Idaho Family 08/09 2020

FREE

Aug/Sep 2020

CHALLENGED ATHLETES No one left out

BOISE GOAT YOGA Outside & 6 feet apart

KIDS’ FINANCIAL LITERACY Online teaching tools

TINY THE MULE Little but mighty

Stellan, 4, of Melba with his pet bunny Elli

Contents

Features

Volume 8, Number 4 Publisher J.J. Plew Associate Publisher Adrianne Goff Adrianne@globalpsd.com Cover Photo Julianna Clausen Editor Gaye Bunderson editorgaye@gmail.com Sales & Marketing J.J. Plew jj@idahofamilymagazine.com 208-697-2043 Contributors Chuck Carpenter, Luke Erickson, Cara Johnson-Bader, Dennis Lopez, Sandy McDaniel Graphic Design Carol Smiley csmileydesign@gmail.com Distribution Shauna Howard, Doris Evans

Idaho Family Magazine, published monthly

by Gem Production Co., LLC, is committed to providing readers with informative and entertaining information to help them in maintaining healthy families and positive lifestyles. It is distributed throughout the valley as a free publication. Idaho Family Magazine does not assume responsibility for statements or opinions expressed by editorial contributors or advertisers. The acceptance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services or information. Idaho Family Magazine does not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without express written consent of the publisher. Reader correspondence and editorial submissions are welcome. Idaho Family Magazine reserves the right to edit or reject all materials submitted.

All rights reserved. Copyright 2020 by Gem Production Co., LLC. Follow us on Facebook

August|September 2020

School Year 2020

3

Challenged Athletes

4

Expect challenges

It’s all about sports

Columns 6 Real Money,

Real Families

Kids’ financial literacy

8 The

Outdoorsman Tiny the mule

Look & Cook Recipes

A teaching tool

7

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Boise Goat Yoga

9

What a way to exercise!

Boise Music Lessons

12

In Each Edition 10 Family Events Calendar

Not missing a beat

Children’s Photos Wanted Idaho Family Magazine would love to put your child or children on our cover. All photos should be high quality, sharp and clear, and high resolution of around 300 ppi.

Color photos are preferred, and all photos need to be vertical not horizontal. Please identify the children in the photos, the children’s ages, and what Treasure Valley community they reside in. (If chosen for the cover, their last names will not be used without permission.) Send the photos to editorgaye@gmail.com.

2 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 | Idaho Family Magazine

FREE

Aug/Sep 2020

CHALLE NGED ATHLETES No one left out

BOISE GOAT YOGA KIDS’ FINANC IA LITERACY L Onli ne teac hing

tools

Outside & 6 feet apar t

TINY THE MUL E Little but migh ty

Stellan, 4,

of Melba

with his pet

bunny Elli

www.idahofamilymagazine.com

SCHOOL YEAR 2020

Online or in-person, expect challenges

By Sandy McDaniel

T

eachers in California and some 1. Schoolwork first. other states have been told that 2. A reading period. The best way for schools will re-open online, using a child to develop English skills outside of the media as their means of school is to read. A ticket to success in the teacher communication. Those students will future is that the child is able to read. A not be returning to the classroom. Idaho Gov. 30-minute (minimum) reading time should Brad Little has stated he wants K-12 students be in their schedule six days a week. A to return to schools. He did, however, also young child can read aloud while a parent is state that remote learning plans should be cooking dinner. Young children can read to in place in some areas. As I’m writing this in older siblings. My daughter-in-law and son mid-July, uncertainties remain. But there are read with their children (sometimes read to, two possible scenarios for Idaho parents to sometimes reading to the child) every night consider: 1. Their children go back to the Sandy McDaniel of the week. There is a magical time found classroom or 2. their children continue in books that this generation is skipping because of the to be home with online school. media. There is NO substitute for the connection, the Distance teaching and distance learning are not optimal bonding that happens between parent and child while ways of educating our children. Every credible teacher curled up together, reading.

I know longs for personal connection with each year’s 3. My primary concern, because I have done research students. That being said, the risk of children, teachers, on learning and the brain, is HOW excessive use of families, grandparents becoming ill – even dying – are a cell phones, iPads, computers and other media objects high price to pay. Should children return or not return to affects the development of a brain. Research is showing school in August? That is the question of the day, and with that continual use of the media trains the brain to the potential starting date three weeks away, how are we re-pattern itself, cutting off the branches that access going to train our teachers to function within all the rules creativity and intuition. We are raising a non-creative, that will be set? Who is preparing parents for the changes non-intuitive generation. Even more frightening are the at hand? Who is going to pay for extra sanitation and results in terms of what kind of people we are creating: necessary teaching equipment? narcissistic, angry, arrogant, apathetic and morally If Idaho children are required to stay home from deficient human beings who are constantly stressed and schools, parents need to put their children on a schedule: overwhelmed.

Continued on Page 14

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CHALLENGED ATHLETES FOUNDATION

Helping everyone enjoy Idaho’s outdoors

By Gaye Bunderson

W

hile sports activities may be great exercise hand, the 3-year-old’s family is allowing him to explore and and loads of fun, they can also cost a bundle see what interests him most in the world of sports – and that’s when equipment fees and participation one of the benefits of CAF-Idaho. It helps with clinics and expenses are added in. Now, imagine a other programs so the adaptive athlete has time to find what family that has a child with special needs. Medical and other he or she is most interested in. expenses incurred for the child’s care put a financial strain “The 3-year-old is being exposed to all the options,” on the family budget and don’t leave much left for sports and Skeesick said. recreation. But there’s an organization that steps up to pitch Sarah Palmer of Twin Falls is the mother of adaptive in with the costs that come with sports. It’s called Challenged athlete Jaxon, age 5. The child was born with spina bifida Athletes Foundation. and, as a result, also has a bilateral clubfoot. “For a long time, Jennifer Skeesick, Idaho Regional Director of CAF, said of my husband and I were trying to figure out how Jaxon could the high cost of sports involvement: “We help so there is no have opportunities in sports. He’s always been active and financial barrier to the athletes.” wants to try things out.”

Challenged Athletes is a national foundation with a more The Palmers attended the Idaho Spina Bifida Fall Carnival than 25-year history, but the Idaho chapter is fairly new, having held on Halloween last October at the St. Luke’s Children’s launched in May 2019. “The J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Hospital Specialty Center in Boise. CAF-Idaho had a vendor Foundation reached out to us a couple of years ago with a strong booth there and Sarah spoke personally with Jennifer Skeesick. interest in having an established adaptive sports community in “It was exciting,” Palmer said. She had finally found a way Idaho,” Skeesick explained. “They were motivated by Idaho’s for Jaxon to experience the thrill of sports. She answered a great outdoor opportunities, and they gave us a generous grant few questions and filled out a short survey, and before long, the to start and continue with CAF-Idaho.” family was on its way to Tamarack Resort for a CAF-Idaho A former physical therapist who has always been around sports clinic. In January, Jaxon tried Nordic skiing. At a later the adaptive community, Skeesick went straight from that clinic, held in March, he attempted two new activities: sledge job and right into leading CAF-Idaho. “I left health care and hockey, a form of adaptive ice hockey, and wheelchair curling. leapt into CAF,” she said.

“The best part of the Tamarack experience,” said his mom, Individual athletes – or their families if they’re underage “was seeing how much joy Jaxon had while skiing. He was 4 – apply for grants from CAF-Idaho; at the time but he was able to ski and and with the grant money, they have interact with others who were new, but access to equipment, coaching, travel also with the professional athletes. He’s expenses to competitions, access to always had the mindset of trying things sports clinics, and participation in a out. But actually seeing it and seeing mentoring program. people like him doing it, he now knows The chapter distributed 111 grants he’s capable. He’s able to experience it.”

– totaling $231,538 – to adaptive The interactive part of the clinics also athletes in the Gem State since May benefited Jaxon. “He’s very social, so of 2019, according to an article he talks with everyone, plays with them, published March 27, 2020 at www. and wants to race with them,” Palmer BigCountryNewsConnection.com.* said. “Everyone cheers each other on.

CAF-Idaho is keen on open-air They’re rooting for each other.” activities. “We support indoor sports Palmer encourages other parents as well,” Skeesick said, “but we’re of adaptive children to explore CAFespecially big on the outdoors, sports Idaho. “Get involved. Don’t worry if like snow skiing, mountain biking, and your child is too young or it’s something hiking.” they can’t do. Everyone is working There are currently 600 athletes together. There’s a lot of camaraderie.” in CAF-Idaho; the youngest is 3 Her husband, Niels, agrees. “CAFJaxon Palmer of Twin Falls, age 4 in this photo, Idaho is adapting the sport, trying hard and the oldest is 94. A veteran, the was able to ski on his own while attending a nonagenarian was formerly a trail to make it work for everyone involved,” sports clinic put on by the Idaho Chapter of the runner and now hikes. On the other Challenged Athletes Foundation. (Courtesy photo) he said.

4 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 | Idaho Family Magazine

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The Palmers said they didn’t know if Jaxon could handle the sports he tried – but he did.

The pandemic has affected the program a bit this year, but there have been Zoom calls and emails providing updates on plans for this fall and winter. “They want everyone to stay active, even if we can’t meet together yet,” Sarah Palmer said.

The CAF-Idaho program is comprised of many volunteers who themselves are challenged athletes. Also, CAF-Idaho teams with community partners such as BASE (Boise Adaptive Snowsport Education), parks and recreation departments, Higher Ground (highergroundusa. org), and Teton Adaptive (tetonadaptivesports.com).

“There is a mutual support group of athletes,” said Skeesick.

Taylor Walker, a spokesperson for CAF, said, “We empower individuals with permanent physical challenges, with the goal of ensuring every Idahoan – no matter their ability – can access the mountains, lakes, trails and rivers we have throughout the state.”

All ages are welcome. For more information on the Idaho Chapter of the Challenged Athletes Foundation or to apply for a grant, visit https://www.challengedathletes.org/idaho. * (The full article is available at https://www. bigcountrynewsconnection.com/idaho/idaho-chapter-of-challengedathletes-foundation-distributes-111-grants-totaling-over-231-500-toidaho/article_795901ca-7064-11ea-bb09-b3b0d2868626.html)

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REAL MONEY, REAL FAMILIES

Online tools for kids’ financial literacy

By Luke Erickson

W

ell, it’s back to school time and The National Financial Educators Council we’re all holding our collective recently shared, “…schools rarely teach breath. I don’t think there has personal finance for kids; we are failing to ever been a time when so many produce self-sufficiency among our younger parents – and kids for that matter – have been generations.” so ready for school to get back in session.

It’s not so much that we’re trying to blame There are still many uncertainties with K-12 teachers. They already have quite a school, and education in general. There will bit on their plates. But the truth is that most likely be some big, semi-permanent changes school systems are not designed to devote to the way education will be delivered in the much time to non-core areas like consumer coming months and years, including staggered economics in normal times – let alone during schedules, more reliance on technology a national crisis. and distance education, and the very real The good news is that parents and teachers Luke Erickson possibility of kids staying home for days who understand the importance of financial literacy have a and weeks at a time if/when the COVID strikes a certain wealth of tools at their disposal. First, as a board member classroom or school. I think it’s safe to say that your local of the Idaho Financial Literacy Coalition, the local affiliate K-12 teachers and administrators will have their hands full of the national Jump$tart Coalition for Personal Financial this fall. That’s why it’s more important now than ever to Literacy, I can tell you that there are many great programs take the bull by the horns when it comes to personal finance and curricula out there that fit a variety of topics and education for your own children. settings. Visit https://jumpstartclearinghouse.org/ to see programs that have been developed by educators all over the country. Another terrific resource is this list of money management K-12 lessons from Maryville University: https://online.maryville.edu/online-bachelors-degrees/ accounting/money-management-lessons-kids/ But who has the time to research these programs and Call the figure out which one to teach and how to teach it, especially if you’re not really an expert in personal finances yourself ?

Well look no further than your land-grant university for fun and engaging personal finance programs for youth.

Whether you are a parent, a youth leader, or a K-12 teacher, • FULL YEAR OF SERVICE FOR University of Idaho Extension has developed award-winning AS LOW AS $19/MONTH programs that teach basic personal finance concepts that • FREE INSPECTIONS are free and available to the public. Visit www.uidaho.edu/ • GUARANTEED RESULTS— nw-youth-financial-ed to view and download programs for if your bugs return, so do we — for free! personal or classroom use.

And don’t forget, there are extension educators in every • Idaho owned and operated corner of the state who are qualified and ready to deliver these • Licensed through the Idaho Department of and other personal finance programs to classrooms and other Agriculture youth groups. Simply call your local extension office, or email • Specializing in eliminating: me at erickson@uidaho.edu, to arrange to have a personal Ants Wasps Cockroaches finance program delivered to your class or youth group.

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6 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 | Idaho Family Magazine

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LOOK & COOK RECIPES

Culinary adventures promote development

By Cara Johnson-Bader

A

Yes, the changing state of matter. The simple act of melting butter provides a wonderful way for your child to learn about a solid turning into a liquid.

t New Horizon Academy, our teachers use classroom cooking activities to promote learning, and you can, too. We understand cooking with your child takes a little more time, a lot more patience, and involves extra clean-up, but it is totally worth it. Cooking boosts language development, fine motor skills, and math abilities, introduces complex scientific concepts, teaches life skills, and creates lasting memories that both you and your child will treasure.

Life Skill Development

• Cooking is a life skill and a terrific skill to help your child develop.

• With each cooking activity, your child will learn important concepts of how to safely use a knife, the importance of not touching a hot stove, how to clean up after he is done cooking.

Cara Johnson-Bader We encourage you to Language Development Look Stopli and Cook try our Look & Cook Recipes. These • As you talk and describe what you are doing, ght S nack are fun, simple, and educational your child develops new vocabulary words. cooking activities that you can do Fine Motor Skills using ingredients you already have • Mixing the ingredients, handling kitchen tools, and rolling in your kitchen. The recipes have the dough are all wonderful ways your child develops his a child-friendly design, so that fine motor skills. your child can easily follow along, Math Ability 1 and perhaps make the recipes 2 • Cooking involves a great deal of math. From measuring, on their own. Visit our website 3 estimating, and sequencing (“what is first…next…last?”), https://newhorizonacademy.

4 your child is exposed to a multitude of math concepts in 5 net/look-and-cook/ to access fun and meaningful ways. the recipes.

Ingred

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Cream ch butter, eese, pean ut or sun butter

Banana — apricot—halved or halved

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Place yo apricot ur banana or in the gra the middle of ham cra cker.

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• Science is a huge part of the cooking process.

• Your child will learn what happens when you mix ingredients together.

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Cara Johnson-Bader is the Vice President of Marketing and Parent Experiences at New Horizon Academy and mother of two young boys. Learn more about New Horizon Academy at newhorizonacademy.net.

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sliced

The OUTDOORSMAN

Tiny the mule: little but mighty…

By Chuck Carpenter

T

hroughout the fall, winter, and early spring when the sheep producers run their sheep on BLM allotments, the sheepherder usually stays in a sheep camp. The camps can be moved with a pick-up or small tractor. By late spring or early summer, most of the sheep bands move up into the higher country to forest allotments. There are very few roads in some of this country so the sheep camps are traded in for a pack camp, which consists of wall tents.

There are almost always two people with each band of sheep: the herder, who takes care of the sheep, and the camp tender, the one that does the cooking and camp chores.

Once they get into the high country, the owner of the sheep or the foreman will meet the herder and the camp tender each week and bring groceries and other supplies to last them for the week. They will also check to see if there are any problems with predators or trails and make sure there is enough feed for the livestock.

Once the herder and the camp tender head off in a pack camp, they each have a saddle horse to get around through the country. They will usually have three or four mules to pack groceries and supplies back to their camp and to move their camp.

Chuck Carpenter

I would usually try and meet with the herder and foreman when they would come out for supplies to see if they were having any problems with predators. I met one of these bands a number of years ago along the South Fork of the Boise River, where a small creek ran into the river on the opposite side. The road was on one side and the creek was on the other side.

During that winter and early spring, there was lots of snow and rain and water run-off. The snow melted very quickly. The river was at flood stage and roaring along to the lower country.

After meeting the foreman along the river, we visited a while and enjoyed a cup of coffee out of the thermos.

It wasn’t long and the herder rode out of the timber on his saddle horse followed by three pack mules and the camp tender bringing up the rear. They stopped at the edge of the river and Be a legend. studied the roaring, fast-moving water.

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I asked the herder about the little LET’S TALK TODAY. With the right life insurance, mule and he said his name was Tiny.

KenKen Wells, Agent With the right life insurance, Wells, Agent leave forsaid, “He’s little but mighty.”

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8 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 | Idaho Family Magazine

the two big mules. Tiny was munching on grass while the two larger mules were being loaded.

After the two bigger mules were loaded, the only thing left was a burlap sack full of potatoes. The foreman put half of the bag on each side of Tiny’s pack and tied it down.

The foreman and the herder made plans on where they would meet the following week; the herder then waved and eased his horse back into the river, followed by the two big mules and then Tiny. The camp tender was in the back again.

They were only a short ways into the river when Tiny’s pack filled up with water and he was bobbing along like a cork and going down the river. He washed down the river and around the corner and into a big pool where the water wasn’t as swift. He swam to the far side to a very steep, rocky place and I thought Tiny was a goner.

But he went up through the rocks at a gallop and cut around the side hill and was waiting on the other side for the horses and mules to get there. He was looking at them as if to say, “What took you guys so long?”

The herder and camp tender checked out Tiny to make sure he was all right and waved a thumbs-up to us across the river.

The foreman yelled across the river, “Well, you got your tators washed.”

Chuck Carpenter, who now lives in Idaho, likes to hunt, fish and trap. He worked on a farm as a boy; then, as an adult, he took a job with the Department of Interior’s Animal Damage Control, now called USDA Wildlife Services. He ultimately became a district supervisor. He retired in 2011. www.idahofamilymagazine.com

BOISE GOAT YOGA

Taking the ‘unpleasant’ out of exercising

By Gaye Bunderson

Editor’s note: This article was originally set to be printed in the May/June issue of Idaho Family Magazine, but the requirements of social distancing put Emily Nielsen’s Boise Goat Yoga business on hold. However, she sent us the following email late in June: “We are actually up and running! Since we are 100 percent outdoors, it’s easy for us to enforce the 6-foot distancing rule, and class sizes are limited to 20 people.” Boise Goat Yoga is open now through October.

I

t’s one thing to go to the gym and work up a sweat on the ellipticals. It’s another thing altogether to go into a green meadow, lay down a yoga mat near a group of trees, and happily mingle with friendly goats. Emily Nielsen, owner of Boise Goat Yoga, admits the latter form of exercise may sound a little silly, but rather than run from that perspective, she embraces it.

“I put it out online as a joke, but people started coming.

We sold out in one day. This is our fourth year,” Nielsen said.

“People just want to try something new and kinda silly.”

Nielsen and her husband, John Davidson, own an acre of land in Boise. Resting in amongst other houses is the couple’s residence. On the property are their lovely home, a large driveway, a garden, a building transformed into an Airbnb they call Boise Barndominium, an actual barn with egglaying chickens, and a meadow full of pygmy goats.

The couple originally acquired the goats just as pets for their two daughters, ages 13 and 10. “They love the goats.

They come out here for some goat therapy, something silly, and a chance not to take things too seriously,” Nielsen said.

And that just may be the secret to the success of Boise Goat Yoga: not taking it all too seriously. Nielsen is trained in yoga and teaches at the YMCA. But when people come to her home and lay out their mats in the grass, it becomes a different sort of experience. “We feel the earth beneath us, hear the sound of the birds and goats, feel the air on our skin, and have a chance to re-commune with Nature,” Nielsen said.

This isn’t a hippie-dippie sort of thing. It’s a Boise thing – and why not? Nielsen was born and raised here, graduating from Bishop Kelly in 1996. Children, older people, and families have attended her goat yoga classes. There are no yoga experience requirements, nor are there health and weight specifications to meet.

Registered nurse Robin Dahl admits she’s no fit youngster but nonetheless said, “I’m over 50, out of shape and had never been to a yoga class in my life. The first goat yoga class I attended, I was hooked. It starts with Emily herself. She immediately makes you feel comfortable, and her class is geared toward all levels, so even an old, inflexible, fat girl like me can participate without feeling self-conscious.”

Dahl also admits to “borrowing” her friend’s 5-year-old daughter and taking her to one of Nielsen’s Kids n Kids classes – a goat experience for the younger set.

For both young and old, the experience isn’t limited to

www.idahofamilymagazine.com

Emily Nielsen, her husband John, and their two daughters – Luciya, age 13, on her dad’s shoulders, and Mirabel, age 10 – keep company with one of the family’s pet goats in the backyard of their Boise residence.

(Courtesy photo) Contnued on Page 15

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CALENDAR Editor’s note: This year may feel daunting because of so many cancelled events. But it may also be a summer your family bonds and remembers for years to come. Below are some of the things you may all still do together. As far as some of the events listed here, efforts were made to verify they were still planned. However, things change rapidly and you are advised to check in advance to guarantee they have not been cancelled due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation. Also, check our website at idahofamilymagazine.com for updates.

Area libraries

Many libraries in the area are open for limited services, with limited numbers of patrons allowed in at a time. Social distancing and masks are required.

Some libraries are also offering contactless pickup of library items, as well as online programs for all ages. For more information, go to: • Ada Community Libraries: www.adalib.org • Boise Public Library: www.boisepubliclibrary.org • Caldwell Public Library: www.caldwellpubliclibrary.org • Eagle Public Library: www.eaglepubliclibrary.org • Garden City Library: www.notaquietlibrary.org • Meridian Library District: www.mld.org • Nampa Public Library: www.nampalibrary.org

Area farmers markets

Farmers markets in the area are open with extra precautions in place, including social distancing and cleanliness protocols, among others. Farmers markets have been deemed an essential service by the federal government, as they provide vital food access to their communities. For more information, go to: • Capital City Public Market in Boise: www. capitalcitypublicmarket.com • Eagle Saturday Market: https://www. cityofeagle.org/170/Eagle-Saturday-Market • Farm to Fork Farmers Market in Caldwell: https://www.indiancreekplaza.com/farm-tofork-farmers-market-1 • Meridian Main Street Market: www. meridianmainstreetmarket.com • Nampa Farmers Market: www.nampafarmersmarket.com

Area parks

There are dozens of parks in the Treasure Valley, and more than one in each local community.

Following proper CDC guidelines, families may partake of the outdoors in one of many nearby parks. For more information on what’s available for free, fun, healthy entertainment, go to: • Parks in Boise – https://www.cityofboise.org/ departments/parks-and-recreation/parks/ • Parks in Caldwell – https://www.cityofcaldwell. org/departments/parks-recreation • Parks in Eagle – https://www.cityofeagle. org/174/Park-Locations-Maps • Parks in Meridian – https://meridiancity.org/ parks/ • Parks in Nampa – https://www. nampaparksandrecreation.org/101/ParksFacilities

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of Events Wahooz Family Fun Zone

Wahooz is practicing extensive safety measures but is open from 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. every week.

For regular events and special events in August and September, go to wahoozfunzone.com.

Boise WaterShed online

The Boise WaterShed is offering a variety of online programming for people to connect, learn and engage during this challenging time. Whether you are looking for at-home activities, short informative videos, or information for lifelong learning, you may find it at https://bee.cityofboise. org/learn/watershed-at-home/. Also, continue to check out bee.cityofboise.org for updated information and activities throughout the current and coming months.

Zoo Boise

Zoo Boise reopened on June 22, with new guidelines to keep visitors safe. Advance tickets will be required for all visitors, including members (member tickets are free). The zoo will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, with entry times available every 30 minutes from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to reduce lines and allow for physical distancing among guests. There is a set pathway around the zoo, and some exhibits and activities will not be open. Zoo Boise is asking visitors to wear masks while at the zoo, and all staff will be wearing masks.

For tickets, go to https://zooboise.org/onlineticketing/.

Idaho Botanical Garden

The Idaho Botanical Garden has some new “garden etiquette” in place and is asking all guests to follow some new protocols. IBG is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Sunday. Admission to the garden may now be paid online to help keep the Garden a healthy space for everyone. Go to https://idahobotanicalgarden.org/visit/plan-yourvisit/ for more information.

Beginning August, 2020 Please send family-related calendar items to editorgaye@gmail.com

Foster Care Informational Meetings

Foster Care Informational Meetings, sponsored by Fostering Idaho through the EWU-Family Resource and Training Center, are a great way to learn about the fostering process. Meetings are set to be held on Zoom on the following days and times: 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, August 6; and 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, August 12. Pre-registration is required through a Zoom link. To access the link and receive a meeting code, visit the events calendar at https://familyrtc. org/fosteringidaho/events. If you have questions, contact Monique Layton, recruitment coordinator, at (208) 249-0180 or mlayton4@ewu.edu.

Starlight Mountain Theatre

The Starlight Mountain Theatre in Garden Valley has arranged to have special hand-washing stations at the theater, and encourages patrons to bring their own hand sanitizer and any form of personal protective equipment they deem appropriate. Its August-September schedule includes performances of “Hello Dolly!” from August 24 through September 5. Call the Starlight Box Office at (208) 462-5523 or go online at www.starlightmt.com for tickets or more information.

SEPTEMBER FitOne Boise

From FitOneBoise.org: “With health and safety as our top priority during COVID-19, we will be modifying this year’s FitOne event to be a virtual fitness celebration across our communities.” A virtual race is set for September 18-26. Go to the website to sign up, and for updated information.

WELCOME BACK TO BAM There is plenty of space for physical distancing and quiet contemplation at the Boise Art Museum.

Come find joy by connecting with visual art at BAM. Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday

10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Noon - 5 p.m.

Closed

With the health of our visitors and staff as our highest priority, we have made the BAM experience no-touch or low-touch and have enhanced saftey measures throughout the building.

DISCOVER BAM’S ONLINE ART EXPERIENCES Hear from the artists, create hands-on art projects, and learn about exhibitions at BAM through a variety of educational resources.

www.boiseartmuseum.org

Sparklight Movie Night

Join Meridian Parks and Recreation for Sparklight Movie Night on Fridays through August 21 at Settlers Park in Meridian. The family-friendly free movies begin at dusk, and there are bounce houses, give-aways, and treats on many of the nights. Go to meridiancityspecialevents.org.

Silver Screen on the Green

Nampa Parks & Recreation will offer free family movies at Optimist Park throughout the summer.

Grab a blanket, lawn chair, family and friends and head to the park from 8:30 to 11 p.m. on Friday nights. For more information and a list of movies, go to nampaparksandrecration.org or call (208) 468-5858.

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n

in actio

!

at the Nampa Rec Center

Before School, After School & Full Day! Swimming • Rock Climbing • Court Games Crafts • Snacks and More!

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL 208-468-5858 OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT NAMPARECCENTER.ORG Idaho Family Magazine | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 11

BOISE MUSIC LESSONS

Not missing a beat despite a pandemic

By Dennis Lopez

I

“Hey, Dad. Let’s learn to play the violin together!”

t seemed like a logical father-daughter request from my oldest daughter, Amy. After all, she was only suggesting we learn an instrument renowned for its difficulty to play, the need for incredible finger dexterity, fluid bow skills and of course the ability to read music. Sort of the musical version of rubbing your head, patting your stomach and reciting the Gettysburg Address at the same time. Not to mention that I am “70 something.” How hard could it be?

Turns out, not that hard at all, if you have the right teacher.

And that’s how I met Angie Marianthi, her husband Marcus and their children. And their dog. And two cats. And learned about raising chickens in your backyard. You see theirs truly is a family small business…no, more of a family passion focused on teaching and helping everyone to learn to make music.

Operating Boise Music Lessons out of their tidy home on Vaughn Street, Angie and Marcus provide a learning gateway for people who, like my daughter and me, want to attempt to learn to play an instrument. We learned in an atmosphere of warmth and friendship, fun and personal fulfillment. The learning pace was set as much by us as by Angie and her encouraging teaching methods. Just like the younger students who had finished their lessons ahead of us, we got clever little stickers on our music books as rewards for learning something new or finishing a song. I still value those little stickers.

Music lessons once taught indoors by Marcus Marianthi, front at right, are now conducted outside due to COVID-19. (Courtesy photo)

Angie and Marcus Marianthi own Boise Music Lessons. They continue to teach despite the pandemic and have done so through technology, masks, and so-called social distancing. The couple believes music is as relevant now as ever. (Courtesy photo) That was three years ago. Boise Music Lessons was in its infancy and Angie and Marcus were starting down the very uncertain pathway of owning and operating their own business. They gave up regular hours and regular paychecks to do what they always wanted to do: teach people to play an instrument like the violin, guitar, drums or the banjo.

Over those years, their business model has grown with the success of their studio and the needs of their students, changing to reflect a broader scope for those seeking to learn to play an instrument. Within those changes is a change in the age of their students. Today, 60 percent of their students are adults and they have changed the minimum age of students to nine-years-old.

Now, during this world-wide pandemic they are faced with teaching music that normally is a hands-on form of learning, in a time when health officials say to remain socially distant from one another.

Like many small businesses during the COVID-19 health crisis, it has become necessary for Angie and Marcus to rethink the way they conduct business in a time of social distancing and face masks.

With the days of playing in the Marianthi living room now impossible, teaching people to play requires some ingenuity. The switch means that lessons are given outside on a lawn or through a virtual get-together using the internet. Regardless of the medium, Angie and Marcus view music as an important way to help people weather this current storm.

“I think right now people are identifying what is most important to them. We see our students using music to lift their spirits and connect with their families and friends, and we’re happy to be able to guide them through this process,” Angie said.

12 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 | Idaho Family Magazine

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We help families make memories that last a lifetime.

In that spirit, Boise Music Lessons uses a group learning methodology that allows students to play together while staying apart.

“In addition to one-on-one lessons, our students come together every month to learn a song as a group. Seeing a dozen different instruments come together keeps everyone motivated and excited about playing music.

“Before the pandemic we would host these groups in our home, or at local tasting rooms and coffee shops. Now we meet online, or at a park while wearing masks and maintaining social distancing.”

Angie said she and Marcus are grateful that they still have a role where they can help others during these challenging times. They are sharing that gratitude with others by donating a portion of their income to help local musicians in need.

“Proceeds from our online group classes go to local nonprofits like the Treefort Live Music Relief Fund and the Boise Hive. We feel fortunate to be able to play music every

208-297-3237

dreamstravelconsulting.com denise@dreamstravelconsulting.com • Boise, Idaho

day with our community, and are grateful that we can help support our fellow musicians in the process.”

That I still can grind out a recognizable tune on my violin is proof that regardless of the teaching medium they employ, their methods work. I only hope they haven’t abandoned the little reward stickers.

Welcome to the Team, Dr. Charles!

Dr. Colton Charles Dr. Colton Charles was born and raised in McCall, Idaho and is the oldest of five siblings. From a young age, he wanted to be a dentist just like his father. Growing up in the small mountain town, Dr. Charles spent most of his time fishing, hiking, camping, and skiing. After high school, he attended Oregon State University where he played football for the Beavers.Then he went on to graduate dental school at Oregon Health and Science University. Shortly after dental school, Dr. Charles took a position at a children’s clinic where he developed a passion for working with kids. This led him to pursue specialty training in pediatric dentistry at the NYU Langone Hospitals Pediatric Dental Residency program. Dr. Charles is excited to now be returning home to serve the children and families of the Treasure Valley.

Dr. Charles and his wife Stacey have two young children and enjoy chasing them all over the place. When not fighting sugar bugs, he loves traveling and exploring the outdoors.

www.idahofamilymagazine.com

Call Today to Schedule an Appointment!

450 W. State Street, Suite 180 • Eagle, ID Brush, Floss, Stay Safe and Happy!

Dr. Dan Streeby

Idaho Family Magazine | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 13

SCHOOL Continued from Page 3

MONEY Continued from Page 6

When this pandemic finally ends, are the generation of today’s children going to be able to create a livable world?

The answer to that depends upon how many boundaries and life skills each parent is willing to teach. Boundaries for behavior (boundaries and consequences) teach children how to use power well, to respect authority, and to self-direct their behavior. (See “Don’t Feed the Dragon” on Amazon.)

Whether their child goes to school or participates in remote learning, parents who care about their children will regulate use of the media. Children are obsessed with it, so this will not be easy. Having been an instant “childsitter” in the beginning, use of the media has increased nearly 100 percent. If a parent chooses to limit media time, there will be battles, and popularity contests will not be won. If the schools provide work to do at home, the rule is simple: schoolwork first, no media; chores second, no media. If a child attends school, media time is restricted to one hour a day (explosion noted!).

As for life skills, one of the most important skills to learn (no matter what happens) is how to adjust, no matter what happens. Complaining, whining, temper tantrums, and pouting change nothing. The Serenity Prayer says, “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; Courage to change the things I can; And wisdom to know the difference.” Be careful what you say around your kids – CHILDREN ARE ALWAYS LISTENING! If you complain and moan, how can you expect them to make the most of a situation they cannot change? “How can we make lemonade out of this lemon?” becomes a mindset, a lesson in going with the flow of life.This instant-gratification generation isn’t being taught to realize that you need to re-direct your energy when faced with something you can’t change. They won’t learn it unless their parents model and teach that skill.

through a device, and boom! Instant financial education for your group. All you have to do is ask.

Even though my colleagues and I at the University of Idaho and countless other educators around the country have gone to great lengths to provide quality educational programs for public use, we also realize that exposure to a handful of quality programs will only go so far in preparing children to manage their finances in the real world when they become adults. This is why it’s important to be a good role model, not only in financial behaviors but in the basic habit of regularly adding to your own financial education. Teach your kids to regularly read age-appropriate articles, listen to podcasts, and read books about money. It’s no secret that this is a habit of more than a few financially successful people, yet so many people who want to be successful don’t do it.

Put another way: You are what you read. (I’m suddenly worried... A few of my kids read “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” books on a regular basis.)

Don’t worry, you probably don’t need to toss out all your entertaining paperbacks, just make sure you mix in some books with practical use in your reading rotation.

Also, don’t forget the busy person’s ultimate reading tool: audiobooks. Turn that commute or job into a some of the most productive and useful time of your day.

And, if school never happens this fall, it may not be a terrible idea to invest in some noise cancelling headphones along with those audiobooks. Just sayin’.

Luke Erickson, Ph.D., AFC®, is an associate professor of personal finance for the University of Idaho. He lives and works in the Treasure Valley. Luke and his wife Rachel have been married for 15 years and live in Meridian, Idaho with their four energetic children.

Got questions or comments about kids and money? Email them to erickson@uidaho.edu. He’ll respond in future articles.

For more than 55 years, Sandy McDaniel has been an international speaker and recognized authority on families and children. Author of five books, columnist, founder of parentingsos.com, she is a resident of Meridian and loves spending time with her three Idaho grandchicks. She may be reached at sandy@parentingsos.com. Or, go to YouTube: Sandy Spurgeon McDaniel to see videos on specific parenting issues.

14 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 | Idaho Family Magazine

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YOGA Continued from Page 9 performing yoga moves in the presence of friendly, nonjudgmental goats. Grownups and young ones may take photos with the goats as part of the session and then gather chicken eggs from chickens in the coop near the goat meadow. They may even hold the chickens if they want.

“They’re very sweet,” Nielsen said.

There’s also fruit- and veggie-picking in season.

Participant Nicole Gouve sees the whole experience as a wonderful escape.

“From the inviting entrance with herbal tea waiting, to the sounds of chickens clucking around, to the welcoming host, Emily, it is an escape from the mundane,” Gouve said. “After settling onto a yoga mat, the yogis get a much anticipated and hilarious introduction to the posse of playful goats – the main attraction of the hour.”

Nielsen’s husband, whom she calls “my partner in crime,” helps check people in as they arrive for their goat yoga sessions and takes care of the grounds too. “He wants to be a farmer in the worst way,” said Nielsen of her spouse.

She acknowledged John has all the business skills and handles all the logistics, while she’s more of the “this-willbe-fun” mindset. “I’ve always been someone who dabbles in many things at once,” said the now 42-year-old.

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Her degrees from Southern Oregon University were in psychology and Spanish, and she taught elementary Spanish on Maui for years. That’s where she met John and had the first of her two children. She and John added the second child when they moved to Boise, and have lived in their current home for 13 years.

Emily has been a fitness instructor for 12 years, and prior to opening the Boise Barndominium and launching Boise Goat Yoga, she taught regular yoga in the space that is now the Airbnb.

The origins of goat yoga are a bit sketchy, but Nielsen said a woman in Oregon started the novelty program in 2014 with her pet goats.

The goat yoga season is six months long, from April through October, and costs $20 a session, with two community sessions per month. More information about Boise Goat Yoga is available at LivelyBalance.com. Questions may be directed to Nielsen at emily@livelybalance.com.

“I’d highly recommend this experience to anyone and everyone who loves animals, sunshine, yoga, and fun. A complimentary glass of wine by the campfire when the class is over is the perfect ending to an amazing adventure,” Dahl said.

Idaho Family Magazine | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 15

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16 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 | Idaho Family Magazine

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