Idaho Family 08 2019

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August 2019

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CHILDREN’S BIRTHDAY PARTIES THE OUTDOORSMAN An Abominable Snowman

KIDS & CULTURE

Benefits of Arts Events

SCHOOL BELLS It’s That Time Again

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Back to School Guide 2019

Emma, age 7, walks in a Nampa field of wheat

Contents Features

Volume 7, Number 7 Publisher J.J. Plew Associate Publisher Adrianne Goff Adrianne@globalpsd.com Cover Photo Mira Sebyakin Editor Gaye Bunderson editorgaye@gmail.com

August 2019

Children’s School Success

4

Kids & Culture

6

Parents, be a ‘student’

Well-rounded children

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 2019 by Gem Production Co., LLC. Follow us on Facebook

8 The

Outdoorsman An abominable snowman

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Sales & Marketing J.J. Plew jjplew82@gmail.com 208-697-2043 Contributors Daniel Bobinski, Chuck Carpenter, Adrianne Goff, Patrick Hempfing, Luke Martin, Sandy McDaniel, Alison Moulton

Columns

2 019

How to raise arts-savvy youngsters

7 20 Top Picks for

‘Boy Sees Beautiful’

9

Children’s birthday parties

An ode to Boise

22 Wednesday’s

School Bells

10

Back to School Guide 2019

16

Are you ready?

Departments Child

3 special siblings

In Each Edition 3 Editor’s Intro

All kinds of families

Tween Daughter and Dad

2 AUGUST 2019 | Idaho Family Magazine

23

12 Family Events Calendar

www.idahofamilymagazine.com

EDITOR’S Intro

All the things ‘family’ is or can be

I

n the July issue of Idaho Family Magazine, a young woman named Cassidy Littleton helped readers understand what it’s like growing up in foster care. I asked her a series of questions about her experience, and her answer to one question in particular got me thinking.

The question was, “What is your life like now? What support do you have in the way of family and friends?”

Okay, that’s actually two questions …

But her answer was meaningful to me because it was a different take on the concept of family. She said, “I have a huge network of families that rally around me. I have biological family in Idaho and in other states, Boys & Girls Club families, families of friends, church families — they’ve all taken me in and support me, so I feel very blessed to have them.”

This “network of families” idea was something I had thought about previously in my own life. Like everyone, I have a biological family. I’m emotionally close to them but physically apart from them. So I have often found comfort in other kinds of “families,” such as: • A work family: I have frequently had jobs where I enjoyed my co-workers so much I actually missed them over the weekend. I thought of them often as my “work family.”

• A group family: I was once in a theater group that would meet every Friday. While we actually rehearsed most times, we also spent time talking together about how things were going in our lives. It was extremely nice to know that at the end of the week, I would meet with those great people for an unconditional fellowship of friends. They were my “group family.”

• Friends who are like family: I’ve enjoyed the same best friend for 40 years. We go way back — way back to college in fact. Back to pre-marriage and pre-career days. We have lots of shared history. Friends like that are their own kind of family.

• The human family: With more than 7 billion people in the world, maybe there’s never a real excuse for being lonely. There are more than half a million people in the Boise Metropolitan Area alone; and while I haven’t met most of them, I’ve met many who are very fine people whose company I enjoy, whether briefly or over decades.

They’re my shared “human family.”

Thank heavens for all our various family members, no matter what they may look like, where you might find them, or whether or not we actually share the same bloodline.

Families of all kinds are something to celebrate. Look around in your own life and see just how many families you actually have.

6 YEARS OF IDAHO FAMILY

Idaho Family Magazine is now celebrating its sixth year in business, providing entertainment and information to people throughout the valley. We like to think what we offer is of interest to “a broad spectrum,” as they say. From single parents to people who aren’t parents yet — or who may never become parents, for whatever reason. Young people and older ones. Men and women alike.

If humor is your thing, check out The Outdoorsman. If anything from dining to swimming interests you, see the Top Picks lists. If you want to get out of the house and enjoy an activity either as an individual or with friends and family, see our calendar.

We have wonderful contributors who know their stuff and are here to enlighten you. I started to list them all as well as their many achievements, but instead I’ll just suggest you comb through the pages of this issue and see most of them for yourself: Daniel Bobinski, Jessie Horney, Macaile Hutt, Sandy McDaniel, and Mary Ann Wilcox. They are our “Idaho Family family.”

I’d also like to give a shout-out to our wonderful advertisers and, of course, our incredible readers.

— Gaye Bunderson, editor FREE

August 2019

Children’s Photos Wanted

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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.

ESDAYS

CHILDREN ’S BIRTHD AY PARTIES

KIDS & CULTUR E

Benefits

THE OUTDOO RS An abom inab

le snowman

MAN

SCHOOL BELLS

It’s That Time Aga in

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Back to School

of Arts Even ts

Guide 2019 Emma, age 7, walks in Nampa field a of wheat

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Idaho Family Magazine | AUGUST 2019 3

CHILDREN’S school success

Parents, be a ‘student of your students’

By Daniel Bobinski

F

rom day one, kids start learning. And — it’s just that they may hate the way it’s all children — even identical twins — being taught. The same can be true between have distinctive personalities. Some siblings. One may love textbooks and aspects of our children’s personalities worksheets, whereas the other may despise are wired from birth. As proof, parents of that approach, preferring to learn with handsmore than one child often knew that child #2 on experimentation. In other words, what one was going to be different from child #1 before child loves might not appeal to another. Both child #2 was even born. Other aspects of kids can be equally wired to do well in science, personality are formed from different events it’s just that they prefer different ways to get occurring in early childhood. The difference there. between these aspects is often referred to as, Whether you homeschool or have your “nature vs. nurture,” but the fact remains, no children in a private or government school, two children are alike. No, not even identical being aware of your child’s unique learning Daniel Bobinski twins. motivation and style preferences will help you With this knowledge, it’s very helpful for parents to help your children learn. It’s also valuable for parents to help understand the learning preferences and motivators of each children grow into who they were meant to be. child. Each child’s preferences will be different, because every Although there are many aspects of personality, I think it’s person is different. What’s the benefit? When parents know super useful for parents to get familiar with three areas of their children’s preferences and styles, they can help their preferences. To make them easy to remember, I call them children do better in school, and even their career choices. head, heart, and hands. Head is for cognitive style, heart is To begin, parents must have a desire to learn — to become for motivations, and hands is for behavioral style. a student of their students. It’s been my observations that For cognitive preferences (head), I like to use the four some parents choose a default mode, adopting a belief that spectra of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. Older children sounds like, “I and my friends were all different, and we can take a cognitive styles assessment, but if you do an online survived school just fine. If it worked for us, it’ll be okay for search for the four spectra of this assessment, you can usually my kids, too.” identify your children’s preferences. In short, the spectra To that I say, “Maybe, maybe not.” After all, the same measure how people get mentally energized (alone or with sun that melts butter will harden clay. For instance, a type others), how they perceive information (the here and now of science curriculum you loved as a kid your own children or the future implications), how they process information may absolutely hate. It won’t mean that they hate science (more matter-of-fact or more emotively), and how they make

4 AUGUST 2019 | Idaho Family Magazine

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decisions (quickly or taking their time).

Heart has to do with motivations. Two types of motivations exist (natural and learned), but I’ll focus here on the natural preferences. I’ve written about natural motivators in this column before, but if you research the term “multiple intelligences,” you can find an overview. I refer to these intelligences as natural motivators because every human has a strong inclination towards one, two, or three of the nine intelligences. And, because they are innate, a person is naturally motivated to doing activities in those arenas. It’s super helpful for parents to know their children’s natural motivators.

Hands has to do with behavioral style. For this, the four temperaments are excellent indicators. I use the DISC language (Dominant, Influencing, Steady, Conscientious) and the corresponding DISC assessment, but if you use other terms (such as Driver, Expressive, Amiable, Analytical), that’s okay, too. The idea is to figure out your child’s natural behavioral tendencies, as this category has the strongest correlation to learning styles.

To give you an idea of how all of this can play out, let’s consider two sets of parents. The first we’ll call Michael and Jessica. Michael worked construction and Jessica worked at a bank. Because they didn’t understand their children’s preferences, they tended to push their children into following their own career choices. Being in construction, Michael wanted his kids to go into the trades, whereas Jessica pressed them to think about working in financial services.

The problem? One child had an interest in being a vet and the other was interested in astronomy. Not understanding much about natural motivators or learning styles, Michael and Jessica downplayed those ideas — and even scoffed

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at them. They didn’t see that their children had natural giftings to excel in their preferred fields. As a result, both children grew up thinking their own interests were invalid, and they’d have to go through life doing work they didn’t like.

On the other hand, let’s consider James and Lisa. From the time their kids were small, James and Lisa talked openly with their children about their interests. They payed close attention to how their kids’ eyes would light up when discussing various topics and different ways of learning.

Later, as their kids grew, conversations about career choices flowed easily, and James and Lisa encouraged them to take classes that interested them. They also helped their children learn in ways that fit their personalities. The children grew up with confident expectations about their future, and as adults found that their career choices were fulfilling. As you might imagine, that confidence spilled over into other aspects of their lives.

This leads me to ask the proverbial question: Which type of parent do you want to be? If you think long-term, I hope the answer is clear.

(This article is adapted from Daniel and Jeralynne Bobinski’s award-winning book, “Become a Student of Your Students,” available for purchase at www.

FamilyExperience.net. Information on assessments to measure different styles is available by contacting Daniel at (208) 375-7606 or daniel@MyWorkplaceExcellence.com.)

Daniel Bobinski, M.Ed. teaches teams and individuals and teams how to use Emotional Intelligence, plus how to create high impact training.

He’s also a homeschooling dad, a best-selling author, and a popular speaker at conference and retreats. Reach Daniel through his website, www.MyWorkplaceExcellence.com, or 208-375-7606 (ofc).

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Idaho Family Magazine | AUGUST 2019 5

KIDS & culture

CFA’s Moulton explains arts’ value

By Gaye Bunderson

S

ome of us grew up in communities where the biggest cultural event of the week was a night out bowling. Others are much luckier, and that includes children and families in the Treasure Valley, where there is a wealth of arts and culture to be experienced.

If you think “arts and culture” aren’t for your kids, you may be surprised to find that’s not necessarily the case.

Alison Moulton, executive director of Caldwell Fine Arts, points out a number of reasons why arts add value to our lives.

“It’s what makes us human,” she said.

Arts events are shared experiences — experiences that raise people above the mundane and take them into the realm of what Moulton calls “the abundant part of life.”

“Communities and families come together, they’re doing something together.

Art connects us by the act of gathering into one place, and then connecting us to a broader world,” she said.

Moulton has exposed her five children to the arts since they were very young.

She considers doing so part of her parental responsibilities and encourages other parents to see it the same way.

“My task as a parent — and everyone’s task as parents — is to expose my children to enough things so they can see what lights their fire,” she said.

And if they never want to become pianists, for example, no problem.

They’ve still been exposed to new situations.

Other advantages include teaching children how to sit quietly and display good manners.

“More importantly, the arts teach them to be open-minded, and motivate them to excellence,” Moulton said, explaining that seeing accomplished performers who have worked and trained so hard can be an inspiration.

“Get your children out for a moment,

Alison Moulton’s daughter, Elizabeth, checks out the drums following a Caldwell Fine Arts performance by an African drumming group.

(Courtesy photo)

“My task as a parent — and everyone’s task as parents — is to expose my children to enough things so they can see what lights their fire.”

6 AUGUST 2019 | Idaho Family Magazine

let them be enraptured, and don’t underestimate their ability to understand and enjoy different things.

We have to let them be who they are; we have to nudge them into new experiences.”

Moulton concedes it’s not always easy taking young children to, for instance, a concert. “They can be a little wiggly,” she said. She once had to escort her fidgety 4-year-old out of a concert venue and into the lobby when the little one had a mid-performance meltdown.

But such situations become ‘teachable moments.’

“Know your child,” she said, “and whether they have the temperament for classical concerts, especially during the pre-school years.”

Don’t just assume, though, that such things aren’t for them — expose them and allow them the opportunity to decide for themselves what they might like, she said.

Moulton admits many people view arts events as “stuffy and formal.” And sometimes they are. But the arts are diverse and can include anything from classical violin to artistic aerial shows.

When the Golden Dragon Acrobats performed at Jewett Auditorium previously (they are returning), Moulton said the audience was collectively riveted, especially as performers stacked chairs higher and higher and climbed upon them. There was a sense of awe that ran through the entire audience, she said.

Arts organizations have a responsibility to offer choices to their patrons and must be willing to present cultural programs for all ages. “If we don’t create opportunities for families to enjoy the arts, there won’t be any new people to attend,” Moulton said.

“Patrons are getting older. The arts have to be responsive to that and help nurture new generations of arts consumers.” www.idahofamilymagazine.com

How to raise arts-savvy children

By Alison Moulton

When organizations broaden their offerings, they see great returns.

Moulton cited Boise Philharmonics’ Pops Series and Idaho Shakespeare Festival’s Family Nights as two examples that have well served arts venues and the families they draw to their programs. Sometimes it’s simply a matter of making programs shorter so they are more amenable to children — a method Caldwell Fine Arts has adopted.

“Content-wise, we are familyfriendly,” Moulton said. “There are so many arts. A variety. Every family can find something — frequently, for less than the price of a movie. … Families want to do art. When we have programs such as ‘Nutcracker Jr.’ that are shorter in length, the number of kids and families grows. We’re growing every year, adding 1,000 people annually.”

No one should think that the Moulton family will be only be seen at arts events. They enjoy many things, because they’ve been exposed to many things. “We like movies, sports, being in the outdoors and going camping,” Moulton said.

The arts certainly didn’t make them stuffy. The arts opened them to new adventures and can do the same for your family. See the accompanying article written by Moulton on how to find fun and cost-effective ways to broaden your children’s experiences with the arts. For more information about Caldwell Fine Arts, go to caldwellfinearts.org.

1. Explore early. From the time your children are babies, play a variety of musical styles in your home. Explore diverse stations on online streaming services, or check out CDs from the library to listen to classical, jazz, zydeco, folk, or bluegrass music.

2. Go hands-on. Allow children to finger paint, make collages, and sculpt with clay. Let them bang on pots and pans or shake maracas in time to music, or visit a musical art park to explore sound and rhythm. Dance around the house together. Sing as you go about your day. Record silly songs or skits your children create. Let them explore and experience the joy of music, theater, dance, and art as part of your family culture.

3. Channel surf. Use car rides to expose older children to different musical genres with a “Music Critic Club.” Channel surf the radio among diverse stations. After each song, ask kids to rate the song from 1 to 10 and give reasons for their rating. Discuss each song, then explore a new station.

4. Start outside. Outdoor community concerts are a perfect way to begin attending arts events with young children. Explore free concerts at Indian Creek Plaza in Caldwell and other outdoor venues, or attend a free outdoor band concert or symphony performance. Summertime, especially, offers many opportunities for live music around the valley. Children can move more freely in outdoor settings, and snacks can help keep their attention. Attending outdoor visual art events, like Art in the Park, can also give young children experience with art in a more casual setting if they aren’t ready for a traditional museum.

(Art in the Park is set for September 6-8 at Julia Davis Park in Boise.)

5. Attend abbreviated performances or family nights. Many organizations offer abbreviated performances, or performances especially for young people. Caldwell Fine Arts offers a 1-hour “Nutcracker Ballet” that is ideal for a younger audience and families on a budget. The Boise Philharmonic offers a family Pops concert, and Idaho Shakespeare Festival offers Family Nights where children under 6 are welcome.

6. Call ahead with questions. Most arts organizations will be glad to answer questions about whether a performance is appropriate for children.

Go ahead and ask if there is an intermission, if you can request an aisle seat, or if they offer booster seats. You can also ask questions about content such as language or adult situations. They’ll be happy to make sure that a performance is a good fit for your children.

7. Prepare. Even young children can enjoy concerts, plays, and exhibits with proper preparation. Pre-teach your child etiquette on an age-appropriate level so they’ll feel comfortable and know how to behave in a new situation.

If possible, listen to recordings of music they’ll hear, or learn about the life of an artist they’ll see. Providing context for a performance can help keep their attention throughout the performance. For young children, it may be wise to pack a small book to read or notebook to color in as a backup plan in case they grow restless.

Don’t hesitate to experience the arts with your family! Your child might just surprise you with his or her willingness to experience something new. With a little help from you, your child can gain confidence and become an arts-savvy kid.

Alison Moulton is executive director of Caldwell Fine Arts. She may be reached at alison@caldwellfinearts.org.

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Idaho Family Magazine | AUGUST 2019 7

The OUTDOORSMAN

‘Abominable snowman’ spooks horses

By Chuck Carpenter

I

It would sure feel good to get into that had been horseback in the back country hot springs and clean off a little. I got off for about four days, working on a my horse and pulled off the saddle; I also complaint. It was August and it was hot pulled the packs off the pack horses and put and dusty, almost miserable. I was riding hobbles on the three grass burners. They one horse and had two packhorses loaded all started feeding on the lush grass in the down with gear. meadow, paying no attention to me whatWith the lack of rain and dry conditions so-ever. the horses would kick up a cloud of dust with I looked around again and stripped down each step they took. The dust would rise up and started getting into the hot springs. and I think most of it stuck to me. After a few All three horses jerked up their heads days of these conditions I felt like someone and stared right at me. All three of them threw me in the creek and then rolled me snorted, bugged their eyes out, and headed around in all that dust. I was feeling mighty Chuck Carpenter down the trail. When a horse gets used to grimy. hobbles, they can travel right along and cover the country I come down a long ridge and after a while switch-backed down along the creek where the pack trail went. After several at a pretty good clip. They were making good time heading on down the trail. I looked around again and for the life of hours of traveling along the creek, I was a mile or so from me tried to figure out what they had seen that made them the trail head. There was a meadow with lots of grass and want to leave when they had good feed clear up to their a hot springs bubbling up out of the ground. I sat there belly. on my horse a few minutes and looked around...not a soul I quickly washed off, crawled out of my new found hot anywhere. tub and put my clothes back on. I grabbed the halter ropes and headed down the trail a foot. The horses had made it about a half a mile and were still heading south! When they saw me coming they all stopped and nickered at me and I walked up, put the halter ropes on their halters, took off the hobbles, and started back up the trail leading them along.

When I got back to the meadow where the hot springs was, all three horses slammed on the brakes and peered long and hard over at the hot springs. It was then I figured out what spooked them. They had never seen anything If you like what you see, join our family of advertisers! with hide as white as mine. When I had taken off my Promote YOUR business to OUR readers with every clothes and they spotted that really white lookin’ critter issue. Don’t have an ad? No problem—we can create wallowing around in the water, I guess they figured that one for you! Rates and deadline information available. some long lost abominable snowman had staggered out of the timber and fell in the creek.

I’m really not sure what they thought I was, but I do know they thought it was time to clear out of this country with bright white animals like that splashing around in the hot springs!

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Chuck Carpenter, originally of Montana but now of 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.

Idaho Family 1-4.indd For more House information contact J.J. Plew, Publisher Phone

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‘BOY SEES BEAUTIFUL’

A cartoonist father’s ode to Boise

By Luke Martin

I

can see mountains and constellations from my driveway. My kids can play safely in the front yard. We have neighbors we can call friends. Any piece of that would have sounded like fantasy a little more than a year ago. “Leave It to Beaver” kind of stuff. We were living just outside of Chicago, and while the gunshots were not all that common, six months of winter were. My sprinting to catch the train for a 45-minute commute was. Temperatures of -35 degrees were, as well as polar vortexes, crushing property taxes, failing schools and a 100-year-old, 2-bedroom house for five people. These are not the ingredients for a winning family environment.

So in 2017, my wife and I started a year-and-a-half, nationwide search for where we wanted to raise our children.

We had all kinds of criteria and a geeky spreadsheet full of charts and comparisons. Wouldn’t you guess that it was the last city we thought to include which left all the others in the dust?

Hello, Boise!

We had moved around a lot, but this would be the first cross country move with kids in tow. My wife also happened to be 6-months pregnant, so the stakes were pretty high. We landed in Boise in April, walked outside of the airport and my oldest daughter’s eyes nearly popped out of her head. She bolted to a patch of grass and started dancing and shouting, “It’s summer

here! It’s summer here!” (There was still snow on the ground in Chicago.)

That moment, 5 minutes into our new state, was an immediate affirmation that this large, consequential choice was, indeed, the right one for my family.

“It’s like everything has been upgraded!” my wife commented the other day. She’s right: the house, the neighborhood, the weather. The safety, taxes, and schools. Our financial situation. Our quality of life. The kids’ happiness. This was the treasure that we found after moving to the Treasure Valley last year and I am SO grateful!

So naturally, as a cartoonist, I could think of no better way to show my appreciation for my family’s new home community than to write a children’s book celebrating how special it is — and that is how I came to create “Boy Sees Beautiful.”

The book follows a young boy as he discovers many of the unique, stand-out spots around Boise for the first time.

If you come across a copy at the Library!, attend one of the interactive readings scheduled this summer, or just decide to pick one up from lulu.com, I hope that you will enjoy the story as much as we enjoy getting to live it each day. Boise, you’re beautiful!

To learn more about “Boy Sees Beautiful,” visit http://boyseesbeautiful.com.

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IT’S COMING!

That school bell is ready to ring

By Sandy McDaniel

T

he start of the new school year looms on the horizon, and there are some things you as a parent can do to assist your child(ren) in being successful. As a former fourth grade teacher, I can tell you that it was obvious which children had prepared for school and which had not.

No. 3: Have consistent bedtimes and getting up in the morning times, starting at least three weeks before school begins.

No. 1: Have your child read for a minimum of 20 minutes each day. This can be a “togetherness” time at bedtime, a child can read to the parent who is cooking dinner, or read to themselves. If they do the latter, ask questions about the book to ensure the job is being accomplished.

No. 5: If the child has a computer, monitor what the child watches on it. Homework can be done near a parent.

No. 4: Set up an area for studying and provide paper, pencils, folders and whatever the child needs for school.

No. 6: Spend time with your ‘chicks’ now.

They are literally growing away from you, so this time is an incredible blessing. Play board games, bake cookies together, go fishing, plant a garden, have a family reading where you all read a book together. Spend time with your children!

By Sandy McDaniel

No. 2: Restrict the use of all media to two hours a day.

A child who is 2 or younger should have no media use; adequate brain growth is even more at stake at young ages.

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“There are an alarming number of wonderful teachers who love children and their jobs, but they are quitting because children haven’t changed over the years, parents have.”

As a former teacher, and having watched times changing in terms of what parents expect of teachers, there is something parents need to know. Due to over-use, massaddiction to media objects and their content, children do not have adequate communication and social skills. Therefore, adding more media objects to the classroom needs to be regulated. Children need to work together problem solving, communicating, and experiencing differences. Children need to have boundaries and consequences in the classroom and parents need to “buzz off” rather than restrict the teacher from teaching what the parents should be teaching: No means no.

Unkindness is not acceptable. Here are some rules children should follow: • Raise your hand before speaking.

• Don’t laugh at what someone else says.

• Take your turn and don’t pout if you are last in line.

• Listen!

• Do your own work.

• Mind me when I ask you to do something or stop doing something.

There are an alarming number of wonderful teachers who love children and their jobs, but they are quitting because children haven’t changed over the years, parents have.

Talking to a teacher about a concern is highly appropriate, and please let them do their jobs, which are only partially academic and largely about social skills.

As a researcher, I am learning scary facts about what is happening to our youth because of over-use of media. Here are some highlights for your consideration: • Children who watch/participate in a lot of violence on TV or video games become numb to violence. A nonempathetic society is what we are creating, and there is nothing more lonely for mankind.

• Children who eat while using media don’t eat well and totally miss out in the family socialization, which is a fundamentally important part of their development.

• The TV teaches children sex education, that it is okay to smoke, drink and swear. Children are hypnotized by advertising and do not learn to discern fact from fiction.

Models stress thinness and manufactured beauty. Music videos use foul language and teach anger as a method of coping; video games keep a child in a state of tension and agitation. The internet can bring a child all sorts of information that the child does not need to know.

• The media can be a blessing, but it MUST be monitored by adults. Meanwhile, think about this challenge: no TV, computer, or video games in their rooms. www.idahofamilymagazine.com

As my aging fingers type these words, I have been the parent of two (plus one ‘borrowed’) children and a grandmother to four wonderful grandchildren. Some of the times were harder than others; and the farther away they move from my reality, the more I realize how precious each year was. There are no do-overs in terms of years. (Trust me, I’ve checked out this concept!) As insane as the toddler years can be, those little dragons grow way too quickly, and as they do, they begin to pull away from you emotionally. Enjoy them now! Spend time with them now! Be with them now!

And every single day, even when they brush it off, tell them you love them. There just aren’t any do-overs in this game.

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.

Semi-retired, she speaks to schools, churches, and MOPS groups and provides parent coaching sessions in person and on the phone. She is available for parenting talks/trainings in the Treasure Valley and may be reached at sandy@parentingsos.com. Also, go to YouTube: Sandy Spurgeon McDaniel to see videos on specific parenting issues.

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208-944-2107

Idaho Family Magazine | AUGUST 2019 11

CALENDAR

Connect on The Deck Come meet new friends and neighbors on The Deck on the 5th level outdoor terrace at J.U.M.P. every Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m. while the weather holds. Beverages and food are available for purchase, and gorgeous city vistas with fun conversations are free. All ages welcome.

Registration is required. Go to http://register. jumpboise.org/mastercalendar/.

Volunteer at Zoo Boise The mission of Zoo Boise is to connect the local community with wildlife conservation worldwide.

To help in that effort, the zoo seeks volunteers who are passionate and conservation-driven to help provide a fun and educational experience for zoo visitors. Go to www.zooboise.org to find out more.

Schick-Ostolasa Farmstead tours Looking for a fun and educational activity for kids and parents alike? Check out the Schick-Ostolasa Farmstead, open every Saturday from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. through September 28. Get a glimpse of what rural Idaho life was like in the 1860s.

Visit the beautiful grounds and the spruced up medicinal garden. Docents will be available for tours and to answer questions. The farmstead is located at 5006 W. Farm Court in Boise. For more information, go to www.drycreekhistory.org, email drycreekhistory@gmail.com, or call 208-229-4006.

Movie Night in Meridian Movie Night in Meridian is held Fridays through August 16 in Settlers Park. Movies are shown on a giant inflatable screen and are always familyfriendly. There are also bounce houses and

concession stands. It’s free to attend, but bring lawn chairs and blankets. All movies start at dusk.

Movies Under the Stars Fun-filled family “Movies Under the Stars” evenings begin at 7 p.m. throughout the summer, with free games for kids provided by the Boise Parks and Recreation Mobile Recreation Van prior to the movie. A family-friendly movie will be shown on a 30-foot screen by 9:45 p.m. or when it’s dark on various Friday and Saturday nights and at various locations throughout town. For a complete schedule and other information, go to parks.cityofboise.org or call 208-608-7680.

Starlight Cinema Series Beginning at 8 p.m. Thursdays August 1-22, a free Starlight Cinema Series will be held at Indian Creek Plaza, 120 S. Kimball Ave. in Caldwell.

Grab a blanket, jump in your chair, and cuddle up under the stars as the plaza turns into a premier outdoor cinema. There will be a snack shack onsite, with popcorn and soda pop.

a blanket and a friend and unwind to great music under the stars. Food and beverage vendors are onsite throughout the family-friendly event. Go to cityofeagle.org.

Idaho IceWorld skating programs Wednesday nights are Family Nights at Idaho IceWorld. For only $5 (includes skate rental), families may enjoy skating from 6:45 to 8:45 p.m.

Foodbank Fridays support the Idaho Foodbank.

Take a nonperishable food item to donate and receive a free skate rental. Parent and Tot Skate Thursdays allow parents and children 8 and under to skate from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. for only $5 per person; this is a special stroller-friendly public skating session, and the price includes skate rental.

For more information, go to idahoiceworld.com.

Nature Explorers

Families may enjoy unlimited access to water attractions as the sun sets from 6 to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through August 24 at Roaring Springs. Go to roaringsprings.com for more information.

The Deer Flat Wildlife Refuge will hold a Nature Explorers program for preschoolers on the fourth Thursday of each month beginning at 10:30 a.m. in the Refuge Visitor Center, 13751 Upper Embankment Rd. in Nampa. Preschoolers ages 3-5 may use their natural curiosity to investigate the world around them on guided nature explorations. There will be hands-on activities on a different theme each month. Preschoolers should come with an adult and be ready to be outside.

For more information, visit www.fws.gov/deerflat, email deerflat@fws.gov, or call 208-467-9278.

Gazebo Concert Series

Art in Foote Park

The City of Eagle holds a Gazebo Concert Series on various Thursdays throughout the summer months from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at Heritage Park. Take

The Greater Middleton Parks and Recreation District will present Art in Foote Park at the following times and dates: 3 to 6 p.m. Friday August 2; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, August 3; and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, August 4. Local artisans and creative groups will be in the park sharing their creations. The event is free to the public. Foote Park is located at 711 Cornell St. in Middleton. For more information, contact Jennifer Kuhn at 208-8013079 or gmprdjennifer@gmail.com.

Friday and Saturday Family Slide Nights

SoCo Pop-Up

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 12 AUGUST 2019 | Idaho Family Magazine

If you’re ready to upgrade your life but figuring out where to start is challenging, it may be time to attend SoCo Pop-Up at J.U.M.P. SoCo is a pop-up social community venue designed to give you the space and resources to plug into your life and city in the way you have always wanted. Free and open to the public, SoCo offers creatively designed exposure to awesome people, innovative ideas, individualized guidance, and meaningful workshops and speakers. You can simply come and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, check out the free development resources, or work one-on-one with a support specialist on anything you want. Plus, kids are always welcome. Check it out from 2 to 5 p.m.

Saturday, August 3. Register at http://register. jumpboise.org/mastercalendar/.

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R

of Events 4-H Week at Roaring Springs oaring Springs will offer discounted admission rates for 4-H members, leaders, and their families from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday-Friday, August 5-9. To buy discounted tickets online, contact your 4-H leader or program administrator for user name and password. For more information, go to roaringsprings.com.

Ada Library Activities Ada County Library branches feature a number of family- and youth-friendly programs. Following is a brief list of events for August. For more information, visit the website or call the number listed for each branch.

Hidden Springs Branch Library, www.adalib. org/hiddensprings, 208-229-2665 • August 5, 11 a.m. at the Hidden Springs Elementary School cafeteria, It’s Rocket Science, all ages • August 8, 6 p.m., A Galactic Spectacular, all ages Lake Hazel Branch Library, www.adalib.org/ lakehazel, 208-297-6700 • August 6, 2 p.m., World’s Fastest Juggler David Rush, all ages

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Beginning August, 2019 Please send family-related calendar items to editorgaye@gmail.com

• August 10, 6 p.m., After-Hours Party – Alien Abduction Party, ages 11-18 Star Branch Library, www.adalib.org/star, 208-286-9755 • August 7, 2 p.m., Alien Rock Painting, all ages Victory Branch Library, www.adalib.org/ victory, 208-362-0181 • August 8, 3 p.m., Explore the Universe with the Discovery Ctr. of Idaho, all ages • August 12, 4:30 p.m., Book Swap, ages 12-18

Summertime Stories at Idaho State Museum Attend a fun learning activity at the Idaho State Museum, 610 Julia Davis Drive, from 10:30 to 11 a.m. on Tuesdays for storytimes. The stories are ideal for pre-K through 2nd grade youngsters and their caregivers. No registration is required. Stories in August include: August 6, “Old MacDonald Had a Truck”; and August 13, “The Most Magnificent Thing.” For more information, go to history.idaho.gov.

Thursday Thunder Family friendly and free, live musical events are held Thursdays throughout the summer, beginning at 6 p.m. at Boise Spectrum, 7709 W. Overland

Rd. Food and drink are available for purchase from local restaurants in the Spectrum area. The musical lineup for August includes: August 8, Dusty Leigh and the Claim Jumpers; August 15, Audio Moonshine; August 22, $OUL PURPO$E; and August 29, Pilot Error.

48th Nightfire Nationals The Nightfire returns to Firebird Raceway in Eagle August 8-11, from 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. each day.

Friday night, August 9, is Family Night. Throughout the full weekend of racing, hundreds of racers from 15 states and Canada will battle it out for prize money.

For more information, go to firebirdonline.com.

Smokey Bear’s 75th birthday celebration Boise National Forest employees, along with partners and members of the Treasure Valley Fire Prevention and Safety Co-op, invite the public to join in the celebration of Smokey Bear’s 75th birthday. The celebration will begin at 10 a.m. Friday, August 9, at Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park in Meridian.

Birthday cookies, along with ice cream provided by the John William Jackson Fund and Meadow Gold Dairy, will be served at noon. During the free event, there will be firewise safety information and kids’ activities. Smokey Bear will also be making

Idaho Family Magazine | AUGUST 2019 13

CALENDAR of Events

an appearance. For more information, call Taryn Robinson at 208-587-7838 or the Boise National Forest Supervisor’s Office at 208-373-4100.

Family Snooze at the Zoo Overnight Zoo guides will provide your family with evening and early morning treks through Zoo Boise to investigate animals, their habitats, behavior, and care during Family Snooze at the Zoo Friday and Saturday, August 9-10. There will also be activities, games, and art projects, as well as an evening snack and a continental breakfast. Indoor/outdoor sleeping areas are provided. For costs and other information, go to zooboise.org.

cont.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Ada County from noon to 1 p.m. Sunday, August 11. Adopt dolphins for the possibility of winning prizes at Roaring Springs’ ticket booth or at www.adaclubs.org/ dolphindunk/.

Homeschool Week at Roaring Springs Roaring Springs will offer discounted admission rates for homeschoolers and their families from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday-Friday, August 1216. To buy discounted tickets online, contact your homeschool organization for user name and password. For more information, go to roaringsprings.com.

Boise Soul Food Festival

Fostering Idaho foster/adoption meetings 2019

The Boise Soul Food Festival is set for 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, August 10, at Kleiner Park in Meridian. This is Idaho’s only festival featuring authentic African American / African-inspired food and entertainment. The fare includes BBQ , Cajun cuisine, ribs, hot links, sweet tea, and more, as well as music, including gospel, R&B, jazz, rap, and soul. (Dancing too.) Go to https:// boisesoulfood.org for more information.

The first step in finding out more about being a foster or adoptive parent in the State of Idaho is by attending an information or orientation meeting. Meetings are set for 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the Bannock Room on the lower level of St. Luke’s Medical Center at 520 S. Eagle Rd. in Meridian on the following dates: August 12, October 14 and December 9. Meetings will also be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Meridian Library District branch at 1326 W. Cherry Ln. on the following dates: September 4 and November 6. If you have questions in advance, contact Monique Layton, recruitment coordinator, at 208-249-0180 or mlayton4@ewu.edu, or visit www.fosteringidaho.org.

Sjobeck Baker Duo Alexandra Sjobeck and David Baker will play jazz music from 2 to 3 p.m. Saturday, August 10, at the Library! at Cole and Ustick. All ages are invited to come hear this classically trained duo.

Noodle Mania at Lakeview Waterpark Kids are invited to come play and float as Nampa Parks and Recreation staff throw foam, floatable “noodles” into the pool located at 1304 7th St. N. in Nampa. The water-fun event will take place from 1 to 4:45 p.m. Saturday, August 10. For more information, go to nampaparksandrecreation.org.

Thunder Eggs Guy DiTorrice, Fossil Guy, will entertain you with his hands-on lecture on “Thunder Eggs – How something so ugly on the outside hides such beauty inside,” beginning at 1 p.m. on Saturday, August 10, at the Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology, 2455 Old Penitentiary Rd. in Boise. The program is free to IMMG members and only $5 for nonmembers. For more information, go to www. idahomuseum.org or call 208-368-9876.

Military Appreciation Weekend Roaring Springs will offer discounted admission rates for military personnel and their families from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, August 10-11. Present your adult military ID at the ticket window for the discount. For more information, go to roaringsprings.com.

The Great Dolphin Dunk Watch 10,000 toy dolphins race around Roaring Springs’ Endless River during a fundraiser for the

85th Annual Buckaroo Breakfast A family-fun event, the Buckaroo Breakfast, offers music, kids’ crafts, photo opportunities, and a hearty breakfast of hotcakes, eggs, sausages, hash browns and beverages for a small fee. The event is set for 6:30 to 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, August 13, and 7 to 10 a.m. Saturday, August 17, at the Caldwell Event Center at 2207 Blaine St. For more information, call 208-459-7493.

“The Twits” Treasure Valley Children’s Theater will present a scene from its upcoming 2019 Fall Tour from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, August 13, at the Cherry Lane branch of the Meridian Library District. The scene is from Roald Dahl’s “The Twits.” Watch Mr. and Mrs. Twit perform ‘Skillywiggler and Spaghetti,’ a story full of pranks, circus-style spectacle, puppetry, and comedy.

The scene will be followed by a family-friendly interactive experience presented by the actors. Call 208-888-4451 for more information.

Night Sky Viewing Join others for a stargazing adventure from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, August 16, at the Tiny Library, 5159 S. Hillsdale Ave. in Meridian. There will be a few quick crafts, followed by a walk to Hillside Park to look at the stars. A Solar System Ambassador, trained by NASA, will be on hand to

14 AUGUST 2019 | Idaho Family Magazine

answer questions about what you’re seeing in the sky. Email korena@mld.org for more information.

So You Think You Can Sing A So You Think You Can Sing Karaoke Competition is set for 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, August 16, at Indian Creek Plaza in Caldwell. The event is child-friendly.

Family Read Aloud Bookclub Family Read Aloud Bookclub meets on the third Saturday of each month at the main branch of Boise Public Library and is geared toward families with kids ages 5-8. The August book is “Lulu and the Brontosaurus.” Pick up a copy at the children’s desk at the library, then meet from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, August 17, to discuss the book and enjoy a craft activity. Reading aloud with your child helps form and strengthen bonds, creates excitement over books and a shared adventure, as well as sets your child up for success later in school and life. Call Trisha Mick at 208-972-8201 for more information.

WaterShed Weekend Join the Boise WaterShed every third Saturday of the month for nature and art activities the whole family may enjoy. Activities take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Admission is free, and no preregistration is needed. On August 17, the topic is “Water Festival.” Quench your thirst for fun with local engineers from Carollo Engineers Inc. and launch water rockets, race your friends through a hydraulic maze, and build your own filter and win prizes — all while learning about the water cycle and water treatment. For more information, go to www.BoiseEnvironmentalEducation.org.

Payette Lakes Fine Art & Craft Fair The Payette Lakes Fine Art & Craft Fair has been bringing local and national artists to McCall for more than 25 years. This outdoor, juried fine arts event is set for 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, August 17, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, August 18, in Gold Glove Park in McCall. There will be live music and a variety of food vendors under a shaded picnic area. This family event is free to the public, with parking available onsite. For more information, call 208-922-4384.

Finding Lake Idaho Take a field trip to important Lake Idaho sites with Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology’s Dr. Terry Panhorst and BSU interns Brian Holmes and James Duncan. Register at the museum at 2455 Old Penitentiary Rd. at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 17, and depart for the field trip at 8 a.m.

Dress for the weather, bring a lunch and water. The trip will include easy walking, and no advance signup is required. Participants will be back to Boise by 5 p.m. Cost of the field trip is $10 for IMMG members and $15 non-members. More details are available at www.idahomuseum.org or by calling Steve at 208-853-1678.

Boise WaterShed Adult Programs The Boise WaterShed holds programs for children and families but also has a number of programs

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just for adults, including Friday Night Adult Earthworks, where participants create artworks (or “earthworks”). These classes are taught by a team of artists and scientists who explore science topics and offer lessons in art methods. The topic on August 23 is “The Rise of Urban Farming.”

Pre-registration is required, and the cost is $15 per person. Class descriptions may be found at bee. cityofboise.org/learn/calendar/#/. Registration ends one week prior to the class start date.

Fourth Fridays in Downtown Nampa very fourth Friday of the month in downtown Nampa, there will be free live music, dinner and dessert trucks, beer, and family activities on the lawn at Lloyd Square. Bring blankets and chairs and enjoy yourself from 6 to 9 p.m. on the following remaining evenings: August 23 and September 27.

Boise WaterShed Exploration Series This series is designed for adults and allows them to learn more about the Boise River watershed.

A Foothills Geology Hike is planned for August 24. Class descriptions may be found at bee. cityofboise.org/learn/calendar/#/ or go to www.

BoiseEnvironmentalEducation.org.

Bug Day Idaho Botanical Garden’s annual Bug Day is set for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, August 24.

Learn about the ‘exciting’ world of bugs in an adventurous environment. Earn a “Certificate in Bugology,” purchase edible insects, play bug bingo, participate in Insect Olympics, catch live bugs, and meet bug experts. Bug Day is fun for the entire family. Go to https://idahobotanicalgarden.org/ event/bug-day/ for costs and other information.

Pooch Party 2019 The 12th Annual Pooch Party Stroll & Splash is set for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, August 24, at Lakeview Park in Nampa. The event features a 1-mile walk, dog swim, raffle, pet-friendly booths, and contests. There is a $25 registration fee, or $30 after August 20 with $10 for each additional dog. Check-in begins at 9, and the walk begins at 10. For more information, go to nampaparksandrecreation.org.

Water Words Water Words is an interactive storytime about all things water, science and words held the fourth Monday of the month from 10:15 to 11 a.m. at Nampa Public Library. Dates for coming months include August 26, September 23, and October 28.

Go to nampalibrary.org for more information.

Family Art Saturday Family Art Saturday is held from noon to 3 p.m. the last Saturday of each month at Boise Art Museum. Your family is welcome to just drop in and make art together. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the program is recommended for children ages 12 and under. The art workshop is free to the public with the price of admission to the museum. Check it out on August 31.

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Try Hockey for Free On August 31, Idaho IceWorld will hold a Try Hockey for Free program. For more information, go to idahoiceworld.com.

Courageous Kids Climbing Courageous Kids Climbing will host a climbing event for children with special needs from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, September 7, at the Downtown YMCA in Boise. For more information, send an e-mail to JeffRiechmann@cs.com or visit Courageous Kids Climbing on Facebook.

Last Splash Weekends Roaring Springs admission will be just $16 plus tax from noon to 7 p.m., weather permitting, on Saturdays and Sundays, September 7-8 and September 14-15. For more information, go to roaringsprings.com.

Flavorful Fairytales Flavorful Fairytales will return from a summer break with “The Snail and the Whale” by Julia Donaldson. Snail wants to travel the world and see new places, and what better way to do it than to hitch a ride with a humpback whale?

After the story, participants will craft a whale made of seashells, then make cute and tasty snail-shaped snacks using fruits and veggies. It all begins at 4:30 p.m. Friday, September 13, in the J.U.M.P. Share Studio. There is a ticket price per participant, and all ages are welcome with a parent. Registration ends Wednesday, September 11. Go to http://register.jacksurbanmeetingplace. org/mastercalendar/.

Chalk the Block at Indian Creek Festival One of the first programs of the Caldwell Fine Arts 2019-2020 season is Chalk the Block, happening from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, September 21, in downtown Caldwell at Arthur and Kimball streets by the 7th Street Bridge. Indian Creek Plaza will come alive with chalk images, showing the artistic talent of community members of all ages with the theme of “Pure Imagination.”

This contest has a twist — a real person must be incorporated into the drawing. There will be prizes in three age categories. Pre-registration is recommended, as space is limited. Visit www. caldwellfinearts for rules and pre-registration.

Creative Good Auction

SUMMER CAMPS morning or afternoon sessions $75 ($90 non-members) ages: 4-12

TOUCHABLE TEXTURES August 12-16, 2019 Combine textures to make 2D + 3D projects that are fun to touch and make!

SCHOOL TOURS + ART REACH VISITS

BOOKING OPENS AUGUST 12, 2019 Schedule for the entire 2019-2020 school year!

Priority scheduling August 12-16, 2019 8AM-1 PM and 2PM-5PM. Call or book online: 208-345-8330 ext.136 http://www.boiseartmuseum.org/school-programs/

Record Your Loved One’s Memories

Yeah, it’s parking lot now, but it was the pool.

I mean, everybody went there. That was the place to go. It had this huge diving tower, way high, boards. It was a really cool pool and everybody went. Aunt Irma, she ran it and she ran it with a tight fist. She was a lifeguard, she was everything, and if you wanted to go from the shallow end to the deep end, then

Boise’s creative professionals give back to the community by auctioning off their services at reduced rates from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, September 25, at the Linen Building in downtown Boise. The Creative Good Auction is an opportunity to bargain shop while helping to retain local talent, support the CATCH nonprofit, and have fun. The $20 registration fee gets you a paddle to raise for a silent auction and unlimited drinks and dinner. Check the website at creativegoodauction.org for updates on auction items and to get registered. Examples of services up for grabs include graphic design, logos and brochures, photography, and videography and audio, as well as programming and business consulting.

had to pass the test. So when you did that, that was a right of passage. I mean, it was, “I passed!” Just before you did it, you were scared to death. And then, to dive off the high tower, that was another big deal. “I’m gonna do it, I’m gonna do it!” But, that’s where we went every summer. We’d walk from our house, so it was quite a hike, and in the heat.

208-907-1566

ForeverFamilyMemories.com

Idaho Family Magazine | AUGUST 2019 15

Back to School Guide 2019 ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT Brain Balance 3210 E. Chinden Blvd. Ste. #113, Eagle 377-3559 BrainBalanceCenters.com

Tutor Doctor 914-6344 tutordoctor.com/boise/

AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

Chatterbox Pediatric Therapy Center 320 11th Ave. S. #204, Nampa 7091 W. Emerald St., Boise 466-1077 or 898-1368 BoiseChatterbox.com Coopalo Learning Center Specializing in Dyslexia 484-3816 CoopaloLearningCenter.com Kangaroo Clubhouse Early Learning Academy 210 E Carol St. Nampa, ID 83687 or 16281 N Franklin Blvd., Nampa, ID 83687 4511 E Ustick Rd. Caldwell, ID 83605 (208) 461-3055 https://www. kangarooclubhouse.com LearningRX Center – Boise West 1910 N. Lakes Place, Meridian 258-2077 learningrx.com/boise-west

Aquarium of Boise 64 N. Cole Rd., Boise 375-1932 aquariumboise.net Aqua-Tots Swim Schools 3116 E. State St. #180, Eagle 938-9300 https://www.aqua-tots.com/ locations/usa/idaho/boise/ Ballet Idaho and Academy 501 S. 8th St., Boise 343-0556 balletidaho.org Bodies In Motion 729 W. Diamond St., Boise 381-0587 bodiesinmotionidaho.com Bronco Elite Gymnastics 106 E. 48th St., Garden City 389-9005 broncoelite.com Capital City Ballet Center 9140 W. Emerald St. #109, Boise 378-9752 capitalcityballet.com

Music Lingua Foreign Language for Kids 571-1713 musiclingua.com

(Therapy Based Preschool)

• Preschool Meets Monday - Thursday t Open Enrollmen 9:00 - 11:30 ar ‘Round Ye 12:30 - 3:00

Dance Arts Academy 2989 E. Copper Point Dr., Meridian 345-4832 danceartsboise.com

Treasure Valley Children’s Theater 440 W. Pennwood St. #100, Meridian 287-8828 treasurevalleychildrenstheater. com

Gem State Gymnastics Academy 5420 W. State St., Boise 853-3220 gemstategymnastics.com Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council 8948 W. Barnes St., Boise 377-2011 girlscouts-ssc.org Idaho IceWorld 7072 S. Eisenman Rd., Boise 608-7716 idahoiceworld.com Idaho Tennis Association 1076 N. Cole Rd., Boise 322-5150 idtennis.com Irish Dance Idaho 1909 Wildwood Way, Boise 323-7590 irishdanceidaho.com

T

herapy

C

are

Therapy Services for Children & Adults

For more information, visit us at: www.advancedtherapycare.com 2nd clinic located in Mountain Home

Music Center Studios 12516 W. Fairview Ave., Boise 861-6056 musiccenterstudios.com Musical Kids 8370 Southside Blvd., Nampa 466-4560 musicalkidsonline.com Pat Harris School of Dance/ Broadway Dance Center 1225 McKinney, Boise 893 E. Boise Ave., Boise Main Office: 375-3255 patharrisdance.org

• Individual Therapy • Typical Peers Welcome • Pricing Based on Insurance

dvanced

Treasure Valley Ballet Academy 1545 E. Leighfield Dr. #150, Meridian 855-0167 tvballet.com

Master’s Academy Chess Programs 3085 N. Cole Rd., Boise 562-9785 mastersacademychess.com

A Therapy based preschool that offers Speech, Language & Occupational Therapy

A

Dance Allegro Academy 3015 W. McMillan Rd. #105, Meridian 258-3599 danceallegroacademy.com

68 S. Baltic Pl. Meridian, ID

208.898.0988

16 AUGUST 2019 | Idaho Family Magazine

Pinz Bowling Center 1385 S. Blue Marlin Ln., Meridian 898-0900 pinzbowlingidaho.com

Treasure Valley Family YMCA Youth Tri-Club: 344-5501 ext. 223 Youth Sports: youthsports@ ymcatvidaho.org Child Development, Before and After School Programs: 344-5502 ext. 414 Teen Leaders, Youth Government, Arts & Sciences: leadership@ymcatvidaho.org ymcatvidaho.org Tumble Time Gymnastics 1379 N. Cloverdale Rd., Boise 375-0063 tumbletimekidscenter.com Wings Center 1875 Century Way, Boise 376-3641 wingscenter.com

CHILD CARE/PRESCHOOLS A Step Ahead Preschool 3348 N. Meridian Rd., Meridian 473-2420 astepaheadpreschoolidaho. com Boiseko Ikastola-The Basque Preschool 1955 Broadway Ave., Boise 343-4234 boisekoikastola.org Boise State University Children’s Center 1830 W. Beacon St., Boise 426-4404 childrenscenter.boisestate.edu Born to Succeed Early Care and Education Center 4770 N. Shamrock Ave., Boise 658-5561 myborntosucceed.com Cooperative Preschool 21 N. Latah St., Boise 342-7479 cooperativepreschool.org

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Back to School Guide 2019 Gem State Gymnastics Academy 5420 W. State St., Boise 853-3220 gemstategymnastics.com Giraffe Laugh Early Learning Center 901 W. Resseguie, Boise (Child Care Center) 342-1239 1191 W. Grand Ave., Boise 424-3387 1617 N. 24th St., Boise 383-4247 3641 N. Market Pl. Ln., Boise 954-5465 giraffelaugh.org Leap Ahead Preschool 227 E. Fairview Ave., Meridian 378-6524 leapaheadprek.com Kids Are Special People 717 N. 11th St., Boise 343-8441 kidsarespecialpeople.com

Kids Choice Child Care Center and Preschool 2170 S. Broadway Ave., Boise 343-7550 2210 W. Everest Lane, Meridian 888-7540 MyKidsChoice.com Caspari Montessori Institute 9626 W. Victory Rd., Boise 562-1420 New Horizon Academy 1830 N. Meridian Rd., Meridian 887-3880 12692 W. LaSalle St., Boise 376-2690 11978 W. Ustick Rd., Boise 323-8900 155 E. Boise Ave., Boise 386-9108 newhorizonacademy.net Polaris Learning Center 1323 Iron Eagle Dr., Eagle 938-9830 1096 E. Fairview Ave., Meridian 629-7451

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3125 W. Belltower Dr., Meridian 297-7670 6224 Birch Lane, Nampa 466-1322 School Age Club also located in Eagle polarislearning.net

Government, Arts & Sciences: leadership@ymcatvidaho.org ymcatvidaho.org

Puentes Spanish Preschool and Daycare 1605 S. Phillippi, Boise 344-4270 puentes.biz

Wesleyan Preschool & Kindergarten 717 N. 11th St., Boise 343-3778 wesleyanpreschoolboise.com

R House Child Care 2185 Hill Rd., Boise 343-8188 rhousechildcare.com

Wings Center 1875 Century Way, Boise 376-3641 wingscenter.com

Treasure Valley Family YMCA Youth Tri-Club: 344-5501 ext.

223 Youth Sports: youthsports@ ymcatvidaho.org Child Development, Before and After School Programs: 344-5502 ext. 414 Teen Leaders, Youth

SCHOOLS

Tumble Time Gymnastics 1379 N. Cloverdale Rd., Boise 375-0063 tumbletimekidscenter.com

Ambrose School 6100 N. Locust Grove Rd., Meridian 323-3888 TheAmbroseSchool.org

Idaho Family Magazine | AUGUST 2019 17

Back to School Guide 2019 Anser Charter School 202 E. 42nd St., Garden City 426-9840 ansercharterschool.org Challenger School 5551 W. Bloom St., Boise 338-9500 2020 W. Everest Ln., Meridian 846-8888 challengerschool.com Cloverdale Montessori School 12255 W. Goldenrod Ave., Boise 322-1200 cloverdalemontessorischool. com Cole Valley Christian Schools Elementary Campus: 8775 Ustick Rd., Boise 375-3571 Secondary Campus: 200 E. Carlton Ave., Meridian 947-1212 colevalleychristian.org

College of Western Idaho-CWI Early Childhood Education Program 562-3483 cwidaho.cc/preschool

Idaho Virtual Academy 1965 S. Eagle Rd. #190, Meridian (866) 339-9065 idva.k12.com

Eagle Adventist Christian School 538 W. State St., Eagle 939-5544 eagleadventistchristian.com

INSPIRE, the Idaho Connections Academy 600 Steelhead Way #164, Boise 322-4002 connectionsacademy.com/ idaho-online-school

Eagle’s Wings Preschool 651 N. Eagle Rd., Eagle 939-1351 eagleumc.com/eagles-wingsschool Idaho Digital Learning Academy 3324 S. Pro Tech Drive #200, Boise 342-0207 idahodigitallearning.org Idaho Distance Education Academy—I-DEA (866) 447-1047 idahoidea.org

Music Lingua Foreign Language for Kids 571-1713 musiclingua.com Nampa Christian Schools 11920 W. Flamingo Ave. Nampa Christian Schools Elementary 505 W. Orchard Ave. 466-8451 NampaChristianSchools.com Northview Montessori Preschool and Accelerated Kindergarten 7670 W. Northview St., Boise 322-0152 northviewmontessori.com

Lakewood Montessori 133 E. Linden St., Boise 331-3888 lakewood-montessori.com Montessori Academy 1400 N. Park Ln., Eagle 939-6333 montessoriacademyidaho.com

ParkCenter Montessori 649 E. ParkCenter Blvd., Boise 344-0004 boisemontessori.com/ preschools/boise/parkcenter

Mount Parnassus Classical Academy 20 N. Latah, Boise 343-6219

Riverstone International School 5521 E. Warm Springs Ave., Boise 424-5000 riverstoneschool.org

Offering Summer Pre-school Language Groups & Social Groups!!

Boise & Nampa Locations

208.466.1077 | www.BoiseChatterbox.com

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18 AUGUST 2019 | Idaho Family Magazine • •

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St. Joseph’s Catholic School 825 W. Fort St., Boise 342-4909 stjoes.com

Community Connections, Inc. 1675 S. Maple Grove Rd., Boise 377-9814 cciidaho.com

The Preschool & Kindergarten at Ten Mile Christian Church 3500 W. Franklin Rd., Meridian 888-3101 tenmilecc.com/school

Idaho Pediatric Therapy Clinic 13895 W. Wainwright Dr., Boise 939-3334 idahopedstherapy.com

SERVICES Advanced Therapy Care 68 S. Baltic Place, Meridian 898-0988 advancedtherapycare.com

Kaleidoscope Pediatric Therapy 7211 Franklin Rd., Boise 375-4200 kaleidoscopepediatrictherapy.com

Chatterbox Pediatric Therapy Center 320 11th Ave. S. #204, Nampa 7091 W. Emerald St., Boise 466-1077 or 898-1368 BoiseChatterbox.com Children’s Therapy Place Boise, Nampa, Emmett, Meridian/Eagle 323-8888 childrenstherapyplace.com

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Play Therapy, Behavioral Health, Trauma, Drug and Alcohol Treatment

WENDY PEREZ Social Worker, LCSW, ACADC 925 Main St., Suite A Meridian, ID 83642 Wendyperez@abundantserenity.co abundantserenitywp.com

208-918-0380

Idaho Family Magazine | AUGUST 2019 19

TOP

Children’s birthday parties

PICK9 S 2 01

By Adrianne Goff

The Top Picks lists are an ongoing feature of Idaho Family Magazine written by Adrianne Goff, Associate Publisher. Our lists highlight restaurants, businesses and events in the Boise area that are a good resource and family-friendly. Items are listed in reverse alphabetical order (this month) rather than ranked. To submit an idea for the Top Picks list, email adrianne@globalpsd.com.

See our website at idahofamily.com for extended reviews and photos!

ZOO BOISE 355 Julia Davis Dr, Boise, ID 83702 (208) 608-7760 www.zooboise.org

Zoo Boise does not currently host birthday parties, however, you are more than welcome to have your party on the zoo grounds.

Individual admission or annual pass is required for all attendees.

Birthday cakes, snacks, and party favors may be brought in, however, for the safety of the zoo animals, balloons, stickers, glass, and straws are not permitted. Zoo Boise’s preferred caterer, Taste of the Wild is available for any food related needs. Picnic tables are available on a first come first serve basis, however, if you would like to insure that space will be available, reservations can be made.

WAHOOZ FUN ZONE 1385 S Blue Marlin Ln, Meridian, ID 83642 (208) 898-0900 www.wahoozfunzone.com

Wahooz Fun Zone just completed a 17,000 square foot, fourstory, multi-million dollar expansion features eight new indoor attractions. Many of these attractions are brand new to southern Idaho and offers an exciting and unique entertainment experiences for their guests. The multi-million dollar addition is connected to the front of Wahooz and Pinz, creating the area’s largest indoor family entertainment space at over 70,000 square feet. There are so many option for fun activities here your toughest decision will be “where do I start?” Here are a few of the fun rides they offer: “The Twister” A thrilling amusement ride with four swinging capsules that hold four passengers each. The entire ride rotates, lifts and tilts, while riders spin the capsules themselves to create the ride they want. “The Frog Hopper” Seven riders will ascend 16-feet into the air, then bounce down this miniature drop tower.

“Bumper Cars” These futuristic bumper cars provide a hoverlike ride while bumping and spinning 360 degrees. “XD Dark Ride” America’s most incredible new interactive ride. The XD Dark Ride is an 8-seat, full motion, 7D movie experience and the first of its kind in the entire Northwest. Compete with other thrill-seekers as you laser blast robot cowboys, werewolves or alien robots in three-different, four-minute movie adventures. When you get hungry (and we know you will especially since you’ll likely be there all day) head over to their “Stargazer Grill” where they have hand-made pizzas, sandwiches, hamburgers, fresh salads, and a build-your-own-sundae bar. This place is appropriately named WAAAAHHHHHOOOOZZZEEEE!

20 AUGUST 2019 | Idaho Family Magazine

URBAN AIR TRAMPOLINE AND ADVENTURE PARK 3876 E Lanark St, Meridian, ID 83642 (208) 278-2005 www.urbanairmeridian.com

Looking for a great place to host a kids birthday party? Take your child’s birthday party experience into the stratosphere with party experts at Urban Air Adventure Park in Meridian! It’s the perfect place for stress-free, indoor birthday parties for boys, girls, kids and teens – anyone can have a great time here. They have more than just trampolines, Urban Air is a unique indoor adventure park with something for everyone. They have classic trampolines, climbing walls, basketball, obstacle courses, glow-in-the-dark golf, laser tag and more. You can also expect good food here, the pizza’s were a surprising find for our family and they are very reasonably priced.

They also offer a tasty gluten-free version. Other standouts were the wings served with a sweet and spicy sauce, two styles of chicken strips (regular and gluten-free) so delicious! None of the chicken was greasy and there wasn’t any gristle that you often find in cheap chunks of chicken. This chicken was good quality white breast meat.

The adventure park’s attractions are reason enough to visit but paired with the food and the fact that they serve beer, wine and adult juice boxes, yes you heard that right. A-grown-up-juice-box-foradults, say whaaaat?! What’s not to love? You can choose between 6 different flavors; Long Island Ice Tea, Bloody Mary, Cosmopolitan, Margarita, Greyhound or a Whiskey Lemonade. We enjoyed it all and will definitely be back!

POJOS FAMILY FUN CENTER 7736 W Fairview Ave, Boise, ID 83704 (208) 376-6981 www.pojos.com

Pojos Family Fun Center has been family owned and operated for over 44 years! They opened their doors on the corner of Fairview and Eldorado in 1974 and then moved into the newest location in December of 1992. Pojos is 22,000 square feet of fun. They have over 100 games to play as well as indoor bumper cars, an indoor carousel, and for the smaller children a soft play area. The Carousel Cafe serves pizza, burgers, sandwiches, soups, and delicious desserts. Pojos has three themed party rooms to choose from: A princess/kingdom room, a jungle room and an ocean room.

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PLANET KID 1875 Century Way, Boise, ID 83709 (208) 376-3641 www.wingscenter.com

Planet Kid’s Indoor Soft Playground is physical fun on a galactic scale. They have created a safe place for kids 12 and younger to explore, climb, swing, zip, slide and play. They like to think of it as the new “old” neighborhood where children meet up with friends, discover new ones, use their imagination to create games and play with no particular agenda.

Planet Kid is Idaho’s largest indoor soft playground where your kids can explore the never-ending maze of tunnels, slides, cargo nets, rope climbs, and ball-pits. They even have a “Toddler Town” section for ages 2 and younger with the perfect tot-sized equipment for endless enjoyment. It’s only natural – a kid’s gotta move! And even better, they have no video games – just pure physical play!

NERFED 5878 W Franklin Rd, Boise, ID 83709 (208) 342-0342 www.boisenerfed.com

Nerfed is the latest family-friendly alternative to paintball. With two 4,000 ft arenas fitted with their own hand built obstacles and a range of other barriers where you can set an ambush, or duck when in trouble. For Nerf Wars, they have a multitude of dart and disk-based Nerf Guns ranging from the small Firestrike to the intimidating Lawbringer. On select days, they open the arena for an epic Airsoft Battle. You can bring your own guns but even if you don’t have a weapon, no problem, they have your back with over 30 guns to choose from. Their indoor arena is perfect for a good battle!

The referees keep the games safe and moving so adults and kids can play together. Minimum age requirement is 5 years old, however some of our bigger guns might require an older age to be used.

JUMPTIME 2805 E Franklin Rd, Meridian, ID 83642 (208) 855-5867 1030 W River St, Boise, ID 83702 (208) 342-5867 www.jumptimeidaho.com / www.jumptimemeridian.com

JumpTime is a locally owned activity center for the whole family.

They were the first to bring and indoor trampoline park to the Treasure Valley and enjoy serving the community. They offer new ways to play aside from their classic Trampolines which includes: Dodgeball, Slam Dunk basketball, Laser Maze, Battle Balls and Foam Pits. Unique to the Meridian location is a super fun Nerf battle zone, prepare to be locked and loaded! Unique to the Boise location is their Fly Bed, a high flying aerial trampoline where you can test your stunts. What’s nice about JumpTime is they have an area that your littles will be safe and have fun!

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GRINKERS GRAND PALACE 228 E Plaza Dr, Eagle, ID 83616 (208) 939-9534 www.grinkers.com

Grinkers is a playable vintage arcade museum representing one of the most complete collections of vintage arcade games on the plant.

Many of their games are rare and some of them are extremely rare, so finding parts for these vintage classics can range from difficult to nearly impossible. Grinkers has over 300 vintage games to play and they all take a quarter, that’s right $0.25 ea. Where else can you play a video game for a quarter? Unfortunately due to an ongoing challenge of some patrons abusing the games, Grinkers is now a members-only, private venue. I can assure you it is worth the $8.00 per month membership fee. This small month fee covers everyone in your household and you can bring guests. It’s a win-win to preserve these beautiful, functional machines that many of parents, grand parents and great grandparents played! Also be sure to check out their food menu, their sub sandwiches are AHH mazing! The bread is scratch made daily and steamed warm. They use thinly sliced high-quality meats and cheeses, authentic pickles direct from Chicago and of course a super secret Italian dressing recipe. FUN GAME FACT: In Donkey Kong Jr., Donkey Kong’s son is trying to rescue Donkey Kong who has been imprisoned by Mario. It is Mario’s only appearance as a villain in a video game.

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF IDAHO 790 S Progress Ave, Meridian, ID 83642 (208) 345-1920 www.cmidaho.org

The Children’s Museum of Idaho inspires and nurtures future explorers, innovators, and critical thinkers through interactive play in a safe, engaging environment with hands-on exhibits and programs designed specifically for children ages two to eight years old. The Children’s Museum of Idaho is a place where children learn through play and exploration in environments and experiences created just for them. The interactive exhibits are designed to be manipulated by children and guided by an adult (parent, grandparent, caregiver). This hands-on approach inspires young minds to take an active role that stimulates learning and addresses the developmental needs of children.

BRICKNOWLOGY 228 East Plaza Street, Eagle, ID 83616 (208) 939-5346 www.bricknowlogy.com

Bricknowlogy is a construction-themed retail toy store, education center, party experience, and LEGO® trading post – in addition to providing unique printing technology that allows you to create custom minifigures, parts, bricks, photos and more, Bricknowlogy also has the largest LEGO selection in the State of Idaho. They offer LEGO brand building parties with friends and family where everyone builds together and takes home their awesome creations. You can pick any set within the party budget, how cool is that?! No need for party favors (the LEGO sets are the favors). No First-Aid Kits, Jugs of Hand Sanitizer, or Ear Plugs Required. This will probably be the most fun your kids have without getting any booboos!

Idaho Family Magazine | AUGUST 2019 21

WEDNESDAY’S CHILD

2 boys + 1 girl = 3 super siblings

The following information is provided by Wednesday’s Child, an organization that helps Idaho foster children find permanent homes.

R

aymond (11), Kaylee (9), and Duke (5) are three amazing young siblings who can’t wait to find just the right Forever Family. Raymond, the oldest of the siblings, is very bonded with and protective of his younger brother and sister. He describes himself as kind, smart and good in school. Raymond enjoys reading, playing basketball, drawing and painting. He loves country music and to be outside with his friends playing games like Freeze Tag and Capture the Flag. Raymond also enjoys church, pancakes, and pizza and he hopes to be a police officer or a firefighter when he grows up.

Kaylee is the middle child. She is outgoing and loves to ask questions. She is a good student and enjoys math and reading in school. Her most recent favorite book is “The Phantom Tollbooth.” Kaylee likes action hero movies, especially Superman, and says she would love a Supergirl bedroom in her new home. She also loves arts and crafts, soccer, football, and swimming. This bright and spunky girl can probably beat you at a game of Monopoly and knows how to make a great tasting bacon-cheeseburger casserole. Kaylee dreams of a committed mom and dad who love to celebrate Christmas and Easter and who will spend time with her doing fun things like riding bikes and going to the waterpark.

Youngest brother Duke is a sweet little boy with fiery red hair. Duke will tell you just how much he loves his siblings and says he thinks that Kaylee is pretty and Raymond is awesome. Duke loves swimming, soccer, superheroes and playing Uno Attack. His favorite foods include hot dogs, pizza, and macaroni and cheese. This rambunctious boy also likes to ride his bike and to help his family cook.

Kaylee, Duke and Raymond are three siblings with varied interests but a firm commitment to each other.

(Courtesy photo) Raymond, Kaylee and Duke’s permanency team is searching for a family who will commit to keeping the siblings together, while also meeting each of their needs individually.

A family that is trauma-informed and that may also have experience in TBRI (trust-based relational intervention) parenting would be a fantastic fit for these three beautiful children. If you are ready to start a lifelong adventure full of love and laughter with Raymond, Kaylee and Duke, please inquire to learn more about these special siblings today.

For more information on the Idaho Wednesday’s Child Program, visit www.idahowednesdayschild.org, or contact Recruitment Coordinator Shawn White at swhite52@ewu.edu or cell 208-488-8989 if you have specific questions.

What Are You Looking for in a Church?

How about a safe, nurturing Christian community where your children are loved?

• Four weekend worship services including a family service during the school year • Childcare for all Cathedral events • Sunday School classes for kids from 3½ through middle school all year • Cathedral Night each Wednesday—a family style meal followed by a program for adults and Dragon Slayers for kids

Che ck Us Out !

Service Times

Thursday 7:30 a.m.

Saturday 5:30 p.m.

Sunday 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.

(8:00, 9:15 & 11:00 during the school year)

Located in the heart of downtown Boise, across from the capitol at State and 8th Streets.

518 N. 8th Street • Boise, ID 83702 208.342.5601 www.stmichaelscathedral.org 22 AUGUST 2019 | Idaho Family Magazine

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TWEEN DAUGHTER and dad

Back to school requires ‘proper balance’

By Patrick and J.L. Hempfing

“IT’S ALL ABOUT A BALANCE IN LIFE.”

M

y daughter, Jessie, has heard me say this often. We all face the daily challenge of finding that right balance between work and play, while incorporating a block of time for sleep.

Jessie has always excelled at getting the most out of her days. She stopped taking naps Patrick Hempfing after age 2. My wife, Mattie, and I now face a Jessie will keep busy indeed and will need surprising challenge from her zest to maximize her days — to wisely manage her time among her various activities. one so simple, I can’t believe I’m writing about it.

Jessie forgot to mention that in addition to learning a new “Jessie, please replace the toilet tissue when the roll runs instrument, the alto saxophone, she will be taking her first out.” Jessie’s stated reason for her repeated failure to do pointe class. She’ll not only be squeezing a load of classes this is, “It wastes time in my life that I’ll never get back.” and activities into her daily schedule, but also squishing her She plops the new roll on top of the empty cardboard tube feet into the box of tight-fitting pointe shoes and twirling still on the holder, and lets Dad put the new roll on the around on her toes. Talk about working hard at balance. spool. Apparently, time that Dad will never get back is more I’m glad Jessie recognizes that she’ll need “to learn how to expendable. save time.” May I suggest quicker showers as a good starting Somehow, the girl who won’t take naps or replace the toilet point. tissue roll is about to enter 7th grade. I’m confident Jessie Mattie and I know, too, that our soon-to-be-teenager will will have a great school year; however, her packed schedule spend more time with friends in the years ahead. How much concerns me. Will she have a proper balance in her life? I’ll time will she have left for her parents after school, dance, and let her fill you in on her upcoming plans. music? Let’s hope Jessie remembers her last sentence, “It is FROM JESSIE: I am going to be juggling schoolwork, dance, clarinet, saxophone, and family (during) the upcoming school year. I will have to learn how to save time where I can, while keeping up the grades, learning saxophone, keeping up with clarinet, spending time with family, and dancing.

I am excited that I can have the opportunities to pursue many different outlets. I am very grateful that I get to skip a year of band and go into the highest band at my school. I’m also going to learn alto saxophone to play in the jazz band.

Dance is also a big part of my life. I will dance 3 or 4 days a week after school.

Next, I have schoolwork, homework, and studying. I will be in challenging classes at my school and need to make sure I keep up my grades.

Finally, it is important to spend quality time with my family. Now, back to Dad.

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important to spend quality time with my family.”

Like Jessie, Mattie and I need to focus on how we spend our time. Mattie keeps a hectic schedule with her work. I wear lots of hats, too, not only as a writer, but also as a stayat-home dad and husband. Finding that right balance is a daily challenge. “Mattie, could I hire a personal assistant?”

But whether Jessie is spinning across the dance floor, playing one of her two instruments, or earning good grades, one thing is certain ’tween daughter and dad, I love my girl and my girl loves me. I promise, too, that this stay-at-home dad, without a personal assistant, will make sure the house contains an adequate supply of toilet tissue. However, Jessie’s on her own when it comes to replacing the empty roll. I can’t waste any time in my life, either. Like she says, you can’t get it back.

Patrick Hempfing had a 20-year professional career in banking, accounting, and auditing before he became a father at age 44. He is now a full-time husband, stay-at-home dad, and writer. Follow Patrick at http://patrickhempfing.com. J. L. Hempfing began writing with her dad in kindergarten. Her current hobbies include reading, writing, playing clarinet and alto saxophone, and dancing.

Idaho Family Magazine | AUGUST 2019 23

Forever homes.

Dream rates.

Whether building, buying, or moving up, ICCU has the home loan to fit your needs: • Fast approvals • No-fee and low-cost loan options • IHFA, FHA, VA and Rural Housing Loans • Construction Loans available

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WE BELIEVE home really is sweet.

24 AUGUST 2019 | Idaho Family Magazine

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