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

FREE NOVEMBER 2018

l a i c e Sp s d e e N GUIDE p10

Caring for the caregiver and local resources for families

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OPEN HOUSE GUIDE

FRESH FORAGE

Locally sourced, fresh, and delicious

Get to know local private schools

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Open House Sale • Sun. November 11th • 11am - 5pm Midnight Madness • Fri. November 30th • 10am - Midnight

Kerrytown Market & Shops 407 North Fifth Ave. | Ann Arbor, MI

We offer kid-friendly teas full of vitamins and bursting with flavor

Herbal Teas for Kids

A healthy alternative to sugary berverages. Serve slightly warm or iced

Come visit us upstairs at Kerrytown today or shop online! | 734.332.5500 | spicemerchants.biz

OPEN HOUSE SALE

Sunday, Novemeber 11 • (11am -5pm)

MIDNIGHT MADNESS

Friday, November 30 • (10am - Midnight)

• November 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

• Dolls • Books & Puzzles • Family Games • Plush Toys • Arts & Crafts • Science Kits • Lego* • and much, much more!

Volume 24 • Issue 11 November 2018

l a i c e p S ds NeeGUIDE

Open House Guide2

E K O M S N I P U The Truth About Vaping P. 8

2018

Caring for the caregiver and local resources for families

Get to know local private schools

P.10

departments ann arbor favorites

#showandtell

what’s briefly happening

new kids

tween the lines

exceptional families

digital age 16

Online

NOVEMBER

P.14

NOVEMBER

giveaway

It’s time to get your shot

Flu season begins in Washtenaw County By Laura Eliason

healthy kids 17 parent profile 18

Exploring Daniel Tiger’s magical landmarks

calendar 21 marketplace 23

commentary

Airfare to Activities

How to save $ on family trips By Lori LeRoy

[Always online]

Local resources for new moms

food fight 20

Foraging Locally

Fresh, healthy food for any and all at Fresh Forage

By Julie and David Sturza

Penny Pinching GUIDE

Enter to win this Crayola Trolley Play Set from Amloid and your child can jump aboard with Daniel Tiger and friends to tour around the Neighborhood of Make-Believe. Enrich little creators’ play time with a wholesome activity set that fuels imaginations with a variety of sturdy and stackable building blocks, stickers and crayons. Gently remove packaging from around the tube to discover coloring fun on the backside of the wrap with several illustrations, along with instructions on how to build the Trolley in five simple steps! The 46-piece set includes 5 block fit figures, 8 Crayola crayons, 1 decal sheet, and 32 bright and durable Kids@Work building blocks. Great for ages three and up.

To enter visit annarborfamily.com

Where kids eat free.

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On the Cover

Evie and Estelle with their mother Stefanie. Only a year apart, the sisters will both celebrate their birthday in November.

recycle this paper For our children's future ...

www.annarborfamily.com • November 2018 •

Adams Street Publishing Co. What are you thankful for this year?

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

KIDS HOROSCOPE Oct 24Nov 22

Magic in the air Grab your wand and open up this detailed magic set complete with 72-page instruction manual and all the magic tools needed to perform the tricks. Get ready to shock and amaze! Your child will learn to perform feats of magic such as making playing cards come and go and change places, making money and coins disappear and reappear, even making a wand levitate and move on its own. There are over 100 tricks to learn! Discover just how easy and exhilarating magic can be with the Silver Edition Magic set. $26.95 kerrytown.com/mudpuddles

Things you’ll cancel later Are you a chronic canceller? Do you love the thrill of a full calendar of events but loathe the time commitment and decrease in ‘Netflix and Chill’ time that comes with that full schedule? The Things I'll Cancel Later Planner is for you! For the mom or dad that has everything! $22 rockpaperscissorsshop.com

Go Blue!

By Kimmie Rose Your Scorpio child is wise, compassionate, and intuitive. Look into their eyes if you want to know what they are feeling, since,as you know, the eyes are the window of the soul. When you do you will experience their gentle nature to see you on all levels. This month their mind will be looking for ways to understand people and learn more. They will be full of questions and ready to receive answers to help understand the world around them. This is the perfect time to get a globe and spin it. Close your eyes with them and have them put their finger on it and learn about the country they picked. Explore the nature of the weather, language and culture. This a time when they will begin to see the world that exists far and near. It’s a good time to nurture the compassion they feel for every living being on the planet.

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Exclusive to the University of Michigan, HAIL has created a Wolverine animal coat with welt pockets, and a removable Wolverine hood AND tail. Made of sturdy wool blend felt, the coat and hood are lined in super cozy; ultra-soft cuddle fleece. For Michigan spirit at the game, go full Wolverine! Unbutton the hood, un-velcro the tail, and you have a classic wool coat. Available in sizes 2T-8. Made by hand in the USA. $250 mden.com

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• November 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

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

Artwork by Carp enter on Trader Joe’s A Elementary students on display rt Gallery wall in Ann Arbor.

Arkan, 2, Ann Arbor, enjoying the Michigan Renaissance Festival

Arkan’s mom, Ars eli, Ann Arbor, jo ining in on the fun at the M ichigan Renaissan ce Festival

. Children’s juggle work and family life to ing try m mo a ng bei y It’s never eas tober by hosting an celebrated local moms in Oc Hospital of Michigan– Troy up tips and more. treatments, massages, make spa i min ing tur fea ent ev intimate www.annarborfamily.com • November 2018 •

Compiled by Laura Eliason

Giving back on Giving Tuesday After the shopping gluttony of Black Friday weekend and Cyber Monday it’s important to stop, take a breath, and think about giving back. Giving Tuesday is a global day dedicated to charitable giving to organizations of your choice. This social media campaign, initiated in 2012 has become a movement that celebrates and supports giving and philanthropy. Parents can use Giving Tuesday as an opportunity to teach children about the importance of giving and helping others. If a monetary donation doesn’t fit in your budget, consider donating your time or expertise. Local organizations that will be running campaigns for Giving Tuesday: Food Gatherers, Community Action Network, Habitat for Humanity of Huron Valley, Neutral Zone, Ozone House, and many more. Visit the Giving Tuesday website and contact local organizations for more information.

Scouting contributions to the community recognized Scouting community volunteer, Martha Darling, and the Bank of Ann Arbor were both honored for their contributions to the Scouting program in October. Darling, who has served in volunteer leadership roles at the local, state, national and international level, received the Boy Scouts of America Distinguished Citizen Award, while the Bank of Ann Arbor was honored with the first-ever Distinguished Business Award.

Learn more at givingtuesday.org.

Starting as a Den volunteer for her son David’s Cub Scout pack, Darling has worked extensively in the Scouting program and Ann Arbor community as a past board member of organizations such as the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, the Ann Arbor Hands On Museum and the Ann Arbor Symphony. Charles Crone, Executive Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer for the Bank of Ann Arbor, said he sees these leadership qualities in his employees who are Eagle Scouts “Scouting’s important because it clearly develops leadership skills in our youth and our country needs these leadership skills.”

Need free homework help? Homework can be hard for both kids and adults and sometimes tutoring can be a big help. The Ypsilanti District Library (YDL) and others in the area have stepped in to connect kids to tutors at no cost. YDL partners with several organizations to provide tutoring help you can access with your library card. They offer drop-in tutoring at several of their branches throughout the week. See the YDL website for specific dates, times, and locations. If getting help at home is easier, they also offer YDL cardholders free, live one-on-one help online with their partner tutor.com daily from 10am-11pm. The Ann Arbor District Library also offers drop-in tutoring at their branches and online help through Brainfuse: Help Now! Visit their website for full details. Ypsilanti District Library, 734-482-4110. ypsilibrary.org Ann Arbor District Library, 734-327-4200. aadl.org

Kick off the holidays with jazzy favorites Jump right into the holiday season when Wynton Marsalis brings his Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra (JLCO) to the University of Michigan’s Hill Auditorium with a special holiday program. Including soulful big band arrangements of songs both sacred and secular, this concert features swinging JLCO instrumentals as well as imaginative new versions of classics like “White Christmas” and “Merry Christmas Baby” performed by two special guest vocalists: Veronica Swift and Vuyo Sotashe, both distinctive young talents performing in Jazz at Lincoln Center’s smaller venues in New York. This concert is sure to get your family into the holiday spirit! Contact the ticketing office directly about UMS Kids Club Tickets. Wednesday, November 28. 7:30pm. $19-75. Hill Auditorium, 825 N. University Ave. 734-764-2538. ums.org

• November 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

A sweet, flowery marriage Mother and daughter duo Gwen and Emily Gleason have combined their established floral business, Milan Floral and Gift, with a delicious donut counter at their new store Daisies and Donuts. The Gleasons are excited to bring a bakery to Milan which has not had one for a few years. The bakery-floral shop sells delicious Dom Bakery donuts (fresh from their Ypsilanti location) that will be delivered to the store every morning. The Daisies part of their store name recognizes a full service FTD floral shop, formerly known as Milan Floral and Gift. Tuesday-Friday 6am-4pm (or until they sell out). Saturday, 7am-1pm. Sunday-Monday, closed. Daisies and Donuts, 13 E. Main St., Milan.

Textiles come to Milan Milan’s business community continues to grow with the addition of Textiles Fabric Shop. The new shop will sell cotton fabrics for quilting and crafting as well as fabric tools. It will also host a variety of in-store events such as t-shirt quilting and wreath-making classes, along with private party options for special events. Monday, 2-7pm. Tuesday-Friday, 10am-7pm. Saturday, 10am-4pm. Sunday, 12-4pm. Textiles Fabric Shop, 210 E. Main St., Milan. 734-508-6794. facebook.com/textilesfabricshop

ENROLLMENT OPPORTUNITIES! Honey Creek Community School will be holding enrollment meetings on November 27 and December 5 at 6:00 pm. Applications for the 2019-2020 school year will be accepted December 6-14. Honey Creek presently has openings in kindergarten (including early 5s) and 2nd grade. For more information please call:

(734) 994-2636.

COME EXPERIENCE THE HONEY CREEK DIFFERENCE! We offer strong teacher-student relationships, a rigorous project-based curriculum and valuable service-learning opportunities! HONEY CREEK IS A TUITION FREE PUBLIC SCHOOL ACADEMY.

Nu2U closes Saline resale shop Nu2U has closed its doors. Run by volunteers, the shop sold donated items with all proceeds supporting Washtenaw Christian Academy. The store closed after eight years when the school’s board decided to discontinue the business.

Once Upon a Child comes to Brighton A new children’s resale shop is opening at the end of the month in Brighton. Once Upon a Child-Brighton will sell gently used children’s clothing, shoes, equipment, toys and books. As with other locations, they will offer cash on the spot to sellers of gently used children’s items. Monday-Saturday, 10am-8pm. Sunday, 12-6pm. Once Upon a Child-Brighton, 8675 W. Grand River Ave., Brighton. 810-360-0033. onceuponachildbrighton.com

Groceries delivered in prime time Ann Arbor area shoppers have another grocery delivery option. Amazon has launched delivery of natural and organic products from Whole Foods Market through Prime Now in Ann Arbor. Prime members can shop through Prime Now for items including fresh produce, meat and seafood, everyday staples and other locally sourced items from Whole Foods Market. The delivery area will reach customers from Hamburg and Northville in the north, Dundee in the south, and from Saline and Bridgewater in the west into Canton in the east. Pickup and delivery from Whole Foods Market are available daily from 8am-10pm. To learn more about grocery pickup or delivery from Prime Now, visit primenow.com.

www.annarborfamily.com • November 2018 •

tween the lines

advice for parents with children 10-16

E K O M S UP IN

The Truth About Vaping by Kate Ingersoll

The number of teens using e-cigarettes and vaping devices has soared. In fact, recent studies show that high school students are using them at a higher rate than adults. Vaping vs. smoking We all know that cigarettes are harmful, but what about vaping which involves the inhalation of an aerosol that is converted into a mist by a batteryoperated e-cigarette or similar device. In addition, the user also inhales toxic additives as well as mold, fungus, and other pollutants that build up in the device over time. Many teens vape enticingly sweet flavors and often add nicotine which is more addictive than heroin, morphine, and cocaine. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the rate of teenage smoking has been steadily decreasing to 11% in 2015. Yet a 2016 National Youth Tobacco Survey reports that 1.7 million high school students have admitted they used a vaping device in the last thirty days. Because vaping is less harsh, people inhale much more deeply than cigarette smokers, so they inhale large amounts of toxins as well as nicotine. “Although we have made significant progress in protecting our youth from tobacco-related health harms, we still have a long way to go,” says Kimberly Collom, health educator at the Washtenaw County Health Department. “It is essential that we address e-cigarette use among young people and do everything we can to prevent youth tobacco use.”

New FDA regulations In September, Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Scott Gottlieb announced that youth vaping has reached “an epidemic proportion” and that the agency will halt sales of flavored e-cigarettes if major manufacturers can’t prove they are doing enough to prevent child and teen use. According to the Washtenaw County Health Department, Michigan spends $4.59 billion annually on health care costs directly related to smoking. The tobacco industry spends an estimated $320 million to market their products in the state each year, yet Michigan spends only $1.63 million on tobacco prevention and control programming.

the U.S. Surgeon General, the brain is not fully developed until the early to mid-20s. Exposure to nicotine during periods of significant brain development, including adolescence, can disrupt the growth of parts of the brain that control attention, learning, and susceptibility to addiction. Effects can be long-lasting and can include lower impulse control and mood disorders. Parent and school involvement The best thing parents and teachers can do is to admit that vaping has become an epidemic. A local parent recently walked into Pioneer High School and saw a student-made sign which read “Don’t be a fool…put down that Juul. “

Clearing the Air

larly vaping. Learning about the health risks of using e-products is a vital step in being able to have open discussions with teenagers. “Vaping is an issue across America,” Mr. Cluley admits. “It’s important to involve our students in educating their peers.”

Talk to Your Teens About Vaping n Set a positive, tobacco-free example. If you smoke or use e-cigarette products, it’s never too late to quit. Call 1-800-QUITNOW or visit smokefree.gov. n Find credible information online at SurgeonGeneral.gov as studies are ongoing about the short and longterm effects of e-cigarettes.

Facts about Vaping •

In order to purchase e-cigarettes and vaping products, you must be 18 years or older and have a valid photo ID.

n Contact the Washtenaw County Health Department at www.washtenaw.org/health or call 734-544-6700 for more information local resources.

•

Vaping is not a proven method for smoking cessation, and is frequently used in addition to cigarettes, not in place of them.

•

The nicotine used in vaping devices affects brain development and function in young people.

n Start the conversation early. Kids as young as nine years old have reportedly been trying vaping.

•

E-cigarettes and vaping devices are not FDA approved, and there is no evidence that the aerosol from them is safe.

•

The additives, heavy metals, ultrafine particles, and chemicals they contain include toxins and potential carcinogens.

•

The use of vaping devices may be re-normalizing smoking behavior.

•

Parents and teachers can contact Holly Kowalzck for more information about smoking/vaping cessation by calling 419-893-QUIT.

Addicted to vaping Vaping devices can be easily hidden in a pocket or sleeve and because the odor mimics sweet or pleasant scents, parents can’t always tell when their teen is using one. Many teens believe that vaping is healthy because the packaging touts it as “all natural”. Yet the evidence is clear: many of the chemicals used to flavor e-liquid irritate the lungs and over time put the user’s health at risk. According to

“Sounds like there are some who think it is a problem in the schools,” she says. Andrew Cluley, Communications Director for Ann Arbor Public schools emphasizes, “Students believe it’s the number one problem in our system.” To that end, both Huron and Pioneer High Schools will be participating in The Great American Smoke Out on November 16th. Students will set up demonstrations to show the dangers of using nicotine in any form, particu-

• November 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

n Avoid criticism and keep an open dialogue with your child. Ask questions about their exposure to vaping via the internet, advertising, and friends. n Connect your child with online resources and encourage him/her to research the effects of vaping for themselves, and be available to answer questions over time as the conversation continues. Livescience. com is an excellent resource. n Be mindful of your child’s online activity. E-cigarette products are illegal to purchase under the age of 18, but online vendors don’t always ask for proof of age.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE EPILEPSY FOUNDATION OF MICHIGAN

EXCEPTIONAL FAMILIES for parents of children with special needs Canton Turkey Trot 2017.

Services available from the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan n Here for You Helpline. If you have questions about epilepsy or its consequences, Education Specialists will help give answers. Call the Toll-Free number 800-377-6226. n Learn & Share Conference Calls. The conference calls are a strategy to give information about epilepsy and gives opportunities to share experiences. The next call is on December 5, 2018 from 6-7:30pm with Alexandra Shaw, MD, on the topic, “Childhood Epilepsy Syndromes: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prognosis.” Interested individuals can participate in monthly Learn & Share Conference Calls by calling and entering the conference ID. To get the call information visit epilepsymichigan.org

November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month!

n Wellness & Epilepsy Conference. November 10 from 8am-4pm at the VisTaTech Center at SchoolCraft College in Livonia. A Kids Conference Day Camp will also be held during the conference for children whose caregivers are attending the conference. Sign up at epilepsymichigan.org n Summer Camps, Seizure First Aid, and Rescue Medication Training are resources along with many others.

Empower, Support, and Connect Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan supports families By Heidi Alene Harris

Finding out that your child has been diagnosed with epilepsy can bring a variety of emotions. Parents may not know where to turn to find support or information about the disease. The Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan, located in Southfield, is an organization that seeks to provide that support and information to families and the local epilepsy community. The Foundation’s mission is to lead the fight to overcome the challenges of living with epilepsy and to accelerate therapies to stop seizures, find cures, and save lives. It’s president, Brianna Romines, explained, “We want to see an end to epilepsy. Our ultimate vision is a world without epilepsy; lives free from seizures.” What is epilepsy? Epilepsy is the general term for a variety of neurological conditions characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures. A seizure is a brief disturbance in the electrical activity of the brain that causes temporary changes in movement, awareness, feelings, behavior, or other bodily functions. Epilepsy is the fourth most common neurological disorder in the United States. And it is estimated that 30% of people with epilepsy, in the state of Michigan, are children. Therefore, we estimate at least 30,000 children in Michigan have epilepsy.

Brianna Romines and Justin Murray- the inspiration behind Turkey Trot.

Ultimate vision One way the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan fulfills their mission is by providing a variety of resources for families and children. The goal of these resources is to empower individuals and families with seizure management tools. All services and resources are available to anyone living in Michigan. As Romines explained, “We want to connect people with epilepsy to someone in our organization as early as possible in their epilepsy journey. We truly feel it is an honor and duty to be a part of that journey and help families in their quest to best manage their epilepsy.” Visit their website at epilepsymichigan.org to find out more about the organization and receive the support your family may need to move forward positively.

Canton’s 16th Annual Turkey Trot 5K. Thursday, November 22, 8am

Brianna Romines, President of Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan.

Summit on the Park, 46000 Summit Parkway, Canton. The course winds through Heritage Park & Pheasant Run Golf Course in Canton. 5K Run- $25, 1 Mile Run/Walk- $15. All proceeds support the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan. Sign Up at epilepsymichigan.org.

www.annarborfamily.com • November 2018 •

Caring for the Caregiver

How to support parents of special needs children by Christa Melnyk Hines

l i a c e p S Needs GUIDE

A resource guide for families with special needs children.

When Tracy Glock’s 13-month-old daughter, Kira, was hospitalized with Acute Myeloid Leukemia, she was touched by the outpouring of support she and her husband received. During those difficult months, the community rallied around the family. Friends and acquaintances babysat Kira in the hospital while her mom and dad worked, and many others helped by delivering meals and even mowing the family’s lawn.”Words cannot express the gratitude you feel when someone you barely know does so much for you,” Glock says. Tracy was also pregnant at the time with Kira’s sister, Allina. Although Kira, now seven, has recovered from the frightening ordeal, she still faces many daily challenges. As a child with Down syndrome and autism, learning and development takes longer and requires more patience compared to the typically developing child. Like many parents who have children with special needs, Glock says finding time for herself is difficult. While many of us know how to help a family in crisis, how do we support parents who often put their own needs last as they focus on the daily challenges of caring for special needs youngsters?

Offer to babysit

Finding trustworthy, alternate caregivers is a huge relief for parents who regularly juggle medical appointments, school issues and therapy, not to mention jobs and other children. “Every special needs parent is different, but everyone can use a little rest,” Glock says. Because special needs children require more attention from their parents, healthcare providers and therapists, other children in the family may feel slighted. “Children always struggle and this is the case whether they’re special needs or not,” says Nancy Masannat, mom to two children, Emy, 16, and 14 year old Kyle, who is on the autism spectrum. “There are going to be sibling jealousies.”

When her children were younger, Masannat would often schedule her son’s appointments during times when her daughter was in preschool. “In my daughter’s mind, it wasn’t fair that someone was coming to the house and playing with her brother and not her.” Having access to a qualified babysitter you can trust with your special needs child can provide an opportunity to spend much-needed, one-on-one time with your other children.

Listen

Ask your friend how they’re doing and then simply listen. Avoid offering platitudes or suggestions to help fix problems. “We all just like to be heard. Everybody likes to vent,” Masannat says. “Just listen to what the issues are without judgment. That’s a huge help for everybody, but primarily when you’re dealing with something that someone else might not understand.”

Educate yourself

Get to know your friend’s child, including their disability, their personality quirks and their individual needs. And ask your friend about their specific parenting challenges. “It shows that you care and will help you provide more effective support,” says Heather Trammell, mom to two special needs children, Beth, 14, who has Down syndrome and Marie, 11, who has high-functioning autism. Both girls also have a connective tissue disorder called Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.

Suggest resources

Support groups help parents feel less alone and provide valuable resources for assistance in childcare, school issues and navigating healthcare. “The biggest thing for me was to know that I wasn’t in this by myself— that I wasn’t the only person who had a child who didn’t sleep well— that I wasn’t the only one with a child who was now three and not talking,” Masannat says.

Love planted a rose, and the world turned sweet. - Katharine Lee Bates

• November 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

Other ideas to brighten your friend's day:

• • • • • • • • • •

ONE-ON-ONE

Individualized Center-Based Treatment

NOW ENROLLING

Purchase a gift certificate for a massage or manicure

Call Us to Schedule a Tour

If you plan to have the family over, ask your friend if you should be aware of any food sensitivities or specific ground rules to ensure a successful visit

Flexible Schedule

Offer to babysit and/or help with siblings Help with getting kids to practices

Ages 2-18

Deliver a meal

After school hours available

Mow their lawn Send a bouquet of cheerful flowers Arrange for a house cleaning crew

Offering Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy services for individuals with autism or other developmental disorders

Ask if you can pick up anything while running errands Mail an encouraging card

Empowering Children and Families to Live Fully

4201 Varsity Dr., Suite B&C • Ann Arbor, MI 48108 NEW LOCATION

(734) 926-0740

LEARN MORE AT CREATINGBRIGHTERFUTURES.COM Wild Swan Theater presents:

A Christmas Carol

Based on the novel by Charles Dickens, Wild Swan’s version of this wonderful holiday classic has been especially created for family audiences!

PARABLES PARABLES • All-Abilities Inclusive Faith Community • No-shushing, interactive, progressive worship for families with special needs • Simple and structured for predictability • Followed by community meal with gluten-free options

121 E. Middle St. Chelsea

Every Sunday at 11:30am For More Information Call: 734.475.1844 Email: marginsmatter@chelseafcc.com or facebook.com/ministrywithinthemargins

www.chelseafcc.com

Performance Dates & Times:

Wednesday, December 5 – 10am Thursday, December 6 – 10am Friday, December 7 – 10am & 12:30pm Saturday, December 8 – 2pm Sunday, December 9 – 2pm

Performances at Towsley Auditorium • Washtenaw Community College For tickets, call: (734) 995-0530 Or order online at www.wildswantheater.org www.annarborfamily.com • November 2018 •

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Local Resources for Special Needs Children and Families

They paint our world with their beautiful They paint our world with colors their beautiful color s everyday every day

Ann Arbor Rec & Ed

Location varies depending on class or activity 734-994-2300 | a2schools.org/ reced Rec & Ed warmly welcomes and encourages the opportunity for everyone to express themselves in a safe, accepting environment. Our core values drive our mission to enhance the quality of life for everyone through recreation and education. We strive to serve one and all in our community. Check out a2schools. org/reced for upcoming programs, such as Fun Night Out, Strike Force Bowling, TOPSoccer, Moving to the Music, Sunday Family Flag Football, and First Steps.

Wild Swan Theater

Towsley Auditorium, Morris Lawrence Building, Washtenaw Community College, 4800 E. Huron River Dr. (Season Performance Site) 734-995-0530 | Wildswantheater.org Wild Swan Theater is dedicated to producing professional theater of the highest artistic quality for families and to making that theater accessible to everyone including low income, minority and disabled children through low ticket prices and innovative outreach programs. All of their season performances are shadow interpreted for those who are deaf and hearing impaired, and they offer backstage touch tours and audio-description for blind theater patrons. Just in time for the holidays, Wild Swan brings Charles Dickens’ classic, A Christmas Carol, to the stage December 5 – 9.

Parables: All-Abilities Inclusion Worship

First Congregational Church of Chelsea, UCC 121 E. Middle St. Chelsea, MI | 734-475-1844 Our community is unique in that we “put the marginalized in the middle” of our attention and care. We feel privileged to learn and grow in faith through the leading of the most vulnerable among us. Our worship includes Sasha (our therapy dog), fidgets, noise-cancelling headphones, a visual schedule board, movement scarves and instrument parade, with an eye for creating participation opportunities for all. For more information contact Pastor LeAnn Seto at marginsmatter@chelseafcc.com or by calling the church office at 734-475-1844.

Creating Brighter Futures

4201 Varsity Dr. | 734-926-0740 creatingbrighterfutures.com Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy services are provided for children, ages 8-18, who are exhibiting developmental delays, or have already been diagnosed with autism or other developmental disorders. Creating Brighter Futures’ goal is to provide the skills, teaching environments, and learning opportunities necessary to improve the quality of life for each child in a center-based setting.

Go Like the Wind Montessori

8845 Main St., Whitmore Lake 734-747-7422 golikethewind.com Go Like the Wind is an authentic Montessori school serving infants through middle school children. The Montessori method is a child-centered educational approach and values the human spirit and the development of the whole child – physical, social, emotional and cognitive. Their school can accommodate many different learning styles with a low student to teacher ratio, self-paced curriculum and individualized work plans. Students learn by doing with many hands-on activities and are free to move about, an advantage to those who require a high level of physical activity. Each student has the latitude to learn at his own pace, without pressure to meet formal standards by a predetermined time. The school also has access to public school therapy services. For more information please call or email info@golikethewind.com.

• November 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Metropolitan Speech, Sensory & ABA Centers

Locations include: Dearborn Heights, Plymouth, Rochester, Saline, South Lyon, Sterling Heights 313-278-4601. MetroEHS.com info@MetroEHS.com Metropolitan Speech, Sensory & ABA Centers specializes in assisting individuals with therapy services including ABA, Occupational, Physical & Speech. Our locations have the unique ability to provide multiple types of therapy in one location. Our team also offers services via Tele-therapy for families that desire to have therapy services done at home and have maximum involvement in their loved one’s treatment. In addition to these services, our award winning Saline Center (formerly Urban Toddler) offers play sessions, birthday party packages and offerings for caregivers that include yoga and massage therapy. Metro EHS is a one stop shop for families and would be honored to serve you. Please contact us today for more information 313-278-4601 or info@MetroEHS.com and www.MetroEHS.com.

A2 Therapy Works

3200 W. Liberty Rd., Suite #5 734-780-7852 A2therapyworks.com A2 Therapy Works, LLC is a small, family focused private practice which works with both children and adults. Their goal is to help children and families reach their greatest potential by offering quality services and providing useful information in a family-friendly manner. In order to make it easier on busy families, they provide services in the comfort of your home, at your child’s preschool, school or in their office in Ann Arbor. They work with children of all ages and provide treatment of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders, Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Oral-Motor Dysfunction, Language Delay, Dyslexia, Fine Motor and Sensory Integration Disorders, and more. They accept most major insurance plans.

Children's Center for Growth and Development 6276 Jackson Rd., Suite K. 734-821-6915. childrenscenterforgrowth.com The Children’s Center for Growth and Development is a pediatric therapy center specializing in Speech and Language therapy, Occupational therapy and Physical therapy. Our facility is a professional, family oriented environment dedicated to improving the wellbeing, confidence and future of the children we serve. Through strategic play and collaboration with parents and professionals we strive to provide the highest quality of services to meet the individual needs of each child.

Michigan Abilities Center

7286 W. Ellsworth Rd. 734-622-9500 michiganabilitiescenter.org Michigan Abilities Center (MAC) provides therapy, learning, life skills, and wellness programs that focus on strengths and abilities, not disabilities. They are a PATH, International Center that serves all ages and abilities. Equine assisted therapy is emphasized due to the unique healing and empowering benefits of the horse’s rhythmic movement, personality, and the horse-human interaction. Therapy and learning programs are customized to achieve meaningful goals for all ages and abilities. Farm life is combined with therapy and learning via equine assisted therapy and activities (hippotherapy, therapeutic riding, equine assisted learning and mental health, and recreational riding), experiential learning, life skills, and traditional & alternative rehabilitation services. Michigan Abilities Center has provided equine assisted therapy and learning programs since 2006 at Heritage Hill; a 60-acre scenic 19th century farm in Ann Arbor, Michigan that has been offering equine assisted programs and farm activities for individuals with special needs since 1999.

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www.annarborfamily.com • November 2018 •

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Open House 2 Guide 2018

Meet teachers, see classrooms in action, and check out the school community

By Laura Eliason

Are you considering a private school education for your child? Choosing a school can be difficult! A good way to learn more about different local private schools is to visit during an open house. Meet the teachers, see classrooms in action, and get a feel for the school community.

VINEYARD CHILDREN’S CENTER 2275 Platt Rd. | 734-929-0300 | vineyardchildren.org

Vineyard Children’s Center provides childcare and early education for children from 6 weeks to 5 years of age. They focus on responsive and individualized learning experiences using Creative Curriculum and Teaching Strategies Gold Assessments to tailor daily activities for each child. They are committed to providing children with a safe, nurturing and interesting environment that promotes development in all areas of their life including socially, emotionally, physically and intellectually. Vineyard Children’s Center offers the most affordable and flexible enrollment options in Ann Arbor. Visit their website for a comprehensive pricing list for each program.

DAYCROFT SCHOOL Early Childhood Campus: Toddler, Preschool & Kindergarten 100 Oakbrook Dr. 734-930-0333. daycroft.org Open House Tours: 9am or 10am, Tuesdays. November 13, December 11, January 15. Elementary Campus: Grades K-8 1095 N. Zeeb Rd. 734-662-3335. daycroft.org Open House Tours: 9am or 10am, Thursdays. November 15; December 13, January 17. Your child will thrive at one of Ann Arbor’s top independent schools. Inspired by the principles of the Montessori model, Daycroft School focuses on individuality and personalized learning so your child can reach their best potential. Daycroft provides a warm, nurturing and culturally diverse environment that is sure to enhance your child’s learning. Children are encouraged to develop at their own pace and work individually with teachers to gain a lifelong love of learning. See Daycroft classrooms in action during their monthly Open House tours. Call 734930-0333 or email admissions@daycroft.org to register or arrange a personal tour of the school. To see the full schedule for the 2018-19 school year visit daycroft.org.

ACTON ACADEMY ANN ARBOR 4115 Jackson Rd. 734-996-9959 actonannarbor.com RSVP at actonannarbor.com/open-house-rsvp Open Houses: 5-7pm on Thursday, November 8 and December 6 10am-12pm on Saturday, November 17 and December 15

Are you feeling like school should be more than state-mandated curriculum and standardization? Acton Academy does too! In their mixed aged, collaborative studio, learners are given real-world challenges with lifelong applications, nurturing divergent thinkers confident to tackle the challenges that lie ahead in the future. They offer a learning environment that focuses beyond tests and grades with importance placed on developing the whole self. It is a place with infinite academic growth through self-directed core studies where children are encouraged to speak their opinion with confidence yet listen to opposing opinions with kindness and respect. Is your child ready to be challenged and inspired? Join them at an Open House where you can tour their studio and experience a new way of schooling that honors your child’s hero’s journey.

• November 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

KENSINGTON WOODS 9501 Pettys Rd., Lakeland. 517-545-0828. kwoods.org Personal tours and shadow days available by appointment.

Kensington Woods is a small, creative school that develops academic success through an innovative and personal educational experience. They are a tuition-free, college-prep 6-12th grade public charter school that values engaging curriculum and caring faculty. The school focuses on developing creativity and collaboration throughout the curriculum, including through subject-area integration and unique visual arts and music programs. Classes are small so students can get the attention they need and emphasis is placed on building character. Kensington Woods believes strongly that all students are capable of succeeding in school, and they embed a mindset of success within the day to day curriculum as well as through special programs, such as their advisory program. The school’s mission is to prepare each student for success in college, career, and life through an engaging, challenging and innovative educational program that is student-centered and promotes character and values.

ALL SAINTS CATHOLIC SCHOOL - CANTON 48735 Warren Rd., 734-459-2490 AllSaintsCS.com Open House: Sunday, January 27, 11am-2pm

All Saints Catholic School serves students in preschool through eighth grade. Their mission is to grow leaders in mind, body, and spirit. All Saints Catholic School is committed to academic excellence and infuses a coherent and content-specific curriculum consistent with the teachings of the Catholic Church. Their unique approach focuses on small class sizes, allowing teachers to know each student’s unique strengths and abilities. Their school is dedicated to the development of each child as a unique and individual gift from God. Students are encouraged to grow and develop their physical being through athletics and extracurricular activities that promote respect, responsibility, discipline, teamwork, and comradery. All Saints Catholic School provides an environment that fosters love, compassion, and inquiry of spirit and faith. They strive to develop each child’s spiritual, social, and moral responsibility, and instill the lifelong obligation of giving and service to others. Join them at their January family open house to learn more.

We accept DHS payments

Individualized Care and Education for Infants, Toddlers, Preschoolers & Young 5’s Call Now to Enroll • 734-929-0300 2275 Platt Road • Ann Arbor • vineyardchildren.org www.annarborfamily.com • November 2018 •

digital age

There’s an App for That

Six great parenting apps to make life a bit easier By Tanni Haas, Ph.D.

Being a parent is one of life’s most rewarding, but also demanding, experiences. Luckily, there are many apps to make parent’s lives a little bit easier. Here is a list of six helpful parenting apps.

Allrecipes Dinner Spinner Available at: Amazon Apps; Apple Appstore; Google Play We’ve all been in this situation many times: It’s 5 pm, dinner time, you’ve got to make a meal for the family but all that comes to mind is the same things you always make. Try Allrecipes Dinner Spinner, the world’s largest and most popular social app for food. Fnd user-generated and reviewed recipes from 30 million other home cooks like yourself. Search by keyword, key ingredients that you want to include or exclude, special dietary needs or cooking time. You can also see which ingredients are on sale in local stores, and watch more than 1000 step-by-step cooking videos with easy-to-follow instructions. Best of Parenting Available at: Apple Appstore; Google Play Even the most experienced of parents find themselves in situations where they can’t decide on the best course of action. When that happens, try Best of Parenting. Created by parenting coaches with three kids, this app offers straightforward, stepby-step advice on how to address more than 100 common parenting challenges, with advice based on the latest scientific research on the most effective parenting methods worldwide.

ChoreMonster Available at: Amazon Appstore; Apple Appstore; Google Play Most parents want their kids to do household chores. And rightly so. Research shows that doing chores enhances kids’ self-esteem and sense of family responsibil16

• November 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

ity, which strengthens family bonds. How do you encourage kids to do chores? Try ChoreMonster. Using this app, assign your kids daily chores, approve the tasks when they are done, and offer rewards for a job well done. You can set up separate accounts with different chores for each child.

Cozi Family Organizer Available at: Amazon Appstore; Apple Appstore; Google Play Cozi Family Organizer is a total family organizer. It has a shared calendar where you can track everyone’s schedules both individually and as a group, and a shared shopping list where you can see when items are added to the list or purchased by other family members in real-time. You can also use the app to send automated daily or weekly agenda emails to other family members, create specialized to-do lists, and organize receipts in one place that’s accessible to everybody.

Scholly Available at: Amazon App; Apple Appstore; Google Play College may be around the corner or far off into the future but when it does arrive you will likely need money to pay for it. Wouldn’t it be nice if at least some of that money is scholarships? Developed by a former Drexel University student who amassed $1.3 million in scholarship funds, Scholly is a database with more than 20,000 US scholarship opportunities, which is continuously expanded and updated. Look at individual scholarships to learn more about eligibility requirements, the application process, important deadlines, and the amount of money offered. SitOrSquat Available at: Apple Appstore; Google Play When travelling with kids, especially toddlers, there are few things more frustrating than not being able to find a public restroom when you really need one. SitOrSquat is a location-based app that leads you to find bathrooms in your location. The app contains a user-generated list of more than 100,000 public restrooms throughout the U.S. You can get the travel time to the nearest bathroom, and search by specific features like changing tables or handicap accessibility, and you are encouraged to post pictures and rate the restrooms as either “Sit” (good) or “Squat” (not good) to help others.

Dr. Gary L. Freed, professor of pediatrics at the University of Michigan and co-director of the C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health. As tattoos become an increasingly mainstream art form, more and more parents are finding it an important topic to discuss with their teens in anticipation of the question: “Can I get one?” For most parents, that answer would be “no” according to a recent survey published by C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health. The survey of parents of teens 13-18 years of age found that 78 percent would not give permission their teen to get a tattoo at the age of 16-17 years. The number includes the 32 percent of parents who already had a tattoo themselves. The subject has definitely come up in many households. The survey found that twenty seven percent of parents of teens 16-18, and 11 percent of parents of teens 13-15, said they had been asked by their teen for permission to get a tattoo. Of those surveyed, 63 percent agreed that getting a tattoo is a form of selfexpression similar to dying hair or clothing choice, but 82 percent thought state law should require parental consent for those under 18. Current Michigan law prohibits body modification on anyone under the age of 18 without written, parental consent. There are currently 14 tattoo facilities in Washtenaw County licensed by the State of Michigan. The big picture Dr. Gary L. Freed, a professor of pediatrics at the University of Michigan and co-director on the National Poll on Children’s Health said the biggest take away from the survey is that “most parents feel strongly that children under 18 should not be able to get a tattoo without parental consent.” Freed said parents do have concerns and it is important to give parents a voice to provide the “best help, the best voice and the best information” for them to make decisions regarding their children. Parental worries A big concern among parents, he said, is that their children may regret their decision later when their attitudes and

Teen Tattoos Give Parents Pause Body art becomes a hot topic in the home By Lori Maranville

tastes change. Survey results showed 68 percent of parents worried their teen may regret the decision later and 50 percent worried employers might judge or stereotype their children if they had a tattoo. Freed said parents also worry about the health effects with 53 percent being concerned about infections or scarring from the tattoo and about 50 percent of the parents worrying about diseases like hepatitis or HIV being transmitted through dirty needles. If parents are going to allow their teen to get a tattoo, health risks can be minimized by choosing a clean, sterile environment in a facility that abides by state and local regulations and health protocols. They should also ask about the process the facility uses to sterilize equipment and make sure the tattoo artists wear gloves during the procedure.

Several area shops do not tattoo teens because the artists would rather wait until the person is 18 and ideally more mature to make a decision on permanent art. A word from local artists Many Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti area tattoo shops contacted said they do receive a lot of requests from older teens for tattoos, but many, including the Lucky Monkey, Depot Town Tattoo, Name Brand Tattoo and Vivid Inks, won’t tattoo anyone under the age of 18 even with parental consent. Many of the local tattoo artists also said they are cautious about giving tattoos to teens and young adults, wanting to make sure their customer is not making a quick decision so that they will be happy with the results. Some even encourage teens to come in for a consultation before their 18th birthday to discuss plans for a tattoo so they take their time with their decision on artwork. Dana Forrester, who co-owns the Lucky Monkey Tattoo Parlor in Ann Arbor with her husband James Trunko, said they are getting many requests and because of that, her other shop Lovely Monkey Tattoo and Piercing in Whitmore Lake will tattoo those 16 and 17 with parental consent and on a case by case basis. Many times it is a memorial tattoo. “We would rather they get tattooed at Lovely Monkey instead of in somebody’s basement or homemade/house party tattoos, which we we’re seeing lots of, with typically low quality artwork/execution.” Forrester’s shops are both licensed

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LUCKY MONKEY TATTOO

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN

healthy kids

Lucky Monkey artist Jamie Espy puts the final touches on a tattoo at their Whitmore Lake parlour. by Washtenaw County’s Department of Community Health and the State of Michigan and undergo a 100-point inspection annually. Their tattoo artists are also trained in blood borne pathogens. A note about piercings While tattoos are increasingly an issue parents and teens are tackling, piercings are a topic or increased conversation, as well. In addition to typical ear piercing shops like Claire’s and Piercing Pagoda at Briarwood Mall, there are other options for piercings. Laura Leonard, who owns Gamma Piercing with her husband, Jef Saunders, said their shop, which does many adult piercings, will also pierce ear lobes for children age 4 and up with a parent present and a birth certificate of the child. Children who are over 15 years old can get limited facial, oral, ear and navel piercings at the shop as well. She said their shop does not use ear piercing guns, believing there is no safe way to properly clean an ear piercing gun. “Ear piercing guns can also be trau-

matic for the child,” she said. They use single-use sterile needles and implant grade jewelry and offer a “safe and friendly environment,” Leonard said. The business also prides itself on educating on aftercare and providing guidance if there are any issues after the piercing. Gamma is one of six piercing shops listed on the Washtenaw County Health Department’s website. For more information on specific age restrictions and services, call the individual business with questions. For more information about the C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health poll visit mottpoll.org/reports/tensions-overteen-tattoos. To view the list of piercing shops licensed by Washtenaw County’s Department of Community Health visit washtenaw.org/1421/ Body-Art-Tattoos-Body-Piercings.

www.annarborfamily.com • November 2018 •

PHOTO CREDIT: GINA HARRISON

Teaching Children How to Read by the Book

Saline teacher and mom creates a curriculum to help her students (and her sons) learn to read. By Mary Rose Kulczak

Saline school teacher Jodi McMaster had been teaching kindergarten and first grade readers for many years. But when McMaster looked for a curriculum that effectively taught new readers the rules of pronunciation for all consonant and vowel combinations, she could not find one. She decided to write one herself. “I came up with the idea (for the book) when I started looking for one reading strategy that applied to all the different vowel/consonant combinations,” McMaster said. McMaster developed a new approach to teaching children how to recognize which vowels get to “shout” and which vowels remain “silent”. When she began using this new approach in her classrooms, she quickly saw how effective it was. Her new teaching strategy began to receive a lot of attention, so in 2015, McMaster wrote the book Circus Vowels. Today, the book and its interactive curriculum have been used in thousands of classrooms around the country. “I started writing the book because I was getting lots of emails from other teachers and parents who had heard of this idea and wanted to learn more. I kept explaining it to everyone and I got a little bit tired of that, so I decided to write a book to help explain it with pictures. It has snowballed since then,” she said. A family affair McMaster is the mother of two school aged sons, Blayne, 8, and Ryan, 6. Her experience as a mother and sister helped her to form the concept of “sibling vowels” that is used throughout the story “In the book, the vowels are brothers and sisters. They are also mean to each other. The second vowel in the word always pinches the first vowel. This

causes the first vowel to yell his name when the second vowel is quiet. He is quiet because he doesn’t want to get into trouble,” McMaster explained. “The consonants are moms and dads. I think this story is very relatable for kids because most of them have brothers and sisters. When I ask them if they have ever done this to their brother or sister, they always laugh and say yes,” she said. A class act McMaster also developed an interactive curriculum to accompany the book. Students wear letter vests to represent consonants and vowels.“This strategy is relatable to children because it is all about family. It is also interactive, so the children can act it out.” McMaster has presented her reading strategies at international and state conferences, and hopes to get the Circus Vowels Reading Strategies into all schools across the country. “I have seen this book impact the learning of students with my very own eyes,” she said. “It is so fun to teach them because they are engaged and they get to act out the strategy. These strategies have a fun story that they can remember.” The book has had an impact in her own household as well. “When Blayne had just turned five, I read him my book and he instantly started reading long vowel words. I started to cry because not only did I write a book that helped my own children to read, but I also wrote a book that has helped over 100,000 children learn to read. This makes me feel so proud as an educator, but more importantly as a mom.” For more information on Circus Vowels visit circusvowels.com.

Jodi McMaster, Saline teacher, author, and mom has helped thousands of children learn to read, including her own sons. Her family includes husband Jason, and sons Blayne (8) and Ryan (6).

Saline teacher Jodi McMaster is the author of “Circus Vowels”, a book and curriculum that helps young readers learn consonant and vowel combinations.

Get to Know Jodi McMa st

What is yo ur family’s favorite Saturday night routi ne? Getting toget her with friend s, eating din enjoying s’m ner and ores over a b onfire. Any local holiday “m ust-sees” for your fa mily? The Lights Be fore Christm as at the Tole Since I am fr do Zoo. om Ohio, I ha ve been going years. Now that I have ch for ildren we rea going as a fa lly enjoy mily. What adv ice do you have for a aspiring a ny uthors an d mompre Do things at neurs? your own pa ce. You don’t do everything have to at once. Bein g a teacher, mompreneur mom and can be a lot, so I had to ta back and re ke a step alize that sm all steps are the right direc still steps in tion.

Did you Know? Beginning in the 2019-2020 school year, third grade students in the state of Michigan who test a year or more behind grade level on the State’s annual reading test will be required to repeat third grade. This new law will also require schools to provide extra services to struggling readers. Districts will also employ literacy coaches to train school personnel on best practices for teaching reading.

GO online to toledoparent.com to enter for drawing to win a Learning Express Gift Card! • November 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

Have you heard about our Ninja Zone Program? Ninja Zone combines gymnastics, parkour, martial arts and obstacle course training. Come check out our new & improved ninja obstacles: • • • •

10FT & 8FT WARPED WALLS PEG BOARD CLIFF HANGER SLACKLINE

• • • •

14FT X 20FT CARGO NET ROCK WALL TUMBLE TRACK FOAM PITS

Join us for fall session 2! We’re always taking enrollment and we’ve added new days and times to our Ninja Zone schedule! Register by phone: (734) 222-1810 • www.champgymaa.com

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!

Several Varieties of Milk • Drinking Yogurts Chip Dip • Cottage Cheese • Egg Nog • and More!

LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU

Cows, Farm, Store & Tours: 9334 Finzel Rd. Carleton, MI Open Daily 10am - 7:30pm • Group Tours 15+ • Phone: 734.654.2622 Calder Store & Ice Cream Parlor: 28190 Telegraph Rd. Flat Rock, MI Open Daily 10am - 8pm • Phone: 734.984.6985

OLD FASHIONED HOME DELIVERY

Calder Store • 1020 Southfield Rd. • Lincoln Park, MI • Open Daily 8am - 9pm Phone: 313.381.8858 • Learn more at: CalderDairy.com and Facebook

www.annarborfamily.com • November 2018 •

Foraging Locally

Fresh, healthy food for any and all at Fresh Forage

FRESH FORAGE

5060 Jackson Rd, suite A Ann Arbor, MI 48103 (734) 887-6655 Freshforage.com Monday-Saturday 11am-8pm Closed Sunday We were quite excited when we popped into this bright, large space on Jackson Road on a quiet, early fall Saturday afternoon. Fresh Forage fast casual healthy menu mirrors how we often eat with our kids at home; focusing more on protein, vegetable, grain, and fruit options to choose from as opposed to full entrees. There are so many options at Fresh Forage that any child or adult is bound to find those that please individual tastes. It’s clear that, here, freshness and local sourcing are founding principles. Fresh food, customized When we arrived our kids were introduced to their first ‘order-by-tablet’ experience. Choosing lunch and playing on an iPad!? It was a hit, but it also took 10 minutes to complete our order. Rookie mistake here. Study-up a bit in advance and you can streamline this step. You can also order with the friendly staff if you are not so technologically inclined. Our 3-year old went with a basic kids bowl ($6.99) starting with rice, a side of fresh cucumbers and sweet corn. The 5-year old opted for the Grilled Chicken Mac and Cheese ($6.99). Readers of this column will appreciate that while he enjoyed the Campanelle (trumpets) pasta and the homemade cheese sauce it didn’t quite stack-up to Casey’s in his mind! ‘Bowl’ing The fun preparation of veggies (spiralized carrots, cucumbers, and zucchini) that accompanied our Green Bowl and Argentina Steak Bowl also meant the kids were excited to pick and choose from our bowls as well! Jackpot. The Green Bowl ($11.99), a blend of mixed and microgreens with avocado, zucchini, broccoli, cucumbers, roasted mushrooms and toasted pepitas, is one hearty salad. We highly recommend it with the wild sumac vinaigrette - a unique tangy and sweet mix. We added a fried egg ($1.50) to our Green Bowl because, well, everything is better with a fried egg. The Argentina Steak Bowl ($11.99) highlighted chili-lime grass-fed steak that our 5-year old revealed to be pickworthy. Combined with a bright pico de gallo, avocado, fresh peppers and miniature cubed sweet potatoes this bowl delighted and filled us all. We added 20

By Julie and David Sturza

shredded cheese ($1) and homemade kale chips ($1). Get. The. Kale. Chips. Try one of Fresh Forage’s eight signature bowls or craft your own with endless options of hearty proteins, staples, and bright veggies. All bowls are served without any accompanying sauce, but don’t fret if you, like us, enjoy saucing things up. Next to the front counter you’ll find a delightful mini-fridge chocked full of Fresh Forage’s collection of house-made, flavor-packed sauces (roasted garlic aioli, chipotle aioli, green goddess, wild sumac vinaigrette, and Korean sesame sweet heat). We loved them all and found them to each be a great accompaniment for the bowls. Bevvies Our 5- and 3-year olds were fired up to try out the smoothies ($5.99) at Fresh Forage, even researching in advance with excitement building toward the Blueberry Power! Overall this smoothie was tasty, however the walnuts gave it a consistency not quite right for their little palates. We found a similar response to the Golden Pina Colada, where the turmeric outshined the pineapple a bit. There are several tasty creations here, but we highly recommend customizing for kids, as we plan to do at a future visit! Parents, get the thai chili limeade ($2.99)! It has a bit of a kick but we found it unique and deeply refreshing. They also serve nitro coffee ($4.99), kombucha ($3.99), and organic apple cider ($2.99) on tap. Sustainably sourced There are so many options at Fresh Forage that you are sure to find something that you like. We can attest to the freshness and their commitment to locally sourced ingredients creates some fun conversations around the lunch or dinner table. We also found it highly admirable that every single item served there, from the food, to the silverware, to the bowls, can be composted. Dining with your family at Fresh Forage will leave you feeling content that you did something good for your bodies, for the local food community, and for the environment. A delicious triple win!

• November 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

The Short Course 1. Kid-friendly: Yes. 2. To avoid wait: Avoid peak lunch hours during the week 3. Noise level: Low. 4. Bathroom amenities: Changing table. 5. High chairs? Yes. 6. Got milk? Yes, dairy milk, as well as non-dairy options. .7. Kids’ menu? Yes. 8. Anything healthy for kids? Yes. 9. Food allergy concerns? Fresh Forage prides itself in being allergen friendly.

{ November

2018 }

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

1 THURSDAY Tiny Tots Craft Paint a Pumpkin 10:30am. Learning Express Toys of Ann Arbor. learningexpress.com. Free Bring your toddler to have a fun morning making crafts! Space is limited, call 734-997-0707 to RSVP. Hands-On Museum Family Night: Math and Engineering! 6pm. Ann Arbor District Library, Downtown. aadl.org. Free The entire family is invited to an evening of interactive math and engineering fun. Family members can work together or compete with each other in activities linked to the Michigan Science Standards.

2 FRIDAY First Friday Ypsilanti 5pm. Downtown Ypsilanti. Huron St. & Cross St, Ypsilanti. firstfridaysypsi.com. Free Explore Downtown and Depot Town with special community activities, entertainment, and sales!

3 SATURDAY 15th Annual Great Pumpkin Roll 9am. Mill Pond Park. cityofsaline.org/parks Free Families will line up at the top of the hill to race their pumpkin down the slope against another. Winners will receive a mystery prize. 42nd Frost Holiday Arts and Crafts Show 10am-4pm. Frost Middle School. ci.livonia.mi.us. Free With over 100 crafters, a free raffle, delicious bake sale, and a Craft Show Cafe for lunch, Frost Middle School in Livonia is the perfect place to start your holiday shopping! Traditional Native American Storytelling 10:30am. Ypsilanti District Library, Whittaker. ypsilibrary.org. Free Experience interactive tales and games all while learning about the traditional NativeAmerican ways with cultural storyteller Panoka Walker. Jump-A-Rama Princess Gymnastics Party 12pm. $20. Ypsilanti Township Community Center. ytrd.twp.ypsilanti.mi.us Come dressed as your favorite princess and join a gymnastics party! Kids ages 3-9 will have a blast playing on the gymnastics obstacle course, bounce house, creating fun crafts and more! Strum & Drum 3pm. $15. Oz’s Music. ozmusic.com Join Oz’s Music the first Saturday of the month for Strum & Drum – a hands-on event where kids can play with instruments. No appointment needed. First session Free, then $15/family

4 SUNDAY Nature Storytime Super Senses: Sight! 10am. $4/member-$5/non-member. Leslie Science and Nature Center. lesliesnc.org Discover animals with super sight and explore your own sense of sight! This storytime has children ages 2-5 with a caregiver discovering nature through live animal visits, hikes, stories, and hands-on activities. Adults and siblings under 2 years old are free. Additional date Wednesday, November 7.

Saturday Nov. 10 10am-2pm

Shop art and help others Give back to the community while supporting your fellow entrepreneurs, artists and craftspeople at the Galaxy Artisan Market. Featured vendors are survivors of traumatic brain injury, and individuals who have overcome disease, disability, or other medical conditions. This special event helps those individuals develop skills in micro-entrepreneurship which they otherwise may not be able to obtain. Come out and find a unique gift, support local and, most importantly, have fun!

Free entry, vendor items and food prices vary. Galaxy Brain and Therapy Center, 5840 Interface Dr., Suite 400. 734-627-8001. galaxybraincenter.com/shop

Saturday n Nov. 17 7-9pm

Nocturnal nature

Storytime With Mike Curato 2pm. Ann Arbor District Library, Downtown. aadl.org. Free Kids in preschool-grade 3 are invited to visit with author Mike Curato, who will read several of his beautiful picture books about everyone’s favorite polka-dotted elephant Little Elliot, including his newest in the series, Merry Christmas, Little Elliot.

Owls are truly creatures of the night. Children ages 5-12 years old and their families are invited to join in on an evening dedicated to these enchanting birds. The Owl Prowl will shed light on the mysterious animal, as attendees discover how ears, eyes, and feathers help owls thrive in the night. Join night hikes around the Leslie Science and Nature Center and do some of your own owl calling! You’ll even have the chance to meet some live owls up close. Members of the LSNC receive special pricing at $8/per member or $30/per family.

Family-Friendly Film Series: Babe 1:30pm. $8-$10. State Theater. michtheater.org Enjoy a family-friendly film at the State! The featured film will be Babe. Admission is free for kids 12 & under.

$9/per person or $34/per family. Leslie Science and Nature Center. 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org

5 MONDAY Teen Cooking Class 3pm. Ypsilanti District Library, Downtown. ypsilibrary.org. Free Learn how to cook fun and healthy recipes from a skilled culinary professional! Register for a spot by emailing Kelly at kscott@ypsilibrary.org.

6 TUESDAY Day Off Outdoors: Fall Fun 8:30am. $65/member-$70/non-member. Leslie Science and Nature Center. lesliesnc.org Have the day off from school? Spend it exploring Black Pond Woods. Kids in grades K-5 will learn how animals prepare for the winter, play outside, and create fallthemed crafts.

Sunday n Nov. 18 2-3:30pm

A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving What better way to celebrate the season than with A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving Feast & Watch Party? All ages are invited for a viewing of A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving followed by a rare Charlie Brown episode, “The Mayflower Voyagers.” No Thanksgiving party would be complete without a feast! Enjoy a delicious, traditional Charlie Brown Thanksgiving meal of popcorn, toast, pretzels, and a special ice cream sundae from Ypsilanti’s Go! Ice Cream. Dress up as your favorite character for a chance to win a gift card.

Ann Arbor District Library, Downtown. 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free

8 THURSDAY Art Explorations 5pm. Ypsilanti District Library, Whittaker. ypsilibrary.org. Free This exploration in art workshop is for elementary and middle school students! This month, make your own polymer clay Minecraft and Roblox characters and decorate a tin to store them in.

9 FRIDAY Seeds of Change: Incarcerated Youth and Adult Ex-Offenders Find Purpose in Gardening 7pm. Ann Arbor District Library, Westgate. aadl.org. Free Learn how incarcerated youth and formerly incarcerated adults are able to achieve a sense of purpose through gardening. This event is geared for grade 9-adult.

Thursday Nov. 22

8:15-11am

Turkey Trot Gobble your way through downtown in the 13th Annual Ann Arbor Turkey Trot! The entire family will enjoy this perfect way to get into the holiday spirit. Take photos with Turkey Tom and Santa Claus, and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies at the finish line. All participants will receive a festive long sleeved cotton t-shirt, while 5K finishers will receive a custom medal. Kids in the Tot Trot 1k will also receive festive medals to take home! A portion of each entry fee will go to the ChadTough Foundation to fund research and raise awareness for Pediatric Brain Tumors.

$19-$50. Downtown Ann Arbor. 337 E. Liberty St. 734-929-9027. theturkeytrot.com

www.annarborfamily.com • November 2018 •

10 SATURDAY

11 SUNDAY

Critters Up Close 10am. $12.50. Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum. aahom.org Get up close and personal with some favorite critters from the Leslie Science and Nature Center. Join for hands-on activities and a meet and greet with owls! Galaxy Artisan Market 10am. Galaxy Brain and Therapy Center. galaxybraincenter.com. Free This second annual artisan market features crafts and goods handmade by survivors of traumatic brain injury, as well as those who have overcome disease, disability, or other medical setbacks. Hora de Cuento: Spanish/English Story Time 10:30am. Nicola’s Books. nicolasbooks.com. Free Bookseller Rebecca will read from children’s books that will enrich the minds of young readers. Family Art Studio: Global Africa 11am. University of Michigan Museum of Art. umma.umich.edu. Free Families with children ages six and up are invited to create a project inspired by the exhibition Beyond Borders: Global Africa. Enjoy a tour with UMMA docents followed by a hands-on workshop with Zimbabwean artist Masimba Hwati. Parents must accompany children. Scientist Spotlight 1pm. Ann Arbor District Library, Traverwood. aadl.org. Free Visit with University of Michigan scientists and participate in engaging, hands-on activities to learn about their cutting-edge research! Suitable for upper elementary through adult audiences.

Family-Friendly Film Series 1:30pm. $8-$10. State Theater. michtheater.org Enjoy a family-friendly film at the State! The featured film will be Charlotte’s Web. Admission is free for kids 12 & under. Alligators and Their Reptile Relatives 3pm. $2/person or $5/family. Eddy Discovery Center, Chelsea. michigan.gov Join for an exciting, hands-on presentation of live reptiles from the Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary. You will have the opportunity to see large and small alligators up close along with other intriguing reptiles. Learn about the fascinating characteristics of these creatures and how they survive in the wild.

12 MONDAY Refugee Foster Care Informational Session 5:30pm. Samaritas. samaritas.org. Free Could you provide a home to a refugee youth without family? Register for an informational session to learn more about the need and what it takes to be a foster parent. Savory Holiday Potluck Ideas 7pm. Ann Arbor District Library, Malletts Creek. aadl.org. Free Keegan C. Rodgers, Head Baker at the People’s Food Co-Op, leads this lively workshop on new dishes to share during the holiday potluck season.

13 TUESDAY Super Readers: Alpha Squadron 6:30pm. Ypsilanti District Library, Whittaker. ypsilibrary.org. Free 4-year-olds and kindergartners are invited to join in on some literacy fun! Talk with Santa 6-8pm. Comcast Channel 17. a2gov.org/watchctn Free Call and talk with Santa live on TV! Tune into Comcast Channel 17 and watch the live stream online.

14 WEDNESDAY Nature Storytime Super Senses: Smell! 10am. $4-$5. Leslie Science and Nature Center. lesliesnc.org Kids ages 2-5 with a caregiver will discover animals with super-smell while also exploring their own sense of smell! Nature Storytime has many opportunities to explore and appreciate the outdoors with live animal visits, hikes, stories, and hands-on activities. Healthy Food Distribution 2pm. Washtenaw County Health Department. foodgatherers.org. Free Food Gatherers and the Washtenaw County Health Department will provide free healthy groceries, including fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and bread. No proof of income or ID required. Chowders with Keegan Rodgers 7pm-8:30pm. Ann Arbor District Library, Pittsfield. aadl.org. Free In this class, students will learn how to make a variety of soups, chilis and chowders! Learn the basics so you customize and explore each to get through the winter.

15 THURSDAY Lunch and Learn: National Diabetes Month 12pm-1pm. Waltonwood Cherry Hill, Canton. waltonwood.com. Free Raise awareness about sugar and diabetes in honor of National Diabetes Month. Learn while enjoying a complimentary lunch. DIY Traveler’s Notebook 6pm. Ann Arbor District Library, Downtown. aadl.org. Free Make your own pocket-sized traveler’s notebook! This notebook will have a soft, durable cover that can hold small notebooks–– or a passport–– in place with elastic. Feel free to bring your own 5.5” tall by 3.5” wide notebooks to fill it with, but there will be some on hand as well. Grade 6-adult.

16 FRIDAY Family Paint Night 5:30pm. $29. Pittsfield Township Community Center. recreation.pittsfield-mi.gov Bring your child to Pittsfield Township’s Community Center for Family Paint Night and learn to paint a landscape with acrylic paints. Ages 6+. Kids’ Superhero Night 6pm. $25. Huron High School. a2schools.org Families are welcome to join in on a night of fun at Huron High School! There will be games, art activities, snacks, t-shirts, and prizes. Costumes are encouraged!

• November 2018 • www.annarborfamily.com

17 SATURDAY Saturday Recycling Crafts 10am. Ann Arbor District Library, Westgate. aadl.org. Free Bring your favorite old t-shirt or select from a colorful collection to create a reusable t-shirt bag. Pre-register by sending an e-mail to education@ecocenter.org. Mother & Son Rock N Bowl 1pm. $35-$45. Maplewood Lanes. salinerec.com Join for a special Mother/Son bowling afternoon. Fee includes shoes, pizza, soda, and 2 games. Early Bird is $35 (through 10/30), Regular is $40 (plus $15 for additional son), and day of is $45 (plus $18 for additional son). Shake, Rattle & Roll 2:30pm. Ypsilanti District Library, Downtown. ypsilibrary.org. Free This special music-filled storytime will have your little ones grooving with movement and song! The program promotes bonding and highlights the natural rhythms in language. Owl Prowl: Families 7pm. $8-$34. Leslie Science and Nature Center. lesliesnc.org Enjoy an enchanting evening with owls. Night hikes, owl calling, and visits with live owls will fill the evening with wonder as you discover how ears, eyes, and feathers help owls survive the night. This program is appropriate for age 5 and older. A similar event for adults only is offered on November 16th.

18 SUNDAY The Raisin Pickers 2pm. Ypsilanti District Library. ypsilibrary.org. Free Gather for a fun afternoon concert of traditional music with The Raisin Pickers! Fireside Fun 6:30pm. Leslie Science and Nature Center. lesliesnc.org. Free Have some good old fashioned campfire fun at LSNC! Marshmallows will be provided. Bring camp chairs and fixings for s’mores.

19 MONDAY Thanksgiving Story Time and Craft Hour 10:30am. Nicola’s Books. nicolasbooks.com. Free Join for a special story time about giving thanks and funny turkeys! You’ll make your own gobblers and have lots of fun. Minecraft Modding 4pm. Ypsilanti District Library, Whittaker. ypsilibrary.org. Free Kids ages 7-14 will learn basic coding from the experts at Gamer Society using Minecraft. Unlock badges as you complete achievements!

20 TUESDAY Tummy Times 10am. Ann Arbor District Library, Westgate. aadl.org. Free If you are a new or expecting parent, meet other parents sharing the same new baby experiences! Enjoy a drink from Sweetwaters and relax with your child has fun engaging with special toys for young babies.

21 WEDNESDAY Day Off Outdoors: Thankful for Nature 8:30am. $65/member- $70/non-member. Leslie Science and Nature Center. lesliesnc.org Explore how the natural world provides food, shelter, energy, and more! Learn how to reduce waste, conserve pollinator habitats, and show respect for the amazing planet we call home. Nature Storytime Super Senses: Touch! 10am. $4/member-$5/non-member. Leslie Science and Nature Center. lesliesnc.org Kids ages 2-5, along with a caregiver, will enjoy this storytime exploring and appreciating the outdoors. This week, discover animals with super-touch while also exploring your own sense of touch!

22 THURSDAY Thanksgiving Buffet 12pm-4pm. $14-$24. Comfort Inn, Chelsea. comfortinnchelsea.com Don’t feel like cooking? The buffet will include sliced turkey with gravy, a roast beef carving station, whipped potatoes, macaroni and cheese, stuffing, and more.

23 FRIDAY Ribbon Bookmark 10am. Ann Arbor District Library, Pittsfield. aadl.org. Free Join in for a fun craft at the library making your own ribbon bookmark using buttons and a few simple stitches. Grade 6-adult.

24 SATURDAY Home Depot Kids Club: Gingerbread Man Ornament 9am. Home Depot, Pittsfield. homedepot.com. Free Kids ages 5-12 will get to make their own gingerbread man ornament! They’ll also receive a certificate, a workshop apron, and a commemorative pin. Yoga Storytime 10:30am. Ypsilanti District Library, Whittaker. ypsilibrary.org. Free Kids ages 8 and under with an adult are invited to hear stories and learn simple, animated yoga poses. Bowl for Bernie 4pm. $30. Revel and Roll. revelandroll.com Raise money for the Michigan Alzheimer’s Disease Center while enjoying a fun night of bowling. Admission gets you shoes, two games of bowling, soda and pizza. To reserve a spot, e-mail cmgidabomb@yahoo.com.

25 SUNDAY Tree Lighting Festival 5pm. Kerrytown Market & Shops. kerrytown.com. Free Celebrate the holiday season with a tree lighting in the Kerrytown courtyard. There will be caroling, candle luminaries, and visits with Santa Claus!

Holiday Storytime 10am. Cultivate Coffee & TapHouse. cultivateypsi.com. Free Join local writers Lauren Ranalli and Natalie Thompson for a winter holidaythemed storytime! Bring your little ones and cozy up with some coffee and books. Selected stories will be appropriate for children up to age 6. Wool Gathering 1pm. Ann Arbor District Library, Westgate. aadl.org. Free Bring your knit and crochet projects for an afternoon of fiber-inspired companionship. Light refreshments will be served and AADL staff with knowledge of knit and crochet will be available to help. Grade 6-adult.

28 WEDNESDAY Nature Storytime Super Senses: Sound! 10am. $4-$5. Leslie Science and Nature Center. lesliesnc.org Kids ages 2-5 with a caregiver will explore and appreciate the outdoors with live animal visits, hikes, stories, and hands-on activities. This week, discover animals with super-hearing and explore your own sense of hearing!

29 THURSDAY Just in the Nick of Time 7:30pm. $6. The Fifth Corner. salineareaplayers.org Saline Area Players will present their family holiday show, Just in the Nick of Time. This comedy has plenty of holiday warmth and even features Santa Claus! Showtimes are November 29 & 30 at 7:30pm and December 1 & 2 at 3pm.

30 FRIDAY You Wrote a Novel...Now What? 6:30pm. Ann Arbor District Library, Westgate. aadl.org. Free Calling all writers! Whether you participated in this year’s National Novel Writing Month or you just love to write, join author Brigit Young for a presentation and discussion on the writing and revising process, getting published, and answering questions. James and the Giant Peach 7pm. $7-$18. Quirk Theatre, Ypsilanti. emich.edu. Suggested for ages 6 and up, this lively adaptation of a classic tale is an imaginative, magical journey filled with sensory explorations and visual delights for all ages. Midnight Madness 7pm. Downtown Ann Arbor. mainstreetannarbor.org. Free It’s party time in the Main Street area! Stores stay open late with lots of holiday specials. While you shop, enjoy the sidewalk entertainment and say hello to Santa Claus and Miss Washtenaw County! Local businesses will welcome guests with prizes, refreshments and special savings.

26 MONDAY When Counting Doesn’t Count: The Development of Math Skills in Young Children 7pm. Ann Arbor District Library, Downtown. aadl.org. Free For decades, schools have struggled with teaching children math. Learn about problems and solutions by joining Professor Pam Davis-Kean, who has spent the last few years researching developmental pathways for math achievement.

marketplace

27 TUESDAY

Searchable listings updated daily annarborfamily.com

Sundays Pancakes in the Park 9am-10:30am. Liberty Plaza. facebook.com/pancakesinthepark.

LINE CLASSIFIEDS: Only $20 per month for 20 words or less. Each additional word is 40 cents each and any artwork will be $5 extra.

Husband and wife team, Jonathan and Rachel, serve up pancakes along with friends and volunteers every Sunday! This breakfast is complementary for the community, so everyone is welcome to enjoy hot buttermilk pancakes, sausage, Hyperion coffee, fresh fruit, and eggs to order.

DISPLAY CLASSIFIEDS: Display classifieds

Free

Mondays Tiny Toes & Tails Yoga 9:45am. $15. Tiny Lions Lounge and Adoption Center. tinylions.org Designed for a caregiver and toddler, Tiny Toes and Tails yoga includes songs, stories, games and yoga practice alongside furry felines! Classes help support the homeless animals in the community.

with a box may be purchased for $25 per column inch. Photos are accepted with ads for an additional $5 per photo.

DEADLINES: Ad copy must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publication.

PAYMENT: Payment must be received before an ad can be placed. We accept checks, cash, money orders and credit cards (Visa/Mastercard). MAIL OR DROP OFF:

Ann Arbor Family Press Classifieds, 3003 Washtenaw Blvd., Ann Arbor.

PHONE: 734-668-4044 E-MAIL: classifieds@adamsstreetpublishing.com Refunds: Sorry, NO REFUNDS given. Misprints: Credit toward future ads.

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

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 Creative Music Workshop 3pm. Riverside Arts Center, Ypsilanti. riversidearts.org. Free All experience levels are welcome to join in this inclusive workshop. Work on improvisation techniques and writing original music, learn about music technology, and explore music theory. Bring an instrument, your voice, or just yourself! Little Paws Storytime 10:30am. $5. Humane Society of Huron Valley. hshv.org Designed for children ages 2 to 5, this storytime include animalthemed stories, fingerplays, crafts and the opportunity to meet some adoptable animals!

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