December 2018

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cute hats!

Page 42

December 2018

Cure your kid’s constipation Page 24

Books about God Page 30

Tasty turkey meatballs!

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R E H

Hawaii with kids?

Page 20

Water park staycations

Disney — for less!

Page 32

Page 38

Yes, your baby can FLY Page 14

Minnesota mama retreats Page 18

Jonah, 3, of Minneapolis, plays with a talking globe.

See page 9.

At Broders’ Pasta Bar, we’re about much more than great pasta …

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hat’s why we’ve partnered with two very special organizations doing amazing things for people with Down syndrome and their families—Jack’s Basket and the Down Syndrome Association of Minnesota.

Broders’ Pasta Bar donates 10% of all proceeds from our children’s menu—“Kit’s Menu”—to these incredible organizations. Kit’s Menu features pared-down versions of some of our most delicious and kid-friendly pasta dishes.

Kathleen ‘Kit’ Broder, first grandchild of the Broder family, is an avid pasta eater and Italian food enthusiast!

Kit was also born with Down syndrome. It’s our goal to celebrate Kit and all children in the Down syndrome community.

612.925.9202 | broderspastabar.com 5000 Penn Ave S / Minneapolis, MN 55419

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It is the mission of the Down Syndrome Association of Minnesota to empower individuals and families, to create community and celebrate the abilities of people with Down syndrome.

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Jack’s Basket has a mission to celebrate babies born with Down syndrome. They strive to ensure that every new and expectant parent is provided resources and avenues of support within the community, while aiming to educate medical providers on how to discuss the diagnosis in an unbiased way.

DECEMBER

VOLUME 33 /// ISSUE 12

Disney hacks for parents!

Follow these tips for a budget-friendly trip to Disney World in Orlando.

38 Dive in!

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites, Lakeville

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December 2018 • mnparent.com

32

Don’t worry about planning a pricy, out-of-town trip. Try one of these five local water park staycations instead.

42 Tie one on Check out five winter hats — all mama-tested — including three that secure under the chin for warm ears (guaranteed)!

DECEMBER 12 Pajama party!

Check out gender-neutral jammies by a local mom.

Black Stars Footed Sleeper made of bamboo.

20 WORLD’S OKAYEST MOM

Up in the air

Traveling teaches us we’re not the center of the universe.

22 #ADULTING

Responsible investing How to live your values through your mutual funds.

Be free

14 BUMP, BIRTH AND BABY

Comfort zone

24 ASK THE PEDIATRICIAN

Traveling with kids can be just plain hard, but it’s worth it.

Flying with babies, even fussy ones, needn’t be an ordeal.

Use these 11 strategies to combat kid constipation.

13 CHATTER

16 THE UNCENSORED TODDLER

26 ON BEHAVIOR

Managing fear after a diagnosis isn’t easy.

When children feel anxiety about safety, follow these tips.

10 FROM THE EDITOR

Money app

Help your kids learn finance skills with an automatic split allowance.

Cancer sucks

Poop better

Worried and scared

18 SCHOOL DAYS

28 IN THE KITCHEN

Moms need time away from the kids to rest and recharge.

You’ll love these protein-rich mama-approved meatballs!

Girls retreat

& About 44 Out CA L E N DA R

Pure flavor 30 BOOKSHELF

Finding God Explore spirituality with your little ones with these gems.

50 FROM OUR READERS

Joyful, joyful

Happy holidays from some of the cutest kids in town!

8

December 2018 • mnparent.com

About our cover kid Name: Jonah

Age: 3

City: Minneapolis

Parents: Amy and Doug Martin

Siblings: Piper, 4 months

Personality: Silly, outgoing, energetic, fun-loving, inquisitive, smiley and sweet!

Favorite toys: Trains, trucks, cars, anything with wheels!

Favorite books: Little Blue Truck, Curious George, Harold & The Purple Crayon and Thomas & Friends Favorite activities: Riding bikes, playing “tee” (T-ball) and Grandpa’s house Favorite foods: Mommy’s mac ’n’ cheese, quesadillas, strawberries and raspberries Photos by Tracy Walsh / tracywalshphoto.com What is Jonah playing with?

It’s a Geosafari Jr. Talking Globe from Educational Insights ($129.99). This high-tech globe for ages 4 to 12 comes with a “smart stylus” that helps kids unlock oodles of audio snippets (10 hours of fun facts in all) simply by tapping on the U.S. states and the world’s continents, animals and natural wonders.

It even features the voice of Wildlife Warriors spokesperson Bindi Irwin (daughter of the late famed naturalist Steve Irwin).

Learn more at educationalinsights.com.

FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FOR HEALTHY LIVING FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY ®

WHEN SCHOOL IS OUT THE Y IS IN! Full day programs during vacation break for kids in grades K-12.

SCHOOL RELEASE DAYS Grades K – 6 Enjoy friends, fun & field trips

DAY CAMP ADVENTURES (6 locations)

Grades K – 6 Get outside, into nature & explore.

OVERNIGHT & TEEN WILDERNESS CAMPS Engage in the ultimate winter camp experience.

• Camp Menogyn – Ages 12-18 • Camp Warren – Ages 7-16

LOOKING FOR YOUR OWN NIGHT OUT? 18-SAC12

Parents Night Out is Saturday, December 8.

Drop off kids ages 2 – 10 for a night of food, fun & games.

Registration is required.

For more details go online to

ymcamn.org

or call 612-230-9622 Membership not required to enroll. mnparent.com • December 2018

9

FROM THE EDITOR mnparent.com

PUBLISHER Janis Hall jhall@mnparent.com SALES MANAGER AND CO-PUBLISHER Terry Gahan tgahan@mnparent.com GENERAL MANAGER Zoe Gahan zgahan@mnparent.com EDITOR Sarah Jackson editor@mnparent.com CONTRIBUTORS Daniel Aronson, Megan Devine, Katie Dohman Ed Dykhuizen, Dr. Allison Golnik Shannon Keough, Dr. Rachael Krahn Laura Ramsborg, Christina Ries Tracy Walsh, Amanda Williams, Jen Wittes CREATIVE DIRECTOR Valerie Moe vmoe@mnparent.com SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Micah Edel GRAPHIC DESIGNER Brenda Taylor CLIENT SERVICES Delaney Patterson 612-436-5070 • dpatterson@mnparent.com CIRCULATION Marlo Johnson 612-436-4388 • distribution@mnparent.com ADVERTISING 612-436-4360 • sales@mnparent.com 45,000 copies of Minnesota Parent are printed monthly, available at 1,100 locations: mnparent.com/racks Go to mnparent.com/subscribe to get this magazine mailed to your home for $18 a year.

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

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

Minnesota Parent is copyright 2018 by Minnesota Premier Publications. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Address all material to address above.

Travel without fear B

efore I had a child, I didn’t realize what a privilege it was to travel freely as an adult — without the need to care for another human.

With kids, travel changes: You need a diaper bag filled with extra clothes for poopsplosions and you need to be ready to nurse or provide formula and/or snacks.

Instead of being the airline passenger giving the screeching kid across the aisle a heavy side-eye, you’re the one desperately trying to quiet a tiny, unpredictable, strong-willed infant surrounded by stink eyes.

In this magazine — our annual Travel Issue — you’ll find all kinds of perspectives on why traveling with kids is worth it, even when it feels impossible to leave the house.

Photo by Tracy Walsh / tracywalshphoto.com As Jen Wittes, our Bump, Birth and Baby writer says in her column, we all just need to chill out about bringing babies out and about — yes, even on airplanes, yes, even at restaurants.

She says: “Remember that trend of ‘sorry my baby exists’ treat bags on flights a few years back? Cute idea, but completely off that the mother of an INFANT even had the notion to do this! Babies are citizens! They have no motive to harm and exist only to learn, love and explore. We should let them get out of the house and live a little, because you can be sure that in two years we’ll be scoffing when they’re zombie-poking at Mom’s iPhone.”

Amen, sister!

She goes on to describe her years living in Italy: “The other adults didn’t moan and groan over sitting next to a baby, but rather fawned over the baby, passed her around.

Offers to burp or bounce a baby — so the parents could finish eating — were common.

The result of this European baby acceptance, as I saw it, were happier babies. Less crying.

Less screaming, spitting, fussing. And I know why. Babies are intensely tuned in to their parents. An anxious, tense, unwanted parent-with-child on a crowded flight will transfer those feelings to the baby, who reacts by crying out.”

I think I was one of those mothers whose child cried more because Mama was stressed.

Once — because, trust me, our son was a Black Belt Shrieker — I brought a bag of ear plugs onto a flight for my fellow passengers, just in case. But we never needed to pass them out.

Perhaps my time might have been better spent letting go of my fear and relaxing into — dare I say surrendering to — my amazing new role of parent, come what may!

If the folks around me didn’t get it, let them scoff and stare.

Simply staying home because you have kids might sound easier, but if you like to travel, staying cooped up won’t sustain you or keep you connected.

Now get out there!

Sarah Jackson, Editor

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December 2018 • mnparent.com

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CHATTER

Mama-designed jammies!

Kristie Case, a local mom and the owner

“Today’s parents are also buying less and

Peregrine White, who was the first baby born

of the Teeny Bee children’s boutique in

shopping smarter, which means they want

when the Mayflower landed in the Americas.

St. Paul, has launched her very own line

items to last through several children,

of children’s pajamas — Peregrine Kidswear.

regardless of gender.”

Primarily black and white and intentionally

Case and her business partner, Austin

gender neutral, her adorable jammies (and

West, started the line in early 2017, including

infant hats) are made of eco-friendly,

universal motifs such as paper airplanes and

breathable bamboo.

starry skies.

Case hatched her idea for a kids’ clothing

boys and girls have in common instead of

envisioning during her first three years of

emphasizing their differences,” Case said.

“I was on the hunt for interesting and

— including Teeny Bee — and at PeregrineKidsWear.com.

“I love the idea of highlighting the things

line when she couldn’t find what she was buying for Teeny Bee.

You can find the line in more than 100 independent boutiques across the country

The name Peregrine comes from the freewheeling falcon that inhabits many

stylish unisex options for parents waiting to

areas of Minnesota as well as West’s

find out the gender of their baby,” she said.

many-times great-grandfather,

Floral Footed Sleeper

0–24 months $37

Toddler Pajamas (Avocados and Constellations)

2T–5T � $40

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December 2018 • mnparent.com

Spend, save, give When it comes to helping little kids learn about money management, a good place to start is by using three jars for spend, save and give.

But doling out that money, week after week, year after year (especially for multiple kids) just becomes another thing to do.

That is, unless you automate it with an app.

Right now, we’re loving the free and easy functionality of Rooster Money, an app that populates circles (small or large depending on how much is in each one) with whatever amount of virtual dollars and cents you choose, using the “split allowance” feature.

With an app like this, you don’t have to remember if you put money in the jars, and you can add and subtract money as needed with notes about why.

If Grandpa gives your kid a $100 check for the holidays this year, you can put part of it (virtually) in each pot and use the “spend” money for those occasions when your kid wants something at the store.

You just need to check: Does he have the money? Nope? Then he should keep saving. (Kids can even set up goals with images and links.) What charity will he choose for his “give” savings? How about that fund-raiser at school?

A paid Plus version of the app helps with chores, incentivized savings, budgeting skills and more.

Learn more at roostermoney.com.

Jen Wittes

BUMP, BIRTH AND BABY

How to be an aisle-seat activist

I

’ve always traveled with my children. On planes, trains, buses, subways, you name it, we’ve done it and everything that comes along for the ride — diaper changes in airplane lavatories, nursing next to uncomfortable men in suits, overstuffed bags of Gerber puffs.

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December 2018 • mnparent.com

I know mothers of 5-year-olds who still don’t dare take a child on a plane for fear of it being too hard and too inconvenient for the other passengers.

Both approaches are valid. As parents, we do what we feel is right for our children from within our own comfort

zones. I’m glad I learned how to travel with the kids when they were young. I’m glad I got myself to those family reunions and weddings when they were babies.

Though I support the choice to stay home, I do feel concerned that our culture is in some way encouraging parents to avoid traveling with children.

Does it kind of suck to sit next to a crying, pooping baby during a 10-hour flight to Madrid? Yeah, sort of. But it really sucks to be a parent stuck at home, cabin-fever-crazy over a long Minnesota winter, missing out on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Madrid.

It sucks to sweat and apologize while trying to sooth or feed a baby, seat-belted, in a claustrophobic coach seat.

Remember that trend of “sorry my baby exists” treat bags on flights a few years back? Cute idea, but completely off that the mother of an INFANT (um, she’s busy) even had the notion to do this!

Babies are citizens! They have no motive to harm and exist only to learn, love and explore. We should let them get out of the house and live a little, because you can be sure that in two years we’ll be scoffing when they’re zombie-poking at Mom’s iPhone.

Ugh. I’d never let MY child live through a screen.

Before becoming a mother, I had the opportunity to live in Sicily for three years.

In Italy, babies were out and about — on crowded trains and in fancy restaurants. The other adults didn’t moan and groan over sitting next to a baby, but rather fawned over the baby, passed her around. Offers to burp or bounce a baby — so the parents could finish eating — were common. A village mentality of the loveliest kind!

BABY STUFF

Norway House MNP 1218 H6.indd 1

11/14/18 1:50 PM

Cute cutlery

Designed for babies’ and toddlers’ natural hand grasp and motions, these ergonomic Grabease tools seem like a no-brainer for encouraging self-feeding. Why didn’t we think of this sooner? $14.50 (one fork, one spoon) grabease.com

The result of this European baby acceptance, as I saw it, were happier babies. Less crying. Less screaming, spitting, fussing. And I know why. Babies are intensely tuned in to their parents. An anxious, tense, unwanted parent-withchild on a crowded flight will transfer those feelings to the baby, who reacts by crying out.

I understand if traveling with your baby seems like an exhausting hassle. If you want to stay home, stay home.

However, if you’re baby-travel curious, embrace your wanderlust. You can be an aisle-seat activist for the cause. You can spark the spirit of adventure in your child.

With practice, you’ll get used to traveling with Baby. Your anxiety will soften, your routine will become nuanced and Baby will learn how to fly.

EXERCISE PREGNANCY STUDY The University of Minnesota is seeking women who are currently less than 20 weeks pregnant to participate in a research study examining the effect of exercise and wellness on mood following childbirth.

ESTUDIO SOBRE EL EJERCICIO DURANTE EL EMBARAZO La Universidad de Minnesota está buscando mujeres con menos de 20 semanas de embarazo para participar en el estudio de investigación que examina los efectos del ejercicio y la salud del estado de ánimo posterior al parto

• Program delivered to you via the mail and phone

• Programa ejecutado vía correo o teléfono

• Must be 18 years of age or older

• Debe ser mayor o igual a 18 años de edad

• Must not currently exercise regularly

• No debe hacer ejercicio regularmente

• Must not take antidepressants

• No debe tomar antidepresivos

• You will receive $100 & a FitBit for your time (you will be allowed to keep the FitBit after the study is over)

• Usted recibirá $100 y un FitBit por su tiempo (será permitido quedarse con el FitBit después de la culminación del estudio)

• Program can be delivered in English or Spanish

• Debe considerarse de bajos ingresos, lo cual se define como:

• Must be considered low-income, defined as: - Enrollment in any government assisted program (e.g., WIC, SNAP) AND/OR - Annual income that is considered low (less than $45,510 for a family of four, less than $30,044 for a family of two, and less than $22,311 if single).

English: Call or TEXT to 612-345-0325 or mompro@umn.edu to see if you qualify for this research study.

- Inscripta en cualquier programa asistencial del gobierno (por ejemplo, WIC, SNAP) Y/O - Ingresos anuales considerados como bajos (menos de $ 45,510 para una familia de cuatro, menos de $ 30,044 para una familia de dos y menos de $ 22,311 si es soltera).

Español: Llamada o TEXTO 612-237-1004 o mompro@umn.edu para ver si califica para éste estudio.

Jen Wittes is a marketing director, writer, certified postpartum doula and mom of two living in St. Paul.

U of M - Kinesiology Dept MNP 0318 S3.indd 2

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mnparent.com • December 2018

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Shannon Keough

THE UNCENSORED TODDLER

Cancer Wife, Part 2 T

he nurse practitioner squinted at the mysterious spot that “lit up” on Nick’s lung scan.

My husband had recently been diagnosed with throat cancer. And the next step was to do a more comprehensive body scan to see if the cancer had spread anywhere else.

Lo and behold, the scan revealed something troubling in his right lung. His doctors were very measured about it. They would need to do a biopsy of the “mass,” but it was strictly a formality. Non-cancerous stuff “lights up” all the time. Probably nothing to be worried about.

But they had to be thorough.

“Hmm, this definitely looks cancerous to me,” said the nurse practitioner. “I can tell your lungs are damaged.”

She delivered this judgement with a look of barely concealed satisfaction.

“Wow, that’s cruel and completely inappropriate,” a neutral observer might have said.

But I’d already spent hours Googling “throat cancer metastasized to lung” and had internalized one general theme: It was “ominous.”

Powerless I immediately floated off into some strange state of shock and anxiety. It felt like I’d been abruptly dumped into a rickety rowboat and then flung out into a stormy sea.

On top of this general sensation — that

I was facing imminent danger and was completely powerless to stop it— my mind was suddenly flooded with thoughts that ranged from the existential (what would I do without this man who understands and appreciates even my very worst qualities?) to the practical (I would move into the closet-bedroom at the end of the hall and rent out our former bedroom in order to avoid foreclosure).

“You’re not saying much, Shannon,” remarked my eternal enemy, the nurse practitioner.

The wrong kind of weight loss Nick had his lung biopsied the next day, and then we had to wait over a week to get the results. This interlude was not very relaxing.

Cliches abound for these sorts of situations.

TODDLER STUFF

Toy airport

“I couldn’t eat, I couldn’t sleep,” people say, and we writer types wish they’d think of a more creative way to describe the experience.

Suddenly I could relate very well to these clichéd descriptions: Obsessing about the approaching doom, I didn’t sleep.

Consumed with anxiety, I ate only for basic survival. One day I decided to have a spoonful of peanut butter for a “meal.”

It tasted like nothing and felt like a disgusting glob of gluey Play-Doh. I gagged and washed it down with a slug of water.

“Wow, you look amazing!” remarked a colleague.

Nick hadn’t even started treatment and I’d already dropped about 10 pounds.

“Thanks,” I said.

I couldn’t help but think of a friend who

Just in case you didn’t get enough gift ideas from our November Toy Issue last month, here’s one more: Brio’s new airport with control tower isn’t just adorable and sturdy: It includes a beechwood-bottomed plane, a pilot and ground crew, a baggage elevator and a blinking traffic cone to encourage creative play. $69.99 • brio.us

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December 2018 • mnparent.com

had struggled for years with an eating disorder. During one spell of sickness, she lost weight rapidly — and later told me the compliments about her body had increased in direct correlation with her dangerous weight loss.

I was depressed and forlorn, but I did look pretty good — if by “good” you mean “underweight.” Tortured on the inside, smokin’ on the outside!

I theorized this was due to some evolutionary drive to maximize my attractiveness should I end up widowed and in need of a new mate to help pay the bills.

Tracy Walsh Photography MNP 1118 H6.indd 1

10/24/18 10:28 AM

Less is more When Nick got cancer, many of our friends stepped up and offered support — organizing meal trains, sending sympathetic letters, even paying for a housecleaner.

His cancer diagnosis also made some people incredibly uncomfortable. Some friends disappeared; others complimented Nick’s famished physique (chemo and radiation are so slimming!) or insisted on looking on the bright side.

I suppose what I’m getting at here is that when it comes to helping friends through trouble and tragedy, sometimes less is more. It’s like that rule about accessorizing: Get all dressed up in a manner that seems just perfect, and then remove one thing.

Similarly, when your friend is facing some trial, start by showing up.

Ask how they’re doing, offer specific types of help or just admit you’re uncomfortable — and don’t know what to say — but you give a damn. And then when you feel the urge to heap on a dollop of positivity — “At least the chemo isn’t making your hair fall out!” — treat it like the unnecessary “statement necklace” that it is and, bless your heart, keep it to yourself.

Note: The lung biopsy turned out to be negative for cancer. Nick’s first post-treatment scan was “clear” and he’s recovering.

Shannon Keough lives in St. Paul with her husband and two children. Send questions or comments to skeough@mnparent.com. mnparent.com • December 2018

17

Northwoods girls weekend I

t’s booked — three nights at a vacation rental on the North Shore of Lake Superior for me and three of my great friends. Whoo-hoo!!!!

This will be our third-annual Northwoods “girls weekend” getaway.

Why is this such a big deal?

Well, as a mother of four, I spent a long time in the thick of the baby years.

During that incredible but long chapter of my life, I felt defined by my role as a mother of a baby. I didn’t stray too far from the house. I spent a lot of time caring for the children, but not a lot of time caring for myself. I don’t have to tell you: It wasn’t easy. Sometimes I felt bogged down with the responsibility of it all.

Now ages 13, 11, 9 and 7, my children are becoming more independent. They have their groups of friends and are involved in all sorts of activities. We’re in a fun new stage of our life as a family. And I feel I have a little more time and freedom to nurture myself as an individual.

I’m able to focus a bit more on my own physical, spiritual and mental well-being,

which, in turn, helps me to project myself as the person — and the mother — I want to be.

Several years ago, I reached out to three of my friends to see if they would want to attend the popular YMCA Camp du Nord Women’s Ski and Snowshoe Retreat on the North Arm of Burntside Lake near Ely. They responded with a resounding, “Yes!” “Yes!” and “Yes!” We all registered and were soon together — all in one place at the same time, without husbands or kids, for the first time in years!

Although the camp where the retreat was held wasn’t far from my home, I felt a world away. Distancing myself from my day-to-day responsibilities — and distractions of work and home — gave me an opportunity to relax and reconnect with my dear friends.

At the retreat, we were catered to with great food, wine and full days of unstructured time. We had opportunities to participate in yoga classes, get massages, go for hikes, talk, laugh, read and sauna. It was an amazing experience!

We had so much fun that we decided to make our girls weekend an annual tradition.

The following year, we had intentions to do women’s winter retreat again, but it filled up before we were able to make our reservations.

So we decided to try a ski weekend on the North Shore. We booked a vacation rental and planned on a day of downhill skiing at Lutsen Mountains and a day of cross-country skiing on the Sugarbush ski trails for our second-annual girls weekend.

We lucked out with mild temperatures and a dumping of 10 inches of snow that made our ski day at Lutsen feel like we were in the mountains! Meanwhile, our crosscountry ski trails were perfectly groomed, which made for an outstanding experience.

Although we might not be so lucky to get perfect conditions again, we all agreed we’d have fun together, no matter what we were doing!

I’ve come home from these weekends with my friends refreshed and recharged.

If you’re in the thick of the baby years — or don’t have the finances or support to get away for a night or more — I encourage you to be creative and find ways to take a break closer to home.

Maybe it’s dinner with friends or an afternoon or day trip.

I think it’s important for our kids to see us having fun and doing something for ourselves.

Remember, if you’re a healthy and well-balanced individual, it can help you to be a better mother!

Megan Devine is an elementary school teacher who lives with her husband and four school-age children in Northeastern

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December 2018 • mnparent.com

Minnesota. She blogs at kidsandeggs.com.

Visit hobt.org or call 612.721.2535 for more info.

Learn more

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⊲ YMCA Camp du Nord, north of Ely, has openings for several on-site adult retreats, including a women’s ski and snowshoe (with openings in January and February); a couples trip in March and a mother-daughter retreat in May. ymcamn.org/camps/camp_du_nord ⊲ Cascade Vacation Rentals offers a wide variety of lodging options on the North Shore. cascadevacationrentals.com ⊲ Lutsen Mountains (pictured above) boasts 95 downhill ski runs on four mountains, plus slopeside lodging, dining and live music. lutsen.com ⊲ Sugarbush Trail Association maintains 40 miles of cross-country ski trails through beautiful and remote U.S. Forest Service land in the Lutsen-Tofte area. sugarbushtrail.org

mnparent.com • December 2018

19

WORLD’S OKAYEST MOM

Hawaii with kids?

W

ant to ratchet a parent’s blood pressure up about 30 points?

Ask if they relish the idea of boarding a plane with tiny, sticky humans who consider themselves conscientious objectors to sitting down, inside voices and not kicking seatbacks.

Things I have feared — besides my very own mortality, but perhaps with the same

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December 2018 • mnparent.com

heightened visceral stomach-clenching horror — have been: poopsplosions, meltdowns, ear-popping pain, side-eye from kid haters and the inability to come up with a pleasing enough bribe to shut down shenanigans.

This is an abridged list, edited for this column, otherwise I’d be taking up the whole dang magazine.

Oh, and then there’s the whole “taking your entire family in a tin can, miles into the atmosphere and praying no physics pro got the calculations wrong.”

Despite all my Extreme Obsessing about What Could Go Wrong, ranging from poop to death, I still boarded a plane with two of my children (and my husband, because this is a team event). More than once even. Xanax-free, even, which, if you know me and my fear of flying, is a truly monumental testament to the sacrifices I will make for my children.

Here’s what happened on the sum total of those flights (sorry, not sorry, for the spoiler alert halfway through my word count this month): Absolutely Nothing. I mean, nothing of the traumatizing, humiliating, can’t-handle-this variety, at least.

The biggest, longest trip we’ve taken was to Maui. Not only did this involve taking flights that lasted around eight hours over the ocean, we also had layovers and takeoffs at naptime and landings in the middle of our night. Oh yeah, jet lag. A jet-lagged 2- or 3-year-old seems like a situation that could totally implode everything we know about the time-space continuum.

But may I submit to the jury that it could also cause you to take a pre-dawn walk on the beach, the air scented with plumeria? Positively Hallmarkian.

Lest my love letter to Hawaii, my children and traveling gets too fantastical, please know that I also accidentally allowed myself and my 9-month-old son, who I was wearing on my back, to get crushed by a gigundo wave, which doused us thoroughly and left us choking — him squalling, and me staggering and bedraggled. Some mom!

MOM STUFF

Indie rock

Courtney Barnett’s latest, Tell Me How You Really Feel, reminds me I’m still a little wild grunge rocker at heart. I just dance with my babies in the dining room instead. $19 on vinyl • amazon.com

Traveling can ignite the curiosity and wonder of children. Even several years later, Ruby still talks about how we packed for “Ha-why” and asks when we’ll return.

The beautiful weather, walks on the beach to get fresh-blended tropical-fruit smoothies and a general flaunting of anything resembling our “real life” made an indelible mark on her.

Will Remy remember hiking through a bamboo forest as an infant on my back?

No. Not literally. But I hope it means he’ll just always feel like a citizen of the world, a steward of the environment, an open-minded, open-hearted ambassador or polite guest. (Ruby, too.) I hope it imbues my children with the mindset that we are not the center of the universe, that there is so much to see, do, understand, learn, mend.

Katie Dohman is currently living in the midst of a total full-house renovation with her one husband, three kids, two dogs and one kitten. She is tired.

Have You Been Thinking About Checking Out Holy Name of Jesus School?

OPEN HOUSES When?

Thursday, Jan. 10, from 6 p.m.–7:30 p.m. & Sunday, Jan. 13, from 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.

Where?

Holy Name of Jesus School 155 Co. Rd. 24 — Wayzata

What?

Attending an Open House is a wonderful opportunity to hear about the excellent faith-based educational programming. At the open house, you will tour the school, meet the teachers, and talk with the principal.

Call or email to schedule a tour and we will be honored to “show and tell” all about HNOJ School with you and your family!

For more information check out hnoj.org/school or call Carla at 763-473-3675.

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mnparent.com • December 2018

21

Daniel Aronson

#ADULTING

Investing with purpose G

iving to others is top of mind in December, but making a difference with our dollars isn’t limited to the holiday season. A growing number of Americans are investing their money year-round in companies with corporate values that align with their own.

Indeed, Socially Responsible Investing (SRI) assets now account for $12 trillion — or one of every four dollars — of the $46.6 trillion in total assets under professional management in the U.S., according to a 2018 report from the Forum for Sustainable and Responsible Investment.

And that’s a 38 percent increase over 2016.

In a recent survey by TD Ameritrade, 45 percent of investors said they think it’s important to make socially responsible investment choices. Millennials are the most in favor, with 60 percent of the younger generation saying they consider SRI an essential criteria.

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The concept of SRI — sometimes referred to Sustainable, Responsible and Impact investing — is at the center of a cultural shift taking place. In previous generations, the norm was to give your money to a broker who would call with ideas. This morphed to an advisory relationship, where commissions were replaced with a fee. The goal was all about maximizing return.

However, now investors also want to use their money to make an impact. And some studies have shown that financial returns may be the same as traditional investments, if not even better over the long run.

SRI and ESG Today, the framework that dominates SRI is referred to as ESG, which stands for Environmental, Social and Governance.

(There are about 275 ESG-focused funds available to U.S. investors.)

⊲⊲Environmental investing includes companies that focus on renewable energy and sustainability such as wind, solar or water treatment. ⊲⊲Social investing concentrates on businesses that focus on gender equality, job programs and social justice. ⊲⊲Governance focuses on how a company operates, such as the percentage of women and/or minorities in executive leadership or board roles.

However, SRI isn’t necessarily limited to these areas.

In real life Here’s an example of SRI in practice: As a parent of three children who are active in team sports, one of my concerns is keeping young players safe on the field, rink or court. The health issues associated with concussions impact families across the state and nation.

A startup company in Edina is working on a solution. Prevent Biometrics has developed a “smart” mouthguard that measures impacts to the skull in real time. The device won’t avert potential concussions, but will alert coaches and staff immediately so that proper care and protocols can be followed should a player receive a significant hit.

In time, the data collected should help researchers improve safety throughout all sports. When I learned about the business, I personally invested because the company’s mission aligns with my values and goals.

If you’re interested in Socially Responsible Investing, start by asking relevant questions: How does an investment or

When it comes down to it, Socially Responsible Investing is about putting your money where your values are. opportunity align with my values? What are the most important characteristics for me? How is my money being used, and how would I feel if others knew I invested in this company? These are just some of the basic questions you need to answer before you can take the next step.

Learning more But you don’t have to go it alone. A financial professional versed in SRI can help you find and assess opportunities based on your goals and values.

At EPIQ Partners in Minneapolis, we discuss the concept of SRI with clients and incorporate conclusions into their investment policy, which guide investment decisions. Our clients are engaged and successful individuals who are looking to do more with their money than just invest for financial gain.

SRI looks different to each person, and that’s why it’s critical to understand what’s important to you. When it comes down to it, SRI is about putting your money where your values are.

One source for learning more about the growing trend of SRI is the Forum for Sustainable and Responsible Investment (ussif.org), which maintains charts describing the socially responsible mutual funds offered by its member firms. The Washington, D.C.-based forum will host its ninth-annual conference for finance professionals June 10–12 at the Radisson Blu Hotel in downtown Minneapolis.

Dan Aronson has been an investment professional for 25 years and is a founding member of EPIQ Partners in Minneapolis.

Learn more at epiqpartnersllc.com.

Plan your child’s unforgettable summer adventure!

The 13th annual

Presented by

Saturday, March 2nd 10am–2pm Como Park Zoo & Conservatory

Free admission and children’s activities!

mnparent.com/campfair 612-825-9205 events@mnpubs.com

SPONSORED BY

Camp Fair 2019 MNP S3.indd 1

www.twincitiesacademy.org

11/19/18 2:53 PM

COLLEGE PREP REDEFINED Serving a Diverse Student Body 6th–12th Grades

Info sessions & school tours monthly Visit our website or Facebook for dates and times

WHERE ALL STUDENTS ARE COLLEGE KIDS! Over 15 advanced placement, college in schools and honors classes & ACT preparation assessments and courses Competitive athletics and speech program Focus on community service and social justice...and much more!

Twin Cities Academy MNP 1218 S3.indd 1

11/16/18 12:57 PM

mnparent.com • December 2018

23

Dr. Allison Golnik

11 tips for curing constipation Help! I think my child is seriously constipated!

Constipation is more frequent in kids than most of us think, and it comes in many forms — infrequent hard stools, but also large stools, intermittent abdominal pain and even urination and bedwetting problems.

If you’re not sure if your child is suffering from constipation, check out the Bristol stool chart online: It’s optimal to have at least one stool every day that’s Type 4 or softer. (A chart at goodmix.com.au can be posted in the bathroom to help kids know when to consult a parent about worrisome stools.)

If your child might be affected, remember everyone can benefit from bumping up healthy habits like these: ⊲⊲Eat at home: Family meals at home are guaranteed to pack more fiber and whole foods than eating out or on the run. ⊲⊲Increase water: Drink at least ½ ounce of water per pound of body weight per day: A 50-pound 7-year-old should drink 25 ounces of water daily. Don’t forget a glass of water with breakfast! Teach your kids that their urine should look like “light lemonade.” ⊲⊲Increase fiber: Add ground flax seed to muffins, pancakes and oatmeal. Use chickpea, lentil, quinoa or high-fiber pasta. Prunes are a natural laxative, so give prune juice or soak some dried prunes in water and hand over these juicy treats. Other “P” fruits, such as pears and peaches, will help. ⊲⊲Be wary of dairy: Some gastrointestinal tracts are sensitive to dairy, so consider swapping out that glass of

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milk at dinner for water. You might also consider a dairy-elimination trial. Kids can obtain calcium through alternative milks, nuts, beans, greens or supplements. ⊲⊲Stay active: Exercise not only moves the arms and legs, but also the gastrointestinal tract, so keep it all moving! ⊲⊲Set aside toilet time: Make sure your child has time during the day to relax on the toilet. Being constantly on the go doesn’t give the parasympathetic nervous system a chance to “rest and digest.” Children may need a daily routine such as a 10-minute story or screen time on the toilet.

⊲⊲Choose the right potty: See how unstable the child below is? Make the toilet a stable place to sit. Floor potties for little ones are more stable than toilet seat rings. You can also elevate kids’ feet with a stool, such as a Squatty Potty, a stool that straddles the toilet and raises the feet (see above right image), putting the colon in a better position for elimination, which can also be useful for adults. ⊲⊲Magnesium: When constipation becomes an ongoing problem for your child, talk to your doctor about adding magnesium and probiotics.

Magnesium is found in foods such as nuts and seeds, beans, quinoa, avocados, bananas, figs, dark leafy greens and dark chocolate. Magnesium can be absorbed through the skin by adding ½ cup of epsom salts to a bath tub. Ask your doctor about a daily magnesium citrate supplement (typically 50 to 200 milligrams a day for kids), which has also been associated with less anxiety and improved sleep. ⊲⊲Probiotics: Obtain probiotics through foods — kiefer, fermented miso paste broth, real pickles (not shelf stable), tempe or sour kraut — or give your child a refrigerated probiotic supplement (liquid, powder or chewable). ⊲⊲Aloe and vitamin C: You can also try aloe vera juice (add real lemon juice and dark honey or mix with mango juice as a treat). Vitamin C softens stools and comes in chewable tablets or powder (200 to 500 milligrams a day). ⊲⊲See a doctor: If constipation causes acute symptoms such as abdominal pain or a painful/bloody stool, your child’s doctor should be involved to consider treatments such as polyethylene glycol, a suppository or an enema.

When it comes to constipation, be aware of “transition” times when it can creep up, such as starting school or traveling. Above all, be aware of your child’s routines, eat real food and keep your child’s gastrointestinal tract moving!

Dr. Allison Golnik is a board-certified pediatrician who cares for children and teens at Fairview Clinics–University Children’s.

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mnparent.com • December 2018

25

Dr. Rachael Krahn

ON BEHAVIOR

When kids face fear W

ith the tragic increase in gun violence in schools, many children feel anxious about the safety of their environments — home, school, community, the world. Caregivers are called to both reassure and protect their children, and also provide honest information about the dangers of our world.

When a child says he’s too scared to go to school because he’s worried about his safety, how should a parent respond?

Let them talk No matter how old a child is, parents should listen carefully and validate their child’s feelings. All feelings are OK. For older children who may respond to fears or anxiety with unpredictable or regressive behavior, be curious and compassionate about their underlying feelings. Whereas younger children may show their distress through play, older children may find talking, drawing or writing a more helpful way of expressing their worries.

Provide opportunities for older children to ask questions about what they’re hearing at school or on the news. Setting up a special time to talk about their fears can help contain the feelings and thoughts so that at other times, children can focus on playing, learning and growing.

When children don’t have a validating and supportive outlet for their worries, they’re more at risk to suffer from body aches, sleep problems, irritability, changes in appetite, withdrawal or strained social relationships.

When answering questions, provide a developmentally appropriate response. For ideas about what to expect — and what to say — see tinyurl.com/tragedy-kids.

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Prioritize activities For younger children, provide reassuring rituals and consistency during times of heightened anxiety or stress. Worries often crop up more at bedtime or during transitions, so parents should do their best to make those times predictable and consistent.

In her book The Deepest Well: Healing the Long-Term Effects of Childhood Adversity (2018), Dr. Nadine Burke Harris identifies six ways to support well-being so that we can be strong in our response to adversity.

These are things adults and children alike

should prioritize in their daily lives: • Maintaining a nutritious diet, eating together as a family and drinking enough water; • Getting regular exercise (two hours per week for adults, daily for children), including moving and playing in nature; • Engaging in a mindfulness practice such as meditation, yoga or gratitude/compassion activities; • Making time for restorative sleep (eight hours for adults and more for

children) and turning off technology at least a half hour before bedtime; • Fostering positive and affectionate relationships and connecting with the community; • Seeking mental health assessments and treatments if symptoms increase in frequency, severity or duration.

Prioritizing activities that foster wellbeing on a daily basis helps parents and children feel more prepared and resilient in the face of trauma, adversity and stress.

Take action together Doing something to help restore a sense of safety can empower children to feel as though things are not out of control, and that they can overcome adversity.

Directly helping others who have been impacted or hurt and writing letters of support and notes of thanks to people who helped are actions that can help children experience communal compassion.

Model your own feelings about the scary event so your children can see your feelings and what you do to manage them.

Younger children rely more on adults to help them feel better, so modeling ways to calm down (taking deep breaths or asking for help) can help teach children ways to regulate themselves during anxious moments.

It can also help to enlist other caring adults such as teachers, extended family members or neighbors.

Seeing how all of these people are doing everything they can to keep the community safe can help children rebuild trust and maintain connections with others.

Scary things happen in our children’s lives, and providing a developmentally appropriate response within a connected and secure relationship can help children feel more mastery over their worries.

Dr. Rachael Krahn is a child psychologist with the Minneapolis-based Washburn Center for Children, a community mental health center that nurtures every child and family’s wellbeing. Learn more at washburn.org.

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mnparent.com • December 2018

27

IN THE KITCHEN

I’m always on the lookout for flavorful, nutrient-dense food to fuel my growing children. These delicious homemade meatballs have become a staple in my rotation along with several other recipes from the bestselling cookbook Run Fast. Cook Fast. Eat Slow: Quick Fix Recipes for Hangry Athletes.

gO bble these up!

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TURKEY TROT MEATBALLS INGREDIENTS 1 tablespoon olive oil ½ cup finely grated Parmesan ⅓ cup almond flour or oat flour ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley ½ teaspoon garlic powder ½ teaspoon fine sea salt ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper 1 pound ground turkey 1 egg

DIRECTIONS Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and drizzle the oil across the paper, using your fingers to spread it evenly.

Combine the Parmesan, flour, parsley, garlic powder, salt and pepper in a large bowl.

Add the turkey and egg, using your hands to combine. Set aside for 15 minutes to absorb moisture.

Form the meat into golf-ball size spheres, about 16 meatballs, and space them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake in the center of the oven for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven, flip each meatball and bake 15 minutes more, or until the meatballs are crispy and lightly browned with no pink inside.

Serve immediately or use them in place of deli meat in sandwiches, salads or rice bowls.

Reprinted from Run Fast. Cook Fast.

Eat Slow. Copyright © 2018 by Shalane Flanagan (a four-time Olympian and New York City Marathon champion) and Elyse Kopecky (a chef, nutrition coach, inspirational speaker and mom). Photographs copyright © 2018 by Alan Weiner. Published

by Rodale Books, an imprint of the Crown Publishing Group, a division of Penguin Random House LLC.

Sarah Jackson

BOOKSHELF

Looking for God

Spirituality can be one of the toughest things to discuss with kids because so much of faith comes from the heart. These selections — though they don’t represent the intricacies of the world’s many religions — are a good place to start.

At school Grandma hands me my lunch and hugs me close before she says goodbye.

“Grandma, does God live in the city?” a boy asks one morning at breakfast. “Yes,” the matriarch explains. “Whenever you see love, joy and peace, God is there.” Soon the boy is spying signs of spirituality everywhere — hugs from loved ones, the joy of playing, the quiet of his classroom, the kindness of a doorman, his teacher’s patience when he’s tying his shoes, a warm loaf of bread from a neighbor and even his own self-control at bedtime.

That’s what love looks like to me.

Maybe God is like that too.

Ages 4–8 • $14.99

A girl named Hope makes it her mission to answer this perplexing question. Her mother tells her the answer is “Heaven, way up in the sky.” Her animal friends tell her, “No, he’s right here on Earth.”

It isn’t until Hope talks to her Grandma Rose that she learns: God is really everywhere.

Ages 2–8 • $17.99

This 3D gem — from Beaming Books (formerly Sparkhouse), a children’s imprint of Minneapolisbased 1517 Media — features six impressive pop-up designs that tell the Christmas story of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem, including appearances from shepherds, angels and animals, too. Also, be sure to check out the Bedtime Bible from Beaming Books ($12.99) packed full of interesting anytime stories for older kids.

Ages 3–7 • $19.99

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The Book of Psalms, it’s been said, is one of the easiest parts of the Bible to understand.

This 125-page hardback pulls together some of the most treasured psalm concepts and turns them into prayers that cater to different moods (When Tears Fall), times of day (My Soul Is Like the Dawn), situations (I Can’t Sleep!) and types of praise (Your Works Are Amazing!). “Psalms,” according to the back of the book, “help us talk to God when we aren’t sure what to say.”

Ages 5–8 • $9.99

Acclaimed Australian cartoonist Michael Leunig created this book of prayers using works he had published in Melbourne’s Sunday Age newspaper. Written more like poetry — paired with line drawings of a human and a duck — the prayers in this small-format book are filled with so much, love, grace, humility and wisdom, we can barely stand it. This would be a beautiful gift (or stocking stuffer) for adults, too.

Ages 5 and up • $11.99 mnparent.com • December 2018

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wim city!

S

By Amanda Williams and Sarah Jackson

Kick back this winter with a water park staycation.

It’s cheaper and, come on, it’s what the kids want anyway.

If Hawaii, Disney and even Minnesota’s North Shore are out of the question for you budget-wise, why not scale back a bit — but still have serious kid fun — with a Twin Cities water park staycation?

You’ll spend less on travel. And we’ve found some pretty sweet rates on local winter rooms!

After all, sometimes the best part of vacation is the time away from the laundry, cooking, dishes and other duties.

And, let’s be real: When it comes to little kids, all they really care about is the pool anyway.

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Venetian Indoor Water Park Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites, Maple Grove 763-425-3800 venetianwaterpark.com

»

This oasis near the Arbor Lakes shopping area is home to a weekends-only, guestsonly water park, featuring two tube slides, a toddler area with two mini slides, a floating obstacle course and a 20-person whirlpool.

There’s even a lifeguard on duty. You’ll also find lockers, an arcade and a concession stand with an adjacent dining area.

Similar to The Venetian hotel in Las Vegas, the ceilings are painted to look like skies and the walls like ancient buildings. Statues and accents throughout the hotel make this an atypical suburban hotel experience.

The draw: Start your day snow tubing at Elm Creek Park Reserve or ice skating at Central Park and then warm up at the pool here from 4–10 p.m. Fridays, 8 a.m.–10 p.m.

Saturdays and 8 a.m.–noon Sundays.

Cost: On a Saturday night in January, two-queen rooms start at $184.29, but the better deals are the suites ($196.64), good if you’re OK with bunk beds. Or try the jacuzzi suite with a separate room with a sleeper sofa, table, four chairs and full-size fridge for $205.19.

Where to eat: Palazzo Ristorante, just outside the main entrance, offers breakfast, dinner and evenings-only room service. Ages 12 and younger can eat free at Palazzo when dining with an adult hotel guest; one adult entree purchase is required. Just off the lobby, you’ll find The Sala bar and cocktail lounge, open 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. Dave & Buster’s, TGI Fridays and Chick-fil-A are across the street. OMNI Brewing Co. (which has games and craft sodas for kids) is just three miles north, so you can check that one off your taproom bucket list while you’re at it.

Back-to-reality bonus: You can hit the outlet mall, Costco, Lowe’s or Nadia Cakes (home of the famous Vageode cake) on your way home because they’re all a few blocks away.

Wild Woods Water Park Holiday Inn Minneapolis NW, Elk River 763-656-4400 hielkriver.com

»

This hotel doesn’t just boast a playfully themed water park — with three four-story slides, a lazy river, water basketball and a zero-depth play area for toddlers — it’s got a main-level arcade and a basement-level Buddy’s Family Fun Zone, featuring giant billiards, gaming consoles, glow mini golf and more. (And it’s all only 30 minutes from downtown Minneapolis.)

Note: All the attractions are open weekends only and are open to the public.

Water park hours are 4–10 p.m. Fridays, 9 a.m.–10 p.m. Saturdays and 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Sundays. Fun zone hours start one hour later and end one hour later.

Cost: Rooms include water park wristbands; fun zone access for the whole room costs an additional $20. A room with a king bed and a sleeper sofa goes for $159.20 on a Saturday night in January, but you can upgrade to a three-room, sleeps-six family suite that includes two bedrooms — one with bunk beds, one with a king bed and a sleeper sofa (and a separate living area as well) — for $215.20.

Where to eat: You can order pizza and pop poolside from the Pub n’ Grub Snack Bar, which is attached to the Mississippi Valley Grill & Bar, a come-as-youare casual restaurant located inside the hotel, offering breakfast, lunch, dinner and room service, including sandwiches, salads, apps and comfort-food entrees.

Ages 12 and younger can eat free at the restaurant when dining with an adult hotel guest; one adult entree purchase is required.

Back-to-reality bonus: If it fits with your route and you and the kids still have energy, stop on the way home at Urban Air Adventure Park in Coon Rapids (try ziplining!), Zero Gravity in Mounds View (NEW!) or Sky Zone in Maple Grove (coming soon).

mnparent.com • December 2018

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Best Western Plus Bloomington » tinyurl.com/bw-bloomington » 952-854-8200 Across the street from the Mall of America, this hotel boasts an interior courtyard with two indoor pools, one standard and one large wading pool with numerous water features, including a mini slide that looks like a boat — perfect for toddlers.

The draw: Though the water park is open to the public Monday through Thursday, it’s reserved for guests on the weekends.

You can get a free shuttle to the MOA or simply walk one block away to a skybridge that takes you straight into the Radisson Blu, which leads you to the main mall.

Cost: Saturday night rates in January start at $159.99 for a room with two queen beds. More spacious fireplace suites ($239.99) include a king bed and a sleeper sofa so you can really spread out. Poolside rooms and poolview/balcony rooms go for $269.99 and $189.99, respectively.

Where to eat: Continental breakfast — served in a welcoming space — is complimentary and includes hot items, breads, cereal, fruit, eggs, yogurt, juice and coffee.

JT’s Food & Cocktails is on site and offers a full menu (including pasta and pizza), a happy hour (all day Sunday and 2–6 p.m. daily), plus room service. TGI Fridays, IHOP and Chevy’s are two blocks away.

Back-to-reality bonus: If you don’t get to Bloomington often, use this visit as your chance to get all your IKEA or MOA shopping done!

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Lakeville » tinyurl.com/holiday-inn-lake » 952-469-1134 Were Holiday Inns this nice when we were kids? Start at Buck Hill (15 minutes north) or the Minnesota Zoo (20 minutes north) and end here for a home away from home.

The draw: We love the welcoming lobby and the red-brick courtyard of this water park, which is for guests only and includes toddler-friendly, fountain-style splash features, a larger waterslide and a huge pool with a basketball hoop, plus an extra-large hot tub. And it’s all surrounded by rooms with small walk-out patios and Juliet-style balconies. Yes, this is the smallest water park on our list, but it’s also easy to keep track of your kids!

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Cost: A room with two queen beds on a Saturday night in January costs $155.20. Suites ($179.20–$203.20) offer more space and, in some cases, separate-bedroom privacy, a parent win that’s worth the splurge.

Where to eat: The richly decorated and completely attached Rudy’s Redeye Grill on site offers a varied menu of comfort food for breakfast, lunch and dinner, including sandwiches, steaks and brick-oven pizza. Ages 11 and younger eat free when dining with an adult hotel guest; one adult entree purchase is required.

Back-to-reality bonus: If the kids aren’t exhausted, take them 20 minutes north to Rockin’ Jump in Eagan, featuring trampolines, climbing, bubble soccer, arcade games and more (rockinjump.com/eagan).

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Great Wolf Lodge Bloomington » greatwolf.com/minnesota » 844-561-9653 Formerly known as the Water Park of America, this splurge-worthy destination opened a year ago this month as a new-to-Minnesota experience. What was once a Radisson attached to a huge water park (which was open to the public) is now an immersive, woodsythemed hotel with a water park open only to hotel guests.

The draw: Most of the water features are the same, but our favorites included numerous tube sides, a lazy river, a splash pad area, a floating obstacle course, a bodyboard surf simulator, an activity pool and a huge zero-depth entry area for littles that deepens into a wave pool for bigs.

Great Wolf Lodge, a national chain with 17 locations, caters to families with young children with enough other activities to keep you busy all weekend. That includes a climbing wall, a ropes course, a gem-mining activity, a kid spa, an arcade, a stuffed-charactercreation store, a candy shop, a gift shop, an outfitter, mini bowling and — by far the most popular feature of the hotel — MagiQuest, a resort-wide digital scavenger-hunt (best for ages 6 and up).

Free activities include interactive, musical story times, crafts, Wolf Walk tours, kid yoga, “wolfercise,” character meet-andgreets, dance parties and a big Northwoods Friends bedtime show.

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Cost: We recommend using the online rate calendars with each room type to find the best deals. On a Saturday night in late January, the best offer we could find was for a basic Queen Sofa Suite (one queen bed and a full-size sofa sleeper) or a Deluxe Bunk Bed Suite (a queen bed and one set of bunk beds), both for $329.99. Need to sleep six? It’s only $20 extra for a Family Suite and you get two queens, plus a sleeper sofa. Water park admission is included, but most activities cost extra. Weekday rates can be found for as low as $149.99 in January.

Good to know: MagiQuest Wands, which kids get to keep, start at $17.99. It costs an additional $14.99 for game activation, which lasts for your entire stay and can be reactivated — with past progress — for future stays. Your kids will want a wand because kids all over the hotel will be running around with them. A Paw Pass ($39.99 per kid) includes MagiQuest and access to some of the other attractions.

Where to eat: Eight separate areas of the hotel serve food, including a pizza parlor, a pub and a family-friendly buffet.

You’ll also find a Dunkin’ Donuts and a Ben & Jerry’s on site.

Back-to-reality bonus: Every kid gets a set of adorable wolf ears to take home.

Amanda Williams lives in rural Minnesota with her two energetic sons and husband. Sarah Jackson is the editor of Minnesota Parent.

D

A MOM’S GUIDE TO

I

S N E Y

Our family of five had a ball at the Happiest Place on Earth without going broke. Here’s how.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY LAURA RAMSBORG

I

t’s happening. You’ve made the declaration and (you think) you’re ready: Kids, we’re going to Disney World!

Then it hits you: After the euphoria of the Disney announcement subsides, the daunting task of planning looms ahead.

When it comes to Disney, there’s no shortage of information, friendly advice and must-do recommendations.

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December 2018 • mnparent.com

But the “info overload” — combined with self-inflicted pressure to create magical moments for your kids — can make a trip to the Happiest Place on Earth feel anything but.

So how does one go about capturing the magic and maintaining sanity in the process?

Read on for the best Walt Disney World hacks, gathered from seasoned pros and

parents, top travel websites, Facebook groups and travel writers.

Not only are these top Disney tricks a culmination of the best tips out there, but each one was also vetted by my family on our recent magical adventure to Orlando, Florida.

Armed with these invaluable tips, you’ll be ready to enjoy the Disney vacation you’ve always imagined.

PICK THE RIGHT DATES. For some families, travel dates may be limited to specific weeks. However, if at all possible, avoid the busiest times and the largest crowds. According to Carl Trent, creator of dadsguidetowdw.com, the worst times to visit Disney World are the weeks of Presidents Day, July Fourth, Christmas, Spring Break and the month of August.

If your travel dates are flexible, consider planning your visit around the most necessary experiences. For example, our daughters — ages 7 and 5 — most wanted to “eat with the princesses.”

Before we even bought airline tickets or made reservations for lodging, I called to make dining reservations for our family at Cinderella’s Royal Table. (For more on dining and reservations, see Hack 4).

After we secured that coveted reservation — and booked princess makeovers at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique — we selected our travel dates, flights and lodging.

WORK THE LODGING OPTIONS. Will your family stay within Walt Disney World Resort or at a hotel outside? Some of the advantages of staying in the theme park include special access to ride and restaurant reservations; Magical Express transportation to/from the parks and the airport; Extra Magic Hours; and extraordinary themes/ decor in resort hotels and swimming areas.

For a complete listing of Disney hotels and an analysis of each resort’s strengths and weaknesses, get the book, The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World With Kids.

On the other hand, staying outside the resort/theme park offers distinct advantages, too — mainly cost savings and independence.

Try not to be crushed if your child’s favorite memory from your Disney vacation is swimming in the hotel pool.

Our family chose to purchase a vacation though Bluegreen Getaways — a twobedroom condo for $997 for four nights, plus four tickets to Disney World (good for two days in the Magic Kingdom, one of four main theme parks) and a $100 gift card.

The catch? We had to attend a two-hour sales presentation about Bluegreen’s other vacation and timeshare options. Childcare was provided. And, for us, the cost savings and amenities were worth the time spent in the sales presentation.

To save even more money, we rented a car and drove to a nearby grocery store to buy food; then we prepared many of our meals and picnic lunches in our condo kitchen. The condo was roomy and spacious for our family of five. And since it had two bathrooms, we were able to set up our infant’s pack-and-play in one bathroom to create a dark, quiet nursery.

Whether you choose a vacation package or other hotel accommodations outside of Disney, eating just one meal per day outside of the park can help you easily recoup the cost of a rental car during your stay. Plus, your family might want some Disney downtime away from the park. We enjoyed evening outings to Medieval Times dinner theater and Old Town Orlando for less expensive Disney souvenirs and a variety of amusement park rides, all with much shorter lines.

Our family’s faves • Cinderella’s Royal Table: Eat a meal at Cinderella’s Castle and get to meet the princesses. Meals range from $35 to $60 per person (but are quite tasty) and kids leave with a souvenir “wishing star” and a magic wand.

• Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique: (pictured) Princess and knight makeover packages, geared toward ages 3 to 12, start around $40 and include hair, nail polish and make-up, as well as a souvenir drawstring backpack with accessories.

Costumes are also available as an add-on purchase, or you can bring your own costumes for a significant cost savings.

SET EXPECTATIONS.

• Enchanted Tales with Belle:

To prepare yourself and your family, think about your hopes for the trip and ask for your family’s input. If your kids are old enough to be a part of planning, allow each child to choose an activity for the family to enjoy together. For younger kids who are Disney first-timers, show them YouTube videos of the park and its attractions to set their expectations.

A preview won’t ruin the actual experience for your kids — it will prepare them to enjoy it. Kids feel more comfortable knowing what to expect and will savor getting excited about certain rides.

• Aladdin’s Magic Carpet:

This interactive experience allows your kids to be a part of reenacting Belle’s story. They’ll also get a photo with Belle and a souvenir bookmark. Bonus: There’s no additional charge for this attraction.

Similar to the Dumbo the Flying Elephant ride, this attraction includes a water-spitting camel and the ability to steer the “flying carpet” so your passenger can get sprayed with water.

mnparent.com • December 2018

39

Get planning!

• The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World with Kids by Bob Sehlinger is a bible for Disneygoing families, and it’s updated every year. amazon.com • Dad’s Guide to WDW features tons of information, plus tips for avoiding crowds with specific dates rated as light, moderate, heavy, wall-towall, out-of-control and “Don’t blame me, I warned you.” dadsguidetowdw.com • Mouse Dining helps you get difficult or last-minute character reservations by allowing you to set notifications for available reservations or cancellations. mousedining.com • My Disney Experience app is essential for planning, booking and staying organized and informed on your trip. disneyworld.disney.go.com • Build a Better Mouse Trip provides free travel-agent services for Disney vacations. buildabettermousetrip.com • Undercover Tourist is famous for ticket deals, crowdavoidance calendars, trip packages and more. undercovertourist.com • Bluegreen Getaways offers vacation packages to a variety of family-focused destinations. bluegreengetaways.com

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December 2018 • mnparent.com

Our girls loved looking at our Disney guidebook to “shop” the rides and then watched a YouTube video to decide if each ride looked fun or scary.

If there is anything I’ve learned so far as a parent, it’s that our kids will surprise us. For example, obviously The Haunted Mansion was something our girls wouldn’t want to do. But I didn’t predict that Under the Sea: Journey of the Little Mermaid would include an automated Ursula octopus that frightened our 7-year-old. The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World with Kids includes a superhelpful section rating each ride’s smallchild fright potential.

Adult expectations should be set ahead of time as well. Disney, with all its wonder and fantastic sights, is also crowded and over-stimulating. Even the most mildmannered, calm child can lose it. Several families recommend taking a midday break from the action and returning to the hotel for lunch and a nap or swim.

Try not to be crushed if your child’s favorite memory from your Disney vacation is swimming in the hotel pool.

(It’s actually pretty common, especially for kids younger than 8, according to travel writer Bob Sehlinger.)

CHOOSE DINING WISELY. Eating at Disney is expensive and the cost can really add up. However, unlike many other theme parks, Disney World allows guests to bring food. Save money and time standing in lines by packing a picnic and bringing your own food, beverages and snacks into the park.

If you have a stroller, load up a softsided cooler (we bought one for a few dollars at the local grocery store) and stash it underneath. There are spaces, such as Tom Sawyer Island, Liberty Square or Rapunzel’s Village in Magic Kingdom, to relax and enjoy your picnic lunch with exceptional people-watching.

If you’ll be staying in the park and won’t have a rental car, you can ship non-perishable food and supplies to your hotel before leaving for your trip. By saving money on some meals, you’ll be able to splurge a bit on other dining experiences. Our daughters both said breakfast at Cinderella’s Royal Table was their favorite part of the Disney trip.

The Bergler family of Woodbury had a similar memorable experience: “We did the princess brunch in the castle and that was awesome. Good food and it was the highlight of Mikayla’s trip.”

Reservations for dining experiences can be made up to 180 days in advance (190 days, if you’re staying at a Disney property) at disneyworld.disney.go.com or by phone.

If you’re not able to make reservations that far in advance or are hoping for a lastminute reservation, the Brendel family recommends using mousedining.com, which helps families get difficult character reservations by allowing you to set notifications for available reservations or cancellations.

Cinderella’s Royal Table is one of the most popular attractions at Disney World, best reserved before you book lodging or flights.

Disney World’s Magic Kingdom in Orlando offers impressive Baby Care Centers that include supplies available for purchase, a quiet, dim room with recliners and rocking chairs for nursing, sinks for washing supplies, bottle warmers and a sitting room with a TV for older children.

LEARN THE SYSTEM. The Disney World machine includes Magic Your Way, FastPasses and Extra Magic Hours.

Yes, it can all seem overwhelming. But understanding the system can help you maximize your time.

Before we even bought airline tickets or made reservations for lodging, I called to make dining reservations for our family at Cinderella’s Royal Table.

As soon as your travel and lodging have been booked, download the free My Disney Experience app. This app will help you view wait times for rides, make reservations, maintain your daily itinerary and make FastPass selections.

Magic Your Way is Disney’s travelpackage program. It includes park tickets and resort lodging options you can customize by adding or excluding features or dining plans. For example, if you don’t intend to visit more than one park per day, you don’t need the Park Hopper feature, which allows you to hop to different Disney parks throughout the day.

Note: Disney changed its ticket pricing as of October 2018; be sure to verify all prices before you purchase tickets or plans.

Extra Magic Hours are available only to visitors staying at Disney properties.

On a selected day of the week, certain parks within Disney World will open one hour early, or remain open two hours later, for visitors to take advantage of the

extended hours for rides, attractions and shows.

The FastPass program, meanwhile, allows you to make reservations for rides up to 30 days in advance (60 days for visitors staying at a Disney property) to avoid long wait times. All FastPass reservations must be made using a computer, mobile device or an in-park kiosk. You can make up to three FastPass reservations for three different rides/attractions per day. After you’ve used all three FastPasses within a day, you can make more FastPass selections for that same day. When you make a FastPass reservation, you have a one-hour window to arrive and use the pass. If you’re late, it’s possible to lose your reservation, so carefully mapping your itinerary is key.

BRING BABIES! I was pleasantly surprised to find that Disney was very baby-friendly. In addition to our school-age daughters, we brought our 7-month-old baby girl.

Disney offers impressive Baby Care Centers with a variety of supplies available to purchase, as well as a quiet, dim room with recliners and rocking chairs for nursing. There are also sinks for washing supplies, bottle warmers and a sitting room with a TV for older children. Since I was exclusively pumping milk to feed my daughter, I was able to leave my breast pump at the First Aid station, right next to the Baby Care Center, during the day and pick it up when needed. I could even bring my baby on a variety of rides, safely on my lap, including It’s a Small World, The Magic Carpets of Aladdin, Prince Charming Regal Carrousel, Under the Sea: Journey of the

Little Mermaid and the Jungle Cruise.

If you don’t want to take your baby on a ride, you can notify a Disney Cast Member and take advantage of a Rider Switch Pass: This allows adults to “switch off,” so both are able to ride without waiting in line twice.

If you bring a stroller, Disney has convenient, designated areas near each attraction for stroller parking. I’d recommend bringing a Baby Ergo or a similar carrier, especially if your baby is able to nap in it.

The most important part of the planning process is to carefully consider what will bring your family the most joy.

Seeing and doing everything may not be what matters most. After your vacation is over, what do you want your kids to remember? You dragging them through the park all day long at a breakneck pace or enjoying each moment? It’s really about having time together and discovering Disney in your family’s own unique way.

That’s how magical memories are made.

Laura Ramsborg is a literacy coach, freelance writer and mother of three daughters. She lives in Bloomington. Follow her on Twitter at @MsRamsborgReads. mnparent.com • December 2018

41

A hat that’s fun and functional can do more than keep your kid warm: It can encourage a spirit of playfulness! There’s something about a knit cap topped with a big pom that conveys the whimsy and delight of a romp through the snow, beckoning you to “frolic and play the Eskimo way.” Here are five of my faves, all tested by our family of five (going on six)!

Hats o n

!

By Christina Ries

L.L. Bean

Kids’ Mad Bomber Hat A Minnesota winter isn’t complete until someone in the family dons a mad bomber hat! This one is designed for the coldest days — with a nylon shell and a soft, faux-fur lining, plus adjustable ear straps to ensure the right fit.

Available print options include penguins and polar bears; red buffalo plaid; and wolf / moose.

Love Your Melon

Kids’ Burgundy Pom Beanie

This Minnesota-based company donates half of its proceeds to benefit children with pediatric cancer. LYM’s newly expanded line of children’s hats includes pom beanies with or without a tuft of faux fur atop a 100 percent cotton cuffed knit.

A new LYM studio in Minneapolis’ North Loop is now open (limited hours) at 226 Washington Ave. N., Suite 150.

$39.95 • llbean.com

$40 • loveyourmelon.com

Turtle Fur

Dr. Dino Earflap Hat

Here’s a chapeau your dinosaurloving tot won’t protest. It’s toddler sized, boasts a soft fleece lining and ties below the chin for secure wear. Turtle Fur offers dozens of other hats for kids, including winter bandanas and balaclavas, plus unicorn and mermaid beanies. $34.99 • turtlefur.com

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December 2018 • mnparent.com

Patagonia

Kids’ Powder Town Beanie

Snug and secure, these 100 percent recycled polyester beanies boast colorful poms with a retro ski-slope vibe. Prints come in a wide enough range to match any jacket — or please any selective kid — including camo, teal snowflakes and a bold pink-white-and-blue stripes throwback. $35 • patagonia.com

Jackie & Olives

Winter Baby Bonnet

Bonnets are back! These flannel bonnets burst with vintage charm — but are also practical. No hat works better to securely cover the ears without limiting a child’s peripheral view. They’re made by a talented mother of three and are available in newborn to 5T sizes (plus larger custom sizes) in a variety of colors and patterns, including bonnets with animal ears. You can request Sherpa lining for added warmth. $29.95–$33.95 � jackieandolives.etsy.com

Archie, 1½, of Inver Grove Heights models a hat from Jackie & Olives Bonnets for Tiny Humans.

Christina Ries is a freelance writer who lives with her husband and three young children in Inver Grove Heights. She’s expecting her fourth child in 2019. Write her at christina@mnparent.com. mnparent.com • December 2018

43

Out & About

DECEMBER

mnparent.com/calendar

⊲ This year Excelsior will host this manmade fortress of ice and snow, featuring frozen waterfalls, ice caves and slides, special appearances by the Frozen characters, fire performances and more.

When: Opening is typically in December or early January, weather permitting Where: 135 Lake St., Excelsior Cost: $7.95–$20 Info: icecastles.com/excelsior

ONGOING

Handmade Holidays ⊲ Visit the historic Turnblad Mansion for holiday events, seasonal displays and children’s activities, including a free open house on Dec. 12 and a Handmade Holidays exhibit.

When: Ongoing Where: American Swedish Institute, Minneapolis Cost: FREE on Dec. 12; costs vary for other events. Regular museum admission is $12 for adults, $8 for ages 62 and older, $6 for ages 6–18 and free for ages 5 and younger.

Info: asimn.org

Santa & Albert ⊲ Celebrate the season with a new 20-minute play, Who Wants To Be A Toymaker? Following the performance, Santa and Albert will lead a sing-along of carols. Seating

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December 2018 • mnparent.com

is first come, first serve. Bring your own camera to have your picture taken with Santa.

When: Multiple showtimes Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 16.

Photos-only nights will be from 6 to 7 p.m. Nov. 26 and Dec. 3.

Where: Bachman’s Floral, Gift & Garden, Minneapolis Cost: FREE Info: bachmans.com

Holidazzle ⊲ Take part in a local tradition with movies, fireworks, a kid zone, interactive art, games, food vendors and more at this annual outdoor festival.

When: Thursdays–Sundays through Dec. 23 Where: Loring Park, Minneapolis Cost: FREE Info: holidazzle.com

Santa’s Village ⊲ Stores are decked out for Christmas and offer free 4-by-6 studio-quality photos with Santa and free family holiday activities.

When: Daily through Dec. 24 Where: Cabela’s throughout Minnesota Cost: FREE Info: cabelas.com/santa

NOV. 30

Holiday Tree Lighting ⊲ The ceremonial illumination of the Union Depot Holiday Tree at 7 p.m. will be followed by fireworks and a showing of the film Elf. When: Nov. 30. Stop by the outdoor European Christmas Market Nov. 30–Dec. 2, Dec. 7–9.

Where: Union Depot, St. Paul Cost: FREE Info: uniondepot.org/holiday

Photo by AJ. Mellor

Ice Castles

NOV. 30–DEC 22

DEC. 5

⊲ Children play all the kid parts in this adaptation of the TV classic, including ASL-interpreted (Dec. 9) and audiodescribed (Dec. 7) performances.

⊲ The 20-plus instrument ensemble will perform holiday classics.

A Charlie Brown Christmas

When: Nov. 30–Dec 22 Where: Steppingstone Theatre, St. Paul Cost: $7–$15. Pay-as-you’re-able tickets ($5 minimum) are available one hour before each performance.

Info: steppingstonetheatre.org

DEC. 1–2

A Nutcracker Story ⊲ The St. Paul Ballet transports the audience to a magical land of dancing snow, colorful characters and swirling flowers.

When: Dec. 1–2 Where: The O’Shaughnessy, St. Paul Cost: $22–$37 Info: oshag.stkate.edu

DEC. 1–16

Santa’s Train Shop ⊲ Ride a train, take a photo with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, enjoy shop tours, face painting, a balloon artist and live music.

When: Saturdays and Sundays Dec. 1–16 Where: Minnesota Transportation Museum, St. Paul Cost: Admission is $10–$12 or $5 for ages 4 and younger. Train rides are included with admission.

Santa photos cost $5.

Info: transportationmuseum.org/santa

DEC. 5–30

Elf: The Musical ⊲ A stage adaptation of the 2003 Will Ferrell film follows Buddy, who grew up at the North Pole.

When: Dec. 5–30 Where: Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, St. Paul Cost: $53–$125 Info: ordway.org

Minnesota Mandolin Orchestra When: Noon–1 p.m. Dec. 5 Where: Landmark Center, St. Paul Cost: FREE Info: landmarkcenter.org

DEC. 6–9

Disney on Ice ⊲ Mickey Mouse leads a parade of more than 50 characters, including Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy, Cinderella, Rapunzel, Ariel, Snow White, Tiana, Anna, Elsa and Olaf.

When: Dec. 6–9 Where: Xcel Energy Center, St. Paul Cost: Tickets start at $18 Info: xcelenergycenter.com

DEC. 8

Star of Wonder ⊲ Clap, wiggle and sing along to favorite carols during this 45-minute holiday concert at a new location. Pillows, baby bottles and teddy bears are welcome.

When: 9:30 and 11 a.m. Dec. 8 Where: Mia, Minneapolis Cost: $15 for adults, free for kids attending with a paid adult Info: vocalessence.org

DEC. 8

Royal Winter Ball ⊲ Meet Santa, dance with princesses to music with a live DJ and enjoy face painting, games, goodie bags, live performances and activities.

When: Dec. 8 Where: The Shoppes of Arbor Lakes, Maple Grove Cost: $45 (for one adult, one child) Info: eventbrite.com

DEC. 8–23

Holiday Traditions ⊲ In this workshop for ages 6 to 14 with accompanying adults, families bake mnparent.com • December 2018

45

Out & About holiday treats and learn about different holiday traditions in Minneapolis.

When: Dec. 8–9, 15–16, 22–23 Where: Mill City Museum, Minneapolis Cost: $25–$27 for adults or $23 for ages 6–17 Info: mnhs.org

DEC. 9

Musical Museum ⊲ Kids take over Mia for the monthly Family Day, making their own instruments, joining a band and singing and dancing along to performances.

When: Dec. 9 Where: Minneapolis Institute of Art Cost: FREE Info: new.artsmia.org

Santa’s Workshop ⊲ Get a free photo with Santa and stay for games, crafts and gift making.

When: Dec. 9 Where: Landmark Center, St. Paul Cost: FREE Info: landmarkcenter.org

DEC. 10–11

Holiday Train ⊲ See a Canadian Pacific train decorated for the holidays, making stops in 20 Minnesota towns to raise money, donations and awareness for local food banks. Festivities, which last about 30 minutes, include a brief presentation from local food bank officials and short performances by the Canadian rock band The Trews and Wisconsin singer-songwriter Willy Porter.

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December 2018 • mnparent.com

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When: Twin Cities stops will be Dec. 10–11.

Where: See cpr.ca for the full schedule and exact locations.

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THROUGH JAN. 6

Winter Lights

⊲ A walking tour of 14 themed vignettes circles the arboretum’s main buildings.

Indoors, check out a 24-foot-tall live poinsettia tree, plus other displays.

When: Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings through Jan. 6, plus Dec. 26–27 Where: Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Chaska Cost: Free with gate admission of $15 for ages 16 and older, free for ages 15 and younger Info: arbwinter.umn.edu

DEC. 13–15, 20–22

Illumination

⊲ Explore things that glow under dimmed lights at the museum. Try your hand at light painting, make glow-in-thedark slime, experiment with shadows and color and more.

When: 5–9 p.m. Dec. 13–15, 20–22 Where: Science Museum of Minnesota, St. Paul Cost: Included with admission of $18.95 for adults or $12.95 for ages 4–12 and 65 and older Info: smm.org

DEC. 14–23

Nutcracker Fantasy ⊲ More than 150 dancers, artists and theatrical professionals collaborate as part of the Minnesota Dance Theatre’s annual performance of this Loyce Houlton production.

When: Dec. 14–23 Where: State Theatre, Minneapolis Cost: $30–$75 Info: hennepintheatretrust.org

DEC. 15

Pet Photography ⊲ This Animal Academy workshop teaches kids how to capture the perfect pet photo.

When: Dec. 15

Spreading Hope to Families of Micro-Preemie Babies, One Potato at a Time. thepotatoheadproject.org

The Potato Head Project MNP 2017 Filler H6.indd 1

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Photo by Susie Hopper

Where: Animal Humane Society, Golden Valley Cost: $40 Info: animalhumanesociety.org

Family Arts Day ⊲ Families are invited to make take-home art projects, participate in interactive arts activities and see demos by local artists.

There will also be a summer camp raffle, theater games and treats.

When: 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Dec. 15 Where: Artistry Theater, Bloomington Center for the Arts Cost: FREE Info: artistrymn.org

Call for an appointment today:

Northstar Holiday Train ⊲ Train fans can take free rides and enjoy shopping, food and seasonal entertainment, including appearances

by Anna, Elsa and Olaf.

When: Dec. 15 Where: Union Depot, St. Paul Cost: FREE Info: metrotransit.org

DEC. 21 AND 28

A New Year Celebration ⊲ Try a variety of 19th-century parlor games and dances and listen (and sing along) to popular songs of the era.

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mnparent.com • December 2018

47

Out & About

THROUGH DEC. 29

DEC. 26–JAN. 1

Winter Break

Winnie the Pooh

⊲ Celebrate winter in the woods with art activities, performances and special appearances by Paul Bunyan.

⊲ This musical adaptation of a classic tale is intended for young children, with show times in the late morning and early afternoon.

Sample holiday cakes, puddings and other treats, freshly baked from the wood-burning stove.

When: Dec. 26–Jan. 1 Where: Minnesota History Center, St. Paul Cost: Included with museum admission of $6–$12 Info: mnhs.org

When: Through Dec. 29 Where: Old Log Theatre, Excelsior Cost: $7–$15 Info: oldlog.com

When: Dec. 21 and 28 Where: Alexander Ramsey House, St. Paul Cost: $18–$20 for adults or $10 for ages 5–17 Info: mnhs.org

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Great times for all ages at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory

Always put every medicine and vitamin up and away every time you use it. Also, program your poison control center’s number in your phone: 800.222.1222.

To learn more, visit UpandAway.org Week-long camps June–August • Behind-the-scenes experiences • Meet zookeepers and gardeners

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FROM OUR READERS

Dynamic duos!

Happy holidays from all of us at Minnesota Parent — and from these families who shared their favorite seasonal snapshots. Adorbs!

↑↑Carson, 7, and Ethan, 9, of Woodbury

↑↑Eli, 3, and Lydia 11/2, of Lakeville

↑↑Roya, 11/2, and Ty, 3 of Prior Lake

↑↑Gavin, 5, and Silas, 3 — and their pooch, Oscar — of Spring Lake Park

↑↑Quinn, 6, and Cora, 2, of New Prague

Send photos with your child’s first name, age and city to editor@mnparent.com with the subject line #fromourreaders.

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December 2018 • mnparent.com

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