April 2019

Yaron Galitzky My favorite motivational song is “Bohemian Rhapsody”

by Queen.

Microsoft Xbox Adaptive Controller Team

James Shields I wanted to be a fireman when I grew up.

Kris Hunter The best classic video game is “Centipede.”

parenting is a trip!

APRIL 2019

2019

’cause

PAGE 14

Puget Sound Independent Schools

S P R I NG FAI R Sunday, April 28, 2:00-3:30pm at Garfield Community Center in Seattle KINDERGARTEN OPTIONS 2019!

Late to investigate Kindergarten for 2019 and curious what independent schools have to offer? Learn more about your options and which schools have openings.

SPACES TO FILL! Independent schools are great family education options and many have spaces at all grade levels. Find out more about our schools and who has openings.

INVESTIGATING MIDDLE/HIGH SCHOOL OPTIONS FOR 2020?

This is a great time to learn about independent school choices during our off-season.

PRE-SCHOOL/PRE-K PLACEMENTS AVAILABLE Spaces are available at some of our schools. Attend and explore which schools have placement openings for your child and investigate Kindergarten possibilities as well.

Our 40+ member schools, preschool through 12th Grade, adhere to the accreditation standards established by the Northwest Association of Independent Schools (NWAIS).

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— www.pugetsoundindependentschools.org —

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inside

SUPERHEROES ISSUE Champions for Washington kids and families PAGE 14 47 , cause parenting is a trip!

APRIL 2019

Parenting

6 DEAR READER

The world could use a good superhero — how about 10?

8 NEWS AROUND TOWN 10 BEYOND TOLERANCE

Color-brave ways to talk to kids about race

12 CRIB NOTES

Top tips for traditional and baby-led weaning

35 FAMILY TRAVEL

11 truly unforgettable historic lodge getaways

26 APRIL CALENDAR

Advertising Sections

32 IT STARTS WITH YOU(TH)

27–30 S eattle Children’s ‘Good

47 AGES + STAGES: 0–18

36–37 P ediatric Dentists 40–48 C amps + Activities 51–54 S chools + Preschools

A Bothell teen on finding passion and direction

Be the screen-time superhero your kid needs

COURTESTY SLEEPING LADY MOUNTAIN RESORT

Out + About

Growing’ Health Newsletter

COVER PHOTO BY WILL AUSTIN

35

Foxy Love Davison and her mother, Angela.

parentmap.com • April 2019 • 5

note Challenging K-12 students through early entrance, and outreach learning programs.

All hail ParentMap’s 2019 Superheroes! in an intellectual community through early entrance, and

ton Seattle campus: aturday Enrichment l Development

du

Challenging K-12 students

in an intellectual community

outreach learning programs.

W

e birthed this media business back in 2003 with a prescient feature headline, “Raising Kids in High-Anxiety Times.” Cover-boy Eli, my thenWe offer on the UniversityChallenging of Washington Seattle campus: K-12 students 12-year-old son, stares gravely with clairvoyant eyes into the camera. Just in an intellectual community two days after this inaugural issue of ParentMap went to press, President George • Transition School • UW Academy • Saturday Enrichment through early entrance, and outreach learning programs. the start of the Iraq War, which dragged on for almost nine W. Bush announced • Summer Programs •agonizing Professional Development years.

Now that ParentMap is “Sweet 16,” we’re feeling a bit more emboldened than We offer on the University of Washington Seattle campus: we were in our early years, just as a good teen should. We’re celebrating with you • Transition School • UW Academy • Saturday Enrichment We offer on the University of Washington Seattle campus: • Summer Programs • Professional Development by sharing exemplary new friends we’re guessing you would like to meet. Our Transition School • UW Academy • Saturday Enrichment Superheroes cover is graced by the Microsoft Xbox Adaptive Controller team, folks For more information, who modestly credit their success producing the revolutionary new controller to the Summer Programs • Professional Development • RC Online visit our website: For more information, gamers, caregivers and nonprofits who have hacked solutions together for years so that visit our website: www.RobinsonCenter.uw.edu www.RobinsonCenter.uw.edu players with restricted mobility Challenging K-12 students in an intellectualPhone: community 206-543-4160 could enjoy video games along with Email: rcys@uw.edu Phone: 206-543-4160 through early entrance and outreach learning programs. everyone else.

Email: rcys@uw.edu You’ll meet more extraordinary 2019 ParentMap Superheroes on SATURDAY ENRICHMENT Current Grades K-8 the pages inside (p. 14), individuals Spring Session: April 7 – June 2 (Registration is now open!) who are intimidatingly humble The Saturday Enrichment classes provide intellectually ambitious students with and magnanimous as they work challenge, inspiration, and fun, in a collaborative, supportive learning environtirelessly and selflessly in the ment. Classes meet for one or two hours per week on Saturdays at the UW trenches to improve the lives of Seattle Campus to explore topics not usually covered in the K-8 curriculum. families and children in Washington SUMMER CHALLENGE Current Grades 5-6 state and beyond. Our kids need July 9 – July 27 (Registration is now open!) these angels, mentors and heroes Summer Challenge is an academically advanced summer camp for motivated who move intrepidly and with children seeking an intensive, hands-on, fun educational experience. The conviction and compassion toward solutions and redress for many of life’s justice and program runs for three weeks, five days a week from 9:00am – 2:20pm, on inequity issues. You will see in their “It takes a village” spirit that these champions the UW Seattle campus. There is also an After-Class program available for an inspire kids and families in need to develop their countless aims and abilities. additional charge from 2:20 – 4:30pm. Classes are small, and instructors are Along with the peas and carrots, your dinner table conversation can serve up an all specialists in their field. Application criteria can be found on our website. opportunity to talk about race. Often, white people think embracing a “color-blind” SUMMER STRETCH Current Grades 7-10 ideal makes the world fair and equal. But an “I don’t see color” message, though June 25 – July 26 (Registration is now open!) well-intentioned, can easily be received as “You don’t see me.” From Color-Blind Summer Stretch offers in-depth, intensive learning experiences as accelerto Color-Brave (p. 10) gives parents solid guidance about committing to having ated courses and enrichment courses. Summer Stretch runs 3 days a week conversations about race, even though we’re likely to make mistakes along the way.

(9:00am – 2:30pm) for five weeks beginning June 25 on the UW Seattle Another parental imperative in this digital age is to aspire to be the screen-time campus.Classes are taught by specialists in their field with a high adult:child superhero our kids need (p. 47). Educator and screen-time consultant Emily Cherkin ratio. There is a substantial homework load; courses are graded and final has dedicated the last 15 years to helping families understand the technological transcripts are provided. Application criteria can be found on our website. challenges presented to today’s children and to the parents who must be their RC ONLINE Current Grades 9-12 (Registration is now open!) intentional media mentors. My heart stopped for a flash as I read, “The message you RC Online is a new accelerated learning opportunity, bringing advanced want to send to your child is ‘I am the college-prep curriculum to an online platform for high school students. human who cares for and loves you,’ RC Online provides an inspiring, expansive educational experience as a not ‘This device is something you have window into what college-level work will be like; to move students rapidly to compete with.’” Guilty, but always from novice to advanced writers, readers and thinkers via specific skills, wanting to improve. practices and tools. These courses provide challenging curriculum without the logistical, economic and other barriers that come between a student and educational opportunity. Additional information can be found on our website.

www.RobinsonCenter.uw.edu Phone: 206-543-4160 Email: rcys@uw.edu 6 • April 2019 • parentmap.com

2019 Golden Teddy Awards Voting starts April 3!

ParentMap

April 2019, Vol. 17, No. 4 PUBLISHER/EDITOR Alayne Sulkin

EDITORIAL

INTERIM MANAGING EDITOR Patty Lindley OUT + ABOUT EDITOR Nancy Chaney DIGITAL CONTENT EDITOR Vicky McDonald DIGITAL CONTENT PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Nicole Persun

OUT + ABOUT EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Dora Heideman

COPY EDITOR Sunny Parsons CONTRIBUTORS

Gemma Alexander, Nancy Schatz Alton, Lauren Braden, Emily Cherkin, Jackie Freeman, Malia Jacobson, Bonnie Lathram, Kathleen F. Miller, Nikole D. Shvartsur, DDS

DIGITAL MARKETING DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER

Lindsey Carter

SOCIAL MEDIA STRATEGIST + TRENDING EDITOR

Diana Cherry

MARKETING + OPERATIONS ASSISTANT

Maureen Taasin

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6/1/15 10:14 PM

ADVERTISING SALES + PARTNERSHIPS SENIOR ADVERTISING AND PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER

Ida Wicklund

PARTNERSHIP ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVE

Jen Dine

AD OPERATIONS MANAGER Elisa Taylor

JERIEL CALAMAYAN

ADVERTISING CLIENT SERVICES SPECIALIST

Jessica Collet

ADVERTISING CLIENT SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

Angela Goodwin

MARKETING/EVENTS EVENT OPERATIONS Brenna McCowen EVENT + MARKETING COORDINATOR

Mallory Dehbod

MARKETING + EVENTS ASSISTANT

Taryn Weiner

Connecting parents to build a loving community of families of color

Go Outside and Register and Info at focseattle.org Play!

ART + PRODUCTION

BUSINESS ANALYST Carolyn Brendel

PARENTMAP EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD Benjamin Danielson, M.D.

ODESSA BROWN CHILDREN’S CLINIC

Joan Duffell COMMITTEE FOR CHILDREN John Gottman, Ph.D. THE GOTTMAN INSTITUTE PROFESSOR EMERITUS, UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON

Laura Kastner, Ph.D.

PSYCHIATRY + BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES, UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON

Bea Kelleigh

VICE PRESIDENT AT DOVETAILING, LLC

Yaffa Maritz, M.A.

LISTENING MOTHERS + COMMUNITY OF MINDFUL PARENTS

Ron Rabin THE KIRLIN FOUNDATION Daniel J. Siegel, M.D.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, MINDSIGHT INSTITUTE ADVERTISING INFORMATION

206-709-9026 or advertising@parentmap.com Fax 206-709-9031 CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS

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SAT MAY 11, 10 AM – NOON OLYMPIC SCULPTURE PARK FREE Make art with the internationally acclaimed artist behind SAM’s upcoming installation at the Olympic Sculpture Park. This special, pop-up family workshop is designed by Regina Silveira whose site-specific Octopus (Wrap) artwork opens May 11. Take inspiration from her large-scale artwork as you create your own work of art led by Silveira and Brazilian artist Paulo Portella. For children ages 6-12 and their caregivers.

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parentmap.com • April 2019 • 7

news

News Around Town

It’s time to pick favorites!

Find your calm and parent on

Save the date: Every Child Summit

Every year, ParentMap is tickled to recognize

A new program being offered through

Get the resources you need to help your

the top local resources for Seattle and Puget

Community of Mindful Parenting, Finding

exceptional child thrive! Join ParentMap

Sound families with our Golden Teddy Awards.

Calm, will provide a unique opportunity

April 25 in Kirkland for our Eastside Every

But we can’t do it without you! Starting April 3,

for parents of children ages 6 months to 6

Child Summit, supporting families with

we’re accepting reader nominations for this

years to meet in small groups for six weeks

neurodiverse learners. This year’s event

year’s Golden Teddy. From your favorite camps

with a trained professional to explore

features an exclusive lecture by Dr. Edward

to must-visit shops, best grub to can’t-live-

self-compassion with their child. Classes

Hallowell on the brain science behind ADHD/

without parenting resources, it’s time to get

held throughout the Puget Sound area.

ADD, as well as a free resource fair for

your vote on! parentmap.com/goldenteddy

communityofmindfulparenting.com

families. parentmap.com/everychild

Giving Together 2019

Please join us each month as we promote, support and learn about an extraordinary local organization. We will highlight the good works of organizations that strive to improve the lives of families and invite you to join us in giving precious time or money.

8 • April 2019 • parentmap.com

THE ORGANIZATION Anti-Defamation League WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW Founded in 1913 by Chicago attorney Sigmund Livingston, the ADL envisions an America where those who seem different are not targets of discrimination and threats, but are equals. The organization is a global leader in exposing extremism and delivering anti-bias education to fight anti-Semitism, combat hate, confront discrimination, protect communities and promote respectful schools and communities.

THE GOAL To stop the defamation of the Jewish people, and to secure justice and fair treatment for all.

SUPPORT

Learn more at adl.org.

Learn on.

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A special forum for Our Beginning parents and families and for those who want to enroll at Our Beginning

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Why a whole-foods, plant-based menu Brenda Davis, registered dietitian, is a leader in her field and an internationally acclaimed speaker. As a prolific nutrition and health writer, she has co-authored 11 books with over 750,000 copies in print in 13 languages. She is the lead dietitian for the diabetes intervention project in the Marshall Islands, and is a past chair of the Vegetarian Nutrition Dietetic Practice Group of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. In 2007, Brenda was inducted into the Vegetarian Hall of Fame.

Dr. Reshma Shah, MD, MPH, FAAP has nearly two decades of experience in primary care pediatrics. She currently cares for patients at Santa Clara Valley Medical Center and is an affiliate clinical instructor at Stanford University School of Medicine, where she is the nutrition director for the Stanford University Pediatric Integrative Medicine Fellowship. In addition to clinical practice, Dr. Shah has a strong interest in family health and wellness, with a focus in plant-based nutrition.

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parentmap.com • April 2019 • 9 3/20/19 4:06 PM

beyond tolerance

From Color-Blind to Color-Brave

Conversation building blocks to talk with kids about race

By Malia Jacobson

G

rowing up in the predominantly white Puget Sound region, I don’t remember a lot of family conversations about race. But my lawyer parents, both public defenders, shared a law practice in Tacoma’s racially diverse Hilltop neighborhood, where I could see race all around me. I saw how their clients with black and brown skin fared differently in the criminal justice system than those with white skin, even if I didn’t fully understand why.

Some 30 years later, I know a lot more about how racial identities impact our lives. My daughter now attends middle school in the same neighborhood where I first starting thinking about racial equity, less than half a mile from my childhood home. Her school feels inclusive and welcoming, and her teachers are great guides.

But that doesn’t mean I get to skip important conversations about race with her, because I’m learning that we still have a lot of ground to cover together.

workshops on racial equity. “We’re making decisions about skin color really early in life,” says Jones, a former school administrator. “We’re getting messages from the world about what’s good and what’s bad and who’s smart and who’s not, and we have to disrupt those messages that kids are getting.”

Create a safe space

of the “Interchangeable White Ladies” podcast (hopeteague.com).

Focus on a kid’s intent, not on terms that might be outdated or misinformed, Teague-Bowling says. “Adults need to be understanding but also use a teachable moment to help build language to talk about uncomfortable or tough topics. In the classroom, I hear all sorts of terms, and I usually ask students to explain their thinking or choice of words. Then, we discuss the impact of their words or how they come across.”

When people are afraid of messing up, they stop talking about race, says Jones. “I approach this topic with grace and mercy — I assume the best intent. We have to create a dynamic where we let people make mistakes.”

“Instead of color-blind, be color-brave.”

So, how can parents start “the talk”? Begin by establishing a safe space where kids know it’s okay to say the “wrong” thing because you’re all learning together. Kids should know that if they use the wrong word, parents or other trusted adults won’t flip out, says Hope Teague-Bowling, an English teacher at Tacoma’s Lincoln High School and cohost

Why talk about race?

Vocabulary lesson

Before they can even talk, kids are forming ideas about race.

A number of studies, including Kenneth and Mamie Clark’s famous 1947 doll study, show that children can identify racial characteristics in early childhood, associate positive characteristics with white skin, and show a preference for their own race from infancy.

Education and systems consultant Erin Jones of Lacey, Washington, cites the doll study in her

In episode two of the “Interchangeable White Ladies” podcast, Teague-Bowling notes that students are seeing and experiencing different things related to racial equity, but they don’t always have the capacity to talk about it.

Parents can help by giving kids the most basic building block for communicating about race: language.

Jones starts workshops this way,

10 • April 2019 • parentmap.com

because talking about race gets easier once people learn and use common language. “We talk about the difference between race — which is kind of a created thing but still something we need to talk about — and ethnicity and culture, and why it’s important for multi-ethnic and biracial students to have the power to identify themselves as they choose. And why we might say ‘black and brown people,’ which I tend to use more than ‘people of color.’”

From color-blind to color-brave Well-intentioned white parents might be squeamish about race conversations because they embrace a “color-blind” ideal — an “I don’t see color” world in which racial identities don’t matter. Though color blindness comes from a well-intentioned place, it’s problematic.

“As white people, we tend to promote color blindness because we think that’s the best way to make the world fair and equal,” says Teague-Bowling. “But the reality is that our racial divide is our history. Whether it’s slavery or the internment of Japanese Americans, we need to see all the pieces as part of our history — we aren’t removed from it.”

“When you say you’re color-blind, what I hear is that you don’t see me,” says Jones. “Instead of color-blind, be color-brave.”

That means acknowledging the role that race plays in our country’s history and how racial identities impact people today, Jones says. And while this does involve broaching some difficult topics, such as oppression and white privilege, it also involves casual, everyday conversation about the people in your child’s world.

“We can talk about black excellence, for example, and talk about someone’s race as another positive attribute and part of who they are,” says Teague-Bowling.

For today’s kids, who are growing up amid deep political, social and economic divides, conversations about race can build critical thinking skills and empathy, tools they need to understand and navigate their world, says Teague-Bowling.

And for white people like me who want to do a better job of communicating about race, listening is just as important as talking.

“This is a process for all of us, and you’ve just got to arrive knowing that you’re not going to get it all fixed,” says Jones. “Keep talking and be willing to grow.” n Malia Jacobson is an award-winning journalist and mom of three.

BeyondTolerance

Register for camp today at www.GirlScoutsWW.org/gscamp

Dream big. Plan ahead.

Washington College Savings Plans can help you start saving towards a brighter future.

Learn more at wastate529.wa.gov

In 2019, ParentMap is dedicating consistent thoughtful coverage to cultivating tolerance. We will rally partners and experts to help us deliver practical and powerful tools, perspectives and tips to parents and educators for teaching empathy, equity, acceptance, respect and inclusion to our children.

Enroll by May 31

Start saving today

GET and DreamAhead are qualified tuition programs sponsored and distributed by the State of Washington. The Committee on Advanced Tuition Payment and College Savings administers and the Washington Student Achievement Council supports the plans. DreamAhead investment returns are not guaranteed and you could lose money by investing in the plan. If in-state tuition decreases in the future, GET tuition units may lose value.

parentmap.com • April 2019 • 11

all about baby Find Your Village Being a new parent can be really isolating, but baby, we’ve got your back.

ALLI ARNOLD

Notes

Sign up for our weekly eNews for the best in outings and advice, ’cause parenting is a trip!

h

parentmap.com/enews

From Recent Research to Gaga Gear

Ways to Wean:

Starting Baby on Solids The dos and don’ts for successful weaning

By Jackie Freeman

A

baby’s life is a never-ending checklist of milestones: first smile, first tooth, first steps, first words. One of the most exciting milestones for this chef and mom is first foods, of course!

There are two camps when it comes to introducing “real” food to your baby: traditional weaning and baby-led weaning. I consulted with pediatrician Linda Hung, M.D., at Allegro Pediatrics (allegropediatrics.com), and naturopathic doctor and East Asian medicine practitioner Krystal Plonski, N.D., at the Docere Center for Natural Medicine (docerecenter.com) to learn more.

In general, solid food is introduced between 4 and 6 months of age. At baby’s four-month visit, Dr. Plonski speaks with her patient’s family about the signs and developmental milestones to look for that signal the time is right to start introducing foods; such milestones include exhibiting good head control, watching with interest as the family eats and looking or grabbing at food.

From there, she says, it’s up to the parents to decide if they want traditional weaning, baby-led weaning or a hybrid of the two approaches. Dr. Hung agrees, and encourages parents to try the method that they feel best matches their philosophy and the personality of their infant. So, what’s the difference?

Traditional weaning Traditional weaning is the “Here comes the airplane!” method of weaning: Purées, cereals and mashed foods are placed on a spoon and fed to baby, with or without 12 • April 2019 • parentmap.com

coaxing. Table foods are gradually introduced, “followed by increasing texture and complexity of food as [the] child progresses through certain stages,” explains Plonski. Parents can start introducing foods to baby as early as 4 months of age, and overall, traditional weaning is a (slightly!) less messy endeavor than the baby-led method. However, some believe babies are exposed to fewer flavors and textures when weaned using the traditional technique, which may make them pickier eaters down the road. This approach also teaches them to swallow without chewing.

Baby-led weaning The premise of baby-led weaning is that baby eats everything that the rest of the family eats (within reason). All foods are cut in a specific way so that they are not choking hazards. By this method, babies simultaneously learn how to feed themselves, how to enjoy a variety of foods (including various textures, colors and flavors) and how to chew, then swallow, food.

“The key to this type of feeding is that if the child can pick up the food and bring it to their mouth with their hands, there is reduced chance of choking on it,” says Plonski. The benefits for parents? Baby gets to share in the family’s mealtime; this also means less food to prepare and no expensive baby food to buy.

However, unlike traditional weaning, you cannot start baby-led weaning until baby shows all signs of readiness (no matter how ready you may be feeling). These signs include reaching 6 months of age, being able to sit independently for at least

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For both weaning methods, breastfeeding or formula feeding will continue to be your baby’s primary nutrition source through the first year of their life.

Whether you start with purĂŠes or full-on family dinners, there are several rules of the road that you should abide by when your baby starts eating solid foods.

Take an infant first aid and CPR class.

Plonski always recommends that parents take an infant CPR class prior to introducing any food to their babies. Learning how to recognize the signs of choking (versus gagging, which is a normal reflex in babies that helps them move food away from their airway) and how to respond is a skill every parent and caregiver must have. Find local classes by visiting the Red Cross website (redcross.org).

Introduce allergens.

This may sound like counterintuitive advice, but both Hung and Plonski agree with the current research that suggests the introduction of highly allergenic foods, such as peanuts, shellfish and strawberries, between the ages of 6 and 11 months can actually help reduce the risk of your child developing an allergy to that food.

Note: Always consult with your pediatrician before introducing such foods, especially if there is a family history of allergies.

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Avoid the universal no-nos.

No infant should be given honey until the age of 1 year, because the natural sweetener may contain bacterium spores that can cause infant botulism. Research also advises parents to avoid giving infants younger than 1 year whole cow’s milk in lieu of breast milk or formula. Cow’s milk is difficult to digest, can cause iron-deficiency anemia and stress kidney function.

Cooking with cow’s milk is okay, however, so feel free to use it in your baked goods and cooked cereals.

Give them the best seat in the house.

Invest in or borrow a good-quality high chair with a three-point harness so that baby sits safely and securely upright when learning to self-feed.

Relax.

No matter which route you take, traditional weaning or babyled weaning, things are going to get messy! But that’s what bibs are for, so enjoy the process, be amazed at what your little person is discovering and invest in a good vacuum. I’ve found that a broom, a mop and a dog also help immeasurably.

Chef Jackie Freeman is a recipe developer, food stylist and culinary tinkerer. parentmap.com • April 2019 • 13

superheroes The Equalizer Olivia Ashé

SUPER HEROES 2019

Champions for Washington kids and families

The Rock Star Natalie Walker

PHOTOS BY WILL AUSTIN

The Word Nerd Tree Swenson

The Helping Hand Mahnaz K. Eshetu

14 • April 2019 • parentmap.com

The Community Connector Suzanne Sievert

The Camp Director Joshua Simon

ages + stages The Advocate Eleanor ‘Ele’ Hamburger

The Rehabilitator Foxy Love Davison

The Victims’ Advocate Maggi Qerimi

W

hile you may not be able to spot them by

and more inclusive for all families, and particularly for

the cape they are wearing or any obvious

the disadvantaged, victimized and most vulnerable

superhuman demonstration of do-gooding derring-do, we assure you that there are many actual superheroes who are living and working purposefully every day to improve the lives of kids and families in Washington state.

Every year, the ParentMap staff is beyond honored to recognize and celebrate these tireless, selfless crusaders who strive to make life safer, fairer, better

among us.

This year’s ParentMap Superheroes safeguard victims’ rights, redress injustice and inequality, empower the weakened and disabled, and inspire and create powerful community bonds. In short, they work to give all of us wings to fly.

Get ready to be inspired!

►

The Empowerers The Microsoft Xbox Adaptive Controller Team

parentmap.com • April 2019 • 15

superheroes The Rehabilitators Foxy Love Davison

COMMUNITY OUTREACH COORDINATOR FOR THE PROGRESS HOUSE ASSOCIATION

M

Everyone has a story to tell and share, and we need to support one another.

ore than a half century ago, Foxy Love Davison’s maternal grandparents, the Rev. Leo Brown Jr. and his wife, Barbara, began working as long-term volunteers at the McNeil Island Corrections Center and the Washington Correctional Center for Women. The couple was determined to help the men and woman who, day after day, year after year, had no real space to call their own and precious little say in what they ate or where they could go. As incarcerated individuals, their existence was threatened by constant danger and suspicion, as well as characterized by an absence of love, understanding and human connection. Sadly, these conditions and qualities of incarcerated life would not improve dramatically for many of these people once they were released.

We always have The Browns poured their passion for helping this population into the founding and development of the Progress House faith that people Association (progresshouse.us), a Tacoma-based organization that can change — today provides housing, programming, counseling, recreation if they do the and employment services to formerly incarcerated individuals through its three facilities. work.

As Davison grew up, her adoring grandparents wove a complex tapestry that exposed her to the pain, hardship, challenge and, most importantly, the humanity of the incarcerated men and woman with whom they worked. At a young age, she came to understand more than most adults that imprisoned humans face significant trauma and challenge when it comes time to leave correctional facilities. They face joblessness, have sometimes insurmountable difficulties finding housing, and often require more support than their family, friends and community are able or willing to provide.

As a third-generation family member working for Progress House, Davison is proud to carry on her grandparents’ legacy of service.

— Alayne Sulkin

”

Who is your personal hero?

Angela Collins, my mom. I grew up in a single-parent house, where my mom worked hard and didn’t graduate high school. She went from cook to CEO of a company; she stayed with it when there were tough days and she demonstrated profound diligence and integrity as a Black woman in America.

What do you find rewarding about your role?

I like getting the community plugged into the work going on in the building. I enthusiastically talk about Progress House wherever and whenever I possibly can to get people to engage with the residents in the building. I really like to help get people from the building out into the community to access resources and services.

What do you want people to understand about your work?

Be willing to be open to the people in your community, no matter where they came from. Everyone has a story to tell and share.

16 • April 2019 • parentmap.com

L to R: Jason, Foxy, Zion, Angela, Judah, Henry and Trinity (sideways).

The Community Connector Suzanne Sievert

FOUNDER AND DIRECTOR OF THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNERS ALLIANCE

S

uzanne Sievert had been teaching English language learners in private ESL (English as a second language) schools and community colleges since 1997, when, in 2012, she found herself at a personal and professional crossroads. At the time, she was teaching ESL classes at Bellevue College, and her two sons were nearing the end of their high school careers. “I had mostly been a full-time mom and a part-time teacher while my kids were growing up, and so when they were reaching this period when they were going to leave, I started thinking about that empty nest thing. It just seemed really scary to me,” she says.

Sievert decided to quit her job at the college and start a nonprofit “as something interesting and different” to do with her life. She founded the English Language Learners Alliance (ELLA; ellalliance.org) on a very simple but powerful idea, one inspired by something she consistently heard from her students throughout all of her years teaching English: They craved more opportunities to learn English outside of the classroom.

Fittingly, ELLA’s first program was a lunchtime conversation group that convened at the Crossroads shopping center in Bellevue. Today, the completely volunteer-run organization offers multiple free drop-in classes

How do you make all of this work?

I have to give a big shout-out to all of our volunteers, because we are entirely volunteer-run. Also, to my codirector Nadya [Obraztsova]. She had just moved here from Russia right around the time I was starting this and she was so excited about it. She was the one who just stepped up to the plate, and we totally did everything together at the beginning.

What makes you most proud of what you’ve accomplished through ELLA so far?

When I meet someone who I know at the beginning was feeling isolated or didn’t know anyone, and now I see them and they feel like they’re well connected and have a community of people that they know — that makes me feel really proud.

What’s one small action our readers can take in their own lives to make positive change happen?

Just reach out to someone if you notice that they are looking or feeling isolated or might need some help. Or even just give a friendly smile to a foreigner so that they feel more comfortable.

Fill in the blank: What the world needs now is more peace.

Our main thing is that we don’t want people to feel isolated.

and groups designed to help international visitors and immigrants improve their English skills and expand their knowledge of American culture, as well as connect with and become a part of a diverse and supportive community. Learners meet in conversation groups and English classes; enjoy planned activities and field trips; benefit from job search and citizenship assistance and resources; and participate in ELLA’s popular parent-child programs, including a playgroup that meets weekly at Highland Community Center, and song and story hours.

“Our original goal was ‘Okay, everybody’s going to practice English.’ But the secondary goal — which kind of has become the primary goal — is for people to connect with other people in similar situations and find and share resources. If that needs to happen in their native language, so be it, that’s great. Our main thing is, we don’t want people to feel isolated,” says Sievert.

— Patty Lindley

”

Every person, no matter where they’re from or what language they speak or how they might look, is human and has the same basic need to feel included and feel like part of a community.

L to R: Suzanne and ELLA Codirector Nadya Obraztsova.

parentmap.com • April 2019 • 17

superheroes The Word Nerd Tree Swenson

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HUGO HOUSE

T

What the world needs now is more word nerds.

ree Swenson wonders how different her life would have been if there had been an organization like Hugo House (hugohouse.org) when and where she was growing up, in Great Falls, Montana.

“There wasn’t even a bookstore. Mass-market paperbacks were sold in the tobacco store,” says Swenson, the executive director of Hugo House, a nonprofit community writing center located on Capitol Hill.

“Tree’s history in the literary world — from cofounding Copper Canyon Press to her tenure as the executive director of the Academy of American Poets in New York — and her deep-seated belief in the power of the written word makes her especially qualified for her role,” says John Peterman, Hugo House’s youth program manager. “From day one, she expressed a passion and vision for Hugo House that was palpable and contagious. She’s the kind of leader who makes you want to put in the work to make the organization the best it can be,” he says.

Since Swenson came on board in 2012, a successfully completed capital campaign led to the construction of a permanent facility with a dramatically increased capacity to convene a community of writers to read words, hear words

and make their own words better. Now that the new facility is open, Swenson is excited about the expansion of their youth program offerings. For example, the upcoming Scribes Writing Camps will serve more teens, with increased funds available for scholarships and financial assistance.

“One reason I moved here from my dream job in New York was knowing that Hugo House could be a place for kids who are ignited by language. It is a place for kids who might not fit in elsewhere — those kids with notebooks clutched to their chests who love books and are looking for kindred spirits,” says Swenson. “When I was a teen, poems made sense of the world for me. Now I’m a quite contented reader and I love helping writers.”

— Nancy Schatz Alton

”

Hugo House is a place for kids who might not fit in elsewhere — those kids with notebooks clutched to their chests who love books and are looking for kindred spirits.

Who is your personal hero?

Emily Dickinson. Within the confines of her bedroom, she created vast worlds. Through her engagement with language, she shaped a rich life that endures and speaks to so many people.

What’s one small action our readers can take in their own lives to make positive change happen?

Set aside 10 minutes a day to think or write about what really matters to you. What do you want to be thinking about and investigating?

Where do you want to spend your energy? You don’t necessarily have to become an activist to change the world. By changing yourself, you are changing the world. This process begins with asking yourself what really matters to you. Then you can make change in so many small gestures.

Favorite read of the last year?

“Fates and Furies” by Lauren Groff just blew my mind. The beauty of the language marks a good book for me. There is one sentence in this novel that makes sense of the rest of the story for me. Also, “Between the World and Me” by Ta-Nehisi Coates is such a powerful re-centering of the conversation around race.

18 • April 2019 • parentmap.com

The Rock Star Natalie Walker

COFOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF RAIN CITY ROCK CAMP

A

s a performer, Natalie Walker used to dream of inspiring just one little girl. Then she volunteered with Portland’s Rock ’n’ Roll Camp for Girls and realized it was possible to create a space that encourages girls in ways that are too often reserved for boys. She and Holly Waits set out in 2008 to build a music empowerment program for girls in Seattle. Today, their camps serve girls and gender-nonconforming youth ages 8–17, as well as adults. “We focus on expanding our ideas of what we can do, regardless of gender identity,” says Walker.

Ten years into the program, they are now seeing former campers releasing independent albums and studying music in college, and they’ve built a strong community of volunteers (many of them alumni) and partner programs that meet kids where they are and provide consistent, repeated exposure to female role models through music.

Rain City Rock Camp (raincityrockcamp.org) teaches guitar, bass, drums and vocal music as instruments to foster personal empowerment. During the course of a week, campers form a band, write a song and perform it on stage, while also attending workshops on songwriting, media literacy, self-defense and the history of women in music.

“I think music is a powerful tool for social change. It’s an experience we all share. Youth enter our program with very different life experiences, but they have in common a love for and connection with music,” says Walker. “Finding your voice through music is a relevant way to connect with youth to impact self-esteem, body image and personal identity.”

— Gemma Alexander

What do you want people to understand about your work?

In our programs, we foster creativity, self-esteem, leadership and teamwork. We’re not creating rock stars — just people who learn to rock at life. If they learn to play an instrument along the way, well, that’s a success, too.

Who is your personal hero?

My personal hero is my mom. She’s a librarian and executive director herself.

She taught me so much about leadership, humility and social change. When I grow up, I want to be like her.

What’s one small action our readers can take in their own lives to make positive change happen?

I would say respect youth when they tell you what their pronouns are, and then use them correctly.

Favorite read of the last year?

I read a lot of nonprofit development books. Two that stood out are “The Five Dysfunctions of a Team,” which is used to teach leadership and teamwork; and “Fierce Conversations” — it’s about learning how to work well with others, which is what we do in our programs.

We’re not creating rock stars — just people who learn to rock at life.

”

I think music is a powerful tool for social change. It’s an experience we all share.

What one thing did an adult or mentor do for you as a youth that helped you succeed?

My guitar teacher when I was a teen was a real role model to me. She was so skilled, patient and kind with me, and also really strong and straightforward. I hope to model that kind of mentorship in the work that I do and to foster that in the volunteers I train.

If you could dine with anyone, living or dead, whom would that be and why?

Michelle Obama is such an inspiration for me and so many people. I would love to find out how she maintains a sense of self and where she finds her inspiration.

parentmap.com • April 2019 • 19

superheroes The Victims’ Advocate Maggi Qerimi

KING COUNTY PROSECUTING ATTORNEY

I

Nothing is as difficult as it initially seems.

”

New challenges may feel insurmountable, and that’s understandable, because they are new!

The key is to not shy away; they will remain insurmountable until you try.

Maggi, pictured with canine buddy Bailey Sulkin.

20 • April 2019 • parentmap.com

t’s hard to imagine anyone with more determination than King County prosecuting attorney Maggi Qerimi. The former refugee now helps prosecute violent and economic crimes, using skills she honed while assisting in the prosecution of war criminals at the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, which was held at The Hague, Netherlands.

But she wasn’t always so driven, she says. After high school, Qerimi didn’t think of pursuing college until a coworker suggested she wasn’t living up to her potential and could aim higher. “With clear compassion and the language skills she did have, she told me that she saw me as someone who was drifting along and knew I could do better.”

Qerimi couldn’t shake the comment. She found she agreed with her colleague — she could do better. Soon, she decided to pursue higher education and work toward addressing the injustice she saw around her. After graduating from law school in 2014, she was hired by the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, where she remains a strong advocate for justice here and abroad.

Along with raising a 2-year-old daughter with her husband, a Jewish refugee, Qerimi serves as a board member for the AntiDefamation League and volunteers for organizations such as the International Rescue Committee. Her public service motivation stems from a deep commitment to her community and a desire to advocate for victims of crimes, two causes that Qerimi sees as her responsibility. Whether mustering the courage to pursue your passion or fighting on behalf of the vulnerable, she says, “Nothing is as difficult as it initially seems.”

— Malia Jacobson

Who is your personal hero?

Madeleine Albright.

What do you want people to understand about your work?

I chose to work in public service because I firmly believe that we each have a duty to the communities we live in and depend on. My public service work means that I try, every day, to uphold that responsibility.

What is one small action our readers can take in their own lives to make positive change happen?

To pick one entity/cause a year that matters most to you, outside of family and work/school, and see what is one thing that you can give of yourself to make that one thing better, no matter how small the contribution.

What one thing did an adult or mentor do for you as a youth that helped you succeed?

The middle-aged woman I worked with after high school who was grappling with improving her English language skills who told me I could do better. Her comment always stuck with me, and it was a part of my motivation to pursue higher education and obtain my law degree.

Best advice for kids with big ambition?

New challenges may feel insurmountable, and that’s understandable, because they are new! The key is to not shy away; they will remain insurmountable until you try.

The Equalizer

Honestly, as a prosecutor, I hope I can work myself out of a job.

Olivia Ashé

EQUITY ACTIVIST AND STUDENT

W

hile she was a student at Cleveland High School in Seattle’s Beacon Hill neighborhood, Olivia Ashé found her calling as a volunteer for Youth Ambassadors, a Seattle-based organization whose mission is to reduce truancy through restorative justice and peer counseling, rather than through the criminal justice system. Advocating for her peers facing court proceedings for truancy, Ashé discovered that she wanted to become a lawyer in order to counteract a deeply entrenched school-to-prison pipeline.

At first, Ashé says, she planned to advocate for the accused as a criminal defense attorney.

“I certainly started out thinking I’d work on the defense side. I even worked as an investigator for the public defender service in Washington, D.C., right out of college. But as I was engaging in that work, I saw how the courts work and where the power was. At this point, I see the prosecutor’s office as the place where I can affect the most change.”

Today, Ashé hopes to become a prosecuting attorney so that she can bring about systemic change for those whose “backs are against the

wall” — a term often used by Howard Thurman, a civil rights leader and theologian who inspired Ashé’s career goals. She was also influenced

by Black spiritual leader James Cone, D.D., considered the father of liberation theology, a doctrine that connects the interests of God with those of the oppressed.

Her commitment to equity and justice was recognized in 2015, when she was named the Washington state Truman Scholar while attending Seattle University as an undergraduate student. A nationally recognized activist for disadvantaged communities, she was also invited by the NGO Charter for Compassion to speak at the Empathy and Compassion in Society Conference in San Francisco.

The daughter of a pastor, Ashé is presently pursuing a Master of Divinity degree at GarrettEvangelical Theological Seminary and a law degree at Loyola University School of Law in Chicago, where she lives with her wife, Qiddist Ashé.

At least in one field, she hopes to have a short career: “It’s my hope that I can transform the system from within and then retire as a pastor.

Honestly, as a prosecutor, I hope I can work myself out of a job.”

— Malia Jacobson

”

What the world needs now is to understand how deeply interconnected we are to each other.

Who is your personal hero?

I have four: My mothers Angela Carrion and Katrina Boatright and fathers Mark Smith and Edward Jones. When I think about who I am today, so much of the passion I have and the way I move through life seeking liberation is because of them.

What one thing did an adult or mentor do for you as a youth that helped you succeed?

All four of my parents, my pastors at Valley and Mountain Fellowship, my high school principal Princess Shareef and Youth Ambassadors founder Lori Markowitz all gave me the space and encouragement to think critically.

Best advice for kids with big ambition?

Find other kids with big ambitions and small ambitions and all ambitions in between, and do things that feel relevant to the struggles you’re facing.

What’s one small action our readers can take in their own lives to make positive change happen?

Pursue healing for themselves and their community by having difficult conversations, listening deeply to others, and working alongside and with communities who are the most impacted by injustice and oppression.

parentmap.com • April 2019 • 21

superheroes The Camp Director Joshua Simon

CAMP DIRECTOR AT CAMP KOREY

What the world needs now is more friends.

D

uring college, Joshua Simon worked at camps run by SeriousFun Children’s Network (seriousfunnetwork.org), which serves kids with medical conditions. “It was just the most amazing summer experience. Once I realized this organization operated year-round, I knew this was the career for me,” says Simon.

Right after finishing graduate school, Simon and his wife, Kim, packed up their car and moved from Michigan to Washington state, where he began working at Camp Korey (campkorey.org), which offers children with serious medical conditions and their families a respite from the endless medical treatments that have overshadowed their childhood. Now the camp’s director, Simon loves that Camp Korey gives the kids it serves a place to belong.

“Not [just] fit in, but a true sense of belonging, with people who Goals are never understand what they are going through. The connections they make with their peers and positive role models translate to a transformation something you have between the first and last day of camp. Campers come out of to achieve on your own. their shells. They become more independent, self-determined, So, don’t get discouraged; autonomous kids, and they build resilience [to withstand] the hardships they are facing in their daily lives,” says Simon. it’s worth the work This transformative experience derives from intentional and the wait. Most planning. “We create this environment through good things don’t endless thinking, creativity, planning and structure.

Every activity we do has a purposeful intention, happen fast. from learning about yourself to forming deeper relationships with others,” explains Simon.

Planning finesse is just one of the skills that Simon brings to his role at Camp Korey.

“Josh is great at his job because he is able to connect with every individual. He is a fantastic advocate for the staff, but is also a mentor and friend to our campers. So many of our kids look up to Josh and look forward to seeing him every time they return to camp,” shares Amanda Doell, a child life specialist at Camp Korey. “I love working with Josh because he sees your potential before you even realize it yourself.”

— Nancy Schatz Alton

”

Best advice for kids with big ambition?

Write down your goal and keep it visible in front of you — like on a mirror or above your desk.

Also, someone out there has experience with what you want, and they can help you. Goals are never something you have to achieve on your own. Don’t get discouraged; it’s worth the work and the wait. Most good things don’t happen fast.

If you could dine with anyone, living or dead, whom would that be and why?

I would dine with Dave Matthews. His music has been an inspiration to me for so long. I admire him as a person and artist, and he seems like such a happy jokester.

Joshua with Chaya.

22 • April 2019 • parentmap.com

Who is your personal hero?

My wife. She’s always thinking about others before herself. She teaches me kindness and patience and makes me want to be a better person. I also admire Paul Newman. Not only was he a very talented man, but he was also incredibly philanthropic; he started this great organization that I am in love with. [Camp Korey is part of SeriousFun Children’s Network, which was founded by Paul Newman.]

What’s one small action our readers can take in their own lives to make positive change happen?

At camp, we practice having an attitude of gratitude.

We appreciate anything — big or small — that we see in other people, particularly their strengths.

We write notes, describe, label, and then praise.

The Advocate

Eleanor ‘Ele’ Hamburger

PARTNER AT SIRIANNI YOUTZ SPOONEMORE

I

f you become seriously ill and your insurance provider won’t cover you, you might just want to call Ele Hamburger. In her more than 25 years of practicing law, she’s successfully represented many people with serious health conditions and disabilities to obtain coverage they needed after being denied by their health insurance providers.

“When you’re sick, the last thing you want to do is have to deal with the court system,” says Hamburger.

But for many U.S. citizens, especially those with rare illnesses, that’s exactly what they’ll have to do. That’s where Hamburger comes in, helping clients to sue providers to secure crucial medical care and coverage.

Though it isn’t always easy, Hamburger says, there’s been progress, especially in recent years. “Since the implementation of the Affordable Care Act, many fights we used to have with insurance companies about life-saving treatment are no longer necessary,” she says. That means for patients like 10-year-old Oliver — a client who suffers from a rare form of leukemia — that coverage is required.

Still, Hamburger says, coverage isn’t enough. Research is also critical, but, of course, research requires funding. “There’s so much being learned about Oliver’s specific type of cancer every day, but because it’s so rare, potentially life-saving treatments aren’t being tested by pharmaceutical companies.”

Not that the lack of such research has stopped Oliver, whom Hamburger calls the real superhero. He has set up his own fundraising initiative (rainbowoliver.com), with the goal of raising $50,000 to fund pharmaceutical research leading to treatments for his disease.

“He’s a great example of why I feel so lucky to have this job,” says Hamburger.

— Diana Cherry L to R: Ele, with client Oliver and his mom, Laura Marie MacPherson.

What the world needs now is activism.

”

We need more people to pick up the mantle of activism for positive change in our world.

Who is your personal hero?

A woman I worked with named Florette Angel. She was an amazing activist and advocate for children and for health care, and she inspired me deeply. She worked for a children’s organization in West Virginia at the time, in a place with high childhood poverty and serious problems with the health-care system. She fought every day to impact people’s lives, in particular, the lives of children. She was a true hero to me.

What do you want people to understand about your work?

People have more rights than they realize when they start doing advocacy related to their health care and coverage. Unfortunately, though, the fight doesn’t stop even when a lawyer comes in and gets coverage in place. The next fight might be finding out what the right treatment even is, especially in cases where patients have rare diseases, like Oliver’s. It’s unfortunate that we have a healthcare system where people sometimes need lawyers, but here we are.

If you could have a superpower, what would it be?

I’d eliminate the need for my job and people could get the health care they need when they need it, without a fuss.

parentmap.com • April 2019 • 23

superheroes The Helping Hand Mahnaz K. Eshetu

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF REFUGEE WOMEN’S ALLIANCE

M

ahnaz Eshetu is proud to be an immigrant. But she says her story is very different from those of the refugees she serves today as the executive director of the Refugee Women’s Alliance (rewa.org).

“Immigrants like me come by choice. Refugees are escaping. They leave their countries because they are subject to war, execution, persecution. Before they come, they often spend years in camps,” she says.

Founded in 1985 to help Southeast Asian women resettle, the Refugee Women’s Alliance (ReWA) has grown into one of the largest nonprofit refugee service providers in the Puget Sound area. ReWA leverages public and private funding to provide wraparound services to refugee families.

“We serve the whole family. Women are the center of that,” says Eshetu. This comprehensive, family-focused approach may include job training, language classes, homework help, and naturalization and legal services. Communicating in 50 languages, ReWA caseworkers help refugee families access social services and obtain permanent

housing. ReWA operates bilingual early learning centers that prepare children for school and make it easier for both parents to work. In short, ReWA helps each family get the type of help it needs to be successful at building a better life in a new country.

“My passion,” says Eshetu, “is to help parents get on a career path so that they can help their children succeed. I don’t think of this work as heroic. To me, it is a privilege to work with such wonderful people and see them make a real difference.”

— Gemma Alexander

”

Be open to possibilities. Be open to learning about cultures and people before making judgements. Don’t base opinions on appearance, accents or where someone was born.

Who is your personal hero?

Right now, Barack and Michelle Obama.

What do you want people to understand about your work?

I wish people understood that people who come to this country aren’t looking for a handout.

They are looking to build a life, and what they are bringing to the country has value.

What one thing did an adult or mentor do for you as a youth that helped you succeed?

My role models are my mother and grandmother, both professional women who dedicated their lives to the well-being of the community and wanted to make a difference.

What is your best advice for kids with big ambition?

Give yourself a chance and have a plan, and have a backup plan, because life is interesting, and you never know what will happen. Don’t limit yourself.

If you could have a superpower, what would it be?

If I had a superpower, I would be able to make our politicians look at our social service system and see how it is broken. It keeps people down instead of helping them up. I am dealing with people who want to move ahead but can’t accept a raise or better job because they can’t afford it. A tiny increase in pay will cause them to lose health care, reduced-price school lunch and other services they depend on. We have to fix this system that cuts people off before they are self-sufficient.

24 • April 2019 • parentmap.com

It is a privilege to work with such wonderful people and see them make a real difference.

The Empowerers

The Xbox Adaptive Controller Team

A

sk anyone who watched the Super Bowl this year what they will remember about it months from now, and they may be more likely to mention the inspirational advertisement about the Xbox Adaptive Controller (XAC) than any highlight of the game itself.

In the ad, kids with physical disabilities exult in playing video games with their peers using the new controller, which was designed for gamers with restricted mobility and is compatible with most existing assistive technologies (i.e., switches and other devices that enable people with mobility limitations to control a video game using different parts of their body, such as their feet, head or mouth).

The campaign engendered a collective, simultaneous “aha” and “aww” moment for viewers, and it signals that Microsoft embraces not only the need for affordable accessibility solutions to empower the tens of millions of video game players with disabilities, but understands the life-changing experience and social connection afforded by accessibility technology for people with impairments. As the Super Bowl ad states, “When everybody plays, we all win.” (You can watch the commercial at xbox.com/adaptive-controller.)

Kris Hunger, a director of devices UX research and accessibility with the team, gives credit where she believes it is due: “The real superheroes are the gamers, caregivers and nonprofits that have spent years hacking together solutions — they are the ones who inspired us to create the adaptive controller. Without their passion and their engagement and help developing the adaptive controller, it probably would not have happened.”

Navin Kumar is a director of product marketing with the Xbox XAC team, and we talked to him about the company’s focus on inclusive design and its mission to use the power of video games to improve the quality of life of people with disabilities.

— Alayne Sulkin

Your team is making game playing more accessible to people and kids with disabilities.

Where else in the gaming industry are you seeing an emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility?

I think there’s a lot of great games out there that are making accessibility improvements.

For the last few years, there’s a franchise of ours called “Gears of War” that has included a variety of accessibility features — things like color-blind mode, separate audio adjustments for different audio streams within the game so players can listen to voices differently, and sound effects.

They’re adding subtitles, they’re adding different layouts for individuals who can’t reach all of the buttons and triggers. They’re also adding audio cues in the game to help visually impaired gamers with wayfinding. They’ve been doing this for quite a while, so I’d say they’re at the forefront of this focus on inclusivity.

Did you have any idea that the Super Bowl commercial was going to command so much attention?

That was a surprise to us, too. We didn’t know what the impact would be. I’ve heard internally that we generated over 600 different media articles and a lot of recognition for it being one of the most memorable commercials of the Super Bowl, if not the best thing about the Super Bowl.

What makes you most proud about the work you do?

Getting positive feedback from our fans. The thing with the gaming industry is that fans will tell you whether or not they love your product. I get a chance to interact with our fans at different events. I read their comments online, and when we hear that our products are making a difference in their lives or in how they interact with one another, it’s rewarding.

Feedback like this also helps us think about opportunities that we can develop going forward.

L to R: Navin Kumar, Bryce Johnson, Evelyn Thomas, Scott Wang, Gabi Michel, Chris Kujawski, James Shields, Matt Hite, Kris Hunter (horizontal), Leo Del Castillo, Bree White, Yaron Galitzky.

parentmap.com • April 2019 • 25

april

KLIMKIN/PIXABY

Pacific Seas Aquarium activities, April 1–30

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, April 1–30

HERBERT AUST/PIXABAY

BEN SCHERJON/PIXABAY

CatVideoFest, April 3

Kelsey Creek Sheep Shearing, April 27

Every Child Summit: Kirkland, April 25

26 • April 2019 • parentmap.com

INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S FRIENDSHIP FESTIVAL

OONA COPPERHILL

PICKS

SUNDAY International Children’s Friendship Festival, April 6–7

MONDAY

TUESDAY

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Ravine Stroll. Wander the paths at the beautiful Bellevue Botanical Garden and make your way across the exciting suspension bridge. Daily, dawn to dusk. FREE. Bellevue. bellevuebotanical.org Pacific Seas Aquarium Community Celebration. Special activities to get to know the new aquarium include dives, feeds, handson activities, storytelling and more! Daily April 1–30, 9:30 a.m.–4 p.m. Included with admission. Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, Tacoma. pdza.org

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. Tulips are blooming! Head north to see acres of stunning fields of color. Daily through April 30, or while blooms last. Mount Vernon area. tulipfestival.org Let’s Grow. Head to the W.W. Seymour Conservancy with your littles and work on plant-themed crafts. Tuesday–Friday, April 2–5. 11 a.m.–1 p.m. $3 suggested donation. Ages 2–8. Wright Park, Tacoma. metroparkstacoma.org

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International Children’s Friendship Festival. Youth performance showcase fosters cross-cultural understanding.

Saturday–Sunday, April 6–7, 11 a.m.–6 p.m.

FREE. Fisher Pavilion at Seattle Center. childrensfest.tacawa.org 52 Seattle Adventures With Kids. Join the editor and select contributors for a reading of ParentMap’s new book, an indispensable guide to all-year family fun. 3 p.m. FREE. Third Place Books Seward Park, Seattle. facebook.com/parentmap

Marine Mammal Mania. Learn all about our mammal cousins, such as orcas and otters, that live in the sea next door. April 5–14. Included with admission. Seattle Aquarium. seattleaquarium.org Movin’ Around the World. Northwest Folklife presents performances and all-comers lessons on folk customs from around the world. Saturday–Friday. April 6–12, 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m. FREE. Seattle Center. nwfolklife.org

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Second Sunday at Morse Wildlife Preserve. Explore this enchanting, seldom open wild space; look for special Poetry in the Park signage along the upland trails this month. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. FREE. Graham. tahomaaudubon.org Miss Nelson Is Missing. The popular book by Harry Allard comes to life on stage.

Saturday–Sunday, April 6–27. Ages 5–12 with families; Sunday shows are all-ages. $6–$12. SecondStory Repertory, Redmond. secondstoryrep.org

Toddler Time. Open-early play gym lets the little ones burn off energy with bikes, slides and toys. Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.– noon. $2. Ages 3 and under with caregiver.

Issaquah Community Center. ci.issaquah.wa.us ONGOING EVENT Open Skate. Afternoon indoor skate session for skaters of all ages; additional weekly sessions available. 2–5 p.m. $10.

All Together Skate Park, Seattle. alltogetherskatepark.com ONGOING EVENT

Lil’ Diggers Playtime. This giant indoor sandbox is perfect for rainy-day play. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday; 9:30–11 a.m. or 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. $8. Ages 5 and under.

Sandbox Sports, Seattle. sandboxsports.net ONGOING EVENT Tool Time Tuesday. Young builders practice with real tools and learn to safely saw, hammer and more. Tuesdays, 3–4 p.m.

Included with admission. Ages 5 and up.

KidsQuest Children’s Museum, Bellevue. kidsquestmuseum.org ONGOING EVENT

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Egg Hunts at the Farm. Fabulous farm fun coupled with egg hunts throughout the day.

Saturday–Sunday, April 20–21, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $8 admission; $3/dozen eggs; prices vary for other activities. Old McDebbie’s Farm, Spanaway. oldmcdebbiesfarm.net Passover Escape Room. Try a family escape room activity inspired by the Israelites’ escape from Egypt. 11 a.m.– 1 p.m. $70/family. Stroum Jewish Community Center, Mercer Island. sjcc.org

FREE Entrance to State Parks. Celebrate Earth Day in the green; no Discover Pass required to park. FREE. (April 20 also.)

Statewide. discoverpass.wa.gov Low Sensory Play Time. Special play time with a limited number of kids and a calm environment. Sunday, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.; Monday, Wednesday–Friday; noon–2 p.m. $20; preregister. Ages 0–10 with adult. Roo’s World of Discovery, Kirkland. roosworldofdiscovery.com ONGOING EVENT

Detective Cookie’s Chess Club. Drop in to learn and practice chess skills; new members welcome. Tuesdays, 3–5 p.m.

FREE. Ages 7 and up. Seattle Public Library, Rainier Beach Branch. spl.org ONGOING EVENT Junior Ranger Program. A National Park in the heart of downtown Seattle? Visit and learn all about the Gold Rush and earn a junior ranger badge. Daily, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

FREE. Ages 5–13. Klondike Gold Rush Seattle Unit. nps.gov/klse

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Exploration and Innovation Packs. Pick up a pack filled with activities, puzzles and more to explore the museum in a whole new way. Daily. Included with admission.

Ages 3–10 with families. MOHAI, Seattle. mohai.org Pajamarama! Evening Story Time. Cozy up in your jammies and bring those stuffies to enjoy stories, songs and rhymes in the evening. Mondays, 6:45–7:30 p.m. Ages 3–6 with families. FREE. Shoreline Library. kcls.org ONGOING EVENT

Hoppy Hour. Bounce time for energetic kids to get the rainy-day (or any-day) wiggles out. Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m. $7–$12. Elevated Sportz Trampoline Park, Bothell. elevatedsportz.com ONGOING EVENT Global Adventures Story Time. Enjoy a culturally diverse story followed by a related activity; today’s book is “Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns” by Hena Khan. 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Included with admission. Imagine Children’s Museum, Everett. imaginecm.org

Spring Restoration Day. Join the community effort to clean up Volunteer Park; gloves, tools, coffee and doughnuts provided. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. FREE. Ages 3 and up with families. Volunteer Park, Seattle. volunteerparktrust.org Park RX Day and Family Health Festival. Stop in for a dose of nature and family-friendly activities all day. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. FREE. Point Defiance Park, Tacoma. metroparkstacoma.org

9 Interactive Animal Tour. Meet all the critters who live down on the farm. 10:30– 11:30 a.m. $10 per child; preregister. Ages 3 and up. Keep It Simple Farm, Redmond. kisfarm.com No More Yelling. Parents, learn effective alternatives to yelling and valuable tools for your parenting toolkit. 6–8 p.m. FREE; supervised play for ages 3–12 included; childcare for under age 3 $10. Hands On Children’s Museum. Olympia. hocm.org

A Seattle Children’s Publication | Spring 2019

Healthy Family Communication Communication — the exchange of verbal and non-verbal information — is the foundation of relationships. Families who practice positive communication help their children develop trust, self-esteem and problemsolving skills that they will use their entire lives. So, how can we teach positive communication and help our kids make it a powerful lifelong habit? We can: Be active listeners and listen more than we talk. We can put away our phones, turn off nearby media, and give our child our full attention. We can nod, smile, touch, maintain eye contact and allow for pauses and silences — rather than jumping in with comments or advice. We can ask thoughtful questions to better understand our child.

Show empathy and stay calm. We can relax and absorb everything our child is expressing.

We can put ourselves in their place and tune in to what they’re feeling. We can be sure our own frame of mind is compassionate, rather than judgmental.

Purchase a Miracle May 1 to June 15 Help support Seattle Children’s by purchasing products with bright green Purchase a Miracle shelf tags May 1 to June 15. Participating retail locations include Albertsons, Bartell Drugs, Fred Meyer, QFC, Safeway and other local grocery stores. When you choose to purchase products with the Purchase a Miracle shelf tag, you are helping support cancer research and clinical trials. to learn more:

Visit seattlechildrens.org/purchase-a-miracle.

Be clear, honest and kind with our words.

Before speaking, we can consider the message we want to deliver and double-check our own intentions to be sure our message is gentle, helpful and necessary. Then, we can speak simply and from the heart.

Use ‘I’ statements rather than ‘you’ statements. For example, instead of telling your tween “You’re not getting to bed early enough, you’ll be tired tomorrow,” you can say something like “I’ve noticed your bedtime has been later recently, and I’m concerned that your body needs more sleep.”

Guide our kids to solve their own problems. For example, if a preschooler is having trouble putting her shoes on, you can sit beside her with your own shoes, and try something like this: “I have that problem too!

Sometimes it helps if I first loosen my laces, like this. Want to try it with yours?” Then patiently encourage her while she figures it out. Guiding older kids often means listening carefully while they explain their problem in detail, then posing thoughtful questions to help them discover their own solution.

Positive communication creates a tight family bond that endures even after our children are grown and have kids of their own.

It’s always worth the effort to improve our communication skills — and it’s never too late to learn! to learn more:

Visit apa.org/helpcenter/communicationparents.

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Vaccine Safety Your child’s doctor wants you to know that vaccines are safe. Vaccines work, and they are necessary. The measles outbreak in Washington state shows why vaccines are needed. To ensure safety, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reviews all aspects of every vaccine and will not license a vaccine unless it meets strict safety standards. After FDA review, a vaccine is also reviewed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the American

Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Academy of Family Physicians. Only after being approved by all four groups is a vaccine officially recommended to be given to children. If you have questions or doubts about vaccines, ask your child’s doctor. It’s always best to get health information from a medical professional. to learn more:

Watch the CDC’s video at youtu.be/Fcvgp6gNh6o.

Poison Prevention for Kids Under 6 In 2017, the Washington Poison Center dealt with 55,247 poison exposures of people, and children under age 6 accounted for almost half of these cases. This is alarming, especially considering that nearly 80% of the poisonings were unintentional. The 10 most common substances that poisoned children ages 0 to 5 in 2017 were: cosmetics and personal-care products; household cleaning products; pain medicines; foreign bodies (including toys and miscellaneous items); skin creams and ointments; vitamins; plants; dietary supplements (including herbal and ‘natural’ products); antihistamines; and pesticides.

Nine out of 10 poisonings occur at home. Since kids are curious explorers who get into things they shouldn’t, it’s crucial to prevent them from finding household items that could be dangerous. Store poisonous items out of sight and reach when possible or use safety locks. And in case your child does ingest something harmful, be prepared by programming the toll-free Poison Help Number, 1-800-222-1222, into all your phones and be sure caregivers have it. to learn more:

Visit wapc.org.

Prevent Non-Swim-Time Drownings Among children ages 1 to 4, drowning is a leading cause of death — second only to birth defects. Many parents are surprised to learn that when very young children drown, nearly 70% of those deaths happen when no one thought the child was supposed to be in the water.

Most non-swim-time drowning deaths among children ages 1 to 4 occur in an unoccupied swimming pool. Typically, a child walks or crawls away from adult supervision without being noticed. Drowning can happen quickly and quietly anywhere there is enough water. Young children also drown in ponds, lakes, rivers and other open waters when they wander off on their own. And every year in the U.S., about 20 children drown in buckets

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when they fall in head-first. In bathrooms, they can fall head-first into a toilet or climb into a full bathtub.

Prevent unsupervised access to water.

Assess potential risks inside, outside and near

your home and any other locations you visit, including other people’s homes, hotels or campgrounds. If a pool is nearby, ensure there is a secure barrier between it and your child.

Empty all bathtubs, buckets, containers and kiddie pools immediately after use. For items that can collect water, always store them upside down. Keep bathroom doors closed and use a safety latch on toilets. And of course, during bath time, never leave a baby or toddler alone — not even for a second.

Learn CPR and basic water rescue skills.

These can save a life when there is an emergency. to learn more:

Visit seattlechildrens.org/dp.

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Kid Bits

Stuttering

Sportsmanship

A Cold or Seasonal Allergies?

Stuttering is common among toddlers and preschoolers, and it usually goes away on its own before long. A child who is developing a stutter may struggle to say certain sounds or words. They may repeat the first sound of words (like “buh-buh-buh-boy”) or stretch out sounds (like “ffffff-ast”) and pause noticeably between words. They may also show frustration when trying to get the words out. For parents, it’s important to encourage the child, give them plenty of time to talk and don’t interrupt or tell them to slow down. Speech problems are easiest to correct before age 4, so if stuttering is frequent and doesn’t seem to be improving, see your child’s doctor, who may recommend a speech therapist.

Whether your child is just starting to play sports or has been competing for years, it’s always a good idea to talk about sportsmanship — and model it yourself. Sportsmanship is about playing by the rules, enjoying the game, and showing respect to coaches, officials, teammates and opponents. It’s important to practice sportsmanship before and after the game, not just during. And since the ride home can be a sensitive time for young athletes, avoid discussing their performance, coaching decisions or a referee’s call. Follow their lead: if your child is silent, they probably need that silence. If they’re chatty, listen and engage. No matter what — win or lose — let your kid know that you love watching them play!

Colds and seasonal allergies share some symptoms, but there are distinct differences, too. Both can cause a runny nose and watery eyes. Both might cause a cough — but it’s less common with allergies. Seasonal allergies (also called hay fever) can trigger itchy eyes and nose; a cold does not. And seasonal allergies strike during pollen season: did your child have the same symptoms at the same time last year? While a cold may include a fever and sore throat, allergies do not. And cold symptoms last one to three weeks versus allergy symptoms, which last six to eight weeks for each pollen. If you suspect allergies, visit your child’s doctor, who can make a diagnosis and create a treatment plan.

to learn more:

to learn more:

to learn more:

Visit kidshealth.org/en/parents/

Visit seattlechildrens.org/conditions/a-z/

sportsmanship.html.

hay-fever.

Search ‘stuttering’ at seattlechildrens.org.

Quick Tip Protect young children.

Regional Clinic Locations

Online Resources

• Bellevue • Everett • Federal Way

Visit seattlechildrens.org for the following: • Child Health Advice • my Good Growing email newsletter • Doctor Finder • Seattle Mama Doc, Teenology 101, Autism and On The Pulse blogs • Medical condition information • Health & safety information • Ways to help Seattle Children’s • Research Institute information

• Olympia • Tri-Cities • Wenatchee

Primary Care Clinic

Install guards or stops to

• Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic

limit windows from opening

Main Hospital Numbers

more than 4 inches.

facebook.com/seattlechildrens instagram.com/seattlechildrens

twitter.com/seattlechildren

206-987-2000 866-987-2000 (Toll-free)

Heather Cooper is the Editor of Good Growing, which is produced four times a year by the Marketing Communications Department of Seattle Children’s. You can find Good Growing in the January, April, July and October issues of ParentMap and on our website seattlechildrens.org. For permission to reprint articles for noncommercial purposes or to receive Good Growing in an alternate format, call 206-987-5323. The inclusion of any resource or website does not imply endorsement. Your child’s needs are unique. Before you act or rely upon information, please talk with your child’s healthcare provider. © 2019 Seattle Children’s, Seattle, Washington.

youtube.com/seattlechildrens

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Classes and Events These classes are popular and often fill up several months in advance, so please register early. Scholarships are available. If you would like to ask about a scholarship, call the number provided for the class you’re interested in.

PARENTING CLASSES Autism 101 This free 90-minute lecture is designed to provide information and support to parents and families of children recently diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. A portion of each session is dedicated to answering questions from the attendees.

Lectures are at Seattle Children’s main campus in Seattle, once per quarter, on a Thursday, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Lectures are also available via live streaming.

View dates or sign up for live streaming at seattlechildrens.org/autism101. Call 206-9878080 if you have questions.

Autism 200 Series Autism 200 is a series of free 90-minute classes for parents and caregivers of children with autism who wish to better understand autism spectrum disorder. Each class features a different topic.

Classes are usually offered on the third Thursday of the month, 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Seattle Children’s main campus in Seattle. These classes are also available through live streaming.

View dates and topics, sign up for live streaming or view past Autism 200 lectures at seattlechildrens.org/autism200.

Call 206-987-8080 if you have questions.

Babysafe Babysafe is a 4-hour class for new and expectant parents and others who care for babies. Topics include infant development, baby safety, injury prevention and care of common injuries for infants from birth through 12 months of age.

Infant CPR is demonstrated and practiced, but this is not a certification class.

This class is offered in Seattle. The fee is $75 and each registration is good for 2 people from the same family. View dates and locations at seattlechildrens.org/classes or call 206-7892306 if you have questions.

Heartsaver First Aid, CPR and AED This video-based class for parents and caregivers covers how to treat bleeding, sprains, broken bones, shock and other first-aid emergencies. Also includes infant, child and adult CPR and AED use. Students receive an American Heart Association Heartsaver First Aid, CPR, AED Course Completion Card that is valid for 2 years.

This class is offered at Seattle Children’s main campus in Seattle for $75 per person.

View dates at seattlechildrens.org/classes or call 206-987-2304 if you have questions.

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Youth Mental Health First Aid

Sibshops

This 8-hour class is for adults who regularly interact with adolescents ages 12 to 18. Youth Mental Health First Aid will improve your knowledge of mental health and substance use problems and will teach you how to connect youth with care when needed.

Sibshops are lively peer support groups for siblings of kids with special needs. Separate sessions are held for kids 6 to 9 years old and kids 10 to 13 years old.

This class is offered at the Sand Point Learning Center in Seattle for $20 per person, which includes class materials and lunch.

View dates at seattlechildrens.org/classes or call 206-987-9878 if you have questions.

CHILD, PRETEEN AND TEEN CLASSES Better Babysitters For youth, ages 11 to 14. Students learn about responsible babysitting, basic child development, infant and child care, safety, handling emergencies, age-appropriate toys, business tips and parent expectations.

Sessions take place at Seattle Children’s main campus in Seattle at a cost of $25 per session.

View dates online at seattlechildrens.org/classes or call 206-987-4133.

EVENTS Free Bike Helmet Fitting and Giveaway WHEN: Saturday, April 20, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Lynnwood Saturday, May 11, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Richland Saturday, June 8, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Federal Way

This class is offered in Seattle, Bellevue, Everett and Federal Way. The cost is $45 per person.

View dates and locations at seattlechildrens.org/ classes or call 206-987-9878 if you have questions.

Come get your child properly fit for a new bike helmet. Kids must be 1 to 18 and present to receive a helmet. The person who will be using the helmet must be present for proper fitting. First come, first served. No appointments needed. Learn more at MakeSureTheHelmetFits.org.

CPR and First Aid for Babysitters

Free Car Seat Check

For youth, ages 11 to 15. Topics include pediatric CPR, treatment for choking, and first-aid skills.

Students receive an American Heart Association Heartsaver Pediatric First Aid, CPR, AED completion card, which is valid for 2 years.

WHEN: Saturday, June 22, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

WHERE: Seattle Children’s main campus, 4800 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle CALL: 206-987-5999

This class is offered at Seattle Children’s main campus in Seattle for $75 per person. View dates at seattlechildrens.org/classes or call 206-987-2304 if you have questions.

For Boys: The Joys and Challenges of Growing Up This class is for boys, 10 to 12 years old, and a parent or trusted adult.

For Girls: A Heart-to-Heart Talk on Growing Up This class is for girls, 10 to 12 years old, and a parent or trusted adult.

An informal, engaging format is used to present and discuss issues most on the minds of preteens as they begin adolescence: body changes, sex, and other growing-up stuff.

Come learn how to safely secure your child in the car. Child passenger safety experts will check your child in a car seat, booster seat or the seat belt and answer any questions you may have. First come, first served. We do not take reservations.

Free Safe Firearm Storage Giveaway WHEN: Saturday, May 18, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

WHERE: Coastal Farm & Ranch, 2112 S 1st St., Yakima CALL: 206-987-6197 Learn about the importance of safe firearm storage and get a free lock box or trigger lock, with hands-on training on proper use. Supplies are limited. First come, first served. One free lock box or trigger lock per person (maximum 2 items per household). Must be present to receive free item.

Recipient must be 18 or older. No ID required.

These classes are offered in Seattle, Bellevue, Everett and Federal Way in partnership with Great Conversations. The cost is $90 per parent/child pair; $70 per extra child. A copy of the book “Will Puberty Last My Whole Life?” is included.

View dates and locations at seattlechildrens.org/ classes or call 206-789-2306 if you have questions. Content outlines and short videos are available at greatconversations.com.

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THURSDAY

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Spring Break STEAM Activities. Keep the kids entertained on their week off with drop-in, hands-on STEAM activities. Tuesday–Friday, April 2–5, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. FREE. WET Science Center, Olympia. wetsciencecenter.org CatVideoFest. Just as fantastic as it sounds, it’s a collection of hilarious and heartwarming kitty clips. 1:45 or 7 p.m. $8–$10.50. The Grand Cinema, Tacoma. grandcinema.com

SATURDAY 6 Train Season Opening Day. Ride the rails and learn all about historic transportation.

Saturday–Sunday through October. $10– $20; ages under 2 free. Northwest Railway Museum, Snoqualmie. trainmuseum.org Daffodil Festival Parades. Wave at the floats, marching bands and Daffodil Princesses in four city parades. 10:15 a.m. in Tacoma; 12:45 p.m. in Puyallup; 2:30 p.m. in Sumner; 5 p.m. in Orting. FREE. thedaffodilfestival.org

First Friday Night. Blast off to space and build your own rover bot at this terrific museum. 5–9 p.m. First two family members FREE; additional $2. Ages 2–10 with families. Hands On Children’s Museum, Olympia. hocm.org SANCA Showcase Spectacular. Watch amazing circus performances by students and pros alike. Friday–Sunday, April 5–7. $12–$20. Broadway Performance Hall, Seattle. sancaseattle.org

Toddler Gym. Play time for tots at Seattle’s neighborhood community centers. Monday–Saturday, various times. FREE. Ages 5 and under with caregiver. Seattle. seattle.gov/parks ONGOING EVENT First Thursday at Lake Union Park. Build a toy boat at the Center for Wooden Boats (3–5 p.m.; $3 suggested donation) and visit MOHAI (10 a.m.–8 p.m.; FREE). Seattle. cwb.org, mohai.org

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Student Wednesday at BAM. The museum invites students to visit its collections every second Wednesday of the month.

11 a.m.–5 p.m. FREE for grades K–12 with online coupon. Bellevue Arts Museum, Bellevue. bellevuearts.org Balloonacy. Enjoy this wordless, Chaplinesque, heartwarming play about an old man whose routine gets shaken up by a persistent and playful red balloon. Through May 5. $15–$45. Ages 3 and up. Seattle Children’s Theatre. sct.org

Washington State Spring Fair. Get a head start on summer fair fun with rides, music, pig racing, Motorsport Mayhem and more. Thursday–Sunday, April 11–14. $10–$12; ages 5 and under free.

Washington State Fair Events Center, Puyallup. thefair.com Reading With Rover. Calm, trained therapy dogs listen attentively while kids practice reading aloud. 6:30–7:30 p.m. FREE. Ages 6 and up with adult. King County Library System, Sammamish Branch. kcls.org

Kaleidoscope Play & Learn. Build community by meeting and playing with other families. Fridays, 10:30 a.m.–noon. FREE. Ages 0–5 with caregivers. Everett Main Library. epls.org ONGOING EVENT OFT Let’s Play: Old MacDonald. Pop in for a short, live-theater experience designed for the tot and preschool crowd. Wednesday–Sunday, April 10–14, 10 a.m. $5; under 2 free. Olympia Family Theater. olyft.org

Family Concert: Eli Rosenblatt. Groove to catchy, worldly tunes that highlight love and acceptance for all. $5; kids free. 11 a.m.

Phinney Neighborhood Center, Seattle. townhallseattle.org Sewing to Sowing. Plant seeds, learn to hand-sew, churn butter and experience springtime life of the 1850s. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. $8–$10; ages 3 and under free. Fort Nisqually Living History Museum, Tacoma. fortnisqually.org

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Toddler Tales & Trails. Kids and caregivers enjoy story time and a tot-sized nature hike. Wednesday, Saturday; 10–11 a.m. $2. Ages 2–5 with caregiver. Seward Park Audubon Center, Seattle. sewardpark.audubon.org ONGOING EVENT Toddler Time. Join your toddler and an Environmental Science Center naturalist for seasonal nature activities. 10:30–11:30 a.m.

FREE; preregister. Ages 2–4 with families.

Seahurst Park, Burien. envsciencecenter.org

Indoor Playpark. Fun open gym boasts slides, plasma cars, smaller toys and espresso for the adults to enjoy! Monday, Thursday; 10 a.m.–1 p.m. $2.50. Ages 0–5 with caregiver. Silver Creek Family Church, Lynnwood. facebook.com/ silvercreekindoorplaypark ONGOING EVENT Kent Third Thursday Art Night. Family-friendly event features live music and local artists. 5–8 p.m. FREE. Rusty Raven Studio, Kent. facebook.com/3rdthursdaykent

Ballard Locks Tour. Join a free walking tour of the amazing “boat elevator” and garden grounds, watching for seals, herons and fish. Thursday–Sunday, 2 p.m. through April 30. FREE. Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, Seattle. ballardlocks.org ONGOING EVENT Flashlight Egg Hunt. Tweens and teens go next-level on the traditional egg hunt. Bring your own flashlight, basket and friends (or make some there!). 7:30–8:45 p.m. $5; preregister. Ages 11–16. Dacca Park, Fife. cityoffife.org

Spring Eggstravaganza. Scavenger hunt, bunny petting, bouncy house and more.

Noon–4 p.m. FREE. Ages 12 and under with families. Redmond Town Center. redmondtowncenter.com Earth Day Extravaganza. Crafts and activities. Noon–4 p.m. FREE. Tacoma Nature Center. metroparkstacoma.org Earth Day Celebration and Family Festival.

Create crafts, hike with rangers and more.

11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. FREE. Lewis Creek Park Visitor Center, Bellevue. parks.bellevuewa.gov

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Drop-In Playgroup. Meet other parents and tots and explore this playroom chockfull of toys, art supplies and books. Fridays, 10:30 a.m.–noon. FREE. Ages 0–5 with adult.

FamilyWorks, Seattle. familyworksseattle.org ONGOING EVENT Seattle Cherry Blossom and Japanese Cultural Festival. Taiko drumming, artisan craft demos, traditional food and more.

Friday–Sunday, April 26–28. FREE. Seattle Center. seattlecenter.com/festal

Kelsey Creek Sheep Shearing. Watch the sheep get a haircut, take a wagon or a pony ride, make crafts and more. 11 a.m.–4 p.m.

FREE; some activities have fee. Kelsey Creek Farm, Bellevue. parks.bellevuewa.gov Family Science Night: Mystery at the Museum. Examine the clues and solve the “crime.” 5:45–8:30 p.m. $36 per adult-child pair. Ages K–5 with caregiver. Pacific Science Center, Seattle. pacificsciencecenter.org

Baby Jam. The tots will be a-rockin’ with this multi-lingual, drop-in musical exploration.

Wednesday, Friday; 9:30 or 10:15 a.m. $12.

Ages 0–5 with caregiver. Salsa Con Todo, Seattle. babyjam.net ONGOING EVENT Building Inclusive Communities. Workshop for parents on tackling challenging topics with an anti-bias framework. 6:30 p.m. $10; preregistration required. Adults; babes in arms under 3 months welcome. Verity Credit Union, Seattle. peps.org

‘52 Seattle Adventures With Kids’ book reading, April 7

Washington State Spring Fair, April 11–14

PATRICK HAGERTY

SANDRA LAMB

PETER KRAAYVANGER/PIXABAY

Marine Mammal Mania, April 5–14

Every Child Summit: Eastside. Join ParentMap and dive into resources to support children with learning differences, followed by an exclusive lecture by Dr. Edward Hallowell on the brain science behind ADHD/ADD. FREE resource fair; 5–7 p.m. RSVP. Lecture, 7–9 p.m. $25–$30.

Kirkland Performance Center. parentmap.com/everychild

Loads more family fun activities at parentmap.com/ calendar

parentmap.com • April 2019 • 31

it starts with you(th)

Meet Deepthi Chandra

Is your teen lacking direction in life? This Bothell youth has a website for that

By Patty Lindley

A

t the young age of 16, Deepthi Chandra discovered a subtle but powerful truth about life that many people may never come to fully appreciate: In order to learn, you need to understand how to teach. For Chandra, this insight happened in a fitting place — the classroom. She noticed that there were a lot of students in her AP courses at Bothell’s North Creek High School who were having difficulty learning the material from their “dense” textbooks, and this gave her an idea. She started making videos to break down the subject matter in a straightforward manner that her classmates could more easily digest.

“I started making these AP prep videos, like Khan Academy, but they were by me, another teen, so I guess it was more interesting,” says Chandra.

The videos helped, so Chandra rallied more students to make prep videos for other AP classes.

She called them EclipsNotes, and before long, the original group of creators at her high school was joined by content producers from other cities and schools. Today, Chandra and her team of industrious collaborators and far-flung video contributors can point proudly to a thriving, content-rich website (eclipsnotes.com) of more than 2,900 video “lessons” that are viewed around the world.

One of the unique aspects of this vibrant, ubiquitously positive media-sharing platform has evolved within the past year. Chandra explains: “We realized that it’s not really the prep resources that people need — because you can find AP content online in other places. The thing that people, especially teens, really need is to find their passion and their direction. We decided that it would be better to create a community where people could teach about everything that they’re passionate about and listen to and learn from other people who share their stories and teach courses about what they care about.”

From ways to support students with special needs to advice for turning disappointment into drive to practical study topics like “How to AP World History,” the site is a fascinating rabbit hole of endless discovery — interesting stories, perspectives, how-tos and insights for life, produced by teens for teens.

Although maintenance of the site is manageable — perhaps totaling five hours a week for editing and posting of video content, Chandra estimates — the more

time-consuming task before her, as founder and executive director of EclipsNotes, is focusing on developing partnerships with other organizations and nonprofits to chart the next phase of the site’s growth. She shares her vision: “Khan Academy [offers] free content; on YouTube, anybody can post; and Coursera has online courses taught by really passionate people. EclipsNotes is really special in that it is a teen platform, it’s entirely free, and anybody can post.

It combines the best of three worlds, and if we can get it to really [claim its place] in terms of media and social media, I think it could help a lot of people.”

In addition to handling her coursework and running EclipsNotes, Chandra has also spearheaded another charitable enterprise, through a Vital Voices (vitalvoices.org) grant, that she calls Notebooks for India. She explains: “I use the grant money to buy plain craft-paper notebooks, and we have local middle school students paint them with mandalas. Then we sell them in bookstores and use the money to send supply packages back to welfare schools in India.”

I ask Chandra why she thinks she has been able to make such an impact already in her young life. She credits her intelligence and drive, but also her emotional strengths, chief among them authenticity and perseverance. “I want to be really

“In order to learn you have to understand how to teach.”

32 • April 2019 • parentmap.com

ARRIVE LEAVE CURIOUS. INSPIRED.

good-natured, never fake or inauthentic, and even if I lose, [at least] I know I did it the right way. When I see stuff I don’t like, I really want to change it, and I will be willing to do anything. It’s not that I’m just willing to do anything — I will actually not sleep or eat or whatever until it gets done,” she explains.

It is this kind of precocious determination that infuses her advice to other young people who are trying to figure out how to make their mark on the world.

“When it comes to doing social work or things like volunteering, the opportunity that’s most meaningful is the one that you find yourself.

Start by looking for the people you want to fight for. Even if you don’t know what or who it is, look in the entire world, instead of just in your town, because it’s really easy to live in the bubble of your immediate school, your immediate family and 0419_gates_branding_1-4.indd friends.”

The future beyond the bubble of Bothell looks very bright for Deepthi Chandra, indeed. In addition to “more cool things to come” for EclipsNotes — including more partnerships and productions to support local school clubs, and a video competition for content creators, complete with a red-carpet awards night ceremony to honor winners — her internal compass for passion and direction has found its true north. “I am really looking forward to going to college,” she says. “I want to go out of state and I want to see so many different kinds of people and to travel everywhere.

Whatever college I go to, I know I will find more people who can support me there.” n

“When I see stuff I don’t like, I really want to change it, and I will be willing to do anything.”

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34 • April 2019 • parentmap.com

Bellevue Youth Theatre 16051 NE 10th Street, Bellevue

out + about

Lake Quinault Lodge

11 Kid-Friendly Lodges for Fantastic Family Getaways F

By Lauren Braden

rom woodsy and rustic to utterly deluxe, the Pacific Northwest’s historic lodges will transform your family vacation into an unforgettable adventure. These lodges and ranches make a perfect starting point to explore some of the region’s most amazing landscapes, from hiking mountain trails to strolling unforgettable beaches.

1

Lake Crescent Lodge

416 Lake Crescent Rd., Port Angeles, Olympic Peninsula; 888-896-3818 • olympicnationalparks.com Families come to glacier-carved Lake Crescent to see its famed crystal-clear waters

ringed with fragrant conifers. They stay for an enchanting waterfall hike and a night at the historic lakeside lodge. Built in 1916 as a fishing resort, Lake Crescent Lodge retains a relaxed, campy vibe. All of the main lodge’s cozy rooms and cute detached Roosevelt cabins boast stunning lake views. Hike in the surrounding temperate rain forest of giant fir and hemlock trees (the trail to the 90-foot Marymere Falls departs

parentmap.com • April 2019 • 35

P E D I AT R I C D E N T I S T S

out + about 11 Kid-Friendly Lodges continued from page 35 right from the lodge), and then relax over dinner in the waterfront dining room.

End your evening in a lakeside deck chair and watch the sun set behind Olympic peaks. Rainy days are perfect for playing family board games beside the lobby’s stone fireplace.

2

Lake Quinault Lodge

Get our go-to guide to

Seattle family fun!

345 S. Shore Rd., Quinault, Olympic Peninsula; 888-896-3818 • olympicnationalparks.com The gorgeous Craftsmanstyle Lake Quinault Lodge, built in 1926, is steeped in history. Main lodge rooms, some with fantastic lake views, have period charms, such as antique furnishings and claw-foot tubs. You’ll find some spacious suites suitable for families in the more modern detached buildings. There’s nothing particularly posh about the place, but kids won’t care; they’ll be too busy hiking in the surrounding rain forest or paddling a canoe on the lake. After dinner in the lodge restaurant, warm up with hot chocolate and a game of Scrabble by the crackling fire in the front lobby’s enormous fireplace. There’s also a swimming pool!

3

Kalaloch Lodge

157151 U.S. Hwy. 101, Forks, Olympic Peninsula; 866-662-9928 • thekalalochlodge.com Location, location, location! Perched on a bluff along the wild, pristine coastline in Olympic National Park, Kalaloch Lodge comprises a main inn and two rows of rustic cabins, most with woodstoves and kitchenettes.

Comb the rocky beach below for treasures, or watch the horizon for passing whales. The lodge restaurant serves Northwest fare at premium prices, or you can save money by cooking meals in your cabin.

4

Alderbrook Resort & Spa

ParentMap.com/52adventures 36 • April 2019 • parentmap.com

7101 E. SR 106, Union, Hood Canal; 360-898-2200 • alderbrookresort.com Alderbrook Resort & Spa sits on the south shore of Hood Canal, a long, glaciercarved fjord that runs parallel to Puget Sound and has dramatic Olympic peaks as its backdrop. For generations, families have come to these shores to shuck oysters, paddle the brackish water, roast marshmallows and relax away sunny summer days. That hasn’t changed, but the once-weathered gray inn they stayed in has been completely transformed into a grand lodge with swanky amenities, such as an

P E D I AT R I C D E N T I S T S

on-site spa and a high-end restaurant that specializes in seasonal Northwest cuisine. Kids will love fishing from the dock, cruising around in a kayak or pedal boat, or just kicking a soccer ball on the expansive green lawn.

5

Lakedale Resort

4313 Roche Harbor Rd., San Juan Island; 800617-2267 • lakedale.com Step into the spacious logbeamed lobby of Lakedale Resort and feel the stress melt away — you’re officially on island time.

Clustered around three spring-fed lakes about 4 miles from the San Juan Island ferry dock, Lakedale offers traditional lodge rooms0918_lynnwood_kids_dentist_1-4.indd 1 and two-bedroom cabins, or canvas platform tents as a glamping option. Kids It’s crucial we teach our kids at a young age to view a will be blissfully immersed in the great outdoors while swimming, fishing and visit to the dentist as a nonintimidating and normal part of our family health-care routine. Here are three simple canoeing on one of the three lakes. It’s like summer camp, but far less rustic.

Take a Bite Out of Dental Fears!

6

Paradise Inn 98368 Paradise-Longmire Rd., Mount Rainier National Park; 855-755-2275 • mtrainierguestservices.com You’ll know you’ve reached Paradise when you get out of your car and say, “This really does look like paradise!” Built in 1916 of silver fir, the 121-room Paradise Inn hosts guests in summer months only and offers an unrivaled experience on “The Mountain.” Set in the shadow of an active volcano clad in snow and ice, the picturesque lodge is surrounded by vibrant meadows of blooming wildflowers in spring. Several trails (some paved and flat enough for a stroller) depart from the lodge parking area and lead you through flower fields crossed by babbling streams and dotted with foraging marmots.

Lodge room sizes vary and can accommodate from two to six people. Enjoy evenings in the lodge restaurant or the huge communal lobby, where your kids can show off those music lessons on the antique piano. ►

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steps to make visits to the dentist smooth and happy for everyone:

1. Start by eliminating your fear of the dentist

It’s no secret that young children mirror our attitudes and behaviors.

If our kids hear us talk about our own dental appointments with apprehension, they will quickly develop their own negative associations.

Not only is it important that we avoid expressing our fears or reluctance, but we need to go the extra mile to link positive words and experiences with the dentist and oral hygiene.

2. Get them in early

We typically like to see children in our office by the time their first tooth has come in, which is usually by their first birthday. At this age, children are young enough that they can complete the entire appointment while sitting in the safety and comfort of a parent’s lap, allowing the dentist to do a quick check for proper tooth development and establish what will become a long-standing and positive relationship with the child.

3. Avoid bribes

While it might be tempting to dangle a reward in front of your child for visiting the dentist, doing so instills in them the idea that going to the dentist is a negative experience that must be compensated. Instead, shift your child’s thinking so that they regard visiting the dentist as a reward in itself because the dentist is taking steps to keep them strong and healthy.

— Nikole D. Shvartsur, DDS

parentmap.com • April 2019 • 37

out + about 11 Kid-Friendly Lodges

7

continued from page 37

North Cascades Institute

At Diablo Lake in North Cascades National Park, along SR 20; 360-854-2599 • ncascades.org One of the most educational places for families to stay in the Northwest, North Cascades Institute combines rustic mountain eco-lodging with hands-on nature programming. Find it in the heart of North Cascades National Park on stunning Diablo Lake. The institute offers two options of particular interest to families with children. Family Getaways include day and evening activities, such as canoeing, treasure hunts, arts and crafts, and story time by the camp fire. The flexible, all-ages Base Camp Learning and Lodging option features guided activities such as morning birding walks and evening strolls to Diablo Dam. Both options include overnight lodging and delicious, healthy meals. Accommodations are basic but comfortable; each

EVERY CHILD

t i m m u S

room has four twin beds (two sets of bunk beds) with bathrooms down the hall.

8

Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort 7375 Icicle Rd., Leavenworth; 800-574-2123 • sleepinglady.com Bavarian-themed Leavenworth’s surrounding mountain peaks are among the most beautiful in the Pacific Northwest, with miles of hiking trails through fragrant ponderosa pine forest. Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort, on the banks of Icicle Creek, takes full advantage of the surrounding natural beauty with rustic yet deluxe architectural touches, such as high vaulted ceilings, huge picture windows that frame the pines, and alcove daybeds. Come hungry: The resort’s Kingfisher Restaurant & Wine Bar features delicious and sustainable Northwest cuisine served buffet-style. After a day of hiking, take a dip in the on-site rock hot pool and sauna. Children 4 and younger stay and dine for free.

Join us for a special event supporting families of children with learning differences and special needs.

Embracing ADHD: Shifting the Lens From Disability to Ability A lecture with Dr. Edward Hallowell

Thursday, April 25 Kirkland Performance Center Free Resource Fair: 5–7 p.m. | Lecture: 7 p.m.

Resource fair is free, lecture requires a paid ticket.

Register at: ParentMap.com/everychild-east 38 • April 2019 • parentmap.com

9

Sun Mountain Lodge 604 Patterson Lake Rd., Winthrop, Methow Valley; 800-572-0493 • sunmountainlodge.com Sun Mountain Lodge, a deluxe getaway with rustic touches, is the Methow Valley’s premier resort, set on a ridge with panoramic views and recreation trails that depart right from the lodge (world-class cross-country skiing in winter, hiking in other seasons). Rooms range from very nice to marvelous and so do the rates; the lodge also rents 13 cabins on Patterson Lake.

Amenities are a big draw here, from heated pools in the winter and hot tubs to a game room and horseback riding. The lodge’s dining room serves Northwest cuisine with a view to match; the Wolf Creek Bar & Grill offers pub food and welcomes kids.

10

*Phase I now open* Hands-On Exhibits

Preschool Program Special Events

www.SkagitChildrensMuseum.net

Monday-Saturday 10:00am-5:00pm Toddler Tuesday 8:30am-10:00am Sunday 12:00pm-5:00pm

Flying Horseshoe Ranch 3190 Red Bridge Rd., Cle Elum; Closed some holidays 509-674-2366 • *Come see our new facility!* Located in Burlington, WA flyinghorseshoeranch.com Tel: 360.757.8888 Yee-haw! Get ready for wholesome summer fun on a budget. Flying Horseshoe Ranch in the Teanaway 0419_childrens_museum_skagit_1-4.indd 1 Valley welcomes families for a Westernstyle vacation, complete with guided horseback rides, nature hikes and Add tabletop games to campfire cooking. Child-size riding boots are available, and the instructors are used to working with kids who have no prior riding experience. Once a children’s family traditions! summer camp, the ranch offers accommodations that are fun and rustic; choose from canvas platform tents, tepees, and simple bunkhouse cabins with shared bathhouses and a cooking house for preparing your own meals.

11

Skamania Lodge

Parties & Field Trips School Break Camps

VisitBurlingtonWA.com VisitSkagitValley.com

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Games to play in-house, games to take home, great food, beverages and fun for all ages

1131 Skamania Lodge Rd., Stevenson; 509-427-7700 • destinationhotels.com/skamania Scenery and nature are always on tap at Skamania Lodge, set on 175 forested acres that overlook the flood-scoured Columbia River Gorge in southern Washington. With 250 rooms (including some suites), this lodge should be high on your list for last-minute travel: You’ll often find a vacancy, even in the high season. Built in the tradition of classic park lodges, Skamania boasts a grand communal lobby that centers on a massive stone fireplace, great for relaxing with books or board games. Kids will love splashing in the pool and trying the zip line tours that depart from the top of a Douglas fir. The lodge also features a golf course. Paved paths through the woods are perfect for strollers. For a more strenuous hike, head up nearby Dog Mountain. ■ Lauren Braden is a Pacific Northwest writer who focuses on recreation and local travel. She blogs at nwtripfinder.com.

3727 California Ave SW #2B • West Seattle • 206.535.7896 www.meeplesgames.com parentmap.com • April 2019 • 39

C A M P S , A R T S + A C T I V I T I E S MOre VALUE Y moRE VariET MOrE FUN

Seattle Rhythmic Gymnastics Programs for 2 years old and up info@seattlerhythmic.com 206-251-1779 www.seattlerhythmic.com

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Don’t miss out on a summer packed with fun, adventure, variety, and value.

Visit Parks.BellevueWA.gov/Camps to find your fun this summer!

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C A M P S , A RT S + A C T I V I T I E S summer 2019 camps & classes

grades K - 12

Register Today!

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Stop by the club for a tour, visit our website or call!

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COMPETITIVE SWIM TA L D A I LY F U N D A M E N T P I R AT A ES & MERMAIDS SHARK CAMP J U N I O R L I F E G UA R D I N G SEA ANIMAL CAMP MERMAID CAMP SYNCHRONIZED SWIMMING J U N I O R L I F E G UA R D I N G LEADERSHIP (425) 861-6274 or aquaticsinfo@proclub.com parentmap.com • April 2019 • 41

C A M P S , A R T S + A C T I V I T I E S BEST SUMMER CAMP EVER Horses, friends and fun!

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Healthy Kids Day YMCA OF PIERCE AND KITSAP COUNTIES Are the kids in your life already dreaming of summer?

When kids are inspired, they can do anything. Let’s awaken their imagination so they can explore new activities and healthy habits. Join us!

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YMCAPKC.ORG/HEALTHY-KIDS ACTIVITIES • Open swim • Water safety demonstrations • Group exercise and youth class demonstrations • Local vendors and community partner booths • Healthy snacks • Contests and prizes • Register for summer mmer programs

42 • April 2019 • parentmap.com

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C A M P S , A R T S + A C T I V I T I E S SUMMER YOUTH ART PROGRAMS

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Weekly music class for children birth to age 5 & the grown-ups who LOVE them!

Camp Killoqua

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Day and resident camp sessions for kids in grades K-12.

Summer Camp Central The best summer camps, school-break solutions and classes in Seattle and around the Sound.

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JUNE 24-27 & AUGUST 5-8 Get up close and personal with TANKS and other rare military vehicles at the Flying Heritage & Combat Armor Museum’s Beast of the Battlefield Summer Camp. Campers will learn about history, play laser tag, see a WWII tank operate, build plastic models and much more!

www.FlyingHeritage.org parentmap.com • April 2019 • 43

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ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP INCLUDES:

Largest Fitness Center on Mercer Island • 45+ Fitness Classes • Family Discounts on Summer Camps, After School Programs & More Full list of benefits online

SJCC.org Everyone is welcome.

It’s a proven fact that kids who play sports grow up healthier, happier and even more successful in school — upsides that go well beyond the obvious boost in fitness, strength and flexibility. But selecting just the right summer sports camp can be tough — there are so many options! How do you narrow them down to find that one great camp experience for your budding athlete? Here are a few things to consider:

Let the child’s interests be your guide

Start by asking your child questions such as “What’s your favorite PE activity?” Also, consider whether your child enjoys individual sports (such as swimming) or is more social and prefers team sports (such as soccer). Based on their interests, you can guide them to the right sport.

a High-energy, hands-on stem camp

Time to get choosy

Once you’ve narrowed choices down to one or two sports of interest, take a close look at available programs. Look for camps that focus on fun, skill development, safety and sportsmanship. The best camps will espouse an understanding of childhood development and tailor activities accordingly. Camps should emphasize an overall goal of creating lifelong active individuals and building campers’ self-esteem.

Check the coaching credentials before selecting a camp, and make sure instructors have first aid and CPR training.

Variety is the spice

Even for kids who have shown promise in a particular sport, it’s a good idea to encourage children to experience a variety of activities.

Camps that offer a mix of sports activities are also great for younger children who may have a limited attention span, or for kids who are newly active.

Don’t overdo it

Watch for any “red flags” that may indicate the camp you’ve chosen isn’t the right fit for your child. Signs may include having too much or not enough downtime, not enough equipment to go around, too many injuries, or your child not wanting to return the next day or coming home overly tired or frustrated. A half-day camp is a wonderful option, especially in the heat of the summer.

Remember that kids need to take time off from sports to avoid injuries and burnout, and that includes summer sports camps.

— Kathleen F. Miller

44 • April 2019 • parentmap.com

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parentmap.com • April 2019 • 45

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ages ++ stages stages ages

Screen-Wise Parenting

0–18

Be the screen-time superhero your kid needs

By Emily Cherkin

A

s any parent knows, children are great mimics, repeating our favorite swear words in the grocery store, or pretending to “talk on the phone” like Mom or Dad. In our modern, screen-saturated world, this “monkey see, monkey do” behavior brings new challenges for parents and affects kids in different ways at different ages and stages. In truth, our kids watch and learn how to use screens by watching how we use them. The good news is that you can be a great screen-time superhero for your children by modeling the very behavior you hope to see in them!

and even soothe and comfort using technology.

In reality, it is far more important to channel the precious energy we have as new parents into minimizing the triangulating effects of parent/ baby/screen. Be selective about when and where you use your digital devices around young children; healthy attachment develops through eye contact while feeding or comforting your child. The message you want to send to your child is “I am the human who cares for and loves you,” not “This device is something you have to compete with.”

With infants and toddlers, avoid deputized-tech or tech-distracted parenting

For preschoolers, balance proactive, parent-shared media use with plenty of unplugged play time

Child development is relational — our attentiveness matters.

When it comes to nurturing an infant, the formation of the caregiver-child bond is vital to healthy development. While babies need very little in the way of “gadgets,” modern-day parents are pressured to digitally document sleep and feeding patterns, monitor babies with screen-based devices,

Preschool-age children are ready to talk about family values, which can be a great launching point for discussing how and when your family uses technology. This is also the right stage to begin introducing media literacy skills. It’s during this time, when a child is undergoing critical brain development, building secure relationships and establishing healthy media habits, that parents should bone up on the American Academy of parentmap.com • April 2019 • 47

ages + stages Screen-Wise Parenting continued from page 47 Pediatrics’ 2016 family media use guidelines (aap.org) to inform their own understanding of what healthy media consumption looks like for young children.

The watchwords here are “proactive” and “parent-led.” As you watch a movie or program with your preschooler, ask questions like: “How is that character feeling?” “Why do you think that happened?” “What might happen next?” Research shows that children younger than 8 cannot differentiate between content and advertising. With the dramatic increase in age-specific and age-targeted marketing in recent years, it is more imperative than ever that parents intentionally raise a savvy consumer. When you’re watching a commercial or navigating the grocery aisles, ask questions such as “What does that TV character have to do with cereal?”

Decades of child development research show that one of the best ways that preschoolers learn is through tactile, messy, three-dimensional play. Be very selective about using tablets and iPads to “teach” skills. Building with “blocks” by tapping on a two-dimensional glass screen does not have the same positive learning benefits as building with tangible, three-dimensional blocks in the real world.

Empower elementary-school-age kids to develop life skills beyond media When your child starts attending school full-time, fill their downtime and weekends with non-screen-based activities, especially if their teachers use screens as a learning tool in the classroom. Continue to discuss marketing and media influences so that kids can develop into savvy consumers of their culture and discern when advertisers are targeting them. This age group has a welldefined sense of justice and can also be taught about “persuasive design”: how companies use psychological tricks to try to “hook” kids’ brains to want more.

Empowering children at this age is invaluable for developing healthy screentime habits later.

Similarly, this is an age-appropriate time to teach executive function skills by “living your life out loud,” i.e., by modeling simple tasks, such as cooking, shopping and planning, for kids. This modeling not only helps them develop these skills, but can also teach them how to use tech as a tool (for example, “I am looking at my maps to see where to turn,” “I am checking my calendar to see what time soccer practice starts”). Finally, this is a great time to demonstrate how you personally use screens, and to talk about the potential

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5 things teachers want parents to know

Lectures

1. Do not text your kids while they’re at school.

2. Let your kids fail sometimes.

3. Prioritize sleep.

4. Set and enforce screen limits at home.

5. Model the behavior you want to see. benefits and pitfalls that come with continuous access.

Be your middle schooler’s media mentor In many ways, adolescence is still very much what it always has been: a period of rocky hormonal changes, shifting social dynamics and the exploration of new frontiers. For today’s tweens and teens, however, the prevalence of tech is very different than for earlier generations. According to a 2018 Pew Research Center survey, nearly 95 percent of kids ages 13–17 have smartphones. Among the challenges facing this age group are increased expectations about using screens to “do” school, as well as the social pressure to avoid FOMO (“fear of missing out”). For parents, there are numerous opportunities to be screen-time superheroes for this age group. We can: • Talk about safety and digital citizenship (e.g., emphasizing that nothing is private on the internet).

• Address what to do when kids see something inappropriate or scary online.

(It is not a question of if they will see porn, but when.)

• Challenge schools to provide clear guidelines to families if their student requires any online learning or one-on-one programs.

• Designate screen-free zones in the house — and follow established family media usage guidelines ourselves.

If you carpool to and from school, car rides are often a valuable opportunity to listen and learn from your kids and teens; conversely, when kids bury their faces in devices or pop in their earbuds, we miss critical opportunities for connection, not just for ourselves and our child, but between siblings and friends, as well.

Finally, this age group is experiencing a huge neural “pruning” in the brain.

As parents, we can encourage (and model) how to build synaptic connections with healthy, non-screen-based activities and skills.

When your child is this age, your guidance still matters a great deal, in spite of what your moody tween may say to the contrary. It is okay to invest in screen-time controls or devices to support your family’s values and guidelines. But, as Devorah Heitner, Ph.D., author of “Screenwise: Helping Kids Thrive (and Survive) in Their Digital World,” says, “Monitoring cannot substitute for mentoring.”

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High school and beyond: Launching a screen-smart young adult As independence increases for teens, it is critical to make sure they have basic life skills in place before increasing digital media use. Though they are likely more advanced than we are when it comes to technology, we can still model healthy behavior. For example, parents can teach teens to take breaks from social parentmap.com • April 2019 • 49

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media, and show them positive examples of how and when kids should do this.

Parents can even go so far as to do this with them and then compare notes.

Safety conversations at this age are also still critical. For example, if you do not want your teen to text and drive, make sure they don’t see you using your phone behind the wheel.

Although more research is needed on this topic, it is also important to know that there are some potentially serious risks from Wi-Fi radiation. To act preventively, encourage teens to keep phones out of pockets, laptops off laps and devices in airplane mode (when not in use).

As our high schoolers head toward graduation, college and job interviews, it is also a good time to reinforce communication skills, such as how to write a good email, make eye contact and carry on a conversation. Finally, as our teens become young adults, they will look to their own family experiences

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Stats about teens’ media use • About 95 percent of U.S. teens have access to smartphones.

• Fifty percent are online “practically all the time, including nights.”

• Teens spend nine hours per day consuming media (outside school hours).

• Fifty percent of teens say they are “addicted” to their phones.

• Depressive symptoms among teens increased 50 percent between 2010 and 2015.

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as a guide to how to live independently. When we model healthy work-life (or school-life) balance for teens and continue to share with them our own challenges in balancing technology and media use, we are setting them up for future success.

There’s no question that parenting in the digital age has its complications, and constant technological changes can be tough to keep up with. However, when it comes to technology and screen time, the most important thing we can give our kids at any age or stage is the knowledge that we can be a resource for them in how to live a healthy, balanced life.

For more resources and guidelines for healthy family media usage, go to parentmap.com/screensmart. ■ Emily Cherkin of The Screentime Consultant, LLC (thescreentimeconsultant.com) has worked with families and schools in the Pacific Northwest for 15 years to help them understand the technological challenges presented to today’s children.

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Feeling guilty about resorting to the iPad, TV, YouTube or another captivating screen diversion to get your kids to sit still while you get on with your work, cleaning, meal prep, etc.? These five ideas will inspire your child’s love of learning at home and possibly teach them something new.

1. (You can’t) beat the clock

Give your child the gift of a stopwatch — the old-school kind your high school gym teacher used religiously. Such a simple device can lead to hours of entertainment for your little ones as they time themselves doing, well, just about everything. How long can I stand on one foot?

How long does it take me to tie my shoes? These questions and more will keep your kids busy as you take a little time off the clock.

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2. Game on!

Use screen time to your advantage. Surprise your kids and join in a video game. Talk to them about the characters, the goal and the story, and don’t shy away from conversations about what is and isn’t healthy competition (even if that conversation is only with yourself).

3. Set a timer

When you do need to resort to screen time, set a timer on your phone (one with a chime your child likes as well) to remind both you and your kids when enough is enough and it’s time for a break. Establish your limits for screen time and use a timer to help you abide by them consistently.

4. Cook up some fun

Let your kids play sous chef. If they’re younger, ask them to name the different foods, colors and shapes they spot. Meanwhile, older kids can actually help with simpler tasks, like grating cheese and measuring ingredients. Plus, if you start this early, your kids might be willing to cook the entire meal by the time they hit puberty.

5. Rub-a-dub-dub, a little math in the tub

Turn bath time into a short math lesson by tossing measuring cups in with the bubble bath. It’s a simple trick that will get your child thinking about numbers and volume while you get a little extra time to scrub behind those ears. When it’s time to turn in for the night, try Bedtime Math (bedtimemath.org), an app that teaches kids to love numbers and apply math to fun and whimsical situations.

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