skills.

parentmap.com • February 2016 • 39 ages + stages

2–4 Preschool primer continued from page 39

Interactions between teacher and child are used to senses in experiential, hands-on and artistic LANGUAGE IMMERSION share control of the child’s learning and support learning experiences. A teacher usually stays with As the term indicates, a language-immersion children’s play. The classroom is designed for the same group of children for several years. Free preschool is conducted partly or entirely in a specific types of play and learning, and includes play with natural materials such as wood, leaves, foreign language. Because children are more academic areas, such as writing and reading shells, felt dolls and silk scarves is considered adept at learning foreign languages at this age, centers. The daily routine includes “play-do- critical for fostering children’s imagination, and the teacher will speak in the foreign language and review” (i.e., planning time, work time, recall group play is emphasized. Waldorf schools are rarely translate into English. (But if your child is time), which is a unique feature of the HighScope known for their strong environmental and outdoor not ready for full immersion, some programs do expose students to other languages through song, approach. HighScope also emphasizes monitoring emphasis, and children are discouraged from stories and other activities among their regular a child’s progress. playing with synthetic or electronic toys. Waldorf daily activities.) REGGIO EMILIA preschools emphasize creativity and imagination Reggio Emilia is a child-directed approach over academics. CO-OP PRESCHOOLS Some parents opt to join a parent-run cooperative that views children as active participants in OUTDOOR preschool or start one of their own. In these the learning process (as opposed to empty The concept of outdoor preschool has been schools, parents take turns volunteering as teachers vessels to be filled with facts). Originating in growing in popularity since emerging in the and caregivers. All of the members meet, usually Italy, Reggio facilitates choice, problem solving, 1950s in Sweden and Denmark. There are at least monthly, and agree on what activities the children communication and relationships. The teacher’s a dozen outdoor preschool options in the Seattle will pursue. Sometimes a professional teacher is role is to be a co-constructor of knowledge area. These schools are generally child-directed, hired. If the program is offered through a college, by building on a child’s ideas to help the child encouraging children to explore freely, follow there will be a parent education component. The create new knowledge. The environment often their impulses and connect to the natural world. association with the college makes it possible for emphasizes plant life, kitchens open to view, and Students in an outdoor learning environment the co-op to be insured and for the overall cost to photographs and detailed documentation of the can expect a lot of hands-on, experiential be relatively low. However, such a venture does children’s work. Parents are a vital component learning. Such an approach is thought to promote take a large commitment of time and energy of this approach, and principles can also be imaginative play and creativity, as well as strength, on the parents’ part. Co-op preschools might incorporated at home. balance and good health. There are a variety of make use of a particular curriculum or be more free-form. WALDORF options to consider in this area, from total outdoor Waldorf education is based on the ideas of immersion to a partial exposure to outdoor INCLUSIVE Austrian philosopher Rudolf Steiner, the founder environment. To learn more, read about outdoor In an inclusive preschool setting, children who of anthroposophy. Waldorf education emphasizes preschool and specific programs at parentmap. are developing typically learn side by side with nurturing the whole child by engaging the five com/outdoorpreschools. children who have developmental delays or CAMPS + ACTIVITIES

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40 • February 2016 • parentmap.com BRING THE KIDS TO THE GAME FOR FREE for children 6th grade and below learning disabilities. Research participate in inclusive settings indicates that children with special benefit as they work together, play needs are capable of greater progress together and develop a diverse in an inclusive environment, and community of learners.” n that typically developing students Kali Sakai is a Seattle-based freelance also benefit. Ilene Schwartz, writer and mother of two children. Ph.D., director of the University of Washington’s Experimental Ashly Moore Sheldon is a Seattle- Education Unit, says: “Inclusion is based writer and editor. She lives with a celebration of diversity put into her husband and two surly teenage action. All children and adults who children.

preschool resources

For more information about specific • North American Reggio Emilia models and approaches, check out: Alliance: reggioalliance.org • National Association for • Association of Waldorf the Education of Young School in North America: Children (NAEYC): a voluntary waldorfeducation.org accreditation system that has set • “Into the woods: Outdoor professional standards for early childhood education programs. and nature-based preschools The agency accredits day care and in Seattle, the Eastside and preschool programs. naeyc.org Tacoma”: parentmap.com/ FEB 12 | 27 outdoorpreschools • American Montessori Society: amshq.org • HighScope: highscope.org • Association Montessori • Inclusive education at Head Internationale: ami-global.org Start: http://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/ FEB 6 | • Montessori Foundation: hslc/tta-system/teaching montessori.org • How to Choose the Best • STEM education in preschools: Preschool for Your Child: The FEB 4 | washingtonstem.org/Our-Impact/ Ultimate Guide for Finding, Getting |

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parentmap.com • February 2016 • 41

0216_camp_fair_1-16.indd 1 1/19/16FD15_careworks_1-16.indd 3:37 PM 1 6/1/15 10:14 PM 2016 MBB ParentMap Half Page January 2016.indd 1 12/11/15 9:24 AM ages + stages

Far-flung films 5–10 How to start a foreign-movie habit with your kids By Natalie Singer-Velush

very week, I sit down with my kids for English version by Dakota and Elle Fanning) who family movie night. The tradition has have adventures with forest spirits who live near Ebeen going for eight years or so and a long their mother’s hospital. Tip: If you’ve seen Totoro, time ago, my husband and I realized we couldn’t try Kiki’s Delivery Service and The Secret World of stomach the kinds of, er, crappy kid programming Arrietty, which is based on The Borrowers books by that our daughters sometimes like to watch when Mary Norton. they have control of the remote. Looking for Dancing in Jaffa (2013, USA; variety, I realized that we could bust right past ENGLISH, ARABIC, HEBREW LANGUAGE) Disney and Pixar into, quite literally, a whole 7 AND OLDER world of exciting film choices. Our daughters This documentary by Hilla Medalia follows Pierre could still barely read when we tried movies with Dulaine, a teacher and former champion ballroom subtitles. They’ve now watched stories from more dancer whose nonprofit Dancing Classrooms is than 20 countries — animated films, dramas, behind the events of the 2005 documentary Mad documentaries, Bollywood musicals. Hot Ballroom, to Israel, where he tries to help 10- Foreign films have so many benefits: They and 11-year-old Jewish and Palestinian Israelis can help us raise globally minded kids, promote find common ground. The film paves the way not a culture of tolerance and openness, and help only for kid-size discussions about global politics children realize that trying new things can result in and multiculturalism, but also for those delicate really interesting outcomes. talks about what makes boys and girls so different Some things to know as you explore global with no dialogue. (There is some mild bullying to (not much at all, as the film gently reveals). Mostly, flicks: Many will be in a foreign language; be aware of.) Younger children will enjoy tracking you’ll love watching hesitant schoolkids become some will have subtitles; and some popular the shiny balloon. With older children, you can brave ballroom artists. films that were originally made in a foreign initiate a discussion later about what lessons language have later been remade with English they think the film holds. The Red Balloon is a The Cave of the Yellow Dog dubbing. Other cultures have different ideas refreshing departure from the visual overload (2005, GERMANY AND MONGOLIA; SUBTITLES) 7 AND OLDER of what’s appropriate for different ages; check found in modern movies. resources such as Common Sense Media This gorgeous film will draw your family in with My Neighbor Totoro (commonsensemedia.org) and IMDb (imdb.com) its cinematography of the Mongolian countryside (1988, JAPAN; ENGLISH LANGUAGE) to read up on films first. Most films have trailers and insight into a life that is certainly different 5 AND OLDER that you can find on YouTube — a great way to than the one your kids are living. Nansal, a young If you are just starting to explore the children’s get reluctant kids hooked. In our house, we have Mongolian girl, is in charge of herding her family’s movie canon and you aren’t already familiar with a rule that the parents pick the film for family sheep by herself in the mountains. When she anime (Japanese animation), you might be asking: movie night, so there’s not really any bickering finds a dog who steals her heart, she must decide Why are people so crazy for Miyazaki movies? or debating. Sometimes it’s fun to match dinner whether to obey her father or follow her desires. It’s because they are incredible, and each one is to the movie: Eat sushi with anime, for instance The Cave of the Yellow Dog will make American like entering a new and secret world with your — you get the idea. parents rethink their helicopter tendencies, and children. Filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki, a partner in Here are some of my family’s favorite your kids will watch wide-eyed as children of their an anime studio called Studio Ghibli (onlineghibli. international films for a range of ages. age experience a different level of independence. com/films.php), is known as the Walt Disney of The Red Balloon Japan and enjoys more popularity outside of Japan Rabbit-proof Fence (2002, (1956, FRANCE) 5 AND OLDER than any other Japanese director. Miyazaki’s films AUSTRALIA; ENGLISH AND ABORIGINAL This classic and imaginative film about a red are the best entry point for anime, and Totoro, is a LANGUAGE) 9 AND OLDER balloon that befriends a French boy is delightful great introduction. (Ghibli films target a range of Loosely based on a true story, this movie tells and will keep you thinking long after the closing maturity levels, from preschoolers to older tween how three mixed-race Aboriginal girls run away credits. The film is told entirely through visuals viewers.) Totoro is about two girls (voice in the from the Moore River Native Settlement, north

42 • February 2016 • parentmap.com Who Knew Going to the Dentist Could Be So Much Fun?

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of Perth, Western Australia, to Mention this ad to receive a FREE electric toothbrush at your exam! return to their aboriginal families, after being placed there by the a few more picks government in 1931. The girls must walk for nine weeks along Kirikou and the Sorceress 0216_Lynnwood_kids_dentist_1-8h.indd 1 1/19/16 9:05 PM 1,500 miles of fence to find their 5 and older This sweet French-language way home while being tracked folktale (also available dubbed in by officials. There are a couple English) features a heroic African of hard scenes, including one in toddler on an epic journey. which the children are forcibly Ernest and Celestine 5 and older torn away from their mother. But A sweet French animated film older kids will learn a lot about dubbed in English, this tells internment, racism and the Stolen the unlikely tale of friendship between a mouse and a bear. Generations. Like Stars on Earth Canela (2012, MEXICO; 7 and older SUBTITLES) 9 AND OLDER Introduce the kids to the fun of Bollywood with this story about After Maria’s mom dies, her an 8-year-old boy labeled as a grandmother becomes very troublemaker who just needs to February is National Children’s Dental Health Month 0216_lehman_learning_1-8h.indd 1 1/6/16 12:44 PM sad and doesn’t want to cook find someone who understands Schedule a him to turn things around. with Maria anymore. After new patient exam in The Secret of Kells Feb. and complete a new cook is hired at the 9 and older before April 2016 grandmother’s restaurant, Maria, Intense, artistic and dark, this to receive a FREE Sonicare magical animated Irish folktale is helped by occasional visits from toothbrush! weird, wonderful and haunting the spirit of her mother, must enough to spook younger or convince her grandma to cook sensitive kids. once again. The lesson: You have A Cat in Paris to keep going even when bad 9 and older This clever French animated things happen. drama is a cops-and-robbers film Foreign Letters best suited to older elementary kids due to some violence. (2012, USA; VIETNAMESE Dr. Jinju Song The Illusionist (the 2010 AND HEBREW LANGUAGE Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry animation; there are other films WITH SUBTITLES) by this name) 9 AND OLDER 10 and older www.JuanitaKidsDentistry.com A girl-power story that focuses This nearly wordless film, riddled 9707 NE 119th Way, Kirkland WA 98034 • 425-310-8338 with magic and mystery, is a Foreign Letters on friendship, French-Scottish drama set in Located in Juanita Village in Kirkland Accepting tells the story of two sixth-grade 1959 about a down-on-his-luck New Patients! girls who come together over the illusionist called Tatischeff. Infants, immigrant experience. Ellie is a Whale Rider Children and 10 and older Adolescents lonely immigrant from Israel who Pai, an 11-year-old girl in one befriends Thuy, a Vietnamese of New Zealand’s patriarchal refugee. This film will help your Maori tribes, yearns to take on a leadership role. But her kids see American culture through grandfather is bound by tradition new eyes and encourage them to to pick a male leader. befriend people who need it. n

parentmap.com • February 2016 • 43

0216_juanita_kids_dentistry_1-4.indd 1 1/19/16 9:28 AM ages + stages

Period proud 11–14 New apps, products and awareness help girls feel good about old ‘Aunt Flo’ By Nancy Schatz Alton

ot so long ago, the dreaded arrival Abishkking) have been downloaded of menstruation in a girl’s life more than 10 million times from the Nwould have been embarrassing, Android store. Ida Tin, the founder awkward, even shameful. To this day, I of Clue, says the app’s design — sleek don’t don polka-dotted clothes, thanks to and not pink or flowery — sets it apart. 1970s-era pad commercials sprinkled with “I wondered how it could be that we joyful women wearing polka dot dresses. managed to walk on the moon, but that I’d ask the adults in my realm about those most women still don’t know which pads and be told we’d “discuss it later.” days they can or can’t get pregnant,” Thirty-plus years later, I’m the one Tin says. “I was convinced many other giving public service announcements women would find an app like Clue on the female body to my daughters not only very useful but also very during their school commute. A slew of empowering.” classes for parents and kids, new apps and Some educators believe tracking products, and an ever-evolving culture of your child’s period with an app on girl empowerment have made me wonder: your own phone is a brilliant idea. Are periods finally cool? her period would go away “I was very Mind you, you don’t need to tell your forever, but time has eased I asked sex- and body-education experts for the against it at daughter you’re tracking her period, scoop on just how hip Aunt Flo has become, and her discomfort. “My period is Lang adds. “The teen brain is already how parents can ease their daughters’ transitions always there, so I had no choice first, because I in crazy-pants mode, and girls have but to get used to it,” she says. into body-empowered young women. didn’t like the these hormones going on, too. As a Gleaned from my research, here’s a primer on Her oldest friend, Cyanna, says parent, you can know that this is the tools that are helping tweens and teens better the latest technology has helped idea of tracking day you don’t criticize their hair, clothes her not to mind her monthly understand their bodies, along with tips on how to my period, or messy room. And moms who track help prepare girls for menstruation. visitor anymore. She started their [own] period can say, ‘This is my using a period tracker called and it was magical week,’ and everyone knows to New tech tools Clue (helloclue.com) after her embarrassing. stay away.” See that? You can practically Educators agree that the biggest change for girls mom suggested it. make it a family affair. and young women today is public knowledge “I was very against it at first, But it’s actually around periods. Still, don’t expect girls to be happy because I didn’t like the idea of Changing the story about menstruation. tracking my period, and it was pretty great.” Of course, period trackers are just “Women and girls have periods! It’s normal embarrassing. But it’s actually one innovative tool for a cycle that’s and natural. Even though most girls are still pretty great,” Cyanna tells me. “You put in when been with humans forever. In the greater Seattle uncomfortably shy and embarrassed, the world is you get your period and how heavy the flow is, area, often the first step in educating your tween daughters is taking For Girls Only, recommended much more open,” says Amy Lang, M.A., a Seattle- and it maps out when they think you’ll get your for 10- to 12-year-old girls who are accompanied area sexual health educator. Lang offers classes for period. It’s usually pretty accurate and informative, by a parent or trusted adult. This two-evening, parents to learn how to talk about health topics, and you can be prepared. It tells you when you’re two-part class presents the issues most on the including menstruation. But, she says, “Having going to have PMS; it’s cool.” minds of preteens as they begin adolescence. your period is still a pain. It’s a huge life change, We’re past the days of a conspicuously marked The average age for a girl in the U.S. to have her and there’s often some sadness around changing wall calendar. Consumers can choose from more first period is 12 and a half. In the For Girls Only from a kid body into a grown-up body. Having to than 200 different period-tracking apps, which class, now in its 28th year, girls learn this fact and manage a period for the rest of their lives is a taste help girls and adult women understand their many, many others while sitting next to a person of adulthood.” bodies and cycles better. Period Tracker (by GP who wants this experience to go well for them, My 14-year-old daughter, Caroline, wishes International) and Period Calendar/Tracker (by says Julie Metzger, R.N., M.N., founder of Great

44 • February 2016 • parentmap.com Conversations, which offers many classes and growing up, you want to try to get there first. “It’s And while talking about that time of the month presentations to families, teens and professionals easier to tolerate an eye roll than having them not may never feel easy for some caregivers, the on topics surrounding adolescence. be prepared and coming home after using toilet tweens and teens in our life guarantee remarkable “In any single classroom I teach, there are paper as a makeshift first pad,” says Cora Breuner, conversations. That social-media-savvy girl adult women who feel an enormous amount of M.D., MPH, a doctor specializing in adolescent will give you a critical read of the commercial shame, and they are there to change the story for health at Seattle Children’s Hospital. First Moon Party, which shows a girl who fakes themselves and their girls. And there are women Part of the discussion is talking about the getting her first period because she can’t wait. who can’t understand why their daughter might emotions that result from premenstrual syndrome The teen I’ve babysat since birth showed me poet hate their periods,” Metzger says. “My goal is to (PMS). “There’s both truth and myth in PMS. Dominique Christina reading “The Period Poem.” transform viewpoints so everyone sees periods as Our hormones can be like a volume dial to our After one viewing (alert: this might be too racy natural, logistical monthly events that are doable and emotions. When you feel that volume get louder, for your child), I wanted to buy a dress covered interesting and just part of being a human being.” just becoming aware of that makes you more in in polka dots that reminds me of pads. I’ll wear Every parent has a different comfort level tune with yourself,” Metzger says. “As educators it while reciting my own Red Roof Inn poem for around talking about menstruation. Yet if your and parents, we have a responsibility to help girls YouTube. n tween is already plugged into social media, you gain emotional intelligence. Emotional regulation may have missed the window to teach her. And is a task, and we get to facilitate and steward that Nancy Schatz Alton is a Seattle-area author. Find as with any critical information about health and in our daughters.” her blog at withinthewords.com.

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parentmap.com • February 2016 • 45 someone you should know See an expanded interview and meet more heroes: Jennifer Spatz parentmap.com /sysk By Alayne Sulkin • Photograph by Will Austin Jennifer Spatz has lived abroad in six countries and traveled the world. As founder of Global Family Travels, a tour company with a mission to “learn, serve and immerse,” Spatz is changing the lives of children and adults by creating family travel opportunities that build character while also building bridges between people and different cultures worldwide.globalfamilytravels.com

What was the impetus for you to launch Global Family Travels? their children learning empathy skills that seem to be so hard Years ago, I was taking an online photography course when my kids were to teach in the classroom in the 21st century inspires me. little and was looking at some of the wonderful trips offered to learn How do you vet these types of family service and photography while you travel. Unfortunately, none of them offered the adventure trips in order to best figure out what option to take your kids with you. I saw this opportunity for families to communities around the world to visit? travel together and do something meaningful and bond as a family in an We partner with in-country tour operators who focus on immersive experience. sustainable tourism. We are extremely mindful about the Were you influenced by the fact that service learning partners we select and ensure they are members of the has become a part of our kids’ core curriculum? Family Travel Association. Through that, we make We kept meeting parents who were envious of their kids’ connections in different countries that assist with the service experiences and who were saying, “Hey, I want to go logistics and the home stay arrangements. That is one on this trip!” Traveling as a family for adventure, service of the trickier and more complicated aspects of what learning and fun strengthens family bonds. Repeatedly, we do. Through the NGOs or schools that are located we see how these excursions instill values that are a in the communities, we have been really lucky to partner challenge to teach your child on a day-to-day basis. with some nonprofit organizations that are able to vet the Having an experience of going to do a home stay or home stay arrangements, and it’s worked out beautifully. volunteer with a local community in Nicaragua or India Not every trip has a home stay aspect, so sometimes we just opens your hearts together. have an immersive experience like picking crops, building or Where was your first adventure? making a meal together. One of first trips was to Ladakh, India, where we brought used digital cameras to the children of the Siddhartha School Project How does your work intersect with your family life? and taught them how to use the cameras. While there, we also filled 30 bags of garbage in their village. Today, we have several In Ladakh, India, in the Himalayas, we work with a photography trips to China and Ecuador, and our Nicaragua school that actually was created to basically preserve the Transformative Travel Plus (TTP) has a digital storytelling Tibetan culture. As a part of this trip, you can sponsor component to it. a child to go to school for $360 per year. Our family has been sponsoring a boy named Stanson Safall in Ladakh, Please give us a glimpse into a personal experience and I can’t wait for my kids to meet him. My son is the that has been life-changing for a family, or one that inspires you to keep doing what you are doing. same age, and they’ve been able to communicate by sending I have had families tell me how these trips have built character letters. I’ve met him twice, but in a couple of years, we’ll go and values for their kids that they never imagined. One dad, meet him as a family. These kids live in remote villages, and in particular, went with his children to Nicaragua, and they not all of them can go to school beyond an early age. Some actually built a soccer field together in the local community. We of the kids that were at this school are studying now in the had a soccer coach lead the trip, thinking that his expertise and U.S. They all want to go back home and give back to their his passion for the project would beautifully translate to both his communities with their new learned skills. family and the community. It just created a great experience to We are trying to create more global citizenry. When you share mornings and evenings together at quite a different pace and travel abroad, you must be mindful of bringing back what you with a very different focus than when they are all at home in the learned and teaching your own community. Sometimes it takes busy rush of their separate lives. Simply being together in remote a transformative trip to realize what we have in this world and locations, disconnected [from technology], is an outstanding what others don’t. Yet we are all the same, you know, we all shared experience. Hearing from a parent that they witnessed want the same thing: to be loved, respected and understood. n

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