September/October 2020 by Minnesota Parent

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September/October 2020 â&#x20AC;¢ mnparent.com

9/3/20 2:27 PM

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

[ VOLUME 35

/// ISSUE 7]

6 FROM THE EDITOR

First-timers

The Baby Issue is the first for our new editor — and many of you! 8 CHATTER

Wobble & work A simple stool for remote learning success. 10 BUMP, BIRTH AND BABY

The right kind of help Ways to accept and offer support during the postpartum period. 12 THE UNCENSORED TODDLER

Working from home Is it even possible with little ones around?

Mastering milestones Easy ways you can encourage Baby’s body and brain development.

14 SCHOOL DAYS

Lead by example We can all be catalysts for positive change in different ways. 16 WORLD’S OKAYEST MOM

ALSO INSIDE

& Baby 32 Out & About 31 Mom L I ST I NGS CA L E N DA R

Closing the door

Why is it so hard to say goodbye to the baby phase? 18 NANA & MAMA

Leisure time

About our cover kid Name: Isabel Age: 5 weeks old City: Cottage Grove

Even a little bit goes a long way. 20 #ADULTING

Going rural How two families carved out a simpler life outside of the city.

Parents: Olayemi and Oyeyemi Odujole

22 ASK THE OBGYN

Sibling: Noah, 3 years old

Expert tips for dealing with the weight of new worries.

Personality so far: Happy, bold, observant Favorite activity: Listening to music and playing with her brother Photos by Kari Layland Photography / kariphotography.com

You are not alone 24 IN THE KITCHEN

Sheet pan chicken This no-hassle meal is healthy, too! 34 FROM OUR READERS

Busy bees

These kids are staying busy while staying at home.

September/October 2020 • mnparent.com

DOWN SYNDROME ASSOCIATION OF MINNESOTA

EMPOWER. CONNECT. CE E RATE. DOWN

SYNDROME

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MINNESOTA

mnparent.com â&#x20AC;¢ September/October 2020

FROM THE EDITOR

So Many Firsts H mnparent.com

PUBLISHER Janis Hall • jhall@mnparent.com

SALES MANAGER AND CO-PUBLISHER Terry Gahan • tgahan@mnparent.com

EDITOR Jenny Stanley • mnparenteditor@mnparent.com

CONTRIBUTORS Megan Devine, Katie Dohman, Rachel Guyah, Shannon Keough, Jennifer Knapp, Laura Groenjes Mitchell, Mary Rose Remington, Maggie Sonnek, Jen Wittes

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Valerie Moe • vmoe@mnparent.com

ART DIRECTOR Dani Cunningham

CIRCULATION Marlo Johnson 612-436-4388 • distribution@mnparent.com

ADVERTISING 612-436-4360 • sales@mnparent.com 40,000 copies of Minnesota Parent are printed monthly, available at 1,100 locations: mnparent.com/racks Go to mnparent.com/subscribe to get this magazine mailed to your home for $18 a year.

Minnesota Parent (ISSN 0740 3437) is published monthly by Minnesota Premier Publications.

ow fitting that my first issue as editor of Minnesota Parent is the annual Baby Issue! Not because I’m a new mom — my one and only child is a teenager, so I’ve been in the game for a while now — but because, like this issue is for me, there are so many firsts for a baby. From the moment we hold our newborn in our arms, we anxiously await her first smile, her first step, her first sentence! And though she’s in for a lifetime of firsts, there’s something magical about that first year. So many amazing milestones in such a short amount of time! But as Dr. Byrne of Children’s Minnesota says in this issue’s feature on the topic (page 26), “One of the biggest misconceptions families have is that babies are supposed to hit these milestones within a very specific timeframe.” For first-time parents, milestones are especially difficult to ignore. It’s easy to get wrapped up in when your baby should start crawling, but the truth is — she may skip it all together! Flip to the article to learn some expert tips (and more busted myths) for helping your baby achieve her firsts at her own, unique pace. While babies are awe-inspiring, so are parents. We experience firsts, too, and that’s what makes Minnesota Parent so important. It’s reassuring to know that while you’re experiencing the first time asking for help during the postpartum period (page 10) or the first time working from home with a little one (page 12) or the first time showing your kids how to be a catalyst for positive change against social injustice (page 14), there are many other local parents who are experiencing those firsts right alongside you. As if parenting isn’t challenging enough, throw in all the things that have made the last six months unprecedented times, and it’s a whole new ballgame. Luckily, we have peers here to remind us that it’s OK — no, necessary — to make leisure time for yourself (page 18), and caring professionals to remind us to be mindful of our own mental health (page 22). I am beyond proud to be the new editor of this amazing publication, and I look forward to continuing to serve up helpful, inspirational content for busy moms and dads in the Twin Cities and beyond. So sit back and spend a few moments with the following pages to see how other Minnesota families are navigating parenthood with you.

POSTMASTER send address changes to: MINNESOTA PARENT, 1115 Hennepin Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55403. Minnesota Parent is copyright 2020 by Minnesota Premier Publications. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Address all material to address above.

September/October 2020 • mnparent.com

Jenny Stanley, Editor

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CHATTER

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September/October 2020 • mnparent.com

The Active Chair by Studico wobbles as your child wiggles, helping to not only keep his attention on schoolwork, but also strengthen his core and improve his posture

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A children’s book about losing a child Minnesota author Kao Kalia Yang knew Ghia Nah, the little girl that inspired her latest children’s book The Shared Room. Six-year-old Ghia and her family, Hmong American like Yang, attended the author’s readings. But a few summers ago, the family was devastated by the tragic drowning of their eldest daughter. Wanting to honor Ghia and her family, as well as help other kids undergoing the diﬃcult grieving process of losing a sibling, Yang composed this poignant story and enlisted local Hmong American artist Xee Reiter to illustrate it. One scene in The Shared Room, when Ghia Nah’s parents asked her younger brother if he wanted to move into her now-vacant room, is especially emotional. The boy who tried so hard to be strong broke down and wept, expressing the raw grief and struggle to move forward after the loss of his sister. This openhearted picture book captures the pain of a family dealing with the unexpected loss of a child, and the love

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Jen Wittes

BUMP, BIRTH AND BABY

40 ways to accept and offer support after birth

ne of the most significant acts of human bravery, aside from becoming a parent, is to ask for and accept help. As Americans, we seem to artificially value independence, competence and strength, often failing to realize that there is, indeed, strength in numbers. We are infinitely more competent when we are able to work together, when we are able to stay sane, well-rested and cared for. Of course, there is no time riper with the need for help than when you’ve just welcomed a new baby into your home. Here’s the thing. Nine times out of ten, “help” will come in the form of an offer to hold your baby. This can be great if you are desperate for a shower or a nap, but there are also other needs and tasks that will free up even more time for rest and hygiene. Besides, in 2020 and the era of COVID, holding the baby really takes on a different significance.

September/October 2020 • mnparent.com

Here’s the thing. Nine times out of ten, ‘help’ will come in the form of an offer to hold your baby. Here are 40 ways to ask for help or (for grandparents, friends and neighbors) to offer help during the postpartum period. 1. Walk the dog. 2. Make lunch. 3. Prepare and freeze meals. 4. Go grocery shopping. 5. Sanitize the breast pump. 6. Wash, fold and put away the laundry. 7. Be a sounding board. (Ahem — that means listen.) 8. Be a Google auditor — research, avoid sinkholes and provide the best info.

9. Schedule appointments. 10. Write thank you notes. 11. Exchange gifts and postpartum clothing. 12. Be the “middle of the night” point of contact — make a calendar of those willing to be on call. 13. Sew, wash or provide PPE for family visits to the doctor or store. 14. Bring laughter. 15. Hold space for tears and secrets. 16. Get the car washed. 17. Install the car seat. 18. Mow the lawn. 19. Bring ice cream. 20. Offer all your best resources (gently and without expectation) — pediatricians, doulas, postnatal yoga instructors, postpartum counselors, lactation consultants … 21. Sweep, dust and mop. 22. Organize snack and hydration

stations for the nursing mom. 23. Organize a Zoom coffee talk with Mom’s closest friends. 24. Be an energy vampire slayer and help the new family establish boundaries. 25. Give a foot rub. 26. Make some soothing tea. 27. Take lovely photos of the newly expanded family. 28. Give advice only when asked. 29. Figure out the dang baby wrap. 30. Organize the endless array of onesies by age. 31. Take out the trash. 32. Leave inspirational Post-It note “Easter eggs” for the new parents to find. 33. Clean the toilets. 34. Clean the litter box. 35. Tell Mom she looks beautiful. 36. Run a bubble bath. 37. If the family is in need, organize a donation. 38. Clean and organize the diaper station. Empty that nasty pail, too. 39. Entertain older siblings. 40. If the baby is fussy and you’re a world-class burping specialist, by all means … hold the baby. Maybe it’s not so easy to ask your fellow book club members for confidenceboosting Post-Its. However, you can and should ask for what you need. Your tribe loves you and are waiting to hear that you’re craving brownies, could use a trashy magazine distraction or that you might lose your mind if you have to look at your overgrown lawn for one more minute. With your basic needs met, your creature comforts in check and your feet propped up (as well they should be — you’re a new parent), you can do what you do best. Hold your baby. And enjoy it. Jen Wittes is a marketing director, writer, certified postpartum doula and mom of two living in St. Paul.

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mnparent.com • September/October 2020

Shannon Keough

THE UNCENSORED TODDLER

Working … with Toddlers

o you’re working at home — with toddlers! Congratulations. This probably means you’re not an “essential worker” (no offense; we are all essential), putting your life on the line for the sake of Old Glory. This probably also means you still have employment, which is huge in this COVID-altered world! In other words, you are among the lucky, the blessed, the (somewhat) financially secure. And if you’ve been working at home with your kids for any length of time, you are probably in some state of unraveling. If you’re having a tough time being “on” as a parent and an employee 24 hours a day, I feel your pain. As someone who has worked from home for a solid eight years — often with children at my side — I know how challenging it can be to get work done when your kids are always there. With many years of hard-won lessons behind me, I proudly present: Shannon’s tips and tricks for working at home with toddlers!

September/October 2020 • mnparent.com

Tip #1: Pool your resources If you’re parenting with a partner and you’re both working from home, implement a “divide and conquer” strategy. This might mean you work from 8:00 to noon while your partner watches the toddler; then you switch roles from noon to 4:00. You both finish your remaining work late at night or early in the morning. Then you

collapse for several hours, wake up and do it all over again. Or you could expand your circle and partner up with another family. (While being COVID-safe, of course!) One of my friends went with this arrangement for several months. Between two families they had four adults and three young children. Parent #1 would watch all three kids in one house on Monday, while the other three parents worked in a separate location, and so on and so forth for the rest of the week. Of course, your employer would need to sign off on this arrangement that would keep you out of commission for at least one day a week. But these are unusual times, so anything’s worth a try.

Tip #2: Impose structure So you’re working from home, and you’re on your own. Well, we all know kids thrive under structure, right? Devise your daily schedule — say, breakfast at 7:30, with work starting promptly at 8:00. Set your toddler up with some “work” of her

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If you’ve been working at home with your kids for any length of time, you are probably in some state of unraveling. own, Montessori-style. Something self-directed and engrossing, ideally. This will hopefully keep young ones busy for seven minutes or so. Consult your detailed schedule for next steps. Struggling to keep your child occupied during hours of back-to-back meetings? Remember, a change of scene can be good for toddlers. Consider moving your “office” to the backyard, or even better, the local playground. (Remember to bring your hand sanitizer!) I’ve had more than one client meeting while pacing around the perimeter of Bryant Square Park.

CHECKING

Tip #3: Hire some help So your toddler just chased you through the house screaming (while you were on an important call, of course), like the final scene in a pandemic horror film. Well, there’s always daycare, right? Oh wait, those are all full — or closed. Grandparents? Probably not safe. What’s a parent to do?

Tip #4: Employ the digital babysitter I know — screen time is bad. But you know what else is bad? Not having a steady source of income during a global pandemic! If there’s one thing this crisis has demonstrated — and oh how I wish it was only one thing — it’s that the rules are arbitrary. And if an Octonauts marathon is what makes it possible to meet a deadline, well so be it. Shannon Keough lives in St. Paul with her husband and two children. Send questions or comments to skeough@mnparent.com.

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mnparent.com • September/October 2020

Committed to do better I

t has been several months now since George Floyd was killed in Minneapolis. His traumatic death sparked a global uprising in many forms. George Floyd was a victim whose fate has shaken up our world. His death motivated so many to speak up and gather in solidarity against systemic racism and engage in conversation and action for positive change. I tuned into this tragedy from my own safe, protected little corner of the world in northeast Minnesota. On May 25, 2020, George Floyd, a 46-year-old Black man, was killed in Minneapolis, Minnesota, during an arrest for allegedly using a counterfeit bill. On May, 25, 2020, I, a 40-year-old white female, took a day trip paddle into Slim Lake in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area with my three boys. My reality was that when George Floyd’s family was navigating the reality of the terms of his death, and while buildings were being burned and businesses looted, I could just turn the TV off and distance myself from the constant replay of disturbing images in the news and take in a peaceful sunset on the dock of our family cabin on a lake. I know that where I was born, my gender and the color of my skin have contributed to my privilege and overall comfort and safety in life. Over the past few months, these realities, and others relating to my privilege as a white female, compounded by the explicit portrayal of the suffering and oppression of others in the wake of

September/October 2020 • mnparent.com

current events, have evoked within me mixed feelings of guilt, fear, compassion, frustration and empathy. My heart has been heavy. I have been committed to take action with steps rooted in empathy and love with a desire to promote equality, respect, opportunity, justice and peace.

Here by Austin Channing Brown. I have also been listening to podcasts including Unlocking Us with Brené Brown, Raising Good Humans and The Great Unlearn with Cal Callahan. I have had conversations with friends and extended family members

QUIET ACTIVISM

Activism is traditionally most often recognized in the form of protests and marches, but it does not always take that form. As an individual with a more introverted personality, marches and protests have not felt right for me. We all can be catalysts for positive change in a variety of different ways. Activism can be defined as “the policy or practice of doing things with decision and energy.” I have participated in quiet activism in the following ways: ⊲ Learning, unlearning and listening. I have recently listened to and highly recommend the audio books (which are both available in print form): How to Be an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi and I’m Still

MY LIFE MATTERS Check out more from this amazing photo series inspired by Bloomington photographer Cicely Ramirez’s own experience growing up biracial at cicelyramirez.com/f/bi-racial-project.

MORE RESOURCES: • apa.org/res/parent-resources • tolerance.org/topics/race-ethnicity • raceconscious.org • embracerace.org • theconsciouskid.org Photo by Kerry Witten Young

whose children have had to navigate through the trauma of racial oppression in my efforts to learn and grow. Simple actions like these are first steps to increase awareness and understanding. ⊲ Moving beyond awareness to action. You can read a book or view and share a post on Instagram or Facebook to increase awareness of an issue, but that is really a baseline. Moving beyond awareness to engagement and action is necessary for the betterment of society. We are certainly not going to solve big problems with social media rants or shares. Engage-

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ment and action take meaning when we apply what we’ve learned in a book or podcast by working to make changes to our habits and beliefs. Other examples include making a donation, volunteering and voting. I am also working to acknowledge and own my mistakes, while acting upon the courage and openness to continue to move forward (knowing that I will make more mistakes!). Brene Brown speaks to this in her July 1 Shame and Accountability podcast, when she notes that “accountability is a prerequisite for change” and illustrates the point with

several notable examples. ⊲ Parenting and teaching with intention. As a parent and educator, I know that I have a lot of children looking to me for direction and guidance. I am a quiet and powerful activist in my role as a parent and educator. I am working to be intentional in these roles, being mindful and thoughtful with my words, choices and actions daily. I have been researching and initiating developmentally appropriate conversations to help shape the minds of my own children and the children I teach. I recommend the book Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You by Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi for older kids (and their parents), which is a gripping, fast-paced (and much shorter) version of the young-adult version of Kendi’s Stamped from the Beginning. This book explains our country’s history of institutional racism and investigates how we identify and “stamp out” racist thoughts in our daily lives. A great teaching guide can be found here: tinyurl.com/stampedteachingguide. Here is a good resource for talking to kids about race age by age: tinyurl.com/ racismagebyage. ⊲ Living true to my values. When I chose the profession of an educator, I did not do so for the money or for the glory. I did so because I have values rooted in social justice, service to others, and because I have the capacity to love and care for children that are not my own. I am trying to approach my activism with the grounding ideal that every life matters, and until we have the equity that everyone deserves in terms of economic, political and social rights and opportunities, our work should be focused on those who are most oppressed. As a mother, educator and individual, I am committed to do better. Megan Devine is an elementary school teacher and mother of four. She lives in Northeastern Minnesota. Write her at mdevine@mnparent.com and check out her blog at kidsandeggs.com.

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Katie Dohman

WORLD’S OKAYEST MOM

And Yet I

was a holdout on babies. My own, that is. I found other people’s babies and kids downright delightful. At some point, without my knowledge or consent, my heretofore silent digital clock was replaced with one of those infernal mid-century flip clocks that began incessantly tick-tocking, counting down the perceived time I had left. When I woke on my 30th birthday, I had been formed into a likeness of Frankenstein’s monster, arms stiffly out, brain intoning, “Baby … baby … baby.” It was, frankly, very annoying to me how stereotypical it was. Two years passed. On a Thursday afternoon, I was suddenly face-to-face with my hard-won, seven-pound prize. Bang-zoom-heart-eyes: I was in love. There is such an immense amount of privilege I acknowledge in all of that. It makes me use cringey words like precious and sacred — because those are the words that should be reserved for such a responsibility. Two more babies followed my first, and there is a not-accidental reason I call them my three-ring circus. There are a million reasons why not to have another. For example: The unceasing nausea, the bedrest, the hip pain, the food aversions, the exhaustion, the headaches, the labor scares, the labor!, the recovery, the nap schedules, the worrying, the sibling rivalry, the turning of my body into baby furniture, the time, the money, the heartaches, the what-ifs, the graying hair and wrinkles, the weight gain, the lack of sleep (truly horrifying), the news headlines. And yet. I kept leaving the door propped just ever-so-slightly open, a shaft of light casting

September/October 2020 • mnparent.com

November 2012, before the birth of my first child, Ruby Susanne.

Just when you think you have something of a handle on this parenting gig, your children rudely move on to another stage. onto the floor underneath. Well, I’m not 40 yet. I haven’t gotten rid of all the gear yet. I have room in my heart yet. There’s yet an empty chair at the dinner table. Just when you think you have something of a handle on this parenting gig, your

children rudely move on to another stage. Changing diapers one-handed in the trunk of a car? No sweat. Tying a wrap to wear a baby? Championship medal. Breastfeeding at the drop of a hat in a public space? Please. My kids don’t need much, if any of that anymore. Still, switching out all the clothing sizes for the next bigger size in the drawers hits hard. I still do it, and I really hate it — and if I’m being totally honest, I cry every single time. I watch the baby videos and flick through the photos on my phone. I remember that exhausted, exhilarated, wild wonder. And though my children

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continue to lead me toward the new horizons of who they can be and accomplish and I’m no less besotted, there’s something about that new baby smell, teensy baby clothes, that first real smile … OK, I’m stopping myself right here. If I could go back and tell even my 28-year-old self all of this, she would grab me by the shoulders and pupil-to-pupil incredulously stare me down. But now that I’m here, I’m grieving this whole phase coming to close — one I didn’t expect to enjoy as much as I have, or expect to drag my feet to leave. I’m a little closer to those moments veteran moms promised me — that I’d be able to read a book in an afternoon again, or have a neater house — and yet somehow I’m fighting a feeling that I’m less useful, or young. Still, for all the right reasons, it’s time to close the door. And yet. Katie Dohman lives in West St. Paul with her three kids, two dogs, one cat and one husband. She loves them a lot, which is good, because she can’t remember the last time she slept a whole night through.

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mnparent.com • September/October 2020

Mary Rose and Laura NANA & MAMA

Make time for leisure NANA Although I work in healthcare, I was furloughed this summer, resulting in more leisure time than I have had since I started working at age 15. Over the past few months, I reveled in extra hours with the grandkids, and my garden finally received the attention it needed. Every day I had time for outdoor walks, knitting, reading, baking and crocheting rag rugs. Having leisure time was heavenly. When I did return to work and was catching up with my colleague, she stopped in the middle of our conversation, tipped her head to one side and proclaimed, “You look different ... more relaxed.” Having leisure time apparently showed on my face. There are countless others who have more leisure time due to the coronavirus pandemic. I read about one local man who filled his extra time by trying out 100 recipes in 100 days, baking things he had never baked before. Biscotti anyone? My eye doctor said he used his furlough to take a couple of master cooking classes online, and a good friend said she learned how to create colorful mandalas. And when I visit craft stores, I see young and old happily gathering items for their hobbies. Having leisure time is good for creative juices and for business! In her book, The Art of the Wasted Day, local author Patricia Hampl vividly recalls her childhood days lying under a tree watching the clouds go by, and she unapologetically explores the lost value of leisure and daydreaming. Hampl encourages us all to “waste some time to understand what makes life worth living.”

September/October 2020 • mnparent.com

I distinctly remember that when I was in the thick of raising three kids and working full time, I felt I was drowning in responsibilities. It was a constant race to chip away at my always growing to-do lists for work and home. At that same time, one of my closest friends invited me to join her book club. Although tempted, all I could think about was how busy I was, how tired I was and how I couldn’t possibly fit in one more thing. But in a moment of clarity, I challenged myself. “Really, Mary Rose? You honestly cannot carve out just three hours one night a month for yourself?” I was desperately craving fun, friendship and mental stimulation. So, crazy as it seemed — in the thick of the busiest time of my life — I added one more thing. Every third Tuesday evening of the month, I expended the energy to get there, and savored the feeling of driving home with an emotionally full bucket. I know the kids benefited from my decision, as I’d come home with a little extra to give and would lose my resentment. Nobody wants to be around a resentful mom. Three decades later our book club is still meeting, although virtually for now. We have formed lifelong friendships and we still love discussing the book of the month. I’m so glad I said “yes” to book club, and I encourage everyone to carve out a little leisure time of their own.

MAMA In February my wife and I were exhausted after an incredibly busy year and the day-today demands of managing our full-time jobs, two young kids, two dogs and a 100-plusyear-old house. We decided it was time to start carving out opportunities for ourselves — both individually and as a couple — to rest, care for ourselves and have fun. We created a game plan that included leveraging our network (family, friends, babysitters) to help us with the kids, getting creative with our schedules to maximize the time the kids were at daycare, and enjoying our weekends with friends at our parks, pools and playgrounds. Then COVID-19 hit and everything changed. Virtually all of the strategies and supports we had relied on were no longer possible or safe, as the kids were home full time and we had no contact with anyone outside of our house (except for my parents). We were grateful to still have our jobs, but the stress of trying to show up well at work while also keeping our kids alive and enriched was just too much. Our exhaustion led us to show up in less than ideal ways for each other, at work and for the kids. After about a month we decided the situation was neither sustainable nor fair, and that we needed to get even more creative and find new solutions given our new circumstances. After a lot of trial and error, we figured out several ways to carve out time. Some of these were specific to the circumstances, but I suspect others will carry through for years to come.

Evaluate your priorities: Before you go to bed tonight, what do you want to ensure happens? Do your priorities include items from your to-do list AND items for you, that will bring you joy or help you rest? What lower-priority items can be pushed back or moved around to ensure you get to what matters most to you? Accountability partner: Find a friend or family member who can help look out for you. A friend and I have both been focused on getting exercise, so we text at least once a week to see how we’re doing, provide encouragement and problem-solve or commiserate around challenges. Two birds: To the extent possible, find ways that you might be able to layer tasks. For example, ride your bike to a nearby park and go for a socially distanced walk with a friend (tons of physical activity AND social time). Need to clean out the garage? Instead of using precious nap time, set the kids up with something fun and messy (water, sand, dirt) while you keep working. Then when they nap, you nap (or rest, or do something fun). Be intentional: When in your day can you carve out time for yourself? Recently we’ve been more intentional with our couple hours of post-kid-bedtime time. Some nights we take time to do things independently (hobbies, etc.) and other nights we create little at-home dates for ourselves (even if it’s just having a beer together on the front porch). Make your lists and check them: In addition to my actual to-do list, I also have a list for fun and a list for rest/self-care. On each list are activities that take different amounts of time and pre-planning, from a one-minute focused breathing exercise to a full-day hike. It’s a constantly growing menu of options so I’m never at a loss for ideas. Mary Rose Remington, a Twin Cities-based baby boomer, is documenting her grandparenting experiences with her daughter, Laura Groenjes Mitchell, a millennial mother of two, who lives with her wife in Minneapolis.

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mnparent.com • September/October 2020

Maggie Sonnek

#ADULTING

The great slowdown F

or a handful of frigid, frosty days at the start of 2019, Hallie and Jon Olson traded in the crowded, twisty streets of their Linden Hills neighborhood for a week at Hallie’s parents’ cabin in Bayfield, Wisconsin. Hours to relax with their three kids and a chance to unplug from hustling schedules sounded intoxicating. And they were prepared to drink it in. But, something unexpected happened. Hallie and Jon, who have been married for 14 years and spent all of that time in big cities, were surprised to find that all five of them liked small-town living. “There was just something about that week that got us thinking that moving out of Minneapolis was possible,” 38-year-old Hallie says. “There just seemed to be more room to breathe. Life was simpler.” Hannah and Sven Hoaglund understand that simplicity. When they swapped their suburban La Crosse home for an off-thegrid cabin in the woods in 2016, Hannah had some doubts. Now, four years later, the 36-year-old can’t imagine returning to urban life. “Our neighbors were just feet away. We were packed in tight,” Sven, a Maple Grove native and independent sales rep for a handful of outdoor brands, recalls. Both of these families took a chance on change by trading in urban living for green space. Research suggests that now more than ever, because of the global pandemic and trend of working from home, more people are following suit — swapping traffic, crowds and sky-high rents for fresh air, chickens and gardens. “Jon had a pretty lousy commute that could take up to an hour. That, paired with long days in the office, never left us

September/October 2020 • mnparent.com

enough time,” Hallie says. “Jon started dabbling with the idea of working from home and his employer was receptive. Without that flexibility, we’d probably never have pursued a move.” With remote work a possibility (which, by the way, has grown by 173 percent since 2005, according to the Center on Rural Innovation), the Olsons pulled out a map, circled a few ideal parts of the state and combed through a list of houses online. One, about 15 miles southwest of Duluth, caught their eye. Nestled on five acres of land just steps away from Jay Cooke State Park, the custom-built home featured a stone fireplace and mudroom with built-in lockers. Hallie and Jon made an offer. “The house was perfect, but what we really loved was the land,” Hallie says, noting that her backyard in Minneapolis was no bigger than a laundry room. Even though Hallie still misses raspberry scones from Great Harvest Bread Company on Upton Avenue, this new life allows her to slow down a bit. She’s made a change in her career, too. Last fall, she enrolled in nursing school. “We feel so lucky to be where we are. The kids can spend hours outside,” she says, mentioning the dozen nibbling chickens and a rustic, homemade treehouse. “And, with COVID-19, we don’t feel as restricted in what we can and can’t do.” Mark Rembert, head of the Rural Innovation Network at the Center on Rural Innovation, says while it could be months before we know the pandemic’s impact on urban and rural areas, COVID-19 is fundamentally changing the appeal, necessity and feasibility of living in a big city. “We don’t know yet if an increase in

↑ Hallie and Jon Olson’s three kids, each holding their favorite chicken.

remote work will result in people leaving big cities,” Rembert says. “But, surveys have shown that many people who live in metro areas would actually prefer to live in rural spaces. Remote working could create opportunities for more people to make that move.” Hannah, mom of two, would agree. She sits by a bonfire, roasting a hot dog for her five-year-old son as her toddler chases a cluster of chickens. While living in the woods 40 miles south of Grand Marais, she’s managed to be present for her family and (with the help of a signal booster and satellite internet) grow a successful graphic design business. “Living in Cook County has normalized our passions for making a living doing what we love,” Sven says. “This community is made up of entrepreneurs and go-getters, all trying to carve out a life on their own terms.” Matt Dunne, founder and executive director at the Center on Rural Innovation, recently wrote about how COVID-19 is impacting the rural workforce. “Companies are realizing that innovation can happen wherever there’s broadband availability,” he wrote. “Workers are reassessing whether urban congestion trumps small-town scenery.”

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mnparent.com • September/October 2020

Jennifer Knapp

ASK THE OBGYN

Tuning in to your mental health

f you have been feeling sad or blue, you are not alone. If you have been feeling scared or frightened, you are not alone. If you have been experiencing a range of strong emotions, you are definitely not alone. Nearly half of Americans surveyed said the coronavirus crisis is negatively impacting their mental health, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. Anecdotally, many of our patients have mentioned undergoing a wealth of highs and lows, frustrations and increased stress in the wake of the global pandemic. With the uncertainty of what is to come, it is not surprising that many people today

September/October 2020 • mnparent.com

are experiencing depression, anxiety and stress. And for those who already suffer from these conditions, the weight of new worries can feel especially heavy. Your mental health impacts your physical and emotional well-being and can influence how you show up as a parent, friend, neighbor or colleague. If you are ever concerned about selfharm or are experiencing suicidal thoughts, please reach out to a trained provider or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Likewise, if stress or strong emotions are keeping you from sleeping or performing daily functions, please seek help from a healthcare professional.

Parents looking to find some extra release or to instill more healthy habits can consider the following tips for bolstering mental health during challenging times: • Make your mental health a priority. It can be hard to address your own needs, especially if you are juggling work and childcare, but it is nearly impossible to care for others when you are running on empty. Reserve time for yourself each day and focus on nutrition, exercise and sleep to help with depression or anxiety symptoms.

With the uncertainty of what is to come, it is not surprising that many people today are experiencing depression, anxiety and stress. • Social distancing does not have to equate to social isolation. Take a walk with a friend (or a “walk and talk” over the phone with a faraway friend) or take advantage of technology to connect with loved ones. • Maintain a routine. Many of our schedules are out of whack, but we can still develop and maintain comfortable routines, including

getting up and going to bed around the same time each day, enjoying healthy meals at regular times, exercising often and making time for favorite activities. Kids also respond positively to routines in most cases. • Minimize the scroll. It is wise to stay informed, but too much news and social media can be overwhelming even in the best of times. If you are tempted to look at your phone with every free second, consider allocating certain blocks of time for catching up on the latest news. • Cultivate an attitude of gratitude. Some days it is difficult, but if you can think of three things you are grateful for each morning or evening — things as simple as a hot cup of coffee, bright rays of sunshine and 20

extra minutes of sleep, for example — you can shift your mindset into a more positive frame. Include your kids in this activity to build up your family’s well of gratitude. There is a lot going on in the world right now, and it can be a lot to process. That’s why it is so important to realize that you are not alone. It’s likely you have friends or family experiencing the same emotions and concerns, so it can help to start by talking with them. Don’t be afraid to have deep, real conversations about what is going on in the world and with you personally. When you prioritize your mental health, it is easier to exercise the patience and perseverance you need as a parent. Jennifer Knapp is a nurse practitioner who sees patients at the Edina location of Clinic Sofia, a local OBGYN known for its personalized approach to women’s health care. Learn more at clinicsofia.com.

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mnparent.com • September/October 2020

Christina Sandok

IN THE KITCHEN

ONE-PAN WONDER

What’s for dinner? How about a trio of satisfying and nutritious ingredients that share a pan and a sweet-spicy sauce! Serve Honey Dijon Sheet Pan Chicken with a salad, and you’ve got a no-hassle, healthy meal any day of the week.

September/October 2020 • mnparent.com

HONEY DIJON SHEET PAN CHICKEN Servings: 4 to 5 Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 40 to 50 minutes

INGREDIENTS 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil ¼ cup honey ¼ cup balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary 1 tablespoon coarse ground Dijon mustard 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 pound baby potatoes, sliced in half 1 medium onion, chopped into large pieces 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs Big pinches of salt and black pepper

DIRECTIONS Heat oven to 400° F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with foil. Whisk together in a small bowl the olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, rosemary, mustard and garlic. Toss the potatoes and onions in a large bowl, with half of the honey-mustard sauce, and place on the baking sheet. Arrange the chicken amongst the potatoes and onions. Sprinkle each thigh with salt and pepper. Drizzle and rub the remaining sauce over each thigh. Roast for 40 to 50 minutes or until the potatoes soften and the internal temperature of the chicken registers 165° F. Christina Sandok is the owner of Prescribe Nutrition, which offers virtual health coaching and online nutrition programs. Learn more at prescribe-nutrition.com.

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September/October 2020 • mnparent.com

Busted! Three milestone myths #1: All babies should reach each milestone by X months (exactly).

“One of the biggest misconceptions families have is that babies are supposed to hit these milestones within a very specific timeframe,” said Dr. Razaan Byrne, a pediatrician at Children’s Minnesota. The truth is, babies are a lot like us: wonderfully diverse and unique. Every baby crawls, walks and talks at their own distinct pace — and that’s OK. While most milestones do have a general timeline, there’s plenty of wiggle room padded into these dates. Try to view them more as a range than a rigid setpoint.

#2: All babies should master milestones in the same, specific order.

Parents of multiples, or those who have children close in age, are often guilty of this misbelief. “We are going to naturally compare children because we’re human. But I often find myself reassuring parents,” said Dr. Byrne. While some babies skip crawling altogether and zoom right to walking, others are sophisticated chatterboxes who prefer to sit and play for months at a stretch. Sometimes older babies and toddlers prefer to master one dimension (ex. motor/physical milestones) before shifting gears to something else (ex. language/communication). “Toddlers love to feel competent in what they’re doing, so you might notice that a child will really focus on something, and repeat that something over and over again when they feel like they’re going to be able to do it well.”

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#3: If you don’t buy the ‘right’ toy or gear, Baby won’t reach her milestones. When it comes to toys and gear, it’s not about what you buy or play with — it’s how you play with it, said Dr. Byrne. And the best toy of all is something you already have: yourself! “I think the most important thing that parents can do is just engage with their child in whatever way that feels most natural, whatever feels most loving and exciting. That is what’s going to be the best thing for their development,” said Dr. Byrne. Pay attention to Baby’s blossoming personality, too. Whether she loves puppies, playing outside or ‘80s pop hits — you can actually lean into those interests to help motivate her toward those milestones.

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mnparent.com • September/October 2020

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Everyday tips for success Tackle tummy time like a pro.

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Don’t fret — this is a common concern with new parents. So why such fuss? One big reason is that it yanks them out of their comfort zone. “They can see a lot more when they’re on their backs and under11:11 AM stand where sounds are coming from, which gives them a sense of security,” said Dr. Byrne. Flip them onto their belly, and babies can feel like a fish out of water. It can be quite disorienting for them. Fortunately, there are a few ways you can help Baby enjoy tummy time more: 1. Put Baby on your chest. Tummy time doesn’t have to be on the floor! “One thing that parents can do is, actually, recline backward on a couch or in a chair, with Baby’s tummy on your tummy or your chest,” Dr. Byrne suggested. This works particularly well the first month or two, until Baby builds enough head and neck muscles to enjoy that position a little better. 2. Start with short, frequent bursts. Instead of setting the timer for a full five to 10 minutes, start with just a minute or two. You can sprinkle these mini-sessions throughout the day, then gradually increase the time as Baby gets more comfortable.

September/October 2020 • mnparent.com

Major milestones:

→ 2-4 months: Holds head up without support → 2-4 months: Pushes up to elbows from tummy → 2-4 months: Grabs and bats at toys → 4-6 months: Rolls over (both directions) → 6-9 months: Sits upright without support → 9 months: Crawls, creeps and/or scoots → 9 months: Stands while holding onto something → 9-12 months: Cruising (walks while holding onto furniture) → 12 months: Stands up by himself → 12-18 months: Walks all by himself!

3. Make sure Baby is dry, fed and well-rested. A baby whose tummy is too hungry — or too full — is likely to rebel. Likewise, a tired baby will probably buck at the idea of belly time. Try to find that sweet spot where Baby is happy, rested and in between feeds (easier said than done, but it’s possible!). 4. Get on the floor with them. Reassure Baby by getting down on the floor with them and cheering them on. Scatter a few sensory-rich toys close by to capture their interest.

Turn your house into a safe haven for exploration. Babies need a lot of space to freely discover their environment and practice their skills. You can satisfy their hearty appetite for exploration by transforming your home into a safe and inviting place to play. Travel souvenirs, family heirlooms, fragile art — it can be hard to banish these items to the basement, but take heart: You’ll be able to dust them off soon enough, once Baby is older.

Leave plenty of time for free play. We live in a busy, fast-paced world. Our weeks are often crammed with commutes, cooking/cleaning, errands and social engagements. But a booked schedule can mean too much time in the car seat, carrier or stroller. Babies need plenty of free time on the floor in order to practice their skills and build those motor muscles. To help Baby crawl, cruise and walk, consider scaling back your schedule to allow ample time to practice those motor skills while playing at home together.

Dress (Baby) for success. There’s no denying it: babies in itty-bitty jeans and cargo pants are totally cute — but the stiff fabric can hinder their movements. Babies need to be able to bend, twist and stretch their bodies as they explore and wiggle their way toward these milestones. To maximize their comfort and mobility: • Stock up on soft, stretchy pants, shorts and leggings • Look for elastic waistbands, which are more forgiving and comfortable for their (adorably!) plump figures • Avoid long, flowy skirts and dresses (for now) • Keep a steady rotation of onesies, which won’t bunch up like shirts do

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mnparent.com • September/October 2020

Cognitive & communication development:

Everyday Tips for Success Read early and often

Building a daily love and habit of reading can have a lasting impact on Baby’s language, literacy and early reading skills. In fact, studies have shown that reading early, reading often and reading age-appropriate books can boost a child’s vocabulary and reading skills up to four years later (!). “When we’re reading a book (versus talking directly to a child), the language is usually more complex and more dynamic than everyday conversations,” noted Dr. Byrne. “This exposure to more complex language actually helps their brain to develop in a more comprehensive way.” By reading stories, you open Baby’s eyes and brain to a rich range of words, pictures, emotions and concepts. While some parents feel silly reading to a newborn, the truth is it’s never too early to build Baby’s love and excitement for reading — and to prep her brain for language and literacy. Set Baby up for success with these easy reading tips: Stock books in multiple (visible!) areas. A spare moment to read can strike at any time! Be prepared by keeping books in several areas of the house — living room, bathroom, family room, etc. — as well as the car and diaper bag. Display the books in a way that’s easy to see and access.

Major milestones

→ 2 months: Begins to smile at people → 2 months: Coos and makes gurgling sounds → 4 months: Begins to babble → 4 months: Laughs out loud → 6 months: Strings vowel sounds together (“ahhh,” “ooooh”) → 6 months: Starts to say consonant sounds (“mmm,” “bbbbb”) → 6-9 months: Combines vowels and consonants (“da-da-da-da”)

The sheer number of words a baby hears can influence future vocabulary growth — but those spoken words don’t have to come just from books read aloud. Hearing you talk and tell your own stories can also have a powerful impact on their language and communication skills later on. Feeling silly, stuck or shy? Here are some ways to get your mouth moving: • Talk about what you’re currently doing (changing diaper, taking bath)

→ 12 months: Responds to simple requests (“Give me the book”)

• Sing your favorite songs (doesn’t have to be lullabies!)

→ 12 months: Says a few simple words like “mama,” “dada” or “uh-oh”

• Tell stories about your childhood, favorite vacations, etc.

→ 12-18 months: Points to show what he wants or is curious about → 12-18 months: Says a number of short, simple words (“truck,” “ball”) → 18-24 months: Begins to run and kick/throw balls

Remember: Any book is a good book. While it’s true that some books are better tailored to certain ages, your baby will benefit from many types of writing and stories, said Dr. Byrne. Feel free to read the daily news, your favorite novel or the latest issue from your magazine subscription. It’s OK if you don’t finish the story. Babies’ attention spans are (very!)

Whenever possible (especially at home), keep Baby barefoot. This will help with her balance and coordination. Another reason to skip shoes: They muffle the sensory messages that need to travel from her foot to her brain. (Fun fact: The human foot has more than 7,000 nerve endings!) Shoes can also be clunky, making Baby more prone to trips and falls.

September/October 2020 • mnparent.com

Talk and sing to Baby (a lot!)

→ 9-12 months: Copies and uses simple gestures and sounds (clapping, waving, nodding head)

PRO TIP: Skip the shoes!

short. If she loses interest or crawls away mid-story, don’t stress. She still soaked up plenty of benefits from the pages you read.

• Walk around the house/yard, pointing and talking about what you see

Have ‘conversations’ with him Babies “talk” to us, long before their first word. They’re a noisy little bunch known to coo, gurgle and babble away. You can encourage these pre-speech sounds by cheering them on, “responding” to them (even if you don’t understand), and elaborating by describing what they may be thinking about. (For example, if you’re feeding Baby and he says “bah,” you could say “Yes! This is a bo-ttle” in a slow, clear manner.) In fact, there’s a special term for this type of slow, simple and animated type of speech: parentese. And studies have shown that regularly conversing with Baby in this “parentese” style leads to more vocalizations and spoken words in their toddler years. Rachel Guyah is a Bloomington-based writer and mother to an adorably dimpled, gaptoothed Energizer bunny (cleverly disguised as a toddler). See her website at rachelguyah.com.

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Growing With Music connects daycares and families with qualified music teachers who will provide a high quality music exploration experience. In the accepting environment of a Growing With Music class, children participate in singing, movement and instrumental activities and learn self awareness, develop school readiness skills and creativity. info@growingwithmusic.com Minneapolis • 763-540-0271 growingwithmusic.com

Kinderberry Hill

Highest quality care and early education with a heartfelt dedication to nurturing intelligence. Our premier programs feature experienced educators, an onsite school nurse, a commitment to health/nutrition and a Reggio inspired, child-led curriculum fully preparing children for kindergarten and beyond. FT and PT, infants–pre-K. Multiple locations kinderberryhill.com

Mis Amigos Spanish Immersion

"Giving Children The World." Serving ages 6 weeks–5 years. Half-day and full-day options available. Native Spanish speaking teachers. Call or email to schedule a tour today! Parent Aware Highest Rating–4 stars. NAEYC-accredited. Hopkins • 952-935-5588 St. Paul • 651-728-3261 misamigospreschool.com

Are you looking for childcare? Parent Aware offers free tools and resources to help families find the quality childcare and early education programs their children need to succeed in school and life. Online search, chat, or call. 1-888-291-9811 parentaware.org

Dentists

Dentistry for Children & Adolescents

When should my child first see a pediatric dentist? The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends shortly after the first tooth erupts, and no later than the child’s first birthday. Our dentists are committed to providing your child with the highest standard of care from birth to age 19! Edina • 952-831-4400 Burnsville • 952-435-4102 Minnetonka • 952-932-0920 childrensdent.com

Education

Health Care

Pregnancy & Postpartum Support MN/ PSI-Minnesota

Mental health and perinatal practitioners, service organizations, and volunteers who provide support, advocacy, awareness, and training about perinatal mental health in Minnesota. Contact Pregnancy Postpartum Support MN’s Helpline if you or someone you care about is struggling as a new parent. Multiple locations • 612-787-7776 ppsupportmn.org

Photography Tracy Walsh Photography

Maternity, children, senior, family and business portraits. Maple Grove tracy@tracywalshphoto.com tracywalshphoto.com

Resources

La Leche League of Minnesota and the Dakotas

La Leche League Leaders are trained and accredited to help parents with all aspects of breastfeeding. They are available by phone and email whenever you have breastfeeding questions. Calling or emailing a Leader is free, as is attending a virtual meeting. 612-922-4996 lllofmndas.org

Partners (in)fertility

The French Académie

Our innovative approach combines inspiration from Montessori education and Reggio Emilia with the French Ecole Maternelle into a comprehensive early childhood curriculum. At The French Académie, bilingual learning is just the beginning. Ages 16 months- Kindergarten. Schedule your visit today! Minnetonka • 952-944-1930 thefrenchacademie.org

Mental health counseling and acupuncture specializing in the trauma of infertility and its treatment, pregnancy loss, and assisted reproduction including IVF, inseminations, donor eggs, donor sperm, donor embryos, and gestational surrogacy. We can help you make decisions about family building. Minneapolis • 612-324-1207 partnersinfertility.net

Creative Learning Begins Here!

Ages 16 months-Kindergarten Schedule Your Visit Today!

12301 Whitewater Drive Suite 190 Minnetonka, MN 55343 www.TheFrenchAcademie.org (952) 944-1930 French Academie MNP 0920 H6.indd 1

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Out & About SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER mnparent.com/calendar

When: Sept. 20 Where: The Landmark Center website Cost: FREE Info: landmarkcenter.org

OCT. 3

Fall Colors Hike ⊲ Hike prairie, woods and wetlands with naturalist Jeff Boland to look for the signs of autumn. Using your senses as a guide, learn to identify trees and make art from leaves. When: 10-11 a.m. Oct. 3 Where: Dodge Nature Center, West St. Paul Cost: $8, free for children 2 and under Info: dodgenaturecenter.org/activities

OCT. 9-11

Spark Exhibit Opening Weekend ⊲ The Bakken Museum has combined three smaller exhibit spaces to create one major experience focused on the cycle of inspiration and innovation.

Apple Festival ⊲ Come for a corn maze, train rides, live music, hayrides, a playground, a petting farm and more. When: Sept. 26-27, Oct. 3-4, Oct. 10-11 Where: Afton Apple Orchard, Hastings Cost: General admission $5 for ages 5 and older, $4 for ages 4 and younger; additional charges for corn maze and other attractions Info: aftonapple.com/apples.html

ONGOING

American Swedish Institute ⊲ The museum reopened to the public Sept. 11 with requirements for face coverings and advanced registration. When: Ongoing Where: American Swedish Institute, Minneapolis Cost: $12 adults, $8 ages 62+, $6 ages 6-18 and full-time students, FREE for children under age 6 Info: asimn.org

THROUGH OCT. 4

Ancient Caves

⊲ Explore the geology and climate of

September/October 2020 • mnparent.com

caves in this first IMAX movie since the Science Museum’s reopening. The theater has reduced capacity and assigned seating. When: Fridays-Sundays through Oct. 4 Where: Science Museum of Minnesota, St. Paul Cost: $3-$9.95 Info: smm.org

SEPT. 20

Mid-Autumn Moon Festival ⊲ Enjoy lion dancers, traditional dress, cooking demonstrations (with recipes), craft instructions and more through the Landmark Center website and social media pages.

When: Oct. 9-11 Where: Bakken Museum, Minneapolis Cost: $5 Info: thebakken.org

OCT. 17

Wargo Fall Festival ⊲ Families will drink cider, play pioneer games, and enjoy self-guided nature activities. When: 2-4 p.m. Oct. 17 Where: Wargo Nature Center, Lino Lakes Cost: FREE Info: tinyurl.com/wargonc

OCT. 25

Great Pumpkin Halloween Celebration ⊲ This beloved annual event will take place on-site, with reserved, timed entry and safe-distanced experiences for kids of all ages. Reservations open Oct. 1. When: Oct. 25 Where: Landmark Center, St. Paul Cost: FREE Info: landmarkcenter.org

CHILDCARE/EDUCATION

MISCELLANEOUS These last months have been incredibly stressful for all; please let us help you rise above the stress to create the marriage of your dreams! Register for the September 19th

Engaged Encounter (marriage prep) or

October 24th & 25th

Bring Growing With Music to your child care program or playgroup!

www.growingwithmusic.com ~ info@growingwithmusic.com Learning Center & Day Care Growing With Music MNP 0119 3cx2.2.indd 1

Marriage Encounter at www.marriages.org

Mention this ad and get $50 off your registration fee. For more information or to register please visit:

www.marriages.org OR CALL 651.454.3238

PARTY PAGES 12/13/18 12:01 MN Marriage PM Encounter MNP 0920 2cx2.2.indd

| 6 Wks - School Age

Family Owned, Family Run Since 1985

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mnparent.com

952-888-8052

rainbowmontessorimn.com

8736 Nicollet Ave S, Bloomington PRE K–8TH GRADE

Your child is a natural...

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Playing

12/4/18 4:23 PM

Singing

Ages 3–Adult

Composing

Free Preview Classes

651-487-8272

CHILDREN’S YAMAHA MUSIC SCHOOLComo Zoo MNP 0320 1cx2.2.indd 2/18/20 1 Celebrating Over 40 Musical Years in Minnesota!

FIND MORE PARTY RESOURCES ONLINE 11:15 Party AM Resources MNP 2013 2cx2.2 filler.indd 1

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www.childrensyamaha.com • 612-339-2255 Schools in Edina & Roseville

Children's Preschool Yamaha MNP 0615 with2cx2.2.indd childcare1

5/15/15 10:45 AM for Infants and Toddlers available at all locations

Call 952-935-5588 and schedule a tour! misamigospreschool.com

Locations in Hopkins, Golden Valley, and St. Paul PLACE AN AD: 612-825-9205 10/9/19

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FROM OUR READERS

Keeping busy

These creative kids know how to make the most of staying home! Find more ideas for how to keep the kids engaged (without screens) at mnparent.com!

↑ Rosie, 8, of Minneapolis

↑ Itisha, 5, of Eden Prairie

↑ Seth, 7, of Apple Valley

↑ Caleb, 5, of Rosemount

↑ Arya, 5, of Eagan

Want to see your kid on this page? Send photos with your child’s first name, age and city to mnparenteditor@mnparent.com.

September/October 2020 • mnparent.com