Ann Arbor Family February 2016

FREE FEBRUARY 2016

p10 ot your g e v ' e W vered o c y l i fam nnual a r u o in d-up n u o R n Educatio

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Books to read before the snow thaws Snuggle up with a book this season

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Food Fight

Songbird Cafe shines on the Westside

March Giveaway The countdown for the March giveaway begins now! This month enter for a chance to this the family-friendly board game found below, courtesy of Ann Arbor Family!

Just send us a photo of your family outing for a chance to be featured in our “Community Snapshots” section, and a chance to win our giveaway!

509 State Circle, Ann Arbor, MI 48108 - —734.476.4189 STATE ST

State St Circle

RD W ELLSWORTH

Face it, Battleship needs an update! From blue orange games comes a new kind of strategy game for ages seven to adult. The goal for players is to get their sheep to occupy the most pastures while fencing in their opponents at the same time! Kids will learn problem solving, and social skills while having fun. For 2 to 4 players.

Stay connected to our website and social media sites for opening day updates ÜÜÜ° ` « ð iÌÊÊUÊÊÜÜÜ°v>ViL °V É ` « ÃvÕ ÊÊUÊÊÜÜÜ° ÃÌ>}À> °V É ` « ÃÚ ÓÊ 2

• February 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com

To enter, send your snapshot to annarboreditor@annarborfamily.com, then visit annarbor.com and click to enter our giveaway, through January 31!

Volume 21 • Issue 02 February 2016

The chances for children and adults alike to find the perfect place to learn.

[special features]

10 5 books for the winter

14

Get you child hooked on reading by setting a good example!

Online

On the cover Max-4, Ann Arbor

PHOTO CREDIT: Lesley Mason Lesley Mason Photography

February

Great Dates for Dads and Daughters

[departments]

Stray away from the usual with history lessons, cooking up something new or trying out other unique ideas for spending time with your daughter!

ann arbor favorites 4 what’s briefly happening 6 new kids on the block 7 tweens 9 ask the expert 15 calendar 18

Plymouth Ice Festival

We talked with the organizers of the festival about ice sculpting, family fun and more.

96-year-old wows with DCO

Stan Sekerka still has fun playing music and lends some of his hard-earned wisdom to the Dexter Community Orchestra

compiled by Marisa Rubin & Zach Marburger

marketplace 19

[Always online] Winter isn’t over yet. Our Golden Rules for Staying Healthy features tips from experts in healthcare, haircare,

[commentary] breaking dad

and more!

15

The Permossive Parent

Time to take the kids gloves off when it comes to parenting

by Jeremy Rosenberg

food fight

Singing a Sweet Tune 17

The West wide location of Songbird Cafe shines

by Katy M. Clark

FIND LIKE AND FOL LOW US

Blogs by local moms, for local moms, are at your fingertips. Relatable and hilarious reads online.

facebook.com/annarborfamily pinterest.com/annarborfamily twitter.com/annarborfamily

annarborfamily.com

Join us and our 600+ followers for laughs, updates & parenting discussions.

Planning the best summer EVER starts off with sending kids to the right summer camp!

Tell Ann Arbor parents about your program in April’s Summer Camp Guide.

RESERVE YOUR AD SPACE TODAY! deadline: march 15 CALL 419.244.9859

www.annarborfamily.com • February 2016 •

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Adams Street Publishing Co.

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

What is your favorite romantic date night?

Publisher/Editor in Chief

Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledoparent.com) Knight’s Kitchen

KIDS HOROSCOPE January 20February 18

By Sue Lovett

Michigan Mittens

The best and most fashionable way to show off your Michigan-pride! Hand-cut and sewn by a family-owned sewing company, Michigan Mittens feature beautiful hand-drawn maps of the upper and lower Peninsula. Other Michigan-themed products are available, and new 2016 colors include “Grape Lakes,” and “Black Bear.” $24.95. michiganmittens.com

Jungle Jumparoo

There’s a way to have fun bouncing around without worrying about the dangers of a trampoline. This indooroutdoor jungle gym comes in regular and miniature versions, and handholds create a safe way for the whole family to catch some air and get some exercise at the same time. $249/miniature version, $399/regular. thegrommet.com

Lucky are the parents who bring an Aquarian into this world. They have their eyes wide open and literally sparkle as they see every new person, young or old. They are thrilled with toys, whether large or small, and often want to keep them all without “cleaning out” the toy box. One fascinating thing about these little Aquarians is that they sometimes have “selective hearing” so you must be sure you have their attention before talking to them.

They get along well with the other children in the family, whether older or younger. They even enjoy the friends of their parents.

When they are in pre-school or regular school they get acquainted easily and remember the names of the other children.

At an age where there are class “officers” they often are elected easily because of their popularity. They do not have any prejudice and see everyone as being equal.

Co-publisher/Chief Financial Officer Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@toledoparent.com) The beer trolley

Editorial

Assignment Editor: Zach Marburger (zmarburger@adamsstreetpublishing.com) netflix and chill Calendar Editor: Marisa Rubin (mrubin@adamsstreetpublishing.com) I wish I had dates Contributing Writers: Jamie Lober, Andrea Rich, Beatriz Esquivel, Erika Wood, Jeremy Rosenburg, Katy M. Clark, Jennifer Brough

Art/Production Senior Designer: Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Dates?

Graphic Design: Imani Lateef (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) walk through down main st.

Ashley Crapsey (acrapsey@adamsstreetpublishing.com) dinner downtown Contributing Designers: Anita Tipton (prodintern@adamsstreetpublishing.com) midnight move at state

Advertising Account Managers: Zack Mintzias (zack@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Dinner overlooking the acropolis Catherine Bohr (classifieds@adamsstreetpublishing.com) sava’s Sales Coordinator Cassi Hadadd (sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com) graffiti wall

Administration

Accounting: Robin Armstrong (rarmstrong@toledoparent.com) My patio in the summer Distribution: Saul Jacobs (saul@adamsstreetpublishing.com) sava’s

Advertising/General Info: For advertising

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.

Pkolino Book Buggee

Entire contents © 2016 by Adams Street Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher.

Help make reading a part of your child’s life with the school bus book buggee. Kids can bond with their books by selecting titles and placing them in the easy to drag-along buggee. For ages 3 and up. $39.99. elephantearsonline.com

Also publishers of:

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

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• February 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com

www.annarborfamily.com • February 2016 •

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Compiled by Zach Marburger

Pop-up magic at Mott

An Ann Arbor-based start-up, SpellBound, has created a new mobile app that takes regular children’s books and turns them into incredible pop-up books! It’s simple and easy to use: just hold a smartphone up to the pages of a book like a viewfinder and illustrations leap off the page and into real life. There is also a learning element involved. Kids can listen to the story read aloud, tapping on unfamiliar words to immediately bring up definitions. Now, according to co-founder Christina York, Spellbound is working closely with Mott Children’s Hospital to build an app for children to use. Spellbound’s services while undergoing treatment.

For more information, visit getspellboundbooks.com

Physicspalooza

For one weekend, February 21 and 22, physicists are taking over the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum to teach children (and maybe the children’s parents) a little more about how the world operates. Ever wonder about the science behind natural laws like inertia and electricity? Members of the Society of Physics Students from University of Michigan will be on hand to explain physics concepts and conduct demonstration and experiments.

Noon-4pm. Saturday, February 21 and Sunday, February 22. $12.

Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, 220 E. Ann St. 734-995-5439 aahom.org

Hang with Junie B. King of the jungle

Has your child always had an interest in acting but never sure how to get involved? Young People’s Theater, a volunteer-run organization dedicated to nurturing artistic talent and enthusiasm in kids grades preschool-12, is holding auditions for their latest performance, Tarzan. For a message from the directors, as well as audition tips and forms, visit youngpeoplestheater. com. Parents can get involved too as part of the backstage and production crew!

1-9pm/Sunday, February 7 and 5-9pm Monday, February 8. YPT Studio, 331 Metty Dr., Suite 3. 734-222-4006 youngpeoplestheater.com

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• February 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com

Part of the Benard L. Maas “Not Just For Kids Series” sponsored by Toyota, Michigan Theater will present Junie B.’s Essential Survival Guide to School. Based on Barbara Park’s popular series of books for children, this youth theatre presentation focuses on Junie B. and her friends as they give advice on making friends, riding the bus, carpools, and more - everything kids and their parents need to survive and thrive in school.

With plenty of tips and tricks, plus lots of sing-along songs, Junie B. will teach kids how to handle life’s challenges. Audience members will learn that it’s ok for school to be scary, but it’s still going to be fun! Tickets are also available for purchase at Nicola’s Bookstore. Recommended for grades K-5.

1:30pm. Saturday, February 13. $12. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8463. michtheater.org

Pocket change can plant trees

Arbor Day may offically be the last Friday in April, but the Michigan Arbor Day Alliance (MADA) is dedicated to helping Michigan residents go green throughout the entire year. This winter, MADA is launching two initiatives to get kids involved - the “Go Green Youth Challenge” and a creative writing contest.

The “Go Green Youth Challenge” is a statewide initiative aimed at getting youth more involved in environmental stewardship and community development. As a class, group, or individually, youth are encouraged to collect as many coins as they can until March 28, then have an adult write a check for the amount collected and mail it, along with an entry form, to MADA. Entries postmarked by April 4 are eligible to win prizes, including a grand prize! All proceeds go towards planting trees in communities throughout the State of Michigan.

But that’s not all. While kids are collecting, they can also participate in the Go Green Youth Challenge Creative Writing Contest. K-12 grade Michigan students can send in a 350-word essay or piece of poetry answering the question: “What Would Happen If Trees Were in Charge?” The contest will be judged on creativity and originality, adherence to the theme, grasp of language (including grammar and punctuation) and ability to follow guidelines. There are three age categories (K-4, 5-8 and 9-12) and first, second and third place for each age group wins a prize! Entries must be postmarked by March 14.

More information for both the challenge and contest, including entry forms and instructions, can be found at miarbordayalliance.org.

An Afternoon of Ann Arbor’s Best!

M A: t March 20,7:30 20 t pm1:30 pm TIF "SL t 316 5 I F "SL S. Main t 31 6 S . M ain Performers Include: Gemini w/ Emily Slomovits David Mosher Allison Radell Joe Reilly Peter Madcat Ruth Emceed by Storyteller Extraordinaire Laura Pershin Raynor

Carve it up!

Thanks to a pretty mild end to 2015, it took until January for the slopes of Mount Brighton to be completely open. Now that the lifts are going, the event staff is packing a bunch of family-friendly activities into the month of February, starting on the 7th, when families can come cheer on the adaptive racers at the Stieler/Myers/Fields Cup. But on February 12, Mount Brighton turns into a destination for kids and parents. All ages can come watch (or compete) in the “I Ride Park City” Rail Jam Series, with awesome prizes handed out to competitors. And just before the series, beginners of all ages can learn from instructors about how to navigate rails and boxes in a comfortable setting at the “Parkology” session. Finally, for high schoolers and parents, the Michigan High School Athletic Association hosts the top snowboarders around the state for the Snowboard Cross State finals. That’s just a sampling of the events at Mount Brighton, and the slopes are open for freeriding all month long. Enjoy the weather while it lasts! mtbrighton.com

Tickets: $15 each / $50 for a 4-pack

Come hear the music that makes Wild Swan

soar!

Skate parks After unseasonably warm weather put plans on hold, the city of Ann Arbor officially opened three new natural outdoor skate rinks on January 21. The rinks are located at Allmendinger, Burns and Northside parks and are available for use during normal park hours. a2gov.org

To purchase tickets or for further information call (734) 995-0530

www.wildswantheater.org

www.annarborfamily.com • February 2016 •

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8 */ " Ê v ÀÊ«>Ài ÌÃÊ vÊV `Ài ÊÜ Ì ÊëiV > Ê ii`à Providing centerbased ABA therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy to children aged 18 months to 10 years old.

Intensive, communication based ABA programs created and supervised by dually-certified behavioral analyst/speech-language pathologists

Morning, afternoon and evening sessions available.

Contact us to tour our facility, meet our team or inquire about insurance coverage

(734) 769-0505 www.a2spectrumtherapy.com 1955 Pauline Blvd | Suites 100C & 400 | Ann Arbor, MI 48103

LifeHacks for kids with Juvenile Diabetes

by Erika Wood Teenagers today have to be master jugglers to meet all the expectations of parents, teachers, coaches and friends. Social media has increased these pressures by allowing them to be connected twenty-four seven. Add a chronic disease, such as diabetes, to the mix, and the complexity factor increases exponentially. We remember our youth, and the powerful desire to be left alone. Adolescence is a time when the urge to pull away from parental control is a major driver of behavior. Teens want to be in charge of their own lives and even if they cognitively accept the need for parental involvement around this issue, they frequently resent it. Because they have been connected to the web since childhood, however, they can be creative at adapting those same technologies to manage diabetes.

These local teens are finding creative ways to use their smartphones and laptops to help them track their numbers more effectively and to communicate in a non-stressful way with parents and teachers about how they are feeling.

Naturally Sweet Sisters

Reece and Olivia Ohmer, whose mom, Amy, blogs at NaturallySweetSisters.com, found a creative solution to simplify the need for repetitive texts from their mom about their blood sugar levels while they were at school. In a Youtube video, they describe how frustrating these constant reminders can be, especially when blood sugar is low, and they don’t feel like typing out a long explanation. Working with HealthDesignbyUs, a UM interdisciplinary group focused on patient centered design and spearheaded by pediatrician Dr. Joyce Lee, the girls designed a series of emojis that enable them The super-sweet Ohmer sisters manage thier diabetes, to let their mom know they have and their mom, with emojis been testing, what the results are and what they are doing about it.

Students from the UM Stamps School of Art and Design created designs from the girls’ sketches and an app is currently in production for the Iphone and Android app stores.

Knowledge is Power

According to a study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research, “teens who used social networks, websites and pump/glucometer software for diabetes control were better at self-management.” Alex Faraj, who was diagnosed at age six, says, “once I began logging my blood sugar numbers on an app on my smart phone, it became far easier to recognize trends… and keep better control over my disease. I often spend time utilizing blogs and keeping up with the latest research, which has impacted my self-care and my overall well-being.”

Masters of their Universe

Parents know their diabetic teens need monitoring, that the consequences of not being on top of all the fluctuating numbers can be devastating. Adolescence is also a time when bodies are growing rapidly, hormones are fluctuating wildly, and stresses piling up, all of which can wreak havoc with blood sugar levels. Teenagers’ notorious sense of invincibility, combined with a powerful need to fit in and feel normal can make this process even more complicated. Enlisting their insight and ingenuity is an effective way to allow them ownership of this major part of their lives. Today’s teens are masters at using the technology to find creative solutions to their problems: from chronic disease management to the age old challenge of managing their parents.

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• February 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com

THE LINES TWEEN advice for parents with children 10-16

open

Birthday ideas, themes and vendors grace our pages in May’s Birthday Guide. Make sure you’re included to showcase how you can make someone’s birthday especially memorable!

RESERVE YOUR AD SPACE TODAY! deadline: APRIL 15, CALL 734.668.4044

We’ve got your SWEETheart covered

Family, school, sports and work; Esquivel does it all for her brothers

Finding the Right Balance

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A high school student does it all to inspire younger brothers

By Beatriz Esquivel

It’s 9:30pm. I have a paper due in the morning and a test in the afternoon, and on top of that, my 9-year-old brother is crying for my help. This is my life. Assisting my younger brothers has always been one of my obligations, whether it’s emotionally or educationally. I wouldn’t really call it an obligation, though, because it’s expected by my parents. It’s more in the sense that my parents have raised me the best that they could, so it’s their belief that I should take on their traits and become like them. It’s about acting reasonable and doing what should be done.

Done. That is what both of my parents have been telling me all these years.

Something has to be done. Something has to be done about my family. Both my parents came from needy backgrounds and their only hope was to leave. Leave to America. They want a better life, and the expectation to improve has motivated me in everything.

Busy schedule of a role model

I am a junior at Ann Arbor Pioneer High School, I run cross country and track and I am also a part of their Rising Scholars program. I also have a part time job where I have been working for almost a year.

Sounds like a lot to travel around to right?

Well, guess what, I don’t even have a car.

Most high schoolers only worry about their schoolwork and sports, that’s it. I

have to make sure that I am involved in school activities, helping my community and be responsible enough to keep job.

It’s what’s expected from me as the role model for my younger brothers.

I’m automatically given the responsibility of being the “Great Daughter Who Fulfills All Wishes,� and it’s scary. It’s scary to think about - the future of the family in your hands, and your only fear is not to let them down. At this point your only hope is to be the best daughter you know you can.

Some days I'm left in charge of babysitting, which doesn’t give me any other option other than to cancel plans with friends. Which I’m totally fine with because, in the long run, my brothers will benefit from having a sister around to engage with, to advise and educate them.

I know the day will come when I’m not around them as much, (college!).

Yes, over the years I have felt pressured to be this somewhat “perfect� first child, and sometimes I absolutely hate it, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world. I’ve learned to become it; to manage my time and get excited for what’s to come. Until the time comes, I will be by my brothers’ side, to guide them when needed. I know that being the best sister I can will inspire them to be the best people they can be.

www.annarborfamily.com • February 2016 •

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Special Advertising Section

ning ol r a e L y Earl r Prescho Centdewood Dr. e 3070 R 3-7722 734-97 ool.com ch elcpres

s “Best Favorite ves y il m a F rbor r belie of Ann A earning Cente s a play-based r e n in W yL se ugh y and u ol,” Earl Prescho arn through pla is learning thro and y le h re children . Their philosop es kids structu m giv EYC aclu A u m N ic lu e rr u h u ic c T . rr n u c io s ased pres school a play-b s maximum ex al half-day pre ge run ion encoura hool is a tradit o-op. They are c sc have r d s o e ie it re il d a m cre t a dayc lunteers so fa o n ram. , m the prog ith of vo progra in rd a g o in b k ma rent ers w by a pa decision d of two teach work in le ro e d s e an activ room is compo team teach an g a ss ho ttin e la w c g n h o is c ti d a a E Educ ch chil in a e s t r’ a lo th e Bach e sure ce. xperien r to mak togethe ed preschool e nd well-rou

SCORE

1100 N. Main St., Suite 19 734-929-1121 annarborscore.com Starting a business or growing your existing business can be daunting. There are so many new things to think about: What is the proper legal structure for my business? How do I obtain funding or apply for a small business loan? What is a business plan? How would I market my business? What taxes do I have to pay? Should I patent my idea? What do I need to know about hiring and paying employees? The nonprofit Ann Arbor chapter of SCORE is your place to start for free advice on all these matters. SCORE volunteers are successful business professionals with expertise in every aspect of starting up, growing, or operating your small business. Mentors work with you on an ongoing basis as new issues arise. Counseling sessions are held in Ann Arbor and many other locations in Washtenaw, Livingston, Lenawee, and Western Wayne Counties. SCORE provides free resources, templates, on-line materials and can refer you to other organizations that can assist you. SCORE also offers monthly workshops in Ann Arbor and the surrounding counties and free webinars.

TLC Adventure Preschool Individualized attention in a Warm, Creative, Christian environment U Ages 2 ÊxÊÞÀðÊUÊ/ ÀiiÊ >ÃÃÀ à Morning Program: Mon, Wed, Fri 9am - 1:30pm

COME TO OUR OPEN HOUSE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT TLC! -1 9]Ê , ÊÈ]ÊÓä£ÈÊUÊÎ* (734) 662-4419 ÀÊi > Ê«ÀiÃV JÌÀ ÌÞ>>° À} £{ääÊ7°Ê-Ì>` Õ Ê Û`°ÊUÊ Ê ÀL À]Ê Ê{n£äÎ

http://trinityaa.org

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• February 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com

ENRNOW OLLI NG

Special Advertising Section

St. Paul Lutheran School 495 Earhart Rd. 734-665-0604 school.stpaulannarbor.org

St. Paul Ann Arbor is one of the premier preschool through 8th grade academic institutions in southeast Michigan. St. Paul opened its doors in 1964, and we have been partnering with families in preparing their children for the future ever since. St. Paul’s integrated curriculum combines foundational academic skills with music and fine arts, foreign language, technology and physical education. Our academic program is rigorous and individualized, with caring, highly experienced certified teachers who work with each learner one on one. Christian love and values are central to all that we do at St. Paul. It is our mission to educate, equip and encourage students for tomorrow and eternity.

Metropolitan Junior Academy A Journey to Excellence K-10 We accept international students!

15585 N. Haggerty Road • Plymouth, MI 48170 Ph: 734-420-4044 • Fax: 734-420-3710 • metrosdaschool.org

The Discovery Center 775 S. Maple Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 734-663-7496 thediscoverycenterpreschool.com

The Discovery Center is an early childhood program for 2-and-a-half to 5-year-olds that has been serving families in the Ann Arbor area since 1974. With our highly-educated and experienced staff, our modern building designed specifically for our use, and our nurturing, flexible program, we believe the environment created here for young children is ideal. The Discovery Center has been an accredited program through the National Association for the Education of Young Children since 1993. The Discovery Center provides an environment that encourages each child to approach optimum physical, social, emotional, aesthetic, and intellectual growth. Our programs are based on an open classroom approach with emphasis on a hands-on, experiential environment. The classroom environment encourages each child to explore “discovery centers” set up by the staff and to participate in a full range of activities occurring throughout the day. The program is also enhanced by outside specialists who provide Spanish, music, and storytelling enrichment activities.

Early Learning SINCE 1975

Center Preschool

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A tradition al o n le pre sc ed h o o l p ro gra m fo un d arn y. ing th ro u gh cre at i ve pla

Preschool and Young 5’s Programs Accepting Enrollments for the 2016-2017 School Year

OPEN HOUSE February 6th, 10am-12pm

-------------------------------

734-973-7722 Ann Arbor 48108

www.annarborfamily.com • February 2016 •

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Special Advertising Section

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Dexter Community Schools 734-424-4240 dexterschools.org

A creative and innovative approach to childhood education and an award-winning high school that’s what parents can expect for their children when they enroll in Dexter Community Schools.

Children aged six weeks to five years start at the Jenkins Early Childhood Learning Center, which moved to a new location and updated and expanded their programs as recently as 2014. Children then progress through a unique elementary school and middle school system that breaks down schools into age groups, allowing students to better focus and interact with their peers. The program culminates at Mill Creek Middle School — named a “School to Watch� by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle School Growth — for grades seven and eight. Students then matriculate to Dexter Community High School, home of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme and numerous Advanced Placement courses, plus award-winning music, athletic, and extracurricular programs. From preschool to high school, Dexter Community Schools makes sure your child will receive the most comprehensive and advanced education available today.

TLC Adventure Pr

TLC Adventure Preschool

Individualized attention in a Warm, C 1400 W. Stadium Blvd.

734-662-4419 Christian environment U Ages 2 ‡ÊxĂŠĂžĂ€ĂƒÂ° trinityaa.org/preschool Morning Program: Mon, Wed, Fri 9

Come to our TLC Adventure Preschool open house Sunday, March 6th beginning at 3pm. Bring the family, tour the school and meet the staff. TLC meets Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 9am-1:30pm and offers both mixed age group and same age small group activities. TLC offers a theme oriented program for children that are two and a half to five years with experienced certified caring staff, and is licensed by the state of Michigan. TLC offers curriculum based learning that focuses on cognitive learning skills, language and communication, social/ emotional development, fine and gross motor skills. Daily classroom activities are designed to develop reasoning/decision making, strong value system, positive peer interaction, inde(734) 662-4419 ÂœĂ€ĂŠi“>ˆÂ?ĂŠÂŤĂ€iĂƒV…œœÂ?JĂŒĂ€ÂˆÂ˜ÂˆĂŒĂž>>Â°ÂœĂ€} pendent thinking and kindergarten readiness. TLC Adventure Preschool provides a nurturing and caring learning environment that focuses on the whole child. We are always looking for wonderful families toÂŁ{ääÊ7°Ê-ĂŒ>`ÂˆĂ•Â“ĂŠ Â?Ă›`°ÊUĂŠ Â˜Â˜ĂŠ Ă€LÂœĂ€]ĂŠ ĂŠ{nÂŁ become a part of our preschool.

COME TO OUR OPEN H TO LEARN MORE ABOUT -1 9]ĂŠ , ĂŠĂˆ]ÊÓä£

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• February 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com

http://trinityaa.org

The Permissive Parent

Kids won’t think their parents are cool, no matter how hard they try

by Jeremy Rosenburg

One type of parent I have never understood is the permissive parent. How is this a positive way to raise a child? I’m not a strict disciplinarian by any stretch of the imagination, but I also understand that children need structure and boundaries.

Quite often permissiveness starts at young ages, manifesting itself by parents buying all kinds of needless junk for their children to avoid tantrums. It gets exponentially worse by the teenage years.

You’ve seen them. Moms who want to relive their glamourous years through their teenage daughters. Dads who are more interested in being their son’s dudebro, rather than raising him to be a man.

Huge amounts of scorn and ridicule need to be heaped on these people, not the least of which comes from the teenagers themselves. No teen thinks their parents are cool. They will manipulate your attempts at “coolness” into all sorts of privileges.

But never will they think you are cool.

Besides, is there any person less cool than a teenager? Why would I or any parent with an ounce of sense want to emulate these creatures? Is it really cool to have your face buried in an iPhone all day? Is it really cool to obsess over whatever loser pop culture fad du jour kids are into?

For the most part, teens are flailing wildly in an effort to find themselves in a way that captures their originality. Think back to the Goth kids from high school, they all dressed the same in an effort to show their

non-conformity. Teens latch on to fads and formulae not realizing that it takes years to discover your authentic self. Patience is not a strong characteristic in a teenager.

For the most part, teens should be allowed to flail away. The path to your authentic self has many detours. The job of a parent is to help the teenager stay true to the core values with which you have raised them.

The type of permissive parent that irks me is the one who feels the need to tell their kid how cool they were when they were teenagers. Believe me, your kid doesn’t need to know how much of a rebel you were, how you liked Nirvana before anyone else, and about the times you hung out in your friend’s basement for some 4:20 refreshment. Whatever you think was cool about your teenage years is just old people stuff to a current teenager.

Lastly, you aren’t doing society any favors by encouraging a teenager’s “the world revolves around me” mentality. The sooner these snowflakes realize they aren’t special, the better for all of us. Every one of us is unique, but none of us are special.

Especially teenagers.

Jeremy Rosenberg gave up the corporate rat race years ago to become a freelance writer and graduate student, as well as a stay-at-home dad to his two children, Jack and Eva. He also enjoys playing the guitar and letting his cats fall asleep on his lap.

Planning the best summer EVER starts off with sending kids to the right summer camp!

Tell Ann Arbor parents about your program in April’s Summer Camp Guide.

RESERVE YOUR AD SPACE TODAY! DEADLINE: MARCH 15 CALL 734.668.4044

www.annarborfamily.com • February 2016 •

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5 Books to Read Before the Snow Thaws The best way to get your kid reading is grabbing a book yourself

by Andrea Rich

This really should have been a top 10 list but who are we kidding? No way am I going to get you to read 10 books.

I used to read all the time but since I had kids I (well, you know the drill, choose your own excuse and put it here). However, we tell our kids to read all the time. We stress the importance of books. Teachers want them to read at least 20 minutes a night. Here’s the problem; remember that fantasmic (yes, I made up my own word there) anti-drug commercial? “I learned it from watching you dad!” We know it’s good for them but how can we ask them to seriously have a love of reading if they see us staring at a screen all the time (come on, you know you are).

So in order to give you some awesome books, here is what I really wanted to title this article: “Top 5 Books For Mom that are Better than Watching Netflix in your Elastic Waistband Pants while Drinking a Glass (aka a bottle) of Sauvignon Blanc”

A Mother’s Manual for Self Care

by Michelle Schrag

What it’s about: This is a fabulous little handbook for parents written by a local Ann Arbor mom. You can just feel her Zen-like quality when you read this book. I need that. I’m the type of person that gets totally miffed when the Trader Joes clerk talks to me too long at check out (Dude, just put my Joes in the bag and let me get on my way). This book addresses feelings and life moments like self-deprecation, guilt, helplessness, worry and people pleasing. The author does so in a very raw and organic way.

She also has self affirmations at the end of every chapter which aren’t my bag but maybe they’re yours.

Why you should read it: There are some really helpful tips for parents especially ones like me that tend to lose their cool at times. My dad would also call this a “bathroom book” meaning each chapter stands on its own and you can read it intermittently. You can go back to reference chapters, which I have repeatedly.

The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up

by Marie Kondo

What it’s about: Home and life organizing. I’m not saying my whole house now looks like The Container Store but the tips in this book were overall easy to implement and really motivating. The best part is the way she recommends folding has allowed less of the “mom! Where is my (fill in the blank)?!” and more “forget it! I found it myself.” Now if that’s not worth ten dollars, I don’t know what is.

Why you should read it: It’s a quick read, it fits in your purse and it’s fun to imagine this adorable tiny woman folding undergarments in cute little rolled balls.

Find the Good

by Heather Lende

What it’s about: So get this, I’m not going to tell you what it’s about. I ‘m going to tell you how I found out about it. I was at Nicola’s Bookstore and I was overhearing a customer telling the cashier about a book that brought her so much joy that she had to stop after every chapter and just smile and think about it. Okay, that’s not what got me to buy it; she mentioned that it was a book about life lessons written by an obituary writer in a small town in Alaska. That sounded super interesting and that’s why I bought it.

Why you should read it: This is going to get a bit repetitive here. It’s a fast read, and again, it fits in your purse so it’s great while sitting at soccer practice or in the pick up line. It’s also, as that smart customer said, a book that really does make you smile and think after every chapter.

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• February 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com

The Matheny Manifesto: A Young Manager’s Old-School Views on Success in Sports and Life

by Mike Matheny What it’s about: For those of you non-sporty folks with a sporty kid, this is the book for you. Mike Matheny is the manager of the St. Louis Cardinals (I had to look that up on Wikipedia, that’s how non-sporty I am). He wrote this book not about managing major leaguers but about coaching his son’s little league team.

The lessons are great for both on and off the field. A little nugget that I loved is how he asked all the kid players to look the ref in the eye, say “thank you” and shake his hand after every single game. That’s a great skill.

Why you should read it: I loved this book. I loved it so much that I don’t know why I didn’t put it first on this list. I now buy it as a gift for any coach that is kind enough to spend time with my 7-year-old son and his cohorts. I also give the coaches a bottle of wine and earplugs.

Come on, we knew from the very beginning that you’re not going to read 5 books. Happy reading! Make sure you set an example, and read in front of your kids.

Andrea Rich is the Executive Director of A2 Therapy Works, a private pediatric center in Ann Arbor offering speech, occupational, physical therapy and tutoring services. A2 Therapy offers reading groups for kids that are struggling with reading or just haven’t found the love of reading yet. Find out more at a2therapyworks.com

Ask the Expert by Jamie Lober

healthy kids Keeping kids healthy in school

by Jamie Lober

Staying well during the school year may sound like common sense but often kids can be rushed and busy, which causes them to forget some of the basics. The most important key to wellness is good handwashing.

“Some kids like to rinse their hands real fast and not use soap, but you must use soap,” said Dr. Sara Laule, pediatrician with the University of Michigan Health System. If you are on the go, hand sanitizers can be beneficial to keep in your purse.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends washing your child’s face once or twice daily with warm water and a mild cleanser. There are countless skin care products at drugstores, but all kids really need is a gentle soap.

Hygiene is critical

If you have the time, try to disinfect commonly touched surfaces in your home like tables, toys and doorknobs to prevent the spread of germs. In the winter, cold and flu symptoms are circulating. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that common colds are the main reason that children miss school and adults miss work. “Things seem to be lasting longer this year than they have in the past,” said Laule. It is not too late to get the flu shot if you have not done so already.

“The flu shot protects against four different strains of influenza,” Laule explained.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention promotes physical activity to maintain weight; reduce high blood pressure; reduce risk for type 2 diabetes, heart attack, stroke and several forms of cancer; reduce arthritis pain and associated disability; reduce risk for osteoporosis and falls; and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. You can take part in a simple activity as a family such as walking, swimming or playing basketball.

Make healthy lifestyle choices

Don’t push it

“Sleep well and try to eat well to keep your body in optimal condition,” said Laule. Parents should get seven to nine hours of sleep a night and kids should get more based on their age. Older kids tend to share drinks or utensils, so you want to discourage that. “Parents can give a multivitamin to boost the immune system but there is no data that it absolutely helps,” said Laule. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommended that you select a mix of foods from the five food groups which are vegetables, fruits, grains, low-fat dairy and quality protein sources; offer a variety of food experiences; avoid highly processed foods; use small amounts of sugar, salt, fats and oils with highly nutritious foods to enhance enjoyment and consumption; and offer appropriate portions.

It is about taking care of yourself, and your kids. “Try to keep stress levels down,” said Laule. Take time out to relax, have a positive mindset and get support from family and friends.

Physical activity can fend off illness

“If your child has a fever I would keep him home for at least 24 hours,” said Laule.

“Or if he is ill and miserable I would keep him home because if he has his head on the desk all day it is not helpful and he will just spread it to somebody else.” Encourage your child to stay away from anyone who he knows is sick. If you are concerned, bring your child to the pediatrician. “If it has just been a few days and the kid is acting fine there is probably not a whole lot we can do for them,” said Laule. Usually kids just require rest, plenty of fluids and some over-the-counter medicines to help with symptom relief. While every season comes with its own set of challenges, winter tends to be a harder time of year for people, so it is a good idea to focus on prevention.

Some kids are naturally going to be more studious than others. The biggest thing you can do to give your child an academic boost is go figure - offer him unconditional love and support. “Encourage your child to do his best,” said Dr. Sara Laule, pediatrician at the University of Michigan Health System. Take advantage of the new year and create priorities. Have a positive attitude about homework because your child will pick up on it. “The family can make a new year’s resolution and set a good example by setting goals, getting things done and teaching kids to be school-oriented or motivated to do things for themselves,” said Laule.

Dr. Sara Laule suggests settomg a resolution can help kids with homework

The right environment Make sure there is an available environment that is quiet, well-lit and conducive to good studying. “Have a designated time and place to do homework,” said Sherlonya Turner, manager of the homework help department at the Ann Arbor District Library. You may want to give your child a drink and healthy snack so he does not feel a need to get up in the middle of working.

Some kids like listening to instrumental music as they work while others do better in silence. Reading the work aloud can help some kids stayed focused.

If your child has a subject that he does not like, have him do it first to get it out of the way.

Services and keeping a planner By having open lines of communication with the school, you will know what is expected of your child and how you can assist him. “Be in contact with the teacher about tips that might work best for your child because each kid has a different style,” said Turner. The library can be a great resource for the child who is struggling and frustrated or even the child who just likes to talk about his work with an adult. “We offer in-person tutoring on Mondays, Wednesdays and Sundays, and then we have online homework help where we contract with a service with people with teaching experience who provide help for kids third grade and up between 2pm and 11pm because those are typically the hours when students are doing their homework,” said Turner.

Writing things down can keep kids more accountable. “For middle school students, using their planner and monitoring their grades can help, and for all students it helps them when there is no homework because there is a difference between homework and studying,” said Leslie Geiser, director at the Sylvan Learning Center. Talk about reasonable and attainable goals. “If your child is trying to improve his grades it is realistic to move from C’s to B’s and on to A’s,” said Geiser. Help your child with time management by figuring out how much time is practical to spend on homework so it does not become overwhelming. “My average rule of thumb is at least 10 minutes per grade level, so if you are in third grade ten times three is 30 minutes and if you are in tenth grade, ten times ten would be 100 minutes,” said Geiser. This should be time that is set aside without technology.

Homework vs. Studying Again, homework and studying are not the same. “Homework is typically just completing assignments that were assigned to you that day but studying involves more and goes beyond the literal and into drawing conclusions and relationships,” said Geiser. Determining your child’s learning style can simplify things. “He may be visual, auditory or hands-on and someone who is visual may want to use different charts and tables but if they are auditory will want to record and listen to presentations over and over,” said Geiser.

Rewarding both the effort your child puts in as well as the good grades that he earns can make him feel good and help him want to continue doing well. The reward can be as simple as going to the park or as large as going to a children’s museum. Remember that by reinforcing that kids can concentrate and succeed, your child will likely feel more inclined to do his homework.

www.annarborfamily.com • February 2016 •

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h t n o the M

f rika Wood o t f a Cr by E

New Column!

Starting at home Local mom Christina Carmichael works hard at bettering Ann Arbor for everyone

Got a snow day?

by Zach Marburger

Slime instructions (recipe from Melissa Swigart of momluck.com)

When the forecast calls for another Snowpocalypse and it’s time to stock up on essentials such as milk, eggs and Spaghettios, why not pick up a few items for a keep-‘em-busy craft project? After the snowsuits and wet boots have been peeled off and the hot chocolate cooked, cooled and consumed, having a plan for an inside activity to keep little hands and minds busy is a great way to take advantage of the ‘found’ time – and make some memories together.

In one bowl mix together the room temp water and glue. Add food coloring to bowl. Set Aside In another Bowl, mix together the warm water and the Borax. Make sure the water is warm enough to dissolve the Borax. Stir until it is mostly dissolved.

Pour the White Glue slowly into the mixture of Borax and water, but DO NOT mix together. A big slime ball will form. Take your hands and swoosh the slime around the bowl several times.

Pull the Slime Ball out and place it on newspaper or into another bowl.

Knead the Slime for a few minutes.

Be sure to store slime in an airtight container so the kids can play with it again!

Last winter, my children and I tried a batch of homemade slime, and it was a huge hit!

Ordinarily, I reserve potentially messy craft projects for summertime, where the multicolored smears and drippings can decorate the yard instead of my furniture, but I was homebound by 15 inches of new snow, and a little desperate.

The ingredients are simple and inexpensive: Elmer’s School Glue, Borax, food coloring and water. The kids measured and squished and the only disagreement was how much food coloring to make the ‘slimiest’ shade of green. This segued into a lively discussion on the relative hues of monster guts, nasal discharge and someone’s infected finger pus. So I guess I would call it both a craft and a science project. Either way, it had the desired effect of a couple of hours of happy and productive play.

Blogger Melissa Swigart, Pinterest’s reigning expert on all things slime, says the concoction should last days to weeks in an airtight container, but ours went out for a slime snowball fight the next day, so I can neither confirm or deny that fact.

From refugees to right here in Ann Arbor, Carmichael works to give back Born and raised in Ann Arbor, local mother of three (with a fourth on the way) Christina Carmichael believes that giving starts at home.

An alum of University of Michigan with a degree in bio-psychology and neuroanatomy (“I didn’t ever use it,” she says) Carmichael began a lifetime of giving back by working with the just before graduation.

“Just before I graduated, they started the first Relay for Life with the American Cancer Society at UM. I responded that I was interested in volunteering, and ended up being one of three co-chairs for the event, and after that I started working for American Cancer Society, and things just involved from there.”

While working there, she was able to work on projects and with people that were making an impact across the world, but after taking a position at Menlo Innovations and moving back to Ann Arbor, Carmichael got more involved with her local church, Oak Point in Novi, which was planning to open another location in Novi. After taking some time off from work to raise her children, it was she realized that making an impact locally was just as important as working for a non-profit on big, continent-spanning projects.

That includes, in Carmichael’s words, “Building relationships with internationals parents that are at my children’s school; that was a really big thing, because it’s hard to build your language skills if you don’t have anyone to talk with. Right now my oldests’ school is participating in the water for Flint drive, so not only have we donated water but I’ve let people at Menlo know.”

“I think it’s been interesting now as a parent, there are certain limitations on your time and your energy. You want to make sure your family is getting the best of you. I feel like in last few years, the focus kind of shifted to the opportunities God is putting in front of us right here,” said Carmichael. “When I worked for the American Cancer Society it was a big initiative, or like I’m starting this whole project, and now I feel it’s those small, intentional things around you.

Not that nonprofits have completely disappeared from Carmichael’s life. She recently worked with other local moms from the facebook group Ann Arbor Moms to help coordinate a carrier drive for international nonprofit Carry the Future. The group worked with local businesses to set up donation points where people in Ann Arbor could donate baby carriers for refugees and immigrants of the current crisis in Europe.

Of course, motivating Ann Arborites to get out there and make the world a better place is part of keeping altruism local. Most importantly, in Carmichael’s eyes, is making sure her three children are imbued with the spirit of giving back.

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“I really feel like, what are those ongoing opportunities that we can do as a family?

Because we can do more when everyone else is participating. I think it’s also really valuable to help your kids have a broader perspective than just your community.”

• February 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com

Singing a Sweet Tune

West side location of Songbird Café takes flight

By Katy M. Clark

The Songbird Café West Side

2891 Jackson Ave Ann Arbor, MI 48103 Phone: (734) 436-8412 Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-6pm (kitchen open until 3pm); Sat-Sun 9am-6pm (kitchen open all day) thesongbirdcafeannarbor.com A new song can be heard on Ann Arbor’s west side. It fills the air with notes of quality breakfast and lunch items, coffee, specialty drinks, and baked goods.

The song comes from The Songbird Café West Side, the second location of a popular breakfast and lunch spot owned by the mother and daughter team of Youn and Jenny Song. The original Songbird Café on Plymouth Road opened in 2012.

The West Side location opened this past summer in the space previously occupied

by Great Lakes Coffee & Chocolate on Jackson Road.

With seating for around 30, the West Side location exudes a warm, coffee house vibe. Rustic wood tables are strewn throughout and floor to ceiling windows offer ample light. My kids, ages 12 and 9, and I noticed patrons armed with laptops and coffee the day we dined.

Music to your belly

The Songbird Café West Side is more than a coffee shop, however. Made-toorder breakfast and lunch items include sandwiches like the Sunrise, with sun dried tomato pesto, provolone, onion, tomato and egg on brioche and the Spicy BBQ Pork and Avocado Wrap with pickled vegetables.

A kids’ menu offers three sandwich choices: Nutella and jam, peanut butter and jam, or ham and cheese, all on Italian bread with chips or a pickle ($5.95).

My daughter, 9, gleefully chose the Nutella and jam sandwich plus orange juice to drink.

My son, 12, selected the Grilled Cheese Trio ($7.50) with cheddar, smoked Gouda, provolone, and apple butter on Italian bread. He omitted the lowly tomato. I picked the most popular menu item, the Pistachio Turkey sandwich ($8.95) with oven roasted turkey breast, pistachio goat cheese, apple slices and fig jam grilled on Italian bread. My son picked up a bottle of water while I chose a lavender latte.

The right notes

My lavender latte arrived first and was delicious: creamy, not too sweet, with just a hint of lavender.

“I can’t imagine that tastes good,” my son commented on my latte. He hesitantly took a sip before shaking his head.

Just you wait son, I thought, Coffee is from the Gods.

Our sandwiches arrived next. My Pistachio Turkey fused the jam’s sweetness with the tart nuttiness of the goat cheese between soft, chewy bread. I ate it all and thought it fortuitous that my husband was unable to join us. He could have consumed two sandwiches easily.

“You can really taste the apple butter,” my son said of his grilled cheese. It proved too flavorful for him, though. Next time he would omit the apple butter.

“Oh my gosh, this is so good,” enthused my daughter of her Nutella and jam sandwich, which she gobbled up.

We also indulged in house-made potato chips. My son and I originally thought them bland and thick, but their simple potato taste grew on us. We ended up liking them quite a bit. A Parmesan parsley version is available for a small upcharge.

Finally, the Café’s house-made baked goods beckoned. We shared a white chocolate Oreo brownie ($3) that was chocolatey, dense, and yummy. Other choices, which rotate, included a green tea muffin, red velvet coffee cake and pumpkin pie bar.

The Songbird Café West Side is a bit smaller than the original café at 2707 Plymouth Road, which also offers brunch items, not yet available at the Jackson Road location.

The Short Course Kid-friendly: Yes

To avoid wait: Go before or after the noon lunch hour rush Noise level: Low to moderate

Bathroom amenities: No changing tables High chairs? Yes

Got milk? Yes, plus orange juice, bottled water, and specialty bottled beverages Kids’ menu? Yes

Anything healthy for kids? Try the Greek yogurt parfait

Food allergy concerns? Gluten-free wraps are available. One kids’ sandwich contains peanut butter and nuts may be in some baked goods. Call ahead or talk with staff about your concerns.

ANNARBORFAMILY.COM www.annarborfamily.com • February 2016 •

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{ FEBURARY 2016 } All calendar events are subject to change, cancellation and limited size. Calling ahead for confirmation is recommended.

1 MONDAY Day Off Outdoors: Stories in the Snow - In the winter animals who venture out and about create stories in the snow and mud that we can learn to read. A day of discovering what animals are up to as they roam the winter woods. 8:30am. $65/members, $70/non-members. Leslie Science and Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org Parenting through separation and divorce - All parents are concerned about the wellbeing of their children as they face the challenges of separation and divorce.

This free workshop delivers practical advice in a collaborative, caring environment.

Registration required. 7pm. Rackham Institute, 500 E. Washington St. 734-6157853. mari.umich.edu Free

2 TUESDAY Kitchen Science - Children will have a fun and educational time with hands-on experiments making yummy creations.

For ages 4-5. 9am. $65/members, $70/ non-members. Leslie Science and Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org

4 THURSDAY Creativity Lab - Teens will have fun using new creative technology to make art projects. For ages 12-18. 5:30-6:30pm.

Ypsilanti District Library, 5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti. 734-482-4110. ypsilibrary. org Free Momentum - Come see this performance of four new dance works featuring four visions of motion! Through February 7.

7:30pm Thursday, 8pm Friday & Saturday, 2pm Sunday. $22, $12/student ID. University of Michigan E.V. Moore Building, 1100 Baits Dr. 734-764-0583. umich.edu Emerging Writers Workshop: Reading Like a Writer - Learn the secrets to reading like a writer, from how to look into a character profile to unravelling a plot to see a book from the inside out. This is part of the monthly Emerging Writer’s Workshops, which offer support, learning, and advice for local authors.

Registration requested. For grades 6-adult.

7pm. Traverwood Branch Library, 3333 Traverwood Dr. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free

5 FRIDAY Pets & Pajamas Movie Night Children are invited to wear their pajamas, bring a sleeping bag and pillow and be ready for some animal-themed fun while parents enjoy a night out on the town! A cheese pizza dinner will be provided. For ages 5-11. 5-9pm. $35/first child, $15/ each additional child. Humane Society of Huron Valley, 3100 Cherry Hill Rd. 734661-3575. hshv.org

6 SATURDAY Kid’s Class: Fabio Wrist Fob - Carry your keys and keychains on this adorable,

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handmade wrist fob. Choose your own fabric to personalize. Registration is required.

1pm. $36. Ann Arbor Sewing Center, 5235 Jackson Rd. 734-662-5585. annarborsewing.com Family Program: Fire Keepers - All ages are invited to learn about making campfires outside in winter! Participants will see and practice how to maintain the fires. 2pm. County Farm Park, 2230 Platt Rd. 734-971-6337. parks.ewashtenaw.org Free Storybook Crafts: Junie B. Jones Children will have fun during a hands-on craft time inspired by the book series Junie B. Jones. This special craft time corresponds with the Michigan Theater’s February 13 performance Junie B.’s Essential Survival Guide to School. For grades 1-5. 3pm.

Mallets Creek Branch, 3090 E. Eisenhower Pkwy. aadl.org Free

7 SUNDAY Planetarium: Losing the Dark Watch this short, full-dome planetarium show on the effects of light pollution.

Saturdays & Sundays through February (excluding February 7). $5. University of Michigan, 500 S. State St. lsa.umich.edu

8 MONDAY Read to Kandy - Studies show that kids benefit from reading aloud to dogs-- they’re great listeners! Sign your child up for a 10-minute slot to read to Kandy, the library dog! 6:30pm. Ypsilanti District Library, 5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti. 734-4824110. ypsilibrary.org Free 4-Week Digital Painting - Participants will learn how to use a drawing tablet to produce illustrations, drawings and designs, as well as basic and traditional drawing methods for developing preliminary sketches and studies. No experience necessary. For ages 13-17. Registration required. Mondays through February 29.

4:30-6pm. $165. The Ann Arbor Art Center, 117 W. Liberty St. 734-994-8004. annarborartcenter.org Stroller Strides Community Class This is a total fitness program that moms can do with their babies and includes cardio, strength training and toning exercises while incorporating the stroller into the environment. Second Monday of the month through December. First class is free, monthly membership and 10-class options available. 9am. Briarfield Mall in front of Sears. annarbor@fit4mom.com

10 WEDNESDAY Super Stories - Friendship and the stories of Mr. Putter and Tabby by Cynthia Rylant, will be the theme for the February meeting of our Kindergarten - 2nd grade book club. Join for stories, crafts, activities and a small snack. Registration required.

4:30pm. Dexter District Library, 3255 Alpine St., Dexter. dexter.lib.mi.us Free

Funky Frosty Friday Rock the 80’s night

7:15pm. Buhr Park Outdoor Ice Arena 2751 Packard Rd. 734-794-6234 a2gov.org Free

The best way to not go stir-crazy in the winter is to use the weather to your advantage.

Buhr Park Outdoor Ice Arena offers an opportunity to get outside right here in town.

Activities include open public skate, drop-in ice hockey games, and special themed nights like “Rock the 80’s night” on for February 5. Families can come in their best 80’s outfit and skate the day away! There will be prizes for best costume. Just in case warm weather does peek through, the ice rink even features a cooled subfloor that allows guests to skate on ice even if the weather hits 50 degrees.

Home Depot Kids Club Build a Valentine’s Day Mailbox 9am-Noon.

Home Depot 3300 Carpenter Rd., Ypsilanti 734-975-1029 homedepot.com Free

Join Home Depot to get ready for Valentine’s day with Kids Club: Build a Valentine’s Mailbox. This is a great way to get kids that are interested in working with their hands experience under the watchful eye of professionals, and a way to add a little festive flair to the upcoming holiday. Kids will take home their craft, a certificate, a workshop apron, and a commemorative pin. Registration is available online, and drop-ins are welcome on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Valentine Happy Hour: Smitten in the Mitten - Strictly for mom and dad!

Come taste a trio of Michigan-produced wines and a sparkling wine cocktail paired with assorted, hand-made chocolates. 6pm. Reservation required. $35.

Zingerman’s Delicatessen, 415 N. Fifth Ave. 734.663.3400. zingermansdeli.com

13 SATURDAY Live performance: Junie B. Jones musical - People of all ages can enjoy the story of this young girl and her school adventures. 1:30pm. $10-12/ticket.

Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734668-8463. michtheater.org

14 SUNDAY Valentine’s Day Houses - Come celebrate cupid’s holiday by crafting sweet Valentine houses. For grades K-5. Ann Arbor District Library Traverwood, 3333 Traverwood Dr. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free

15 MONDAY Mid-Winter Break Camp: Trails, Tails, and Tales - Dive into some fantastic books about nature and explore the natural world around us! Each morning we will read a great story that will inspire the day’s activities. Get ready for a week filled with animals, fun, and friends that may even inspire our very own stories. Post Camp available with separate registration.

Runs through Friday. 8:30am-3:30pm. $260/non-members, $250/members.

Leslie Science and Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org

12 FRIDAY

• February 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com

16 TUESDAY

Family Hike: Tracks in the Snow - Learn how to identify common animal tracks in the snow on this nature hike! 2pm.

Scio Woods Preserve, Scio Church Rd.734971-6337. ewashtenaw.org Free

17 WEDNESDAY All Star Readers - Young readers will discuss a different children’s book and do an activity relating to it. Registration required. For grades 3-5. 4:30pm. Dexter District Library, 3255 Alpine St., Dexter. dexter.lib.mi.us Free

18 THURSDAY Library Space Camp - Learn what it takes to become an astronaut and complete cool space activities at Library Space Camp. 1pm. Ann Arbor District Library Downtown, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-3274200. aadl.org Free

20 SATURDAY Daddy-Daughter Dance - Dads, grandpas, uncles, or any guy with a special little lady, join us for a fabulous night of fun! You and your sweetheart can make some lasting memories with dancing and age- appropriate music, light refreshments, a souvenir, and tons of fun to go around!

Registration required. 6:30pm. $10/ person, $5/each additional daughter.

Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center, 2960 Washtenaw Ave. 734-971-6355. parksonline.ewashtenaw.org

21 SUNDAY Film Screening: Born Free - At a national park in Kenya, and English couple care for three orphaned lion cubs. Part of the Toyota Family Friendly Film Series.

1:30pm. $8-$10, free/children under 12.

Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734668-8463. michtheater.org

marketplace 23 TUESDAY Story Time - Join Nicola’s Books for Story Time with retired Youth Services Librarian Ieva Bates. 10am. Nicola’s Books, 2513 Jackson Ave. 734-662-0600. nicolasbooks.com Free

25 THURSDAY Kids Zumba - Kids dance class combining fitness with rhythm. Teaches leaderships, listening skills, and teamwork. For ages 6-13. Drop-ins are welcome, as are week-long packages. 6pm. $15. Peachy Fitness, 2385 S. Huron Pkwy. 734-6810477. peachyfitness.com

26 FRIDAY Fish Friday: School of Fish Participants will have fun creating fishthemed clay pieces. No experience required, all materials will be provided.

Registration required. For all ages, under nine years old must be accompanied by an adult. 4:30-6pm. $25. The Ann Arbor Art Center, 117 W. Liberty St. 734-994-8004. annarborartcenter.org Open Play - Explore one of Michigan’s most creative indoor play spaces! You’ll find imagination driven play including dress up and age appropriate toys and books. Enjoy playing with your children and relax while they explore the city with new friends. For children up to age five.

9am-3pm. $5. My Urban Toddler, 7025 Michigan Ave., Saline. 734-585-0788. myurbantoddler.com

27 SATURDAY Disney’s Frozen Sing-Along - Sing along with the modern Disney classic! Lyrics will be on the screen and there will be goody bags of interactive props. 11:30am. $16/adult, $13/student with valid ID, seniors, children under age 12. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8463. michtheater.org Brick Bash - Brick Bash is a event that showcases LEGO-building with exhibits, shopping, animation films, and activities.

The event is a fundraiser for the Skyline High School band. There will also have a performance by the Ann Arbor Percussion Ensemble. 11am-6pm. $5/person, $20/ family maximum. Skyline High School, 2552 N. Maple Rd. brickbash.com

28 SUNDAY Storytelling for Kids - Part of The Ark’s storytelling festival, special presenters will dazzle and enrapture children with imaginative tales. 12:30pm. $10. The Ark, 316 S. Main St. 734-761-1451. theark.org

Searchable listings updated daily annarborfamily.com

levels welcome.

734-707-7697. www.nutritionbychoice.com

ADVERTISING IN MARKETPLACE Free Classifieds: Individuals may receive one

free 20-word ad per month (products offered in ads must sell for under $100). Each additional word 40 cents, payment must accompany ad. Free ads run one month and are reserved for private-parties use, noncommercial concerns and free services.

Ads MUST be typed or neatly printed and MAILED, E-MAILED, or DROPPED OFF to Ann Arbor Family Press. Classifieds by the15th of the month prior to publication.

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.

Display Classifieds: Display classifieds 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.

Events

FOR SALE

FitMama FitMe Fellowship & Fitness to build lasting friendships and healthy lifestyles FREE for Moms with Tots (ages 0-4) Thursday from 10:15-11:30am. 3830 Packard Rd, Suite 150 Ann Arbor, MI 48108.

Call Kimberly at 240-388-2537 to reserve your spots or answer questions

QUEEN PILLOWTOP MATTRESS SET AWESOME DEAL!! Queen Pillowtop Mattress and box foundation $150.00, MUST SELL Call 734-680-5050

Mondays

Minecraft Meetup, Meet other Minecraft enthusiasts in the computer lab and work on weekly building projects on the new YDL Minecraft server.

Create fireworks displays, amusement parks and more! 4-5pm. Ypsilanti District Library, 5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti. 734-482-4110. ypsilibrary. org Free

Monday, Wednesday, Friday

Toddler Story Time, Children will have fun with activities that encourage reading, from interactive and pop-up books to songs and puppet shows. For ages 18 months-3 ears. Registration required. 10:30am. Dexter District Library, 3255 Alpine St., Dexter. 734426-4477. dexter.lib.mi.us Free

Monday & Wednesday

826michigan Teen, Teens will have the opportunity to get feedback and suggestions on creative writing projects. No meeting on February 22.

For ages 13-18. 4pm. Ypsilanti District Library, 5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti.

734-482-4110 x1390. ypsilibrary. org Free

Saturdays & Tuesdays

Little Scientists Club, Children will explore their sense of wonder about the world through observation, science-themed stories and hands-on activities. 9:30am. Ann Arbor HandsOn Museum, 220 E. Ann St. 734-9955439. aahom.org Free

call nailya 419.244.9859 to sell your stuff!

HELP WANTED Massage Therapist: Currently hiring therapists to work at RelaxStation in downtown Ann Arbor to accommodate our already established clientele. Free parking, flexible hours, great team!

734-623-1951 SERIOUS MOMS WANTED. We need serious & motivated people for expanding health and wellness industry. High speed internet/ phone essential. Free online training. iworkforfreedom.com

purchase CUETHECOACH. net

EDUCATION ARE YOUR CHILDREN INTERESTED IN ASTRONOMY? Do they like observing the moon, planets and stars? GO TO www.YoungAstronomer.org FREE HALF-HOUR CONSULTATION for families, enriching literacy and support for school/home. Ann Arbor Educational Associates, annarboreducationalassoc@gmail.com.

HEALTH FUN, FREE 4-WEEK FIT CHALLENGE! Free Fitness M & W 6:30pm off Packard Rd. in Ann Arbor. All ages & skill

ACTIVE BODY CHALLENGE starts Jan 2nd - 8 Week Fitness & Nutrition Program, Cash prizes in 4 categories nutritionbychoice. com or 734-707-7697​ Medical Massage for Muscular Pain.

67.50/half hour. AA. Hot towels, stone - 42.50 each.

Same Day. 740-743-7160.

STRESS REDUCTION, DEEP TISSUE, CMT 15 years of experience, into.

Massage special $45/ hr. AA Northside.

Call Jane 734-741-0761

ANNOUNCEMENTS GIVE BLOOD - SAVE LIVES! #ChooseYourDay to donate blood. Call 1-800-448-2543 or go to RedCrossBlood.org.

Appointments preferred.

Walk-ins welcome.

HERO MILES To find out more about how you can help our service members, veterans and their families in their time of need, visit the Fisher House website at fisherhouse.org​ Medical Guardian Top-rated medical alarm and 24/7 medical alert monitoring. For a limited time, get free equipment, no activation fees, no commitment, a 2nd waterproof alert button for free and more - only $29.95 per month.

800-279-4103

Services Entrepreneurs! Do you need assistance for your business? SCORE provides free, confidential business mentoring designed for your new or existing business. Schedule an appointment at www.annarborscore.com Massage: Walk-in Appointments Available. Come in stressed leave refreshed.

Free Parking. Make some time for yourself! RelaxStation.

734-623-1951 Birth Trauma and Pregnant Massage Sher, 740-743-7160 - 85/hr + Hot Towel 42.50/hr. Same Day. AA. CCs accepted.

Victorian atmosphere.

INFANT MASSAGE

Promotes bonding, improved sleep, reduces tummy issues and crying. 75$/hour. Natalia, LMSW, Infant Mental Health Specialist-IV 734223-6802 Give Hope. Become a Foster Parent. Attend a free training today to learn more! For more information: www.judsoncenter.org or 313-255-8272.

Lifecoach Q.August/ CueTheCoach LLC. Themed Parenting Workshops Superhero or My House Is A Zoo Free w/$25 supply kit

Ann Arbor FamilyPress/Assignment Editor This part time position includes assigning stories, planning for art accompaniment, writing and editing content, cover stories, generating story ideas, representing Ann Arbor Family Press in the community.

Journalism background preferred, organizational skills a must.

Inside Sales Rep This position supports the sales efforts by making calls to clients to follow through on leads for upcoming special sell sections, events and other related tasks.

This is a great opportunity for full time or part time employment, with flexible hours.

We’re excited to work with the right person who shares our vision and values. Welcome aboard.

Send resume with references to mjacobs@adamsstreetpublishing.com

Come on, hit send and let’s get started.

www.annarborfamily.com • February 2016 •

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