SWW Family August by Lafromboise Communications, Inc.

Family Southwest Washington

FREE

August 2011

GRAND Parenting 8 Lessons learned

DON’T GET SCHOOLED

Nontraditional ≠ not successful

MAKE A SPLASH!

Go boating

Readers of thE Month All winners receive a $20 gift certificate, and a cake from our bakery. Courtney Spriggs

Fords Prairie

Yuliana Nino

Edison

Aeryn Elder

R.E. Bennett

Wendi Ma

Audrie Tobey

Darcy Frankovich

St. Joseph

Jefferson Lincoln

R.E. Bennett

Chad Nickols

Olivia Bowen

Tianna Corona

Fords Prairie Dylan Bushnell

Jefferson Lincoln

R.E. Bennett

Fords Prairie

Stephenie Drummond

Gabriela Palafox

St. Joseph

2100 N. National Avenue Chehalis www.yardbirdsmall.com Open 6 AM - 10 PM

Jefferson Lincoln

On the Cover... Lane, age 6. At right proud sister Avery, age 2, pictured with Lane. Proud parents are Chad and Haley Sahlin of Chehalis. Photo taken by Alison Clinton of Horizon Photo & Design. Please see ad on page 22.

Creative Director, Editor: Chantel Wilson cwilson@swwfamily.com

Graphic Designers: Kelli Erb, Lead Graphic Designer Devon Bergeron Cindy Gundo Editorial Assistant: Amanda Curry

Advertising Sales: Brian Watson Chrystal Zelazny Shelleen Lundeen Southwest Washington Family is a publication of Lafromboise Communications Inc. Southwest Washington Family, 321 N. Pearl Street, Centralia, WA 98531. (360) 736-3311

· Children’s Furniture · Toys · Clothing In Many Sizes · Costumes · Maternity · Much More!

August 13th & 14th New Location! at

321 N. Pearl, Centralia

August Contents August Events

Pg. 4

Did You Know

Grandparenting

Pg. 5

Pg. 6

Kids’ Kloset

Captain For a Day

Pg. 9

Coach Feature

Pg 19

Scrapbook

Pg. 24

Fair Bingo

Pg. 22

Fun Calendar

Pg. 25

Ice Cream Shake

Pg. 14

Pg. 12

Pg. 21

Real Party

Pg. 8

Homeschooling

Love & Logic

Pg. 20

Cooking Classes

Pg. 7

Pg. 10

Cloud 9

Just Smile

Fit & Fun

Pg. 27

Pg. 17

Book Review

Pg. 23

Birthdays

Pg. 28

Blitz Hobbies Something for every hobby Enthusiast! 620 South Tower Ave. • 360-464-2352 www.blitzhobbies.com

August 2011 • Southwest Washington Family • 3

August Events August 6th Air Fair 2011 10 a.m. - 4 p.m, Chehalis-Centralia Airport Kids Fly FREE! War Birds, Bi-Plane Rides and Aircraft on Display. For more information please visit http://ci.chehalis. wa.us/generalpage/air-fair-2011. August 6th Outdoor Cinema: Toy Story 3 (PG) Dusk, Huntamer Park in Woodland Square, Lacey Spread out on the lawn and enjoy a great movie under the stars! Come early to enjoy a great concert at 7:00 p.m. Movie starts at dusk. Bring your own snacks or purchase from our concessionaire. August 6th Mossyrock Blueberry Blues Festival 10 a.m. -9 p.m, Throughout Mossyrock Activities will include festival parade, lil princess and prince blueberry contest, pinata party, car show, pie eating contest, kids art contest, shuttle bus, vendor costume contest, scavenger hunt, water balloon fight, blueberry baking contest, quilt show, face painting and musical events. For more information please call 360-983-3681. August 11th - 14th 69th Annual Loggers' Jubilee

Morton

Thursday, 56th Annual Queen Coronation, Morton High School- 8pm. Friday, Lawnmower Races: Gates open at 4:30pm. Saturday. Lion’s Club Loggers’ Breakfast, Jubilee Park, 6am-NOON. 10K RUN, Morton High School, registration 7a.m., run 8a.m. Morton Senior Center Sandwiches and Bakery Goods, 9-4. Jubilee Championship Bed Races, Main Street. CHILDREN’S PARADE - Before Grand Parade, JUBILEE GRAND PARADE, 11:30 am, Main Street. Sunday, Lion’s Club Loggers’ Breakfast, Jubilee Park, 6am-NOON. 2011 JUBILEE LOGGING SHOW, Jubilee Arena, NOON, 12p.m. For more information please call 360-496-6362 or visit http://www.loggersjubilee.com/

August 13th & 14th SWW Family Kidsignment Sale The Chronicle Breezeway, 321 N. Pearl St., Centralia Come shop the biggest selection of kids clothing from preemie to juniors, young mens clothing, toys, baby equipment, maternity clothes, and almost every type of child related item you can think of! Saturday 9-5, Sunday 11-3. For more information please call 360-807-8213 or visit www.family.com.

August 21st Ivy Pull 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., Seminary Hill Natural Hill area Seminary Hill Natural Area is a unique, environmental jewel in our own backyard. But, we may be losing this treasure. Join "Friends of Seminary Hill Natural Area" in Centralia. Support it by volunteering once a month to pull ivy. For more information please call 360-736-7045 or email us at: Godseys@compprime.com.

August 16th - 21st Southwest Washington Fair Southwest Washington Fairgrounds Come out and enjoy the fun including Lewis County Children's Museum. Starts August 16th at 10 a.m., ends August 21st at 7 p.m. For more information please call 360736-6072.

August 26th - 28th Chehalis Garlic Fest & Craft Show Southwest Washington Fairgrounds Watch for the Vintage Trolley that will provide transportation toGarlic Fest from stops throughout the Twin Cities! Pony Rides, Kids Crafts, Face Painting. Adults $5, Over 65 $4, kids 10 and under FREE! Friday 12-8, Saturday 10-8, Sunday 10-5. For more information please call 360-748-6848.

August 20th Geology Walk with Friends of Seminary Hill area 10 a.m., Seminary Hill Join geologist Jim Ward on a trip back in time as he explains the geological history of the Seminary Hill area. As we walk we will see examples of and learn about development of the present-day land forms of this region. For the Geology Walk, follow Seminary Hill Road past the Armory, then past Saxon and Baker Streets to the large blue gate on the right (just beyond the small pump house). Enter through the large blue gate to park and meet the event leader. For more information please call 360-736-7045. August 21st Solar Cooking 1 p.m. - 3 p.m., Blue Earth Farms, 3605 Jackson Hwy, Chehalis Celebrate the harvest and learn about solar cooking . For more information please call 360-269-2843 or visit www. blueearthfarms.org

August 28th Dog Days at the Park 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., Fort Borst Dog Park, Centralia Chehalis-Centralia Veterinary Hospital Proudly Presents: The 2nd Annual Dog Days @ the Park. Come to the park and enjoy a full day of canine educational seminars covering topics such as disaster preparedness, behavior and parasite control. Demonstrations from the Centralia Police K9 Unit, Agility Dogs, Search and Rescue Canines and Lewis County 4-H Clubs. Kids activities including facepainting and games! Over 20 vendor booths including local animal rescues, informational booths, veterinary products and so much more! Bring your well-behaved dog and enjoy the seminars.

No matter what your stage in life or your ability level, we have the best bath system for you!

Complete Bath Systems • Retro fit shower and bath systems • Safe bathing units for people of all abilities 915 NW State Ave. Chehalis 360-388-3229 • info@countrysideconstructionllc.com 4 • August 2011 • Southwest Washington Family

D id Y ou Know?

Fairs are large theme based events held to promote and present agricultural, commercial, industrial, and artistic exhibits to fairgoers while also providing the fun and amusement of carnivals.

Pigs don’t like heat. They can’t sweat since they do not have sweat glands. What we call “Cotton candy” was originally called “fairy floss” and was invented in 1897.

Southwest Washington Fair

Founded in 1909. It attracts more than 90,000 visitors over its six-day run each August.

rst ferris wheel was f e Sheep make a bleating sound. A baby lamb de Th r t h e 1 8 9 3 W o r l d ’ s s o i F f can identify its mother by her bleat. a i r gn e ,w d hi b The average dairy cow gives ch 200,000 glasses of milk in a lifetime.

ris Fer W. a g o. C h ic ge or ld in e

SWWF August 2011 • Southwest Washington Family • 5

Grandparenting 101

Lessons to learn

by Nancy Keaton of Chehalis

It is so true – there is nothing better than being a grandparent! But it is so much more than just spoiling them and then sending them home. Things also change a lot from generation to generation and what we grew up with and raised our children with may no longer be useful or even legal! So after seven years as a grandmother to three wonderful boys, I thought I would share some of my lessons learned.

ing 1) Respect your child’s parent

style. If you do not agree

or discuss it r keep it to yourself, on something, eithe front of your . NEVER discuss it in alone with your child ly how to teach them very quick grandchild. This could Golden rule: om against each other. M d an a dm an Gr y pla garding their and their wishes (re Respect the parents es. children) at all tim

2) Remember how you felt as a parent. You wanted some guidance but didn’t want to feel like you were incompeten t.

3) Before buying something for your

grandchild, ask your child.

or there may be a reason They may already have it r grandchild having it. your child does not want you

4) When feeding your grandchild be respectful of what your child wants them to eat. It sounds like great fun to sugar them up and send

them home, but is it really that great for your grandchild? I know my grandchildren react strongly to sugar products. While it would make me a popular grandmother to feed them lots of junk food, when they go home and their behavior is not acceptable pretty soon I won’t be popular with mom and dad. Not only that, but it’s hard on their little bodies and at some point the kids will start feeling pretty bad about their own actions. We don’t want the way they feel about themselves to be damaged just so we can be a ‘fun’ grandparent.

5) Bone up on the latest research

about child development. People use d to think that we didn’t hav e to take care of baby tee th because they fall out anyway. No w, we know that infected baby teeth are very unhealthy, not to mention very painful, and that they are the placeholders for permanent teeth. Many iss ues such as this have new research. 6 • August 2011 • Southwest Washington Family

6) Bone up on the latest laws. When I was raising my daughters, car

seats were a “good idea” not the law, and just recently the age recommendations for infants riding backwards in car seats has changed as well as the age for children to ride in the front seat. Check with the parents before driving your grandchildren.

7) If you get a ch do some research ance, take a parenting class, re ad books, magaz online. You ca inform ines n lea

or rn some gre ation. You at new idea will find th changed as a s t a a n s d you have m well, and m atured you ay want to difficult be h a ve change how haviors or si you respon tuations. Yo for getting d to u c an learn ne cooperation w techniqu from your didn’t know e s g randchild th about when at maybe y you were ra that I am a m o u ising your c uch better g hildren. I fe randmother because of el than I was a all that I ha m other, simply ve learned. aren’t

at you ldren! Don’t try to be wh at-homes 8) Finally, enjoy your grandchi ysta d to be retire any grandparents used

or can’t be. M wadays many of us available to help. No who could always be r own very active rking and leading ou wo ll sti are nts are dp gran other set of nally available. If the sio ca oc ly on are d with your lives an big presents or trips ish lav d or aff n ca grandparents etition. Don’t beat at?! It’s not a comp grandchildren, so wh ng works for you r kind of grandparenti ve ate wh r fo up lf se your act of loving e you for the simple lov ll wi en dr hil dc an – your gr them! SWWF Nancy is the proud grandmother of 7-yearold Anden, 6-year-old Payton and 5-year-old Preston. She has worked at Centralia College for over 25 years and manages the Parent Support Services Program.

Southwest Washington Family believes that being active, preventing childhood obesity and eating healthily are all objectives we want to promote. Our Fit and Fun page will help you do just that. Join in and enjoy getting fit and having fun! Verbs are action words. Here are some actions to help you stay fit.

Skateboarding is really good exercise. Practice a few new tricks or skate over to a friend’s house (but don’t forget to wear a helmet!).

Play your favorite songs and move to the music.

Dribbling up and down the basketball court is a way to really get a workout. Play a game of one-on-one.

Use a hoop and see how long you can keep it going.

STUFF YOU’LL NEED:

• 4 whole wheat pitas • 1 cup fat-free plain Greek yogurt • 1/2 cup fresh spinach • 1/4 cucumber, sliced • Pinch of salt • 1/2 tsp black pepper • Garlic powder • Cooking spray • Blender or food processor • Baking sheet • Knife • Adult helper

Cut pitas into wedges. Place on baking sheet. Spray with cooking spray and sprinkle with garlic powder. Bake at 400° for 5 minutes. Recipe from www.kidshealth.org

With an adult’s help, blend yogurt, spinach, cucumber, salt, pepper until smooth. Place in bowl in refrigerator.

Use pita wedges to scoop up the yogurt dip. It’s a healthy, low fat snack treat!

SWWF August 2011 • Southwest Washington Family • 7

Why can’t you feed teddy bears? Because they’re always stuffed.

What’s the best way to divide 19 apples among 16 people? By making applesauce.

ave you ever noticed that when you’re with a person who a lot, you actually more? Scientists who have studied this discovered that other peoples’ cause us to .

Why was the math book so sad?

Because it had a lot of problems.

Where do kids in New York City learn multiplication?

They also showed that it’s very difficult to frown when looking at someone who is . This happens even when people don’t know each other.

facts:

Times Square.

Babies smile even before they’re born. Blind babies smile in response to the sound of voices.

What do you call a huge ant? A gi-ant.

A smile has the same meaning in different societies. More than 30% of us smile more than 20 times a day. Fewer than 14% of us smile less than five times a day.

If you drop a white hat into the Red Sea what does it become?

Children have the greatest smile superpowers. Kids smile as many as 400 times per day!

8 • August 2011 • Southwest Washington Family

Wet.

In a bad mood? Psychologists have found that even forcing yourself to smile will help you begin to cheer up. So smile!

Why didn’t the salad joke make it into this issue of SWW Family? SWWF

It got tossed.

Kids’ Kloset

Do you remember the excitement of the first day of school? Looking down at your new shoes? The stiffness of new jeans? The weight of those new crayons in your backpack? If so, you can imagine the excitement that bubbles over at the distribution site of Kids’ Kloset as hundreds of kindergarten through high school aged students receive new clothes and school supplies! In 1989 St. John’s Episcopal Church Outreach Committee saw a need in the community to provide basic back to school clothing and school supplies for children in need. Children struggle when they come to school unprepared to learn or when they do not have the clothing needed to “fit in” with their peers. When children lack basic learning tools such as pencils, notebooks, and even new shoes, they start out behind and may never really catch up. The Kids’ Kloset distribution site was moved to Immanuel Lutheran, where it has continued to grow. In 2009 over 1,000 kindergarten through high school age students were served. Each child who comes to Kids’ Kloset receives one new outfit, new shoes, socks, underwear, and a bag of grade level appropriate school supplies, as well as one new or “like new” used jacket! HOW YOU CAN HELP: • Host a “jacket drive” or other new clothing item drive at your church, business, or civic group and deliver to Immanuel by August 16. • Send a financial donation to support Kids’ Kloset, c/o Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1209 N. Scheuber Rd., Centralia, WA 98531. We have “super shoppers” who strive to outfit each child with $35 or less! • Buying double school supplies when you go shopping can help out too! Drop Donations at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1209 N. Scheuber Rd., Centralia. • Volunteer to help during set-up week or on distribution day. We are particularly in need of volunteers who speak Spanish, Russian, or other languages. SWWF Advance tickets: Friday, August 19 5 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Borst Park Shelter 1 Centalia Distribution Day: Saturday, August 20 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Immanuel Lutheran 1209 N. Scheuber Rd. Centralia

For more information about this year's Kids’ Kloset event, to make donations or volunteer, please call: Immanuel Lutheran Church 736-9270, Claudia Craig 748-1076, Karen Kehr 736-3752 or Diane Stedham-Jewell 736-8060.

1211 Harrison, Centralia

736-6603

36 N. Market, Chehalis

748-0295

August 2011 • Southwest Washington Family • 9

Day Trip!

If you have lived in Lewis County and have not yet visited Mayfield Lake...grab your sunscreen, put on your swimsuits, pack a picnic lunch and head that way! If you know about this paradise, then we are pretty sure that is where you already are! I have frequented Mayfield Lake for years, but just recently discovered a new treasure Lake Mayfield Resort and Marina. If you are in need of a mini vacation, or just a great day trip, this is the place to go. The resort is enjoyable in any capacity, but if you really want a memorable day I recommend checking out one of their many marina rentals. We recently spent a day on the pontoon boat and my son enjoyed it so much I am still listening to his stories from his stint as 'captain'!

Cabins & tent/RV sites are available for rent.

Lake Mayfield Resort and Marina

Host an Exchange 350 Hadaller Road, Mossyrock 360-985-2357 Student Today ! Host an5 orExchange (for 3, 10 months) Make aExchange lifelong Student Today ! Host an friend from abroad. Host an Exchange

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10 • August 2011 • Southwest Washington Family

w.assehosts.com and www.asse.com/host or email us at info@asse.com.

(360) 736-0166 • 1-800-962-6826 300 S. Tower • Centralia www.powersportsnorthwest.com

• Go fishing! The resort sells worms and the cutest little fishing poles if you have not come equipped.

*You will need to purchase applicable licenses for fishing.

• Play a game of horseshoes or compete in a few rounds of ladder golf.

Splash down one of their water slides!

• Get some exercise and adventure as a family and canoe around the lake. * Kayak * Paddleboat • Roast hot dogs and marshmallows on one of their many fire pits! • $10 day use for a family in one vehicle

SWWF

Great Cut Great Price Great Clips

Get More From Your Bank Great Clips for the whole family! Back To School Special:

999 Haircut

$ 99 Haircut

Adults

Kids & Seniors

12 Local Branches

Centralia, Chehalis, Grayland, Morton, Pe Ell, Raymond, Rochester, South Bend, Winlock

Saturday Banking Hours

Chehalis Airport Branch – 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Rochester Branch in Bailey’s IGA – 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Winlock Branch in Cedar Village IGA – 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Open Until 7 p.m.

Monday-Friday at our Chehalis Airport Branch

Not valid with any other offers. Limit one coupon per customer. At participating salons.

Offer Expires 8/25/11

360-748-6425

1640 Louisana Ave. N.W. Chehalis, WA 98532

Member FDIC

ssbwa.com 800-242-2036

August 2011 • Southwest Washington Family • 11

Family Scrapbook Kaylee C. enjoying the beach.

Kaela C. enjoys a quiet day fishing at Swafford Pond.

Austin M. jumping waves.

Tirzah B., Davielle B., Paul P., Aison P., and Miriam B. enjoy an evening of Razor Clam digging!

Easton G. celebrates his 9th birthday with The Reptile Man.

Ethan W., 5 years, enjoys a bike ride this summer!

SEND US YOUR PICTURES!

Name(s) and age(s) of those in photo (please print): ______________________________________________ Signature (Parent or Guardian): ______________________________________________ Phone: _______________________________________ Email: ________________________________________

Photos can be sent via email to cwilson@swwfamily.com, or if you wish to send photos by mail to 321 N. Pearl, Centralia, WA 98531, they can be returned if sent with a SASE. If you email us and we don’t reply we haven’t received your message. Please give us a call at 807-8213.

SWWF 12 • August 2011 • Southwest Washington Family

Lewis County Adventist School

New BuiLDiNg aLmOst COmPLete! school starts sept. 6th

Over 28,000 square Feet Located at 2104 s. schueber Road in Chehalis

ChRistiaN eDuCatiON PResChOOL thROugh gRaDe 10 Now accepting Registration all day preschool and kindergarten options.

Community Service • Goal Setting Cross-age mentoring

emPhasis

A ic ys

Bells • Band • Choir Private Piano, Voice & Band Instrument Lessons available

✶ Ph

FuLL musiC PROgRam

Family Oriented • Smaller Class Size More Individual Attention • Ski Program Field Trips • Accountability Partners

ChRist CeNteReD LeaRNiNg

Our school with fully certified teaching staff have served Lewis County families from all faiths for over 55 years.

Tranquil Rural Setting • Beautiful Mountain Views Large Classrooms • Lots Of Windows Full size gymnasium

exCePtiONaL New BuiLDiNg

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For more information call

Principal Dan Baker 360-748-3213 August 2011 • Southwest Washington Family • 13

Schooling At Home An option to entertain by Misty Henning of Centralia

As summer comes to a close, many parents are filled with a mixture of dread and relief as they prepare for their children to head back to school. The anticipation for the upcoming school year buzzes through the malls, fills campsites, and is in the forefront of parents’ and kids’ minds alike. But while some parents shop from a school supply list provided by the teacher, others are busily preparing their own classroom. When that anticipated first day of school arrives their kids will forgo the long bus ride for a quick walk down the stairs or through the hallway. In these classrooms Mom or Dad takes on the role of teacher and a whole new world of learning is introduced into the home. Homeschooling has become a quickly growing alternative to the traditional forms of education. There are increasing numbers of supporters who have determined that the educational needs of their children can be best met at home. According to the U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics, “The percentage of the school-age population that was homeschooled increased from 1.7 percent in 1999 to 2.9 percent in 2007.” Approximately 1.5 million students were taught within the comfort of their own home in 2007 and the number continues to increase. Homeschooler advocates like Lisa and Joe Voetberg of Chehalis are not surprised, having experienced the benefits of schooling their children at home first-hand. “When we spend time helping a child with reading, math, music, basketball or writing, they feel valued and the relationship is strengthened. Homeschooling is a win-win,” says Lisa.

With ten children ranging in ages from 10 to 26, Lisa is a local veteran of homeschooling and a big proponent. The Voetbergs first began researching home education at the suggestion of Lisa’s parents, both public school teachers. She explains, “after reading works by Dr. Raymond and Dorothy Moore and their educational philosophy of ‘Better Late Than Early’, my husband and I decided to wait to send our children to school (Washington State Law requires that parents declare their intent to educate by age 8). We wanted to take this time to solidify our relationship with our children, emphasizing working, playing and reading together.” Lisa and Joe have since home educated all of their children into and through high school. They have five graduates and continue to homeschool the remaining five, ages 10, 11, 13, 14, and 16. While the decision for the Voetbergs was both familial and religious the reason more and more parents are choosing to homeschool seems to vary. The National Center for Education Statistics reports, “In 2007, the most 14 • August 2011 • Southwest Washington Family

common reason parents gave as the most important was a desire to provide religious or moral instruction (36 percent of students). This reason was followed by a concern about the school environment (such as safety, drugs, or negative peer pressure) (21 percent), dissatisfaction with academic instruction (17 percent), and "other reasons" including family time, finances, travel, and distance (14 percent). Parents of about 7 percent of homeschooled students cited the desire to provide their child with a nontraditional approach to education as the most important reason for homeschooling, and the parents of another 6 percent of students cited a child's health problems or special needs.” The Condition of Education 2009 (NCES 2009-081) Indicator 6.

Besides the benefit of choosing the material and influences that their children are exposed to, home educators are also able to customize the style of teaching. This can be very beneficial for kids who learn best outside of the standard approaches. Every child is different. As parents who are aware of these differences and needs, homeschool instructors are often able to tailor the teaching technique in a way that highlights that particular child’s interests and abilities while strengthening areas of difficulty. Erica Engle, of Adna, has homeschooled all six of her children (ages 8 – 22), and has experienced this advantage first hand. “One of our boys was born drugeffected and I was told he’d never cope with life without ADHD medications; he’s doing just fine. I’ve had the time to work with him and to help him learn how to behave without drugs, also I’ve been able to tailor his schooling to fit his learning style and needs. He’s taken longer to get some things and excelled at other subjects.” Washington state law (RCW 28A.225.010 (4)) requires that home schools teach the 11 primary subjects of reading, writing, spelling, language, math, science, social studies, history, health, occupational education, and art and music appreciation. These are the same subjects found in the traditional school settings with the difference being how they are taught. Many home school instructors teach in “units” that incorporate several of the subjects in one lesson. Others use an approach referred to as “child-led” or “unschooled” where the subject matter is decided based on the child’s interests. According to Homeschool.com the “classical” approach focuses on “the five tools of learning; reason, record, research, relate, and rhetoric” while the “traditional” approach is very textbook based and more closely mimics the methods found in public school. In the Voetbergs’ home, and probably in most homeschools, you find a mixture of different teaching styles. “We are flexible with our learning methods, adapting to each child's needs, using new products and simply adjusting to the seasons of life,” says Lisa, “but we have maintained our original vision of keeping our children at home to develop a strong set of values and character.” This kind of flexibility is a vital element in the world of homeschooling as well as a blessing for families wishing to prioritize based on their family’s needs rather than the school’s needs. For the Engles this has been one of the greatest benefits for their

family, allowing time with Dad who often works night shifts, “We have the freedom to go on field trips, travel, help out family members, or whatever else is needed or desired even if it is Monday morning,” says Erica. “Fitting school to our life rather than our life to the school day.” The state ensures that the 11 subjects are being adequately covered by a mandatory and annual evaluation (RCW28A.200.010 (3)). The information provided on the Washington Homeschool Organization website explains that this can be fulfilled by administering a “non-test assessment written by a Washington State certified teacher who is currently working in the field of education,” or by a “standardized achievement test approved by the State Board of Education.” Lisa Voetberg was fortunate to have had previous experience in the educational arena with a Bachelor's Degree in Education and time as a middle school teacher before she and Joe started a family. Washington State law RCW 28A.225.010 (4) requires home educators to have completed 45 college level credits, attended a “Parent Qualifying Course,” or work in conjunction with a certified teacher.” While her education and work experience may have given her a good starting point to develop her own homeschool Lisa credits the support of many others for her homeschooling success. “I don't want to disregard my teaching certificate, but my 'ability' to teach my children came from my desire to simply want to be their primary influence and then gleaning from those who pioneered the home education movement.”

While homeschooling has some obvious benefits, it is not for everyone. The Voetberg and Engle children quite obviously thrive in the home environment their parents have prepared for them and these results are not uncommon in the home school community. The Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA), advocates of homeschooling, cites several independent studies that confirm the success of the home education approach. One of the larger and more recent studies was released in 1997 reviewing the test scores of 5,402 home school students from 1,657 families entitled, "Strengths of Their Own: Home Schoolers

“...home educators are also able to customize the style of teaching. This can be very beneficial for kids who learn best outside of the standard approaches.”

Across America." The study supports the effectiveness of homeschooling with those students averaging in the 80 to 87 percentile. Some 30 points above the median set by students of the traditional school system. Many families cannot afford the time or finances necessary to dedicate one parent solely to daily home school. Still others may not be gifted with the patience or aptitude that it takes to be your child’s primary educator 24/7. “When the kids were little I didn’t get a lot of me time or even time to talk to adults,” Erica confesses. “But on the flip side, now that they are older and working independently I have been able to go back to school fulltime and I know it’s because of the time I invested when they were younger.” The limited social interaction outside of the family unit can be challenging for kids as well as parents. Many home educators choose to take extra steps to encourage their children’s social skills through extracurricular activities in the school district, community involvement, or activities with other homeschoolers or their church family. The Voetberg children participate in sports through the Centralia School District and the Engles are active in Boy Scouts. Both families are involved in their church. In addition, Lewis County has several support groups and co-ops for homeschoolers that provide homeschooling parents and kids with the opportunity to connect. This includes the Google group “Lewis County Homeschoolers,” overseen by Erica. “14 years ago Lewis County Homeschoolers was a large group with monthly home groups and quarterly large groups. Over the years it’s physical presence has lessened but it’s still active. Now it’s a “loop” on Google groups that acts as a clearinghouse for information that may be of interest to homeschoolers.” They have also started a August 2011 • Southwest Washington Family • 15

Facebook page, and Erica notes the difference in the resources available for homeschoolers today, “I think online communities have replaced local support groups, if you have a question or issue you can google it and come up with 150 different answers at any time of the day or night.” Both homeschooling moms admit that there are definitely challenges to educating at home, but for their families the reward is far greater. “It may feel 'hard', at times, when a child complains or I simply don't want to have to work at teaching” says Lisa, “but the payoff is huge when we work through the conflict.” Erica confesses,“It’s overwhelming to be responsible entirely for your child’s education,” and advises that individuals interested in taking on the challenge realize, “It’s a long-term commitment. The first year is hard and if you don’t have a long-term vision it is too easy to give up.” In the end, the choice to home school is dependent on the dynamic and needs of each family. For all of the positive attributes of homeschooled families, perhaps the most apparent quality is the dedication and involvement of the parents and the emphasis on a strong family unit. Whether our children attend public school, private school, or a school of our own making, the presence of devoted parents and a supportive family life makes a noticeable impact. Many home and publicly educated households recognize that the goal of raising a child is to support growth physically, emotionally, and academically. Concentrating on the whole child and doing what it takes to help that child succeed in each area of life seem to be the common denominators among children who are really thriving. Regardless of our choices for education or parenting style, love, respect, and devotion is something we can all strive to give our children.

SWWF Misty graduated from Adna High School and Eastern Washington University with degrees in Journalism and Communications. She enjoys combining her passion for writing with her love for her family.

Homeschool Support groups or co-ops

• The Lewis County Homeschoolers homeschool@localaccess.com. • First Class Lewis County www.firstclasshomeschool.org • Christian Homeschoolers of South Sound • Lewis-Thurston HSers

Useful websites

• Washington Homeschool Organization www.washhomeschool.org • HSLDA - www.hslda.org/hs/state/WA/ default.asp • Homeschool.com • Parent Qualifying Course by Linda Krenelka, of Lewis County Family Academy lakrenelka@academynorthwest.net

MONDAY MADNESS

he t d T ts s Selena Gomez an Ticke

(9/12 ONLY)

lect Get 50% off se and rides, games, select food items.

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DIZZY PASS RI DE BRACELET DAYS 9/13-9/15 9/19-9/22

Meet Dora The Explorer Sept. 17-19

VISIT thefair.com FOR TICKETS, DEALS, AND DISCOUNTS! 16 • August 2011 • Southwest Washington Family

with Fair admission!

a b a r G Spoon

Try this at home!

The following amounts will be enough to make about two scoops of of the frozen creamy stuff, so be sure to adjust your ingredients depending on how much you’re craving! Take a small resealable zipper bag and add 1 cup of milk, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. For added flavor, use 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Seal it up and get rid of as much air as you can. Now, double bag it inside a similar-sized bag.

Add 4 cups of crushed or cubed ice with 12 tablespoons of salt in a large freezer bag. You can use any kind of salt because you won't actually be eating it. (The salt is there to lower the freezing point.) Put in you little double bag, and seal the large bag around it, getting rid of as much air as possible.

SHAKE IT! SHAKE IT! SHAKE IT!

Now for the best part – shake it up, baby! Wrap the bag in a tea towel, or use gloves to keep you hands from freezing. Keep shaking for at least five minutes before checking on the progress.

It will start getting thicker, which you will notice through the bag. After 8 minutes, you should have some delicious ice cream. Remove the smaller bag and wipe it down to remove all the salt on the outside.

To SWEETEN up your delicious treat try adding flavored milk, fruit puree, mini chocolate chips or fudge sauce towards the end of the shaking process! **NOTE bigger batches require more shaking.

SWWF August 2011 • Southwest Washington Family • 17

DanceWith Us

Come

Come see us perform at the Southwest Washington Fair on Tuesday, Aug., 16th!

FREE Classes the week of August 22nd

EnrollmEnt is now opEn

with classEs bEgining sEptEmbEr 12th We have ballet and creative movement classes for boys and girls ages 2 through adult.

221 S Tower Centralia, WA 360-623-9010

centraliaballet.com

Please call 360-623-9010 to reserve space in one of our classes. We look forward to speaking with you. 18 â&#x20AC;˘ August 2011 â&#x20AC;˘ Southwest Washington Family

Super Slugger Coach Coach Jason Billings,

Centralia Little League, T-ball Team Bruisers Coach Billings, father of five, debuted as a T-ball coach this season with his son, six-year-old Thomas on the team. I have coached basketball and helped coach pee wee football, but I would have to say coaching t-ball has been the best! It was a lot of fun watching the Bruiser team and seeing kids go from hitting off of a tee to coach pitching within a couple of games. I believe the kids loved it because I kept them motivated by keeping them moving all the time, mixing things up and getting parents involved. I think I had the best bunch of kids to coach! It would be great to coach these kids next year. SWWF

My coach rocks! Thank you for being my coach! ~ Jack H., Nominator

~Coach Jason Billings

School is out, but SportS are in high gear!

u r oB

! s r ise

Send in your nominations for your favorite coach!!

Name of coach nominated: _______________________________ Team / Sport: ____________________________________________ Name of child nominating coach: _________________________ Name of parent & phone: _________________________________ Reason coach should be featured: _______________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ Email: __________________________________________________ If you have a picture of your coach and/or team, please send it in too! We may contact you to learn more about your favorite coach. Nominations can be sent via email to cwilson@swwfamily.com, or if you wish mail it to 321 N. Pearl, Centralia, WA 98531, photos can be returned if sent with a SASE. If you email us and we don’t reply we haven’t received your message. Please give us a call at 807-8213. August 2011 • Southwest Washington Family • 19

l o C u d n 9 O

Lay in the grass and spend some time looking at the clouds. What do you see? Numbers, letters, dinosaurs, maybe even mashed potatoes? This is a simple way to increase creativity and imagination in your children!

SWWF

Staying Active WE OFFER:

Now, there is no reason to miss your annual mammogram

Many women avoid their annual mammogram because they are afraid of feeling pain during the exam. Now, there is a way to minimize the discomfort. We offer every woman MammoPad, a breast foam pad that serves as a cushion between you and the mammography system. So you can relax, knowing your mammogram will be warm, soft and comfortable.

521 West Adams Morton 360-496-3523 www.mortongeneral.org 20 • August 2011 • Southwest Washington Family

• Independent Apartments, Cottages & Townhouses • No Buy-In, No Lease • Meals Included • All Utilities Paid • Weekly Housekeeping • 24 Hour On Site Management

Cottages & Apartments Available NOW! 2100 SW Woodland Circle, Chehalis (Behind Steck Medical Center)

www. 360.748.0095 woodlandestatesonline.com

info@woodlandestatesonline.com

Timing, Anger & Empathy Consequences provided with anger result in resentment. Consequences preceded by empathy build personal responsibility. The truth be told, we all struggle with this skill in one way or another. That's why it's helpful to use a few little tricks to keep ourselves headed in the right direction: • Remember that it’s okay to delay consequences. When you're too angry to think straight or to be empathetic, give yourself a gift by giving yourself some time to calm down, think, and get some help from others.

• Resist the urge to remind. The more warnings or reminders we give our kids, the more stressed and frustrated we become. Take care of yourself, and your child, by replacing words with actions. by Dr. Charles Fay, Love and Logic Institute

• Post your "empathetic statement" around the house. Memorize your empathetic statement by posting it all over the house on little "sticky notes." • Don't be afraid to take care of yourself by setting and enforcing solid limits. Many parents have problems with getting angry because they haven't set enough good, solid limits with their children. One of my favorites sounds like, "I do___________ for kids when they are treating me with respect."

SWWF

August 2011 • Southwest Washington Family • 21

Fair Fun!

Take the family to the SWW Fair Aug. 16th-21st and play FAir Bingo. See who can find the following items first!

Most of these bingo items can be incorporated into an extended learning experience. How many types of beans can you find? What do they do with sheep wool? How much milk can a dairy cow produce? Enjoy a fun adventure at the fair and then come home and learn something new as a family! Find a category you may want to enter for the 2012 fair! SWWF

O G N I B

22 â&#x20AC;˘ August 2011 â&#x20AC;˘ Southwest Washington Family

Reader eview R Raising

Is There Room in Your Nest?

Charitable Children

by Carol Weisman MSW, CSP, MOM F.E. Robbins & Sons Press 2006 (revised 2008) Recommend for Parents and Grandparents

Catholic Community Services

is looking for dedicated adults to provide temporary foster care for youth from age 10-17. Must pass a background check, be 25 or older, and have an extra bedroom. Monthly reimbursement of $1500.

For more info call 360-878-8248.

Reviewed by "Mom of two charitable children in Chehalis"

This is a good book about teaching children, as young as age 4, about charitable giving. This is a step by step guide on how to start a group, decide who will be apart of the group, and what charities the group feels is important to donate to. It also discusses multiple ways to give not just monetarily. I would recommend this book to other parents. Children need to be taught to give back! I would rate this book a 3. It's a very informative book. SWWF

Paradise RV Resort

This is the place to be this summer! We have something for everyone. Two stocked lakes to fish in, and weekend activities for the whole family. Some weekends include entertainment. Breakfast served Saturday & Sunday & lunch on Saturday.

www.thousandtrails.com/getaways/washington/ paradise.asp

173 Salem Plant Rd • Silver Creek, WA

360-985-2756

25% OFF

Clothes • August Only must present coupon

448 N. Market Blvd Chehalis WA 98532 Consign & Trade! Maternity XSmall - 3X

Kids

Preemie - 14

Nursing Furniture Car seats Strollers Toys & So Much More! August 2011 • Southwest Washington Family • 23

Kids in the Kitchen Does you child love to cook? Would you like your child to become more self-sufficent in the kitchen? Whether participating in a children's class or being by your side watching you in an adult session, here are some local activities to get on your schedule this August!

August 21st, 1-3 p.m. Blue Earth Farms, Solar Cooking Celebrate the harvest and learn about solar cooking. For more information please call 360-269-2843 or visit www. blueearthfarms.org

August 6th, 10 a.m. Seed Saving, Borst Demo Garden Workshop is presented by WSU Lewis County Master Gardeners as a service to the community. No pre-registration required! For more information please call 360-740-1212 or visit http://lewis-mg-mrc.org

August 27th, 10 a.m. Growing Potatoes in Compost Bins Providence Place Demo Garden Workshop is presented by WSU Lewis County Master Gardeners as a service to the community. No pre-registration required! For more information please call 360-740-1212 or visit http://lewis-mg-mrc.org SWWF

August 8th-11th, 9-11:30 a.m. Bayview School of Cooking, Baking 101 Tackling all the fundamentals of basic techniques, junior pastry chefs learn how to create amazing confections from a few simple ingredients. Students will be making magic as they pull beautiful pies, cupcakes and French pastries out of the oven to take home for friends & family! $165 per student, for ages 9-13 includes pastry bag, decorating tips, offset spatula and recipe booklet. For more information please visit www. bayviewschoolofcooking.com/kids.html

• Bocatta Deli & Market in Centralia will customize kids’ classes to suit your group!

August 8th, 6 p.m. Once Upon a Thyme This adult class focuses on healthy recipes and would be wonderful for an older child or teen to expand their repertoire with a parent. $35 includes class instruction, tasty samples and recipes.

Town Center Dental

1515 NW Louisiana Ave. Chehalis, WA 98532 • 360-740-6212 Rochester Family Dental 18328 Albany Street Rochester, WA 98579 360-273-7771

Rainier Park Dental 101 5th Street West Rainier, OR 97048 503-556-3744 • New Patients Welcome • Emergencies Seen The Same Day • Open Monday-Saturday • New Patients Welcome

www.1877drteeth.com 24 • August 2011 • Southwest Washington Family

Real Parties

A dog-gone good time!

It’s ‘paw’fect darling! We love this puppy party put on for Amelia’s 2nd birthday!

SWWF

Send us your parties to cwilson@swwfamily.com August 2011 • Southwest Washington Family • 25

47th Anniversary

Cowlitz Prairie Grange #737

THRESHING & GAS SHOW 2011 With Cooperation of S. W. Washington 2 Cylinder Club • Antique Farm Engines & Tractor Association • Northwest IH Collectors Chapter #30 • Cowlitz River Two Cylinders

SATUrdAY & SUNdAY

✢ ConCert ✢ MUSIC oN THe FIeld All WeekeNd! Featuring

Threshing Bee Band FrIdAY NIGHT

AUGUST 27 - 28, 2011

Set up of exhibits on Friday, the 26th

roBerT HerreN FArM

3.5 miles north of Toledo, Washington on Jackson Highway For INForMATIoN CAll: 360 Area Code

Grange Hall 7-10

Side KicKS Band & Open Mic

Tractor Expo Lew Rohrig ......864-2744

Model "T" Ford

Threshing Lewis Zion .......262-3696

(12:00 Both Days)

Grange Kitchen Carl Foster .......864-4724

Special Event For The Kids

Vendors Larry Bilyeu......262-0540

MoNeY dIVe INTo THe STrAWPIle

Engine Setup Warren Roberts 748-7643

(Food in kitchen)

Show expo - Tractors expo Area

An old-fashioned

each day at 2:00