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WHEN ANXIETY MOVES INTO YOUR HOUSE
UNMASKING ANXIETY: PARENT CONCERNS
WALKING KIDS THROUGH GRIEF
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“My best friend is , but we call him because he is really good at . We play after school every day. My other best friend is . We first met at and then realized they live just down the block from me. They have a pet that loves to play with .” (name) (noun) (adjective) (verb ending in “-ing”) (name of a game) (name, adjective, noun, name) (place) (animal) (game) (plural noun)
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March/April 2022 // Issue 492
“Seattle is my town. I know this city inside and out… or so I thought until I had kids.”
Seattle’s Child is your guide to getting to know your city all over again. Finding things to do, places to eat, and how to get around — it’s a whole new ballgame with kids in tow. We’re interested in how parents make homes in a space-challenged urban environment, how families create community, and what parents are really talking about. Seattle’s Child reflects real Washington families and their broad range of parenting experiences.
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by SARAH BERGMAN LEWIS, MD
None of us have much time these days, so I’ll get right to it. First, a disclosure: I am a pediatrician and parent of two kids with anxiety. (Could those apples
have fallen a little farther from this tree?) Still, despite anxiety being familiar territory personally and professionally, I too find myself without answers much of the time. In fact, as I write this I am struggling with whether or not Noah, my youngest, should be going to school despite having woken up with a tummy ache. These calculations are never easy. I want my child to
feel heard, but if this ache is really anxiety, is it better to push on through? Add in the fear of infecting others, antigen vs. PCR tests, recent close calls and the brain just fritzes. The only thing I am sure of, from the vantage points of both work and home, is this: More than two years into a pandemic, we caregivers are weary.
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Like you, I don’t have perfect solutions to anxiety. But I do have a few suggestions on managing anxiety with kids. Practice riding the wave of anxiety (theirs and yours). For good reason, this is one of the most common pieces of advice for anxiety. Intense anxiety, or panic, has its own rhythm — an intense escalation (or swell) and then eventually a receding. If we can accept our feelings, and those of our kids — even if we don’t like them — the wave of discomfort will pass faster. The more we tangle with the fear, which includes trying to squash it into submission or with a “solution,” the more it will grow. In parenting this may look like, “I see you struggling. I am here,” rather than, “It’s OK, you’ll feel better soon.” Meeting a child where they are rather than where we wish they were gives them the support to practice working through difficulty rather than feeling abandoned to it.
Get yourself to higher ground. It can feel impossible to respond thoughtfully to kids when our own emotions are raw. Learn what strategies work for you to regain your bearings. Hide in the bathroom to cry if you need to. Get outside. Open the windows. Identify low-friction kid activities for those days you are on battery-save mode. Take care of yourself. Feed yourself when feeding your family. Drink that coffee you poured. If nothing else, one deep breath with a strong sigh may bring the shift you need.
Learn about anxiety together. Normalizing the experience of anxiety and understanding its biological roots can diffuse its power over kids and adults alike. Kids will be interested to learn about the evolution of the “worry brain” and how anxiety is not all bad. A good place to start
is GoZen.com. The free app Insight Meditation Timer offers mindfulness exercises and courses that you can do together. Practice sitting with discomfort. This is the hardest — and the most important — principle. I’m unsure if there is anything more painful than seeing your child suffer. And yet, our efforts to protect our children from their distress may in fact cause harm. Avoidance can feed fear. When we rescue our child from facing their fears, we give them the message that they can’t handle them, and in doing so we fuel their anxiety. There’s a scientific term for this: “family accommodation.”
Amidst pandemic life, bearing witness to our children’s struggles with anxiety is a frequent — sometimes daily — discomfort. How do we avoid accommodating our kids’ stress? A good start is allowing them to feel disappointed, sad or scared, without offering a quick fix. Instead, simply say, “I hear you” or “This is not what you wanted” or “I know this is hard, and I believe in you.” Perhaps activist and author Glennon Doyle blogged it best:
“Maybe our job as parents is not to protect our kids from pain, but to hold their hands and walk into their pain with them.”
Another reason we shouldn’t try to protect our children from suffering? Because we just can’t do it. Among the many harsh lessons of this pandemic is that we cannot predict what will happen or avoid negative experiences (even when we really want to). A unique brand of anxiety is bred when we see what we feel needs to be done (i.e., protect our kids from pain) and just don’t have the time, energy or ability to do so. Every day I witness the toll on parents of failing at this impossible task. The evidence is in their own flailing bodies and spirits. But, painful as it is, there is also some freedom in accepting what we cannot fix and sitting in that discomfort.
Mental health challenges have increased exponentially with the pandemic,
CONTINUED
but many of these struggles also predated COVID. I see parents mourning “normal” on their kids’ behalf and although I feel this too, I want to hand them a grain of salt. Growing up is inherently challenging. Expanding our own “window of tolerance” to be with difficult emotions is where the real superpower lies.
Build your team. With both children and adults there exists a spectrum of difficult emotions. Clinical depression and anxiety need more than fresh air and a good night’s sleep. One of the important things we must model for our kids is when to ask for help. If you’re not sure things are “that bad,” start with a conversation with your child’s medical provider or school counselor. Managing the mental health of our children is hard, and you don’t need to do it alone. I’ll add that, as a pediatrician, I am convinced that the best investment you can make in your child is having a mental health professional for yourself. Even in the best of times, there is nothing like parenting to lay bare your own patterns of struggle. Working with a therapist to understand your own wiring is a worthy investment.
Don’t compare. Comparing (“We should be grateful we have jobs.”) and guilt (“Why do I feel tired when others are actually sick?”) are energy-suckers that we cannot afford. We all can fall into the trap of believing others are getting this right while we alone are uniquely failing. Try not to. But if you insist on doing so, at least consider doing your self-grading on a parenting-during-a-global-pandemic curve. And, if you haven’t heard it elsewhere recently, hear it now:
You’re doing a lot better job than you think.
In the meantime, I’m still calculating: Is letting Noah stay home a family accommodation or is it doing the right thing by not spreading germs? Moreover, should I use my precious energy to coerce him out the door or kiss another kid-free day goodbye?
Perhaps I’ll start with a glass of water (or if we’re being real, a scroll of my Instagram) and try to figure it out from there. Wish me luck.
ABOUT OUR WRITER
Sarah Bergman Lewis is a Seattle pediatrician.
by JEFF LEE, MD
You can’t fix a child’s grief, but you can walk through it with them
The other day, Pippa came home from school with horrible news:
The mother of one of her friends had died. We don’t know the cause, only that it was sudden and completely unexpected.
That night at dinner, we were all at a loss for words. We tried to think of things we could do for her friend or their family, but every gesture seemed puny and inconsequential beside the immensity of their loss. It was on a scale that we couldn’t even imagine.
As parents, the most powerful thing we do in our children’s lives is to show up. We may fret and obsess about what to pack for their lunches, or how much screen time we let them have, but the thing that really matters is that we’re present in their lives, caring for and protecting them, every day. When a child loses that, they momentarily lose everything. They enter a world where nothing can be relied upon — where the ground they walk on and the sky above their heads are no more permanent than the seeds on a dandelion, and at any moment might simply blow away.
The death of a parent is a cataclysmic event. One study showed that it exposes a child to increased risk of depression and anxiety for at least a decade. And the shock waves spread beyond that child into their entire community, affecting their other caregivers, their relatives, their friends and their schoolmates. In a child’s
world, it’s the equivalent of a nuclear explosion. It changes everything. In the face of such loss, what are we supposed to do? How can we possibly make a difference? Where do we begin? Our first job is probably to understand how kids grieve.
Children, like adults, are not all cut from the same cloth. Everyone grieves differently. That’s true from child to child, but also in each particular one, from moment to moment, day to day, and over the course of years. Don’t expect them to handle things the way you would, or to stay consistent as they move through their grief. Meet them where they are.
We also have to remember that kids are just kids. They don’t have the vocabulary or experience to process complex, new feelings the way adults might. Much of their grieving will be nonverbal. They’ll go through many shades of emotion, including anger, anxiety, sadness, or just denial. In most cases, they won’t be able to name these emotions — they’ll just feel them.
haved. Maybe they should have been more helpful around the house or nicer to their baby sister. Maybe they should have said a magical incantation and avoided stepping on cracks in the sidewalk. It’s important to tell them that none of that matters, and none of this is their fault.
One type of guilt to look out for, as grief recedes, is the guilt of moving on. A child may think that the lifting of their sadness is a betrayal of the lost parent’s memory. That logic can trap a child in their depression, out of a misplaced sense of loyalty.
So, once we understand how kids grieve, what can we do to help them? The first step, I think, is to acknowledge that you can’t fix this. Nothing you or anyone else can do will make this less of a tragedy. Your job isn’t to make it go away, it’s to accompany them through it.
Likewise, the child can’t fix it for you. If you’re going through your own grief, go ahead and express it. Let the child know that they aren’t alone in their grieving, and that they don’t have to hide it. But don’t ask them (implicitly or explicitly) to help you. That’s not their job. Find an adult to support you — and if necessary, find a professional.
After that, our job is mostly to show up. So often we pull away when others are coping with tragedy, protecting ourselves from our own discomfort in the guise of “giving them space.” Sure, respect their privacy, and let them express themselves in their own time. But don’t isolate them. They need to be held — if not literally, then at least with your attention and presence.
“Don’t expect them to handle things the way you would, or to stay consistent as they move through their grief. Meet them where they are.”
One emotion that children often feel is guilt. In defiance of all logic, they may blame themselves for their parent’s death. Maybe they should have been better be-
Remember, there may not be a lot of talking. It’s OK to ask a question or two if you think the time is right, but keep it short, and then just listen. Don’t be afraid of silence. And when the spigot does open up, be prepared for a lot of emotions. Validate them. Make sure the child knows that whatever comes out — anger, sadness, worry, or even joy — is OK to feel and OK to talk about. Recently, this unimaginable situation has become all too real and all too common. In the last two years, 140,000 American children have lost a primary caregiver to COVID-19. With the omicron variant, the death toll among young adults climbed higher than ever. It’s no longer an option to sit on the sidelines and make believe this is not happening. We can’t fix it, but we also can’t ignore it.
ABOUT OUR COLUMNIST
Jeff Lee lives and writes in Seattle, WA.
Parents and kids were already suffering from alarmingly high levels of anxiety and stress. Then came the national conversation about when and where to unmask. Not surprisingly, reactions of exhausted parents range widely on that topic when it comes to schools — from “the sooner the better” to “no way, too soon.” Seattle’s Child talked to parents, therapists and health providers to hear their thoughts.
by KATIE ANTHONY / illustration by KATHRYN HOLLOWAY
Rapid changes are really hard and always have been,” says Adana Protonentis, a South Seattle mother of two. That’s not true just for neurodiverse kids like hers; it’s true for most kids, parents, teachers and caregivers. Transitions are often incredibly anxiety-provoking.
And here we are again.
On February 17th, Governor Jay Inslee announced that starting March 21st, masks will no longer be required in most places, including K-12 schools and childcare facilities. School districts can still choose to implement a face mask requirement. Under current federal law, masks will still be required on public transportation and school buses.
Some local families worry about the possibility of masks coming off too early. They may be in support of continued masking because COVID is still very much in the community. They want to follow the science. Others don’t want a repeat of 2021’s short-lived mask mandate reversal. They
say unmasking schools fills them—and their kids—with anxiety.
“It’s like last summer when we ended the mask mandate before the delta wave, basically declaring victory too soon,” says Seattle mother of two Heather Ketchpaw.
Still, some, like Jen, an Issaquah mother of three who preferred her last name not be used, are eager to see masks go. “COVID will be here forever, and we need to learn to live with it,” she says.
Whereas Jen and other parents we spoke to who are pressing for an end to mask mandates say masks have caused too much social, emotional and developmental harm to kids, other parents say they believe unmasking now will exacerbate an already alarming children’s mental health crisis in Washington.
And, they add, dropping masks too soon could prove physically or emotionally harmful for kids with certain medical concerns, those with disabilities, kids who have family members at home who cannot be vaccinated,
or children who experience “no-mask anxiety.” That’s the term coined by some news outlets in 2021 to describe distress and fear around removing masks, which for many families have been a symbol of safety in an uncertain world. (See “Mask Mythbusters” on page 61)
“I can’t wait to see my daughter walking to school without a mask,” says Lola Onjolio, whose 7-year-old daughter attends school in Renton Highlands. “But she’s already telling me she wants to keep wearing one because ‘What if it’s not safe?’ We’re working on her fears – at least she’s not wearing one to bed anymore – but I mean we’ve been here before and then came Omicron, right?”
In her family, Protonentis says, “We’ve spent all this time telling our kids this is something we do to keep you and other people safe. To suddenly say ‘That thing that keeps you safe? We’re going to take that away now,’ that freaks them out.”
Recommendations from the CDC do not weigh the potential social-emotional impact of masking, and simply advise that vaccinated individuals should wear masks “indoors in public if you are in an area of substantial or high transmission.”
The World Health Organization encourages a similar guideline to mask in areas of high transmission, but also highlights a “potential impact of wearing a mask on learning and psychosocial development” as an important factor in deciding to mask children.
“The mask issue has unfortunately turned into an all in or out,” says Adam,* a Woodinville father of two. Adam, who works in a medical field but preferred his real name not be used, doubts that many kids are properly wearing masks, and he argues masks can have a negative impact.
“Unfortunately I have seen and treated more kids recently dealing with extreme anxiety, depression, anger, drugs, suicide and domestic violence than I thought possible,” Adam says. “Children not being able to see a friend smile at them, a teacher come up and give a soft smile of encouragement, or just another person’s face in general has caused more damage than I think we are willing to realize. The anxiety of kids going out and constantly thinking about, ‘Do I have my mask?’ is not a way to live. The ‘distance’ the masks have created is so unnatural.”
Many parents who want to follow science struggle to weigh seemingly conflicting data about the benefits, or harm, of masking. Separating fact from rumor is difficult and time-consuming. (See “Mask Mythbusters” on page 61.)
Devon Atchison, a Queen Anne mother of two, echoes Ketchpaw’s concerns about her kids spending six hours a day sans mask filtration.
“I feel nervous about mandates lifting. The CDC has said that we’re not ready to lift it. If science says it’s not time yet, it’s not time yet,” says Atchison. At presstime,
Gov. Inslee said Washington will continue to follow CDC recommendations.
Ketchpaw says the conversation leads to more questions: “How will kids react to some parents requiring them versus other parents sending kids without masks? Will there be questions? Teasing? Pressure to take it off? Will teachers be asked by parents to enforce individual preferences? I’m stressed out just thinking about it.”
She points to the added tension in homes like hers, when a child wants to take off her mask in school and a parent wants it to stay on. Of her and her daughter’s perspective, Ketchpaw says: “We really differ on the topic.”
Numerous repeated, vetted studies have substantiated the efficacy of properly worn masks in slowing the spread of COVID-19. Several people we talked to say they will send their kids to school masked whether or not it’s mandated.
“I’m really worried about my youngest, who’s not eligible [for vaccination] because of his age,” says Katie Skorupa, mother of two in Snoqualmie. “We will continue to mask as a family until he’s fully vaccinated, regardless of a mask mandate being lifted.”
Still, rapid transitions, pandemic uncertainty, and cycling guidelines like yes-no mask mandates can fill the whole family with agitation.
According to the CDC and the Washington Chapter of The American Academy of Pediatrics, rates of anxiety and depression among school-age children have skyrocketed since March 2020. In the same time period, mental health–related emergency department visits have increased upwards of 24% for children ages 5 to 11 and 31% for those ages 12 to 17, according to the CDC.
In addition to their concerns about whether kids should stay masked or not, many parents wonder about the impacts of long-term masking on children’s mental health and overall development.
We talked with clinical experts and learning specialists regarding several areas of parent concern.
Although research has yet to confirm it, some teachers, parents, and child development experts believe masks may temporarily Washington children ages 12-17 struggle with anxiety and depression
82,000 Washington adults struggle with anxiety and depression 46% of Washington children ages 11-17 have thought about suicide or self-harm during the pandemic 50%
3 Source: National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMH) 2021 Washington Fact Sheet
3 Source: NAMH 2021 Washington Fact Sheet
3 Source: Washington Chapter of The American Academy of Pediatrics
Reassurance for parents concerned about newborn bonding and masks story and photo by CHERYL
MURFIN
Ryan was wearing the now ubiquitous blue surgical mask when his wild-haired son slid into the world at Seattle’s UW Medical Center — Northwest in August 2020. Likewise Kevin. The majority of his face was covered for the first hours after his daughter arrived at St. Anne Hospital in Burien last December. And William and Sara and Alex.
The eyes of these co-parents — and many others served by my doula practice during the “pandemic years” — were the only part of their faces visible to their laboring partners and their newborns as they rode the emotional roller coaster of labor, birth and the early postpartum hours.
Requiring parents to mask up in the non-surgical birthing room is just one of the adjustments predicated by COVID-19. And make no mistake: The majority of my clients feel masks are an important protection for everyone in the room — especially their
babies — given the tenacity of the virus. Most don’t resent the requirement, even at this most pivotal and intimate of moments.
Still, parents in my care continue to express a certain sadness about having to cover up. And some have wondered aloud whether masked parents affect newborns in negative ways.
Research on such concerns is sparse. And although some studies are in progress, the pandemic will likely be endemic before we
have actual answers on the subject. In the meantime it is very likely masks will remain a part of all births for the remainder of this viral threat and certainly any in the future.
So here’s what I and many of my doctor, midwife, doula and lactation colleagues remind families when they ask about mask impact on newborns and developing babies (and they do ask us):
First, newborns don’t see very far or focus
24% of visits to pediatricians are now for mental health issues, twice the normal rate +50%
The increase in visits to the emergency room for children ages 5-17 since the beginning of the pandemic
3 Source: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
3 Source: American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
43rd
Washington’s rank for youth mental health access compared to the rest of U.S.
3 Source: Mental Health America
“Seattle is my town. I know this city inside and out… or so I thought until I had kids.” Seattle’s Child is your guide to getting to know your city all over again. We’ve been providing useful information to parents since 1979. In addition to the SummerTime directory of summer camps and classes, look for Seattle’s Child magazine as well as these special themed publications distributed free throughout the Puget Sound area:
Everything Family: Resources for families School: Directory of independent schools
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Publisher, Founder, abergman@ seattleschild.com
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Scan this code with your phone camera to subscribe, or visit seattleschild.com/subscribe Do your kids have a passion for animals?
Seattle Humane offers summer camps where kids ages 7-13 learn about care and kindness for cats, dogs, and critters through games, crafts and animal visits.
SUMMER DAY CAMP REGISTRATION OPENS
April 25 at 8 a.m. for residents
May 2 at 8 a.m. for non-residents
Anchored by a vibrant, friendly downtown, and surrounded by water, infinite adventures await.
Bellevue Children’s Academy Grades PreK-4 14640 NE 24th St., Bellevue 98007 425-649-0791, summer@bcacademy.com bcacademy.com/programs/summerschool Summer School at Bellevue Children’s Academy® is a great way to reinforce learning and prepare for the new school year. Our program includes thought-provoking English and math curricula along with exciting project-based science and social studies units that promote creativity, independent thinking, self-confidence and the quest for personal excellence.
Chess4Life
Ages 5-15
Online Nationwide 425-283-0549, kids@Chess4Life.com
Chess4Life.com
Give your child the opportunity to build a growth mindset while having fun! Chess4Life curriculum teaches critical thinking, patience and focus while learning chess. Join in on live, interactive online chess classes, camps and tournaments hosted daily and weekly. Our small team of experienced coaches is dedicated to individual progress tracking, boosting confidence and encouraging positive life skills. We welcome beginning through advanced players.
Kennedy Catholic High School
Grades 3- 9
140 S 140th St., Burien 98168 206-246-0500, info@kennedyhs.org kennedyhs.org/summerlife
Life at Kennedy Catholic High School doesn’t end when the summer bell rings. It’s just the beginning. Students: come spend your summer with the Lancers! Whether you love athletics, fine arts or academic enrichment, you can try something new, sharpen current skills, learn from strong mentors and build lasting friendships. Reserve your fun today!
Mercer Education Summer Camps
SAT/ACT, Language Arts, College Counseling Online and In-person Grades 3-12
1240 116th Ave. NE, #200, Bellevue 98004 425-373-0870, info@mercereducation.com mercereducation.com
Founded by a Harvard graduate, ME offers college counseling, SAT/ACT prep and Language Arts camps and year-round programs. With innovative curricula and professional educators, our programs go beyond test-taking skills and academic excellence to cultivate vibrant, intelligent minds. Take advantage of summer to hone your academic skills with us!
Morningside Academy
Summer School at Morningside Academy Grades 2-9 901 Lenora St., Seattle 98121 206-709-9500, info@morningsideacademy.org morningsideacademy.org
Morningside Academy’s internationally acclaimed program allows students to catch up, build up and get ahead. Our research-based curriculum and highly trained teachers lead to exceptional gains. We offer a 1:12 teacher/student ratio and daily report cards, and place students by skill level instead of by age or grade. We teach reasoning, problem solving, learning skills and organizational skills. Academics focus on foundation skills. Content classes
Join us for science experiments, visual arts and more!
Half-day and full-day in-person camps will be offered in small groups for safety. Have tons of fun and learn through science experiments, arts and more. Masks required, plus health and wellness checks each day. Ages 4-10. Limited number of camps available.
This summer, check out CAMPTIVITIES at KidsQuest. Special educator-led activities bring joyful STEAM-based camp experiences to museum visits! Free with admission or membership.
The perfect choice for a pod of friends in your own backyard. We’ll ship you a “camp in a box,” with materials and activity instructions.
Find out more at kidsquestmuseum.org
and project-based learning are introduced as students advance through the program.
The Northwest School
Ages 10-16
1415 Summit Ave., Seattle 98122 206-816-6070, nwssummer@northwestschool.org northwestschool.org/summer
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
For campers seeking social connections with others from around the world, caring mentors who can help them build confidence and a wide array of experiential art, athletic and academic classes, The Northwest School provides an in-person summer camp experience they’ll never forget. Join one of our 50 courses designed to engage campers’ minds, strengthen their bodies and inspire their imaginations.
UW Robinson Center for Young Scholars
Grades K-10
University of Washington Seattle Campus 206-543-4160, rcys@uw.edu robinsoncenter.uw.edu
Through Early Entrance, Saturday and Summer Programs, we prepare and provide students with challenging, accelerated learning opportunities in a vibrant, intellectual community at the University of Washington. Our “Summer Challenge” and “Summer Stretch” programs for grades 5 to
10 are especially popular. We are leaders in the nation for research and discovery of best practice in supporting highly capable young students.
Carnation Farms
Ages 7-11
28907 NE Carnation Farms Road, Carnation 98014 425-844-3100, education@carnationfarms.org carnationfarms.org
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
We invite kids to our open landscape to unplug and tap into their inner curiosity and senses of wonder. Our Certified Organic farm serves as an outdoor classroom; we help campers understand where their food comes from through hands-on learning. Kids explore and discover the garden by planting, harvesting and digging in the dirt. They learn about how a farm works, how plants grow and spend time interacting with our livestock.
Hillcrest Training
Ages 6- 60
16128 NE 145th St., Woodinville 98072 206-795-5900, hillcresttraining@live.com hillcrest-training.com
Offering spring/summer lease program packages with riding 2 to 3 times per week.
Oxbow Farm & Conservation Center
Summer Camps
Ages 7-11
10819 Carnation-Duvall Road NE, Carnation 98014 425-788-1134, education@oxbow.org oxbow.org/education/summercamp
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
A summer outdoors – playing, laughing, learning and getting messy – can motivate kids to engage with their environment in new ways, unplug from technology and connect with nature. Oxbow Summer Farm Camp offers creative ways to explore environmental connections through engaging educational activities and child-led creative play on a real-life farm!
Red Gate Farm
Day Camp
Ages 6-12
23836 SE 24th St., Sammamish 98075 425-466-3800, redgatefarmtraining@gmail.com redgatefarmdaycamp.com
Build self-confidence while enjoying the pleasures of riding and developing a friendship with your camp horse. Campers will be assigned one horse with another camper that will be theirs for the whole week. They will learn everything about horse care including basic grooming, saddling and even horse psychology! Other activities include arts, crafts and games. On the last day of every session, campers demonstrate their new riding skills with a horse show.
The Russian School of Mathematics is an award-winning, afterschool math enrichment program. We use the rigorous study of mathematics as a vehicle to develop our students’ math fluency, intellect, and character, empowering them for life. Students can choose from a variety of K-12 courses that will be taught during our 6 week summer session.
June 27th – August 5th
3 Locations in WA RussianSchool.com
(425) 230-6452 Bellevue (425) 518-6114
Seattle Humane
Summer Program
Ages 7-17
13212 SE Eastgate Way, Bellevue 98005 425-641-0080, educationservices@seattlehumane. org seattlehumane.org
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
In 2022, Seattle Humane is celebrating 125 years of proudly promoting the human-animal bond by saving and serving pets in need. They offer a summer program where campers ages 7 to 13 learn about care and kindness for cats, dogs and critters through games, crafts and animal visits. They will also go behind-the-scenes at a veterinary clinic. For ages 13 to 17 there’s Humane Teen Club, a junior volunteer and teen development program created specifically for animal lovers. Registration starts April 2!
Tilth Alliance
Summer Farm & Garden Camps
Ages 1-15
Rainier Beach Urban Farm & Wetlands 5513 S Cloverdale St., Seattle 98118
Good Shepherd Center 4649 Sunnyside Ave. N, #100, Seattle 98103 206-633-0451, register@tilthalliance.org tilthalliance.org
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
At Tilth Alliance’s Summer Farm & Garden Camps, kids spend summer days outdoors being urban farmers and gardeners, discovering where food comes from and learning about the natural world. Summer camp is also a time to have fun adventures exploring
our gardens and farm, engaging in science investigations, making art, singing songs and cooking up delicious dishes.
Blue Ribbon Cooking Culinary Camps
Ages 4-17
2501 Fairview Ave. E, Seattle 98102 206-328-2442, info@blueribboncooking.com blueribboncooking.com/kids-summer-camp
Cook up some summer fun! Join Blue Ribbon in the kitchen for our culinary camps. With the guidance of our professional chef instructor, students will learn how to work independently in the kitchen with confidence and safety. Choose from a fun variety of camps: Classic Culinary, Tour of Italy, Advanced Culinary, Comprehensive Baking and, for our youngest campers, Pre Camp.
Boys & Girls Club of Bellevue Summer Camp
Grades 1-12
Clubs throughout greater Bellevue 425-454-6162, admin@bgcbellevue.org bgcbellevue.org/programs
Boys & Girls Clubs of Bellevue is committed to providing high-quality programs for youth during the summer. Our programs specifically focus on keeping kids engaged and active. From specialized theme camps, including Art, Cooking, Photography, Tech, Engineering and Video Production, to
leadership opportunities and high school internships, there is a place for everyone at Boys & Girls Clubs of Bellevue’s summer camp!
College of the Arts
Ages 12-18
1000 Lenora St., Seattle 98121 206-726-5185, extension@cornish.edu cornish.edu/summer
Each year, hundreds of students attend a variety of classes taught by our region’s best-known practicing artists and esteemed Cornish College of the Arts faculty. Courses are designed for students at all skill levels and in many academic disciplines. We’re sure there is a class perfectly suited to bring out the artist in you!
Academy of Art
Online and In-Person Summer Art Programs
Ages 6-18
1501 10th Ave. E, #101, Seattle 98105 206-323-4243, info@gageacademy.org gageacademy.org
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
At Gage Academy of Art, we strive to ensure children and teens have a fun, safe and creative learning environment to help them make the most of their summer. With our roster of top-notch youth instructors, we offer both in-person and online camps to fit your family’s needs. From traditional painting and drawing to digital storytelling and character creation, your child will have the opportunity to thrive in a Gage summer camp!
Nurturing Baby • Caregiver-Child
Creative Dance • Modern Ballet • Hip Hop • Adaptive Dance
Ballet Stories • Hip Hop • Art in Motion Musical Theatre (Coco and Encanto) and more!
KidsQuest Children’s Museum
KidsQuest Summer Camp
Ages 4-10
1116 108th Ave. NE, Bellevue 98004 425-637-8100, marketing@kidsquestmuseum.org kidsquestmuseum.org/programs/
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
With safety and children’s health top-ofmind, KidsQuest is thrilled to offer a variety of summer camps in 2022. KidsQuest camps offer hands-on fun and learning through science experiments, artistic exploration and collaboration. Check out our in-person programming, featuring photography and physics, kitchen science and more! We will also be offering virtual summer camp opportunities and will ship materials right to your doorstep for a screen-free summer!
Neo Art School
Summer Art Camp
Ages 6-12 (recommended)
4649 Sunnyside Ave. N., #121, Seattle 98103 206-632-2530, neoartschool@gmail.com neoartschool.com
Founded in 1982, Family Owned and operated for two generations, Neo Art School offers the highest quality Fine Arts and Pottery classes for Children (and adults) in the Northwest! Summer Camp 2022 and all other School Break Camp enrollment is now open! Day Camp during the School Year, and Week-long camps during the Summer, full-day and half-day options available with extended care. Camps start June 20th! Come experience an array of art projects!
Tilth Alliance
Summer Farm & Garden Camps
Ages 1-15
Rainier Beach Urban Farm & Wetlands 5513 S Cloverdale St., Seattle 98118 Good Shepherd Center 4649 Sunnyside Ave. N, #100, Seattle 98103 206-633-0451, register@tilthalliance.org tilthalliance.org
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
At Tilth Alliance’s Summer Farm & Garden Camps, kids spend summer days outdoors being urban farmers and gardeners, discovering where food comes from and learning about the natural world. Summer camp is also a time to have fun adventures exploring our gardens and farm, engaging in science investigations, making art, singing songs and cooking up delicious dishes.
Bloedel Reserve
All ages 7571 NE Dolphin Dr., Bainbridge Island 98110 206-842-7631, info@bloedelreserve.org bloedelreserve.org
Self-guided walks on trails through woods, meadows, forests and gardens. Come explore the Reserve!
Burke Museum
Museum Visits and Resources
All Ages 4300 15th Ave. NE, Seattle 98105 206-543-7907, theburke@uw.edu burkemuseum.org
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
With working labs that you can see into, one-of-a-kind objects all around and galleries filled with curiosity and conversation, it’s a new kind of museum – and a whole new way to experience our world. Experience six galleries about the people, landscape, plants and animals of the past and present that make the Pacific Northwest, and the greater world, so special.
Crossroads Bellevue
All ages
15600 NE 8th St., Bellevue 98008 425-644-1111, info@crossroadsbellevue.com crossroadsbellevue.com
Crossroads Bellevue is a one-of-a-kind shopping, dining, and entertainment destination featuring unique shops, 30 international restaurants, live music every weekend, an 8-screen cinema, rock climbing, art classes, a farmers market and much more!
All Ages
819 Commercial Ave., Ste. F, Anacortes 98221 360-293-7911, info@anacortes.org anacortes.org
Anchored by a vibrant, friendly downtown and surrounded by water, Anacortes is a picturesque destination year-around. Explore the local shops, taste delectable Northwest cuisine, and plan your own adventure through the trails, tide pools, beaches and parks. Whether you’re camping under the stars in a grove of pine trees, relaxing in an RV with a view of Mt. Baker or spending the night in a cozy room, infinite adventures await.
Hibulb Cultural Center and Natural History Preserve
Hilbulb Summer Field Trips Ages 6-18 6410 23rd Ave. NE, Tulalip 98271 360-716-2600, info@hibulbculturalcenter.org hibulbculturalcenter.org
The Hibulb Cultural Center and Natural History Preserve is a place to learn about the cultural values and history of the Tulalip Tribes. Interactive displays offer a historic perspective of the connectedness of the Tribes. Celebrate the traditional, usual and accustomed territories of Tulalip that serve as a constant reminder of the Tribes’ historic connection to the land. Plan your trip to visit the museum today.
Seattle Historic Waterfront Association
All Ages
Alaskan Way, Seattle seattlewaterfront.org
Bring your family down to experience fun activities and attractions and a dozen family-friendly restaurants on your new Seattle Waterfront. Visit the Seattle Aquarium to see an octopus or sea otter feeding and explore the touch tanks to feel a sea anemone! Ride a tour boat or the Great Wheel and enjoy a sunset on the new concert Pier 62 and park for free in the Pike Market Garage (up to 3 hours). Park and pick up a voucher at any one of the restaurants or attractions on the Waterfront.
Sno-King Ice Arenas
Ages 3-adult
14326 124th Ave. NE, Kirkland 98034 16260 164th Ave. SE, Renton 98059 35323 SE Douglas St., Snoqualmie 98065 425-425-8750, office@snokingice.com snokingicearenas.com
Sno-King Ice Arena is an ice sports community recreation facility offering: Learn to Skate, Learn to Play, birthday parties, public skating, group parties and youth and adult hockey leagues. Come skate at any of our three locations today!
and masks
A
Bloedel Reserve on Bainbridge Island—150 acres of gardens, meadows, forests, and walking trails designed for slowing down and breathing deep.
Here is a place where kids (and adults) of all ages can explore the wonders of Nature.
DigiPen Academy’s Summer Programs o er exciting learning experiences for students ages 5 to 18. Under the encouraging guidance of our talented teaching sta , students learn, create, and collaborate on hands-on projects in video game programming, art and animation, game design, engineering, and music and sound design. By promoting teamwork and personal expression while reinforcing core academic subjects like math, physics, art, and writing, students learn valuable lifelong skills in STEAM.
Summer 2022 Onsite:
Session 1: June 27th to July 8th
Session 2: July 11th to July 22nd
Session 3: July 25th to August 5th
Session 4: August 8th to August 12th
Summer 2022 Online:
These workshops are taught live using Zoom and are for students ages 10 to 18. Classes are o ered August 8th to August 19th unless otherwise noted on the website.
Grades K-11
Forest Ridge School of the Sacred Heart 4800 139th Ave SE, Bellevue 98006 720-249-2412
ingo@avid4.com avid4.com
Avid4 Adventure day camps teach kids of all levels to climb, paddle, bike, hike and thrive in the outdoors. Our amazing instructors help build authentic outdoor experiences for kids of all ages to get off their screens, learn new skills, grow their confidence and make friends. We offer day camps and overnight expeditions in both single- and multi-sport formats. Register today for summer fun!
Ages 2.5-18 209 100th Ave NE, Bellevue 98121 425-454-6162 • admin@BGCBellevue.org bgcbellevue.org/summer
From specialized theme camps, including Art, Cooking, Photography, Tech, Engineering and Video Production, to leadership opportunities and high school internships, there is a place for everyone at Boys & Girls Clubs of Bellevue’s summer camp! Our caring, inclusive environment provides a place for children of all ages to discover new interests and talents, foster new friendships and create lifelong memories. Nutritious breakfast, lunch and snack provide fuel for each day’s adventure. Opportunities are available at multiple sites across Bellevue. Visit our website to learn more!
Grades PK-4 in fall 14640 NE 24th St., Bellevue 98007 425-649-0791 summer@bcacademy.com bcacademy.com/programs/summerschool
BCA® welcomes all students (BCA & non-BCA) entering Pre-K through 4th grade to join our Summer School! Summer School at Bellevue Children’s Academy® is a great way to reinforce learning and prepare for the new school year. Our program includes a thought-provoking English and math curriculum along with exciting activities in project-based science and social studies units that promote creativity, independent thinking, self-confidence and the quest for personal excellence. A warm and nurturing environment is facilitated by dedicated BCA staff and teachers.
Ages 8-17 305 Harrison St, Seattle 98109 education@seattleshakespeare.org seattleshakespeare.org/camp-bill
Spend your summer with Shakespeare! Seattle Shakespeare offers theatre camp programs each summer. We’ll introduce you to Shakespeare’s works and basic acting concepts during a oneweek acting camp. The “Production Intensive” camp is ideal for middle and high school students because they get to create their own full productions. These three-week camps, led by teaching artists, are where students not only rehearse and perform, but also design and build the set and costumes for their production! There’s something for almost every age and level.
Grades 1-11 14724 184th St. NE, Arlington 98223 425-284-4484 campkalsman@urj.org campkalsman.org
There are not too many places where children can challenge themselves on a high ropes course, canoe on a lake, cook over a campfire and sing with friends under the stars – all in the same day. Located north of Seattle, Camp Kalsman has 300 acres filled with a wide variety of activities: arts, sports, team building, hiking, high ropes, guitar and much more. Your child can explore all aspects of camp and participate in fun programs, all while exploring his or her Jewish identity.
Ages 7-14
410 4th Ave. N, Edmonds 98020 425-274-9595 boxoffice@ec4arts.org ec4arts.org
Join us this summer at Edmonds Center for the Arts for diverse, week-long arts, culture and STEAM camps! Hosted onsite in ECA’s state-of-the-art theater, classrooms and outdoor green spaces, these creative programs are designed to inspire and foster a love of the arts in students! Camps run July and August 2022 (full line-up and dates to be announced end of February 2022). Full and partial need-based scholarships are available. We’re committed to accessibility for students with disabilities.
Grades 1-6
606 Maynard Ave. S, #102, Seattle 98104 206-408-8078 camp@girlsrockmathematics.com girlsrockmathematics.com
Girls Rock Math is an arts-based math camp focused on empowering girls in STEAM subjects. Our hands-on themes capture the imagination, ignite deeper mathematical thinking and help campers feel confident in their capabilities. As part of a community where “Girl Power” rules, our campers develop leadership skills, make friends, take on challenges and learn together in a meaningful way. With so many curricular themes to choose from, we truly have something for everyone!
Grades 3-9
140 S. 140th St., Burien, WA 98168 206-246-0500 kennedyhs.org/summerlife
Students are invited to spend summer with the Lancers! Whether you love athletics or fine arts – or both – you can:
• Try something new
• Sharpen current skills
• Learn from strong mentors
• Build lasting friendships
No matter what you try, you’ll be inspired by those around you and empowered to live your best summer LIFE at Kennedy Catholic.
Ages 3-12 3401 Rainier Ave. S, Suite A, Seattle 98108 (206) 726-7972, enrollment@launchlearning.org launchlearning.org
Have the best summer ever! Build friendships, create, discover, and learn this summer at Launch. Launch is offering nine weeks of full-day summer programming at five convenient Seattle locations. Campers will participate in fun activities connecting to our summer camp theme of “Earth, Ocean, and Sky”, including art, science, music, sports, games, cool field trips, and social-emotional learning. We have strict pandemic safety requirements that adhere to Public Health recommendations. Financial assistance is available! Registration opens March 11.
Ages 7-11
10819 Carnation-Duvall Road, Carnation 98014 425-788-1134 education@oxbow.org oxbow.org/education/summercamp
A summer outdoors, playing, laughing, learning and getting messy, can motivate kids to engage with their environment in new ways – unplugging from technology and connecting with nature. Oxbow Summer Farm Camp offers creative ways to explore connections with the environment through authentic farm activities and child-led imaginative play. Thanks to Farm Camp, children can feel empowered to take actionable steps toward healthier and more balanced relationships – with the earth and all beings. Let’s get grounded and sprout together!
Grades 3-12 1240 116th Ave. NE, Suite 200, Bellevue 98004 (425) 373-0870, info@mercereducation.com mercereducation.com
Do you have a 5-year plan? Prep for your future at Mercer Education! We offer summer camps (College Counseling, SAT/ ACT prep and Language Arts for children) as well as private and small-group classes year-round. With innovative curricula and professional educators, our programs go beyond test-taking skills and academic excellence to cultivate vibrant, intelligent minds. Every year, our students enter some of the most prestigious institutions of higher learning in the U.S. We work with locally based students and clients around the country and overseas. Be in touch for a free consultation!
Grades PK-8 Pacific Science Center 200 Second Ave. N, Seattle 98109 info@pacsci.org pacificsciencecenter.org/camps
PacSci’s award-winning summer camps offer more than 100 exciting opportunities for exploration and experimentation. Students can choose from topics like Biome Bonanza, Wild Explorers, Grossology, Eco-Exploration, Zoology 101 and more. There are live sessions at five locations across Puget Sound and virtual options as well, with 300 scholarships available for qualifying prospective campers. Strict health and safety guidelines are in place to keep campers safe. Spots go fast, so register now!
Grades K-6 Mobile Operations 206-715-2556 info@rocksolidscience.com rocksolidscience.com
Rock Solid Science is a mobile Earth Science program. Explore rocks, minerals and other wonders of geology with fun, labstyle experiences for school-agers. Children get hands on and learn through discovery as they practice science skills like making observations, asking questions, sharing descriptions of what they see and categorizing their findings. We bring all the tools and resources to your school or location. Let’s rock out this summer!
Ages 4-14
5001 NE 50th St., Seattle, WA 98105 206-729-0219 x297 ehodgson@thevilla.org (Emma Hodgson) thevilla.org/summer
Located in Laurelhurst, just north of Seattle Children’s Hospital, Villa Ventures Summer Camps offers high-quality, engaging outdoor and indoor camps designed for curious and creative minds. Explore our 31-acre campus featuring forests and gardens, a state-of-the-art athletic field and a historic school building with art studios and science labs. Our small group sizes and expert instructors guarantee personal attention that fosters experiential learning and confidence. There are activities for everyone –carpentry, coding, forest games, and more!
A Performing and Visual Arts Daycamp for Children Ages 7-13 North Seattle summerfunseattle@gmail.com summerfunseattle.org
Join us for three weeks of silly camp traditions, lasting friendships and pure fun, July 5-22! Daily classes in Drama, Music, Art and Dance culminate in an original musical performance. Rather than making the session a drill of the final performance, we strive to make every day a fresh, fun experience. Our artist teachers are devoted to enriching the lives of children through the arts. This award-winning camp is celebrating 29 years of cultivating creativity in Seattle children.
Ages 3-18 909 4th Ave., Seattle 98104 206-382-4927 registration@seattleymca.org seattleymca.org/camp
Activate summer with the Y! Whether you are interested in day camp in your neighborhood, week-long overnight camps at Orkila or Colman or backpacking expeditions in the Olympics or Cascades, you’ll find your adventure, find your friends, and find your fun at Y camp. Financial assistance is available to ensure all families have access to quality and enriching camp programs. Registration is open now!
Vertex Arena
Air & Battle Sports, Event & Social Hub
Ages 3-adult
10700 231st Way NE, #100, Redmond 98053 425-728-7298 , RSVP@vertexarena.com vertexarena.com
At Vertex Arena, campers can bounce on trampolines, be warriors on our ninja course, win (or lose) at Nerf/Archery tag, field dodgeball or duke it out on the battle-beam! Complete with arcade, games, pinball, restaurant and full bar, Vertex Arena is the perfect venue for birthday parties, social gatherings, family-friendly and team-building events.
Visit Lake Chelan 216 Woodin Ave., Chelan, WA 98816 509-682-3503, info@lakechelan.com lakechelan.com
Discover a Washington original! Only in Lake Chelan will you find four seasons of wine, fun, stunning natural beauty and adventure that you can tune to your own tastes. Fifty miles of crystal-clear glacier-fed lake – surrounded by vineyards, mountains and small-town charm – promise an array of activities as unique as the people who come here to play or make Lake Chelan their forever home.
French American School of Puget Sound
Ages 2-14
3795 E Mercer Way, Mercer Island 98040 206-275-3533, info@fasps.org fasps.org
The French American School of Puget Sound (FASPS) inspires the next generation of global citizens to learn, understand and act wisely in a multicultural world. Students achieve bilingual fluency in a rigorous academic program that combines the best philosophies of both the French and American educational systems.
Avid4 Adventure Grades K-11
Forest Ridge School of the Sacred Heart 4800 139th Ave. SE, Bellevue 98006 720-249-2412, info@avid4.com avid4.com
Avid4 Adventure day camps teach kids of all levels to climb, paddle, bike, hike and thrive in the outdoors. Our amazing instructors help build authentic outdoor experiences for kids of all ages to get off their screens, learn new skills, grow their confidence and make friends. We offer day camps and overnight expeditions in both single- and multi-sport formats. Register for your summer fun today!
Boys & Girls Club of Bellevue Summer Camp Grades 1-12
Clubs throughout greater Bellevue 425-454-6162, admin@bgcbellevue.org bgcbellevue.org/Programs/
Boys & Girls Clubs of Bellevue is committed to providing high-quality programs for youth during the summer. Our programs specifically focus on keeping kids engaged and active. From specialized theme camps, including Art, Cooking, Photography, Tech, Engineering and Video Production, to leadership opportunities and high school internships, there is a place for everyone at Boys & Girls Clubs of Bellevue’s summer camp!
The Bush School Summer Programs
Grades K-12
3400 E Harrison St., Seattle 98112 206-322-7978, summer@bush.edu bush.edu/summer
Your summer adventure awaits at The Bush School! Join us for engaging summer programs, award-winning Camp Galileo for grades kindergarten through 6; athletic programs in basketball, volleyball and Ultimate Frisbee; Upper School academic courses in math, robotics, study skills and writing the college essay.
City of Redmond Parks & Recreation
Ages 1-18
15670 NE 85th St., Redmond 98073 425-556-2300, guestservices@redmond.gov redmond.gov/register
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
When your children attend camp, they will play, create, explore and seek adventure. They will meet new friends, play games and create lifelong memories. The City of Redmond offers full- and half-day camps, which provide a safe and healthy environment for children to choose their own adventures!
Eastside Catholic School
EC Summer Camps
Grades K-12
232 228th Ave. SE, Sammamish 98074 425-295-3000, landerson@eastsidecatholic.org eastsidecatholic.org/summer
Learn, Create, Compete! Join us this summer for in-person, fun, inspiring and affordable athletic and enrichment camps, led by experienced Eastside Catholic faculty, coaches and community experts. You do not need to attend Eastside Catholic to attend our summer camps; we look forward to welcoming you here!
The Evergreen School
Summer Program
Ages 3-14, Grades PS-8
15201 Meridian Ave. N, Shoreline 98133 206-957-1594 summerprogram@evergreenschool.org evergreenschool.org/summer-program/overview Our program helps students embrace the natural environment, fosters artistic abilities and provides many opportunities for healthy recreation and socialization. We offer sports camps, fine arts classes, performing arts classes, outdoor recreation, day camps and more! Our class/camp sizes remain small and offer personal attention and greater focus on student health and safety. Join us this summer!
Kennedy Catholic High School
Grades 3- 9
140 S 140th St., Burien 98168 206-246-0500, info@kennedyhs.org kennedyhs.org/summerlife
Life at Kennedy Catholic High School doesn’t end when the summer bell rings. It’s just the beginning. Students: come spend your summer with the Lancers! Whether you love athletics, fine arts or academic enrichment, you can try something new, sharpen current skills, learn from strong mentors and build lasting friendships. Reserve your fun today!
Ages 3-12
3401 Rainier Ave. S, Ste. A, Seattle 98108 206-726-7972, enrollment@launchlearning.org launchlearning.org
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
Build friendships, create, discover and learn this summer at Launch. Offering nine weeks of full-day summer programming at five convenient Seattle locations. Campers will participate in fun activities connecting to our summer camp theme of “Earth, Ocean and Sky,” including art, science, music, sports, games, cool field trips and social-emotional learning. We have strict pandemic safety requirements that adhere to Public Health recommendations. Registration opens March 11.
The Northwest School
Ages 10-16
1415 Summit Ave., Seattle 98122 206-816-6070, nwssummer@northwestschool.org northwestschool.org/summer
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
For campers seeking social connections with others from around the world, caring mentors who can help them build confidence and a wide array of experiential art, athletic and academic classes, The Northwest School provides an in-person summer camp experience they’ll never forget. Join one of our 50 courses designed to engage campers’ minds, strengthen their bodies and inspire their imaginations.
PRO Club Summer Camps
Ages 3-18
4455 148th Ave. NE, Bellevue 98007 425-885-5566, jsalimi@proclub.com summercamps.proclub.com
PRO Club camps are open to everyone; club membership is not required. We offer a variety of themed camps featuring more than 30 different choices. Meet new friends, try a new sport or improve existing skills in a fun, non-competitive atmosphere. Camps take place in our expansive gym, sports courts, aquatic center, studio space, Pegasus ranch or local park depending on the camp selected. All sites are clean and COVID-safe.
Samena Swim & Recreation Club
Ages 3-16
15231 Lake Hills Blvd., Bellevue 98007 425-746-1160, info@samena.com samena.com
Kids stay active and engaged all summer long at Samena camps, including Preschool Camp, Swim & Tennis Camp, Vanapalooza, Field Trips, Junior Counselors, Junior Lifeguard Camp, Swimming Every Day and much more!
Sammamish Montessori School
Montessori Classes and Discovery Camps Ages 3-8
7655 178th Pl. NE, Redmond 98052 425-883-3271, info@sammamishmontessori.com sammamishmontessori.com
Spend the summer in a bright, happy environment with lots of individual attention, exciting activities and professional, caring teachers. Montessori Classes and Discovery Camps are run all summer long in two-week sessions, morning and/or afternoon to provide flexibility for vacations. Discovery Camps may include arts and crafts, science, cooking, sports, world travels, drama, pets and animals, and more. Current students, new students, siblings, neighbors and alumni are all welcome to attend!
Soundview School Summer Camps
Grades Pre-K-8, Ages 3-13 6515 196th St. SW, Lynnwood 98036 425-778-8572, contact@soundview.org soundview.org
Soundview Summer Camps are open to the public. Registration is happening right now! Most activities are inspired by the students themselves and then explored under the supervision of Soundview’s certified, professional educators. Leadership opportunities are available for older students.
July
Spruce Street School
Summer Camp
Ages 5-10
914 Virginia St., Seattle 98101 206-621-9211, office@sprucestreetschool.org sprucestreetschool.org
This summer, come to downtown Seattle and have an adventure every day! In this small summer camp program, campers begin each day at the school and then head out for the field trip of the day. The frequency of field trips will be determined by current COVID recommendations from King County Public Health. Campers return to the school for an afternoon of art projects, crafts, games, playing on the rooftop playground and more.
Stroum Jewish Community Center
Summer J Camp Grades PreK-10
3801 E Mercer Way, Mercer Island 98040 206-232-7117, johns@sjcc.org sjcc.org/j-camp
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
Summer J Camp returns June 21 through August 26. With more than 60 camps to choose from – including core camps and a variety of specialty camp – you can create a summer schedule that works best for your family. Save 10% when you register by March 11!
Villa Ventures Summer Camp
Ages 4-14
5001 NE 50th St., Seattle 98105 206-524-8885, ehodgson@thevilla.org thevilla.org/summer
Villa Ventures Summer Camps offers high-quality, engaging outdoor and indoor camps designed for curious and creative minds. Explore our 31-acre campus featuring forests and gardens, a state-of-the-art athletic field and a historic school building with art studios and science labs. There are activities for everyone – carpentry, coding, forest games and more!
YMCA of Greater Seattle
Summer Camp and Outdoor Leadership Programs
Ages 3-18
909 4th Ave., Seattle 98104 registration@seattleymca.org seattleymca.org/camp
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
Activate summer with the Y! Whether you are interested in day camp in your neighborhood, week-long overnight camps at Orkila or Colman or backpacking expeditions in the Olympics or Cascades, you’ll find your adventure, find your friends and find your fun at Y camp.
Avid4 Adventure Grades K-11
Forest Ridge School of the Sacred Heart 4800 139th Ave. SE, Bellevue 98006 720-249-2412, info@avid4.com avid4.com
Avid4 Adventure day camps teach kids of all levels to climb, paddle, bike, hike and thrive in the outdoors. Our amazing instructors help build authentic outdoor experiences for kids of all ages to get off their screens, learn new skills, grow their confidence and make friends. We offer day camps and overnight
expeditions in both single- and multi-sport formats. Register for your summer fun today!
Beach Camp at Sunset Bay
Ages 8-15
14725 Norma Beach Road, Edmonds 98026 206-324-6715, sunsetbay@sunsetbaywharf.com sunsetbaywharf.com
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
Beach Camp is a one-of-a-kind marine science and outdoor education summer camp located on a beautiful stretch of sandy Puget Sound Beach in Edmonds. We teach many water-related activities, from kayaking, snorkeling and skim-boarding to canoeing, paddle boarding and sailing – all while teaching campers what makes our marine ecosystem tick!
Oxbow Farm & Conservation Center Summer Camps
Ages 7-11
10819 Carnation-Duvall Road NE, Carnation 98014 425-788-1134, education@oxbow.org oxbow.org/education/summercamp
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
A summer outdoors – playing, laughing, learning and getting messy – can motivate kids to engage with their environment in new ways, unplug from technology and connect with nature. Oxbow Summer Farm Camp offers creative ways to explore environmental connections through engaging educational activities and child-led creative play on a real-life farm!
Tilth Alliance
Summer Farm & Garden Camps
Ages 1-15
Rainier Beach Urban Farm & Wetlands 5513 S Cloverdale St., Seattle 98118
Good Shepherd Center 4649 Sunnyside Ave. N, #100, Seattle 98103 206-633-0451, register@tilthalliance.org tilthalliance.org
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
At Tilth Alliance’s Summer Farm & Garden Camps, kids spend summer days outdoors being urban farmers and gardeners, discovering where food comes from and learning about the natural world. Summer camp is also a time to have fun adventures exploring our gardens and farm, engaging in science investigations, making art, singing songs and cooking up delicious dishes.
Wilderness Awareness School
Wilderness Awareness Summer Camp Ages 5-18
20410 320th Ave. NE, Duvall 98019 (also Issaquah, Seattle, Carnation and Kenmore) 425-788-1301, wasnet@wildernessawareness.org wildernessawareness.org/youth-programs
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
For more than 30 years, Wilderness Awareness School students have been discovering the wonders of nature, exploring the outdoors and building friendships. Campers work together gaining nature awareness and experiential knowledge of plants, animals, animal tracks, birds and survival skills. Storytelling and engaging activities make learning fun and nurture students’ connection to the earth.
Hidden Valley Camp
Summer Camp
Ages 7-16
24314 Hidden Valley Road, Granite Falls 98252 425-330-2974, hiddenvalleycamp@earthlink.net hvc-wa.com
Hidden Valley Camp is a traditional overnight camp for boys and girls. Activities include horseback riding, swimming, sailing, arts and crafts, hiking, archery, drama and more! HVC offers the opportunity to live in a community setting that helps campers build social skills, gain independence and establish memories and friendships that will last a lifetime. Hidden Valley Camp is accredited by the American Camp Association and has been a tradition in the Northwest since 1947!
URJ Camp Kalsman
Grades 1-11
14724 184th St. NE, Arlington 98223 425-284-4484, campkalsman@urj.org campkalsman.org
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
There are not many places where children can challenge themselves on a high ropes course, canoe on a lake, cook over a campfire and sing with friends under the stars – all in the same day! We strive to make every camper’s experience nurturing and fulfilling, and we do so by making sure that every child feels welcomed and supported while challenging themselves. Our campers enjoy engaging activities and programs, develop lifelong friendships and live with a super-star staff.
YMCA of Greater Seattle
Summer Camp and Outdoor Leadership Programs
Ages 3-18
909 4th Ave., Seattle 98104 registration@seattleymca.org seattleymca.org/camp
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
Activate summer with the Y! Whether you are interested in day camp in your neighborhood, week-long overnight camps at Orkila or Colman or backpacking expeditions in the Olympics or Cascades, you’ll find your adventure, find your friends and find your fun at Y camp.
American Dance Institute
Summer Dance Camps
Ages 5-19
8001 Greenwood Ave. N, Seattle 98103 206-783-0755 adiseattle@americandanceinstitute.com americandanceinstitute.com
Week-long camps include half- and full-day offerings – Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Modern Dance, Hip-Hop, Flamenco and Irish Dance – at four convenient locations in Greenwood, Magnolia, Shoreline and Wedgwood.
Backstage Dance Studio
Camps: Ages 3-10, Dance classes: Ages 2-18
13420 SE 32nd St., Bellevue 98005 425-747-5070, dancewithus@backstagedance.org backstagedance.org
Summer at Backstage Dance Studio provides the opportunity for dancers to participate in classes in acro, ballet, jazz, contemporary, tap, and
Classes
Backstage Dance also
offers half-day performing arts camps for students ages 3-6 and full-day dance/gymnastics camps for students ages 6-10.
Creative Dance Center
Summer Camps and Classes
All ages
12577 Densmore Ave. N, Seattle 98133 206-363-7281, info@creativedance.org creativedance.org
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
Our summer program includes classes for all ages and multi-arts dance camps. Summer classes include Nurturing Baby, Family Dance, Caregiver-Child, Creative Dance, Hip Hop, Ballet and Modern. Summer Camps for ages 4-13 include Ballet Stories, Musical Theatre (Coco and Encanto), Art in Nature, Hip Hop and Art in Motion. Our Teen Intensive, for ages 13 and older, provides an opportunity for freedom and growth this summer!
Edmonds Center for the Arts
Ages 7-14
410 4th Avenue N, Edmonds 98020 425-274-9595, boxoffice@ec4arts.org ec4arts.org
Edmonds Center for the Arts (ECA) presents diverse, week-long arts, culture and STEAM camps for young people. Hosted onsite in ECA’s state-of-the-art theater, classrooms and outdoor green spaces, these creative programs are designed to inspire and foster a love of the arts.
Emerald Ballet Academy
Ages 3-adult
12368 Northup Way, Bellevue 98005 425-883-3405, info@emeraldballet.org emeraldballetacademy.com
Award-winning Emerald Ballet Academy offers a variety of dance, art and musical theater programs for both recreational and serious students. Camps, classes and ballet intensives are taught by professional faculty in a conservatory atmosphere. No audition is required. All dancing hearts are welcome!
Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) 2022 Summer Camp Programs
Grades 2-12
325 5th Ave. N, Seattle 98109 206-770-2700, education@mopop.org mopop.org/camps
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
MoPOP’s week-long summer camps celebrate pop culture’s ability to foster critical thinking, creativity and innovation. Led by professional teaching artists, campers will work together to write and film original music videos, learn insider secrets and design their own museum exhibit, imagine and create their own fantasy worlds, investigate drag history and work with local artists to create their own personas, and more! Early-bird pricing through May 31, scholarships and member discounts are available.
Pacific Northwest Ballet School
Ages 5-7
1611 136th Pl. NE, Bellevue 98005 425-451-1241, pnbschool@pnb.org pnb.org/school
Dancers participate in week-long summer workshops, meeting daily for three hours. Each session focuses on a different ballet, including Cinderella, George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker®, Swan Lake, and The Sleeping Beauty. Each day includes a dance class, music class, story, craft project and snack break.
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Seattle Children’s Theatre
Summer @ SCT Age 3 ½ -17
201 Thomas St., Seattle 98109 206-859-4079, x10137, dramaschool@sct.org sct.org
Start your creative career with Summer @ SCT! SCT offers a wide range of drama camps and classes for young thespians. Whether you’re looking to dip your toe in with Drama Quest: Deep Sea Divers or hone your craft with an Acting Masterclass, SCT’s teaching artists are here to guide you on your creative journey.
Seattle Girls Choir
Summer Music Day Camp Grades 2-6
North Capitol Hill 206-526-1900, info@seattlegirlschoir.org www.seattlegirlschoir.org
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
Seattle Girls Choir offers Summer Music Day Camp designed for girls who love singing to build choral skills, explore sound and rhythm with various instruments, dance and find new reasons to love making music with new friends. Best of all, no experience is necessary.
Seattle Shakespeare Company Camp Bill Grades 3-12
305 Harrison St., Seattle 98109 206-733-8228, education@seattleshakespeare.org shakespeare.org/camp-bill
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
Spend your summer with Shakespeare! We’ll introduce you to Shakespeare’s works and basic acting concepts during a one-week acting camp. The “production intensive” camp allows middle and high school students to create their own full productions. These three-week camps, led by teaching artists, are where students rehearse, perform and design/build the set and costumes for their production! There’s something for almost every age and level.
Stone Soup Theatre
SummerStage 2022 Ages 5-17
Meridian Playground, 4649 Sunnyside Ave. N, Seattle 98103 Jefferson Park, 3801 Beacon Ave. S, Seattle 98108 206-388-9212, education@stonesouptheatre.org stonesouptheatre.org
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
Early nurturing of drama skills can create a lifetime of confidence and is proven to improve reading skills. Join us at one of two beautiful outdoor parks in north and south Seattle for weekly camps – Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. with extended care available. Choose from Pokemon, Hamilton, Percy Jackson, Beetle Juice or Mary Poppins. All programs culminate in a performance.
Summer Fun!
A Performing and Visual Arts Day Camp for Children
Age 7-13
North Seattle 206-499-5787, summerfunseattle@gmail.com summerfunseattle.org
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
Since 1993, Summer Fun! has been developing the artistic talents of children in music, drama, dance and visual art. This immersive arts camp runs for three weeks and
culminates with an original musical on the final evening of the camp. Lasting friendships and fun camp traditions keep families returning year after year.
Village Theatre
KIDSTAGE Summer Theatre Camps
Grades K-12
425-740-5035, KIDSTAGE@villagetheatre.org villagetheatre.org
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
Make lifelong memories at KIDSTAGE this summer! Come sing, dance, act and use your imagination in our theatre camps, where you will build confidence, meet new friends and develop your creativity. Village Theatre KIDSTAGE offers camps for students of all experience levels. Registration opens on March 16; we can’t wait to see you there!
Youth Theatre Northwest
Ages 3-18
4400 86th Ave. SE, Mercer Island 98040 206-232-4145, info@youththeatre.org youththeatre.org
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
Since 1984, Youth Theatre Northwest has been one of the region’s premier youth arts organizations, providing dynamic programming for thousands of children and families. From Hogwarts to Arendelle, from Suess to Shakespeare, YTN offers a summer jam-packed with creative possibilities for students of all experience levels.
Bellevue Children’s Academy
Grades PreK-4
14640 NE 24th St., Bellevue 98007 425-649-0791, summer@bcacademy.com bcacademy.com/programs/summerschool
Summer School at Bellevue Children’s Academy® is a great way to reinforce learning and prepare for the new school year. Our program includes thought-provoking English and math curricula along with exciting project-based science and social studies units that promote creativity, independent thinking, self-confidence and the quest for personal excellence.
Blue Ribbon Cooking Culinary Camps
Ages 4-17
2501 Fairview Ave. E, Seattle 98102 206-328-2442, info@blueribboncooking.com blueribboncooking.com/kids-summer-camp
Cook up some summer fun! Join Blue Ribbon in the kitchen for our culinary camps. With the guidance of our professional chef instructor, students will learn how to work independently in the kitchen with confidence and safety. Choose from a fun variety of camps: Classic Culinary, Tour of Italy, Advanced Culinary, Comprehensive Baking and, for our youngest campers, Pre Camp.
The Evergreen School Summer Program
Ages 3-14, Grades PS-8 15201 Meridian Ave. N, Shoreline 98133 206-957-1594 summerprogram@evergreenschool.org evergreenschool.org/summer-program/overview
Our program helps students embrace the natural environment, fosters artistic
abilities and provides many opportunities for healthy recreation and socialization. We offer sports camps, fine arts classes, performing arts classes, outdoor recreation, day camps and more! Our class/camp sizes remain small and offer personal attention and greater focus on student health and safety. Join us this summer!
Ages 2-14
3795 E Mercer Way, Mercer Island 98040 206-275-3533, info@fasps.org fasps.org
The French American School of Puget Sound (FASPS) inspires the next generation of global citizens to learn, understand and act wisely in a multicultural world. Students achieve bilingual fluency in a rigorous academic program that combines the best philosophies of both the French and American educational systems.
KidsQuest Children’s Museum
KidsQuest Summer Camp
Ages 4-10
1116 108th Ave. NE, Bellevue 98004 425-637-8100, marketing@kidsquestmuseum.org kidsquestmuseum.org/programs/
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
With safety and children’s health top-ofmind, KidsQuest is thrilled to offer a variety of summer camps in 2022. KidsQuest camps offer hands-on fun and learning through science experiments, artistic exploration and collaboration. Check out our in-person programming, featuring photography and physics, kitchen science and more! We will also be offering virtual summer camp opportunities and will ship materials right to your doorstep for a screen-free summer!
Launch
Ages 3-12
3401 Rainier Ave. S, Ste. A, Seattle 98108 206-726-7972, enrollment@launchlearning.org launchlearning.org
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
Build friendships, create, discover and learn this summer at Launch. Offering nine weeks of full-day summer programming at five convenient Seattle locations. Campers will participate in fun activities connecting to our summer camp theme of “Earth, Ocean and Sky,” including art, science, music, sports, games, cool field trips and social-emotional learning. We have strict pandemic safety requirements that adhere to Public Health recommendations. Registration opens March 11.
Ages 3-18
4455 148th Ave. NE, Bellevue 98007 425-885-5566, jsalimi@proclub.com summercamps.proclub.com
PRO Club camps are open to everyone; club membership is not required. We offer a variety of themed camps featuring more than 30 different choices. Meet new friends, try a new sport or improve existing skills in a fun, non-competitive atmosphere. Camps take place in our expansive gym, sports courts, aquatic center, studio space, Pegasus ranch or local park depending on the camp selected. All sites are clean and COVID-safe.
City of Redmond Parks & Recreation
Ages 1-18
15670 NE 85th St., Redmond 98073 425-556-2300, guestservices@redmond.gov redmond.gov/register
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
When your children attend camp, they will play, create, explore and seek adventure. They will meet new friends, play games and create lifelong memories. The City of Redmond offers full- and half-day camps, which provide a safe and healthy environment for children to choose their own adventures!
Samena Swim & Recreation Club
Ages 3-16
15231 Lake Hills Blvd., Bellevue 98007 425-746-1160, info@samena.com samena.com
Kids stay active and engaged all summer long at Samena camps, including Preschool Camp, Swim & Tennis Camp, Vanapalooza, Field Trips, Junior Counselors, Junior Lifeguard Camp, Swimming Every Day and much more!
Sammamish Montessori School
Montessori Classes and Discovery Camps
Ages 3-8
7655 178th Pl. NE, Redmond 98052 425-883-3271, info@sammamishmontessori.com sammamishmontessori.com
Spend the summer in a bright, happy environment with lots of individual attention, exciting activities and professional, caring teachers. Montessori Classes and Discovery Camps are run all summer long in two-week sessions, morning and/or afternoon to provide flexibility for vacations. Discovery Camps may include arts and crafts, science, cooking, sports, world travels, drama, pets and animals, and more. Current students, new students, siblings, neighbors and alumni are all welcome to attend!
Soundview School
Summer Camps
Grades Pre-K-8, Ages 3-13 6515 196th St. SW, Lynnwood 98036 425-778-8572, contact@soundview.org soundview.org
Soundview Summer Camps are open to the public. Registration is happening right now! Most activities are inspired by the students themselves and then explored under the supervision of Soundview’s certified, professional educators. Leadership opportunities are available for older students.
•
• Experienced,
• Preschool, kindergarten, and STEAM Enrichment
• Family owned and operated since 1977
• Summer, before & after school programs
• Prep Program, (starting ages 2 1/2-3)
An intensive, inspirational & in-depth learning experience for students
An intensive, inspirational & in-depth learning experience for students
An intensive, inspirational & in-depth learning experience for students
An intensive, inspirational & in-depth learning experience for students
Stroum Jewish Community Center
Summer J Camp
Grades PreK-10
Summer Stretch for 7th-10th grade
Summer Stretch for 7th - 10th grade
JULY 5 - 28
JULY 5 - 28
Registration opens March 13
Summer Stretch for 7th - 10th grade
Registration opens March 13
Summer Stretch for 7th - 10th grade
3801 E Mercer Way, Mercer Island 98040 206-232-7117, johns@sjcc.org sjcc.org/j-camp
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
JULY 5 - 28
JULY 5 - 28
Registration opens March 13
Summer Challenge for 5th & 6th grade
Registration opens March 13
Summer J Camp returns June 21 through August 26. With more than 60 camps to choose from – including core camps and a variety of specialty camps – you can create a summer schedule that works best for your family. Save 10% when you register by March 11!
Summer Challenge for 5th & 6th grade
JULY 11 - 29
Summer Challenge for 5th & 6th grade
JULY 11 - 29
Registration opens March 20
Summer Challenge for 5th & 6th grade
JULY 11 - 29
Registration opens March 20
JULY 11 - 29
Registration opens March 20
Registration opens March 20 Providing
Providing accelerated learning opportunities for young scholars at the University of Washington robinsoncenter.uw.edu
Providing accelerated learning opportunities for young scholars at the University of Washington robinsoncenter.uw.edu
YMCA of Greater Seattle Summer Camp and Outdoor Leadership Programs
Ages 3-18
909 4th Ave., Seattle 98104 registration@seattleymca.org seattleymca.org/camp
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
Activate summer with the Y! Whether you are interested in day camp in your neighborhood, week-long overnight camps at Orkila or Colman or backpacking expeditions in the Olympics or Cascades, you’ll find your adventure, find your friends and find your fun at Y camp.
Camp Gan Israel
Ages 4 and older
4002 NE 72nd St., Seattle 98115 206-730-2775, campganisraelseattle@gmail.com campganisraelseattle.com
The joys of Judaism come alive through a program that integrates exciting field trips, engaging arts and crafts, involving games, sports and swimming, and captivating visiting specialists, within a non-judgmental context of the richness and warmth of Jewish values, traditions and heritage. Fun that lasts a summer; memories that last a lifetime!
All Ages
4114 W Lake Sammamish Pkwy. SE, Bellevue 98008 425-746-9110, sambica@sambica.com sambica.com
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
Located on the shores of Lake Sammamish, SAMBICA offers ten thrilling weeks of summer camp for kids. Serving as “A Light on the Lake” for more than 100 years, SAMBICA combines the language of play with the vision of inspiring youth to a relationship with Jesus Christ.
URJ Camp Kalsman
Grades 1-11
14724 184th St. NE, Arlington 98223 425-284-4484, campkalsman@urj.org campkalsman.org
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
There are not many places where children can challenge themselves on a high ropes course, canoe on a lake, cook over a campfire and sing with friends under the stars – all in the same day! We strive to make every camper’s experience nurturing and fulfilling, and we do so by making sure that every child feels welcomed and supported while challenging themselves. Our campers enjoy engaging activities and programs, develop lifelong friendships and live with a super-star staff.
Boys & Girls Club of Bellevue Summer Camp
Grades 1-12
Clubs throughout greater Bellevue 425-454-6162, admin@bgcbellevue.org bgcbellevue.org/programs
Boys & Girls Clubs of Bellevue is committed to providing high-quality programs for youth during the summer. Our programs specifically focus on keeping kids engaged and active. From specialized theme camps, including Art, Cooking, Photography, Tech, Engineering and Video Production, to
Engineering and Video Production, to leadership opportunities and high school internships, there is a place for everyone at Boys & Girls Clubs of Bellevue’s summer camp!
Camp Invention
Grades K-6
800-968-4332, campinvention@invent.org invent.org/local
Spark your kids’ creativity and build their confidence with our new Camp Invention® program, Explore! Campers will collaborate with friends in hands-on, open-ended STEM adventures. They’ll dive into ocean research with their own robotic fish, develop inventions for space exploration, build a spinning robotic artist and design a mega marble arcade! Each activity is designed to inspire curiosity, stretch imagination and give your explorer an epic summer experience.
The Center for Wooden Boats
Ages 8-16
1010 Valley St., Seattle 98109 206-382-2628, youth@cwb.org cwb.org
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
Our youth-focused sailing, woodworking, internship and group field trip programs support children’s development in teamwork, personal growth, creativity and respect for the natural environment. Our programs are hands-on and fun!
Kids
Ages 5-18
PO Box 5025, Bellevue 98009 info@codingwithkids.com codingwithkids.com
Leap forward on your coding journey! Coding with Kids provides online camps through our unique Coders Pathways® for ages 5-18. Virtual camps are conducted live, in small groups and teach a variety of subjects, from game development in Scratch or Python to Minecraft Modding, Roblox, Java/C#, and 3D Design. In-person camps are also available at many locations throughout the greater Seattle area!
DigiPen Academy
DigiPen Academy Summer Programs
Ages 5-18
9931 Willows Road NE, Redmond 98052 425-629-5007, academy@digipen.edu academy.digipen.edu
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
DigiPen Academy’s Summer Programs offer students exciting on-site and online learning experiences. Under the guidance of our talented teaching staff, students learn, create and collaborate on hands-on projects in video game programming, art and animation, game design, engineering, and music and sound design. Teamwork and personal expression reinforce core academic subjects like math, physics, art and writing. Students learn valuable lifelong skills in STEAM.
KidsQuest Children’s Museum
KidsQuest Summer Camp
Ages 4-10
1116 108th Ave. NE, Bellevue 98004 425-637-8100, marketing@kidsquestmuseum.org kidsquestmuseum.org/programs/
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
With safety and children’s health top-ofmind, KidsQuest is thrilled to offer a variety of summer camps in 2022. KidsQuest camps
science experiments, artistic exploration and collaboration. Check out our in-person programming, featuring photography and physics, kitchen science and more! We will also be offering virtual summer camp opportunities and will ship materials right to your doorstep for a screen-free summer!
Girls Rock Math
Summer Program
Grades 1-6
606 Maynard Ave. S, #102, Seattle 98104 206-408-8078, camp@girlsrockmathematics.com girlsrockmathematics.com
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
Girls Rock Math is an arts-based math camp focused on empowering girls in STEAM subjects. Our hands-on themes capture the imagination, ignite deeper mathematical thinking and help campers feel confident in their capabilities. As part of a community where “Girl Power” rules, our campers develop leadership skills, make friends, take on challenges and learn together in a meaningful way. In addition to camps for grades 1 to 6, Girls Rock Math offers a Leadership Program for grades 7 to 12.
iD Tech
888-709-8324
www.iDTech.com
iD Tech is the world’s premier destination for STEM education, with on-campus and online programs that sharpen students’ coding, game dev and creative skills. Choose from summer programs held at prestigious campuses nationwide, Virtual Tech Camps, Teen Bootcamps, Online Private Lessons, or small-group online classes.
Pacific Science Center
Camps for Curious Minds
Grades PreK-8
200 2nd Ave. N, Seattle 98109 206-443-2925, edprograms@pacsci.org pacificsciencecenter.org/camps
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
PacSci’s award-winning summer camps offer more than 100 exciting opportunities for exploration and experimentation. Campers can choose from topics like Biome Bonanza, Wild Explorers, Grossology, Eco-Exploration, Zoology 101 and more. There are live sessions at five locations across Puget Sound and virtual options, too. Now with 300 scholarships available for qualifying prospective campers. Strict health and safety guidelines are in place to keep campers safe. Spots go fast, so register now!
Rock Solid Science
Geology Rocks!
Ages 7-11
Mobile Operations 206-715-2556, info@rocksolidscience.com rocksolidscience.com
Let’s rock out this summer! Explore rocks, minerals and wonders of geology in a fun, lab-style experience for school-age students. The field trip comes to you at your school campus or desired location.
Russian School of Mathematics Grades K-12
Locations in Bellevue, Factoria, Redmond 425-616-3511, bellevue@russianschool.com redmond@russianschool.com, factoria@russianschool.com russianschool.com
The Russian School of Mathematics is an award-winning, after-school math program.
award-winning, after-school math program. Recently named “among the top schools in the world” by the Johns Hopkins CTY, we help children of all levels excel in mathematics. At RSM, we believe all children are capable of developing a solid foundation in math, if taught correctly. Math empowers the mind for independent thought. Whether it’s excelling on a test, getting into a top university or succeeding in any career, math is what gets you there.
City of Redmond Parks & Recreation
Ages 1-18
15670 NE 85th St., Redmond 98073 425-556-2300, guestservices@redmond.gov redmond.gov/register
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
When your children attend camp, they will play, create, explore and seek adventure. They will meet new friends, play games and create lifelong memories. The City of Redmond offers full- and half-day camps, which provide a safe and healthy environment for children to choose their own adventures!
Edmonds Center for the Arts
Ages 7-14
410 4th Avenue N, Edmonds 98020 425-274-9595, boxoffice@ec4arts.org ec4arts.org
Edmonds Center for the Arts (ECA) presents diverse, week-long arts, culture and STEAM camps for youzng people. Hosted onsite in ECA’s state-of-the-art theater, classrooms and outdoor green spaces, these creative programs are designed to inspire and foster a love of the arts.
KidsQuest Children’s Museum
KidsQuest Summer Camp
Ages 4-10
1116 108th Ave. NE, Bellevue 98004 425-637-8100, marketing@kidsquestmuseum.org kidsquestmuseum.org/programs/
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
With safety and children’s health top-ofmind, KidsQuest is thrilled to offer a variety of summer camps in 2022. KidsQuest camps offer hands-on fun and learning through science experiments, artistic exploration and collaboration. Check out our in-person programming, featuring photography and physics, kitchen science and more! We will also be offering virtual summer camp opportunities and will ship materials right to your doorstep for a screen-free summer!
The Northwest School
Ages 10-16
1415 Summit Ave., Seattle 98122 206-816-6070, nwssummer@northwestschool.org northwestschool.org/summer
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
For campers seeking social connections with others from around the world, caring mentors who can help them build confidence and a wide array of experiential art, athletic and academic classes, The Northwest School provides an in-person summer camp experience they’ll never forget. Join one of our 50 courses designed to engage campers’ minds, strengthen their bodies and inspire their imaginations.
2/3V
2/3V
Stone Soup Theatre
SummerStage 2022
Ages 5-17
Meridian Playground, 4649 Sunnyside Ave. N, Seattle 98103
Jefferson Park, 3801 Beacon Ave. S, Seattle 98108 206-388-9212, education@stonesouptheatre.org Stonesouptheatre.org
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
Early nurturing of drama skills can create a lifetime of confidence and is proven to improve reading skills. Join us at one of two beautiful outdoor parks in north and south Seattle for weekly camps – Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. with extended care available. Choose from Pokemon, Hamilton, Percy Jackson, Beetle Juice or Mary Poppins. All programs culminate in a performance.
Tilth Alliance
Summer Farm & Garden Camps
Ages 1-15
Rainier Beach Urban Farm & Wetlands 5513 S Cloverdale St., Seattle 98118
Good Shepherd Center 4649 Sunnyside Ave. N, #100, Seattle 98103 206-633-0451, register@tilthalliance.org tilthalliance.org
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
At Tilth Alliance’s Summer Farm & Garden Camps, kids spend summer days outdoors being urban farmers and gardeners, discovering where food comes from and learning about the natural world. Summer camp is also a time to have fun adventures exploring our gardens and farm, engaging in science investigations, making art, singing songs and cooking up delicious dishes.
Ages 3-18
4400 86th Ave. SE, Mercer Island 98040 206-232-4145, info@youththeatre.org youththeatre.org
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
Since 1984, Youth Theatre Northwest has been one of the region’s premier youth arts organizations, providing dynamic programming for thousands of children and families. From Hogwarts to Arendelle, from Suess to Shakespeare, YTN offers a summer jam-packed with creative possibilities for students of all experience levels.
Avid4 Adventure
Grades K-11
Forest Ridge School of the Sacred Heart 4800 139th Ave. SE, Bellevue 98006 720-249-2412, info@avid4.com avid4.com
Avid4 Adventure day camps teach kids of all levels to climb, paddle, bike, hike and thrive in the outdoors. Our amazing instructors help build authentic outdoor experiences for kids of all ages to get off their screens, learn new skills, grow their confidence and make friends. We offer day camps and overnight expeditions in both single- and multi-sport formats. Register for your summer fun today!
Kong Academy LLC
Parkour Adventure Summer Camp
Ages 6-12
Carkeek Park and Seward Park 206-485-4222, info@kongacademy.org kongacademy.org/summercamps
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE
Get ready to learn, play and grow with Kong Academy’s Parkour Adventure Camp. Parkour Camps will teach and grow your child’s parkour skills, whether a brand-new student or an experienced camper. We’ll make sure everyone is growing, having fun and coming home exhausted each day.
Pump It Up
Ages 5-12
11605 NE 116th St., Kirkland 98034 18027 Highway 99, Suite J, Lynnwood 98037 425-774-2297, manager@pumpitupwa.com pumpitupparty.com
Our camps offer active play and creative thinking to build healthy bodies and minds! Camps are for kids 5 to 12, and are held from 9:30am to 2:30pm, Tuesday through Thursday from the end of June through August. $169 per week, with discounts for siblings and extra weeks!
Rain City Fencing Center
Summer Fencing Camps
Ages 8-14
1776 136th Pl. NE, Bellevue 98005 425-747-6300, info@raincityfencing.com raincityfencing.com
How do you score touches on your opponent without getting hit yourself? It takes fast thinking, dynamic footwork and a good strategy. The Olympic sport of fencing is safe, exciting and fun! We offer half- and full-day summer camps in July and August. All fencing equipment is provided. Think. Fast. Fencing
Samena Swim & Recreation Club
Ages 3-16
15231 Lake Hills Blvd., Bellevue 98007 425-746-1160, info@samena.com samena.com
Kids stay active and engaged all summer long at Samena camps, including Preschool Camp, Swim & Tennis Camp, Vanapalooza, Field Trips, Junior Counselors, Junior Lifeguard Camp, Swimming Every Day and much more!
Sno-King Ice Arenas
Ages 3-adult
14326 124th Ave. NE, Kirkland 98034 16260 164th Ave. SE, Renton 98059 35323 SE Douglas St., Snoqualmie 98065 425-425-8750, office@snokingice.com snokingicearenas.com
Sno-King Ice Arena is an ice sports community recreation facility offering: Learn to Skate, Learn to Play, birthday parties, public skating, group parties and youth and adult hockey leagues. Come skate at any of our three locations today!
American Dance Institute
Avid4 Adventure
Backstage Dance Studio
Beach Camp at Sunset Bay
Bellevue Children’s Academy
Bloedel Reserve
Blue Ribbon Cooking
Boys & Girls Club of Bellevue
Burke Museum
Camp Gan Israel
Camp Invention
Carnation Farms ....................................................
Chess4Life
City of Redmond Parks & Recreation
Coding with Kids
Cornish College of the Arts
Creative Dance Center
Crossroads Bellevue
DigiPen Academy
Eastside Catholic School
Edmonds Center for the Arts
Emerald Ballet Academy
Experience Anacortes
French American School of Puget Sound
Gage Academy of Art
Girls Rock Math
Hibulb Cultural Center and Natural History
Preserve 13
Hidden Valley Camp 25
Hillcrest Training .................................................. 9
iD Tech 34
Kennedy Catholic High School 7, 16, 22
KidsQuest Children’s Museum 12, 30, 33, 35
Kong Academy LLC 36
Launch ......................................................... 17, 22, 30
Mercer Education Summer Camps 7, 17
Morningside Academy 7
Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) 27
Neo Art School ....................................................... 12
Oxbow Farm & Conservation Center 9, 17, 25
Pacific Northwest Ballet School 27
Pacific Science Center 17, 34
PRO Club .......................................................... 23, 30 Pump It Up 37 Rain City Fencing Center 37 Red Gate
Samena Swim & Recreation Club 23, 30, 37
Sammamish Montessori School ................ 23, 31 Seattle Children’s Theatre
Seattle Historic Waterfront Association
Seattle Humane 11
Seattle Shakespeare Company ................... 15, 28
Sno-King Ice Arenas 13, 37
Soundview School 23, 31
Spruce Street School 23
Stone Soup Theatre ....................................... 28, 35
Stroum Jewish Community Center 24, 31
Summer Fun! 17, 28
The Bush School Summer Programs 21
The Center for Wooden Boats ......................... 33
The Evergreen School 22, 29
The Northwest School 9, 22, 35
Tilth Alliance 11, 12, 25, 36
URJ Camp Kalsman ................................. 16, 26, 32
UW Robinson Center for Young Scholars 9 Vertex Arena
Village Theatre
Ventures
„
Cozy up with some popcorn in theaters or from the comfort of your couch when the 48th Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF) kicks off in April. SIFF offers hybrid film-watching this year at venues all around Seattle or virtually on the SIFF channel. Don’t miss the allages Film4Families series, featuring a variety of dramas, comedies and animation. Budding filmmaker in your crew? Check out SIFF’s Future Wave Program – flicks made by and for teens. The Festival runs April 14-24. Tickets on sale in March. — Jasmin Thankachen 3Siff.net/festival
5
Spring winds are a-blowing, so grab your best kite and get ready to soar at these kite-flying locations:
1
Carkeek Park
Cross the bridge over the train tracks and head to the beach! The wind picks up by the water and will send your kite flying high on a blustery day. Blow off some steam in the children’s playground, equipped with a salmon-shaped slide, swings, and play structures.
950 N.W. Carkeek Park Road, Seattle
2
Magnuson Park
Find the perfect treeless spot or walk your flyer up Kite Hill, a 35-foothigh kite run. It’s near the swimming beach!
7400 Sand Point Way N.E. Seattle
3
Gas Works Park
On the north shore of Lake Union, Gas Works Park was made for kite lovers. Drag your air rider to the top of the Great Earth Mound and let it fly.
2101 N. Northlake Way, Seattle
by JASMIN THANKACHEN
We’ve made it through the dead of winter and I know my family’s ready for some springtime fun! What better way to ring in the new season, than to visit local gardens not overrun by large crowds?
HUSTON
These hidden gems are some of Seattle’s best-kept secrets, full of history and opulence. With their year-round blooms and foliage from native trees and exotic plants, these parks educate and amaze.
Dunn Gardens
Nestled in a north Seattle neighborhood, this private garden offers both self-guided and docent-led tours. Designed by the famous Olmsted Brothers (think Central Park in New York City), the garden paths meander through collections of rhododendrons, dogwoods, azaleas, hostas CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE >
Mukilteo
Lighthouse Park
When wind kicks up at this rocky beach area, your glider may just touch the clouds. Plus: Ferries, the lighthouse museum and soft-serve ice cream.
609 Front St., Mukilteo
4 5
Marymoor Park
Grassy meadows make for easy kite-flying at this 640-acre Eastside park. For the best winds, look for paragliders in the sky and follow their path.
6046 W. Lake Sammamish Parkway N.E., Redmond — Jasmin Thankachen
and other perennial plants. A hidden path leads to a Woodland Garden nestled beneath a canopy of lush green trees and a tangle of tree trunks winding their way into the ground. Catch a glimpse of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains on a clear day. Find a quiet space on the great lawn or in the courtyard. Children will love the open spaces and beautiful colors and learn that the Dunn Family helped make the rhododendron Washington’s state flower.
313533 Northshire Road NW 98177
3dunngardens.org
Highline Seatac
Botanical Garden
Hop, skip and jump across the bridge at the Japanese Garden, then follow the sounds of the stream to an open pond — a great place to read or explore. Play peek-a-boo around the Greek columns on the lawn.
Highline Seatac Botanical
Garden is a great place to learn about plants as well as do some plane spotting: Manmade “birds” fly over the park that’s near Sea-Tac Airport. Maintained by volunteers, the botanical garden is home to thousands of plants. Many plants were donated from homes demolished by Sea-Tac’s third runway project. Every display garden has an interesting story you won’t want to miss!
313735 24th Avenue South, SeaTac 98168
3highlinegarden.org
Kruckeberg Botanic Garden
Is there a garden perfect for nature play? Yes, indeed! Look
so much
for the Woodwave sculpture in Kruckeberg Botanic Garden — it’s a tangle of branches that interweave together — and get ready to climb! Build gnome and fairy houses in the wooded area of the garden. An awesome destination, Kruckeberg contains a mixture of native and exotic plants and trees. Bring your binoculars to spot more than 40 species of birds!
320312 15th Avenue Northwest, Shoreline, 98177
3kruckeberg.org
Seattle Japanese Garden Journey through the landscapes of Japan at the Seattle Japanese
A portion of the proceeds from each birth certificate benefits the Children’s Trust Fund of Washington, administered by the Washington State Department of Children, Youth & Families Strengthening Families Program.
• This official birth certificate is personally signed by the Governor and State Registrar.
Garden. where cobblestoned gravel paths encircle a central pond. Here the koi fish surface with mouths gaping and ready for a treat. Be on the lookout for blue herons and other birds that visit the park. Located within the Washington Park Arboretum, this garden is a slice of heaven.
31075 Lake Washington Boulevard East, Seattle, 98112
3seattlejapanesegarden.org
Woodland Park Rose Garden
Roses are red, violets are blue, don’t miss this little garden right by the zoo! The Woodland Park Rose Garden is home to more than 3,000 roses of 200 different varieties. Follow butterflies along the maze of paths in this 2.5-acre groomed plot. Don’t miss the sensory garden, tucked away in the back corners of the park. Listen for wind chimes and explore the trail to find new plants and flowers of every season.
3750 North 50th Street, Seattle, WA 98103
3zoo.org/roses
• Frameable keepsake.
• For each $45 purchase of an Heirloom Birth Certificate, $20 is tax deductible.
To find out more information on Children’s Trust and child abuse prevention in Washington State visit: www.dcyf.wa.gov/about/governmentcommunity/community-engagement or visit the Department of Health to order your own Heirloom Birth Certificate.
DCYF FS_0010 (09-19)
• Certificate is 8 1/2 x 11 and includes the name, date and place of birth, as well as the name and birthplace of the parent(s).
How do you take care of a camelid? Find out in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains near Carnation, where a whole herd of camelids (better known as alpacas!) roams. Spring is a great time to tour Cascade Rose Alpaca Farm and catch glimpses of the herd’s newest members. Feed, pet and learn all about these gentle, doe-eyed creatures. For an alpaca experience further afield, head to Friday Harbor in the San Juan Islands, home of The Farm at Krystal Acres. Can you find Oreo and Truffles wandering this 40-acre farm? Learn how Krystal Acres is contributing to alpaca wool and fiber sustainability. cascaderosefarm.com krystalacres.com
„ More feeding at
The Kraken have settled into Seattle, and if families want to catch the team practicing, they can head to the Kraken Community Iceplex in Northgate. Hungry kids and grownups can grab a burger with a view of the ice at the site’s new 32 Bar & Grill, serving everything from poutine to pizza. (And, yes, there’s a kids’ menu.) — Jillian O’Connor 10601 5th Ave. NE, krakencommunityiceplex.com
Brian “Cookie” Chandler’s new Ballard eatery is a laid-back ‘Yes!’ for kids, parents and the pocketbook. “Our goal was to feed four people honest, home-cooked food for under $70,” Chandler says. Cookie’s Family Meal is a steal with fried chicken (plus bites), fries, two pounds of sides. Here you’ll find kid-friendly cups, large booths, high chairs and “good food that’s not going to break the bank.” — Corinne Whiting 1744 N.W. Market St., Seattle (Ballard), cookiescountrychicken.com
Pocket-friendly food trucks offer cultural exposure and that extra bit of safety
by CORINNE WHITING / photo by JOSHUA HUSTON
Hearts are full as candy company dating back to 1925 prepares for Valentine’s Day by
These days, simply follow your nose around Seattle’s neighborhoods to find vibrant food trucks doling out fresh, takeaway fare. Not only does outdoor dining offer a safer option in these continued pandemic times, but food
truck dining makes room for kid wiggles at the “table” and allows families to taste-test their way through cuisines from around the globe.
Here are just a few tempting truck options exploring the tastes of Hawai’i, Cuba, Mexico, Kansas
For three generations, the Johnson family’s bread and butter has been a mix of delicate chocolates, crunchy peanut brittle and gooey caramels. It all started in 1925, when Russell Johnson began crafting and selling chocolates while working at his parents’ shop in Tacoma. He and his wife, Irene, soon bought the business, managing it as a restaurant with a decadent candy selection. By the 1940s, the pair moved a few blocks
away to the storefront in the city that the community now knows as the Johnson Candy Company. Today, behind that same window-filled storefront, featuring rows of handmade candies, the family-owned shop has become a true fixture in the city, with many loyal customers, some of whom have been patrons for more than half a century. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE >
and that internationally beloved ingredient, cheese: Skip the suitcases, and whisk the family off to a local tropical locale at three brightly hued, Sam Choy’s Poke to the Max trucks circulating through the region and offering a true taste of Hawai’i. Their website calendar and Instagram page post an updated location list that ranges from Chuck’s Hop Shop in the CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE >
For busy families, getting a healthy dinner on the table can be a real chore. Seattle moms Erin Metzer and Chef Michaela Skloven are tackling that problem with The Speedy Dish, a meal delivery service. The company provides “almost ready” meals with ingredients prepared in advance and portioned to family size. That means healthy, home-cooked meals in 20 minutes or less. Skloven and Metzer bring their commitment to sustainability to the table as well by collecting back reusable delivery bags and ice packs, using advance ordering to reduce food waste, and local thoughtful sourcing of the menu. And these moms have four kids to help inform the menu.
— Cheryl Murfin 3thespeedydish.com
Many families with kids head to Ballard’s Dough Joy food truck for its egg-free, dairy-free, tree nut-free vegan doughnuts. But the flavors! Cookie Butta, chocoholic, strawberry milkshake, Over the Rainbow (a Pride tribute) and banana French toast, or mini doughnuts for dipping in caramel (or chocolate) will intrigue even avid consumers of animal products. On some weekends, patrons can grab the Chik’n & Waffle Skewer, a decadent kebab of three extra-large doughnut holes and two vegan nuggets. Coming soon as a Capitol Hill storefront. — Jillian O’Connor Truck address: 5401 17th Ave. NW, doughjoydonuts.com
Call 425-883-3271 for a
• Child-centered, joyful atmosphere with strong academic focus
• Experienced, Montessori-certified teachers
• Preschool, kindergarten, and STEAM Enrichment
• Family owned and operated since 1977
• Summer, before & after school programs
• Prep Program, (starting ages 2 1/2-3)
Central District to the Sunday Fremont Market. In addition to fresh poke offerings, the menu boasts best-sellers like the fried chicken ($14.25) by award-winning chef, author and proclaimed “GodFather of Poke” Chef Sam Choy. Young diners will especially love add-ons like the mac salad side ($4.05) and Hawaiian soda ($2.95). 3samchoyspoke.com
The Cheese Pit, another staple of the Sunday Fremont Market (and often found in downtown Woodinville and other Eastside spots on weekdays) doles out killer grilled cheese sammies that promise to please even the simpler eaters among us. Try the traditional “Old Skool,” American cheese melted on fresh Macrina Bakery sourdough bread ($9). Or, make it vegan with the “Goodie 2 Shoes.” (Gluten-free bread is available at no extra charge.) 3thecheesepit.com
Meat-eating youngsters are sure to enjoy the smoked, Kansas City-style flavors of Wood Shop BBQ, whose truck rotates among addresses from Westlake Park to family-friendly breweries like Stoup Brewing. Savor the ribs, Hickory Smoked Pulled Pork Sandwich ($12), served on a toasted brioche bun with buttermilk slaw, house-made pickles and pickled onions, or the classic potato salad ($4). 3thewoodshopbbq.com
Mexicuban exposes young diners to an approachable fusion of flavors, representing two beautiful cultures. Use their website calendar to track down the cheerful, multihued truck at spots from Eastlake to the Magnolia 76 Gas Station. Wow the kids with the signature Chicken Fluffy Tacos. All the sides promise to be a hit, too (think yuca and sweet potato fries, plus tostones, crispy fried plantains). 3mexicuban.com
Don’t forget the pets! Children get a kick out of The Seattle Barkery, providing fresh treats for pups since 2014. Wednesdays through Sundays inside the Magnuson Off-Leash Park or at Redmond’s Marymoor Park. 3theseattlebarkery.com
Current King County guidelines recommend wearing masks in crowded outdoor spaces (even if vaccinated), and require them for large outdoor events of 500 people or more (markets). Since food truck employees will be masked up, most customers choose to courteously follow suit.
We use the Moshi App: It’s really helpful for sleep routines; even helps me sometimes when I am on the road. My daughter had me create a full unicorn bedtime playlist for her.
Local artist helps kids and adults see the animal they wish to be
by
Michelle Lassaline has always liked making things with her hands. As a child, she enjoyed woodworking and crafts, exploring tools and, above all, drawing.
That early interest was fueled by talent, curiosity, strong mentors and a studio art degree that has led to a life of robust creativity. Lassaline’s passions combine in a “pop-up” performance art
experience called “You as an Animal.” During performances, Lassaline dons colorful animal masks created from papier-mâché and other materials as well as homemade clothing. She then paints vibrant watercolor portraits of people — children and adults alike — depicted as their favorite animal. Performances CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE >
Seattle artist and toddler dad Brett Hamil jumped on his first skateboard when he was 12 and has never lost the urge to ride.
Still by 2020, age, a day job, and fatherhood had carved a significant chunk out of his wheel time.
When Hamil decided to build himself a half-pipe (a U-shaped high-sided ramp) in the family backyard last spring, he hoped it would pique his son’s interest in boarding even as he expected friends, neighbors and his wife to scratch their heads.
What he didn’t expect? How much the ramp would buoy his flagging spirits — or how his own midlife morale boost would become a genuine community booster.
In his new book Sk8t Dad Summer, Hamil delivers a lesson in rekindling old passions. But more, this sweet, funny, poignant little book that rides along one dad’s commitment to personal growth is a wonderful reminder that growth is possible at any age and every step of the parenting journey.
Available in book, comics and skate shops in April.
— Cheryl Murfin
Got a digger in your family? Inspire a budding earth scientist to go deeper with a GeoKidz Geology Dig Kit, created by Lake Liberty parents Melia and Justin Rice. Kits include just the right tools and guidance for fun and authentic scientific exploration.
Justin Rice, a professional geologist, says GeoKitz kits were developed “from our kitchen laboratory.”
“I like to tell people it represents the tools and information I had when I was in my Geology 101 lab.” There are several kits available including a Seismic Adventure Kit, RockHounding, and The Dig Kit.
Kit creation is a family project, says Rice. Kids Grayson, now 5, and Haylen, age 2, help determine whether GeoKitz kit prototypes will hold up to hard play.
“Our kids test out everything and it has been invaluable to see what they like — or what they can easily destroy,” he says. “Being able to involve the entire family is one of the most rewarding aspects of GeoKidz.”
Recommended for ages 5 and up with a parent, 12 and up without. 3 exploregeokidz.com.
— Cheryl Murfin
take place at markets, public events, private parties, fundraisers and other venues.
Lassaline says the spark for “You as an Animal” came from her love of animals, her reverence for nature, and her interest in the rich history of mask performance.
“When I make a mask, I don’t know what character it will be until I put it on and start wearing it,” she says. “That’s part of the transformational power for the wearer, but also for the viewer. I become something else.
“The masks invite storytelling, because I become some imaginative character,” the Vashon Island-based artist adds. “I wanted to open up a space for storytelling and I came up with the idea of other people maybe wanting to explore their inner identity as an animal.”
Over the past eight years, she has painted more than 3,000 portraits, each completed in just a few minutes by Lassaline’s deft, delicate hands. Lassaline does not choose the animals for those who sit for a painting. Participants choose the animals they want to be in the moment of the art-making.
“I make it more about the story of the day, or what they’re feeling about themselves, or what they wish they could be in terms of the animal world,” Lassaline says. “It’s really less about what someone looks like for me and more about what they feel like they wish they could do or be, or what they want to express.
“I imagined it as like the first page of a storybook, an illustrated book about that person’s day or life or whatever they want it to be. They get to fill in the rest,” she says.
During “You as an Animal” performances, participants make requests from the conventional to the fantastical — and sometimes they go outside the animal kingdom to see themselves as a cedar tree, a cake or a trillium flower.
Doing portraits of children is especially rewarding for Lassaline. She recalls the girl who took great care to describe a magical unicorn of great power and rainbow scales. It was also invisible.
Once during a fair event, a child Lassaline
illustrated returned to her performance station later in the day, surprising her with his own drawing of her. Lassaline holds dear this reciprocal rendering. She’s also learned a lot about animals from kids as they spout information they’ve gleaned from classrooms or books.
Outside of “You as an Animal,” Lassaline’s interdisciplinary work spans diverse mediums. She has created art for nonprofits, Seattle parks, Tacoma Art Museum, Seattle Mayor’s Arts Awards and more.
“You as an Animal” performance/portrait creations can be found at public markets in both Seattle and on Vashon, where Lassaline is part of the island’s thriving artist community.
Lassaline considers “You as an Animal” a collaborative experience.
“Each person that sits for a portrait has to enter that creative space,” she says. “They’ve already done the hard work just by deciding to participate.
“They’ve already engaged in some creative way.”
For more information go to youasananimal.com.
THROUGH JULY 17, 2022
Burke Museum • UW Campus, Seattle
burkemuseum.org/lifeinonecubicfoot
impede language development among young children.
Speech pathologist Mona Best recognizes that masks bring unique challenges to speech development and therapy. Best works with children from kindergarten through grade 5 in the Tahoma School District and with issues ranging from articulation to complex communication for preverbal kids.
When mask mandates are in place, Best wears a face shield so students can see her whole face clearly. Her students have worn masks with clear panels during sessions. The clear panel workaround has been helpful, but Best says masks have limitations, since progress relies on dynamic feedback during therapy. As therapists peer through a foggy window on a masked child, that feedback can be hard to both give and receive.
But Best has found students to be resilient, even when they are required to wear a mask. Katie Skorupa’s son makes Best’s point: “My youngest, L, had a speech delay before the pandemic and was able to graduate out of required services while wearing a mask and shield.”
“Communication is so much more than just the words you’re hearing,” speech pathologist Best says. “Many of the students I (have seen) rely on their visual system to problem solve.” Body language, gestures, visual cues in the upper half of the face, tone and pace of speech all contribute to effective communication.
Gretchen Rohrbaugh’s third-grade son is a case in point. He has relied on visual cues like lip-reading and body language to communicate, which made virtual school, “impossible,” Rohrbaugh recalls. Still, Rohrbaugh, a Fall City resident, says masks make understanding her son more difficult, and “it takes so much more effort to communicate, learn, and make friends.”
Best stressed that “spaciousness, presence
and an unhurried way of being” are the best tools for supporting kids with communication challenges whether they are masked or not.
Protonentis highlights a key concern: When it comes to the question of lifting mask mandates, “We might see ableism rear its ugly head.”
“Disabled folks have been traumatized so much throughout this pandemic. We’ve had rhetoric about how COVID ‘only’ hurts people with underlying health conditions, as if those lives are less precious.
“We’ve seen resentment and hostility from folks who aren’t willing to follow COVID suppression protocols to make things safer for folks with increased risks. In the context of school, I would have questions about how [teachers] plan to keep an eye on bullying or judgment coming from kids who decide to go mask-free versus kids who decide to keep masks on. How do we support the kids in navigating the social and emotional components of that transition?”
She adds that medically fragile or disabled kids may need to transition away from masking at a different pace from other children.
“I hope we’re thinking about how to make sure that these kids feel affirmed and supported as they navigate this uncertain time,” Protonentis says.
Masking uncertainty has been particularly challenging for parents of neurodiverse children (there are as many as 48,000 autistic children in Washington), children with sensory challenges, and disabled children. Along with sensory disorientation, parents say that their kids have expressed confusion around inconsistent social norms.
“We used to refer to flexibility as the f-word,” Adana Protonentis says of her two neurodivergent children, who both have anxiety disorders. “They’re feeling really depleted in terms of their ability to be flexible.”
When Protonentis asked her children how they would feel about unmasking, her son said, “I would think I’m being tricked. That doesn’t sound real.”
“He said he’d feel uncomfortable and unsafe and would want to know he could do school from home until he felt comfortable,” she says.
Since 2020, parents have expressed concern about how babies’ emotional development may be impacted by parents being masked at birth, as well as the ongoing masking of caregivers (see “Masked at First Sight” on page 11).
Psychotherapist Emily Anderson assures parents that they should feel confident
Local doctors and mental health specialists say parents should remember that acting on “big feelings” is normal child behavior, especially at times of transition throughout the day. If you think your child may be suffering from heightened or high anxiety, ask yourself these questions:
1) Do their feelings or behaviors interfere in daily life?
2) Do emotional storms continue over long periods of time? Does the storm blow over in 5 minutes, or does it take an hour?
3) Do upset periods interfere with sleep and eating?
If the answer to any or all of these questions is ‘Yes!’ seek support from a doctor, therapist or other person trained to diagnose childhood mental health concerns (See “Parent Resources” on page 62)
Remember, anxiety can look different in children and adults. Some signs of high anxiety in kids include, but are not limited to:
Your child insists on doing things a certain way and has meltdowns, tantrums, aggression if that “certain way” is disrupted. This behavior may be your child trying to get more predictability, because predictability mitigates anxiety.
Your child is subject to big wiggles, standing up/sitting down, and an inability to to keep their hands to themself. This may mean your child is processing the physical experience of anxiety.
Your child laughs when someone gets hurt, pretends not to care about being in trouble, and exhibits big anger over small issues. Such disproportionate feelings are often a mask for feelings or worries that a child finds it difficult to articulate.
their little ones will thrive with a masked caregiver.
“You may have to work harder to develop their sense of safety,” Anderson says. But, “babies’ brains are incredibly plastic and attachment is not as fragile as we think it is,” she says. “If something like masking could knock attachment off the rails, we wouldn’t have survived as a species. We are much more adaptable than that.”
Cultural Inclusion and COVID Disproportion
Anderson points out that many concerns about masking and children represent a Western perspective.
“There are cultures that have worn face coverings in public for millennia,” she stresses. In those cultures, babies are developmentally and emotionally on track. At the same time, unmasking in the midst of a school year may increase anxiety in populations disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. Mom Adana Protonentis wholeheartedly agrees. A child’s sense of safety is shaped by their identity. “Context matters,’’ Protonentis says. “Some of us have experienced more grief and loss during COVID and the stakes around masking feel different. Pacific Islander, Black, Indigenous and disabled communities have been hit especially hard by the pandemic.
“The level of risk I feel as a Black, disabled person is different from the level of risk my white in-laws might feel,” she adds. “For kids who have lost loved ones to COVID, or who have loved ones who are experiencing long-term effects of COVID, the decision to stop wearing a mask may feel fraught. And we have to understand that the kids in that position are most likely to be from marginalized communities, because systemic oppression created conditions for marginalized communities to be more exposed to and particularly vulnerable to COVID.”
And what about the dramatic increase in anxiety among children and adolescents during these COVID-19 years? Is masking to blame? Could removing masks be the solution for anxious kids and families?
There is no evidence that masking alone is the culprit in the current child mental health crisis in Washington and across the U.S.
More likely parent and child anxiety is born of a combination of COVID-related stressors —instability at work or home, fear of the disease, loss of loved ones, stress over finances, being isolated or distanced from friends, and faces being covered.
Seattle mom Erin MacDougall has three children, one too young to be vaccinated, and says parents are already mentally overtaxed.
“The mental health burden on students and their families during the pandemic are immense,” she says. “Adding another anxiety-driving decision and potential peer pressure around masking or not masking while at school is irresponsible.”
“What is affecting kids the most is how parents are holding up,” says Emily Anderson. When parents are stressed, kids’ anxiety increases, and vice versa. (See “Know the Signs of Anxiety” on page 59.)
Anderson adds, “It’s important that we hold our kids’ anxiety in a context, and be careful not to send our kids the signal that there’s nothing to worry about.” Children are always aware of large-scale upsets. Anderson says parents need to validate kids’ emotions while also focusing on the steps being taken to stay safe and emphasizing to kids what they can control.
Mental health experts remind parents they too need to focus on what they can control. Readiness for change, for example, can reduce anxiety. When and if mandates are ended, families should openly discuss the possibility of their return. Readiness can help reduce anxiety.
Parents should remind kids that the need for masks may come and go, like the need for warm jackets in winter. Such simple comparisons can help normalize the on-again, off-again aspect of this particular disease-fighting tool. Adding occasional “mask practice” to earthquake practice at home might help as well.
No matter what, hold on to faith in the buoyancy of youth, these experts stress. In times of challenge, children may have to adopt new tools and cut new paths to developing the skills they need to thrive. But human adaptation theory assures kids raised during the pandemic will make their way.
Research will continue to emerge on long-term masking within epidemic environments, and increased anxiety among children in times of great unknown. With it will come better information on how to best mitigate negatives and nurture children’s physical and mental health.
In the meantime, if you feel caught in the middle of wanting to keep your kids safe while at the same time wishing for them the fuller freedom of an unmasked childhood, you are not alone.
“Masks feel like a hard Band-Aid for us to peel... they have provided so much safety to our family,” says Sarah Orza, West Seattle mother of two. “When I think about getting to see children’s sweet smiles directed fully again at each other, I get excited.”
Katie Anthony, boy mom and jumpsuit savant, writes about feminism, family, and other f-words at KatyKatiKate.com. Seattle’s Child staff reporters contributed to this article.
well. Most important at birth is their sense of smell. So get close, even with your mask. Your baby will know you.
I remind them we humans have five senses for a reason. And babies are incredibly resilient in their use of them. They adapt.
I remind them that nearly one-third of babies are born by surgery. That’s a sad statistic, but the fact is the vast majority develop just fine. I remind them that blind and deaf babies and those who spend time in heavily masked neonatal intensive care units bond successfully with their parents. I remind them that babies are brilliant: They use whatever sense or synapse is at their disposal to get to know their parents and caregivers and get what they need to grow and thrive.
I like to remind myself of a few things as well.
I tell myself parents, too, are resilient. Such worries are new but normal. Concern is part of becoming the great protector of a tiny new human.
I remind myself and parents that providers in all birth settings continue to find ways to flex in support of parent-baby connection despite the need for increased caution. Most Puget Sound-area hospitals and birthing centers allow both parents to unmask when providers are out of the room. And many try to take their leave before the “golden hour” — the critical window after birth when skin-to-skin contact with a parent (usually the mother) helps a baby to regulate temperature, control respiration and reduce the chance of low blood sugar — has passed.
A few colleagues recently reminded me that more important than what masks do cover is what they don’t cover: the eyes.
“I’m meeting lots of smiling babies on my exam table who are clearly responding to my smiling voice and my smiling eyes,” lactation consultant Dana Hall, IBCLC said. I’m meeting those babies, too.
I like to believe that our COVID babies will inform and surprise us. Perhaps those studies just now getting underway will find they have stronger facial interpretation and recognition skills as a result of adapting to masks.
In my heart of hearts — and from what I’ve seen of the bevy of healthy, well-developing babies born into my practice since 2020 — I’m confident our newest Washingtonians will do just fine despite masking.
Still, that same heart breaks a little at each new birth as the elastic bands snap behind parent ears. It aches most not for the babies, but for the mothers and fathers whose dreams of this life-changing moment didn’t include a piece of paper or cloth covering their fear, excitement and joy.
ABOUT OUR WRITER
Cheryl Murfin is a mother of two, a doula of 22 years and managing editor of Seattle’s Child.
Masks will forever be a tool in preventing disease spread. Here we bust the myths on kids and masks. by
KATIE ANTHONY
Aaron Collins, aka the Mask Nerd, is a mechanical engineer with a background in aerosol science. He is also a father. Since 2020, Collins has been sharing his evaluations of masks in terms of filtration and fit on his Twitter page @masknerd.
Dr. Katrine Wallace, also known as Dr. Kat, is an epidemiologist and mother who uses her Instagram page @epidemiologistkat to debunk misinformation, answer COVID questions and make complex data accessible to parents.
Myth: Wearing a mask will make it harder for my child to breathe.
Dr. Kat (and the American Lung Association) say masks are designed to be breathed through, and there’s no evidence that low oxygen levels occur.
Myth: Wearing a mask will trigger my child’s asthma or allergies.
Nope.
“According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) there is no evidence that wearing a mask worsens asthma,” says Dr. Kat.
Collins adds that masks actually filter common allergens like pollen, dust and mites.
Myth: Masks trap the carbon dioxide that we normally breathe out.
Dr. Kat says, “CO2 molecules are much smaller than viruses and can easily pass through any cloth mask material. There has never been any evidence of ‘CO2 poisoning’ occurring from masks.”
Collins adds that multiple studies show that masking doesn’t impact blood oxygen levels.
Myth: Masks lead to a weaker immune system because we’re not getting exposed to regular germs.
False.
“Your immune system isn’t going to forget pathogens it’s come into contact with before,” says Dr. Kat. “Also, respiratory droplets are not the only way we come into contact with microbes and viruses.”
Myth: We should all wear the mask with the highest number printed on it.
Collins and Dr. Kat agree: The best mask for kids in terms of COVID and potentially future viral threats is the KF94 or KN95. (Collins says that N95 masks don’t come in child sizes, so it can be difficult to get a good fit on a child.)
Myth: If a mask fogs up my kid’s glasses, it’s not protecting them from COVID.
That fog could be from a poor fit, or you could be seeing air that’s already passed through the mask. Collins explains that since warm air rises, a warm, humid exhale that’s passed through a well-fitting mask can still fog glasses. To check, use your fingers to seal the mask against the face and see if your child still fogs up.
Myth: I bought a mask on Amazon and it says KN95. We’re good, right?
Collins recently tested masks purchased from the Amazon marketplace and discovered that 25% of the masks did not meet the standard they were labeled to. He recommends purchasing directly from vetted suppliers like Project N95, 3M, or Kollecte.
Seattle Children’s Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine Anxiety Program: Anxious children (ages 5 to 17) and their parents participate in concurrent groups (based on age group) to learn proven anxiety management techniques.
3 seattlechildrens.org or 206-987-2164
The Child Anxiety Center at Evidence Based Treatment Centers of Seattle (EBTCS): A place for kids dealing with diagnosed anxiety disorders or just in need of a good therapist to navigate the ups and downs of growing up in a pandemic.
3 ebtseattle.com/child-anxiety/ or 206-374-0109
Seattle Times Education Lab mental health resource guide for teens: Children ages 13 and up can self-refer for mental health care. The Times, King County Public Health and local teens created this multicultural guide to help young people find the help they need.
3 seattletimes.com/education-lab/seattle-area-youth-created-this-guide-to-connectteens-to-multicultural-mental-health-care/ COVID-19 Parental Resource Kit
The Centers for Disease Control offers tools and printouts to help parents help children deal with pandemic anxiety and stress.
3 cdc.gov/mentalhealth/stress-coping/parental-resources
Washington Chapter of The American Academy of Pediatrics website has a wealth of information and resources to help parents help children.
3 wcaap.org/resources/behavioral-health
Books for parents
3 Parenting Your Anxious Child with Mindfulness and Acceptance by Christopher McCurry, Ph.D.
3 Helping Your Anxious Child by Ronald Rapee, Ph.D.
3 Getting to Calm, The Early Years by Laura S. Kastner, Ph.D.
3 Getting to Calm: Cool-Headed Strategies for Parenting Tweens + Teens by Laura S. Kastner, Ph.D.
Books for children
3 I Bet I Won’t Fret: A Workbook to Help Children with Generalized Anxiety Disorder by Timothy A. Sisemore, Ph.D.
3 What to Do When You Worry Too Much: A Kid’s Guide to Overcoming Anxiety (What to Do Guides for Kids) by Dawn Huebner, Ph.D.
Films
Ask your school or library for a screening of Angst, by Seattle resident and documentary filmmaker Matt Skerritt. This hour long film explores the disturbing uptick in anxiety in children; its causes, effects and how to deal with it. The filmmakers have also created an online resource for parents.
3 angstmovie.com/resources/ Anxiety Reducing Games
Check out the Mightier program developed by clinicians from Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School. With Mightier, anxious kids practice cooling down/calming down or “taking a pause” in a fun play environment. A monitor worn while they play allows them to see their emotions and connect with them directly.
3 mightier.com
Smart Device Apps (search your device App Store)
3 Healthy Minds Program app for skill-based meditation learning
3 HowRightNow.org app to help manage hard feelings in the moment
3 Calm mindfulness app
3 Happify tools and programs to help take control of feelings and thoughts
3 Headspace guided meditation, articles and videos
3 Stop, Breathe & Think meditation and mindfulness app
Make spring all about dirt, health, and self-care
by DR. SUSANNA BLOCK of KAISER PERMANENTE
Although COVID-19 continues to direct many aspects of how we live and socialize, let’s take a minute to remember what we can control and to recommit to self-care, healthy choices and strength.
Self-care. Self-care is one of the most important things we can do. Our strength and a calm, positive outlook set the tone for our families, and as we know, all of this – school, social life, COVID-19 — is a marathon, not a sprint.
Self-care looks different for different people, but remember to do something kind for yourself every day. Whether it’s taking time to go for a walk, read a book or catch up with an old friend, this is the core stuff that keeps us strong and rejuvenated and gives us the endurance we need.
Get outside. The weather has been rough, but getting outside for a daily walk, run or stroll with a friend is one of the
healthiest things we can do. Cold slush? No problem: That’s what jackets are for! Exercise and fresh air do wonders for sleep, fitness and mental health. Let’s be serious: These are all things we need.
Get dirty. Many kids are extremely nervous about germs, and this extends to getting dirty with outside play. The worry makes sense around fear of transmitting a virus, but it is adding to childhood anxiety and fear in other areas too. We’ve been talking about this a lot in our house, and I’m challenging my kids to get legitimately dirty five days a week. Playing with puddles, grass or the dog (if you have one) are all good things.
Navigate scary situations with a plan. There are still a lot of unknowns about COVID as spring rolls in. Rather than avoid scary topics, work together to make a plan. This helps kids feel empowered to navigate scary situations. Whether it is recommitting to masking indoors or discussing how the family will respond if someone gets the virus, this is real stuff. Being up-front and outlining a plan helps children feel in control.
Vaccinate and boost. I know we’ve heard this a lot. But that’s because it’s true.
I mean this literally. Let’s get our kids outside and dirty. As in dirt! Fresh air and overcoming fear of dirt help reduce anxiety. Email your stories and photos about getting out and dirty even in froggy weather to jhanson@seattleschild.com and let us know if we can share them!
COVID vaccines and boosters have been proven safe and extremely effective in preventing severe disease, hospitalization and illness. If your children are age-eligible, vaccinate. Also, don’t forget a flu vaccine. Refresh your masks. Masks are not going anywhere, and if your family is like ours, we’ve gone through many different mask types. Toss old, poorly fitting masks. Kids have grown a lot during these two years, so make sure the masks they are wearing fit properly. Wearing a mask adds protection in public indoor spaces as does handwashing and physical distancing.
