baystateparent magazine January 2020 by baystateparent magazine

PRICELESS

Massachusetts’ Premier Magazine For Families Since 1996

JANUARY 2020

Let’s Skate! 12 Outdoor Rinks

Are Your Kids Getting Enough Sleep? Pediatricians Update ADHD Guidelines

Parenting Resolutions for the New Year

2 JANUARY2019

contents

t a b le o f

j an u ary 2020

v olu me 2 4

n u mb e r 9

on the cover: Liam Nordman, 9, takes the ice on the Worcester Common Oval. Photo by Ashley Green

Allowing kids the freedom to fail

Feeling stressed? Try mindfulness. It’s easier than you think

Two decades after writing it, local grandmother publishes first children’s book

in every issue

bites

the agenda

6 Editors’s Note 7 Freebies 8 Good to Know 10 Finally Forever 11 Herding Goofballs 13 Fave Four 22 Cyber Savvy Mom 35 Take Eight

14 Goose’s Goodies:

26 The List: 12 Spots for

Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix & Fluffy Marshmallows

Outdoor Skating

15 Nutrition: Unhealthy Habits Can Start Young

28 Check This Out: Belmont Family Film Festival 30 Adventures: 70+ Things to Do This Month

BAYSTATEPARENT 3

baystateparent 8 president PAUL M. PROVOST

What’s Your New Year’s Resolution?

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associate publisher KATHY REAL BENOIT 508-767-9525 kbenoit@gatehousemedia.com

CREATIVE editor in chief AMANDA COLLINS BERNIER 508-767-9526 acollins@gatehousemedia.com

To restart my yoga practice. I find it helps me feel better in almost every part of my life, but I don’t commit the time I’d like to it.

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This year, I’m hoping to be more disciplined about putting money in our savings account.

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creative director SHIELA NEALON 508-793-9121 shiela.nealon@telegram.com

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That’s easy, to get back to the gym and get in shape for my son’s wedding in May.

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ADVERTISING sales manager JEREMY WARDWELL 508-767-9574 jwardwell@gatehousemedia.com account executive KATHY PUFFER 508-767-9544 kpuffer@gatehousemedia.com account executive REGINA STILLINGS 508-767-9546 rstillings@gatehousemedia.com

baystateparent is published 100 Front Street, 5th Floor monthly and is distributed Worcester, MA 01608 free of charge throughout Massachusetts.

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ONLINE

do you have a story idea? We want to hear from you! Email your suggestion to baystateparent.com acollins@gatehousemedia.com

coming up…

next month

Not very exciting, but my resolution is to get more organized this year.

’’

Hungry for more? Our second annual Food Issue comes out next month! We’re cooking up content all about food and families - from the best kids’ cookbooks to your out-to-eatwith-little-ones survival guide. You’ll also find some fabulous winter festivals happening in February, plus dozens of ideas for family fun. Stay tuned!

4 JANUARY2019

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My s g n i h T Fa vo rit e editor’s note

Bulky coats are unsafe for kids to wear in their carseat. Wrestling a toddler in and out of a jacket you every time you go anywhere? I know the struggle. So did a mom in New Hampshire who had the genius idea of moving a coat’s zipper over to the side. We’re loving our Buckle Me Baby Coat. The front panel pulls to the side and the shoulder seams are set in the back of the jacket. That way, the car seat straps are under the coat and rest on the child’s chest where they belong.

Did you know January is National Soup Month? There’s nothing more comforting than a steamy bowl of soup, especially when it’s chilly outside. You can find recipes for two of my favorite homemade soups -- Creamy Tomato with Grilled Cheese Croutons and Butternut Bisque -- on baystateparent.com. 6 JANUARY2019

There’s a 4-letter word that helps hold my marriage together. No, not one of those 4-letter words. It starts with L … but no, it’s not love. (That sounds bad, huh?) Here it is: list. My penchant for making lists for every big and little thing I need to do definitely comes from my mom. As a teen, when she’d rattle off all the things I needed to get done, she’d always nudge, “why don’t you make a list?” The suggestion was so perpetual that teenage me dubbed them “stupid f—ing lists” (yes, that 4-letter word), and we still call our checklists “SFLs” to this day. My husband has an ongoing honey-do list that lives on a magnetic notepad on our fridge. Its items range from giant projects to little, more every day things. Admittedly, some of the items have been on that notepad for a very long time, and I’m OK with that. Getting the task out of my head and onto a piece of paper helps me feel like it’s somehow, in some small way, on its way to getting done. Turns out, I’m not alone on this. A study from Wake Forest University found that while tasks we haven’t done can distract us, just making a plan to get them done can free us from anxiety. Writing things down can give you a sense of relief; a transformation in which your brain goes from chaos to the first stages of organization. Researchers have also proven that writing down a goal makes you much more likely to accomplish it than if you don’t. So, if you’re making any resolutions for 2020, put pen to paper. Haven’t made any New Year’s resolutions? Don’t worry, I made you a list (I couldn’t help myself). Here are three parenting resolutions for 2020: 1. Be Present. If “mindful parenting” sounds silly to you, know it really boils down to this: mindfulness can help you be more in the moment with your kids, and help you stay calm when they’re pushing your buttons. Breathe. Find tips for getting started on page 20. 2. Back Off. Sure, it’s our job to care for our children, but at some point, we have to give them a little space. On page 18, you can read about why we need to step back and allow our children room to not only push themselves, but even to fail. 3. Do Something You Always Wanted To Do. Skydive? Travel? Write a book? Check something off your bucket list this year. Let Sue Wambolt, a grandmother from Southborough who just published a book she wrote over two decades ago be your inspiration. Read her story on page 24. What’s on your list for 2020? I’d love to hear from you. Happy New Year!

Amanda

Santa brought my son this cool Tree Top Adventures Vertiplay wall toy (he must have known I was losing my mind with all the toys scattered all over the floor). It’s whimsical, detailed, and different than any other toy he has. What little boy doesn’t love cars on a track? And what mom doesn’t love clutter-free, mess-free fun? Win win.

I wish I took more time to read all the books that land on my desk. But I’m glad I picked up Janelle Hanchett’s “I’m Just Happy To be Here: A Memoir of Renegade Mothering.” It chronicles the pressures of modern motherhood and the author’s journey to recovery. It’s candid, funny, and refreshingly relatable.

JANUARY

Freebies! Check out some of the goodies we’re giving away in January! Make sure you follow us on Facebook for your chance to win and to be in-the-know for other surprise freebies throughout the month.

VertiPlay STEM Marble Run This versatile stick-onthe-wall toy allows kids to test their critical thinking and problem solving skills while teaching them concepts of gravity, speed, trajectory and more. Make infinite new marble runs with a few simple ramps. For ages 5+.

Museum Tickets Go inside the Discovery Museum to explore hands-on, low-tech, open-ended exhibits for children of all ages. Go outside, and climb on the coolest, biggest treehouse you’ve ever seen (open year-round!). We’re giving away 4-packs of tickets to this family-fun gem in Acton.

Books! Books! Books! Picture books, chapter books, the newest teen titles. We’ve got stacks and stacks of books… and we’re giving them away! BAYSTATEPARENT 7

good to know Psst! Do you know the secret to baby brain development?

It's you! As a parent, one of the best ways to boost your baby's brain development is by reading, talking and singing to your infant. In a new public service announcement, the American Academy of Pediatrics encourages parents to read, talk and sing with their infants starting from birth. Doctors are reminding parents that fancy toys are not needed – a simple book, set of blocks, or the game of peeka-boo are all great ways to engage babies and boost their brain development.

Changes coming to ACT test in 2020 Students could have a better chance at getting a high score on their college entrance exam with the revamped ACT test being unveiled this fall. The ACT is one of two national tests many colleges use to judge students’ readiness for college. It considers four subject areas: English, math, reading and science, plus an optional writing test. The other test is the SAT, run by the College Board. The two tests both require most students to pay a fee, among other similarities, and most selective colleges will take results from either assessment. Starting in September, the ACT is rolling out a number of changes to the test. Most notably, students will be able to retake specific subject areas of the ACT where they did poorly. It used to be that if a student was weak in specific sections and wanted to improve, they needed to retake the entire test. Students must have taken the test in full at least once before they can retake individual sections. The test can also now be taken digitally at a testing center when it’s administered nationally. That means test-takers will get their results more quickly, ACT officials say. The ACT will also provide students additional score report options to colleges based on superscoring. Superscoring is a trend that more colleges and universities have adopted in recent years. It allows students to submit multiple score reports. Colleges can then average the highest section scores together into a new composite score.

More than half of kids aren’t getting enough sleep Build-a-Bear now has a subscription box. Fans of the custom-made stuffed animals no longer have to go the Builda-Bear Workshop to create a new friend. The company launched a new ‘Cubscription’ box to deliver kids a new furry friend every season (four times a year). In addition to a 12-inch already stuffed animal, the boxes come packed with clothing and accessories for your stuffed animal, as well as matching clothing and accessories for kids, plus other fun items, like notebooks, crafts, towels, posters, stickers and more. Subscription starts at $29.99 per box.

We’re looking for messy eaters! Covered in spaghetti? Blueberries in her hair? First bite of baby food? Cake smash? We want to see it! Send photos of your kiddo, mess and all, to bspeditor@ gatehousemediacom, and it may just be included in an upcoming issue of baystateparent!

8 JANUARY2019

School children who get 9 hours of sleep most weeknights are significantly more likely to show a positive outlook toward school and other signs of “childhood flourishing,” but more than half of school age children in the U.S. do not get enough sleep during the week. According to recent research by the American Academy of Pediatrics, only 48% of school age children get 9 hours of sleep most weeknights. “Chronic sleep loss is a serious public health problem among children,” research author Dr. Hoi See Tsao said. “Insufficient sleep among adolescents, for example, is associated with physical and mental health consequences including increased risk of depression and obesity and negative effects on mood, attention and academic performance.” According to Harvard Medical School, the recommended amount for sleep for infants is 12 to 16 hours (including naps); toddlers 11 to 14 hours (including naps); preschoolers 10 to 13 hours including naps); grade school-aged children nine to 12 hours; and teens eight to 10 hours. Here are four ways to help make sure your children get enough sleep during the week, according to Harvard Medical School:

1. Make sleep a priority: Like scheduling time for homework, sports and other other activities, schedule time for sleep. Start from when your child needs to get up in the morning, then found back the number of hours your child needs to sleep. Set a non-negotiable bedtime. 2. Start the bedtime routine earlier: Give you kids time to wind down because it isn’t easy to go straight from a physically or mentally intense activity right to sleep. Give your child 30 minutes to an hour to wind down before their bedtime. 3. Turn off screens: Blue light from screens can wake up the brain and make it harder to fall asleep. Turn off an hour before you want your child to be asleep. 4. Keep the same sleep routines: Even on weekends and vacations, keep the same sleep routines. Changes in sleep routines can throw a child’s body “off.”

Teen driver distraction: what to keep in mind Are teens more distracted than other drivers? There’s no data to back it up, but many people believe it to be true, said Dr. Gary Freed, a pediatrician and researcher at the University of Michigan C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. The results of a new study conducted at the University of Michigan reveal that parents should not only be concerned with their young drivers but with other teens who may be driving distracted. More than half of parents in the new national poll believe their teen has been in an unsafe situation riding with a teen driver. “When teens start driving, there is rightfully a big focus on the safety of the drivers themselves. But our poll suggests that parents should play an active role in not only preparing teens to be safe drivers, but to be safety-minded passengers when riding with friends,” said Freed, co-director of the poll. Top concerns The C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health is a nationally representative report based on responses from 877 parents with at least one child ages 14 to 18. The poll asked parents to report on their attitudes and actions concerning their own teen riding in a car with other people their age. Over 45% of parents were most concerned about loud

music, which ranked just higher than cell phones (42%) and other teens in the car (39%). Speeding was also a top concern for 45% of parents, along with teens being too tired to drive safely (14%) or impaired by alcohol or drugs (5%). For some teens driving is a common activity: 1 in 3 parents said their teens are passengers with teen drivers at least once or twice a week. Because teens lack experience they may not be able to react as quickly to changes in road or driving conditions, Freed said. Teens may also not pay as close attention to other cars or pedestrians as needed to stay safe, he said. Know the danger signs Car crashes are the leading cause of death and injury for teens. More than half of teens who die in car crashes are not behind the wheel, and their chances of being in a fatal accident are much higher when there is a teen driver, according to national statistics. Parents should talk to their kids about being responsible passengers and encourage them to be proactive. “Speak up to stop any unsafe activities,” Freed says. If a teen sees a friend reaching for a cellphone or fiddling with the music controls, they can offer to hold the phone or help stream music, for example. Let teens know it’s OK to ask a driver to slow down or get out of the car and walk if they’re feeling unsafe, Freed said. “Safe driving should be a shared responsibility for both teen drivers and passengers, as the risks are high for each,” Freed said. -Melissa Erickson

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finally

forever

ask an expert

We want to adopt, but we have a well-trained German Shepherd. Does this matter?

The Department of Children and Families has a clear policy with regard to regulations and breed restrictions for dogs in pre-adoptive homes. “All dogs maintained on the premises of the pre-adoptive home must have up to date vaccinations and rabies shots, and must be licensed in accordance with local authority requirements.” It also states that “No child under age 12 will be placed in a home where a Rottweiler, Pit Bull or German Shepherd dog, or a dog which mixes at least 2 of these 3 breeds, is maintained on the premises, except after a review conducted in accordance with Regulation 110 CMR 7.105 (18) and with the approval of the Area Director.” Please check with your social worker to determine if a waiver may be requested. -Ricardo L. Frano, a Family Support Services Coordinator at MARE Inc.

January’s Child: Meet David Hi, my name is David and I love being helpful! David is a caring 15-year-old boy of African American decent. He enjoys being active and enjoys playing basketball. David has expressed interest in starting a running club with his peers. During free time, he enjoys taking long walks, watching television and listening to music. David is on the Autism Spectrum and is quiet and comes across as shy. He is in the ninth grade. He enjoys attending school. His favorite subjects are math, science, physics and sometimes history. David gets along well with his peers at the program. David is legally freed for adoption and really wants to be a part of a family. David will do best in a two parent home with or without children. 10 JANUARY2019

Can you provide the guidance, love and stability that a child needs? If you’re at least 18 years old, have a stable source of income, and room in your heart, you may be a perfect match to adopt a waiting child. Adoptive parents can be single, married, or partnered; experienced or not; renters or homeowners; LGBTQ singles and couples. The process to adopt a child from foster care requires training, interviews, and home visits to determine if adoption is right for you, and if so, to help connect you with a child or sibling group that your family will be a good match for. To learn more about adoption from foster care, call the Massachusetts Adoption Resource Exchange (MARE) at 617-964-6273 or visit www. mareinc.org.

herding

goofballs

Art-y-sons BY JOSH FARNSWORTH ILLUSTRATION BY KIRA BEAUDOIN

y printer broke some time ago. I’m not trying to win any pity points with you,

my readers… …my wonderful, loyal and very intelligent readers, that is… But as the life of one piece of machinery came to an end, the birth of a bonding experience between father and sons began. While the home printer had a handful of tasks expected of it, the real showstopper for my two kids was clear and obvious: print coloring book pages. The orders were short, clear and concise: • Find a superhero • Print out the superhero • Run with reckless aban-

don to the table to bring the superhero to life with color One morning, after promising my kids a glorious morning of stacking both pancakes and printed coloring book pages high, my printer went to the big inkjet box in the sky. You had one job, printer. One. Job. And so, I was left with two children loaded up on maple syrup excited for coloring, who were about to crushed by the news. That’s when I decided to take a pencil and take action. I lightly traced the images they were hoping to color in with great attention. Drawing is not my forte. Art, for me, is generally limited to

words, and every once in a while, a decent enough mountain landscape. That’s the limit. I can appreciate a great artist, but has always been a passing ‘like’ of mine. Never a ‘love.’ I guess I just never caught whatever artistic bug talented artists catch. So my self-appointed job has been to keep tracing. Drawing freeform is not my strength. A couple months ago, Cooper asked me to draw a racing car, and then a superhero that we would make up on the spot. Once finished, the only thing I was proud of was my six-yearold’s patience and positive choice of words when looking at my rounded, small-wheeled

vehicle. To be honest, the frame of the car alone seems like a safety hazard that crash test dummies would flee from. That takes us to the greatest hero you have never heard of—Sandstorm. He flies through crime with the greatest of ease, in case you were wondering. His tornado-like legs looked fine, but the rest of his physique was straight out of a Rorschach inkblot test. What can I say? Some see a crime-fighting hero. Others see a distant cousin of the Stay Puffed Marshmallow Man with no eyelids, questionable posture and a tornado for a torso. My sons, however, seem to be inheriting a gene much more familiar to my wife and my mom. My wife will never admit artistic accomplishment, but the projects she works on with the kids beg to differ. She is thoughtful in her planning and great in her execution of everything from painting, drawing, molding or using any medium that my kids can use without burning the house down. My mom, who taught art amongst her various teaching accomplishments, eschews creativity in drawing. Her actual signature when signing a check is frame-worthy. And there always seems to be no shortage of projects to do at her house. I lean on both of them for leadership when the creative juices start flowing. Which is a good thing, because my kids consume artwork. There is a clear, plastic bin that easily houses more than 100 crayons in my house that gets more use than any container or toy in the Farnsworth household. Cooper especially is getting good. Legit good. Better than I was at twice his age. To help reinforce this skill, we have put up several corkboards and bought draw-able frames, which we have mounted on a large hallway wall to showcase their own gallery. Forget the fridge. That’s for amateurs. We needed our own six-year-old version of The Met. Cooper has also watched a couple of instructional videos on drawing to improve his skills. Yes, instructional videos. At age six. And he re-watches

them to get better. Over the years, I have had a front row seat to seeing his lines get sharper, coloring in with nary a crayon stroke outside the lines and develop more and more ideas on what images to apply to paper. And Milo’s motor skills are not where Cooper is, but he is gaining ground fast. More astounding to me is their attention to detail. They are incredibly active kids who have the capacity for some periods of the day to slow down, concentrate on more and more complex sketches and work miracles with those writing tools. This takes me to my one and only 2020 New Year’s Resolution: my art. Or lack thereof, to be more accurate. It is my 2020 Resolution to get better. Or try. Will I get better? I think so (practice, etc.). Either way, that crayon bin is big enough for me to try and go out of my comfort zone and draw like I have never drawn before. (And if you have seen my artwork, you might believe I, indeed, have never drawn before.) “The printer is still broken” shall never be an excuse in my household to stall out their creativity. I will keep tracing and keep trying. Because failing with a crayon while sitting beside you is greater than succeeding at any hobby without you there. So, my dudes, call on me to draw; call on me to color; call on me to sit down with you on this. And if you’re feeling nostalgic, perhaps Sandstorm shall fly again.

Josh Farnsworth is a husband, father of goofballs Cooper and Milo, goofball himself, and award-winning writer and columnist living in Worcester. He can be reached for column ideas at josh.farnsworth@ yahoo. com.

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12 JANUARY2019

our

fave

Children need a lot. of. stuff. Especially babies. Check out these four products that are designed to grow with your child, and help you cut back on all the stuff… just a bit.

2. 3.

4. 1.

Babies can bounce and play with toys in the Oribel Portaplay Activity Center. Once they outgrow it, swap out the seat for the tabletop and you’ve got a play table for toddlers up to age 5. Genius! amazon.com. $88.

uate to the real porcelain throne. Place the toilet trainer seat on your toilet seat to create a smaller hole for their little bottom. Then flip the base of the toilet to create a step stool. amazon.com. $34.99.

2. Suitable for children from 6 months to 3 years, the Cocoon High Chair is a three-stage product. In the early months, it can be a cozy infant recliner for naps and bottle feeds.Then, adjust it to a comfortable dining chair, complete with a table. amazon.com.

4. Ten years, one car seat? Yes, it’s possible. The Britax One4Life is suitable for 5-120 pounds -- from that first ride home from the hospital all the way to booster mode. It transforms from a rear-facing infant seat to a forward-facing 5-point harness seat to a high-back belt-positioning booster and finally to a backless belt-positioning booster. So instead of buying four separate seats, you can buy just one. amazon.com. $374.99.

3. The Ubbi 3-in-1 Potty Trainer grows with your little one -- from when they’re just starting on the potty, to when they’re ready to grad-

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Bites

goose’s

goodies

Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix and Fluffy Marshmallows Hot Cocoa Mix Ingredients 2 ½ cups confectioners’ sugar 2 ½ cups powdered milk 1 cup cocoa (Dutch processed) 1 teaspoon salt 2 teaspoons cornstarch Directions Add all ingredients to a large bowl and stir with a wire whisk to combine. Store in an air-tight container. When ready to use, add 2 to 3 tablespoons of hot cocoa mix to 8 ounces of hot water or milk. Add more mix to taste. Stir to combine.

Homemade Marshmallows Ingredients 3 packages (21g total) unflavored gelatin 1 cup cool water, divided 1 ½ cups granulated sugar 1 /8 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon vanilla extract Confectioners’ sugar Combine the gelatin and 1/2 cup cool water in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Mix to combine, then set aside. Combine the sugar, corn syrup, salt, and 1/2 cup cool water in a small saucepan. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring, until the sugar dissolves. Raise the heat to high and let mixture boil, without stirring, for 1 minute. Remove from the heat. With the mixer set on low speed, slowly pour the sugar syrup into the softened gelatin. Increase speed to high, and whip until the mixture is thick, fluffy, and cooled to room temperature, about 10-12 minutes. Add the vanilla and mix to combine. Spread the marshmallow mixture into a greased 9” x 13” pan. Use your wet hands to smooth and flatten the marshmallow. Sprinkle confectioners’ sugar over the top, and let it sit overnight before cutting. To cut, remove the marshmallow onto a cutting surface sprinkled with confectioners’ sugar. Use a large, sharp knife to cut into squares, then toss each marshmallow in confectioners’ sugar to keep them from sticking together. Store in an air-tight container for up to three weeks. Laurie Silva Collins, known affectionately as Goose by her grandkids, is a nurse, mother and grandmother who is happiest when she’s in the kitchen, cooking and baking for those she loves. She learned to cook from her parents, and has perfected her recipes over the years while raising three daughters… and spoiling seven grandchildren.

14 JANUARY2019

Bites nutrition

Unhealthy habits can start young Infants, toddlers and added sugars

new study in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics found that nearly two-thirds of infants (61 percent) and almost all toddlers (98 percent) consume added sugars in their average daily diets, primarily in the form of flavored yogurts (infants) and fruit drinks (toddlers). The analysis documented some good news, too. Over the study period, (2005-06 and 2015-16) the percentage of infants and toddlers whose daily diets include added sugars declined, as well as the amounts they consumed. Yet the widespread intake points to a serious and persistent problem: the early development of eating patterns associated with negative health conditions. The study was the first to examine trends in added sugar consumption among babies and toddlers, important, researchers said, because eating habits established early in life shape later eating patterns. An earlier study that found that 6-year-olds who had consumed any sugar-sweetened beverages before the age of one were more than twice as likely to consume a sweetened drinks at least once a day compared to 6-year-olds who had not consumed any before the age of one. Many health organizations recommend limiting sugar intake to 9 teaspoons or less for adult men, and 6 teaspoons or less

for adult women and children between 2 and 19. With no comparable research available for infants and toddlers prior to this study, only one organization, the American Heart Association, provided any guidance for children under age 2. Researchers analyzed data for 1,211 infants and toddlers, from 6-23 months.They found that most infants consumed about 1 teaspoon of added sugars daily, while toddlers consumed about 6. Yogurt, baby snacks, sweets, bakery products, fruit drinks and candy are the top sources of added sugars, they found. Dr. Kirsten Herrick, who led the study, said parents should be mindful of added sugars levels in the foods chosen when weaning infants. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The transition from a milkbased diet (breast milk and formula) to table foods has an impact on nutrition, taste preference, and eating patterns,â&#x20AC;? she said. She recommends discussing which solid foods to introduce during weaning with a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healthcare provider and pointed to the Nutrition Facts label as another resource to support informed decisions. Beginning in 2020, added sugar content is required to be on all food and drink nutrition labels.

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16 JANUARY2019

very

special people

Pediatricians issue new guidelines for diagnosing, treating

ADHD P

ediatricians are receiving new guidance on how to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), which affects nearly one in ten children nationwide. For the first time since 2011, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has updated its clinical guidelines for ADHD, stressing the need for ongoing team-based treatment that includes medical and mental health professionals, as well as families and school staff. The updates are based on the most recent research on ADHD, a common disorder that can profoundly affect a child’s academic achievement, well-being and social interactions. “ADHD is a chronic illness that can have a devastating impact if left untreated,” said Dr. Mark L. Wolraich, lead author of the report that appeared recently in the journal Pediatrics. “A pediatrician can help families figure out what is going on and work with families to help children succeed in managing their symptoms and behavior.” More than 9 percent of U.S. children ages 2-17 have been diagnosed at one time with ADHD, with hyperactive and impulsive symptoms that tend to decline during adolescence and lead to inatten-

tiveness. Boys are more than twice as likely as girls to be diagnosed with ADHD. Both boys and girls with the disorder typically show symptoms of an additional mental disorder and may also have learning and language problems, according to the AAP. The new guidelines recommend that when kids are diagnosed with ADHD, they also get screened for any mental illnesses. The goal is to rule out other causes of ADHD-like symptoms and identify co-occurring conditions, such as depression, anxiety, substance use, autism and trauma. In addition, fewer problem behaviors are required as criteria for ADHD in patients age 17 and older. The treatment recommendations, however, remain mostly the same as previous guidelines. Children 5 and younger are advised to start with behavioral treatment first. Parent training

in behavior management is recommended as the first-line treatment for preschoolers. They advise that anyone 6 or older should start taking medication and get behavioral therapy as soon as they are diagnosed. But they also emphasize the need for ongoing medical care in coordination with others from the child’s school and community. “We know that a child diagnosed with ADHD will benefit most when there is a partnership between families, their doctors, and their teachers, who may need to create special instructional plans and support,” said Dr. Joseph F. Hagan, co-author of the new guidelines. “Coaches, school guidance counselors and other people who play a significant role in a child’s life often have a lot they can contribute in providing information and working on solutions.”

BAYSTATEPARENT 17

Allowing kids the

freedom to fail BY SARA KORBER-DEWEERD

hen my kids were babies, attentiveness was an excellent asset in my parenting skill set. Babies need almost constant supervision and a gentle, guiding hand to learn the basics of being a human. Being a vigilant mom helped me keep my little adventurers alive for the first decade of their lives. But now? Well, now it just makes me annoying. So how does a mom who’s really good at investing in her kids’ well-being back off a bit during their tween and teen years to give them breathing room? How can I give them room to claim their own successes and, perhaps even more importantly, room to experience failure? Now, wait a minute...failure? We want our kids to fail? That sounded like an alarming idea as I sat in my daughter’s fifth grade classroom this past September at back-to-school night. Her teacher was holding up a book that she called a “must-read” for parents preparing to launch into the middle years of raising kids. Being an avid reader and very good rule follower myself, I immediately ordered it off Amazon and dove in. Vermont-based writer and educator Jessica Lahey is the author of The Gift of Failure: How the Best Parents Learn to Let Go so Their Children Can Learn to Succeed. Her years of research and teaching adolescents have revealed a truth that runs counter to most of our instincts as parents raising kids in a competitive society: Allow your kids to fail. Allow them to make mistakes, experience consequences, and grow. “Kids of highly directive or controlling parents (so-called ‘helicopter’ or ‘snowplow’ parents) are less able to deal with their frustration when tasks get challenging, and less likely to complete those difficult tasks,” Lahey said of her research for the book. “Difficult tasks are part of so-called ‘desirable difficulties,’ a really important and powerful teaching tool—one of the most powerful teaching tools I use in my classroom and at home with my own children—and kids who are not able to push through frustration are going to be much less likely to complete, and therefore learn, from these tasks.”

18 JANUARY2019

Desirable difficulties are small failures—lowstakes challenges or risks with a high potential for positive growth. “Learning that comes with challenge is stored more effectively and more durably in the brain than learning that comes easily,” Lahey writes in The Gift of Failure. “So, at essence, rescuing kids from consequences and pushing challenges out of their way renders kids less able to learn, and less likely to complete challenging tasks, the very tasks that teach them the most and help them feel most capable and competent.” Lahey emphasizes the importance of nurturing a “growth mindset” in our children. People with a fixed mindset, she summarizes, believe that ability is innate and remains the same no matter what one does throughout life. People with a growth mindset know that individual talent is just a starting point and are motivated to learn for learning’s sake, because they know that challenging themselves, taking risks, failing and trying again are essential elements of personal development. And the process lasts a lifetime. Parents have the most influence when it comes to nurturing a growth mindset in their children. When we overparent, swooping in to rescue our kids from disappointment, rejection, and failure, “we communicate to our kids that we don’t have faith in their ability to grow, improve, and surmount challenges, and we encourage a fixed mindset,” she writes. What does overparenting look like? It looks like rushing the forgotten homework assignment to school so our kids don’t get a zero. Or arguing with a ref about a bad call on the sidelines of a game. It could be unsolicited advice on assignments or doing projects for our kids to save precious time and arguing with teachers about the grades they receive. Overparenting could even be paying them for good report cards and promising gifts when they pass a test. Instead of letting them figure out what they can and can’t do, solving problems for themselves and reaping the feeling of accomplishment, we sacrifice our kids’ autonomy thinking we’re protecting them. We may mean well when we do things for them or shower them with extrinsic rewards, but we

aren’t doing our kids any favors. As a parent of three children, one of whom has a developmental disability, I wondered how this “autonomy-supportive” parenting could apply to my son, who needs a high level of support at home and has a 1-1 aide at school to help him succeed academically. I could imagine giving my girls space to try and fail, but I wasn’t sure what that would look like for my son. Lahey responded with an approach that takes into account the unique gifts and challenges of every child, regardless of ability. “All kids, not just neurotypical kids, need adults to convey the message that they are competent and loved for themselves, not for their grades,” she said. “My advice for any parent, based on the research on the impact of teacher expectations on student performance, is to set our expectations for our kids at just a hair beyond their ability level. We often underestimate what our kids can do because we are afraid they will fail and feel bad about themselves, when we should be encouraging our kids to try things that are challenging, and reassure them that even if they can’t do that thing yet, they will be able to master it given some patience, effort, and time. ‘Yet’ is a powerful word, a word of growth, faith, and support.” Encouragement to try new things, tackle tasks independently, and the freedom to fail must be matched with our empathy when mistakes do happen. Rather than swooping in to fix, we can open our arms to support. Kids need to know that their attempts are valuable and that we see their hard work. That way, they’ll feel comfortable taking on bigger challenges as they grow. “It’s up to us,” writes Lahey. “Parents have the power to grant this freedom to fail. Teachers have the ability to transform that failure into an education. And together? Together, we have the potential to nurture a generation of confident, competent adults.” Sara Korber-DeWeerd is a freelance writer and educator in the Bay State. She loves reading, travel, the outdoors, and spending time with her family.

5 strategies for autonomy-supportive parenting from The Gift of Failure: 1. Guide your children toward solutions. Look for teachable moments by asking your kids questions that lead them toward independent problem-solving. For example: I see you’re struggling with that math problem. What if you look at the other problems you did to see if you can figure out a good way to do this one? 2. Allow your children to make mistakes. Then, help them understand the consequences of those mistakes. Lahey cites the example of seeing her son’s homework on the table as he ran to the bus. She could have easily brought it to school for him, but instead she

left it in its place; he later reported that he figured out a solution on his own with his teacher for how to turn the work in late.

when you realized you left your assignment at home. Maybe packing your bag the night before will help you remember it next time.

3. Teach kids to value mistakes as much as successes.

5. Acknowledge your child’s feelings of frustration and disappointment.

Lahey notes that if she had brought her son’s homework, he would not have had the opportunity to solve his problem independently. His mistake showed him he was capable of handling the situation himself.

Empathy is a powerful tool. For example: I know how much you wanted the lead role in the musical, and I saw how much effort you put into preparing for the audition. I’m really proud of the way you gave it your all.

4. Give feedback that supports kids’ efforts and guides them toward seeing their mistakes. For example: You must have been so frustrated

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Feeling stressed? Try mindfulness (It’s easier than you think)

BY SOFIA REDDY

“Breathe in calm. Breathe out stress. Breathe in peace. Breathe out tension.”

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I repeat this mindful meditation silently to myself about a dozen times as my five year old demands to use my phone. We’re in the car heading out to dinner. Lately, my husband and I have been trying to restrict the use of devices on short car rides. The key word is trying. My daughter persists. The volume of her voice steadily increases as if I sat on a remote. The muscles in my neck and shoulders tense. It takes enormous effort to bring my breath-

ing back under control. In the past, I would either yell or cave in just to get a few minutes of peace and quiet. This time, I repeat the calming mantra to myself. Eventually, she stops. Mindful meditation is something I do every day. It helps me regulate my emotions so I can teach my kids to regulate theirs. It’s not something I started doing overnight. It took several years of consistent practice. I started with 5 minutes a day of

deep breathing and meditation and worked my way up to 30. During that stressful car ride, I continued breathing in and out to calm myself down. I was then able to respond with kindness to my daughter’s demands while setting limits at the same time. When we react to our children’s meltdowns with frustration it further fuels their emotions and increases everyone’s stress. So what was different this time? Instead of

reacting with my own stress I calmed down first so I could respond compassionately. I kindly said, “Using the phone is fun but right now we are going to dinner. We’re almost there. Let’s play a game. What do you hear? I hear the rain splashing on the window. What do you see? I see leaves blowing in the wind - yellow, orange and red.” By the time we get to the restaurant she is calm and so are we. This is a technique I call breathe first, speak second. It’s not something I’m able to do every time, but with practice it’s becoming my new automatic response. We were then able to enjoy our meal together. In the past, we would be eating cold food out of to-go boxes and dealing with tantrums (adults included). I also use mindfulness to manage other difficult transitions in the day. Getting ready for school, turning off screens, and bedtime are challenging times for both kids and parents. It can feel like we’re being pulled in many different directions making it difficult to stay calm. Adding mindfulness to our routines helps us stay grounded and focused. Even 10 minutes of my undivided atten-

tion can make things much easier. Thich Nhat Hanh, a famous Budhist monk and peace activist, states, “The most precious gift we can offer anyone is our attention. When mindfulness embraces those we love, they will bloom like flowers.” Why should we practice mindfulness? Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment without ruminating about the past or worrying about the future. It’s being aware of our experience without judging it as either good or bad. It’s also about bringing compassion into the moment so if it feels overwhelming we can respond with kindness instead of reacting harshly. It allows us to be present in both body and mind, no matter what is happening around us. Mindfulness is an experience of getting to know yourself better. You notice what types of thoughts, feelings and body sensations you’re having. For example, you might notice how much tension you hold in your body. You might also notice negative thoughts that fuel feelings like anger, resentment or anxiety. Becoming aware of these experiences helps us

rethink our beliefs and let go of tension before it gets worse. It helps us respond in a way that promotes positive change without negatively impacting our relationships. What types of mindfulness are there and how do you do it? Mindful meditation can be done in silence or using guided instruction. Some people like to listen to nature sounds while others prefer relaxing music. Traditional Eastern meditation practices are done in silence. During this time you focus on your breath as you sit with your thoughts, feelings and body sensations, even if they are difficult. You begin to notice them come and go. Mindfulness meditation has helped me learn more about myself and what keeps me stuck in stress reaction mode. I’ve learned that when I’m stressed, others feel it too, especially my children. There’s a workshop I run called Stop Stressing, Start Connecting. In it we practice a meditation called “the hug.” Here’s how it works. Close your eyes and picture someone you love but have had a recent disagreement with. Maybe there are lingering feelings of

irritation or anger towards this person. Imagine this person standing in front of you right now. Notice what makes this person special and focus on an aspect of them you love or admire. What is their strength? Now imagine you are hugging each other. Notice how if feels in your body. What types of feelings are you having? Did you notice a shift? Now imagine this person 200 years from now. What’s happening? This is a loving-kindness reflection that Thich Nhat Hanh introduces us to in his book, How to Fight. The reality hits us that our time with our loved one is limited. When we reflect on this we begin to feel gratitude for the time we have with each other. This week add one mindful activity into your everyday

life. Eat a meal with your full attention or spend five minutes a day in quiet contemplation. Give your undivided attention to your kids during dinner. Turn off devices and have a conversation instead. Try this for seven days and see if you notice any changes. Sofia Reddy is a licensed clinical social worker and Bay State mom of two rambunctious children. She started blogging about mindful self-care to stop stressing and start flourishing in 2011. She believes having a daily mindfulness practice helps manage the daily stresses of raising a family and is passionate about sharing this practice with others. For more information visit her at www.sofias-sanctuary.com.

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cyber savvy mom

Resolve to use technology for good The debate over screen time overlooks all the positive parts of technology. Here’s how to harness its power for constructive, educational purposes. BY JOAN GOODCHILD

ach year at this time, many of us make resolutions. We vow to do things differently, even better, at the outset of each year. Maybe as a parent you have resolutions you want to stick with for 2020 -- losing your temper less, more time engaged with the kids in educational activities, ensuring your family eats healthy foods most of the time. These are all great examples of resolutions we make to enhance our lives, and our children’s lives as well. But here is one more: What if we resolved to partner with our kids on technology use for more productive, enriching purposes? By managing our device and screen time to be more educational and personally enriching, I am not suggesting we take them away or curtail time spent doing something we enjoy. Instead, I 22 JANUARY2019

suggest we have a conversation around all of the positive ways the internet can enhance our lives and we spend the next twelve months (and hopefully beyond) using the bulk of our screen and device time for good. There is a misconception that screen time is simply bad news. But an emerging body of data finds it is not screen or device time that is damaging to young brains, but instead what kids are doing with their devices that matter. As Dr. Larry Rosen, PhD, points out in a recent article in Psychology Today, “it is not such a simple equation where more screen time = more problems.” Rosen has been conducting research since 2016 with young adult college students with the aim of understanding what aspects of screen time are problematic in the realm of psychological well-being, sleep and academic performance.

Early results of some of the research conclude it is not the amount of screen time that leads to problematic outcomes, but the choices made about when to use screen time and where to use that time. To put it bluntly, spending time watching YouTube videos and the passive entertainment it serves up due to its algorithms is very different from the time a child spends practicing math on Khan Academy. But you probably knew this. The question is: how do we encourage our kids to spend more time on so-called “good” tech activities, and model our own tech use accordingly? Devices and technology are not going anywhere. As parents, it is our job to help our kids understand the difference between productive use, simple entertainment and even harmful use. Start with a discussion around how much

time they are spending doing things like watching videos and surfing social media. Suggest a change, and then introduce them to educational sites, apps and media. And make a commitment to spend even just a little less time, daily and weekly, using devices altogether. These are all a solid foundation to start taking control of how we spend our tech time, and to recast it in a more positive direction. Here are some ideas for what to discuss with your kids, and how to tailor your own device use, for constructive technology habits in 2020. Minimize low value content Sites and apps like YouTube and TikTok are wildly popular with kids and fun to watch. Many children who use devices consider these apps their main source of entertainment and will spend hours mindlessly watching videos from both platforms. But while a little entertainment each day is deserved and understandable, if that is the primary way kids are spending time online, it is low value. This kind of passive consumption is not doing anything for brain development, and some research finds is even harmful in large quantities. Agree on an acceptable amount of time using technology for passive entertainment – one hour daily is probably enough – and stick to it. Spend more time with substantive content Conversely, encourage your kids to seek out substantive, productive ways to spend some time each day while online. Math sites like Khan Academy or IXL Learning offer ways to practice skills and do something fun. There are phonics, spelling and brainteaser sites that also offer a fun ways to build brain muscle. There are many mediums out there that give kids an enjoyable, educational experience, and can help them develop anything from emotional processing to language skills. Check out Mashable’s great list of the safest places on the internet for kids to get ideas. Aim to use tech to learn new things weekly Help your kids understand that the web is not all silly videos and memes. While obviously they know the web has

educational benefits because they are probably accessing some education sites for homework and through school, there is an entire world of enriching content out there beyond their classroom curriculum. You just need to give them a push to find it – and then encourage them to spend their time with it. Tell them about your favorite podcasts and audiobooks and help them find some that will appeal to their interests. Do you have a kid that loves animals? Search up a documentary about wildlife and help them channel that passion into learning. What about an online course

or tutorial? Sites like DIY.org have subscription-based expert instructional videos in subjects like drawing, science, basic engineering, and photography, without many of the risks that sites like YouTube can pose. Commit to less time spent on devices Most of us are likely using our devices too much. But this time spent connecting virtually takes us away from meaningful, personal connections. As mentioned in a previous Cyber Savvy Mom column, Jean Rogers of the Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood and director of the Children’s

Screen Time Action Network suggests setting time expectations with a family media plan. But instead of emphasizing the effort to avoid screens, use the family media plan to fill your day with non-device-based activities and then see how much time is left for screens once other “low tech” activities have been accomplished. You can find a family media plan tool on the American Academy of Pediatrics website. Happy New Year to you and your family. Let’s make 2020 the year we take back device time and make technology work for us and our children!

Joan Goodchild, aka the Cyber Savvy Mom, is a writer and editor and mom of two living in Central Massachusetts. Have a topic you would like to see discussed? Reach her at cybersavvymom@ yahoo.com or follow her on Facebook at Facebook.com/ CyberSavvyMomGet. Get more advice for staying smart, secure and civil online at cybersavvymom.com.

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Two decades after writing it, local grandmother publishes children’s book BY AMANDA COLLINS BERNIER

uscript. She collaborated with local artist Havilah Racette to bring the tale to life with whimsical watercolor illustrations. She worked with a publisher, and finally turned her story into a book. Last fall, more than two decades after it was written, the story was published. “It was such a full-circle moment,” said Wambolt. Throughout the book, there is a subtle nod to each of Wambolt’s nine grandchildren. Though the reader might not notice, her grandkids are excited to find their names thoughtfully weaved into the book’s illustrations. “It makes it even more special to my family,” she said. “I figured if this was going to be my one book, I wanted to do it for them.” The 25-page hardcover book is written in rhyme and is geared for children 3 to 10. It is available on Amazon and at petethehungrypig.com.

hough she can’t quite remember where the idea came from, Sue Wambolt could never

forget the story she dreamed up her head and would tell to her young children. It was about a ravenous pig who lived on a quaint country farm and ate everything in site. Twenty-six years ago, Wambolt, a teacher-turnedstay-at-home-mom, sat down at down at her desktop computer and typed out the story of Pete the Hungry Pig. She printed it out on computer paper, covered it with a layer of peel-and-stick lamination, and tucked it away. The plan was to do something with it, but just what she wasn’t quite sure. It was 1993, she had three little ones at home, and life was busy. Then, life took some tragic turns. In the year after she wrote Pete the Hungry Pig, Wambolt lost a baby in the third trimester of pregnancy and dealt with the premature passing of her mother at age 59. Then, weeks later, she lost her home in Marlborough to a house fire. “In the midst of all of this, the book was gone – literally and figuratively,” she said. “The computer it had been written on was lost in the fire and the one laminated copy was nowhere to be found.” In the years that followed, Sue had a fourth child and her family moved to Southborough. Her kids grew up, moved out, and started families of their own. Decades went by, and she gave little thought to the lost manuscript.

24 JANUARY2019

It wasn’t until her oldest son, Mark, – now a father to four children of his own – started asking about Pete the Hungry Pig that Wambolt thought to look for it. She rifled through her basement, went through bins and boxes, but never found it. By early 2018, Wambolt had given up looking for the story, figuring the one printed copy had been lost in the fire or subsequent moves. But one day she opened an old filing cabinet, and there it was. “I was so excited,” she said. “There it was, written for my children, and now I had my grandchildren to read it to.” This time, Wambolt knew what she wanted to do with the story of Pete the Hungry Pig. She drew up rough, stick-figure sketches to accompany the man-

the agenda the list 12 Spots for Outdoor Skating check this out Belmont World Family Film Festival adventures 100+ Things to Do

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on the

agenda

the list

12 Spots for

Outdoor Ice Skating

Ice skating is suited for all ages and can make for a relatively inexpensive family outing. And, there’s just something about an open-air rink that’s a winter delight. So grab the kids and bundle up for some frozen fun. Here’s 12 of our favorite outdoor rinks.

1. Worcester Common Oval - Worcester The 12,000-square-foot rink, (4,000 square feet larger than the size of the rink at Rockefeller Center) is complete with amenities such as piped-in music, skate rentals, holiday lights and more. Open Friday 5-8 p.m., Saturday & Sunday 1-6 p.m. $5 admission, free for kids under 6, $5 skate rentals.

2. Skating at Barrett Park - Leominster The city’s recreation department clears the ice on Barrett Pond and provides lighting for night skating. Bring your own skates and enjoy free skating until 9 p.m. during the season. Skating begins once the ice is thick enough to be safe -- watch for “No Skating” signs. Contact the recreation department for more information.

3. Elm Park - Worcester Lace up your skates for a free glide on one of the ponds on the eastern side of the Worcester’s 58-acre Elm Park. Skating is weather and ice dependent and can change daily throughout the year. Check with the parks department if you’re unsure.

4. Fletcher Park Rink - Lexington This open-air rink in Lexington center is free and open to all from dawn to dusk, as conditions allow. The family-friendly rink is stocked with milk crates to stack for unsteady little ones hold on to, but you’ll need to bring your own skates. Check rink conditions and announcements at skatelexington.com.

5. Sturbridge Town Common - Sturbridge An open-air rink on the town’s picturesque common is open for free each winter from dawn to dusk, weather permitting. Bring your own skates. A “Skate Night Under the Lights” with the town’s fire department is in the works for this year -- follow the recreation department on Facebook for details to be announced.

6. Boston Common Frog Pond - Boston Take an outside glide with unbeatable skyline views. The Frog Pond, situated in the heart of the nation’s oldest public park, was voted the No. 1 Outdoor Ice Skating Rink in the Country by USA Today. Skate rentals and sharpening,“skating seals” for unsteady kiddos, lockers and hot cocoa are available on site. Open Monday 10 a.m.-3:45 p.m.; Tuesday-Thursday 10 a.m.-9p.m.; Friday & Saturday 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Admission is based on skaters height; $6 for 58-inches and over; free for under 58-inches. Rentals: $12 adults, $6 kids.

7. The Rink at 401 Park - 401 Park Dr., Boston This new 6,000-square-foot rink is the first-ever public ice skating rink in Boston’s bustling Fenway neighborhood. Special programming at the space includes theme nights, live DJs, skating lessons, and sporting events. The rink is open 7 days a week. Admission rates were not announced as of bsp press time, but there will be discounted tickets available for students, seniors, and skaters ages 18 and younger. 26 JANUARY2019

11. 8. Community Skating at Kendall Square Cambridge Just minutes from downtown Boston, this seasonal rink in the heart East Cambridge offers skate rentals, lessons, and private rink rentals. Hot drinks and concessions sold at the snack bar. Locker and skate rentals, skate sharpening and season passes available. Open Monday 12-5 p.m., Tuesday-Friday 12-8 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission is $5 adults, $3 students and seniors, $1 children 13 & under; $8 or $5 skate rentals.

9. Kelly Skating Rink - Jamaica Plain This outdoor rink right at the center of Jamaica Plain has an urban neighborhood feel. Trains run nearby and music pumps through speakers at this DCR run rink. The best part? The price: free if you bring your own skates. Open Sunday-Friday 12-7:30 p.m., Saturday 1-7:30 p.m. Rentals $2 kids, $3 adults.

10. Jack Kirrane Skating Rink - Brookline Enjoy skating to music during the day or under the lights at night. You can warm up in the heated pavilion after hitting the ice and refuel with hot cocoa and treats from the snack bar. Open Tuesday & Thursday 9:30-11:30 .m., Friday 8-10 p.m., Saturday & Sunday 12-5 p.m. Admission $6 residents, $8 non-residents, free for kids under 2, rentals $6.

11. MarketStreet Lynnfield Rink - Lynnfield This classic rink is set at the center of the North Shoreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest open-air shopping center. The rink is illuminated by snowflake lights and features festive music. A 200-ton refrigeration unit ensures optimal ice temperature, even in warmer temperatures. Open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 4-9 p.m., Wednesday 1-9 p.m., Friday 4-10 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.-8 p.m. $8 adults, $6 kids 12 and under, free for kids under 3, $4 skate rentals.

12. Winter Skate at Patriot Place Foxborough Glide across the ice in the shadow of Gillette Stadium. Offering day and evening public skating, Winter Skate also has an observation area for non-skaters. Onsite skate rentals, concessions and bathrooms are available and parking is free. Open Monday-Wednesday 4-9 p.m., Thursday 4-5:45 p.m., Friday 5-10 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.- 9p.m. Admission $10 adults, $6 children 12 and under, $6 seniors, rentals $5.

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Belmont World Family Film Festival highlights unique

KID - FRIENDLY CINEMA

f the term “independent film film festival” conjures up thoughts of off-beat dramas and weighty documentaries, think again. This month, the Belmont Family Film Festival is back for its 17th year, bringing an array of live action and animated films for kids from around the world to the Bay State, along with animation workshops, story times and more. The event, dubbed “Where Stories Come Alive,” takes place over MKL weekend, Jan. 17-20. Theaters in Arlington, Belmont, and Cambridge are taking part, providing families the opportunity to see some of the world’s best current films for children ages 2 to 12. The programming features a thoughtfully curated lineup of international films, with nearly 40 animated, live action, and documentary films, many based on children’s books and several making their North American or U.S. premieres. With movies from China, Denmark, France, Latvia, Mongolia, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Sweden, Switzerland, the UK, and the US featured, it’s a unique opportunity to see family-friendly films beyond the parameters of mainstream cinema.

A spunky 12-year-old dreams of becoming a famous vlogger, but is forced to flee when police raid her home and try to deport her and her dad to the Congo in ‘Binti.’ 28 JANUARY2019

“In an increasingly multicultural world, parents recognize the importance of fluency in more than one language, and the Family Festival offers children age 3-12 the opportunity to hear and understand multiple languages in a fun and natural way,” said Belmont World Film Executive Director Ellen Gitelman. “The films also tell rich and unusual stories that don’t rely entirely on special effects to create a sense of wonder.” The festival will also host live events, such as the interactive “Very Hungry Caterpillar Show Storytime,” an audience participatory puppet show and story time featuring two Eric Carle stories followed by a photo opportunity with the caterpillar puppet. At two animation workshops, writer-director Cinzia Angelini will teach children how to draw the silly yellow minions from her work on The Minion Movie, or how to create a storyboard. Angelini’s credits include the recently released Abominable, The Minions Movie, Despicable Me 3, and Spider-Man 2. Opening night at the Regent Theatre on Friday, January 17, at 7:30 p.m. features the east coast premiere of Hacker, a Danish film about a boy whose scientist mother disappears one night under mysterious cir-

A 9-year-old boy and his family journey to Mongolia as they welcome two stubborn camels into their family in documentary ‘Arctic Camels.’

A keen but accident-prone dragon learns how to fly, roar, breathe fire, and save a princess during his first year at Dragon School in ‘Zog.’

cumstances. At 13 years old, the orphaned boy, who has become an expert computer hacker, discovers that she may still be alive. The trail points to top-ranking officials in the Danish Secret Service, and it’s up to him and his new friend to chase down the truth. The screening is sponsored by the Consulate General of Denmark in New York and the Innovation Centre of Denmark in Boston. Each subsequent day revolves around a different theme: Saturday is devoted to the animal kingdom, Sunday to short film programs, and Monday to the ideals and values of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Individual tickets are $6 for shorts, $10 for feature-length films, $15 for “The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show Storytime,” and $20 for workshops. Full festival passes are $50, which includes admission to all programs except workshops. The festival participates in the “EBT Card to Culture” program, offering half price tickets at the box office when showing the EBT card. Tickets are available in advance online at belmontworldfilm.com or on the day of show in person at the theaters’ box offices.

A zebra adopted by horses meets a wild lion and learns to find her voice in ‘Zibilla.’

Belmont World Film Family Festival

Schedule

Saturday, Jan. 18

Studio Cinema & Belmont Media Center, Belmont 10:30 a.m.: What’s New from Weston Woods Studios: Films based on best loved children’s books: The Pigeon Has to Go to School by Mo Willems; The Word Collector by Peter Reynolds; Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly and narrated by Oscar winner Octavia Spencer; Potato Pants by Laurie Keller; and Mighty, Might Construction Site by Sherry Dusker Rinker. (English | USA | Age 5-9| New England premieres). 11 a.m.: Learn to Draw Minions Workshop: Fans of Kevin, Stuart, or Bob can learn how to draw the Minions character with the help of the festival’s Artist-in-Residence Cinzia Angelini, one of the story artists on The Minions Movie (Age 5+). 11:45 a.m.: Jacob, Mimmi and the Talking Dogs: An imaginative boy from one of Riga, Latvia’s historical suburbs, his know-it-all cousin, and a pack of talking dogs save their romantic neighborhood from unwelcome change perpetrated by greedy businessmen in this animated film based on the book Dog Town by Luize Pastore. (Latvian | Latvia, Poland | Age 5+ | New England premiere). 1:15 p.m.: Abominable followed by a talk and storyboard demonstration with the film’s story artist Cinzia Angelini: After discovering a Yeti on the roof of her apartment building, three teenagers embark on an epic quest to reunite the magical creature with his family. (English | China, US | Age 5+). 3:45 p.m. Arctic Camels: Nineyear-old Torarin and his sister are over the moon when their parents bring home two baby camels -- the only camels who live above the Arctic Circle -- to live with them in Hammerfest, the northernmost city in the world. They plan to train them and build a camel center, but camels being stubborn creatures, the family heads to Mongolia to see how training is traditionally done. Told from Torarin’s point of view, this documentary follows his journey and explores his feelings

Black Women & the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly and narrated by Oscar winner Octavia Spencer. (English | USA | Age 5-9).

In the imaginatively animated ‘Terra Willy,’ a 10-year-old boy learns to survive with the help of some new friends on a wild, unexplored planet. towards incorporating the camels into his family’s way of life. (Norwegian | Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Mongolia | Age 9+ | North American premiere).

Sunday, Jan. 19

Regent Theatre, Arlington 10:30 a.m.: The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show Storytime followed by a photo opportunity with Caterpillar puppet: Eric Carle’s iconic, colorful, hand-painted, tissue paper collage illustrations and distinctively simple stories come to life during this breathtaking storytime featuring lots of audience participation. Created by Jonathan Rockefeller, the show faithfully adapts two of Carle’s picture books, The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?, with a variety of puppets. Also includes a screening of 10 Little Rubber Ducks, narrated by Bernadette Peters. (Age 2-6). 12:15 p.m.: Zog (New England premiere) and The Snail and the Whale (North American premiere): The award-winning Magic Light Pictures, which regularly brings the much loved picture books by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler (The Gruffalo) to life. Featuring the voices of Game of Thrones’ Kit Harrington, Fleabag’s Hugh Skinner, and comedian Tracey Ullman, Zog features a keen but accident-prone dragon who learns how to fly, roar, breathe fire, and save a princess during his first year at Dragon School. Dame Diana Rigg, Oscar winner Sally Hawkins, and comedian Rob Brydon are the voices behind the wondrously colorful

The Snail and the Whale, the tale of a tiny snail who, longing to see the world, hitches a ride on the tail of a giant humpback whale. Together they go on an amazing journey under the sea, past icebergs and volcanoes, and with sharks, penguins, and all manner of undersea animals (English | UK | Age 5+) 1 p.m. Learn to Create Storyboards for Animated Films Workshop: Artist-inResidence Cinzia Angelini shares her experience as a lead story artist by leading children through the process of creating storyboards for animated films (Age 9+). 1:30 p.m. Laugh Out Loud with Mo Willems: Animated versions of the author’s most popular books, including the never-before-seen The Pigeon Has to Go to School, plus Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale, Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus, Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed, Leonardo the Terrible Monster, Goldilocks & the Three Dinosaurs, and Nanette’s Baguette. (English | USA | Age 3-9). 2:45 p.m. It’s Easy Being Green: Kids Helping the Environment & Other Stories: A selection of short films about the environment and animals, including: Words Have Power, about a 10 year-old girl who fights to close down a coal burning plant in her neighborhood; Aidan’s Butterflies, about an 11-year-old boy who has been growing milkweed and harboring and releasing Monarch Butterflies since he was 6 years old; Earth Doctor, a film made by middle school

students in Maui in which Earth visits a doctor to diagnose her unusual symptoms; How Animals Hibernate, a science version of Peter and the Wolf; and The Last Straw, about a 9-year-old boy from Vermont who convinces restaurants to “go straw-free” and three Cape Cod girls who take a pledge to “skip the straw.” Featuring a Q&A with filmmaker Lynne Cherry and one of her film subjects (English | USA | Age 5+). 4 p.m.: Mila: Work-in-progress screening followed by a talk with director and writer Cinzia Angelini. A CG animated short film project produced by the largest independent, worldwide virtual studio collaboration ever, consisting of 350 volunteer animation professionals from 35 countries. Inspired by her mother’s experiences in Trento, Italy, where Cinzia was born, the short film is about a little girl whose life takes an unexpected turn during World War II. It is a war story not centered on armies, soldiers, generals, and battle plans, but rather civilians, and especially the children. (English | USA | Age 9+).

Monday, Jan. 20

Brattle Theatre, Cambridge 10:30 a.m.: Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.: Featuring Martin’s Big Words narrated by Michael Clarke Duncan; March On! The Day My Brother Martin Changed the World by Dr. Christina King Farris; Rosa by Nikki Giovanni, The Case for Loving, about interracial couple Mildred and Richard Loving by Selina Alko; and Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four

12 p.m.: Terra Willy: Unexplored Planet: WALL-E meets Fantasia in this imaginatively animated film about 10-year-old William, who is separated from his parents while traveling in space following the destruction of their ship. When his spare capsule lands on a wild and unexplored planet covered in exotic and colorful fauna and flora, he learns to survive with the help of a survival robot and an 8-legged extraterrestrial who befriends them. (English | France | Age 5+ | US premiere). 1:45 p.m.: Animated & Adorable: Short Films about Animals from the Francophone World: Top animators in France, Belgium, and Switzerland have created adorable and colorful short films with subjects such as friendship, acceptance, and perseverance. In The Big Bad Wolf Is Back, Little Red Riding Hood and her grandmother ignore the wolf’s attempts to scare them. Zibilla features a zebra adopted by horses, who meets a wild lion and learns to find her voice. The Cherry on Top is about a shy prince who seeks solace in food rather than trying to court a beautiful peacock, until a doctor prescribes a mysterious cure. In So High Up a family of giraffes is snubbed after they move into a new forest, until their son saves the day. The wordless The Last Day of Autumn has a variety of forest animals building vehicles for a race at autumn’s end. (French | France, Belgium, Switzerland | Age 5+ | North American premieres). 3:30 p.m.: Binti: Spunky and charming 12-year-old Binti dreams of becoming a famous vlogger like her idol. But when the police raid her home and try to deport her and her dad to the Congo, they are forced to flee. Binti befriends a young environmentalist named Elias, and together they use their complementary skills and personalities to create a plan to keep them in Belgium. Partial proceeds benefit the Refugee & Immigrant Assistance Center. (English | USA |Age 9+). BAYSTATEPARENT 29

on the

agenda january

ADVENTURES 5 THINGS YOU SHOULD DO THIS JANUARY

3. 4.

4. 30 JANUARY2019

Sledding Party. Fruitlands Museum, 102 Prospect Hill Rd., Harvard. Monday, Jan. 20, 1-4 p.m. Get the family outdoors and enjoy hot cocoa, sâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;mores, an outdoor fire pit, and plenty of activities, crafts, games, and hills. Members free; nonmembers $5, ages under 6 free. fruitlands.org.

Harvard Square Chocolate Festival. Brattle St., Cambridge. Friday, Jan. 24 to Sunday, Jan. 26. Establishments pull out all the stops to celebrate all things chocolate. The highlight of the weekend extravaganza is the free Chocolate Tasting Event on Saturday from 1-2 p.m., where live music adds to the sweet fun. Free. harvardsquare.com. The Illusionists: Live from Broadway. The Hanover Theatre, 2 Southbridge St., Worcester. Friday, Jan 31, 7:30 p.m. Jaw dropping talents of the most incredible illusionists on earth come together for this mind-blowing spectacular showcase featuring sophisticated magic of unprecedented proportions. $40-70. thehanovertheatre.org. Backyard and Beyond: Forest Fridays. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. Fridays, Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31, 10-10:45 a.m. Enjoy a nature-based activity outdoors in the Discovery Woods or adjacent conservation land. Designed for ages 2-6. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org. Doctor Dolittle Scavenger Hunt. Harvard Museum of Science and Culture, 26 Oxford St. Cambridge. Daily, through January 31. Ever wished you could talk to animals? Find clues around the musesum to find six of Doctor Dolittleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s animal friends and learn how they communicate.Then sketch out what you think that animal is saying by drawing or writing on the sheet provided, take your sheet to the museum shop and receive a small gift. Free with admission, adults $15, ages 3-18 $10, under 3 free. hmnh.harvard.edu.

ADVENTURES 1 WEDNESDAY

First Day Hike. Fruitlands Museum, 102 Prospect Hill Rd., Harvard. 9-10 a.m. & 1-2 p.m. Kick off a healthy, active, nature-filled New Year with this First Day Hike on the trails of Fruitlands Museum. Recommended for ages 10 and up. Register ahead. Members free, nonmembers $5. fruitlands.org. The Amazing Story Machine. Puppet Showplace Theater, 32 Station St., Brookline. 10:30 a.m., 1 p.m. & 3 p.m. Original live music, theatrical clowning, and puppetry come together to bring to life fairy tales from The Brave Little Tailor to The Hare and the Hedgehog. $16. puppetshowplace.org.

2 THURSDAY

Icy Investigations. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 10-11 a.m. Experiment with different types of salt and watercolors to explore the unique characteristics of ice. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

3 FRIDAY

Winter Crafting: Snowman Boxes. Leominster Public Library, 30 West St., Leominster. 10-11 a.m. Fun winter crafting fun making Winter Wishes Snowman Boxes. Designed for ages 3-7. Register ahead. leominsterlibrary.org.

12 p.m. Join PJ Library for fun, interactive live music and art activities. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $18, ages under 1 free. bostonchildrensmuseum.org. First Sunday. Museum of Russian Icons, 203 Union St., Clinton. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Explore the Museum and a fun craft during this first Sunday special. Free. museumofrussianicons.org. Holiday Storytime: Federico and the Magi’s Gift. Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston. 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., & 3 p.m. Learn about Three Kings Day with a special story-time of Federico and the Magi’s Gift by Beatriz Vidal followed by an art activity. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $18, ages under 1 free. bostonchildrensmuseum.org. Railers vs. Icemen. DCU Center, 50 Foster St., Worcester. 3:05 p.m. Come enjoy as the Worcester Railers take on the Jacksonville Icemen during this family-friendly hockey event. $15+. dcucenter.com.

6 MONDAY

Family Storytime. Worcester Public Library: Frances Perkins Branch, 470 West Boylston St., Worcester. 10:30-11:15 a.m. Explore themes through rhymes, stories, books, and crafts. Free. mywpl.org. Maker Mondays. Leominster Public Library, 30 West St., Leominster. 2:30-4:30 p.m. Drop by the library to make stuff, create art, and maybe even decorate the room. Free. leominsterlibrary.org.

7 TUESDAY

Snip and Tear. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 10-11 a.m. Show off your scissor skills, try cutting for the first time, or use your hands to tear a collection of confetti. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

8 WEDNESDAY

Backyard and Beyond: Eat Like a Bird. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 10-11 a.m. Celebrate National Bird Day and use tweezers, pliers, and more bird beaks of all different shapes and sizes, and then create some tasty and nutritious snacks for our feathered friends. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

9 THURSDAY

Slime Making. Worcester Public Library: Frances Perkins Branch, 470 West Boylston St., Worcester. 4-5 p.m. Create and collect ooey-gooey fun learning how to make three types of slime. Recommended for ages 9 and up with caregiver. Free. mywpl.org.

on the

agenda

january 10 FRIDAY

Especially for Me: Free Sensory-Friendly Afternoon. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 1:30-4:30 p.m. Come explore the Discovery Museum and Discovery Woods. Crowding is limited to ensure support access to exhibits. Register ahead. Free. discoveryacton.org.

First Friday Night Free. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 4:30 p.m. Explore the museum at night. Non-perishable food donations for local pantries accepted. Free. discoveryacton.org. Stars Over Springfield. Springfield Museums, 21 Edwards St., Springfield. 7:309:30 p.m. Skygazing in the Science Museum’s observatory, with a planetarium show if overcast. $3. springfieldmuseums.org.

4 SATURDAY

The Pirates! Band of Misfits. Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290 Harvard St., Brookline. 10:30 a.m. Set sail for a fun-filled voyage and hilarious pirate antics with the biggest band of misfits on the seven seas during this animated adventure. Adults $9.50, children $7.50. coolidge.org. WAM Arms & Armor Presentations. Worcester Art Museum, 55 Salisbury St., Worcester. 11:30 a.m. & 2 p.m. An interactive program learning about different kinds of arms and armor including those used by Roman soldiers, Medieval knights, and beyond. Free with admission. Members free; nonmember adults $18, youths 4-17 $8, ages under 4 free. worcesterart.org. Festival of Trees After Dark. Berkshire Museum, 39 South St., Pittsfield. 5-7 p.m. Explore the sparkling indoor forest of Festival of Trees when the galleries are lit only by the twinkling lights on each tree. Members $3, nonmembers $5. berkshiremuseum.org.

5 SUNDAY

Concert with PJ Library. Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston. 11 a.m.BAYSTATEPARENT 31

found in the Discovery Woods as we make discoveries through our winter wonderland. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

differing abilities to experience what these Museums have to offer. Free with admission. Adults $25, youths 3-17 $13, ages under 3 free. springfieldmuseums.org.

The EcoTarium Presents: Touchable Tales. Worcester Public Library: Frances Perkins Branch, 470 West Boylston St., Worcester. 4-4:45 p.m. Learn about animal adaptations by exploring how different animals use their tails for survival through storybook reading, touchable pets, and other natural history bio-facts with a live animal visit. Recommended for ages 6 and under. Free. mywpl.org.

Bob The Magic Guy. The Regent Theatre, 7 Medford St., Arlington. 10:30 a.m. Be blown away during this mesmerizing and entertaining magic show for the entire family to enjoy. Adults $12, ages 3-12 $10, ages under 3 free. regenttheatre.com.

Railers vs. Thunder. DCU Center, 50 Foster St., Worcester. 7:05 p.m. Come enjoy as the Worcester Railers take on the Adirondack Thunder during this family-friendly hockey event. $15+. dcucenter.com.

11 SATURDAY

Sensory Friendly Saturday. Springfield Museums, 21 Edwards St., Springfield. 9-11 a.m. The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum and the Springfield Science Museum will open early, with some exhibits modified to provide an opportunity for people with a range of

Stacey Peasley Band. TCAN: Center for the Arts, 14 Summer St., Natick. 11 a.m. Enjoy this lively act that engages kids and creates memorable and fun sing-along songs, as Stacey Peasley and her band brings their energy, charm, and fun for the entire family to enjoy. Adults $12, children $10. natickarts.org. Icy Investigations. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Experiment with different types of salt and watercolors to explore the unique characteristics of ice. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org. WAM Arms & Armor Presentations. Worcester Art Museum, 55 Salisbury St.,

Worcester. 11:30 a.m. & 2 p.m. An interactive program learning all about different kinds of arms and armor including those used by Roman soldiers, Medieval knights, and beyond. Free with admission. Members free; nonmember adults $18, youths 4-17 $8, ages under 4 free. worcesterart.org. Kamishibai Storytelling. Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston. 12:15 p.m. Enjoy this traditional method of storytelling in Japan using a set of story picture cards in a small wooden stage as we celebrate the Japanese Year of the Mouse. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $18, ages under 1 free. bostonchildrensmuseum.org. Little Women Story Time. Fruitlands Museum, 102 Prospect Hill Rd., Harvard. 2-2:45 p.m. Sink into some favorite excerpts as museum staff read aloud from Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel ‘Little Women.’ Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $5, ages under 5 free. fruitlands.org. Especially for Me: Free Autism-Friendly Evening. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 5-8 p.m. Explore the accessible Discovery Museum during this evening event for families with members on the autism spectrum, with dinner provided. Register ahead. Free. discoveryacton.org. Full Moon Owl Prowl. Fruitlands Museum, 102 Prospect Hill Rd., Harvard. 6:30-8:30 p.m. See who-who-who might be out and about in the dark winter woods during this family friendly guided Owl Prowl. Recommended for ages 7 and up. Register ahead. Members $9, nonmembers $15, children free. fruitlands.org. Worcester Railers: Star Wars Night. DCU Center, 51 Foster St., Worcester. 7:05

32 JANUARY2019

p.m. Join the Worcester Railers and Newfoundland Growlers during this hockey match on Star Wars Night. $15+. dcucenter.com.

12 SUNDAY

Sensory-Friendly Sunday. USS Constitution Museum, Building 22, Charlestown Navy Yard, Charlestown. 9-10 a.m. Learn about the incredible history of America’s Ship of State in a quieter setting without loud sounds or flashing lights. Register ahead. Donations appreciated. usscm.org. ARTfull Explorations. deCordova Sculpture Park & Museum, 51 Sandy Pond Rd., Lincoln. 1-3 p.m. Explore deCordova with the whole family as we and investigate new ideas and unique materials inspired by the themes and artists on view. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14, ages under 13 free. deCordova.org. Railers vs. Royals. DCU Center, 50 Foster St., Worcester. 3:05 p.m. Come enjoy as the Worcester Railers take on the Reading Royals during this family-friendly hockey event. $15+. dcucenter.com.

14 TUESDAY

Tinker Tuesday: Exploring Plastics. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 10-11 a.m. Explore the possibilities of reusing what we usually throw away and investigate various plastics in new ways. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org. Full STEAM Ahead: Snow. Leominster Public Library, 30 West St., Leominster. 6-7 p.m. Read some snowy stories, investigate snow with your caregiver, and make a snowflake, perform a blizzard in a jar experiment, build a sledding lamp, and more. For ages 3-7.

15 WEDNESDAY

16 THURSDAY

Make a Mess: Kitchen Chemistry. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 2-4:30 p.m. Try your hand at a few simple experiments to uncover the special color changing properties of some common household ingredients. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

17 FRIDAY

$1, ages under 1 free. bostonchildrensmuseum.org.

18 SATURDAY

Spark Your Imagination. Springfield Museums, 21 Edwards St., Springfield. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Experience a day of hands-on STEM activities, developed by the Smithsonian and hosted by Spark!Lab. Free with admission. Adults $25, youths 3-17 $13, ages under 3 free. springfieldmuseums.org. MFA Playdates: Sculpture. Museum of Fine Arts: Boston, 465 Huntington Ave., Boston. 10:15 -11 a.m. Bring your toddler to enjoy story time and looking activities in the galleries, followed by art making inspired by the sculptures throughout the museum. Recommended for ages 4 and under. Free with admission. Members free; nonmember adults $25, youths 7-17 $10, ages under 7 free. mfa.org. Charismatic Comedy Magic. The Regent Theatre, 7 Medford St., Arlington. 10:30 a.m. Top notch illusions and comedy combine for this interactive one-of-a-kind magic show. Adults $12, children 3-12 $10, ages under 2 free. regenttheatre.com.

Boston Area Chantey & Maritime Sing. USS Constitution Museum, Building 22, Charlestown Navy Yard, Charlestown. 2-5 p.m. Listen, learn and lift your voices as you participate in your maritime heritage with a rousing chorus of sea chanteys. Free with admission. Donations $5-15. usscm.org.

20 MONDAY

Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Museum of Fine Arts: Boston, 465 Huntington Ave., Boston. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr by surrounding yourself with art, culture, and community, featuring performances, tours, talks, artmaking, and more. Free. mfa.org.. MLK Day. Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Join Wee the People, DEAFinitely Crew, and the Bos-

ton Children’s Museum to celebrate the life and leadership of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $18, ages under 1 free. bostonchildrensmuseum.org.

22 WEDNESDAY

ARTfull Play. deCordova Sculpture Park & Museum, 51 Sandy Pond Rd., Lincoln. 10:3011:30 a.m. Fill your morning with art and play through artmaking, stories, nature, and new friends. Best for ages 2-5. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14, ages under 13 free. deCordova.org. Backyard and Beyond: Winter Warmth. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Test the insulating properties of feathers, fur, fat, and fleece. Learn how animals keep warm during the coldest days

of the years. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

23 THURSDAY

Make a Mess: Spray Art Resist. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 10-11 a.m. Make an image created by using materials that repel each other, using wax crayons and watercolors. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org.

24 FRIDAY

pet-filled morning. $10. puppetshowplace.org. Under the Sea Potter Workshop. Worcester Public Library: Frances Perkins Branch, 470 West Boylston St., Worcester. 4-5 p.m. Use self-hardening clay to create under-the-sea creatures or tile project, before painting, and taking your creation home. Recommended for ages 5 and up with caregivers. Register ahead. Free. mywpl.org. KidsJam. Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston. 6:30-8 p.m. Monthly family dance party featuring a live DJ, dance lessons, games, and creativity. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $1, ages under 1 free. bostonchildrensmuseum.org.

25 SATURDAY

The Magic of Bonaparte. The Regent

WAM Artful Play. Worcester Art Museum, 55 Salisbury St., Worcester. 10:30-11:15 a.m. Enjoy a story in the galleries, hands-on activity, a special tour for families, and juice and snacks. Recommended for ages up to 5. Free with admission. Members free; nonmember adults $18, youths 4-17 $8, ages under 4 free. worcesterart.org. WAM Arms & Armor Presentations. Worcester Art Museum, 55 Salisbury St., Worcester. 11:30 a.m. & 2 p.m. An interactive program learning all about different kinds of arms and armor including those used by Roman soldiers, Medieval knights, and beyond. Free with admission. Members free; nonmember adults $18, youths 4-17 $8, ages under 4 free. worcesterart.org. Malden Annual Lunar New Year Celebration. Jenkins Auditorium, Malden High School, 77 Salem St., Malden. 1-4 p.m. Celebrate the Year of the Mouse with this annual Lunar New Year celebration featuring a lion dance, rice dough sculptures, New Year couplets, lantern riddles, a Lunar New Year Stamp release ceremony, arts and crafts, and more. Free. chinesecultureconnection.org. Critter Day: Wingmasters. Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston. 2:30 p.m. & 3:30 p.m. Get up close and personal with hawks and owls and learn about the amazing adaptations that allow them to be successful hunters. ASL Interpreted. Recommended for ages 6 and up. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $18, ages under 1 free. bostonchildrensmuseum.org. Happier Family Comedy Show. The Eric Carle Museum, 125 West Bay Rd., Amherst. 3-4 p.m. Enjoy this family-friendly, improv show featuring audience participation fit for all ages. Member adults $9, youths $4.50; nonmember adults $10, youths $5. carlemuseum.org.

19 SUNDAY

Snowflake Festival. Brookline Arts Center, 86 Monmouth St., Brookline. 1-3 p.m. A wonderful winter-inspired afternoon filled with artwork, activities, studio space exploration, and fun for all ages. Free. brooklineartscenter.com. BAYSTATEPARENT 33

Theatre, 7 Medford St., Arlington. 10:30 a.m. Join one of Boston’s hottest magicians during this fun-filled journey featuring a unique blend of magic, comedy, origami, balloon sculpture, and more. Adults $12, ages 3-12 $10, ages under 3 free. regenttheatre.com. The Lion Dance. JFK Presidential Library and Museum, Columbia Point, Boston. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Enjoy a traditional Chinese lion dance ceremony dating back more than a thousand years, as presented by the Wah Lum Kung Fu & Tai Chi Academy. Register ahead. Free. jfklibrary.org. Family Yoga Class. Newton Free Library, 330 Homer St., Newton. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Enjoy an hour of fun, learning, and connection during a morning featuring cooperative games, age appropriate poses, partner poses, breathing exercises, simple mindfulness activities, and relaxation. For ages 3-12. Free. newtonfreelibrary.net. Play Date: We Belong. Institute of Contemporary Art: Boston, 25 Harbor Shore Dr., Boston. 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Join Wee the People, a social justice project for kids, as they explore migration, home, and belonging through storytelling and making. Free. icaboston.org. Kamishibai Storytelling. Boston Children’s

Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston. 12:15 p.m. Enjoy this traditional method of storytelling in Japan using a set of story picture cards in a small wooden stage as we celebrate the Japanese Year of the Mouse. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $18, ages under 1 free. bostonchildrensmuseum.org.

newtonfreelibrary.net.

Railers vs. Mariners: Marvel Superhero Night. DCU Center, 51 Foster St., Worcester. 7:05 p.m. Join the Worcester Railers and Maine Mariners during this epic hockey showdown. $15+. dcucenter.com.

27 MONDAY

26 SUNDAY

Paper Orchestra Concert. Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston. 11 a.m. Join the Josiah Quincy Orchestra, as students play the violins, violas, cellos, and basses they created themselves. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $18, ages under 1 free. bostonchildrensmuseum.org. Special Sundays in the Studio. The Eric Carle Museum, 125 West Bay Rd., Amherst. 12-5 p.m. Explore new materials and try a different project in the Art Studio all day long. Free with admission. Adults $9, youths $6, ages under 1 free. carlemuseum.org. Chinese Dulcimer Guzheng Youth Band. Newton Free Library, 330 Homer St., Newton. 2 p.m. A special concert in celebration of the Chinese Lunar New Year with students from the Boston Art School for Chinese Music. Free.

Railers vs. Thunder. DCU Center, 50 Foster St., Worcester. 3:05 p.m. Come enjoy as the Worcester Railers take on the Adirondack Thunder during this family-friendly hockey event. $15+. dcucenter.com.

Sensory Play. Worcester Public Library: Frances Perkins Branch, 470 West Boylston St., Worcester. 10:30-11:15 a.m. Enjoy this interactive program to explore different textures, substances, and tools. For children birth to 5 years old. Free. mywpl.org. Fusion Nouveau 2020. David Friend Recital Hall, 921 Boylston St., Boston. 7:30 p.m. Enjoy this performance featuring a blend of early and contemporary fusion and classic horn band styles. Free. berklee.edu/events.

28 TUESDAY

Matt Heaton Family Singalong. Newton Free Library, 330 Homer St., Newton. 10-10:45 a.m. Matt Heaton, the Toddlerbilly Troubadour, brings an infectious energy to his sing-alongs featuring well known classics and originals for the entire family to enjoy. Free. newtonfreelibrary.net. Music Therapy Recital. David Friend Recital Hall, 921 Boylston St., Boston. 1 p.m. Join

the Music Therapy Department at Berklee for a student recital. Free. berklee.edu/events.

unprecedented proportions. $40-70. thehanovertheatre.org.

30 THURSDAY

31 FRIDAY

Make a Mess: Explore Kinetic Sand. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 10-11 a.m. Squish it, sculpt it, drip it, and more. Discover the unique properties of this special material. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org. Everyday Engineering: Tinfoil Ferries. Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. 2-4:30 p.m. Build tinfoil boats and then load them up with pennies until they sink during this investigation of floating, buoyancy, and engineering. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $14.50, ages under 1 free. discoveryacton.org. Ayn Inserto Jazz Orchestra: Music of Women in Jazz. David Friend Recital Hall, 921 Boylston St., Boston. 7:30 p.m. Swing to this local big band led by Berklee College’s Ayn Inserto with arrangements of women in jazz. Free. berklee.edu/events. The Illusionists: Live from Broadway. The Hanover Theatre, 2 Southbridge St., Worcester. 7:30 p.m. Jaw dropping talents of the most incredible illusionist on earth come together for this mind-blowing spectacular showcase featuring sophisticated magic of

Puppet Playtime. Puppet Showplace Theatre, 32 Station St., Brookline. 10:30 a.m. Enjoy free play, sing-a-longs, interactive stories, imagination games, and other activities during this cheerful family-friendly puppet-filled morning. $10. puppetshowplace.org. Word Play with Center Dance Studio. The Eric Carle Museum, 125 West Bay Rd., Amherst. 11 a.m.-12 p.m.. Join the Center Dance Studio for creative movement and narrative dance inspired by picture books. Free with admission. Adults $9, youths $6, ages under 1 free. carlemuseum.org. Celebrate Lunar New Year. Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston. 6-8:30 p.m. Welcome the Year of the Rat as we celebrate the Lunar New Year through dance, games, and art with a focus on Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese traditions. Free with admission. Members free; nonmembers $1, ages under 1 free. bostonchildrensmuseum.org. Railers vs. Royals. DCU Center, 50 Foster St., Worcester. 7:05 p.m. Come enjoy as the Worcester Railers take on the Reading Royals during this family-friendly hockey event. $15+. dcucenter.com.

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34 JANUARY2019

takeeight

with Samantha Cotterill It is not easy to find books where children with sensory processing disorder, autism, or other forms of neurodiversity are reflected. But in the Little Senses series, author/illustrator Samantha Cotterill touches on sensory sensitivities, overstimulation, and friendship. We caught up with the mom of two, who is currently working on her fourth book for the series. This Beach Is Loud! the illustrations 5. Inshowed how sounds (bells, seagulls squawking, planes, etc.) impacted the

BY KRISTEN GUAY

Your series for Little Senses features children with ADD, ADHD, dyslexia and autism, yet you decided not to give the characters in your books these labels. Why? The books purposefully void of any labels that might otherwise turn away a reader who needs it most. Some kids who are reluctant to open up and talk about their diagnoses may be resistant to reading a book with stated labels, and miss an opportunity to see characters with similar mindsets successfully navigate situations. By eliminating labels I can hopefully connect with more kids that either share all or some of the traits seen in the book. Keeping the interpretation open allows more kids to see themselves in these characters.

Your books show parents’ patience, and even creativity, in helping their children navigate trying something new or going to a special place for the first time. Why was it important to show this? I wanted to show the positive effects a gentle and loving support system can have when stressors present themselves. As hard as it can be sometimes, staying calm helps kids navigate through the stressful obstacles with more ease, resulting in a quicker resolution. With the dialogue itself, it was important to keep everything short and to the point. Every word has weight and meaning, and finding the exact words to best express characters’ voices often took weeks at a time. S peaking as someone with Asperger’s and having those close to me on the spectrum as well, I know first hand how much “less” can be “more.”

What do you think a 3.neurodivergent child is thinking when they

see themselves mirrored in a book?

Seeing a character just like oneself takes away feelings of estrangement and replaces them with the sense of belonging. One of the most incredible outcomes of publishing the first two books has been the heartwarming letters I’ve received from care-givers, relatives, and kids.

What kind of feedback have you gotten?

One parent wrote, “as we got to reading my son sat still, paid attention, didn’t blurt out, and at one point looked at me with wide, excited eyes because the boy in the book was almost an exact replica of our last trip to the beach.” The fact that this boy was able to recognize himself, and see the main character “win” is huge and why I wrote Little Senses. Add to that the catalyst for a conversation between parent/sibling/and child, and you have an outcome of understanding and appreciation for how these kids often view the world.

child. The sound words were in large, jagged print all over the page and the boy was clearly upset. How do you approach illustrating your books? P utting my younger-self in this child’s shoes helped set the stage for his emotions and reactions throughout the story. In the scene mentioned, the main character is at his maximum of sensory overload, and at the verge of going into meltdown. I tried to visually create a clashing whirlwind of sounds with words surrounding him in a claustrophobic manner, overlapping in colors and increasing in sound and boldness to magnify the sound. The father remains calm and positive while encouraging his son to keep practicing the self-calming tools during this overwhelming moment.

How do you think these stories can be 6. used to educate other children and their parents about neurodivergent children? It’s my goal to have this series accessible to any child in school that needs to connect with a character who understands the common struggles for children on the spectrum or with sensitivities/anxieties in general. These books have a lighthearted approach to handling overwhelming moments and can be a tool for teachers to raise awareness and understanding for others, ultimately creating an atmosphere of compassion and support. Beyond the classroom, bringing the books home can help start a conversation between parents, children and their siblings.

you want to share any thoughts on the fourth book for the Little Senses series? 7. Do

Book number four is currently “under construction,” but will address the challenges that can come with unexpected change. This one is still quite early on in the writing process, and I myself am looking forward to seeing where this story will go!

other topics would you like to 8. What address in your books? The response has been nothing short of amazing, especially when it comes to hearing directly from both parents and children about the positive impact these books have had on their lives. All those late nights banging my head trying to get the words to be “just right” were so worth the effort. These first four stories just touch the surface of the topics yet to explore, and should Little Senses continue, I would love to turn the tables, so to speak, and introduce points of perspective from family members, such as younger or older siblings. BAYSTATEPARENT 35

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