is still "swims" if flipped upside down, making it an ambigram. Ambigrams can be read the same way when viewed upside down, backwards or forwards, and from different angles.
about 550 peanuts to make a 12-ounce jar of peanut butter.
1. You planet. 2. A palm tree.
Get In Touch:
2550 W. Union Hills Drive, Ste. 350-9433 Phoenix, AZ 85027
888-313-7916
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 December issue is December 1.
Advertising:
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.
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.
Headliners
Pancakes, Fun, and Facts!
Kid reporter Nicholas Bubeck’s tasty adventure with Chef Joey.
Ihad so much fun meeting
Chef Joey Maggiore, an awesome local chef behind restaurants including Hash Kitchen and the Sicilian Butcher. I got to go to his book launch party for “Brunch King: Eats, Beats, and Boozy Drinks.” The book shares over 70 creative recipes.
HERE ARE 5 THINGS I LEARNED ABOUT CHEF JOEY:
1. He loves to fish and travel.
2. He learned to cook by watching his dad, Chef Tomaso.
3. He supports other chefs in Arizona.
4. He doesn’t like seeing people sad.
5. His wife and kids are the most important thing to him!
I also got this delicious recipe to share!
CINNAMON ROLL PANCAKES WITH CREAM CHEESE ICING
Cinnamon Roll Pancake Batter
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
1¾ tsp baking powder
¾ tsp baking soda
½ tsp kosher salt
1½ cups whole milk
3 tbsp + ½ tsp butter, melted
3 eggs, beaten
Cream Cheese Icing
¼ cup (½ stick) butter, softened
4 oz (½ cup) cream cheese, softened
½ tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
2 cups confectioners' sugar
Assembly
¼ cup (½ stick) butter
2 cups Cinnamon Roll Pancake Batter (see recipe)
¼ cup + 2 tbsp cream cheese Icing (divided, see recipe)
2 store-bought cinnamon buns, cut into smaller rings
Chopped walnuts
Syrup
Cinnamon Roll Pancake Batter
1. Sift flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt into a large bowl and whisk together.
2. Combine milk, melted butter, and eggs and whisk. Add wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
3. Batter can be stored in the fridge for up to two days.
Cream Cheese Icing
1. In a mixer, combine butter and cream cheese and beat until smooth. Add vanilla and salt. On low speed, beat in confectioners' sugar.
2. Refrigerate until needed.
Assembly
1. Heat a nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter.
2. Pour ½ cup batter and cook for 1 ½ minutes. Flip and cook for another 1 ½ minutes until golden brown. Transfer to a plate and cover with a dish towel to keep warm. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more butter as needed.
3. To serve, divide pancakes between two plates. Spread cream cheese icing on each pancake as you stack. Drizzle icing and syrup, and garnish with walnuts.
Nicholas Bubeck is an Epic Kids monthly columnist and CEO of creationsbynicholas. com. You can follow his adventures on Instagram, @creationsbynicholas and @mamaandmyboys.
Chef Joey Maggiore and kid reporter Nicholas Bubeck.
Headliners
From Dance Studio to Runway
Eleven-year-old Gilbert dancer shares her story about walking the runway at Los Angeles Fashion Week
By Carly Stidham
Photo courtesy of the Stidham family
Ihavebeen dancing for as long as I can remember. My mom says I started when I was 3, twirling around the house to whatever music was playing. Seeing how much I loved it, she signed me up for dance lessons, and I haven’t stopped since. When I was 6, I joined the performance team at Artistic Motion Dance in Gilbert, which was so much fun because I got to dance with girls my age at local events. A year later, I auditioned for the studio’s competitive team and earned a spot! Now, at 11 years old, I’ve been competing for the last four years. Competition is never scary for me; it’s always exciting! I love being on stage, showing off what
I’ve worked so hard on.
Earlier this year, something incredible happened. I was cast to walk the runway for Dragonwing, a brand I love, at Los Angeles Fashion Week last month. It was a dream come true to walk in their show. Dragonwing makes the kind of activewear and dancewear I wear all the time, so it felt amazing to represent them on such a big stage.
Walking for Dragonwing at Los Angeles Fashion Week was an unforgettable experience. But it wasn’t just about the runway. Meeting Allison Herman, the CEO of Dragonwing, was really inspiring. Her vision for the brand is all about encouraging girls like me to live boldly and authentically, which really spoke to me. I also got to meet and bond with dancers from all over
the country who were modeling for the brand, and we made some great memories together. Sharing that experience with other passionate dancers made the whole event even more special.
Now, I’m proud to say I’m a brand ambassador for Dragonwing! It feels great to represent a company I love and believe in. I’m still totally focused on my dance training and getting ready for my next competitions at Artistic Motion Dance, but I’m also excited about what might come next. Maybe there will be more runway shows or fashion opportunities in my future; who knows?
For now, I’m back at the studio, working hard, but I’ll always carry the memory of walking LA Fashion Week with me. Dancing teaches me so much, and now I know the
skills I’m developing will continue to open doors to opportunities I never imagined.
Carly walking the runway during Los Angeles Fashion Week.
A Farmtastic Holiday Celebration Out&About
Farms is thrilled to announce its first-ever Christmas Fest. This all-new holiday experience promises to bring cheer, family fun, and farm traditions together for an unforgettable celebration. Cono Vertuccio, the farm’s chief farming officer, says, “We were ready to create an all-new holiday-focused event for our favorite time of year, so we are rolling out our new affordable, family-friendly eventChristmas Fest, HO HO HO. So come on out and have some farmtastic holiday fun with us!”
Vertuccio Farms was started by Joe and Maria Vertuccio in 1979 after the couple immigrated to New York from Italy before making their way to Arizona where they purchased 40 acres of land in Chandler. It started simply with Joe and Maria planting watermelon and citrus, but it would grow to become a beloved staple of the community. Now run by Cono and his wife, Angela, Vertuccio Farms has grown into a destination for events and festivals year-round. Christmas Fest supports the farm’s mission to provide family friendly fun and education to their 75,000 annual visitors.
Set against a backdrop of millions of twinkling lights, Christmas Fest offers a variety of activities for all ages, including holiday displays, a winter wonderland walk-through, and plenty of seasonal photo opportunities.
WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO AT THE ALL-NEW CHRISTMAS FEST
Santa Visits: Capture the magic with Santa himself. Photo opportunities are available Dec. 6 through 8 and Dec. 13 through 23 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Stroll Through Their Winter Wonderland: Experience a winter wonderland with holiday lights, friendly farm animals, and all the holiday sights Vertuccio Farms offers.
Christmas Light Displays: Christmas lights illuminate the farm, creating a magical setting to explore and enjoy with loved ones.
Holiday Shopping at the Mistletoe Marketplace: Discover unique gifts, festive treats, and seasonal treasures at the Mistletoe Marketplace.
December 4th-23rd
Family Fun Zone: New this year, the kid’s play area features tube slides, jump pads, mini golf, ping pong, and corn hole, providing hours of fun in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Furry Friends: You can meet the farm’s friendly animals up close at the petting zoo or make a holiday memory with a pony ride.
Fireside S’mores: Cozy up by the fire pits to enjoy delicious s’mores in a warm, festive setting.
2024 Event Dates: Dec. 4 to 23. The event runs daily, and gates open at 5:30 p.m. The event will close at 9:30 p.m. Sunday to Thursday and at 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
Cost: $12 per person, children 2 years of age and under are free. $2 off each admission with a non-perishable donation to Valley Food Bank; Seniors 65+ $2 off; Military and First Responders $3 off. Where: 4011 S. Power Rd. between Elliot and Warner roads.
Parking: Free
Step into the world of knights, jousting, and sword fights! We’re giving away a family fourpack of tickets to Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament in Scottsdale, where you can cheer for your favorite knight while enjoying a royal feast!
To enter, email hello@ epickidsaz.com with the subject "I WANT TO GO TO MEDIEVAL TIMES" by 5 p.m., Fri., Nov. 29. Don’t miss your chance to go on a medieval adventure!
Good luck, brave knights and fair maidens!
Contest Winners
Congratulations to the Thomas and Kovach families for winning last month’s giveaways. The Thomas family won a twonight stay, four skate passes, and four Aurora Ice passes for Christmas at the Princess. The Kovach family, not pictured, won a family four-pack of tickets to Valley Youth Theatre’s “Charlotte’s Web” production.
Thomas family
Sparkling Lights & Family Nights
Get ready to experience the magic of the holiday season!
Here’s a guide to some of Arizona’s top family-friendly events, from dazzling light displays to festive performances and activities. Gather your family and explore these exciting holiday happenings, beginning in November and spreading cheer through December.
World of Illumination: Enchanted Safari
When: Nov. 15 – Dec. 29
Where: Tempe Diablo Stadium, 2200 W. Alameda Dr., Tempe
What: Explore a safari-themed holiday light show that takes you through jungles filled with brilliant, animated animals. This drive-through experience brings the magic of the wild to life with a festive twist.
Info: worldofillumination.com
“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”
When: Nov. 17 – Dec. 23
Where: Herberger Theater, 22 E. Monroe St., Phoenix
What: This beloved holiday story comes to life in a musical adaptation that celebrates the classic story of Rudolph and his journey to the North Pole. Kids will love the singing, dancing, and holiday spirit!
Info: herbergertheater.org
ZooLights
When: Nov. 27 – Jan. 12
Where: Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix
What: Stroll through the Phoenix Zoo transformed into a winter wonderland of lights, music, and holiday displays. Enjoy encounters with animal sculptures and even a visit with Santa. Info: phoenixzoo.org
Kiwanis Christmas for the Kids
When: Nov. 30
Where: Downtown Carefree
What: Celebrate the season with free activities for kids, including crafts, face painting, games, and much more. It’s a fun day dedicated to bringing holiday joy to young ones!
Info: kiwaniscarefree.org
Holiday Lights 2024
When: Nov. 29 – Dec. 30
Where: McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, 7301 E. Indian Bend Rd., Scottsdale
What: This magical event features a holiday train ride, beautifully lit displays, and an enchanting winter village. A must-see for families looking to get into the holiday spirit.
Info: therailroadpark.com
Fantasy of Lights Street Parade
When: Nov. 29
Where: Downtown Tempe
What: Kick off the holiday season with a parade filled with floats, performers, a tree lighting ceremony, and festive activities. Kids will love the holiday magic and chance to meet Santa! Info: tempetourism.com
Scottsdazzle Sing-Along & Tree Lighting Ceremony
When: Nov. 30
Where: Old Town Scottsdale
What: Join a community sing-along and enjoy a tree lighting ceremony. This event is part of Scottsdale’s month-long holiday celebration with numerous family-friendly activities. Info: scottsdazzle.com
Prancer’s Pajama Party
When: Nov. 30
Where: Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 175 S. Arizona, Ave., Chandler
What: Kick off the holiday season in cozy pajamas with reindeer games, performances, and holiday cheer for the entire family!
Where: Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix
What: Experience 8,000 flickering luminarias lighting up the garden pathways. This event offers a magical evening walk surrounded by twinkling lights and peaceful holiday ambiance. Info: dbg.org
Christmas at the Princess
When: Nov. 22 – Jan. 4
Where: Fairmont Scottsdale
Princess, 7575 E. Princess Dr., Scottsdale
What: This extravagant holiday
event includes a Ferris wheel, ice skating, s’mores, and stunning light displays. Meet Santa and enjoy holiday treats at this winter wonderland.
What: Families can enjoy real snow, a gingerbread village, ice skating, and more! With activities like snow play and virtual skiing, Jingle at JW is a winter treat for all ages.
Info: jwdesertridge.com/holidays
World of Illumination: Rockin' Christmas
When: Nov. 16 – Dec. 29
Where: Desert Diamond Casino, 9431 W. Northern Ave., Glendale
What: The world’s largest drivethrough animated light show with music, lights, and holiday cheer. It's a spectacular show that will dazzle kids and parents alike!
Info: worldofillumination.com/ glendale-arizona
“A Winnie the Pooh Christmas Tale”
When: Dec. 6 – 23
Where: Valley Youth Theatre, 525 N. First St., Phoenix
What: Catch the adorable adventures of Winnie the Pooh and friends in this holiday-themed performance that’s perfect for younger kids.
Info: vyt.com
Peoria’s Holiday Festival
When: Dec. 14
Where: Downtown Peoria
What: Celebrate with a tree
lighting, holiday crafts, live entertainment, and more at Peoria’s annual holiday festival. Kids will love the festive atmosphere!
What: Watch decorated boats sail along Tempe Town Lake in this unique holiday parade. Kids can enjoy festive treats, holiday shopping, and, of course, the enchanting boat lights.
Info: downtowntempe.com/events/ boat-parade
“Elf The Musical Jr.”
When: Dec. 6
Where: Stagebrush Theatre, 7020 E. 2nd St., Scottsdale
What: Get into the holiday spirit with this family-friendly musical. Follow Buddy the Elf as he brings holiday cheer to all in this fun and heartwarming performance.
Info: greasepaint.org
These events offer countless ways to celebrate the season with family and friends. From sparkling light displays to classic holiday shows, Arizona’s holiday events are sure to make this season magical for kids and families alike.
BOOK CLUB Brain Play
OUTGROWING “THE GIVING TREE”
By Davina of Maricopa County Library District
At this time of year, one of my very favorite things to read about is gratitude. “The Giving Tree” by Shel Silverstein is a classic that I always enjoy revisiting. However, there are so many other wonderful picture books available about being thankful! Here are a few of my current favorites that I’d encourage you to check out!
“THE THANK YOU BOOK” BY
MARY LYN RAY
This all about feeling gratitude for the simple things around us. Ray takes the reader through each season and all the many things we have to enjoy and feel grateful for throughout the year, everything from “zippers that zip” to parades and puddles. Whimsical illustrations by Stephanie Graegin feature a menagerie of cute animal characters enjoying the pleasures of the world around them and the company of one another.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: This is a cozy read that would be perfect for bedtime!
“THE
MONSTERS’
MONSTER” BY
PATRICK MCDONNELL
This is a funny story about three precocious little monsters who LOVE to make trouble. One day they decide to make the “biggest, baddest monster EVER!” Only, it turns out, their new monster has no interest in making mischief at all. In fact, he is deeply grateful for his new friends and delighted by the things he is discovering about the world. How will the three little monsters react to this strange new creature? You’ll have to read to find out!
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: This is a playful story that you will definitely enjoy reading aloud, or having read to you.
BONUS PICKS!
And, if you just can’t get enough, here are a few bonus recommendations:
“Here and Now” by Julia Denos is all about quieting your mind and appreciating the current moment and the interconnectedness of the world around us. It is a beautiful introduction to meditation and mindfulness that picture book lovers of any age would enjoy.
“Apple Cake: A Gratitude” by Dawn Casey is a simple rhyming story about all the gifts offered by the natural world and is brought to life perfectly with soft pencil illustrations by Genevieve Godbout. For an added treat, there is a recipe for apple cake included in the back of the book.
Davina is the youth services supervisor at the Southeast Regional Library in Gilbert. Her favorite part of her job is making everyone feel welcome in the library. She is immensely grateful for her wonderful colleagues at the library and her little dog, Potato.
KID BOOK REVIEWER - MANU
“THE CRICKET IN TIMES SQUARE”
AUTHOR: George Selden
GENRE: Fiction
AGE: 6 - 9
SYNOPSIS: A timeless children’s classic, this is the story of a musical cricket and his friends, a mouse, and a cat of real character, who live in a Times Square newsstand. The author says of the idea for this book, “One night I was coming home on the subway, and I did hear a cricket chirp in the Times Square subway station. The story formed in my mind within minutes.”
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS BOOK: This book is about friendship and adventure. Even though Chester’s friends are sad when he leaves, they still let him go because they know it is important for him to live in the wild and not in a city like New York.
“LOVE PUPPIES: RECIPE FOR SUCCESS”
AUTHOR: JaNay Brown-Wood
GENRE: Fiction
AGES: 7 – 10
SYNOPSIS: The Love Puppies are on a mission to help their friend Jayden be successful in a baking competition. Initially it seems that Jayden isn’t cut out for baking, but the Love Puppies will not give up. Can they help Jayden boost his confidence in time and show him that practice makes perfect? WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS BOOK: This book teaches you that it’s okay to make mistakes and that with confidence, anything is possible. And practice makes perfect. Plus, all the dogs are very cute!
“THE GOPI DIARIES: FINDING LOVE”
AUTHOR: Sudha Murty
GENRE: Fiction
AGES: 6 – 10
SYNOPSIS: This book is about a dog named Gopi. Gopi is the beloved dog of Sudha Murty. How Gopi sees the world around him and what he thinks of the people in his life give the story a unique flavor about basic human values from a dog’s perspective.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS BOOK: Gopi is just so adorable! The author does a great job with storytelling. If you like dogs, “The Gopi Diaries” is the perfect read. This is the second book in the series, and I recommend you read the others in the series. This is one of my all-time favorite books.
Eight-year-old Manu is the proud owner of her very own book club, where stories come alive. Curious by nature, she explores both the world of books and the wonders of nature with equal zeal. Manu's empathy and kindness shine brightly, lighting up the lives of everyone she meets. Check more of her book recommendations on Instagram at @alwaysastorybook and book club at @md.book.club.
Brain Play
Ahoy, Matey!
Build your own cork sailboat and set sail!
Photo by Sondra Barr
Get ready to explore the wonders of buoyancy and balance by building your very own toy sailboat! This hands-on activity is perfect for young explorers and budding engineers, showing how real sailboats stay afloat and keep steady, even with tall sails. Whether you're by the sink or in the bathtub, it's time to make waves and see how far your sailboat can go!
What You Need
• 3 wine corks
• 2 rubber bands
• 1 toothpick
• Thin waterproof material (like craft foam, wax paper, or a paper milk carton) for the sail
• Aluminum foil
• Several nails or screws
• A sink, bathtub, or any container filled with water (deep enough for the screws to be submerged lengthwise)
Building Your Sailboat
1. Craft Your Raft: Start by lining up the three wine corks side by side, not end to end. Secure them together with two rubber bands to make a solid base for your boat.
2. Add the Mast: Take a toothpick and carefully poke it into the middle cork. This will act as the mast for your sail.
3. Design Your Sail: Cut a square sail (around 6 cm x 6 cm) out of your waterproof material. Poke the toothpick through the top and bottom of the sail to hold it in place. Now your boat is almost ready to set sail!
4. Test the Waters: Place your sailboat in the water and give it a gentle blow from behind. Watch how it glides across the surface!
5. Modify for Stability: Time for a challenge! Remove the rubber bands and two outer corks, leaving just one cork with the mast and sail. What happens when you put it back in the water? If it tips over, try adding a nail or screw to the bottom of the cork. This extra weight acts like a keel, lowering the boat's center of gravity and helping it stay upright.
6. Perfect Your Design: If your boat still wobbles, add more nails or screws in a straight line under the boat. For even more stability, wrap the screws in aluminum foil to create a "fin" shape. Now give your boat another push—it should be much steadier and move straighter!
The Science Behind It
Your first sailboat stayed upright because it was wide, which makes it easier to balance. When you made the boat skinnier, it became unstable—just like how it’s harder to balance when you stand with your feet close together. By adding nails or screws, you made the boat's center of gravity lower, helping it stay balanced. Wrapping the screws in foil created a keel, similar to what real sailboats have. The keel helps keep the boat from tipping over and also makes it go straight, even when the wind blows on the sail. Now you know the secrets of real sailboats—give it a try with your own designs and see what works best!
Career Day
HEARTBEAT OF SUCCESS
Eileen Spengler inspires cardiac careers at Arizona Heart Foundation.
Eileen Spengler
Profession: Executive Director / Program Director / Cardiovascular Sonographer at the Arizona Heart Foundation
Age: 53
What do you do for a living?
Currently, I am the executive director and cardiac program director at the Arizona Heart Foundation, School of Cardiac & Vascular Ultrasound. We have a tremendous team of instructors who provide didactic and hands-on training to students pursuing a career of sonography.
What type of training do you need to do your job?
To be a sonographer, training requires a 12-month program to learn essential skills for successful employment. These include a deep understanding of anatomy, physiology, physics, and pathology, as well as learning how to perform ultrasounds on patients following specific protocols.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
As an instructor, I would have to say that the best part of the job is seeing the success of the student and all that they accomplish in a
short period of time. As a sonographer, the best part of the job is detecting pathology in a patient for the physician to provide proper treatment. At the end of the day, it’s all about the patient. Being a good listener and always placing the needs of the patient first and foremost.
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
From the time I was a little girl I thought about nothing other than being on television, whether it be as a weather person, or a news reporter. As I got older, QVC and HSN came on the television, and I thought this was the perfect job for me! Unfortunately, they never responded to my inquiries.
What advice would you give to a kid who wants to have a similar career?
My suggestion would be to stay focused on their studies prior to applying to a program specific for ultrasound. Learn as much as possible about the human body and if the interest is cardiac, to understand the basics of the muscle and how blood travels through the heart and the body.
One fun fact NOT about your job?
A fun fact would be that I delivered my youngest daughter on my birthday. We were both born on Friday and throughout the years our ages (the numbers) lined up. When she was 14, I was 41. When she was 25, I was 52. We have similar personalities and love that we can get one cake with each half decorated the way we want!
Getaway
Snowy Escapes and Family Fun in Flagstaff
By Sondra Barr
Looking for a holiday getaway with winter magic and festive fun? Flagstaff is the perfect spot for families eager to make unforgettable memories. Here's your guide to some mustdo activities, plus a cozy place to stay and yummy spots to refuel.
The Polar Express Experience
Take a magical train ride on the Polar Express, departing from Williams, just a short drive from Flagstaff. This enchanting adventure aboard the Grand Canyon Railway brings the beloved holiday story to life, taking you straight to the "North Pole" to meet Santa and his reindeer. With hot cocoa, cookies, and a special gift for each child,
it’s an experience filled with wonder. thetrain.com
North Pole Experience at Little America Hotel
Little America Hotel, a beloved Flagstaff stay, hosts the North Pole Experience! Here, kids can hop on Santa’s Trolley and head through the Magic Portal to Santa’s 400-year-old workshop. They’ll help the elves make toys, decorate cookies in Mrs. Claus’ Bakery, and even earn a diploma from Elf University. It’s a holiday adventure packed with charm and spirit—right from your hotel! northpoleexperience.com
Tynkertopia
For a fun and educational outing, visit Tynkertopia, Flagstaff’s hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts,
NOVEMBER WORD SEARCH
Can you find the words hidden in the puzzle?
and Mathematics) center. This creative space invites kids to explore science and art through inventive activities, from building and crafting to experimenting with various gadgets. Kids can think with their hands and let their curiosity soar, making Tynkertopia an ideal indoor escape on chilly days. tynkertopia.org
Flagstaff Snow Park
For some outdoor winter action, head to Flagstaff Snow Park at Fort Tuthill County Park. With groomed tubing runs, a kiddie hill, and wide-open snow play areas, the park is a winter playground for all ages. Warm up by an outdoor fireplace or roast marshmallows between runs for a complete winter wonderland experience. flagstaffsnowpark.com
Where to Eat
When hunger strikes, Flagstaff has plenty to offer! For pub-style snacks, head to the Lumberyard Brewing Company. This casual spot serves favorites like loaded nachos, cheese fries, and burgers, with plenty of dipping sauces. Kids will especially love the macaroni and cheese with customizable toppings. Another great option is Mike and Ronda’s The Place, a classic diner perfect for hearty breakfasts. Kids will enjoy the play kitchen, while parents can dig into classic breakfast fare.
From holiday train rides to snowy thrills, Flagstaff has something for everyone. Book a stay at Little America, pack warm clothes, and get ready for a memorable holiday season!
DESERT NEURODEVELOPMENT
Kathleen D. Bree, PsyD, ABPdN, ASDCS
Revolutionizing childhood assessment.
Each comprehensive evaluation offers individualized recommendations to help develop a solid plan to move forward and maximize your child’s potential. Comprehensive Evaluations
Where: Great Arizona Puppet Theater, 302 W. Latham St., Phoenix
What: Sing-along with The Little Red Hen and Yellow Button during this cute, classic story about the Hen who worked hard to make a delicious loaf of bread. Recommended for ages 2 and up. Info: azpuppets.org
FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS
When: Nov. 19
Where: The Pavilion, 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix
What: The Festival of the Arts, an outdoor admission-free festival, will feature performances, dance, live music, hands-on activities for kids, vendor market, live art demonstrations, food, beer & wine garden, and more!
Info: herbergertheater.org/events/festivalof-the-arts, or call 602-252-8497
GILBERT DAYS
When: Nov. 22 & 23
Where: Gilbert Regional Park, 3005 E. Queen Creek Rd., Gilbert
What: Enjoy live music, food and drinks, local shopping, and family fun at the Gilbert Days Festival, a celebration of our community. There is a family fun area, featuring 10-plus inflatables and backyard games at no additional charge. All activities inside the event are free. Info: gilbertaz.gov/departments/parksand-recreation/special-events-andpermits/gilbert-days/gilbert-days-concert
AZ CHILDREN’S BUSINESS FAIR
When: Nov. 23
Where: Arcadia Park, 3402 N. 56th St., Phoenix
What: The Action Children’s Business Fair inspires children aged 6 to 14 years old (kinder thru 8th grade) to discover their inner entrepreneur. The largest entrepreneurship event for kids in North America, this oneday market gives children the opportunity to showcase their very own businesses. Info: childrensbusinessfair.org/phoenix
ART TOTS: SUPERHERO ART
When: Nov. 27
Where: Chandler Museum, 300 S. Chandler Village Dr., Chandler
What: Every superhero needs a costume and a sidekick! Come put together a mask, cuff, cape and more so you can be ready to save the day. Please register both adults and children attending, as space is limited. Info: chandleraz.gov/events/art-totssuperhero-art-0
CHILDREN’S ENTREPRENEUR MARKET
When: Nov. 27
Where: Avenue of the Fountains, 16705 E. Avenue of the Fountains, Fountain Hills
What: The Children’s Entrepreneur Market is an award-winning program that teaches young people about the power of entrepreneurship, innovation and leadership through experiential learning. A farmers’ market run entirely by kids, ages 5 to 17, the event offers kids a chance to learn about operating a business.
Info: childrensentrepreneurmarket.com
MOVIES AT THE BOARDWALK
When: Nov. 30
Where: Arizona Boardwalk, 9500 E. Via de Ventura, Scottsdale
What: Experience Movies at the Boardwalk, a free family event with music, games, and tons of prizes beginning at 5 p.m. “Despicable Me” begins at dusk. Other pre-movie activities include make-and-take crafts, scratch art area, and a giveaway table. Bring folding chairs and blankets. Info: azboardwalk.com
ON DECK: December
FESTIVAL OF TALES
When: Dec. 7
Where: Paradise Valley Community College, 18401 N. 32nd St., Phoenix
What: Join the free Festival of Tales at Paradise Valley Community College! Dive into a day of storytelling, games, face painting, live music, food trucks, and more from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.! Every kid gets a free book to take home!
Where: Children’s Museum of Phoenix, 215 N. 7th St., Phoenix
What: Slip and slide into fun! Visitors of all ages will have a blast skating across a slick surface, similar to ice, in their socks! Pro tip: The fluffier the socks, the smoother the glide! Info: childrensmuseumofphoenix.
WORD SEARCH SOLUTION FROM PAGE 13.
Now Enrolling!
Creighton Neighborhood Schools inspire adventurous thinkers, collaborative learners and kind-hearted leaders Join the adventure today!
2702 E Flower St., Phoenix, AZ 85016 602-381-6000 www.CreightonSchools.org
