PAGE 10 January 2020
Vol. 1 • No. 1
A PASSION FOR DANCE
Tutu School Arcadia and Scottsdale bring to life the beauty of ballet
PAGE 9
MOON MAGIC Make your own impact craters
MAY 2022
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Dear Future Kindergartner...
(and parent!)
“My twins have grown so much socially, emotionally, and academically this year. They love going to school! They are excited to tell me about their day. The teachers get to know the students and engage them individually. I am so glad we have them in this Kindergarten program! It’s effective, safe, and provides a solid foundation for future learning.”
- Susan, DVUSD Parent
REGISTER TODAY for 2022-23 School Year! Scan the QR Code or visit www.dvusd.org/register to save your child’s seat for next year
For more information: www.dvusd.org/kindergarten
2 | MAY 2022 | EPIC KIDS
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14000 N. Hayden Rd #102, Scottsdale School Recess (480) 596-3543 | xtremegymnastics.com Dates
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EPIC KIDS | MAY 2022 | 3
H e a d li n e rs
STAR QUALITY
Epic Kids chats with a local up-and-coming actress. Hailey Glicksman loves to perform on the stage and screen.
Hailey Glicksman
Age: 14 Grade: 9th School you attend: Desert Mountain High School How did you get into acting? I started off in dance when I was young, but I also always loved to sing. We were having a talent show in fourth grade, and I decided to sing “The Cup Song.” A teacher came up to me after and asked me to perform for her class because she liked my performance so much, and that’s when I realized how much I love to perform—and I’ve wanted to do it ever since. Not long after that I tried out for my first musical, which was Shrek, Jr. That’s where I
found my love for musical theater. What was your first acting job? My first musical theater role was in Shrek, Jr., and I was cast as teen Fiona. As I was moving into film and television, I also filmed my first commercial. It was during the pandemic and I filmed a spot with Tim Tebow. What are some of the other projects you’ve worked on? Some of my favorite musical theater roles have been Annie in Annie; Veruca Salt in Willy Wonka, Jr.; Ladahlord in James and The Giant Peach; and Ariel in The Little Mermaid, Jr. I’m currently wrapping up Les Misérables. I’ve also done several fun commercials and am waiting to hear back on auditions for several projects, including television shows and a mini-series. I signed with ROSSI Talent Management in 2021, and since then have auditioned for everything from
Performing in Annie at Desert States Theatre.
On set, filming a commercial. HBO to Netflix to Nickelodeon. What do you enjoy about acting? I enjoy playing different characters and emotions, and expressing myself through a character. How do you train? I currently work with an acting coach here in Arizona and one in Los Angeles, and I work with both each week in classes and some privates. I also take weekly vocal lessons, and I’ve taken several forms of dance. How do you juggle being a student and acting? I do my work during breaks with acting and I plan out when I’ll have time to do my homework to
balance it out. Sometimes it’s a big juggle though! What advice would you give to a kid who wants to start acting? Don’t just act as the character, be the character. Also, try an acting class and see if you like it, and get the experience you need to become an actor. What do you do when you’re not acting? I like to spend time with my friends and family. I also am part of National Charity League and I volunteer throughout the Valley. I think it’s very important to give back and help others. What do you want to be when you grow up? An actor!
Hailey as Ariel in The Little Mermaid, Jr. at Art and Sol.
Awakening Seed School Preschoolers Camp in Southern Arizona
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wakening Seed School's Preschool 4s' class ventured into the wilderness for a firsthand experience in the Sonoran Desert, which they studied this spring. Twelve preschoolers and 20 adults camped overnight at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. Activities included a hike to see desert vegetation, singing songs, a story read by their teacher by the fire, s'mores, scorpion hunting, constellation talk and a pre-dawn opportunity to view planets and the moon through a telescope. It was a fun and educational adventure for all! 4 | MAY 2022 | EPIC KIDS
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Ti d b i t s
New Pop-Up Food Bank Behind New River Elementary
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eer Valley Unified School District has been working with the Foothills Food Bank to organize a Pop-Up Food Bank behind New River Elementary, located at 48827 N. Black Canyon Highway. The pantry is open to the community every Friday from 2:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. through June 1 and provides perishable and non-perishable foods as long as supplies last. No proof of income is required. Bradley Alberdi
Fifth Grader Wins Science Award
B
radley Alberdi brought home first place in this year’s Arizona Science and Engineering Fair in the Elementary Division with her project “Can I Help Paint Dry Faster?" The fifth grader attends Grayhawk Elementary School in Scottsdale. Fair participants submitted project summary documents reviewed
and scored by panel judges and then participated in a live, remote interview with the same judges. Judges based their scoring on solid scientific principles, wellresearched background, creative solutions and testing, thorough analysis of the data, and the team’s understanding of the impacts of the project on society.
Students Create Arcade
F
ifth and sixth grade SPARK! students created an arcade at Union Park School in Phoenix. All the games were created by applying the knowledge of what students have been learning in STEM! They used EDP and cardboard, pipes, 3D prints, Scratch Coding, Arduino, circuits, and DC Motors to create nine games. Students enjoyed playing a coded video game, Skee-Ball, pinball, ring toss, Wheel of Fortune, claw machine, basketball, and football throws.
FREE MUSIC LESSON Make your own happy notes! New group music lessons for kids are starting this January. East Valley: evyamahamusic.com North Phoenix: npyamahamusic.com (480) 926-4441
CLASSES INCLUDE Keyboard, Solfege, Singing, Movement, Ensemble, Reading & Music Appreciation
Yamaha Teachers have music degrees and are specially trained by Yamaha
Registration for the 2022 Summer Reading Game Open Now
P
hoenix Public Library’s Summer Reading is a beloved tradition for many families. From June 1 through August 1, children, teens, and adults can read for enjoyment, earn prizes, and avoid summer learning loss. Get entered in to the grand prize drawings for LEGO sets and four tickets to LEGOLAND. Simply go to phoenixpubliclibrary.org and click on the Summer Reading Game icon to register.
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EPIC KIDS | MAY 2022 | 5
H e a d li n e rs
20 THINGS TO DO THIS SUMMER
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i! I’m Nicholas, your Epic Kids columnist. I’m a second-grade CEO, and this month I’m sharing 20 creative things to do during the summer. 1. See new movies like Jurassic World Dominion, Lightyear, Minions: The Rise of Gru, and Tom Gun: Maverick. 2. Camp in your backyard. 3. Learn a new hobby like piano, art, or photography.
Nicholas and his brothers enjoying the outdoors
4. Create a new recipe or hold a kid’s baking challenge in your kitchen. 5. Make some money by starting a business, selling old toys/ clothes, or washing your parent’s car. 6. Put together a scavenger hunt for your family. 7. Write a family summer bucket list and check things off you’d like to do such as: go on vacation, be a tourist in your own city, or visit an amusement park. 8. Hold a tie-dye session with your neighbors. 9. Speaking of neighbors, get your buddies together for a water balloon baseball game. 10. Read a book series. I’m liking Bad Guys, The Boxcar Children, and the I Survived series (Or discover new books at the library). 11. Wake early to watch the sunrise and stay up to watch the sunset.
12. Use local resort passes to swim at nearby hotel pools. 13. Go on a hike and bring a picnic for lunch. 14. Make a scrapbook of your family’s favorite vacation. 15. Hold a family game night. Some of my picks are Nintendo Switch Sports, Gin Rummy, and Monopoly. 16. Paint rocks (or even body paint). 17. Discover new playgrounds/splash pads. 18. Build a backyard obstacle course with friends, and have it end in the pool! 19. Write and act out a play with your pals. 20. Organize a “Yes Day” for you and your family. Join me on my epic journey via Instagram @ creationsbynicholas and creationsbynicholas. com.
Gi vi ng B a c k
cate and enrich children’s lives. Recognizing Hadley’s passion for the project, they helped her organize Duel on the Diamond, a charity doubleheader. Hadley sat in on meetings and gave her ideas. She also reached out to potential sponsors and people throughout the community to generate interest. “The most challenging thing bat-related injuries with service or 13-year-old Hadley Gray, was trying to get everyone to be bringing attention to those in or therapeutic companion dogs sponsors and finding the approneed drives her. that are typically rescued from priate teams and having them local shelters. Hadley saw their agree to be part of this event,” The founder of Hadley’s Hope, a colorful poster and was drawn to says Hadley. soon to be nonprofit, the Paradise their mission of saving two lives Honors Middle School student In addition to proceeds from recently helped organize a charity at once. She soon got to work tickets sales was a $1,000 check brainstorming fundraising ideas. presented to Hadley by Peoria baseball game that generated nearly $15,000 for an organization She settled on the idea of a char- Councilmember Michael Finn. near and dear to her heart—Sol- ity baseball game and reached Sponsors of the event included dier’s Best Friend. out to Peoria Diamond Club, a Discount Tire, AZ on the Rocks, nonprofit dedicated to supporting Arizona Cardinals, Chipotle, and Soldier’s Best Friend provides others. military veterans living with com- community programs that edu-
HADLEY’S HOPE Seventh grader hosts charity Duel on the Diamond event.
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6 | MAY 2022 | EPIC KIDS
Peoria Councilman Michael Finn presented Hadley with a donation check for $1,000. “I’m so grateful for everything we received,” says Hadley, who was recognized as Arizona State’s Middle Level winner for Prudential’s Spirit of Community award for her commitment helping the community for other fundraising endeavors in 2021. She was also Geneva Financial’s first ever Be a Good Human winner. To learn more, visit Hadley’s Hope on Instagram. EPICKIDSAZ.COM
Extraordinary ARRIVING SOON
Gifted Academy Coming to Las Brisas Specializing in a personalized learning experience with multiple pathways for high achievement
Your child’s gateway to gifted learning Claim Your Child’s Spot by Registering Today. To Register: www.dvusd.org/enroll
Register
Enrollment Open Now for the 22-23 School Year
Sign up for updates: www.dvusd.org/LBinfo | Learn More: www.dvusd.org/LB
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EPIC KIDS | MAY 2022 | 7
H e a d li n e rs
Sunrise Middle DLC Students Advance to National History Day Competition.
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hree Sunrise Middle School Digital Learning Center (DLC) students took first place after attending the rigorous Arizona National History Day competition on April 9 and advanced to the National History Day competition in June. Ira Parsons — Junior Paper: Debates Surrounding the Industrial Revolution Audrey Haralson and Isabelle Ross — Junior Group Performance: The Cuban Missile Crisis: A Near Nuclear War Ira, Audrey, and Isabelle have already begun preparing for the next competition stage. After receiving in-depth responses from the judges at the state competition, social studies teacher
M Rebekah West Keur met with the three students to examine the forms and discuss their strengths and potential areas for growth. “As this is a student-led passion project, my role is to offer guidance and feedback and ask guiding questions,” explains Rebekah. We wish Ira, Audrey, and Isabelle the best of luck as they continue to compete at a national level, held virtually on June 12-16.
Now Offering Sensory Birthday Parties! Kids birthday parties don’t have to be chaotic. Are you looking for a unique birthday party entertainment idea that will keep your kiddo busy and entertained the whole party? Select the location of your choice and we will set up our sensory picnic table with two custom sensory bins that are yours to keep! Perfect for kids with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing disorder.
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8 | MAY 2022 | EPIC KIDS
Boxed Up Project helps children unpack grief
By Lin Sue Flood
Sensory Kits and Birthday Party Favors Also Available!
if you mention Epic Kids when booking or ordering
Gi vi ng B a c k
Book Online simplestepslearning.com
ost of us have difficulty accepting the death of someone we love, but that’s especially true for a child. At just 6, Milan Coraggio-Sewell didn’t understand how her best friend could suddenly vanish from her life. “One day we were playing on the beach together in California, and then I never saw him again,” she recalls. “Being so young, I didn’t know how to express my sadness, anger, and confusion. I kept all my feelings boxed up inside of me.”
who are mourning. We are so inspired by her heart and vision!”
New Song collaborated with Milan, providing a mentor to help with design and content development for two age groups (5-10 and 11-17). Each box contains items like cuddly stuffed animals, art supplies, journals, picture frames, comfort and exercise cards, stickers, and more. Their construction also allows children to fill them with special mementos that remind them of their loved one.
Milan, a junior at Phoenix Country Day School, has enlisted friends to help assemble and deThat was the impetus for Milan, now 16, to help other children liver hundreds of boxes. She feels who hide their grief after experihonored “to bring a little light into encing the same kind of loss. She a child’s life with her project. I created her own nonprofit, The want to reach as many kids as I Boxed Up Project, to help kids can because I know what it feels unpack their grief and heal. like to have a broken heart,” she says. The boxes are full of items that encourage kids to open up and For information on The Boxed Up share their feelings. It seemed Project, visit boxedupproject.org. only natural that she would donate them to young children and teens receiving support from the New Song Center for Grieving Children. The nonprofit organization, a program of Hospice of the Valley, offers comforting and confidential support to families struggling with grief and loss. Special activities and support groups at six locations across the Valley are provided at no charge. “Youth grieve very differently than adults,” says New Song Director Lisa Schmitt-Betcher. “When Milan came to us with her idea, it was clear how much she wanted to help children
Friends Elina Ferrigno and Sammi Hampton are all smiles with Milan Coraggio-Sewell knowing they are helping kids heal from the death of a loved one. EPICKIDSAZ.COM
S u m m e r C a m ps THE SCHOOL OF BALLET ARIZONA
Get your child involved in classical ballet training this summer! The School of Ballet Arizona will offer a Summer Ballet School for students ages 4 - 12 at Ballet Arizona. Sessions are two or four weeks, June 13 - July 8. Classes are scheduled in the afternoon and early evening. Preregistration is required. Deadline to register is May 22. Give your child the opportunity to grow their confidence and expand their knowledge under the guidance of highly experienced ballet instructors. TYPE: Day camp WHERE: 2835 E. Washington St. Phoenix AGES: 4 - 12 CONTACT: 602-381-0188 WEBSITE: balletaz.org
PHOENIX CONSERVATORY OF MUSIC
A summer of music fun awaits. Campers have the opportunity to learn new skills, make friends, and have fun using musical instruments and gear, while exploring weekly themes like instrument exploration, music around the world, and more. TYPE: Day camp WHERE: Phoenix Conservatory of Music, 1316 E. Cheery Lynn Rd., Phoenix AGES: 7 - 17 CONTACT: Call 602-3539900 WEBSITE: PCMrocks.org
AZ ON THE ROCKS
Need a way to keep the kids active, moving and happy during their school breaks? Want them doing more than playing video games and sitting in the house all day? AZR has the perfect solution––their Kids Camps, the only place where it’s okay to climb the walls. High energy, well qualified counselors will help your child build new friendships, discover new interests and improve self-esteem, all in an inviting environment. No experience is required. AZ on the Rocks camps focus on movement, physical activity, and having fun. TYPE: Day camp WHERE: 16447 N. 91st St., #105, Scottsdale AGES: 6 - 12 CONTACT: 480-502-9777 WEBSITE: azontherocks.com EPICKIDSAZ.COM
ENGINEERING FOR KIDS
Discover the extraordinary world of STEM during Engineering For Kids’ Summer of Exploration! EFK Summer Camps provide kids with a hands-on immersive experience as they explore STEM concepts in the world around them. Their professional and engaging camps will guide your child in learning about STEM concepts, while encouraging fun. Activities foster their creativity, problem-solving skills, and critical thinking. Featured camps include: robotics, technology and coding, Minecraft, and hands-on interactive engineering. TYPE: Day camp WHERE: Locations throughout Phoenix AGES: 7 - 14 CONTACT: 480-779-8184 WEBSITE: engineeringforkids. com/phoenix-metro/
CAMP THEN AND NOW
Camp Then and Now is a three day co-ed mental health awareness sleep away adventure for campers. Campers participate in many activities: mindfulness walks and yoga, finger painting and paint fights, basketball, volleyball, and archery. They host entertaining movie nights, late night chats, and early morning walks. Most importantly throughout the camp, they host group sessions where anxiety, depression, bereavement, and coping strategies are discussed. Their goal is to create a safe and nurturing environment where campers are not only inspired to meet new friends but also gain confidence in new skills. TYPE: Sleep away WHERE: Pinerock Camp and Retreat Center, 1400 Pine Dr., Prescott AGES: 11 - 14 CONTACT: 602-888-9448 WEBSITE: thenandnowicc. com/camp-then-now
EPIC KIDS | MAY 2022 | 9
C o v e r s t o ry
A Passion for Dance Tutu School class sizes are limited to keep instruction personalized and to allow for a boutique ballet education experience.
By Sondra Barr | Photos by Mark Susan
Tutu School Arcadia and Scottsdale bring to life the magic of ballet.
C
aroline Taylor’s most treasured memories are of watching her daughter twirl across the dance floor with pure glee. Watching the sparkle in her child’s eyes sparked Caroline’s own fond memories of a childhood spent practicing ballet and led her to open Tutu School Arcadia and Scottsdale. A boutique ballet school offering weekly classes and birthday parties for children aged 18 months to 8 years, and camps for children ages 3 to 8, Caroline was first introduced to the franchise in the
10 | MAY 2022 | EPIC KIDS
Bay Area. There, Caroline and her family fell in love with Tutu School and the experience of being immersed in classical music, imaginative dance, and magical ballet stories “As a busy mother, attending class with my daughter was such a gift. I had the ability to entirely devote myself to being in the moment with her without distraction, to watch her and share in her learning and curiosity, to help her point and flex her little feet, and to feel the essence of childhood filling the room,” explains Caroline.
After relocating with her family to Phoenix, Caroline was unable to find a similar experience tailored specifically for the youngest of dancers, and the idea to bring Tutu School to Phoenix was born. “We provide students with a magical introduction to ballet and believe in introducing students to it in a way that makes sense for their bodies and their development,” says Caroline. “We want to cultivate a love for the arts in them and to provide a solid technical foundation to study ballet more seriously later on if EPICKIDSAZ.COM
they choose, but more importantly to give them the kind of formative early enrichment experience that will serve them well in whatever dreams they follow.” Tutu School class sizes are limited to keep instruction personalized and to Caroline allow for a boutique Taylor with ballet education her husband experience. and daughter. The faculty is made up of carefully chosen teachers trained in Tutu School’s developmentally appropriate and differentiated curriculum. Tutu School’s Ballet Storytime curriculum has been specifically crafted to highlight classical ballets and their scores, and to promote positive messaging and values for students. “We are committed to not only providing our dancers with an early arts education, but also to making sure we are impacting our students in a thoughtful, responsible way through the stories we tell them and the themes we choose to celebrate. Our studios are set up to be beautiful and inviting, with dance floors that are just the right size for little bodies, décor that is sweet but also sophisticated, and just enough sparkle,” explains Caroline. "We believe every child should know what it feels like to dance to the strains of Tchaikovsky and Bach."
Teaching even the youngest of swans to soar is something Caroline holds dear. “Twirling should be a fundamental part of any childhood. We believe that the soft tulle layers of a tutu are beautiful, but so are the brave determined muscles that dance underneath it,” she says. Camp experiences at Tutu School are unforgettable. Fun-filled camp days are spent exploring the enchanted and enriching world of ballet. On any given day at Tutu Camp, a child might take a ballet class, decorate costumes, learn the story of a famous ballet, or even take part in a production of their own creation. Each camp session focuses on a different ballet story from the classical repertoire. Campers do not need to have prior ballet experience to participate, but they should be prepared for a lot of leaping, twirling, and imaginative adventures. SUMMER 2022 CAMP SCHEDULE The Firebird: July 5 – July 8 (9 a.m. to 12 p.m.) Swan Lake: July 11 – July 15 (9 a.m. to 12 p.m.) Cinderella: July 18 – July 22 (9 a.m. – 12 p.m.) Sleeping Beauty: July 25 – July 29 (9 a.m. to 12 p.m.)
Parent Testimonials
“This is the best place you can enroll your toddler. It is the only place my toddler has had a truly enjoyable experience. The lessons are fun and teach so many great skills in both dance as well as motor skills. My child is far more advanced than other children this age in motor skills and I have the Tutu School to thank for that! — Ri M. “This is a great place! My daughter attended ballet classes at the Arcadia location last summer and loved them, and we had her fourth birthday party at Tutu School Scottsdale this spring. The studio manager was extremely helpful, professional, and responsive, and she ensured that all the details for the day were perfect.” — Meg H. “My daughter is 2, they make the class fun for her and easy to understand! And the space is absolutely beautiful. My daughter had such a good time, she didn't want to leave!” — Porscha N.
SCOTTSDALE
Storybook Adventures in Ballet CLASSES |BIRTHDAY PARTIES | CAMPS
Boys and Girls ages 18 months to 8 years 6969 E Shea Blvd #165 Scottsdale 85254 (corner of 70th)
602.734.9950
twirl@tutuschoolscottsdale.com
www.tutuschoolscottsdale.com EPICKIDSAZ.COM
I
s your little dancer ready for storybook adventures as an enchanted swan, a brave fairy or the ruler of a far-off magical land? Don’t miss out on a summer full of twirling, leaping and lots of fun! Our camp days are filled with crafting, dancing, ballet storytime and games...
• For campers ages 3 to 8 years. • Monday - Friday 9:00am-12:00pm at our Scottsdale location. • Special end of week performance! • Space is limited for social distancing
Four Camp Sessions to Choose From:
SESSION 1 (July 5-8) The Firebird
SESSION 3 (July 18-22) Cinderella
SESSION 2 (July 11-15) SESSION 4 (July 25-29) Sleeping Beauty Swan Lake
EPIC KIDS | MAY 2022 | 11
C a r e e r D ay
TEA TIME
Melissa Harlan’s taste for tea is the inspiration behind her business. What do you do for a living? I own and manage a vegan and gluten Melissa Harlan free tea room called Drink Me! Tea Room in Tempe. We serve traditional afternoon tea (or high tea) that includes savory items, like small finger sandwiches, scones with lemon curd and cream, along with a variety of small cakes, tarts, and cookies. My job is to create a fun and memorable experience for our guests. That includes fun decorations, music, and an overall high level of service. We have a lot of guests come to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, or other life events—I make sure their visit is positive and memorable. What type of training do you need to do your job? Customer service experience is the most important training. Working with customers and being friendly and outMelissa Harlan going, while anticipating their requests Profession: Drink Me! Tea Room Owner is the majority of the job. For an owner, understanding operations and how a Age: 40 business works is also very important.
What’s your favorite part of your job? My favorite part is meeting all of our great customers and making new friends. Helping create a moment of joy for our guests and seeing their smiles is very rewarding. What did you want to be when you were growing up? I wanted to be an animal trainer or a photographer. What advice would you give to a kid who wants to have a similar career? Seek out jobs that focus on a high level of customer experience and learn all you can. My work experience involved working at some of the top companies that made outstanding customer experience the most important priority like Southwest Airlines, Verizon, and Disney. One fun fact NOT about your job? I used to sell balloons at Disneyland!
Drink Me! Tea Room offers an assortment of different teas and finger foods.
Melissa was inspired to open a tea room after a trip to London.
12 | MAY 2022 | EPIC KIDS
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B r a i n P lay
Sari on SCIENCE MOON MAGIC: MAKE YOUR OWN IMPACT CRATERS.
M
ake your own telescope at Directions: home! Try this experiment 1. Take your materials outside or to and see how the moon got its an easy clean-up location. signature look. 2. Fill your tub with about 3 inches of flour. While you’re watching, look closely 3. Sprinkle a thin layer of cocoa at the moon’s surface, and you’ll see powder onto the surface of the flour. it’s covered with craters—some 4. Now go make craters! of them billions of years Choose any ball to start. old. Ever wonder what DID 5. Stand so that your caused them? The ball is about 3 feet YOU KNOW? moon has a very thin above the container, atmosphere, which The Earth’s dense and drop it into the allows objects like atmosphere typically causes meteorites to strike meteorites and other objects to cocoa/flour. the surface of the burn or break up. Occasionally, What Do You moon. When these Observe? a few objects make it through. objects reach the Make a prediction One of the best-known impact about what will surface, they make craters on Earth, Meteor an impression, happen with the Crater, is very large and called an impact other balls, and drop crater, that varies located near Flagstaff, them the same way depending on their Arizona! you did before. What size, shape, and speed. happened this time? Is it what you expected? Here’s What You Need: • 13” x 9” plastic tub (or use any Now try dropping the angular rocks. shallow pan, tub, or tray) Did anything change? Does it look • 5 lb. bag of flour (you may need different? more for a larger container) Remove your objects from the flour • 8 oz. container of cocoa powder • 3-5 balls of various sizes (golf balls, with the tongs. If you want to try more craters, just marbles, tennis balls, ping pong dust off your objects, sprinkle more balls, etc.) • 2 x ~1-inch angular or odd-shaped cocoa on top of the flour, and start again! rocks • Tongs
What’s Happening? Here, we are experimenting with objects of different size and shape to see what their impact craters look like. Everything from the shape and depth of the crater to the “splatter” of material is affected based on the characteristics of the impacting object. Using cocoa powder helps show the contrast of the top layer of surface material from what’s underneath to show how deep the impact can go and how far the “splatter” or ejected material can fly for different objects. For a challenge, try dropping your objects from different heights or from different angles. You may also want to try adding a third layer of material (like cookie or bread crumbs) to see how your results change. Try this experiment with your friends and family and share your results using #AzScienceCenter and #SarionScienceatHome. We love seeing what you’ve created! Sari Custer is a lifelong science junkie, Chief Curiosity Officer at Arizona Science Center, and mom to daughter Carson (7). Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @SariOnScience.
This month, you can see a total lunar eclipse from Arizona on May 15 between 8:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. You’re invited to celebrate with Arizona Science Center. They’re hosting a free special viewing party to get an up-close view of the total lunar eclipse. Discover how astronomers learn about space by peering through different types of telescopes, and even learn how to make your own! For more info, visit azscience.org. EPICKIDSAZ.COM
EPIC KIDS | MAY 2022 | 13
just ffo or fun B r a i n P lay
JOKES AND FUN FACTS FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY.
1
2 What
A cowboy rode into town on Friday. He stayed in town for three days and rode back out on Friday. How is this possible?
goes up but never comes down?
The smallest country in the world is the Vatican City in Rome, Italy. It’s only about .19 square miles.
Porcupines can float, thanks to the hollow structure of their quills. These sharp spines are solid at the base and tip but mostly hollow in the middle, with a light spongy material sealed off inside. This helps porcupines stay buoyant.
3 What did the limestone say to the geologist?
Tug-of-War was an Olympic sport from 1900 to 1920. It is impossible to lick your own elbow. Try it.
The tallest tree in the world is a coast redwood named Hyperion. It is 380.1 feet and still growing.
1. The horse’s name was Friday. 2. Your age. 3. Don’t take me for granite.
make us chuckle!
Email a joke or far out fact, along with your first name, age, and the school you attend, to hello@epickidsaz.com 14 | MAY 2022 | EPIC KIDS
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B r a i n P lay
BOOK CLUB IVY + BEAN
MY FAVORITE QUOTE FROM THIS BOOK: “Nancy thought Bean was a pain and a
pest. Bean thought Nancy was a booger-head.”
MY FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS BOOK: The shenanigans! Ivy and Bean get into many sticky situations with hilarious outcomes. This book had me laughing out loud!
AUTHOR: Annie Barrows, Sophie Blackall (Illustrator) GENRE: Middle-Grade Fiction AGES: 6 - 9 RATING: A A A A A
MY FAVORITE CHARACTER IN THIS BOOK: Ivy and Bean are my favorite characters! Both of them were equally hilarious and never without the other. FANS OF THIS BOOK MAY ALSO ENJOY: Clementine by Sara Pennypacker, Judy Moody by Megan McDonald, Junie B. Jones by Barbara Park
SYNOPSIS: The moment they saw each other, Bean and Ivy knew they wouldn’t be
Avery, 16, is an avid reader and book reviewer. When not reading, you can find her playing volleyball, hanging out with friends, or with one of her pets! Follow her on Instagram and TikTok at @readbyfin.
friends. But when Bean plays a joke on her sister, Nancy, and has to hide quickly, Ivy comes to the rescue, proving that sometimes the best of friends are people never meant to like each other. Vibrant characters and lots of humor make this a charming and addictive introduction to Ivy and Bean.
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Locations in Flagstaff and Tucson too! EPICKIDSAZ.COM
EPIC KIDS | MAY 2022 | 15
G e t a w a ys
STAY & PLAY OR GETAWAY Ideas for summer vacations and staycations By Gretchen Pahia
W
mlb.com/padres/ballpark
hether you are looking for a Balboa Park: A cultural oasis that vacation or staycation this summer includes 17 museums, gardens galore and check out these great ideas! the world-famous San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park is one of North America's most iconic Where to Stay (California) Paradise Point Resort: A private 44-acre urban parks. balboapark.org island on Mission Bay, just minutes from Where to Eat downtown and adjacent to SeaWorld San Puesto Mexican Artisan Kitchen Diego. There's a world-class spa, fitness & Bar: Known locally as Puesto, center, and more than 450 guest rooms the family owned restaurant has nine on-site. They also offer an array of family locations and is a must-eat spot. Menu friendly activities like cooking s’mores on items include chicken taquitos, a variety the beach! paradisepoint.com of burritos, tacos, plates, and more. eatpuesto.com Mission Bay Resort: This beautiful property offers several options for the White Rice: No trip to San Diego is family from on-site pools, sports activities, complete without visiting White Rice. This and a spa & fitness center. There’s also a rice bowl food stall is located in the historic Kids Kamp, beach games, bike rentals, and Liberty Public Market food hall, and the more for the family. missionbayresort.com menu features a diverse array of rice bowls. ricebowlsforall.com If you’d like to check out other properties in the area, a great resource is Discover Barbusa: Located in Little Italy, this spot Mission Bay. For more information, visit is known for its delicious menu. Options discovermissionbay.org include pastas, pizza, and a variety of specialty main dishes. Be sure to make a Where to Play reservation ahead of time as they fill up Petco Park: Home to the San Diego quickly. barbusa.com Padres, Petco Park is a one-of-a-kind experience for everyone in the family.
STAYING CLOSER TO HOME? HERE ARE A FEW STAYCATION IDEAS: Where to Stay (Arizona) Fairmont Scottsdale Princess: Enjoy a summer getaway without leaving the Valley. The Fairmont Princess is offering a wide array of kid-friendly activities all summer. fairmont.com/scottsdale Arizona Grand Resort: A super family-friendly resort and staycation option, the major perk of staying on property is the Oasis Water Park, which offers slides, a giant wave pool, Wild Cat Springs for the younger kids, an active river, and more. arizonagrandresort.com Where to Play Chase Field: Home to the Arizona Diamondbacks, Chase Field offers a family-friendly day at the ballpark. Fireworks are scheduled certain nights and there are many delicious food options. mlb.com/dbacks/ballpark/information Children’s Museum of Phoenix: Voted one of the top children’s museums in the nation, the museum is a great place to stay cool and have fun all summer long. childrensmuseumofphoenix.org The Arizona Grand's Oasis Water Park offers slides and more.
Mission Bay offers full beachside service.
S'mores on the beach at Paradise Point Resort.
16 | MAY 2022 | EPIC KIDS
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E a ts
Paqua Park
SCORPION BAY MARINA OFFERS FOOD AND FUN. By Gretchen Pahia
S
corpion Bay Marina is one of the Valley’s premiere outdoor playgrounds. Located next to Lake Pleasant, the marina is also a tasty spot to grab a bite. No doubt, the lake will be calling your name this summer and so will the delicious menu at Scorpion Bay Grill. Settled in along the marina and with amazing waterside lake views, this restaurant boasts delicious eats. Starters on the menu include a quesadilla with grilled chicken, cheddar, pico de gallo, black beans, and salsa; jumbo wings that come with house-made wing sauce or barbecue sauce; and a pretzel platter, which includes a giant salted pretzel, parmesan pretzel, garlic pretzel braid, beer cheese, and housemade mustard. Looking for something a bit more substantial than a starter? Don’t worry, the regular menu has you covered. Favorites include the marina club sandwich on wheatberry toast, sliced turkey, bacon, Swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato, and Flatbread
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mayo. You can also nab a plate of Joe’s fish n chips, which include beer battered cod, fries, tarter sauce, and pineapple-sriracha coleslaw. Flatbread pizza options include pepperoni, margarita, barbecue chicken, and a flatbread-ofthe-day. Patrons can also order off the grill with a protein of their choosing. Soft drinks and cocktails are available too, all served up with 360-degree mountain views. Each evening, there’s a special pre-fix dinner menu that changes depending on the available fresh ingredients of the chef’s choosing. Call ahead for a look at what’s available each night. For more information, visit scorpionbayaz.com. If you’re hitting the lake during the day, be sure to take time to check out the inflatable climbing structures at Paqua Park. The park is open on Saturdays and Sundays through Memorial Day and then Thursdays through Mondays the rest of the summer. Life jackets are required for all swimmers, and visitors are asked to arrive 15 to 20 minutes ahead of their reserved session to prepare for the fun. Kids must be at least 7 years old to play out at Paqua Park and be at least 45” tall to get on the floating structure. Single 45-minute sessions cost $25 per person. Purchase tickets online at paquapark.com.
CUT YOUR COSTS AT THE GAS PUMP FOR SUMMER FAMILY TRIPS
By Renee A. Hanson, CFP®, ChFC®, CEP®, CDFA®, miles for a reason. Gas-powered enCFS®, APMA® gines perform more efficiently at moderately high, steady speeds (highway as prices have been rising travel). Cruise control on long stretches steadily in recent months. Fuel costs are expected to grow as we of highway can help you maintain optimove into summer. As families consid- mal speed, while speeding and sudden acceleration use extra fuel. er summer road trips, here are some ways you can make your gas budget Consider a more fuel-efficient vehicle. go further even as gas prices rise. If you own a gas-guzzling car, it may Look for the lowest price. The highest be time for an upgrade. Fuel efficiency has increased significantly, with electric per-gallon prices are usually found at gas stations in high-convenience areas, and hybrid vehicles offering the most savings at the pump. If you can’t afford such as right off the highway. Before the latest model, you might consider a you gas up, check local fuel prices smaller car, which uses less fuel. online or download an app that will alert you to the best deals in your area. Drive less. A foolproof way to reduce If you belong to a warehouse club, take your gas consumption is to keep your advantage of their fuel savings procar parked. Plan ahead and eliminate grams. You may only save pennies per unnecessary trips to the store. If you gallon, but those pennies add up over commute to work, consider carpooling. time when you consider your total gas In some instances, public transporexpenditures over an entire year. tation and rideshare services may be Maintain your car. Anything that affects more economical than fueling up your your car’s overall performance can re- car and paying for tolls and parking. duce fuel efficiency. Keep your air filter Renee A. Hanson, CFP®, ChFC®, CEP®, CDFATM, CFS®, BFA®, APMA®, is a Private Wealth Advisor with Affinity Wealth Advisory Group, a clean, fluids topped off, and your tires wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, aligned and properly inflated. A missing private LLC. in Phoenix, Arizona. She specializes in fee-based financial or broken gas cap can cause fuel ineffi- planning and asset management strategies and has been in for 30 years. To contact her visit www.affinitywealthadciency. Even choosing the right oil can practice visor.com or call (602) 923-9800. Her office is located at 7010 E. Chauncey Lane, Suite #200, Phoenix, AZ 85054-3115. help with engine performance, which affects your fuel economy. Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC., a registered investPutting needs of Vehicle clients first is the approach I believe in. I’ll work with you to find ment adviser. Take thethe highway. manufacturright financial solutions to help you plan for your uniqueFinancial goals. And together, we’llFINRA and SIPC. Ameriprise Services, LLC. Member erstheprovide different mile-per-gallon track your between progress over time, adjusting your plan along the way to help get you where estimates city and highway © 2022 Ameriprise Financial, LLC. All rights reserved.
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you want to go.
Renee A. Hanson CFP®, CEP®, CDFA®, CFS®, ChFC®, APMA® Private Wealth Advisor Affinity Wealth Advisory Group A private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC
602.923.9800 7010 E. Chauncey Ln Ste 200 Phoenix, AZ 85054 renee.a.hanson@ampf.com affinitywealthadvisor.com
Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC.
EPIC KIDS | MAY 2022 | 17
What's Happening
May 2022
RETURN THE MAGIC WHEN: May 15 WHERE: Tuscany Theatre, 861 N. Higley Rd., Gilbert WHAT: This special event includes an interactive show filled with singing, dancing, and special performances. After the show, enjoy a meet and greet and photo opportunities with each of the princesses before joining them on the stage for a dance party where your little one gets to be the star! INFO: heaentertainmentaz.com/events
GAVIN TOREL WHEN: May 20 WHERE: Desert Ridge Marketplace, 21001 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix WHAT: Gavin is a young singer, songwriter, and multi 18 | MAY 2022 | EPIC KIDS
instrumentalist of all genres. He won NBC 12 News Arizona Got Talent Kids 2019 & performed at NAMM 2020 for three companies on stage and at exhibits. INFO: shopdesertridge.com STARS ON ICE WHEN: May 20 WHERE: Gila River Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Ave., Glendale WHAT: Stars on Ice returns to Glendale on May 20. The show puts fans front and center to see the best of the U.S. Figure Skating team straight from the 2022 Winter Games in Beijing, China. INFO: gilariverarena.com/events/detail/stars-on-ice-1
SLEEPING BEAUTY — BALLET PRESENTED BY YEN-LI CHEN BALLET SCHOOL WHEN: May 21 WHERE: Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler WHAT: A beautiful ballet performance that follows Princess Aurora and her escape from the evil Carabosse, who curses her. Upon her 18th birthday, she will prick her finger and die. The Lilac Fairy weakens the curse and proclaims Aurora will fall into a deep sleep for 100 years to be awakened by the kiss of a Prince. INFO: chandlercenter.org EPICKIDSAZ.COM
make wishes with the enchanted mermaid. Play and enjoy options for yummy food, craft activities, boutique shopping, face painting, hair do’s and mini photos with the mermaid. Tickets include treat bags and a treasure hunt. This event is sure to be fun for all ages. INFO: (480) 225-7199 PHOENIX FAN FUSION WHEN: May 27 through May 29 WHERE: Phoenix Convention Center and Venues, 100 N. 3rd Street, Phoenix WHAT: Phoenix Fan Fusion is the premiere pop culture event in the desert Southwest that attracts thousands of comic book enthusiasts for a one-of-a-kind experience. Visit the event website to learn more about this thrilling event. INFO: phoenixfanfusion.com
On Deck: June
KID BIZ EXPO WHEN: May 21 WHERE: Brighter View Life Enrichment Center, 4331 W. Bell Rd., Glendale WHAT: An amazing opportunity for kidprenuers to showcase their business and for the community to encourage and support their efforts. INFO: (888) 870-7637 or cordeania@ brighterviewfoundation.org
RECONNECTING WITH YOUR INNER CHILD EXHIBIT WHEN: June 3 through July 31 WHERE: Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix WHAT: Our inner child is the part of our personality that still reacts and feels like a child. It shapes the way we see the world. This free exhibit explores childlike experiences through art. INFO: herbergertheater.org
with
PRESCHOOL
ELEMENTARY K-5
MIDDLE SCHOOL 6-8
HIGH SCHOOL 9-12 1751 W Indian School Rd Phoenix AZ 85015 602-265-4707 phoenixchristian.org
MERMAID & PIRATE FESTIVAL WHEN: May 22 WHERE: Singh Meadows, 1490 E. Weber Dr., Tempe WHAT: Ahoy Mateys! Brave the shores of the Caribbean as you set sail with the pirates and EPICKIDSAZ.COM
BABYPALOOZA WHEN: June 18 WHERE: Mesa Convention Center, 263 N. Center St., Mesa WHAT: Babypalooza makes preparing for pregnancy and baby easy by gathering everything you need under one roof for a day of fun and education! INFO: babypalooza.com
Enrolling Now!
EPIC KIDS | MAY 2022 | 19
CREIGHTON SCHOOL DISTRICT OFFERS FULL-DAY KINDERGARTEN FOR OUR FAMILIES! Now enrolling for the 2022-2023 School Year. Our full-day program is filled with adventurous learning, discovery and joy as your child works and plays in an environment that is warm, safe and challenging. Check out our website to learn about our nine schools! www.CreightonSchools.org
NOW HIRING Creighton School District is seeking staff members who share our belief of inspiring students to become adventurous thinkers, collaborative learners, and kind-hearted leaders.
Apply online today at www.CreightonSchools.org • (602) 381-6000 2702 E. Flower St. Phx, AZ 85016 See what fun we’re having at:
2702 E Flower St., Phoenix, AZ 85016 602-381-6000 | www.CreightonSchools.org
@CreightonElementarySchoolDistrict