Idaho Family March/April 2022 by Idaho Family Magazine

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Mar/Apr 2022

LIFE LESSONS What golf teaches kids

SPEAKING OF FINANCES (Most people don’t)

Now more environmentally friendly!

IDAHO REPTILE ZOO Where snakes are fun

2-year-old Cosmo lives in Meridian

Contents Features

Volume 10, Number 2 Publisher J.J. Plew Associate Publisher Adrianne Goff Adrianne@globalpsd.com Cover Photo Camelyn Gast

facebook.com/CamelynRosePhotography/ instagram.com/CamelynRosePhotography/ www.CamelynRosePhotography.com

Editor Gaye Bunderson editorgaye@gmail.com Sales & Marketing J.J. Plew jj@idahofamilymagazine.com 208-697-2043 Contributors Luke Erickson, Macaile Hutt, Cara Johnson-Bader, Dennis Lopez, Sandy McDaniel, Melanie Nelson Graphic Design Carol Smiley csmileydesign@gmail.com Distribution Shauna Howard, Doris Evans

Idaho Family Magazine, published monthly by Gem Production Co., LLC, is committed to providing readers with informative and entertaining information to help them in maintaining healthy families and positive lifestyles. It is distributed throughout the valley as a free publication. Idaho Family Magazine does not assume responsibility for statements or opinions expressed by editorial contributors or advertisers. The acceptance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services or information. Idaho Family Magazine does not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without express written consent of the publisher. Reader correspondence and editorial submissions are welcome. Idaho Family Magazine reserves the right to edit or reject all materials submitted. All rights reserved. Copyright 2022 by Gem Production Co., LLC. Follow us on Facebook

March/April 2022

Reptile Zoo

Interact with creatures

Golf for kids

Anxiety interventions

Melasma

Good, safe child care

Kid-friendly lunches

More than a sport

Columns 12 Real Money,

Real Families Socially awkward finances

In Each Edition

Content vs. process

Your questions answered

10 Family Events Calendar

A parent’s checklist

Kitchen togetherness

Connect with your kids

Why it’s essential

Children’s Photos Wanted Idaho Family Magazine would love to put your child or children on our cover. All photos should be high quality, sharp and clear, and high resolution of around 300 ppi. Color photos are preferred, and all photos need to be vertical not horizontal. Please identify the children in the photos, the children’s ages, and what Treasure Valley community they reside in. (If chosen for the cover, their last names will not be used without permission.) Send the photos to editorgaye@gmail.com.

2 MAR/APR 2022 | Idaho Family Magazine

FREE

Mar/Apr 2022

LIFE LESSONS

What golf teac hes kids

SPEAKI NG OF FINA NC

(Most peop le don’t)

IDAHO REPTILE ZOO Whe re snakes are fun

Now more

environme

ntally frien

dly! 2-year-old

Cosmo lives

in Meridian

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IDAHO REPTILE ZOO

Where families meet friendly creatures By Dennis Lopez

istening to Tyler Messina, I almost forget that I hate snakes. His enthusiasm about reptiles is contagious…

almost. Messina is the bright and knowledgeable owner and curator of what is perhaps Boise’s most eclectic zoo: The Idaho Reptile Zoo. Open for one and one-half years, the tidy 10,000-square-foot facility is located between an escape room and an axe throwing business in a small strip mall on Boise’s Southwest side at the junction of Five Mile and Overland roads. Messina says he initially didn’t intend to be a zookeeper and had studied to be a teacher, but a summer job in a similar sort of reptile zoo changed all of that. “I have always loved wildlife,” he says. “I was the kid who always had some sort of critter, including having a possum in my closet.” His current collection of reptiles began shortly after moving to Boise 10 years ago. “I started keeping reptiles in my garage,” he said. “Eventually my garage was like a clubhouse, with people dropping in and sometimes dropping off reptiles.” In fact, dropped off or abandoned reptiles remain his primary source for animals in his zoo. “Sometimes we reluctantly end up with drop-offs that aren’t reptiles,” he says. “We have had animals as diverse as pigeons and skunks. Ultimately we found rescue facilities for them all.” Messina points out that the primary reason he ends up with so many abandoned reptiles is that, in many cases, they are hard to raise and represent a long-term commitment to their care and health. “Reptiles are unique and need individualized care, which means they can require a lot of attention,” he explains. “Often people will buy them without realizing that some reptiles can have a life span longer than 30-years or more. Turtles, for example, can live to be 100. Reptiles definitely are a niche pet.” He is uncertain as to the exact reason he ends up with alligators, lizards or snakes dropped off at his zoo; however, he offers some ideas. “It’s a commitment to an animal that not everyone is willing to make.” And educating people about reptiles and owning them as pets are the main goals of the Idaho Reptile Zoo. He explains that while it is a zoo in a classical sense, it also

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is education-based, providing visitors with the opportunity to interact with reptiles. “Families are our main demographic,” he says. “We are a family-owned and operated business and understand the importance of having activities that can be inclusive of every family member. “Children seem to accept reptiles much more easily than do adults because they’re open to leaning about new things. Adults have a harder time, most likely because of pre-conceived ideas about snakes or lizards.” Messina attributes some of the preconceived ideas about reptiles simply to a bad public reputation, pointing out that in countless movies and books, reptiles are always “the bad guys.” “But things aren’t always as they seem or are portrayed.” He says that only by holding or touching them can people learn that they are not slimy or cold to the touch, that they often are shy and not used to human touch. Visitors to the Reptile Zoo learn that reptiles play an important role in the world’s ecosystem. “Reptiles are a barometer for the health of the environment.” The Idaho Reptile Zoo is a non-profit, 501c(3) facility that is owned by Messina and his mother and operated by a small crew consisting of Tyler, his mother, his 12-year-old daughter and a team of 20 volunteers. “We have a great group of volunteers here,” Messina says. “They play a really vital role in keeping this place going. It’s a good opportunity for us to teach them about reptiles and for them to develop new skills.” The zoo is open seven days a week and offers a variety of learning opportunities that range from simply visiting and observing to a three-hour birthday party “reptile-orama” which allows up to 30 people to come to the zoo, see reptiles not normally seen by zoo visitors and to feed and handle some of the reptiles. “It’s really a pretty popular part of what we do here,” says Messina. “In fact, we recently had a party for a lovely 85-year-old lady. She loved it.” As the interview winds down, I realize maybe I have been influenced by movies like Snakes on a Plane or The Jungle Book – each with snake villains. For more information, go to IdahoReptileZoo.org. (Photos courtesy Idaho Reptile Zoo.) Idaho Family Magazine | MAR/APR 2022 3

LIFE LESSONS?

What learning golf teaches youngsters By Gaye Bunderson

olf can be much more than just a game. In Jake Vetsch’s view, golf can literally teach a person about life. Jake is an adult and youth golf instructor with Golf365 in Boise. He and co-instructor Phil Pollacia hold junior golf camps each spring through summer to help kids learn golf skills. But the benefits for youngsters may go beyond learning how to make their way around the links without feeling frustrated. “Kids are always go, go, go,” Jake said, “and golf slows them down. It increases their ability to focus as they learn steps to get good at golf. When they focus on those things, it sets them up for problem-solving.” The 26-year-old went even further, stating, “Golf is like life. You encounter obstacles and you learn to solve them. It teaches perseverance and how to move on from a bad shot and look to the next shot. In other words: let it go, there’s a future ahead.” Hit a golf ball into a sand trap? No problem. Learn how to navigate a way out of a challenge. And for those who fail to overcome a course hazard like a sand bunker? Still no problem. Turn failure into a growth opportunity. Though Jake has no children of his own right now, he is from a big family and has 11 nieces and nephews. He acknowledges children can be a bit rambunctious when trying to learn, but he said he and Phil are able to “rein them back in.” This year marks Jake’s second full year of teaching golf. He actually started in 2019, but the pandemic lockdown in 2020 made it a difficult year for him. “I had no work for 3 or 4 months,” he said.

Golf instructor Jake Vetsch teaches 7-year-old Kristian Short how to properly swing a golf club. The photo was taken inside at Golf365 during the colder winter months. (Photo provided by Bill Short)

4 MAR/APR 2022 | Idaho Family Magazine

When businesses opened up again, things got brighter. “Golf took off,” Jake stated. People were weary of being cooped up, and golfing allowed them access to the outdoors while still practicing safe distancing – “2021 was good,” said Jake. Golf is perfect for people of all ages. While youngsters won’t end a round of golf with a martini at the so-called ‘nineteenth hole’, golf courses in the area are largely kidfriendly, with sodas and other suitable drinks for the younger crowd. And no one can discount the value of fresh air and sunshine for everyone. Following is information about the Spring Break Junior Golf Camp The spring break camp is set for 9 a.m. to noon Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, March 21-23, at Indian Lakes Golf Club in Boise. The camp is for children ages 6-12 and for all skill levels. For cost and other information, contact Jake at jakevetsch@ yahoo.com or 208-964-6015; or Phil at ppollacia38@ gmail.com or 214-738-4797. (A summer camp is also planned. Contact either Jake or Phil for more info.) At the camps, Jake and Phil start out with the basics, then they go one-on-one for further skill development. Jake said he’s had a couple of juniors in the camps who were pretty good and their parents wanted to know if their kid could play in tournaments. Growing up in Coeur d’Alene, he saw some kids who were “really good” and some junior players who went on to do quite well, such as Derrick Bayley, who played on the PGA Tour. On the other hand, some youngsters are just not interested in golf, or are not good at it, and that’s okay. “You can’t make them be interested,” Jake said, surprising no parent anywhere. He doesn’t feel parents should commit their kids to any one sport. “I played all sports, and it’s great to play all sports,” he said. Jake’s interest in golf began after his grandfather lost his mobility. Jake had been playing the game growing up, but it became special when he could contact his granddad after a round. “I’d call him, and we’d talk,” Jake said, explaining he and his grandfather would easily bond over a good golf conversation. Jake received a golf scholarship and went to Walla Walla Community College; he’s still working on his degree, now at Boise State University, and is majoring in communication and marketing. www.idahofamilymagazine.com

“Golf is like life. You encounter obstacles and you learn to solve them...”

Playing golf indoors at places such as Golf365 and similar sites during the winter months is a good idea. It helps keep skills from rusting and cuts down the amount of time it takes to get back in the game when the weather warms up. Don’t forget the third aspect of good golf: the mind. “Golf is more than physical and technical; it’s also mental. Staying in that realm is also important,” Jake said. That counts for golfers of all ages. Kids tend to ‘bounce off the walls’, so to speak, so narrowing their focus through golf is a bonus. One of the primary differences between younger and older golfers is children’s newness to everything – they’re not ‘set in their ways’ yet. “Kids have no muscle memory,” Jake said. “You can mold them into a good golf swing.” Jake is not only glad he gets to play and teach golf, but said also, “I’m grateful to be able to make a living at it.”

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Free education workshops that empower parents as their child’s first and most loved teacher. We show you how to make everyday moments into learning moments.

208-338-4707

ready@idahoaeyc.org Workshops for parents with newborns up to five years of age Register today at www.idahoaeyc.org/ready

Idaho Family Magazine | MAR/APR 2022 5

ANXIETY INTERVENTIONS

Changing perspectives and strategies By Macaile Hutt

ince becoming a Certified Clinical extremely predictable and rarely original. Worry Anxiety Treatment Professional for feels like a pounding heart, increased sweating, Children and Adolescents (CCATP-CA), and racing thoughts. It feels like a bully that my entire view on anxiety interventions shows up in our mind trying to boss us around. has changed. I used to focus so much on the But we don’t have to listen to worry. In fact, we content of the worry when working with my can talk back to worry and tell it we aren’t going clients and even when managing anxiety I was to obey it today. We can tell worry that we are experiencing myself. going to do the hard thing anyway. What are you worried about? What’s the 2. Separate from our worry. I have my worst that could happen? When does the clients name their worry, draw their worry, and Macaile Hutt worry show up? Why does the worry learn how to talk back to it with a vengeance show up? when it shows up. Separating from our worry makes it feel Without even realizing it, I was “doing the disorder,” as so much less personal when it shows up, and allows us to anxiety guru Lynn Lyons often says. When we focus on the tell it to exit stage left without feeling like we are losing a content of our worry, our worry grows. When we focus on part of ourselves in the process. When we separate from our the process anxiety takes within ourselves, we can learn to worry, it makes it a lot easier to identify within ourselves and overcome it no matter what type of content the anxiety is within those around us. One of my clients named her worry stemming from. “Frank” and it has become a funny household topic “when When I first entered the realm of anxiety in children and Frank shows up.” It feels much less confronting to imagine adolescents, I had a go-to strategy I used with a lot of my Frank, a little hairy red troll, showing up in my client’s mind clients. We would create a special “worry box” where the and gives everyone permission to work together to defeat this children could write down all their worries and store them worry when he shows up unannounced. in the box so they didn’t have to live within their minds Naming our worry also helps us recognize we aren’t alone anymore. This seemed to have intermittent success; but in these feelings and don’t have to feel isolated when dealing throughout my certification process, I learned that we are with them. If mom’s worry shows up the night before a big actually growing our worries any time we focus on what it is meeting at work, or dad’s worry shows up sitting in traffic on we are worried about without stepping into the process of the way to an important event, we learn to talk about it as the worry, what it asks of us, and how we can overcome those a family and lessen the feelings of isolation that often come requests regardless of the challenges we face. with such big feelings. When we create a sense of community Anxiety demands certainty. And no amount of certainty around these feelings, we can all work on identifying and will ever satisfy the demands anxiety creates. So often we defeating them together. give our children as much structure as we possibly can and 3. Celebrate little victories. Rather than focusing wonder why we see major increases in negative behaviors on the things we are worried about, let’s focus on the anytime we stray from the precise schedule they are used to times worry showed up and we chose not to listen. I often following. But what if there was a better way? What if we suggest families get a stack of Post-it Notes and leave them could give structure when available, and also learn to adjust somewhere accessible to the whole family, near a wall that our sails and go with the flow when unexpected changes everyone sees often. Encourage everyone in the family to happened within our lives or our day? This is Lynn Lyon’s make note on the Post-its anytime they “do the hard thing” lifework and it has made such a massive difference in the even when worry shows up, or witness a friend or family way I treat the ever-growing anxiety epidemic our country is member defeat worry in their day. Where attention goes, facing. energy flows, and when we focus on these positive times Without having the ability to download everything I’ve worry showed up and we did the hard thing anyway, our learned from Lynn throughout my practice into your mind, energy goes toward those positive thoughts and creates I wanted to share at least a few takeaways I use frequently stronger pathways for positivity in our brain. when treating anxiety in children and adolescents: 4. Get uncomfortable on purpose. Once we learn 1. Learn to expect worry. Once we accept the fact where our triggers to worry lie, and we become familiar with that worry is going to show up, we don’t have to waste so the process of worry (how it shows up in our body, what much time being scared of its arrival. Worry is always going it feels like, and how predictable it actually is), we can put to show up, for some more than others, but worry is also Continued on Page 15 6 MAR/APR 2022 | Idaho Family Magazine

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Dermatologist Ryan Wells answers your top questions about melasma Melasma affects an estimated 5 million people in the U.S., according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information. Dr. Ryan Wells, board-certified dermatologist at Dermatology Clinic of Idaho, sat down with us to talk about melasma – what it is, symptoms, and treatment. Q: What is melasma? A: Melasma is a commonly acquired condition of dark brown or brown-gray patches of skin that typically occurs on the face. Most often, it affects individuals who have darker skin, such as those of Hispanic, Asian, African, and Middle Eastern descent. Melasma is more prevalent among young to middle-aged women. Repeated exposure to sunlight or heat leads to it. There is also a hormonal component of melasma which explains why women tend to be more affected than men. If not treated, or with continued exposure to sunlight or thermal energy, melasma can be permanent. Q: What are the symptoms or signs of melasma? A: Melasma is characterized by dark brown or brown-gray patches of skin that primarily occur on the face. Some patterns of increased pigmentation on the face include: 1) centrofacial, which involves the forehead,

cheeks, nose, and upper lip; 2) malar, affecting the cheeks and nose; and 3) mandibular, which affects the jawline bilaterally. Q: Who is at higher risk for melasma? A: Melasma is more common in women because of the hormonal components – in particular, those in hyperestrogenic states, such as being pregnant or using oral contraceptives. Melasma is sometimes referred to as the “mask of pregnancy” because of this well-known association. Q: How is melasma treated? A: The condition is not harmful, but many individuals opt to treat it for cosmetic reasons. Melasma can be challenging to treat. The basis of treatment entails consistent use of daily sunscreen. If melasma is associated with pregnancy, it tends to slowly improve after the pregnancy. Discontinuing oral contraceptives can be helpful if the melasma was associated with their use. Topical therapies such as hydroquinone cream, retinoids, corticosteroids and azelaic acid can all help improve the condition. As mentioned, melasma can be difficult to treat, and sticking to a treatment regimen is vital for improvement. There are also options of using various laser therapies if

topical treatments are not beneficial. Q: Melasma is sometimes mistaken for sunspots; how do they differ? A: The color of these two conditions can look similar, but melasma consists of larger patches of hyperpigmentation compared with sunspots. Melasma also tends to primarily occur on the face, whereas sunspots typically occur in any sun-exposed areas. About the Provider Dr. Wells was born and raised in Mountain Home, Idaho. He completed his undergraduate degree at Brigham Young University. He went on to obtain his M.D. and Ph.D. from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Besides general dermatology, he is keen on investigating complex medical dermatology cases. Dermatology Clinic of Idaho is Treasure Valley’s go-to Medical Practice for trusted skin care and top-notch patient care. Get to know their team by following them on social media and book consultations online at IdahoDerm.com or call 208.376.4265.

WELCOMES Ryan Wells, M.D., Ph.D., Pharm.D. For appointments visit IdahoDerm.com, or call 208.376.4265 Voted Idaho’s Best™ of 2021 Caring for Your Skin For Over 40 years www.idahofamilymagazine.com

SERVICES Medical | Mohs Surgery | Cosmetic

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GOOD CHILD CARE

Looking for and selecting a safe provider By Cara Johnson-Bader

hoosing child care is one of the most Another commonly asked question is, important decisions you will ever make “How do I start looking for child care?” for your child. Research increasingly Here are a few tips: tells us that the first years of a child’s • Begin by determining what is important to life are critical to shaping their future health you. Are you looking for a loving and nurturing and development. High-quality child care and environment; a safe, clean environment; longeducation in the early years can make a positive term teachers; or a strong focus on learning? difference for the future of your child. By making • Establish your budget and determine logistics a thoughtful decision now, you can help your child like location and schedule. develop the skills needed to be successful in school. • Visit your state website to review compliance Cara Johnson-Bader “When should I start looking for with rules and regulations as all licensed child care?” is a commonly asked question of daycare and child care facilities are required to comply with soon-to-be parents. stringent health and safety standards. At New Horizon Academy, we recommend looking for • Ensure the program is accredited by a reputable child care as soon as you learn the wonderful news of a new accrediting agency, such as the National Association for addition to your family. We recommend this strategy as it the Education of Young Children or the National Early is common for child care and daycare programs to have Childhood Program Accreditation. These organizations waitlists, especially for infants and toddlers, so the sooner you set the standard for high quality for daycare and child care begin the process the more likely you are to secure care for programs. The process is voluntary and requires daycare your baby. and child care programs to go through a rigorous process above and beyond the requirements made by state licensing programs. • Visit the websites of various daycare and child care centers to learn more about all that they have to offer. Identify the centers you would like to tour. “What should I look for when touring a daycare and child care center?” is another question posed by families. PAR EN T S GUI DE To help you make the best decision for your child, researchers have identified quality indicators with GUÍA DE PADR E S information on what to look for and ask about to find out if the program you are considering will be a safe, healthy, nurturing, learning environment for your child. Below is a handy checklist to assist you in finding the best program for your family. Interactions • Are the teachers affectionate, responsive, and sensitive to the children? • Does the school have a policy or philosophy on guidance and discipline? • Health & Safety and Physical Environment • Are the children always properly supervised? • Are policies and procedures in place to keep children safe (entrance security system, hand washing policies, administration of medication policy, etc.)? TIPS FOR CHOOSING A SCHOOL IN IDAHO • Are classrooms clean, safe, and hazard-free? LOS CONSEJOS PARA ELEGIR UNA • Are the meals and snacks healthy and nutritious ESCUELA EN IDAHO Teacher Qualifications • Do the teachers have experience in caring for children BLUUM.ORG @BluumOrg Continued on Page 11 8 MAR/APR 2022 | Idaho Family Magazine

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COOKING TOGETHER

Quick & easy kid-friendly lunch recipes By Melanie Nelson

t’s time to get creative with kids’ lunches. You can make fun little lunches in a snap using a muffin tin. This is how my kiddos and I made...

Chili and Cornbread Muffins 1. Spray each cup on a muffin tin with non-stick spray and set the oven to bake at 350°. 2. Make your fillings. For this recipe, I used 2 cups of my favorite cornbread muffin mix, 1 cup of water, and Mary Ann’s Speedy Chili Recipe from her Super Simple Soups Cookbook (you can use canned chili if you want). It only took my kids and I about 5 minutes to make the chili and the cornbread batter. 3. Scoop about 3 tablespoons of batter into each muffin cup. Then flatten with the backside of a spoon. 4. Scoop about 1½ tablespoons of chili on top of batter. 5. Bake in oven for 15-20 minutes until cornbread is firm and golden brown on edges. 6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with shredded cheese, then cool for 5 minutes. 7. Remove from pan carefully and place on cooling rack until cool. You can serve the ones you want to eat now while they are warm. The rest can fit into a gallon-sized zipper bag and be put in the freezer for later use. We only used about half of the chili, so I put the rest of it in a plastic container and put it in the freezer for dinner at a later date. It’s important not to waste the extras. They can be lunch for Dad, or dinner for the family. My kids thought they were delicious and we got to spend 30 minutes together as a family. Here’s what we accomplished together in just 30 minutes: - 1 dinner entree - 1 lunch for today - 8 “chili bites” for lunches in the future - 30 minutes of time preparing my boys to cook for their future families - 30 minutes of quality time having fun with my kids Not bad! Try these other tasty muffin cup ideas, or come up with your own: • BBQ Chicken & Biscuits (biscuit mix, a can of chicken and BBQ sauce) • Sloppy Joes (refrigerator rolls and sloppy joe filling) • Peanut Butter and Jelly Muffins (mix 1 cup peanut butter into basic muffin mix batter and pipe in jelly after they cool) www.idahofamilymagazine.com

• Easy Ham & Cheese (biscuit mix, diced ham and instant cheese sauce mix as filling, and shredded cheddar cheese on top) • Frozen Fruit Salad: Spray the muffin tins with non-stick spray. Pack with your favorite chopped fruits (peaches, pears, banana slices, blueberries, etc.). Then pour pineapple or orange juice over the top. Freeze for 1 day. Release the cups from the pan and place in a gallon-sized zipper bag. Then return to the freezer. My kids love how slushy they are by lunch. And don’t forget the sides. For more information, go to MaryAnnsCupboards.com

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Idaho Family Magazine | MAR/APR 2022 9

CALENDAR of Events

Beginning March, 2022

Please send family-related calendar items to editorgaye@gmail.com

MARCH Tennis lessons

Through an after-school program developed by the Idaho Tennis Association, young players of all ages can learn to play the game – because the courts, racquets, balls, scoring system and even the net height are just their size. Sessions are held at elementary schools throughout the valley. To learn more, contact the Idaho Tennis Association at (208) 322-5150, ext. 207, or go to www.idtennis.com.

JUMP tours

JUMP, at 1000 W. Myrtle St. in downtown Boise, offers building tours beginning at 10:30 a.m. Saturdays. On a JUMP building tour, guests visit five floors to see the creative studios and event spaces, parks and terraces, and tractors. Sign up is required in advance by 2 p.m. Fridays by calling (208) 639-6610 or emailing tours@jumpboise.org.

Foster care informational meetings

Foster parents are needed to provide a safe, temporary home for children and youth who are in foster care. Attending an informational meeting will give potential foster parents a basic understanding of who the children in foster care are, the roles and responsibilities of foster parents, and what’s needed to become licensed to foster. The meetings are being held through Zoom, so anyone can join from the comfort of their own home. Meetings are sponsored by Fostering Idaho through the EWU-Family Resource and Training Center. Visit their website at https://familyrtc.org/fosteringidaho/events for the full calendar of upcoming meetings. If you have questions, contact Monique Layton, recruitment coordinator, at (208) 249-0180 or mlayton4@ewu.edu.

“Disney Princess – The Concert”

“Disney Princess – The Concert” will be presented at the Morrison Center at 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 4. For more information or to purchase tickets, go to morrisoncenter.com.

Spring Sports Madness for Moms & Sons

Mothers and their sons may spend quality time together with basketball, dodgeball, pizza, and other highlights during Spring Sports Madness from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Saturday, March 5, at the Harward Rec Center in Nampa. The program is for moms and their sons ages 3-13. For more information, go to nampaparksandrecreation.org.

Children’s Reading Series

The Children’s Reading Series is a program of Boise Contemporary Theater, drawing on one of the oldest traditions in theater: “hearing a play.” BCT plans to hold a fun reading for kids at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 6, at the theater at 854 W. Fulton in Boise. Professional actors will bring stories to life – plus there will be free pizza, cookies, and milk. For more information, go to https://bctheater.org/ childrens-reading-series/.

Stroller Safari at Zoo Boise

Parents are invited to bond with their little ones while learning about wildlife during a Stroller Safari from 10 to 10:30 a.m. Thursday, March 10. There will be other strolls in both March and April. For more information, visit Zoo Boise on Facebook [https://www.facebook. com/events/270015048344319/?event_time_ id=270015068344317].

2022 Food Truck Rally

This annual event to help fund a dog park will take place from 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 12, at Lloyd Square Park in downtown Nampa. The event is free, and food and drink will be available for purchase. For more information, go to nampaparks.org or call (208) 468-5858.

Foothills Family Days

The Foothills Learning Center at 3188 Sunset Peak Rd. in Boise offers free family fun on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. There will be guided hikes, nature tables, crafts, and more. (Entrance to the center may be limited due to capacity.) Topics include: “Birds of Prey” on March 12; “Insects & Bugs” on April 9; and “Wildflower Festival” on May 14. For more information, go to bee.cityofboise.org or call (208) 493-2530.

Spring Forward

Set your clocks ahead one hour at 2 a.m. Sunday, March 13 (or wait until you get up).

Green Pin Bowling

Green Pin Bowling for St. Patty’s Day will take place from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, March 17, at Pinz Bowling Center, 1385 S. Blue Marlin Ln. in Meridian. Bowl a strike with a green head pin and win a $10 gift card to Wahooz, Pinz and Roaring Springs. Go to wahoozfunzone.com for more information.

WaterShed Weekends

The Boise WaterShed offers free family activities from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays at 11818 Joplin Rd.

harward rec center

*All memberships must meet HRC membership eligibility requirements. *A one-time $40 activation fee applies.

10 MAR/APR 2022 | Idaho Family Magazine

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in Boise. Tickets are required; get them at bee.cityofboise.org. The program topic on March 19 is “Farm Animals Galore” and “River Campus Spring Opening” on April 16. For more information, go to bee.cityofboise.org/ learn/calendar.

Idaho Shakespeare Festival

Idaho Shakespeare Festival’s 2022 Shakespearience tour brings the classic “Romeo and Juliet” to schools, as well as to public places such as JUMP in downtown Boise. A performance is set for 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 30. The event is free, open to the public, and all ages are welcome to attend. For more information, go to http://register.jumpboise.org/ mastercalendar/.

APRIL Community Days at BUGS

Welcome spring with community events at Boise Urban Garden School on Saturday, April 2, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The free event will offer resources for the whole family to prepare for garden planting and the growing season. This is a drop-in activity. Registration is not required. Boise Urban Garden School is located at 2995 N. Five Mile Rd. For more information, go to boiseurbangardenschool.org. (A similar event is set for May 7).

Nampa Prayer Walk

The second annual Nampa Prayer Walk is set to begin at 3 p.m. Saturday, April 2, at the Nampa Train Depot. Walkers will go throughout the downtown area and pray as they walk. This is a family event and is for both young and old, adults and children. Everyone is welcome. For more information, contact Mary Tschannen at (208) 466-2242.

“SpongeBob – Musical”

The Boise State Department of Theater will present “SpongeBob – Musical” at the Morrison Center at 7:30 p.m. April 6-8, with an April 9 matinee at 2 p.m. For tickets, go to https://www.ticketnetwork.com/ performers/spongebob-musical-tickets. Seats are limited.

Idaho Talent Fest

An Idaho Talent Fest is set for 7:30 to 10 p.m. Saturday, April 9, at the Nampa Civic Center. Everyone is invited to enjoy a night of entertainment and vote for their favorite contestants. There will be awards and cash prizes for the winners, and all proceeds will go toward helping people with muscular dystrophy. Go to idahotalentfest.org for more information.

Science Fair in Western Idaho

A science fair for children in western Idaho and the Treasure Valley area is set for 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, April 14, at Vendome Event Center in Weiser. Children in grades K-12 are invited to compete in the science fair and will be judged within their age groups. To register, or for more information, go to https://westernidahosciencefair.com.

Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt

Kids ages 13-17 are invited to participate in an Easter egg hunt beginning at 9 p.m. sharp on Friday, April 15, in the backyard of the Harward Rec Center in Nampa. They should bring their own bags and flashlights; cost is $3 per person. Go to nampaparksandrecreation.org for more details.

Easter Day

Easter 2022 takes place on Sunday, April 17.

Earth Day Celebration

Celebrate the Earth with music, hands-on activities, science, and solutions from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 23, at the Boise WaterShed. The event is free. Get more information at bee.cityofboise.org/learn/calendar.

MAY “Unplug and Be Outside”

The City of Meridian’s “Unplug and Be Outside” program kicks off from 10 a.m to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 7, at Kleiner Park, Shelter B1. For more information, go to https://www.meridiancityspecialevents.org/unplug-andbe-outside.html.

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GOOD CHILD CARE Continued from Page 8 and a minimum of an early childhood credential or higher degree? • Are the teachers expected to receive ongoing professional development and training? • Does the school have long-term staff and teachers employed? Curriculum • Does the program have daily or weekly lesson plans that include a variety of activities — dramatic play, music, outdoor play, reading, science, technology, engineering, art, and math? • Does the curriculum target physical, cognitive, emotional, social, and literacy and language development? • Is there a balance between child-initiated and teacherdirected activities? Child Assessment • Does the curriculum include an assessment of the child’s development? • Are parent-teacher conferences offered, allowing parents to visit with the child’s teacher in a focused way about the child’s development and progress and to develop shared plans for educating and caring for the child? Licensing and Accreditation • Does the school have a positive reputation in the community? • In addition to state licensing, is the school accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) or the National Early Childhood Program Accreditation (NECPA)? Family Involvement and Communication • Are families welcome to visit at any time and encouraged to participate in activities? • Do teachers use an electronic communication app to share daily information and photos with families? Finally, trust your instincts. You are the expert on what is best for you, your child, and your family. Touring schools provides you with insight into what child care and early learning centers have to offer, and one will feel right for your family. It is vital that your child’s first learning experiences be of the highest quality. Cara Johnson-Bader is the Vice President of Marketing and Parent Experiences at New Horizon Academy and mother of two young boys. Learn more about New Horizon Academy at newhorizonacademy.net.

Idaho Family Magazine | MAR/APR 2022 11

REAL MONEY, REAL FAMILIES

Talking about finances ‘socially awkward’ By Luke Erickson

o you talk about money with your “I got nothin’ better to do, I guess I’ll do that friends and family? too.” No?! And my career and income trajectory were Well, good, because nobody else set into motion, mostly because of a friend who wants to either! happened to be nearby. True story! One survey shows that, by an overwhelming And the moral of the story is never make margin, people would rather get knee-deep in plans for yourself because it’s easier just to conversations about politics, religion, personal follow your friends through life. No, the point health, mental illness, and their personal sex lives is that our collective relationships with others long before they would ever feel comfortable or, “socialization,” as nerdy finance researchers Luke Erickson talking about their own finances with friends or might put it, have a significant impact on our family. finances. Another survey found that rather than talk about money: This makes sense when considering holistic wellness. With • 68% would rather talk about their weight. 8 interdependent dimensions of health, it can be easily • 34% would rather sit in traffic for an hour. observed that improving one area of your health will tend to • 34% would rather post an embarrassing photo of lift other areas of health along with it. Strong social health themselves on social media. has clear benefits for mental and emotional health but can • 27% would rather get stung by a bee. also be a byproduct of certain types of friendships. For • 20% would rather spend an hour in JAIL. example, close friends with good physical health can help you Eesh. I just realized, as a personal finance professor, I am stay physically active and accountable with a nutrition plan; probably the most socially awkward guy at any party. in other words, good social health can potentially lead to Friends: Shhh. Here he comes. Quick! Act like everything’s improvements in physical health. normal! Having good social wellness means that our quality of life is Me: Hey guys, fun party! improved due to the regular, diverse, and positive interactions Friend 1: I weigh 196 pounds! with other people. These same interactions can have Me: Whaaa….? positive impacts on the way we produce and use income and Friend 2: Ouch a bee! resources. For example, if you’re on a certain career track Me: It’s winter, I don’t under.... (and thus developing good occupational health), developing Friend 3: Do you hear sirens? Oh darn, looks like it’s off to JAIL positive relationships with others who are on the path or with me! (Smiling as he leaps through a window). have been successful on the path can save you considerable It’s all making sense now. I just thought my friends were a time and effort by sharing resources and knowledge. That’s bunch of weirdos. Turns out they’re pretty normal. a simultaneous lifting of social, occupational, and financial Ironically enough, most of us first started learning about health, in case you’re keeping track. money from friends and family. And that’s a bit scary because It does go the other way, however. Being socially unhealthy not all friends and family are good role models when it comes could be a lack of positive relationships. But it could also to money. Though in their defense, sometimes the most mean having relationships that are toxic and costly to other powerful way to learn is to see someone do something really areas of health. For example, a dishonest friend can not stupid, and that convinces us to take a different path. So even only drain your emotional health but can even affect your bad role models can sometimes be helpful! That’s a glass is wallet by asking for bailouts or quick loans that they have no half-full statement if I’ve ever heard one. intention of paying back. (Gasp. Maybe Friend 3 really does Our own financial futures are significantly shaped by the belong in JAIL. Freeloader.) social interactions we have with others. We don’t even really Positive social circles can improve our financial health and need to talk about them directly. Instead, we often pick up on make our finances more secure. We’ll call this social security! these things peripherally while real life is happening around us. Wait, what? Oh. Seems that term is already taken. For example, when I was a senior in high school, we had When it comes to children, they have already begun the higher education day where local colleges came to recruit laying the first foundations of their financial health by age students. I hadn’t really given the idea much thought, so 8. And since most 8-year-olds don’t understand things like I asked a friend of mine what his plans were. He told me compound interest and APR’s, it’s likely that they are simply which college he was planning to attend and then I thought, gleaning what they can from conversations and interactions 12 MAR/APR 2022 | Idaho Family Magazine

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Luke Erickson, Ph.D., AFC®, is an associate professor of personal finance for the University of Idaho. He works and lives in the Treasure Valley; @drlukeerickson (Instagram), erickson@uidaho.edu.

Sources:

Lestari, F. A., & Rusdarti. (2017). Pengaruh Lingkungan Keluarga dan Pengendalian Diri Terhadap Perilaku Keuangan dengan Literasi Keuangan Sebagai Variabel Intervening. Economic Education Analysis Journal, 3(1), 1–10. Selcuk, E. A. (2015). Factors Influencing College Students’ Financial Behaviors in Turkey: Evidence from a National Survey. International Journal of Economics and Finance, 7(6), 87–94. https://doi. org/10.5539/ijef.v7n6p87 Sundarasen, S. D. D., Rahman, M. S., Othman, N. S., & Dnaraj, J. (2016). Impact of Financial Literacy, Financial Socialization Agents, and Parental Norms on Money Management. Journal of Business Studies Quarterly, 8(1), 137–135.

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in their household and their friends’ households about money. Research also shows that experiences, even vicarious ones through their parents, can be long-lasting. Experiences like a job loss, or other significant financial events in the household, can become part of a child’s financial paradigm from a very young age. In other words, your own social communication – direct or indirect, about money – is likely to be picked up to some degree by the kids around you. Debt and financial stress can deliver a blow to self-esteem and reduce the quality of the relationship with loved ones. All of which can be experienced by junior indirectly. On the other hand, regular meetings or conversation with your spouse about finances and goals can help the bank account – and also help your relationship by creating common understanding and sharing of financial goals. And little junior can pick up on more of this than we think, too. In the end, the people we choose to spend our time with will likely influence our own financial journeys. Even if you don’t really talk about it. Or so I’ve heard. I mean I ain’t no socially awkward finance nerd… heehee….hee…. (crickets). I’m going to go post an embarrassing social media pic of myself. At this point it can only make me cooler.

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Idaho Family Magazine | MAR/APR 2022 13

ON FEELING LOVED

Why it’s essential to connect with your kids By Sandy McDaniel

aving taught parenting skills for arena for that sharing. several decades, I am often asked “Who did you play with/sit with today?” what I think is the most important “Which class did you like the most (dislike the thing a parent can do for or give to most) today?” their children. Love is the obvious answer, and I “Was it cold on the playground?” have worked with dozens of children who don’t I have seen the positive byproduct of my son feel loved by their loving parents. When I spend and his wife’s choice to read to their children every time with such a family, it becomes obvious to night. Connection. From a former teacher’s point me that there is a lack of connection between of view, practicing reading leads to good spelling, parents and children. Children, I believe, who the ability to read, and love of books and learning. do not feel connected to their parents also do not Sandy McDaniel Children, especially small children, need a routine feel loved. for bedtime: brush teeth, prayers/song, book read, hug and kiss, Many children live in an “uh-huh” world. We have tucked in. Once again, connection. machines that do so much for us: washing machines, One area where a parent needs to use moderate response is dishwashers, air fryers, food processors, etc. And yet we seem when a child gets hurt. If the parent overreacts to a scrape or be continually rushing. My grandchicks keep both parents cut, a child may learn to get connection via injury or illness. on continual Uber-duty, and there seems to be hardly two But a lack of connection when a child gets hurt or is ill results minutes to rub together for fun and relaxation. The chaos in anger and negative behavior. If a child can’t get positive increases when two or more children are in sports. energy from a parent, that child goes right to negative actions. Parents, distracted by the challenges of getting everyone I shudder when a father tells his child to “man up” when the everywhere, cooking for them, making sure homework gets child gets hurt. The lesson is to ignore tears and sadness inside, done, working at a specific job, and all the duties one does a skill many adults have mastered. to raise a family, often stop listening to their children. They I see parents talking on their cell phones when they pick up become ship captains, barking orders and talking “at” their their children at school. The best time to get a child to talk is children. after school when they are energized. If the child says school When children don’t get enough positive attention, they was boring, keep digging, “If you had a magic wand, what learn to misuse power in order to get attention. While I have would you change about (that class)?” A typical answer might developed many strategies and a unique discipline system be, “I’d erase that class!” (parentingsos.com), it is damaging when controlling children Keep going with, “If you couldn’t erase it, what would you becomes the goal rather than teaching a child what is and change about it?” Another typical response, “I don’t know.” is not acceptable behavior. Controlling children who don’t Follow with, “Just one change. Use your magic wand.” No feel connected causes resentment; the child learns to behave matter what the child says, do not launch into a lecture on the to keep a parent off their back rather than learning how to topic. Listen. “Tell me more about that” keeps you engaged make better choices for their lives. with the child. Listen. If appropriate, ask, “What do you think I am a staunch advocate of eating meals together without you could do to make this situation better?” Working things out any media usage during that time. “What was the high together (rather than giving the child a lecture) makes a child point of your day, the low point?” Everyone shares. Any act less dependent on you for making decisions. of unkindness (snickering, sighing, negative words) are not The pandemic has deepened our disconnection with each allowed. My “penny” system would work here, and keeping other. We are like a bunch of helium balloons, cut loose, with the unkind person after dinnertime with a long lecture on no direction, and completely disconnected. Taking steps to kindness also works. Kids are very thrifty – they will not connect with your children will help you connect to yourself. intentionally invite “sermons” concerning their behavior. It is vital that every parent makes a conscious effort to connect (Normal rule: be brief, be specific, focus on the behavior, be with their children. It is literally life-saving to do so! done). For more than 55 years, Sandy McDaniel has been an international speaker Sometimes, a “Remember when we…” breaks the ice, and recognized authority on families and children. Author of five books, gets everyone engaged. I will tell you from my mother and columnist, founder of parentingsos.com, she is a resident of Meridian and grandmother experiences, children are masters of one-word loves spending time with her three Idaho grandchicks. She may be reached at answers: “How was your day?” Answer: “Fine.” The trick sandy@parentingsos.com; or go to YouTube:Sandy Spurgeon McDaniel to is to find something each child cares about and create a safe see videos on specific parenting issues. 14 MAR/APR 2022 | Idaho Family Magazine

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ANXIETY Continued from Page 6 ourselves in positions where we know worry might show up, and practice defeating that worry confidently. The saying goes “you can’t teach old dogs new tricks” but that simply isn’t the truth. Our neural pathways are incredibly alterable, and strengthen immensely the more we fire certain pathways. The more we focus on our ability to defeat our worries and the more confident we become in facing worry any time it shows up, the stronger those pathways become and the more readily and habitually they learn to fire. 5. Lighten up! Worry, anxiety, fear, and uncertainty are all really big feelings, especially for a tiny body to harbor day in and day out. When we lighten our approach to worry, and intentionally release the white-knuckled grasp we have on the world around us, we make so much room for joy, innocence, and confidence to grow. If we can learn to become curious about our worries, we can completely shift the lens in which we view them. Once we strip it down to a biological process that is happening within our body and our mind, we reclaim our power to defeat it. And any time you can add silliness and playfulness into the approach, it’s a win in my book.

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For more information on Lynn Lyons’ approach to anxiety, I recommend watching her video, “Can Mr. Rogers Save Us All?” and exploring her podcast, books, and other resources on her website at www. lynnlyons.com

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Idaho Family Magazine | MAR/APR 2022 15

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