October 2013

October 2013

ouR annual eDuCaTIon ISSue What to expect when you’re expecting... again {page 10}

Aiden, 2, Brooklyn Park

All-day K {page 39}

Boo! Halloween fun for trick-or-treaters big and small {page 26}

Little green school

{page 45}

ConTenTS

Minnesota Parent October

Feature

Departments 6 EdiTOr’S nOTE All-day K

By Kathleen Stoehr 8 CHATTEr A little bit of news and information for your quiet time reading

By Kathleen Stoehr 10 BABY On BOArd What to expect when you’re expecting…again BEST “BOO” FOr YOUr FAMiLY

Age-appropriate suggestions for the haunted season

26

By Kelly Jo McDonnell

By Shannon Keough 12 ASk THE PEdiATriCiAn Answering your questions about health

By Dr. Peter Dehnel

Education issue

14 in THE kiTCHEn Recipes and more

18 HOT STUFF Great gadgets ALL-dAY k Beginning in 2014, all-day kindergarten will be a reality in every district

39 45

By Kathleen Stoehr LiTTLE GrEEn SCHOOL Nature goes to the head of the class

By Kelly Jo McDonnell

By Cali Owings

20 GrOWS On TrEES Financial heart-to-heart

By Kara McGuire 24 rELATiOnSHiPS The stuff of life

16 TWEEn SCEnE Building the teacher-parent team

By Joy Riggs 22 BOOk SHELF

By Sean Toren

48 EdUCATiOn rESOUrCES

By Emily Mongan

on the cover Aiden, son of David and Jenny Branstad, models an owl costume from chasing-fireflies.com.

Calendar 4 October 2013

Real dad, Ben Kyle

By Emily Mongan

Super science

30 OCTOBEr AT A GLAnCE

58 rEAL LiFE

32 PArEnT PiCkS

33 OUT & ABOUT

PHOTO BY FLASH PORTRAITS, MAPLE GROVE • fLAShportrAitS.CoM

You can get there. We can help.

Visit www.MN529today.com or call 1-877-338-4646

From the editor

All-day K

I

honestly do remember being a kindergartner. Admittedly, much of what I remember about Miss Charlotte Gabrielson’s Concord Elementary class involved a blanket and a nap. Oh no—I know what you’re thinking. Yes, a blanket and a nap sound lovely right now. But back then it was the furthest thing from my mind.

Oh, the torture of being told to lie still! A nap? That’s for babies!

I was on the half-day K plan—it was the only option available then. I’d head home around the noon hour, and spend the rest of the day with my mother, or play in the neighborhood, or get into mischief with my little brother.

Over the years as parenting needs have evolved, the way we approach kindergarten has evolved as well. Parents have been hoping, for the most part at least, for full day options; and in May of this year, our governor approved a plan to provide free all-day kindergarten beginning in the 2014–15 school year.

There are a lot of schools that currently offer all-day K in the state of Minnesota. Some charge parents for that option; some, like the Moorhead School Board, opted to sign off on spending $1.2 million to start all-day K this year, a full year before the state funding is in place. As reported in the Fargo Forum on August 31 (All-day kindergarten a big draw in Moorhead by Helmut Schmidt), it paid off remarkably well: there were 22 full-day K classrooms throughout the Moorhead districts. Assistant Superintendent Wayne Kazmierczak was quoted as saying, “We’ve more than doubled our teaching staff at the kindergarten level.”

So what’s so great about all-day kindergarten? Well, we’re going to educate you on that very topic beginning on page 39.

Reporter Cali Owings spoke with a number of educators throughout the state, and how all-day K will affect your child.

If you are struggling with the best educational direction for your kids, please do stop by Como Park Zoo & Conservatory on Saturday, October 5 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. A number of school representatives from throughout the area will be there to provide you with information and advice. There will also be activities for your children, grab bags, and as always, the beauty of the surrounding area to make it a good day for families to enjoy time together. We hope to see you there. Questions? Go to mnparent.com/edfair for more info.

Kathleen Stoehr Editor

6 October 2013

Vol. 28, Issue 10 Co-Publishers Janis Hall jhall@mnpubs.com Terry Gahan tgahan@mnpubs.com general Manager Chris Damlo 612-436-4376 • cdamlo@mnpubs.com editor Kathleen Stoehr kstoehr@mnpubs.com Contributing Writers/Photographers Dr. Peter Dehnel Kelly Jo McDonnell Shannon Keough Kara McGuire Emily Mongan Cali Owings Joy Riggs Sean Toren Jen Wittes Production Manager Dana Croatt dcroatt@mnpubs.com

Are you currently pregnant or had a baby during the previous month and interested in participating in a telephone-based health and wellness program?

The University of Minnesota is seeking women who are currently pregnant or less than 6 weeks postpartum to participate in a research study examining the effect of exercise and wellness on mood following childbirth • Participants receive a motivational exercise program or a health and wellness program, which begins after the birth of your baby (participants can sign up for the program during pregnancy) • Program delivered to you via the mail and phone • Must be 18 years of age or older; must not currently exercise regularly • Must not take antidepressants • Must have a history of depression • You will receive $100 for your time

Senior graphic Designer Valerie Moe graphic Designer Amanda Wadeson Senior account executive Melissa Ungerman Levy 612-436-4382 • mungermanlevy@mnpubs.com Sales administrator Kate Manson 612-436-5085 • kmanson@mnpubs.com

Call 612-625-9753 or email mompro@umn.edu to see if you qualify for this research study U of M - Kinesiology Dept MNP 1212 S3.indd 1

11/15/12 2:37 PM

Circulation Marlo Johnson 612-436-4388 • distribution@mnpubs.com Classified advertising 612-825-9205 • sales@mnpubs.com Printing Brown Printing

60,000 copies of Minnesota Parent printed monthly, available at news stands statewide.

Get Minnesota Parent mailed to your home for just $12 a year. Call 612-825-9205 for more information.

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

POSTMASTER send address changes to: MINNESOTA PARENT, 1115 Hennepin Avenue S. Minneapolis, MN 55403.

Minnesota Parent is copyright 2013 by Minnesota Premier Publications. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

Address all material to address above.

October 2013 7

In brief Fire Up Your Feet is helping Minnesota

schools motivate students, staff, and families to walk more, play more, and find the joys of being physically active. Your school could earn a portion of Fire Up Your Feet Challenge Awards totaling $1,350 if families register on the site and log their minutes of activity. Whether it’s walking to school, a bike ride to the park, or even playground time during school, your activity will get your school closer to earning a Challenge Award at the end of the session. The Challenge is from October 1 to 31, so go to mn.fireupyourfeet.org for more information.

SEE Eyewear has opened in Uptown,

offering eyewear for both adults and children. All frames are sourced globally and designed in-house. SEE’s concept of marrying fashion with true value is completely unique in the optical industry, and is the first eyewear store of its kind in the country. Minnesota Parent likes the “Wee SEE” line for kids with trendy cat eye shapes, matte neon, and 1980s-inspired metal frames with contrasting top bars. Go to seeeyewear.com to view the full line.

Veronica Jacobsen and Brittany Kubricky, co-owners of BabyLove, wrote an eBook, A Guide to Twin Cities Birth

Creative costuming Minnesota Parent received the most tremendous catalogue from Chasing Fireflies, a site specializing in very nice children’s clothing, but also creative “Wishcraft” costumes for children, pets, dolls—and parents. After way too many tired costumes parading past our doorsteps over the years, chasing-fireflies.com is like a breath of fresh air. Check out ridiculously cute gnome costumes, along with great white sharks, precious get-ups for baby, and more. Your kids will get more candy than they ever dreamed possible due to these adorbs costumes. chasing-fireflies.com; prices vary

Options, containing information on all

of the hospitals, birth centers, and home birth options in the area. Parents can download the eBook for free (after subscribing to the BabyLove newsletter) to use as a decision-making tool. Go to

Minnesota Parent Tested

LaLaLounger Starting out as resting place for infants, it transforms into a practice area for babies learning to sit up, a personal space for toddlers to play, and a comfortable cushion for older children to read and rest. It’s available in a wide variety of super cute prints and can even be customized. Now, the question is: how do we get that pesky dog to stay out of the lounger? Slipcovers available, or use your own fabric, too. lalalounger.com; about $85

8 October 2013

babylovemn.com for your link.

St. Jude of the Lake School in Mahto-

medi recently received its authorization as an International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Program (PYP) School. It is now one of just three Catholic elementary schools in the country to have this designation; the first in the Midwest.

IB is a world-renowned teaching method that emphasizes inquiry, encouraging children to ask questions, seek understanding, connect new learning to prior knowledge, and become lifelong learners.

The IB PYP, specifically geared toward students in grades K–5, is a curricular framework that fosters academic excellence by tapping into children’s natural curiosity and that motivates students to seek to understand and embrace a multi-cultured world. IB students are recognized for being curious, conscientious, resourceful, independent, and globally minded. To learn more, visit stjudeofthelakeschool.org.

RIBBIT ING News!

GIE b o o k !

IG P & T N A H P E L E A n ew Mo Wil lems!

Let’s Go for a Drive! A Big Guy Took My Ball!

PPA - Disney Book Group MNP 1013 H2.indd 1

9/5/13 10:34 AM

October 2013 9

Shannon

Keough

What to expect when you’re expecting…again

“I

can’t believe how many of my friends keep having babies—and then act like it’s a good thing!”

One of my Facebook friends had posted a lengthy rant that enumerated the many reasons people should stop having kids: war, famine, explosive population growth, guaranteed heartbreak, and so on. “Uh oh,” I thought.

I’d been feeling kind of weird—a little sick, a little tired. I’d chalked it up to everyday wear and tear.

But suddenly, reading this anti-kid diatribe, I understood the real cause of my malaise.

A drugstore test confirmed my suspicions—I was pregnant again. “This is so soon!” I thought.

“Lydia is still a baby! I’m going to have two babies at once! Babies are so much work…” I got a little panicky.

Pregnant, again Of course I was getting ahead of myself. While a second child will certainly add a new layer of joyful complexity to my life, there was

10 October 2013

something else more immediate to address—the fact of another pregnancy, and all the challenges it can bring.

“A first pregnancy can be almost a little narcissistic,” said a friend of mine, a mother to two daughters. “There’s more time to focus on yourself. But with a second pregnancy, you realize that your needs almost never come first.”

She was referring, of course, to the needs of one’s existing child (or children).

And it’s true—while I spent the initial trimester of my first pregnancy completing a Pilates teacher training program and generally marveling at my exceptional physical fitness, this pregnancy has been characterized by other milestones—for example, trying not gag as I prepare my daughter some mediocre excuse for a meal or sprawling on the floor, exhausted and ill, while she flings tea bags around the kitchen.

In other words, things change. And while in many ways this pregnancy has been more difficult than the first, I’m actually really grateful that I’ve already been through this before. Here are some of the things I’ve learned:

It is better not to compare During my first pregnancy I could eat anything and assumed that “pregnancy cravings” were just an excuse to eat a bunch of junk. This time I felt queasy day and night for weeks on end and only certain foods would suffice. “Why do I feel this way?” I wailed silently to myself as I rang up Pizza Lucé for the third time that week.

And you know what? There’s no good answer. The cliché is true—every pregnancy really is different. Accept what you have and try to focus on the good stuff.

You are not in control Nothing drives this point home more than a pregnant woman’s changing body.

Last time around I was super active during my pregnancy. This time, the constant nausea of the first trimester didn’t just turn me off food, but virtually all exercise as well. By the time the nausea passed, I’d developed excruciating

lower back pain that was made worse by any sort of physical activity.

At first I ignored the pain and carried on as usual, and of course it got much worse. So I had to adjust my activity and slow down. It was a blow to my ego, but I felt better and finally wasn’t grimacing in agony all day long.

But you are in control of some things Should you close on a house in the hospital the day after you give birth and then move two weeks later? No, you shouldn’t. Plan ahead and do what you can to minimize stress. This also relates to the next point:

Learning begins at

birth.

ECFE works to strengthen families and encourages parents to provide the best possible environment for the healthy development of their children.

The postpartum period is a really big deal When I was pregnant with Lydia, I spent much of my time preparing for a “natural childbirth.” Then we found out she was breech and I ended up delivering via C-section in a sea of morphine. I think our culture spends a lot of time and energy focusing on pregnancy and childbirth while downplaying the arrival of the actual baby and what happens afterward.

The postpartum period is no laughing matter. Breastfeeding issues could arise.

Your baby might scream inconsolably night and day. Your body may be unrecognizable and none of your pants may fit.

You may feel deeply depressed and not understand why.

I encourage you to prepare for these realities! Have the name of a good lactation consultant on hand. Purchase a Velcro-supported swaddle blanket and a fitness ball (so that you may bounce your screaming infant all night). Stock up on leggings. Because what you’re really preparing for is your new life as a parent, right? Labor and childbirth will come and go, but your baby is here to stay.

Parent-Child Classes • Birth – 5 Years Old • www.ECFE.info

Shannon Keough lives in south Minneapolis with her husband, Nick, and daughter, Lydia. She can be reached at editor@mnparent.com.

Early Childhood Family Education This ad was made possible by the generosity of the Minnesota College Savings Plan.

October 2013 11 For more information, please visit www.MN529today.com

We just had our first child and are concerned that she has colic.

She cries for what seems like hours a day, and we’re to the point where we think we are doing something terribly wrong as parents. Can you help?

Peter

Dehnel, MD

Q

My child is extremely afraid of the dark. What can I do to help him overcome this fear?

B

eing afraid of the dark is a very common fear for children. Even older teens can retain a fear of the dark for a number of reasons. For children, the “dark” also represents all those things that don’t make sense about the world. Some children have had a fearful experience in the past and still need to emotionally and psychologically work through it, whether the event happened at night or not. Some do not like the separation at night and feel much more vulnerable when alone. These reasons and many more are all variations of being “afraid of the dark.”

While fear is a very common emotion, children are generally amenable to interventions by parents. If your child can vocalize

12 October 2013

what causes the fear, talking through it is a good way to begin. Acknowledging it as real in your child’s mind is also important, otherwise he or she may have to “prove” the fear is really there. Spending time at bedtime reading stories and doing a quick room check for “monsters” is frequently a helpful approach. Exposure to disturbing images on the news, in movies, or in video games may need to be minimized to help your child have fewer fears going forward.

Finally, if your child has significant and persistent fears, to the point where it is interfering with sleep and/or otherwise normal functioning, then consulting with your clinician and/or a psychologist may be needed to change their current thought patterns.

Crying is a very normal part of an infant’s behavior in the first several months. One of the biggest challenges, especially with first-time parents, is to not think you are doing some thing wrong in the way that you are caring for your baby. The average two month old cries about three hours per day, usually in the evening. Anything above that is typically considered excessive, but is still likely normal for your baby. If it is considerably more than three hours per day, especially if it is all hours of the day or night, then your baby may have a medical condition that needs evaluation.

If you are in the “two to three hours of crying in the evening” phase, there are a number of things you can try to help reduce the amount of time your baby is crying. It is generally helpful to use a sequence of interventions to soothe distress. Try feeding her: even if it was a short time ago, she may still be hungry. If that is not helpful, try walking with your baby, gently patting her on the back and talking softly or singing to her. If she hasn’t settled down after 10 to 15 minutes, it is not likely to help. Next, try sitting in a rocking chair. Lay her tummy-side down on your lap as you gently rock, and rub her on her back. Again, if that has not worked after 10 to 15 minutes, try slowly bicycling her legs while she is on her back—this can be helpful to soothe any intestinal gas issues. Finally, if all else fails, put her in her crib and let her try falling asleep for 10 to 15 minutes. If this is not successful, start the sequence again and you will likely find a way to reduce her crying. This method has actually been confirmed to be helpful in studies on babies and colicky behavior.

If your infant is crying more than what you feel comfortable with, please consult your baby’s clinician. There are situations where crying does indicate a treatable medical condition and needs to be thoroughly assessed.

With all the talk of obesity, should I be worried that my baby is overweight? Should I restrict his calories to make sure he does not become an overweight preschooler?

While childhood obesity is a major concern and can have significant lifelong implications, this really becomes much more of a concern after age two. Brain growth and overall developmental advances are critical during the first two years and parents should not be concerned with excessive growth during this time. Infants basically triple their weight in the first year of life and you should not try to restrict calories in any way. It is also important that 18- to 24-month olds have a lot of large motor play opportunities and should not be overly restricted in their aerobic activities, such as being stationed in front of a TV for hours each day. They should also have a diet that contains more fruits and vegetables while staying away from sugar sweetened beverages, including many fruit juices.

While it is extremely uncommon, excessive weight gain in the first 12 to 18 months can happen. If it does, there is generally an underlying medical cause.

If you are concerned about your infant’s or young toddler’s weight gain, please consult your health care professional.

This column is intended to provide general information and guidance only and not specific medical advice. If you have specific questions about your child, please consult your health care professional.

Dr. Peter Dehnel is a board certified pediatrician and medical director with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota. Have a question for Dr. Dehnel? Email editor@mnparent.com.

October 2013 13

recipe

Breakfast bars

1 cup old-fashioned or quick oats (not instant) 1 bag mixed dried fruit (7 ounces) ¼ cup sugar ½ cup shredded unsweetened coconut (optional) ¼ cup chopped walnuts (optional) ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon ¼ cup honey 2 tablespoons olive oil ¼ cup unsweetened almond or peanut butter 1 tablespoon lowfat or fat free milk ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

1. Preheat oven to 350; lightly coat an 8 x 8-inch baking pan with nonstick spray.

2. In a bowl, toss together the oats, dried fruit, sugar, coconut, walnuts, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.

3. In a second bowl, blend together the honey, olive oil, almond butter, milk, and vanilla.

4. Pour honey mixture over the oat mixture and stir until completely coated.

Pour mixture into prepared pan and press firmly.

5. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until beginning to brown and turn bubbly.

Remove from oven, let stand for 10 minutes, and then cut while still warm. Let cool completely before removing from the pan.

6. Store in airtight container. Bars will last up to a week.

Recipe courtesy of the National Milk Mustache “got milk?” Campaign. For more, check out thebreakfastproject.com.

14 October 2013

minnesota parent tested

Sue McLean & Assoc MNP 1013 H6.indd 1

9/18/13 5:33 PM

Best bag As paper and plastic bags make their way out of grocery stores, reuseable bags are on the rise. This is the best one we’ve tested thus far. Inspired by the classic Adirondack basket pack, this durable ripstop nylon bag includes an internal frame and a flat bottom (all collapsible) for increased stability—yes, it will stay upright in the back of your car on the trip home, instead of crumpling the way most other reusables do. Plus, it can configure into three different carrying options, including backpack style for all of you bicyclers out there. adkpackworks.com; about $25

Whole grain goodness Minneapolis-based Freekeh Foods (freekah-foods.com) offers the allnatural, roasted green wheat whole grain known as freekeh. Compared to other grains, “[freekeh] is higher in protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and lower in glycemic index,” says Vandana R. Sheth, a registered dietician with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

With eight grams of protein and four grams of fiber per serving, we love the convenience of tearing open a package and cooking up a batch. Available locally at Whole Foods and Target, an eight-ounce bag retails for about $4.

October 2013 15

Joy

Riggs

Building the teacher-parent

team

I

should always bring Kleenex to parent-teacher conferences. Every October, it never fails: something a teacher says about one of my three children will cause a lump to form in my throat and tears to materialize. Parental pride mixes with gratitude as I think to myself, “This teacher really gets my kid!”

Last fall, it was a conversation with my son Elias’ sixth grade social studies teacher that had me struggling to keep my composure. She already knew our family because she had taught my two older, hard-act-to-follow kids, Louisa and Sebastian. Any worries I’d had about my observer child being unfavorably compared to his more outgoing siblings dissipated in the first few minutes of the conference, when the teacher demonstrated that she had already identified Elias’ unique strengths and was excited to have him in her classroom.

Not every parent-teacher interaction goes that well. It’s certainly something to aspire to, though, especially during the transition years between elementary school and high school. As tweens explore who they are and who they want to become, it’s natural for them to seek more indepen-

16 October 2013

dence and test their boundaries. But they still need a strong parent-teacher team behind them, cheering them on.

As Megan Olivia Hall, Minnesota’s Teacher of the Year for 2013, succinctly puts it: “The more that parents and teachers connect, the better kids will do.”

Hall teaches science to students in grades 7–12 at Open World Learning Community, a public school in the St. Paul district. She’s been praised for her ability to reach out to families and get them involved in the school, which actively recruits parent volunteers and works at building meaningful parent-teacher relationships.

Some parents find it more challenging to connect with teachers and classrooms as their kids grow older—it can be an issue of time, the school’s size, a concern that their child will be embarrassed by their involvement, or maybe even a reluctance to be reminded of the angst of their own middle school experience. For those uncertain or hesitant parents, Hall offers three reasons why it’s important for parents to stay involved: Students benefit from being around people of different ages. Hall says schools

When we have a lot of adults, including parents, embedded in the school setting, tweens have more positive role models for what life will be like.

—2013 Minnesota Teacher of the Year, Megan Olivia Hall

today are diverse in every way but age.

Tweens spend most of each day having social interactions with people of a similar age, and because they are all going through the same challenges of discovering who they are, it can be scary and confusing.

“When we have a lot of adults, including parents, embedded in the school setting, tweens have more positive role models for what life will be like,” she says.

Students benefit from having people they trust understand their world. Even the

most considerate and honest students don’t give their parents a full and accurate report of what’s happening at school, Hall says.

They might not want to admit when they are struggling, or they might have trouble explaining the challenges they’re facing. A parent who spends time in their child’s school can make their own observations and gain a different perspective, which they can draw upon as they help their child navigate these struggles.

Resources Education Minnesota Teacher of the Year educationminnesota.org/ events/toy.aspx Open World Learning Community open.spps.org Parent-teacher communication tips University of Illinois Extension urbanext.illinois.edu/succeed/ communication.cfm

AuPair Care MNP 0913 H6.indd 1

8/1/13 11:02 AM

City of Lakes Waldorf MNP 1013 H4.indd 1

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Volunteering gives parents a broader perspective on tween behavior. Because

their brains are growing and maturing, tweens learn to manage risk and make decisions by pushing back against their parents. Hall says this give-and-take can be stressful for parents, but the conflict helps adolescents learn boundaries. If parents are actively involved—whether they are at school once a week, or once a month—they can gain a better understanding of the context of their child’s behavior, and that can help them respond more calmly and offer more meaningful advice.

Hall says secondary schools need volunteers just as much, if not more, than elementary schools. Most have a wide variety of tasks that parents can help with, ranging from assisting a teacher in a classroom to making copies for the school secretary.

“A good parent volunteer doesn’t have to be someone who’s at the school every day—it’s about being connected to the community,” she says.

Being involved at school shows kids that parents value their education, and it also shows teachers that they are appreciated. Even a small gesture, like a heartfelt thank you note, can make a big difference, Hall says.

“It’s such a powerful relationship,” she says. “If parents and teachers work together, there’s nothing we can’t do—we know our kids.”

Bring on the fall conferences—and the Kleenex.

International School of MN MNP 1013 H4.indd 1

9/18/13 2013 12:51 PM October 17

Hear it After one month, our parent tester reported back: “We really love it!” Well, they should: the VTech Safe&Sound Video Baby Monitor won a 2013 National Parenting Publication Award in recognition for its value and feature-packed full-motion capabilities. Says new mom, Becca, “Easy to use: This was literally plug and play. I was so impressed that the default settings were not annoying at all, and I literally plugged in the two pieces and adjusted the camera. Very intuitive.”

She also noted its good battery life, decent range, and liked that she could adjust the sound sensitivity levels.

—

t a e r G ! s t e g gad These great gadgets will offer up all sorts of convenience.

vtechphones.com; about $130 with add-ons available

By Kathleen Stoehr

lock it Lightweight and portable, it’s easy to lock up small valuables with the Master Lock 6900D. Think cell phones, iPods, jewelry, or anything else you don’t want someone to get into. Easy to tuck into a small space, or lash its enclosed cable around a fixed object. Set your own combo. There’s even a small access point if you want to plug in ear buds or charge your electronics.

— masterlock.com; about $28

18 October 2013

Power it When your child says their phone ran out of battery—that’s why they didn’t call— toss a charged up FatCat PowerBar 4200 into their backpack. It holds enough battery power to charge any mobile phone, smartphone, or iPod device twice.

Plug your device into the sleek, lightweight and colorful Cat and charge it on the go. What’s your excuse now, kid?

— fatcatgear.com; about $70

Protect it And when we say, “protect”—we mean your lap. From your laptop. Keep those EMFs (Electromagnetic Fields) away from skin with The DefenderPad, a laptop radiation and heat shield. Lightweight, and also free of PVC, BPA, and more, you can feel secure that your body is protected.

— defenderpad.com; about $90

Shine it

MN Landmarks MNP 0812 H6.indd 2

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One way to help students of all ages get the most out of study time is by replacing a traditional desk lamp with a clear, bright full-spectrum light. Naturally lit study environments have also proven to positively impact students’ abilities to understand study materials, resulting in increased math and reading test scores.

Our parent tester loved the Verilux SmartLight for its seeming ease in simulating natural daylight (also good for alleviating symptoms of depression) and adjustable neck.

— verilux.com; about $40

Fun Birthday Parties for children ages 3 and up!

Call 651-487-8272 for more information or to schedule your party.

Wrap it

Como Zoo MNP 1011 H6.indd 1

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Keep your cable cords neat and give your charger some personality with CableKeeps. Goldie (shown) is for iPhone; but there’s also Nibbles (iPad) as well as Spike and Ink (we’ll let you go to the website to see what these little guys take care of).

Plus, you can keep your cables tangle-free when shoved in a bag.

— nicebydesign.com; about $16 Mississippi Market MNP 1013 H6.indd 2

9/10/132013 9:46 AM October 19

It’s time to get out of our rut. Here’s what we plan to do. Hopefully these suggestions will help as you think about your money relationships.

Kara

McGuire

1. Have a heart-to-heart.

Money is emotional. It’s complex. It’s uncertain. It’s central to life. Sounds kind-of like relationships. Having money talks are terribly important, but are not typically on the top of someone’s “can’t wait to do” list.

To start, set aside time to dedicate to the topic. Try to minimize diversions— consider hiring a babysitter and making it part of a date night.

Begin the conversation with a look backward. Share your money stories.

Discuss your early memories of money, the emotions you connect with money, and your money values, or what money means to you. Try not to judge or interrupt your partner; just listen. When your partner is finished, it will be your turn.

2. Put numbers on a page.

Financial heart-to-heart

M

y husband once described money as “a necessary evil.”

Yet the poor guy married a woman whose career is to write about the green stuff. Even when I’m not working, I find myself compelled to talk about our finances—a lot. What’s working, what isn’t, what’s next; what we dream of doing, what we probably should do instead.

Money talk happens in our household daily, but I do most of the talking. “We should eat out less,” I’ll say. Or, “Maybe

20 October 2013

it’s time to call off the house search for good.” My attempts rarely lead to fruitful discussion.

Years ago, we took a couples and money class from St. Paul financial educator Ruth Hayden (ruthhayden.com). I wrote about the class in the Star Tribune (tinyurl.com/kh8skud), with the hope that readers would learn from our experience.

I re-read that column recently and realized that we’ve pretty much fallen into our old patterns of (not) managing our money life.

Once you talk about what money means to you and explore why that has come to be, it’s time to shift from philosophical to practical. Crack open the laptop and check your bank balances, credit card bills, and retirement statements to suss out where your money is going. Are you both OK with the overall picture, or would you like to make some adjustments? Going forward, consider tracking your spending with a personal financial management tool like mint.com. There are plenty of online retirement and college savings calculators to give you a rough estimate of your needs. If you need help from a financial planner, see my September Grows On Trees column.

3. Practically speaking, decide who does what, and who gets what.

It’s perfectly OK to divide and conquer.

Realistically, it’s the only option for running a busy family. Some people are good at paying bills on time. Others prefer the long term planning. Sometimes that

person is one in the same. However, this is not an invitation to stay away from the kitchen table economics. It’s important for both people to understand the big picture and to jump in with help as needed.

One thing we learned from Hayden is the importance of having “his” and “her” spending accounts. Essentially, this is money that we each have to use however we’d like without judgment or discussion.

We used this method for a long time (he saved up for phones and bike parts, I paid for massages and movies) until we fell out of the habit. Time to reinstate those dollar amounts.

4. Dare to dream.

It’s easy for couples to get mired in the tedium of daily money management, but it’s important to check in about dreams from time-to-time. Where will we be, as individuals, as a couple, and as a family, in the next five, 10, 25, or 50 years? Do those dreams align with financial reality, or must adjustments be made?

I know from experience that these conversations can be frustrating—either the unknowns are so great paralysis sets in, or the known fact that the money isn’t plentiful enough dashes dreams. Still, having these conversations help refocus spending and reignite goals.

5. Make a date.

Oh, if only money meetings were one and done, but you have to stick with them.

We’ve had a money meeting on our calendar on Sunday night for as long as I can remember—in theory. Honestly, we rarely meet. That has to change. Instead of peppering my husband with money questions while he’s trying to unwind after work, I’m going to jot them down and save them for our weekly check-in. That way he’ll be more engaged. I’ll feel like less of a bother. And we’ll be more in tune with our family’s financial wants, needs, and plans.

Kara McGuire is a personal finance expert and mother of three living in St. Paul.

You can get there. We can help.

Visit www.MN529today.com or call 1-877-338-4646

October 2013 21

Super science Learn about the scientific world with these awesome, activity-packed books (lab coat optional).

By Emily Mongan

Why Is Milk White?

Ever wonder how hair gel works or why we put salt on icy roads? Chemistry is the culprit behind hundreds of everyday occurrences, as the teenage author of this book found out with the help of her chemist neighbor. The included at-home experiments demonstrate important concepts and ideas, letting young chemists try their hands at some seriously cool science. Ages 9 and up

By Alexa Coelho and Simon Quellen Field Chicago Review Press; $14.95

Candy Experiments Put all of that leftover trick-or-treat candy to good use with the innovative experiments found in this book. Use cotton candy to demonstrate capillary action, or learn about density by making a rainbow using Skittles and water. This informative look at the sweet side of science is filled with full color photographs that make the experiments easy to follow. Just try not to get hungry looking at them! Ages 8 to 12

By Loralee Leavitt Andrews McMeel Publishing; $14.99

A Young Scientist’s Guide to Faulty Freaks of Nature Science isn’t all about test tubes and lab coats. This hilarious book delves into the science of the weird and wacky, like prehistoric “hobbits,” ocean snot, and how cow farts play a part in global warming. With chapter titles like “Foods That Will Make Your Face Fall Off” and “Let’s Blow Up the North Pole,” learning about science has never been this entertaining. It comes with over 20 experiments to do at home, so kids can get a first hand look at the crazy science behind our natural world. Ages 8 to 12

By James Doyle Gibbs Smith; $14.99

22 October 2013

The Kid’s Book of Simple Everyday Science Science plays a role in everything we do, from blowing up a balloon to making popcorn. This book is packed with simple but interesting experiments using common household items, and has how-to photos, easy to understand instructions, and a short “What’s going on?” section to explain…what’s going on.

Ages 5 to 9

By Kelly Doudna Scarletta Kids; $13.95

How Long Can a Fly Fly? As the biologist for the Swedish Museum of Natural History, author Lars-Åke Janzon has answered thousands of questions about the animal kingdom. How many acorns can a squirrel peel in a day?

Why do cats purr? Why do spiders build webs? Janzon has compiled 175 of these questions into one book, great for anyone with an inquisitive mind or a passion for animals. Ages 8 and up

By Lars-Åke Janzon Skyhorse Publishing; $12.95

Beyond the Solar System Since the beginning of time, humans have looked into the night sky and wondered just what was out there. This book follows the history of humankind’s understanding of astronomy, from first realizing that the Earth is not the center of the universe to recent proof of planets orbiting stars far outside our solar system. This amazing journey is told through stunning photography, mini biographies of famous astronomers, and hands-on projects for kids including making their own reflective telescope. Ages 9 and up

By Mary Kay Carson Chicago Review Press; $18.95

October 2013 23

Sean

Toren

The stuff of life

R

aise your fist high in the air if you have any stressors in your relationship. Yes? Now flick out those frustrated fingers to count them down. You’ve got your money, your kids, your sex life, your time management—and last but not least, peel back that pesky pinky for your keys. Well, not just keys, but keys and cell phones and checkbooks and wallets. You know, the vital Stuff of Life.

Don’t have that one on your list? Then you and your partner must be blissfully on the same scale of organized/disorganized. But most folks aren’t.

Take my wife and I, for example. For years, she’s called me ‘Mr. Organized.’ On the grand scale of keeping track of stuff (one star terrible, and five stars excellent), I’m about a four most of the time.

Edna’s a two, sometimes a one. Her problem? She’s a ‘horizontal-visual.’

Victim of our fast-paced world, Edna

24 October 2013

can’t remember anything about a task or a thing unless she can see it spread out on a horizontal surface.

Kitchen counters, flat topped toilet tanks, and even a slow-moving dog will do, as long as her stroller-sized key fob or fat work folder can be placed on it. But her favorite place of all is the dining room table. Our Great Plain of a dining room table.

The problem is, when you fill the plain with enough horizontal storage, things tend to get buried. Then objects are no longer visible, and thus, lost.

The dining room table has gotten so bad at times that even my incredibly messy six-year-old son has started to ask if we could have a “clean table dinner” like they have at his friends’ houses. I try to help by putting things in her office (yes, she has an office!) but invariably put the wrong thing in the wrong place.

Mr. organized I have things on the table, too, sometimes, but most of the time I try my hardest (inwardly desperate, outwardly calm), to model ‘Right’ thinking. That is, the Right Place for the Right Thing. Figure out a place for your keys or your cell phone, and then ALWAYS use it. I hang my keys up in the same place every time (inside the back door, on a hook on the wall). I put my cell phone on the cell phone charger station I set up. There is room for Edna’s phone there, too, but she doesn’t like to use it—nor does she consistently use the key hook. Her response: “My brain just doesn’t work like that—I just need to pay attention to where I put it.” Except she often can’t, since her brain is full of so many other things.

Which brings me to my most recent Mr. Organized moment: the loss of my cell phone. All I’d be able to tell detectives about this loss is that I came in from a

long bike ride at Edna’s family’s cabin on the St. Croix river and that I took my cell phone out of my bike jersey pocket and set it on the cabin’s dining room table.

At least I think I did. It’s hard to say, because this cabin is a no-man’s land for me and I have no good spot to call my own. That means no Right Place for the Right Thing. Only wrong places, which is where I started to look. I looked everywhere obvious, and then cleaned the cabin of clutter (my usual solution for finding things).

Finally, I biked back over 20 miles of county road to see if I could find it. Two weeks later it still hadn’t shown up, in spite of my dogged efforts.

Normally, I’ve relied on having just enough brain space to keep track of such stuff, even without my Right Places. But with stressful lay-offs at work and an ongoing kitchen remodel and all the decisions that go with it, I think maybe my brain reached its limit—which is exactly the point Edna has been trying to make for years. That with her eventful job as a therapist (with dozens of clients’ stories to keep track of), her brain is always in an overloaded state. She is busy thinking of ways to help her patients get saner and happier—and on helping our son be the healthiest kid he can be. Who has time for a key system?

The right solution, it turns out, isn’t always the Right Place at all. Though it is still Right Thinking. Edna’s started meditating more often, letting her thoughts settle so that she has more room for the Stuff of Life. And me, I’m learning to let go—of the cell phone, of course. But also of trying to manage my wife.

Part of doing that is reminding myself of the reasons why we fell in love—which had nothing to do with where she puts her keys. Or where I lost my cell phone. You know, the real Stuff of Life.

Sean Toren loves living the full catastrophe in Minneapolis with his wife and son. He can be contacted at editor@mnparent.com with thoughts or suggestions.

October 2013 25

W

st e B boo our y r fo ly fami priate Age-appro r the s fo suggestion ason e haunted s

By Kelly Jo

26 October 2013

McDonne ll

W

Wondering which Halloween activities are appropriate for your little monster? The good news is our twin towns and adjacent suburbs rise to the occasion in the scary category. There are numerous events and activities for all ages, so if your kids are more into Snoopy than Texas Chainsaw Massacre, there is a haunted place for all of them.

Every kid is different, some more sensitive than others, so it’s always a good idea to pre-check a place for your little monster before you go.

for Little monsters It’s never too young to start loving Halloween, right? When your kids are little, it’s a good time to instill a real love of the fall season and all the great things it has to offer. It’s easy to steer clear of the violence and gore, as there are hundreds of family friendly festivities in our area. Most have admission fees and varying times and dates, so check the corresponding websites to get your intel.

3Planet Spooky @Valleyfair. During the daytime on Saturdays and Sundays, families may enjoy non-scary Halloween activities throughout the Park. Join Snoopy and the Peanuts gang for Halloween attractions, including a storytelling witch, coloring contest, and more. New this season, PrehistROARic Treat Trail at Dinosaurs Alive! is the only treat or treat trail that allows kids an opportunity to receive candy from a 25foot tall Tyrannosaurs Rex. Plus, Scarecrow Hollow; Little Howler’s Halloween Hunt; and a variety of family and children’s rides that will delight any little goblin or ghoul.

Through Oct. 27 Shakopee • valleyfair.com Pumpkin Patch & Harvest Festival @ Pinehaven Farm. This is a real operating family farm and has been since 1950.

Classic favorites include Minnesota’s first pumpkin cannon, apple cannons that you can shoot yourself, great animatronic scarecrows, and “Grandpa” in the outhouse, as well as a pumpkineating dragon show. Pinehaven also offers magic shows, fall crafts, and as always, the farm animals are a big hit. Minnesota Parent suggests that the farm’s “Dead End Hayride” is not “little monster”-friendly.

Through Oct. 27 • Wyoming pinehavenfarm.com Corn Maze & Fall Festival @Sever’s. If you love corn mazes, this place is the bomb.

It’s the Midwest’s original corn maze, and it’s their 17th year, so they have mazemaking down to a science. Sever’s also has a giant slide, extreme corn pit, petting zoo, camel and pony rides, and live music. Plus, you can pick your own pumpkins.

Through Oct. 27 Shakopee severscornmaze.com

5ZooBoo @Como Park Zoo. If you are looking for non-scary and the ultimate in costume cuteness, this is a good place to start. Located at Como Zoo, it’s a parade of little munchkins in full costume reveling in the joys of trick or treating. The zoo also has costumed characters (don’t worry—no Freddy Kruegers, only ladybugs and such), and special entertainment.

Oct. 19, 20, 25, 26, 27 • St. Paul • comozooconservatory.org Trick or Treat @MOA. The Mall of America can be a great place for trick or treating if the weather isn’t cooperating. The retailers at the mall hand out the candy to your little ghost and goblin, and Nickelodeon Universe and the Rotunda all have festive activities taking place. In the past, they have had as many as 10,000 kids on Halloween night.

Oct. 31 • Bloomington • mallofamerica.com/events HallZOOween & Harvest weekends @Minnesota Zoo. The Zoo is a safe and fun place for fall family fun, rolling out the red carpet as far as crafts and treats go. Check out Scarecrow Alley, presenting animal-themed scarecrows through the 31st; children’s crafts, musical entertainment, and hands-on animal opportunities during Harvest weekends; and Trick or Treating on HallZOOween weekend. An added bonus: the animals get into the action with pumpkin eating.

Oct. 5 through 31 • weekend themes vary Apple Valley • mnzoo.com/planvisit/planvisit_events.asp Scarecrows in the Garden @Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. Scarecrows, those silly and scary life-sized stick figures, have graced farm fields since time immemorial. Stuffed with straw, dressed in raggedy clothes, and sporting loopy grins, they are compelling characters! Check out these handmade scarecrows created by the public, including design professionals.

Chanhassen • arboretum.umn.edu

October 2013 27

BeST Boo foR YouR faMIlY

for miD monsters It can be a challenge to find a haunt that walks the “middle” line as far as scary goes. This age category is looking for fun scares and bumps in the night, but also want to steer clear of being seriously freaked out (even though they’d never admit that they were).

dead End Hayride @Pinehaven Farm. This place is a staple of ours. My son is now old enough to handle it. It’s seriously spooky, but the owners believe in old-fashioned scary as opposed to gore. You’ll start on the Dead End Hayride, which winds around the 40 acres of dark forest, ending up at the SunnyVale Asylum, which is full of props that were actually used at an asylum. The FAQs mention that children must be at least six to go through the attraction.

Through Nov. 2 Wyoming • thedeadendhayride.com

Halloween Capital of the World. This list isn’t complete without mentioning Anoka, as this town takes its Halloween festivities very seriously! Legend has it that the town was the first city in the U.S. to put on a Halloween celebration to divert its youngsters from Halloween pranks—it kicked off in 1920. They have been running it ever since, and offer an array of events for all ages the entire month of October, including Light Up the Night Parade and pumpkin carving contest (19th) with the Halloween Parade (26th) a highlight.

Through Oct. 31 Anoka • anokahalloween.com

Ghosts of Anoka Tours. How about a little history and some real ghosts? A favorite stop of ours is the Ghost of Anoka tours that run all summer and into the fall through the Anoka County History Center.

There’s a house where the rocking chair rocks...but there’s no one sitting in it. The tour route is 15 blocks around the city streets, and lasts about an hour and a half.

You’ll be viewing all the houses from the outside, so no worries about having an up close and personal experience with a ghost. It’s 60 percent haunted history, and 40 percent folklore, so a good balance for a kid’s attention.

Anoka • anokacountyhistory.org

Blackout @MOA’s nickelodeon Universe. Nickelodeon Universe transforms into a Halloween-themed fortress, complete with black lights, fog, a live DJ, and “unlit” rides, a favorite for this age group.

Oct. 18, 19, 25, 26 beginning at 5:00 p.m. • Bloomington • mallofamerica.com/events

for BiG monsters For teenagers, it’s all about the screaming—not so much about the candy. You may not have teenagers yet, but this breakdown will help you decide if your tween is ready for prime time or just trying to pull a scam on you, gaining access into something they’re not ready for.

Frightmares @Buck Hill. Come fall, this ski resort transforms four of its buildings into the haunts of the ancient evil, including the Fright Factory, and the Orchard Manor Dead & Breakfast. Each attraction has an imaginative and creepy story to go along with it. There is live music, as well as a full bar, and bonfires. It is recommended that minors be accompanied by parents or guardians.

Oct. 12 through 27 Burnsville • frightmares.com

Scream Town. This place boasts over 100 “intense actors” and it’s no wonder—the attraction has five enormous haunted attractions. Tip: it’s a good idea to go on discount nights, as it is mentioned that regular nights are often three times more crowded. It is also noted that it is recommended for ages 10 and over, though Minnesota Parent believes that may be pushing the limits after reading the attendance waiver. Also, no pregnant women; no epileptics due to strobe lights; and it is not handicapped accessible.

Oct. 4 through Nov. 2 Chaska • screamtown.com

The Soap Factory. The basement of an old Minneapolis soap factory (its main floor is an art gallery) is transformed into a cavernous maze with monsters at every turn. And these monsters really do scare—there’s even a clown. Need I say more? There are raunchy smells and gut-wrenching odors that are specifically manufactured by a local scent company to make this experience as real as possible.

This underground basement tour is famously scary, and its FAQs note that it is for ages 18 and older.

Oct. 3 through Nov. 3 Minneapolis • soapfactor soapfactory.org

Wabasha Street Caves. If all else fails, give your big monster a lesson in haunted lore. There are many locations in the Twin Cities rumored to be frequented by ghosts, and the Wabasha Street Caves is one of them. The caves have been used for 150 years, and back in the bootlegging and gangster days, they were quite a mecca of illegal activity. Now, it seems the spirits of these gangsters are just as restless. Tours, such as the Ghosts & Graves Tour and Lost Souls Tour are available in these seriously creepy caves.

Schedule varies, see website • St. Paul; wabashastreetcaves.com

28 October 2013

5 Monster Mash @The Bakken. Kids in costume take part in all sorts of tricks and treats. Two performances of Finding Frankenstein will be shown, and this electricity-loving museum will even have a roaming Frankenstein’s monster, and professional “hairraising” photography tricks for the kids. Learning and candy—and FREE admission on its Free Second Saturday feature? Bring it on!

Oct. 12 • Minneapolis thebakken.org White Bear Schools MNP 1013 S3.indd 1

9/18/13 4:54 PM

Trail of Terror. This spooky destination is enormous, and has a little bit of everything. There’s a Howling Pines Woods Walk, a Hotel 666 complete with 25 creepy rooms to explore, Grubbs Pest Control that has rooms of flies, spiders, and creepy crawlers, and more. There are also costume contests at its “Club Scream” on Friday and Saturday nights. The website clearly states it is an attraction rated PG-13 and that it is not intended for children; and may be too scary for those under age 12.

Oct. 11 through 27 Shakopee • trailofterrorfest.com

October 2013 29

13 ———————— ———————— ———————— ———————— ———————— ————————

Child Health Day

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7 6 ———————— ———————— ———————— ———————— ———————— ———————— World Premiere!

The Wong Kids @ CTC

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15 16 ———————— ———————— ———————— ———————— ———————— End hunger— celebrate World ————————

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Enjoy—it’s Homemade Cookie day!

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12 11 Monster Mash ———————— @ The Bakken ———————— SPCO Kid Concert @ The Ordway ———————— ———————— birth & baby eXpo ———————— ————————

4 5 ———————— ———————— ———————— ———————— Minnesota Parent Fair @ ———————— Education Como Park Zoo ————————

Fri

out about

Sun mon tues Wed thurs

October Pull ouT anD SaVe!

Statue of Liberty was dedicated on this day in 1886

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9/18/13 11:54 AM

www.teenybeeboutique.com

1560 Selby Ave St. Paul, MN 55104

TPT MNP 0913 4.71x3.59.indd 1

31 30 ———————— Trick or Treat!

Happy Halloween!

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happy babies. happy moms.

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21 22 ———————— ———————— National Nut Day ———————— ———————— ———————— ————————

Teeny Bee MNP 1013 4.71x3.59.indd 1

Closing night: Charlotte’s Web @ CTC

27

disney Jr. @Xcel energy Center Closing night: Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse @ Stages Theatre Co.

20

Food day

8/7/13 8:46 AM

25 26 ———————— ———————— Pumpkin fest ———————— @ 50th & france, edina ———————— ———————— ————————

Out About

An Explorer’s Mind ÎÎThe first person to reach both Poles by dogsled, Will Steger is known by many titles—educator, photographer, and explorer. An Explorer’s Mind: Survival, Innovation, Design — A Will Steger Exhibition focuses on a lesser-known aspect of Steger’s vision: design and innovation. Over many decades, Steger has designed or adapted clothing, equipment, and technology to withstand difficult Arctic conditions. While on one of his expeditions, he sketched plans for a unique building and center that will offer people a transformative experience—the Steger Wilderness Center for Innovation and Leadership near Ely, Minnesota. Photographs, videos, drawings, clothing, woodwork, and other unusual items all based on Steger’s unique vision for and knowledge of the earth’s environment will be featured in this exhibition.

When: Through the 6th Where: Minneapolis College of Art and Design, 2501 Stevens Ave. Cost: FREE Info: tinyurl.com/qfbt7jd or 612-874-3700

Parent pick

Minnesota Parent Education Fair ÎÎEnjoy a fun day at the zoo and learn about education options for your child. Door prizes, goodie bags, FREE entertainment—and see the University of Minnesota’s mascot, Goldy Gopher!

When: 5th; 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Where: Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, St. Paul Cost: FREE Info: mnparent.com/edfair

32 October 2013

ATTENTION WOMEN 21-33: Would you like to be an egg donor?

The Center for Reproductive Medicine is seeking women between 21 and 33 years of age to donate eggs for couples who cannot otherwise achieve pregnancy.

You will be compensated for your time and inconvenience.

Ongoing And Then They Came For Me ÎÎA multimedia journey into the life and world of Anne Frank, and two Holocaust survivors whose lives she changed forever. Combining interview footage with live theater, this gripping drama is a groundbreaking retelling of Frank’s famous story.

NEW nline

o easylication app

Share the gift of life

For more detailed information call

612-863-5390

or fill out an application online at www.ivfminnesota.com

ALL ETHNICITIES NEEDED 2828 Chicago Ave. #400 Minneapolis, MN 55407 Accredited by: Diplomats of the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technologies, American College of OB/GYNs and Association for Reproductive Medicine.

Center for Reproductive Medicine MNP 0413 H6.indd 4

3/20/13 12:07 PM

When: Through the 13th Where: Youth Performance Company, Minneapolis Cost: Children/seniors $10; adults $12 Info: youthperformanceco.org or 612-623-9080

Art In Nature Geocache ÎÎExplore Saint Paul’s regional parks through geocaching! Geocaching is an outdoor treasure hunting game using GPSenabled devices like smartphones, tablet computers, or receiver units. Participants who successfully navigate to the provided GPS coordinates, find the cache, and complete the activity described inside are entered in a monthly prize drawing.

When: Through the 31st Where: Saint Paul’s Regional Parks Cost: FREE Info: tinyurl.com/43ava97 or 651-632-2455

Then Now Wow ÎÎDedicated entirely to Minnesota history, Then Now Wow is the largest exhibit ever created by the Minnesota History Center.

Designed primarily for children, visitors of all ages will enjoy exploring Minnesota’s distinctive places from the prairies and forests to the cities, along the way they’ll meet the people who have made their homes here.

When: Ongoing Where: Minnesota History Center Cost: $6–$11; FREE ages five and under Info: mnhs.org or 651-259-3000

Charlotte’s Web ÎÎWhen Fern saves Wilbur, the smallest pig in the litter, from her father’s axe, Wilbur feels like nothing bad can

October 2013 33

Out About ever happen again. The wisecracking barn animals, however, know why the farmer wants to make his new pig fat and tender.

Wilbur finds help in the seemingly fragile web of Charlotte the spider who weaves a path to freedom for the pig. Grades K+

Cirque du Soleil’s Amaluna

When: Through the 27th Where: Children’s Theatre Company, Minneapolis Cost: Prices vary depending upon seat and performance Info: childrenstheatre.org or 612-874-0400

Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse ÎÎLilly is a youngster who looks at things very simply. She loves everything! Her friends Chester and Wilson share her excitement and wonder at discovering the world around them.

When: Through the 20th Where: Stages Theatre Company, Hopkins Cost: Prices vary depending upon seat and performance Info: stagestheatre.org or 952-979-1111

Blue Man Group — Making Waves ÎÎThis 1,500-square-foot exhibit is designed to bring together science and art and will take the whole family through a multi-sensory exploration of sound that provides an opportunity to play together while discovering the fun of music.

When: Through Jan. 12, 2014 Where: Minnesota Children’s Museum, St. Paul Cost: $9.50 ages 1 to 101 Info: mcm.org or 651-225-6000

Maya: Hidden Worlds Revealed ÎÎIt’s the world premiere of Maya: Hidden Worlds Revealed, a brand-new, original exhibition that sheds light on this mysterious and majestic ancient culture.

When: Through Jan. 5, 2014 Where: Science Museum of Minnesota, St. Paul Cost: $9 to $28 Info: smm.org/maya or 651-224-9444

34 October 2013

Cirque du Soleil’s Amaluna ÎÎCirque du Soleil’s latest touring production tells the story of a mysterious island governed by Goddesses and the cycles of the moon.

When: Closing date yet to be determined Where: Big Top at Mall of America, Bloomington Cost: Tickets range from $40 to $130.

Info: cirquedusoleil.com/amaluna

Fiddler on the Roof ÎÎIn the little village of Anatevka, Tevye, a poor milkman, is trying to keep his family’s traditions in place. Yet, times are changing.

And when Tevye’s daughters want to make their own matches, he must choose between his own daughters’ happiness and those beloved traditions that keep the outside world at bay.

When: Through Jan 25, 2013 Where: Chanhassen Dinner Theatres Cost: $47 to $82 Info: 952-934-1525 or chanhassendt.com

World Premiere: The Wong Kids… ÎÎMeet the Wong Kids, typical teenage brother and sister that just discovered their

hidden superpowers. This rock-‘em, sock-‘em, sci-fi space adventure, that’s part Phineas and Ferb meets A Wrinkle in Time, pits the squabbling siblings against the evil Space Chupacabra in a heroic plight to save the universe. Sophisticated and full of irreverent humor, Wong Kids in The Secret of the Space Chupacabra Go! combines the hipness of manga and anime with a fantastic voyage of tenacity, courage and in the end, true friendship. Grades 3+ When: 8th through Nov. 17 Where: Children’s Theatre, Minneapolis Cost: Ticket prices vary Info: childrenstheatre.org or 612-874-0400

4 Friday Movie Night @ The Garden by the Woods ÎÎSee Meet Me in St. Louis and Attack of the Killer Tomatoes outside under the stars. Campfire and concessions, too.

When: Campfire at 7:00; movies start at 7:30 Where: Chanhassen Garden center, Chanhassen Cost: FREE Info: tinyurl.com/ma66okx

5 SaTuRDaY fallcon Comic Book Party Î Hosted by the Midwest Comic Book Association, this celebration features guest comic book creators, a marketplace for buying and selling, and prizes for those who come in costume.

When: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Where: Minnesota State Fairgrounds Education Building, St. Paul Cost: $8 for adults, free for kids 9 and under. Get $1 off admission with a canned food donation. info: midwestcomicbook.com

Looking to have Goldy come to your next birthday party?!

Book your event by e-mailing Goldy@umn.edu Do you know of any young cheerleaders who love the Gophers?

Visit gophersports.com and click on Spirit Squads to fill out a

JUNIOR SPIRIT SQUAD

interest form — join the team today!

U of M - Goldy MNP 1013 H6.indd 1

Teaching Mozart Music

9/13/13 11:31 AM

Minnesota’s Largest Corn Maze is A-maze-ingly Minnesotan

Î Kid-sized concerts with a full-sized chamber orchestra! This 50-minute concert for the whole family weaves together fun, learning, and interesting characters geared for ages 6 to 12.

When: 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

Where: The Ordway, St. Paul Cost: FREE, but comp ticket download is required, see website info: tinyurl.com/kg8lw6h or 651-291-1144

free first Saturday: Bright Ideas Î Fun activities and programs inspired by artist Claes Oldenburg, whose sculptures include the Spoonbridge and Cherry.

When: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (family activities until 3:00) Where: Walker Art Center, Minneapolis Cost: FREE info: walkerart.org or 612-375-7600

Saturday live! loki Puppet Players Î Watch as the tortoise and the hare race to see who is the fastest and as the sun and wind compete to see who is the strongest.

When: 11:15 a.m. to noon Where: St. Paul Public Library, Central Library Cost: FREE info: tinyurl.com/bulsmwh or 651-266-7034

Open Every Weekend September 21st - October 27th • Sat & Sun 10am-6pm (also MEA week on Thursday and Friday)

Festival Attractions (Additional costs for some attractions may apply) · Corn Pit · Straw Bale Maze · Pumpkin Slinger · Hayrides

· Food Vendors · Kids Play Area · Climbing Wall · Live Music

· Pony Rides · Petting Zoo · Helicopter Rides · Gunny Sack Slide

$10 per guest · Children under 36” FREE! · Group Discounts Available BROOKLYN PARK on the SE corner of 109th Ave. & Hwy 169 952-992-9326 · www.TwinCitiesMaze.com TC Harvest Festival Maze MNP 1013 V2.indd 1

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the

9/12/13 2:02 PM October 2013 35

Out About Family Fun on the Farm Playing Singing Ear Training Composing Ages 3-Adult CHILDREN’S YAMAHA MUSIC SCHOOL Celebrating Over 40 Musical Years in Minnesota!

CYMS Edina: Edina Community Center 5701 Normandale Rd

CYMS Roseville: Hamline Center 2819 Hamline Ave N

ÎÎTPT is inviting Minnesota families to join them at the Tangletown Gardens’ Farm in Plato, MN for a day of fall, family, farm fun. Guests will see farm animals, enjoy fun activities, and dance to live music.

Cookie Monster and Elmo will be making appearances, too!

www.cyms.ws • 612-339-2255

PINE TREE

Children's Yamaha MNP 0113 12.indd 1

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APPLE ORCHARD Apples, of course, and Apple Cider, Apple Bakery - A Family Outing -

Jacobson’s

651-429-7202

North of White Bear Lake Off E. Hwy. 96 on Apple Orchard Rd. www.pinetreeappleorchard.com

Pine Tree Orchards MNP 0911 12.indd 1

When: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Where: Tangletown Gardens Farm, Plato Cost: Wristbands are $18 regular price, $15 discounted price for current tpt members and $12 discounted price for current tpt Studio Society Members Info: tpt.org/events

Nature Family Fun: Woolybears – What’s Under a Log? ÎÎMake nature discoveries together and meet new friends. Parents stay with their children during the entire class. For ages birth to 5

8/15/11 11:12 AM

When: 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.

Where: Maplewood Nature Center, Maplewood Cost: $5 per child per session Info: isd622.org/page/6774 or 651-748-7280

Free Family Flicks: Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-rabbit Amma Parenting Center is the top resource for new and expecting parents. Childbirth classes, breastfeeding help, new parent classes, and the best baby boutique in town! Trusted by hospitals and families since 2009.

ÎÎEnjoy a free movie. First-come, first-served to theater capacity.

When: 10:00 a.m.

Where: Theatres at Mall of America, Bloomington Cost: FREE Info: theatresmoa.com

Davy Crockett Family Camp

PARENTING CENTER

ÎÎParents and their children are invited to try their hand at skills that outdoorsmen like Davy Crockett used to survive in the wilderness. Historic staff will show participants how to start a fire with flint and steel, set up 19th century-style snares and traps and much more.

(952) 926-BABY ammaparentingcenter.com

When: Noon to 4:00 p.m.

Where: Historic Fort Snelling, St. Paul

36 October 2013 Amma MNP 0613 V6.indd 2

5/20/13 10:59 AM

Cost: $60 for parent and child; $20 for each additional child; $5 discount for MHS members Info: tinyurl.com/ly85795

10 Thursday Movie Night @ The Garden by the Woods ÎÎSee Snow Buddies and The Odd Life of Timothy Green outside under the stars.

Campfire and concessions, too.

When: Campfire at 7:00; movies start at 7:30 Where: Chanhassen Garden Center, Chanhassen Cost: FREE Info: tinyurl.com/ma66okx

12 Saturday Monster Mash ÎÎFabulous science-related programming and plenty of fun for no charge every second Saturday of the month.

When: 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Where: The Bakken Museum, Minneapolis Cost: FREE Info: thebakken.org/Saturday or 612-926-3878

Diabetes Expo ÎÎExhibits featuring the latest products, medications, information, and services; medical professionals available to answer questions; informative lectures; cooking demos; FREE health screenings; activities for children; more.

When: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Where: Minneapolis Convention Center, Hall E Cost: FREE Info: diabetes.org/expominneapolis

Birth & Baby Expo ÎÎFeaturing local businesses and organizations that support healthy birth and parenting from diverse perspectives, such as birth professionals (doulas, midwives, childbirth educators), parenting resources, natural products, wellness

CAMPS • CLASSES PARTIES • OUTREACHES services, and support groups.

When: 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Where: Burroughs School, South Minneapolis Cost: FREE Info: twincitiesbirthandbaby.com

When: Noon to 4:00 p.m.

Where: Historic Fort Snelling, St. Paul Cost: $60 for parent and child; $20 for each additional child; $5 discount for MHS members Info: tinyurl.com/moxqt3g

Saturday Live! The Laras

19 Saturday

ÎÎEnjoy music and stories from the Andes and celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a special performance from Leo and Kathy Lara.

Saturday Live! Brodini Comedy Magic Show

When: 11:15 a.m. to noon Where: St. Paul Public Library, Central Library Cost: FREE Info: tinyurl.com/bulsmwh or 651-266-7034

Free Family Flicks: Corpse Bride ÎÎEnjoy a free movie. First-come, first-served to theater capacity.

When: 10:00 a.m.

Where: Theatres at Mall of America, Bloomington Cost: FREE Info: theatresmoa.com

Pumpkin Festival on the Plaza ÎÎHead to downtown Rochester for a day of fun, including pumpkin painting, activities, story time with various characters, and finally a viewing of Disney Pixar’s Cars on the Plaza.

When: 2:00 to 9:00 p.m.

Where: Peace Plaza, downtown Rochester Cost: FREE Info: downtownrochestermn.com/do/ pumpkin-festival-on-the-plaza

Little Family in the Big Fort Camp ÎÎPut away those iPads and cell phones and spend an afternoon living life just like Laura Ingalls Wilder did in the 1800s. Parents and their children can work together doing activities taken from the Little House book series like cooking, crafts and a school lesson in our one-room schoolhouse.

Unleash your creative spirit

612-423-7554

2121 W. 21st Street, Minneapolis

www.be-ARTrageous.com

ÎÎScarves, coins, cards, balls, ropes, and ARTrageous Adventures MNP 1013 12.indd ordinary items become animate objects of wonder and curiosity in Brodini’s hands, but never without some help from children and adults in the audience.

2

9/18/13 4:47 PM

When: 11:15 a.m. to noon Where: St. Paul Public Library, Central Library Cost: FREE Info: tinyurl.com/bulsmwh or 651-266-7034

20 Sunday Disney Jr. Pirate & Princess Tour

***DRIVERS***

ÎÎIn this original storyline, Mickey and Minnie lead the audience on an exciting adventure that will have families rooting for their favorite pirate, Jake, and Disney’s first little girl princess Sofia. A special interactive pre-show will feature the loveable 6-year-old doctor to toys and stuffed animals, Doc McStuffins.

ALL proceeds from this exclusive engagement will go to support Beth El Synagogue’s Aleph Preschool for needbased financial aid.

When: 10:30 a.m.

Where: Xcel Energy Center, St. Paul Cost: $18 to $65 Info: besyn.org/disney

LOCAL DRIVERS $750 GUARANTEE WEEKLY $1500 SIGN ON BONUS $250 QUARTERLY SAFETY/ATTENDANCE LOOKING FOR A DEDICATED HARD WORKER. Full Time Tractor-Trailer Driver needed for a Private Fleet Operation based in Rogers, MN. Drivers make hand deliveries to Walgreen’s stores Tuesday thru Saturday with some layovers & team runs. All drivers must be willing & able to unload freight. *Drivers earn $21.75/hr (OT after 8 hours) or $0.4075/mi *Life, Dental, & Health Insurance *401K *Paid Holidays & Vacation

23 Wednesday Halloween Hijinks Puppet Show ÎÎBest for ages three to eight with adult.

Laugh and sing along with wild animal puppets as they hurry around in the fall season. You will enjoy their silly antics as they play mischievous tricks on each

Drivers must be over 23 years old, have 18 months tractor trailer exp or 6 months T/T exp with a certificate from an accredited driving school, & meet all DOT requirements.

Please email resume to b.kriel@callcpc.com or contact CPC Logistics at 800-914-3755 October 2013 37

Standard Advertising Agency MNP 1013 V6.indd 1

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Out About other. Make an eagle mask or a bat mask to take home!

When: 10:30 to 11:30 Where: Maplewood Nature center, Maplewood Cost: $5 per family, call to register info: 651-249-2170

24 THuRSDaY Movie night @ The garden by the Woods

Pet Cremation Services of MN

Î See Beetlejuice outside under the stars.

Campfire and concessions, too.

Because your pets are family

Private cremation performed one pet at a time • Same day service Large assortment of pet urns • Personalization options

26 SaTuRDaY

Call today for a FREE PET ID TAG

SOCKS

952-555-5555

Request our brochure and we will send you a FREE personalized pet id tag.

Pumpkin fest

LUCY

952-5

55-55

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952.925.1234 • www.petcremationofmn.com Cremation Society MNP NR1-Pet H4.indd 1

When: Campfire at 7:00; movies start at 7:30 Where: Chanhassen Garden center, Chanhassen Cost: FREE info: tinyurl.com/ma66okx

55

Pet Cremation Services of MN 11/11/11 4:39 PM

Î Participating stores will open their doors for trick-or-treating; cake walk; fire truck tours; balloon twisters; more.

When: 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Where: 50th and France, Edina Cost: FREE info: 50thandfrance.com or 952-922-1524

Saturday live!

Raptor Center Î Through hands-on interactive exploration, learn about the different groups of raptors and meet them up close, “nose-to-beak.” Learn what you can do to help raptors and the world we share.

When: 11:15 a.m. to noon Where: St. Paul Public Library, Central Library Cost: FREE info: tinyurl.com/bulsmwh or 651-266-7034 For more events and activities, go to mnparent.com/calendar.

St. Louis Park, MN 612-922-4784 Star Women's 38Morning October 2013Health 1013 H4.indd

Duluth, MN 218-722-2700 1

Menomonie, WI 715-231-3100 9/13/13 10:52 AM

Beginning in 2014, all-day kindergarten will be a reality in every district

All-day

By Cali Owings

E

nrolling your son or daughter in school for the first time comes with myriad decisions that could affect future learning. Is my son ready to start school? Is this the right school for my daughter? Will this be a good school district throughout my son’s education? Should I choose a full- or half-day kindergarten program?

One of those questions might get a littler easier to answer. The full-day vs. half-day kindergarten debate is drawing to a close in Minnesota as increasing parents, educators, and school districts embrace all-day learning. In fall 2012, more than 70 percent of the state’s kindergarteners were enrolled in a full-day program.

The free full-day learning option that many families have sought will be available in all school districts beginning in fall 2014.

The Minnesota Legislature included $134 million in funding for a full-day option in every district as part of a huge expansion of education funding in the state.

Two-thirds of school districts in Minnesota provided the free full-day kindergarten option during the 2012–13 school year

40 October 2013

(2013–14 data will not be finalized until after the new year). Other districts offer alternate days of full-day programming or a fee-based model where parents can pay to enroll their child in a full-day program.

More than 10,000 students were enrolled last year in full-day kindergarten at a cost to their parents.

When the state makes the switch, half-day programs may still be available for the parents who elect that option. But soon a full day of school could become the norm for young students as parents and teachers expand their understanding of what kindergartners are capable of in the classroom.

“Kids are expected to do much more now,” says Andrea Crampton, Burnsville,

who enrolled her daughter in a full-day program. “This isn’t my kindergarten from when I went to school.”

Time to learn The single biggest difference between a full and half day experience at most schools is simply time.

Schools that provide both options work to keep the content and curriculum the same for all of their students. The full-day groups are just provided more time to work with the concepts covered that day.

Sibley Elementary School in the Northfield Public School District has operated both a half-day and fee-based full-day program for about 10 years. There, depending on a family’s income, full-day kindergarten costs $3,160, $2,200, or $950 a year. Their kindergarteners are about evenly split between the two school day options.

“We’ve always been in the mindset that one program isn’t better than another,” Principal Scott Sannes says.

The curriculum for both programs is the same, but the full-day groups have an entire afternoon as an “extension of the learning that occurred in the morning,” Sannes says.

Students might be exposed to a new math concept in the morning and have independent or group work time later in the afternoon to move at their own pace

with the material.

For Kyla Wahlstrom, a University of Minnesota researcher, the “beauty of an all-day kindergarten program is that the kids aren’t rushed.”

Wahlstrom conducted a longitudinal study of kindergarten programs in the Burnsville Eagan Savage school district.

In visiting the classrooms, she noted the full-day experience gave teachers the opportunity to structure activities for as long as the students were willing to go along with them, rather than fitting into a rigid schedule.

With the extra time, teachers added depth to their lessons; and students completed more activities independently or in groups and were able to manage their own time—like choosing to read a book if they finished an activity early.

For Jon Bonneville, principal at Hidden Valley Elementary in Savage, having kindergarteners in school all day gives him more opportunity to provide additional support—like reading, math, or English as a Second Language specialists—to students who need it.

“When you can provide programming at that kindergarten level and bring kids up to speed, fewer kids need that support later on,” he says.

Mounds Park Academy MNP 1013 H6.indd 1

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Higher achievement Wahlstrom’s research shows children who completed the full-day program achieved more, and were more academically prepared.

The study showed students in the full-day program scored higher than the national average on the Gates-MacGinitie Reading Tests—a widely used assessment of early literacy skills—in first, second, and third grade.

They also outperformed their peers in the district’s half-day program on the same literacy tests in first and second grade.

In the second year of the study, more than 75 percent of teachers reported the current first grade class that had also completed full-day kindergarten was better prepared academically than previous classes.

By third grade, the students who had completed full-day kindergarten met expectations on the third grade Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment at a MN Waldorf School MNP 1013 S3.indd 1

9/16/13 2013 12:02 PM October 41

Metro area school district kindergarten schedules

St. Francis

Full-day, 4 or 5 days Full-day, with title I

Forest Lake

Full-day, everyday with fee

Anoka-Hennepin

Full-day, alternate Spring Lake Park

Half-day, daily

Centennial

Osseo

Orono

*Watertown-Mayer

Wayzata

Fridley Mounds View Brooklyn Center Columbia Heights robbinsdale St Anthonynew Brighton roseville

St Louis Park Minneapolis

Westonka

Hopkins

Minnetonka

Eastern Carver County

Stillwater

north St PaulMaplewood

St Paul

South West St Paul- St Paul richfield Airport Mendota HtsEagan inver Grove Bloomington Heights BurnsvilleEaganSavage

Shakopee

Central

Mahtomedi

Edina Eden Prairie

Waconia

White Bear Lake

rosemountApple ValleyEagan

Prior LakeSavage Jordan

South Washington County

Hastings Lakeville Farmington

Belle Plaine

new Prague

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Think Globally.

Educate Locally.

*Watertown-Mayer offers more than one option, but has been identified with the most common option.

Educating students in a manner and curriculum consistent with the French — in French, by native French speakers.

Learn more here. www.thefrenchacademy.org (952) 944-1930

higher rate than those who had half-day kindergarten.

While the achievement gains can be significant initially following the full-day kindergarten program, Sannes says by the time many students at Sibley Elementary School in Northfield get to second grade it’s hard to tell which students attended full- or half-day kindergarten.

“We have students from all different academic, behavioral, and social and emotional levels,” he says.

Perhaps the greatest advantage to full-day kindergarten is that it equalizes differences between students from different racial and socio-economic backgrounds. Many see full-day kindergarten as one way to address the widening achievement gap.

With half-day kindergarten, some students have access to enrichment activities after school at fee-based full-day

42 October 2013 French Academy MNP 1013 V6.indd 1

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kindergarten, daycares, or in the home.

But those additional enrichment opportunities aren’t universal, leading to gaps in achievement later on.

Offering a fee-based full-day program and a half-day option created inequities between “the kids who could afford it and the kids who couldn’t,” Bonneville says.

By making full-day kindergarten available to everyone “kids are coming in at a level playing field,” he says.

Parents’ full-day experiences Parents Jody and Scott Wroblewski enrolled their son Brody in full-day kindergarten at Bendix Elementary in the Annandale school district two years ago. They paid about $200 a month for the extra time.

Though he had previously attended preschool, Brody had a hard time adjusting to kindergarten, his mother says.

“He had a hard time sitting still for the academic stuff,” she says. “He seemed to have a lot of anxious energy.”

But he matured over the course of the year and his parents saw growth in his reading and spelling abilities.

“I think full-day kindergarten is really important, but schools need to make that transition a little easier.“ Parents and educators said the first few weeks of school should be less rigid to give kindergartners time to adjust to the new all-day routine. Some classes allow more time for naps, play, or recess as needed. Wroblewski said her son’s teacher would let Brody and other students just run up and down the hallway outside of recess time because they had so much energy.

Though it was the center of Wahlstrom’s study for many years, the Burnsville Eagan Savage school district did not make the switch to full-day kindergarten until the 2012–13 school year.

Principal Bonneville says parents and teachers were “overjoyed” with the change to universal full-day programming.

“Parents are surprised at how well their kids do in a full-day program,” he says.

“Sometimes we underestimate what our kids are capable of.”

For Andrea Crampton, who enrolled her daughter Kaylee at Gideon Pond Elementary in Burnsville, the district’s move to all-day kindergarten couldn’t have come at a better moment.

In weighing kindergarten options, Crampton decided she wanted her daughter to have the full-day experience long before the district made the switch, and she was prepared to pay for it, too.

But the district began providing free all-day kindergarten right before it was time for Kaylee to enroll.

It was a “natural transition,” Crampton says, because her daughter attended the Blue Cross Blue Shield Child Development Center that helped prepare her for kindergarten.

“She had a fantastic experience with the school,” Crampton says. “She’s still talking about her teacher every week.”

Now as Kaylee enters first grade, Crampton says she recommends full-day kindergarten to other parents. •

Groves Academy MNP 1013 H6.indd 1

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October 2013 43

LEARN GROW THRIVE

YMCA BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL AGE CARE GRADES K – 6

• Science, Math and Technology

YMCA SCHOOL RELEASE DAY PROGRAM

• Character Development

When school is out, the Y is in! The Y offers a full-day recreational program for children during school release days and vacation breaks. Features: • Exciting Field Trips • Sports

• Health & Fitness

• Arts and Crafts

• Cooking Projects

• Homework Support

• Group Games

• Special Interest Clubs

• Conflict Resolution Activities

• Daily themes with Coordinated Recreational Activities OVER 45 LOCATIONS ACROSS THE GREATER METRO AREA

• Service Learning • Literacy

CALL: 612-230-9622

Membership not required to enroll. Scholarships available.

ymcatwincities.org

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Before and After School Care is available throughout the school year. Features: 8 CORE CURRICULUM AREAS • Arts and Humanities

The First Five Years Are Forever

Problem Solving.

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by Step MNP 0713 H2.indd 44Step October 2013

1

763-280-5229 4/25/13 1:40 PM

Little green school

By Kelly Jo McDonnell

Off to Mexico! A student at Natural Science Academy releases a monarch butterfly raised from egg to adult.

SubMitted photo

G

o green! Everyone has heard the slogan.

Even my tween son knows the term, and better yet, he understands it.

When his classroom was in charge of “Earth Day Celebration” ideas at his elementary school, he proudly organized a pick up trash hour in our neighborhood (with his mother leading the expedition, of course). It was a great lesson, and I hope that my son and his class will think twice about littering because of that experience.

But how about thinking bigger?

Perhaps going green with—of all things— your child’s actual school?

It’s not such a far-fetched notion. Just ask Kirsen Kinzler, director of the Natural Science Academy in St. Paul Park.

“Science is all around us, and it’s how we

understand our environment,” stresses Kinzler. “When kids say they aren’t that good at reading...they still have to read.

When kids say they aren’t good at science, well, the science is all around them. It’s how they are going to understand their environment, and it’s what happens in our world. Children need more of that in their background.”

The Natural Science Academy is a local environmentally focused charter school that opened in 2007 in Woodbury with an enrollment at 38 students. The school re-located to St. Paul Park after two years, and student enrollment holds steady at 55.

“We’re a small community,” explains

Science is all around us, and it’s how we understand our environment. When kids say they aren’t that good at reading... they still have to read.

When kids say they aren’t good at science, well, the science is all around them.

— Kirsten Kinzler, director of the Natural Science Academy in St. Paul Park

October 2013 45

DISCOVER

Minnehaha Academy Grades PreK-8 4200 West River Parkway, Mpls.

October 27, 1 p.m. and January 23, 6:45 p.m.

Grades 9-12 3100 West River Parkway, Mpls.

October 29 and January 27, 6:45 p.m

A student takes aim during an archery lesson at Natural Science Academy.

PreK-12 Christian Education To schedule a tour call 612.728. 7756 or visit MinnehahaAcademy.net

Minnehaha Academy MNP 1013 V6.indd 1

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Submitted photo

Kinzler, “so our biggest challenge is letting folks know that we’re here.”

Science, science, science is the name of 9:23 AM the game at the Natural Science Academy.

Kinzler says in other schools, children are lucky to be able to explore the topic once a week. “We do science every day, at least 45 minutes or more,” she explains. “In our school, that’s the focus. Biology science, earth science, and natural science.”

Nature is tough

Preschool Options for Children Ages 3-5 Full-Day Kindergarten & Grades 1-6 Located in Wayzata, MN www.st-barts.org/school · 952.473.6189

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Over Half a Century of Academic Excellence and Spiritual Growth Preparing Students for Lifelong Learning and Global Citizenship

When I tagged along during one particular class, the second and third graders were heading to the outdoor classroom to play a game that involved wolves and rabbits and deer. No, not real animals.

Each child was issued a tag for their coat that labeled them as Deer, Wolf, or Rabbit. As the teacher was explaining the class activity—“do wolves always catch the prey they are after?” I noticed a group of boys already fist bumping that they were “wolves”—the top of the food chain in this game. The “wolves” were to hunt the deer and the rabbits; they could catch a deer with two hands, and rabbits with one. When the teacher blew the whistle, I’ve never seen so many

46 October 2013 St. Bartholomew Catholic School MNP 1013 V6.indd 1

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“animals” scatter so fast.

“They know how hard it is for wolves to catch their prey,” says teacher Laura Ferguson, “and we are talking more about wolves for the next week. They’ll also learn about what happens if wolves don’t get their prey, and what happens if something happens to their habitat.”

When I was leaving, I noticed the pack of boy-wolves looking a little disgruntled; hunting turned out be harder then they thought, perhaps. No more fist bumps for these wolves. Nature is tough.

A quick look into the kindergarten room (otherwise known as “the owls”) showed that the class was learning about different animal tracks. When the teacher asked how the bunny track was made, one enthusiastic little boy jumped up and began hopping around the classroom.

Soon, the entire classroom was putting on coats to find and view real tracks outside.

You won’t find these kids looking out the school windows longingly. Their

Resource Natural Science Academy naturalscienceacademy.org

classroom is outside a lot of the time. “We go outside at least one hour a day: it’s part of the classroom,” says Kinzler, “and on top of that, we go outside for reading, or journaling.” She says a new feature for this school session is their official “outdoor classroom space,” which includes paths, shelters, and gardens. The kids will help with the upkeep during the changing seasons.

Incorporating “green” The little green school idea is something more schools should consider, but if it isn’t an option, perhaps other “green” actions can be incorporated. How about encouraging your child to join a greenfocused club or committee? If your child’s school doesn’t have one, how about starting to rally the troops in a parentvolunteer effort around an issue such as recycling or composting food waste in the cafeteria? Your child can also volunteer with the building operations, such as helping with the recycling or trash pickup around the school.

Or what if it’s just you, making a difference with your children? If they have to give a speech in school, for example, could it be on a topic related to the environment? What about when they need to write an essay of their choice? How can you direct your child to incorporate a little green school into the schoolwork he or she does?

For older kids, taking on a service learning internship can be ideal. The Twin Cities area has a wealth of nature centers and arboretums. In our backyard in Lino Lakes, there’s the Wargo Nature Center, which my son is already interested in contacting for some hands-on experience.

“I just see what the outdoors does for kids,” says Kinzler, “and getting them out and into those experiences. Those are the things that they remember. They need to be literate and know their math, and be successful and get jobs...but it’s just adding that other piece in. It helps them to know where they come from, and what’s around Minnesota. Our state is great for that, because we have all the seasons and different sports. Those are some of the best experiences.”

Little green school...fist bump. •

Oak Hill Montessori MNP 1013 S3.indd 1

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October 2013 47

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Upper Mississippi Academy (UMA) Upper Mississippi Academy prepares students for college and careers with 21st century knowledge and skills.

Teacher-designed experiential learning pathways (Edible School Yard, Design and Engineering, River to River and Essential Ingredients) enhance rigorous academic studies through interdisciplinary and multidimensional instruction.

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Dance/Music/ Performance

Metro Deaf School, a free public charter school serving students Preschool-12th Grade from the Twin Cities and western Wisconsin, provides a bilingual and interdisciplinary curriculum using American Sign Language (ASL) and English for students who are deaf, hard-ofhearing and deafblind.

Phone: 651-224-3995 VP: 651-964-1630

www.mdsmn.org 1471 Brewster Street St Paul, MN 55108

Children's Yamaha Music School Keyboard classes for children ages 3-8 encourage creative self-expression, & include singing, hearing, playing, reading, writing, & ensembles. The focus is on total musicianship, including imagination, theory, composing, & performing. Free preview classes each February & July/ August. Private lessons available for ages 9+ in piano & more.

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Introduce your family to the language and traditions of another country while knowing your children are safe and healthy with a specially-trained au pair.

Twin Cities & Rochester 800-4-AUPAIR aupaircare.com Child Care Aware of Minnesota Child Care Aware of Minnesota fosters the healthy growth of children and the professional growth of child care providers. We help families across Minnesota find quality child care and understand their options through local resource and referral services.

Statewide Locations 888-291-9811 childcareawaremn.org Minnesota Children's Museum At Minnesota Children's Museum, hands-on play builds lifelong learning. Each of our galleries is uniquely designed with a child’s busy brain in mind. Every visit is packed with experiences guaranteed to nurture creative thinking, fuel fun, and cater to the curious at heart.

10 W Seventh St Downtown, St. Paul 651-225-6000 mcm.org Minnesota College Savings Plan The Minnesota College Savings Plan is a flexible tax-advantaged 529 college savings plan designed to help families save for a loved one’s future college education.

The Plan is administered by the Minnesota Office of Higher Education and managed

by TIAA-CREF Tuition Financing, Inc. 877-338-4646 mn529today.com Special Olympics Minnesota Special Olympics is a global movement of people creating a new world of inclusion and community, a world in which every single person is accepted and welcomed regardless of ability or disability.

100 Washington Ave S, Ste 550 Minneapolis 800-783-7732 somn.org

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education resources

Think Your Child Is Gifted & Talented?

The Minnesota Council for the Gifted & Talented is a non-profit organization of parents and professionals dedicated to promoting better understanding of, and educational services for, gifted and talented children and their families.

ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Nov. 16, 2013 For more info: 952.848.4906 or www.mcgt.net Minnesota Council for the Gifted & Talented 5701 Normandale Road, Suite 315, Edina, MN 55424

MN Council for Gifted MNP 1013 12.indd 1

Venture Photography At Venture we capture your precious moments in time and beautifully present them in our stunning hand-crafted product. Our innovative photography, exceptional quality, and first class customer service continues to redefine family photography, creating lasting memories for generations to come.

6551 York Ave Edina 952-345-3392 venturephotography.com/minneapolis

Preschool

8/21/13 2:22 PM

Joyce Bilingual Preschool Joyce Preschool is a bilingual SpanishEnglish program for children ages 3-5 with strong emphasis on kindergarten readiness, second language acquisition, early literacy, and parent involvement. Also offering parent-child classes and summer camps. Two locations for 2013-14: Joyce Preschool: 3400 Park Ave Minneapolis Joyce at Windom: 5821 Wentworth Ave S Minneapolis 612-823-2447 joycepreschool.org new Horizon Academy New Horizon Academy, with 53 Minnesota locations, offers exceptional early education programs for children ages 6 weeks - 12 years. Full-time, part-time, and flexible schedules are available. 53 convenient Twin Cities’ locations. Visit us online to find a location near you!

763-557-1111 newhorizonacademy.net

Private

Call now to join our Open Enrollment list for Fall 2014 www.minnetonka.k12.mn.us 952-401-5000

Breck School Breck is where perpetually learning students meet a perpetually learning school. Come visit our beautiful campus, where students progress from wide-eyed preschoolers to wise seniors among peers and adults who feel like family, with abundant opportunities in academics, athletics, service, and the arts. Financial aid is available.

123 Ottawa Ave N Golden Valley 763-381-8200 boldlybreck.com Brightmont Academy Brightmont Academy is a fully accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher

50 October 2013 Minnetonka Public Schools MNP 1013 V4.indd 1

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works with one student. Students can enroll full-time to earn a high school diploma, take an individual course for credit, receive tutoring, and test prep. Our Plymouth location is one of nine campuses nationally. Plymouth@ BrightmontAcademy.com.

2855 Glacier Ln Plymouth 763-452-4650 brightmontacademy.com Calvin Christian Schools CCS's comprehensive program provides rich learning experiences that meaningfully integrate a biblical world view. Over the past 50 years, CCS has built a solid reputation for delivering an outstanding, Christ-centered education. Today Calvin Christian’s three campuses serve nearly 500 students representing 100 churches and 45 metro communities.

K-8: 4015 Inglewood Ave S Edina 8966 Pierce St NE Blaine High School: 755 73rd Ave NE Fridley 952-927-5304 calvinchristian.org City of Lakes Waldorf School We are a Waldorf School that serves 250 children in pre-K through grade eight.

Waldorf’s rich and varied curriculum includes rigorous academic work as well as rich artistic experiences, all of which are appropriate to the age of the child. This fully integrated approach to education engages the child’s head, heart, and hands.

2344 Nicollet Ave S Minneapolis 612-767-1502 clws.org French Academy of Minnesota, The The French Academy, a total Frenchimmersion private school serving students 33 months to grade five, offers a curriculum combining Minnesota and French national standards. In true French style, native-speaking teachers empower children to become responsible, respectful, and active learners.

9400 Cedar Lake Rd St. Louis Park 952-944-1930 thefrenchacademy.org international School of Minnesota, The ISM is a private, non-sectarian, college prep school for preschool, age three, through grade 12. In addition to a rigorous curriculum, there are opportunities for all

THE ART ACADEMY, ExcEllEncE in Art EducAtion

students to participate in music, sports, art, drama, and Student Life. ISM is a world-class education in your backyard committed to preparing students for college and for life.

6385 Beach Rd Eden Prairie 952-918-1840 internationalschoolmn.com Mounds Park Academy Mounds Park Academy is an independent, nondenominational, coeducational college preparatory school for students in grades pre-K through 12. Founded on academic excellence, MPA is a challenging, experiential, hands-on, and nurturing learning environment with strong studentparent-school partnerships.

2051 Larpenteur Ave E St. Paul 651-777-2555 moundsparkacademy.org

INC

Celebrating Our 20th Year!

Nationally Acclaimed Program • Classes for Students Ages 5 - Adult

Call 651-699-1573 for a free brochure Sophia Wang, Age 6 Art Academy MNP 0413 H6.indd 1

See more student artwork at theartacademy.net 3/14/13 12:54 PM

Oak Hill Montessori School Oak Hill offers programs for children eight weeks of age through eighth grade.

Students are empowered to develop a lifelong love of learning through academically challenging programs that foster independence, critical thinking, creativity, and responsibility. Discover the difference.

4665 Hodgson Rd Shoreview 651-484-8242 oakhillmontessori.org St. Bartholomew Catholic School St. Bartholomew has provided outstanding Catholic education for 50+ years. We offer a strong core curriculum including fine arts, foreign language, and servicelearning. Small classes and a focus on respect and self-discipline help our students achieve educational success and spiritual growth. Pre-K-6. Call for a tour.

630 E Wayzata Blvd Wayzata 952-473-6189 st-barts.org/school St. Paul Preparatory School St. Paul Preparatory School prepares all students for success in a global society.

We deliver a unique and challenging college preparatory education within a diverse international environment. Contact us for a shadow day or tour. information@ stpaulprep.org.

380 Jackson St, Ste 100 St. Paul 651-288-4606 stpaulprep.org

Bloomington Schools MNP 1013 H4.indd 1

9/10/132013 2:34 PM October 51

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education resources It’s a Party!

Join us!

Peace of Mind is 20 Years Old! Join us Friday, October 25 from 6pm-8pm.

Dance! Photo Booth! Games! Prizes!

Vendor Fair! Costume Party! Fun! Peace of Mind Early Education Center 9025 Tamarack Road, Woodbury

Find out more at www.peaceofminddaycare.com or call 651-731-2608

Footprints Academy MNP 1013 V6.indd 1

9/18/13

Totino-Grace High School A Totino-Grace education centers on Catholic values and compassionate relationships, emphasizing academic excellence, faith formation, respect for the individual, service to others and responsibility in the world community.

We offer a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum and excellent co-curricular activities, clubs, and teams.

1350 Gardena Ave NE Fridley 763-571-9116 totinograce.org Visitation School Visitation School provides an excellent, challenging academic program within a Catholic environment, as well as childcare and a Montessori preschool.

Visitation is coed through grade six and all-girls in grades 7-12. To learn more, go to visitation.net.

651-683-1700 visitation.net

Public ECFE iSd 191 Early Childhood Family Education A place to learn and grow together. Build family relationships through child led 1:33 PM play experiences, parent education, and support from licensed educators and other families. Weekly classes, playtimes, and events offered at sliding fees for parents and children birth to pre-K. Burnsville, Eagan, Savage 952-707-4155 communityed191.org Hopkins Public Schools A leader in STEM curriculum, Hopkins offers: Spanish instruction in all our elementary schools; successful elementary Chinese Immersion; secondary Chinese and Spanish Immersion, grades 7-12; junior high IB; an extensive AP program; more than 250 course choices in high school.

Harley Hopkins Family Center (BirthPreschool): 125 Monroe Ave, Hopkins Alice Smith Elementary: 801 Minnetonka Mills Rd, Hopkins Eisenhower Elementary + XinXing Academy: 1001 Hwy 7, Hopkins Gatewood Elementary: 14900 Gatewood Dr, Minnetonka Glen Lake Elementary: 4801 Woodridge Rd, Minnetonka L.H. Tanglen Elementary: 10901 Hillside Ln, Minnetonka Meadowbrook Elementary: 5460 Glenwood Ave, Golden Valley North Junior High: 10700 Cedar Lake Rd, Minnetonka

52 October 2013 Totino Grace High School MNP V6 1013.indd 1

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West Junior High: 3830 Baker Rd, Minnetonka Hopkins High School: 2400 Lindbergh Dr, Minnetonka 952-988-4110 hopkinsschools.org Minneapolis Public Schools Minneapolis Public Schools promises an inspirational educational experience in a safe, welcoming environment for all diverse learners to acquire the tools and skills necessary to confidently engage in the global community. We offer a wide variety of academic programming from pre-K-12. Below is a list of all of our schools.

Andersen United Anishinabe Academy Anthony Middle Anwatin Middle Armatage Montessori Bancroft Barton Open Bethune Community Broadway ALC at Longfellow Bryn Mawr Community Burroughs Community Cityview Middle Dowling Urban Environmental Edison High Emerson Spanish Dual Immersion FAIR Crystal FAIR Downtown Field Community Folwell School, Performing Arts Floyd B. Olson Middle Friendship Academy of Fine Arts Green Central Park Community Hale Community Hall International Harrison Education Center Henry High Heritage Academy of Science & Technology Hiawatha Community Hmong International Academy Howe Community Jefferson Community Jenny Lind Elementary Kenny Community Kenwood Community Lake Harriet Community Lower Lake Harriet Community Upper Lake Nokomis Community Keewaydin Campus Lake Nokomis Community Wenonah Campus Loring Community Loring Nicollet Alternative School Lucy Craft Laney at Cleveland Park Lyndale Elementary Marcy Open Menlo Park Academy High School MERC High School Metropolitan Learning Alliance Minneapolis College Prep Minnesota School of Science Mona Moede NaWayEe Center School

Nellie Stone Johnson Community North Academy of Arts & Communication North Senior Academy Northeast Middle Northrop Community Pierre Bottineau French Immersion Pillsbury Community Plymouth Youth Center Arts & Technology High School Pratt Community Ramsey Middle School River Bend Educational Center Roosevelt High Sanford Middle Seward Montessori Sheridan Arts Magnet South High Southwest High Sullivan Community Takoda Predatory Academy Tatanka Academy Transition Plus Urban League Academy VOA Opportunity High School VOA Phoenix SALT Waite Park Community Washburn High Wellstone International High School Whittier International Windom Spanish Dual Immersion School District Headquarters Minneapolis Public Schools The Davis Center 1250 W Broadway Ave Minneapolis 612-668-0000 mpls.k12.mn.us Minnesota Waldorf School Supported by almost 100 years of successful Waldorf pedagogy, MWS is an extraordinary find. A strong core of academics is skillfully woven with music, movement, world language, and art, inspiring children to become lifelong learners: curious, motivated, and conscientious.

70 E County Rd B St. Paul 651-487-6700 mnwaldorf.org Minnetonka Public Schools Minnetonka Public Schools is among the state’s highest performing public school districts, recognized nationally for use of technology as an accelerator of learning in every classroom. Minnetonka Kindergarten options include full day, half day, traditional K, Spanish Immersion, or Chinese Immersion.

5621 Cty Rd 101 Minnetonka 952-401-5000 minnetonka.k12.mn.us

Joyce Preschool MNP 0913 H6.indd 1

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The time is now to...

how we communicate what we believe our students can accomplish how we engage with our community, parents and students the way we support all our students our attitude the way we think about teaching our understanding of what our students and families value how we learn from our failures how developing the whole child affects how we teach our definition of rigor our understanding of what is possible how we market ourselves how we think

how we act Reshaping the educational experience at Minneapolis Public Schools

1250 W. Broadway Ave. | Minneapolis, Minnesota 55411 | Phone: 612.668.0000 | mpls.k12.mn.us

October 2013 53

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education resources Specialty

Thursday, Nov. 7

Holy Name of Jesus School MNP 1013 12.indd 1

·

Art Academy, The City Pages Winner: Best of the Twin Cities! Year-round traditional drawing and painting classes and camps for students ages 5-18. Exceptional student/teacher ratio. Homeschool Program. A Renaissance Program for adults also offered. See 6:30 p.m. samples of student artwork; visit our website. Call for a brochure.

651 Snelling Ave S St. Paul 651-699-1573 9/16/13 1:26 PM theartacademy.net

Free Class!

Join us for a free class at any of our studio locations

New studio in Plymouth/Minnetonka!

Childcare Providers: we can come to you!

www.growingwithmusic.com info@growingwithmusic.com

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Brain Balance Achievement Centers Brain Balance has been successful in helping thousands of kids reach their physical, social/behavioral, and academic potential. The program integrates cognitive, sensory-motor, and nutritional training into a unique, drug-free, wholechild approach that goes beyond the symptoms to address root causes.

Woodbury 651-731-6163 Lake Minnetonka 952-474-4535 brainbalancecenters.com

Fun 9/17/13 11:42 AM

Class for Parents of School-Age kids — The E Team Encouraging • Educating • Empowering.

Are you troubled by “attitude,” battling over homework, or looking for your kids to be more responsible? Stop yelling and start connecting with the parenting tools you will learn in this unique class. Discover what really motivates kids and how to help them develop values and skills. Other ages/topics, too.

3978 W Broadway, Robbinsdale or your location!

612-616-0570 eteamnow.com Groves Academy Groves Academy is Minnesota's leading provider of learning disability and attention disorders education and resources. Groves has an independent day school for grades 1-12 serving students with learning disabilities and attention disorders. Groves outreach provides workshops, summer programs, diagnostic assessments, tutoring services, support for young adults, and teacher training.

3200 Hwy 100 S Golden Valley 952-920-6377 grovesacademy.org Mad Science of Minnesota Schoolhouse Chess of Minnesota Hands-on interactive and educational

54 October 2013

programs allow your child to explore their interest in science or chess. We bring our programs to you, whether an in-class field trip, large group assembly or entertainment for a birthday party, preschoolers to grade six.

651-793-5721 mn.madscience.org Mathnasium At Mathnasium, we make math make sense for students in first through twelfth grade. Our expert math instructors give individualized instruction using the proprietary Mathnasium Method in a challenging, encouraging, and fun environment, helping students catch up and get ahead!

5111 W 98th St, Bloomington 952-886-4382 9724 Schreiber Terrace N, Brooklyn Park 763-269–6969 1960 Cliff Lake Rd, Ste 112, Eagan 651-815–0303 16378 Wagner Way, Eden Prairie 952-500–2138 17581 Glasgow Ave, Lakeville 952-891-1100 13720 83rd Way N, Maple Grove 763-269–6969 4785 Cty Rd 101, Minnetonka 952-500–2139 3505 Vicksburg Ln N, Ste 900, Plymouth 763-567–8143 14043 S Hwy 13, Savage 952-226–3000 1140 Vierling Dr E, Shakopee 612-275–5824 4590 Excelsior Blvd, St. Louis Park 763-269–6969 649 S Snelling Ave, St. Paul 651-698–6284 5871 Neal Ave N, Stillwater 651-300–2252 4711 Hwy 61 N, White Bear Lake 651-888–2541 7060 Valley Creek Plaza, Woodbury 651-330-4184 mathnasium.com

Metro deaf School Metro Deaf School promotes academic excellence for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students using an ASL/English bilingual approach. Our primary purpose is to empower our students to develop the skills and knowledge to succeed as global citizens.

1471 Brewster St St. Paul Voice: 651-224-3995 Video Phone: 651-964-1630 mdsmn.org

Small school environment Grades 3-12 On campus and online Strong test scores

★★★★★★★★ “A million-jillion star school.”

— student

Cyber Village MNP 1013 H6.indd 1

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Minnesota Council for the Gifted and Talented (MCGT) Homeschoolers Chapter The MCGT Homeschoolers Chapter is made up of parents who are homeschooling their gifted children. lt focuses on support, networking, and parent education, and provides unique ways to nurture the creativity, asynchrony, sensitivity, and accelerated learning rates of these children. Chapter liason: homeschoolers@mcgt.net. mcgt.net/homeschoolers northern Clay Center Northern Clay Center facilitates a variety of exciting ceramic classes and outreach opportunities for kids ages six and up.

We offer pottery and sculpture classes for all skill levels. Visit our website for more information.

2424 Franklin Ave E Minneapolis 612-339-8007 northernclaycenter.org Whole Learning School, The We are an independent, not-for-profit school for students with special learning needs, including learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, intellectual disabilities, and more.

Nurturing environment with very low student/teacher ratio.

9400 Cedar Lake Rd, Ste 7 St. Louis Park 763-231-2700 twls.org

what makes

Calvin Christian School special?

Your child! We’re small enough that your son or daughter has a special place here—but we have a big academic vision and a rich, biblical worldview. Since 1961, Christian parents have looked to Calvin Christian for excellent, God-honoring education. Call today for more information or to schedule a visit.

K-12 Edina • Blaine • Fridley www.calvinchristian.org 952.927.5304 Calvin Christian School MNP 1012 H4.indd 1

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Maple Tree Cottage

Catalina’s Preschool Spanish Learn SpaniSh with Your ChiLd

South Mpls. Preschool Program • Waldorf-Inspired Program • Trained, Licensed Teacher • Mornings with Lunch Option • Organic Whole Foods Snacks www.mtcottage.com

Fun music-based classes for ages 1½-6 & parents

612-922-2222 www.preschoolspanish.com

I need a remodeler I can trust.

That’s why I depend on NARI.

(612)724.8957

— 23 years of excellence — Catalina's Preschool Spanish MNP 7/18/12 0812 Maple 1cx1.indd 3:39 PM Tree 1Cottage MNP 0613 1cx1.indd 4/29/13 8:31 1 AM

Nannies from the Heartland

612-825-9205 mnparent.com

763-550-0219 nanniesheartland.com

Creative Kids Academy

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Visit narimn.org or call 612-332-6274 to find a NARI-certified professional for your next remodeling project or to become a NARI member.

The NARI logo is a registered trademark of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. ©2008 NARI of Minnesota.

NARI MNP 2011 NR2 2cx2.2.indd 1

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Imagine the Possibilities...

Early Education * 6 Weeks–12 Years

Create

H

Learn

H

Grow

Free Music, Spanish and Yoga!

Anoka * Centerville * Lexington * Maple Grove * Minnetonka Mounds View * Orono (Old Hill School) – 952-473-1225

ckakids.com

email: info@ckakids.com

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7/5/13 8:42 AM The Sculpture Gardens, Loring Park...our backyard.”

is our backdrop...

Child Garden has been a leader in the all-day, all-year Montessori Environment for over 50 years Full-time Care for 6 wks – 6 yrs of age • 2 locations near Downtown Mpls Open 7am to 6pm, M–F • Lowest ratios in the state Onsite Chef serving lunch & 2 snacks with many organic options Curriculum includes Spanish, Music, Art, and Dance

612-377-1698

· childgardenmontessori.com · 612-870-9771

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place an ad :::: 612-825-9205 mnparent.com

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6/13/13 Helping Clothe the Twin Cities’ Newborns in Need

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Collects new and gently used baby clothes for distribution to disadvantaged infants and new moms.

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Lessons * Horse Camp * Birthday Parties Public Guided Trail Rides by Appointment Only

Year Round

Fun Birthday Parties

for children ages 3 and up!

Call 651-487-8272 for more information or to schedule your party.

Perfect for Boys & Girls Birthday Parties or any event!

Easy & convenient for Mom & Dad! We come to you!

Xbox360, Wii, PS3

Riding Lessons Indoor Arena

Not just on for the ride—learn all the basics about horses.

(ALL AGES)

651-226-2027

Locally owned

Sunnyside Stables, Inc. Rosemount, MN www.sunnysidestables.org

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Birthday Parties

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Unlimited Variety of Beads Take Home 3 Original Creations EarThingsByLaura.com 612-722-4170 9/19/132013 10:15 AM October 57

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Real Life “We don’t control much in the growth of our children’s bodies and personalities; mostly we just watch and wonder as they blossom before us.”

ences change, and as I reflect upon and respond to the varied experiences, emotions, and observations that come with each new season. In this season, I’m very much in the thick of fatherhood and that is definitely reflected on the album.

You recorded your latest album in your home studio. Did your kids ever check out dad at work?

More like commandeer the studio! Young boys tend to have an affinity for drum kits! It’s [also] not uncommon for Roy to interrupt a session with “Dad, can I show Jack my electric guitar?”

You decided to tour close to home this time. Was that a difficult business decision?

rEAL dAd

Ben Kyle

In 2012 Ben Kyle, frontman for Minnesota alt-country band Romantica, decided to take a step back from recording the group’s fourth album in favor of a more personal project: his solo debut, Ben Kyle, a compilation of songs that reflect his devotion to his three children (with one on the way) and his wife, Kim. — Emily Mongan

Q&A

You’ve said that Ben Kyle is more personal than music you’ve previously written, and that upon listening to it your wife said she felt like she was a part of the album.

58 October 2013

Would you say your music has changed now that you’re a father?

I would say that the music is always changing as I change and my life experi-

I think it was a very natural decision. I mean, of course you want to be around as your kids are growing up (and of course my wife appreciates the balance). It wasn’t, perhaps, the most obvious or intuitive career decision to make, but convention doesn’t have to dictate your path. Success for me has more to do with quality, sustainability, meaningfulness, and balance than extreme fame or excess wealth. I’m not saying I couldn’t appreciate some of the freedoms that more material success might afford, but if these are my real goals then being able to be home more is actually achieving success!

about the last track on your album, The Child: How does your fatherhood influence this song?

The Child is a song about a number of ‘mysteries.’ How life sustains itself without our help. The mystery of how the soul and personality and body of a child grow to be “wonderful and wild” with us doing very little to make that happen beyond the initial creative act. We don’t control much in the growth of our children’s bodies and personalities; mostly we just watch and wonder as they blossom before us.

Be well and remember your flu shot.

Immunizations

Pneumonia

Administered by your community pharmacist, available daily (ages 10 and up).

If you have certain health conditions, check with our store pharmacist to see if the pneumonia vaccination is right for you.

Flu Take charge of your health by getting your flu shot at participating pharmacies. Medicare Part B and D plans are accepted.

TdaP Last year, the whooping cough, or Pertussis, had the highest number of reported cases it had in years.

Get your TdaP vaccine in store (ages 10 and up).

1-800-WALGREENS (1-800-925-4733) • WALGREENS.COM