Ann Arbor Family Press - August 2018 by Adams Street Publishing Co.

FREE AUGUST 2018

Back to School Guide P9 Make the first days of school out of this world

sugar Shock Teen sports drink

consumption is on the rise, P8

Lawn Mower Safety

What you need to know to keep your family safe, P18

• August 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

Volume 24 • Issue 8 August 2018

sugar Shock

Free Range or Helicopter?

Back to School Guide

Teen sports drink consumption is on the rise

First day jitters, back to school shopping, and new teachers: we’ve got you covered! P.9

departments ann arbor favorites

community snapshots

what’s briefly happening

new kids

exceptional families

Parents decide what parenting style is best for their family

Online AUGUST

I Can Do That!

Safe and Fun

How to remain safe when planning your summer amusement park trip By Laura Eliason

ask the expert 16 parent profile 17 healthy kids 18 calendar 21 marketplace 23

commentary

food fight 19

Teaching an Old Bar New Tricks

Dolores Mexican Restaurant offers authentic food in a chic, casual atmosphere By Julie and David Sturza

P.15

giveaway

PHOTO BY CRAIG SMITH ON UNSPLASH

P.8

The Mountain

Spinning Dot children’s theater company premieres play on immigration

By Emily Slomovits

[Always online]

Family Famil y

orite avorite Fav

Family Favorites 2018

The best spots to party, food to eat, places to learn, and so much more

This month, win three interactive books by I Can Do That! ($30 value!) perfect for preschoolers. Popular in Japan, these three books (Erasable Art by La Zoo, Origami, and Stickers) are now available for the first time in the U.S. and great for boosting skills, indoor play, and trips.

I Can Do That! Erasable Art by La Zoo features wipeoff pages filled with illustrations designed to get little ones to use their imaginations.

I Can Do That! Origami includes simple instructions for cutting and folding to transform an elephant into a teapot, make a hippo roar, or turn a car into a dessert.

I Can Do That! Reusable Stickers feature hours of fun activities like matching and counting games, mazes, picture puzzles, and other fun activities.

To enter visit annarborfamily.com

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

www.annarborfamily.com • August 2018 •

On the Cover Gia, 4 , Ann Arbor

Cover Photo Credit:

Sudeep Studio

LEO

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

Adams Street Publishing Co. Best thing to eat for a school lunch? Publisher/Editor in Chief

Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@adamsstreetpublishing.com) PB & J.

Co-publisher/Chief Financial Officer

What’s a Kånken?

Looking for a new backpack for those end of summer adventures or for the start of school? The Kånken Mini by Fjällräven is simple, stylish and functional. Its Swedish creator maintained the mantra “Straight backs are happy backs,” when it was created. Made out of durable, lightweight, water and dirt resistant Vinylon F, the Kånken Mini’s main compartment has a large opening, two side pockets, a zippered pocket in the front, handle at the top, narrow, supple shoulder straps and a logo that doubles as a reflector. $69.99 thelittleseedling.com

Written on a public typewriter

Mindful of our Parent Profile this month (see page 17) we give a shout out to the book Notes From A Public Typewriter, edited by Literati owner Michael Gustafson along with Oliver Uberti. This collection of confessional, hilarious, heartbreaking notes were written anonymously on the now famous public typewriter on the lower floor in the bookstore. Everyday, people of all ages type at the public typewriter. Children perch atop grandparents’ knees, both sets of hands hovering above the metal keys, others walk in alone and confess their hopes: I will find someone someday. $18. Literatibookstore.com

Scratching the rainbow

Perfect for a summer trip, Melissa and Doug’s Scratch Art City Style. This cool, messfree kit lets young artists show off their design flair by customizing each shirt, top, dress and accessory, then use the items to style outfits for these two busy city girls. Scratch into the stickers to add sparkling and multicolored accents to each one, then stick them onto the models--or your own drawings! The set includes: 35+ fashion stickers, 2 models in city scenes, wooden stylus and 2 picture stands. $4.99 growwithme123.com

KIDS HOROSCOPE July 23 – August 22 By Kimmie Rose

Your little Leo child is full of enthusiasm, is very playful and loves to be the center of attention among friends. This month your little lion will be feeling the need to make everyone happy. This makes it a perfect time to teach them that doing kind things for others feels good inside vs doing it for the attention. Show them their kindness has helped others to do good deeds and assure them that they are natural leaders. Place names of everyone in their family in a box and have each member of the family pick a name out of the box to be their secret helpers. Let your little lion feel the joy of doing kind deeds secretly and receive that kindness back which will encourage them to feel the strength that comes in teamwork. This will connect to your child’s natural leadership ability and compassionate understanding of how everyone can play a significant role in making the world a better place. Your child will love knowing they made a difference this month!

$5 OFF

2. What’s Cool at the Pool:

A FULL GROOM

Pool & Splashpad Roundup

Walk-In Nail Trim

3. 2018 Family Favorites 4. A Guide to Ann Arbor’s

7050 Dexter/Ann Arbor Rd. Dexter, MI

Magical Fairy Doors

734-580-2086 • club-canine.net 4

Calendar Estar Cohen (calendar@annarborfamily.com) PIZZA. Associate Editor Athena Cocoves (athena@adamsstreetpublishing.com) CANDY. Contributing Writers Laura Eliason, Kimmie Rose, Mary Rose Kulczak, Julie Sturza, David Sturza, Estar Cohen, Audrey Fairbrother, Heidi Harris, Dawn Nelson, Jennifer Brough, Meagan Ruffing, Janeen Lewis, and Lori Maranville.

Art/Production Production Manager Imani Lateef (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) TUNA FISH AND FRITOS! Senior Designer Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) SQUARE PIZZA! Graphic Design Anita Tipton (atipton@adamsstreetpublishing.com) PB & PEACH PRESERVES SANDWICH & REG. SALTY POTATO CHIPS. Kelli Miller (kmiller@adamsstreetpublishing.com) SQUARE PIZZA WEDNESDAY. Norwin Lopez (nlopez@adamsstreetpublishing.com) PIZZA. Chelsie Parton (prodintern@adamsstreetpublishing.com) FRENCH TOAST STICKS.

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Sales Coordinator Jenny Leach (sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com) PIZZA. Sales/ Classifieds Trilby Becker (tbecker@adamsstreetpublishing.com) PIZZA. Ron Katz (rkatz@adamsstreetpublishing.com) PEANUT BUTTER SANDWICH.

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on Instagram! Want to be featured on our IG? Use the hashtag #a2kids and your pictures could end up on our page.

1. 5 Awesome Reasons to Check Out the Ann Arbor Art Fair

Assignment Editor Laura Eliason (laura@annarborfamily.com) TACO BOATS ON TUESDAYS.

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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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• August 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

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Ann Arbor skate park is fun for all ages.

Marieka Kaye, Ann Arbor

Kai watches his sister, Sage at the Saline Summer Music Series.

Ele’s Place Groundbreaking Ele’s Place Ann Arbor, the only non-profit community-based organization dedicated to creating awareness of and support for grieving children, teens and their families, broke ground at 5665 Hines Drive, Ann Arbor. Launching “A Home for Healing Hearts” Campaign is the community’s investment in a beautiful, adaptable facility to serve thousands of grieving children and their families. The new 15,000 sq. ft. facility will offer space uniquely designed to meet the needs of those grieving and allow for future

Ele’s Place leaders join in the groundbreaking. From left to right: Dan Layman - President/CEO Ele’s Place, First Lady Sue Snyder - Ele’s Place Capital Campaign Co-Chair, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, Howdy Holmes – CEO Jiffy Mixes & Ele’s Place Capital Campaign Co-Chair, Monica Brancheau – Director, Ele’s Place Ann Arbor.

Therapaws Dog, Dani at Ground Breaking Event

www.annarborfamily.com • August 2018 •

Compiled by Laura Eliason

Sharon Mills offers glimpse into county history Located on the banks of the River Raisin in Manchester, Sharon Mills County Park offers your family the opportunity to visit a significant historic site in a beautiful natural setting. On August 19 and 26, the park will offer a Sharon Mills Open House. The mill at the park was originally constructed in the mid-1850s. Sharon Mills is listed as a State of Michigan Historic Site. During the open house visitors will learn the history of the mill: it was purchased and nearly completely rebuilt by Henry Ford in the 1930s for use as a small factory. Sundays, August 19 and 26. 1-4pm. Sharon Mills County Park, 5701 Sharon Hollow Rd, Manchester. 734-222-9098. washtenaw.org/669/Sharon-Mills-County-Park

EMU Police host first bike rodeo The Eastern Michigan University (EMU) Police Department is hosting their 1st Annual Bike Rodeo on Saturday, August 11. The event in the EMU Convocation Center parking lot, will feature fun and safety information. Be sure to bring your child’s bike and helmet! The police department will be providing free safety checks along with a skills course for riders to test their biking abilities. The event will also feature helmet giveaways as well as food and drinks. Fun for the whole family! Saturday, August 11. 10am-2pm. EMU Convocation Center, 799 N. Hewitt Rd., Ypsilanti. emich.edu Free

Shakespeare and pre-calculus master

The Young Women Making Waves Program grant check was presented to Ann Arbor YMCA staff by Claressa Shields, WSF Athlete Ambassador and two-time Olympic gold medalist in boxing.

Making waves The Ann Arbor YMCA has been awarded an $80,000 grant from The Women’s Sports Foundation (WSF) and Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation through the new Regional Sports 4 Life program to fund the Young Women Making Waves Program, a swim program for underserved girls in eastern Washtenaw County. The program operates two to three days a week, 35 weeks during the school year and six weeks during the summer. Participants enroll for a 12-month season with a curriculum that begins with basic water safety skills for new swimmers and progresses participation in competitive swimming. Strong swimmers that are 16 years of age or older will be invited to attend lifeguard trainings, and after certification, will be eligible to apply for part-time employment in lifeguard positions at the Y.

• August 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

Ahmed Hejazi, of Ann Arbor, is a typical 13-yearold boy. He loves hanging out with his friends, playing and watching tennis, reading books and playing video games. But Ahmed is also a 7th grader studying three years above his grade level. In fact, he’s completed the entire Kumon Reading Program which means he has analyzed Shakespeare and he is just a few levels from completing the Kumon Math Program, which ends with calculus. Because of his accomplishments, he was invited invited to attend the 2nd Annual Kumon Student Conference in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. In July, he joined 50 other students from the United States, Canada and Mexico who are currently studying at least 3 years above their school grade level. Attendees had the opportunity to learn from each other through a variety of activities designed to foster team building, group discussion, critical thinking and creativity. Congratulations Ahmed, keep up the amazing work!

Stopping waste and beginning delivery

According to the Natural Resources Defense Council, 40 percent of all food produced in the U.S. goes to waste. Hungry Harvest aids the Ann Arbor area by rescuing (purchasing) produce from local farms and wholesalers that would otherwise go to waste. The organization then curates and packs variety boxes and delivers them to customers’ homes on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. Customers can customize boxes, which range from $15 to $55, to adjust the mix of fruits and vegetables and to add specialty items, such as eggs, granola, and other kitchen staples. For more information and to find out if you live within their delivery area visit hungryharvest.net.

618 Church St, Ann Arbor

Open 7 days a week (10:30am-4:00am)

Drink your coffee and have your tea too

The popular TV show Shark Tank has made it to Ann Arbor’s Main Street. Teaspressa, featured on Shark Tank in 2016, is opening its first signature café in Ann Arbor. Teaspressa’s “coffee inspired tea are artisan loose leaf, handcrafted blends authentically sourced globally to create an elegant infusion of coffee culture into the world of tea. Think Tea Lattes, Tea Americanos, and Tea Macchiatos. Teaspressa’s Signature Tea Blends contain as much caffeine as a traditional espresso shot, but provide consumers with the health benefits of traditional loose leaf tea. Teaspressa, 414 S Main Street, Ste 115B. Monday-Friday, 7am-4pm. Saturday-Sunday, 9am-5pm. 734-224-8934. teaspressa.com

50% OFF Kids Meals Sunday - Wednesday only

Please present coupon or mention offer to server. Limit 4 per table • Not valid with any other offer Expires 8/31/2018

20% OFF Entire Order Online ordering only. Enter coupon code 20OFFAA upon checkout. Not valid with any other offer. Expires 8/31/2018

Cruelty free beauty

Joining Trader Joe’s in Lamp Post Plaza, Vosenna is an indie beauty retailer, featuring all indie, non-conglomerate brands such as Apocalyptic Beauty and House of Beauty. All brands sold by Vosenna are made in the USA and are not tested on animals. Many of the items are handcrafted and there are a large number of vegan products available. They carry cosmetics, skin care, body care, hair care, fragrance, and cruelty-free makeup brushes, as well as skin care items for men.

14" Large Pizza only $10

Vosenna, 2386 E. Stadium Blvd. Daily, 10am-8pm. 734-929-4356. vosenna.com

Toppings and Deep dish pizzas Extra - Online ordering only Use coupon code 10CHEESE upon checkout. Not valid with any other offer • Expires 8/31/2018 Hand-held healthy

Chef Frank Fejeran, of Ricewood BBQ and Ma Lou’s, has opened his newest healthy, fast casual restaurant PoCai in Ann Arbor. PoCai’s menu centers around healthy, hand-held fare such as poke bowls, salads, toasts, and acai bowls.

Call (734) 995-5095 or Order Online at pizzahouse.com

PoCai, 1232 Packard Rd. Daily, 11am-7pm. 734-780-7359. a2pocai.com

www.annarborfamily.com • August 2018 •

tween the lines

EXCEPTIONAL FAMILIES

advice for parents with children 10-16

for parents of children with special needs

Ukulele in the Morning

A life of possibility on the autism spectrum

Sasha Hemingway sharing his ukulele talent while enjoying his garden at home. Every morning 11-year-old Sasha Hemingway plays his ukulele, one of many in his home full of musical instruments. He often plays songs of his own inspiration, but sometimes enjoys an old-time favorite. Ending his fifthgrade year with a ukulele concert solo, Hemingway looks forward to starting middle school in the fall. Discovering the spectrum Hemingway‘s mother, Miko Fossum, has learned a lot about neurodiversity, a term she uses to describe what life is like raising a son on the spectrum. Early on, Fossum observed that Sasha’s behaved differently than her older children. She began exploring communication programs and, at age four, enrolled him in summer classes for children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder at the University of Michigan School of Kinesiology. Since developing social skills and understanding social cues can be challenging for children on the spectrum, Fossum has learned how she can best help her son. Now that Hemingway is almost a teenager, Fossum finds that having a supportive community, limiting tech-

PHOTO CREDIT: MIKE CLARREN

By Dawn Nelson

nology, embracing daily interactions, and providing nutritious foods on a vegan diet makes a noticeable difference in his behavior quality of life for the whole family. “I think of (Sasha’s condition) more as a possibility than a disability,” Fossum said. Social skills and imagination While Hemingway enjoys playing music and writing daily, he also has a strong interest in becoming a filmmaker and often casts friends and family in the screenplays he is thinking about. “Sometimes they don’t even know it yet,” Hemingway said, “but everyone will know their part by the time we start making the film.” In addition, Hemingway can list the details of authors and illustrators of many books and movies. He can also tell you the complete discography of Tom Waits, which he learned at age 6. Focused on creative pursuits, he grumbles about not yet being a published writer, despite having a few books already written. But with a name like Hemingway, his creative future certainly looks bright.

Sugar Shock

Teen sports drink consumption is on the rise By Audrey Fairbrother

With the recent bans on sodas and other sugary drinks in schools, more teens are now reaching for what might look like a better alternative - sports drinks. But that image is a bit of an illusion. Many experts think parents should be warned that sports drinks, with their claims to replenish fluids, electrolytes and to recharge energy, should be taken with a grain of salt, or should we say, sugar.

responsibility in making the drinks a more prevalent choice for teens. Marketing campaigns around these types of beverages, often targeted directly at teens, have led to the belief that the drinks are ‘healthy’ or necessary to replenish electrolytes after activity. But Dr. Pesch says that’s an assumption that needs to be challenged. “The marketing on these drinks can be so pervasive. The athletes who endorse the product are beautiful, powerful winLots of calories and sugar According to a recent study by the ners, so who wouldn’t want to be one American Academy of Pediatrics, more step closer to that. Combining that with sports, makes it look like a healthy opthan half of U.S. high tion, so it’s quite deschool students con“I think a sports ceptive in that way,” sume a sports drink Dr. Pesch explains, drink is really only at least once a week. “I think a sports The proportion of useful in very drink is really only teens who reported useful in very exextreme elite having sports drinks treme elite athletes, at least once in the athletes, exerting exerting themselves previous week rose themselves at high at high levels - such from 56 percent in as ultra marathon levels such as ultra 2010 to almost 58 peror Olympic cent in 2015; while marathon runners or runners athletes. They’re not the difference seems Olympic athletes. “ useful for an hour slight, it’s a bit alarmlong soccer practice, -Dr. Megan Pesch ing to health professionals who are UM Children’s Hospital even a hot football practice. In those warning parents to situations, it doesn’t avoid buying drinks with lots of calories give any sort of edge over water, and the and sugar for their children. “In the last five years or so, there’s beverage is full of empty calories.” been more awareness around sugarsweetened beverages. It’s becoming common knowledge that those empty calories can predispose a child to greater weight gain,” said Dr. Megan Pesch, developmental and behavioral pediatrician at University of Michigan’s C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. The average sports drink on the market can contain around 56 grams of sugar per 32 ounces; that’s twice the daily recommended amount for an adult.

Marketing to teens Dr. Pesch believes advertisers and marketers for these beverages also hold some

• August 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

Comparing nutrition labels Dr. Pesch thinks that parents can help educate their teens by comparing the sugar content on the nutrition labels on sports drinks to that of a soda or juice, to make teens aware of the amount of sugar in their favorite sports beverages. “I think it should be the next wave in the decrease of sugar-sweetened beverages. Five years ago kids would have a soda with lunch, so we’re headed in the right direction. Once we learn about the amount of sugar that’s really contained in some of these drinks, we all make better decisions,” she said.

BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE

Back to School Guide While students are enjoying the final weeks of summer bliss Ann Arbor Family has parents covered with our Back to School Guide, full of tips on making those first days of school great, connect with teachers, and more!

The First School Days How to ease the jitters By Heidi Alene Harris

Swanson’s practical strategies to use to support children in the first days of school.

Strategies to Support the First Day Jitters

Veteran Ypsilanti educator, Debbie Swanson, reminds parents that all children process the first day differently. First days can be tough. Just as adults may have apprehensions when starting something new, young children may feel mixed emotions when they start a new school year. The first days may be exciting for some children, but for others, the thought of starting a new school year can be downright scary. As parents, although it is important to honor your children’s feelings, you can learn supportive strategies to help ease those first day jitters. A 32 year educator Ann Arbor Family Press caught up with veteran educator, Debbie Swanson, who has taught both elementary and middle school in the Ypsilanti area for the past 32 years and is currently teaching 5th grade at Holmes Elementary School. Swanson acknowledged that the transition into school may come with many different emotions but parents should be comforted to know that most educators do their best to support the transitions, “I want families to know that most schools and classrooms spend time in the beginning days helping students build relationships and get to know each other, which will definitely help with the transition.” All kids are unique Swanson reminds families that because every child is unique, all children process the first days differently. Some children jump right in, but after a couple of weeks the worrying begins. Other children worry a lot in the beginning and after a couple of weeks they have transitioned well. Swanson explained that both of these ways of dealing with new transitions are normal, but may need to be approached differently. Swanson comforts families by explaining that starting school and being a part of a new classroom is a habit that needs to be formed, “It takes about 21 days to build a habit. So, it may take a while to transition. As parents, know that and give them time and before you know it, the habit has been formed and it is all a part of their new normal.”

Routines are important. Ideally, plan to gradually phase in getting ready to go back to school. It is best not to plan a big vacation just before school. Shifting from summer to school works best by easing into the transition with bedtime rituals, enforcing bedtimes, and wake up times.

GOALS

Talk with Students and Set Goals. Give your children time to talk to you about their fears or worries. Listen and acknowledge their feelings without playing into their fears too much. Check in with them and give them the opportunity to talk after school has started. Take time to set goals such as, “What are you hoping to do this year at school? What might be challenging? What support do you think you might need”?

Conscious Discipline. At Ypsilanti Community Schools the educators use a program called Conscious Discipline. Swanson explained, “It has been helpful in teaching even young children about brain states and skills to help care for themselves and others. We focus on the messages of: You are safe. You are loved. You can handle what comes your way. I would encourage parents to send these types of messages to their children as they transition from summer to school. ‘You’ll be safe at school. You’ll make connections and build new relationships. To learn more about Conscious Discipline visit consciousdiscipline.com.

“You are safe. You are loved. You can handle what comes your way.”

Technology. Be thoughtful about technology especially with older children. Help build in time without technology. Swanson advises parents to think about ways to spend chunks of time away from technology, as that will be the expectation in most schools.

Books. Books are always a great way to help explain situations that may be difficult for adults to put into words. Swanson suggested “The Kissing Hand” by Audrey Penn and “The New Bear at School” by Carrie Weston for early elementary age and for upper elementary age, “Thank You, Mr. Falker” by Patricia Polacco and “Wonder” by Raquel Jaramillo Palacio.

Modeling. One of the most important ways parents can ease the first day jitters is through their own modeling of a positive attitude toward starting the new school year. Children pick up on parent’s feelings. If parents anticipate challenges, try to discuss it with the principal or educator before the school year starts.

OPEN HOUSE

August 11th (10am-1pm)

2018 Fall SESSION NOW ENROLLING Four affordable classes for 3yo’s and 4yo’s Families are welcome to visit our Historic building, Large Playground and meet our energetic teacher! www.stoneschool.org • 734-971-4820 2811 STONE SCHOOL RD. • ANN ARBOR, MI 48104 stone@stoneschool.org

www.annarborfamily.com • August 2018 •

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• August 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

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Shop Early, Stock Up, and Reuse Tackling the school supply list By Meagan Ruffing

Grab a friend, load your kids in the car, and head out early for your school supplies this year. Here are a few clever ways to save on your kid’s pencils and erasers, pencil box and crayons and yes, even those pricey dry erase markers. 1. Shop early. Most, if not all of your kids’ supplies are on sale during the summer. I didn’t know this until I started paying attention to those clearance items while doing my weekly grocery trips. I started picking up post-it notes that somehow found their way onto to the shelves with $1 price stickers. The only difference between those and the $3-4 post-it notes were the colors. 2. Stock up. Towards the end of the last school year, I found those super expensive Trapper Keepers on sale for $3. Prior shopping trips with friends who had older children and were more well versed than me, had balked at the cost of these with prices upwards of $13-15 and with multiple kids…well, you get the point.

5. Resale shops. Scope out the local resale shops for back-to-school items. I was super excited when I found, not one, but two backpacks that were in pristine condition for less than $5 each. Once I saw how beat up my son’s got after just one year of school I quickly bought those and they are now ready to go for the future. 6. Dry erase markers. Why are these markers so expensive? I don’t know the answer but here is a way to save a little bit on these. First, always stock up if you see them on sale (summertime) and second, buy in bulk. It will be more money up front but cheaper per marker. Your kids are ready to head back to school and with this list, you can feel good about supplying them with just what they need to start the school year off right.

3. Reuse. Once I saw how many pencils came back with my son at the end of the school year, I thought, there’s no way I’m buying another 24 pencils when I have somehow accumulated over 50. We spent an afternoon sharpening all of these pencils during quiet time and put them nicely in his new 50 cent pencil box. Old with the new…I like that. 4. Buy generic when you can. I usually leave the name brand stuff alone if I know the off-brand works just as well. I will also shop around if I’m already out and about running other errands. I don’t make special trips to find better prices but, recently, while I was shopping for something for the office, I saw a great sale on crayons.

Preschool and Young 5’s Programs Accepting Enrollments for the 2018-2019 School Year

www.annarborfamily.com • August 2018 •

BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE

How to be an A+ chaperone By Janeen Lewis

During the year your child’s class will more than likely take a field trip. Teachers really appreciate the help of parents when they venture outside school grounds with a group of students, and this is a great way to get to know your child’s teacher better. Here are seven quick tips to help you be an ace chaperone. 1. Show up on time so you can get information from the teacher and meet your group. 2. If possible, take a picture of your group so that if someone becomes separated, you know what they are wearing and can show the picture to other helping adults. 3. Learn the names of all the students in your group, and encourage them to pay attention, be on task and stay together. 4. If a child is consistently ignoring the rules, alert the teacher. 5. Take head counts often, especially after bathroom breaks and lunch. 6. Keep your cell phone with you at all times. Get the teacher’s number and numbers of other parent chaperones so that you can stay in contact if you split up. 7. Remember you are there, primarily, to help the teacher and students. While you should model participation and have a positive attitude about the trip, don’t slip away to that new exhibit you’ve been dying to see and leave your group.

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• August 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

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Building Bridges

Communicate and connect with your child’s teacher By Janeen Lewis

Do you feel intimidated when you think of talking with your child's teacher? What if your child complains about problems with his or her teacher? What do you do then? I'm a parent and a teacher, so I've been on both sides of the teacher's desk. Here are some tips to help you communicate and connect with your child's teacher so that you, your child and the teacher can all have an amazing school year.

Meet and greet the teacher.

Teachers like to meet parents at the beginning of the school year so that if a problem does occur, a teacher's first encounter with a parent isn't a call about misbehavior or academic struggles. If your school hosts a Back-to-School Night in the days before school starts, make it a priority to attend. Introduce yourself and show your support for the teacher.

Be involved.

One of the best ways to get to know your child's teacher is to be involved in the school and classroom. When school starts, let the teacher know if you can volunteer. Because the beginning of school is a busy time for teachers, wait until after the first couple of weeks when the class is settled in, and then contact the teacher and ask "How can I help?" If you can't volunteer during the day, offer to organize donations or supplies for projects or parties by setting up a parent sign-up list online. Ask if you can cut out items the teacher has laminated or track down supplies for a lesson. Come to after-school events, school productions and parent-teacher conferences so that you are visible and can touch base with your child's teacher.

Keep communications open and positive.

Teachers welcome questions and concerns and they are generally proactive. As a teacher, I would much rather know about a problem early so that I can deal with it in the best way for all concerned. Keep up with written teacher notes, field trip permission slips, report cards and any other written communications the teacher sends home. Remember to keep communications positive. If you have concerns or think the teacher has dealt unfairly with your child, don't dash off a negative note and send it first thing in the morning. For sensitive conversations, call and set up a time to meet after school.

Try to understand both sides.

Teachers have a lot to manage in their classrooms, and with twenty-five or more students to supervise, sometimes they make mistakes or don't see every problem. Your child may think something happened in class that wasn't fair, and it's easy as parents to react

emotionally and blame the teacher. But support the teacher as much as possible while you gather information about what happened. Try to help your child see the teacher's point of view, and talk about how people can have differences and still work together to succeed.

Advocate for your child.

Don't be afraid to speak up if a problem in your child's class becomes pervasive. If your child's grades start to slip, he or she is continually unhappy or you suspect your child is being bullied by a classmate, work with the teacher to devise a plan to help.

Make a change as a last resort.

Sometimes children have personality conflicts with their teachers. This actually offers an opportunity for growth if teachers and students can work together in a respectful and productive manner. After all, this is what children will need to be able to do when they grow up. But if problems persist, it may be time to request a change to another class and discuss your options with a school counselor or administrator.

Understand that teachers are human.

Most of the teachers I know are caring individuals who want to make a difference in the lives of the children they teach. Often, they are parents too, and although it is hard to imagine, at one time they were students who lived through awkward growth spurts, problems with peers, lost homework and braces. They understand what parents and kids are going through, and they strive to build a positive connection between school and home.

www.annarborfamily.com • August 2018 •

BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE

• August 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

Free Range or Helicopter? Parents decide what parenting style is best for their family By Jennifer Brough

“Our goal as parents is not necessarily to make children happy. Although I love it when my kids are happy, my responsibility is to produce competent, contributing, contented adults, and you have to teach kids independence and responsibility for them to grow into independent, responsible adults,” notes Ann Arbor parent Elise Napier. “I think parents can judge what their kids are ready for,” says Napier, adding, “Within reasonable boundaries, we use our judgement to support freedom for our kids to explore the world, develop their imagination, and as I said, grow into competent, contributing adults. I would add that I am neither a helicopter parent, or a free range parent; I’m really in the middle, but I support parents’ right to decide what their kids are ready for.” Kids independently navigating their world Prompted by high profile cases involving child protective services, a recent law enacted by the Utah State legislature allows parents more freedom to let their children engage in independent activities. The ruling essentially trusts parents who in turn trust their children enough to independently navigate the world in small ways, like walking to school, or playing outside alone. With no similar legislation in Michigan, the Utah ruling begs the question of how Michigan parents could respond. “Deciding on the best parenting style, whether that be, helicopter style, hovering over a child’s every move, or free range parenting, giving the child more independence, or even choosing something in between, remains with the parents,” says Doug Martelle, Community Engagement Officer, City of Ann Arbor Police Department. Free range or helicopter parenting Officer Martelle adds, “I am not endorsing the concept of free range parenting. If parents choose to practice this with their children, safety should be their number one concern. Parents need to ask themselves, does this make sense? Look at the big picture. Consider such things as the child’s age, size, and maturity level.”

Safety Guidelines for Free Range Parenting If you are considering giving your children the opportunity for more independence, you’ll want to develop guidelines for both you and your children to follow. Here are some tips from Officer Martelle, Ann Arbor Police Department, to help you get started: n Ensure that your kids are old enough and competent enough to be where they

are and to be doing what they are doing. n Know where your kids are, who they are with, what they are doing, and

when they will be back with you. n Establish rules of what your kids should not be doing while away from you. n Know what route your child takes to their destination and have them stick to it. n Know they are dressed appropriately for the weather conditions. n Provide a failsafe way of you both to contact each other if needed. n Establish procedures that allow you to bring your kids home quickly and

Elise Napier

safely, if needed.

“My mom had a whistle that she would blow to tell us to stop playing and come back home before the sun went down,” says Officer Martelle, noting that one or two generations ago, it was a perfectly natural thing for kids to play outside by themselves and walk to school alone. He cautions, “That was in the late 1960s. Our world is very different now. Many of the parents I’ve talked to tell me they are much more protective of their children today.” Building a parental style that works for both kids and parents “I decided my desire to escape for a run during a recent nine-day solo parenting stint justified leaving all three of my kids goggle-eyed in front of Netflix for half an hour. I also shooed the older two out of the house within the same week to play football in a nearby park by themselves and do what kids are good at doing - playing and exploring,” Susie Mesure, an Ann Arbor parent, wrote in a column for the UK-based inews.co.uk online newspaper. Mesure takes issue though with the term free-range parenting. “What we’re talking about is basic common sense. Kids need encouragement to cope by themselves while they’re young, otherwise how will they manage when they grow up? I’ve

always given my children as much freedom as I think they can handle for their age, if not slightly more. My five-year-old son used to take a slightly different route to school in London on his scooter for five minutes before we’d meet up again. He loved the feeling of responsibility.” Should kids be allowed more freedom to think for themselves? Mesure, originally from the UK, wonders what other parents think of her parental style, but also what their kids are doing instead. Guessing it involves a screen of some kind, she cites recent research by Jean Twenge of San Diego State University which suggests that, “Today’s super-connected kids are growing up less rebellious, more tolerant, less happy, and completely unprepared for adulthood.“ Mesure's point is that kids are perhaps being controlled too much, not only by their parents, but the vast amount of information they can find within that super-connected world. Applauding a NYC mom who let her 11 year old son ride the subway by himself, Mesure adds, “All things considered, if my nine-year-old son wants to cross London by tube, alone, when we get back to the UK, he will have my blessing to think for himself and explore the real world.”

When free range parenting is an economic necessity Napier, reflecting on a case in South Carolina reported by Jessica McCrory Calarco on Citylab.com, where a mother was arrested for letting her daughter play in a local park while she worked at a nearby McDonalds, also notes, “I think that there is a lot of privilege in saying, ’you have to watch your kid every second’. That implies two parents with big enough incomes that someone can always be home, and that is not everyone’s circumstance.” With a husband and a good support group of family members around her, Napier feels privileged to make free range parenting decisions while applying common sense rules to her kid’s activities. “Others, although they may have the same thoughts and ideals, don’t have the same choices.” she says. Common sense, the best rule Officer Martelle notes, whatever decisions parents make, and for whatever reason, “Common sense should prevail, and as always, parents should be providing their kids with information to keep them safe and to help them make the right decisions. By doing so, they begin to empower them to be independent.”

www.annarborfamily.com • August 2018 •

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Smooth Moves

Experts help families in all aspects of home relocation By Mary Rose Kulczak

HGTV makes it look so easy. Sell a “Ideally, the house should include all house, buy a house, and then move to of the ‘needs’ and many of the ‘wants’ a new town. And it all happens in one that a family prefers,” Kellam said. “The hour, with commercials. Piece of cake, best community is the one that fits the right? Wrong. Relocation is often listed expectations of the family’s lifestyle and as one of the top three most stressful life one that the family feels it can thrive in.” events. Add children to the equation, and Older children may have worries a family can feel as if about their new they are navigating schools. If posthrough a minefield. sible, arrange a This is a job for school visit bethe professionals. fore the move. “Relocation con“It’s helpful for sultants help to inschool age chilsure that a family’s dren to visit move to a new area schools to take goes as smoothly the mystery out as possible,” says of what a new Susan Kellam, Dischool will look rector of Relocation like and feel like,” and Corporate SerKellam added. vices for Reinhart says Susan Kellam, Moving day Realtors in Ann Director of Relocation and can also be trauCorporate Services for Reinhart Arbor. Kellam ofmatic for young Realtors in Ann Arbor. fered some tips to children. Kellam families moving in suggests a few the Ann Arbor area. ways to prepare for the big event. “Make sure that chilDo Your Research dren have some ‘down time’ during the Families should do their research day, like walking to the park or playing in before moving to any area. This can be the backyard. Have some of their special as simple as visiting school websites items ready to open first thing so children or reading local newspapers and have something familiar with them right publications online. When visiting the away. Make sure there is ample food and area for house hunting, set aside time to water to get through the day!” visit local attractions like libraries, parks, Get to Know Your Community museums and restaurants. Ann Arbor and its surrounding “Learn as much as possible about the communities are attractive to families, area resources prior to actually moving Kellam says, because of the many here,” Kellam advises. “Take ample time to visit neighborhoods, schools, churches, activities and events that the area has etc., to become familiar with the area to offer. “Many of them are free and oriented to families,” she said. prior to actually arriving.” When it comes to feeling settled in a Include the Children new community after the move, Kellam Kellam feels that children should be offers some additional advice. “Get involved in the moving process by involved. If the neighbors don’t knock accompanying parents on house hunting on your door to introduce themselves, trips prior to the move. When choosing a then go to them with first introductions! new home and a new community, Kellam Walking to the neighborhood park is a says that families need to examine their great way to meet other families.” collective wish lists.

• August 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

“Relocation consultants help to insure that a family’s move to a new area goes as smoothly as possible,”

PHOTO BY LORI MARANVILLE

Q&A w ith M ike Gus tafson

The Literati Bookstore at 124 E Washington plans to expand their kids section to match their expanding family.

The Next Edition

Mike and Hilary Gustafson with their newborn baby, Greta Lane.

Literati family grows with a new daughter By Lori Maranville

Five years after launching the Literati Bookstore in downtown Ann Arbor, coowners Mike and Hilary Gustafson started a new chapter in their lives in June with the birth of their daughter, Greta Lane. Mike calls the addition, “already the most wonderful chapter.” Famous actress Greta Garbo’s given name was Greta Gustafsson, the couple discovered while researching baby names. “I thought that was a sign,” Mike explains. Community-focused, national notoriety The Gustafson’s story begins with a vision to build a community-focused, independent bookstore. Fast forward to today, and the couple has lovingly grown their business from nine thousand books and seven employees to twenty five thousand books and twenty five employees. This year, they also saw the publication of the book Notes from a Public Typewriter, edited by Mike Gustafson and Oliver Uberti, based on anonymous notes typed on a typewriter in the basement of the bookstore. The book and the public typewriter have gained notoriety by being featured on National Public Radio’s Stateside program and NBC Nightly News. Confident in the Literati staff, Mike Gustafson said that the couple has been able to take some time away from the business enjoying their new role as parents and realizing just how much starting a business and becoming parents have in common. “Those first few weeks are chaotic, full of sleepless nights, and it is a stimulation overload. There is so much learning. But you fall in love,” he said, describing his life right now as “content.”

“I’m thrilled that Literati Bookstore has made it five years. I’m proud of our staff for working so hard these five years, and I’m extremely grateful to do this all with my wife and co-owner, Hilary, whose guidance, passion, and expertise is unparalleled.” A future for Greta The Gustafsons have fused their community vision with an eye toward the future they want to see for their daughter — for her to be part of a progressive, welcoming community. “I want my daughter to grow up in an arts-focused community that is a little quirky and a little bit different than every other town in the country,” Gustafson wrote. “And most of all, when she moves away one day (I don’t pretend to imagine she’ll live in our house forever), I want her to look back and say, ‘I really miss Ann Arbor.’” Now, as the pair journey into parenthood while continuing with bookstore ownership, they hope to continue to expand their kids section, bringing authors into local schools and continuing to offer children’s story times, perhaps making the story times more age-specific. The cozy children’s nook nestled in the upstairs of the store, just beyond the coffee counter, has colorful lightbulbs hanging whimsically, inviting children to explore the books around them. To foster a love of books in their children, Mike suggests that parents “read to them. Read with them. Take them to the bookstore and the library. Kids love stories and books. Let that literature love bloom however you can.” For more information about Literati Bookstore, book offerings, events, story times and staff picks, go to literatibookstore.com.

“I want my daughter to grow up in an arts-focused community that is a little quirky and a little bit different than every other town in the country,”

Book y ou s h a r e w w a n t to it h G r e ta : Anything b y Phil and Erin Stead (My favori . te by the a uthors is “A Sick D ay for Am os McGee .”) Favorite place to read in Ann Arb or: I like quietude when read ing, so I w ould say my couch. Favorite place to take a stroll: The old w est side is my favorite place to st roll. We like to wa lk downto wn to get some ice cream, the n ta stroll throu gh the neig ke a hborhood .

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www.annarborfamily.com • August 2018 •

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In 2015, Tyler and his family filmed a public service announcement for Limbs Matter, a national organization that advocates for lawn mower safety. They continue to work with the organization to educate parents on accident prevention. Today, Tyler is a nine year old who attends Symons Elementary in Milan. He enjoys basketball, soccer, and speed skating.

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WHEN Wednesday, October 17, 2018 5:30 pm - 9:30 pm WHERE Ann Arbor Marriott Ypsilanti at Eagle Crest 1275 S. Huron St. Ypsilanti, MI RSVP signaturechefs.org/annarbor

Every day in the United States, a child undergoes an amputation due to a lawn mower accident. Over eight hundred accidents occur annually, with six hundred of those accidents resulting in an amputation. Kelli Firouzi of Milan knows firsthand the devastation of these accidents. Her son, Tyler, was a victim of a lawn mowing tragedy. An unexpected tragedy Tyler’s accident happened in 2014, when he was just five years old. “We just got home from our city carnival where Tyler got a marshmallow gun,” Firouzi recalled. “He was so excited to play with it, and I had him sit in the house while his Dad, Sean, went outside to mow the lawn.” Firouzi began to do the laundry, unaware that her son snuck out the front door to surprise his father. As he snuck up behind his father to shoot him with the marshmallow gun, his father, unaware of Tyler’s presence, put the lawn mower in reverse. “All I remember is hearing God awful screams as I was trying to fold laundry. Then Sean brought Tyler in the house and laid him on the kitchen floor. There was blood all over the place and part of his foot was gone. I was in shock. Tyler was in shock,” Firouzi said. Emergency Medical services and fire fighters came, rushing Tyler to University of Michigan’s C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital, where Firouzi said he received wonderful care. After four days in the hospital, Tyler spent the remainder of the summer recovering.

• August 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

Teaching families safe practices Bethany Folsom is the Coordinator for Safe Kids Huron Valley, as well as the Health Educator for the C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital’s Pediatric Trauma Injury Prevention Program. She educates families on safety protocols, and lawn mower safety is one of many topics that are discussed as part of the summer season curriculum. “While lawnmower injuries may seem infrequent, the injuries that we see are often devastating to both the child and families,” she said. “These injuries often result in partial or complete amputations and/or extensive bone, muscle, ligament and vascular structure damage. These injuries can affect the child’s ability to walk or play and requires months or even years of repair and rehabilitation.” “These cases are devastating and heartbreaking, not only for the child and their family, but also for the individual who was operating the machine when the incident occurred.” Keep children indoors When mowing the lawn, Folsom says that it is best to keep children indoors or well out of the way. She also recommends that children never play on a mower or ride as a passenger. “When thinking about the safety of children around lawnmowers, it’s not just preventing kids from being run over that is the focus. It is recommended to clear any objects like stones, toys, or sticks before starting to mow, but many times these items are missed and can be picked up and thrown by a lawn mower. These objects become projectiles and can cause injury to people of all ages.” For more information on lawn mower safety, parents can visit the American Academy of Pediatrics website healthychildren.org. To learn more about the mission of Limbs Matter, and to view the public service announcement , visit the website at limbsmatter.com.

Teaching an Old Bar New Tricks

DOLORES MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Dolores Mexican Restaurant offers authentic food in a chic, casual atmosphere

6 S Washington St. Ypsilanti 734-904-9402 Tuesday-Thursday: 12pm-10pm Friday, Saturday: 12pm–12am Sunday: 12-4pm Monday: closed

After years of extensive renovations, Ypsilanti’s former Elbow Room has found new life as Dolores Mexican Restaurant. The interior décor is warm and welcoming and the simple design seems to be a theme which carries through not only the space, but also the food. We especially loved the large works of art and the awesome tiled floor, while big picture windows with large sills gave the kids a fun place to sit while waiting. Expanding little palates The menu offered a large variety of Mexican options, some familiar and some more adventurous. Overall the food is simple and fresh, which we found authentic and a noticeable change from the excess cheese and sauce that characterizes some Mexican-inspired eateries. We started with chips, the salsa trio ($3.50), and guacamole ($6). The salsas were wide-ranging with the ‘mild’ appropriate for little ones and the ‘hot salsa verde’ pushing the limits for the adults. The guacamole was creamy and flavorful without much added spice so the kids, and adults, gobbled it up. The homemade chips were exceptional – fresh, salty, and crunchy- a free refill after the first batch was much appreciated. We also tried out two orders of the street fruit ($4) – pineapple, oranges and cucumber served with lime and house-made chili powder – one order we requested the chili powder be served on the side. The kids enjoyed the presentation and found the spear-shaped fruit to be fun and easy to eat. Dolores has only one kid’s menu selection (quesadilla with beans and orange slices, $4) but we found that our kids

By Julie and David Sturza

were happy to share from plates ordered for the family. Adventurous kids will be rewarded if they try out the kids aqua de horchata ($1.50). Fun for kids to say, this cinnamon flavored rice milk is a refreshing treat that reminded everyone of the milk that’s left in the bowl when you finish Cinnamon Toast Crunch. Ten different types of tacos are served three per order for $4-$9 and provide a great way to sample a variety of flavors. Our family favorite was the carne asada ($9) – the corn tortilla was fresh and hot; the steak was juicy, citrusy, and charred with fresh sprinkled cilantro. The combination of flavors had our 5-year old asking for another order with cilantro! The cauliflower al pastor tacos ($7) were an interesting vegetarian take on the porkbased staple and the cauliflower handled the chile-spice blend, common to al pastor, better than this family of omnivores expected. The rajas con elote quesadilla ($6) – corn, roasted poblano peppers, onion and sour cream wrapped in a fresh tortilla— allowed the roasted poblano to really shine. We also tasted the mushroom ceviche tostada ($3.50) which featured fresh mushrooms, tomatoes, and large slices of avocado on a crispy shell. For dessert, we tried the flan ($5) and churros with Nutella ($4). Both dishes were easy to share and a sweet way to end a fantastic meal. A new family favorite Later in the evening, Dolores has much more of a cocktail bar vibe, but we found that outside of prime party hours, this is an exceptional place for a family to get a fun and tasty meal, that can hlep your kids stretch beyond their eating comfort zones (but not too far!). With a cozy atmosphere, plenty of room for families to relax and simple, good food, this is one of our new favorite places to get a bite to eat.

The Short Course 1. Kid-friendly: Yes. 2. To avoid wait: Come for lunch or an early dinner. 3. Noise level: Low. 4. Bathroom amenities: Changing table. 5. High chairs? Yes. 6. Got milk? Yes. 7. Kids’ menu? Yes. 8. Anything healthy for kids? Yes. 9. Food allergy concerns? Many items are gluten free.

www.annarborfamily.com • August 2018 •

• August 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

{ August

2018 }

Wednesday n August 1 10am-12pm.

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

1 WEDNESDAY Stone School Summer Camp: Camping 9:30am. $150. Stone School Cooperative Preschool. stoneschool.org Children will have fun playing with tents, singing songs, and eating s’mores. Nature Storytime: Insect Explorers 10am. $4-$5. Leslie Science and Nature Center. lesliesnc.org Explore and appreciate the outdoors with live animal visits, hikes, stories, and handson activities. This week, discover what makes an animal an insect. Summer Reading Finale w/ Drummunity 12pm-1:30pm. Chelsea District Library. chelseadistrictlibrary.org. Free Try out a variety of hand drums and percussion toys as you make music in a circle!

2 THURSDAY Kaleidoscope: Find Your Beat 11am-12pm. Saline Library. salinelibrary.org. Free Experiment with everyday objects to transform them into musical instruments! Grades 2-6.

3 FRIDAY First Friday at the Farm 5pm. $6. Dominos Farms. pettingfarm.com Admission is free to the pavillion area with fun activities and food trucks. Admission is $6/person to the petting farm. Noise Permit 5pm. YDL-Michigan. ypsilibrary.org. Free Enjoy music, poetry, a community art project, food, and more presented by Ypsilanti teens. All ages are welcome. Rolling Hills Family Campout 2pm. $7-$10. Rolling Hills County Park, Ypsilanti. mi-washtenawcounty.civicplus.com Stay one or two nights in the park with fishing, crafts, hiking, stargazing, and a campfire with s’mores. Top off the event with a Sunday morning pancake breakfast. Planet Viewing Party 9pm-11pm. Pittsfield Branch. aadl.org. Free Get a good look at Mars’ polar cap and Saturn’s rings through a telescope, and learn about NASA Mars rovers and landers from NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador Jennifer German.

4 SATURDAY Dive-in Movie 8:30pm-10:30pm. $4-$5. Fuller Park Pool. a2gov.org Dive on in and enjoy Coco, a Pixar animated film that follows young Miguel as he dreams of becoming an accomplished musician.

5 SUNDAY Goldfish Kids Triathlon 9am-12pm. $50-$70. Skyline High School. goldfishswimschool.com This triathlon is just for kids in three age groups: 5-6, 7-10, and 11-14. There will be swimming, biking, and running.

Art by Nature

Picnic with Pollinators 12:30pm. $5. Leslie Science and Nature Center. lesliesnc.org Discover the relationships between insects and plants during a short interpretive hike along with a game or two. Spinning Dot Theatre: Only A Day 2pm. $5-$10. Cultivate Coffee & TapHouse, Ypsilanti. cultivateypsi.com A fox and a wild boar can’t bring themselves to tell a dayfly that her life only lasts a single day. The three set out to complete a lifetime of accomplishments before the sun sets.

Enjoy a relaxing morning along the trail at Matthaei Botanical Gardens. The Nature’s Sketchbook youth program is intended for kids ages 411. Discover how nature can be an inspiration to create original works of art. Make your own sketches and use watercolors to illustrate what you observe outdoors. All materials will be provided. Register online at mbgna.umich.edu.

$8. Matthaei Botanical Gardens. 1800 N. Dixboro Rd. 734-647-7600. mbgna.edu

Tuesday n August 7

6 MONDAY

6pm-8pm.

Stone School Summer Camp: Beach 9:30am. $150. Stone School Cooperative Preschool. stoneschool.org Kids will spend time inside and outside, playing in the sand, water, and learning about sea creatures. Story Time 10:30am. Nicola’s Books. nicolasbooks.com. Free Join for a special story time about unicorns! Parenting Through Separation and Divorce Workshop 7pm. University Center for the Child and Family Office. mari.umich.edu. Free This workshop focuses on practical advice for parents going through a separation or divorce.

A Night Out for Safety

Bring the whole family for a night dedicated to safety education. The National Night Out Safety Fair invites all ages to participate in activities designed to raise awareness about crime and drug prevention. Join in Lillie Park South to increase your knowledge surrounding personal, senior, and kid safety. Adults can learn how to identify and protect themselves from current scams and fraud. There will also be police, fire, and local non-profit resources on site.

Lillie Park South. 4365 Platt Rd. 734-822-3101. pittsfield-mi.gov. Free

Thursday n August 9

9am-9pm.

Lego Creations

7 TUESDAY Just for Kids: Explore the World of Deli Kitchen Favorites 11am. $15. Zingerman’s Deli. zingermansdeli.com Taste favorite recipes including potato salad, chocolate pudding, and Russian dressing with Chef Rodger! Hear stories about the recipes and some of the secret ingredients! Recommended for ages 4-14. Sundae Social 4pm. Zingerman’s Deli. zingermansdeli.com. Free Create a custom made sundae and deck your hot dog out with condiments. The party will also include fun activities for kids of all ages. Custom Stamp Making 4:30pm. YDL-Superior. ypsilibrary.org. Free Participants will choose from mystery materials in a large range of textures and shapes and will create a unique stamp.

8 WEDNESDAY Nature Storytime: Buzzin’ Bugs 10am. $4-$5. Leslie Science and Nature Center. lesliesnc.org Discover the different sounds that insects make and make some noise of your own! Ukulele Party 7pm-7:45pm. Westgate Branch. aadl.org. Free Join the uke party with Banjo Betsy for an evening of songs and stories! Preschoolgrade 3.

Don’t miss the 12th Annual Lego Contest, presented by the Ann Arbor District Library. Submit your own lego creation for a chance to win a prize or just marvel at the original displays! Make sure to deliver your entry to Kensington Hotel between 9am-3pm. Doors will open for public display at 6pm with an awards ceremony beginning at 8pm. There will be categories for people of all ages, from preschool-adult with prizes including Target gift certificates, ribbons, and a special lego trophy. For a complete list of rules, visit aadl.org.

Kensington Hotel. 610 Hilton Blvd. 734-327-4200. aadl.org. Free

Saturday n August 18 10am-3pm.

Fire Truck Fair

This day is all about fire trucks! Spend a day exploring and learning at Riverside Park for the annual Fire Truck Muster. Organized by the Michigan Firehouse Museum, there will be plenty of fun and engaging activities for kids. Visit the different trucks, learn how to aim a firehose, explore the smoke house, and learn all about fire prevention. There will also be crafts, coloring, a sketch artist, and more to enjoy. See equipment dating from the early 1920s to today. Several trucks will even be in operation drafting water from the Huron River.

Riverside Park. 5 E. Cross St, Ypsilanti. 734-547-0663. michiganfirehousemuseum.org. Free

www.annarborfamily.com • August 2018 •

9 THURSDAY

11 SATURDAY

Read to Library Dogs 2pm-3:30pm. Chelsea District Library. chelseadistrictlibrary.org. Free Children can read books to friendly therapy dogs who listen carefully. Read five times and get a free book. Family Workshop: The Music Creator’s Toolbox 5:30pm-7:30pm. $10-$15. Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum. aahom.org John Churchville leads this creative workshop exploring different acoustic instruments and cutting edge technology. Participants should bring their own laptop and headphones. For ages 6-adult. SRSLY Cinema 8:45pm-10:45pm. Chelsea Clocktower. srslychelsea.org. Free Watch Spiderman: Homecomeing at dusk on the green across from the Clocktower Gazebo.

10 FRIDAY Dexter Daze 11am. Downtown Dexter. dexterdaze.org. Free Enjoy kids bounce houses, magic, children’s theater, parade, and entertainment in Mill Creek Park and the Gazebo in Monument Park Friday and Saturday. Movies In The Park 9pm. Tecumseh. downtowntecumseh.com. Free Bring a blanket and enjoy an outdoor movie with Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle! Popcorn, candy, and pop available for purchase.

Saline Summerfest 7am-11pm. Downtown Saline. salinesummerfest.org. Free Have fun with a kids fishing contest, games including an inflatable obstance course, corn hole, string golf, and a teen block party Saturday and Sunday. Rutherford Pool Kids Triathlon 8:30am. $20. Recreation Park, Ypsilanti. forpool.org Children ages 4-12 will swim, bike, and run around the park in a non-competitive event presented by the Ypsilanti Kiwanis in Cooperation with The Friends of Rutherford Pool.

12 SUNDAY Caden’s Car Show 1:30pm-3pm. $10. University of Michigan Hospital. uofmhealth.org More than 50 rare and unique cars will be on display, honoring the memory of extraordinary 11-year-old Caden Bowles, who was cared for in Congenital Heart Center at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. Kids’ Scavenger Hunt 2pm. Nicola’s Books. nicolasbooks.com. Free Avid readers will love this book-themed scavenger hunt with prizes! Concert in the Park: Guy Louis 3pm. Burns Park. calendar.a2gov.org. Free Go on a cultural adventure as Guy Louis sings songs from Africa, India, Europe, and America’s past and present while performing on authentic instruments.

Fireside Fun 6:30pm-8pm. Leslie Science & Nature Center. lesliesnc.org. Free Have some good old fashioned campfire fun at LSNC! Marshmallows provided. Bring camp chairs and fixings for s’mores.

13 MONDAY Stone School Summer Camp: Phonic Fun 9:30am. $150. Stone School Cooperative Preschool. stoneschool.org This camp offers a fun and play-based approach to the introduction of the Alphabet, letter recognition and formation. Backyard Summer Craft 2pm-3pm. Westgate Branch. aadl.org. Free Enjoy endless fun with summer crafts from birds flying and frog feeding to movie fish. Preschool-grade 3. Movies and Munchies 2:30pm-4:30pm. Saline District Library. salinelibrary.org. Free Movies and Munchies features movies based on phenomenal books! Eat snacks and watch Me, Earl, and the Dying Girl.

14 TUESDAY Summer Movie Clubhouse 10am. $1. Rave Motion Pictures, Pittsfield. cinemark.com The Summer Movie Clubhouse offers kids movies on Tuesdays all summer long! This week, see Boss Baby. Harry Potter Escape Room 4pm-5pm. Chelsea District Library. chelseadistrictlibrary.org. Free All ages are invited to search the room for clues and work together to solve puzzles that will lead to your escape.

• August 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

15 WEDNESDAY Nature Storytime: Caterpillar Crawl 10am. $4-$5. Leslie Science and Nature Center. lesliesnc.org Fly like a butterfly, crawl like a caterpillar, and discover how insects move with live animal visits, hikes, stories, and hands-on activities. Crafting For Charity 2pm-3pm. Saline District Library. salinelibrary.org. Free Teens are invited to this crafting session dedicated to helping others like making blankets for the homeless and pillowcases for kids and teens at Mott Hospital. The Howell Art Project 6pm. Downtown Howell. downtownhowell.org. Free This art competition features local and state-wide artists, with the winners’ original 2D artwork reproduced and exhibited, along with original 3-D art pieces.

16 THURSDAY Story Time 12:30pm. $6. The Petting Farm at Domino’s Farms. pettingfarm.com Come hear a story at the petting farm and visit the alpacas, cattle, ducks, llamas, peacocks, ponies, and more. Writing Box 2:30pm-3:30pm. Ypsilanti District Library. ypsilibrary.org. Free Use the library’s writing box supplies to explore a topic,inspiring a creation like a map, menu, or even your own grafitti!

Fairy Tea 4pm. $11. Crazy Wisdom Bookstore & Tearoom. crazywisdom.net Enjoy tea, treats, a special activity, and a storytime. Fairy attire encouraged!

17 FRIDAY Pets and Pajamas Movie Night 5pm-9pm. $15-$35. Humane Society of Huron Valley. hshv.org Ages 5-11 are invited for a vegetarian dinner, animal interactions, and an animalthemed movie with popcorn! Children are welcome to wear their pajamas and bring a sleeping bag with pillows. Night Paddle 8:30pm-10:30pm. $15-$20. Gallup Park. a2gov.org Enjoy the natural beauty of the Huron with a night paddle in a kayak or canoe. $15/1 person kayak, $20/2 person kayak or canoe.

18 SATURDAY Raptor Feeding 4pm-5pm. Leslie Science & Nature Center. lesliesnc.org. Free See staff prepare raptor foods for wild owls, hawks, and eagles and watch them eat. Touch feathers, see a hawk or owl pellet, and discover more about birds!

19 SUNDAY Drawing for Kids 1pm-2pm. Traverwood Branch. aadl.org. Free Participate in a directed drawing activity with artists from the Ann Arbor Art Center. The theme will be colored fruit slices! Grades 1-5.

20 MONDAY Drop-In Japanese Calligraphy 1pm-8:30pm. Ann Arbor District Library. aadl.org. Free Guests from Michigan’s sister state, Shiga Japan, will teach the art of calligraphy! Grade K-adult.

21 TUESDAY Chelsea Community Fair 12pm-10pm. $8. Chelsea Fairgrounds. chelseafair.org Bring the whole family to enjoy the fair Aug. 21-25 featuring a children’s parade, kid-friendly games, carnival rides, tractor pulls, a rodeo, a horse show, and more.

22 WEDNESDAY Nature Storytime: Beautiful Butterflies 10am. $4-$5. Leslie Science and Nature Center. lesliesnc.org Experience the magic of fairies and butterflies!

23 THURSDAY Back to School Supply Swag 3pm-4:30pm. Ypsilanti District Library. ypsilibrary.org. Free Craft your own DIY pencil bags, binder clips, binders, and more for back to school essentials! All supplies provided. Family Workshop: In the Loud Lab 5:30pm-7:30pm. $10-$15. Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum. aahom.org Author David Erik Nelson will show how to make musical instruments with common household materials.

24 FRIDAY YpsiFest 12pm-10pm. Riverside Park, Ypsilanti. ypsifest.com. Free Join for this heritage, arts, and entertainment festival Aug. 24-26 with music, food, entertainment, and family-friendly activities. After Hours Magic The Gathering 5pm-6:30pm. Saline District Library. salinelibrary.org. Free Teens get together for fun and games with Magic The Gathering. Snacks provided.

25 SATURDAY Two Layer Flower Soda Tab 1pm-2:30pm. Pittsfield Branch. aadl.org. Free Make a DIY Pop Tag Flower out of sodacan tabs. Grades 5-adult. German Park Picnic 4pm-11pm. $5. German Park. germanpark.org Spend a day at the park to enjoy live music, authentic German food, and German dance performances! Children ages 12 and under attend for free.

26 SUNDAY

Sundays Yoga with Cats 7:30pm. $10. Tiny Lions Lounge and Adoption Center. tinylions.org What better way to practice yoga than with furry feline yoga masters? Ages 12 and up are invited for this unique class that helps support cats in the community. Those under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Sunday Funnies 3pm. $5-12. The Mitten Theater, Plymouth. plymouthparc.com Family friendly improv comedy at the Mitten. Be amazed as the cast takes a suggestion from the audience and turns it into a hilarious story for all ages!

Mondays Knitting Night 6pm. Cultivate Coffee & TapHouse, Ypsilanti. cultivateypsi.com. Free All ages and levels welcome at this weekly craft gathering.

Tuesdays

Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along 1:30pm. $13-$16. Michigan Theater. michtheater.org Come sing along to the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast! Concert in the Park: Mustard’s Retreat Trio 3pm. Burns Park. calendar.a2gov.org. Free All ages are welcome to enjoy the sounds of Mustard’s Retreat Trio.

27 MONDAY Chess Club 4pm-5:30pm. Ypsilanti District Library. ypsilibrary.org. Free Play friendly chess games with Phil Volk, a member of the US Chess Federation. Origami Wall Art 7pm-8pm. Pittsfield Branch. aadl.org. Free Use origami paper to create simple and colorful works of art! Grades 6-adult.

29 WEDNESDAY

Little Scientists Club 9:30am-10:30am. $12.50. Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum. aahom.org

30 THURSDAY Michigan State Fair 10am-10pm. $6-$8. Suburban Collection Showplace, Novi. michiganstatefairllc.com Enjoy the State Fair Aug. 30-Sept 3, Michigan’s largest carnival with music, food, and fun for the whole family!

31 FRIDAY Bike-in 7pm. Ann Arbor Farmer’s Market. facebook.com/bikeinannarbor. Free This monthly slow bike ride begins at the Farmer’s Market in Kerrytown and wraps up with a social gathering at a local establishment. For information, times, locations, riding routes, weather updates, etc. visit on Facebook at @bikeinannarbor.

Thursdays Parent & Toddler Art Sessions 10am. Riverside Arts Center, Ypsilanti. riversidearts.org. Free Studio 1 will be open for toddlers and their caretakers to get creative, messy, and social with hands-on activities!

Fridays

Breastfeeding Cafe: Group for Mothers and Babies 10am. Breastfeeding Center of Ann Arbor. bfcaa.com. Free This is a space for mothers and their babies to meet other breastfeeding mothers. Have a cup of tea, relax, and chat with others about what’s on your mind. Saturdays

Story Time with Linda Zimmer 11am. Bookbound Bookstore. bookboundbookstore.com. Free Story Time is for kids ages 6 and under, and features Linda Zimmer reading fun and seasonal books in Bookbound’s comfortable children’s section.

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HOME SERVICES

Saline Community Fair 10am. $5-$36. Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds. salinefair.org Enjoy carnival rides Wednesday-Monday. Thursday is Children’s Day with a lawnmower obstacle course and a toddler ride special! For a full schedule, visit online.

The museum’s youngest visitors are welcome to explore their sense of wonder about the world through observation, hands-on activities, science-themed stories, and much more. Each week features a different theme. Older siblings welcome.

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