April 2019 - Ann Arbor Family by Adams Street Publishing Co.

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2019

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V O T I N G is OPEN

Health +

WELLNESS

Launch your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interest in science, technology, p.9 engineering and math

An EGG-celent Spring Guide Inside p.16

GUIDE Experts share health tips for your family p12

OVER 100 REASONS TO LOVE SPRING...INSIDE.

• April 2019 • www.annarborfamily.com

Volume 25 • Issue 4 April 2019

Health +

WELLNESS Launch your child’s interest in science, technology, engineering and math

GUIDE

departments ann arbor favorites

#showandtell

what’s briefly happening

new kids

tween the lines

Experts share health tips for your family

P12

Online

digital age 17 calendar 21

commentary

food fight 20

Authentic Mexican Favorites Debut at Luna’s

Moving Soon?

Here’s What To Keep In Mind

By Kathryn Streeter

[Always online]

Locally-owned fast-casual Mexican food and fun

Fami

Enter to win a GeoSafari Talking Telescope™ (a $49.99 value) and explore the solar system while learning 240 fun facts and questions about outer space. The telescope features fact and quiz modes, and includes images of planets, stars and space. Also included is a 16-page guide— a great way to introduce concepts of outer space and space objects. Get outside and enjoy the night skies this summer! Ages 4+.

To enter visit annarborfamily.com Tracy Rocco

our March giveaway winner

VOTING is OPEN!

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2019

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CONGRATULATIONS!

By Julie and David Sturza

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Explore the solar system

parent profile 18 marketplace 23

Visit the Easter Bunny, local egg hunts, plus other spring festivities

PLEASE VOTE

MARCH 15 - MAY 10 ! TH

VOTE ONLINE for your favorite local people, places and spaces as Ann Arbor’s Family’s annual Family Favorites.

go to

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Summer Camp Guide

Looking for a great summer camp for your child? Head online to find it.

April Showers bring May FLowers

annarborfamily.com

On the cover Lucas, 2 with Grandpa Rick, Ann Arbor Photographer: Sudeep Studios

Join us and our 1,500+ followers for laughs, updates & parenting discussions. recycle this paper For our children's future ...

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A coloring book only a mother could love Finally, a way to color out your motherhood feelings! The Mommy Drinks Because You Cry Coloring Book features pages with motherly snark like "Home is where the vodka is" and "Sorry I ruined your life when I asked you to put your shoes away." Grab a book now and feel the coloring catharsis. —LE $12 rockpaperscissorsshop.com

A sweet story of discovery From the author of Wolf Camp comes Sweety, the story of a charming, mushroom-loving, headgear-wearing, totally awkward, naked mole rat who is looking for like-minded peeps. As Sweety sets out to find them, she comes to realize— with a little help from her cool Aunt Ruth— that being Sweety is actually pretty awesome. With heart, humor and a whole lot of charm, Andrea Zuill delivers a story about learning to embrace everything that makes you you— something relatable for many kids. —LE $17.99 nicolasbooks.com

ARIES

An inside look at what we’re loving for parents this month

KIDS HOROSCOPE March 21April 19 By Kimmie Rose

Your little Aries is strong-willed and motivated. He is also your little energizer bunny! Your Aries Ram will be especially anxious this month as spring yields its welcoming ways to their little adventurous mind. This child is tired of being cooped up inside of the house and wants to get outside and find trees to climb and dirt to dig! This is a perfect time to teach your little Aries that nature and humans can cooperate during the change of the seasons. Go to the library and pick up a book about spring. The book Spring is Here by Will Hillenbrand is a great read and a good way to calm your little Ram’s need to go outside now, now, now! By reading, you are exercising their energy in a different way and teaching them why everything outside is changing. They can learn about helping you to prepare the yard and burn off energy, simultaneously, as the weather makes the outdoors a safe play-space for them. This is a great month to teach your little Aries patience and discernment for everything in life!

Adams Street Publishing Co. Best April Fool’s joke? Publisher/Editor in Chief

Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@adamsstreetpublishing.com) “HONEY, I’M PREGNANT.”

Co-publisher/Chief Financial Officer

Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@adamsstreetpublishing.com) DING DONG DITCH.

Advertising

Sales Coordinator Jenny Leach (sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com) CHANGING EMAIL SIGNATURES. Sales/ Classifieds Trilby Becker (tbecker@adamsstreetpublishing.com) A CANNED SPRING SNAKE IN MY 7 YEAR OLD’S LUNCHBOX. Ron Katz (rkatz@adamsstreetpublishing.com) PRANKING HMM.

Editorial

Assignment Editor Laura Eliason

(laura@annarborfamily.com) WE’RE MOVING! Calendar Heather Mooney (calendar@annarborfamily.com) NOTHING LIKE TEEPEE’ING SOMEONE’S HOUSE. Associate Editor Athena Cocoves (athena@adamsstreetpublishing.com) “SO... ABOUT THE CAR...” Intern Katelyn Elder (interna2@adamsstreetpublishing.com) STAPLER IN JELL-O. Contributing Writers Laura Eliason, Kimmie Rose, Julie Sturza, David Sturza, Lori Maranville, Katelyn Elder, Kathryn Streeter, Mary Rose Kulczak, Raegan Nelson, Kate Ingersoll.

Art/Production

Production Manager Imani Lateef (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) MY BROTHER’S BIRTHDAY! Senior Designer Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) FAKE BUGS IN A BACKPACK.. Graphic Design Anita Tipton (atipton@adamsstreetpublishing.com) WHEN YOU’RE 4 & YOUR BIG BROTHER TELLS YOU TO DRESS FOR HOT SUMMER WEATHER & ITS APRIL 1ST, FREEZING IN OHIO.. Kelli Miller (kmiller@adamsstreetpublishing.com) HIDING ALARMS IN THE OFFICE. Norwin Lopez (nlopez@adamsstreetpublishing.com) REARRANGE ALL THE DRAWERS IN THE HOUSE.

Administration

Accounting Robin Armstrong (rarmstrong@adamsstreetpublishing.com) PUT A RUBBER BAND AROUND THE KITCHEN SINK HOSE SPRAYER. Distribution Eddie Knight (distribution@adamsstreetpublishing.com) ALWAYS BEEN A BIG FAN OF THE FLAMING BAG OF . . .

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Digital

Digital Media Specialist Courtney Probert (digitalmedia@adamsstreetpublishing.com) TELLING MOM THE DOGS POOPED ALL OVER THE FLOOR INSIDE THE HOUSE.

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and general information, call (734) 668-4044 or fax (734) 668-0555. E-mail ads to adsin@annarborfamily.com Ann Arbor Family subscriptions are available by mail for $28/quarterly or $75 per year at Ann Arbor Family, 3003 Washtenaw, Suite 3, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104. Letters to the editor must be limited to 300 words, are subject to editing and should include the writer’s full name and phone number.

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• April 2019 • www.annarborfamily.com

We’re always looking for great photos to fill our community snaps page! Send your favorite moments to production@adamsstreetpublishing.com

Children’s Entrepreneurship Fair

Catch these young entrepreneurs, and many more, at the upcoming Children’s Entrepreneurship Fair on May 11 from 10am-noon in Downtown Brighton. Visit kidfair.biz for full details.

Violet, 11, founder of Rock It Out!, a business that sells her own painted rocks to bring smiles and fun to adults and kids alike.

Grant McPhail, 2, Ann Arbor Arkan, 3, Ann Arbor

Rowin, 7, founder of Doggie Flair Designs, is sewing bandannas to sell to keep dogs warm, stylish and safe.

Olivia Simon, a sixth grader at Saline Middle School, won the Reader’s Choice Award in the youth category of Kent District Library’s Write Michigan Short Story Contest. KDL received over 1,300 entries from writers of all ages.

Brothers Peter, 7, and Owen, 9, are selling homemade firestarters made entirely of recycled materials

SUNDAY, APRIL 28TH 1pm - 4pm

Over 40 Raffle Prizes! Open to the Public. Alumni Welcome.

Ashley, 12, reclaims fabric to sew into scrunchies, keeping excess fabric from going into landfills while also earning money to buy a car when she turns 16.

Dance, Music, & Theater (ages 2-18) Recreational & Competitive Classes Full Summer schedule of classes 2 weeks of Themed Summer Camps

studio3pac.com 6885 Jackson Rd, Ann Arbor (734) 424-9705

HERITAGE FESTIVAL AND RAFFLE Sunday, April 28th at Cobblestone Farm 1 PM -3 PM Entertainment, Activities and Ticket Sales 3 PM - 4 PM Raffle Drawing Family Fun, Games, Crafts, Food, Entertainment and Raffle For more information visit our website at

www.StoneSchool.org • 734-971-4820

All proceeds go to support Stone School Cooperative Preschool

www.annarborfamily.com • April 2019 •

Compiled by Laura Eliason

Children’s Business Fair returns Young entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to network, develop a business plan, and launch their own startup business this spring at events sponsored by Acton Academy. On Saturday, April 13 entrepreneurs ages 6-12 can network with fellow emerging innovators to share experiences, challenges and successes at the Young Entrepreneurs Network event. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas, prototypes to test, logo drafts and questions to bounce off of peers as parents step aside, observe, and empower. On Saturday, May 4, kids will have the opportunity to showcase and sell their products to the public at the Children’s Business Fair from 10am-noon at Riverside Arts Center, 76 N. Huron St. in Ypsilanti. To register for a booth at the Children’s Business Fair visit childrensbusinessfair. org/annarbor-acton. Young Entrepreneurs Network, Saturday, April 13. 10-11:30am. Acton Academy Ann Arbor, 4115 Jackson Rd. Register for the Young Entrepreneurs Network event by emailing info@actonannarbor.com. Both events are Free

A camp for kids with a parent diagnosed with cancer It is estimated that over 5 million children in the U.S. are impacted by a parent’s cancer. Kesem is a national organization dedicated to this unique population, and for many children a Camp Kesem experience is a life-changing event– placing them in a community of children with similar experiences and a safe and welcoming environment to have fun and rediscover their childhood. Camp Kesem at The University of Michigan is a free camp experience, located at the YMCA Camp Copneconic in Fenton, offered in two week-long sessions: August 4-9 and August 12-17. The camp is for children who have lost a parent to cancer, have a parent undergoing cancer treatment, or whose parent is a cancer survivor. Campers are accepted to the camp on a rolling basis. For more information or to apply, visit campkesem.org/camp-kesem

Telling tales Celebrate the art of live storytelling, while supporting the Student Advocacy Center as they present Telling Tales Out of School on Friday, April 12. The evening will feature music by a string quartet from Pioneer High School and personalized poems typed live by A. Probst. The “Empty Chair” Art Exhibit is being held before the event begins at 6:30pm., in collaboration with Ypsilanti High School art students. The speaking portion of the event will feature Lincoln High School choirs, Moth Double Grand Slam Winner Camille Woods, stories by SAC students, a mini-documentary by former CNN correspondent Tony Collings and a dramatic piece with EMU students in partnership with Engage @EMU. Doors open at 7pm, and Telling Tales begins at 7:30pm. Ages 12+ welcome to attend. Friday, April 12. 6:30-9:30pm. Minimum donation $25/in advance, $30/at the door. $10/students with ID. Scarlett Middle School, 3300 Lorraine St. 734-482-0489 studentadvocacycenter.org/ support-sac/tellingtalestickets

4 billion years of natural history finds a new home After closing in December 2017, the long-awaited re-opening of the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History takes place Sunday, April 14, in a brand-new building. The grand opening will feature a ribbon cutting at 9am and extended hours until 8pm. Visitors will be greeted by the museum’s iconic mastodons, view prehistoric whale skeletons, and walk through 4 billion years of the history of life on Earth. Favorite displays and specimens mix with new exhibits in a state-of-the-art learning facility that combines billions of years of natural history with cutting-edge scientific research. Some of the museum’s newest features include a 25-foot Quetzalcoatlus pterosaur, flying high in the Biological Sciences Building atrium; a high-tech planetarium and dome theater; an interactive, multimedia “Tree of Life” display to illustrate the connections among living things; and the Fossil Prep Lab, where visitors can see how fossils are prepared for study and display. The new building also features Darwin’s Cafe, a convenient place to grab a meal or a quick snack. —LE Daily, 9am-5pm. University of Michigan Museum of Natural History, 1105 N. University Ave. 734-764-0478. lsa.umich.edu/ummnh

Expanding teen mental health care services The Corner Health Center has increased mental health care services and recently brought its waiting list to near zero. “The Corner and other organizations are doing a great job in increasing access to mental health services, but we need much more to meet this crisis,” said Ellen Rabinowitz, MUP, Health Officer for Washtenaw County Health Department and Executive Director for Washtenaw Health Plan. Rabinowitz recently presented at the Corner Health Center in Ypsilanti on the state of youth health in Washtenaw County and cited one of the largest concerns for local youth is access to mental health services, noting that suicide completions have gone up in Washtenaw County. Other key concerns include increased use of opioids, as well as high infant mortality and low birth weights among African American babies. Versell Smith, Executive Director, adds that mental health is a priority at the Corner: “We’ve taken important steps to increase mental health services. But we know there are youth out there who haven’t yet asked for help, and we need to be ready.” The Center recently implemented an intern program for college students seeking their Masters in Social Work (MSW). Smith explains, “This intern process not only provides more therapy resources for our patients, it also gives important training to these students on the best practices for treating this age group.” Corner Health Center, 47 N. Huron St., Ypsilanti. For more information, or to make an appointment, call 734-484-3600 or visit cornerhealth.org

• April 2019 • www.annarborfamily.com

A2 Yoga opens new location on Ann Arbor’s east side

Owned by sister team Anna Hough and Dina Sheldon, A2 Yoga has been voted Best Yoga Studio three times by Current Magazine readers. Anna founded A2 Yoga 15 years ago and moved to their 2030 Commerce Blvd location in 2009. A2 Yoga is now opening A2 Yoga East Side, next door to Trader Joe’s. They offer Nia, yoga teacher training, and a variety of yoga styles, including Vinyasa, Prana Vinyasa, Hatha, Heart-Centered Hatha, Gentle-Restorative, Pre-Natal, Yin, and Ashtanga. -TB A2 Yoga Eastside, 2310 East Stadium Blvd. 734-216-4006, a2yoga@gmail.com, a2yoga.net

For those wanting to drink a salad

Thrive Juicery opened its doors with a mission to help people find daily fulfillment and balance. Owners Andy and Anna Mignery, parents of former U-M athletes, seek to provide convenient ways to achieve better health and lower stress through imbibing juices chock full of unaltered fruits and vegetables. Visitors can pop in for cold-pressed juices made from 100% raw fruits and vegetables and served in recyclable glass bottles. Kids and their grown ups may get a kick out watching the cold press process, which applies 11.5 tons of pressure. Thrive also offers a variety of coffees, superfood smoothies (including kid size), breakfast items like overnight oats and banana sweet potato “toast,” and microgreen, kale, or farro salads. -KL Open Monday-Friday, 7:30am-6pm and Saturday-Sunday, 9am-6pm. 2420 E. Stadium Blvd. in Lamp Post Plaza. thrivejuicery.com

Just in time for spring brunches

Anna’s House opened its Ann Arbor location in midMarch, in the Concord Center, formerly the home of Max and Erma’s. The family-owned and operated restaurant prioritizes using fresh, local, and all-natural ingredients. Its menu includes options for those who are vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, or dairy-free. Menu items include an array of omelets, crepes, house bowls, panini, and wraps. Those with a sweet tooth have plentiful options as well, such as the Chocolate Quinoa Breakfast Bowl. The restaurant features a very large waiting room and a menu of over 100 dishes. Check in online before you head out to minimize wait times. -KL Open daily, 6am-3pm, except Christmas and Thanksgiving. 445 E. Eisenhower in Concord Center. annashouseus.com.

Serving fast, aromatic, reasonably priced eats

Chow Asian Street Food has opened in downtown Ann Arbor, in the location which formerly housed Mark’s Carts. Brothers Ryan and Thad Gillies, co-owners of Logan Restaurant on Washington Street, provide reasonable, chef-driven food at a lower price point, without sacrificing taste. Think fast casual and handmade. Sandwiches are $6 and bowls cost $8-12. Kids’ meals and dessert options are also on hand. Check out on what they call their “anytime food” menu including Roujiamo sandwiches grilled on fresh house baked bread, Malaysian Beef Rendang and bowls made with noodles from China Town, Brooklyn. The dining area is warm and inviting, communal style. -KL Daily, 11am to 11pm. Chow Asian Street Food, 211 W. Washington St.

www.annarborfamily.com • April 2019 •

tween the lines

advice for parents with children 10-16

#ItTakesAVillage

My son’s eating habits changed and I had nothing to do with it. By Kathryn Streeter

Wild Swan Theater Presents

CHARLOTTE’S WEB Charlotte’s Web is possibly the best loved of all American stories for children. It tells the touching story of a rare friendship between a little pig, Wilbur, and Charlotte, a most uncommon spider.

PERFORMANCES

Wed, May 1 – 10am, Thurs, May 2 – 10am Fri, May 3 – 10am & 12:30pm, Sat, May 4 – 2pm, Sun, May 5 – 2pm For tickets: Call (734) 995-0530 Or order online at www.wildswantheater.org

SPEND YOUR SUMMER “ACTING UP”! Camp DoYaWanna

June 17 - August 2 New themes each week • Ages 4 - 12 Call today to reserve your spot!

It was burger night. Unlike everyone else, my son’s burger was plain; he wouldn’t let lettuce and tomato ruin his hamburger. The cousins sat together at the bar, boys to one side, the giggly girls to the other. Coughing and vomiting suddenly hushed all laughter and conversation. “Ewww! Gross,” the girls shrieked. A cousin had pranked my son, hiding a small piece of lettuce in his burger. Everything in my kid’s stomach now decorated his once-plain burger. I caught my weary head in my hands. This scene was a vivid reminder that our son had issues with vegetables. He started rejecting fresh produce as a toddler but it wasn’t until he began gagging and throwing-up that I accepted his aversion wasn’t in his mind or a childish act of rebellion. With the exception of applesauce, he simply couldn’t tolerate the texture of produce. Junk food aficionado As he grew, he enjoyed junk food of every kind, like any kid. Candy. Ice cream. Cookies. Soda. Chips. When junior high arrived, energy drinks were the rage and my son’s friends introduced him to Monster and later, Red Bull. I felt helpless as a mom, trying to balance what I knew was ‘normal’ while also agonizing that, unlike most kids, my son refused carrots or grapes. He looked like the picture of health, but I worried that a lifetime of bad eating habits would dog him. My admonitions that he re-try fruits and vegetables every so often— “Give them a second chance!”— didn’t only fall on deaf ears, they deepened his resistance. All things considered, I let go. I couldn’t fix this. Instead, I choose to prioritize my relationship with him. And then, one day, everything started changing. My son was required to read Michael Pollan’s The Omnivore’s Dilemma Young Readers Edition for his high school freshman English class. Using the question “What’s for dinner?” as a prompt, Pollan unpacks what is hidden in the everyday foods we consume. My teen son’s curiosity was whet. What he learned appalled him. “Do you actually know what we are eating, Mom?”

• April 2019 • www.annarborfamily.com

Changed, by the book His reaction was pure disgust as he learned what comprises processed food. Frowning, he read food labels. Around the dinner table he singled out corn, but not in the way you may think. “Corn-filler is slipped into just about everything we eat. It’s terrible for you!” I was being lectured, but I didn’t mind. Overnight, he had morphed into an advocate for health and wellness, urging me to quit buying white rice. White rice, he explained, was stripped of all its protein and minerals so it had a longer shelf life. “Brown rice is loaded with protein. Get that.” Nodding, I listened in silence. This book was teaching him in ways I couldn’t. When he changed, I had to change, too. I had been regularly buying ice cream for my teens but suddenly it got freezer-burn. He quit asking me to buy Cool Whip, previously used to top whatever he fancied. He cut back on all of the processed foods I’d stocked in the pantry. Pretzels, Cheez-Its, unacceptable. Energy drinks? No way. He instead increased his water intake. Healthy to a t(ea) Now, on an ordinary school night, I tap on his bedroom door. “Tea.” He’s quit eating dessert and instead, ends the day with hot tea. Taking chamomile back to his room also gives me a chance to say good-night to my high schooler. In the morning, out of the corner of my eye, I see him remove a bag of Pringles I had placed into his brown-bag lunch. “That’s junk, Mom. Empty calories.” He reaches instead for almonds and cashews. “I’m still getting the hang of this!” Truly, I am. There may come a day when he reattempts a hamburger with lettuce. But even if he doesn’t, his foundational thinking about food and health no longer troubles me. I know I can’t take any credit for this victory and honestly, it doesn’t matter. I long ago accepted that it takes a village to raise a child. And now I recognize that books are influential members of this community as well.

STEM Discovery Guide Girl Power

With the assistance of volunteers from the Society of Advancement of Hispanics/Chicanos and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) University of Michigan Chapter, 4th-6th graders performed DNA extraction of strawberries.

Women encouraging other women in STEM By Katelyn Elder

Studies show that girls tend to lose interest in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) subjects around fourth or fifth grade. In an effort to increase the influx of women entering the STEM field, for over seven years FEMMES (Females Excelling More in Mathematics, Engineering, and Science) has been working with young girls in Washtenaw County.

Connect,” to partner girls in grades 6-8 with a mentor to continue inspiring and demonstrating that STEM is a field they can choose to pursue.

Comprised of both graduate and undergraduate students, FEMMES executive board members and a majority of their volunteers are women actively pursuing a degree in STEM. During FEMMES programming, students engage with volunteers at elementary schools, doing fun activities and experiments that help visually demonstrate scientific concepts.

want to become when I’m older. Maybe I’ll be a veterinarian.”

Over half a dozen events are planned per semester to keep young students’ interest in STEM alive. The mentorship doesn’t stop there, though. Eva Chakravorty, UM student and FEMMES mentor, says that she and her mentee often watch Ted Talks, do science experiments, and even go on Founded in 2006 at Duke University by Vicki Weston, FEMMES gained traction in lab tours together. Washtenaw County once Weston started “I like doing the different activities with the organization’s second chapter while the [FEMMES] program,” Chakravorty’s attending medical school at the Univermentee, 7th grader Nyla Allen, said. sity of Michigan. “They help me figure out what I might

“Through FEMMES,” explains graduate president, Megan Connolly, “these girls see that women can become confident in STEM. We really try to train our volunteers to take the concepts that these girls are learning in class one step further, to help them feel confident that they understand [that concept] to a higher degree.” ”It’s nice for the girls to be able to engage with science in their own environment, where they’re comfortable,” FEMMES graduate vice president, Alexandra Sun noted. FEMMES hosts local events at public schools as well as spaces such, as city libraries. Mentorship opportunities In addition to programming in local elementary schools, FEMMES has recently launched a new program, “FEMMES

PHOTO CREDIT: JILLIAN GENOVA

STEM education (science, technology, engineering, and math) is increasingly important in today’s world. Our STEM Discovery Guide will help you learn more about STEM opportunities in Washtenaw County. Read more about this local program dedicated to empowering girls to engage in STEM education and related careers. Grow your child’s mind through DIY STEM learning and activities.

greater Detroit area. Although FEMMES is geared towards engaging 4th-6th grade girls in STEM, the program will not turn away any interested participants based on sex, gender, or age. At this semester’s Capstone event in March, over 180 girls, from over forty area elementary and middle schools, participated in a variety of activities which covered a vast array of scientific

fields. These activities include Filtration Station: Cleaning up Dirty Rivers (Environmental Science), What's your address in the universe? (Astronomy), Perceptions and Illusions (Neuroscience/Psychology) and more. For more information on FEMMES, visit femmes.studentorgs.umich.edu.

“I think it’s cool that Nyla has a mentor and it’s good for her to see somebody like her in school and see that she’s doing well,” Nyla’s mom, Camille, said. “It also encourages her in subjects that she might not otherwise be as interested in at school, like math and science.” The big event FEMMES also provides opportunities to local young girls with their semi annual Capstone event held in the U of M’s building. Girls are invited to participate in a variety of fun experiments led by college students and university professors, who take the time to contribute to the cause. “It’s so great when girls can come to our Capstone event,” FEMMES undergraduate president, Daria Stelmak stated. “In the University setting, they get to meet with faculty and students. They truly gain exposure to colleges and those resources available as well as learning about all the possibilities when it comes to education and potential careers.” The FEMMES Capstone event is open to any girl in Washtenaw County and the

www.annarborfamily.com • April 2019 •

STEM Discovery Guide Continued

A Farm in the Middle of Ypsilanti

STEM-based field trips for all ages at Growing Hope By Erica Bloom Photos by Raegan Nelson

Just a few blocks from downtown Ypsilanti is a farm where children of all ages explore nature and learn about how food grows. Growing Hope’s Urban Farm and Demonstration Gardens is an acre of vegetable and flower beds, two hoop houses and a children’s garden. There is even an outdoor adobe pizza oven and a bicycle blender that makes fresh fruit smoothies. This year, Growing Hope is integrating STEM curriculum into their garden-based lessons. Working with science teachers from across Ypsilanti and Southeast Michigan to develop interactive garden lessons that build from science, math and technology, students will learn about botany through exploring different parts of a plant, and about geometry through figuring out where to place seedlings in a square foot garden. Mitchell Elementary Comes to Growing Hope In Spring 2018, students from Ann Arbor’s Mitchell Elementary visited the Growing Hope Urban Farm. Sixty fifth graders tasted fresh herbs from the youth garden and harvested spinach

from the hoophouse to make smoothies using the bike blender. The students also studied how weather like frost, rain, and drought affects a garden. “Coming out to the farm was a multisensory experience, the students got to see, taste, smell and feel all the plants growing on the farm,” says Mitchell fifth grade teacher Mr. Popkey, who accompanied his students to Growing Hope last spring. “While reading and learning in the classroom is important, the experience of seeing it with your own eyes has a magic and power all its own.” Innovative Learning on the Farm Growing Hope’s newest project is an aquaponics systems where students can explore how fish supply nutrients for aquaponic plants, which in turn purify the water. Growing Hope is partnering with Dr. Ronald Eglash, a University of Michigan professor, to start doing “generative STEM”, a method developed to attract more underrepresented students to STEM education by connecting the concepts to their own culture and heritage.

Students from Mitchell Elementary smell fresh herbs in the garden with their teacher Mr. Popkey “When STEM innovation serves community initiatives like Growing Hope, we not only attract more underrepresented youth, we are also directing the power of science and technology where it is needed most,” said Dr. Eglash. When kids get outdoors in the garden they are more engaged in their learning and just have more fun. At Growing Hope they are working every day to bring more students to the farm to provide hands on STEM lessons and, of course, to get those hands in the dirt. Check out Growing Hope’s Field Trip information at growinghope.net/programs/youth-programs. To book a field trip contact Growing Hope at jeff@growinghope.net or 734-786-8401.

Story Time From Space Did you know there is story time in space? Story Time From Space, a project from the nonprofit Global Space Education Foundation, merges STEM and literacy by featuring astronauts reading children’s books from the International Space Station. Past books have included Max Goes to the Moon by Jeffrey Bennett, about the final flight of the space shuttle Discovery and Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty. Watch the reading sessions at storytimefromspace.com or on the YouTube channel Story Time From Space.

• April 2019 • www.annarborfamily.com

STEM Discovery Guide Continued

DIY STEM Project-Based Learning Activities Story and photos by Raegan Nelson

STEM activities (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) are all the buzz in education. Adults and teachers can help kids prepare for a technology-centered future with fun, hands-on projects that help teach how, and why, things work. So, dive-in with your budding scientist and try out these DIY projects at home.

Technology

Engineering

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ding Structure Builrst and the

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How e cup as legs. to the inside of th 1. Tape 3 markers otor by wrapping pack to the DC m 2. Attach battery otor. the leads on the m the wire around p, slightly to th to the top of e cu ck pa ry tte ba pe 3. Ta one side. to the cup. 4. Tape DC motor rt. in the holder to sta 5. Place batteries n Clip the clothespi ake it j iggle. to the motor to m by taping a add extra weight 6. To jiggle more, e clothespin. popsicle stick to th in the batteries, ur jigglebot, plug yo on e fac a e ak 7. M atch it go! e of paper and w place it on a piec with many other lder and motor, along *Note: The battery ho ally at TinkerTech, loc ed s, can be purchas lie pp su t jec pro EM ST 19, tinkertech.io Ypsilanti, 734-707-80 216 W. Michigan Ave.

Science Lava Lamp

Any kid can become a scientist! This wonderful experiment implements physics and chemistry and can be done several times changing factors such as water temperature, type of oil used, or amount of Alka Seltzer added. Supplies Clear jar Water Food coloring (any color) Cooking oil Alka Seltzer tablet (any brand) How 1. Fill your jar 2/3 the way up with oil and the other 1/3 with water. 2. Add several drops of food coloring to your oil and water. 3. Add a tablet of Alka Seltzer. 4. Watch the chemical reaction occur.

de Help your child un g as they work in er ne basics of engi ucture with a to build a solid str ht amount of sturdy base, the rig design. Be as pieces and a good e, with materials creative as you lik house. found around the Supplies ows, s, or skewers dough, marshmall Toothpicks, straw s together (i.e. play ick hp ot to ld ho rial to Any squishy mate s, etc.) it, cheese, jellybean fru , ies nd ca y m gum How s to the squishy int of the toothpick 1. Connect the po creative! inue adding on. Be material and cont e up m to replicate, or co 2. Pick a structure sign. with your own de

Math

Fraction Pizzas

Make math fun (and tas ty!) as your child explores fractions with pizza. Make a pizza from con struction paper or create an edible pizza that you and your child can enjoy eat ing while learning.

Supplies Brown circle for crust Smaller yellow circle for cheese Various colored papers for toppings Scissors Glue Optional: Pizza box How 1. Cut a large brown cir cle and a smaller yellow circle. Glue the yellow on top to create the cru st and cheese. 2. Cut the circle into eig ht equal slices. 3. Cut various toppings. I left these unglued so I could switch them as we discuss different fra ctions. 4. Now, for the fraction fun! Have the child cou nt how many pieces of pizza there are in the wh ole pizza. Explain that 8 pieces make up the whole. Since 8 of the 8 pieces (or 8/8) have che ese, the whole pizza has cheese. When teachi ng the fractions, go thr ough each topping and count how many pieces have that specific toppin g (do this with pieces that have a combo of top pings as well). For exa mple, 5 pieces have mushrooms. Now, cou nt the pepperonis. Six of the 8 pieces have pep peronis so as a fraction it is written 6/8 (or ¾ if you have older children ready for simplificatio n).

www.annarborfamily.com • April 2019 •

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Live Your Family’s Best Life

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Health and wellness professionals share their insider tips and secrets

Krysta White

also having a blast. Our yoga classes also facilitate mindfulness, which helps kids grow in their self-esteem, focus, and emotional regulation. Overall, we create an environment in which children can grow strong in body and mind.

Dance & Zumba Fitness Instructor Peachy Fitness 2385 S. Huron Pkwy. 734-681-0477 peachyfitness.com

Jan Hack

READ THE FULL INTERVIEWS ONLINE AT ANNARBORFAMILY.COM

Communications Director

Ann Arbor YMCA 400 W. Washington St. 734-996-9622 annarborymca.org

What is one easy habit a family can implement to live healthier starting today?

Play every day! Play may be the best way to prevent childhood obesity. By putting more play into your family's day, you will soon find yourself getting the activity that will have your family feeling energized and strong. It doesn't matter what you choose to do. As long as your arms and legs are moving, it's good for you.

How do you help kids and parents stay fit?

Spending time as a family while being active! The Y makes it easy with physical activity programs for every age, including parent/tot programs, unstructured family-time in the gym and an indoor family pool where everyone can splash together.

What is your favorite outdoor fitness activity to do in Ann Arbor?

Riding bikes is a great way to see our beautiful city, and something that can be done together.

Describe your favorite fitness routine for families and why. The Y is a great place for families to come together to stay active and connected all year long. It’s great to see an entire family get in the pool in the evening or on the weekend, or up on the basketball courts shooting hoops. Fitness doesn’t have to mean a rigid class schedule or punishing routine; it can be an integral part of a family’s life and enhance their together-time while maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Describe your favorite fitness routine for What is one easy practice a family can parents and why. implement to live healthier starting today? What I love seeing most is parents who Meditation and mindfulness habits are becoming a more well-known way to counteract the chaos and stress of modern life. It is very simple to start a mindfulness practice. All you need is five minutes and yourself--turn off all distractions and find the quietest place possible. Once relaxed in a seated or lying down position, close your eyes and begin to slow and deepen your breath. You can expect your mind will wander, but just calmly bring it back to the present moment while focusing on how your breath and body are feeling. This can be a great whole family or parent-child activity to feel more connected to oneself and the present moment. Better yet, look into a movement-based meditation such as a yoga class to develop a deeper mind-body connection!

How do you help kids stay healthy?

Our classes and events help create awareness that exercise can be fun! Through a play-based approach, each child who takes a Peachy Fitness class is not only moving and learning, but

are staying active by doing something that they truly enjoy. Whether that is biking, dancing, yoga, or lifting weights, finding something fun makes it easier to stay consistent. When parents are regularly exercising with a positive attitude, it influences their child to also see it as an essential yet gratifying component of self-care. This strong example gives them a greater chance of continuing to be physically active well into adulthood.

How does Peachy Fitness help keep Ann Arbor families fit and healthy?

Peachy Fitness offers adult, child, and family options for yoga and dance classes throughout the week including prenatal yoga, plus birthday parties, summer camps, and other special events throughout the year. Is transportation a challenge? Ask your child’s school about having a Peachy instructor come onsite to be a part of their after school program.

Yoga & Dance Studio Prenatal, Toddler, Kids,Teens & Families

Birthday Parties Classes n After School n Kids Night Out n Girl Scouts n Camps n Field Trips n n

PeachyFitness.com 734-681-0477 Info@PeachyFitness.com 14

• April 2019 • www.annarborfamily.com

Find, like & follow us /peachyfitness on Facebook & Twitter And /peachy_fitness on Instagram!

www.annarborfamily.com • April 2019 •

Baskets of Fun The best Easter events and more around Ann Arbor

By Katelyn Elder and Laura Eliason Natural Egg Dyeing

Dexter Bring the kids and some hard-boiled eggs to start decorating for Easter at Hudson Mills Metropark. All dyes provided at the event are natural and non-toxic, perfect for even the littlest ones. This event runs on April 2nd and April 6th, and don’t forget to preregister beforehand. Tuesday, April 2. 10-11:30am. Saturday, April 6. 1-2:30pm. Preregistration Required. $4/participant. $10/vehicle entrance fee. Park Activity Center, 8801 North Territorial Rd., Dexter. 734-394-5376. metroparks.com

Easter Bunny Visits

Briarwood Mall Hop in to see the Easter Bunny at Briarwood Mall or schedule an appointment to jump ahead of the line for photo opportunities. The Easter Bunny is generally available for photos from 11am-8pm Monday through Thursday, 10am-8pm Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 9am-6pm. Families can also reserve appointments online. Friday, March 22 – Saturday, April 20 Briarwood Mall | Von Maur Court | 100 Briarwood Cir. 734-769-9610 | simon.com/mall

Sensing Spring

Ann Arbor Take your little one (Ages 2-5) to the Leslie Science & Nature Center to practice using the five senses to learn the signs that spring is coming and winter is fading. Nature Storytime will include both indoor and outdoor activities, such as live animal visits, hikes, stories, and more, so be sure to dress for the weather. Pre-registration is recommended. Sunday, April 7 and Wednesday, April 10, 10-11am. $5/child. $4/child for members. Free/adult and children under two. 1831 Traver Road. 734-997-1553. leslienc.org

Flashlight Egg Hunt

Dexter The tweens won’t feel left out this Easter season at the Flashlight Egg Hunt. For kids ages 8 and up, they’ll have an extra challenge at this Easter Egg Hunt thanks to Hudson Mills Metropark. Collection bags for the eggs and glow-in-the-dark bracelets will be provided at the event, but don’t forget to bring your own flashlight. Saturday, April 13. 8-9:30pm. Preregistration required. $5/participant. $10/ vehicle entrance fee. 8801 North Territorial Rd., Dexter. 734-394-5376. metroparks.com

Easter Egg Scramble

Dexter There are enough eggs (over 4,000) for every participant at this Easter Egg Scramble. Fields and Scramble times are divided so the hunt remains fair for all kids age 10 and under. In addition to the game, there will also be face painting, a petting zoo and a chance to meet the Easter Bunny. This event is widely popular so don’t forget to preregister. Early arrival is recommended. Sunday, April 14. 12-2pm. Preregistration required. $5/particpant. $10/vehicle entrance fee. 8801 North Territorial Rd., Dexter. 734-394-5376. metroparks.com

Caring Bunny

Briarwood Mall Families with children who have special needs can visit the Caring Bunny for an Easter experience with fewer sensory triggers and a subdued environment. From 9am-10:30am, the mall will reduce certain elements such as in-mall music, moving escalators near the photo set, dimmed lights and water fountains. Other features may include special activities during the wait time and a number system to eliminate lines. Sunday, April 7. 9-10:30am

Egg-Stravaganza Easter Egg Hunt

Northville Face painting, farm animals, exhibits, the Easter Bunny, Smokey the Bear and more! Come to Maybury State Park for an egg-cellent event that includes age divided egg hunts beginning at 11am. Get here early as the event is limited to the first 700 children. Scheduled for April 13th, in case of rain, the event will be pushed to April 14th. Saturday, April 13. 11am-2pm. $5/vehicle. 20145 Beck Road, Northville. 248-349-8390. Michigandnr.com

Detroit Zoo Bunnyville

OPEN HOUSES: Early Childhood Campus Tuesday, April 9th 9:00 am - 11:00 am

Elementary Campus Thursday, April 11th 9:00 am - 11:00 am

Royal Oak Search through a sea of one hundred eggs in the Zoo to find the egg laid by the golden goose. Each day there will be whisker painting, learning stations, and photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny. Admission to the festivities is included in your Detroit Zoo admission ticket, but please consider bringing food donations for Gleaners Community Food Bank. Sunday/Saturday, April 19-20. 9am-3pm. 8450 W 10 Mile Rd, Royal Oak. 248-541-5717. detroitzoo.org Free with admission ticket.

‘Egg-stravaganza’ Egg Hunt

Saline Saline Chamber of Commerce has an “egg-stra” fun Bunny Trail that starts at Busch’s Market (where you will retrieve a trail sheet) and ends at Mickey’s Dairy Twist (where you will drop off your completed card for a chance to win one of five baskets). One of the five trails has the Easter Bunny on it. There will even be two golden eggs on each trail for adults to find with a prize at the end. Saturday, April 20. 11am-3pm. Busch’s Saline, 565 E. Michigan Avenue, Saline. 734-429-4494. salinechamber.org Free

Easter Egg Hunt

Manchester Manchester Men’s Club, a local non-profit organization, is hosting their annual Easter Egg Hunt this year at Carr Park. This event is free for ages toddler-5th grade, so take your little ones and some baskets and have a blast! Saturday, April 20. 1-3pm. 599 W. Main St, Manchester. Manchestermensclub.com Free

Easter Eggstravaganza Canton Bring the kids out to enjoy a variety of Easter and spring-themed activities! The City of Canton will run continuous egg hunts between 10:30am-12:30pm in two age categories to help keep the “hunting” fair for even our littlest participants. Allow extra time for parkinghistorically this is a well-attended event. Look online for a complete schedule of events. Tickets will be sold day of the event, no pre-registration is necessary. Ages 11 and under. Saturday, April 13. 10:30am-12:30pm. $4/ resident child, $5/non-resident child. Summit on the Park, 46000 Summit Pkwy., Canton. 734-394-5460. Cantonfun.org

Easter Egg Hunt

Ann Arbor West Side United Methodist Church Join the West United Methodist Church for its annual family Easter egg hunt! Don’t miss pictures with the Easter bunny, storytime, crafts, games, snack and an egg hunt. Children through fifth grade welcome. Rain or shine. Saturday, April 13. 10am-12pm. Westside United Methodist Church, 900 S. Seventh St. 734-663-4164 | westside-umc.org Free

Passover and Easter Storytime Tasting

Ann Arbor Zingerman’s Deli is hosting an Easter and Passover tasting for your little ones this year. They will read a story and teach your little one how to taste like an expert! Try some foods they make at the Deli in celebration of the holidays. Make sure to buy tickets ahead of time. Kids ages 2-5. Friday, April 19. 10:30-11am. $10/child. Parents free. 418 Detroit St. 736-663-3354. zingermansdeli.com

Dixboro Community Easter Egg Hunt

Ann Arbor Join the annual Dixboro Community Easter Egg Hunt on the Village Green. Games and activities including crafts, a bounce house, a bake sale, bubbles and more, will start at 10:30am and the hunt will begin at 11am. There will be three sections: ages 0-3, ages 4-7 and ages 8-12. Saturday, April 20. 10:30am-12pm. Dixboro Farmers Market, 5221 Church Rd. 734-395-1815. dixborochurch.org Free

Spring Bunny Tea

Ann Arbor Join the Easter Bunny for some light refreshments at Eat More Tea. This event is especially designed for children this Easter season, but there is limited seating so be sure to make a reservation beforehand. Saturday, April 20. Seatings at 11 am and 3:30 pm. $12/person. 211 E Ann St. 734-882-2787. Teahaus.com

Happy Easter

• April 2019 • www.annarborfamily.com

digital age Who’s Watching Your Kids? What to know before you post

In 2016, The New York Times reported a survey of 249 parent-child pairs from forty states and found that children were twice as likely to ask their parents to not “over share” by posting information about them without permission. “Collecting so much data about children raises important questions about their freedom and independence,” writes Ms. Longfield. “It does not convey how valuable and sensitive personal information is and how important it is to guard it.”

by Kate Ingersoll

Since social media has exploded within the past decade, many parents enjoy posting about their children online. From Facebook to Instagram to YouTube, parents share adorable photos and videos which highlight the joyous and not so enjoyable moments in their child’s life. Countless blogs share stories about everything from potty training to dealing with bullies. On average, parents will post 1,500 photos of their child before they enter kindergarten, but it’s not only other parents who are paying attention. Big media is watching Last November, Anne Longfield, Children’s Commissioner for England, published a report which examined how big tech companies collect data on children and the potential risks involved in “sharenting,” a term used to describe the overuse of social media by parents who share content that’s based on their children. Ms. Longfield’s report calculates that by the time a child turns eighteen, there will be 70,000 posts about them on the Internet. Sharing a child’s full name and birth date may seem harmless, but big media is watching. It’s estimated that by 2030, parents sharing personal information about their children online will account for two-thirds of identity fraud for young people over eighteen. “We need to stop and think about what this means for children’s lives now, “Ms. Longfield writes. “This is only going to get bigger.” The rise of data-surveying gadgets means that a host of private information is being collected and distributed in unprecedented ways. Families are the targets of specific ads because they are skillfully being watched every time they go online. Some children are even being “datafied” before birth as tech companies

Pause Before You Post

Mindfully consider the effect shar-

ing can have on your child’s future emotional, social, and psychological well being.

learn about pregnant women through their online purchases and posts, then bombard them for ads about maternity and baby products. Impact on children Most parents discuss parenting and share images online, partly because it gives them a sense of commonality. As anything posted can instantly become a screenshot, privacy concerns are becoming more obvious. “By the time children are old enough to use social media themselves, many already have a digital identity created for them by their parents,” says Sarah Clark, Associate Research Scientist with the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Michigan. "Parents may share information that their child finds embarrassing or too personal when they’re older, but once it’s out there, it’s hard to undo. The child won’t have much control over where it ends up or who sees it.” The first babies whose pictures were posted on Facebook when it began in 2004 are now teenagers who are more invested in having control of their digital identities.

Know and abide by your social media sites’ privacy policies.

Parents who choose to share about

their child’s behavioral struggles should consider doing so anonymously. Give your older children “veto power” over what you want to post online.

Mindful posting Despite the fact that social media companies strive to put parents into categories and restrict their identities to whatever it is that they post online, technology does not truthfully define people. Exploring a relationship to technology and mindfully changing the way that parents use it can allow them to teach by example how to respect their children when they choose to post about them online. “Parents need to be thoughtful about how much they share on social media,” says Ms. Clark. “They can enjoy the benefits of camaraderie but also protect their children’s privacy today and in the future.”

Spend time on crystal clear Higgins Lake this summer at one of multiple one and two-week camps for ages 7-17. Sign up for STEAM, Sailing, or an Expedition to South Manitou Island!

Go to www.campwestminster.com to see more summer offerings and to register!

www.annarborfamily.com • April 2019 •

Bringing Hope to Hospital Stays The comforts of home for young patients By Mary Rose Kulczak

A hospital stay can be a frightening experience for a child, and unfamiliar surroundings add to their anxiety. One Saline business has partnered with C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital to bring comfort and hope to little patients. Mary Lindquist, the owner of The Quilting Season in Saline, understands the difficult circumstances that families face when a child is hospitalized. Lindquist, a former nurse with Arbor Hospice, saw these challenges first hand and, after retiring from nursing, opened the shop to help families in need. Every month, individuals from around the community gather to sew pillowcases, quilts and dolls for these children. “Mott’s is a tertiary hospital, where patients are flown in from all over, without a support system here in town. I think this means a lot to them,” Lindquist explains. Pillowcase day The fourth Wednesday of each month, sewers gather at the shop to make brightly colored pillowcases for Mott’s patients. To date, The Quilting Season has donated 27,500 pillow cases to Mott’s patients. Children can pick from a wide variety of pillow cases, with differing themes,

colors, or cartoon characters. After their hospital stay, the child can take their pillowcase home. If the child is readmitted, they will get a new pillowcase to enjoy and add to their collection. Preemie quilt days Premature babies in the neonatal unit are given quilts, which are draped over incubators to provide darker, quieter times in often noisy and brightly lit nurseries. Last year, the shop donated more than one thousand baby quilts. “Some weeks are just so special here at the store. This past week, we had Preemie Day, Pillowcase Day, and Doll Day all in the same week,” Lindquist said. Doll days When a child is scheduled for surgery or a procedure, it is often difficult for the hospital staff to explain what will happen to the child in a way that is not frightening or overwhelming. Volunteers at The Quilting Season gather together for Doll Days on the first Friday of every month, to make dolls dressed in colorful clothing. Doctors and nurses use the dolls to illustrate medical procedures to young patients. The dolls have no faces, allowing the child to draw a face on their doll.

Dolls, pillowcases, and turtle kits ready to be delivered to young patients at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital donated by The Quilting Season in Saline. Recently, a grandmother from the western side of Michigan reached out to Lindquist. Her grandchild, while being treated at Mott, had received one of the dolls. She was so moved by the offering that she asked if she, too, could make dolls and pillowcases for other patients.

Lindquist commends the volunteers for their generosity, time and energy. “All of these items bring joy and feelings of caring to the children and their families.” For more information on Pillowcase Days, Doll Days, and Preemie Quilt Days, contact The Quilting Season at 734-429-2900 or visit thequiltingseason.org.

Meet Mary Lindquist Family:

Husband George, three daughters (Meg, Lisa, and Katrina), along with seven grandchildren and two great-granddaughters.

Favorite part about being a shop owner: Lindquist loves that the shop always fills a need for the right person and the right family at just the right time. “I love the people, and I love watching God’s miracles.”

Favorite local restaurant: Paesano’s What do you like to do when you are not in the shop? Each Tuesday, Lindquist and her husband host a dinner for college students. “Tuesday night dinners are a very important thing, with an average of 50 college students every week. I serve whatever is on sale at Meijer. We have quite a lot of international students who are delighted to be in an American home. I call them my kids. They are always happy to help in the shop, and I put them to work.”

Future plans? The shop will soon be supplying Ypsilanti Fire Depart-

ment trucks with quilts. “There is nothing like being wrapped in a quilt,” Lindquist said.

Don’t know how to sew?

Mary Lindquist and her staff offer classes Thursday nights from 6-9pm. All supplies and machines are provided, and students will take home a finished project from each class.

• April 2019 • www.annarborfamily.com

JOIN US US AS AS A A FAMILY FAMILY PLUS PLUS JOIN PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP MEMBERSHIP FAMILY FAMILY PREMIUM andfill fillyour yoursummer summerwith withSTEM STEMadventures! adventures! and

Now, with the Family Plus Premium Membership, your family gets the best of both Leslie Science & Nature Center and the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum!

• Discounts on birthday parties & summer camp • Reciprocity benefits at over 300 other nature and science centers to visit on your summer travels • Free admission at the Museum • Members-only events in June & August • Exposure to wonderful STEM related exhibits, programs & activities all year long

JOIN US TODAY! THIS INCREDIBLE MEMBERSHIP MUST BE PURCHASED THROUGH THE MUSEUM ONLINE OR IN PERSON

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SUMMER CAMP

We Help Healthy Smiles Last a Lifetime! At the U-M dental clinics, we provide comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages. Our orthodontic and pediatric dental clinics provide care at cost-effective prices by dental graduates and students under the supervision of our expert faculty. Ser vices Include: Accepting Cleanings Digital X-rays Adult Orthodontics n ew patients Fillings Clear Braces Emergency Care a ® n d referrals! Well-baby Care Invisalign Special Care Dentistry Accepting a variety of insurance plans and payment options.

Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry Clinics 1011 North University Avenue | Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109

Pediatric Dentistry: 734.764.1523 Orthodontics: 734.764.1520 dent.umich.edu/patients

www.annarborfamily.com • April 2019 •

Authentic Mexican Favorites Debut at Luna’s LUNA’S MEXICAN STREET FOOD

341 E. Huron Street Ann Arbor, MI 48104 734-669-3303 Monday-Saturday 10am-10pm Sunday 10am-9pm eatlunas.com Luna’s Mexican Street Food shares space with Ahmo’s Deli at the busy intersection of Ann Arbor’s Huron and Division streets. The latest launch by the well-established Issa family, Luna’s, located in a bright, clean, and surprisingly modern space, is especially welcoming to families. Luna’s began in the University of Michigan hospital cafeteria and the positive feedback from customers prompted the recent opening within Ahmo’s late last year. Large tables with bench seating worked well for our family, where we often tend to play musical chairs throughout a meal, as each parent takes a turn helping the littles and then eating their own food. The fast casual set up with counter ordering and self-serve drinks works well for wiggly kiddos with an inability to sit through a long, relaxing meal. Mexican standards, and then some! The kids were very excited about the colorful fridge full of Jarritos ($3) – a Mexican soft drink, with a variety of fruit flavors, like lime, tamarind, and mango. Not the healthiest choice, but a fun way to try something different. There is no kids’ menu at Luna’s, but the offerings allow for the customization of lots of classic, kid-friendly options. We went with a cheese quesadilla ($8) and nachos (with just cheese) ($8). The kids loved the multi-colored chips, however, the nacho cheese sauce was a bit too spicy so thankfully the owners brought out a fresh plate with simple melted shredded cheese. While not as creamy as the original order, this accommodation was

Locally-owned fast-casual Mexican food and fun By Julie and David Sturza

appreciated by our spice-fearing youngster. The adults tried a chicken burrito ($8) and a barbacoa bowl ($8). Neither were stand-outs, but both delivered everything that we have come to expect from fast casual spots, with a bit of a freshness upgrade. The housemade salsa options (five in total) were flavorful and tied the dishes together well. Unlike national chains, Luna’s offered some more authentic Mexican options, including tamales ($3 veggie, $4 chicken) and elote (Mexican corn) ($2). The chicken tamales were a surprise hit with the kids; mild, savory, pulled chicken combined with the sweetness of the corn was delicious! This really set Luna’s apart from other fast casual options. Of course, for dessert, you can’t go wrong with churros ($6). One order includes two large sticks of fried dough covered with sugar and cinnamon, which can easily be shared among a family of four. A not-so-odd couple The co-location with Ahmo’s is great for times when you can’t get everyone to agree on one, single place for dinner. Next time we dine at Luna’s, we will definitely be getting a side order of fries from Ahmo’s, which looked and smelled amazing at the table next to us! Luna’s is a step up from other fast casual Mexican restaurants with its offer of fresher ingredients, lower sodium content, local owners, and more personalized service. When you combine that with a cheerful interior and extra kind staff members, Luna’s is a real winner for families.

The Short Course:

Kid-friendly: Yes!!! To avoid wait: Come anytime, they keep things moving quickly Noise level: Low. Bathroom amenities: No changing table. High chairs? Yes. Got milk? No. Kids’ menu? Yes. Anything healthy for kids? Yes. Food allergy concerns? Most items are gluten free. Staff happy to use separate food preparation tools, if needed.

Craft a Fast, Healthy Bowl with Local Veggies, Local Meats and Wild-Foraged Ingredients. VEGETARIAN, VEGAN, AND ALLERGY FRIENDLY!

734.887.6655 5060 Jackson Rd. | Ann Arbor

Order online and receive menu updates at: www.FreshForage.com 20

• April 2019 • www.annarborfamily.com

If you don’t feel like cooking on those busy days, decide where to dine by picking a place where your kids eat free.

annarborfamily.com

{ April

2019 }

All calendar events are subject to change, cancellation and limited size. Calling ahead for confirmation is recommended.

Movie & Popcorn for Kids 1pm. Dexter District Library. dexter.lib.mi.us Free Everyone is welcome to come watch Mary Poppins Returns (2018) about a magical nanny’s return visit to help Michael Bank’s children through a challenging time.

2 TUESDAY

First Steps KidFest 3pm. $8-$12. Forsythe Middle School Auditorium. firststeps-annarborkidfest.weebly.com Join a sing-a-long, dance and have a great time listening to renowned local performer Joe Reilly in support of First Steps-Ann Arbor, Rec & Ed’s community program supporting families with young children.

7 SUNDAY

A2 Community Sing with Matt Watroba 7pm. Ann Arbor Senior Center. calendar.a2gov.org Free Just like singing around a campfire, you’ll find yourself chiming in all too soon. Community Sings is sure to be a new friends and family tradition for years to come.

FestiFools 4pm. Downtown Ann Arbor. wonderfoolproductions.org Free FestiFools is a HUGE-mongous public art spectacular, created by members of the community. Magnificent, colorful, bizarre, human-powered papier-mâché puppets join thousands of friends frolicking about downtown for one fun-filled hour!

Michigan Makers Family Night 6:30pm. Ypsilanti District Library, Michigan Ave. ypsilibrary.org Free Drop by Tuesday evenings to have fun together as a family. Eat pizza and explore a different tool or challenge each week. Sew, knit, build, create and more! A parent must be present.

Bees of Michigan 2pm. $2-5. Eddy Discovery Center, Chelsea. wnha.org/discovery-center Bees play an extremely important role in our ecosystems and agriculture. Learn what you can do to promote beneficial native bees in your landscape, as well as whether putting a honey bee hive in your yard is right for you. Advance registration requested at 734-475-3170.

3 WEDNESDAY Nature Storytime Eggstravagent Eggs 10am. $4-5. Leslie Science and Nature Center. lesliesnc.org Come explore and appreciate the outdoors, such as live animal visits, hikes, stories, and hands-on activities with your little one. Learn about eggs and all the animals who lay them. Register in advance. Storytimes also on subsequent Wednesdays and every other Sunday.

5 FRIDAY AADL @ FoolMoon 7pm. Ann Arbor Farmers Market. aadl.org Free All are welcome, young and old, to the annual FoolMoon event. Stop by for lighted hula-hoops, AADL swag, and more!

6 SATURDAY Open House at Peach Mountain Observatory 7pm. Peach Mountain Observatory, Dexter. umich.edu Free View the stars, planets, and other celestial wonders through the club’s 24” and club members’ telescopes. Event may be canceled if it’s cloudy or too cold so call 734-975-3248 after 4pm the day of to determine the status.

Join First Steps-Ann Arbor for a fun Saturday family concert by renowned local performer Joe Reilly at their annual Kid Fest. The day will feature tons of kid-friendly pre-concert activities, drawings for fun prizes, and, of course, singing and dancing along to Joe Reilly’s great jams. Kid Fest benefits First Steps-Ann Arbor, Rec & Ed's premier community program that supports families with children from birth through kindergarten-age. Saturday, April 6, 3-5pm. $12/adult, $8/child, $40/family. Forsythe Middle School Auditorium, 1655 Newport Rd. 734-994-2300 x53186. firststeps-annarborkidfest.weebly.com

FRIDAY n APRIL 5 - SUNDAY n APRIL 7 WonderFOOL events to shake off winter

Kickoff a FOOLish weekend with FoolMoon, on Friday, April 5 at the Ann Arbor Farmers Market in Kerrytown. Come and see luminaries, interactive installations, laser shows, live dance performances, and more! Fun for all ages. Then join in the public art spectacular FestiFools on Sunday, April 7 as magnificent, colorful, bizarre, human-powered papier-mâché puppets join thousands of Foolish friends frolicking about downtown for one fun-filled hour! FOOLMoon. Friday, April 5. Dusk-10pm. Ann Arbor Farmers Market in Kerrytown. Free FestiFools, Sunday, April 7. 4-5pm. Main Street, Downtown Ann Arbor. Free For more information on both events visit wonderfoolproductions.org

SATURDAY n APRIL 13 Storytime at the museum

8 MONDAY

Join the University of Michigan Museum of Art (UMMA) for Storytime at the Museum, a morning of art enjoyment for the youngest patrons. Museum staff will read a story in the galleries and include a fun, age-appropriate, hands-on activity related it. Children ages 3 to 6 are invited to join them as they celebrate The Six Senses of Buddhism by meeting a giant panda named Stillwater in the book Zen Shorts. Parents must accompany children. Siblings are welcome to join the group. Meet in front of the UMMA Store.

Sensation Stations 10:30am. Traverwood Branch Library. aadl.org Free Young children (8 months to 2 years) can engage their senses by scooping, pouring, shaking, and sorting a variety of materials and will learn about colors, shapes, textures, and sounds! Book Release Party for “Self Portraits, Mixed Media” 6pm. Literati Bookstore. neutral-zone.org Free You don’t want to miss the release of “Self Portraits, Mixed Media” by Aldo Leoploldo Pando Girard, Ann Arbor’s Youth Poet Laureate! Aldo will read from his poetry collection, followed by a Q&A and book signing.

Saturday, April 13. 11:15am-12pm. UMMA, 525 S. State St. 734-764-0395. umma.umich.edu

9 TUESDAY Cartooning & Comic Book Drawing 5pm. Ypsilanti District Library, Michigan Ave. ypsilibrary.org Free Learn the skills for drawing your own favorite superhero or cartoon, and design your own heroes and villains! Also on 4/23. Great Start Parent Coalition Meeting 5:30pm. Beatty Early Learning Center, Ypsilanti. Free The Parent Coalition supports parents by offering educational opportunities, connecting parents and community leaders and giving parents the ability to offer their expertise about family services. Dinner and childcare provided with an RSVP (text/call 734-273-9495). Also on 4/30.

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yl Fav

VOTING is

orites

Bright Futures and First Fridays 5:30pm. Riverside Arts Center, Ypsilanti. riversidearts.org Free Activities, Art and Adventure! RAC teamed up with Bright Futures @ EMU to bring you a special student-focused, family-friendly evening.

SATURDAY n APRIL 6

PHOTO CREDIT-MYRA KLARMAN AT MYRAKLARMAN

Chelsea Community Chess Club 6pm. Chelsea District Library. chelseadistrictlibrary.org Free Chelsea-area chess club for elementary age kids and anyone else who would like to teach, learn, or act as a mentor. Also on 4/8 and 4/15.

Bowling Family Fun Night 7pm. $25. Chelsea Lanes. chelseamichamber.org Come out for a night of bowling, food, prizes and fun! $25 per bowler includes 3 games of bowling (with shoes and ball), pizza, soda, popcorn and prizes!

Fami

1 MONDAY

2019

OPEN!

PLEASE VOTE

MARCH 15TH - MAY 10th! VOTE ONLINE for your favorite local people, places and spaces as Ann Arbor’s Family’s annual Family Favorites. go to

annarborfamily.com

www.annarborfamily.com • April 2019 •

1O WEDNESDAY

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Combined Toddler/Preschool Story Time 11:30am. Dexter District Library. dexter.lib.mi.us Free All children (18 months to 5 years) are welcome (with registration; call 734-426-4477) for storytime often with picture, pop-up and other interactive books and activities. Weekly event.

11 THURSDAY After School Special 3pm. Ann Arbor District Library Downtown. aadl.org Free Have a project that needs to be finished? Want to knit or write or draw or learn how to make a piano? Come learn a whole bunch of stuff or just hang out by yourself or with a friend in the Secret Lab, for grades 6-12. Also on 4/18 and 4/25. Spring Egg Hunt in the Pool 6:30pm. $10. Milan Middle School. milanareaschools.org Kids love hunting for eggs, usually around grassy fields but this time they can swim for their eggs! The eggs all have coins inside that are redeemed for fun prizes! Ages K-5th grades. To register and pay online please visit: spsezpay.com/Milan

12 FRIDAY Telling Tales Out of School 7pm. $10 - $30. Scarlett Middle School. studentadvocacycenter.org Support the Student Advocacy Center of Michigan by attending this annual storytelling fundraiser. Listen to music by a string quartet from Pioneer High School, Lincoln High School choirs, Moth Double Grand Slam Winner Camille Woods, stories by SAC students, a dramatic piece with EMU students in partnership with Engage @EMU and even more! Little Women: The Broadway Musical 8pm. $8-14. Concordia University. blog.cuaa.edu/theater Little Women follows the lives of the March sisters -- budding writer Jo, practical Meg, sweet Beth and romantic Amy -- who are coming of age during the American Civil War. Full of song, spectacle and humor that takes us on a journey of making life worthwhile. Also on 4/11 and 4/13 at 8pm and 4/14 at both 2pm and 8pm.

13 SATURDAY 2019 TEDxYouth@AnnArbor Event: Connected 10am. $5 - $30. Skyline High School. ted.com/tedx/events/26721 This event has been planned, organized, and created by local Ann Arbor area high school students. TEDxYouth@AnnArbor’s goal is to provide a platform for youth voice and to educate youth and adults in our community. Come hear high schoolers share their ideas on a topic that they are passionate about. 12th Annual Fairy Festival 11am-4pm. Jackson School of the Arts. jacksonarts.org/fairy-festival Free Make arts & crafts, peruse vendors, Ye Ole Fairy Shoppe, the Cupcake Cafe, a Fairy Garden Contest, carriage rides, dancing fairies and performances by the Fairy Festival Players. Walk through the Fairy Kingdom, Mermaid Cove and explore the dark mountain. Plan to stay all day and have lunch in Fairy Landing. Don’t forget to dress up! Also on 4/14 from noon to 4pm.

• April 2019 • www.annarborfamily.com

Discover, Explore, Take Flight! Science Fest at Yankee Air Museum 10am. Yankee Air Museum. sciencefestival.msu.edu Free Tour the museum to see historic aircraft, try your hand at hands-on science demonstrations, or observe live animals as you explore native Michigan wildlife. The fun only continues as you watch an aviation film in the theater, go inside a real plane, and build your own creation in the Exploration Station. There is something for everyone at this full-day open house!

14 SUNDAY U-M Museum of Natural History Grand Opening 9am. U-M Museum of Natural History Biological Sciences Building. lsa.umich.edu Free Favorite displays and specimens mix with new exhibits in a state-of-the-art learning facility that combines billions of years of natural history with cutting-edge scientific research. Explore the Universe from the smallest things to the very largest in a gesture-activated display, and be transported out of this world in the new Planetarium & Dome Theater (tickets required).

18 THURSDAY Yoga for Kids! 10am. Westgate Branch Library. aadl.org Free Certified yoga instructor Carol from Super Fun Yoga Time will lead a relaxing and fun yoga class geared towards kids (Preschool - Grade 2).

19 FRIDAY How to Train Your Dragon: Hidden World 7pm. $3. Penn Theatre, Plymouth. penntheatre.com Bring the whole family to this animation action adventure (rated PG) about Hiccup seeking a secret Dragon Utopia before tyrant Grimmel finds it first. All seats are $3.00 - cash only.

20 SATURDAY Storytime and Activities Featuring Fresh Princess 11am. Barnes & Noble, Ann Arbor. stores.barnesandnoble.com Free Destiny, the Fresh Princess, is faced with challenges when moving to a new neighborhood that looks nothing like her old one. With help from her family, she creates a plan and jumps right in. Join and get a coupon from the Café for a grilled cheese sandwich with milk or juice for $4!

22 MONDAY Black and Brown Theater Performs Cloud Spinner! 4pm. Westgate Branch Library. aadl.org Free In celebration of Earth Day, Black and Brown Theater will perform their adaptation of the children’s book The Cloud Spinner, by Michael Catchpool. This is the story of a young boy with a magical gift of turning clouds into beautiful scarves. Grade K-3 Earth Day Craft 4pm. Ypsilanti District Library, Michigan Ave. ypsilibrary.org Free Celebrate Earth Day by creating something beautiful out of recycled materials. Earth Day Downtown Ann Arbor 11am-9pm. Center of City Commons (5th Avenue at Library Lane). peacetable.org Free Musicians, speakers, artists, poets, organizations. Family and child friendly, food. World Wide Connections.

28 SUNDAY

Wildlife Safari in Southern Africa 7pm. Tecumseh District Library. tecumsehlibrary.org Free World travelers Chris and Joanne Hee will share their experiences at some of the largest wildlife parks in southern Africa. The trip included remarkable visits to South Africa’s Johannesburg and Kruger National Park, Hwange National Park and Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, Namibia’s Impalila Island, and Chobe National Park in Botswana.

25 THURSDAY Nature Walk with AADL 6pm. Mary Beth Doyle Park. a2gov.org Free Join a family-friendly nature walk through this beautiful park. Meet at the parking lot off Packard Road, across from Easy Street. Wear comfortable clothes and bring water if desired. Some of AADL’s Science Tools will be available for use during the walk.

26 FRIDAY Parents Night Out - Last Fridays 6pm. 2/42 Community Church. 242community.com Have a fun night out without the kids. Register on the website and bring a packed dinner for your children. Please make sure that everything is peanut free.

27 SATURDAY

Earth Day Festival 12pm. Leslie Science and Nature Center. lesliesnc.org Free This family-friendly event features displays from 40 local environmental, nonprofit, and governmental organizations; live animal demonstrations; hands-on activities; live entertainment; green building and commuting technologies; energy topics; water awareness; sustainable agriculture; and more.

“JIFFY” Mix Plant Tours Chelsea Milling Company, Chelsea. site.jiffymix.com Free Tours available Monday - Friday between 9am and 2pm. One hour tour includes an educational video, a product sample, refreshments and a walk through the packaging plant. Reservations are required, call (734) 372-0223. Same day as space permits.

Wednesdays

Mondays

Saturdays

Ozobot Coding 4:30pm. Ypsilanti District Library, Whittaker. ypsilibrary.org Free Learn to code tiny Ozobots with colored markers, and then using block-based coding commands and a tablet. Learn, experiment, discover, repeat! Best for ages 7-14.

Expedition Reef - Dome Theater 3:30pm. $8. University of Michigan Museum of Natural History. New planetarium shows and live Star Talks will take visitors beyond space to explore the oceans’ reefs, Earth’s geology, weather, and more, all with surround sound and in new, comfortable seats! Shows on Saturday and Sunday (starting April 20) at 3:30 pm. Strange Creatures of the Spring Pond 2pm. $2-5. Eddy Discovery Center, Chelsea. wnha.org Come and meet the many fascinating and little-known creatures that live in spring ponds – from delicate fairy shrimp to ferocious diving beetles. No boots required, as viewing will be in special “pour-a-ponds” outside on the deck. Registration required: 734-475-3170.

Tuesdays

MomShare Group 1pm. Women’s Center of SE MI. womenscentersemi.org Free All new and expecting mothers and little ones are welcome to join this drop-in support group Enjoy snacks in a cozy atmosphere, mixed with a bit of education and some fun. Also on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the month from 9:30-11am.

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2019

Wild Swan Theater’s Spring Acting Class 4:30pm. $90. Wild Swan Theater. wildswantheater.org Calling all actors (students age 7-11). Join us for a fun, fast paced hour of theater games, skits, and improvisations. Be a part of this class that will be as wild and creative as our imaginations! The Petting Farm 10am-4pm. $6. Domino’s Farms Petting Farm. pettingfarm.com Come on down to the farm to meet all of the animals, like goats, llamas, pigs, rabbits, chickens, ducks, sheep, horses, barn cats and more! Also the Annual Easter Egg Hunt here is on 4/20. Knockerball Open Play 4-9pm. $15. Knockerball Michigan, Saline. knockerballmichigan.com Come play as long as you want for just $15 (normally it’s $15 per hour). Anyone ages 5 and up is welcome to come play. Also available on Fridays from 6-10pm and Sundays from 3-7pm.

Don’t forget to Vote

orites

Story Time with Linda Zimmer 11am. Bookbound. bookboundbookstore.com Free Story Time with Linda Zimmer - every Saturday at 11am at Bookbound - an independent community bookstore. Free event for kids ages 6 and under.

El Día de Los Niños y Libros Cultural Celebration 1:30pm. Ypsilanti District Library, Whittaker. ypsilibrary.org Free Each year, AADL partners with YDL for this national celebration of children and books, connecting kids to the world of learning. Bring the family for dancing, readings, colorful crafts, snacks and learn how books help us discover diverse languages and cultures. ¡¡Vámanos!!

Fami

23 TUESDAY

BALLOT’S CLOSE MAY 10TH

annarborfamily.com

(734) 661-3530 5245 JACKSON RD, ANN ARBOR Tuesdays - Saturdays (10-7) • Sundays (10-5)

tinylions.org

Applies to the 1-hour drop-in rate, weekdays only, subject to maximum occupancy. Coupon expires 7/31/19.