baystateparent magazine July 2019

JULY 2019

BLUEBERRY MONTH! Pick-Your-Own Farm Guide & Recipes

Raise a Nature-Loving Kid Free Outdoor Movies

The

How-To Issue

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BAYSTATEPARENT 3

contents JULY 2019 VOLUME 24

4 JULY2019

NUMBER 3

features 8

Someday, You Will Get It: One Mom’s Promise to Her Sons

24

American Kids Aren’t Eating Enough Seafood, Report Says

28

National Blueberry Month: Pick-YourOwn Farm Guide & 5 Yummy Recipes

32

Want to Write a Children’s Book?

Here’s How to Get Started

34

Should You Bank Your Baby’s Cord Blood? What to Consider, and How to Do It

36

How to Bring Up a Nature-Loving Kid

37

How to Raise a “Cyber Smart” Kid

in every issue 6 7 9 23 31 38 39 40 43

Momma to the Max Herding Goofballs On the Agenda Bites Cyber Savvy Mom Our Fave 4 Finally Forever Very Special People Take Eight with Mark Chauppetta

BAYSTATEPARENT 5

baystateparent president PAUL M. PROVOST associate publisher KATHY REAL BENOIT 508-767-9525 kbenoit@gatehousemedia.com

CREATIVE editor in chief AMANDA COLLINS BERNIER 508-767-9526 acollins@gatehousemedia.com creative director SHIELA NEALON 508-793-9121 shiela.nealon@telegram.com

ADVERTISING sales manager JEREMY WARDELL 508-767-9574 jwardwell@gatehousemedia.com account executive KATHY PUFFER 508-767-9544 kpuffer@gatehousemedia.com account executive REGINA STILLINGS 508-767-9546 rstillings@gatehousemedia.com

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100 Front Street, 5th Floor Worcester, MA 01608 baystateparent is published monthly and is distributed free of charge throughout Massachusetts.

momma to the

MAX

From Blueberries to Cord Blood, Here’s the “How-To” Issue Along with the bloating, the belly, and the crazy cravings, for me, pregnancy was a nine-month period of mind racing. From the minute I found out I was expecting until the second I laid eyes on my son Max’s face, my brain churned with questions, fears, doubts, and anticipation.

There is so much to think about and plan for when you are having a baby. Find a doctor or midwife, get finances in check, pick out a car seat, put together the nursery, decide on a name… the list goes on and on. One thing I didn’t give much thought to, though, was the idea of banking my son’s umbilical cord blood. Financially, I didn’t think it was in the picture, so I didn’t spend much time mulling over the idea. But the hospital where I delivered (UMass Memorial in Worcester) offered the option of donating the cord blood to their in-house public bank.

All it required of me was one additional blood test (hey, I was already getting poked anyway!), and the umbilical cord blood, rich with blood-forming cells, could potentially be lifesaving to a patient in need or help the medical community learn more about human diseases. It was a no-brainer for me.

With July being Cord Blood Awareness Month, we’ve taken a look at expecting parents’ options in Massachusetts. If you’re thinking of saving your baby’s cord blood, you can find out how the process works on page 34.

This being our “how-to” issue, you’ll also find other guides on a range of topics – from writing a children’s book (page 32) to raising a nature-loving kid (page 36). Plus, as a nod to National Blueberry Month, we’ve cooked up some yummy recipes and put together a guide of area farms where you and the family can pick your own berries (page 28).

And how could we forget the Fourth? Celebrate with some homemade, fruity, patriotic freeze pops (page 26), and find lots of festive fun in our calendar of July Adventures (page 15). Looking for fireworks?

Head to baystateparent.com for a full list.

Happy 4th of July, and happy parenting!

Amanda

talking Back All the kids asleep.

-Cheryl I.

ON THE COVER Hannah Le, 5, and little brother Kayden, 4, of Rutland.

Photo by Amanda J. Curtis Photography amandajcurtisphotography.com facebook.com/amadajcurtisphotography

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Write a happy momma story in four words or less.

She remembered pants today…

Got his first job!

-Deidre S.

-Samantha A.

They came home safe.

-Nan G.

Grocery shopping all alone!

-Lindsey P.

Hot shower and coffee.

I cooked, they ate.

-Leticia S.

-Jessica B.

Finally, a true friendship.

Pooping on the potty.

-Sandy O.

Join the conversation at Facebook.com/baystateparent.

-Melissa K.

Herding

Goofballs

Summer Beach Survival Guide

BY JOSH FARNSWORTH, ILLUSTRATION BY KIRA BEAUDOIN

W

e’re a beach family.

To be more specific, my wife, two kids and I are routinely found pinned between sand and saltwater for as much of summer as any human beings can possibly handle.

We have saltwater and sand in our veins.

That also could be from the fact that I eat a lot of saltwater taffy on vacation...and the kids always manage to drop what they are eating in the sand and quickly pick it up and eat it. (It’s my fault. I should have never introduced them to the five-second rule.)

Regardless, the annual week vacation at the beach has extended to two such weeks in recent years since the family ballooned to four.

Packing for the beach used to be a five-minute process of grabbing and flinging a few things into the back of the car.

Now, I need a spreadsheet and

an accountant to keep it all straight.

Lucky for you, my experience can help you prepare.

I fancy myself somewhat of an expert on the topic, so get ready to brush up on how to properly pack for the coastline and keep those kiddos in a summery mood.

Car ride Your toes have not even touched a grain of sand.

But it all starts here.

The long car ride to the beach is the one place we allow the kids to play on tablets—no questions asked.

But Josh, isn’t that a lot of unnecessary screen time for little kids?

First of all, who said that?

Second of all, it is very necessary to help bridge time from house to beach, and I consider this moderation for your sanity.

Be sure to also pack books and handheld action figures/ dolls. Make your car ride choic-

es interesting ones, because these items will also act as a bit of incentive to get your kids back in the car. You’ll have enough angst trying to navigate traffic. Don’t be a hero. Pack the cool toys.

Beachwear I profess, my knowledge is currently limited to little dudes.

And given my limited wardrobe, to say I have knowledge about style for any demographic is a stretch.

However, I am a fan of using long-sleeved swimwear to shield them from the sun, as well as dressing them in bright colors to ensure they cannot escape you, no matter how far down the beach they run (Mwuhahaha!).

I prefer nuclear green and radioactive orange to ensure they are always in sight.

Also, nothing says, “I’m a fan of hipster toddlers” like an oversized baseball or fishing hat. Yes, it will help keep the

sun out of their eyes, but with the right lid, other gawkers on the beach will find it impossible to keep such style out of theirs.

Also, invest in water shoes.

Your kids’ feet will be both sandy and wet, somehow. Socks are about as useful on a beach as skis.

Towel math You need towels, but how many? It’s a question I encounter before every trip.

When travelling with adults, the equation is simple: one adult = one towel.

When travelling with multiple children—each of whom are both indecisive and impulsive about whether they are done going back in the ocean or not—you might need a degree in Advanced Trigonometry.

The best I can figure is: (number of kids) multiplied by (number of hours you plan to spend at the beach) + two for each adult (the kids will want yours the most, trust me) = total to bring.

You may need an extra truck to pack them.

Beach toys Mess this part up, and you’ll be neck-deep in grumpy.

Bring enough shovels and buckets to make a foreman blush. They’ll all fight over the one “good one,” but at least there will be enough to stand in place of castles that fall over.

Kites are a good call for a windy day. Just be sure to wear sneakers, parents. You will be chasing that string for miles.

I also recommend a toy that is built to be chucked into the water and allow a wave to carry it back in. We have a plastic toy known affectionately as “surfer dude” that rides the waves back in.

Your kid will want to throw something and to be in the water for a time. Two checkmarks with this toy. Just be prepared to get soaked when it starts drifting away down the coast when your child abandons it for the next toy in line.

Snacks/beverages Mess this part up, and you’ll

be lucky to be neck-deep in grumpy.

Be sure whatever you bring for food can withstand the oncoming flood of melting cooler ice cubes. I’ve had plenty of soggy bread from not heeding this advice.

Take three juice boxes for every child. To avoid in-fighting, be sure each child has an equal representation of the following: - Flavors - Juice box size - Straw color - Juice box images (I dare you to give only one kid the Batman juice boxes and the other nothing but Robin).

Simple, right?

Others to consider Beach tent: helps with shielding them from the sun and is a useful fallback bed if they are getting sleepy from all the running around Extra small duffle/canvas bag: I don’t know, quite frankly, what you will use it for, but it always seems to come in handy for my dirty, filthy children.

The largest package of hand wipes you can find: No matter what, your kids’ hands will be obliterated and caked in sand, but this will at least start the de-sanding process What can I say? Kids come with baggage.

Despite the small caravan worth of goods to store and lug around, it’s all worth it—every last juice box and surfer dude.

Trust me. I come from a beach family.

Josh Farnsworth is a husband, father of goofballs Cooper and Milo, goofball himself, and award-winning writer and columnist living in Worcester.

He can be reached for column ideas at josh.farnsworth@ yahoo.com.

BAYSTATEPARENT 7

Somed�, You Will Get It One Mom’s Promise to Her Sons

BY BRENDA DONOGHUE

S

omeday, you will understand.

Someday, you will see your lives through my eyes. Someday, when you are old enough to have your own children, you will know me differently than you know me now.

You’ll understand why I acted in certain ways – or failed to act – when you thought at the time I perhaps did not notice, or care.

Someday you will understand that during those times when I didn’t try to solve your problems, I was closest by your side.

I do hope that, someday, you will understand.

Perspective changes everything.

I quietly watch by the sidelines as you try new things. Sometimes you soar, and sometimes you struggle. Your internal debate is evident in your body language, as you will yourself to carry on despite being tempted to quit. Sometimes, I can actually see the light flickering off in your eyes.

Until you have children of your own, you will never understand how hard it is to be a silent bystander. Standing outwardly stoic as you, my child, struggles is a special kind of cruel torture, designed especially for parents. Every ounce of my being wants to protect you from disappointment and hurt.

You may wonder why I don’t rush to your side when you suffer a setback. Don’t mistake

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my apparent indifference as a lack of guidance.

Parenting is a composition of words and actions, often seemingly callously-calculated to leave you out on a limb…to figure things out for yourself.

But, perspective is a funny thing. Someday, you may come to understand that I was your puppet master all along. I never left your side.

Until that day, you may think I am hard on you.

I make you navigate your everyday challenges and see them through, no matter how difficult.

Although giving up may seem easier, that route will turn on you in the long run.

It will trap you in a fortress of self-doubt, stunt you from living a successful and joyous life, and implicitly give credence to unfounded low expectations and unflattering caricatures.

But hard work, spunk, and fortitude can help you overcome almost any obstacle. So, I will instruct you to carry on, work hard, and never forget what you love about what you do, play and learn.

Someday, this will assure you that anything you put your mind to is possible, and will arm you with a quiet confidence that can be rattled but never destroyed. It will open otherwise locked doors and prevent you from being a victim of individuals or circumstances. It will become an insurance policy that can never be canceled.

As is the way in life, people will make quick assumptions based more on labels rather than who you actually are.

When I was a young adult, my own stubbornness and determination fueled my will to succeed in the face of such doubts. After awhile, I proved my own worth and eventually silenced the biggest critic of all - myself. That is something naysayers, gossips and the most challenging of circumstances can never steal away.

And so, this life lesson is being passed on to you.

You don’t have to be the best, but if you are your best, you will play on. And the possibilities will be endless.

This, I promise you.

Brenda Donoghue juggles a full-time career with raising two boys in Central Massachusetts. Her writing is inspired by occasional flashes of insight during the chaotic grind, which she strives to navigate with humor and grace.

on the

agenda • FACTS & FREEBIES • JULY’S ADVENTURES • THE LIST

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on the

agenda

facts and freebies

monday

1{FREEBIE} A is for America, by Greg Paprocki, is an engaging collection of 26 illustrations featuring more than just fireworks, parades, and the American flag.

It also includes iconic moments and historical figures from American history. We’re giving away a copy of this patriotic board book today!

2

Protecting kiddos from the sun’s harmful rays is crucial for their health and parent’s peace of mind. This shark hat from Wallaroo Hat Company is made to block 97% of the sun’s rays, and is super cute, too! Win one today!

16

22

23

29{FACT}

The 7-mile long Cape Cod Canal opened on this day in 1914.

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3

thurs

4

10 {FREEBIE} 11{FAC

15 {FACT}

Here’s a reason to get your kid to go through all those old toys: it’s National Give Something Away Day!

wednesday

tuesday

{FACT} On this day in 1904, the ice cream cone was invented at the St. Louis World’s Fair when a man had the idea to fill a pastry cone with two scoops of ice cream.

Today is National Blueberry Muffin Day – yum!

17 {FACT}

18

24

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It’s World Emoji Day! Emoji, a Japanese expression, roughly means “picture word” and was developed in 1990 by a Japanese telecom company looking to make pagers more appealing to teens.

31{FREEBIE}

Whether they are eating saucy spaghetti, playing with paint or learning how to plant, the Waterproof Smock from Baby To Love will keep your little one clean!

Designed for children 5 to 36 months. Win one today on our Facebook page!

Starting on the date the prize appears, go to our page to enter for your chance to win.

sday

CT}

friday

Independence Day! Did you know it takes 15,000 {FACT} Happy pounds of fireworks to light up the sky in the annual Boston Fireworks Spectacular on the Esplanade? That’s the weight of an adult elephant!

12{FACT} The first Etch A was sold on Sketch this day in 1960.

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26 {FREEBIE}

A Teddy Bear Picnic, playing with “wacky bubbles,” and exploring a pond are just some of the special programs happening at the Discovery Museum in Acton this month. Want to check it out?

We’re giving away a 4 pack of tickets today!

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on the

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july

ADVENTURES OUR TOP

5 PICKS OF THINGS TO DO IN JULY

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Boston Harborfest. Various times and locations, Boston.

July 1-7. Enjoy hundreds of activities at Boston’s best landmarks during one of the country’s largest Fourth of July festivals. See historical reenactments, take part in Freedom Trail walks, boat tours, and delight in live entertainment, fireworks and more.

Indulge at Chowderfest or watch a promenade of festively-lit boats light up the Inner Harbor and seaport. It all kicks off with an opening ceremony at Boston’s Faneuil Hall. Admission to most events is free. bostonharborfest.com.

Blue Man Group 6th Annual Drum-Off. Lawn on D, 420 D St., Boston. Saturday, July 6, 5 p.m. Boston’s Blue Man Group comes to the Lawn on D as drummers from across New England showcase their talent, trying their hand at being crowned the best during this family-friendly event and winning the unique opportunity to play with the Blue Men and their band. Free. blueman.com/bostondrumoff.

Family Farm Nights. Land’s Sake Farm, 90 Wellesley St., Weston. Thursdays beginning July 11, 3-7:30 p.m. Bring your blankets and appetites to enjoy live music, local vendors, and the beauty of the farm. Drop-in open farmyard runs from 3-5 p.m., where young children can learn about plants in the education garden and get to know the farm’s rabbits, chicken, sheep and goats. Food trucks and other vendors on hand from 5-7 p.m.

Free. landssake.org.

Neponset RiverFest. Neponset Park, Dorchester. Saturday, July 20, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Enjoy live music, exhibitor displays, and kid-friendly fun including face painting, a rock wall, a bouncy house, a spray deck, and a fishing clinic. Climb on a Boston fire truck and get up close to sea creatures at a New England Aquarium tide pool touch tank. Free canoes and kayaks are provided for families to get out on the river. Food and ice trucks throughout the day. Free. neponset.org/riverfest.

3rd Annual Kids Day. Mothers’ Rest Field, Carson Beach, South Boston. Saturday, July 26, 3 p.m. Cheer on during this annual triathlon for kids as youngsters and youths participate in a Kids Splash and Dash, Fun Run, and more for all to enjoy. Price varies, cheering and fun run free. bostontri.com/event/kids-race/.

ADVENTURES 1 MONDAY

3 WEDNESDAY

Under the Sea: Sharks. Leominster Public Library, 30 West St., Leominster. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Listen to some shark tales, make your own shark, and go on an under the sea adventure. For ages 3 to 7. Register ahead.

Free. leominsterlibrary.org.

Independence: 4th of July. Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd., Sturbridge. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Take part in a citizens’ parade, play 19th-century style ‘baseball’, march with the militia, watch cannon and musket demonstrations, make a tri-cornered hat, and sign onto a giant Declaration of Independence. Free with admission. Adults $28, youths $14, ages under 4 free. osv.org.

Make a Monster. Leominster Public Library, 30 West St., Leominster. 10-11 a.m.

Work with fun foam pieces and wiggly eyes during this fun Make a Monster Workshop. For ages 4 to 8. Register ahead. Free. leominsterlibrary.org.

Summer Reading Buddies with Bright Spot Therapy Dogs. Eric Carle Museum, 125 West Bay Rd., Amherst.

10:30-11:30 a.m. Read aloud with Reading Buddy dogs, who provide a gentle, comforting ear to readers as they practice their fluency and strengthen their confidence. For ages 4 to 11.

Register ahead. Free with admission. Adults $9, youths $6, ages under 1 free. carlemuseum.org.

2 TUESDAY Take Aparts, Jr. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 10-11 a.m. Drop-in and grab some tools and discover the inner workings of household gadgets and gizmos. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

A Universe of Perler Beads.

Leominster Public Library, 30 West St., Leominster. 2-4 p.m. Learn and create with plastic fusible beads during this time of fun art exploration. For ages 5 to 12. Register ahead.

Free. leominsterlibrary.org.

Make a Mess: Spin Art. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 2-4:30 p.m.

Twist tools, twirl paper, and give watercolors a whirl as you create uniquely spun pieces of art. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

Worcester Independence Day Celebration. Cristoforo Colombo (East) Park, Shrewsbury St., Worcester. 4-9:30 p.m.

An all-ages, family event with food, music by the Massachusetts Symphony Orchestra and fireworks, of course. Rain date July 3. Free.

Folk Open Mic: Oen Kennedy. TCAN: Center for Arts, 14 Summer St., Natick. 8 p.m.

Enjoy as performers from across the area showcase their talents and partake in the area’s most vibrant folk music community concert around.

Members free; public $15. natickarts.org.

WAM Stroller Tours. Worcester Art Museum, 55 Salisbury St., Worcester. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Enjoy a docent-led guide throughout the museum’s galleries, followed by an age-appropriate story and light refreshments.

Designed for ages 0 to 3 and siblings. Free. with admission. Members free; nonmember adults $16, ages 4-17 $6, ages under 4 free.

Worcesterart.org.

Rutland Fourth of July Celebration. Main St., Rutland. 4:30-10:30 p.m. A chicken barbeque, strawberry festival, concert and fireworks are all part of this town-wide celebration. Free.

Civic Days Block Party. Main St., Fitchburg. The city’s Civic Days celebration encompasses eight blocks along Main Street with music, food trucks, vendors, classic cars, games and fun for the whole family. Fireworks at 10 p.m. Free.

Berklee Rainbow All-Stars.

Marblehead Festival of Arts, Crocker Park.

Front St. & Crocker Park Ln., Marblehead. 7:30 p.m. Students explore individual and collective performance technique during this advanced jazz performance to dazzle all. Free. berklee. edu/events.

4 THURSDAY Independence: 4th of July. Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd., Sturbridge. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Take part in a citizens’ parade, play 19th-century style ‘baseball’, march with the militia, watch cannon and

musket demonstrations, make a tri-cornered hat, and sign onto a giant Declaration of Independence. Free with admission. Adults $28, youths $14, ages under 4 free. osv.org.

Fourth of July: Kids Morning.

Newton Centre Playground, 81 Tyler Terrace, Newton. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Enjoy a grand pet parade, decorated doll carriage promenade, teddy bear parade, foot races, and ice cream courtesy of Cabot’s Ice Cream. Recommended for ages 3 to 12. Free. newtoncommunitypride.org.

On the Harbor: July 4th Underway Cruise Spectacular. USS Constitution Museum, Boston Harbor, Boston.

10:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Enjoy first-class views of this historic event, as you cruise alongside the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world, hear thrilling tales, and enjoy great food, sights, and breezes. Members $89, nonmembers $99. ussconstitutionmuseum.org.

Open Air Market & Amusement Rides. Albemarle Field, 250 Albemarle Rd., Newton. 1-9 p.m. Enjoy a craft fair, food trucks, children’s activities, and fun festive activities. Free. newtoncommunitypride.org.

Summer Concert Series. Fruitlands Museum, 102 Prospect Hill Rd., Harvard.

7:15-9 p.m. Gather on the lawn for our annual Summer Concert Series, featuring food vendors, The Concord Band, fun, and together time. Member carloads $15, walk-ins $5; nonmember carloads $20, walk-ins $10. fruitlands.org.

5 FRIDAY Backyard and Beyond: Forest Fridays. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 10-10:45 a.m. Come to the Discovery Woods to experiment and explore through a nature-based activity based on the season and weather. Recommended for ages 2 to 6. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

Cold as Ice: Exploring a 300lb Block of Ice. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Get ready for a cold day in July as we experiment with different types of salt as you explore the unique characteristics of the solid state of water. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

Made in the Shade Storytime. Eric Carle Museum, 125 West Bay Rd., Amherst.

10:30-11 a.m. Join us in Bobbie’s Meadow for an interactive story-time under the apples trees with blankets provided. Free with admission.

Adults $9, youths $6, ages under 1 free. carlemuseum.org.

Summer Friday Nights Free.

Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 4:30 p.m.-8 p.m. Explore the Discovery Woods and museum, enjoy treats from the VeeBop’s Ice Cream truck, and collect food donations for Open Table of Concord and Maynard, and the Acton Food Pantry. Free. discoveryacton.org.

6 SATURDAY Your Everyday Companion: Journal-Making for Families. Concord Museum, 54 Cambridge Turnpike, Concord.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. Bring your family to learn about Henry David Thoreau and create your own handmade journal to use as you explore nature. Free with admission. Adults $5, youths $3, ages under 5 free. concordmuseum.org.

Jack’s Adventure in Space. John F. Kennedy Presidential Library, Columbia Point, Boston. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Bright Star Touring Theatre brings an out-of-this-world adventure through the solar system exploring the origins of planet names and fun facts about each planet’s special path around the sun. Register ahead. Free. jfklibrary.org.

WAM Family Tour. Worcester Art Museum, 55 Salisbury St., Worcester. 10:3011:30 a.m. Explore the museum galleries with

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july

your family on a docent-guided discovery store, featuring fun facts, stories, and time together. Free with admission. Members free; nonmember adults $16, youths $6, ages under 4 free. worcesterart.org.

New Bedford Folk Festival. Purchase Street, New Bedford. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Enjoy seven sound stages, a dedicated family area, 90-plus juried arts and crafts vendors, fantastic food, and the best established and emerging performers from across New England. $30, children under 12 free. newbedfordfolkfestival.com.

Space Jam. Newton Free Library, 330 Homer St., Newton. 2 p.m. Basketball superstar Michael Jordan teams up with the Looney Tunes in this family-favorite animated-live action feature film. Free. newtonfreelibrary.net.

Family Film Festival: Lego Movie 2. Prudential Center, 800 Boylston St., Boston.

6 p.m. Enjoy entertainment, children’s activities, giveaways, and this animated adventure following Emmet and friends on a new Lego adventure. Free. prudentialcenter.com.

7 SUNDAY Friday Sundays at WAM. Worcester Art Museum, 55 Salisbury St., Worcester. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Enjoy courtyard games and take part in Art Cart activities in the galleries. Free. worcesterart.org.

First Sunday Free. Museum of Russian Icons, 203 Union St., Clinton. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Enjoy free admission all day to explore the galleries, and make your own cards or prints inspired by ‘Jacques Menagerie’. Free. museumofrussianicons.org.

New Bedford Folk Festival. Purchase Street, New Bedford. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Enjoy seven sound stages, a dedicated family area, 90-plus juried arts and crafts vendors, fantastic food, and the best established and emerging performers from across New England. $30, chil-

The Snowy Day ‘Pop-Up’ Storytime. Leominster Public Library, 30 West St., Leominster. 10-11 a.m. A story-time filled with fun songs, freeze pops, and lots of friends.

Geared for ages 7 and under. Register ahead.

Free. leominsterlibrary.org.

BAYSTATEPARENT 13

dren under 12 free. newbedfordfolkfestival.com.

Helping Wildlife for Families: Hummingbirds. Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary, 113 Goodnow Rd., Princeton. 1-3 p.m. A hands-on introduction to ruby-throated hummingbirds, the only hummingbird species found in Massachusetts.

For ages 8 and up. Register ahead. Member adults $9, children $6; nonmember adults $13, children $8. massaudubon.org.

8 MONDAY Summer Reading Buddies with Bright Spot Therapy Dogs. Eric Carle Museum, 125 West Bay Rd., Amherst.

10:30-11:30 a.m. Read aloud with Reading Buddy dogs, who provide a gentle, comforting ear to readers as they practice their fluency and strengthen their confidence. For ages 4 to 11.

Register ahead. Free with admission. Adults $9, youths $6, ages under 1 free. carlemuseum.org.

Library, 30 West St., Leominster. 10-11 a.m.

Research different types of vessels during this day all about boats. Design, assemble, and test out boats. For ages 8 to 12. Free. leominsterlibrary.org.

Play in the Park. deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, 51 Sandy Pond Rd., Lincoln.

10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Play, experiment, and engineer together in the 30-acre Sculpture Park to construct large-scale temporary structures. Free with admission. Members free; nonmember adults $14, youths 12 and under free. deCordova.org.

Arms + Armor Demonstrations.

Worcester Art Museum, 55 Salisbury St., Worcester. 11 a.m. An interactive program to learn about the arms and armor used by Roman soldiers, Medieval knights, and more. Free with admission. Members free; nonmember adults $16, ages 4-17 $6, ages under 4 free. worcesterart.org.

Lasers in Space: Light Show.

Leominster Public Library, 30 West St., Leominster. 3-3:45 p.m. Prismatic Magic presents a laser light show featuring cool cosmic facts, and dazzling sights. Suitable for ages 4 and up.

Register ahead. Free. leominsterlibrary.org.

Teddy Bear Picnic Day. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Pack your favorite lunch, bring your best teddy bear friend, and join a Teddy Bear Picnic. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

Casablanca. Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290 Harvard St., Brookline. 7 p.m. Come enjoy one of Hollywood’s greatest treasures following a Resistance leader as his former love comes back into his life. Adults $13.25, children $11.25. coolidge.org.

Jungle Jim: A Ballooniverse of Stories. Leominster Public Library, 30 West St., Leominster. 3-4 p.m. A space-themed balloon magic show lands down at the library, featuring rocket propulsion science, Star Wars Jedi Training, and a moon landing celebration.

Free. leominsterlibrary.org.

in this intergalactic comedy. Free. mywpl.org.

Make a Mess: Kitchen Chemistry.

Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton.

2-4:30 p.m. Try your hand at a few simple experiments to uncover the unique properties of some common household ingredients through a pinch of that and a smidge of this. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

DIY Paper Unicorns. Leominster Public Library, 30 West St., Leominster. 3-4 p.m. Read unicorn-centric stories, before creating cute paper unicorns. Recommended for ages 5 to 10. Register ahead. Free. leominsterlibrary.org.

Family Farm Night. Land’s Sake Farm, 90 Wellesley St., Weston. 3-7:30 p.m. Bring your blankets and appetites to enjoy live music, local vendors, and the beauty of the farm. Drop-in open farmyard runs from 3-5 p.m., where young children can learn about plants in the education garden and get to know the farm’s rabbits, chicken, sheep and goats.

Food trucks and other vendors on hand from 5-7 p.m. Free. landssake.org.

Little Beats Yoga Dance Party.

Newton Free Library, 330 Homer St., Newton.

4:30-5 p.m. Bring a yoga mat and join Little Beats for an outdoor yoga and dance party. For families with kids ages 1 to 5. Free. newtonfreelibrary.net.

Summer Concert Series. Fruitlands Museum, 102 Prospect Hill Rd., Harvard.

7:15-9 p.m. Gather on the lawn for the annual Summer Concert Series, featuring food vendors, The Concord Band, fun, and together time. Member carloads $15, walk-ins $5; nonmember carloads $20, walk-ins $10. fruitlands.org.

12 FRIDAY Music and Movement with Miss Bernadette. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 9:30-10 a.m. Explore sound through singing, playing, movement, and a multi-sensory workout with our favorite Kindermusik educator. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

Independence Day at Old Sturbridge Village.

9 TUESDAY

11 THURSDAY

Dress Your Stuffed Pet. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 10-11 a.m. Use your imagination and a variety of creative materials to design and construct a special costume for your favorite furry friend. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

Preschool Story Dance. Leominster Public Library, 30 West St., Leominster. 10-10:45 a.m. Join for stories, music, dance, and imagination. For ages 3 to 5. Register ahead. Free. leominsterlibrary.org.

Pajama Storytime. Newton Free Library, 330 Homer St., Newton. 7-7:30 p.m.

Come in your pjs and relax with stories and songs. Aimed to ages 4 and up. Free. newtonfreelibrary.net.

10 WEDNESDAY Maker Day: Boats. Leominster Public 14 JULY2019

Make a Mess: Spray Art Resist.

Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 10-11 a.m. Experiment with resist painting using crayons and watercolors. Free with admission.

Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

Space Jam. Worcester Public Library: Tatnuck Branch, 1083 Pleasant St., Worcester. 2 p.m. Basketball superstar Michael Jordan teams up with the cast of characters from Looney Tunes

Backyard and Beyond: Forest Fridays. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 10-10:45 a.m. Come to the Discovery Woods to experiment and explore through a nature-based activity based on the season and weather. Recommended for ages 2 to 6. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

Made in the Shade Storytime. Eric Carle Museum, 125 West Bay Rd., Amherst.

10:30-11 a.m. Join folks in Bobbie’s Meadow for an interactive story-time under the apples trees with blankets provided. Free with admission. Adults $9, youths $6, ages under 1 free. carlemuseum.org.

Family Yoga. Worcester Public Library: Roosevelt Branch, 1006 Grafton St., Worcester.

10:30-11:30 a.m. A fun-filled yoga and mindfulness morning featuring guided meditation, breathing techniques, and special exercises.

Free. mywpl.org.

Cold as Ice at the Discovery Museum.

Malik the Magic Guy. Springfield Museums, 21 Edwards St., Springfield. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Come and enjoy this laugh-filled strolling magic show featuring magic with sports equipment, sleight of hand, and other fun surprises. Free with admission. Adults $25, youths 3 and up $13, ages under 3 free. springfieldmuseums.org.

Roaming Railroad. Springfield Museums, 21 Edwards St., Springfield. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. All aboard this trackless train, as engineer Dan DeCosmo entertains riders with comedy, train songs, and inspirational routines like the little train that could. Free with admission.

Adults $25, youths 3 and up $13, ages under 3 free. springfieldmuseums.org.

Pete the Cat ‘Pop-Up’ Storytime.

Leominster Public Library, 30 West St., Leominster. 3-4 p.m. A fun-filled story time, featuring books, songs, and freeze pops. For ages 7 and under. Free. leominsterlibrary.org.

Family Fun. Newton Free Library, 330 Homer St., Newton. 3-4:30 p.m. Drop-in for games, building materials, and other activities as we spend quality time with family and neighbors. Free. newtonfreelibrary.net.

Northeast Balloon Festival. Three County Fairgrounds, Northampton. Kicks off at 4 p.m., various times over the weekend.

Through Sunday. Go up, up and away at America’s premier Hot Air Balloon Festival.

Featuring hot air balloon rides and activities, a food festival, vendor expo, craft beer, amusement rides and games, petting zoo, live music and more. Admission $15. northeastballoonfestival.com.

Summer Friday Nights Free.

Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 4:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m. Explore the Discovery Woods and museum, enjoy treats from the VeeBop’s Ice Cream truck, and collect food donations for Open Table of Concord and Maynard, and the Acton Food Pantry. Free. discoveryacton.org.

Free Friday Flicks: Mary Poppins Return. Hatch Shell, 47 David G Mugar Way, Boston. 6 p.m. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, pack a picnic, enjoy free games, and watch as the magical nanny Mary Poppins returns to London once more. Free. wbznewsradio.iheart.com.

Moonlight Hike & Campfire for Families. Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary, 113 Goodnow Rd., Princeton. 7-9 p.m.

Listen for owls and coyotes, look for active

beavers, and enjoy marshmallows around the campfire. For ages 7 and up. Register ahead.

Member adults $14, children $6; nonmember adults $18, children $8. massaudubon.org.

13 SATURDAY Mac n Cheese Festival. Town Common, Templeton. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Music, vendors, superheroes, and, of course, Mac ‘n’ Cheese are all part of this family fun festival.

Area restaurants and organizations will be serving up gooey, yummy macaroni and cheese creations. Free. templtonelders.org.

Exploring Science Together: Bugs.

Harvard Museum of Natural History, 26 Oxford St., Cambridge. 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Take a closer look and explore the world of miniscule bugs through hands-on activities, observation, and fun. Geared for children ages 5 and up.

Register ahead. Members $15, nonmembers $25. hmnh.harvard.edu.

Beyond the Spectrum: Musical Merriment. Museum of Fine Arts: Boston, 465 Huntington Ave., Boston. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Learn about different musical celebrations around the world before returning to the studio to make our own instruments. $9. mfa.org.

Arms + Armor Demonstrations.

Worcester Art Museum, 55 Salisbury St., Worcester. 11:30 a.m. & 2 p.m. An interactive program to learn about the arms and armor used by Roman soldiers, Medieval knights, and more. Free with admission. Members free; nonmember adults $16, ages 4-17 $6, ages under 4 free. Worcesterart.org.

Christmas in July with Pete the Cat. Annie’s Book Stop, 65 James St., Worcester. 12-4 p.m. Groove with Pete the Cat games and puzzles, sing some groovy songs, and listen to some groovy music. Free. facebook. com/anniesbooksworcester.

ICA Watershed Family Day. ICA Watershed, Institute of Contemporary Art: Boston, 25 Harbor Shore Dr., Boston. 12-4 p.m.

Celebrate Eastie Week with a special family day at the Watershed featuring art-making activities, pop-up dance performances, tours in English and Spanish, food, music, and fun.

Free. icaboston.org.

Backyard and Beyond: Trapping with PrimiTim Swanson. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 1-3 p.m. Spend the afternoon in the woods learning the primitive art of animal tracking and trapping,

BAYSTATEPARENT 15

recognize signs that animals leave behind, and even how to construct primitive traps and snares. Register ahead. Free with admission.

Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

creativity. Free with admission. Members free; nonmember adults $14, youths 12 and under free. deCordova.org.

Especially for Me: Free Autism-Friendly Evening. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 5-8 p.m. A special free evening especially for families with members on the Autism Spectrum in our new building for exploration, with dinner provided.

Register ahead. Free. discoveryacton.org.

Summer Reading Buddies with Bright Spot Therapy Dogs. Eric Carle Museum, 125 West Bay Rd., Amherst.

10:30-11:30 a.m. Read aloud with Reading Buddy dogs, who provide a gentle, comforting ear to readers as they practice their fluency and strengthen their confidence. For ages 4 to 11.

Register ahead. Free with admission. Adults $9, youths $6, ages under 1 free. carlemuseum.org.

Family Film Festival: Mary Poppins Return. Prudential Center, 800 Boylston St., Boston. 6 p.m. Enjoy entertainment, children’s activities, giveaways, and this follow-up film witnessing Mary Poppins return to London. Free. prudentialcenter.com.

15 MONDAY

Rolie Polie Guacamole Library Show. Worcester Public Library: Main Branch, 3 Salem Sq., Worcester. 11-11:45 a.m. See this award-winning band from Brooklyn, New York, featuring high energy, interaction, rock

Lunar Launch Celebration.

EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester.

10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Celebrate Apollo 11’s 1969 launch. From our digital planetarium to hands-on programs on the museum floor, the whole family is sure to have a blast learning about space exploration and the moon. Free with admission. Adults $18, children 2-18 $14, members free. ecotarium.org.

The Magic of Jason Purdy. Leominster Public Library, 30 West St., Leominster.

3-4 p.m. Join as Illusionist Jason Purdy brings a blend of polished magic, witty comedy, and toe-tapping music alongside audience participation. Free. leominsterlibrary.org.

Pajama Storytime. Newton Free Library, 330 Homer St., Newton. 7-7:30 p.m. Come in your pjs and relax with stories and songs. Aimed to ages 4 and up. Free.

Spaced Out Storytime. Newton Free Library, 330 Homer St., Newton. 2-2:30 p.m.

Shoot for the stars during this space-themed story-time. For ages 4 to 5. Free. newtonfreelibrary.net.

WAM Stroller Tours. Worcester Art Museum, 55 Salisbury St., Worcester. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Enjoy a docent-led guide throughout the museum’s galleries, followed by an age-appropriate story and light refreshments.

Designed for ages 0 to 3 and siblings. Free. with admission. Members free; nonmember adults $16, ages 4-17 $6, ages under 4 free. worcesterart.org.

Sunset Drum Circle. Fruitlands Museum, 102 Prospect Hill Rd., Harvard. 7-8:15 p.m.

Join on the hillside at sunset for a facilitated drum circle to connect with the landscape, Mother Earth, and rhythm. Register ahead.

Members $9, nonmembers $15. fruitlands.org.

18 THURSDAY Family Sing-Along. Newton Free Library, 330 Homer St., Newton. 10-10:30 a.m. Join children’s librarians for songs and movement. Free. newtonfreelibrary.net.

Doggy Days: Out for a Walk.

Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 10-11 a.m. Join certified Therapy Dog Abby and learn about the importance of exercise for ensuring the health and well-being of canines and humans alike. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

Word Play with Center Dance Studio. Eric Carle Museum, 125 West Bay Rd., Amherst. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Join Center Dance Studio for creative movement and narrative dance inspired by the picture books ‘Sylvester and the Magic Pebble’. For ages 3 and up. Register ahead. Free with admission.

Adults $9, youths $6, ages under 1 free. carlemuseum.org.

Wacky Bubbles at the Discovery Museum.

14 SUNDAY Backyard and Beyond: Help Us Tend Our Garden. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Learn what plants need to grow and help tend to the Discovery Woods vegetable garden with watering, weeding, and garden-themed activities. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

Yoga in the Park. deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, 51 Sandy Pond Rd., Lincoln. 10:30-11 a.m. Get moving as a family during this kid-friendly yoga in the Sculpture Park. For ages 3 to 12 with caregiver. Registration recommended. Members free; nonmember adults free, children $5. deCordova.org.

MAKEmobile. deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, 51 Sandy Pond Rd., Lincoln. 1-3 p.m. Take your imagination for a spin with activities that explore artistic and material processes through amusing prompts and challenges, where we provide the materials and you bring 16 JULY2019

and folk music, and original tunes for all. Free. mywpl.org.

Stories in the Stars. Newton Free Library, 330 Homer St., Newton. 4-5:30 p.m.

Soar through the stars in this compilation of Greek Myths as the Hampstead Theater Company returns to the library in a dazzling performance. Recommended for ages 5 and up.

Free. newtonfreelibrary.net.

16 TUESDAY Explore and Play. Newton Free Library, 330 Homer St., Newton. 10-10:30 a.m. Join for unstructured playtime with age appropriate toys and sensory experiences. For ages 2 to 4 with caregivers. Free. newtonfreelibrary.net.

Snip and Tear. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 10-11 a.m. Show off your scissor skills, try cutting for the first time, or use your hands to tear a collection of confetti. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. Discoveryacton.org.

newtonfreelibrary.net.

Folk Open Mic: Kim Moberg.

TCAN: Center for Arts, 14 Summer St., Natick.

8 p.m. Enjoy as performers from across the area showcase their talents and partake in the area’s most vibrant folk music community concert around. Members free; public $15. natickarts.org.

17 WEDNESDAY Terrific Twos Storytime. Leominster Public Library, 30 West St., Leominster.

10-10:30 a.m. Join for stories, music, and fun for children age 2 with a caregiver. Free. leominsterlibrary.org.

Arms + Armor Demonstrations.

Worcester Art Museum, 55 Salisbury St., Worcester. 11 a.m. Join this interactive program to learn about the arms and armor used by Roman soldiers, Medieval knights, and more. Free with admission. Members free; nonmember adults $16, ages 4-17 $6, ages under 4 free. worcesterart.org.

Take Aparts. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 2-4:30 p.m. Grab a screwdriver and discover resistors, capacitors, and circuit boards as you uncover the inner workings of everyday electronics. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. Discoveryacton.org.

Family Farm Night. Land’s Sake Farm, 90 Wellesley St., Weston. 3-7:30 p.m. Bring your blankets and appetites to enjoy live music, local vendors, and the beauty of the farm. Drop-in open farmyard runs from 3-5 p.m., where young children can learn about plants in the education garden and get to know the farm’s rabbits, chicken, sheep and goats.

Food trucks and other vendors on hand from 5-7 p.m. Free. landssake.org.

Third Thursday. Berkshire Museum, 39 South St., Pittsfield. 5-8 p.m. Explore the Museum’s galleries during this evening of extended hours. Free with admission.

Berkshire County residents free; members free; nonmember adults $13, youths $6, ages under 4 free. berkshiremuseum.org.

Summer Concert Series. Fruitlands Museum, 102 Prospect Hill Rd., Harvard.

7:15 p.m.-9 p.m. Gather on the lawn for our annual Summer Concert Series, featuring food vendors, The Concord Band, fun, and together time. Member carloads $15, walk-ins $5; nonmember carloads $20, walk-ins $10. fruitlands.org.

19 FRIDAY Backyard and Beyond: Forest Fridays. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 10-10:45 a.m. Come to the Discovery Woods to experiment and explore through a nature-based activity based on the season and weather. Recommended for ages 2 to 6. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

There Was an Old Lady Story-Time. Leominster Public Library, 30 West St., Leominster. 10-11 a.m. Join to read this classic story what happens when a little old lady swallows a fly, with songs, friends, and treats. For ages 7 and under. Register ahead.

Free. leominsterlibrary.org.

Free Fun Friday at The Carle. Eric Carle Museum, 125 West Bay Rd., Amherst. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Come celebrate picture books with art activities, films, and special story-times.

Free. carlemuseum.org.

Made in the Shade Storytime. Eric Carle Museum, 125 West Bay Rd., Amherst.

10:30-11 a.m. Join in Bobbie’s Meadow for an interactive story-time under the apples trees with blankets provided. Free with admission.

Adults $9, youths $6, ages under 1 free. carlemuseum.org.

Family Yoga. Worcester Public Library: Roosevelt Branch, 1006 Grafton St., Worcester.

10:30-11:30 a.m. Join in a fun-filled yoga and mindfulness morning featuring guided meditation, breathing techniques, and special exercises. Free. mywpl.org.

Summer Friday Nights Free. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 4:30-8 p.m.

Explore the Discovery Woods and museum, enjoy treats from the VeeBop’s Ice Cream truck, and collect food donations for Open Table of Concord and Maynard, and the Acton Food Pantry. Free. discoveryacton.org.

DIY Mini Golf. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 5-7 p.m. Help construct and create a mini-golf course with hills, loops, and tunnels using simple, repurposed, and recycled materials. Free. discoveryacton.org.

Free Friday Flicks: Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. Hatch Shell, 47 David G Mugar Way, Boston. 6 p.m. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, pack a picnic, enjoy free games, and watch this Academy Award-winning animated flick following Teen Miles Morales as he becomes Spider-Man on a cross-dimensional adventure. Free. wbznewsradio.iheart.com.

20 SATURDAY 26th Annual Glasgow Lands Scottish Festival. Look Park, 300 North Man St., Florence. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Enjoy dancers, athletes, entertainment, food, and more in this celebration of Scottish heritage and tradition through this summer festival.

Adults $18, youths 6 to 12 $5, ages under 6 free. glasgowlands.org.

Preschool Story Hour: Butterflies.

Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 414 Massasoit Rd., Worcester. 10-11 a.m. Bring your favorite adult for a thematic hour of a story, an activity, and a naturalist-led walk. For ages 3 to 5. Register ahead. Member children $3, nonmember children $4. massaudubon.org.

Back 40 Music & Farm Festival.

Lilac Hedge Farm, 106 Bond Rd., Holden.

10 a.m. Through Sunday. Farm activities, kids’ events, great music and craft beer at this 3rd annual festival set on beautiful 350-acre farm. Petting zoo, hayrides, corn hole, sheep shearing and more. Advance tickets $7 for kids, $10 for adults, or $10 and $15 at the gate. lilachedgefarm.com.

ear to readers as they practice their fluency and strengthen their confidence. For ages 4 to 11.

Register ahead. Free with admission. Adults $9, youths $6, ages under 1 free. carlemuseum.org.

Aliens: Escape from Earth. Leominster Public Library, 30 West St., Leominster. 3-4 p.m. Discover the unbelievable world of science through experiments, explosions, pressure, and more, during this cannot miss alien adventure.

Recommended for ages 4 and up. Free. leominsterlibrary.org.

His Girl Friday. Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290 Harvard St., Brookline. 7 p.m. Enjoy this screwball comedy classic starting Cary Grant and Rosalind Russell based on the hit play The Front Page. Adults $13.25, children $11.25. coolidge.org.

Amazing Grace. TCAN: Center for Arts, 14 Summer St., Natick. 7:30 p.m. Aretha Franklin comes alive during this concert film originally captured in 1972 as Franklin performs at Reverend James Cleveland’s church in Watts. California. Members $10, public $12. natickarts.org.

Wacky Bubbles. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 10-11 a.m. Play and experiment with bubbles of different shapes and sizes from flat bubbles to cubes. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

Dance Party. Newton Free Library, 330 Homer St., Newton. 10-10:30 a.m. Move and groove to the music for kids and caregivers alike. Free. newtonfreelibrary.net.

Elijah T. Grasshopper and Friends: A Super Cool Music Show. Leominster Public Library, 30 West St., Leominster. 3-4 p.m. Enjoy this interactive music concert that will make kids hop, wiggle, and giggle. Recommended for ages 2 to 8.

Free. leominsterlibrary.org.

Bunny Storytime. Leominster Public Library, 30 West St., Leominster. 10-10:30 a.m.

Meet Daisy the puppet, sing songs, listen to a story, and play a musical instrument. For ages 12 to 24 months. Free. leominsterlibrary.org.

Bee Parks and the Hornets. Newton Centre Green, Langley & Centre Sts., Newton.

6:30-7:30 p.m. Come dressed in your best Bee Costume to ‘buzz’ around the green with this entertaining and family-friendly band. Free.

23 TUESDAY

newtoncommunitypride.org.

Pajama Storytime. Newton Free Library, 330 Homer St., Newton. 7-7:30 p.m.

Come in your pjs and relax with stories and songs. Aimed to ages 4 and up. Free. newtonfreelibrary.net.

Amazing Grace. TCAN: Center for Arts, 14 Summer St., Natick. 7:30 p.m. Aretha Franklin comes alive during this concert film originally captured in 1972 as Franklin performs at Reverend James Cleveland’s church in Watts. California. Members $10, public $12. natickarts.org.

24 WEDNESDAY

Play in the Park. deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, 51 Sandy Pond Rd., Lincoln.

50th Anniversary of the Moon Landing. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Celebrate the giant leap for mankind, as we build landing pods, blasting off with stomp rockets, and more. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

Arms + Armor Demonstrations.

Worcester Art Museum, 55 Salisbury St., Worcester. 11:30 a.m. & 2 p.m. A interactive program to learn about the arms and armor used by Roman soldiers, Medieval knights, and more. Free with admission. Members free; nonmember adults $16, ages 4-17 $6, ages under 4 free. worcesterart.org.

E.T. Newton Free Library, 330 Homer St., Newton. 2 p.m. Cool off and enjoy this family classic following a young boy who becomes best friends with an extra-terrestrial. Free. newtonfreelibrary.net.

Happier Family Comedy Show. Eric Carle Museum, 125 West Bay Rd., Amherst. 3-4 p.m. Enjoy this all-new, created on-the-spot, collaborative, participatory, and family-friendly improv show. Recommended for ages 5 to 12.

Member adults $9, youths $4.50; nonmember adults $10, youths $5. carlemuseum.org.

Family Film Festival: Incredibles 2. Prudential Center, 800 Boylston St., Boston.

6 p.m. Enjoy entertainment, children’s activities, giveaways, and this animated adventure following the Parr Family as they re-emerge as superheroes facing off an unknown foe. Free. prudentialcenter.com.

21 SUNDAY Boston Area Chantey & Maritime Sing. USS Constitution Museum, Charlestown Navy Yard, Building 22, Charlestown. 2-5 p.m. Listen, learn, and lift your voices as you participate in your maritime heritage by joining a rousing chorus of sea chanteys at the USS Constitution Museum. Free with admission.

Recommended donation $5-15. ussconstitutionmuseum.org.

22 MONDAY Summer Reading Buddies with Bright Spot Therapy Dogs. Eric Carle Museum, 125 West Bay Rd., Amherst.

10:30-11:30 a.m. Read aloud with Reading Buddy dogs, who provide a gentle, comforting BAYSTATEPARENT 17

10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Play, experiment, and engineer together in the 30-acre Sculpture Park and construct large-scale temporary structures. Free with admission. Members free; nonmember adults $14, youths 12 and under free. deCordova.org.

Arms + Armor Demonstrations.

Worcester Art Museum, 55 Salisbury St., Worcester. 11 a.m. An interactive program to learn about the arms and armor used by Roman soldiers, Medieval knights, and more. Free with admission. Members free; nonmember adults $16, ages 4-17 $6, ages under 4 free. worcesterart.org.

Backyard and Beyond: Camouflage. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Try your hand at finding hidden animals, create your own camouflage animal, and explore how animals blend into their surroundings to protect themselves. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

Spaced Out Storytime. Newton Free Library, 330 Homer St., Newton. 2-2:30 p.m.

Shoot for the stars during this space-themed story-time. For ages 4 to 5. Free. newtonfreelibrary.net.

on a scientific discovery and perform exciting experiments to explore the basic properties of science in an easy and fun way. For ages 6 to 9. Free. newtonfreelibrary.net.

Woman in the Moon. Regent Theatre, 7 Medford St., Arlington. 7 p.m. This classic Sci-Fi adventure hailed as the first feature film to depict realistic space travel, with live keyboard accompaniment to mark the 50th Anniversary of the Moon Landing. Price varies. regenttheatre.com.

Amazing Grace. TCAN: Center for Arts, 14 Summer St., Natick. 7:30 p.m. Aretha Franklin comes alive during this concert film originally captured in 1972 as Franklin performs at Reverend James Cleveland’s church in Watts. California. Members $10, public $12. natickarts.org.

25 THURSDAY Rockabye Beats. Newton Free Library, 330 Homer St., Newton. 10-10:45 a.m. Come dance, singe, and get a little loco during this time of freestyle dance, musical jamming, live guitar, and more. Free. newtonfreelibrary.net.

Journey to the Moon. Leominster Public Library, 30 West St., Leominster. 3-4 p.m.

Join puppet Astronaut Alta as she blasts off to adventure during this performance by Caravan Puppets. Free. leominsterlibrary.org.

Make a Mess: Make an Impression Like Monet. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 10-11 a.m. Set off to find your personal outdoor inspiration and create an artwork inspired by impressionist artist Claude Monet. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

Little Lab Coats. Newton Free Library, 330 Homer St., Newton. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Go

Lyra Music Festival and Workshop: Young Artist Concert. Eric

18 JULY2019

Carle Museum, 125 West Bay Rd., Amherst.

11 a.m. Hear how young musicians bring instruments to life and join in some hands-on fun during this concert performed by kids for kids. Free with admission. Adults $9, youths $6, ages under 1 free. Carlemuseum.org.

Insect Day. EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester. 1-4 p.m. Collect and observe insects, dress up in costumes, and even learn to dance like an insect. Transform the diverse, colorful and inspiring world of insects into puppets and masks. Free with admission.

Adults $18, children 2-18 $14, members free. ecotarium.org.

WALL-E. Worcester Public Library: Roosevelt Branch, 1006 Grafton St., Worcester. 2 p.m. A robot made for cleaning falls in love and saves the human race in this Pixar animated film.

Free. mywpl.org.

A Universe of Perler Beads.

Leominster Public Library, 30 West St., Leominster. 2-4 p.m. Learn and create with plastic fusible beads during this time of fun art exploration. For ages 5 to 12. Register ahead.

Free. leominsterlibrary.org.

Family Farm Night. Land’s Sake Farm, 90 Wellesley St., Weston. 3-7:30 p.m. Bring your blankets and appetites to enjoy live music, local vendors, and the beauty of the farm. Drop-in open farmyard runs from 3-5 p.m., where young children can learn about plants in the education garden and get to know the farm’s rabbits, chicken, sheep and goats.

Food trucks and other vendors on hand from 5-7 p.m. Free. landssake.org.

Summer Concert Series. Fruitlands Museum, 102 Prospect Hill Rd., Harvard.

7:15-9 p.m. Gather on the lawn for the annual Summer Concert Series, featuring food vendors, The Concord Band, fun, and together time. Member carloads $15, walk-ins $5; nonmember carloads $20, walk-ins $10. fruitlands.org.

26 FRIDAY Backyard and Beyond: Forest Fridays. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 10-10:45 a.m. Come to the Discovery Woods to experiment and explore through a nature-based activity based on the season and weather. Recommended for ages 2 to 6. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

Made in the Shade Storytime. Eric Carle Museum, 125 West Bay Rd., Amherst.

10:30-11 a.m. Join in Bobbie’s Meadow for an interactive story-time under the apples trees with blankets provided. Free with admission.

Adults $9, youths $6, ages under 1 free. carlemuseum.org.

Family Yoga. Worcester Public Library: Roosevelt Branch, 1006 Grafton St., Worcester.

10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. A fun-filled yoga and mindfulness morning featuring guided meditation, breathing techniques, and special exercises. Free. mywpl.org.

Backyard and Beyond: Pop-Up Adventure Playground. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 1-3 p.m. Use your imagination with provide cardboard, rope,

pulleys, art supplies, and more to build and enjoy a Pop-Up Adventure Playground where kids call the shots. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

Outdoor Family Fun. Newton Free Library, 330 Homer St., Newton. 3-4:30 p.m.

Enjoy family games and activities outside by our Winnie the Pooh statues. Free. newtonfreelibrary.net.

Summer Friday Nights Free. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 4:30-8 p.m.

Explore the Discovery Woods and museum, enjoy treats from the VeeBop’s Ice Cream truck.

Food donations for Open Table of Concord and Maynard and the Acton Food Pantry accepted.

Free. discoveryacton.org.

Free Friday Flicks: Bumblebee.

Hatch Shell, 47 David G Mugar Way, Boston.

6 p.m. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, pack a picnic, enjoy free games, and watch as Bumblebee finds refuge in a junkyard in a small California town and hides as a yellow VW bug. Free. wbznewsradio.iheart.com.

The Music Man. The Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts, 2 Southbridge St., Worcester. 7 p.m. Families will get a hoot during this classic musical comedy following a fast-talking traveling salesman, Harold Hill, cons a small Iowa city with the promise of organizing a band. $20. thehanovertheatre.org.

27 SATURDAY Play Date: Pattern Play. Institute of Contemporary Art: Boston, 25 Harbor Shore

Dr., Boston. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Enjoy family time together in our exhibition ‘Less is a Bore,’ create your own patterns and designs with our visiting artist, and head outside to create sketches. Free with youths. icaboston.org.

WAM Stroller Tours. Worcester Art Museum, 55 Salisbury St., Worcester. 10:3011:30 a.m. Enjoy a docent-led guide throughout the museum’s galleries, followed by an age-appropriate story and light refreshments.

Designed for ages 0 to 3 and siblings. Free. with admission. Members free; nonmember adults $16, ages 4-17 $6, ages under 4 free. worcesterart.org.

The Music Man. The Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts, 2 Southbridge St., Worcester.

2 p.m. & 7 p.m. Families will get a hoot during this classic musical comedy following a fasttalking traveling salesman, Harold Hill, cons a small Iowa city with the promise of organizing a band. $20. thehanovertheatre.org.

Family Film Festival: Ralph Breaks the Internet. Prudential Center, 800 Boylston St., Boston. 6:00 p.m. Enjoy entertainment, children’s activities, giveaways, and this animated adventure following Wreck-It-Ralph and Princess Vanellope as they venture into the internet. Free. prudentialcenter.com.

28 SUNDAY 5th Annual Blueberry Festival.

Charlton Arts & Activities Center, 4 Dresser Hill Rd., Charlton. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Enjoy live music, an afternoon animal show, pie eating contests, henna tattoos, face painting, and plenty of strawberry treats, during this fantastic summer celebration. Free. charltonarts.org.

Special Sundays in the Studio. Eric Carle Museum, 125 West Bay Rd., Amherst.

12-5 p.m. Join in the art studio to explore new materials and try a different project. Free with admission. Adults $9, youths $6, ages under 1 free. carlemuseum.org.

Backyard and Beyond: Intro to Orienteering. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 12-2 p.m. Learn about or test your skills of orienteering as you work through orienteering map challenges ranging in difficulty in our beautiful backyard. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton. org.

MAKEmobile. deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, 51 Sandy Pond Rd., Lincoln. 1-3 p.m. Take your imagination for a spin with activities that explore artistic and material processes through amusing prompts and challenges. Free with admission. Members free; nonmember adults $14, youths 12 and under free. deCordova.org.

28th Annual Woods Hole Film Festival: Kids Day. Simon Center for the Arts, Falmouth Academy, 7 Highfield Dr., Falmouth. 2-4 p.m. From Cape Cod’s summer baseball league to humpback whales, enjoy four short documentaries for kids to enjoy in the midst of the Woods Hole Film Festival.

Adults $14, youths 12 and under $5. woodsholefilmfestival.org.

29 MONDAY Sensory Fun for Little Ones. Leominster Public Library, 30 West St., Leominster. 1011 a.m. Experiment with Kinetic Sand and Cloud Clay and practice your fine motor skills with objects and activities. For ages 3 to 6. Register ahead. Free. leominsterlibrary.org.

Summer Reading Buddies with Bright Spot Therapy Dogs. Eric Carle Museum, 125 West Bay Rd., Amherst.

10:30-11:30 a.m. Read aloud with a Reading Buddy dogs, who provide a gentle, comforting ear to readers as they practice their fluency and strengthen their confidence. For ages 4 to 11.

Register ahead. Free with admission. Adults $9, youths $6, ages under 1 free. carlemuseum.org.

30 TUESDAY Explore and Play. Newton Free Library, 330 Homer St., Newton. 10-10:30 a.m.Unstructured play time with toys and sensory experiences. For ages 2 to 4. Free. newtonfreelibrary.net.

Preschool Storytime. Leominster Public Library, 30 West St., Leominster. 10-10:30 a.m.

Enjoy stories, music, and motion for children ages 3 to 5. Free. leominsterlibrary.org.

Tinker Tuesdays: Kites. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 10-11 a.m.

Create and experiment using the various materials provided to design your very own kite, add tails, and then test out your creation. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

Pajama Storytime. Newton Free Library, 330 Homer St., Newton. 7-7:30 p.m. Come in your pjs and relax with stories and songs. Aimed to ages 4 and up. Free. newtonfreelibrary.net.

31 WEDNESDAY Backyard and Beyond: Going to the Pond. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 11 a.m. Join us at the Great Hill Conservation Land as we take a short walk and do some exploring using nets, magnifiers, and other fun tools. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

Spaced Out Storytime. Newton Free Library, 330 Homer St., Newton. 2-2:30 p.m.

Shoot for the stars during this space-themed story-time. For ages 4 to 5. Free. newtonfreelibrary.net.

Harry Potter’s Birthday Bash.

Annie’s Book Stop, 65 James St., Worcester.

2-8 p.m. Just in time for Harry’s birthday, Annie’s Book Stop transforms into Hogwart’s Annex for a special potions class (space is limited - pre-register). Other fun includes games like Wizard Word Mayhem, and Rita Skeeter Rumors, and Harry Potter Trivia. facebook.com/ anniesbookstopworcester.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. Newton Free Library, 330 Homer St., Newton. 6 p.m. Celebrate Harry Potter’s birthday with the movie that started it all, with pizza and refreshments. Free. newtonfreelibrary.net.

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1. Classic Movies by Moonlight

on the

agenda

the list

9

Boston Harbor Hotel, 70 Rowes Wharf, Boston

Places to Catch an Outdoor Movie This

Summer!

Family movie night can move from the living room to the outdoors this summer. Instead of huddling on the couch, you and the kids can sprawl out on a blanket and take in a flick under the stars. Here’s nine spots to catch an outdoor movie this summer.

Best part? They’re all free!

The Boston Harbor Hotel transforms its harbor-side terrace into an outdoor cinema on Friday nights. Revisit Hollywood’s silver screen and modern classics on the waterfront. Movies start at dusk.

July 5: The Parent Trap July 12: Moana July 19: Jurassic Park July 26: Sleepless in Seattle August 2: Raiders of the Lost Ark August 9: Aquaman August 16: Ghost August 23: Star Wars: The Forces Awakens August 30: Captain America: The First Avenger

2. Family Film Festival Prudential Center, 800 Boylston St., Boston Movies are shown under the stars on Saturdays in the South Garden. Children’s activities and giveaways start at 6 p.m. and movies begin at sundown. Rain dates held the following Tuesday.

July 6: The Lego Movie 2 July 13: Mary Poppins Returns July 20: Incredibles 2 July 27: Ralph Breaks the Internet August 3: How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World August 10: Smallfoot August 17: Alice in Wonderland (1951) August 24: Hotel Transylvania 3 August 31: Dumbo (2019)

3. Hopkinton Movies on the Common 1 Ash St., Hopkinton

Free Family Film Festival at the Prudential Center

These Thursday night movies begin at dusk, around 8:30 p.m.

Check Hopkinton Recreation Facebook for confirmation on the Monday prior to the movie.

July 11: Mary Poppins Returns July 18: Spider-Man: Into the Spiderverse July 25: The Lego Movie 2 August 1: Bumblebee

4. Davis Museum Summer Film Series Davis Museum, 106 Central St., Wellesley Free movies are screened every other Thursday on a screen in the museum plaza. Arrive as early as 7 p.m. for tours of the permanent collection inside the Davis and art-making activities for all ages. Movies begin at sundown. At all screenings, there will be free popcorn, as well as beer for adults.

July 11: Back to the Future July 25: WALL-E August 8: The Fifth Element

5. Free Friday Flicks DCR Hatch Shell, 47 David G. Mugar Way, Boston

Davis Museum Summer Film Series 20 JULY2019

A summertime tradition in Boston, these family films on the Esplanade attract thousands of moviegoers. Movies start at sundown, but arrive early to grab your spot on the lawn and enjoy free games and giveaways. The fun starts at 6 p.m.

July 12: Mary Poppins Returns July 19: Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse July 26: Bumblebee

August 2: The Lego Movie 2 August 8: How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World August 16: Captain Marvel August 23: Dumbo (2019)

6. Worcester Movies on the Common Worcester Common Oval, 455 Main St. Bring your blankets and chairs and enjoy a family-friendly flick on the Worcester Common. Vendors on hand selling beverages, sandwiches, popcorn and more.

Common opens for seating at 6:30 p.m. and movies begin at dusk.

July 18: E.T. August 22: How to Train Your Dragon 3

9. Mayor Walsh’s Movie Nights Various locations Movies are shown at various parks throughout Boston in this summertime series.

Films start at dusk.

August 5: The Incredibles 2 – Fallon Field, Roslindale August 12: Ralph Breaks the Internet – Moakley Park, South Boston August 14: Spider-Man: Into the Spiderverse – Ramsay Park, Roxbury August 19: Dumbo – Rogers Park, Allston-Brighton August 20: Black Panther – Walker Playground – Mattapan August 21: Spider-Man: Into the Spiderverse – Ronan Park – Dorchester August 22: Wonder Park – Hynes Playground, West Roxbury August 26: How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World – Noyes Park, East Boston August 27: Dumbo – Winthrop Square – Charlestown August 29: The Lego Movie 2: Iacono Playground, Hyde Park September 6: Avengers Infinity War – Frog Pond, Beacon Hill

7. Summer Sunday Movies Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park, Atlantic Ave., Boston Every Sunday from July 21 through August 25, families can spread out on the lawn at Christopher Columbus Park and take in free movies at the harbor’s edge.

Movies will begin at sunset, and showings are to be determined. Check foccp.org for updates.

8. Cinema Under the Stars Northborough Crossing, 9012 Shops Way, Northborogh Grab a blanket or some comfy chairs for a Friday night flick outside front of Wegmen’s. The fun begins at 6:30 p.m. with face painting, live music and popcorn, with the movie starting at 8 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

August 2: Coco (2017)

Free Friday Flicks at the DCR Hatch Shell

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22 JULY2019

bites

FOOD FOR THOUGHT • GOOSE’S GOODIES • NUTRITION

BAYSTATEPARENT 23

Bites

Food for

Thought

American Kids Aren’t Eating Enough Seafood, Report Says

S

eafood is packed with protein and other nutrients children need for healthy development, but according to a new report, compared to other meats, it’s a relatively small part of most American children’s diets.

The report, published last month in the journal Pediatrics, explores the health advantages of eating seafood, and how pediatricians can point parents to the safest sources of fish.

“We’re encouraging pediatricians to ask families about fish and shellfish consumption — since most children don’t eat much beyond the occasional fish sticks — and advise them on the healthiest choices,” said Dr. Aaron Bernstein of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

In addition to being protein-dense with no saturated fat or sugar, many types of fish are high in vitamin D and calcium, and some are a rich source of long chain omega3 fatty acids used by the body to build nerve cells in the brain and eyes. More research is needed, according to the AAP, but studies suggest seafood consumption may improve infant neurodevelopment and decrease cardiovascular disease risk.

A growing body of research show that introducing fish early in a child’s diet may even help prevent allergic disease such as asthma and eczema.

Seafood consumption by U.S. children has declined every year since 2007. The main reason many families avoid feeding their children fish, and women avoid it during pregnancy, is methylmercury pollution. Eating contaminated fish can have harmful effects on a child’s developing nervous system.

Mercury is a naturally occurring metal that’s released into the air primarily by burning coal and some types of mining. When it settles into water, bacteria convert mercury into a more dangerous form, methylmercury.

Methylmercury can build up in fish--especially those that eat other fish and live longer. These tend to be larger ocean species such as shark, swordfish, and orange roughy, but freshwater fish also can contain mercury, depending on where it is caught.

The AAP recommends that children and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding eat one to two weekly servings of a variety of fish from those listed among the “best” and “good” choices identified by the U.S. Food and

Drug Administration. Salmon, light tuna, flounder, crawfish, sardines, cod and scallops are included in the “best” choices.

Families who eat freshwater fish they catch locally should check advisories and limit servings to once a week if the body of water where they fish is not monitored, the report notes.

The AAP also recommends that the sustainability of different types of fish and shellfish be factored into seafood choices. Some of the world’s fishing grounds are being over-harvested. In certain regions, especially for shrimp farming, child labor and environmentally damaging practices are used. In general, the best choices for sustainably caught or raised fish and shellfish most often come from U.S. fisheries, according the AAP. Dr. Bernstein said learning about different types of fish and shellfish, and adding more of it to children’s diets, should be a goal of every family.

“For most types of seafood, the nutritional benefits far outweigh the risks,” he said.

Food Allergies? No Problem at this Bay State Bakery Twist Named the Best Gluten-Free Bakery in the Country

N

early 6 million -- or 8 percent -- of children in the U.S. have a food allergy. Their parents know how difficult it can be to confidently dine out if you’re never quite sure what’s in the food.

Kathryn Ernst knows the struggle -- she suffers from food allergies and limitations, and always had a hard time finding a place that could accommodate her dietary restrictions. She’d often have to make all her own food at home, and this is how Twist Bakery & Cafe was born.

Twist, which has locations in Millis and Burlington, was recently named USA Today’s #1 Gluten-Free Bakery in the Nation. Not only are they gluten-free, but they are free of the top eight allergens, too. The bakery is also completely nut-free (except coconut), and mostly dairy-free and soy-free. Everything is color coded so parents and kids can easily know what they can and cannot eat. Score!

Get Cooking with ‘20 Recipes Kids Should Know’

A

new cookbook is out for kids, and it’s written by kids, too.

20 Recipes Kids Should Know was cooked up by 12-year-old Esme Washburn, and her 17-year-old sister, Calista, supplied the photography.

Budding chefs will learn some kitchen basics with this book, as the introduction includes a guide to measurements, cooking terms and safety tips. Still, the recipes are pretty impressive and anything but bland. From a black bean soup made with chipotle chile in adobo, to popovers, to fresh, homemade pasta, there are recipes that should appeal to kids of different ages and with various palates. The cookbook is available on Amazon and through major retailers, $11.20.

24 JULY2019

BAYSTATEPARENT 25

Bites

goose’s

goodies

C

hildren will love these patriotic pops, and since they have no dye and no added sugar, parents will, too! Made from pureed fresh fruit and creamy vanilla yogurt, these are a tasty and healthy way to cool off on a hot summer day. Tip: eat these fast as they melt very quickly!

Red, White & Blueberry Yogurt Popsicles Ingredients • 1 heaping cup sliced strawberries (or raspberries) • 1 cup blueberries • 1 cup vanilla flavored Greek yogurt • Water, for thinning purees Directions • In a small food processor or blender, puree strawberries until smooth. Set aside. Then puree blueberries.

• Put berry purees and yogurt each into separate measuring cups with spouts. To make it easier to pour, thin each out by mixing in a little water. Keep in the fridge when not using.

• Start layering your pops by pouring a little strawberry puree into your popsicle molds (small paper cups work well, too!). Put in the freezer until firm, about an hour.

• Layer a little yogurt into each to make the next stripe. Stick a popsicle stick in the center (push a little into the frozen strawberry layer to get it to stand up straight), then cover molds with foil and freeze for another hour, or until solid.

• Remove foil, and add blueberry puree to the top of the mold to make your last stripe/layer.

Freeze until the pops are completely solid.

• Keep popsicles in their molds or cups until ready to eat. Hold mold under hot water for a few seconds to make it easier to get the pops out.

Laurie Silva Collins, known affectionately as Goose by her grandkids, is a nurse, mother and grandmother who is happiest when she’s in the kitchen, cooking and baking for those she loves. She learned to cook from her parents, and has perfected her recipes over the years while raising three daughters… and spoiling seven grandchildren.

26 JULY2019

Bites

ask the nutritionist

Dietician’s Tips for Smarter, Healthier Grocery Shopping

Q

BY STEPHANIE DIROCCO, MS, RD, LDN

How can I shop healthier for my family? Any easy tips?

A

Good nutrition starts with smart choices in the grocery store.

If you don’t have the proper healthy ingredients in your home, preparing healthy meals can be a challenge. Here’s how to shop the smart and healthy way: Plan your meals for the week.

Make a list of all the ingredients you will need for a few healthy meals. Organize it by the different food groups or parts of the store. It saves you time and money in the long run.

Do a little research. Reading labels can take a lot of time, you may even need a magnifying glass to read all the ingredients.

This can take time while you are in the store. Typically, the longer you stay in the store, the more money you spend. To avoid this, research items you may buy before shopping, then compare labels to make the healthier choice. When comparing labels, choose items lower in salt, saturated fat, trans fat and added sugars.

Don’t shop on an empty stomach. Shopping while hungry can lead to impulse buying causing you to purchase unhealthy items and spend more money. Also, check your watch or phone for the time. Give yourself a time limit and try to finish your list by that time. Did you ever notice that there are no clocks or the clocks are not in an obvious location when you shop?

Shop the perimeter of the store. This is generally where you find healthier items, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats and proteins, eggs and dairy. Many items in the aisles can be high in sodium, fat and sugar.

Fill your cart with many colors. Try new foods such as a different colored fruits or vegetables. A rainbow of colors of

fruits and vegetables optimizes the nutrient, vitamin and mineral content of your produce.

Look for lean proteins. Lean proteins such as lean meat cuts (e.g., round, sirloin, tenderloin) as well as skinless, boneless poultry are essential to a healthy diet. Also, try to consume at least two servings of fish per week. Consider tuna packed in water. Limit red meat consumption to two servings per week as well. For meatless protein options, consider unsalted nuts and seeds, dried beans, low sodium beans, tofu and other soy products.

Choose low-fat and non-fat dairy products. Aim for three servings per day to meet your calcium and vitamin D needs.

Shop based on the season.

For the off-season, consider canned or frozen fruits and vegetables to fill in the produce gaps. Choose frozen fruits and vegetables without added sauce or cheese. Add low sodium canned and dried vegetables to soups, salads and casserole dishes.

Don’t buy more than you need. Keep in mind that advertisements are geared to getting you to buy and eat more food, not less. This may not be healthy or wallet friendly. For example, unhealthy kids’ cereal is positioned at kids’ eye levels in the aisles, while healthier cereals are either on the top or the bottom shelf, where your eyes aren’t always directed to.

Stephanie DiRocco MS, RD, LDN, is the Clinical Nutrition Manager at UMass Memorial – HealthAlliance Hospital. She contributes to Simply Well, a blog produced by UMass Memorial Health Care, delivering health and wellness information right to your inbox. Follow at www. umassmemorial.org/simplywell.

BAYSTATEPARENT 27

NATIONAL

Blueberry MONTH

5 Yummy Ways to Enjoy

July is National Blueberry Month! Pies and pancakes aren’t the only things you can make with these plump, juicy berries. Here are five delicious ways to use up your blueberry stash.

Blueberries

Pick-Your-Own Berry Farms Sure, there’s bushels of apples to be picked in the fall, but summertime offers its own pick-your-own pleasures. This time of year, many area farms allow the public to pick a variety of berries (plus other yummy seasonal produce) from their fields. Here’s some farms where you can bring the kids and get picking!

(Note: Check produce availability and hours before heading out.)

28 JULY2019

Carlson Orchards 115 Oak Hill Rd., Harvard carlsonorchards.com Voted one of 1,000 Great Places to Visit in Massachusetts, this second generation family farm has 50 acres of rolling green fruit trees and a 25-year-old blueberry patch, a charming frog pond, and a retail store. Offering pick-your-own blueberries and raspberries.

Carver Hill Orchard 101 Brookside Ave., Stow carverhillorchard.com This family-run orchard in the heart of apple country offers a relaxing escape from the daily

grind. The farm store has fresh produce, as well as cider, cheese, meats, eggs, jams, syrup, honey and gifts. Pick-your-own season starts in July, and in the summer you’ll find blueberries, peaches, raspberries, cherries, and assorted vegetables.

Clearview Farm 4 Kendall Hill Rd., Sterling clearviewfarmstand.com Set atop Kendall Hill, this farm boasts a clear view of Mount Wachusett, and an inviting, traditional farm culture. Fresh produce and baked products are available at the farm store. Walk along fields and orchards filled with fruit, flowers and herbs while picking your own fresh berries.

Bakery-Style Blueberry Muffins Ingredients • ½ cup butter, softened • 2 eggs • 2 cups flour • 2 teaspoons baking powder • 1 ½ teaspoons salt • ½ cup milk • 2 cups fresh blueberries Directions • Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add eggs, one at a time, and beat well after each.

• In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder and salt.

• Add half of the dry ingredients to the butter/sugar mixture and beat well. Next, add half the milk, and beat well. Do the same with the rest of the dry ingredients, then milk, beating continuously as you add.

• Fold in blueberries.

• Line muffin tin with cupcake liners and fill each cup to the top with batter. Sprinkle with crumb topping.

• Bake at 375 degrees for 25-30 minutes.

Crumb topping Ingredients • 4 tablespoons butter • ½ cup flour • ¼ cup brown sugar

Blueberry Ice Cream Sauce Ingredients • 2 cups fresh blueberries • 1 tablespoon water • 2 tablespoons sugar • 1 pinch salt • ½ teaspoon cornstarch • 1 teaspoon cold water • 1 ½ teaspoons lemon juice • ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract • 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions • Using a pastry blender or two knives, mix all ingredients together until crumbly.

Derrick Farm 301 Sanders Rd., Oakham facebooks.com/derrickblueberries Thousands of blueberry bushes and hundreds of raspberry bushes await hungry pickers at this family-owned farm. Chairs are provided if you’d like to sit and pick. Typically opens mid-July, call 508-882-5591 for information about opening day and hours.

Doe Orchards 327 Ayer Rd., Harvard doeorchards.com This beautifully maintained, family-run farm grows blueberries, raspberries, peaches and apples and Christmas trees. You can buy fruit from the farm stand or pick your own blueberries and raspberries in the summer, Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Douglas Orchard & Farm 36 Locust St., Douglas douglasorchardandfarm.com Fresh produce, raw honey and farm-raised meats

aren’t all you’ll find here – the farm also hosts concerts, farm-related talks, yoga and even the Douglas Farmer’s Market on Saturdays with music, a picnic area, farm animals, corn hole and tetherball. Pick-your-own offered.

Elm Shade 1300 Richardson Rd., Ashby facebook.com/blueberriesfromelmshadenterprises Pick your own blueberries from over 700 bushes while enjoying the beautiful quiet country setting in the small town of Ashby. Typically open Friday through Monday, check ahead for season opening and hours.

Fay Mountain Farm 12 Cemetery Rd., Charlton facebook.com/faymountainfarm Located on a town-designated scenic road, this working farm also offers passive recreation opportunities via the section of the Midstate Trail that runs through the site and at Snow’s Pond. Produce, farm-fresh meat and other items for sale in the farm store.

George Hill Orchards 582 George Hill Rd., Lancaster yourfavoritefarm.com This historic farm is home to the Apple Tree Theater and “Tree-mendous Maze” – a popular field trip destination for children. Offering pick your own blueberries, peaches, nectarines in the summer, with the picking season typically starting in early July.

Gianetti’s U-Pick Blueberries 557 Union St., Franklin facebook.com/gianettisupickblueberries This family-owned blueberry farm is open Fridays and Saturdays in July and August. It’s recommended that you bring your own container, but some are available for use.

Hanson Farms 20 Nixon Rd., Framingham hansonfarms.50webs.com The farm stand here is stocked with nearly 200 different varieties of fresh fruits and vegetables. Children can visit with farm ani-

Directions • In a saucepan, combine blueberries, water, sugar and salt and cook over low heat, stirring, until sugar is dissolved. Bring to a boil.

• Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 7 minutes or until the berries burst.

• Combine cornstarch and cold water until smooth and stir into hot blueberry mixture. Bring to a boil, cooking and stirring for 2 minutes or until thickened.

• Remove from the heat and stir in the lemon juice, vanilla and cinnamon.

• Serve drizzled over ice cream.

mals including chickens, horses, sheep, and a turkey. Summer pick-your-own offerings include flowers, blueberries and blackberries.

Call ahead for hours.

Hollis Hills Farm 30 Marshall Rd., Fitchburg hollishillsfarm.com This farm hosts live music, corn hole tournaments and has an ice cream and retail store with everything from local honey and fresh eggs to homemade soaps and gifts. In the summer, you can pick your own flowers and raspberries, beginning in early July.

Honeypot Hill Orchards 138 Sudbury Rd., Stow honeypothill.com Watch sheep and goats graze in front of the farm store, or get a look at their adorable bunnies and baby chicks. The farm store sells fresh produce as well as jams, butter and local honey. Blueberry picking season starts on July 17. Call ahead for hours.

Howe’s Farm & Garden 225 Hardwick Rd., New Braintree howesfarmandgardenllc.com This expansive farm boasts over 10 acres of pick-your-own blueberries and raspberries.

The farm stand is stocked with fruits and an assortment of vegetables picked daily.

Indian Head Farm 232 Pleasant St., Berlin indianheadfarm.com This historic farm dates back two centuries and has been family-owned and operated for seven generations. Each summer, they offer pick-your-own strawberries, blueberries and raspberries. PYO is typically offered all day on weekends and during the mornings on weekdays.

Lanni Orchards 294 Chase Rd., Lunenburg lanniorchard.com Set on 250 sprawling acres, this farm has a BAYSTATEPARENT 29

stand that sells everything from pies and cakes to meat and dairy – and, of course, fresh produce.

Summertime pick-your-own offerings include strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, pears, peaches, and grapes.

Blueberry Smoothie Ingredients • 1 ½ cups almond milk • 1 banana • 1 ½ cups frozen blueberries • ¾ cup vanilla flavored Greek yogurt

Meadowbrook Orchards 209 Chace Hill Rd., Sterling meadowbrookorchards.com Situated on 100 acres of rolling farmland, here you’ll find a farmstore, bakery, and restaurant open year-round. In the summer, they offer pick-your-own blueberries and raspberries, with picking season usually starting in July. When fruit is available, Meadowbrrok Orchards is open for PYO daily 8 a.m.- 5 p.m., except in bad weather.

Directions • Put all ingredients in a blender, and blend until smooth.

• Serve immediately, garnished with fresh blueberries and mint, if desired.

Blueberry Lemonade Ingredients • ¾ cup fresh squeezed lemon juice • ¾ cup sugar • 1 cup fresh blueberries • 1 cup hot water • 3 cups cold water • Ice Directions • In a blender, blend together the lemon juice, sugar, blueberries, and hot water until the berries are pureed and the sugar is dissolved. Pour into pitcher.

(Pour over a fine-mesh strainer if you prefer a pulp-free lemonade.)

• Add cold water. Chill for at least an hour, and serve over ice.

Blueberry Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients • 2 cups fresh blueberries • 3 tablespoons sugar • 1 tablespoon cornstarch • Zest from 1 lemon • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened • ½ cup butter, softened • 2 ¼ cups powdered sugar • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Directions • Combine the blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon zest in a saucepan.

Cook the sauce over medium heat, stirring frequently and mashing some blueberries as they soften. Cook until the sauce thickens and the cornstarch becomes translucent. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.

•In large bowl, beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla and salt until smooth and creamy.

• Fold the blueberry sauce into the cream cheese frosting. The more you mix the frosting, the less chunks of blueberry you will have in the frosting.

• If needed, chill slightly and then spread frosting on your favorite cake or cupcakes.

Recipe adapted from whiteonricecouple.com.

30 JULY2019

Nourse Farm 70 Nourse St., Westborough noursefarm.com At the edge of berry, vegetable and flower fields, you’ll find a farm store with jams, pies, fresh-cut herbs and flowers, honey and seasonal produce. In the summer, you can pick your own strawberries, raspberries and blueberries. While you’re there, take a walk on their self-guided hiking trail, which passes by barns, a pond and Nourse Brook.

Odd Pine Farm 122 Ferin Rd., Ashburnham oddpinefarmblueberries.com This 5-acre blueberry farm will host its Opening Day and Celebration Market on August 1, with berry picking, beer tastings, food trucks, chainsaw carvings, and a market with dozens of arts, farmers and craftsmen. 2019 picking hours TBD. Parlee Farms 95 Farewell Rd., Tynsboro parleefarms.com Fun for kids at this farm includes a “Tractor Training Course” where little ones can drive heavy duty electric tractors around a track, and Annie’s Animal Barns, featuring nearly 100 farm animals to feed and pet such as baby goats, sheep, chickens, and bunnies. In the summer, you can pick your town strawberries, cherries, blueberries, flowers, and peaches. Check “today’s farm news” on the website for times.

Red Apple Farm 455 Highland Ave., Phillipston redapplefarm.com A century-old New England family farm that offers BBQs, hayrides, and a chance to visit with farm animals. Pick your own blueberries, raspberries, peaches, pears and potatoes in the summer, beginning in July. Celebrate all things blue at the Blueberry Jamboree, July 20, 9 a.m.-8 p.m Russell Orchards 143 Argilla Rd., Ipswich russellorchards.com A bakery, farm store and winery are all here, but perhaps the biggest draw for little ones is the menagerie of farm animals. Grain is sold for 25 cents a handful to feed the barnyard critters.

Summertime pick-your-own attractions include strawberries, cherries, raspberries, currants, blueberries and blackberries. Open Tuesday through Sunday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Sawyer’s Farm 38 Root Rd., Hubbardston sawyersfarm.org This 100-acre third-generation family farm sells hay, cordwood, and plump, juicy blueberries. U-Pick blueberry season kicks off on July 1. Enjoy nine acres of blueberry bushes.

Sunburst Blueberry Farm 44 Rawson St., N. Uxbridge sunburstblueberryfarm.com This pick-your-own blueberry farm is surrounded by open fields with horses grazing in pastures and paddocks. It features over 1,000 blueberry bushes of seven different varieties, allowing for a longer picking season. Opening for the season on July 4. Call ahead for hours.

Tougas Family Farm 234 Ball St., Northborough tougasfamilyfarm.com A barnyard, playground, and farm kitchen will give you plenty to do after picking berries here. Pick your own offerings in the summer include strawberries, cherries, blueberries, peaches, nectarines, and blackberries. Hours are determined by the supply of ripe berries; check “today’s pickings” on the website before you go.

cyber savvy mom

Social Media

May Put Girls at Higher Risk of Depression

BY JOAN GOODCHILD

Too much time using apps like Snapchat and Instagram could be having a negative impact on mental health

W

hile our children pick away at devices and clock significant amounts of time using social media, evidence mounts that too much time spent on these apps and sites is having a negative impact on their mental health. A study published this year in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology finds the percentage of U.S. teens and young adults who report mental distress, depression and suicidal thoughts and actions is up dramatically over the past decade.

At the time of the release, the study’s authors noted the rise in smartphone and social media use is a significant factor in higher rates of depression.

And it appears girls may be more vulnerable than boys to mental health impacts from social media. A study published recently in the Lancet’s EClinicalMedicine journal finds a definitive connection between depression in teenagers and social media use. The study looked at more than 11,000 14-year-olds in the UK, and revealed that girls who are depressed tend to use social media more than boys.

The nearly 40 percent of girls who spent more than five hours a day on apps like Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat and WhatsApp showed signs of depression. That compared with just 14.5 percent of boys.

Dr. Kim Metcalfe, a retired professor of early childhood education and psychology, and author of Let’s Build ExtraOrdinary Youth Together, says the findings are not surprising.

“Girls and boys socialize differently,”

said Metcalfe. “Girls socialize verbally more than boys do as they age. Boys continue socializing using physical activities and/or video games.

Girls use social media differently compared to boys. For example, a boy is more likely to reach out to a friend and ask if they can play a video game, whereas a girl will spend hours on social media gossiping if they are a bully or if they want to be liked by a bully or a click led by a bully. Girls want to fit in using social media as a primary platform. Boys want to have fun and compete using games as a primary platform.”

Metcalfe said the premium placed on beauty and image on social media is likely also taking a toll on young girls.

“Social media also puts a magnifying glass on body image and beauty,” she said. “Girls use social media filters to make themselves look better, and girls see these images of each other causing constant endless comparisons—seeking a perfection that is impossible.”

With this in mind, it is important for parents to have a conversation with their kids about social media use and how it could be impacting mental health. And familiarize yourself with the symptoms of depression so that you can recognize if your kid is struggling with it. Metcalfe suggests limiting social media for teens and to have house rules and policies around social media use.

“There are numerous apps that allow parents to control screen time and access to certain platforms,” she said. “Check to see what is going on in your child’s social media—this is not breaking privacy expectations: The phone belongs to the person who purchased it, and if that same person provides a smart phone to a child they have the right to keep their child safe. Kids use the phone as long as they play by the rules.”

Joan Goodchild, the Cyber Savvy Mom, is a writer, editor and mom of two living in Central Massachusetts. Got a question or a topic you would like to see covered here? Reach out at cybersavvymom@yahoo.com or follow Cybersavvy Mom on Facebook.

Read more news and information on staying safe, secure and civil online at cybersavvymom.com

BAYSTATEPARENT 31

THE HOW-TO ISSUE

Want to

Write a Children’s Book?

BY JODI DEE

I

Here’s How to Get Started

n February I published my fourth children’s book, The Dirt Girl, about little girl named Zafera, who is laughed at and teased at school. Zafera doesn’t understand, so she just smiles, but the story tells how she goes from being an outcast to the most popular girl in school -- in the best possible ways.

Right now, I’m finishing my fifth book, The Hand-Me Down, which will be released at Christmas. This story is about a little jacket that is handed up and down demographics, and ends with a little girl as part of a major relief effort whose family suffered the devastation of a multi-cyclone disaster. It’s a story of how generous Americans are, and how our culture is one of donating and sharing. I am very excited about this title; recycling, especially clothing, has always been a big part of my lifestyle.

I have always loved words, and write constantly about spirituality, self-discovery, and self-help. I dreamed of being a published author but I never imagined I would be transitioning into writing full time, or continually able to come up with new ideas. I think once you open that channel it just starts to flow.

Writing a book is something that many people think about, yet despite always writing, it never crossed my mind that I would ever pen children’s books. But, after reading thousands of children’s stories to my three children over a decade, I was disappointed to find there were few stories about real life experiences or challenges that children face. There are a limitless number of animal stories and pretend characters. I wanted my stories to emulate real life and real people.

My Jesse True series, about a little boy who changes color based on how he feels, was my first attempt at writing a children’s book and fiction. This was a lot of trial and error. My first illustrator was also new to the industry and we learned together.

32 JULY2019

If writing a children’s book (or any book!) has been on your bucket list -- take the plunge. While writing a book itself may seem overwhelming, the process of publishing a book today is much easier than ever before. Anywhere from 600,000 to 1,000,000 books are published every year in our country alone (those statistics vary greatly), and almost half of those are self-published titles. Here are some tips to help you get started.

Writing and Editing The first step is actually making the commitment to write and finish a book. There are some great Master Classes (masterclass.com) by famous authors like Judy

The Dirt Girl

The Dirt Girl has been named a finalist in two prestigious awards: Next Generation Indie Book Awards, the largest international awards program for independent publishers, and the Indie Excellence Awards. It was judged against and recognized among hundreds of thousands of titles. Author Jodi Dee has been invited to the American Library Association annual convention at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, as an award Finalist to showcase The Dirt Girl and do a book signing in DC, at the world’s biggest library event. The book is available on Amazon and through all major retailers.

Blume and James Patterson to help with the writing process. Outlining, taking notes, research, and editing are all important. Storyboard your idea. I personally think in flowcharts and pictures, but some prefer outline format, white boarding, or plain sticky notes. Do whatever works best for you; there is no right or wrong way!

There are a lot of free resources and limitless articles of advice online. There are writing workshops and conferences throughout the year. Join writing groups on social media sites, at your local library, or in your community. Networking with other writers is super helpful, and often these are your first editors who provide invaluable feedback.

If your goal is to write a children’s book/picture book and you need an illustrator, social media is a great place to start and network. I found two of my illustrators posting on my own personal Facebook and LinkedIn feeds, and one through a professional website of illustrators for hire at artstation. com. Picture books tend to be a little more complicated because they require formatting and layout design too. For this you need to hire a person who specializes in it (illustrators generally just draw pictures).

Once your draft is complete, my best advice is to find a good editor.

Honest feedback is critical. There are many different types -- content editors, proofreaders, and those who just look at punctuation and grammar.

Finding a good editor is not always easy. I also networked on social media,

and asked for referrals. The best editor I found was my daughter’s sixth grade English teacher. Out of three professional editors, he was the only one who actually provided wording and content recommendations that brought my newest children’s book, The Dirt Girl, to the next level.

Agencies and Publishing I figured out publishing through trial and error, and again there is no right or wrong answer. The two routes are self-publishing and traditional publishing.

Self-publishing is quick and easy (compared to the grueling hours of finding an agent, and then finding a publisher). There are many print-on-demand companies that offer full service self-publishing (KDP Publishing, Amazon, Ingramspark, Lulu, are some), from formatting books to print to cover design, even ghostwriting or editing. These companies allow you to print your books cheap and on-demand (meaning you do not need to order, store, ship, or process orders for 1,000 copies).

Customers can order right from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and most major online retailers (if you publish through any of these self-publishing companies), and they ship seamlessly on your

behalf. The downside is, there is no marketing of your title and royalties are nominal. The cost of print-on-demand is much higher than ordering in bulk.

For a full color picture book, the cost to print-on-demand is about $10+ per book. The retailer takes between 20-40 percent, so that leaves little left for the author.

Traditional publishing used to be the only way books were distributed and sold, and authors were at the mercy of these channels. While self-publishing has dramatically changed the market, this, unfortunately still remains the case. Without marketing and distribution channels, it is very difficult for someone to find your book among millions of other titles. Publishers will bring your book to stores, enter it into contests, showcase it on tours, and advertise it for you.

Unless you have a huge social media following, it is unlikely you will sell many books without a publisher. Having an audience is everything. The downside, is again, royalties are nominal.

However, some will give you an up-front signing bonus and the chance of selling more books is much greater because someone is marketing it for you. Most publishers take 40 percent or more, after printing and shipping

costs, or returns.

Generally, the first step in finding a publisher is finding an agent, as few publishers accept unsolicited manuscripts. This can be a challenging process.

Just like finding a best friend, finding an agent takes time and patience. Agents are looking for specific things -- not all agents for example, want young adult titles or romance. Some only want science fiction, new age, or picture books. Each agency has a process for submission and most never provide feedback.

Agents also take a percentage of every sale. Still, agents can be your best asset. Dr. Wayne Dyer was an international best-selling self-help author who sold millions of copies worldwide.

His agent believed in him and actually helped him edit and sometimes rewrite his books. Dr. Dyer said his agent was one of the most important people in his success. A great resource is writersdigest.com, which publishes a list of agents every year.

On average, each book published sells less than 250 copies per year and less than 3,000 copies over its lifetime, self-published or published. Best-selling titles are rare, but do happen.

Regardless, if the passion burns inside of you, and you have an

idea for a story, do it!

I was offered a publishing contract with a large publisher and a small press publisher, but I turned their offers down. Each wanted to change my vision, change my stories, and even change my characters. One sent me an illustration of my “Dirt Girl” that looked like a Barbie Doll. I said, “that is completely the opposite of what the story is about,” and he came back with, “that will sell.”

I could not compromise my vision on either project. The works themselves are more important to me than the money.

For me, the joy is in seeing it come to life.

I did a ton of research and learned how to become a publisher at the same time as learning how to publish. I entered my titles in contests myself. I act as

my own agent. It is a lot of work and may not be for everyone, but writing is my passion.

My best advice is simple -- just get started. In my opinion, if you write for you, the rest will fall into place.

Mom of three Jodi Dee has more than 30 years’ experience in Early Childhood Education and business. She has a B.A. in Psychology and a Masters in Education from Clark University. A columnist, blogger and children’s book author, she recently launched createahomeoflearning.com to promote education and early learning.

BAYSTATEPARENT 33

THE HOW-TO ISSUE

Should You Bank Your Baby’s Cord Blood?

What to Consider, and How to Do It From yesterday’s medical trash to tomorrow’s biological treasure, cord blood banking is on the rise.

BY DEBBIE LAPLACA

W

ith stem cell treatment of fatal or debilitating illnesses on the rise, banking your newborn’s umbilical cord blood for future stem cell transplantation could save the life of yours or another parent’s child.

Cryopreserving cord blood and tissue from normal newborns is safe for mom and baby, and it doesn’t interfere with labor or delivery. After the umbilical cord is cut, delivery room medical staff collect blood and sometimes tissue

34 JULY2019

from the cord and placenta and send it to the family’s choice of banks.

Parents considering the option are faced with two banking choices: public or private.

Public banks are free to the donor family. They hold cord blood for research and for the treatment of any matching individual in need. Private banks are fee-based and store the blood for exclusive use by the donor family.

Cord blood banks worldwide reportedly hold hundreds of thousands of units for the treatment of more than 80 diseases in adults and children,

including cancers, genetic diseases, blood disorders, and immune system deficiencies.

The Parent’s Guide to Cord Blood Foundation, a repository of information and resources, reports 1 in 217 people in the U.S. will undergo a stem cell transplant by age 70.

A national network of public banks Be The Match says more than 25,000 people worldwide have received cord blood transplants because parents have generously decided to donate to a public bank.

Massachusetts legislation enacted in 2005 requires hospitals to inform all pregnant women in the third trimester of

their options.

The American Academy of Pediatrics encourages parents opting to bank to talk with their doctor as early as possible in the pregnancy and decide whether public or private banking is the best match for the family’s needs.

While the choice is yours, experts such as the AAP are increasingly advocating for public banking.

While publicly banked cord blood is available to matches through a worldwide registry, private banking serves the needs of only the donor family and it has limitations.

“Parents who save their chil-

dren’s cord blood in private cord blood banks need to be aware that should their child develop leukemia, the child’s stored cord blood already contains premalignant cells and cannot, therefore, be used to treat the child,” the AAP says in its policy statement. “In that case, the cord blood from an unrelated child (an allogeneic transplant) is needed.”

If cost is a consideration, public banks are free.

A sampling of private banks from across the country show they charge an initial fee ranging from about $800 to $2,300 plus, in most cases, an annual maintenance fee.

As an example, one local private bank, New England Cord Blood Bank Inc. in Marlborough, charges a collection and processing fee of $1,349 for cord blood banking and $1,749 for cord blood and tissue banking. The first year of storage is included; thereafter the annual storage fee is $140, according to its website.

In researching the options, parents are also encouraged to consider a banking facility’s quality control and oversight.

According to the AAP, higher quality cord blood increases the potential for a successful stem cell transplant. The collection, evaluation and preservation of publicly banked cord blood is highly regulated by accrediting institutions.

Private banks, AAP says, are less regulated and may not meet stringent best-practices, which could lead to cord blood of a lesser quality.

Three Massachusetts hospitals have public cord blood donation programs in-house.

UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester is credited with creating the first such program in New England.

Hannah Brewster, Clinical Research Assistant UMass Medical School, said donations at the Belmont Street location are sent to a public bank in Florida – Cord for Life.

“The health of the baby and parent are most important,” she said.

“It’s the patient’s decision on whether they want to donate, but we give them the option rather than throwing it in the trash.”

Cord blood, she said, was collected from 17 percent of the 4,171 babies delivered at UMass in 2018.

While private banking is not an in-house option at UMass, parents may pre-arrange to have a kit sent to the hospital, which in turn would be mailed to the private bank of choice.

The program at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center Boston also donates to Cord for Life.

Brigham and Women’s Hospital partners with Dana-Farber Cancer Institute for its public Cord BloodDonation Program.

Dana-Farber acts as a donor’s advocate throughout the process of banking or receiving donations.

The Parent’s Guide to Cord Blood Foundation offers a full listing of hospitals with banking programs by state at parentsguidecordblood. org.

If the hospital where you plan to have your baby does not work directly with a bank, you may donate by enrolling in a mail-in program, such as Cord for Life, which has been accepting mail-in donations 2003.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports 4,320 cord blood transplants have occurred in the U.S. between 2012-2016.

Further, cord blood may help more people from diverse racial and ethnic communities have a second chance at life. For this, more cord blood is needed from these communities such as: Black and AfricanAmerican, American Indian and native Alaska, Asian, Hispanic and Latino, native Hawaiian and multiple-race.

To donate to a public bank, mom must be at least 18 years-old; delivering a single baby (no twins or triplets); have no history of Hepatitis B or C, HIV or medication-dependent diabetes requiring insulin; have no organ transplants; no history of cancer other than cured local skin cancer (only simple basal cell or squamous cell) or cervical cancer, and have not received tattoos, non-sterile piercings or acupuncture in the previous 12 months.

Looking ahead, the AAP seeks to educate medical personnel, parents, and the public about the increasing need and uses of cord blood banking.

Clinical trial research, the AAP says, may lead to transplants for Alzheimer disease, autism spectrum disorder, diabetes, cerebral palsy, hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, systemic lupus erythematosus, and systemic sclerosis.

Debbie LaPlaca is a veteran journalist, photographer, and joyful mom of two living in Central Massachusetts.

BAYSTATEPARENT 35

THE HOW-TO ISSUE

How to Bring Up a

Nature-Loving Kid

I

BY AMANDA COLLINS BERNIER

n the last two decades, childhood has moved indoors. The average American child spends as few as 30 minutes in unstructured outdoor play each day and more than seven hours each day in front of an electronic screen, according to the National Wildlife Federation.

Is the shift inside impacting the wellness of our children? In the last 20 years, childhood obesity rates have more than doubled, and the United States has become the largest consumer of ADHD medications in the world while pediatric prescriptions for antidepressants have also been on the rise. At the same, exposure to nature has proven to benefit children’s health and happiness. The report Whole Child: Developing Mind, Body and Spirit through Outdoor Play puts it frankly: “American kids are out of shape, tuned out and stressed out because they’re missing something essential to their health and development… their connection to their natural world.”

So, how do we get our kids into nature? In a world of technology and screens, how do we raise children who have an appreciation for nature, and who want to be outside?

For Jamie Picard, of Attleboro, getting into the great outdoors with her daughter, Morgan, is about finding new adventures to experience together.

“Kids are so addicted to technology, I did not want my daughter to be like that,” said Jamie. “Every summer since she’s been born we do something fun outdoors. One year, we went to as many farms as we could in Massachusetts. The next year, it was how many botanical gardens could we find.”

When Morgan was 3, Picard found Hike Trustees, a statewide challenge to get people out hiking the trails. As the state’s largest conservation non-profit, The Trustees protects nearly 27,000 acres of land all across Massachusetts, with over 350 miles of trails linking to the Appalachian Trail, Bay Circuit Trail, and Mid-State Trail, among others.

From exploring roaring waterfalls to massive boulder caves, Jamie said the endeavor became “super addicting” for her and little Morgan.

Together, they hiked over 450 miles that summer, with Morgan doing much of the walking on her own, and climbing on top of her mom’s shoulders when she would tire. Jamie would point out different birds, trees, or mushrooms on their hikes, or challenge Morgan to find things like acorns or pinecones in the woods to keep her engaged.

Research shows the best way to connect young people to a lifelong concern for nature, wildlife, and the outdoors is through regular positive experiences. The National Wildlife Federation encourages families to adopt a goal of spending an hour a day playing and learning outdoors. To get there, try broadening your mindset when you think of the term “nature,” -- children benefit from experiences everywhere from a city park or an urban greenway, to a thick forest or breezy coastline. You can even make your backyard or neighborhood the starting point.

But if you are looking for a particular experience or event to get your family outside, check out offerings from organizations like Mass Audubon and The Trustees.

These groups are protectors of miles of scenic trails and open space, but they also host a constant array of programs and special events. This summer, the schedule is full of outdoor concerts, travelling biergartens, full moon hikes, gardening classes, and more.

Find details at massaudubon.org or thetrustees.org.

ILLUSTRATION BY CAMDEN O’NEILL 36 JULY2019

THE HOW-TO ISSUE

How to Raise a

BY RICHARD BROMFIELD

E

very parent knows what street smarts means, right? Teaching your child how to cross a street, looking both ways, and then once more.

Teaching them to wait, not just for the light to turn red, but for the cars to come to a complete halt. Walking, not riding, their bike across a busy road. You get the point.

Beware of strangers was a special biggie in the world of street smarts. Recall from your own childhood. Keep the door locked and don’t let strangers in. Don’t take candy or rides or most anything else from someone you didn’t know well.

But think of what’s happening now, the way that complete stranger has unlimited and free access to your child, any and every time a device powers and hooks up with your home’s wireless. It’s utterly mind-boggling. The strangers who once stood locked out on your door stoop can now march right in to your child’s experience, bringing the world wide web along for the ride.

Parents aspired to raise children to have street smarts–the skills and know-how to navigate real life–so that they can get along well and ably in the real world on the outside. Parents knew that world was mostly

‘Cyber Smart’ Kid

a good place that their child would soon inhabit and have to manage. Why shouldn’t your child have the same training and advantage when it comes to technology and the internet? Here are some tips to get your child’s cyber-smarts going: • Hold their hand. What’s the cybersmarts equivalent? Sitting beside them as they take their first spins on screens into the Internet. Show them the way and the how, explaining, in terms they can follow, what you are doing.

• Let go. Just as with the busy street, at some point you let go of your child’s hand and let them run ahead, maybe even round the corner. But stay close. Just as when they ran ahead, keep watching. Give them space to experiment and learn, but keep a close eye and guide them there.

• Think of the old family telephone.

Teaching the kids to answer the family telephone was a ritual of street-smarts. Never say your parents aren’t home, especially when they’re not. “They’re upstairs. May I take a message?” Teach your children how to recognize and deal with technology and websites, for example, that ask for their names, addresses, ages, and so on. Patiently sit with your child as they try their hand at coping with requests for personal information. We do not want them to be afraid of the Internet, just aware and careful.

• Lost-proof them. I grew up in a suburb of Boston. My parents taught me how to use buses and trains. They didn’t let me go myself until they knew I knew how to look up schedules, how to get on and off at stations and bus stops, and not until they’d given me practice getting off at the wrong stops, learning what to when I was lost.

Your child will stray on the Internet; we all do. Under your watchful eyes, let them learn how to recover, get off bad sites, and find their way back to their home page, safe and sound.

• Teach them money sense. How it is that some parents give their child carte blanche access to their credit cards to buy video game resources and the like? I’ve seen it plenty and I still can’t explain it.

Help you child learn to live on the Internet without a dime, so to speak. Parents otherwise giving their child the same lesson as when they allow a toddler to enter the ATM pin. Wow, all I have to do is press a few keys and a machine spews money.

• Try to not enable. In the old days, the kids who got “all the good stuff,” like the gas-powered dirt bikes, the go-karts, and the pellet guns, were often the ones who found themselves in all kinds of trouble.

Buying the newest game systems, the speediest WiFi, and every new video game runs the same risk.

• Know what they’re doing. Keep an eye on your child’s screen use. There’s no reason for young children to be using screens behind locked bedroom doors. Cultivate a comfortable presence beside your child at the computer or iPad. Perfect flybys. Learn how to balance a respect for privacy for involvement and awareness of what’s going on with your child’s screens.

• Be proactive. There’s an abundance of wonderful technology, software, and devices out there to enhance your child’s life.

You’re probably good at finding good stuff, things like the best pasta maker or the best SUV. Apply that vigor and persistence, using resources, like this parent magazine, to help research media–apps, games, and websites–worthy of your child.

Technology brings so much that’s good and wondrous to modern life. But children, over time and experience, need to learn how to manage it, and their screens, so as to live peaceable and healthily in that thoroughly modern, and wired world.

Harvard Medical School psychologist Richard Bromfield is author of the just-released Cyber-Smarts: Raising Children in a Digital Age.

BAYSTATEPARENT 37

our fave

4

1.

Heading to the shore? Sure, shovels and buckets can be fun, but these four fun finds for kids of all ages will make it truly a day at the beach.

2.

3.

38 JULY2019

4.

1. Think outdoor-sized beer pong‌ without the beer! The BucketBall Beach Edition Set includes 12 buckets, two game balls, and a tote bag for storing and transporting. It is lightweight and packs away easily, making it portable and handy to store.

Available on Amazon, $59.99.

3. The Dry Branch Catch and Release

2. The Clicker Crab Toss and Grip Game by Melissa & Doug includes two soft, self-stick mitts and balls. The crab’s design and straps are perfect for little hands. Available on Amazon, $12.99.

4. Perfect for burying and excavat-

Beach Aquarium Kit is a transparent plastic globe with a removable screen lid, so you can fill it with water and captured sea creatures, then suspend it in a rock pool, allowing fresh water to flow in and out. Available on Amazon, $12.99.

ing, the Haba Dinosaur Sand Glove allows kids to maneuver the maw of a chomping T-Rex while scooping up sand. Makes digging fun and easy.

Available on Amazon, $14.99.

finally

forever

Five Adoptions Later,

LaRivieres’ Family is Complete “W

hen Megan and Malcolm came to us, DCF was getting ready to separate them,” Chip LaRiviere said of his children. While Chip and his husband, Louis, were not new to adoption, welcoming the children was their first placement through the Department of Children and Families.

Three years earlier, the fathers adopted a baby girl, Elly, through a private agency.

They were able to meet Elly’s biological mother two months into her pregnancy and they worked with her right up until their daughter’s birth.

As Chip and Louis were working through the process of private adoption, they were simultaneously taking classes through the Massachusetts Adoption Resource Exchange (MARE), with the thought that adoption through foster care could be a viable option for their family. When Elly was about 3 years old, Chip and Louis got a call from DCF about a 4-year-old boy and his 18-month-old sister, Malcolm and Megan.

As is the case with many sibling groups in care, the DCF was planning to separate the two children. Chip and Louis were open to adding both siblings to their family, which meant that Malcolm and Megan would be able to stay together.

However, immediately after the children moved in, the family faced some major difficulties.

The parents had not been properly briefed on the level of mental illness that Malcolm was struggling with.

They felt stranded without professional resources. They quickly realized that advocating for themselves was the best way to move forward.

Chip said, “I made the commitment that my children needed something, and I was going to find out what that was.”

He and Louis started exploring different services that existed in their community. They educated themselves about their children’s needs and were able to provide the supports needed; therapy, behavioral services, in-school help, the list goes on. “If there’s a service out there… we’ve used it,” Chip said.

As they were settling into their new normal, they were approached by their social worker. “We were a happy-golucky family. Then we got a call from our social worker that Malcolm and Megan’s biological mother had a baby,” Chip said. The family opened their home again and welcomed 2-week-old Cody.

The process to adopt Cody came with many bumps in the road. He spent only a few months in the LaRiviere home before going to his biological family’s home with the goal of reunification. At the same time, a young girl was placed with the family with the understanding that she would be there temporarily. “Tara was supposed to be a month placement and never left,” Chip said. Several months later Cody was placed back with the LaRivieres.

Through the difficulties of each adoption, Chip and Louis made the conscious decision to persevere. The first years were some of the hardest as the family had to learn to navigate needs they didn’t realize their children had.

“All the work

I’ve put into my children is so rewarding,” said Chip. “For my son, Malcolm, to say, ‘I know my dad loves me and he will never leave me’ is huge. We didn’t give in. We stood by him and that’s how we did it.”

Chip continues to be involved in the foster and adoption community. He speaks at parenting classes and MARE events and makes an effort to educate other parents on the services that exist in their own communities. Chip always tries to make one thing clear to prospective parents, “People need to understand that these children don’t need to be fixed.”

He and his family hope that by sharing their story they can help others understand the realities of adoption from foster care. “It’s a lot of work and we didn’t know what we were getting ourselves into,” said Chip, “but I wouldn’t change my family for anything.”

July’s Child: Meet Mariyah Hi, my name is Mariyah and I have a contagious laugh!

Mariyah is a playful 7-yearold girl of African American, Hispanic and Caucasian descent.

Those who know Mariyah best would say she is helpful and likes to stay busy. She also has strong communication skills and is able to pick up on a great deal of information from her surroundings. Mariyah has a wide variety of interests including arts and crafts projects, dance classes, puzzles and reading. In school she is very social and has made quite a few friends.

Mariyah is legally freed for adoption and would do well in a one or two parent family. If there are other children in the home, it is recommended that they are high school aged or older. Mariyah would do best in a home where there is previous parenting experience. The placement should also have a predict-

able and consistent schedule for Mariyah but also maintain flexibility.

Interested families should be open to maintaining visits and contact with Mariyah’s birth parents and siblings.

Can you provide the guidance, love and stability that a child needs? If you’re at least 18 years old, have a stable source of income, and room in your heart, you may be a perfect match to adopt a waiting child. Adoptive parents can be single, married, or partnered; experienced or not; renters or homeowners; LGBTQ singles and couples.

The process to adopt a child from foster care requires training, interviews, and home visits to determine if adoption is right for you, and if so, to help connect you with a child or sibling group that your family will be a good match for.

To learn more about adoption from foster care, call the Massachusetts Adoption Resource Exchange (MARE) at 617-964-6273 or visit www.mareinc.org.

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VERY SPECIAL PEOPLE

Local Mom’s Podcast Gives Voice to Parents of Children with Disabilities Rutland mother offers frank talk around the realities of raising kids with physical, intellectual and emotional challenges.

BY JOAN GOODCHILD

L

ike many parents of children with disabilities, Jill Woodworth’s life has been filled with plenty of highs and lows. As those who have been there will attest, it includes long days and lots of time spent wading through the complexities of caring for a child with extraordinary needs.

Woodworth is a Rutland mother of five children, three of whom have Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, which is a rare genetic disease that causes non-cancerous tumors to grow in the brain and on other vital organs. Those with TSC may also have other symptoms, including seizures, intellectual disability, developmental delay, behavioral problems, skin abnormalities, and lung and kidney disease.

When Jill’s eldest daughter, MaryEllen, who has TSC and is on the autism spectrum, moved out to live in a group setting, Woodworth found it impacted her in ways she didn’t expect after years as her caregiver.

“Her moving out really was the impetus for me to kind of look at this huge gap in my life that I devoted to TSC,” said Woodworth. “I was kind of desperate and thinking ‘What am I going to do? How am I going to maintain my connection with lived experience yet take

40 JULY2019

a step back from being as involved in what felt like an extremely personal way?’”

The answer was launching the podcast TSC Talks, an interview-style show where Woodworth dives in-depth on various topics with people who have a TSC diagnosis, an intellectual disability or Autism. The show can also include perspective from parents and caregivers.

“What I want to see happen is that we flesh out our stories, our issues, our successes, failures, frustrations, in order to get all the cards on the table. If we don’t start talking about it, and really letting others know how difficult this is, we will not be able to affect adequate change,” she said.

Woodworth said it is especially critical to be frank because navigating life with a disability, or as a caregiver of a person with a disability, is a daily challenge that can be confusing, exhausting and beyond difficult. Episodes cover a wide territory of topics, such as mental health and behavioral issues related to a neuropsychiatric disorder, school-related issues, advocacy, dealing with the medical industry and the social or emotional issues related to dealing with a chronic disease.

“If one has been doing this for any length of time,

one has come up against multiple obstacles while attempting to juggle and manage the multiple disconnects between the medical, mental health, social services and grassroots community,” said Woodworth.

“Lots of people in the patient-caregiver community are yacking about it on various social media platforms, separate pages, and in fits and starts. But few are talking out loud about it in such a way that the patient or caregiver voice can affect and influence the overall ability of those struggling to accept, to understand and be heard, and validated.”

Still in the earlier stages of development, Woodworth is working to grow her listeners and spread the word about the podcast’s mission. TSC Talks can be found on most major podcast platforms or by simply going to Woodworth’s page at https://tsctalks.com.

Joan Goodchild is a veteran writer and editor and mom of two living in Central Massachusetts.

Mass. Ranked Best State for Working Moms and Dads

A

re you a working parent? Looks like you’re living in the right state.

In two new studies ranking the best and worst states for working moms and dads, the Bay State came out on top. The rankings, done by WalletHub, took into account things like child care costs, health insurance, work-life balance, professional opportunities, and the length of the average work day.

For working moms, Massachusetts placed first for its parental-leave policy and fifth for the average length of a woman’s work day. However,

the state has the third highest child care costs in the country.

In the study on working dads, the Bay State was listed as the state with the lowest uninsured rate, and among the top three states with the lowest percentage of kids living in poverty.

Rhode Island and Connecticut came in second and third, respectively, as the best states for working moms.

As for dads, Connecticut and New Jersey rounded out the top three.

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A GOOD PARTY IS ALWAYS IN SEASON

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take eight with Mark Chauppetta Mark Chauppetta isn’t your average suburban father of four. At 50, he is training as a Mixed Martial Arts fighter to raise awareness of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a rare genetic disorder his twins Andrew and Troy live with, which causes progressive muscle degeneration and weakness. Along with training and parenting, the Brockton resident runs a Private Investigating business, oversees a local DMD nonprofit, and mentors his sons in their online T-shirt business. His story in chronicled in a new documentary, “A Father’s Fight,” available on Amazon Prime.

1.

How did your son’s Duchenne muscular dystrophy diagnosis spur you to enter the ring?

I was used to a reasonable amount of chaos in my life which I thought prepared me for parenting at a young age. My first-born Elizabeth was an easy child but two years later my world changed when Troy and Andrew were born.

Their DMD diagnosis introduced an entirely new kind of chaos – one that drove me to reassess what it meant to be a parent. We all tell ourselves that we’d “do anything” for our kids, but when your kids are facing disability and a shortened lifespan, you’re forced to think outside the box in terms of what can be done to help them. Everything is a fight on some level, so it made sense that, as former wrestler, I would use those skills to help raise awareness and draw a new audience toward my sons’ disease and my foundation.

2.

How is training at this point in your life – at 50 years old – different than it was in your earlier years?

It’s certainly different than I when I was 25.

Recovery takes longer and my strategy has changed dramatically. The key is listening to your body, putting your ego aside, and understanding which parts can be pushed and which need to be cared for. I’m a grappler more than a boxer these days. Punches have their place, but age has brought me down to the mat where I can use my mind and years of experience more effectively than trying to land the perfect punch against someone who may be younger, faster, and stronger than me.

3.

What’s the gist of your docudrama “A Father’s Fight?”

4.

You’ve said this film shows ability over disability. How do Andrew and Troy exemplify this?

expectancy was in the low- to mid-teens. Today, it has reached into the mid-30s and is expected to rise. That compels us to live it to the fullest.

When Troy and Andrew told me they wanted to drive, I couldn’t say no. When they told me they wanted to launch a small business, I supported it. If they’re willing to fight, I’m willing to get behind them.

5.

What’s the most challenging part of being a father to Andrew and Troy?

What’s the best part?

The challenge is that, to me, every other parent’s life seems less complicated by comparison. It’s a lot of work and there have been times that I’ve had to do things on my own. The upside is that I have discovered that I am capable of doing all of this. I make occasional mistakes like other parents, but there is an overall sense of accomplishment when everything comes together and we can gather as a family.

6.

You and your sons established the Wheelchair Strong Foundation in 2016.

What’s the goal?

The goal is to guide regular people toward the realization that small acts of support and kindness can bring about big results. Our events and

fundraisers are affordable events that welcome everyone, and attendees realize the joy of playing a small part in a larger endeavor.

That’s the most rewarding part: watching regular people realize that philanthropy isn’t about thousand-dollar checks, it’s about getting involved.

7.

8.

What do you want people to know about Duchenne MD? That it isn’t a death sentence, but rather it’s a challenge that a good person can meet and overcome. Years ago, I promised myself that I would keep every option open in terms of supporting my family. It kept my mind open to new technologies, new treatments and more.

Tell us a little about Andrew and Troy’s endeavor, TwinTeeshirts? You must be so proud!

Andrew and Troy have a healthy entrepreneurial streak in them. They’ve been busy revamping their collection and tending to their website. It’s a good first business for them and they’re learning that a return on investment requires hard work, focus and a little sacrifice. It’s beautiful to watch them collaborate and take the next step into adulthood. I never thought we’d all be at this point, and I’m more than thankful.

The film offers a glimpse into my extended family’s world and uses my love for jujitsu as vehicle to carry viewers along the day-to-day challenges we face. Our life can best be described as a normal middle-class household with abnormal challenges. For example, Troy and Andrew recently earned their driver’s licenses, but instead of buying them a nice safe late-model sedan, I had to research and buy them an accessible van that they could drive in together safely while enjoying a freedom that many take for granted.

Research and treatment for Duchenne MD has come a long way. When they were born, life BAYSTATEPARENT 43

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