Ann Arbor Family March 2016

FREE MARCH 2016

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Foolish Families take over Ann Arbor

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Ann Arbor Virtual+

O lo ver ve 10 M 0 ar re ch a s in on si s de to !

p10 Find the best options in our area in the Childhood Education Guide

FoolMoon and FestiFools

Changing the way children learn

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• March 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com

Volume 21 • Issue 03 March 2016

[special features] Your child’s first steps Find the best options in our area in the Childcare and Preschool Guide

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FestiFools

On the cover

Celebrating ten years of foolish spontaneity

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Otto, 2, Ann Arbor

PHOTO CREDIT: Lesley Mason Lesley Mason Photography

Online March

[departments]

Pioneer Student does it all

ann arbor favorites 4 what’s briefly happening 6 new kids on the block 7 tweens 9 ask the expert 16

Beatriz Esquivel on how she balances work, school, sports and taking care of her younger brothers.

Making magic at Mott

Ann Arbor-based start-up SpellBound has created a new app that turns books into pop-up adventures at Mott Children’s Hospital.

2016 Education Guide

Our annual list of Ann Arbor’s finest schools for kids big and small.

healthy kids 17 exceptional families 18 parent profile 19 calendar 22

compiled by Marisa Rubin & Zach Marburger

marketplace 23

[commentary] breaking dad

20

Pre-k Education

A new emphasis on kids

JR’s Hometown Grill & Pub

Quality Steaks and more

Winter isn’t over yet. Our Golden Rules for Staying Healthy features tips from experts in healthcare, haircare,

and more!

FIND LIKE AND FOL LOW US

Blogs by local moms, for local moms, are at your fingertips. Relatable and hilarious reads online.

facebook.com/annarborfamily pinterest.com/annarborfamily twitter.com/annarborfamily

annarborfamily.com

by Jeremy Rosenberg

food fight

[Always online]

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Join us and our 600+ followers for laughs, updates & parenting discussions.

Planning the best summer EVER starts off with sending kids to the right summer camp!

Tell Ann Arbor parents about your program in April’s Summer Camp Guide.

RESERVE YOUR AD SPACE TODAY! deadline: march 15 CALL 419.244.9859

by Katy M. Clark

www.annarborfamily.com • March 2016 •

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ARIES

An inside look at what we’re loving for parents this month

KIDS HOROSCOPE March 21April 19

By Sue Lovett

Tranquil Teddy

Exclusively available only at My Urban Toddler, the Tranquil Teddy is the first in the “Calm Down Production” series from Peas and Carrots. The Teddy is designed to calm children down from a tantrum, or help them get to sleep, using a light and glitter ball. $35.99. myurbantoddler.com

Gymbo’s Play and Pretend Favorites CD

Since 1984, Parachute Express has been entertaining kids and parents alike with award-winning, often humorous, songs. Now Gymboree has curated a list of their favorite songs on their Gymbo’s Play and Pretend Favorites CD. Kids will learn to dance, sing and have fun! $16. gymboree.com

Little Colorado Log Cabin For children aged 2-6, the Little Colorado Log Cabin Play House has curtains and a roof, a shelf, and a lunch counter - perfect for every child’s imagination.

The wood surfaces can even be painted! For indoor use only.

The Play House is manufactured and assembled in the Elephant Ears facility. $369.95

As soon as they are big enough, get them a toy fire engine to ride and the appropriate costume and hat. They love noise, are impatient, and always want to be first in everything they do. They have trouble sitting still, even lying still in their cribs and playpens. They recognize the color red and are not frightened by loud noises. They want to be FIRST in line at the store, in school, even getting to the table for meals. They have a bit of a temper, but seldom hold a grudge. If you ask them a question you can depend on them to give you a quick honest answer.

In day care or pre-school they adjust easily but may become impatient with the other children who are not as fast as they are! Patience is not one of their virtues, but they can learn it when given examples. They definitely are leaders and thrive on responsibility. Give them specific assignments and they will never disappoint you.

Adams Street Publishing Co. What was your favorite part of early childhood?

Publisher/Editor in Chief

Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledocitypaper.com) coloring

Co-publisher/Chief Financial Officer Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@toledocitypaper.com) visiting my grandparents

Editorial

Assignment Editor: Zach Marburger (annarboreditor@adamsstreetpublishing.com) not cooking Calendar Editor: Marisa Rubin (mrubin@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Puffy painted sweaters Contributing Writers: Katy M. Clark, Jeremy Rosenberg, Malia Jacobson, Jamie Lober, Erica Wood, Jennifer Brough, Donna Iadipaolo, Sue Lovett, Catherine Bohr

Digital Media

Saul Jacobs (saul@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Making preschool teachers cry

Art/Production Production Manager: Imani Latief (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) art Senior Designer: Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) growing up in a print shop Graphic Designer: Ashley Crapsey (acrapsey@adamsstreetpublishing.com) the playground

Advertising Sales Coordinator Jenny Leach (sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com) camping and fishing Sales Representative Lauren Koski (lkoski@adamsstreetpublishing.com) a day at the Hands-On Museum with dad Zack Mintzias (zack@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Family Road Trips Catherine Bohr (a2sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Nap time

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Cassie Haddad (cassie@adamsstreetpublishing.com) cooking school

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Accounting: Robin Armstrong (rarmstrong@toledocitypaper.com) Playing outside till the streetlights came on

Advertising/General Info: For advertising

and general information, call (734) 668-4044 or fax (734) 668-0555. E-mail ads to adsin@annarborfamily.com Ann Arbor Family subscriptions are available by mail for $28/quarterly or $75 per year at Ann Arbor Family, 3003 Washtenaw, Suite 3, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104.

Letters to the editor must be limited to 300 words, are subject to editing and should include the writer’s full name and phone number.

Entire contents © 2016 by Adams Street Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher.

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• March 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com

nth o M hene Bohr t f o Craftby Catheri

New Column!

Monster Mittens

April Giveaway

The countdown for the April giveaway begins now! This month enter for a chance to win this comfortable pillow, perfect for toddlers and young children, courtesy of Ann Arbor Family!

Just send us a photo of your family outing for a chance to be featured in our “Community Snapshots” section, and a chance to win our giveaway!

Mitten instructions Linda Gardner at Craftaholics Anonymous®

Turn glove inside out.

Sew a U shape from the top or bottom of thumb hole, depending on if you want a 4 or 5 fingered monster, to the other side of the glove leaving a hole at the top for flipping and stuffing.

We have all been victimized by the glove gremlins that sneak into our hall closets and kids lockers when we least suspect Turn the glove right side out them. We often save the lone tucking the cuff in the hole. garment either (a) hoping the other will turn up eventually or Stuff with batting or filling. (b) to be mismatched with anoth Hand stitch hole closed. er hand cover missing its partner. Eventually, when we realize Cut facial features out of felt and the mysteriously missing glove sew on or use buttons as eyes (if will not be turning up, we throw children are of appropriate age to away the lone ranger. Well, not avoid choking hazard). to fear, we have found a craft for you and your beginner sewer to utilize the single glove in an ever-so-cute fashion — the Glove Monster, courtesy of blogger Linda Gardner at Craftaholics Anonymous®.

Each monster takes on a unique persona depending on the style of glove and the faces you create for them. These little guys will not only give you and your child some quality time together, but your child is also left with a huggable little friend of which they can say, “I made this!”

Supplies: Gloves

Batting/filling Sewing machine or needle and thread

perfect for infants, toddlers and young children

The most comfortable place for babies and infants isn’t a pillow, it’s a pello! Perfect for the 30 minutes of recommended tummy time for babies, the pello features a soft center with raised edges, so babies feel cuddled, and is machine washable.

For more information, visit mypello.com.

Buttons and felt or other embellishments

Check out other great kid crafts

To enter, send your snapshot to annarboreditor@annarborfamily.com, then visit annarbor.com and click to enter our giveaway, through March 31!

online at annarborfamily.com

www.annarborfamily.com • March 2016 •

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Compiled by Rose Carver

Space for Kids

Homework help Kids of all ages need support with their schoolwork, whether it comes in the form of one-on-one tutoring, group work, or just a quiet place to concentrate. Circle K Homework Help at the Ann Arbor District Library makes connecting your child with the resources they need easy. Students K-12 can come get help from University of Michigan Chapter K volunteers. No appointment is necessary, just drop by! Runs all month.

4-8pm/Mondays and Wednesdays, 3-5pm/Sundays. Ann Arbor District Library Downtown, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4200. aadl.org FREE

An entirely original musical conceived, written, and brought to life by the Thurston Community Players, I Need Some Space is a brand new production about the mystery of the universe. Stars, Pluto, even aliens may be explored in this oneof-a-kind musical comedy. The Thurston Community Players started as a group of Thurston Elementary School parents with an itch to create musicals. Now, the group of volunteers puts on performances that feature over 100 actors including parents, teachers, and Thurston students, ranging from age five to over 70. This is truly a community-created experience!

7:30pm/Thursday, March 17 and Friday, March 18. 7pm/Saturday, March 19. $10/general admission, $5/age 3-grade 12.

Clague Middle School Auditorium, 2616 Nixon Rd. thurstonplayers.org

Music of Disney From Aladdin to The Lion King, from Sleeping Beauty to Frozen, Disney’s original songs have touched multiple generations. Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra’s “Magical Music of Disney” night will bring those songs to life. The entire family will enjoy songs from the classics, as well as newer works from recent Disney films. In addition to the performance, projections of the animations will delight and enchant kids that may not otherwise be interested in the music. Kids (and adults) are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite character. Pre-concert activities start at 2:30pm; kids can meet members of the orchestra, try out instruments, and participate in craft activities.

4pm. Sunday, March 13. $10/adult, $8/child. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-994-4801. a2so.com

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• March 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com

You might be gearing up for spring cleaning, but what are you going to do with all that empty space on the mantle?

The Saline Craft Spring Show can fulfill your knick-knack and decorative — as well as artistic — needs. Crafters from over 15 states and 100 Michigan cities will be on hand to display their wares for sale. Seasonal items will be on sale, as will glasswork, pottery, jewelry, paintings, and much more. There will be plenty of crafts for kids, and kids activities to keep the little ones entertained. All proceeds from the craft show go supporting Saline high school programs, clubs and various community-based youth programs.

8am-3:30pm. Saturday, March 12. $4. Saline Middle School, 7190 N. Maple Rd., Saline. 734-429-5922. salineshows.com

Southeast Michigan on the move

Registration is now open for the 2016 Spring Season of Girls on the Run of Southeastern Michigan, a nonprofit organization dedicated to nurturing the physical, emotional, and spiritual health of girls and young women.

The organization partners with many Ann Arbor-based schools through two separate ten-week programs - one for grades 3-5, the other for grades 6-8. Each girl will receive a t-shirt, 20 lessons from instructors, a water bottle, a “Grown-Up Guide” for families, and each participant will automatically be entered in the 5K in May. Girls will also receive a medal following the 5K. To check and see if your school participates, or to register, visit girlsontherunsemi.org.

Hoppers and Climbers

Adventure lovers with kids that are just itching to stay active have a way to start climbing despite the bad weather and a conspicuous absence of mountains in Ann Arbor. The indoor rock climbing studio , located at 82 Aprill Dr., has two programs for kids — the ABC program, which teaches kids age 4-6 the basics of safety and rock climbing technique, and Rock Hoppers, which allows kids age 6-10 to build confidence and endurance while further exploring the rock wall.

Parents get a few perks too; free belay lessons, and free climbing time during classes. The spring session runs from March 7 to May 28.

The Scrap Box needs your help Anyone that’s ever stepped foot in The Scrap Box, the nonprofit recycling program dedicated to taking the scraps from businesses across Michigan and to be repurposed by creative kids, has seen how much material lies in their 9,000-square-foot warehouse. How do they get it all? By using a van to drive across the state and collect donations. Now, The Scrap Box needs Ann Arbor’s help. Their van has gone to be recylcled, and they are currently raising funds to buy another van (2012-2014 model).

Perks are available for donation packages, ranging from a $10 donation, which nets handdesigned heart shaped mementos, to $2,000, which gets your name on the new van! Donations can be made through Paypal, Indiegogo, and at scrapbox.org.

Providing centerbased ABA therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy to children aged 18 months to 10 years old.

Intensive, communication based ABA programs created and supervised by dually-certified behavioral analyst/speech-language pathologists

Morning, afternoon and evening sessions available.

Contact us to tour our facility, meet our team or inquire about insurance coverage

(734) 769-0505 www.a2spectrumtherapy.com 1955 Pauline Blvd | Suites 100C & 400 | Ann Arbor, MI 48103

www.annarborfamily.com • March 2016 •

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FoolMoon and FestiFools Celebrating ten years of foolish spontaneity

For a decade, puppets, luminaries, paper mâché and costumes have stimulated creativity during WondFool events.

By Jennifer Brough

Presented by WonderFool’s, FoolMoon and FestiFools are a chance to celebrate the end of winter, and yes, do some very foolish things. In flash mob style, these two events bring out the best in the community for brief moments during the first weekend in April. “Whether you make a luminary, build a puppet or just dress in the weird way you’ve always wanted, we’ll welcome you to the events,” says Shary Brown, WonderFool’s President.

Shary Brown, WonderFool’s President

If you see a giant papier mâché puppet marching down Main St. or a luminary parade making its way along downtown streets towards music, a laser light show, a shadow puppet show, and more performance art, you know you’ve stumbled into some of these WonderFool events.

Puppets, clown heads, and hot dogs Decorated from floor to ceiling with giant papier mâché dinosaur puppets, horse heads, clown heads, and even hot dogs and musical instruments, there’s no mistaking the WonderFool Productions studio. The team shares the home of the UM Art in Public Spaces LSA Lloyd Hall Scholars Program (LHSP).

Led by Artistic Director Mark Tucker —who also founded Festifools ten years ago— students and community members let their imagination fly to create giant FestiFool puppets (up to 14-feet high).

“We encourage them to work large, but with the luminaries for FoolMoon, we want them to work small to conserve puppet studio space,” said Tucker.

“That doesn’t often work and their luminaries seem to get out of hand exponentially.”

That all seems part and parcel of FoolMoon and FestiFools. Brown likes to think of the festivals just growing organically. “Planned spontaneity” comes to 8

mind as she notes, “These events wouldn’t be the same if everybody just stuck to a prescribed formula. Of course, there’s a lot of invisible planning, that’s a must to mount any event, but these two events are meant to be foolish fun where imagination and creativity run wild.”

Imagination and creativity aren’t restricted to the students. “The puppets and luminaries produced by the community in past years, have been spectacular. Some are from professional artists, but like the non-art majors of LHSP, some of the best creativity also comes from individuals and families in the community,” said Brown.

Don’t just see it, be it The themes for this year’s festivals are “Rev-Fool-ution” for FestiFools and “Metamor-Fool-sis” for FoolMoon.

WonderFool’s mantra this year is, “Don’t just see it, be it.” “ Wo n d e r F o o l Productions is all about the community and the way it can coalesce to make these performance events happen,” said Tucker.

Brown adds, “We want to put the call out for artists and non-artists alike to join in the foolish fun again this year.

Make a puppet or a luminary, volunteer to carry one of our Adriana Zardus, Board vintage puppets on our Secretary for WonderFools ten-year anniversary.

We also want to encourage spectators to take on a foolish mantle – wear your most foolish of clothes for FestiFools, in particular.”

“Being a student at LHSP has been brilliant. It’s been my home for two years and has given me a real sense of community,” says Adriana Zardus, a business major and Board Secretary for WonderFools. “That’s what was so fantastic about my semester working with Mark (Tucker) on the FestiFool puppets. I became involved in the bigger Ann Arbor community.”

• March 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com

Expect the unexpected Zardus adds that things don’t always go according to plan. One of her FestiFool puppets, modeled after a 1930s flapper girl, went a little crazy during the parade.

“She was tall, and although I could make her dance quite well, her head kept swiveling around and at one point, one of her arms fell off,” said Adriana. “A young girl from the audience ran out and retrieved the arm though.

To me, that added to the spontaneity of the event, where community comes together to make something happen.”

“That’s the beauty of these events; there’s no age boundary. We have everyone from the much older to the very young participate. For many years, the Ann Arbor District Library and 826michigan has held robot workshops for youngsters. They make robot puppets from cardboard boxes. One year, a little robot got so tired at the parade, he just curled up underneath his box and went to sleep,” said Brown.

Tucker gets uncharacteristically serious about making the puppets. “Some of my students and people out in the community have never worked in 3D before, so understanding the process and the materials is important to avoid problems. We’ve sadly had puppets fall apart in the rain, so we make recommendations to help things hold together properly. It’s also good to have a lot of space to make a 14-foot by six-foot puppet! A dining room table is not normally big enough.”

While the festivals are now in their tenth year, WonderFool Productions officially organized as a non-profit in 2013, and they’ve got big plans. “We are just at the tip of the iceberg in what we can do creatively,” said Tucker.

Adds Brown, “While still keeping our home base of Ann Arbor, we think we’ve got something special and we want to reach out to other communities.”

FoolMoon on Friday, April 1 (a very foolish day) begins with luminary processionals starting at 7:45 pm from the Kerrytown Farmer’s Market, UMMA, and Slauson Middle School. The luminaries will end at Washington and Ashley. FestiFools is on Sunday, April 3 from 4:00 – 5:00 pm on Main St. Find out more about the events, and get involved, at wonderfoolproductions.org.

THE LINES TWEEN advice for parents with children 10-16

Shoot, Scratch, and Stomp!

Getting kids interested in film

by Zach Marburger

kids can use everything from glitter to markes on the film to see the effect during a screening. The ability to see their own images, and the effects their experimentation has on the images, is the kind of immediate realization that sparks an interest in the classic vehicle of film.

That may sound technical, but Twist insists kids will find this workshop very user-friendly and may even be seized by the potential of film as an art form, leading to a desire to experiment on their own time.

“Super 8 cartridges you really just pop in. That’s about as much as you need to know,” said Twist. “The whole point is to make this very friendly so you can go home with a parent and do it yourself.”

There is a whole bunch to see and do at the Ann Arbor Film Festival for adults, but what about getting kids, tweens, and teens involved - not just with watching movies but with actually creating film themselves? Local filmmakers Barbara Twist and Joel Rakowski have something planned for the younger ones that already idolize Spielberg.

Tist and Rakowski are putting on the Shoot, Scratch, and Stomp workshop on Saturday, March 19 during the festival, where kids ages 3-18 can drop by and

learn about the process of developing film and how it can be used to create amazing images that digital movie making just can’t capture.

“Film, hands down, is just an amazing thing,” said Twist. “That you can create moving images from a bunch of still images. It’s mind-blowing!”

Twist, who has always had a real passion for experimental filmmaking, says the Film Festival has always served as a huge inspiration for her, and after graduating from University of Michigan, she

said, “I thought the only way I can even attempt to do what they’re doing (in the festival) is by playing around with the possibilities of film myself.”

Shoot, Scratch, and Stomp: Let’s Play with Film will run on Saturday, March 19 from 2pm-5pm at Space 2435 on North Quad.

The event is free, and all are welcome.

All that time tinkering has yielded some interesting techniques, which Twist will share at the workshop. Participants will get a brief tutorial and background on Super 8 cameras, and then film their own images outside. Then, there will be a brief walkthrough on how film is developed (including new eco-friendly techniques), followed by play-time, where

www.annarborfamily.com • March 2016 •

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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The Discovery Center It’s a Small World Daycare 8318 Carpenter Rd., Ypsilanti 734-714-3040 smallworlddaycare.org

With an emphasis on creating a nurturing environment and an awareness of the needs of each individual child during development, It’s a Small World Daycare has been serving families in Washtenaw County since 1993. The daycare features five distinct programs separated by age group: Small Wonders (for infants through 15 months), Tireless Toddlers (for ages 15 months through 33 months, or when children are ready), Little Adventures (ages three to four), Pre-K (four year olds), and Explorers Club before and after-school programs (school-age children). Each program is specially modeled to demonstrate appropriate behavior and designed to establish a routine that engages children and lays a foundation for lifelong learning. Schedules are maintained in order to establish a familiar flow to each day, and themes and activities for each group are based on children’s interests so that they are exposed to music, theatre, art, science, reading, life skills, outdoor play, movement and more, depending on what resonates.

Programs are open to children with special needs as well, as teachers at It’s a Small World believe that every child deserves to be part of a learning community, and the inclusion of children with special needs benefits everyone involved. Parents shouldn’t feel left out either — with their emphasis on experiential learning, It’s a Small World offers chances for parents to get directly involved through shared experiences and offers parental training and a thorough support community. To learn more, find daily schedules, and view biographies of teachers, visit smallworlddaycare.org.

775 S. Maple Rd., Ann Arbor 734-663-7496 thediscoverycenterpreschool.com

The Discovery Center is an early childhood program for two-and-a-half to fiveyear-olds that has been serving families in the Ann Arbor area since 1974. With a highly-educated and experienced staff, a modern building designed specifically for their use, and a nurturing, flexible program, the staff at The Discovery Center believes the environment created there for young children is ideal. The Discovery Center has been an accredited program through the National Association for the Education of Young Children since 1993. The Discovery Center provides an environment that encourages each child to approach optimum physical, social, emotional, aesthetic, and intellectual growth. Their programs are based on an open classroom approach with emphasis on a hands-on, experiential environment. The classroom environment encourages each child to explore “discovery centers” set up by the staff and to participate in a full range of activities occurring throughout the day. The program is also enhanced by outside specialists who provide Spanish, music, and storytelling enrichment activities.

Where Every Child is Valued and Nutured! ÓÓÇxÊ* >ÌÌÊ, >`ÊUÊ Ê ÀL ÀÊUÊÇÎ{ Ó äÎää

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• March 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Ann Arbor YMCA 400 W. Washington St. 734-996-9622 annarborymca.org

Caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility — those are the tenants of the early child care system at the YMCA, which has been accredited through the National Association for the Education ofYoung Children since 2008.

Daily planned lessons incorporate creative engagement and play, with centers and small groups focused on sensory experiences, language and literary experiences, and age-appropriate physical fun! Free-choice selections are emphasized: Children can participate in dramatic play, construction, transportation and exploration, and much more. There are two programs for different age groups; All-Stars (two-and-a-half years old to three-anda-half years of age) and Aviators (three-and-a-half years old to age five). There is also a half-day Pre-K program available that runs on the Ann Arbor Public Schools calendar. The Early Child Care Programs run year-round, Monday through Friday, from 7:30am to 6pm with twoday, three-day, or five-day a week packages available.

To download the Early Childhood Parent Handbook, or to inquire about waitlist and enrollment information, contact Child Care director Sarah Kim at 734-661-8058 or email skim@annarborymca.org.

Preschool and Young 5’s Programs Accepting Enrollments for the 2016-2017 School Year

Jenkins Early Childhood Learning Center Dexter Community School 2801 Baker Rd. 734-424-4180 dexterschools.org

After moving into a new, state-of-the-art facility in September of 2014 (thanks to a grant from the Jenkins family), the Jenkins Early Childhood Learning Center has greatly expanded their services to offer full-day care for infants through kindergarten, and half-day preschool programs for ages three through five. Jenkins Early Childhood Learning Center follows the HighScope curriculum that provides hands-on experiences with people, materials, events and ideas in order to promote a sound foundation for when children transition from preschool to kindergarten. The HighScope curriculum is a proven, research-based method that trains teachers to help children establish their individualism and promotes independence, decisionmaking, curiosity, and problem-solving. Teachers and parents work with children to form lasting bonds and empower students by sharing responsibility for their own education. Dexter Community Schools previously received a Great Start School Readiness Program grant for four-year-olds who are eligible to receive preschool services at no expense to the parents. Before and after school care is available as well. Enrollment for Fall starts March 21. Call to schedule a tour.

continued on page 12

www.annarborfamily.com • March 2016 •

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION continued from page 11

Daycroft Montessori

Annie’s Children’s Center Downtown 216 Beakes St. 734-761-8070 anniescc.com

East 3220 Oakwood St. 734-973-7222

West 5350 Park Rd. 734-663-8081

Three different locations and six different care options highlight the flexibility of an Annie’s Children’s Center education. Founded in 1995 by owners and operators Anne and Robert Kennedy, Annie’s programs take into consideration each child’s individual development and interests, and caregivers and teachers work closely with families to structure activities that are developmentally appropriate for each child. The curriculum at Annie’s helps transform classrooms into communities, where toddlers and infants collaborate on art and creative expression, sensory exploration, active play zones, fine motor skills, dramatic play, outdoor play, and much more. Annie’s welcomes in a number of unique visitors to their classrooms; the fire department, police department, members of the Leslie Science Center, petting farms, storytellers and musicians all stop by to break up the routine and interest children in the outside world. To keep the whole family involved, parents can access weekly lesson plans that are distributed at the start of every month, and there is a family network where ideas and information can be exchanged.

Call to schedule a tour and for enrollment information.

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100 Oakbrook Dr. 734-662-3335 daycroft.org

A Daycroft education includes the Montessori, student-centered approach and traditional teaching methods. Daycroft balances student-initiated education with teacher-lead activities. Daycroft preschool offers a solid foundation in Montessori Education with a five day per-week program with full or half-day options, where two qualified teachers per classroom prepare an environment for self-expression and achievement. At the elementary campus they maintain two teachers in every multi-age classroom to provide individual and group lessons. Next year, Daycroft will open its first middle school classroom! Daycroft also offers the following programs for all of its students: music, studio art, Spanish, library and technology, and physical education. Additional features of a Montessori education include a Parent-Toddler program, held Wednesday and Friday mornings, that directly involves parents with Daycroft’s child-centered approach and helps prepare toddlers for a full transition into the preschool program; a lunch program that teaches manners and proper nutrition habits; and an after-school enrichment program that features art, science, dance, robotics classes, and more. To attend an open house session, call 734-930-0333 or email admissions@daycroft.org.

• March 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Green Apple Garden Playschool 2664 Miller Rd. — Lower School 511 Miller Ave. — Upper School 734-369-8248 greenapplegarden.org

Inspired and guided by the Waldorf approach to childhood education — a model based off the teachings of cultural philosopher Rudolf Steiner that emphasizes allowing children to learn through example — the team at Green Apple Garden Playschool believes that guided play is the best way for children to learn. The playschool differs from a regular preschool education in that teachers encourage children to follow their wonder through guided activities, so that instead of sitting down and learning formal math, children might be encouraged to understand math concepts by opening a pretend store. That’s just one example of how Green Apple incorporates play into the curriculum; there is also an emphasis on getting outdoors and enjoying nature, often for as long as two to three hours per-day, weather permitting. Organized play outside helps connect children to the natural rhythm of the seasons, and with practical activities like harvesting local and organic food from Green Apple’s garden, kids will stay engaged and entertained while learning fundamental skills that translate into a lifelong appreciation for nature. Green Apple also prides itself on encouraging different cultures and perspectives in the classroom, evidenced by its Spanish immersion program.

Two different schools are offered at different locations: A Lower School for children age six months to three-years-old, and an Upper School for children three-years-old to sixyears-old. Tuition rates are calculated based off how many days children attend per-week, and includes snacks.

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www.annarborfamily.com • March 2016 •

13

March for Babies Kickoff

Join us for the Ann Arbor March for Babies Kickoff! Meet other teams, share fund-raising ideas and have fun!

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Registered teams who have raised $75 will receive 20 Chuck E. Cheese tokens!

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• March 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com

Online learning taking root in Ann Arbor

Thanks to Ann Arbor Virtual+ Academy, Ann Arbor Public Schools lead the online education revolution

by Donna Iadipaolo

Full disclosure: In addition being a journalist, Iadipaolo has worked as State of Michigan Certified public teacher since 1990, and has taught in traditional face-to-face classrooms as well as online for 12 years total.

D

emand for virtual learning in Ann Arbor is growing, both in options and student population. There are now over 300 online courses available for students grades 5-12 through the Ann Arbor Public Schools (AAPS) system.

The series of courses is known as Ann Arbor Virtual+ Academy.

“We have courses from 6th grade math to AP Calculus and everything in between,” said Cynthia Leaman, Principal of Ann Arbor Virtual+. “We are able to offer students, at any school in Ann Arbor Public Schools, up to eight different world languages, regardless of what is being offered inside the building. In a time of tight budgets and staffing reductions, we are able to offer a course to one student.

We meet the needs of the students and parents in a wide variety of ways. We are flexible: our courses run 24/7. We offer courses, such as oceanography and game design, that are not offered anywhere else in the district.”

Growing number of students Leaman added the numbers definitely show that online learning is increasing in Ann Arbor. The most popular classes are math, American Sign Language, Health, and Personal Fitness.

“Online is growing in AAPS,” said Leaman. “During the 2013-2014 school year, we had 216 student seats enrolled through the A2 Virtual+ online learning program.

We had 501 students, including summer school during 2013-2014. For the 20142015 school year, we had 1,125 student seats enrolled through the online learning program and a total of almost 1500 seats including summer school. During the 2015-2016 school year, we anticipate a 20% increase in enrolled seats.”

In October 2013, the State of Michigan passed Public Act 60, 21f, which stated that parents had the authority to request up to two online classes per term for their child and the schools could not turn the parent down. And so, Ann Arbor Virtual+ was born.

A teacher’s thoughts William Springer is a World Language Instructor with Michigan Virtual School.

Springer has been teaching for eleven years, four in a hybrid face-to-face/teleconferencing environment , and seven as a fully online teacher. He has worked with AAPS students from grade 6-12 though Ann Arbor Virutal+.

Some of the most common reasons Springer said a student gives for taking an online course are: ■ This course isn’t available at my school.

■I

have a scheduling conflict that prevents me from taking my school’s version of this course.

■I

am a professional athlete, and online courses help me accommodate my practice and travel schedule.

■ I didn’t pass the course when I took it at

my school, so now I’m trying it online.

Springer added that the role of the online teacher differs from a traditional faceto-face teacher.

other classes,” said Springer. “They also have the luxury of working on evenings, weekends, or during traditional school breaks. I find that they also enjoy having increased access to their instructor, which they might not always have at school. For instance, if one of my students sends me a text message during the day, I am very likely to respond within five minutes, regardless of what course I’m focusing on at the time.”

class. I wish it had been more literature based. Online classes also require selfmotivation and organization. There is no teacher to motivate and watch out for a student on a daily basis. In that respect, they are more difficult.”

“In high school, I took three French courses online because I wanted to move more quickly than the class offered at my high school,” said Evans. “Online courses also gave me the opportunity to take AP French, which was not taught at my school.”

While the school district and the academic world in general debate the merits of online versus in-person education, online classrooms aren’t going away. According to Leaman, it’s an opportunity to develop lifelong skills that will transfer to higher education and the workplace.

A student perspective Lydia Evans is a current first-year student at Earldom College. She graduated from Community High School and took online courses as an AAPS student.

While online education worked for her, Evans said one of the most important parts of learning, either online or in a traditional classroom, is a competent instructor.

“I think a good teacher always trumps an online course,” said Evans. “Especially for languages, a teacher is crucial for helping develop a strong accent and fluency. I was lucky that my mother speaks French, so I could regularly practice with her. If I had not had that resource, I might not have chosen to take an online class.”

“Online classes can be as effective, if not more effective than traditional face-to-face classes, given high quality course design, a skilled and passionate instructor, a faceto-face school environment that provides She pointed out that she didn’t notice much a helpful support system, and a student change in the diffiwho is ready to emculty of the courses brace the uniqueness she took online comStudents who take an of the online environpared to a regular online class during ment,” said Springer. classroom.

The freedom that students have in completing the work is one of the largest benefits for the students, adds Springer.

Learning about online education Leaman stated that Ann Arbor Virtual+ is looking at the data and following students as they enter advanced classes to determine how students do as they move into sequential courses. Currently, all online students still take district common assessments, and while this data is not conclusive yet, most of the students have done well on these exams.

“It is our goal to have every student who graduates from Ann Arbor Public Schools take at least one online class,” said Leaman. “Many of the colleges and universities require students to take online classes. Students gain knowledge in technology through the various systems that are used in the process of the course.

But most importantly, they learn time management and they learn to take responsibility for their learning.”

For more information about Ann Arbor Virtual + Academy, including enrollment information, visit a2schools.org/a2virtual

their secondary years in AAPS will learn to work independently while still being supported by our staff and their parents.

“The (classes) are generally comparable, however it really depends on the online class and the regular class you compare Cynthia Leaman, Principal “Students really it to,” said Evans. of Ann Arbor Virtual+ enjoy being able to “The Middlebury work at their own French allowed me pace and at the time of day they want. Sometimes they’ll put to move faster than the class at my high off work in an online course in order to school. However, I think the AP French focus on more pressing work in their was probably easier than a normal AP

www.annarborfamily.com • March 2016 •

-

15

Ann Arbor Figure Skating Club Presents

Tickets for all performances are now on sale in the AAFSC office or online annarborfsc.org

Ask the Expert

Ticket Prices: Adult...................$15 Senior(over 65)........$10 Child(under 12)........$10 Premium.............$20 Patron..................$30

The 74th Annual Melody on Ice March 18, 7:00pm March 19, 2:00pm March 19, 7:00pm

Directed by Emily Samuelson & Alexandria Carr

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Making Sure Drinking Water is Safe

Talking with Ann Arbor Public Services about water quality in A2

by Jamie Lober

Drinking water in Michigan is a hot button issue. Families want to make sure the drinking water is safe and we consulted with an expert to get some clarity on the situation. “If you are talking about Ann Arbor, our water is safe but every community is different,” said Robert Kellar, communications specialist for public services at City Hall. Precautions are taken to ensure community wellness. “We test water quality regularly and people can go to a2gov.org to search for the water quality report that we put out every year,” said Kellar. “There are numerous contaminants and we check for everything from heavy metals to microbial contaminants.

It is quite an extensive list.”

Testing Ann Arbor water The bottom line is that the water issue is under control. “We do not have actionable levels of lead in Ann Arbor water and that is primarily because we do corrosion control, so there are no lead pipes in the city system but if people have it in their homes we do not account for that,” said Kellar. The only water tested is the water that comes out of the plant and tap. “We do sampling of homes around the city and we are good in that respect,” said Kellar.

Still, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended using cold water for cooking and drinking because contaminants can accumulate in hot water

16

• March 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com

heaters. You may choose to run the faucet for two minutes each morning before using the water for cooking or drinking to lower the likelihood of contaminants being in the water.

“If people are concerned they can contact us about the possibility of getting their water tested, although the concern is unfounded here in the city of Ann Arbor,” said Kellar. “We do not use lead pipes anymore and since the mid-80s utilities do not install them anymore, but the problem is not the lead pipes themselves it is the water going through them so if it is corrosive enough it will lead to lead in the water supply,” said Kellar. “We talk about healthy household plumbing, sources of drinking water and other little things that people should be focusing on like not flushing unused medications down the toilet when they should be turning them into the county,” said Kellar.

We are fortunate that our city is safe for families. “Ann Arbor has been in a good place for a long time and we make sure that we are very transparent,” said Kellar.

“We make a case that our water is a much better value than buying plastic bottles of water and wasting money and the environmental degradation that it entails, so you pay pennies on the dollar for drinking water on tap as opposed to a buck fifty for bottled water at the store,” said Kellar.

healthy kids

ders experience so many other health problems; you can almost see them aging faster,” says Dr. Chalaka.

Those who spend their days shuttling kids around town should take note; sleep deprivation and driving can be a dangerous combination. Over one-quarter of women admit to driving while drowsy.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration attributes 100,000 auto accidents each year to drowsy driving.

Sleep Help for Moms Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day. Avoid varying your sleep schedule, even on weekends.

Exercise 4-5 hours before bedtime; avoid exercising late at night.

Shedding the Sleep Stigma Moms are keenly aware of the importance of sleep. After all, we enforce kids’ bedtimes and make sure everyone else gets enough shut-eye. So why do we find it so difficult to get the rest we need?

Sleep in a dark, quiet, comfortable room.

The ideal bedroom temperature is 60-68 degrees Fahrenheit.

In addition to our own biology, we’re battling powerful social forces that tell us that we need to stay up later, finish one last email, or fold one more load of laundry before we turn in. People who barely sleep—recently dubbed the “sleepless elite” by the Wall Street Journal –are seen as dedicated and driven.

Momsomnia

Helping Sleepless Supermoms Reclaim Rest

by Malia Jacobson

When Annie Krusznis gave birth seven years ago, she expected to sacrifice some sleep in the early months of parenthood.

She rejoiced the first time her son Will slept through the night, thinking her sleep woes were over. She didn’t know that she would endure three more years of insomnia while he slept peacefully in his crib.

Parenting an active toddler by day and struggling with insomnia at night “was almost a form of torture,” Krusznis recalls.

“I began to lose sight of everything. I got frustrated easily, I couldn’t focus. I developed symptoms of depression.”

Her story is far from unique. According to the National Sleep Foundation, 67 percent of women have frequent sleep problems. Nearly half of women report tiredness that interferes with daily life, leaving them too tired for exercise, healthy eating, friends, or sex.

When it comes to sleep, women have a natural disadvantage compared to men.

They experience higher rates of insomnia and nighttime pain, but actually need more sleep—around 20 minutes more per night, according to sleep expert Jim Horne, author of Sleepfaring: A Journey Through The Science Of Sleep (Oxford University Press).

When women become moms, sleep deprivation becomes a way of life. Nearly three-quarters of moms experience sleep

problems. And ten percent of moms confess that they’re still not getting a full night’s sleep, even as kids approach the preschool years.

Why Moms Need Their Sleep With the dishes, laundry, bills, email, Facebook, and Game of Thrones all clamoring for our attention, who has time for a full night’s sleep? Women in their prime caregiving years, ages 30 through 60, clock only six hours and 41 minutes of sleep per weeknight.

Moms who work full-time report spending under six hours in bed during the week.

But a busy schedule doesn’t diminish our need for sleep, says Sridar Chalaka, M.D. When we repeatedly shortchange our sleep needs, our bodies pay the price.

Moms with sleep troubles experience higher rates of postpartum depression along with a host of other health and mood problems, from irritability and poor concentration to insulin resistance and weight gain. “People with sleep disor-

Avoid caffeine or other stimulants after 2pm.

Enjoy a short afternoon power-nap, but avoid sleeping for longer than 45 minutes, or you’ll disrupt nighttime rest.

Ironically, says Dr. Chalaka, women who forgo sleep to wring more productivity from their day are actually preventing themselves from working at their peak. “We acclimate to sleep deprivation, so we may never realize that we’d be much more creative, calmer, more productive and less stressed if we’d only get more rest,” he says.

Check your medications: antidepressants, thyroid hormones, beta blockers, diuretics, and some decongestants can harm sleep.

Reclaiming Rest The good news: the key to improving our physical and mental health, our parenting, and our lives is simple, easy, enjoyable, and free. We just need more sleep.

Alcohol close to bedtime can lead to poor-quality sleep, so don’t overdo it.

Moms who look after their kids’ sleep needs should take care to look after their own “sleep hygiene,” says Robert Aronson, M.D. medical director of Cardinal Sleep Disorder Centers of America. He recommends a predictable winddown ritual at bedtime, avoiding strong light in the evening, and going to bed and waking up at the same time each day.

Moms who experience sleep troubles that disrupt their daily lives for more than a month should seek professional help, says William Kohler, M.D., medical director of the Florida Sleep Institute. Those like Krusznis who struggle with insomnia for months or years may be experiencing psycho-physiological insomnia. This “learned” insomnia takes hold when night waking becomes a habit, and can persist for years without treatment, he says.

Relaxation, meditation, hypnosis, biofeedback and aromatherapy have all been shown to improve sleep.

See a doctor if insomnia disrupts your daily life for more than a month.

Sweeter Dreams Today, Krusznis sleeps through the night, and calls her insomnia ordeal a strange twist of fate. “I got frustrated with my son for not sleeping. And then I couldn’t take my own advice,” she says.

If insomnia ever returns, she’ll get help sooner, she said. “I’ll never go through that. Ever again.”

Malia Jacobson is a nationally published health journalist. Her latest book is Sleep Tight, Every Night: Helping Toddlers and Preschoolers Sleep Well Without Tears, Tricks, or Tirades.

www.annarborfamily.com • March 2016 •

17

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Dale Jensen helps students with body awareness.

The Feldenkrais Method

Local practitioner uses body awareness training to help children with special needs

by Erica Wood

What is Somatic Awareness?

The Feldenkrais Method is a form of body awareness training using gentle movement and directed awareness to improve flexibility, range of motion and coordination. Through non-strenuous exploration of the way one part of the body moves in relation to another, students learn new neuromuscular patterns similar to the way babies learn to navigate their environment. The method was developed by Israeli Dr. Moshe Feldenkrais, who believed that humans are designed to learn movement in a logical progression. If part of this sequence is missed or impeded through injury, it must be relearned.

Sensing the Subtle Differences

According to local practitioner Dale Jensen, the Feldenkrais Method “is appropriate for infants, children and adults; for various neurological, orthopedic and chronic and stress related conditions; for finding more comfort performing everyday activities at work or home, and for developing and refining one’s skill in athletic or artistic pursuits.� Practitioners use gentle touch and tiny movements to help children learn subtle differences between one sensation and another.

After a session, Feldenkrais students of all ages frequently report increased confidence in their movement, reduced fear of falling, and even problem solving

18

• March 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com

approaches that reap benefits in other areas of their lives. Parents and practitioners have found that Feldenkrais training can help their autistic children with sensory processing disorders, meltdowns and tantrums, and repetitive behaviors.

Movement is Learning

Feldenkrais lessons involve a process of active learning: the child is a full participant, gradually becoming more aware of the functional use of their own bodies. Unlike more traditional therapeutic approaches, where movement is patterned for the passive student, with Feldenkrais the child is a full participant in the quiet, process-oriented learning.

Instead of training the body in ‘typical’ movement patterns, a Feldenkrais practitioner encourages the client to participate in the discovery process, to be fully engaged while learning.

Finding out More

To become guild certified, a practitioner must complete a series of classes and test that take place over a four year span.

Jensen, who has also completed specialized Feldenkrais training for working with children, has worked with “a variety of clients including infants and children with special needs; adults with stroke, MS, scoliosis and chronic pain from back and joint injuries, and athletes and musicians seeking to recover from injury and improve their performance.�

To learn more, go to michiganfeldenkrais.com.

La Leche League of Ann Arbor

Banding together to help moms with breastfeeding

by Zach Marburger

The La Leche League was founded in 1956 in Illinois to provide recent and expectant mothers access to information and resources about breastfeeding. Over half a century later, the La Leche League (LLL) has expanded to over 100 countries around the world, and is still working to answer breastfeeding questions and to educate the public.

“We have certainly made strides in making breastfeeding more socially acceptable,” said Pamela Laird, an LLL of Ann Arbor Leader. “But Michigan just passed a law last year (Ed Note: the Breastfeeding Anti-Discrimination Act) that made it so you can’t be prosecuted for breastfeeding. So we still have a ways to go.”

Connecting resources Entirely volunteerrun, the LLL of Ann Arbor describes itself as a “mom-to-mom” organization that is dedicated to connecting moms to other like-minded moms that are going through the same breastfeeding process. Their goal is to educate the general public, and most importantly, to connect moms with the resources they need.

“Our mission specifically here in Ann Arbor is to help mothers who want to breastfeed through mother to mother support. We just try to encourage, inform, and educate moms,” said Laird. “We meet three times a month with a leader that has gone through training.”

Meetings are topic-based, according to Laird, focusing on, “Getting started in the early days, or how to introduce solids, or sleep issues.” Meetings are informal, and provide a safe space for moms to socialize, ask questions, or vent. There’s no registration process or membership required - new moms and expectant mothers are welcome, and are encouraged to bring their babies.

Support the idea Because, at times, there is still a social stigma connected to breastfeeding in public, as well as a lack of easy-to-find resources for moms, Laird says that it’s hard to follow through on a commitment to breastfeed, no matter how important it may be to the mother. La Leche League of Ann Arbor aims to change that.

“Many mothers start out with the intention to breastfeed, but after a couple weeks, those numbers really drop off,” said Laird.

“We believe with the right education and support the numbers of moms that want to breastfeed but aren’t able to will increase. “That’s what we’re here for.”

For more information about the La Leche League of Ann Arbor, as well as online resources about breastfeeding, visit lllaa.org.

www.annarborfamily.com • March 2016 •

19

the day your youngest child no longer attends pre-school. Once I fully realized the implication of no more pre-school – no more drop-offs, no more monthly payments – I grabbed my wife and kissed her like a sailor on shore leave.

The importance of Pre-K education Make sure education is a big priority

By Jeremy Rosenberg

There are many milestones on the parental journey. When it comes to the first born child, parents can become full-time scribes, amateur historical documentarians ready to commit life-events of the slightest importance to the Library of Congress. By the time even the second child comes around, parents are content to have a picture or two on their phone.

20

First born child: “Look, Madison lost a tooth! Prepare the hermetically sealed jar for storage!”

Second born child: “Owen lost a tooth.

I think it fell on the floor and I vacuumed it up by accident. Meh.” One milestone when reached by the youngest child is cause for celebration not unlike post-World War II victory parades –

• March 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com

The importance of pre-Kindergarten education is well documented. Not to go all Nate Silver stat-geek on you, gentle reader, but a meta-analysis out of the University of Colorado claims, “significant effects were found… for children who attend a preschool program prior to entering kindergarten.”

Dozens of studies confirm the essence of this finding. Not to get too deep in academic lingo, but it is safe to say that pre-Kindergarten education for children is good.

With all the talk from Presidential candidates about free college, I can’t help but wonder why we don’t put this kind of emphasis on pre-K? It can easily be argued that the societal benefit of having 3-4 year-old children learn to read, to write, to develop basic

math skills, to learn social interaction, is a lot more valuable than college students blathering about microaggressions for four years.

The average middle-class family struggles to pay for pre-K education, which can cost anywhere from $400 to $2000 a month, depending on the work demands of the parents. Yes, in many ways pre-K facilities are glorified child-care centers. There can be no dispute as to the value to the child, however.

Freeing up money paid for pre-K education is a cause for celebration among working parents. It is a shame that parents who live paycheck to paycheck have to struggle so mightily to give their child such a clearly defined benefit, the benefit of structured education with children at similar learning levels. Having well-educated, well-adjusted children is a strong benefit to society. The long-term value of college is continually in question. The immediate value of pre-K education is obvious.

It seems to me that a little extra focus on the struggles of parents with small children would not be amiss.

Jeremy Rosenberg gave up the corporate rat race years ago to become a freelance writer and graduate student, as well as a stay-at-home dad to his two children, Jack and Eva. He also enjoys playing the guitar and letting his cats fall asleep on his lap.

The Short Course

Steak Envy

Kid-friendly: Yes

To avoid wait: Friday and Saturday nights are busiest. Go early or prepare to wait.

Quality steaks and more in Milan

By Katy M. Clark

Noise level: Moderate to high depending on how crowded

JR’s Hometown Grill and Pub

1000 Dexter St Milan, MI 48160 Phone: (734) 508-6382 Hours: Mon-Thurs 7am-10pm; Sat 7am-11pm; Sun 7am-9pm jrsgrillandpub.com “You kind of feel like you are in Montana,” my husband stated.

“Not really. It feels like Texas,” my twelve-year-old son commented. Funny, he’s never been to Texas.

My family of four was sitting in JR’s Hometown Grill and Pub in Milan. The restaurant emanated a western vibe with wagon wheel light fixtures, cowboy murals and horseshoes adorning the wall, country music on the stereo and NASCAR on TV. We were ensconced in one of the black booths along the wall; plenty of tables of various sizes and a bar rounded out the interior.

Home on the range JR’s Hometown Grill and Pub originated in Adrian in 2008. The restaurant expanded to Tecumseh, Brooklyn, and Petoskey before opening the Milan location in 2015. According to its website, JR’s strives for quality steaks and superior service. All locations share the same lunch and dinner menu and some, including Milan, serve breakfast.

Bathroom amenities: Changing table in Women’s High chairs? Yes, plus boosters

Got milk? White and chocolate. Pop is available, too.

The menu is extensive, offering a little bit of everything. There are appetizers, salads, soups, chili, steak, ribs, chicken breasts, seafood, Mexican dishes, sandwiches, and burgers.

“That might kill me,” my husband said, eyeing the Black Angus Four-Cheese Wagon Train burger with American, provolone, Swiss and pepperjack cheese.

“Get it!” I enthused.

When he opted for the 12 oz. rib eye instead ($18.99), with a loaded baked potato and vegetables, I ordered the Wagon Train burger with sweet potato fries. My son, 12, also chose steak, the 8 oz. Happy Trails Sirloin with apple slices and mashed potatoes.

Jumping on the steak bandwagon, my daughter, 9, picked the 6 oz. steak from the kids’ menu ($11.99). Other kids’ menu choices include chicken strips, grilled cheese, mac and cheese, hamburger, or pasta ($4.49-5.99). Prices include a drink and choice of French fries, coleslaw, cottage cheese, applesauce, apple slices, or celery sticks.

Kids’ menu? Yes

Straight from the Chuck Wagon We started with an order of Bavarian pretzels with nacho cheese ($6.99). Four big sticks, hot and salty, were gone right quick — crispy and chewy on the outside, soft and doughy on the inside.

“This is the life—eating pretzel sticks.

Don’t you dare write that down!” proclaimed my daughter.

Saved from her scorn by the arrival of our meals, my burger was flavorful, with layers of cheesy goodness. I was surprised, though, by its perfectly round appearance. I learned patties are made in-house using a form and can be previously frozen. My sweet potato fries were crispy and decadent with a sweet cinnamon and sour cream sauce the server suggested ($0.50).

“Do not disturb. I’m in paradise,” my daughter reported about her steak. My husband and son were equally enamored with their slabs of beef.

“It’s excellent, cooked nicely, with great hatch marks,” noted my husband.

I tasted it and found it juicy with a delicious grilled flavor.

Anything healthy for kids? Try pasta with marinara sauce and celery sticks or apple slices on the side

Food allergy concerns? Talk with your server, who is trained to alert the kitchen about food allergies. They have ways to work around whatever you are allergic to.

“Great,” said my loquacious son. He disliked his side of mashed potatoes due to the strong flavor of the brown gravy.

Our server quickly appeased him by bringing some fries.

I admit I had steak envy. My family swooned about their meat and I would pick a steak next time. I was full and satisfied, though, as portions were sizeable. We had no room for desserts such as chocolate layer cake, toffee crunch Blondie, or a pretzel brownie sundae ($3.99-6.99). I’ll leave room next time I mosey down south to Milan for a tasty, comforting meal.

ANNARBORFAMILY.COM www.annarborfamily.com • March 2016 •

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{ March 2016 }

“Thoth in Kaleidoscope UFO” Saturday, 3.19 / Michigan Theater

All calendar events are subject to change, cancellation and limited size. Calling ahead for confirmation is recommended.

6 SUNDAY

2 WEDNESDAY Big Fun for Big Groups - This storytime is specially designed for caregivers to bring groups of five children or more, perfect for daycare and preschool field trips. Individual children with a caregiver are also welcome! For ages 2-5. 10:30am. Ypsilanti District Library Whittaker, 5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti.

734-482-4110. ypsilibrary.org Free

Crocheted Beaded Bracelets - Using very small crochet hooks, make your own beaded bracelet. All supplies provided.

Previous experience with crochet is required.

This is a detailed, time consuming project that will take the entire time to complete. For grades 6 and up. 1pm. Ann Arbor District Library Pittsfield, 2359 Oak Valley Dr. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free

Broom Ball - Enjoy a fun, noncompetitive game. Entrance to the ice rink will only be half price. 4:45pm. $2/ youth and seniors, $2.50/adults. Buhr Outdoor Ice Arena, 2781 Packard Rd. 734-794-6234. a2gov.org

FestiFools Sculpting - Using household materials such as hula hoops, tape and cardboard, create a modular, moving sculpture to take to FestiFools. Noon. $12. Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, 220 E. Ann St. 734-995-5439. aahom.org

3 THURSDAY

Melody on Ice Friday, 3.18. & Saturday, 3.19 / Ann Arbor Ice Cube Directed by Alexandria Carr and Emily Samuelson, the Ann Arbor Figure Skating Club will present the 74th annual Melody on Ice over two days. The theme this year will be “Melodies of the Sea” and there will be performances from Figure Skating Club participants as well as the Skating Club Therapeutic Skaters program. Special guests will be there signing autographs as well: 2015 US Ice Dance Champions and 2015 World Silver Medalists Madison Chock and Evan Bates will be there Friday, while 2016 US Ice Dance Championship competitors Danielle Thomas and Daniel Eaton and 2015 US Pairs Silver Medalists and 2015 World Championship competitors Haven Denney and Brandon Frazier will be there Saturday. Proceeds go towards Ann Arbor Figure Skating Club programs. 7pm Friday, March 18; 2pm and 7pm Saturday, March 19. $10-$30.

Ann Arbor Ice Cube, 2121 Oak Valley Dr. 734-213-6768. annarborfsc.org

7 MONDAY

Emerging Writers Workshop: How and When to Share Your Writing In this workshop, attendees will learn about beta readers, agents, editors, and how to approach them. For grades 9 and up. 7pm. Ann Arbor District Library Traverwood, 3333 Traverwood Dr. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free

4 FRIDAY

Canine Body Language - Learn how to identify the behaviors most common in interdog and dog-human communication. Learn how to read your own dog’s “go-to” actions and how to help them navigate the human world. For grades 6 and up. 7pm. Ann Arbor District Library Downtown, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free

9 WEDNESDAY

Seussical Jr. - Enjoy this musical by Ahrens and Flaherty based on the books of Dr. Seuss. This will be an all-children show, directed by Summer Program Director, Thalia Schramm. 7pm Friday & Saturday, 3pm Sunday. $15/child, $20/adult.

Encore Musical Theatre, 3126 Broad St., Dexter. 734-268-6200. theencoretheatre.org

5 SATURDAY Galaxy Watercolor Painting - Experts will guide participants through creating a one-of-a-kind night sky painting. For grades 6 and up. 3pm. Ann Arbor District Library Malletts Creek, 3090 E. Eisenhower Pkwy.

734-327-4200. aadl.org Free What a Wonderful World - Storytime will feature What a Wonderful World, the book based on the Louis Armstrong song, which will be available for sale afterwards.

11am. Barnes and Noble, 3235 Washtenaw Ave. 734-973-0846. barnesandnoble.com Free Grossology - Explore the gross side of science with hands on activities, experiments and recipes. For ages 8+. 2pm.

Ypsilanti District Library Whittaker, 5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti.

734-482-4110. ypsilibrary.org Free Parent’s Night Out: Creatures of the Night - Parents enjoy a night out while the kids explore a unique evening at LSNC with crafts, stories, activities, a night hike, and meeting some of animals up close.

Children will discover the fascinating world of nocturnal creatures. For ages 6-12. 5pm. $25/members, $30/non-members. Leslie Science and Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org

More online at annarborfamily.com 22

In partnership with the Ann Arbor Film Festival, local artist Tom Carey will present an abstract and entertaining puppet show for kids and families. Thoth in Kaleidoscope UFO runs just over eight minutes, and explores the myths surrounding the building of the ancient pyramids. The show features the poetry of Sun Ra (read by Carey’s daughter) and music by Dan Tower. “Kids will like the imagery,” says Carey. “It really is the best time to expose them to experimental things, because kids are always thinking magically.” 11am Saturday, March 19. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8463. rustynailstudio.blogspot.com

Nature Tales: A Dr. Seuss Tale Celebrate the birth month of Dr. Seuss with Seusss-inspired activities. For ages 1-5 with an adult. Also on March 12. 10am. $3/ members, $4/non-members. Leslie Science and Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org

10 THURSDAY Shipwrecked! - This coming of age drama takes place during a fierce winter storm on Lake Huron in 1893. Twelve year old Aaron Buchanan, sailing with his parents on their small schooner, is put to the test in ways he never dreamed possible.10am Thursday & Friday, noon Friday, 2pm Saturday. $10/child and senior, $15/adult. Towsley Auditorium, 4800 E. Huron River Dr. 734-995-0530. wildswantheater.org

11 FRIDAY Turtles - Did you know that Michigan’s state reptile is a turtle? Turtles have been around for millions of years— it’s time to give them a show. 7pm. $5/members, $6/non-members. Leslie Science and Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org Lily Plants a Garden - Elizabeth Shaffer directs EMU drama students in Jose Cruz Gonzalez’s play about a woman who plants a garden that changes her long-suffering town. For ages 8 and up.

7pm Friday & Saturday, 2pm Sunday. $7. Sponberg Theatre, 124 Quirk Hall, Ypsilanti. 734-487-2282. emich.edu

12 SATURDAY Come Fly - Make and decorate a lasercut foam glider with the crew from Maker Works and explore concepts like gravity, lift and drag, while flying your glider.

3:30pm. Ypsilanti District Library Michigan, 229 W. Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti.

734-482-4110. ypsilibrary.org Free

Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind In the iconic animation of auteur Hayao Miyazaki’s Studio Ghibli masterpiece, one that brought his original manga to feature film, humanity has narrowly survived a devastating war. 1:30pm. $8-$10/general admission, free/kids 12 and under. State Theater, 233 S. State St. 734-761-8667. michtheater.org Fairy Gardens and Doors - Kids and parents are invited to come build their own fairy doors. Two sessions: 10am-noon and 12:30-2:30pm. $12. Matthaei Botanical Gardens, 1800 N. Dixboro Rd. 734-647-7600. lsa.umich.edu Lollipops for breakfast - Guest performers, the Gottabees, perform this original show. A young girl wants candy for breakfast, but she and her pet bird will have to create one from scratch. For ages 3 and up. 10:30am and 1pm. $5/ children, $10/adult. Pointless Brewery and Theatre, 3014 Packard Rd. 734-707-8879. pointlessbrew.com

15 TUESDAY Girl Scout Cookie Bake Off - During this fun event, local chefs will try to create the best dessert from girl scout cookies.

Local celebrity judges and attendees will taste and vote for their favorite. Poceeds benefit Girl Scouts outreach programs in Washtenaw County. 6pm. $45/person, $325/table of eight. Kensington Hotel, 610 Hilton Blvd. 734-714-5140. gshom.org

17 THURSDAY 8-Bit Video Game Cross-Stitch Learn how to cross-stitch and make your own cute video game character in thread.

No previous cross-stitch experience necessary. 7pm. Ann Arbor District Library Downtown, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free

• March 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com

19 SATURDAY ScienceFest: Healing Through Hands-On Science - Learn how your body works with hands-on activities, explore various healthcare professions, work through a Teddy Bear Clinic, and see the science behind medical procedures.

Also on Sunday. Noon-4pm. $12. Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, 220 E. Ann St. 734-995-5439. aahom.org Everything’s Coming up Rosies - In honor of Women’s History Month, celebrate local wartime heroine, Rosie the Riveter.

Make paper airplanes and Rosie paper dolls, pose for a photo as Rosie, local Rosies and more. 2pm. Ypsilanti District Library Whittaker, 5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti.

734-482-4110. ypsilibrary.org Free Hanji Art for All Ages - Korean papermaking artist, author, and teacher Aimee Lee, leads this hands-on workshop. Participants will use colored Hanji to create 2D fused art, utilizing only paper, water, and their energy.

Participants can take their damp pieces home to dry and enjoy. This event is cosponsored by the University of Michigan Nam Center for Korean Studies. 3pm. Ann Arbor District Library Downtown, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free First Step Kids Fest - This is a family concert with local performer Joe Reilly, that benefits First Steps-Ann Arbor, a community supported program for families. 3:30pm. $5-$12. Forsythe Middle School, 1655 Newport Rd. 734-994-2300. firststeps-annarborkidfest.weebly.com Easter Extravaganza - An Easter pancake breakfast will kick of the day’s activities followed by an egg hunt! 9am/breakfast, 10:30am/egg hunt. $4.25-$18.25.

Heritage Park, 46202 Heritage Park Rd., Canton. 734-394-5469. canton-mi.org

Jack & Kitty - Enjoy this family friendly concert that’s organic and acoustic.

12:30pm. $10. The Ark, 316 S. Main St. 734-761-1451. theark.org

20 SUNDAY An Afternoon of Ann Arbor’s Best Storyteller extraordinaire and AADL Youth Librarian, Laura Pershin Raynor, will emcee.

This event will be shadow-interpreted for deaf audiences. 1:30pm. $15. The Ark, 316 S. Main St. 734-995-0530. wildswantheater.org A Good Old-fashioned Campfire Circle - Bring your family, camp chairs, and s’mores fixings, as LSNC provides a blazing outdoor campfire and plenty of marshmallows. 6:30pm. Leslie Science and Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org Free Easter Egg Scramble - Celebrate the beginning of spring at the park with an animal show, face painting and a visit with the Easter Bunny before and after the scramble for Easter eggs. Noon. $4/presale, $6/door. Hudson Mills Metropark, 8801 N. Territorial Rd. 734-426-8211. metroparks.com

23 WEDNESDAY Rosie the Riveter - During WWII, women took over jobs in Detroit’s factories and proved invaluable to the effort both at home and abroad. Enjoy the story of Rosie the Riveter in this original play presented by Wild Swan Theater. 1:30pm Wednesday, 11am Thursday. $8/child and senior, $12/adult. Monroe High School, 901 Herr Rd., Monroe. 734-995-0530. wildswantheater.org

25 FRIDAY Design a Hide-And-Seek Game Make an online hide-and-seek game and then challenge your friends to play. Sign up for a free account at scratch.mit.edu to save your game. For grades 4-8. 1:30pm. Ann Arbor District Library Downtown, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free Camp PAWS - Ages 6-11 are welcome to join this one-day animal camp where they can learn to safely engage and respect animals. An after-program day care is available. 9am-4pm. $60. Humane Society of Huron Valley, 3100 Cherry Hill Rd. 734-662-5585. hshv.org

26 SATURDAY Pop-up Makerspace - Discover your inner engineer at the Pop-Up Makerspace.

Today’s Challenge: Make It Float!

10am-4pm. $12. Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, 220 E. Ann St. 734-995-5439. aahom.org TinkerLab: Wind Tunnel - Help make a wind tunnel and experiment floating different objects while learning about aerodynamics, gravity, resistance, and air velocity. For ages 8-13. 4pm. Ypsilanti District Library Michigan, 229 W. Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti.

734-482-4110. ypsilibrary.org Free

marketplace ADVERTISING IN MARKETPLACE Free Classifieds: Individuals may receive one

free 20-word ad per month (products offered in ads must sell for under $100). Each additional word 40 cents, payment must accompany ad. Free ads run one month and are reserved for private-parties use, noncommercial concerns and free services.

Ads MUST be typed or neatly printed and MAILED, E-MAILED, or DROPPED OFF to Ann Arbor Family Press. Classifieds by the15th of the month prior to publication.

Line Classifieds: Only $20 per month for 20

words or less. Each additional word is 40 cents each and any artwork will be $5 extra.

Display Classifieds: Display classifieds with a box may be purchased for $25 per column inch. Photos are accepted with ads for an additional $5 per photo.

Events FitMama FitMe Fellowship & Fitness to build lasting friendships and healthy lifestyles FREE for Moms with Tots (ages 0-4) Thursday from 10:15-11:30am. 3830 Packard Rd, Suite 150 Ann Arbor, MI 48108.

Call Kimberly at 240-388-2537 to reserve your spots or answer questions

FOR SALE QUEEN PILLOWTOP MATTRESS SET AWESOME DEAL!! Queen Pillowtop Mattress and box foundation $150.00, MUST SELL Call 734-680-5050

Daily

Extreme Time, Families will be amazed while exploring this new exhibit, learning about everyday time and how it is measured. 9am-5pm.

UM Museum of Natural History, 1109 Geddes Ave. 734-764-0478. lsa.umich.edu/ummnh Free

Tuesdays

Storytime with retired librarian Leva Bates, Enjoy a family and kids storytime with retired librarian, Leva Bates. 10am. Nicola’s Bookstore, 2513 Jackson Ave. 734-662-0600. nicolasbooks.com Free

Tuesdays & Saturdays

Storytime with Linda Zimmer, During storytime, Linda Zimmer, will read seasonal selections. Free for kids six and under. 6pm Tuesdays, 11am Saturdays. Bookbound Bookstore, 1729 Plymouth Rd. 734-369-4345. bookboundbookstore.com

Sundays

Young Rembrandts, Students will follow instruction on how to create simple images from breaking down complex images. For grades 1-5. 1pm.

Ann Arbor District Library Downtown, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free

call CATHERINE

734.668.4044 to sell your stuff!

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Deadlines: Ad copy must be received by the 15th of

the month prior to publication.

Payment: Payment must be received before an ad can be placed. We accept checks, cash, money orders and credit cards (Visa/Mastercard).

GIVE BLOOD - SAVE LIVES! #ChooseYourDay to donate blood. Call 1-800-448-2543 or go to RedCrossBlood.org.

Appointments preferred.

Walk-ins welcome.

Ann Arbor Family Press Classifieds, 3003 Washtenaw Blvd., Ann Arbor.

Phone: 734-668-4044 E-Mail: classifieds@adamsstreetpublishing.com Refunds: Sorry, NO REFUNDS given.

Misprints: Credit toward future ads.

Switch to DIRECTV and get a $100 Gift Card. FREE Whole-Home Genie HD/DVR upgrade. Starting at $19.99/ mo. New Customers Only.

Don’t settle for cable. Call Now 1-800-530-1453

Mail or drop off:

Large, tall bird feeder. Pull and Support. $25.00, call 734-662-4644

For Sale Building Materials Truck Load of Closeout Calking Tytan, 10oz tubes: 8 colors Neutral Cure Silicone, Gray Polyurethane, Aluminum Gutter & Seam Sealer, Black Windshield Adhesive, $2.99 ea. Shipping Available & Discounts. 717-445-5222

WANTED TO BUY WANT CASH FOR EXTRA DIABETIC TEST STRIPS? I Pay Top Dollar Since 2005! 1 Day Fast Payment Guaranteed Up to $60 Per Box! Free Shipping. www.

CashNowOffer.com or888210-5233. Get Extra $10: Use Offer Code: Cashnow!

HELP WANTED Massage Therapist: Currently hiring therapists to work at RelaxStation in downtown Ann Arbor to accommodate our already established clientele. Free parking, flexible hours, great team!

734-623-1951 SERIOUS MOMS WANTED. We need serious & motivated people for expanding health and wellness industry. High speed internet/ phone essential. Free online training. iworkforfreedom.com

Services Child Care Needed. 2-3 days/week, pay based on experience, located in Dexter.

References required. Email: jgrzadz@gmail.com Entrepreneurs! Do you need assistance for your business? SCORE provides free, confidential business mentoring designed for your new or existing business. Schedule an appointment at www.annarborscore.com Massage: Walk-in Appointments Available. Come in stressed leave refreshed.

Free Parking. Make some time for yourself! RelaxStation.

734-623-1951

Birth Trauma and Pregnant Massage Sher, 740-743-7160 - 85/ hr + Hot Towel 42.50/hr.

Same Day. AA. CCs accepted.

Victorian atmosphere.

INFANT MASSAGE

Promotes bonding, improved sleep, reduces tummy issues and crying.

75$/hour. Natalia, LMSW, Infant Mental Health Specialist-IV 734-223-6802 Give Hope. Become a Foster Parent. Attend a free training today to learn more! For more information: www.judsoncenter.org or 313-255-8272.

Lifecoach Q.August/ CueTheCoach LLC. Themed Parenting Workshops Superhero or My House Is A Zoo Free w/$25 supply kit purchase CUETHECOACH.net

EDUCATION ARE YOUR CHILDREN INTERESTED IN ASTRONOMY? Do they like observing the moon, planets and stars? GO TO www.YoungAstronomer.org

Attention Small Businesses: Simplify Your Payroll & Taxes with Paychex!

New customers receive one month of payroll processing free! Receive a Free Quote!

Call 800-805-0164 Life Alert. 24/7. One press of a button sends help FAST! Medical, Fire, Burglar.

Even if you can’t reach a phone! FREE Brochure. CALL 1-800-746-0979 Got an older car, boat or RV? Do the humane thing. Donate it to the Humane Society. Call 1- 800758-2204

LOTS & ACREAGE LENDER ORDERED SALE! CATSKILL MOUNTAINS/ COOPERSTOWN LAKES REGION! 5 to 30 Acre Tracts from $19,900 Woods, streams, views! G’teed buildable! Owner terms! Call 888738-6994 FREE SAMPLE Emergencies can strike at any time. Wise Food Storage makes it easy to prepare with tasty, easy-to-cook meals that have a 25-year shelf life. FREE sample. Call: 800-970-5771

Ann Arbor FamilyPress/Assignment Editor This part time position includes assigning stories, planning for art accompaniment, writing and editing content, cover stories, generating story ideas, representing Ann Arbor Family Press in the community. Journalism background preferred, organizational skills a must.

Inside Sales Rep This position supports the sales efforts by making calls to clients to follow through on leads for upcoming special sell sections, events and other related tasks. This is a great opportunity for full time or part time employment, with flexible hours.

We’re excited to work with the right person who shares our vision and values. Welcome aboard.

Send resume with references to mjacobs@adamsstreetpublishing.com

Come on, hit send and let’s get started.

www.annarborfamily.com • March 2016 •

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