RAK magazine December 2018

raisingarizonakids.com DECEMBER 2018

KIDS IN FOCUS

PHOTOGRAPHY PROGRAM INSPIRES AT-RISK YOUTH

10 WAYS TO SEE THE NUTCRACKER Plus 70 more family favorite holiday events!

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE: • Ideas for teachers • Gifting experiences • Local toys & favorites

Raising boys in the #MeToo era AWKWARD FAMILY PHOTOS

exhibit opens at Chandler Museum

Nicolette Haas (13) of Mesa and Conner King (19) of Gilbert star in Ballet Etudes’ “The Nutcracker.”

Bath time.

Sleepy time.

College saving time.

The first step to helping their dreams come true is to make saving part of your routine.

The Fidelity Arizona College Savings Plan account offers tax-deferred growth, a state income tax deduction for residents, and no minimum to open an account.1 There’s also the Fidelity Investments 529 College Rewards® Visa Signature® Card, which lets you earn unlimited 2% cash back2 on everyday purchases. Rewards are deposited directly into your 529 account, making saving as routine as wash, rinse, repeat.

To learn more, or to open an account, visit

Fidelity.com/arizona

Managed by:

or call 800.544.1262.

Please carefully consider the plan’s investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses before investing. For this and other information on any 529 college savings plan managed by Fidelity, contact Fidelity for a free Fact Kit, or view one online. Read it carefully before you invest or send money.

The Fidelity Arizona College Savings Plan is offered by the Arizona Commission for Postsecondary Education and managed by Fidelity Investments. If you or the designated beneficiary is not an Arizona resident, you may want to consider, before investing, whether your state or the beneficiary’s home state offers its residents a plan with alternate state tax advantages or other state benefits such as financial aid, scholarship funds, and protection from creditors.

Units of the portfolios are municipal securities and may be subject to market volatility and fluctuation.

The Fidelity Arizona College Savings Plan is not insured by the state of Arizona or Fidelity Investments, and neither the principal deposited nor the investment return is guaranteed by the state of Arizona or Fidelity Investments.

1 Zero account minimums apply to self-directed brokerage accounts only. Account minimums may apply to certain account types (e.g., managed accounts) and/or the purchase of some Fidelity mutual funds that have a minimum investment requirement. See https://www.fidelity.com/commissions and/or the fund’s prospectus for details.

2 You will earn 2 Points per dollar in eligible net purchases (net purchases are purchases minus credits and returns) that you charge. Account must be open and in good standing to earn and redeem rewards and benefits. Upon approval, refer to your Program Rules for additional information. You may not redeem Reward Points, and you will immediately lose all of your Reward Points, if your Account is closed to future transactions (including, but not limited to, due to Program misuse, failure to pay, bankruptcy, or death). Reward Points will not expire as long as your Account remains open. Certain transactions are not eligible for Reward Points, including Advances (as defined in the Agreement, including wire transfers, travelers checks, money orders, foreign cash transactions, betting transactions, lottery tickets, and ATM disbursements), Annual Fee, convenience checks, balance transfers, unauthorized or fraudulent charges, overdraft advances, interest charges, fees, credit insurance charges, transactions to fund certain prepaid card products, U.S. Mint purchases, or transactions to purchase cash convertible items. The 2% cash back rewards value applies only to Points redeemed for a deposit into an eligible Fidelity account. The redemption value is different if you choose to redeem your Points for other rewards such as travel options, merchandise, gift cards, and/or statement credit. Other restrictions apply. Full details appear in the Program Rules new card customers receive with their card. Establishment or ownership of a Fidelity account or other relationship with Fidelity Investments is not required to obtain a card or to be eligible to use Points to obtain any rewards offered under the program other than Fidelity Rewards.

The creditor and issuer of the Fidelity Investments 529 College Rewards® Visa Signature® Card is Elan Financial Services, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A., Inc. The Fidelity Investments and pyramid design logo is a registered service mark of FMR LLC. Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC, Member NYSE, SIPC, 900 Salem Street, Smithfield, RI 02917. © 2018 FMR LLC. All rights reserved. 790731.4.0 RaisingARIZONAKids.com DECEMBER 2018

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December 2018

CONTENTS

FEATURES 14

Kids in Focus: Photography program gives kids new perspective Karen Shell, a commercial photographer, started this Phoenix nonprofit for at-risk youth five years ago. The transformations she has seen have surprised even her.

16

Holiday gift guide ‘Tis the season — for shopping. We traveled the Valley to compile this list of hot toys and gifts for babies to teens. Plus: A Gilbert mom advocates for the lasting gifts of experiences; and an educator shares what teachers really want for the holidays.

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DEPARTMENTS 4

dialogue

Holiday cheer

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azgrown

• Crayola Experience to open in Chandler • Arizona Science Center collaborates with National Museum of Mathematics • New Chandler Museum to open Saturday, Dec. 8

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COVER PHOTO SHOOT: Ballet Etudes dancers Nicolette Haas (13) of Mesa and Conner King (19) of Gilbert at The Wright House in Mesa.

• Make your own crystal snowflakes • Spanking is both ineffective and harmful, experts say • Tips for raising boys in the #MeToo era

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family time!

• Top December events • Around Arizona • 10 ways to enjoy “The Nutcracker” • More holiday performances • Non-holiday family performances • Holiday events

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first person

The power of music: Getting “in synch” with your kids

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DECEMBER 2018 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

PHOTOS BY RICK D’ELIA

This holiday season, make your child’s future light up.

A college education helps make for a brighter future. An AZ 529 account helps make it possible.

Download your FREE AZ College Savings Planner now at AZ529.gov

Raising Arizona Kids ZooLights Ad.ai

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10/30/18

4:22 PM

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RaisingARIZONAKids.com DECEMBER 2018

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dialogue

HOLIDAY CHEER AS THIS ISSUE was going to press — nearly a week after the midterm election — ballots were still being counted, and results weren’t final in a few key races. We do know that Arizonans got to the polls in big numbers — about 2.4 million of us, or almost 65 percent of registered voters. This is huge, and worth celebrating, that so many voices were being heard. With a renewed sense of civic engagement, we feel ready to roll into the holiday season.

Our editorial team took one busy day off production to look for holiday gift ideas for kids at local stores across the Valley. Our Holiday Gift Guide offers just a taste of the gems you can find when you “shop local.”

Seeing the festive displays and people getting excited about the season was exactly the boost we needed to wrap up this issue.

To continue our gift-guide theme, we asked a writer-turned-educator to tell us what teachers really want. And Lisa Van Loo of Raising Outdoor Kids makes the case that experiences can last longer than the latest toy and make for great family memories in 2019.

Elaina Verhoff gave us a nice present with her piece on Kids in Focus, a photography mentorship program for at-risk youth that is literally giving kids a new perspective. If you’re looking for a unique holiday gift for a grown-up, you might want to check out the Kids in Focus gallery, where you can buy a canvas print or gallery mount photo to support this program.

Of course, it isn’t the Christmas season

without an overwhelming number of family events.

Because Disney’s “The Nutcracker and the Four Realms” is in theaters, Calendar Editor Liz Petroff offers 10 ways to enjoy “The Nutcracker” ballet across the Valley. It was surprisingly easy to find so many productions of this holiday tradition.

Liz also rounded up dozens of places for kids to play in actual snow and to ice skate at outdoor rinks in metro Phoenix, as well as a plethora of holiday light displays that cater to families. Don’t forget about the many onstage performances of holiday classics. These weeks are always busy, but it’s worth it to find little pockets of time to enjoy holiday cheer as a family.

Finally, Sheri Smith offers a parting gift for this season and 2018. She explains how music brings kids and parents together in real, evidence-backed ways. It’s a sweet story, and reminds us of one easy way to connect during these busy weeks. So turn up the music.

Wishing you the happiest of holidays!

December 2018 | Vol 29 | No 8

Publisher Karen Davis Barr Editor Kara G. Morrison Calendar Editor Liz Petroff Copy Editor Debra Citron Contributors Cathryn Creno, Sari Custer, Sheri Smith, Lisa Van Loo, Elaina Verhoff Art Director Michèlle-Renée Adams Cover Photography Rick D’Elia Operations Manager Tina Gerami-Bynum Sales Representatives Shannon Cornall, Kate Reed

Contact Us: editorial@RAKmagazine.com familytime@RAKmagazine.com advertising@RAKmagazine.com subscriptions@RAKmagazine.com 5229 N. Seventh Ave. #102 Phoenix, AZ 85013-1974 P: 480–991–KIDS (5437) • F: 480–991–5460 raisingarizonakids.com

in partnership with

Kara G. Morrison, Editor kara@RAKmagazine.com

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R aising A rizona K ids magazine (ISSN 1051-4295) was

A full year of Raising Arizona Kids magazine

created to connect Valley families to local resources and share real-life stories about the challenges and joys of raising children. Copy­right © 2018 by R aising A rizona K ids, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Subscription price is $12 for one year or $18 for two years. Back issues are $6 per copy.

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of a move. Make address changes on our website or mail changes to our office. Original, locally generated articles, avail­able at raisingarizonakids.com.

The

Nutcracker

Chandler Center for the Arts | Nov 23-Dec 2 | $25, $29 Mesa Arts Center | Dec 7-16 | $25, $29

2018/2019 Season The Sleeping Beauty Founding Artistic Director - Sharon Seder Meko

Chandler Center for the Arts | April 27-28 | $16, $22 Ticket base price. Venue fees apply

Tickets: balletetudes.net | “Ballet Etudes...turning out stars-to-be.� - The Arizona Republic

RaisingARIZONAKids.com DECEMBER 2018

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az grown

CRAYOLA EXPERIENCE

JOHN STERLING RUTH

COURTESY OF MOMATH

to open in Chandler

CRAYOLA EXPERIENCE, a destination where kids and adults can do hands-on art projects and enjoy live entertainment, is coming to Chandler Fashion Center this summer.

The family attraction already has locations in Florida, Minnesota, Texas and Easton, Pennsylvania — the home of Crayola crayons since 1903. Crayola is now a subsidiary of Hallmark Cards.

The 20,000-square-foot attraction will be near Kona Grill on the mall’s west side and will include a 4,000-square-foot Crayola Store with the world’s largest selection of Crayola products and souvenirs, including plush toys and apparel.

Crayola Experience will feature 19 hands-on activities.

Kids can name and wrap their own Crayola crayons, star in their own coloring page, bring art to 4-D life, create melted wax spin-art and more.

“Crayola Experience is more than just an attraction — it’s a dynamic and colorful place where families can come together to create, play and make memories that will last a lifetime,” Crayola’s Victoria Lozano said in a statement.

“Our new Crayola Experience in Chandler perfectly aligns with its family-friendly community, and we look forward to welcoming the community next summer.”

Crayola Experience will be open 365 days a year and will hire more than 100 full- and part-time employees. It also will host private events, group trips and birthday parties.

Families can buy annual passes or daily admission. Online prices for other locations range from $18-$22 for daily admission to $100 for an annual pass for a family of four.

Visit crayolaexperience.com or facebook.com/crayola.

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DECEMBER 2018 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Arizona Science Center collaborates with

National Museum of Mathematics THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF MATHEMATICS (MoMath) has expanded its math intervention program, “MoMath 2 Go: the Family Math Initiative,” into the Arizona Science Center in Phoenix. The program helps families become more comfortable talking about math with children from preschool through second grade.

MoMath designed the program as part of a collaborative study with the University of Chicago Science Learning Center, which determined that children as young as preschool can form fears about math. Structuring conversations about math between parents and children can reduce the math achievement gap between children of highly math-anxious and mildly math-anxious parents and can increase children’s mathematical and spatial fluency, the study found.

“This proven national math intervention program was built on the idea that early math fluency is an essential educational cornerstone for children across America,” Cindy Lawrence, executive director of MoMath and creator of MoMath 2 Go, said in a statement. “We want to help families build that foundation with their children.”

“MoMath 2 Go” features two popular exhibitions: “Ring of Fire” and “Miles of Tiles,” both also on display at MoMath in New York, along with MoMath 2 Go tip cards that provide talking points for parents to effectively communicate mathematics to their children. Parents and children reported they were more likely to continue conversations about math after experiencing the fun of math through these activities.

“We are excited that the National Museum of Mathematics chose us to host two of their most popular interactive exhibits,” said Chevy Humphrey, the Hazel A. Hare President and CEO at Arizona Science Center. “The ‘Miles of Tiles’ and ‘Ring of Fire’ installations bring math and geometry to life and intersect with our Cosmic Playground experience.”

The Science Center, located at 600 E. Washington St. in Phoenix, features more than 300 hands-on exhibits in addition to Dorrance Planetarium and a five-story Irene P. Flinn Giant Screen Theater. CREATE, adjacent to the main building, is a 6,500-square-foot community makerspace that offers workshops on 3D printing, laser cutting, woodworking and sewing. Learn more at azscience.org

“Like Mother Like Daughter” is part of “Awkward Family Photos: The Exhibit.”

New

CHANDLER MUSEUM

AWKWARD FAMILY PHOTOS

opens Saturday, Dec. 8

A NEW, MODERN Chandler Museum opens this month across from Chandler Fashion Square. The 10,000-square-foot building boasts a large courtyard tying it to the McCullough-Price House, located on the southwest corner of Frye Road and Chandler Village Drive. This shaded area is expected to house performances and community events, and the McCullough-Price House (which formerly housed the Chandler Museum) is being renovated as a museum research and archive site.

First up at the new Chandler Museum is an exhibit examining the fact that the Phoenix suburb was the site of a Japanese-American internment camp during World War II. “Gaman: Enduring Japanese American Internment at Gila River,” will be on display through April 18. With photos, stories and community-contributed paper cranes, the exhibit details how more than 16,000 Japanese Americans were forcibly removed from the West Coast to Gila River Internment Camp near Chandler, simply because of their ancestry. The exhibit explores how the Japanese value “gaman” — enduring the impossible with patience and dignity — helped these American citizens through loss and incarceration in the Arizona desert.

A more lighthearted exhibit will draw families to the museum through Saturday, Jan. 19: “Awkward Family Photos: The Exhibit.” It showcases more than 200 classics from the Mike Bender/Doug Chernack viral internet sensation awkwardfamilyphotos.com — where families have shared their not-so-graceful moments — plus local submissions. Visit chandlermuseum.org

FREE HOLIDAY MOVIES “TIS THE SEASON for free holiday movies at area shopping malls — a great way to keep kids occupied while mom finds gifts. During Christmas Movies at the Quarter, Scottsdale Quarter screens “A Christmas Story” (Nov. 30), “The Grinch” and “Frosty the Snowman” (Dec. 7) and “The Polar Express (Dec. 14) — all from 6-8 p.m. on the Quad. Find more free movies (not always holiday themed) at Desert Ridge Marketplace in north Phoenix, OdySea in the Desert in Scottsdale and CityScape in downtown Phoenix.

CRAFETERIA:

HANDMADE HOLIDAY GIFTS WANT TO FIND handmade gifts by local artisans for the holidays? Frances boutique at Camelback Road and and Central Avenue in Phoenix hosts its 7th annual Crafeteria from 6-10 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 1. Crafeteria has been voted Best Indie Craft Festival in Phoenix for bringing together neighbors, unique local businesses and more than 30 of Arizona’s top artisans. Plus, it’s a festive holiday atmosphere to kick off the shopping season. shopfrancesboutique.com

RaisingARIZONAKids.com DECEMBER 2018

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az grown

Make your own

CRYSTAL SNOWFLAKES

By Sari Custer • Photos by Liz Petroff

SNOWFLAKES (more scientifically, snow crystals) are made when water vapor freezes inside a cloud. Only parts of Arizona see snow, but with this activity, you can enjoy your very own crystal snowflake anywhere.

You will need: • 2 cups boiling water • 6-8 tablespoons borax • Large spoon • 1-2 pipe cleaners for each snowflake • Scissors • String • Glass jars — large enough so a snowflake can hang inside and not touch the sides or bottom; one jar per snowflake is best.

• Pencil or stick — big enough to span the jar opening Directions: 1. Cut the pipe cleaners into three equal-length pieces. Twist them all together to make a snowflake shape with six arms. (Optional: cut 1- to 1.5-inch sections of pipe cleaner and twist onto the ends of your snowflake arms to create branches.)

2. Cut a 12-inch piece of string and tie it to the end of one arm. Form a loop to make it easier to hang your snowflake later.

3. Test the size of your snowflake inside your jar

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DECEMBER 2018 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

by hanging it from the pencil. If it touches the sides, find a wider container or trim the pipe cleaners. Set snowflake aside.

4. Make sure your jar will safely hold boiling water.

Then, pour 2 cups boiling water into the jar.

5. Add 6 tablespoons borax. Mix until all borax is dissolved (Note: Borax can be harmful if inhaled, ingested or splashed into one’s eyes.

Gloves should be worn if you are sensitive to borax. Wash hands after handling).

6. If all borax is dissolved and none has settled on the bottom, add 1-2 tablespoons of borax and stir until no more borax can be dissolved in the solution. A little borax at the bottom will not affect your snowflake.

7. Carefully lower your pipe cleaner snowflake into the solution until fully covered and let sit overnight. The longer it sits undisturbed the better.

8. After about 12 hours, carefully lift your snowflake from the solution, remove it from the pencil and carefully set it on a paper towel to dry. Then, hang up your new beautiful crystal snowflake and enjoy!

What’s happening?

You created a supersaturated solution.

Heating water causes water molecules to speed up and spread out, allowing for more borax to be dissolved than with water at room

temperature. As the solution cools, the water molecules slow down and get closer together, causing the borax crystals to get pushed out of the water and cling to any surface — in this case the pipe cleaners. The longer the solution sits, the more the borax will build up in a repeating pattern, creating larger and larger crystals. Use a magnifying glass to compare the borax crystals to other crystal substances in your home, like salt and sugar. What differences or similarities do you see?

Did you know? While snowflakes come in many shapes and sizes, the classic snowflake form is called a “stellar dendrite” for its branching star shape. It always has six arms and can grow as large as half an inch! Visit Arizona Science Center for more winter science and play in 75 tons of real snow during Snow Week, Dec. 26-Jan. 1.

Sari Custer is a lifelong science junkie, Chief Curiosity Officer at Arizona Science Center and mom to daughter Carson (4).

Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @SariOnScience.

is both INEFFECTIVE and HARMFUL, experts say

SPANKING AS A disciplinary tool increases aggression in young children and is ineffective in teaching a child responsibility and selfcontrol, according to a recent statement by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

In fact, new evidence suggests spanking can affect normal brain development, and pediatricians are urging parents to consider more effective and safer parenting methods that teach children right from wrong. The AAP’s policy statement, published in the December issue of Pediatrics, also addresses the harm associated with verbal punishment such as shaming or humiliation.

“The good news is, fewer parents support the use of spanking than they did in the past,” said Dr. Robert D. Sege, an author of the “Effective Discipline to Raise Healthy Children” policy statement. “Yet corporal punishment remains legal in many states, despite evidence that it harms kids — not only physically and mentally, but in how they perform at school and how they interact with other children.”

Corporal punishment and harsh verbal abuse may cause a child to be fearful and compliant in the short term, but do not improve behavior over the long term and may cause more aggressive behaviors, according to

ISTOCK

SPANKING

AAP. In one study, young children who were spanked more than twice a month at age 3 were more aggressive at age 5. Those same children at age 9 still exhibited negative behaviors and lower receptive vocabulary scores.

Research has shown that striking a child, yelling at or shaming them can elevate stress hormones and lead to changes in the brain’s architecture. Harsh verbal abuse is also linked to mental health problems in preteens and adolescents. Experts say discipline is more effective when parents maintain a calm and controlled demeanor.

“It’s best to begin with the premise of rewarding positive behavior,” says Dr. Benjamin S. Siegel, co-author of the policy statement. “Parents can set up rules and expectations in advance. The key is to be consistent in following through with them.”

AAP recommends pediatricians use their influence during office visits to help parents with age-appropriate strategies for handling their child’s discipline. They also may refer families to community resources for more intensive or targeted help.

“There’s no benefit to spanking,” Dr. Sege says. “We know that children grow and develop better with positive role modeling and by setting healthy limits.”

Develop the curiosity to explore life-long learning.

Prestige Day School offers an AdvancED accredited K-12 education for individualized support.

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az grown parenting

By Sheri Smith

THE FIRST INSTALLMENT of our #MeToo parenting series discussed how to raise daughters who feel empowered. We spoke with experts who gave tips on how to teach young girls to speak up for themselves and protect against harassment and sexual abuse.

This month, we turn to the subject of raising boys in the #MeToo era. Child therapist Natasha Daniels has been providing child counseling services since 2005 and is a specialist in anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder in children. She’s also a Chandler mom who produces the podcast and website anxioustoddlerstoteens.com. Daniels shares four tips for raising sons who are less vulnerable to sexual predators and more likely to treat others with respect.

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ISTOCK

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tips for raising boys in the #MeToo era

DECEMBER 2018 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Start early. It’s never too early to start talking to boys about their bodies, Daniels says. They should learn the parts of their anatomy and how they function. They need to understand the difference between “good touching” and “bad touching.” They should know which areas of their bodies are private.

Discuss strategies with sons so they know what they can do if someone makes them uncomfortable or violates their personal space. “As parents, we might feel we need to tell our kids to ‘go hug your uncle,’ even if they don’t feel comfortable doing so,” Daniels says. Instead, allow children to set their own boundaries and let them know their feelings will be respected. “As boys get older, you can talk about how to treat others with that same level of respect,” she says.

Encourage boys to express their feelings.

“While girls are allowed to express their emotions, boys are taught to bottle it up in anger,” Daniels explains. Having boys feel heard from a young age is crucial to their emotional development. It also establishes open communication and an environment of mutual respect, which will help them make good choices as they mature.

“Communication is more important than anything else,” Daniels explains. “As kids get older, they are going to do what they want to do. Setting artificial limits is not an effective

parenting tool. Kids will just do things behind your back or won’t come to you if they’re in a bad situation.”

Let them know you’re on their side. Let your children know that if they have a problem, you will believe them and help them. Sexual predators are very cagey at playing into kids’ fears that they will “get in trouble” or be accused of “making things up” or “imagining things.”

Let children know that you are there for them no matter what. Children need to hear: “If you get in trouble, it’s OK. If you need to defend yourself, that’s OK. I will support you,” Daniels says.

Boys, especially, need to understand that they can talk to you if they’re confused about what might or might not be appropriate or if they feel something is wrong — no matter what it is. There are so many mixed messages about sexuality, it’s important for them to understand that you will help them sort it all out.

Model appropriate behavior. As important as communication is, sometimes it’s not what you say but what you do that counts. “What kids see day to day is what they tend to repeat in their own lives,” Daniels says. “It’s important to ask yourself: Are you demonstrating love in your relationships? Is anyone being disrespected or demeaned?”

Of course, it’s important to be careful about the messages you send, especially when it comes to girls and dating. Boys learn it’s OK to demean women when we minimize or excuse their behavior by saying things like “He must have a crush” if a boy is mean to a girl or is cracking disrespectful jokes. Be consistent and clear about what is acceptable. How parents treat children, how their father treats their mother, how the mother treats herself — these things are internalized in children. “Family dynamics are powerful,” says Daniels. “So the place to start is often from within.”

Sheri Smith, of Scottsdale, is the mother of Aidan (19) and Sarah (15). Find the other installments in her #MeToo series at raisingarizonakids.com.

A Foundation for a Lifetime of Learning

www.keystonemontessori.com (480) 460-7312 1025 E. Liberty Ln., Phoenix, AZ 85048 (Across the street from the YMCA)

RaisingARIZONAKids.com DECEMBER 2018

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learn and explore aT sea liFe arizona aquarium ‘Tis the SEAson to start a new family tradition at SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium! This FISHmas, dive in to a world of underwater wonder and discover what lies beneath the surface. During your visit, watch Scuba Claus and his elves dive with the sharks and learn about the creatures that live in Critter Canyon! Then, stock-up on some FINtastic gifts from the SEA LIFE retail store!

RaisingARIZONAKids.com DECEMBER 2018

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KIDS in FOCUS

Photography program gives at-risk kids new perspective

By Elaina Verhoff • Photos by Kids in Focus

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DECEMBER 2018 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

W

hen kids experience trauma, they often disconnect — from the world and themselves.

Karen Shell, a commercial photographer and founder of the nonprofit Kids in Focus, understands the challenges of a difficult childhood. It’s why she’s been volunteering and working with at-risk kids since her early 20s, hoping to make a difference.

“These kids would have it [easier] if poverty is all that they were dealing with,” Shell explains. “It’s what often accompanies poverty: abuse and neglect. I want them to know there are choices and opportunities.”

For two decades, Shell coordinated Picture Day, where photographers, hairstylists and a photo lab came together to give up to 1,000 kids in Phoenix and Tempe (many of them homeless) a free packet of school portraits they could cherish.

Through this project, Shell became particularly close to a class of fourth graders at Children First Leadership Academy in Phoenix. After mentoring them for five years, she came up with the idea of getting kids behind the camera.

When Shell talks about Kids in Focus, her eyes light up, and her positive energy can’t be contained. “This is an incredible opportunity to teach life lessons,” she explains.

“Photography is the draw.”

The way Shell sees it, Kids in Focus, which began five years ago, helps at-risk Phoenix kids form connections, and in so doing, transforms their lives. Kids in the program are paired with photographer mentors who volunteer their time.

Shell says she’s seen the program dramatically boost kids’ self-confidence and sense of self-worth. Kids in Focus runs a variety of programs in partnership with Children First Leadership Academy, local Boys & Girls Clubs and Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation. Kids get volunteer photographer mentors for three-month after-school programs, monthlong camps, or one-day experiences.

The three-month program features a curriculum, a field trip, an exhibit and a hardcover book for each child. Students must apply to get into the program (“So that they value it,” explains Shell), and they must agree to respect themselves and others and to keep their grades up.

When asked if any kids have ever had to be removed from the program, Shell replies, “Never. I had one girl who was threatened by her

school principal to be taken out of the program after an incident on the bus for which she had refused to accept responsibility. She immediately apologized and changed her attitude and behavior to stay in Kids in Focus. She went from a troublemaker to a leader. These kids want something positive in their lives.”

Once accepted, the kids are given a camera to use for the duration of the program and shown how to look at the world around them with a new perspective — both literally and figuratively.

“We don’t teach them the technical aspects of photography. We take them through the process with no lecturing whatsoever,” says Shell. “It’s experiential. The kids are given prompts like ‘What is beauty in your community?’ We ask them to explore a four-block area and capture what is beautiful in that space.”

“Some resist at first,” Shell explains.

“Eventually the kids start paying attention, and becoming aware.”

Opening night At the conclusion of each three-month program, Kids in Focus hosts a grand and glitzy opening night. It’s free for the public to attend, because the goal is to get the maximum number of attendees and make the kids feel like superstars.

Past opening nights have been held at the Burton Barr Library, the Children’s Museum of Phoenix and the Arizona Science Center. Shell is in the process of selecting a venue for the 2019 opening night, to be held in the spring.

“Kids enter the program disconnected, withdrawn, and unable to express themselves,” says Shell. “On opening night, they are tall, proud, and don’t have a care in the world.

They feel like movie stars. These kids light up, because for the first time for many of them, that night they don’t feel invisible.”

Get involved

The Kids in Focus online gallery at kidsinfocus.org/ gallery features dozens of photos available for sale, from urban streetscapes to cactus closeups. The images are available as canvas or gallery mounts for $45-$100. All proceeds support Kids in Focus.

Karen Shell with student.

Kids in Focus is always looking for photographer mentors and volunteers for administration, marketing and program coordination. Visit kidsinfocus.org Elaina Verhoff is a Phoenix freelance writer and the mother of Riley (14) and Lily (12).

RaisingARIZONAKids.com DECEMBER 2018

HOLIDAY GIFTS for a Good Cause

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HOLIDAY Gift Guide As moms, we understand the appeal of fast and free shipping. But part of the joy of the holidays is exploring local shops that make our community unique and finding gems. We rounded up a quick list of fun holiday hits from shops across the Valley, and this is just a taste.

Don’t forget about museum gift shops, most of which you can visit without paying admission to the attraction. And local shops often offer perks like free gift wrapping!

BABIES TO AGE 5 ➊ Airplane Rolling Backpack and Flight Jacket. Perfect for a tiny traveler, this soft airplane rolling backpack from Popatu can be filled with carry-on activities for an upcoming flight. Pair it with a tiny military-style flight jacket (in children’s sizes extra small and up). $32-$50 at the Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum in Mesa. azcaf.org

➋ Cactus Onesies. Don’t forget about the Desert Botanical Garden’s newly remodeled gift shop for desert-themed children’s books and all things cactus — from huggable saguaro pillows to adorable onesies like this one. $20. dbg.org

➌ International Airport Play Mat and Air Force One. This mock runway mat will inspire all sorts of creative play. Pair it with a Bump and Go Air Force One jet that’s just the right size for little hands. $10-$13 at the Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum. azcaf.org

➍ Kids Book Boxes. Changing Hands Bookstore in Phoenix and Tempe offers a brilliant gift service.

They’ll pick out kids books for you — from classic picture books to the best tween titles — based on the recipient’s age and interests and how much you want to spend. You can also pick up cool pens, craft kits and sweet stuffed animals. changinghands.com

➎ Rocks. Sometimes simpler is better. Terri Walters, manager/buyer at the Arizona Museum of Natural History Guild Museum Store in Mesa, says rocks are the hands-down the favorite of school children who visit. Options that cost just $5.99 include break-open geodes and small velvet bags you can fill with shiny, smooth, brightly colored tumbled stones. arizonamuseumofnaturalhistory.org

➏ Wooden Dinosaur Letter Puzzle. This colorful 3D wood puzzle is fun to assemble and also teaches the alphabet, because the pieces are arranged in alphabetical order. $10-$12 at the Arizona Museum of Natural History. arizonamuseumofnaturalhistory.org

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DECEMBER 2018 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

AGES 5 AND UP ➊ American Ninja Warrior Ninjaline. Hang this 34-foot Ninjaline between two trees, and you have an instant challenging obstacle course! Comes with rope knot, T-bar, monkey bars and rings. Recommended for ages 5-12. $129.99 at Kidstop in Scottsdale. kidstoptoys.com

➋ Handmade doll clothes. Here’s where you can get heirloom quality yet affordable clothes for American Girl and WellieWisher dolls. The Sun City Sew ‘n’ Sew Club makes and sells a variety of unique, beautifully stitched clothes for 14- and 18-inch dolls. Fashions range from formal to casual. $10-$48. sewnsew.info

➌ Hatching Mermaid. Luci’s at the Orchard and Luci’s Healthy Marketplace in Phoenix are great spots for quick gifts. You’ll find cute cactus-themed baby items, kids Golden Books, jewelry and tons of cute stocking stuffers, from candy to rainbow unicorn eraser sets to a $4 shell that “hatches” a mermaid when submerged in water. lucisorchard.com

➍ Mad Matter. This modeling material is clean, easy to use, and never dries out, says Sari Custer, Chief Curiosity Officer at the Arizona Science Center, who describes it as a mix between playdough and kinetic sand. It’s also wheat, gluten, and casein free, plus it’s an affordable, creative toy. $15. azscience.org

➎ Ozobot Bit. This tiny award-winning robot is a great way to get kids (and adults) excited about coding.

Custer says with just a few markers, you can introduce concepts of programming. The robot follows hand-drawn color-coded commands or app-based block coding. $60 at the Arizona Science Center gift shop. azscience.org

➏ Power Up 2.0 Electric Airplane Conversion Kit. Add a rechargeable electric motor and propeller to your paper plane, or upgrade to a 3.0 Bluetooth version and control the plane from your phone. $20-$60 at the Arizona Science Center. azscience.org

RaisingARIZONAKids.com DECEMBER 2018

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Holiday

Gift Guide

AGES 8 AND UP ➊ 4Ocean Bracelet. OdySea Aquarium’s gift shop in Scottsdale sells this cool unisex bracelet, which is a constant reminder to protect our oceans by reusing, reducing and recycling. Made from recycled postconsumer plastic with a stainless-steel charm, the $20 purchase price goes toward removing one pound of trash from oceans and coastlines. odyseaaquarium.com

➋ Junk Yard Drummer Kit. Ages 8 and older can turn empty cans and other junk into a working, robotic drum set with this “green science” kit from Eco Engineering. $22 at the i.d.e.a. Museum in Mesa. ideamuseum.org

➌ Personalized charm bracelet. Here’s an affordable alternative to the trendy-but-expensive Pandora or Alex and Ani charm bracelets! Personalize the perfect bracelet with a variety of charms. $5 for a bracelet and one charm, $5-$12 for additional charms. $21 as shown from She’s Crafty Boutique in Peoria. shescraftyboutique.com

➍ Rock N Roll It Rainbow Piano or SpecDrum. These portable, colorful and flexible musical instruments from Mukikim are on the hot list for the holidays at Kidstop in Scottsdale, says store owner Kate Tanner. They come with a headphone jack, recordand-playback mode and more. Plus, they’re great for travel! $60-$70. kidstoptoys.com

➎ Snap Circuits Bric: Structures. Wire up building bricks to have lights, sounds, moving parts and 3-D circuits with this snap circuit kit at Kidstop in Scottsdale. Store owner Kate Tanner says it’s compatible with Legos to infuse bricks with lights, sounds and movement. A fantastic STEM toy for ages 8 and up! $40. kidstoptoys.com

➏ Wireless Karaoke microphone. Connect this microphone to your iPhone or Android via Bluetooth and belt out your favorite tunes with this 3-in-1 wireless mic, speaker and smart phone charger by FunkyRico.

Tweens will love it, but honestly so will ages 5 to adults!

It comes in black, gold, pink and rose gold for $40 at The Container Store. thecontainerstore.com

ALL KIDS ➐ Memberships to local attractions.

Memberships to Valley venues — including Arizona Science Center, Children’s Museum of Phoenix, Desert Botanical Garden, i.d.e.a. Museum, Legoland Discovery Center, OdySea Aquarium, Phoenix Zoo and SeaLife Aquarium — make fantastic gifts for both kids and families. $55 and up.

➑ Tickets to holiday performances. What’s Christmas without the reminder to be kind from Ebenezer Scrooge, laughs from Buddy the Elf or holiday favorites from the Phoenix Symphony? Tickets to local, live performances throughout the year make great gifts for all ages.

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DECEMBER 2018 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

RAISING OUTDOOR KIDS

The LASTING GIFT of EXPERIENCES

By Lisa Van Loo • Photos by Ron Abelar

WE COULD SEE from across the family room that a layer of dust had settled on top of the Legos.

We had picked up at least a dozen Nerf guns scattered throughout the house. And we had found parking spaces for all eight Barbie cars.

We were done with toys. And, based on the volume of disregarded playthings in our house, so were the kids. So, last Christmas, we shocked the system and did something different. We didn’t buy a single toy. Instead, we wrapped experiences.

We didn’t need batteries or gift receipts for returns, and we had nothing to clean up. What the kids came away with were lasting memories of adventures — something that isn’t available in any store.

We did wrap a few things: Each child got a hydration pack stocked with binoculars, a compass, a personalized passport of upcoming excursions and a headlamp. Then, each unwrapped a clue to his or her own adventure, accompanied by a related item like a survival bracelet, a scarf or a beach towel.

Consider what’s possible.

TIGER FEEDING AND ZIP-LINING at Out of Africa Wildlife Park. Choose either a one-time zip or the multi-platform zip, and swing over the Camp Verde park’s wild animals, including

lions and tigers. We could actually hear a lion roaring from one of the platforms, which was pretty sweet. And, while we were there, we gave one of kids the chance to feed a tiger — which initially sounded terrifying to him, until he saw the fence that separated him from the big cat. outofafricapark.com.

VISITS TO NATIONAL PARKS. We did a few this year, with kids and without, including Zion, Pinnacles, Arches and Channel Islands.

We also purchased an annual pass so we can visit all the national parks still on our wish list. One of the coolest programs is Every Kid in a Park, supported by the National Park Foundation, which gives families of fourth graders an annual pass to encourage engagement with the outdoors. nationalparks. org or nps.gov.

LEARNING TO SHOOT. We didn’t get a Red Ryder BB gun like the one Ralphie wanted in “A Christmas Story,” but we did get a Daisy, and taught them all how to use it — girls included. They also know how to shoot a bow. With an emphasis on safety, we let them practice in the backyard, at the range and at events sponsored by the Arizona Game and Fish Department. azgfd.com.

WATER ENCOUNTERS. Through a series of birthdays, we’ve been doling out snorkel sets, making it easier to find critters and shells on the coast. We arranged for an educational encounter for our two oldest girls at Dolphinaris, which prompted us to swear off plastic straws for good.

And, we jumped in with the four oldest for a scuba-type adventure at OdySea Aquarium, where they got to feed fish underwater, walk around with stingrays and marvel at being in a tank with a (non-aggressive) shark. odyseaaquarium.com or dolphinaris.com.

Of course, adventures don’t necessarily require admission. It could mean an easy trip to a nearby lake to fish. It could be a cannonball into a swimming hole, a sunset in the mountains or an atlas-guided road trip, batteries not included, which is just fine.

The best part? Now they’re asking for adventures, instead of things.

Lisa Van Loo is a freelance journalist. Ron Abelar is an avid outdoorsman and photographer.

Together, they are parenting five children in Gilbert. Follow them on Instagram @RaisingOutdoorKids

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Holiday

Gift Guide

What teachers REALLY want for the holidays

By Cathryn Creno

SCENTED BUBBLE BATH? Goofy holiday socks? Ornament in the shape of an apple? You shouldn’t have. Really!

These are items your child’s teacher doesn’t need for the holidays.

When it comes to finding a gift for your child’s teacher, think simple, practical and from the heart.

Most teachers — particularly those who work in low-income schools — suggest skipping gifts entirely and helping your child create a handmade card.

“I cherish a heartfelt note from the parent the most,” says Caitlin Klem, who teaches kindergarten at Mountain View Elementary School in Prescott Valley. “I spend so much time building relationships with students and families, it is nice when the sentiment is returned.”

Mark Atwood, a long-time middle school social studies teacher at Ward Traditional Academy in Tempe, says he keeps every card and note his students write to him in a large file in his desk. He also cherishes a big collection of hand-made mugs and holiday ornaments and displays many in his home.

I began teaching a little more than two years ago and, during that time, students have surprised me with gifts ranging from a wine store gift certificate to tea from a child’s hometown in China. I have loved these exotic items — along with every other gift children have given me. But I join a large chorus of teachers who suggest to parents that unusual and expensive gifts are not needed.

Instead, take time to help your child write a note about what they like about their class. If you really want to buy something, make it something practical, like school supplies.

“Sharpies may be more useful than a mug,” Klem says.

If you really insist on buy something for a special teacher, here are some suggestions that most any teacher would appreciate: • A gift card for Amazon, Target or another store with a wide variety of merchandise • A movie theater gift card • Tea bags, power bars or other healthful snack items • Classroom supplies • A donation in the teacher’s name to a cause the teacher supports Cathryn Creno is a former education news reporter who teaches middle school in the Tempe Elementary School District.

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DECEMBER 2018 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

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The holidays are approaching fast.

Schedule your Family or Corporate Portraits now!

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RaisingARIZONAKids.com DECEMBER 2018

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family time!

“A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail” (Nov. 30-Dec. 23) at Valley Youth Theatre.

TOP DECEMBER EVENTS

By Liz Petroff

NOTE: Because last-minute schedule changes can occur, please confirm dates and times on event websites.

NOV. 16-DEC. 28: The North Pole Experience. Ride the Candy Cane/Snowball Express to Santa’s workshop, where you can tour the factory, assist the elves in toy making, get treats from the bakery and take photos with Santa. 8:30 a.m. to 3:50 p.m. or 4-8:30 p.m. daily (some exceptions) $39-$55; hotel and meal packages available. The Little America Hotel, 2515 E. Butler Ave., Flagstaff. 888-679-7268 or northpoleexperience.com

NOV. 20-DEC. 31: Christmas at the Princess. The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess transforms into a winter wonderland with a four-story musical tree, ice skating, S’mores Land Family Campfires, Princess Express Trains, Polar Glide Ice Slide and Santa’s Secret Headquarters. For the public, self-parking is $55, which includes six attraction wristbands. Skating is an additional $25; prices vary for photos with Santa and a Build-A-Bear pop-up shop. 7575 E. Princess Drive, Scottsdale.

480-585-4848 or scottsdaleprincess.com

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DECEMBER 2018 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

VALLEY YOUTH THEATER

Holiday magic is in the desert air with twinkling lights, seasonal performances and even snow! Grab hot chocolate to go and spend family time at this month’s many festive events. Even Santa doesn’t want to miss out. You’ll spot the head elf himself at some of these Valley venues.

NOV. 30 Peoria’s Old Town Holiday Festival. Peoria welcomes families to take a stroll through Old Town and enjoy live entertainment, a crafters market, a visit from Santa and 20 tons of snow. 5-10 p.m. Free admission and parking. Johnny E. Osuna Memorial Park, 10510 N. 83rd Ave., Peoria. azstreetmarket.com

NOV. 30-DEC. 2 Tempe Festival of the Arts. Knock out all of your holiday shopping at one of the nation’s top arts festivals featuring more than 300 artists along Mill Avenue and surrounding streets. The Kids Block offers a hands-on interactive area for young artists and a youth exhibition featuring more than 300 student works from around the Valley. Free. 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Friday-Sunday. Mill Avenue between Third Street and University Drive in Tempe. tempefestivalofthearts.com

NOV. 30-DEC. 23 A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail. Travel to the snow-covered Hundred Acre Wood for Valley Youth Theatre’s 23rd annual holiday musical. A.A. Milne’s beloved characters — Pooh, Piglet, Kanga and Baby Roo and Owl — organize a search party to help Eeyore find his lost tail. $20. Show times vary. 525 N. First St., Phoenix. 602-253-8188 or vyt.com

JARED PLATT

“Cirque Holiday Spectacular” (Dec. 7-9) at Symphony Hall.

DEC. 1

DEC. 2

APS Electric Light Parade. For more than three decades, the APS Electric Light Parade has been bringing Phoenix families, neighborhoods and businesses together to celebrate the holiday season. This year’s theme is “Magic of the Holidays.” 7 p.m. Free.

Starts at Central and Montebello avenues, heads east on Camelback Road and ends at Seventh Street and Indian School Road. Float viewing and judging is 5:30-8 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 30, at North Phoenix Baptist Church, 5757 N. Central Ave. phoenix.gov

Andrea Bocelli in Concert. The legendary tenor returns to Phoenix to share his angelic voice at Talking Stick Resort Arena. Phoenix is one of only seven cities across the country to hear Bocelli live on this tour. A duet by the Italian singer and his son is featured in Disney’s “The Nutcracker and the Four Realms,” now in theaters. 7:30 p.m. $230-$360. 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix. talkingstickresortarena.com

Festival of Tales. This is a fun day of reading, literacy and cultural activities for kids at Paradise Valley Community College. Enjoy storytelling, arts and crafts, games, face painting, live music and food trucks. More than 5,000 free books are provided at this event staffed by Southwest Human Development and volunteers from PVCC. 9 a.m. Free. Paradise Valley Community College, 18401 N. 32nd St., Phoenix. festivaloftales.com

DEC. 1-2 Joy to the Herd at Shamrock Farms. Grab your mittens! The dairy farm transforms its Welcome Barn into a winter wonderland at this annual event featuring Santa, spokescow Roxie, farm tours and face painting. Plus, real snow and holiday crafts. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Reservations and prepayment required: $12-$15; free for ages 2 and younger. 40034 W. Clayton Road, Stanfield. 602-477-2462 or shamrockfarms.net

DEC. 1-31 Las Noches de las Luminarias. Desert Botanical Garden comes to life with more than 8,000 luminarias, thousands of twinkling lights and live music ensembles. This year, the event is even more spectacular with the ongoing lighting and sound exhibit Electric Desert. 5:30-9:30 p.m. Dec. 1-31; closed Dec. 24-25. $29.95-$39.95; $15.95 ages 3-12, free for ages 2 and younger. 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix.

480-481-8188 or dbg.org

Thomas and Friends. Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends stage a sing-along adventure about the power of friendship and teamwork. Kids can take photos with Thomas after each live show: 10 a.m., noon and 3 p.m. $5-$7. OdySea in the Desert, 9500 E. Via de Ventura, Scottsdale. 480-951-2100 or odyseainthedesert.com

DEC. 6-FEB. 3 Lights of the World. This international festival combines the Chinese tradition of lantern festivals with modern technology and lights. It highlights cultures and civilizations around the globe and offers more than 30 carnival rides and games, a daily performance (from acrobatics to sea lions), a 3-D light experience and more. $18; $15 ages 3-13; free for ages 2 and younger. Parking is $10. Arizona State Fairgrounds, 1826 W. McDowell Road, Phoenix. lightsoftheworldus.com

DEC. 7-9 Cirque Holiday Spectacular. Troupe Vertigo returns with gravity-defying acts. Hear holiday favorites “White Christmas” and “Deck the Halls” while hula hoops, strong men, contortionists, aerialists and jugglers perform onstage and 40 feet above it! $35-$116.

Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second St., Phoenix. 800-776-9080 or phoenixsymphony.org Phoenix Festival of the Arts. The annual arts and crafts show returns to Margaret T. Hance Park. Enjoy live entertainment, more than 150 artists and vendors, food trucks, a children’s play area and more. Noon to 5 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday.

Free. 1202 N. Third St., Phoenix. 602-254-3100 or phoenixfestivalofthearts.org

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TOP DECEMBER EVENTS continued

“Ella Enchanted” (Dec. 15-30) at Herberger Theater.

DEC. 8

Tempe Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade. The parade that floats! Tempe Town Lake lights up during this unique holiday event that features 50 lighted boats of all sizes.

(This is the only time motorized boats are allowed on the lake). 6th Street Market vendors fill up Tempe Beach Park with hundreds of hand-crafted items for sale.

Bring your camera to take free holiday pics with Santa, and stick around for an 8 p.m. fireworks finale. Free. 4 p.m. downtowntempe.com Snow Much Fun Day at Children’s Museum of Phoenix. Run, jump and play in 40 tons of snow in the Children’s Museum’s parking lot. Visits with Santa begin at 10:30 a.m. Snow Much Fun Day events are included with $14.95 admission. Enjoy breakfast with Santa or build a gingerbread house at additional cost. 215 N. Seventh St. 602-2530501 or childrensmuseumofphoenix.org

FACEBOOK.COM/PEPPAPIGLIVEUK

“Peppa Pig Live” (Dec. 11) at Mesa Arts Center.

TIM TRUMBLE

Ignite Hope for Phoenix Children’s Hospital. There’s not a dry eye after this 1.1-mile evening walk from North High School to Phoenix Children’s Hospital, led by the Phoenix Fire Department. Walkers are greeted by holiday carolers and hospital patients waving candles from their windows. It concludes with a lighting of the PCH Christmas tree.

Registration at 3 p.m.; walk begins at 5:30 p.m. $40; $10 ages 4-12. Walkers get battery operated candles and an Ignite Hope shirt. North High School, 1101 E. Thomas Road, Phoenix. phoenixchildrensfoundation.org

DEC. 15-16 Holidays at the MIM. ‘Tis the season at the Musical Instrument Museum, which is celebrating the most wonderful time of year with musical performances and holidaythemed activities. Families will find a special menu at Cafe Allegro, holiday gifts for purchase in the Museum Store, face painting and more. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m $10-$20; free for ages 3 and younger. 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. 480-478-6000 or mim.org

DEC. 15-30 Ella Enchanted. Childsplay performs the classic Cinderella tale with a twist. Princess Ella is given the “gift” of obedience at birth by her misguided fairy godmother and must grow up to outwit her wicked stepsisters, a hungry ogre and this troublesome curse. $12-$30. Show times vary. Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix.

480-921-5700 or childsplayaz.org

DEC. 26-30 Holidays at the Heard. Enjoy local musicians, indigenous dance performances, art demonstrations and art activities at the Heard Museum. 10 a.m to 4 p.m. $18; $7.50 for ages 6-17; free for ages 5 and younger. 2301 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. 602-252-8840 or heard.org

DEC. 11 Peppa Pig Live! Join Peppa and her friends for a show that celebrates the charming, popular Nickelodeon preschool series. Families will enjoy new songs, interactive games and many more surprises. 6 p.m. $45-$125. Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St. 480-6446500 or peppapigliveus.com

DEC. 13-24 The Nutcracker. In Ballet Arizona’s popular annual tradition, Clara battles mischievous mice and charms the Sugar Plum Fairy. With 150 performers, 100,000 Swarovski crystals and Tchaikovsky’s cherished score performed live by the Phoenix Symphony.

Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second St., Phoenix. balletaz.org Page 27: Nine more ways to enjoy “The Nutcracker.”

DEC. 15 Winter Wonderfest AZ. Enjoy a night bike ride at the Cyclomesa Winterfest. Play in 20 tons of snow, ride a mechanical snowboard, join reindeer games and learn about helmet safety. Then ride through the Alta Mesa neighborhood to see holiday lights. 2:30-5 p.m.; 5:30 p.m. ride. Free. Alta Mesa Park, 1910 N. Alta Mesa Drive. visitmesa.com

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DECEMBER 2018 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

DEC. 26-JAN. 1 Snow Week at Arizona Science Center. The Science Center covers the grassy hill near the entrance with more than 75 tons of real snow. Enjoy snow play, snow-related science demonstrations and kid-friendly activities. Science Center admission is $18; $13 for ages 3-17. 600 E. Washington St., Phoenix. 602-716-2000 or azscience.org

DEC. 31 Noon Year’s Eve. Ring in the New Year at the Phoenix Zoo at the stroke of noon! This bash is frosty fun for the whole family. Included with zoo admission: 30 tons of snow (for kids of all ages), bug-themed games and activities, a bounce house, snowball targets, a noon ball drop with cider or juice toast, and live music, dancing, games and dino activities. 9 a.m. to noon. $16.95-$24.95. Phoenix Zoo, 455 Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. 602-914-4333 or phoenixzoo.org Calendar Editor Liz Petroff of Phoenix is the mother of Jack (10) and Lucy (8). Send event info to liz@RAKmagazine.com.

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family time! around arizona get cozy at one of several viewing areas along the lake, including Rotary Beach, English Village, across the London Bridge and at any restaurant along the channel.

6:30-9 p.m. Free. Bridgewater Channel at London Bridge, 422 English Village, Lake Havasu City. golakehavasu.com

FACEBOOK.COM/TUCSONBOTANICAL

PRESCOTT

Luminaria Nights (Nov. 30- Dec. 9) at Tucson Botanical Gardens.

COTTONWOOD 25th Annual Chocolate Walk (Dec. 1). Start the day at Cottonwood Christmas Parade (11 a.m.) then take a stroll in Historic Old Town Cottonwood.

Along Main Street, merchants will treat ticket-holders to handcrafted chocolates.

Stick around for holiday music at the Old Town Light Show. 3-7 p.m. $25; only 400 tickets will be sold. oldtown.org

Holiday Riordan Mansion Tours (Dec. 1-Jan. 6). The mansion is decorated in turn-of-the-century style with wreaths, garlands, greenery and a towering fir trimmed with old-fashioned ornaments.

Tours hourly 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; closed Tuesday and Wednesday. $10; $5 for ages 7-13; free for ages 6 and younger.

Riordan Mansion State Historic Park, 409 W. Riordan Road, Flagstaff. 928-7794395 or azstateparks.com

DEWEY Breakfast with Santa (Dec. 1).

Mortimer Farms hosts its annual breakfast with St. Nick. Activities include ornament-making, cookie decorating and time with Santa. 10 a.m. $15; free for ages 2 and younger. Mortimer Farms, 12907 E. State Route 169, Dewey. 928830-1116 or mortimerfarmsaz.com

FLAGSTAFF Holiday Lights Parade (Dec. 8).

Dozens of floats and marching bands light up the night in historic downtown Flagstaff. 6-8 p.m. Free. Parade starts at Beaver Street and Elm Avenue. 928-7744505 or flagstaffchamber.com

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Christmas Parade and Courthouse Lighting (Dec. 1). Enjoy a holiday parade in downtown Prescott with floats, holiday music and Santa. Then, the streets surrounding Yavapai County Courthouse Plaza will turn festive for the annual courthouse lighting ceremony. 1 p.m. parade; 6 p.m. lighting. Free. 120 S. Cortez St., Prescott. 928-443-5220 or prescottdowntown.com Frontier Christmas (Dec. 1). Celebrate Christmas as it was when Prescott was the Territorial Capital of Arizona. Enjoy fresh-baked cookies and hot cider while admiring handmade decorations and historical re-enactments by living history volunteers. 6-8:30 p.m. $5; free for ages 17 and younger. Sharlot Hall Museum, 415 W. Gurley St., Prescott. 928-4453122 or sharlot.org Acker Night (Dec. 7). A family event for 30 years, Acker Night keeps music alive and thriving in downtown Prescott. Enjoy more than 500 performers — from live music to dance — in local businesses entertaining holiday shoppers. Acker Night raises money for scholarships for music lessons, instruments and local performing arts programs for youth.

5-8:30 p.m. ackernight.com

The North Pole Experience (through Dec. 28). Take a sneak peak inside Santa’s workshop. Assist the elves in toy making, tour the factory, get treats from the bakery and take photos with Santa. 8:30 a.m. to 3:50 p.m. or 4-8:30 p.m. $39-$55; hotel and meal packages available. The Little America Hotel, 2515 E. Butler Ave., Flagstaff. 888-679-7268 or northpoleexperience.com

Wildlights and Animal Sights (through Dec. 29). Holiday decorations, music and light displays fill the park. Hot cocoa and coffee available for purchase.

6-8:30 p.m. every Friday and Saturday Nov. 23-Dec. 29. $6; $4 members.

Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary, 1403 Heritage Park Road, Prescott. 928778-4242 or heritageparkzoo.org

LAKE HAVASU

SEDONA

Boat Parade of Lights (Nov. 30 and Dec. 1). Fifty boats, brightly decorated for the holidays, cruise through the Bridgewater Channel. Pack blankets and

Festival of Lights (Dec. 8). Enjoy the glow of 6,000 luminarias in the courtyards and walkways of Tlaquepaque at the annual Festival of Lights. This tradition

DECEMBER 2018 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

began 45 years ago and includes a full lineup of entertainers and Santa appearances. 3-8 p.m. Free. Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, 336 SR 179, Sedona. 928-282-4838 or tlaq.com Tree Lighting and Santa Visit (Dec. 7). The Sedona Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau hosts a traditional treelighting ceremony with carolers, holiday entertainment, refreshments and a visit from Santa. 5-7 p.m. Free. Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, 336 State Route 179, Sedona. 928-282-4838 or tlaq.com

TOMBSTONE Christmas Light Parade (Dec. 8).

The “town too tough to die,” celebrates its softer side with caroling in the streets, holiday lights at the historic courthouse, luminarias and parade floats. 6-8 p.m. Free. Allen Street in downtown Tombstone. 520-457-9317 or tombstonechamber.com

TUCSON Downtown Parade of Lights and Festival (Dec. 15). Tucson celebrates the holidays with a treelighting ceremony, floats, music, live entertainment and Santa. 4-9 p.m.; 6:30 p.m. parade. Free. Armory Park, 220 S. Fifth Ave., Tucson. 520-547-3338 or downtowntucson.org Luminaria Nights (Fri.-Sun. Nov. 30- Dec. 9). Take a stroll down garden paths lighted with more than 2,500 luminarias at the Tucson Botanical Gardens. Plus holiday music and tasty treats. 5:30-8:30 p.m. $18; $9 ages 4-17; free for ages 3 and younger. 2150 N. Alvernon Way. 520-326-9686 or tucsonbotanical.org

WILLIAMS The Polar Express (through Jan. 5). Your kids will experience storybook magic when Grand Canyon Railway transforms into the Polar Express.

Snack on cookies, sip hot chocolate and sing carols. 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. train departures (3:30 p.m. on select dates) $43-$80; packages available for meals and hotel stay. 233 N. Grand Canyon Blvd., Williams. 800-222-6966 or thetrain.com

10THE NUTCRACKER

holiday events family time!

WAYS TO ENJOY

JOHN BETHEA

What goes together better than marshmallows and hot cocoa? How about holidays and “The Nutcracker.” Just as this classical ballet takes to stages across the Valley, Disney’s new live-action “The Nutcracker and the Four Realms” is appearing in movie theaters. It all adds up to Nutcracker holiday magic that’s trending more than STEM toys this Christmas season.

Phoenix Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” (Dec. 14-23) at The Orpheum Theatre.

Ballet Etudes’ The Nutcracker (Nov.23-Dec. 16). Ballet Etudes performs its 32nd annual production of “The Nutcracker” ballet featuring Clara’s dream journey through a magical land.

Nov. 23-Dec. 2 at Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., 480-782-2680; $25-$29. Dec 7-16: Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St, 480-644-6500; $25-$29; $6 per lap child. balletetudes.net The Nutcracker (Dec. 8-9). The Rena Backer School of Ballet stages its 10th annual production of “The Nutcracker” under Backer’s artistic direction. Her ancestors include Russian ballet royalty.

2 and 7 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m.

Sunday. $5 and a new, unwrapped toy donation for Military Assistance Mission.

Horizon High School, 5601 E. Greenway Road, Scottsdale. 602-485-5000 or backerballet.com Nutcracker Ballet Tea Party (Dec. 9).

Share an afternoon with ballerinas from “The Nutcracker” at the English Rose Tea Room in Carefree. Dancers will perform

vignettes and take photos with guests.

Each child will get a gift bag. 3-5 p.m. $25-$45. Reservations recommended.

201 Easy St., Carefree. 480-488-4812 or carefreetea.com Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker (Dec. 12). Whimsical and imaginative storytelling combined with Russian classical dance make this a unique performance. 7 p.m. $40-$100.

Comerica Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix. 602-379-2800 or comericatheatre.com Southwest Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker (Dec. 13-16). For its fourth year, Southwest Ballet Theatre performs Tchaikovsky’s full-length ballet under the artistic direction of Melissa Zervas Hahne at Estrella Mountain Community College’s Performing Arts Center, 3000 N. Dysart Road, Avondale. southwestballettheatre.org Ballet Arizona’s The Nutcracker (Dec.13-24). In Ballet Arizona’s annual

production, under Ib Andersen’s artistic direction, Clara battles mischievous mice and charms the Sugar Plum Fairy. With 150 performers, 100,000 Swarovski crystals and Tchaikovsky’s cherished score performed live by the Phoenix Symphony. Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second St., Phoenix. balletaz.org Southwest Youth Ballet’s The Nutcracker (Dec. 14-16). Under the artistic direction of ballerina Yen-Li Chen, the Southwest Youth Ballet performs this holiday classic accompanied by live music from the Chandler Symphony Orchestra.

7 p.m. Friday, 2 and 6:30 p.m. Saturday, 3 p.m. Sunday. $10-$30. Higley Center for the Performing Arts, 4132 E. Pecos Road, Gilbert. 480-279-7194 or higleycenter.org Phoenix Ballet’s The Nutcracker (Dec. 14-23). Phoenix Ballet and internationally recognized dance stars Madison Penney, Tia Wenkman, Bel Pickering, Tegan Chou, Misha Broderick, Basia Rhoden and others present Slawomir Wozniak’s “The

Nutcracker” at the Orpheum Theatre.

7 p.m. Friday, 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday, 1 and 5 p.m. Sunday. $25-$85. 203 W. Adams St., Phoenix. 602-996-8000 or phoenixballet.org Ahwatukee Foothills Nutcracker Ballet (Dec. 15-16). Dance Studio 111 performs “The Nutcracker” with a youth cast ages 3-21. Meet the dancers and Santa Claus and take photographs on Clara’s throne after select performances. $20-$45. 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. Desert Vista Fine Arts Theatre, 16440 S. 32nd St., Phoenix.

480-706-6040 or afnutcracker.com Arizona Youth Ballet’s The Nutcracker (Dec. 21-22). With classical music, bright costumes and eye-catching sets, Arizona Youth Ballet transports the audience to the Land of the Sweets. 7 p.m. Friday, 2 and 7 p.m.

Saturday. $15-$25. Mesa Community College Performing Arts Center, 1520 S. Longmore Ave., Mesa. 602-672-8668 or azyb.org

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family time! onstage

HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES MUSIC A Merry-Achi Christmas (Dec. 15).

A holiday fiesta with the internationally recognized Maestro of Mariachi and his platinum record-selling band. 7 p.m. $29-$59. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., 480- 499-8587 or scottsdaleperformingarts.org Annual Christmas Pudding Show (Dec. 8). Alice Cooper takes the stage for one of the city’s signature holiday events. Johnny Depp and Joe Perry join Copper in their band The Hollywood Vampires. All performances benefit Cooper’s Solid Rock Foundation. 7-11 p.m. $120-$220; $800 VIP tickets.

Celebrity Theatre, 440 N. 32nd St., Phoenix. alicecoopersolidrock.com Cirque Holiday Spectacular (Dec. 7-9). Troupe Vertigo returns with gravity-defying acts. Hear the Phoenix Symphony play holiday favorites like “White Christmas” and “Deck the Halls” while hula hoops, strong men, contortionists, aerialists and jugglers perform onstage and 40 feet above it! Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second St., Phoenix. 800-776-9080 or phoenixsymphony.org Halle Holiday Concert Series (Dec. 7, 15, 16 and 18). The Phoenix Boys Choir performs holiday songs and carols from around the world and pays tribute to Sebastian Bach and the famous reindeer, Rudolph! Showtimes and locations vary. boyschoir.org Handel’s Messiah (Dec. 12-16). An annual holiday favorite, The Phoenix Symphony, The Phoenix Symphony Chorus and world-class soloists perform Handel’s “Messiah” in churches and venues throughout the Valley. Times and locations vary. phoenixsymphony.org

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“Elf: The Musical” (Nov. 14-Dec. 30) at Phoenix Theatre.

Holiday Pops (Nov. 30-Dec. 2). The Phoenix Symphony Orchestra plays seasonal favorites and hosts the popular Holiday Singalong at Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second St., Phoenix. 800-776-9080 or phoenixsymphony.org Mannheim Steamroller Christmas (Dec. 27). An American holiday music tradition for more than three decades. ASU Gammage, 1200 S. Forest Ave., Tempe.

480-965-3434 or asugammage.com

PUPPETRY The Night Before Christmas (Dec. 5-23). Great Arizona Puppet Theater celebrates the season with stories, music and puppets. After the 2 p.m. showing on Sunday, Dec. 16, kids can enjoy puppet making, holiday

DECEMBER 2018 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

snacks and a visit from Santa. 302 W. Latham St., Phoenix. 602-262-2050 or azpuppets.org

THEATER A Christmas Carol. This Charles Dickens classic reminds us what the future holds when we have no empathy.

Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future.

• Hale Centre Theatre Center (Nov. 29-Dec. 24), 50 W. Page Ave., Gilbert. Fox 10’s Cory McCloskey and actor Rob Stuart alternate as Scrooge. $20-$36. 480-497-1181 or haletheatrearizona.com • Scottsdale Musical Theater (Dec. 6-23) casts Charles Shaughnessy (“The Nanny”) as Scrooge. $25-$58.

Tempe Center for the Arts, 700 W. Rio

Salado Parkway. 602-909-4215 or scottsdalemusicaltheater.com • Theater Works, (Dec. 7-23), 8355 W. Peoria Ave., Peoria. Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob Cratchit and Tiny Tim come to life. $16-$38. 623-8157930 or theaterworks.org A Christmas Story: The Play (Nov. 30-Dec. 23). Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre performs the play based on the movie that ushered in a new genre of unvarnished holiday tales. Ralphie goes to all lengths to convince Santa he needs a Red Ryder BB gun. 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday. $22-$28. 4720 N. Scottsdale Road, inside Scottsdale Fashion Square. 480-483-1664 or desertstages.org

A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail (Nov. 30-Dec. 23). Travel to the snowcovered Hundred Acre Wood for Valley Youth Theatre’s 23rd annual production.

A.A. Milne’s beloved characters — Pooh, Piglet, Kanga and Baby Roo and Owl — organize a search party to help Eeyore find his lost tail. $20. Show times vary. Valley Youth Theatre, 525 N. First St., Phoenix. 602-253-8188 or vyt.com

Elf: The Musical (Nov. 14-Dec. 30).

Buddy the Elf teaches his newfound New York City family about Christmas magic. Show times vary. $36-$86.

Phoenix Theatre, 100 E. McDowell Road, Phoenix. 602-254-2151 or phoenixtheatre.com It’s a Wonderful Life. In despair, local banker George Bailey is visited by his guardian angel on Christmas Eve. He’s reminded of all the ways he helped others, and why it matters.

• Don Bluth Front Row Theatre (Nov. 29-Dec. 29), 8670 E. Shea Blvd., Suite 103, Scottsdale. $27. 480-314-0841 or donbluthfrontrowtheatre.com • Starlight Community Theater (Nov. 30-Dec. 16), 1611 W. Whispering Wind Drive, Phoenix. $15-$20. 623-252-6815 or starlightcommunitytheater.com

The Mrs. Claus Christmas Show (Dec. 16). Jan Sandwich returns to Fountain Hills Theater for a one-nightonly musical event and a special holiday show for the entire family. 7 p.m. $25.

Fountain Hills Theater, 11445 N. Saguaro Blvd. 480-837-9661 or fhtaz.org

NON-HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES Cinderella (Dec. 26-Jan. 13). Great

Arizona Puppet Theater performs the classic princess tale of the prince and the glass slipper. 10 a.m. WednesdaySaturday, 2 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. $8-$12. 302 W. Latham St., Phoenix.

602-262-2050 or azpuppets.org Disney’s Aladdin, Jr. (Dec. 7 - 16).

Greasepaint Youtheatre presents this version specifically tailored to young audiences, with expanded characters, new songs and more. Aladdin is a “diamond in the rough” who learns that his true worth lies deep within. 7020 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-949-7529 or greasepaint.org Ella Enchanted (Dec. 15-30). This Childsplay production is loosely based on the 1997 Newbery Honor book.

It’s the classic Cinderella story with a twist. Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix. 480-921-5700 or childsplayaz.org Mary Poppins, Jr. (through Dec. 23). Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre brings us this version of the Mary Poppins story, adapted for younger audiences. 7:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 2 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. $17. 4720 N. Scottsdale Road, inside Scottsdale

Fashion Square. 480-483-1664 or desertstages.org Peppa Pig Live! (Dec 11). Join Peppa Pig and her friends for a live show based on the popular Nickelodeon series. Families will enjoy new songs, interactive games, and many more surprises. 6 p.m. $45-$125. Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St. 480-644-6500 or peppapigliveus.com Snow Queen (Dec. 1-16). Based on Hans Christian Andersen’s magical wintery fairy tale and set to Prokofiev’s score, this show brings the audience into the mystical world of sprites, gypsies, ice maidens and the evil queen’s crystal palace. Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix. 602-252-8497 or herbergertheater.org You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown (Dec. 6-9). This classic based on Charles M. Schulz’s “Peanuts” comic strip shows an “average” day in the life of Charlie Brown reconstructed from his trials and tribulations with Snoopy, Lucy and the rest of the “Peanuts” gang. Musical Theatre of Anthem, 42201 N. 41st Drive. 623-336-6001 or musicaltheatreofanthem.org

“You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” (Dec. 6-9) at Musical Theatre of Anthem.

Miracle on 34th Street (Nov. 23-Dec. 29). Arizona Broadway Theatre brings Santa Claus to trial and makes us all believe. Based on the classic film, this is the tale of last-minute replacement of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Santa with Kris Kringle. $35-$86. Arizona Broadway Theatre, 7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria. 623-776-8400 or azbroadway.org

MICHELE CELENTANO

REG MADISON PHOTOGRAPHY

Black Nativity (Nov. 30-Dec. 16).

Black Theatre Troupe presents this play based on works by Langston Hughes.

Singers, actors, dancers and musicians deliver its message of joy, hope, victory and liberation at the Helen K. Mason Performing Arts Center, 1333 E. Washington, Phoenix. 602-258-8129 or blacktheatretroupe.org

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical. A comedy about the struggles of putting on a church Christmas pageant with a cast of troublemaking kids. While the whole town panics, a first-time director and the church reverend help the community see the Christmas story and the Herdman kids through new eyes.

• East Valley Children’s Theatre (Nov. 29-Dec. 9) stages this holiday comedy at Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St. All tickets $6.50. 480-7563828 or evct.org • Spotlight Youth Theatre (Nov. 30-Dec. 16), 7 p.m. FridaySaturday, 2 p.m. Sunday. $13. 10620 N. 43rd Ave., Glendale. 602-8438318 or spotlightyouththeatre.org

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family time! holiday events

12Ks of Christmas (Dec. 8) at Freestone District Park.

NOTE: Events are listed by type, then date

SNOW DAYS Nightly Snowfalls (through Dec. 31).

Enjoy snowfall shows at 7 and 8 p.m. nightly (except holidays) at three outdoor malls: Desert Ridge Marketplace, 21001 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix; Tempe Marketplace, 2000 E. Rio Salado Parkway; and Westgate, 6751 N. Sunset Blvd., Glendale. shopdesertridge. com, tempemarketplace.com and westgateaz.com Rawhide Snowy Christmas (through Dc. 23). Rawhide will be decked out with holiday decorations and lights.

Nightly activities include snowfall on Main Street, dropping off letters to Santa at a North Pole Post Office (every child who sends a letter will hear back from Santa) and photos with Santa at the Photo Emporium from 5-10 p.m. Santa kicks off a holiday lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. Friday-Sunday. Free; $5 parking.

Rawhide Western Town and Event Center, 5700 W. North Loop Road, Chandler.

480-502-5600 or rawhide.com Home Plate for the Holidays (Dec. 1). Join the City of Goodyear for Santa’s arrival, pictures, a tree lighting, performances, craft vendors, inflatables and 40 tons of snow! Activity wristbands and concessions available. Free

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admission and parking. 5-8:30 p.m.

Goodyear Ballpark, 1933 S. Ballpark Way. 623-882-3120, goodyearbp.com Joy to the Herd at Shamrock Farms (Dec. 1-2). Grab your mittens! This dairy farm transforms its Welcome Barn into a winter wonderland with Santa, “spokescow” Roxie, educational farm tours and face painting. Plus, real snow and holiday crafts.

9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Reservations required. $12-$15; free for ages 2 and younger.

40034 W. Clayton Road, Stanfield. 602477-2462 or shamrockfarms.net Carefree Snow Village (Dec. 7-9).

Shop the open-air holiday market, enjoy live music and inflatables for kids and take free photos with Santa. 3 p.m. holiday parade and 8:30 p.m. fireworks on Saturday, Dec. 8. Visit website for full entertainment lineup and Santa’s schedule. Free admission; fees apply for some activities. 480-488-3686 or christmasincarefree.com Snow and Sled Day (Dec. 8). Play in snow, ride a sled or build a snowman at the Schnepf Farms Winter Wonderland. $5 admission; $10 snow play; $20 unlimited rides and snow play. Noon to 8 p.m. 24610 S. Rittenhouse Road, Queen Creek. 480-987-3100 or schnepffarms.com

DECEMBER 2018 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Snow Day at Mother Nature’s Farm (Dec. 8). Play on a snow hill and enjoy hayrides, a bounce house, a petting zoo and a visit with Santa. You can also pick out a Christmas tree to take home. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. $10 for kids; $5 for adults. 1663 E. Baseline Road, Gilbert. 480-892-5874 or mothernaturesfarm.com

grassy hill near Heritage and Science Park outside the Arizona Science Center. Enjoy snow play, snow-related science demonstrations and kid-friendly activities. $18; $13 for ages 3-17. 600 E. Washington St., Phoenix. 602-716-2000 or azscience.org

ICE SKATING Snow Much Fun Day (Dec. 8). Join Santa for breakfast then play in 40 tons of snow. Families also can decorate a gingerbread house. Snow play starts at 9 a.m. and is included with $14.95 museum admission. Reservations are needed for 8-10 a.m. Breakfast with Santa ($39.95) and gingerbread workshop ($35 for four). Children’s Museum of Phoenix, 215 N. Seventh St. 602-253-0501 or childrensmuseumofphoenix.org Winter Wonderland Express (Dec. 15-16). Ride the holiday train to a snowfilled play area with sleds. Take pictures inside giant “snow globes,” visit Santa and drink hot cocoa. 10 a.m to 7 p.m. $22.50 wristbands; $1.25 ride tickets (most rides take several). Enchanted Island Amusement Park, 1202 W. Encanto Blvd., Phoenix. 602-254-1200 or enchantedisland.com Snow Week (Dec. 26-Jan 1). More than 75 tons of real snow will cover the

Skate Westgate (through Jan. 13).

Glide over 3,300 square feet of real ice at Westgate Entertainment District’s outdoor rink near Fountain Park. All skill levels welcome. Hours vary. $12-$15.

6751 N. Sunset Blvd., Glendale. 623385-7502 or westgateaz.com Desert Ice Skating Rink (through Dec. 31). The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess transforms into a winter wonderland with ice skating, s’mores, rides and more. Self-parking is $55; skating is $25 per person. 7575 E. Princess Drive, Scottsdale. 480-5854848 or scottsdaleprincess.com CitySkate Ice Rink ( through Jan. 6). Enjoy the frozen rink, holiday lights, music and hot chocolate at CityScape.

Timed sessions vary daily. $15 includes skates; $30 express online pass.

Between First Avenue and First Street and Washington and Jefferson streets.

602-772-3900 or cityskatephx.com

12KS OF CHRISTMAS

Holiday Skating at Tempe Marketplace (Nov. 23-25). Ages 5 and older can lace up skates for free skating near the District Stage and Dave & Busters. Skates provided; bring socks. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.

Tempe Marketplace, 2000 E. Rio Salado Parkway. tempemarketplace.com/holiday Merry Main Street Winter Wonderland Ice Rink (Nov. 23-Jan. 4). Head to the Winter Wonderland Ice Rink during Mesa’s Merry Main Street celebration. $10 includes skates and an hour of skate time. 5-10 p.m. weekdays, noon to 10 p.m. weekends. Holiday hours vary; closed Christmas. 20 E. Main St., Mesa. 480644-6500 or merrymainst.com

HOLIDAY LIGHTS Illumination: Symphony of Light (Nov. 14-Jan. 5). Enjoy a 25-minute, mile-long drive through millions of lights synchronized to holiday music.

Culminates at a winter playland with a walk-through ornament, giant snowman, Santa’s village, post office (write letters to U.S. troops), bounce houses, interactive light attractions, food trucks and selfie stations. $29-$35 per car. 27701 N. Black Canyon Highway, Phoenix. A second drive-through-only event at Tempe Diablo Stadium runs through Dec. 31. 2200 W. Alameda Drive, Tempe. worldofillumination.com ZooLights (Nov. 21-Jan. 13). Millions of lights shine throughout the zoo, along with a holiday tree, carousel and camel rides, lakeside music-in-motion shows, nightly snowfall, photos with Santa Claus, a 200-foot-long Polar Slide and live reindeer. Stingray Bay and 4-D Theater included with admission. 5:30-10:30 p.m. nightly; 7 p.m. snowfall. $10.95-$19.95.

Phoenix Zoo, 455 Galvin Parkway. 602914-4333 or phoenixzoo.org Christmas Farm Light Celebration (Nov. 23-Jan. 11). This new light show includes more than 2 million holiday lights displayed and synchronized to Christmas songs. Plus visits from Santa (Dec. 15-23), illuminated trails, a twinkling barnyard animal display, ice skating, festive foods and hot cocoa. $15-$18; free for ages 2 and younger;

additional $13 for skating. 5-10 p.m.

Fridays and Saturdays, 5-9 p.m. SundayThursday. 4011 S. Power Road, Mesa.

480-882-1482 or vertucciofarms.com Christmas in Color (Nov. 23-Dec. 31).

This fully animated and synchronized light show near Goodyear Ballpark takes your car through more than 1.5 million LED lights synchronized to holiday music. $25-$30 per vehicle. 6-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 6-10:30 p.m.

Friday-Saturday. 1933 S. Ballpark Way, Goodyear. 623-882-3120, goodyearbp. com or christmasincolor.net Glendale Glitters Spectacular Weekends (Nov. 23-24 and Dec.1415). Sixteen blocks of downtown Glendale light up with more than a million twinkling lights. Enjoy holiday entertainment, food and crafts and play in a snowfield. New this year: Holiday storytimes and performances

by Brelby Theatre in Catlin Court. 5-11 p.m. Free. Murphy Park, 58th and Glendale avenues. 623-930-2299 or glendaleaz.com Mesa Temple Garden Lights (Nov. 24-Dec. 31). Thousands of colorful lights, illuminated palm trees and flower gardens, a nativity scene and live entertainment. 5-10 p.m. Free. Mesa Arizona Temple and Visitors Center, 525 E. Main St. 480-964-7164 or mesachristmaslights.com Holiday Lights (Nov. 30-Jan. 6). Ride the Paradise & Pacific Railroad through a winter wonderland at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park and visit with Santa in a train car. 6:30-9 p.m. nightly (except Dec. 3, 24-25 and 31). $5 train and $2 carousel rides; free for ages 2 and younger with paying adult. $15 holiday train fast passes.

7301 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale.

480-312-2312 or therailroadpark.com Las Noches de las Luminarias (Dec. 1-31). The 40th annual event will be brighter than ever this year with the concurrent “Electric Desert” exhibit. More than 8,000 luminarias, thousands of white twinkle lights and local entertainment.

5:30-9:30 p.m. Dec. 1-23 and Dec. 26-31. $30; $12.50 ages 3-12, free for ages 2 and younger. 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. 480-481-8188 or dbg.org

Menorah Lighting (Dec. 2-9).

Congregants from Temple Chai and members of Jewish Social Group of Cave Creek and Carefree host a Menorah Lighting nightly during Hanukkah.

Services are open to all. 5-6 p.m. Free.

Carefree Desert Gardens, 101 Easy St. christmasincarefree.com Lights of the World (Dec. 6-Feb. 3).

This international festival combines the Chinese tradition of lantern festivals with modern technology. Enjoy more than 30 carnival rides and games, daily acrobatics or sea lion performances, 3-D lights and more. $18; $15 ages 3-13; free for ages 2 and younger; $10 parking. Arizona State Fairgrounds, 1826 W. McDowell Road, Phoenix. lightsoftheworldus.com Holiday Nights in Lights (Dec. 7, 14, 21). Ride a festive train, take pictures with Santa and enjoy local bands, choirs and dance teams. Sweet treats available for purchase. $1 train rides support United Goodyear Firefighter Charities, which is accepting donations of new and unwrapped toys, stuffed animals, books and games. 6-8 p.m. Fridays. The Wigwam Front Lawn, 300 E. Wigwam Blvd., Litchfield Park. 623-935-3811 or wigwamarizona.com Tempe Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade (Dec. 8). Tempe Town Lake lights up with more than 50 festively decorated boats. 6th Street Market vendors will fill Tempe Beach Park with hundreds of hand-crafted items for sale. Bring your camera for free holiday pics with Santa, and stick around for the 8 p.m. fireworks finale. Free. 4 p.m. downtowntempe.com

MISCELLANEOUS Avondale Winterfest (Dec. 1). Crafts, vendors, rides, snow, food trucks, community entertainment, a tree-lighting ceremony and a visit from Santa. 5 to 8 p.m. Free. Avondale City Hall, 11435 W. Civic Center Drive. avondaleaz.gov KJZZ Holiday StoryFest (Dec. 1).

Entertaining and compelling tales of food, family and holidays past. The Children’s Storyteller Stage offers stories, crafts, games and special character appearances. 2-7 p.m. $10;

free for ages 11 and younger with paying adult. Glendale Civic Center, 5750 W. Glenn Drive. storyfest.kjzz.org Santa Fly-In (Dec. 1). Santa makes the trip from the North Pole and lands at the Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum. Bring one unwrapped toy and a canned-food donation. 11 a.m. to noon. $5-$15. Free for ages 5 and younger.

2017 N. Greenfield Road, Mesa. 480924-1940 or azcaf.org Fishmas! (Dec 1-24). Sea Life Arizona transforms into a watery wonderland during weekends. Watch Scuba Santa dive and enjoy holiday scavenger hunts, crafts and more. 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Saturdays and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays. $14.95-$19.95. 5000 S. Arizona Mills Circle, Suite 145, Tempe. 480-478-7600 or visitsealife.com/arizona Holiday Bricktacular (Dec. 1-23).

Celebrate the holidays with special Lego activities on weekends in December.

Design and build at the Gingerbread House Creative Workshop, deck out Santa’s sleigh at the Build and Test Station, write letters to the Master Model Builder and enjoy a special Holiday Miniland. 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Saturdays; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays. Legoland Discovery Center, 5000 S. Arizona Mills Circle, Tempe. 877-526-3960 or legolanddiscoverycenter.com/arizona 12Ks of Christmas (Dec. 8). This 12K run, 6K run/walk and 1.2K Santa “Sled Run” includes pet adoptions, Santa’s Village and a Christmas Bazaar. 8 a.m. to noon. Entry fees vary; free admission to Santa’s Village and Christmas Bazaar. Freestone District Park, 1045 E. Juniper Road, Gilbert. 480-6093978 or 12krun.com Santa Hustle (Dec. 18). Hundreds of Santas hit the streets of Glendale for the Santa Hustle 5K and half marathon and 1-Mile Rudolph Kids Run benefiting Glendale Fire Charities. Enjoy holiday music, candy canes and cookies and a festive after party. Participants get a Santa hat, beard and shirt, a finisher medal and candy-cane socks! 8 a.m. $10-$60. Westgate Entertainment District, 7651 N. Sunset Blvd., Glendale. santahustle.com

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first person

The POWER of MUSIC

Getting “in synch” with your kids

By Sheri Smith | Photos courtesy of the Smith family

Aidan Smith (19) and his uncle Craig Hanson.

SOMETHING MAGICAL HAPPENED during a visit with my brother’s family in Germany this past summer.

On our last night, as it was getting late and nearing time to say goodbye — though nobody wanted to — my brother pulled out his acoustic guitar. We started singing, and what came pouring out were the cowboy ballads my father used to belt in a full baritone from behind the wheel of his big old Buick.

I remember (this was back before kids wore seat belts) laying my head against my dad’s barrel chest to feel the vibrations of his voice against my ear. It’s the closest emotionally I ever felt to my father.

Singing those songs again with my brother brought back so many memories. We both knew the lyrics. Our kids knew them. We were singing the words together. It meant something — partly because my father has been gone from this world for more than a decade now, but also because it helped me feel connected to my “overseas family” in an extraordinary way.

THE RESEARCH Sandi Wallace is a graduate student at the University of Arizona in Tucson. She is also a mom who raised a teenage son.

Looking back on her days of child-rearing,

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Wallace realized something about those bumpy adolescent years: Music was something that kept them bonded. Wallace wondered if her experience was unique, so she proposed a study, which was published in the “Journal of Family Communication” in May 2018.

Her research demonstrated a positive correlation between grown children’s perceptions of their relationships with their parents — based on depth, closeness and supportiveness — and their participation in casual musical activities.

She found those feelings were more intense than when families engaged in non-musical activities, such as going out to dinner, playing board games or participating in sports.

“Music had an additional power over those other everyday activities,” Wallace says.

The study defined “casual musical activities” as dancing together, singing in the car, going to concerts or playing music while doing chores.

Wallace says the study indicated that doing these things with older children — ages 14 and up — was even more important than it was with younger kids.

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE I could definitely relate to Wallace’s claims.

Because I love music so much, it was only natural that I would sing and play music for my

babies when they were little. Most parents do this. We rock them and sing them lullabies, or we teach them through songs, such as “The Itsy Bitsy Spider” and the “ABCs.” In many families, there comes a time when musical tastes diverge and parents and children no longer have many shared musical experiences.

Because both of my children are passionate musicians, music never left our conversations and interactions, even as they became teenagers.

I do feel it has kept us connected. I recognize that same experience in the families I meet who have shared their own love of music with their children. I had always assumed it was because of the immediate visceral reaction music causes — an immediate emotional response that is different from reactions to other art forms.

Wallace says there’s even more to it. Music makes possible something researchers call “coordination”— the sense that you’re “in synch” with another person.

“When you’re ‘coordinated’ with someone, you tend to like them more and have really positive feelings for them,” Wallace says.

I thought about my kids and their friends — most of whom are musicians — and how bonded they became through music. I could see what she meant.

“Moving in time with someone makes you feel connected,” she told me.

CONNECTING WITH TEENS As Wallace and I discussed what it was like raising teenagers, we both agreed music has a special role in the parenting toolkit.

“There are days of drama and tension, and sometimes teenagers just don’t want to talk. In those instances, sometimes it’s good to just turn up the radio together and sing along to a goofy song or play something heartfelt you can both relate to,” Wallace says.

In a world that often leads families to drift apart, it’s nice to know there’s something we can rely on to bridge those gaps.

In good times and bad, there’s something about music that can transcend the distances between us.

Sheri Smith, of Scottsdale, is the mother of Aidan (19)and Sarah (15).