Epic Kids - August 2023

PAGE2020 10 January

NURTURING MINDS AND MUSCLES

Vol. 1 • No. 1

PAGE 9

Xtreme Gymnastics puts HART into fitness and learning PAGE 14

SARI ON SCIENCE Design a Space Helmet

AUGUST 2023

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Now Enrolling!

Creighton Neighborhood Schools inspire adventurous thinkers, collaborative learners and kind-hearted leaders Join the adventure today!

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CONNECT WITH Get In Touch:

2550 W. Union Hills Drive, Ste. 350-9433 Phoenix, AZ 85027

XTREME GYMNASTICS Ages 6 months - 16 years

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Submissions and suggestions: Press Releases: Submit press releases via email to hello@epickidsaz.com.

Events Calendar: Submit press releases or event listings including all details to hello@epickidsaz. com. The deadline for the September issue is September 1.

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Contact the sales department by phone at 888-313-7916 or by email at advertising@egpublishing.com.

Where to Find Us:

Epic Kids is distributed each month directly into the backpacks of children in K-8 charter and private schools. You can also find us placed in racks where kids and their families are out and about. To see a full list of locations, visit our website.

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Staff:

Natasha & Brian Beal / Publishers Sondra Barr / Editor Shannon Carrillo / Production & Design Erica Odello / Ad Design

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Every effort is made to avoid errors, misspellings and omissions. If, however, an error comes to your attention, please accept our sincere apologies and notify us.

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EPIC KIDS | AUGUST 2023 | 3

H e a d li n e rs

Ghosts, Glaciers, and Grizzlies A epic family adventure in the Canadian Rockies.

By Nicholas Bubeck Photos courtesy of the Bubeck family

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ummertime is adventure time for me and my family. Over the summer, we spent two weeks in the Canadian Rockies and the experience was so cool.

brings you to a glacier via Ice Explorers (big ice-crawling buses only in Canada and Antarctica). The exciting experience lets you hang out on the glacier and touch the melted water. The road to the expedition, called the Icefields Parkway, is known as the prettiest in the world.

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About 30 minutes from Instead of states, Canada Banff is Lake Louise, the is made of provinces, one world’s most photographed being Alberta. Alberta is lake because it’s the craziest where Banff is, Canada’s first color blue you’ll ever see! This National Park. Banff is an awesome place glacier-fed lake owes its shade of turquoise to explore; we saw bears, turquoise-colored to the particles of rock flour resulting from glacial erosion. You can canoe on the lake, lakes, and stayed at haunted hotels. and if you’re brave, take a refreshing dip in Here are six neat facts about visiting the 40-degree water... my brothers and I did the area and why you’ll enjoy it.

(I went under the chilly water twice!).

The Canadian Rockies is home to Known as Canada’s “Castle in the the world-famous Columbia Icefield Rockies” is the Fairmont Banff Springs Adventure, where you get to walk on a real Hotel, and it’s over 130 years old. Staying glacier! It’s the only tour in the world that there is like really experiencing a castle, but it’s also said to be haunted. According to legends, a young couple decided to get married at the hotel around the time it opened. As the bride walked down some stairs, her dress caught fire from a candle, and she died. Ever since, many say they’ve seen a ghost bride gliding down the stairs.

1.

3.

The Lake Louise ski mountain is super 4. snowy in the winter, but in summer, it’s super sunny and bears come out. The

me. Have you ever been on a skybridge?

Well, the skybridges there hang nearly 500 feet above canyons — they’re the highest suspension bridges in Canada! There’s also a mountain coaster, ropes course, rock climbing, a long zipline, and a super fun playground.

Want to know something crazy? How 6. about mountains that are older than dinosaurs? Dinosaurs lived over 60 million

years ago and the mountains in Banff today are as old as 120 million years!

Nicholas Bubeck is an Epic Kids monthly columnist and CEO of creationsbynicholas. com. You can follow his adventures on Instagram, @creationsbynicholas and @mamaandmyboys.

scenic chairlift is a fun ride where you can safely scan for grizzlies... and guess what, we spotted a few! We learned that bears in the Canadian Rockies eat over 200,000 berries a day, equal to 75 burgers a day!

Other common wildlife in Banff includes elk, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, wolves, marmots, wolverines, bald eagles, and pumas.

Nearby Alberta in Golden, British 5.

Columbia, is the Golden Sky Bridge, an adventure park for thrill-seekers like 4 | AUGUST 2023 | EPIC KIDS

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h e a d li n e rs

OdySea Aquarium Celebrates Young Artists in Conservation Art Challenge

Photo courtesy of OdySea Aquarium

special VIP Room, honoring his outstanding artistic contribution.

cottsdale’s OdySea Aquarium announced 5-year-old Albie Thomas from North Phoenix as one of their five winners of its third annual Conservation Art Challenge. Albie showcased his talent and dedication to the environment by creating a stunning work of art representing a humphead wrasse by using coffee pods, cardboard, and bubble wrap. The Conservation Art Challenge had children aged 12 and under create a work of art in the form of an animal, preferably an endangered species, from recycled materials to celebrate World Endangered Species Day and World Oceans Day.

Albie and the other winners were each awarded a one-of-a-kind painting created by an OdySea Aquarium cownose stingray using a special apparatus that allows them to paint on canvas. Painting gives the stingrays a form of enrichment, which encourages the animals to exercise control and choice in their environment, enhancing their overall wellbeing.

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Every child who entered the challenge with artwork received a complimentary child's general admission ticket to the aquarium.

This year, OdySea received 587 entries from children all over the Valley. Thomas was one of five to be voted as a top submission for his creation. As a winner, Thomas and his immediate family were invited back to OdySea Aquarium for an exclusive celebration that took place in the aquarium’s

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All the lucky winners were then paid a visit from animal ambassador Sedona, a female African penguin. Sedona was accompanied by knowledgeable OdySea Aquarium animal care specialist who answered questions and shared penguin fun facts. Thomas and his family posed for photos with the adorable Sedona, making this a memorable experience not soon forgotten.

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The Conservation Art Challenge fosters creativity and raises awareness about the importance of conservation. OdySea Aquarium commends Thomas for his understanding of the significance of keeping the environment and wildlife safe.

EPIC KIDS | AUGUST 2023 | 5

H e a d li n e rs

Cerebral Palsy is No Hurdle for Boulder Creek High School Runner

By Amy Wolff

Jack has encountered a lot of hurdles in his life.

Running competitively has helped increase Photos courtesy of the Florez family his physical strength and grow his confidence. ack Florez, a high school senior at Boulder Plus, it’s also helped other teenagers on his Creek High School was diagnosed with team develop compassion and acceptance cerebral palsy when he was just 2 years old. for those with disabilities. “Running is hard, Today he is a competitive cross-country runner but my UCP therapists worked to prepare me with dreams of continuing his running career for the challenge,” says Jack. “They helped in college thanks to countless hours of physical me set goals and develop the confidence I and occupational therapy at United Cerebral needed to not only join the school team, but “Jack has difficulty with motor planning, or the Palsy of Central Arizona. to run outside on uneven terrain, which is very ability to carry out an activity using the right difficult for me. Cross country still isn’t easy, Jack has always been a fighter. Born at just 28 steps from beginning to end of the task,” says Diweeks gestation, he spent months in a pediatric rector of the Therapy and Early Learning Center but whenever I fall, I know my teammates and my therapists are there to pick me up and intensive care unit where he was diagnosed at UCP of Central Arizona’s Valerie Pieraccini. encourage me to keep going.” with periventricular leukomalacia, or PVL, a type of brain damage that involves the periventricular When Jack was in middle school, he wanted to Even after hundreds of hours of physical and ocwhite matter of the brain. Roughly 60 to 100% of play sports like the other kids, but didn’t have cupational therapy, painful Botox treatments, leg infants with periventricular leukomalacia are also the physical ability to play basketball or baseball. braces and reconstruction of his foot and AchilHis mom searched for opportunities for him diagnosed with cerebral palsy. les tendon that forced him to run in a leg brace, to be part of a team, but also allowed him to Jack still perseveres and hopes he inspires kids For Jack, his cerebral palsy manifests itself in be an individual. That’s when they discovered cross-country running. tight muscles and compromised motor skills. to never give up – no matter what.

J

From Backyard to Ballpark

Teen’s vision transforms into the Fourth Annual Western WIFFLE Ball Championship.

By Sondra Barr Photos courtesy of Logan Rose

agine baseball's cool cousin. Played with a mag- you enjoy, you can achieve so much more than ic-like plastic ball that can zig, zag, and zoom in you can imagine.” Given the Western WIFFLE unexpected ways, it offers thrills unlike any other. Ball Championship's success, his words ring true. t all began in the backyard of 16-year-old Logan Rose during those quiet days of the COVID-19 This year, the festivities have shifted from Scotts- So, gear up for a day of Wiffle-tastic fun! And remember, it's not just a game; it's a testament dale Stadium to Goodyear Ballpark, a regular pandemic. What started as a simple passion to a young boy's dream and determination. playground for baseball pros like the Cleveland project has now transformed into a national phenomenon! Get ready to mark your calendars for Guardians and Cincinnati Reds. The ceremonial Ready to be part of the action? Register your first pitch is scheduled for 9 a.m., signaling the Saturday, Oct. 21, as Goodyear Ballpark, 1933 S. team and find more details at blwwiffleball.com. start of an exhilarating day.

Ballpark Way, Goodyear, hosts the Fourth Annual Western WIFFLE Ball Championship.

Whether you're a competitive player or just someone seeking recreational fun, there's a spot Logan's idea wasn't just about playing ball; it was about bringing joy, promoting outdoor activ- for you and your team, which can range from ities, and ensuring everyone stayed active. And three to five players. And for those who fancy their home run skills, step up for the Home Run boy, did he hit a home run with this idea! From its humble backyard beginnings, the champion- Derby. It's not just about winning; it's about participating, laughing, and creating memories. ship has grown to include over 75 teams from across the country. And that’s not all; it even Logan, with his innovative spirit and aided by his attracted YouTube sensation, Eric Sim, the King father's experience, managed to create an event Logan Rose started the Western WIFFLE Ball Championship of Juco, last year! that celebrates sports, camaraderie, and com-

I

What's Wiffle ball? If you're new to the fun, im6 | AUGUST 2023 | EPIC KIDS

munity. His mantra? “If you're doing something

after playing the sport in his backyard during the pandemic.

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Teen Math Wizards Summon Success Teen duo Kaitlyn Markham and Karina Zaveri transform learning struggles into success with MathMagicians Camp, supported by the Dragon Kim Foundation.

By Naya Seth

Photos provided by Kaitlyn Markham and Karina Zaveri

M

eet Kaitlyn Markham and Karina Zaveri! These two 16-year-olds from Xavier College Prep co-founded the MathMagicians Camp for students aged 5 to 10 who either have a learning disorder or struggle with math. They were able to achieve this with help from the Dragon Kim Foundation.

The Dragon Kim Foundation (DKF) offers two programs: the Fellowship Program and the Music Program. It was through the Fellowship Program that Karina and Kaitlyn brought their vision to life. This program is open to high schoolers from Arizona, Nevada, or California who are looking to create positive change in their communities. It accepts applications for service project ideas from November to January, with only a select number of students or teams being accepted.

Kaitlyn Markham and Karina Zaveri

The Dragon Fellows put their projects into motion from March to August, receiving support from a mentor tailored to the project's focus, three weekends for building leadership and business skills, and a grant of up to $5,000 to launch their idea. By August, all the projects have either been completed or reached a major milestone. The Dragon Fellows then attend a celebratory graduation to share their results.

Three special projects are chosen from the graduation to compete in the Dragon Challenge at a gala in September, with the winners receiving additional funding from the DKF.

Karina and Kaitlyn partnered up after hearing about the DKF, united by their shared love of math. Karina's firsthand experience with friends struggling with ADHD or dyslexia in a fast-paced learning environment motivated them to create the camp. After applying to the DKF through a short answer response and a brief video, they were accepted and partnered with a mentor. They also spent three weekends enhancing their confidence, public speaking, and leadership skills.

The DKF provided $5,000, used for items such as games, advertising, snacks, water, and t-shirts for campers. After exploring various locations, they settled on the Franciscan Renewal Center, in Paradise Valley, which donated space for camp sessions to them.

They then reached out to local schools to promote the camp and develop their curriculum. Their first week of camp ran from June 12 to 16, followed by day camps from July 10 to 12, with around 70 campers attending.

A typical day at MathMagicians camp included a brief icebreaker, followed by rotations through different math-related games, with 15 to 20 minutes at each station. High school volunteers assisted in running the camp. The girls plan to continue the camp next year, aiming to expand its reach in the community through more volunteers and locations.

8 | AUGUST 2023 | EPIC KIDS

Children with dyslexia or ADHD learned about math and discovered a love of learning during the MathMagicians Camp.

Karina and Kaitlyn not only learned about entrepreneurship but also gained valuable lessons in perseverance. As Kaitlyn reflects, being a teenager means that people may not always take you seriously, but they've shown that they can make a difference regardless of their age. Their advice to other young innovators is to pursue what they're passionate about, as they can indeed create change.

For more information about the DKF, visit dragonkimfoundation.org. Details about the MathMagicians Camp are available on Instagram at @mathmagicianss.

Naya Seth, 13 years old, loves to read and write.

She is a member of National Junior Honor Society and National Charity League and enjoys participating in various philanthropy activities.

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pic Kids is back with a thrilling giveaway for all of our incredible readers! Are you ready to dive into the world of color and music with your family? Here's your chance!

you enjoy two small salads, one appetizer, one pizza, one pitcher of soda, and four scoops of ice cream. All this is yours to enjoy with a gift card worth $65.

never before. Let your imagination run wild as you and your family create colorful memories that will last a lifetime! Get a family four-pack of tickets worth $100.

HERE’S HOW TO ENTER: Want to win this fabulous family fun pack? Send an email to hello@epickidsaz.com with "I WANT TO GO TO ORGAN STOP PIZZA" in the subject line. Hurry, as entries received by 5 p.m., Friday, Aug. 25, will be entered to win the prize. For complete contest rules, visit epickkidsaz.com/cool-contests.

FIRST STOP: Organ Stop Pizza, home of the Mighty Wurlitzer Pipe Organ! Prepare to be amazed by the largest theater pipe organ ever created! The stunning 1927 Wurlitzer organ will serenade you with classics like "The Flight of the Bumblebee" and "The Star Wars" theme. Imagine dining under the spellbinding melodies of this magnificent instrument as NEXT: A colorful journey at the Crayola Experience in Chandler! Get ready to unleash your creativity at Crayola's premier family attraction. With dozens of hands-on activities, you'll explore art, technology, and color like

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C o v e r s t o ry

Nurturing Minds and Muscles Xtreme Gymnastics puts HART into fitness and learning

By Shay Moser Photos courtesy of Xtreme Gymnastics

A

imee Burton started in ballet at age 6, following in her older sister's footsteps. Little did she know that getting kicked out of ballet for doing handstands and cartwheels would lead to the role she’s held for 29 years.

Aimee is the director and owner of Xtreme Gymnastics in Scottsdale, where kids are inspired to get fit and learn in an exciting environment. Its variety of programs helps children develop the strength and self-esteem they need to succeed.

She began teaching gymnastics parttime in March 1989. "I loved it, quit my job, went full-time, and that was it; I never looked back," says Aimee.

She recently sat down with Epic Kids to share about Xtreme Gymnastics and its offerings.

HART Principles in Practice "HART principles are what set us apart," Aimee says. "It's not only about gymnastics. We try to instill characterbuilding along with all the fun of doing gymnastics."

Aimee explains that every month, the gymnastics coaches focus on a different HART principle, including honor, attitude, responsibility, and teamwork.

Honor is about honesty in word and action. A positive attitude has dramatic effects and is contagious. Responsibility is accepting consequences for choices, positive or negative. And teamwork is being united in developing confident, healthy, responsible children. The gym coaches take opportunities throughout each class to point out examples of the kids exhibiting a HART principle.

“As they get further along in gymnastics, they're held more accountable for showing HART principles, recognizing those traits in others, and helping each other demonstrate them,” says Aimee.

Besides character-building, gymnastics naturally promotes crossing the midline, the imaginary line down the body's

10 | AUGUST 2023 | EPIC KIDS

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center that divides it left and right.

Crossing the body's midline is the ability to reach across the middle of the body to perform tasks on the opposite side of the body.

“Beginning with our Kinder-gym programs, we deliberately encourage upside down and crossing the midline movements,” she says. “It's been scientifically proven to improve kids’ academic performance.”

Turning Energy into Ambition Ninja Zone classes help energetic kids from ages 3 to 12 move through a fusion of obstacle training, martial arts, gymnastics, and freestyle movement. Gym coaches help “ninjas” channel their energy and learn to safely spin, roll, flip, and kick.

“Ninja Zone is geared toward capturing boys’ attention,” explains Aimee. “It has the same benefits for any child but registers better with boys and their parents.”

Burton says Xtreme Xplosion is the next step up from the Ninja Zone. Students move through exercises uniquely designed to build strength, balance, and explosive power to develop and enhance their athletic abilities.

“It’s development for pure athleticism,” says Aimee. “Several students are top in their sports locally and have gone on to play in the NCAA. It's a way of supplementing whatever sport they're taking, giving them an edge. We have tools and a way of using them that you can't get in a weight room or running laps on a track.”

Gymnastics for Little Ones Xtreme Gymnastics coaches encourage children ages 2 to 4 to move in various ways, helping them learn to roll, swing, jump, and balance while enhancing their social awareness.

Move-N-Learn Preschool The Move-N-Learn curriculum takes advantage of Xtreme Gymnastics’ combination of instruction in early childhood motor development and scholastic success.

“This age is prime for physical, mental, and emotional development and haptics,” says Aimee. “Those years up until age 5 get the highest level of benefit from participating in gymnastics because of the nature of going upside down and crossing the midline.”

“We took the concepts of early childhood brain development and applied them to preschool,” says Aimee. “Kids simultaneously do physical and academic learning in our 16,000-square-foot facility. Adding the physical component helps them retain the lesson better than sitting at a desk.”

Xtreme Gymnastics follows the same calendar as the Scottsdale Unified School District so kids can exercise and learn during summer, fall, winter, and spring breaks. Families can also take advantage of Parents’ Night Out and birthday parties.

“I'm looking forward to our continued growth and exposing more children to what we do and how we do it,” says Aimee.

Learn more: xtremegymnastics.com, xtreme@xtremegymnastics.com, or 480-596-3543. Xtreme Gymnastics is located at 14000 N. Hayden Rd. #102 in Scottsdale.

Gymnastics for Ages 5 and Older Beginning at age 5, kids move through balance beams, bars, trampolines, and more, learning key gymnastics skills.

“From age 5 and up, you're not creating new pathways, but you're making the pathways that you have more efficient,” explains Aimee. “So, they continue to benefit from going upside down, turning around, and flipping around.”

If kids have the interest or natural ability, they can join a competitive gymnastics team next.

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EPIC KIDS | AUGUST 2023 | 11

C a r e e r D ay

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST

Brittany McFadden turns playtime into progress. they need to do things that are community like a store, museum or park and work on skills there. important for being a kid.

There are OTs that work with adults too.

At UCP of Central Arizona, I also teach parents ideas and What type of training do strategies to help their kids you need to do your job? grow and find ways to change To be an occupational therapist how activities are done or you need to get a graduate how a room is organized so degree. That means going kids can be successful. I write to college first and getting a evaluations and reports to bachelor’s degree. I got a B.S. communicate with doctors degree in speech and hearing and families so we can keep science and psychology. I track of our goals and what learned sign language because Brittany McFadden we are working on. Every kid that’s super helpful in my job at is unique, so it means listening UCP of Central Arizona. Then Profession: Pediatric Occupational Therapist (OT) a lot, paying attention, and you have to go to graduate being creative with what I at United Cerebral Palsy of school for two to three years. do for each individual child.

Central Arizona Next you do fieldwork, which Sometimes I work in a UCP is like on-the-job training. After Age: I’m 37. I started working clinic where we have really cool that you have to take a big as an OT when I was 26. swings and activities to do, and exam about everything you’ve What do you do for a living? I collaborate with my team of learned. When you pass, you I get to play with kids! therapists. Sometimes I travel to get a license so you can be an Pediatric means I’m an OT a kid’s house, and other times OT. Every year you have to take that specializes with kids. we might go somewhere in the classes to keep learning and At United Cerebral Palsy of growing. You get to pick these Central Arizona, I work to out based on what interests discover what a child can do you and what’s important for and what they are having a your work. hard time doing. My goal is What’s your favorite part always to find out what keeps of your job? a child from being successful I love getting to know kids and uncover solutions. Maybe and see them grow and learn they have a hard time thinking new things. At UCP of Central through a task like getting Arizona the kids have great dressed, or maybe their hands ideas, and they teach me are not strong enough to color or hold a spoon, it could be a lot. Sometimes it takes a almost anything. Then I find really long time to learn to do creative ways to use play and something new, but when it fun to help them build the skills happens, we really celebrate!

12 | AUGUST 2023 | EPIC KIDS

What did you want to be when you were growing up?

When I was a kid, I wanted to be a doctor, an architect, and fly airplanes. I still want to grow up and fly airplanes!

What advice would you give to a kid who wants to have a similar career?

Occupational therapy is a very big area of work and is very rewarding. You can make a big difference in a child’s life. Try lots of different activities and get to know a lot of different people. This will help you understand people and have more creative ideas for your work. To be an OT you will need to learn to be patient, listen well, and be a good teacher.

One fun fact NOT about your job?

I like doing handstands when I need a movement break. It helps me wake up!

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G E TA W AYS

Splash, Putt, and Play

Your guide to a fun-filled Labor Day weekend in the Valley.

Challenge friends and family across four cutMavrix & Octane Raceway ting-edge courses and let the patented Tracket ready to dive into a Labor Day aball technology handle the scorekeeping. adventure! In just a few weeks, families Hungry? Bite into delicious treats at the on-site across the Valley are gearing up for restaurant. Hurry, the holiday will be jumping, an unforgettable holiday weekend filled with book online at puttshack.com. friends, fun, and fantastic memories. Check JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort, out these sizzling spots to make your Labor AquaRidge Water Park Day a blast.

By Gretchen Pahia

G

Hurricane Harbor

Frolic, laugh, and make a splash at Hurricane Harbor in the west Valley. On Sunday, Sept.

3, enjoy a dazzling fireworks show, free with your day’s admission. Keep cool at Hurricane Harbor on weekends until September 30.

Grab your tickets on-site or at sixflags.com/ phoenix.

Puttshack

Ready to putt your way to victory? Visit Puttshack in the Scottsdale Quarter, the world's premier tech-driven mini golf venue.

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Get set for a thrilling Labor Day adventure at Mavrix & Octane Raceway in Scottsdale. On Monday, Sept. 4, families can enjoy unlimited fun at Mavrix with a $15 Unlimited Fun Pass, good for endless bowling, laser tag, and billiards all day. Don't miss the doorbuster deal from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., offering buy-oneget-one-free $20 game cards. Next door at Octane Raceway, rev up your engines a little Dive into 140,000 square feet of pool paradise! earlier at 10 a.m., and swing into half-off axe From the dual-person Gullywasher to the throwing for an unforgettable day. For more thrilling Drop, and the gentle Little Eddy, excitement and pricing details, zoom over to there's a slide for everyone. Get your day mavrix.com and octaneraceway.com. passes and more at marriott.com/en-us/ hotels/phxdr-jw-marriott-phoenix-desertridge-resort-and-spa.

Arizona Diamondbacks The Arizona Diamondbacks are ready to hit a home run this Labor Day weekend.

From Friday to Sunday, catch them hosting the Baltimore Orioles, then on Labor Day, they'll be taking on the Colorado Rockies.

Join the celebration on Sunday, Sept. 3, for Irish Heritage Day, where a portion of ticket sales benefits the Irish Cultural Center and McClelland Library. Be an early bird and grab a limited-edition Irish Heritage cap available to special event ticket holders (while supplies last). Play ball with the Diamondbacks and find your tickets at mlb.com/dbacks.

EPIC KIDS | AUGUST 2023 | 13

B r a i n P lay

Sari on SCIENCE DESIGN A SPACE HELMET A

By Sari Custer

CHALLENGE: CAN YOU ENGINEER A SAFE SPACE HELMET TO PROTECT space helmet is vital for any YOUR ASTRONAUT? • astronaut traveling into space.

• Make an observation on your egg.

The helmet can protect the Where is it the most fragile? Where astronaut’s skull from any sudden impacts. Engineering your own helmet should you focus on protecting takes a lot of time and testing to your astronaut? Place your egg in • perfect it. Using an egg to represent a sandwich bag and place it to the an astronaut skull, use your nogging to side. design and test an egg-cellent helmet • The water bottle will be the for your astronaut! base for the helmet and SUPPLIES can be used however you would like. The egg in • 1 egg the bag has to be placed • 1 sandwich bag per egg within the water bottle • 1 water bottle somehow.

• 1 pair of scissors • Present additional materials that can be • 1 roll of tape used as cushioning for your helmet.

• Any small materials around the Feel free to set rules on how house such as: materials distribution will work (e.g., • cotton balls you can only pick three additional • balloons materials or tape counts as one • small pieces of fabric material).

• tissue paper • Design a plan. Draw and label the • cardboard needed materials. Once the design • popsicle sticks plan has been approved, you can • string

14 | AUGUST 2023 | EPIC KIDS

start engineering the helmet! (Keep the egg in the bag for easy clean up).

When complete, determine your testing site with a consistent drop height. You can stand on a chair with your arm straight out.

Drop the helmet and see what happens! Was your astronaut protected?

Grab your space helmets and head over to Arizona Science Center.

Seated under the 60foot NanoSeam dome in Dorrance Planetarium, you’ll explore billions of stars, and so much more.

Sari Custer is a lifelong science junkie, Chief Curiosity Officer at Arizona Science Center, and mom to daughter Carson, 7.

Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @ SariOnScience.

EPICKIDSAZ.COM

B r a i n P lay

BOOK CLUB THREE CLASSIC CHILDREN'S BOOKS TO READ

Dive into these classics and uncover the timeless messages that have touched the hearts of readers for generations.

"CHARLOTTE’S WEB"

AUTHOR: E.B. White AGES: 8-12 SYNOPSIS: On a small farm, a young pig named Wilbur is at risk

of being sent to the butcher. Enter Charlotte, a wise and caring spider, who hatches a plan to save him. Through the power of her web and words, she showcases Wilbur's uniqueness to the world. This touching tale of friendship, sacrifice, and the circle of life teaches readers about the beauty of unlikely friendships and the transient nature of life.

"THE SECRET GARDEN"

AUTHOR: Frances Hodgson Burnett AGES: 9-14 SYNOPSIS: Mary Lennox, a spoiled and lonely child, is sent to

live with her reclusive uncle in a grand, old mansion on the moors. There, she discovers a locked, neglected garden. With the help of new friends, Mary rejuvenates the garden, and in turn, the garden brings healing and happiness to everyone around it. This enchanting tale illustrates the magic that nature and care can bring to our lives.

"MATILDA"

AUTHOR: Roald Dahl AGES: 8-12 SYNOPSIS: Matilda is a brilliant young girl, unfortunately born into

a neglectful family. But when she starts school, she discovers not only a love for learning but also special telekinetic powers. With the help of her caring teacher, Miss Honey, Matilda uses her wit and abilities to stand up against the cruel headmistress, Miss Trunchbull. This story champions the idea that even the smallest person can stand tall with enough determination.

Give These Three Contemporary Books A Try

"THE ONE AND ONLY IVAN"

AUTHOR: Katherine Applegate AGES: 8-12 SYNOPSIS: Ivan, a silverback gorilla, lives in a cage at a

shopping mall. He’s used to his life and spends his days watching TV, painting, and chatting with his friends, Stella the elephant and Bob, a stray dog. Ivan's predictable life changes when a baby elephant named Ruby arrives. Through Ruby, Ivan begins to see his surroundings differently and vows to find a better life for them both. Narrated by Ivan himself, this touching story blends humor and poignancy, showcasing the power of friendship, art, and promise.

"PAX"

AUTHOR: Sara Pennypacker AGES: 9-13 SYNOPSIS: Peter and Pax, a boy and his fox, share an

unbreakable bond. When a war forces Peter to return Pax to the wild and move in with his grandfather, the two set off on separate journeys to reunite. Peter's trek through challenging terrains parallels Pax's adventures and struggles in the wild. With themes of friendship, war, and the bond between humans and animals, this beautifully written tale dives deep into the essence of loyalty and love.

"ESCAPE FROM MR. LEMONCELLO’S LIBRARY” AUTHOR: Chris Grabenstein AGES: 8-12 SYNOPSIS: Kyle Keeley is a game enthusiast,

and when he hears about an opportunity to be one of the first to experience the new town library—a creation of the legendary game maker, Luigi Lemoncello—he knows he has to be there. However, what starts as an exciting sleepover turns into a thrilling challenge: whoever can find a way out of Mr. Lemoncello's library using only clues hidden within books will win a fantastic prize. Teaming up with friends and racing against time, Kyle must decode the puzzles and find the exit.

A Big Thanks to Avery! For two years, Avery has been our book adventure guide, leading us through magical lands with her awesome reviews. Every time you picked a new book based on her suggestions, you experienced a bit of Avery's magic. Her smart ideas and cool writing have made story time even more epic.

Now, as Avery turns the page to her next chapter, we have exciting news! If you're a book-loving kid with a passion for sharing stories, we're looking for someone to step into Avery's reviewer shoes. Could that be you? If you’re interested in this opportunity, email hello@epickidsaz.com.

Avery, thanks for lighting up our world with your words. To all our Epic Kids pals, let's keep the reading magic alive, and who knows? Maybe YOU could be our next book reviewer!

EPICKIDSAZ.COM

EPIC KIDS | AUGUST 2023 | 15

just ffo or fun B r a i n P lay

JOKES AND FUN FACTS FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY.

1

2

What did one wall say to the other wall?

Why did the tomato turn red?

3 How do you make a tissue dance?

The human brain is the most complex organ in the body, containing an estimated 100 billion neurons and producing 70,000 thoughts each day.

The Eiffel Tower in Paris can be 15 centimeters shorter during cold weather due to the contraction of iron.

Butterflies taste with their feet!

Earth's atmosphere extends more than 600 miles above the planet's surface, gradually thinning out until it blends into the vacuum of space.

Snails need moisture to survive; so, if the weather is not cooperating, they sleep for up to three years. It has been reported that depending on geography, snails can shift into hibernation (which occurs in the winter), or estivation (also known as ‘summer sleep’), helping to escape warm climates. During this time, the snails will secrete mucus over their bodies to protect themselves from the dry, hot weather.

1. I'll meet you at the corner!. 2. Because it saw the salad dressing! 3. You put a little boogie in it!

make us chuckle!

Email a joke or far out fact, along with your first name, age, and the school you attend, to hello@epickidsaz.com 16 | AUGUST 2023 | EPIC KIDS

EPICKIDSAZ.COM

e l z z pu PAGE B r a i n P lay

AUGUST

WORD SEARCH Can you find the words hidden in the puzzle?

FIND 6 DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE TWO PICTURES.

DEVELOPMENT

CANADIAN

LEARNING

GYMNASTICS

POSITIVE

MUSCLES

MAGICIANS

SCIENCE

FITNESS

CHARACTER

BALANCE

SCHOOL

TEAMWORK

ROCKIES

COACH

Solution on page 19.

EPICKIDSAZ.COM

EPIC KIDS | AUGUST 2023 | 17

What's Happening

August 2023

Attend the grand Dream Chasers bash, marking the launch of the new 4D LEGO movie “Z-Blob Rescue Rush.” Activities include an enthralling escapade into a 4D universe beyond your wildest imagination, hunting fantastical creatures in MINILAND. And igniting your artistic flair in a one-of-a-kind mashup build challenge.

Info: legolanddiscoverycenter.com

“GOLDILOCKS” When: Through Aug. 20 Where: Great Arizona Puppet Theater, 302 W. Latham St., Phoenix What: The classic story of the little girl who unexpectedly meets up with the three bears.

Told with hand puppets and rod puppets, this adorable show is a delight. Recommended for ages 3 and up.

Info: azpuppets.org “CINDERELLA” When: Through Aug. 27 Where: Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix What: Come have a ball with Valley Youth Theatre’s season opener, Rodgers + Hammerstein’s “Cinderella!” This contemporary take on the timeless classic is a perfect marriage of music, lyrics, and magic. New characters, surprising twists, and the classic songwriting duo of Rodgers and Hammerstein will put a spell on a whole new generation of theatregoers who believe in magic, kindness, and the power of possibilities.

Info: vyt.com LEGO DREAMZZZ When: Through Sept. 17 Where: LEGOLAND Discovery Center, 5000 S. Arizona Mills Cir., Tempe What: Prepare for an exhilarating adventure!

18 | AUGUST 2023 | EPIC KIDS

STORYTIME AT THE DESERT BOTANICAL GARDEN When: Aug. 18 & 25 Where: Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 E. Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix What: Kids 5 and younger and their caregivers are invited to enjoy different nature-themed books and partake in songs and playtime while immersed in the Desert Botanical Garden. August 18, enjoy “Night Song,” by Ari Berk. On August 25, enjoy “Night Blooms” by Lara Hawthorne.

Info: dbg.org STORY TIME FEATURING PUPPETEERS & PUPPETS FROM “THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR” When: Aug. 19 Where: Butterfly Wonderland, 9500 E. Via de Ventura, Scottsdale What: Step into the enchanting world of Eric Carle's timeless classic children’s book. Join cast members and the beloved caterpillar and butterfly puppets from the critically acclaimed stage production of “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” playing at The Madison Center for

the Arts in Phoenix August 26 through October 8, as they make a special stop at Butterfly Wonderland for this unique Story Time performance! Suitable for guests of all ages, don’t miss this one-time appearance followed by photo opportunities for children with the caterpillar and butterfly!

Info: butterflywonderland.com C’MON LET’S GLOW PARTY When: Aug. 19 Where: Pioneer Arizona Living History Museum, 3901 W. Pioneer Rd., Phoenix What: Glamour and glow are the order of the day as attendees are invited to join the Malibu Princess inside the historic opera house.

Each participant will receive a glow wand to illuminate the experience and a raffle ticket with the chance to win exciting prizes. There will also be face painting stations.

Info: enchanteddreamproductions.com

HOT WHEELS MONSTER TRUCKS LIVE GLOW PARTY When: Aug. 19 & 20 Where: Desert Diamond Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Ave., Glendale What: Get ready for Glendale's first Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow Party!

Watch as your favorite monster trucks like Mega Wrex and Tiger Shark battle it out under vibrant lights. The event also debuts ARCTICGON, a fire-breathing dragon, and heart-pounding Freestyle Motocross stunts.

Child-friendly pricing makes this an affordable family treat!

Info: hotwheelsmonstertruckslive.com EPICKIDSAZ.COM

FOAM FRENZY When: Aug. 19 & 20 Where: Arizona Boardwalk, 9500 E. Via de Ventura, A100, Scottsdale What: This free event features endless foam parties, classic fire truck water play, water squirter battle zones, and other fun water activities from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.! Kick off summer at the coolest water party around!

Info: azboardwalk.com “HOWARD THE DUCK” WITH ALL PUPPET PLAYERS When: Aug. 20 Where: Orpheum Theatre, 203 W. Adams St., Phoenix What: Prepare for a unique cinematic experience with the All Puppet Players at the illustrious Orpheum Theatre. This audacious group offers a humorous spin on the Marvel film classic, "Howard the Duck." Expect an evening filled with laughter and playful banter as these comical puppets take the center stage, providing an unforgettable twist to your usual movie night.

Info: phoenixconventioncenter.com BABY BEAR GOES TO SCHOOL When: Aug. 23 – Sept. 10 Where: Great Arizona Puppet Theater, 302 W. Latham St., Phoenix What: Baby Bear is excited about his very first day of school in this cute, charming, musical show told in simple English. Great for preschool up to second grade and for anyone learning English as a second language.

Info: azpuppets.org “BEETLEJUICE” When: Aug. 24 – 27 Where: ASU Gammage, 1200 S. Forest Ave, Tempe What: Following a successful stint on Broadway, the whimsical ghost-with-the-most is bringing his spectacle to Tempe. Prepare for a theatrical delight! This comedic musical, based on the much-loved Tim Burton film, unfolds the peculiar tale of Lydia Deetz, an eccentric teenager whose life takes an unexpected turn upon encountering a recently deceased couple and EPICKIDSAZ.COM

a stripe-loving demon. With its cheeky script, breathtaking set design, and an otherworldly musical score, “Beetlejuice” is hailed as “incredibly entertaining” by “Variety.” Beneath its humor-filled veneer, this performance reveals a heartfelt narrative about family, love, and cherishing every moment of existence.

Info: asugammage.com/beetlejuice NIGHT BLAST SUMMER SPLASH When: Aug. 26 Where: Kiwanis Park, 6111 S. All American Way, Tempe What: Bid farewell to summer during the second annual Night Blast Summer Splash.

From 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., enjoy an evening packed with family entertainment including giant water slides, a dunk tank, water games, live music, and food vendors.

Info: rybeventz.com/event-details/2ndannual-night-blast-summer-splash

On Deck: October

On Deck: September PHOENIX FRIENDS SCHOOL FALL

KIDZ BOP KIDS When: Sept. 2 Where: Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix What: Enjoy an engaging performance from the KIDZ BOP Kids as they bring today's most popular songs to life on stage, featuring hits like "As It Was," "About That Time," and "AntiHero," amongst others. Designed as a familyfriendly pop concert, it offers an opportunity for children and their families to create enduring memories. Make sure to seize this chance for an unforgettable experience!

Info: kidzbop.com/tour SEASON KICKOFF FESTIVAL: WE CREATE THE FUTURE When: Sept. 8 Where: Mesa Center for the Arts, One E. Main St., Mesa What: This free, all-ages event features live music, tasty food, interactive activities, new art exhibitions, a glow zone play area for kids with light up cubes, puppet-making, and more.

Info: mesaartscenter.com/seasonkickoff

BREAK CAMPS When: Oct 9 - 13 Where: Central Church, 1875 N. Central Ave., Phoenix What: Discovering Experimental Science–– come as a camper; leave as a scientist.

Uncover the secrets of the living world. Explore how the world functions through hands-on experiments. Discover how our actions affect our world.

Civics and Citizenship––explore the workings of government. Participate in debates and role-playing to understand responsible citizenship. Campers learn the machinery of our complex Republic and how it evolved.

Info: phoenixfriendsschool.org

Crossword Solution From Page 17.

EPIC KIDS | AUGUST 2023 | 19