0514bspeast

MAY 2014

baysttateparent bays Massachusetts’ Premier Magazine For

Families Since

OUR ANNUAL CELEBRATIONS! ISSUE BABY NEWS IN A DIGITAL WORLD

BOSTON POPS’ KEITH LOCKHART TALKS ABOUT FATHERHOOD HAIR BOWS AND BOW TIES ADD ZING TO SPRING!

TEEN FRAMES DOWN SYNDROME IN A NEW WAY A GIRLFRIENDS’ GUIDE TO SEX AFTER PREGNANCY

1996

FREE

And the winners are…

Visit CSB on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube to see a video of the CSB Champions.

December 2013 Shrewsbury High School’s Cheerleading Squad

Photo Credit: Steven King, baystateparent Magazine

January 2014 Ms. Bennett’s First Grade Class at Berlin Memorial School

February 2014 Rachel McGown, Clinton High School

March 2014 Tyler Yalian, Doctor Franklin Perkins School

April 2014 Teens of Central Mass La Romana Mission

Katie Edwards

Ben Davis

Katherine O’Reilly

Hannah Miller

Do you know the next

Julie Tokarowski

CSB CHAMPION? presented with:

Each month, Clinton Savings Bank recognizes an individual or group of students for their accomplishments in school, sports, the arts or the community. To nominate someone you know, email marketing@clintonsavings.com.

Winners will be honored on our website, on Facebook and Twitter, in ads in their hometown newspaper and baystateparent magazine and even spots on AMP 103.3 Radio.

888-744-4272(4CSB) • clintonsavings.com

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Berlin • Bolton • Boylston • Clinton • Sterling • W. Boylston

• 2 MAY2014 3

Cornerstone Academy Educating all learners in grades K-6

An elementary preparatory school that celebrates the individual.

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BAYSTATEPARENT 4 5

table of contents MAY

VOLUME 19

1.

2.

5.

6.

7

2014

NUMBER 1

things we learned

while making the may issue

Shrewsbury teen frames Down Syndrome in a new way.

A Future for Tucker, page 46.

There is sex after pregnancy. The Holding Pattern: A Girlfriends’ Guide to Sex After Pregnancy, page 40.

Before you bring home a new boyfriend, think on this. Daring to Date: Challenges for Newly Single Parents, page 42.

4.

It’s time for the sext talk.

Just Don’t Hit Send, page 52.

7.

Notice the little things today because you will miss them tomorrow.

Things I Miss, page 58.

Storage solutions keep toys in place. 10 Tips to Tame the Toy Clutter, page 12.

Our Annual

Celebrations! Issue

35 37 38

12 HEALTH FIXES FOR FAMILY MEALS DISHIN’ WITH THE DIETITIAN: Vegetarian diets for growing bodies BITES: Easy baby shower cookie recipe, Walk for Hunger in Boston, and more

6 MAY2014 7

7 7 8 9 10 15

Boston Pops conductor Keith Lockhart finds inspiration in his family. Take 8 with this father of three, page 10

3.

in every issue

25 26

CELEBRATE MOM at the Duckling Day Parade

27

EVERYONE “LIKES” A BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENT: Baby news in real time

28 32

HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION: 3 moms share tips and tales

BOWS AND BOWS: Local designers add zing to spring with bow ties and hair bows

IN LIEU OF GIFTS: The rise in charity giving

WELCOME: a letter from our editor OUR SPECIAL GUEST: meet cover model Sienna Elizabeth Proctor MEET OUR CONTRIBUTORS BSP ONLINE TAKE 8 with Boston Pops legend Keith Lockhart OUT & ABOUT: May calendar of family events

22

FINALLY FOREVER: 6 things to do while waiting for your adoption

22 23 50

CIRCLE OF FRIENDS: Area adoption events

51 54 56

BOSTON CHILDREN’S MUSEUM: The importance of humility

MAY’S CHILD: Meet Isabella BOSTON CHILDREN’S MUSEUM: Talking to children about difficult situations

LET’S GO: Knights! opens at the Worcester Art Museum OUR MAY FAVORITES: Facts, finds, and freebies

advertising directories

68 70

DANCE, GYM & ENRICHMENT HEALTHY KIDS & FAMILIES PARTY PEOPLE PRESCHOOL & CHILD CARE ADVERTISER’S DIRECTORY

voted

e st BPARENTING PUBLICATION

in North America

Local Media Association

es

NT

welcome to

baystateparent

meet team

baystateparent publisher KIRK DAVIS

creative

W

elcome to our annual Celebrations! issue of baystateparent.

This is the edition that features stories on birthday parties (In Lieu of Gifts, page 32), high school graduations (Caps Off to the Class of 2014, page 28), new babies (Everyone “Likes” a Birth Announcement, page 27) and party fashions (Bows & Bows, page 26). It rejoices in warmer weather, friends, family, and motherhood.

But as I sit to write about the joyful stories in this magazine, there is one article that makes my heart overflow in celebration.

In A Future for Tucker, page 46, you will meet my new friend, Tucker Collins. He is a 16-yearold Shrewsbury photographer

who is redefining how many see Down syndrome. His enthusiasm for life is itself a celebration.

Tucker asked to use his mother’s camera when he was just 10-years-old. At the time, his mother thought that it was a fun diversion for him. But when she saw the artistry of the resulting photographs, she discovered one of Tucker’s many talents.

From that day forward, Tucker has been photographing people, places, animals and an array of items that you may not have previously considered artistic — deli meat, license plates and motorcycle parts, for example.

His work is catching the attention of friends and family, and he is selling it at art shows.

It hangs at the State House and is on display this month at the College of the Holy Cross. Last year, he launched tuckercollinsphotography.com.

In short, he isn’t just reaching for stars, he is catching them.

I spent an afternoon with Tucker

and his mom, Paula, chatting and looking through photographs.

There was palpable love and respect between them, and Tucker was a notably friendly and confident young man. I asked Paula how having a child with Down syndrome changed her life. She told me to Google A Trip to Holland by Emily Perl Kingsley, and I did.

I won’t spoil the short story for you because I hope that you will Google it, too. But I will tell you that, since we’re talking about celebrations, Holland is also a place to celebrate. It has windmills and tulips — and it looks beautiful this time of year.

Pour your Mother’s Day cup of tea and pull up a chair. We have much to celebrate together this month in baystateparent.

Happy Mother’s Day,

MaryJo Kurtz, Editor

Sienna Elizabeth Proctor

Where do you go to school? I am a first grader at The Riverbed School.

Do you have any brothers or sisters? I have two brothers: Harrison is 4 and Bennett is 2.

What do you like best about school? PE, art, math, reading and writing.

What do you like to do when you are not in school? I like to

play, do gymnastics, dance and ride horses.

senior graphic designer STEPHANIE MALLARD 508-865-7070 design@baystateparent.com

advertising director of sales REGINA STILLINGS 508-865-7070 ext. 210 regina@baystateparent.com senior account executive EMILY LAVOIE 774-364-4401 emily@baystateparent.com account executive MARIE COREY 508-735-0503 marie@baystateparent.com

account executive KATHY PUFFER 508-865-7070 ext. 211 kathy@baystateparent.com

presidents KIRK and LAURIE DAVIS

How long have you been modeling? This is my first time!

photographers STEVEN KING SHAWNA SHENETTE

What surprised you most about modeling for baystateparent?

My hair and getting to throw the confetti everywhere!

What is your secret to taking a great cover shot? I smile really big!

Hair and makeup by Salon Bei Capello, Millbury Clothing provided by Epiphany Children’s Boutique, Northborough Hair bows designed by Ashley Girouard

creative director PAULA MONETTE ETHIER 508-865-7070 ext. 221 pethier@holdenlandmark.com

account executive DEBORAH MEUNIER 508-450-9718 deb@baystateparent.com

meet our special guest:

Our beautiful cover model this month is 6-year-old Sienna Proctor of Natick who told us she was named for the Italian city of Siena. She also shared some more fun facts with baystateparent!

editor in chief MARYJO KURTZ 508-865-7070 ext. 201 maryjo@baystateparent.com

copy editor BRYAN ETHIER illustrator KOURTNEY WILLIAMS

baystateparent is published monthly with a main office at 22 West Street, Millbury, MA 01527 cover photo

shawna shenette

BY photography

www.baystateparent.com It is distributed free of charge throughout Massachusetts.

shawnashenettephotography.com BAYSTATEPARENT 6 7

meet our may contributors Sandra Gordon is an award-winning writer who delivers expert advice and the latest developments in health, nutrition, parenting and consumer issues.

Her most recent books are Save Dollars on Diapers and Save a Bundle: 50+ Ways to Save Big on Baby Gear. This month, she shares information on small meal changes that make a big difference in your family’s diet. See her article 12 Healthy Fixes for Family Meals on page 35.

Michelle Shirk has advice for future adoptive parents: stay busy. Her article Waiting for Your Adoption Placement: 6 Ways to Pass Time on page 22 is written from experience, as she and her husband are adoptive parents of their beautiful daughter. Michelle is an attorney and journalist. She writes about adoption, family, travel and other topics for a number of publications.

Kathy Sloan is one of the most popular bloggers on baystateparent. com, writing on how current events impact modern day parenting. In her article Daring to Date: Challenges for Newly Single Parents on page 42, she shares stories and advice from single parents and experts about dating while raising children. In addition to writing, Kathy enjoys yoga, reading, and she dreams of one day living on a beach.

After reading Things I Miss on page 58, you will likely never again miss an opportunity to hold your child’s hand. Longtime local columnist Jon McGrath grew up in Westborough and still calls the town home.

He and his wife, Jen, have three kids (ages 14, 12, and 10). The Little League baseball coach previously wrote for The Westborough News and Westborough Patch. He invites you to follow him on Twitter, @Jon_McGrath.

Award-winning writer Trish Reske recently spent a morning at the new Knights! exhibit at the Worcester Art Museum. She takes us behind the scenes of the new show, and explains how the former Higgins Armory displays have a new look. See her review on page 54. In addition to being an award-winning writer, Trish is business owner, running coach and Westborough mom of four kids ages 12- to 22-years-old.

Amanda Roberge, a busy Leominster mother of three, squeezed in a little time this month to have a sex talk with us.

In The Holding Pattern: A Girlfriend’s Guide to Sex After Pregnancy, page 36, Amanda and her friends dish on what to expect in the bedroom once the baby arrives. And speaking of Baby, read Amanda’s article on how the web has changed baby announcements in Everyone “Likes” a Birth Announcement on page 27.

In his article, In Lieu of Gifts on page 32, Peter Stilla writes about children and families who ask guests to donate to charity instead of giving birthday gifts. He finds out how children come to choose a charity and how guests respond to the request. The father of two young daughters lives with his wife in Westborough. A Cambridge native, Peter frequently writes for a number of online and print outlets.

If you are an experienced journalist interested in writing for baystateparent magazine, email editor@baystateparent.com.

Celebrate At The Carle Eric Carle Book Signing Saturday, May 24, 10:00 am (9:00 am for Members) Meet the beloved children’s picture book author and illustrator! Check website for book signing guidelines.

Photo by Kristin Angel

2014 Children’s Book Festival: What’s Your Favorite Animal?

Saturday, June 7, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Grab your favorite stuffed animal and go wild at The Carle!

• Meet artists Nick Bruel and Peter McCarty • Get a doodle of your favorite stuffed animal

• Go on an animal scavenger hunt • Meet therapy dogs and other amazing animals!

Face painting, storytimes, games, and art making complete this day of family fun. Plus, every child will receive a free copy of the book What’s Your Favorite Animal? Animal costumes welcome!

Both events free with Museum Admission

125 West Bay Road, Amherst MA 01002

www.carlemuseum.org 8 MAY2014 9

413.658.1100

ts es s.

en y

ife r

bsp

online

Winners

Our list of giveaway winners is growing!

Get details on some of this month’s giveaways by turning to page 56 for Our May Favorites calendar. For even more chances to win, sign up for our weekly newsletters by visiting baystateparent. com. Here are just a few of our March and April prize winners.

• Ba Ba Bling Baby Designer Boys’ T-shirt Veronica Gold, Worcester Braden Larson, Douglas

• MIT Museum Passes Aiste Dacys, Shrewsbury

• Cranky Pants, by Stephen Sanzo Alexzandra McBeth, Phillipston Follow us on Twitter @baystateparent for more chances to win!

From Our E-mail Dear MaryJo, I was truly touched by your article What Makes Joey Tic in the February 2014 issue of baystateparent magazine.

Usually, I look through the events pages while skipping the articles.

However, your son’s story had me glued to the chair until I had read it to the end.

My eyes were full of tears as I could almost feel your pain while fighting for your son’s health. I applaud you for your courage and willingness to try what may have seemed too simple and too unrealistic a way to help in your seven years of struggle.

Thank you for sharing your story as there are so many kids who are suffering right now and they don’t have to! I hope your article got many parents to look for the very trigger that makes their kids unwell and, as a result, find their own solution that might be just as ‘simple’ as yours.

Irene Drabkin IreneHealthCounselor.com Hello!

I live in Granby, CT and picked up your issue at the Big Y in Southwick.

I would like to say that I thoroughly enjoyed the issue. It had a lot of interesting articles. My favorite was Discover Western Mass (March 2014). I am always looking for somewhere new to take my kids. Please continue letting us know about different places to go.

Anna Rzecinski Editor’s note: You can find both of these stories today on baystateparent.com!

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take eight

with Keith Lockhart

This month, baystateparent chats with conductor Keith Lockhart, the international music legend who has been leading the Boston Pops for nearly 20 years. The charismatic maestro, who has performed with nearly every major North American symphonic ensemble, is known as much for his masterful musicianship as he is for his ability to speak directly to his audience — an endearing and engaging trait that attracts fans of all ages.

He is also known as Dad. His three children are Aaron (10), Kellan (4) and Christopher (2). In this candid interview, the father of three speaks about his family, fatherhood, and the special people who inspire him.

What advice do you offer parents about introducing children to the arts?

Affinity for music has a lot to do with exposure and with just feeling that music is a normal part of everyday life. Both Emiley (Keith’s wife) and I sing to and with our kids all the time, and nothing thrills me more than hearing our two-year-old off by himself singing to himself as he plays. Our kids are exposed to all kinds of music, and they love it all. The current greatest hits for our two- and four-year-olds include the Can-Can, the Grieg In the Hall of the Mountain King, and pretty much anything by Madonna!

3

Who inspires you? Too many to mention! Leonard Bernstein, who was the quintessential American musician and communicator. Ted Kennedy, whom I had the pleasure to know, who lived a life dedicated to inspired public service. My wife, who is tolerant of my long absences and a great (if slightly stressed) mother. My kids, who are so amazing, so profound, so observant, and so very loving.

How do you balance your demanding career with your role as a father?

It’s tough. Even with a reduced travel schedule, I’m out of town a lot. And when I’m here, I often have performances every night that mean I don’t get to put them to bed for a week at a time. I try to be with them whenever I can — and am very grateful for Skype!

What can families expect at the Oz with Orchestra family performances on May 10 and 11? The Wizard of Oz is such an iconic film. When I was a kid, my family would watch it every year when it came back around on TV — on our 17-inch black-and-white TV with the 2-inch speaker! I can’t imagine how much impact it will have, in a beautifully restored print, on the giant Symphony Hall screen, accompanied by the incomparable Boston Pops! I think it’s a great, intergenerational way to introduce your family to the power of live symphonic music.

5

2

7

What other family performances are coming up this year for the Boston Pops?

Glad you asked that! The very next weekend after Oz, the Pops is presenting Cirque de la Symphonie, an amazing, eye-popping extravaganza of acrobats, aerialists, and other circus performers performing onstage with the Boston Pops. The music is all classical, and the show is absolutely spectacular. Although most of our evening performances are not specifically family-oriented, many are perfect for your older children, as a great concert experience to share with their parents. Look at our complete season information online at bostonpops.org.

4

What considerations go into choosing material for a family audience? The Pops plays music for everybody, and developing a deep and lasting love for classical music among our youngest audience is one of the most important facets of our mission. Our family concerts during the Pops season are just that — family concerts and not “kids concerts.” We attempt to pick concepts (like Oz with Orchestra) that will appeal to every age group. And we try very hard not to program “down” to a younger audience. We want them to leave Symphony Hall having been exposed to a truly great artistic experience.

What advice do you offer for children who aspire to be professional musicians? Practice, practice, practice! There is still room out there, and indeed a great need for, young performers who are truly gifted and truly committed to bringing our art form to everyone. But the field has probably never been more competitive. And, even though it is critical that you master your instrument, don’t narrow your focus too much.

Do well in school, keep your ears open, and listen and study as much — and as many different kinds — of music and art as you can. It doesn’t hurt to have a fallback plan, and the successful musicians of the twenty-first century will be well-rounded and versatile.

This month, the Boston Pops presents two family shows at Boston Symphony Hall: Oz with Orchestra Saturday and Sunday, May 10 and 11, 3 p.m.

Attend a screening of the complete 1939 classic film The Wizard of Oz, as the Boston Pops performs the beloved soundtrack. New technology allows the original vocals and dialogue to remain 10 MAY2014 11

intact while the score is performed live by the full orchestra, providing a brandnew way to immerse yourself in the wonders of Oz. Costumes are welcome, but optional. Tickets are half-price for children 12 and under.

Cirque de la Symphonie Saturday, May 17, 3 p.m.

Aerial flyers, acrobats,contortionists,

6 dancers, jugglers, balancers, and strongmen are among the talented artists who will take the stage. Thrill to the musical acrobatics of the outstanding Boston Pops musicians as they synchronize their performance of spectacular classical music to the astounding feats of the circus performers. Tickets are half-price for children 12 and under.

Photo by Stu Rosner

1

How has fatherhood influenced your work? From a practical point of view, it means I have begun to think of my pre-concert nap as a luxury and not a necessity! I have also tried over the last few years to make my travel schedule a little less crazy. I miss them a lot when I’m gone, and you just want to be there with, and for, them.

8

Great Wolf Lodge® New England is here!

Or should we say, heah?

What as summ

America’s premier indoor waterpark resort has finally come to Central Massachusetts.

Families can whip down waterslides, play MagiQuest®, our interactive adventure game, and get manicures at Scooops® Kid Spa. Waterpark passes, as well as use of our Howlers’ Peak Ropes Course, are included free with your stay. It’s fun on top of fun on top of fun.

Everybody in.

TM

greatwolf.com/newengland

BAYSTATEPARENT 10 11

10 tips to TAME the toy CLUTTER

BY MARYJO KURTZ

That sudden yelp from stepping on a stray Lego in your bare feet. Yeah, that.

The missing puzzle pieces that you find under the kitchen table. Yeah, those, too.

K’nex, plastic jewelry, play money, and some stray game pieces. It all adds up to toy clutter that can become a pile of frustration if not kept under control. To help you clear the chaos, we asked organization experts for their top tips to help you tame the toys.

1.

Professional organizer Lauren Ignos of Lauren Ignos Organizing in Bradford, said to lead by example.

“Choose one of your toddler’s favorite toys, preferably something with multiple pieces like blocks or a puzzle. Begin by putting away this toy by yourself and then invite your toddler to help you. We use a cleanup song to cue that it is time to pick up our toys,” she said. “Make this quick cleanup part of your evening routine and your toddler will begin to develop the skills necessary to sort and organize.”

2. Princeton’s Bonnie Garceau, professional organizer with Harmony in Your Home, suggests making an age-appropriate cleanup checklist for your children. For example, she said, the list might include directions like “put away all Barbie dolls,’ ‘pick up books and put them onto the bookcase,” or “put clothing in drawers.” She said to keep the list short and simple.

3. Store similar toys together in one storage container. “We have one tote for soft toys, one for larger plastic toys, one for blocks, and one for books,” said Ignos. “When a bin starts to overflow, it is time to declutter and find a new home for some of the toys.”

4.

Once similar objects are separated into a bin or container, label it with a word and picture, said Garceau. “Pictures are easily covered with self-laminating pouches in order to withstand daily use,” she added. This makes it easy for pre-readers to recognize where to put their toys.

5. Keep small toys off the floor with a hanging shoe organizer, said Laura Richards, owner of Organization Works in Framingham. “Use the clear, plastic kind that hang on the back of a door. You can stash action figures, Matchbox cars, balls, baseball cards, etc. and kids can easily see what’s there.”

6.

To save space, Richards recommends storing toys in plastic under-bed boxes. “Typically used for storing out-of-season clothing or bedding, these are a great way to organize toys and stuffed animals,” she said. “Kids can pull them out, play, then close the lid and roll them out of view. A standard twin bed can handle three standard under-bed boxes.”

7. Keep a box of toys in your closet “for toys that your child has lost interest in. When you feel the urge to buy your child a new toy, go through this box and pull out one of her old favorites,” said Richards. She said this often helps a child to see an old toy with fresh eyes, finding

new ways to play with it. “Not only will this trick help minimize clutter, but it will help boost your child’s creativity and imagination.”

8.

Plastic dish pans are another useful storage solution, said Richards. “They come in all different sizes and are a perfect way to organize blocks, games, books, art supplies —you name it.”

9.

When adding new toys to the collection, “teach [your children] to follow the basic principle, ‘one comes in, one goes out,’” said Garceau. The practice, she said, helps children to understand which toys are important to them.

10.

Plan a donation of unused toys to charity. Allow your children to help choose where to make the donation. “This process teaches [children] decision-making and sharing,” said Garceau.

Acton - Teamworks • May 2nd - 4th Auburn - Horgan Arena • May 30th - June 1st

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NGCC_OpenHouse_May13_FullPg_BSP_4C_Layout 1 3/28/14 4:22 PM Page 1

OPEN HOUSE Your child’s journey begins here!

Tuesday May 13, 2014 4:00 - 7:00 PM All NGCC Locations: Andover Beverly Franklin Hopkinton Marlborough Natick Sudbury Walpole Westborough Westford Call: (866) 711-6422 Visit: ngccenters.com

Next Generation Children’s Centers Celebrating 20 Years of Leadership in Early Childhood Education INFANT

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14 MAY2014

Photo courtesy MIT Museum

OUT& ABOUT

LUMA illuminates the stage of The Hanover Theatre in Worcester on Friday, May 2. Tickets start at $12.

On Mother’s Day, May 11, all mothers receive a gift (while supplies last) and free admission to Old Sturbridge Village.

Photo courtesy Alastair Moock

Photo courtesy The Hanover Theatre

Photo courtesy Old Sturbridge Village

Through June 2014, the MIT Museum in Cambridge offers free admission on the last Sunday of each month.

Award-winning children’s musician Alastair Moock presents a free family concert, American Roots Music, at the John F. Kennedy Library & Museum on Monday, May 26.

BAYSTATEPARENT 15

OUT&ABOUT MELTDOWN WARNING: Before you pack up the mini-van, please confirm your destination. Although we’ve done our best to assure accuracy at press time, things can and do change…

2 Friday

Photo courtesy Puppet Showplace Theatre

Disney Live Pirate Adventure Tour. Agganis Arena, 925 Commonwealth Ave., Boston. May 2 through 5, various times. Live show features characters from Disney Junior’s hit series, Sofia the First and Jake and the Neverland Pirates.

Tickets start at $20.

From May 1 through 4, The Puppet Showplace Theatre in Brookline presents The Yankee Peddler, featuring some lesser known folklore.

1 Thursday Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Wang Theatre, 270 Tremont St., Boston. Thursday, May 1, 7:30 p.m.; Friday, May 2, 8 p..m.; Saturday, May 3, 2 and 8 p.m.; Sunday, May 4, 3 p.m. The Company will present two different programs throughout the five performances.

Tickets $35 and up. celebrityseries.org.

Dear Boston: Messages from the Marathon Memorial. Boston Public Library, McKim Exhibition Hall, 700 Boylston St., Boston. Through May 11. To mark the one-year anniversary of the Boston Marathon bombing, a selection of items from the makeshift memorial that once filled the intersection of Boylston and Berkeley streets will be on display. bpl.org.

Body Worlds Vital. Quincy Market, Second Floor, Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston.

Runs through September 1. Sundays 12 to 6 p.m., Mondays through Thursdays 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The exhibit celebrates the potential of the human body. Featuring authentic human bodies, the exhibition shows the body through cautionary displays about distress and disease, and inspirational insights about virtuosity and resilience. bodyworldsboston.com.

Puppet Show: The Yankee Peddler. Puppet Showplace Theatre, 32 Station St., Brookline.

16 MAY2014 17

Thursday and Friday, May 1 and 2, 10:30 a.m.; Saturday and Sunday, May 3 and 4, 1 and 3 p.m.

Puppet show features some of New England’s lesser known folklore. Presented by Brad Sur and Chris Monti. Recommended for ages 3 and up.

Tickets $12. puppetshowplace.org.

Arts First Festival. Harvard Yard, Cambridge. May 1 through May 4. Public invited for four days of non-stop art, including over 225 music, theater, dance, film and visual arts events. Most events are free and open to the public. ofa.fas.harvard.edu.

Early Explorers. Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Hill St., Mattapan. 10:30 a.m. to noon.

Movement, games, stories, art. Suitable for ages 3 to 6. Adults free, children $7. Registration encouraged at 617-983-8500, drop-ins welcome. massaudubon.org.

Eric Carle’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar 45th Anniversary Celebration. Barnes & Noble Booksellers, Staples Plaza, 444A Broadway, Saugus. 10:30 a.m. Children’s event. 781-231-4711. barnesandnoble.com.

Drop-In Parent/Child Playgroup. Worcester Family Partnership, 130 Leeds St., Worcester.

12:30 to 2 p.m. Playgroups offer children a safe, leader led time where they can explore their world and develop new friendships. Free.

508-799-3136.

Storytime. Barnes & Noble Booksellers, 98 Middlesex Parkway, Burlington. 6:30 p.m.

781-273-3871. bn.com.

Historical Hysterical Tour of Harvard.

Harvard Square, Cambridge. 11 a.m. Tour the Harvard campus with costumed guides and hear stories about the Titanic, rebellious pig roasts, and the mystery of why John Harvard’s foot is yellow. cambridgehistoricaltours.org.

May Flower, May Not. Caratunk Wildlife Refuge, 301 Brown Ave., Seekonk. 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Easy hike in the fields and forests.

Suitable for ages 4 and up. $12. asri.org.

LUMA: Art in Darkness. The Hanover Theatre, 2 Southbridge St., Worcester. 7 p.m. LUMA plunges the audience into a darkened space where a tapestry of illuminated illusions fills the stage. $12 to $32. thehanovertheatre.org.

Family Feature Film. Worcester Public Library, 3 Salem Square, Worcester. 3:30 to 5 p.m.

Ages 12 and under, 5 and under with caregiver.

Free. worcpublib.org.

3 Saturday Sid the Science Kid Live. Wilbur Theatre, 246 Tremont St., Boston. 11:30 a.m. Sid is joined by his cohorts as they discover the excitement and curiosities of the world. Tickets $30 to $115. thewilburtheatre.com.

Spring Primrose Show. Tower Hill Botanic Garden, 11 French Dr., Boylston. Saturday, May 3 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, May 4 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The American Primrose Society presents a premium selection of primroses. Admission is $12 for adults, $9 for seniors, $7 for children ages 6 to 18.

3rd Annual Craft and Music Festival. Fuller Craft Museum, 455 Oak St., Brockton. 10 a.m.

Family day of craft and music. Free. artsboston.org.

5K Flying Powder Fun Run. Kimball Farm, 791 E Broadway, Haverhill. 9 a.m. Family friendly event is an untimed running race in which participants start in all white clothing and then run through colored flying powder. flyingpowderfunrun.com.

3rd Annual South Shore International Festival. Hingham Shipyard, Hingham.

11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Presented by Su Escuela Language Academy, this is a family-friendly gathering of local restaurants, multicultural performances, music, artists, vendors and crafters. Free and open to the public.

The Lexington Fife & Drum Muster.

Visitor’s Center of the Minute Man National Historic Park, 250 North Great Rd., Lincoln.

Noon to 5 p.m. Outdoor presentation by 25 uniformed fife and drum corps, parade, musical performances. Free.

Sheep Day/Earth Day. Soule Homestead, 46 Soule St., Middleborough. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sheep shearing demonstration, sheepdogs at work, honey bee observation hike, craft demonstrations, wool-related activities. soulehomestead.org. Admission $5 for adults, $2 for children under 12, free for children under 3. soulehomestead.org.

The Alphabet Rockers. TCAN Center for Arts, 14 Summer St., Natick. 11 a.m. Geared for kids ages 2 to 7, The Alphabet Rockers’ energetic music and performances feature original hip hop music, beatboxing, and easy to learn dance moves. Adults $12, children $10. natickarts.org.

Parent Talk Semi-Annual Used Clothing, Toy & Equipment Sale. Christ Episcopal Church, 1132 Highland Ave., Needham. 8:30 to 11:45 a.m. Proceeds benefit Parent Talk, a nonprofit support organization for parents.

Families with Young Children Pizza Dinner. Temple Shalom, 175 Temple St., Newton. 5:45 to 7:30 p.m. Meet other families and connect over a no muss, no fuss Shabbat pizza dinner. No registration needed. templeshalom.org.

Spring Farm Festival. Natural Resources Trust of Easton, 261R Main St., North Easton.

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This family event features farm animals, games, food, prizes, crafts and music. Free. nrtofeaston.org.

Pileated Woodpecker Program. Boynton Park, Worcester. 8 to 10 a.m. Natural history guide and birding instructor Sheryl Farnam leads search of the largest woodpecker in Massachusetts. Suitable for children ages 8 to 16. Adults $8, children $6. Registration required at 508-753-6087. massaudubon.org.

4 Sunday Japan Festival. Kaji Aso Studio, 40 Saint Stephen St., Boston. 1 to 6 p.m. Learn

OUT&ABOUT

Project Bread Walk for Hunger. Boston Common. Rolling start between 7 and 9 a.m.

Twenty mile walk to raise money to alleviate hunger. projectbread.org.

Mayfair. Harvard Square, Cambridge. Noon to 6 p.m. Rain date May 18. Featuring six stages of live entertainment, dozens of restaurant vendors, hundreds of street vendors. harvardsquare.com.

Luce Elementary School Fun Run and 5K. Luce Elementary School, 45 Independence St., Canton. 10 a.m. Event includes a ½ Mile Run for ages 4 to 8, a 1 Mile Run for ages 9 to 12, 5K Run/Walk for all ages, food, drinks, raffles, DJ, entertainment. $28. racemenu.com/luce5k.

Bay Youth Symphony Spring Concert.

Duxbury Performing Arts Center, 73 Alden St., Duxbury. 3 p.m. South Shore Conservatory’s Bay Youth Symphony performs. Students K-12 free, adults $10. sscmusic.org.

Lynnfield Community Connections Carnival. Lynnfield Middle School, 505 Main St., Lynnfield. Noon to 4 p.m. Held on the Lynnfield Middle School grounds, the event features children’s games, face paining, music, food, raffles and more. Free admission.

Welcome Baby Brunch. Temple Shalom, 475 Winthrop St., Medford. 10:30 a.m. to noon. New parents with babies under a year old are welcome to meet other families with little ones, enjoy a bagel brunch, listen to expert developmental specialist. Register at 617-841-8009. bostonjcc.org.

Run4Scituate. Gates Middle School 327 First Parish Rd., Scituate. 9 a.m. Fun Run, $10. 5K for kids 13 and under, $15. 5K/10K, $30. run4scituate.com.

Race of Rams Duathlon. Balmer School, 21 Crescent St., Whitinsville. 8:30 a.m.

Includes 5K and kids’ run. Entry free $50 to $80. mramultisport.com/raceoframs.

Kick In for Kid 5K Road Race & Health Walk. Woburn Public Library, 45 Pleasant St., Woburn. 11 a.m. a 5K course through the streets of Woburn. $25. roadracerunner.com.

5 Monday The Commit, Learn, Invest, Motivate, Build Project. Boston Public Library, 690 Washington St., Boston. 5:30 p.m. For ages 14 to 19, this program covers unique situations teens are often exposed to and provides guidance through positive and constructive interactions.

WeAreForeverFree.org.

Hair. Lowell Memorial Auditorium, 50 East Merrimack St., Lowell. 7:30 p.m. This musical is a celebration of youth and a journey through a wild and wooly 1960s America. Tickets $28 to $54. lowellauditorium.com.

Storytime. Barnes & Noble Booksellers, 210 Andover St., Peabody. 10 a.m.

978-5773-3261. barnesandnoble.com.

6 Tuesday

Photo courtesy Friends of the Boston Public Garden

about Japanese culture through featured demonstrations of calligraphy, tea ceremony and more. kajiasostudio.ocom.

Natyanjali, Swaranjali: the Language of Indian Music. Berklee College of Music, 136 Massachusetts Ave., Boston. 8:15 p.m.

Presentation includes classical Indian dance and music accompanied by Berklee’s Indian Music Ensemble. Tickets $12.

Storytime. Barnes & Noble, 98 Middlesex Parkway, Burlington. 10:30 a.m.

781-273-3871. barnesandnoble.com.

7 Wednesday Puppet Playtime. Puppet Showplace Theatre, 32 Station St., Brookline. 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Puppetry series for children 3 and under (and their grownups) features free play, singalongs, stories, and imagination games. Adults $15, children $10. puppetshowplace.org.

8 Thursday Puppet Show: Beauty and the Beast.

Puppet Showplace Theatre, 32 Station St., Brookline. Thursday and Friday, May 8 and 9, 10:30 a.m.; Saturday and Sunday, May 10 and 11, 1 and 3 p.m. National Marionette Theatre’s retelling of this classic tale features meticulously crafted marionettes, beautifully painted scenery, and classical music score. Recommended for ages 3 and up. Tickets $12. puppetshowplace.org.

The Boston Common fills with feathered fun for the annual Mother’s Day Duckling Day celebration on Sunday, May 11.

Drop-In Parent/Child Playgroup. Worcester Family Partnership, 130 Leeds St., Worcester.

12:30 to 2 p.m. Playgroups offer children a safe,

leader led time where they can explore their world and develop new friendships. Free. 508-799-3136.

ACADIA PLAY SET Sale Price

1,799*

$

Plymouth Farmer’s Market. Plimoth Plantation Visitors Center, 137 Warren Ave., Plymouth. 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. Food, crafts, music. seeplymouth.com.

Regular Price $ 2,660 Delivery and Installation Included *Ends 5-30-14

Beautiful Butterflies Homeschool Program.

Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 414 Massasoit Rd., Worcester. 1 to 3 p.m.

Natural history guide Kristin Steinmetz leads this program. Suitable for children ages 8 to 16.

Parents are welcome to attend, or students may stay on their own if a medical form is on file with the sanctuary. Children $12. Registration required at 508-753-6087. massaudubon.org.

Nature Adventures for 5 to 7 Year Olds.

Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, Worcester. 1 to 3 p.m. Natural history guide Jody Barnard leads hands-on nature program which includes investigations, crafts and outdoor activities. Children $12. Registration required at 508-753-6087. massaudubon.org.

Northboro 6 Belmont St. (Rt 9)

508-329-5151 508-754-9399

Next to Lexus of Northborough

www.BAMASS.com BAYSTATEPARENT 16 17

OUT&ABOUT

9 Friday Preschool Story Hour Featuring Turtles.

Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary, 113 Goodnow Rd., Princeton. 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Program includes book, craft and walk. Suitable for children 2.5 to 5 years. Adults free, children $3. Register at 978-464-2712.

A

HiSToRy

Lesson Your Kids Will Never Forget

Registration is now open for Discovery Adventures June 23–August 15 Costumed programs for children ages 6–17 to experience history at New England’s largest living history museum.

Scan this code with your mobile device to watch a Discovery Adventures video.

508-347-0285 Visit www.osv.org/adventures Old Sturbridge Village, Sturbridge, MA 18 MAY2014 19

Experiments with Water Homeschool Program. Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary, 113 Goodnow Rd., Princeton. 1 to 3 p.m. Discover the fascinating properties of water through experiments. Suitable for children ages 5 to 12. Free. Register at 978-464-2712. massaudubon.org.

10 Saturday Create Your Own Superhero. Company One Theatre, 551 Tremont St., Boston. 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. For ages 2 to 4. Free. Register at bcaonline.org.

Family Design Day. BSA Space, 290 Congress St., Boston. 10:30 a.m. Designed for children 5 to 13 years old accompanied by an adult, the program includes walking tour and model building. Tickets are $8 per person. bsaspace.org.

Oz with Orchestra. Boston Symphony Hall, 301 Massachusetts Ave., Boston. Saturday, May 10, 3 and 8 p.m.; Sunday, May 11, 3 p.m.

Celebrating the 1939 classic film The Wizard of Oz, the Boston Pops presents a screening of the complete movie with the original vocals and dialogue intact, and the score performed live by the orchestra under the direction of Keith Lockhart (featured on page 10). The two 3 p.m. family matinee concerts include a 50 percent ticket discount for children aged 12 and under. bso.org.

Oliver! Dover Sherborn High School, 9 Junction St., Dover. Thursday, May 8 at 7:30 p.m.; Friday, May 9 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, May 10 at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Cast includes over 70 children and adults. Admission $15 and $20. ticketstage.com.

Yellow Balloon Fair. Community Nursery School, 2325 Massachusetts Ave., Lexington.

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The 42nd Annual Yellow Balloon Fair features preschool games with prizes, activities, crafts, petting zoo, drumming circle, bouncy house, face painting. cnslex.org.

Johnny Peers & The Muttville Comix. TCAN Center for Arts, 14 Summer St., Natick. 11 a.m.

A Ringling Brothers Clown College graduate, Johnny leads over a dozen dogs through tricks as he plays the straight man role in a slapstick comedy. Adults $14, children $12. natickarts.org.

Bowling for Rhinos. AMF Cranston Lanes, 1450 Elmwood Ave., Providence. 6:30 to

9 p.m. Join zookeepers from Roger Williams Park Zoo for the second annual Bowling for Rhinos event to raise funds for rhino and habitat conservation efforts. Adults $20, children 10 and under $10, children 2 and under get in free. rwpzoo.org.

11 Sunday Free Admission for Moms. Franklin Park. One Franklin Park Rd., Boston. zoonewengland.org.

Duckling Day. Parkman Bandstand, Boston Common, Boston. 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Annual Mother’s Day event honoring the classic children’s book Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey features children dressed as characters, face paining, a puppet show, entertainment. See page 25 to read more about this family event. Family fee is $35 in advance, $40 at the event. friendsofhtepublicgarden.org.

Lilac Sunday. Arnold Arboretum, 125 Arborway, Boston. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The day includes tours of the lilacs, family activities, food vendors, and picnicking. arboretum.harvard.edu.

18th Annual Mother’s Day Walk for Peace. Town Field Park, 1565 Dorchester Ave., Dorchester. Registration begins at 7 a.m. Walk begins at 8:30 a.m. This annual pledge for peace began in 1996 for families who lost children to violence. No registration fee.

Half Price Admission for Moms. Southwick’s Zoo, 2 Southwick St., Mendon. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Zoo includes 200 acres of property and 115 species of animals. southwickszoo.com.

Free Admission for Moms. Roger Williams Park Zoo, 1000 Elmwood Ave., Providence.

Moms receive free admission when attending with a paying child. rwpzoo.org.

Free Admission for Moms. Stone Zoo, 149 Pond St., Stoneham. zoonewengland.org.

Free Admission for Mothers. Old Sturbridge Village, One Old Sturbridge Village Rd., Sturbridge. 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. All mothers receive free admission to Old Sturbridge Village and will also receive a gift (while supplies last). osv.org.

12 Monday Films for Preschool Children. Boston Public Library, Roslindale Branch, 4246 Washington St., Roslindale. 10:30 a.m. Preschool films are for children ages 3 to 5 accompanied by an adult.

Free. bpl.org.

13 Tuesday Lunch & Learn Lecture Series: Dr. Howard Gardner. Boston Children’s Museum,

OUT&ABOUT 300 Congress St., Boston. 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Presentation on the power of apps to shape young people and the way digital technology affects identity, intimacy and imagination. $25. bostonchildrensmuseum.org.

May 17 at 8:30 p.m.; Sunday, May 18 at 3 p.m.

Presented by the Celebrity Series of Boston, this is a contemporary public dance event featuring more than 100 people of all ages, backgrounds and experiences. Free. celebrityseries.org/lgc/.

Greater Boston Jewish Coalition for Literacy (GBJCL) Meet Up: Many Paths to Reading. Boston Public Library, Central Branch, Boston. 6 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Panel discussion “Different Paths to Reading” explores the fundamental importance of childhood literacy and addresses the joys, discoveries, questions, and challenges facing today’s generation of young readers. Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. No advance reservations are available. Free. bpl.org.

Ian Hamilton Finlay: Arcadian Revolutionary and Avant-Gardener Exhibit Opening. DeCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, 51 Sandy Pond Rd., Lincoln.

May 16 through October 13. An exhibition of the work of the internationally renowned Scottish artist, poet and garden designer. Admission is $14 for adults, $12 for seniors, $10 for students (ages 13 and up), and free for children 12 and under. decordova.org.

14 Wednesday Puppet Playtime. Puppet Showplace Theatre, 32 Station St., Brookline. 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Puppetry series for children 3 and under (and their grownups) features free play, singalongs, stories, and imagination games. Adults $15, children $10. puppetshowplace.org.

15 Thursday Puppet Show: Father Goose’s Tales. Puppet Showplace Theatre, 32 Station St., Brookline.

Thursday and Friday, May 15 and 16, 10:30 a.m.; Saturday and Sunday, May 17 and 18, 1 and 3 p.m. Favorite tales featured in interactive show presented by Kathleen Davis and Sparky’s Puppets. Recommended for ages 3 and up. Tickets $12. puppetshowplace.org.

Drop-In Parent/Child Playgroup. Worcester Family Partnership, 130 Leeds St., Worcester.

12:30 to 2 p.m. Playgroups offer children a safe, leader led time where they can explore their world and develop new friendships. Free.

508-799-3136.

16 Friday Family Game Night in the Studio. Artbeat The Creativity Store, 212A Massachusetts Ave., Arlington. 5 to 7 p.m. Five different games for all ages. Free. artbeatonline.com.

Lesley Dill Exhibit Opening. DeCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, 51 Sandy Pond Rd., Lincoln. May 16 through October 13. Exhibit features oil pastel drawings, a large-scale metal wall drawing, and bronze and paper sculptures.

Admission is $14 for adults, $12 for seniors, $10 for students (ages 13 and up), and free for children 12 and under. decordova.org.

Family Feature Film. Worcester Public Library, 3 Salem Square, Worcester. 3:30 to 5 p.m.

Ages 12 and under, 5 and under with caregiver.

Free. worcpublib.org.

17 Saturday 3rd Annual Ashby Spring Festival. Ashby Town Common, Main St., Ashby. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Rain date is Sunday, May 18. Crafters, vendors, lunch, entertainment, prizes, bake sale, kids’ activities. Free. www.ci.ashby.ma.us/community/events.html Franklin Park Bike & Kite Festival. Franklin Park, 450 Walnut Ave., Boston. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Take your own bike or get a free rental, take your own kite or buy one there, take your own picnic or purchase from local food trucks.

Free admission. 617-442-4141.

Puppet Showplace Slam. Puppet Showplace Theatre, 32 Station St., Brookline. 8 p.m.

Grown-up shot form puppetry entertainment.

Recommended for ages 13 and up. Adults $15, students $13. puppetshowplace.org.

Cirque de la Symphonie. Symphony Hall, 301 Massachusetts Ave., Boston. Friday and Saturday, May 16 and 17, 8 p.m. Kids matinee performance is May 17 at 3 p.m. The Boston Pops will share the stage with aerial flyers, acrobats, contortionists, dancers, jugglers, balancers, and strongmen during the very first Boston performances of the critically acclaimed Cirque de la Symphonie. Admission is $22 to $124. 888-266-1200.

Art in the Garden with the Cape Cod Art Association. Aselton Park, South and Ocean streets, Hyannis. Saturday and Sunday, May 17 and 18, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Food, vendors, music, children’s entertainment. 508-362-2909.

Le Grand Continental. Copley Square Park, Boston. Friday, May 16 at 8:30 p.m.; Saturday,

Instrument Petting Zoo. Old Firehouse Trust Dock, 37 Main St., Rockport. 10 a.m. Musicians

Indies First Storytime Day. Bestsellers Café, 24 High St., Medford. 10 to 11:30 a.m. Stories and crafts for children, featuring children’s illustrator Shennen Bersani. bestsellers-café.com.

Upcoming

EveNtS

at Old Sturbridge Village May 5: Overseers’ Distinguished Speaker Series: Nathaniel Philbrick – Award-winning and bestselling author Nathaniel Philbrick will make a special appearance at OSV to discuss his latest book, Bunker Hill: A City, A Siege, A Revolution.

May 11: Mother’s Day – All mothers receive free admission to Old Sturbridge Village and receive a gift (while supplies last) in celebration of Mother’s Day. May 11: Mother’s Day Brunch – Offered from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. at the Oliver Wight Tavern May 24-26: Wool Days – The sheep get their yearly oldfashioned shearing plus costumed historians will demonstrate the entire wool textile process.

May 31: A Pound of Cure: Health Care in the 19th Century – This new event celebrates the medical practices of the early 19th century. Throughout the day, visitors will meet costumed historians depicting medical experts of the period, including a traveling dentist and a phrenologist.

Sunday Brunch: Every Sunday at the Oliver Wight Tavern from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Visit www.osv.org (800) SEE-1830 Old Sturbridge Village, Sturbridge, MA BAYSTATEPARENT 18 19

OUT&ABOUT a stamp collection, or create toys from turn of the 20th century. Suitable for children ages 6 and up. vilnashul.org.

Photo courtesy Celebrity Series Boston

Birthday Wishes Cake Walk. Millennium Park, Gardner St., West Roxbury. 7:45 to 11 a.m. Walk and festival raises money for Birthday Wishes, an organization that provides birthday parties to homeless children. Event includes 5K and ½ mil walk, kite flying, face painting, games, entertainment, food. Free admission. 866-388-9474.

Presented by the Celebrity Series of Boston, Le Grand Continental® is a contemporary public dance event that will take place in Copley Square Park May 16 through 18.

will introduce children to musical instruments, including a Celtic harp. Free. 978-546-7391.

Rhododendron Exhibit. Heritage Museums & Gardens, 67 Grove St., Sandwich. Saturday, May 17 to Sunday, May 25; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Thousands of acclaimed rhododendrons in over 100 varieties in a profusion of colors will envelop the grounds for a week-long festival. Adults $18, children ages 3-12 $8, children 2 and under are free. heritagemuseumsandgardens.org.

Sudbury Family Network Kids’ Stuff Tag Sale. Curtis Middle School, 22 Pratts Mill Rd., Sudbury. 9 a.m. to noon. Kids items for ages birth to 10. sudburyfamilynetwork.org.

18 Sunday Josh & the Jamtones Concert. CMT Nursery

School, 300 Hammond Pond Parkway, Chestnut Hill. 10 a.m. to noon. Music, face painting, kids’ activities. 617-332-7770.

Millennium 5K 4 Jake’s Sake & Padawan Fun Run. Elks Pavilion, 99 Park St., Hudson.

8 a.m. Star Wars costumes are encouraged.

Support the Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy and Marrazzo family. 4jakessake.com.

Metrowest Mitzvah Day. Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, 280 Eliot St., Natick. 10 to 11:30 a.m. Families with children ages 3 to 6 will learn the Jewish value of helping the environment. bostonjcc.org.

History is Community Children’s Day Celebration. Vilna Shul, Boston’s Center for Jewish Culture, 18 Phillips St., Boston. Noon.

Take kid-friendly tour of the neighborhood, make

Summer 2014

Dream • Believe • Achieve

19 Monday Films for Preschool Children. Boston Public Library, Roslindale Branch, 4246 Washington St., Roslindale. 10:30 a.m. Preschool films are for children ages 3 to 5 accompanied by an adult.

Free. bpl.org.

21 Wednesday Third Week Wonders: The Tiny Seed. Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 414 Massasoit Rd., Worcester. 10 to 11 a.m. Story, activity, walk. Suitable for children ages 3 to 5. Adults free, children $4. Registration required at 508-753-6087. massaudubon.org.

Explore the New Wilson Meadow. Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 414 Massasoit Rd., Worcester. 1 to 4 p.m. Learn about the plants and wildflowers of a rare habitat. Suitable for children 8 to 18. Adults $12, children $8. Registration required at 508-753-6087. massaudubon.org.

Burncoat Dance presents A Dance Interpretation of CATS. The Hanover Theatre, 2 Southbridge St., Worcester. 7 p.m. The Burncoat Dance Department will perform. Tickets $12 to $26. thehanovertheatre.org.

22 Thursday Puppet Show: Tales of Sea and Shore.

Puppet Showplace Theatre, 32 Station St., Brookline. Thursday and Friday, May 22 and 23,

R EGIST ER NOW F AL L “2011”

◆ Believe ◆ Achieve Dream Learning Gymnastics Center

10:30 a.m.; Saturday and Sunday, May 24 and 25, 1 and 3 p.m. The featured tale is Why the Sea is Salty, a story about an elf who gives a poor man a magic mill that can make anything in the world for those who know the secret password.

Recommended for ages 3 and up. Tickets $12. puppetshowplace.org.

Third Week Wonders: The Tiny Seed. Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 414 Massasoit Rd., Worcester. 10 to 11 a.m. Story, activity, walk. Suitable for children ages 3 to 5. Adults free, children $4. Registration required at 508-753-6087. massaudubon.org.

Drop-In Parent/Child Playgroup. Worcester Family Partnership, 130 Leeds St., Worcester.

12:30 to 2 p.m. Playgroups offer children a safe, leader led time where they can explore their world and develop new friendships. Free.

508-799-3136.

23 Friday Rock Off Main Street. TCAN Center for Arts, 14 Summer St., Natick. 7:30 p.m. TCAN’s successful Rock Off Main rock music program is an all-ages show that provides a venue for bands in this region to take their eclectic mix of music out of their basements and put it on stage. Tickets are $8. natickarts.org.

24 Saturday Third Week Wonders: The Tiny Seed. Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 414 Massasoit Rd., Worcester. 10 to 11 a.m. Story, activity, walk. Suitable for children ages 3 to 5. Adults free, children $4. Registration required at 508-753-6087. massaudubon.org.

25 Sunday Greenway Open Market. Rose F. Kennedy Greenway Conservancy, Atlantic Avenue and Surface Artery South, Boston. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Open Saturdays through October 2014.

Arts market features area artists, crafters and designers. greenwayopenmarket.com.

REGISTER NOW ♥ SUMMER & FALL 2014 R EGIST ER NOW F AL L

The OnlyDream Nationally • Believe • AchieveAccredited Building Preschool a Foundation Gymnastics Learning Center in Shrewsbury!

Help be Healthy “Building the Pride Inside Since 1983” of Knowledge Within Help YourYour ChildChild be Healthy and Fit! and Fit! Building a Foundation “2011”

“Building the Pride Inside Since 1983”

• American Red Cross Swim lessons in our heated pools • American Red Cross Swim lessons in • “Gym & Swim” and Full day camps ourHalf heated pools • "Funtastic"•Themed CampHalf weeks “Gym & Swim” and full day camps • Funtastic ThemedLessons Camp weeks • Girls and Boys Gymnastics “Walkers and Up!” • Girls and Boys Gymnastic Lessons ns

“Walkers Walkers and an Up!” 508-792-1551

of Knowledge Help•Your Child beClasses Healthy and Fit! • Preschool Classes • EEC Licensed Within Teachers Preschool • Preschool Classes • Care American Red Cross Swim lessons in • Full-Day Year Round • Music Program • Full-Day Year Round Care our heated pools • Full-Day Year Round Care Kindergarten Half and Full&Day • “Gym Swim”Programs Half and full day camps • Kindergarten Half and Full Day Programs Now•Taking Gymnastics Lesson • Half And Full Dayweeks Kindergarten • Weekly • Funtastic Themed Camp • EEC Licensed Teachers • EEC Licensed Teachers • Girls and Boys Gymnastic Lessons ns Summer Programs • Music Program • Music Program “Walkers Walkers and an Up!” • Weekly Gymnastic Lesson REGISTER Registrations • Weekly Gymnastic Lesson TODAY 508-792-1551 508-792-3535

508-792-3535 REGISTER TODAY FREE 508-792-3535 574 Lake Street, Shrewsbury 574 Lake Street, Shrewsbury • www.gymnasticslearningcenter.com Trial Class Fall Programs New students only www.gymnasticslearningcenter.com FREE 574 Lake Street, Shrewsbury FREE Trial Class 508-792-1551

Fall Programs New students only

20 MAY2014 21

Trial Class Fall Programs New students only

www.gymnasticslearningcenter.com

OUT&ABOUT Free Admission at the MIT Museum. MIT Museum, 265 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge.

Admission is free on the last Sunday of each month through June 2014. mitmuseum.org.

12:30 to 2 p.m. Playgroups offer children a safe, leader led time where they can explore their world and develop new friendships. Free.

508-799-3136.

Newburyport Spring Festival. Downtown Newburyport. Sunday and Monday, May 25 and 26, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Live music, art, fine crafts, and food from Newburyport’s best restaurants. newburyportchamber.org.

30 Friday

26 Monday Alastair Moock, American Roots Music. John F. Kennedy Library & Museum, Columbia Point, Boston. 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Performance includes blend of classic American folk songs and whimsical sing-along tunes for children. Suitable for family audiences and children ages 5 and up. Free. Reservations required at 617-514-1600.

29 Thursday Cirque du Soleil Presents Amaluna. Big Top, Marine Industrial Park, Boston. May 29 through June 29. Amaluna features a cast made up of 70 percent women and a 100 percent female band.

1-800-450-1480. cirquedusoleil.com/amaluna.

Puppet Show: The Frog Prince and Other Frogs. Puppet Showplace Theatre, 32 Station St., Brookline. Thursday and Friday, May 29 and 30, 10:30 a.m.; Saturday, May 31, 1 and 3 p.m.

Presented by Perry Alley Theatre. Recommended for ages 3 and up. Tickets $12. puppetshowplace.org.

College Admission and Financial Aid Planning Workshop. Canton Public Library, 786 Washington St., Canton. 7 to 8 p.m. Local parents and high school students are invited to attend a workshop designed to ease the stress of the admissions and financial aid process. Free. town.canton.ma.us/library.

Drop-In Parent/Child Playgroup. Worcester Family Partnership, 130 Leeds St., Worcester.

Family Feature Film. Worcester Public Library, 3 Salem Square, Worcester. 3:30 to 5 p.m.

Ages 12 and under, 5 and under with caregiver.

Free. worcpublib.org.

31 Saturday Devin Ness Memorial 5K Wrestling Run/ Walk. Oliver Ames High School, 101 Lothrup St., North Easton. 9 to 11:30 a.m. Open to all ages, this event raises money for the Devin Ness Wrestling Scholarship Fund and the Oliver Ames Wrestling Program.

Big Bugs Exhibit Opening. Heritage Museums & Gardens, 67 Grove St., Sandwich. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. In celebration of its 45th anniversary this year, the Heritage Museums & Gardens presents sculptor David Rogers’ Big Bugs exhibit which includes 25-foot-long ants and dragonflies with 17-foot wingspans. Adults $18, children ages 3-12 $8, children 2 and under are free. heritagemuseumsandgardens.org.

Southbridge Fest 2014. Downtown Southbridge, Main St. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Celtic Woman: The Emerald Tour. The Hanover Theatre, 2 Southbridge St., Worcester.

7:30 p.m. Celebrate Ireland and its spellbinding Celtic heritage through a presentation of traditional Irish anthems and pop standards.

Tickets are $45 to $75. thehanovertheatre.org.

For a more expansive list of family activities taking place in Massachusetts, and to post your group’s family events, visit baystateparent.com.

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do keep in mind that some vendors charge for last minute cancellations.

Those concerned with losing money due to a sudden placement should carefully review all applicable policies.

FINALLYFOREVER

Waiting for Your Adoption Placement: 6 Ways to Pass Time

BY MICHELLE SHIRK

MAY’SCHILD

“Hurry up and wait” could easily be the official slogan of the adoption process. Those wishing to adopt often experience an initial flurry of activity including agency research, homestudy interviews, educational sessions, background checks and more. After the preliminary “to dos” are completed, though, prospective adoptive families often find themselves with little to do except wait weeks, months, or even years for a placement depending on the type of adoption selected and various other factors. Estimated timeframes may be provided, but the world of adoption offers few guarantees.

My husband and I are now happily on the other side of the wait, having finalized the adoption of our amazing daughter. For those of you still in the trenches, I wish you luck and offer the following tips for keeping your sanity during the often difficult and tedious process of waiting.

22 MAY2014 23

1. Assume the glass is half-empty. I spent the beginning of our domestic adoption process constantly checking my cell phone and email inbox for news. A failed match followed by several months with no real action cooled my heels a bit. By our second year on the wait list, becoming adoptive parents began to feel like a pipe dream. Ironically, my pessimism actually made the process easier because I stopped expecting each and every day to be “the day.”

Don’t lose hope in the adoption process, but do go into it expecting things to take a while. If you end up experiencing a quick placement, you can enjoy being pleasantly surprised!

certainly still eat out and see movies once you have kids, it’s reasonable to expect that you’ll be doing a bit less of both for a while after you welcome a new child into the family.

2. Eat out and watch new releases.

If you are waiting to be a parent for the first time, relish your freedom to enjoy an impromptu 8:00 p.m. dinner followed by a 9:50 p.m. showing of the latest film based on a Marvel Comics superhero. While you can

4. Book an exciting vacation. If finances allow, start planning an action-packed trip to a place on your travel wish list that might be challenging to visit with a young child. After your vacation comes and goes, repeat the process! As you plan,

3. Take on an athletic challenge.

Interested in taking up indoor rock climbing or participating in your first triathlon? Now’s the time to do it! I finished two half-marathons and started training for a third during our wait. Preparing for and traveling to these races provided with me with stress-relief, time with supportive friends and family members, and something fun to focus on besides adoption.

5. Volunteer. The options for helping others are practically limitless.

If you love kids, consider signing up to mentor a grade-schooler or serve in your church nursery. If you (understandably) feel that snuggling babies while trying to grow your own family might be a challenge, turn your energy toward saving endangered species, cancer research or any other cause that inspires your passion. It’s unlikely you’ll regret time spent helping others, even if increased family commitments force you to cut back on your volunteer time once your new addition arrives.

6. Prepare for your new arrival – at least a little bit! In an effort to be protected financially and emotionally, many potential adoptive parents purchase very few baby items during their wait. I began to question this laid back approach as my husband and I were running through Babies ‘R Us at around 9:15 p.m., frantically tossing baby washcloths in our cart and asking each other, “What’s a sleep sack?”

There is, of course, a middle ground between embroidering personalized pillowcases and refusing to buy so much as a diaper ahead of time. At minimum, consider picking up a few gender-neutral basics and storing them in a plastic tub. You can always donate any items you don’t use to friends or a local women’s shelter.

To Sum It All Up . . .

Most of these tips can be boiled down to one basic concept: Don’t stop living your life! Once you have completed the tasks necessary to start your adoption process, kick back, relax, and try to make the most of your wait — hopefully with some late midnight movie premiers, mud runs and/or cross-country road trips.

ISABELLA With brown eyes and chinlength brown hair, 10-yearold Isabella is a beautiful girl of Caucasian and Hispanic descent. She is a bubbly girl with a bright smile who loves animals and would like to try gymnastics one day.

Isabella is currently placed in a regular education classroom but has an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) for

pullouts in reading as well as math. She struggles with anxiety and expresses that anxiety by picking at her skin.

This anxiety can also cause her to be distracted and unfocused.

Isabella is legally free for adoption. There is an open adoption agreement in place with her birth parents for two visits per year.

For more information about

Isabella, please contact Department of Children and Families (DCF) Adoption Development & Licensing Unit Supervisor Patricia Savelli at 508-929-2143.

The Worcester DCF Office hosts monthly informational meetings for those wishing to learn more about the adoption process in general. Call 508-9292143 for specific information about the next meeting.

CIRCLEOFFRIENDS Adoptive Families Together (AFT) Parent Group. Boston MSPCC Office, 99 Summer St., 6th Floor, Boston. Wednesday, May 2, noon to 1 p.m. AFT groups include parents who have adopted children of all ages and races, domestically and internationally, children of kin, and children with special needs. Free. Drop-ins welcome. For information, call 617-587-1522 or lbaeumler@mspcc.org.

Adoptive Families Together (AFT) Parent Group. First Church, 40 Monument Ave., Swampscott. Thursday, May 3, 7 to 8:30 p.m.

AFT groups include parents who have adopted children of all ages and races, domestically and internationally, children of kin, and children with special needs. Free. Drop-ins welcome.

For information, call 617-587-1522 or lbaeumler@mspcc.org.

Adoptive Families Together (AFT) Parent Group. MSPCC Office, 157 Green St, Jamaica Plain. Friday, May 4, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. AFT groups include parents who have adopted children of all ages and races, domestically and internationally, children of kin, and children with special needs. Free. Drop-ins welcome.

For information, call 617-587-1522 or lbaeumler@mspcc.org.

Pre-Adoptive Support Group. Jordan’s Furniture, 50 Walkers Brook Dr., Reading.

Thursday, May 8, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. This group is for approved adoptive families who are either waiting to be identified as a permanent resource for a child in the care of the DCF or for families that have been identified as a resource for a child and are in the process of transitioning the child into their home. For information, call 978-337-6500.

Adoptive Families Together (AFT) Parent Group. Thayer Public Library, 798 Washington St., Braintree. Wednesday, May 9, 7 to 8:45 p.m. AFT groups include parents who have adopted children of all ages and races, domestically and internationally, children of kin, and children with special needs.

Free. Drop-ins welcome. For information, call 617-587-1522 or lbaeumler@mspcc.org.

Adoptive Families Together (AFT) Parent Group. Faith Evangelical Free Church, 54 Hosmer St., Acton. Wednesday, May 9,

7:30 to 9 p.m. AFT groups include parents who have adopted children of all ages and races, domestically and internationally, children of kin, and children with special needs. Free.

Drop-ins welcome. For information, all 617-587-1522 or lbaeumler@mspcc.org.

Impact of Social Media on Adoption Workshop. Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, 3815 Washington St., 2nd floor, Jamaica Plain. Saturday, May 10, 10 a.m. to noon.

For adults with a connection to adoption/ foster care, this workshop will discuss issues on how social media has impacted relationships between birth parents, adoptive parents and adoptees. Free. Register at 617-587-1522 or lbaeumler@mspcc.org.

Adoptive Families Together (AFT) Parent Group. Stoughton Public Library, 84 Park St., Stoughton. Thursday, May 10, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. AFT groups include parents who have adopted children of all ages and races, domestically and internationally, children of kin, and children with special needs. Free. Drop-ins welcome.

For information, call 617-587-1522 or lbaeumler@mspcc.org.

Foster Care/Adoption Informational Meeting. Jordan’s Furniture Reading, IMAX Conference Room, 50 Walker’s Brook Dr., Reading. Tuesday, May 13, 6 to 7 p.m.

Learn how you can change the life of a child in need by becoming a foster parent with the Department of Children and Families. Free.

If you plan to attend, call 978-557-2734 or email Stephanie.Frankel@state.ma.us.

Getting Started in Adoption. Wide Horizons for Children, 38 Edge Hill Rd., Waltham.

Wednesday, May 14, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Advance registration required at whfc.org/events.

Conspicuous Families: Supporting Your Child’s Racial/Ethnic Identity. Webinar at www.chsfs.org/livewebinars. Thursday, May 15, 1 to 2 p.m. Eastern Time. An adoption series from the perspective of adopted adults. The intended audience includes prospective adoptive parents, adoptive parents, adopted adults, and child welfare professionals. $15. For more information, contact welcome@chsfs.org.

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CIRCLEOFFRIENDS Creating Our Families Through Adoption: The Real Strengths and Challenges of the LGBT Family. Webinar. Thursday, May 15, 1 to 2:30 p.m. Eastern Time. Creating a well-balanced, emotionally healthy family can be a challenge for all families. However, same-sex adoptive families face unique strengths and challenges. Moderator, panel of parents and youth join for discussion. $25. For more information, visit adoptionsupport.org.

We Are Family: A Post-Adoption Support Group. Emerson Hospital Campus, Route 2, Concord. Thursday, May 15, 7 to 9 p.m. A monthly support and education group for parents who are caring for foster children, have adopted a child at age 3 or older, or whose adopted child is now over age 5.

For information, call 978-287-0221, ext. 218.

Foster Care/Adoption Informational Meeting. Framingham Department of Children and Families, 63 Fountain St., 5th Floor, Framingham. Thursday, May 15, 6 to 7 p.m. Learn how you can change the life of a child in need by becoming a foster parent with the Department of Children and Families. Free.

Registration not required. For information, call 508-424-0210.

Foster Care/Adoption Informational Meeting. Arlington Department of Children and

Families, 30 Mystic St., Arlington. Thursday, May 15, 6 to 7 p.m. Learn how you can change the life of a child in need by becoming a foster parent with the Department of Children and Families. Free. No registration required.

For information, call 617-520-8762.

Foster Care/Adoption Informational Meeting. Morton Hospital, Margaret Stone Conference Room, 88 Washington St., Taunton. Thursday, May 15, 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Learn how you can change the life of a child in need by becoming a foster parent with the Department of Children and Families. Free.

RSVP to 508-894-3830.

Adoptive Families Together (AFT) Parent Group. Roslindale Congregational Church, 25 Cummins Highway, Roslindale.

Wednesday, May 16, 7 to 8:30 p.m. AFT groups include parents who have adopted children of all ages and races, domestically and internationally, children of kin, and children with special needs. Free. Drop-ins welcome. For information, call 617-587-1522 or lbaeumler@mspcc.org.

Adoptive Families Together (AFT) Parent Group. Worcester MSPCC Office, 335 Chandler St., Worcester. Thursday, May 17, 7 to 9 p.m. AFT groups include parents who have adopted children of all ages and races, domestically and internationally, children of kin, and children with special needs. Free. Drop-ins welcome.

For information, call 617-587-1522 or lbaeumler@mspcc.org.

MARE (Massachusetts Adoption Resource Exchange) 2014 Walk/Run for Adoption. Jordan’s Furniture, 450 Revolutionary Dr., East Taunton.

Sunday, May 18, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Register at MAREWalkRunForAdoption.org.

Foster Care/Adoption Informational Meeting. Canton Police Department Conference Room, 786 Washington St., Canton. Monday, May 19, 6 p.m. Learn how you can change the life of a child in need by becoming a foster parent with the Department of Children and Families. Free. Registration not required.

RSVP to 508-894-3830.

Foster Care/Adoption Informational Meeting. Brockton DCF, 110 Mulberry St., Brockton. Wednesday, May 21, 6 to 7 p.m.

Learn how you can change the life of a child in need by becoming a foster parent with the Department of Children and Families. This session is for those residing in Brockton, Avon, Easton, Holbrook, East Bridgewater, West Bridgewater, Bridgewater or Stoughton.

Free. Confirm attendance at 508-894-3745.

becoming a foster or adoptive parent with the Massachusetts DCF. No registration required.

For information, call 617-989-9209.

Adoptive Families Together (AFT) Parent Group. First Congregational Church, 18 Andover Rd., Billerica. Sunday, May 27, 7 to 9 p.m. AFT groups include parents who have adopted children of all ages and races, domestically and internationally, children of kin, and children with special needs. Free. Drop-ins welcome. For information, call 617-587-1522 or lbaeumler@mspcc.org.

Foster Care/Adoption Informational Meeting. Taunton Department of Children and Families, Mill River Place, 1 Washington St., Suite 21, Taunton. Wednesday, May 28, 5 to 7 p.m. Learn how you can change the life of a child in need by becoming a foster parent with the Department of Children and Families. This session is for those who reside in Attleboro, North Attleboro, Norton, Mansfield, Taunton, Raynham, Seekonk, Dighton, Berkley, Rehoboth. Free. For information, call 508-821-7043.

Adoption Information Meeting.

Massachusetts Department of Children and Families, 451 Blue Hill Ave., Dorchester.

Wednesday, May 21, 4 to 5:30 p.m. Learn how you can change the future of a child in need by

To list your adoption-related event information in baystateparent, email editor@baystateparent.com, or visit baystateparent.com to add your listing to our interactive calendar of events.

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CELEBRATIONS

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BY TRISH RESKE

If you haven’t gotten your ducks in a row for this year’s Mother’s Day, consider visiting a row of ducks at the Boston Public Garden. The annual Duckling Day celebration takes place on Sunday, May 11. A Mother’s Day tradition, the parade features colorfully costumed parents and kids. Hosted by The Friends of the Public Garden, it has grown in size for over 20 years and features family activities celebrating the classic children’s book, Make Way for Ducklings, by Robert McCloskey.

This year, Duckling Day will feature face painting, the Knucklebones play team, a puppet show, magic show, crafts, and a dramatic reading of Make Way for Ducklings

by Wheelock Family Theatre actors.

Mayor Walsh will also be on hand to commemorate the event.

Duckling Day culminates in a parade led by the Harvard University Marching Band that winds its way from the Boston Common to the Public Garden, ending near the sight of the bronze statue of the mother duck and ducklings, created by sculptor Nancy Schön.

“One of the really fun things about the event is that the attendees get really excited and become involved.

Some come in full costumes, featuring their favorite characters from the book,” said Friends of the

Public Garden Communications and Outreach Director, Eileen Scafidi.

‘This event has just wonderful elements for the entire family.”

All kids receive a goody bag, and moms will be treated this year with free mini-massages.

Make Way for Ducklings, published in 1941, won the 1942 Caldecott Medal for Robert McCloskey’s illustrations, and is the official children’s book of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

The book tells the story of Mr. and Mrs. Mallard seeking a home for their family. Mistaking a swan boat in the Public Garden for a real swan, and being generously fed peanuts by the passengers onboard, they decide to look for a home nearby and find a safe island on the Charles River to begin their family. There, eight ducklings are born: Jack, Kack, Lack, Mack, Nack, Oack, Pack and Quack. Mr. Mallard soon flies off in search of the Public Garden, while Mrs. Mallard raises the ducklings. She sets out to join Mr. Mallard in a week at their new home. Traffic along the path is busy and mother and ducklings need help to avoid cars on the busy streets of Boston. As policemen direct traffic, the people of Boston “make way for ducklings” as the feathered family travels safely to their new home in the Public Garden.

The book has been a favorite around the world and is celebrated by its story of caring parent ducks and beautifully drawn charcoal illustrations. Part of the parade route for Duckling Day follows the route taken in the book by Mrs. Mallard to lead her eight ducklings to their new home.

Northborough mom Sarah Stine and her husband, Brent, took their three young children to Duckling Day last year. Sarah, who was a kindergarten teacher in Michigan, remembers reading the beloved book to her students before the family relocated to Boston.

“When we heard about the event, we were so excited to go,” she said.

“It was so much fun to see all the costumes. Lots of people were dressed up like ducks. We even saw dogs dressed up like ducks,” she said.

Their three young kids “loved being in the parade,” she added. “It wasn’t too long for them to walk. It was very kid-appropriate.”

Families interested in attending Duckling Day can pre-register online at www.friendsofthepublicgarden. org. The cost is $35 per family in advance, $40 on the day of the event.

For more information, visit www.friendsofthepublicgarden.org.

BAYSTATEPARENT 24 25

Bows and Bows CELEBRATIONS

Luke Ryan, 6, Scituate Worcester designer Kayleigh Lucci is the artistic talent behind these clever bowties. With the use of magnets, the ties snap into place securely without snagging or piercing fabric — and no tying!

The Magnetic Bowtie is handmade in whimsical patterns to suit all styles and personalities. “They are just really fun,” Kayleigh said.

For more information, visit themagneticbowtie.com.

Hallie Williams, 9, Shrewsbury

Olivia Davis, 7, Chicopee

Maya Ward, 8, South Hadley

Cecilia Shenette, 7, Auburn

2 Local Designers Add Zing to Spring

Jameson Simoncini, 5, Worcester

Shane Ryan, 5, Scituate

Brendan Meehan, 7, Tyngsborough

Austin Ryan, 10, Scituate

Malena Torres, 5, Waltham These colorful hair bows are handmade by 12-year-old Ashley Girouard, a designer from Shrewsbury and owner of The Bitty Boutique. The vibrant colors and clever designs add a splash of fun to every outfit and hairstyle.

A sixth-grader at Sherwood Middle School, Ashley sells her bows at Epiphany Children’s Boutique in Northborough and takes custom orders at ashleytayloe@gmail.com.

Shawna Shenette Photography • Hair and makeup by Toni & Guy Hairdressing Academy, Worcester • Clothing provided by Epiphany Children’s Boutique in Northborough and Coco’s Closet in Worcester 26 MAY2014 27

CELEBRATIONS

Birth Announcement EVERYONE “LIKES” A

BY AMANDA ROBERGE

“Last year was the year of creative gender reveals, but this year, parents will be upping the ante with their pregnancy announcements,” said Rebecca Dolgin, editor-in-chief of The Bump, a digital magazine devoted to all things pregnancy. So far, she added, popular methods include rap videos, carefully staged photographs and “Coming Soon” movie posters personalized to the family.

These news items are not broadcast individually or sent out via snail mail, of course, but rather shared with the click of a button and released to the web – which is fast becoming the easiest and most logical way for women to share everything from their pregnancy news straight through to the birth itself.

I, for one, find myself greatly disappointed in this trend. I’m a sucker for a handwritten note. I really am. I also happen to loathe social media, even though I keep up with it as best I can.

These two small facts made my friend Jess’s birth announcement a treasure when it arrived in my mailbox, a classy throwback to a time I hadn’t even known I was missing. She’d had a baby – I knew this because not only did I sit poolside with her and her adorable bump one summer, but I had also received a text from her sister when little Logan was born.

Jess is a 38-year-old Haverhill resident who also happened to live in my dorm at the University of Rhode Island before we both found ourselves dating – and subsequently marrying – members of the same band. Though she once sported goth garb, multicolored hair and piercings and still likes to set herself apart from your average moms, she shares my antiquated values when it comes to snail mail.

Her reasoning for refraining from the latest trend in technology – posting your pregnancy or birth as

"The labor posts were a pleasant distraction – eliciting continual replies throughout her labor that were far more enjoyable than her contractions. another status update in a long line of social media blurbs – was simple.

“I don't think it's very personal and not all the grandparents Facebook or are tech savvy. I still like to do some things old school.

I think it has more thought behind it,” she explained. “And I like to put that stuff in my scrapbook.”

But according to 20-something Leominster resident Lynden Laundry, I am a dinosaur. (To be fair, she didn’t say it in so many words, but I can own the truth.)

“Kids these days” are posting ultrasound pictures to births and everything in between via social media outlets to keep friends and family updated on their lives.

There is a new way of doing things, she said, and I can either turn into a bitter old hag or I can get with the program. Again, my words, not hers.

“I have a lot of family on Facebook and it really is the best way for me to get them in the loop,” she said of her frequent updates, which are not limited to kid stuff but are likely to include everything from snippets of a funny conversation to her latest, an ultrasound photo

with a pink bow drawn onto the fetus. For friends of the young mom who already has three small boys under the age of six, the post was a popular one, garnering more likes than any of her posts in the eight years prior.

Laundry is just one of millions of women using Facebook, Twitter and blogs to keep friends and family in the loop. For all of her children, the social media announcement of their birth followed status updates hinting at an impending labor.

“It was fun,” she said, a sentiment shared by her good friend Katie Bergstrand, who agreed that the labor posts were a pleasant distraction – eliciting continual replies throughout her labor that were far more enjoyable than her contractions. As an added bonus, it allowed her to complain to friends and get support without annoying her husband, who had grown weary of the whining.

And of course, when the baby was born, their loved ones were already on the edges of their computer chairs and it was a simple way – not to mention cheap – to announce their bundle of joy.

“I reached hundreds of people when my last baby was born, within minutes of the birth,” she said. “At 49-cents a stamp, it saves me money. It’s no small thing.”

For new mom Georgiana Cicma Mihalek, using social media was a way to lighten her load as she tried to keep everyone up on the happenings, which she did using a combination of social media and good old-fashioned mail.

“I don't have time to deal with writing out addresses and stamps right now, but that’s just me being a tired new mommy,” she said.

But according to Diana Hagan, a Librarian and Coordinator of Computer Applications at the University of Florida (and an avid user of social media herself) there are a few problems with relying on it – particularly Facebook – for communicating important information.

“Not everyone would receive it depending on whether they are spending time online when it is posted, and Facebook's algorithm for what is news would leave it out of some people's feed,” she explained.

The more common trend, which doesn’t compromise stodgy values of tech-a-phobes like myself is the pregnancy announcement. Even I have to admit that some of them can pretty pretty stinkin’ adorable.

I get it, I’m old school. I like to feel special and feel like someone made time just for me – whether a phone call, a handwritten card or even an email. That’s about how far I have come around.

But Lynden and Katie taught me a bit about what it means to go with the flow, get with the times and adapt my thinking for the virtual world. In the end, a baby is a blessing and there is no arguing that they exist very much in real life. The messenger has changed a little since my heyday, but the message itself is always worth a “like.”

BAYSTATEPARENT 26 27

Caps Off CELEBRATIONS

TO THE CLASS OF 2014 3 MOMS OFFER TIPS AND TALES FROM THE JOURNEY

BY MARYJO KURTZ

Nancy and Hannah Miller opportunity for that than if I had been a stay-at-home mom.

The top things I am happy I did: Hannah in preschool

When my oldest son, Sam, graduated from high school, I recall a lot of noise. High school noise.

Party noise. College noise. Noise from friends, relatives, teachers, and neighbors. Cards, gifts, food, music, pictures and laughter filled the house. It was an exciting time for Sam and for our family.

But even as the noise kept our house in a flutter, there was a quiet place in my mind as I watched him. It was that place that moms go when moments get poignant — and it creates silence in the chaos.

We moms gaze at our growing and grown children while thinking about firsts: first preschool, first tooth, first bike, first date. We think on the many things that we shoulda, woulda and coulda done. And, we think on the privilege of parenthood. It’s that last one that gives us the smile and the little glisten in our eyes.

As we celebrate a new generation of high school graduates, baystateparent asked three mothers to share some of those quiet thoughts and offer tips and tales for parents who are just beginning school years with their children.

Their insight offers something for moms and dads at all stages of parenthood.

28 MAY2014 29

Nancy Miller, Sterling Nancy’s daughter Hannah is 18 and a 2014 graduate of Wachusett Regional High School. Thinking back on Hannah’s life, Nancy offers these thoughts, “in no particular order of importance.”

The top things I wish I had done differently: • Hiked and gone to the beach more with Hannah.

• Been better at “play.” I’m a list maker and all too often I prioritized “getting something done” over relaxing and playing with Hannah.

• Wish I had made it a point to teach her more practical “life skills,” like personal finance, advocating for oneself, cooking and laundry.

• Wish we had more sit down dinners and less peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.

• Wish she had the opportunity to have more play dates than she did at our house when she was young.

Because I worked, there was less

• Let Hannah get her driver’s license as soon as she was eligible.

It was a big adjustment to have her suddenly become so independent but well worth it and a big step on her road to maturity.

• Instilled in her the joy and insight to be had by travelling. Though our travels were not extensive by any means, we had some great trips together within the United States and went together to the Dominican Republic on a mission trip. It encouraged her to explore the world.

• Taught her that there are far more important things in life then money and possessions.

• Named her Hannah.

• Created a stable, calm, reliable home life for her.

• Do not be a helicopter parent.

Kids need freedom to make their own decisions and mistakes. You do nobody (your child, yourself, society) any favors by hovering and doing everything for them.

Surround

your

children

• Teach values such as empathy, respect, gratitude and personal responsibility.

• Never let your job consume you at the expense of your children and family.

• Try hard to stay married, but only if you can be happily (relatively — all marriages have challenges) married.

Mary Bonaparte-Cerone, Arlington Mary’s son James is 17 and a 2014 graduate of Arlington High School.

He is preparing to attend Middlesex Community College in the fall. Mary said she thanks “God every day I have such a wonderful son.”

The things I wish I had differently:

My top tips for a new generation of parents:

•

positive role models, and do not be jealous if they gravitate to adults other than you for advice/support.

Be happy they have those people in their lives.

with

• To be honest, I have only one. I wish that I had listened to his first grade teacher when she told us she thought James had an attention problem. We argued that he did not. We did not want to see it or hear anything of it other than he was just “being a boy.”

As a result, although so very smart and a very talented musician and

writer, he struggled in school and it resulted in counseling just months before graduation. So the most important thing for me to say is for parents to listen when their teachers tell them something just isn’t right.

Because more often than not, they’re on the right track.

The top things I am happy I did: • Introduced James to music very early on. He loves it and plays guitar, keyboards, mandolin, and banjo. He's written his own songs and performed them.

• Put James #1. His father and I divorced when he was 11, but all of our decisions in the process were about James and how he would react to them.

• Kept the lines of communication open between relatives. I still see members of my ex-husband's family because I know it’s important for James to see that.

• Got down on the floor and played with him as a child. Puzzles, trains, books — I put myself down to his level and spent hours with him playing Thomas the Tank Engine, doing puzzles. I miss it.

My top tips for a new generation of parents: • I only have one. Make sure they see that you have interests, too. Music, books, hobbies — let them see you reading your own books, listening to your own music. My son likes all kinds of music because, in addition to listening to what he liked, we listened to what I liked, too. It wasn't 24/7 Arthur or Blues Clues. We had Led Zeppelin, The Who, The Fools, and Hank Williams. Expose them to different things.

Maureen Ambrosino, Westborough

“Here I am at the end of the high school journey and thinking way,

way back to when Leah was a preschooler. Man, that seems like ages ago sometimes, and other times it feels like it was five minutes ago,” said Maureen Ambrosino of Westborough. Her daughter Leah, 18, is a 2014 graduate of Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School.

“I am so incredibly proud of the amazing person she has become and so excited to see what she’s going to do next, but it’s bittersweet at times,” said Maureen. “You remember that feeling you had when you put your child on the bus the first day of kindergarten? It’s like that all over again, but this year we’re doing the ‘last’ of everything. Last first day of school, last concert, last Parent’s Night — you get the idea. It’s sad sometimes, but exciting, too.”

The top things I wish I had done differently: • I wish I had encouraged my daughter to spend more time writing.

She always loved making up her own stories, drawing, and creating.

There’s so much “prescribed” writing in school that she lost the motivation of writing just for the fun it. I think she would have been a better writer if I had helped foster that love of writing when she was younger.

read. She introduced me to manga — Japanese graphic novels that you read from right to left — and taught me how to read them. That led us to attending Anime Boston together for years, dressed as our favorite characters. There’s nothing better than bonding over books!

• I am happy that I spent some time volunteering at my daughter’s school. I’ve always worked full-time, so it was hard to find time to fit in volunteering. But I’d take time off from work for events where a lot of adult help was needed. We moved to Massachusetts when she was starting 4th grade, so I didn’t know a lot of her classmates’ parents, and volunteering gave me a chance to meet them. In Texas, I worked some weekends, so I’d spend time helping shelve books in the school library on my weekdays off. It was fun to walk through the halls and hear “Hi, Leah’s mom!” from the kids and to know the teachers by name.

My top tips for a new generation of parents:

The top things I am happy I did:

• Take time to enjoy the little moments. I remember how hard it was to see past the everyday stress of homework, extracurricular activities, and everything else that kept us so busy. It was hard to imagine that someday my daughter wouldn’t need my help so much. Now that we’re at the end of high school, I can’t believe how fast the time flew.

It seemed like she’d be little forever, but the older she got, the faster the time went. Be the beaming parent in the auditorium, in the bleachers or wearing the coach’s uniform. You won’t believe how fast the time goes by.

• I kept reading to my daughter, even after she was able to read on her own. Some of my favorite memories of her time in elementary school are the hours we spent reading books together and talking about the books we read. Now that she’s older, we don’t always like the same books, but we always talk about the books we

• Encourage your child to be welcoming to the “new kid” in class — and be the same way to that child’s parents. I lived in the same town and went to school with the same kids all the way through high school, but my daughter’s experience was very different. She went to preschool and K-3 in Texas before we moved to

• I wish I had made a file folder for each grade in school and filed Leah’s papers in it. I planned to do it every year and never seemed to get it organized. Now I have a couple big fat file folders stuffed full of papers that I can’t seem to decipher. (Was that second grade or third grade?

Who is that teacher? Is this how they do math now? Wow.)

Maureen and Leah Ambrosino Westborough when she was starting 4th grade. It’s hard for kids (and their parents) to start out all over in a new place and make all new friends.

I’m glad we had the chance to live in different places with people from all corners of the globe, and I think that experience will help her as she becomes an adult. She made great friends here because of the kids who made her feel included and part of the group.

• Take pictures. And videos. A lot.

You will be so glad you did when your child gets to the end of high school and you can look back at all the things they did and how they changed over the years.

• Make a file folder for each grade in school, and file their papers in it. When you get that big “first day” packet of paperwork, make the file folder and vow to put homework, report cards, teacher notes, certificates and artwork into it. It’s difficult (okay, impossible) to go back and figure it out years later. Especially when you come across essays written in their scrawly beginner printing about how much they love their mom.

What are your tips and tales leading to your child’s high school graduation?

What advice do you have for parents who are just beginning the school journey? Visit this story on baystateparent.com and add your thoughts to our comments section!

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Party for a Cause In Lieu of Gifts:

BY PETER STILLA

The trend to “pay it forward” is making its way into children’s birthday parties, where a growing number of families are asking for charitable donations in lieu of gifts. While families often work together to choose a charity, many times it is selected by the birthday child.

‘A Whole Different Energy’ In Shrewsbury, a young girl named Carolyn Salvemini had a party for her 7th birthday. In lieu of gifts, she asked for donations for the family of a classmate who suffers from epidermolysis bullosa, a connective tissue disease that causes painful lesions and blisters of the skin.

“My mom said to me, ‘How would you feel about raising money instead of getting birthday gifts?’”

Carolyn explained.

“I just threw out there… our kids, they have everything they need. We’re always encouraging them to think a little differently.

But [Carolyn] didn’t miss a beat.

I suggested it and right away she said yes. And then I said, ‘OK you can choose a cause,’” said Sue, Carolyn’s mom.

According to Sue, Carolyn didn’t hesitate. “She said, ‘There’s a boy in my school who has EB,’ and she went online to show me the disease and the EB Foundation.”

“I wanted to give the money directly to his family to help pay medical bills or for presents, just so he could feel better,” Carolyn said.

The reaction of guests was memorable. “They were surprised and happy for me I guess,” Carolyn said, before nervously giggling — clearly reluctant to reveal how much her guests admired her for her idea.

So her Mom did it for her. “She got 32 MAY2014 33

a great response and the parents were thrilled. I had a lot of them tell me that they thought of doing something like this. There was a whole different energy with the parents and the kids at the party.”

Despite Carolyn’s request that gifts were to be for her schoolmate, some of her guests thought otherwise.

“Some brought presents [for Carolyn] and a donation,” Sue smiled and said. “They wanted to make sure that she had a little gift, too.”

Carolyn’s party raised over $250 for the boy’s family.

When asked if she regretted missing out on gifts, she said, “No, not really. I felt better helping someone else instead of getting my own presents.”

The party created a buzz with her friends and the family’s social circle. It wasn’t long before a few of her friends also held charity themed parties.

‘I Felt Really Good’ One of these girls is Elise Siciliano, also of Shrewsbury, who for her 9th birthday last October turned her party into a benefit for a nearby Animal Rescue League shelter.

“I wanted to do it, and I was really happy about it,” Elise said about her party.

Her mother Deanna elaborated, “We’re an animal family. We have two cats and wish we could have more. When we went to the shelter to see the animals, the kids could really see what the need is.”

The party idea belonged to Elise.

“I already have a lot of toys, so I asked Mom if I could [hold a party for the shelter].”

Elise didn’t ask her guests for cash donations. Instead, she asked them to bring needed supplies for the animals at the shelter, such as blankets and food. The donations filled many boxes and bags that

Elise and Deanna personally delivered to the shelter. “I felt really good when we dropped off the stuff,” Elise added.

Elise left no doubt when asked if she would advise other kids to do what she did. “I would recommend that,” she smiled and said in her understated way.

‘She Was All For It’ Corinne Sciarappa and her mother, Pauline, heard in church about a family that had a birthday party in which donations were accepted for Heifer International.

“I asked Corinne what she thought of the idea, and she was all for it,” Pauline said. That started the party plans for this Westborough family.

The first grader invited her entire class of about twenty kids, and the invitations included a description of what Heifer International does and suggested a $5 donation for the cause. Corinne’s friends responded enthusiastically and, as with Carolyn Salvemini, some of Corinne’s friends brought gifts for her in addition to their $5 donations. “I was definitely glad about the arrangement and raising money for Heifer International,” Corinne said. She explained that the party raised about $150 for the organization and that some families donated more than the suggested $5.

Share Your Story!

Have you participated in a charity party? baystateparent would like to hear about it!

Visit baystateparent.com and tell us about your party in the comments section for this story.

Share your tips for other families and children considering this new spin on the traditional birthday party.

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12 Healthy Fixes for Family Meals

BY SANDRA GORDON

Sure, you can just get take-out, zoom through the drive-thru or zap up some frozen dinners. But if you really want to eat healthier and save money — get chopping, stirring and sautéing.

“With home cooking, you know what’s in it, you can adjust it to taste and it’s a good way to keep your portions under control,” said JoAnn Cianciulli, TV food programming producer.

If you are skeptical about the power of DIY meals, consider this: over the past 30 years, the number of restaurants in the U.S. increased 89 percent. Not only that, but the average calorie intake rose by a whopping 615 calories, according to the United States Department of Agriculture. Can you say “obesity epidemic”?

The good news is that homemade eats can reverse the trend.

To help you jam-pack your family’s meals with better-for-everyone fuel — and think outside the take-out container — we polled top chefs, bloggers, registered dietitians and other foodies for their healthiest cooking tips.

The gist? Small cooking changes can make a big diet difference. Here’s the dish on their top practical food tweaks that can easily become part of your recipe for success.

1. Bring home the bacon (flavor). In recipes that call for bacon, such as lentil soup or quiche, substitute smoked Spanish paprika or chipotle powder (add it when you’re sautéing the onions and other ingredients). “You’ll get the smoky flavor without the calories and saturated fat,” Cianciulli said.

2. Makeover mashed potatoes.

“Replace some of the potatoes with steamed cauliflower for a lighter texture, a boost of nutrients and fewer calories,” said dietician Natalia Strasenko.

potato or nachos) that calls for sour cream, saving 45 calories per a two tablespoon serving.

Greek yogurt’s creamy texture and tangy taste mimics sour cream with little or no fat and as much as 50 percent more protein, compared to sour cream. “You’ll never know the difference,” said Rene Ficek, a certified dietician.

3. Go Greek. Substitute plain, low-fat or fat-free Greek yogurt for just about any recipe (dips, sauces, dollops on a baked

BAYSTATEPARENT 34 35

4. Secret sauce: balsamic vinegar reduction. “It’s a healthy substitute for buttery, salty sauces or sugary BBQ sauce,” said Ficek.

Bring balsamic vinegar to a boil, then simmer until it’s reduced by half (about 20 minutes). Add a tablespoon or two of fruit-infused flavored vinegar for an additional layer of flavor, such as strawberry vinegar for chicken, or pomegranate vinegar for fish.

5. Whip up a dream cream. “When you’re making whipped cream, use one cup skim milk plus one tablespoon cornstarch instead of heavy cream to reduce saturated fat,” said Jenna Allen, a registered dietician and dairy industry spokesperson.

6. Cut the cheese. To reduce a recipe’s saturated fat and calories, forget swapping in low-fat or nonfat cheese. Yuck! Instead, “cut the amount of cheese a recipe calls for in half and substitute a sharper cheese that’s naturally low-fat, such as parmesan, romano, asiago or manchego to intensify the flavor,” said chef Jonas Falk.

7. Slash sugar, get zesty. With desserts, such as pudding or even your grandmother’s sugar cookie recipe, “cut the sugar in half and add orange or lemon zest or a teaspoon of vanilla, hazelnut, rum, caramel or almond extract,” said Jennifer Iserloh, chef and owner of skinnychef.com. Zest can emulate sweetness and halving the amount of sugar won’t change a recipe’s texture or diminish its nutrient content. At 16 calories per tablespoon of sugar, you’ll save 256 calories per omitted cup. “You’ll put any dessert recipe on an instant diet,” Iserloh said.

8. Thickening trick: “Use pureed chickpeas or white beans to thicken soups and sauces rather than flour and butter,” said Amanda Skrip, a natural foods chef and health coach.

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9. Get picky. While preparing meals, stop and look at the recipe, or what’s on your plate and think, “how can I make this meal healthier?” “Pick one thing; it could be to add a vegetable, increase protein, use a leaner meat or switch from a refined grain like white rice to whole grain like quinoa,” said naturopathic physician Samantha Brody.

10. Sneak in produce. The next time you’re making a batch of tomato sauce for pasta, lasagna or meatballs, give it a nutrient and fiber boost by adding pureed white beans, frozen spinach, finely chopped mushrooms and pureed zucchini, Strasenko said.

11. Don’t rinse chicken. Don’t rinse raw chicken before cooking. “Any bacteria present can be splashed around your kitchen, potentially contaminating other foods that don’t get cooked, such as fresh produce,” said Dr. David Acheson, a food safety expert and former chief medical officer at the Food and Drug Administration. Any po-

tentially harmful bacteria on chicken will be destroyed during cooking anyway. Poultry can go from package to baking dish, pan or grill.

The same goes for beef, pork and fish. Similarly, consider prewashed, ready-to-eat lettuce good to go. But do rinse all other produce. “Anything that comes from a field that isn’t prewashed should be washed, including heads of iceberg lettuce and whole cantaloupe,” Acheson said.

12. Say yes to the dressing. Forget bottled salad dressing, with its long list of iffy ingredients. Make your own with lemon or lime juice or apple cider, red wine or balsamic vinegar and olive oil. “An acidy ingredient like lemon juice or vinegar helps the body absorb the iron and minerals in greens while the oil allows us to absorb fat-soluble compounds, such as vitamins and antioxidants,” said Ali Miller, RD, certified diabetes educator. To curb salad calories, “chop lettuce and vegetables finely. The small pieces will meld, creating a flavor explosion in your mouth and you’ll need less dressing,” says Devin Alexander, chef of NBC’s The Biggest Loser and author of The Most Decadent Diet Ever.

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Dishin’ with the Dietitian

Easy Meal Planning for

VEGETARIAN

TEENS

Q:

by Andrea Luttrell, RDN, LDN

My two daughters, ages 12 and 15, want to eat vegetarian. I have never planned a vegetarian diet before and am not sure if they are getting all of the nutrition they need. Can you please recommend the best way to begin a vegetarian diet? And is it safe for developing bodies?

— Shayna K., Fitchburg

A:

The teenage years are a time of rapid growth and development, but with a little planning, a vegetarian diet can provide all the necessary nutrition your daughters need.

In fact, according to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, vegetarian teens tend to have lower intakes of cholesterol, saturated fat and total fat, with higher intakes of fruits, vegetables and fiber than non-vegetarian teens. This helps build a strong foundation against obesity and chronic disease, including heart disease, cancer and diabetes.

Since vegetarian diets are often defined differently depending on personal views, it’s important to look at what your daughters will eat as part of their new meal plan. For example, will they continue eating dairy, eggs and seafood? Or will they only include dairy? After learning this information, you’ll be surprised to see just how effortless meal planning can be.

The first step in planning balanced meals and snacks is to become familiar with your daughters’ individual Food Group goals. To do this, visit USDA’s ChooseMyPlate.gov website and click on “Daily Food Plans” located under the “SuperTracker & Other Tools” section. There, you’ll be able to enter age, height, weight and activity level to learn their individual needs.

Based on an estimated 1,800-calorie meal plan, here is a breakdown of what their daily needs might look like: • Fruits – 1 ½ cups • Vegetables – 2 ½ cups • Grains – 6 ounce-equivalents • Protein Foods – 5 ounceequivalents • Dairy – 3 cups For a vegetarian meal plan, the only substitutions that would need to be made would fall into

the Protein Foods and perhaps the Dairy Food Groups. For Protein Foods, instead of options like chicken, pork and beef, you would incorporate beans, peas, nuts, nut butters and soy products (i.e.: veggie burgers, tofu, tempeh.) If including eggs and/ or seafood, these would be considered Protein Foods as well.

If your daughters are still incorporating cow’s milk, yogurt and cheese into their meal plans, their Dairy Food Group choices would remain the same.

If they’re avoiding these foods, easy substitutions include calcium-fortified soymilk, soy cheese and soy yogurt.

Next, plan your menus using regular family meal ideas as your base. If having taco night, simply use ground soy crumbles or beans in place of ground beef or turkey. Likewise, if barbecuing burgers and hot dogs, serve veggie burgers or soy hot dogs in their place. Also remember many main dishes are naturally meat-free like pasta primavera, veggie pizza and cheese lasagna.

The last thing to keep in mind is the following five nutrients.

These nutrients are primarily found in animal-based foods and may fall short in a vegetarian diet when a variety of foods are not incorporated.

• Protein – As long as your daughters are enjoying plenty of beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, nut butters and soy foods (and dairy, eggs and seafood if appropriate), protein intake should not be a problem.

• Calcium – Dairy foods are the primary source of calcium, so if avoiding these, incorporate fortified sources like soymilk, breakfast cereals and orange juice, tofu made with calcium sulfate and dark leafy vegetables like collard greens and kale.

• Vitamin B12 – This nutrient may be difficult to obtain through food if avoiding dairy, eggs and seafood. Look for it in fortified cereals and soymilk, veggie burgers and nutritional yeast. If not getting adequate amounts through food, a supplement may be necessary.

• Zinc – While research is mixed when it comes to zinc intake and vegetarians, it’s important to monitor intake nonetheless. Incorporate soy products, beans, pumpkin seeds, wheat germ and fortified cereals for adequate intake. If consuming dairy, cow’s milk is another source.

For more information on vegetarian meal planning, visit the Academy’s Vegetarian Nutrition webpage at http://vegetariannutrition.net.

Andrea Luttrell is a registered dietitian nutritionist for the Living Well Eating Smart program at Big Y Foods.

She can be reached at livingwell@bigy.com.

Your question might be featured in a future issue of baystateparent and Dishin’ with the Dietitian!

Send it to: editor@baystateparent.com.

• Iron – Iron sources for vegetarians include beans, lentils, spinach, blackstrap molasses, soybeans, fortified cereals and certain dried fruits such as dried apricots, prunes and raisins. Enjoying iron-rich foods with foods that contain vitamin C (i.e.: citrus fruits, bell peppers, tomatoes, berries) can help boost iron absorption, too.

BAYSTATEPARENT 36 37

Bites

Eat Fresh Veggies According to pickyourown.org, both spinach and asparagus are ready to harvest in Massachusetts during the month of May.

Oh, Baby!

Look at These Sweet Rattles

You’ll be surprised how simple these little rattles are to make and how great they taste. Oreo cookies are dipped in vanilla candy melts, sprinkled and tied with a bow. Stand them in Styrofoam covered in baby shower mints.

Makes 24 pops

Ingredients You will need: • 1 14.3-ounce package Oreo cookies • Styrofoam • 2 12-ounce packages white candy melts • 24 Pink and White striped straws • Pastel star sprinkles • 24 pieces blue ribbon

DIRECTIONS 1. Melt the candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments at 40% power for about 1 1⁄2 to 2 minutes, stirring as needed until smooth.

Improve Your Family Diet with 3 Easy Tips Recent research from St. John’s University in New York shows that having a healthy, balanced diet improves brain capacity, maximizes cognitive capabilities, and improves academic performance in school-age children. To inspire your family to make healthy choices, FuelYourDreams.net offers these 3 tips: 1. Teach your kids about the connection between what they eat and drink and what happens inside their bodies. Once they learn that 100 billion neurons in their brain send thousands of messages so they can run

38 MAY2014 39

2. Insert paper straws into the middle of Oreo cookies.

3. Dip the Oreos into the melted candy and decorate the bottom half of each with pastel star sprinkles while still tacky. Stand the cookie rattles up in a sheet of Styrofoam to dry.

4. Tie bows around the straws with blue ribbon.

This recipe was printed with permission from: EAT MORE DESSERT: 100 Simple-to-Make & Fun-to-Eat Baked Goods From the Baker to the Stars, by Jenny Keller. Page Street Publishing.

Season Ends For Indoor Farmer’s Market The Plymouth Farmer’s Market that opened in January will close for the season on May 8. For locally grown food, artisan crafts and live music, visit the Pimoth Plantation Visitor Center, 137 Warren Ave. in Plimoth, on Thursdays from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m.

fast, they may be motivated to eat avocadoes and sweet potatoes so they can be the best they can be.

2. Don’t make broccoli a 4-letter word.

Find ways to include fruits and vegetables in creative and varied ways.

Extra veggies on a pizza not only look colorful, but they taste good, too.

3. Be transparent with your kids.

Rather than hiding, pureeing, or masking vegetables, prepare and present them properly. With the right attitude, a piece of fresh fruit becomes a tempting dessert.

40,000 Expected at Annual Walk for Hunger More than 40,000 walkers will hit the pavement on Sunday, May 4 for the annual Project Bread Walk for Hunger in Boston. Over the past 45 years, the walk generated more than a hundred million dollars through individual contributions of less than $100. Today, it is a tradition in Massachusetts. It begins on the Boston Common and stretches for 20-miles through Boston, Newton, Watertown and Cambridge. There is a rolling start between 7 and 9 a.m. Free buses are available from a number of checkpoints along the route, shuttling walkers to and from the starting line. To learn more about this event, visit projectbread.com or call 617-723-5000.

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BAYSTATEPARENT 39 4/15/2014 3:06:57 PM 38

The Holding Pattern: A Girlfrie

BY AMANDA ROBERGE

According to Dr. White, 50 percent of women have had sex by the time they go in for their 6-week postpartum visit and the other 50 percent are likely to be waiting much longer.

40 MAY2014 41

L

ike most areas of motherhood, there are certain expectations of how it’s going to be in the bedroom once the baby arrives.

Maybe you expect that nothing will change. Maybe you expect that the baby will only slightly cramp your style. Maybe you haven’t given it a second thought and your new sex life will be a low concern on the totem pole of life. The extreme optimist might even go so far as to think that the baby will bring her relationship to a whole new dimension of intimacy.

Oh, how I hate to be the bearer of bad news.

Back during my first pregnancy 13plus years ago, there was a popular book by humor columnist Vicki Iovine, called The Girlfriends’ Guide to Pregnancy where she laid out the truth as she saw it. I appreciated the honest assessment of motherhood, which went about three miles beyond all that “I’m so over the moon with my new baby” crap I kept finding elsewhere.

Sometimes the truth hurts, but I know you can handle it. After all, by the time you have gone through childbirth, you will officially be a warrior and information can’t hurt you anymore – it will only strengthen your superpowers.

After a phone conversation with

the lovely Dr. Katharine White, Chief of Obstetrics and Gynecology with Baystate Health in Springfield, I called in my own troops (my girlfriends) to get the conversations flowing, aided by a box of wine.

What I am about to share with you is my own girlfriends’ guide to sex after pregnancy.

Dr. White calls this time of your marriage “a holding pattern,” and my girlfriends agree. But even as she decrees that it’s okay to scale it back and accept what it is, she warns against ignoring your intimate life completely.

“To some degree, you are just trying to survive these years,” she said. “But you can’t totally put your relationship on hold because, if you let it go too far, there won’t be a relationship to get back to when you come around looking for it.”

My girlfriends agree that Dr. White’s advice is important, and that remembering to nurture our role as woman and wife is crucial even as we explore the new role of mom. But they also agree that implementing it, like most sound and rational things that look good on paper, can be one of the more difficult aspects of adjusting to life as parents.

The bottom line is that this will probably not be the best sex of your life. The years after you start your family are not likely to be a

time when intimate life blossoms into deep connection and exquisite understanding between you and your partner. More likely, there will be tension, there will be sleep-deprivation and there will be physical changes you didn’t see coming.

My girlfriends and I, along with Dr. White, are here to help you get real about your new normal.

Ch-ch-ch-changes Much of your post-partum sexual experience will depend on the ease or severity of the physical birth experience. According to Dr. White, 50 percent of women have had sex by the time they go in for their 6-week postpartum visit and the other 50 percent are likely to be waiting much longer.

Case in point, my friend Victoria and I had babies at the same time and were both scheduled for our 6-week appointments during the same week. Walking our babies, she reminded me that this is the visit where the doctor gives you the go-ahead to resume intercourse.

At the very same moment, we blurted out our truths. “Yeah, because who waits that long?” I guffawed, as she made a disgusted face and said, “Because who wants to do that?” We looked at each other and burst into peals of

lau m wh om a we pr

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irlfriends’ Guide to SEX After Pregnancy laughter that echoed up and down my street. But the reality was that while she had endured an episiotomy and was still healing, I’d had a homebirth where my midwives were unexpectedly dedicated to preserving my perineum.

For my friends that had C-sections, six weeks was not nearly enough to time to fathom the idea of having sex. With a wound that was still very much healing which made even simple tasks difficult, reclaiming their role as a sexual woman was not exactly a priority.

“I couldn’t even drive a car,” said my friend Brianna, who went so far as to keep the baby in bed with them in order to shield her from the expectation that she might put out. She found herself in no hurry to get her infant into his nursery, and only when she was physically ready did she decide it was time to do some sleep-training.

But even more so, for some women, their postpartum figures can be as much a deterrent as their physical discomfort.

“I was way too self-conscious,” said my friend Kerry, to wild nods from my friends seated at my boxof-wine roundtable. “I felt like Jabba the Hutt.”

In short, the changes in your body are one thing, but the changes in your own self-image are another malady entirely.

Lubricant is your friend Listen. I want to put this delicately.

You are finally ready. You are healed up for the most part, your partner is willing to take it slow, and the baby is sleeping for more than five seconds at a stretch.

The bad news is that things might not be as they once were when it comes to your bits and pieces. You might need some help in making up for the changes that only hormonal imbalances can cause, like a condition medically known as vaginal atrophy, also called atrophic vaginitis, that is characterized by thinning, drying and inflammation of the vaginal walls due to your body having less estrogen.

According to Dr. White, even after the scars have healed and life resumes some sense of normalcy, the low estrogen levels that are typical during breastfeeding can provide a serious interruption to carefree sex. With painful sex being the only other option to no sex at all, it isn’t hard to see why women have a decreased desire in the months after their babies are born.

Some men – and I’m not naming names – take this a bit personal-

ly. Manhood is a funny thing like that, and for men who haven’t been getting stroked regularly like they once were, their inability to rev your engine might hurt the ego.

Not to worry, said Dr. White.

With the introduction of a good lubricant that will make sex much less painful and therefore more likely to happen, even the proudest man will come around and join the team.

“Whatever makes you more comfortable with sex will make you want to have it more often,” she said, “which will make him a big fan.”

Sleep vs. Sex My friends were unanimous about one important aspect of the difficulties of new motherhood. If the choice came down to catching some zzz’s and catching some nookie, sleep was going to win every single time.

“I actually totally wanted sex mentally,” said my friend Gabby.

“But as soon as we got to bed, I just wanted sleep.”

There is no question that even with the best little sleeper, the demands of new parenthood are physically exhausting.

One way for men to help their partners get in the mood is for

them to become super helpful in the area of baby care and housekeeping.

“I felt like all of the responsibility was on me,” said Kerry of life after her first baby – though her husband caught on quick and eventually learned how to help balance the scale. “I had to ask to take a shower, or take a walk, or a nap.

When he started taking control of some of the baby care, it freed me up to think about taking care of him.”

Dr. White also reminds women that intercourse is not the only way to scratch the itch for intimate connection.

“I’m in no way telling women to do whatever it takes to satisfy their husbands,” she laughed.

“I’m just saying that small gestures can keep everyone happy until you get through the roughest patch and get back to an even keel.”

My girlfriends and I have “babies” ranging in age from 7 to 16, and we want new mothers to know that it is going to get better.

Just realizing, acknowledging and accepting that you are in a holding pattern, as Dr. White calls it, is half the battle.

“Just wait it out,” advised my friend Gabby. “It will come back eventually and it will be well worth the wait.”

BAYSTATEPARENT 40 41

daring TO DATE: challenges for newly

SINGLE PARENTS

BY KATHY SLOAN, KOURTNEY WILSON ILLUSTRATOR

“It is unfair to your child to ask them to accept a new person into their lives only to have them disappear shortly after.

If this becomes a pattern, children may begin to expect instability in future relationships.”

— mental health counselor Sara Godin 42 MAY2014 43

D

ating at any age can be grueling. As a single parent, though, dating has unique challenges.

Before children, you only had to worry about yourself. But now, it’s not only you on that date, it’s your kids, too (figuratively, of course).

“Dating is a whole different world. I am essentially dating for myself and three kids,” said Jessica Perry, a Rutland mother of three. “I’m definitely more particular, because if I engage in a serious relationship, it has to be with someone I could envision my kids spending time with. And since they are, well, my everything, that’s no small responsibility.”

For newly single parents who are ready to date, the reasons are many. Some feel lonely. Others are looking for adult companionship — someone to share dinner and laughs. However, with children to consider, it is common to question when to start dating or how the kids will feel about it. You may even wonder how to get started.

When the TIME is right

TELLING the kids

The good news is that just because one relationship ended, does not mean you are destined to be alone forever — though it is normal to worry that your kids might not be ready for you to date.

“I was badly in need of fun, outings, and distractions when I didn’t have my kids. I don’t think anyone should be judged on that,” said Perry.

Stew Elias, a single father of three from Rutland, lost his job shortly before his wife died. He found that he was spending all of his time with his kids and knew that he needed to do something just for him.

“I began dating four months after my wife of twenty years passed away. Some people might say that was too soon, but it was something I had to do for me,” he said.

Like Perry and Elias, most know when they are ready to date. It is important to keep realistic expectations. It’s just dating, not a marriage proposal.

“Some children may have more difficulty accepting their parent being in a new relationship compared to others. This is based on several factors, including age, maturity level, and if they are still grieving over the loss of their nuclear family,” said Sara Godin, a licensed mental health counselor at Center Tree Counseling in Spencer, who specializes in cognitive behavior therapy with children.

Just like you, your children need time to heal. By keeping the lines of communication open and using age appropriate explanations about dating, you increase the chance that your kids will learn to accept it. For example, you might tell small children that you are going out with a friend. If your children are tweens or teens, you may find that they understand that you are dating — and may even be happy for you.

Elias, whose children were older, took an upfront approach with his

kids. “I was very conscious about keeping their thoughts and feelings in mind. I talked to my kids about it, and they were very supportive.

Whether they were just saying that or not, I don’t know. But keeping them part of the process made it easier.”

For single mother Kirsten Creighton, it was important that her two young girls knew that she and her ex-husband were both free to date. “We (also) made sure they knew Mom and Dad were always going to take care of them regardless.”

Godin suggests that parents reassure children that they aren’t replacing the other parent, but rather adding someone into their own lives. She also said, “Your child needs to feel like they are your top priority and that they will not need to fight for your time, attention, and affection. They need to know that a significant person in your life will not detract from your relationship with them.”

Take things SLOW Introducing a potential partner to your children should be given a lot of thought. There is no rule of thumb on when to introduce a suitor to your children. But waiting until you are sure the person you are dating is

someone you have strong feelings for — and trust — will be an important factor in deciding when to introduce your children.

Godin noted, too, that not all relationships work out which is why care should be taken when introducing a new partnership. “It is unfair to your child to ask them to accept a new person into their lives only to have them disappear shortly after. If this becomes a pattern, children may begin to expect instability in future relationships,” she said.

When the time is right, and you feel that you are ready to introduce your kids to someone, Godin advised, “Begin by slowly and sensitively talking to your child about your new partner and seeing how things progress. They may be very curious and ask a lot of questions.”

Godin suggested telling your children about this person in your life, what he/she looks like or his/ her interests. Respond to any questions they have and give them time to process whether they feel comfortable meeting anyone. When they’re ready, plan a social event, like bowling or mini-golf, to make the introduction. Choose somewhere that the child will feel comfortable and conversations can be more relaxed.

If practical, inform your child’s

Get Your Head In The Game

Brighten your room with the things that brighten your life!

other parent throughout the process so that he or she can help watch for variations in the child’s moods or behaviors regarding the new changes.

If that is not possible, working with a therapist can also help.

BUCKLE up!

It is rumored that you should date a dozen people before choosing a long-term partner.

While there is no correct formula for predicting a successful love match, it is a reminder to buckle up and enjoy the ride.

Being nervous to date is normal, but dating can be fun. For Elias, “I was shocked that I wasn’t nervous when I first started dating. I was more confident and comfortable with myself. I thought, ‘If this goes well, great. If not, oh well.”

He said that things were easier after the first date. He added that getting out, talking with another adult, and having some fun made him a better parent. “I was looking for companionship, not necessarily a relationship — someone to have fun with, to do adult things with.”

Creighton agreed, saying, “The world is your oyster. Take up that offer from the least-likely candidate. You may end up having a blast.”

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A Future for Tucker

Photographer Puts Focus on Life with Down Syndrome

BY MARYJO KURTZ, STEVEN KING PHOTOGRAPHY

W

hen Paula Collins gave birth to Tucker, she said, “We’re gonna change people’s ideas about Down syndrome.”

The spunky, no-nonsense Shrewsbury mom recalled the first few days of Tucker’s life in the hospital, as counselors and doctors met with her and her husband to warn them of what life would be like for Tucker.

“I didn’t want to hear about institutions. Everyone in the hospital thought I was in denial,” she said.

“But I kept thinking that all children have special needs. Tucker’s needs were just going to be different.”

Now 16-years-old, a ninth grader at Mercy Centre in Worcester, Tucker is an accomplished photographer with his own business.

His trademark charm fills a room, and he is confident, funny and loving.

With a huge grin, Paula watched Tucker as he explained what he thinks makes a great photograph.

“Places, things, people, dogs,” he said, thoughtfully. Then laughing, he added, “And dog butts.”

One of his most popular photographs features a dog crossing a city street.

“There’s the dog butt,” Tucker

Upper right: Tucker refers to this photograph as his "dog butt" photo, the picture that inspired the idea for his business.

Lower right: This Tucker Collins photograph appears on a 16" x 20" canvas as part of As Far As the Eye Can See, an art exhibit running May 3 through August 16 at the College of the Holy Cross. The display showcases the creative talents of people with disabilities.

Far right: Tucker identified "the blue chairs" as one of his favorite photographs.

46 MAY2014 47

chuckled, pointing to his work.

“It’s a great picture. I put it on Facebook and a lot of people wanted a copy of it,” Paula said. “That’s when I thought maybe we could do this as a business.”

Really Cool Stuff Tucker started taking photographs when he was 10-years-old.

“He asked to use my camera, and he just picked it up and started

shooting,” Paula said. “I didn’t think anything of it until I looked at the pictures. I went through them and said, ‘He’s got some really cool stuff.’”

Paula then shared his photographs with a friend who is an interior designer and the friend said, “He has an amazing eye. I’ve seen a lot of gallery shows that aren’t as good as this.”

Since then, Tucker has explored the world through the lens of a

camera, finding his art in unique places. He crops photos within the frame of each shot, a signature talent. While he thrills at taking pictures of people, Tucker also has a portfolio filled with photos of the unexpected, such as meats in a deli counter and motorcycle parts. His older brother, McKegg, noted that, “Tucker makes you look at things you might have gone by otherwise.”

“He loves to shoot people. People think they will placate him and pose for some photos, and then I send them the photos and they say, ‘Are you kidding me?’”

Paula said. “When we went to New York, he took pictures of couriers, people in business suits, people coming out of stores. It was a real lesson in sociology to watch how people responded to Tucker.”

hibit showcases creative talents of people with disabilities. It runs May 3 through August 16, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The photography canvas contributed by Tucker features a parking meter against a brick building.

It was at this same art show a year ago that the idea for Tucker Collins Photography started. “Everything in the show has a price, and it is sold there,” said Paula.

After Tucker initially sold his work, Paula helped him to establish a website, tuckercollinsphotography.com.

Paula said that buyers for

Tucker’s work include “a lot of 20-somethings,” friends and family. “[His work] either hits you or it doesn’t.”

Future Focus Tucker and his family are still working to establish his business, trying to understand the best practices of running a photography website. For Paula, it is an important time. “Our next challenge is school to work, thinking about his future. It was much easier when he was younger because you saw the needs and could

WORCESTER ART MUSEUM

meet them. Now, we have a challenge,” she said.

“What’s important to remember is that every one of these kids has something to offer. You’ve just got to find it. Whether it’s a child with Down syndrome or a disability or a normal child,” Paula said.

“I think about that saying, ‘If you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.’ I never wanted that to be the case for Tucker.”

worcesterart.org f l n

Creating a Buzz Responding to Tucker is inevitable. His personable energy is disarming. At the MDSC (Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress) 30th Annual Conference held at Worcester’s DCU Center in March, Tucker worked a table selling his photographs. He shared 5” x 7” prints and photographs on 16” x 20” canvas. He invited people to look at his work and encouraged them to buy it, often heard asking, “You want one?” He inspired people with his excitement and talent, and he attracted parents with his story.

“Parents with young Down syndrome children notice Tucker.

They want to see that there is hope in the future,” said Paula.

“That’s what I was looking for when Tucker was young: hope in the older kids.”

Paula explained that Tucker created a buzz at the conference among families. “I don’t think he had any idea the impact his work made,” she said.

Among those taking note of the up-and-coming photographer was State Representative Tom Sannicandro (7th Middlesex District), a longtime advocate for people with intellectual disabilities.

“He saw one of Tucker’s photographs and said, ‘Hey, I have that very motorcycle,’” Paula said. He bought the piece and it now hangs in his office at the State House.

Sannicandro invited the Collins family for a reception at his office in Boston at the end of May. Also in May, Tucker’s work will be on display at As Far As the Eye Can See, an art exhibit presented

by Seven Hills Family Services and the Cantor Art Gallery at the College of the Holy Cross. The ex-

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play THE

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baystateparent is collaborating with Boston Children’s Museum to create a new, exciting supplement to our publication, “The Power of Play.” Each month, we include special features,

content, fun ideas (and even some special offers) from this venerable institution.

Talking to Children About Difficult Situations

BY SAKI IWAMOTO

W

hen tragic events happen in the world, especially in places that relate to you, it can often be difficult to cope with these events. Parents and anyone who works closely with children have to figure out what to tell their children. I wish there was no such thing as tragedy in the world – but unfortunately, bad things happen, and we need to be prepared for them.

Children in different developmental stages understand and react differently to traumatic events.

Even if they were not directly impacted by the event, they are often still aware that something unusual happened as a result of media coverage, adults’ conversations, or even slight changes in their regular routines. Children may not be able to express their concerns verbally like adults do.

Instead, they may exhibit their feelings through their behavior.

Play provides children with the opportunity to express their feelings, make sense of the world, and cope with stress. So when something difficult happens in the world, make sure that children have plenty of time to play.

The following are some tips to support your child in a difficult time: 50 MAY2014 51

• Limit exposure to news coverage of disturbing events.

Closely monitor what your child is seeing on TV and reading in magazines, newspapers and websites. Turn off the TV if it is negatively affecting your family. Kids under 6 should see little or none of the TV coverage.

• Talk to your child and provide simple, accurate information.

Don’t over-share about the traumatic events, but explain in an age-appropriate way what happened. If your child asks questions that you don’t know how to answer, it’s perfectly appropriate to say, “I don’t know” or “What do you think?”

• Reassure your child, but don’t lie.

If your child is concerned about his safety, you can tell him, “We are doing our best to keep everyone safe.” However, don’t pretend that tragic events will never happen. Instead, tell your child that these events are very rare.

• Acknowledge her feelings.

“I can see it makes you sad to think about all the people who were hurt by this event. I’m sad, too.” This helps clarify ev-

eryone’s feelings and reassure that those feelings are normal.

• Maintain regular routines and provide enough opportunity to play.

Make sure that regular routines, such as mealtime and bedtime, are adhered to as closely as possible so that your child feels secure. As mentioned above, play helps your child to express feelings and cope with stress, although you might not see the process directly.

• Take care of yourself, too.

Stress is contagious within a family, and children are incredibly adept at picking up on your emotional and behavioral cues.

At the same time, it is important for children to know that they are not alone in what they are feeling. So find those activities that help you to ease your own stress, too – maybe it’s reading a book, doing art, doing yoga, exercising, playing a game – whatever helps you to ease your mind, do it. And invite your child to join you.

There are few things more comforting than time together as a family.

Saki Iwamoto is Director of Health and Wellness Programs at Boston Children’s Museum.

The Importance of Humility

BY ALICE VOGLER

“Humility involves knowing your limits, and having appreciation for the intentions, strengths and perspectives of others.”

— Robert Dilts and Judith DeLozier, “The Encyclopedia of Systemic Neuro-Linguistic Programming and NLP New Coding”

“Humility can only come from those who actually have something about which to be humble. The humble are those who could crow, but chose to keep their beaks shut. Humility is also a close associate of gratitude, and it’s an attribute that simply oozes class.”

— All Pro Dads - www.allprodad.com/top10/parenting/ 10-ways-to-teach-your-children-humility/

“Humility is the foundation of this personal power which rests in the fact that we are not pretending to be anything or anyone we are not. It is a quiet power, an unshakable power.

A peaceful power. An active power. No sheer external force can, or ever has, overcome the power of humility. Countless historical examples have proven this principle.”

— John David Hoag, a Professional NLP Trainer, Coach and Therapist Humility, self-confidence and selfesteem are all important character traits no matter your age. Where does humility fit into teaching or raising children when self-esteem and selfconfidence are valued so highly in our society? What does humility have to do with creative confidence and creativity?

Humility, in part, is about being aware and observant, two qualities every active creative person has.

When I think about humility I think about being thankful, having a grateful heart, having the ability to appreciate and see value in anything that someone has done for you no matter how big or small. A humble person is able to see the bigger picture, the roles of everyone, and the importance of everyone. These are qualities that an artist has or strives to have – an ability and desire to clearly articulate artistically their relationship with the world around them. Self respect and respect for others are also very much a part of being humble.

I believe that in order to possess humility you must have a high level of self-confidence. These are traits we try to foster in the Art Studio. So how do we teach humility to children, to all the children we come in contact with? I have found some really nice examples from lots of different

people. Here are a few: • First and foremost: Adults should model humility themselves.

Help someone learn something new, and remember that children are natural teachers. Part of teaching is sharing. Share ideas as well as knowledge.

• Teach children to be helpful. To notice when someone needs a little help. Teach them to offer their help.

This may be something as simple as holding open a door for someone, grabbing a napkin if someone spills something, or helping to carry something if someone has too much in their hands.

• Teach appreciation. Say “thank you” when someone has done something for you.

• Encourage and help children to be the very best they can be—no matter what they do. Humility works best when your child has actually achieved something! Help your children achieve with confidence.

• Expose children to the great teachers and their stories.

• Teach children to value everyone. A truly humble person realizes that everyone needs to be respected. Introduce and expose your children to kids from other countries as well as other neighborhoods in your own city or town.

• Teach children how to apologize when they make a mistake.

Apologizing makes you place your pride aside, and it is one of the most humbling things you can do. Even if you are only a little wrong, apologize quickly without expecting anything in return.

• Teach your children how to know themselves from the inside-out, rather than attempting to construct who they are by comparing who they

are to others. If we are able to know ourselves from within, we are free to be. We are free to be incomparable and unique. And free to allow others their own unique qualities that can be appreciated on their own, and from which we may be able to learn and model new learning and capabilities.

Alice Vogler Leads the Art Studio at Boston Children’s Museum

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Just DON’T Hit Send

BY MARYJO KURTZ

It

was an early Saturday morning in February when the texting began. Parents of my son’s friends were rapidly texting over news that some middle school girls in my town of Westborough were caught sexting. A high school boy was arrested for selling the pictures.

“I just feel so bad about this. What do you plan to say to Joey?” one parent wrote.

Joey is my 13-year-old, a seventh grader in town. Over breakfast that morning, my husband and I learned that he had heard rumors of the sexting. There was plenty of food at breakfast that morning, mostly for thought.

“Just don’t hit send,” my husband said.

“We can’t control what is sent to you, but you can control what you do with it. Just don’t hit send.”

“The girls could have been charged.”

Westborough Police Chief Alan Gordon said that five Gibbons Middle School girls, ages 13 and 14, took inappropriate selfies together back in November. One of the girls forwarded a picture to her boyfriend in Southborough that was later emailed to a 15-year-old boy in Westborough.

The Westborough freshman then started selling the photo.

“He was arrested,” Gordon said. The boy will be summoned to Worcester Juvenile Court for disseminating obscene material of a minor. Gordon suspected that the boy will be placed on pre-trial probation.

“These are good kids, highly regarded in the schools, no problems with families or teachers,” Gordon said. “We aren’t looking to impact futures down the road.

We are looking to use this situation as a tool to teach what is right and what is wrong. Disseminating obscene material of a minor is a crime. The girls could have been charged.”

Westborough Public Schools Superintendent Marianne O’Connor said that the school must get involved when an incident happens on school property.

“This was between players of the baseball teams. One player showed some other players pictures of the girls, and one of the older students at the high school bought 52 MAY2014 53

the picture,” she said. “That’s where the school gets involved because it happened in the locker room at the high school.”

“It’s absolutely a sign of the times.”

Both Gordon and O’Connor said that this type of incident is becoming more common. “It’s absolutely a sign of the times,” said O’Connor.

“This isn’t being done at home,” she said.

“What the girls do is go to the mall and into a store like Victoria’s Secret and they try on stuff in the dressing room. They are in a closed booth, laughing, giggling, taking pictures and being silly. They don’t realize that it is not private, that it can be dangerous.”

O’Connor said she spoke with many girls in the middle school and reminded them that they don’t know who might see these photos five or ten years later. “Once it’s out there, it’s out there,” she said.

“Parents need to be aware of it.”

“These behaviors strongly correlate with sexual activity.”

Rhode Island clinical child and adolescent psychologist Christopher D. Houck, Ph.D., lead a recent study on sexting behaviors among at-risk adolescents. His work appeared in the January issue of Pediatrics.

Houck said that while his study focused on at-risk youth, there are some takeaways that can be applied to all teens.

“It’s important for parents to realize that these [sexting] behaviors strongly correlate with sexual activity,” he said. “These incidents remind us that it is important to have an open line of communication with your child.”

Houck said that parents can use these

naturally occurring moments, like the Westborough incident, to open up a conversation about sexting.

“Tell your children that you are open and want to communicate about it.”

He continued, “The great thing in today’s society is that we have Miley Cyrus. She is constantly giving us a starting point for these conversations. You might ask, ‘What did you think about how she performed on the awards show?’ Your kids might say she looked like a tramp or they might say that they loved it.

You can gage where kids are and where they differ or are the same as you.”

When asked the best age to begin a conversation about the sexting and its consequences, Gordon quickly responded, “As soon as a child has access to a cell phone.” O’Connor agreed, saying fourth and fifth grade is an appropriate age to discuss cell phone behavior.

“You need to set boundaries.”

When discussing cell phone responsibility with your children, the experts recommend five talking points.

1. Set up rules. If you plan to

randomly check your child’s cell phone, make that clear. “Yes, you want to honor a child’s privacy, but you need to set boundaries,” said Houck. “Every family has its own set of values and expections, but remember that you are the parent.”

2. Explain consequences for breaking the rules. “Parents must have consequences, and they should be explained clearly

to the child,” O’Connor said.

3. Establish ownership of the phone. Houck said, “The child has the phone because you are paying for it.” He said that while it may seem like a violation of privacy to inspect your child’s phone, you have a right to do so as both a parent and the owner of the phone.

4. Check phone activity. Gordon said that while you don’t want to snoop, it is reasonable to occasionally check a child’s cell phone use as well as the child’s computer history.

“Be very clear that you will be looking at the phone. Families must set limits and boundaries,” said Houck. “Set up guidelines for deleted messages, too. Tell them, ‘If I see a day of missing texts, I’m going to ask you about that.’ Talk about it in advance. If not, the child might feel it is a violation of trust.”

5. Explain the dangers of sexting.

Make sure your child understands what constitutes sexting, that it can be illegal for minors, and how it can affect those involved. “The phone is a tool just like a pen or pencil. If you wrote something bad, you would get called on it. You don’t use it to harass or abuse others. It can hurt. It can ruin adult lives,” said O’Connor.

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What are your values? This is a time to discuss that,” he said.

“Communication is key.”

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LETSGO

KNIGHTS!

WAM’s new collection combines history and art in a family-friendly way.

BY TRISH RESKE, PHOTOS BY STEVEN KING

The new Knights! exhibit at the Worcester Art Museum (WAM) heralds in a new, fresh approach to the beloved medieval collection of arms and armor acquired from the Higgins Armory Museum, which closed its ornamental doors at the end of 2014.

While the collection is the same, the context in which it is presented is very different: arms and armor are paired with art and historical context to present various stories of Medieval and Renaissance Europe in a way that is intended to engage curious minds of all ages.

“We want to translate as much as we can from the audiences that went to Higgins – which was lots of kids and their very happy parents - into the context of an art museum,” said WAM Director Matthias Waschek.

Waschek said that a balance was needed to create an exhibition that appeals to both six 54 MAY2014 55

and sixty-year-old audiences. WAM’s approach is to literally place visual art, artifacts and learning tools for kids at a lower strata of each exhibit, while placing art, arms and armor in the context of social themes and aesthetics at a higher level in each gallery.

“The Knights! exhibition is basically a testing ground of what we can do,” he said.

The initial exhibit includes five thematic sections: Courtly Pursuits, a view into the “fashion” of armor; The Dance of Love and War, an exploration of medieval male/ female relationships; Knights of the Round Table, featuring 13 helmets of various time periods; The Triumphal Arch, a look at architecture in war; and Good + Evil, learning how arms and armor can be beautiful, but represent violence.

Parents should be aware that a room enclosed within the Good + Evil section features Guns Without Borders in Mexico and Central America, which draws on information from the Pulitzer Center for Crisis Reporting. The projected and framed photographs by three well-respected documentary photographers may not be considered suitable for very young children to view.

Waschek believes that the inclusion of Guns Without Borders gives older

kids a perspective on arms that moves beyond fantasy. “In our time and age, kids are exposed to an avalanche of images. Violent images are everywhere. A museum is both a retreat from life sometimes, but it can also be a way of helping people embrace life differently. We embrace life with all of its wonderful and terrible realities. The world is not just a dream world,” he said.

While only a fraction of the 2,000 pieces acquired from Higgins are currently on display, WAM plans to have the entire collection installed by 2020.

“Knights! is very different from Higgins,” said Education Program Assistant Neal Bourbeau. “There are the same pieces, but they are shown in a different way. It’s an advantage because we aren’t just isolating the exhibit to the arms and armor technology; it’s a better chance to talk about the larger culture of the Medieval and Renaissance world.”

Katrina Stacey, Assistant Curator of Education at WAM said that the Higgins collection in its new environment is “a great opportunity for kids and for families because most people come to an art museum and don’t expect it to necessarily be a welcome place for families.

We really want to change that perception.”

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Families who visit the Knights! exhibit are guided by visual signs that feature the Higgins armored mascot dog, Helmutt. In each gallery, Helmutt invites children to engage in the exhibit by finding interesting objects, or exploring more information on different themes. The exhibit also features iPads with easy-to-access interactive information for both adults and kids. Every screen has a “Helmutt” character that explains the exhibit on a kid-friendly level.

The back of the exhibit area features Helmutt’s House, a family-friendly space where younger children can lounge on brightly-colored pillows, read books, try on costumes and props, and participate in medievalthemed arts and crafts.

Children can’t miss the full-size Batman suit in the main gallery – a reminder that medieval ideas of armor have been translated into modern cultural fantasy characters.

“We’re trying to make the tie between historical armor and contemporary armor, and also between reality and fantasy,” said Stacey. “Batman, who is called ‘The Dark Knight’ is a great example of that. His costume is actually inspired by armor.”

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“Our main school audience at Higgins was middle school,” said Huntington.

“Our educational programs here at WAM will be similar to Higgins, but in a completely different context. At Higgins, we completely focused on armor. Here, you have a completely other context to look at the collection in. We’re bringing together art, armor and culture for students.”

Bourbeau added that another benefit is that families and school groups can explore Knights! as well as the larger context of the museum as a whole. “There’s so much more to really discover, even beyond the Medieval and Renaissance time periods,” he said.

WAM will continue its Friday dropin story hour, and new educational 177 Main Street (Route 27) • Acton, MA 01720 • 978-264-4200 programs will be announced on discoverymuseums.org the museum’s website, www. worcesterart.org.

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Things I Miss

BY JON MCGRATH

You won’t miss…

W

hen my kids were younger, I didn’t spend a lot of time reading magazines like this one for two reasons. First, I wasn’t convinced that so-called “experts” knew much more about parenting than I did. And second, whatever time I did have to read, I wanted to spend reading stuff that had nothing to do with kids.

Our kids were sleeping. I wanted to read Roddy Doyle and Nick Hornby and David Halberstam. I didn’t want to read about how I’m supposed to play with my kid (if I couldn’t figure that out, I’d turn in my parenting license), how to avoid over-scheduling (I’m going with “schedule less stuff”), or dream family vacations I’d never be able to afford.

I didn’t want my kids to be less rambunctious, as some articles had suggestions on doing. I wanted them to be more rambunctious, so when the puck dropped at the Boston Garden on NESN, the drool was dropping onto their pillows because they were wiped out from running around all day. I’d trade in hours of chaos, messiness, and (usually) accidental blows to my testicles for just a few hours of peace before my wife, Jen, and I went to bed.

Now that my kids (14, 12, and 10) and I are all a little older, I’m seeing the value of parenting magazines more clearly than I did 10 years ago.

Much content consists of parents

58 MAY2014 59

with a little experience sharing lessons they’ve learned with other parents going through the same stuff, different year. If I’d read some of this stuff then, maybe I’d have a better handle on how to assure my kids didn’t use our entire house as a closet (but I never would have discovered Joseph O’Connor).

That said, I’ve come to the conclusion that I’m not really an expert in any aspect of parenting.

I’m not even sure why I was asked to write for this magazine. I get up every day, go to work, do the best I can as a dad and husband, and hope I don’t come home one day to an unemployed kid with no ambition and a body full of tattoos with a chain connecting two nipple rings, watching a marathon of classic seasons of The Bachelor. On my couch.

One thing I do know is that time goes by too quickly. I can hardly look at my kids’ baby books or old pictures and videos because I can’t believe how much they’ve grown and changed, and it makes me sad.

Although I’m thankful to be able to relive those moments, it’s almost like I’m watching someone else go through them. It doesn’t seem possible that they (or I) were that young.

So for you parents who still have young ones and are wishing away your diaper-changing days, I can tell you there are some things that you will miss, and others you won’t.

• Changing diapers. I’m nostalgic about a million things, but not this.

• The Bag. “Do you have The Bag? Is The Bag ready? Did you put everything in The Bag? Where’s The Bag?” Besides our actual children, The Bag was the most important thing in the world the moment we stepped out of the house.

• The Following. When toddlers toddle and you’re not in your own house, you have to follow them from room to room to make sure they don’t crash into anything that can do serious damage or destroy anything you can’t afford to replace. This makes visiting other houses not an actual visit, but a tour of any room that is not blocked off. You never have any conversation lasting more than three words because the kid is running around like a nut. I don’t miss this, even a little.

• Vomiting for no good reason.

If your kids are relatively healthy to begin with, vomiting has to be the worst part about parenting.

My kids had a knack for throwing up all over everything. It was a gift. They still do, but not nearly as often, and usually because of illness, not some inexplicable 4:00 a.m. vomit-fest followed by their waking up and eating breakfast three hours later like nothing ever happened.

• Kiddie birthday parties. Those were the worst. Sitting around a loud, smelly, germ-infested bouncy house, playground, or bland party room to watch a bunch of sugar-overdosed fouryear-old maniacs was not high on my list of how to spend 3 hours on a Saturday, but I did it anyway because the kids had fun. Plus, it upped the Vomit Possibility Meter (VPM) by about plus-infinity.

• Being woken up in the middle of the night. “Daddy! Daddy!!

DADDY!!!” I once heard in a bloodcurdling scream. I leapt from my bed and sprinted into the room, expecting no less than a confrontation with either a grizzly bear or an armed gang of crystal meth dealers. “I can’t find my Pooh Bear,” he said.

• Them sitting on your lap or cuddling up next to you on the couch. Now they don’t even want to be on the same couch as me if they can help it. When they fell asleep on my lap, I could have sat there all day long.

• First thing in the morning.

They used to be so happy to see me in the morning. Now I’m lucky to get more than a “good morning,” unless they’re hoping I’ll make them breakfast.

Then I’ll get a “Good morning, and how would you feel about making me breakfast?”

• Playing. Sure, I still play with my kids. We play wiffle ball all summer long, and all sorts of board games and quiz games throughout the year. But it’s different. We try to keep it fun and non-competitive, but sibling rivalry almost inevitably kicks in and someone thinks something isn’t fair and gets dramatic.

Every time I walk across a parking lot with one of my kids, I think back to the days when I’d hold their hands while doing so. I don’t know when the last time that happened was. I guess my point is that you never know when the last time anything will be.

Those little moments. The last time they run up to greet you when you walk in the door after work. The last time you have to cut up their dinner.

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BAYSTATEPARENT 60 61

SUMMERCAMP

friend

actor

scientist

musician

Bancroft School 2014 Summer Camps and Programs Give your child a summer of fun, learning, and friendship at Bancroft.

Day camp, musical theater, robotics, sports, strings, day trips, animation, mythology, and more.

Something for every interest, ages 4 to 15, from June to August.

Register Now www.bancroftschool.org/summer2014

Lower, Middle, & Upper Schools

62 MAY2014 63

110 Shore Drive Worcester, MA 01605 508.854.9227 www.bancroftschool.org

SUMMERCAMP

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t u o l’s o o Sch

!

N I S ’ T R A

Get Inspired

at Worcester Art Museum Registration starts May 1st for Summer Youth Camp-Alternative Classes!

Let art created by the great masters inspire and influence your children’s artistic development.

Every class includes at least one gallery visit to view part of our permanent collection or a special exhibition.

Sessions available

NEW!

Member Exclusive: Multi-child/Multi-week discounts!

July 7-11 July 14-18 July 21-25

July 28- Aug. 1 August 4-8 August 11-15

worcesterart.org/ classes BAYSTATEPARENT 62 63

SUMMERCAMP

SummerDance THREE SUMMER PROGRAM OPTIONS

THE YOUNG DANCERS’ SUMMER DAY CAMP August 4–8 • Mon–Fri, 9:00 to 12:30 AGES 7–12 • 9:00 to 12:30 AGES 5-6 • 9:00 to 12:00

POINTE SUMMER INTENSIVE 5:00-7:00 pre-pointe warm up, barre and center practice concentration Weeknights throughout the summer.

Beginner (at least one year) to advanced dancers.

OPEN CLASSICAL BALLET CLASS Ages 12 through adult • 7:00-8:30 pm JUNE 10-28—Tues, Wed & Thurs JULY 8-AUGUST 28—Tues & Thurs Ages 9 to 11 • 5:15-6:45 pm JULY 8-31—Tues & Thurs

BAW

inc

BALLET ARTS WORCESTER

Jennifer Agbay, Director 508.791.3233 BALLETARTSWORCESTER.COM

REGISTRATION REQUIRED Dance classes subject to change without notice.

/TouchTomorrowWPI

BE PAR T O F I T. NASA returns for the Sample Return Robot Centennial Challenge, a national competition with a $1.5 million prize. In celebration, WPI will host the third annual TouchTomorrow— a family-friendly festival featuring interactive exhibits by WPI, NASA, and friends—for kids of all ages.

@TouchTomorrowpi #TouchTomorrow

Join us.

JUNE 14, 2014 FESTIVITIES START AT 10 AM

Worcester Polytechnic Institute touchtomorrow.wpi.edu

Admission is free.

Rain or shine.

Ad_Baystate Parent.indd 64TTMAY2014 65

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4/17/14 9:22 AM

SUMMERCAMP

New England Aquarium

Harbor Discoveries Camps Register now!

2014

SUMMER SUMMER PROGRAMS PROGRAMS

Mutimedia Camp

Harbor Discoveries Visit www.neaq.org/camps or call 617-973-5206.

This camp complies with regulations of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and is licensed by the Board of Health.

Visual Arts

Multimedia Arts/Theater (WASA) Robotics Camp Sports Camp Robotics Science Co-ed Soccer CampFootball Arts Camp (WASA) Co-ed Soccer Co-ed Basketball Camp Science Camp Co-ed Basketball International Girls Volleyball Summer Program Girls Volleyball Camp Football Camp Sports 3D Design & Printing Visual Arts Video Game Design

WORCESTER ACADEMY WORCESTER ACADEMY

ACHIEVE THE HONORABLE

81 Providence Street, Worcester • 508.754.5302 www.worcesteracademy.org/summer

Summer Programs June 23rd through August 22nd

Celebrating 92 Amazing Summers in the Berkshires!

Boroughs JCC 45 Oak Street Westborough, MA 508-366-6121 Heated Pool • Sailing • Skate Park Zip Line • Zumba Tennis Dance Team Sports • Gymnastics Crafts Pottery • Waterskiing Archery • Judo • Rocketry • Golf • Yoga • Guitar Cheerleading & much, much more!

Enroll Today For Summer 2014

Day Camp and Sleepover Camp Ages 3 to 16 ~ Flexible Sessions Beautiful Lake Buel Campus Only 5 miles from Gt. Barrington

888-528-0940

Theme weeks include: Swim, LEGO®, Science, Music, Arts & Crafts Beach activities, and more.

Open to children ages 15 months to 7 years

www.boroughsjcc.org BAYSTATEPARENT 64 65

SUMMERCAMP

bout our

Twinkle Twinkle Building Your Child’s Confidence Little Star...

Building Your Child’s Confidence • Model

• Dance Building Your Child’s Ages 2+ • Beginner through Pre-Professional Training • Act Confidence • Tap • Hip-Hop (all ages) • Break Dancing (all ages) • Sing Ballet Boys Classes • Acro • Contemporary • Lyrical

Limited Spots Available!

Ages 2+ • Beginner through Pre-Professional Training Ballet • Tap • Hip-Hop (all ages) • Break Dancing (all ages) Boys Classes • Acro • Contemporary • Lyrical

...Call to Find Training Out Ages 2+ • Beginner through Pre-Professional Ballet • Tap • Hip-Hop (all ages) • Break Dancing (all ages) When Camps Are! Boys Classes • Acro • Contemporary • Lyrical

Central Mass Dance Academy

ask about our

Central Mass For children ages 3 / -14 Central Mass Dance AcademyDance Academy

Twinkle Babies Program for ages 18 mos. - 4 yrs. ask about our

nkle Babies Program for ages 18 mos. - 4 yrs.

June 23 - August 15, 2014

65 Water St., Worcester 508-754-2700 • cmdanceacademy.com

65 Water St., Worcester 508-754-2700 • cmdanceacademy.com

Twinkle Babies

1

2

• Weekly sessions (two week minimum) • AM and PM Extended Day Options 65 WaterNobles St., Worcester Day Camp, 10 Campus Drive, Dedham, MA 02026

508-754-2700 • cmdanceacademy.com

Program for ages 18 mos. - 4 yrs.

worcester bravehearts

outings - birthdays - camps!

Group Outings Starting at $5 a Ticket!

Birthday Parties Pre-Game All-You-Can-Eat Picnics Single Game Tickets On Sale Now!

sign up for summer camp!

July 7-11 and July 21-25 9 am - 2 pm

WorcesterBravehearts.com (508) 438-3773 Hanover Insurance Park at Fitton Field 66 MAY2014 67

FENCING

Clinics

CAPEN HILL NATURE CAMP Get Back To Nature!

7 Sessions • July 7 - August 29 Morning or Full Day Sessions for Beginners/Intermediate Fencers Develops Coordination, Critical Thinking, Agility, Endurance and Balance

110 #2 Clematis Ave. Waltham 781-891-0019 www.bostonfencingclub.org

4 1-Week Sessions Beginning July 14th Ages 4-12 56 Capen Road, Charlton, MA Call or visit website to register.

508-248-5516 • Capenhill.org

BAYSTATEPARENT 66 67

SUMMERCAMP

Youth

Dance, Gym & Enrichment

Party People!

Party People!

Gym Hutt Gymnastics 84 Pierce Avenue ♦ Lakeville, MA Classes for boys and girls Recreational & Competitive programs *Gymnastics is the best foundation for any sport*

508-823-2299 ♦ www.gymhutt.com

BOSTON PAINTBALL

INDOOR: 121 Webster Ave, Chelsea • 617-941-0123 OUTDOOR: 1 Tavern Circle, Sudbury • 978-263-1277 INDOOR/OUTDOOR: 120 Pond St. (Rt. 126) Ashland • 508-879-6621

Where fitness is FUN!

SMALL GROUP PIANO LESSONS AT YOUR SCHOOL!

WWW.BOSTONPAINTBALL.COM - 617.941.0123

Also Offering Vacation Programs

For children ages 3 to 14.

Fun, creative lessons are conveniently located at your child’s school or child care facility.

We provide the instructor and instrument.

For more information or to bring Piano Playtime to your school, contact Molly Howard at 617-999-8794 pianoplaytime@yahoo.com www.pianoplaytime.com In-home private lessons also available

Stardust Gym offers a variety of children’s activities including: Gymnastics, Cheerleading & Toddler Classes (up to age 12) and The Best Parties Around Visit us online for more information.

612 Plymouth St., Rte. 106 ★ East Bridgewater 508-378-2223 ★ www.STARDUSTGYM.com

“All Live” Insects, Small Reptiles & Animals

The Coolest Party EVER! There’s Nothing Else Like It. School presentations also available.

Fordshometown.com 1-800-649-9992

Also Offering Vacation Programs

Stardust Gym offers a variety of children’s activities including: Gymnastics, Cheerleading & Toddler Classes (up to age 12) Visit us online for more information.

612 Plymouth St., Rte. 106 ★ East Bridgewater 508-378-2223 ★ www.STARDUSTGYM.com 68 MAY2014 69

New Flavors Daily Fresh Fruit Made from Scratch Parties • Weddings • Showers

238 Millbury Ave., Millbury, MA

508-459-9600 TheQueensCups.com

P

All Ages.

Birthday Parties, Schools, Fairs, Day Care Centers, Etc.

Service Directory Preschool & Child Care for Kids & Families

MAGIC TOUCH Nursery • Pre-School • Kindergarten

387 East Center Street, Route 106 West Bridgewater

508-584-2228

Private Kindergarten Nursery-Preschool Day care services Summer program Drop-off services Before & After School Full and half days Extended days Open all year 6:30 am to 5:30 pm

www.rosalitaspuppets.com 617-633-2832

Big Joe

the Storyteller Storytelling fun for Birthday Parties, Schools, Daycare Centers, Library Programs, Special Events and TV Featuring: • Original & Classic Stories • Puppets, Props and Surprises For Bookings and Info Call: 617-713-4349 E-mail: BigJoe@BigJoe.com Visit me on the web at: www.BigJoe.com

Now Enrolling-Toddlers 15 Mos-2.9 yrs old

www.magictouchpreschool.com

Speech & Language Pathology Evaluation & Therapy Provided for: • Social pragmatic groups • Autism • Reading / dyslexia • Language delays • Articulation • Accent reduction

Beacon Therapies

1051 Beacon St., Brookline, MA brooklineslp@gmail.com beacontherapiesinc.com

To Advertise contact Regina Stillings regina@ baystateparent.com

Preschool Service Directory & Child Care for Kids & Families Fun & Challenging

First Learning Experience for 3, 4, & 5 year olds

ool

esch r P e c a r G azing

AmYear ‘Round Pre-K Program

• Full and Half Day programs available • Pre-Care and After-Care available • Low student/teacher ratio • Bible-based curriculum • Phonics, Math, Reading, Music, Art, Spanish & Sign Language!

• Experienced teachers with degrees in Education • Kindergarten to 12th Grade enrollment available

1000 Oak Hill Ave., Attleboro, MA (508) 431-8159 or (508) 222-8675 director: Lorraine Bailey www.theamazinggracepreschool.org www.gracebaptistchristianacademy.org

Celebrating 30 years!

• Live In-Out Nanny Care • Experienced Nannies only • CPR Certified • Respite Care for Special Needs • Part-time/Temp Care • Seasonal: Local Cape & Islands • Permanent Year Round: Framingham & West

originalnanny.com Judy Flynn: 508-723-4912

Professional sitters referral svcs., inc.

In Trained, mature, responsible childcare in your home.

business for 20 Years!

Hourly • Daily Overnight • Weekends Full Weeks Memberships Available call Peggy at 781-582-1691 or email prositters@comcast.net

prositters.webs.com BAYSTATEPARENT 68 69

FRIDAY, JUNE 6, 2014 FIFTH ANNUAL

INDEX

7:45 am – 4:30 pm

REGISTER ONLINE worcesterchamber.org

Worcester, MA

presented by

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS 3:15 pm

8:45 am

Claire Shipman

Molly Barker

Senior contributor for ABC News’ Good Morning America, World News and Nightline

Founder: Girls on the Run, triathlete, social worker, and founder of Running Mates USA

Workshops

Mind Your Own Business: The basics of starting or expanding your own company On a Mission: How giving back can impact your community and career

Lunch & Leadership Panel

Anne Margulies, CIO, Harvard University Vicary Graham, President, BNY Mellon Wealth Management Christina Chase, Entrepreneur in Residence, MIT

Diversity: A Competitive Advantage

PANEL MODERATOR

How to Overcome Your Chief Doubting Officer and Build Confidence

Kelley Tuthill

Great Expectations: The Employer and Employee Perspective

WCVB NewsCenter 5

$150 per person for this day-long conference includes…

Inspiring Keynotes | Leadership Panel | Motivational Breakout Sessions Continental Breakfast | Marketplace | Networking | Book Signings | Lunch DETAILS: WWW.WORCESTERCHAMBER.ORG OR 508.753.2924

“Great energy, great message. I am so impressed with the caliber of speakers!” – Lynne LEAD SPONSORS

LUNCHEON SPONSOR

Mary DeFeudis

70 MAY2014 71

BREAKFAST SPONSOR

SPEAKER SPONSORS

MARKETPLACE SPONSOR

SUPPORTING SPONSOR

WORKSHOP SPONSORS

Clinton Savings Bank | MCPHS University Saint Vincent Hospital | United Bank | Webster Five

Applewild School......................................................... 44 B.A.W. Inc.................................................................. 64 Backyard Adventures.................................................... 17 Bancroft School......................................................14,62 Big Y Foods, Inc........................................................... 4 Boroughs JCC.............................................................. 65 Boston Ballet.............................................................. 53 Boston Fencing Club..................................................... 67 Camp Half Moon......................................................... 65 Camp Invention........................................................... 60 Capen Hill Sanctuary.................................................... 67 Central MA Dance Academy.......................................... 66 Chess Camp................................................................ 60 Children’s Dentistry of Northborough............................... 44 Clarke School for Hearing & Speech............................... 48 Clinton Savings Bank.....................................................2 Coldwell Banker/Sue Marzo...........................................9 Consign My Closet....................................................... 12 Cornerstone Academy.....................................................3 Creative Photo Lampshades........................................... 43 Dance It Up................................................................ 33 Davis Farmland........................................................... 33 Defence Lab................................................................ 31 Devereux Therapeutic Foster Care.................................. 23 Diane Kelley Dance Studio..............................................5 Discovery Museums..................................................... 55 Drama Kids................................................................. 60 Ecotarium................................................................... 59 Edumentor Tutoring...................................................... 53 Eric Carle Museum.........................................................8 Fay School................................................................. 64 Fidelity Investments..................................................... 34 FMC Ice Sports............................................................ 45 Gauthier’s Plumbing & Heating...................................... 53 Great Wolf New England............................................... 11 Growing Room of Berlin (The)....................................... 48 Gymnastics Learning Center.......................................... 20 Inn at East Hill Farm.................................................... 49 John Robert Powers..................................................... 48 Jump In With Us......................................................... 30 Kiddie Academy........................................................... 44 L.J.’s Hair Hop............................................................. 25 Legoland Discovery Center............................................ 57 Mighty Oaks Montessori School..................................... 49 Millbury Savings Bank.................................................. 21 Music Together Corporation........................................... 24 New England Aquarium................................................ 65 New England Music Academy........................................ 45 Next Generation Children’s Ctr....................................... 13 Nobles Day Camp........................................................ 66 Old Sturbridge Village..............................................18,19 Paintbox Studio........................................................... 55 Pakachoag Community Music........................................ 67 Parenting Solutions...................................................... 25 Pinecroft School.......................................................... 55 Plymouth Philharmonic Orchestra................................... 21 Regatta Point Community Sailing................................... 60 Reliant Medical Group.................................................. 39 Roots Natural Foods Inc................................................ 36 Shawna Shenette Photography...................................... 21 Sholan Farms.............................................................. 36 Skribbles Learning Center.............................................. 45 Sports Clip Barber Shop................................................ 43 StoneGates Hardscape.................................................. 30 Summer Fenn/The Fenn School.................................... 60 The Hanover Theatre.................................................... 72 Tri State Speedway...................................................... 30 Vintage Pearl................................................................9 Wachusett Theatre Company......................................... 61 WCLOC Children’s Theater............................................. 49 West End Creamery & Family Farm............................... 29 Wheelock College Theatre............................................. 33 Whisker Walk............................................................. 49 Wild Orchid Baby......................................................... 43 Worcester Academy...................................................... 65 Worcester Art Museum...........................................47, 63 Worcester Bravehearts.................................................. 66 Worcester JCC............................................................. 51 Worcester Music Academy............................................. 55 Worcester Women’s Leadership Conference..................... 70 WPI........................................................................... 64 YMCA Central Branch................................................... 31 YMCA-Metrowest......................................................... 59

We Want

YOU

In Our June Issue!

We are looking for pictures of Massachusetts kids and families to feature in our

Ultimate Guide to Summer coming out in June!

This special issue of baystateparent is your complete guide to summer fun in Massachusetts — with ideas for places to go and things to do.

A special issue like this calls for special photos of special families — like yours!

How do you celebrate summer? Show us!

Amateurs and professionals alike are welcome to submit high-quality photos.

Include the names of the people in the photo, where it was taken, and the name of the photographer. Send as many as you like! We will be featuring your photos in our print editions and on baystateparent.com!

Send your fun summer photos to: paula@baystateparent.com.

Deadline is Saturday, May 10 BAYSTATEPARENT 70 71

SUBSCRIBE TODAY to give a MOThER’S DAY GIFT that will last ALL YEAR! Discover your inner elf.

THE BROADWAY MUSICAL

TM ©

The Broadway Musical

OcT 28-NOv 2, 2014

NOv 21-23, 2014

INSPIRED BY THE TRUE STORY

JaN 9-11, 2015

North American Tour Cast. Photo by Jeremy Daniel

M ILLION D OLLAR Q UARTET L IVE . COM

Feb 13-15, 2015

Mar 6-8, 2015

MaY 8-10, 2015

Guarantee her great seats to the best of Broadway by calling 877.571.SHOW (7469).

Our 2014-15 Broadway Series includes a show for every holiday, including Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and Mother’s Day! TheHanoverTheatre.org • 877.571.SHOW (7469) 2 Southbridge Street • Worcester, MA 01608 Swipe your WOO Card for points and prizes!

Worcester Center for the Performing Arts, a registered not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization, owns and operates The Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts.

72 MAY2014