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A LOOK AT PARENTING AND ISSAQUAH-AREA RESOURCES
NOVEMBER 2009
Table of contents 4 8 12 14 18 20 26 30 31 32 34 36 37
B ri n g i n g h o m e b a by B a c k to th e c l a s s ro o m Parent resources Te e n p a r e n t s Children’s books T h i n g s to d o Kinderga r ten pre p Pa cking a safer lunch S a n i t y s ave r s H e a l thy T V d i et s Kids clubs Irresistible activities M a k i n g a h e a l thy h o m e
A SPECIAL SECTION OF
THE ISSAQUAH PRESS 45 Front St. S. P.O. Box 1328 Issaquah, WA 98027 392-6434 Fax: 391-1541 www.issaquahpress.com
Publisher Debbie Berto Advertising manager Jill Green Advertising staff Vickie Singsaas Jody Turner Neil Buchsbaum Editor Kathleen R. Merrill Production Breann Getty Dona Mokin Page design David Hayes Writers Chantelle Lusebrink Warren Kagarise Tim Pfarr Ari Cetron Cover design Dona Mokin
PAGE 4 NOVEMBER 2009
By Greg Farrar
Mia Asher, 27 months old, gives a kiss to her baby sister Audrey, 1 month, in the Issaquah home of parents Kennith and Sabine Asher, who took the ‘Bringing Baby Home’ course when expecting Mia.
Bringing home baby Tips for effective family communication when it grows Mia Asher holds a handful of ‘Bringing Baby Home’ suggestion cards that her dad Kennith (right), and mom Sabine brought home from the Overlake Hospital communication course. By Greg Farrar
By Tim Pfarr
H
aving a baby will change your life forever. Suddenly, you will find yourself responsible for a tiny life. But how can you cope with the stress? How can you be a successful mother or father? How can you appropriately read a newborn’s body language? Tina Nold, instructor of the course “Bringing Baby Home” at Overlake Hospital, said one of the keys to having a successful family with a baby is communication. She said it is im-
portant that all parties in the family get his or her needs met. The “Bringing Baby Home” course specifically addresses the question, “How do we make a happy family including a baby?” Nold said.
Communicate effectively She said parents with newborns are often very tired and stressed, making their task of communicating effectively with each other much more difficult. In the course, parents learn to manage this added stress. Doing so is important for both
PAGE 5 NOVEMBER 2009
the parents and the baby. “If you’re not communicating well, it’s going to impact your child’s development as well,” Nold said. When it comes to communicating with the baby, things are very different. New parents often don’t know what to expect when they first bring their newborn home, Nold said. When all the baby has is his or her cries and body language, how will parents know what the baby needs? Parents must learn to read the signs their babies give. “Babies have distinct ways of communication,” she said.
On the Web Learn more about bringing home your baby at these helpful Web sites: ❑ www.mamaandbabyessentials.com ❑ www.expectantmothersguide.com ❑ www.bringinghomebaby.net ❑ www.gottman.com her cries will become more distinguishable to parents, allowing parents to easily distinguish what it is the baby needs.
Play effectively, too Six phases of consciousness
By Greg Farrar
Audrey Asher, 1 month old, opens her eyes to look around in the arms of her mother Sabine Asher.
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A newborn has six phases of consciousness: active sleep, quiet sleep, active alert, quiet alert, crying and drowsy. The states of sleep and crying are easy to identify, but other states can require more attentiveness to identify. Alertness — baby’s state of comprehending the world around him or her — is often signified by eye contact. Active versus quiet alertness merely signifies whether the baby is moving or still. When the baby is drowsy, he or she will often avoid eye contact or shield his or her eyes. Parents can also identify reflexes — such as hunger — through specific signs. If a baby is hungry, he or she will cry, suck on his or her hand or scan the area for food. After a baby’s first few months of development, his or
Nold has four children of her own, and she took a “Bringing Baby Home” course herself after having her third child. “Bringing Baby Home” courses were not offered before then, and she said her experience with the course inspired her to become a certified instructor with the Gottman institute in Seattle, which researches relationship dynamics. “The stuff I’ve learned through the class has been powerful in my own family,” she said. She said she learned more effective ways to play with a newborn. Specifically, she said she found her baby to calm quicker and be happier when both parents played the same game together with the baby instead of playing different games with
Continued on Page 6
PAGE 6 NOVEMBER 2009
From Page 5 the baby simultaneously. She also learned imitation play — encouraging the baby to imitate your actions — is a particularly effective method of communication and play.
Go forward with confidence Issaquah residents Kennith and Sabine Asher completed a “Bringing Baby Home” course through Overlake Hospital two and a half years ago, just before having their first child, Mia. On Sept. 11, 2009, Sabine gave birth to their second child, Audrey Theres. “Adjusting to having a second child hasn’t been as difficult as I imagined it would be,” Kennith Asher said. However, he said taking the course before he and his wife had their first child was incredibly helpful. “It gave us more confidence to go forward in our parenting plan,” he said. Perhaps the most valuable thing he learned from the course was the importance of meeting the needs of each member of the family, he said. Kennith Asher recommends the course to new parents, and he said his biggest piece of advice when it comes to parenting is to find a parenting style that works for you. “Do some reading,” he said. “Do some thinking about how you want to parent your kids.” “Bringing Baby Home” courses are offered at numerous hospitals and facilities across the United States and
By Greg Farrar
Take the course Tina Nold will teach ‘Bringing Baby Home’ at Overlake Hospital Dec. 12 and 19. For registration information, call 688-5259 or go to www.overlakehospital.org/classes. in Canada. The Overlake course consists of two fullday seminars, and the material is based on Dr. John Gottman’s 26 years of experience in marriage and family research.
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Above, Kennith Asher speaks comforting words and rocks daughter Audrey in his arms to keep her soothed, as wife Sabine looks on in the living room of the family’s Issaquah home. At left, parenting secrets, communication cues and supportive questions for spouses to ask one another are printed on the ‘Bringing Baby Home’ suggestion cards.
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Photos by Greg Farrar
At left, parent Lisa Hanses laughs at a tube of toothpaste in front of her with some paste squeezed out (above). Guiding Good Choices instructor Phoebe Terhaar’s request is to put it all back in the tube. The paste equals angry words, and teaches that once the angry words are spoken they can’t be taken back.
Back to the classroom Course educates parents, teens about alcohol and drugs By Warren Kagarise
F By Greg Farrar
A Guiding Good Choices workbook ‘anger thermometer’ invites parents to write their symptoms for anger for different levels of aggravation.
or parents of adolescents, tackling the tough questions about how to dissuade teens from alcohol and drug use can be difficult, even tense. Many parents turn a blind eye toward the problem, and hope good parenting and a stable home can get children through teen years unscathed. Guiding Good Choices, a program to help parents of teens and pre-teens alert children to the dangers of alcohol and drugs, encourages parents to engage their children in a discussion and confront uncomfortable questions head on.
The course for parents stretches across five weeks, and during the classes, parents learn how to formulate — and then enforce — family rules about alcohol and drug use. Teaching children how to refuse alcohol and drugs is a key part of the course. Guiding Good Choices delves deeper. Parents learn problem-solving skills and ways to manage family conflicts. The course also teaches parents how to prepare children for adulthood by encouraging them to help around the house.
Proven formula Friends of Youth, a nonprofit organization that works to
PAGE 9 NOVEMBER 2009
Photos by Greg Farrar
Above, a slide projected on the screen lists steps for a plan to keep angry responses under control while discussing sensitive issues with teens. At right, Phoebe Terhaar, with Friends of Youth, teaches an ongoing Guiding Good Choices class to a group of parents from around the area. The class meets at Liberty High School. provide housing, counseling and medical needs, offers the Guiding Good Choices program. Money for the program comes from the King County Alcohol and Other Drug Prevention Program, with funds from the state Division of Be-
havioral Health and Recovery; the King County Community Organizing Program; and the Greater Issaquah Youth and Family Network. Phoebe Terhaar, youth pre-
Continued on Page 10
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Dawn Dugan, a school counselor helping teach the Guiding Good Choices class, writes parents’ suggestions for types of teen behaviors that can make parents angry.
vention parenting coordinator with Friends of Youth, said people who enroll in the course are good parents who have a tough time discussing sensitive issues with their children. Terhaar said the class is taught so parents can appeal to teens’ perspectives. Terhaar said Guiding Good Choices helps parents understand what teens experience, and how to tailor the anti-alcohol and drug message to teens. Moreover, the program helps strengthen bonds between parents and children, and helps parents set guidelines for acceptable behavior. Lisa Hanses, a participant in an ongoing Guiding Good Choices class, described in an e-mail how she felt better prepared to tackle the thorny issues associated with substance abuse — even after the first class. “The class structure intrigued me in that it was not only going to teach us how to prevent drug (alcohol/tobacco) use in my family, but also setting guidelines, avoiding trouble, managing conflict and strengthening family bonds,” Hanses wrote. “My husband and I came from backgrounds of being heavily involved in sports and never doing drugs or smoking.
Tips and resources
❑ The National Youth AntiDrug Media Campaign: www.theantidrug.com ❑ Washington State Coalition to Reduce Underage Drinking: www.starttalkingnow.org
Eight tips for raising healthy kids 1) Set clear rules and expectations. 2) Reward compliance and enforce noncompliance. 3) Monitor: where, what and with whom. 4) Talk to your teen. Really listen to him or her. 5) Keep him or her involved in pro-social activities. 6) Check in on your child. 7) Let kids be part of setting family policies. 8) Spend time together as a family. Source: Friends of Youth
“I had no idea how to tell my 11-year-old daughter to not do drugs, beyond saying, ‘Don’t do drugs.’ I didn’t think this would be very effective. I had no idea what kids would say to her to convince her to try them either. So, I signed up for this class.”
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PAGE 11 NOVEMBER 2009
themselves in uncomfortable situations, such as a parent of a friend who is drinking, or a friend who has experimented with smoking. “What I learned in the very first class alone was that at the core of all of this is family bonds and values,” Hanses wrote. “And the earlier parents learn this, the better. As everyone knows, you are not handed a manual on raising a child when your children are born — you just learn along the way. Well, this class is my manual.”
Important lessons By Greg Farrar
Doug Drowley, of Renton (left), and Mary Pat Reeves, of Newcastle, role play a scenario where a teenager’s behavior makes a parent mad and how to correctly deal with the situation.
Educating parents Terhaar said Guiding Good Choices is “a great program for parents that are transitioning from elementary to middle school.” She said a typical class includes about 12 to 33 students. The ongoing class, at Liberty High School, has about a dozen participants. Near the end of the program, teens are invited to the class to learn refusal skills
alongside their parents. “When the family learns it together, it’s just more fun,” Terhaar said. Guiding Good Choices also addresses alcohol- and drug-related issues parents may forget or ignore. For instance, the course educates parents about drug-related Web sites, and instructs them about how to interact with children who find
Terhaar said the goal of the course is to put “more tools in the toolbox” of parenting skills. She said a single lecture from parents often fails to register with teens. Guiding Good Choices instead aims to engage parents and teens in a continuing conversation about alcohol and drugs. Madonna Messina, the mother of a 12-year-old daughter and twin 11-year-old girls, said the course helps parents confront the awkward matter of talking to teens. Guiding Good Choices encourages families to meet and establish a
“When the family learns it together, it’s just more fun.” Phoebe Terhaar Youth prevention parenting coordinator
plan for dealing with alcoholand drug-related issues. “You think that 11-year-olds are too young to talk about drugs and alcohol, but I like their approach,” Messina said. Messina said Guiding Good Choices made her feel comfortable about discussing the subject with her daughters. With her daughters in class and riding the bus to school, Messina sought to counter the exaggerations, myths and misinformation teens and pre-teens soak up from peers. “I know they’re hearing things on the bus, but it’s important that they hear things at home, too,” Messina said. Terhaar said the reaction from parents who take the course is overwhelmingly positive. She said a parent who participated in a past class told her, “I really regret not signing up for this class a year ago.”
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Parents don’t need to feel alone with the right list of resources Al-Anon/Alateen For men, women and teenagers who have friends or family members with a drinking problem — meets at 10 a.m. Thursdays at Our Savior Lutheran Church, 745 Front St. Call 206-625-0000 or go to www.seattle-al-anon.org.
Bridging the Gap at Kindering Center A community of women raising children 6 and older with special needs — sharing resources, emotional support, networking, promoting advocacy and creating connections. It meets from 6:30-8:30 p.m. the second and fourth Wednesday. Call 653-4306 or e-mail Rosanne.feder@kindering.org.
Childcare Resources Get help to identify child care options in your area. There is an income-based fee. Call 865-9350 or go to www.childcare.org.
Children2Fathers at Encompass A group of dads in the Snoqualmie Valley that meets to talk about being positive role models for their children and families. It’s also a chance for men to have fun activities planned for them to do with their children, hang out with other guys and make a difference for young children. Call 888-2777, ext. 229, or e-mail kerry.bymer@encomassnw.org.
Healthy Start A parenting education and support program for young families designed for parents, age 22 or younger, who are
parenting their first child. Program benefits include home visits, group activities, developmental and health screenings, and referrals to community resources. Call 869-6490, ext. 319.
Mothers & More
Fathers Network Peer support, resources and education, as well as social events for fathers of specialneeds children and for those having children with special health concerns. Call 6534286.
A nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of mothers through support, education and advocacy. The group meets at East Shore Unitarian Church, 12700 S.E. 32nd St., Bellevue, the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m.; the third Saturday at 9 a.m. in even months; and on the third Wednesday at 7 p.m. in odd months. The group is not church affiliated. Go to www.eastsidemothersandmore.org.
First Choice In-Home Care
The Early Intervention Program
Provides a wide range of services for youths and young adults ages 6-24 — and their families — in King County, overseeing eight programs at 20 sites and serving between 10,000 and 15,000 teens, young adults, parents and families each year. In addition to operating the only overnight youth shelters on the Eastside, it offers youth development initiatives, inhome family support for young parents of newborns, parent education, youth and family counseling, substance abuse counseling, therapeutic foster care, residential treatment, and transitional housing for homeless young people and teen mothers. The Issaquah office is at 414 Front St. N. Call 3926367 or go to www.friendsofyouth.org.
A therapeutic developmental services program for infants and toddlers from birth to 3 years old with special needs. It starts with a multidisciplinary team, including speech, occupational and physical therapists, early childhood development specialists and family resource coordinators. The team conducts standardized assessments and helps families plan an individualized program for their child. Call 888-2777, ext. 230, or go to www.encompassnw.org.
Mom’s Moment A support group for parents and caregivers of children with special needs. Participants gather to share information regarding resources and, most importantly, camaraderie with others in a similar situation. Find meeting locations and details at www.encompassnw.org.
Provides responsive, respectful and caring support to vulnerable adults and children and adults with disabilities. Call 881-8304 or go to www.fcihc.com.
Friends of Youth
Issaquah Parks and Recreation Department “Toddler Time” is a daytime class with an indoor playground, where children play and parents get a chance to bond. The preschool program
provides creative learning, development of new skills, an indoor playground, a wellrounded curriculum and many social opportunities. Call 8373300.
The Cancer Lifeline A program, in cooperation with Overlake and Evergreen hospitals, for children ages 612 whose parent or other significant family member has cancer. This is a six-week group where children have fun, make friends and learn coping skills. A parents group is held at the same time. Call 206-297-2100, ext. 114.
The Kinship Care A program that helps kinship caregivers understand and navigate the services available for children living with relatives other than their own parents. Call 888-435-3377, toll-free.
MOMS Club of Sammamish Moms meet for support at 10 a.m. the third Friday at Sammamish Hills Lutheran Church, 22818 S.E. Eighth St. Child care is available. Call 941-7756 or e-mail momsclubsammamish@yahoo.com.
Moms in Touch Mothers meet, grouped by area school, for one hour each week to pray for school concerns, teachers and for their children. Call 800-949-MOMS toll-free or go to www.momsintouch.org.
MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) For mothers with children
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from infancy through kindergarten. Moms have the opportunity to share concerns, explore areas of creativity and learn from various speakers. Call 391-8188 or go to www.mops.org.
support groups are available. Counseling, case management, information and referral, and cultural adaptation
Provides education, support and advocacy for those impacted by mental illness. Services include support groups, education forums, classes and more. “Visions for Tomorrow” is an intensive 12-week class for parents of young children (to age 21) with mental illness. All programs are free. Call 8856264 or e-mail info@nami-eastside.org.
A nonprofit organization sponsored by the Bellevue College Parent Education Program, combining parent education with an interactive program for parents and their children. Call 392-0496 or go to www.pinelakecoop.org.
Youth Eastside Services A group that works closely with schools, community centers and other agencies and programs to address the root causes of youth problems in the community. Programs available at schools and community centers include counseling, case management, support groups, crisis intervention, violence prevention, substance abuse programs, and information and referral. The SUCCESS! mentoring program provides one-to-one mentoring support for youths ages 6-17 by a caring adult volunteer. This person is trained to provide academic, social and personal support while engaging in relationship development with youth in their communities. Gay/lesbian youth, anger management and parenting
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By Greg Farrar
Jessica Carey, 17, helps her daughter Amber, 19 months, play with some toys during a recent visit to the Issaquah Friends of Youth, as Healthy Start family support specialist Abby McNeil looks on.
Today’s teen parents The hurdles & heartaches wrapped in a bundle of joy By Chantelle Lusebrink sk any mom and she’ll tell you motherhood is hard work. But that’s even harder when you’re just a kid yourself. Jessica Carey played with her daughter Amber, 19 months, at a recent visit to the Issaquah Friends of Youth. It certainly wasn’t the scene this 17-year-old former Liberty High School student had planned on. “I was scared, obviously,” she said. “How was I going to control a life? How was I going to take care of another person
A
when I was making mistakes myself? “But I love her so much.” In the past two years, birth rates among 15- to 19-year olds increased by 4 percent, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Reversing what had been a 14-year decline in teen birth rates. In 2007, 42.5 births of every 1,000 were from those between the ages of 15 and 19. Comparatively, only 40.1 births of every 1,000 were from teen mothers in 2005.
A different future The play date is one she has while meeting with Abby Mc-
Neil, a family support specialist with the Healthy Start program she is enrolled in, sponsored by Issaquah Friends of Youth. In 2009, Issaquah Friends of Youth helped 592 children in the community with services like housing, health and counseling. Of them, Healthy Start served 383 children and young adults. The program is designed to give teen parents the education, counseling and health services and housing they need to make wise decisions for themselves and their children. “The families served by Healthy Start are young par-
ents who are often isolated from the community or their school friends, and are often without a support system,” Keltie Wright, the program’s director, wrote in an e-mail. “These teens and young adults experience barriers to securing basic needs, such as housing, health care and food, and may also be easily overwhelmed, which puts their children at risk for abuse and neglect. “Our biggest focus is to support the family and help them be the best educators for their children they can be,” McNeil said. For Carey, the organization
PAGE 15 NOVEMBER 2009
Resources
❑ Planned Parenthood Issaquah, 75 N.W. Dogwood St., 369-0301 or www.plannedparenthood.org. ❑ Friends of Youth, 414 Front St. N., 392-6367 or www.friendsofyouth.org and www.healthystartfamily.org/in dex.php.
Healthy Youth participants
“These teens and young adults experience barriers to securing basic needs such as housing, health care and food, and may also be easily overwhelmed.” Keltie Wright
King and Snohomish counties — 1,800 Greater Issaquah area — 383 ❑ Issaquah — 11 ❑ Sammamish — 4 ❑ Bellevue — 74 ❑ Renton — 33
Healthy Start program director
For Carey, trauma wasn’t the issue. She and her family were going through a stressful time, her mother began a new job and the family was adjusting to new lifestyle changes. “There was a time I didn’t feel supported,” she said, remembering her freshman year. “My grades plummeted and I was failing most of my classes and making bad decisions.” When she finally started pulling it together and started thinking of being a chef, Carey said, she found out she was pregnant. “We talked about putting her up for adoption, but in my heart, I knew I didn’t want to do that and my family was supportive. We’ve just kind of figured out what to do each day. But “when the day came, they were there,” she said. “I made mistakes, but we decided to get through it.”
has made it easier to handle the fast-forward of her life, she said. Instead of planning for prom or perfecting her culinary skills in life sciences classes, she’s focused on Amber’s latest developmental stage. Right now, Amber’s learning how to walk and learning new vocabulary words with flash cards. It’s a far cry from venturing out to the movies and Red Robin on a Friday night with friends, but “I love her and it’s worth it,” Carey said, kissing Amber on the cheek. Parents, male or female, 22 and younger can enroll in the program. They must be expecting or their first child must be 6 months or younger.
Starting off on the right foot Carey joined two weeks after Amber was born in March 2008, when she turned 16, at the recommendation of a family friend. Family support specialists, like McNeil, visit with and provide support for young parents. They educate them about various occurrences during and after pregnancy, help parents ad-
equately prepare to care for a child, including prenatal care and housing. If the parent is in crisis, is homeless, sick or in need of a job, the program’s counselors will help the parent ensure his or her needs are met. They will also help parents find adequate counseling if
they have experienced trauma in their own childhood or adult lives. “A lot of the moms I work with have had severe trauma in their own childhood,” McNeil said, adding that helping them work through those issues often helps their children.
A new beginning When Amber was born, McNeil began support services in the home, helping Carey and her parents and brother work toward achieving balance in
Continued on Page 16
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From Page 15 their lives, without Amber’s father in the picture. McNeil also ensured Carey and Amber saw physicians for immunizations and well-baby checkups, as well as helping Carey educate Amber. “We use ages and stages tests, and look for care and delays, like language, cognitive, socialization, and personality and motor development,” McNeil said. “She helps keep me updated on what’s next,” Carey said. “So, instead of being panicked and unprepared, I know what’s coming and what we’re going to have to deal with next, like she brought me things on potty training the other day. I wouldn’t have thought of that.” The program’s services are available in English and Spanish, and interpreters are available for other languages. Parents aren’t turned away from the program for being unable to pay for services. They are free. McNeil also helps young parents better understand reproductive health and pregnancy prevention education. “At Healthy Start, our family involvement programs show lower rates of (Child Protective Services) call frequency and lower second-birth rates, or the parents in our program don’t have as high a risk of a second birth,” McNeil said, attributing it to their education and contraception programs. Services for each family average about $2,600 per year, a dramatically lower cost than having the young parents enter the criminal justice system, according to Wright.
Issaquah Planned Parenthood visits
❑ 570 unduplicated teen patients visited the Planned Parenthood of Issaquah for 705 planning and contraception appointments in the last 12 months. ❑ 238,000 women in Washington received publicly supported contraception services. Source: Planned Parenthood and Guttmacher Institute
“We use ages and stages test and look for care and delays like language, cognitive, socialization and personality and motor development.” Abby McNeil Family support specialist
“Just one day in detention in King County costs $450, and the average stay in detention is 9.69 days,” she wrote. The program is individualized to suit the parent’s needs and is also voluntary and confidential. Carey agreed to be interviewed about her life and the program for this article. “It really helped straighten me out, refocus and have responsibility. It improved my life overall,” Carey said. “But it’s hard work.” Especially the sleepless nights and early-morning
wakeup calls for work and school, she said. Though she has a supportive family, whom she still lives with, she said that the services at Healthy Start and McNeil have given her another base to draw strength from. “There were definitely times it was lonely, so that’s something I thank Abby for, someone to talk to,” Carey said. Together, they helped find Carey a flexible part-time job that allows her to go to school at Bellevue College, where she has a 3.9 grade point average in her beginning nursing and
childhood development classes. “She has come a long way,” McNeil said. “We can’t be more proud of her for the hard work she puts in at school, and I know her parents are proud of her. “She is raising a healthy, well-developed child.” McNeil also helped inspire Carey to start meeting with friends again, making lunch dates and keeping in touch with other young mothers in the network. Carey said she eventually wants to finish her high school diploma through a general education development program and attend a nursing school to get her bachelor’s degree. But she still wonders how she will afford child care, housing, tuition and eventually be financially independent from her family. For now, it’s just the baby steps she’s working on. “There was a lot of fear in the beginning. I used to think, ‘Can I do this?’” she said. “But I have to. It’s for her.”
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PAGE 18 NOVEMBER 2009
Fall back and unwind with a book By Ann Crewdson Parents, this fall and winter we may be in for chills, according to “The Farmer’s Almanac.” What better solution than to turn to the library to weather the storm? Along with emergency candles, keep a stash of just-intime library books to read to your children. Make the most of the situation by curling up with a down comforter and reading with a flashlight. Toddlers love to relate to their immediate environment, which is why books having to do with bouncy car rides, picking apples and boo-boos, as listed below, will provide the most entertainment while you wait until the storm blows over. And even if there are no storms, it’s nice to pretend under a tent made out of living room furniture and some sheets — make reading fun no matter where you are. You’ll be sure to get some giggles from your young ones with the new books we have to offer.
“The Tale of Two Mice” By Ruth Brown Billy and his brother Bo live in a large mansion and grow hungry from a lack of food. While scavenging through the many rooms, they pick up scraps, unaware of a predator in the midst. Only Billy, the more observant little brother, has a notion, but his warnings fall upon the deaf ears of his oblivious brother.
the adventures of the day.
lows him from living room to forest. When he publicly sermonizes to the other kids how they should not build a Frankenstein, lo and behold, who shows up but Frankenstein himself. The humorous pages will keep both preschoolers’ and toddlers’ attention span.
“Put It on the List!” By Kristen Darbyshire Making lists are fun only when you’re not the one doing it. Like the little red hen, everyone wants Mommy to get things that the family needs, but no one wants to lift a finger. Mommy’s energy is eventually drained and the household becomes chaotic. As a family, they come up with a strategy to share the workload. Toddlers will identify with having fun in the shopping cart while helping Mommy run errands at the grocery store.
“When I Grow Up” By Leonid Gore There can never be enough role-model daddy books. A boy imagines what it is like to grow up when he meets a caterpillar, a chick and the surfs of the ocean. Cut-out windows overlap pages and cleverly serve as a segue to each following page. The cover creatively shows the boy’s eyes, 3-dimensionally peering over his dad’s shoulder.
By Phyllis Root Illustrated by Matthew Cordell A red fox named Pierre tries to find friends on the other side of the mountain and picks up Goat, Sheep and Bear with a Toot Screech, and they overcome obstacles to bring him to his destination. They grow on each other and fate takes an unlikely turn as their car breaks down. With the strength of all, they push the car over the mountain. After reaching the other side, Pierre decides that he doesn’t have to look further. The friends he was looking for were there all along.
“Llama llama misses mama” By Anna Dewdney Llama Llama starts school feeling new and blue. Adjusting to it is hard, because not only is Llama shy, but he misses his mama terribly. All the kids seem to know each other, play together and make a lot of noise. When Llama starts to cry during lunch, the teacher reassures him that his mama will come back, and the kids invite him to play with them. When Llama’s mama returns, he tells her about
“Toot Toot Zoom!”
“Do Not Build a Frankenstein!” By Neil Numberman What happens when a boy builds a Frankenstein and it starts to stalk him? At first, he is thrilled, and then, like a playful pet, Frankenstein fol-
“Dinosaurs Roar, Butterflies Soar!” By Bob Barner The book begins millions and millions of years ago, when dinosaurs were accompanied by butterflies on the earth. Each page features a flittering butterfly and a factoid about insects as well. The book
PAGE 19 NOVEMBER 2009
transition each page into different words with illustrations.
Stephen Michael King
is not only a great book to read for story time straight through, but it also serves to instruct children about prehistoric times, highlighting an unlikely partner in dinosaur history.
Piglet can’t wait until Granny visits. However on this particular day, Granny is unusually late. While he waits, cow, horse, chick and sheep ask him how he is able to do various things like balance, run, somersault, hide and seek. When he thinks about Granny’s soft squishy hugs, he misses her and grows worried. Finally, Granny arrives, and with a surprise that was worth the wait.
For longer attention spans:
“Listen to the Wind: The Story of Dr. Greg and Three Cups of Tea” learning to brush it off, pick yourself back up and start again is the best thing to do.
Other books of interest:
By Greg Mortenson and Susan L. Roth A picture-book version recounting Greg Mortenson’s journey to Pakistan’s Korphe village, where he fell ill after attempting to climb K2. He fulfills his promise to return and build a schoolhouse after counsel from the village elder persuades him to listen to the wind. Colorful collage pages and real-life pictures of his kind gesture brings the story to life for young audiences.
“Mermaid Dance” Eyelike series “Kiki’s Blankie” By Janie Bynum Kiki doesn’t go anywhere without her polka-dot blanket and no wonder, because it can be a tent, a sail and many other things that keep her warm and entertained. Then, it lands on top of the crocodile and it tries her courage. She imagines the ways she can save it. Is the love for her blanket strong enough to conquer her fear?
“Robot Zot!” By Jon Scieszka Illustrated by David Shannon Robot Zot led a lonely existence — crushing things, destroying what’s in his way. He would boast about never falling and conquering until one day he meets the Queen. And she brings him down to earth. He turns good and decides to be a hero, battling household children who take her hostage and the pet dog, who looks vicious to a tiny robot. Robot Zot eventually wins the Queen’s heart and they fly away.
Those of us who love nature, the environment and the Green Movement will love this series of alphabets, colors, shapes, number patterns and opposites. Illustrated with beautiful photographs of nature and bold font words.
“Piglet and Granny” By Margaret Wild Illustrated by
Bird is bonked on the head while playing a game of catch. His friends Raccoon, Beaver, Rabbit, Sheep and Fox all try different ways to cheer him up with no effect. They finally try empathy, which makes Bird feel better. But then, Bird gets bonked again. Sometimes,
When the sun goes down in the cove, mermaids of all colors — silver, green and gold — arrive carrying baskets of food. They spread out with a seaweed blanket to celebrate the summer solstice. The dancing and feasting lasts all night as deer, birds and squirrels witness their merriment. By morning, the cove is still again, however, not without a clue.
“Cake Girl” By David Lucas
“Boo Hoo Bird” By Jeremy Tankard
By Marjorie Rose Hakala Illustrated by Mark Jones
Flip-A-Word series By Yukiko Kido Seven books featuring words that sound alike — Wet Pet, Pig Wig, Quack Shack, Crab Cab, Snake Cake, Snow Bow and Stop Pop. Easy-to-flip pages with die-cut windows
In order to keep the Witch company on her birthday, she bakes a girl out of marzipan and calls her Cake Girl. At first, Cake Girl is ordered to sing “Happy Birthday” and dance to keep the Witch entertained. When the Witch reveals her plan to eat her, Cake Girl thinks of ways to survive and convinces the Witch that she is fine company. They celebrate the Witch’s birthday by turning themselves into whatever they please. Ann Crewdson is the children’s section supervisor for the Issaquah Library.
PAGE 20 NOVEMBER 2009
Where to stay busy with the kids City of Issaquah trail system www.ci.issaquah.wa.us Families can find their way in and around Issaquah on the city’s cross-town, multiuse trail system available for biking, walking or running. An Issaquah Walks map illustrating the trails system is available at the Visitor Information Center, City Hall and Issaquah Community Center, or on the Web site.
The Rainier Trail At approximately 2 1/ 2 miles long, this trail is an easy bike ride for families. The trail’s north-south route follows the former railroad corridor through historic downtown Issaquah. Stop for a break at one of the many historic buildings and beautiful parks along the trail. The route extends from Gilman Boulevard to Second Avenue and then circles back to East Sunset Way/Sunset Interchange, where it connects to the King County IssaquahPreston Regional Trail.
walking access to Lake Sammamish State Park and links to the Pickering Trail. The little more than 1-mile route is level and also provides a connection to the trails located within the state park.
The Pickering Trail This trail connects to the Sammamish Trail on the north and extends approximately 3/ 4 mile south, where it links to the King County East Lake Sammamish Regional Trail (Issaquah section). The trail parallels and bridges Issaquah Creek and skirts Pickering Farm, where fresh produce, flowers and crafts
are available at the farmers market on Saturdays from spring until fall.
ter and food, extra clothing, pocket knife, flashlight, matches and fire starter.
Issaquah Alps Trails Club
Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park
www.issaquahalps.org
www.metrokc.gov/parks/parks/ cougarmountain.html
Take the kids for a hike on one of the many trails maintained by the Issaquah Alps Trails Club on Cougar, Squak and Tiger mountains. Enjoy the beauty of waterfalls and wildlife, along with the fascinating historic coal mines and caves. And don’t forget the 10 essentials for hiking in the wilderness — map, compass, first-aid kit, whistle, extra wa-
Squak Mountain State Park Just south of Issaquah, this park offers 2,000 acres of excellent hiking, wildlife habitat and solitude close to the city. From I90, take exit 15 and head south on state Route 900 past milepost 18, then left on Southeast May Valley Road for 2 miles to the hiker/equestrian trailhead.
The Maple-Juniper Trail
Tiger Mountain State Forest
This trail provides an eastwest trail connection from state Route 900/17th Avenue Northwest to the city’s historic downtown area. This 1-mile route also provides a level walking and bicycle route that connects the downtown commercial districts and residential neighborhoods.
The 13,000 acres of protected forests, recreation areas and managed state trust lands encompass some of the state’s most heavily used trails. From I-90, take exit 20, then head south and immediately west to the High Point trailhead. Or take I-90 to Highway 18 and head south for 4 miles to the Tiger Summit Trailhead on the right for biking, hiking and equestrian trails.
The Newport Way Trail This trail is also almost 1 mile in length and parallels Newport Way on its north side. The trail extends from the Issaquah Commons shopping district to West Sunset Way.
Cougar Mountain Zoo 391-5508 19525 S.E. 54th St. www.cougarmountainzoo.org
Sammamish Trail Located on the north side of Northwest Sammamish Road, this trail provides bicycle and
This is the largest (4,000acre) wild park in an urban setting, with trails for hikers and equestrians, and historic remnants of coal mining in the area. To get to the Red Town Trailhead, take Interstate 90, then exit 13 and go south on Lakemont Boulevard for 3 miles. To reach the Wilderness Creek trailhead, take I-90, then exit 15 and head south on state Route 900 for 4 miles.
By Greg Farrar
Maya Smith, 2 1/2, of Sammamish, is just a bit older than Taj the Bengal tiger, resting inside the glass wall at Cougar Mountain Zoo.
Issaquah’s own sanctuary for cougars, tigers, lemurs, macaws, cranes, antelope and
PAGE 21 NOVEMBER 2009
By Greg Farrar
Young students learn how to create comic book characters, and the difference between Western- and Eastern-style comics, at the Issaquah Library in a graphic novel class. the ever-popular reindeer, offers families the chance to observe and learn in this living classroom of wildlife. The mission of the zoo is to heighten the appreciation of the beauty, mysteries and importance of the world’s wildlife. The main event of the year is the annual Reindeer Festival with an up-close look at Santa and his team of
helpers. Guided walking tours and guided photography tours are available, as well as general admission.
Community Center 301 Rainier Blvd. S. 837-3300 www.ci.issaquah.wa.us This hub of the Issaquah
community provides parents with many activities for children of all ages. Classes are offered in drawing, painting and crafts, and there are also preschool activities. Recreation opportunities include soccer, Tball, basketball, lacrosse, karate, cross country, fencing and even a Stroller Strides class for new moms and their babies. Family Fun Nights, districtwide middle
school dances, events for youths with special needs and the Youth Center, for children in grades six through 12, are also available.
Issaquah Library 10 W. Sunset Way 392-5430 www.kcls.org/issaquah
Continued on Page 22
PAGE 22 NOVEMBER 2009
By Greg Farrar
Salmon Science Camp students watch Issaquah Hatchery Foreman John Kugen feed a hungry tray of fish during a tour of the facility.
From Page 21
Sammamish Library 825 228th Ave. N.E. 836-8793 www.kcls.org/sammamish The libraries offer a variety of programs for children from toddlers to teens, including day, evening and multilingual story times for preschoolers, teen book clubs, strategy game clubs for teens and homework help for kids in kindergarten through high school from trained Study Zone volunteers. Computer time, study rooms and conference rooms are
available by reservation, and there is always an interesting video, CD, tape, DVD or book to be borrowed. The lobbies of the libraries are great resources for information about events and classes that are happening in the area.
even kayaking classes. Families are invited to enjoy a movie as they float along at Dive-in Movie nights or take a turn on the new rope swing.
Julius Boehm Pool
125 W. Sunset Way 392-1118 www.issaquahfish.org
50 S.E. Clark St. 837-3350 www.ci.issaquah.wa.us Issaquah Parks and Recreation offers a number of aquatics programs at this community pool, including swim lessons for all ages and abilities, watersafety classes, lifeguard training, open swim sessions and
Issaquah Salmon Hatchery
The hatchery, on Issaquah Creek, is the most visited of the state Department of Fish and Wildlife’s hatcheries. Volunteers lead tours, answer questions about the salmon spawning cycle and promote
watershed stewardship, so young people will take care of the water they share with the salmon. Every fall, the city celebrates the salmon returning to Issaquah with the Salmon Days Festival. The hatchery also offers a variety of science camps for children in summer.
Lake Sammamish State Park www.parks.wa.gov/parkpage There’s definitely more than a day’s worth of activities at Lake Sammamish State Park, a 512-acre, day-use park with
Continued on Page 24
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PAGE 24 NOVEMBER 2009
From Page 22 one of the largest freshwater beaches in the greater Seattle area. The park not only offers swimming and boating, but also easy hiking trails and bicycling and mountain biking along paved and compacted dirt roads. Kayak rental is available in summer. There are sand volleyball courts, but volleyball nets are often seen anywhere on the beach. There are two bathhouses with dressing rooms, a concession stand and two “big toy” children’s play areas. There are also three baseball fields and nine soccer fields, along with horseshoe pits and interpretive activities. The park, which includes diverse natural wetlands, is also home to a large great blue heron rookery and the salmon-bearing Issaquah Creek. From I-90, drive east to exit 15 and follow the signs.
Pickering Farm 1710 10th Ave. N.W. www.ci.issaquah.wa.us Stroll through the shade gar-
den, watch birds in the wetland area, explore the children’s garden or get ideas for your own yard when you visit the Pickering Farm Community Teaching Garden. Families can enjoy a walk through this living classroom while learning landscaping techniques that save water, improve water quality, improve natural habitat and reduce the amount of garbage Issaquah generates. Check out the wetland and stream area, wildflower garden, perennial garden, urban wildlife garden, drip irrigation, rain barrels and cisterns, green roof structures and herb spiral garden. Every Saturday, spring through fall, the farm plays host to the Issaquah Farmers Market, featuring farmfresh produce, fresh-cut flowers, baked goods, specialty foods, arts and crafts, and music and entertainment. Children are invited to sell their goods at the market the last Saturday of the month at no cost.
Go swimming Julius Boehm Pool
❑ 50 S.E. Clark St. ❑ 837-3350 ❑ 6:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. Monday-Friday
❑ Noon - 5 p.m. Saturday ❑ Lessons: $58.50-$65.00 ❑ Drop in swims: adults $4; children $3 ❑ Adult memberships: $30 for 30 days; $75 for 90 days; $300 annual ❑ Youth memberships: $20 for 30 days; $50 for 90 days; $175 annual ❑ Senior memberships (outside the Issaquah School District): $3 daily; $20 for 30 days; $50 for 90 days; $175 annual ❑ Senior annual pass (inside the district): $2
Lake Sammamish State Park ❑ 20606 S.E. 56th St. ❑ 360-902-8844 ❑ Summer: 6:30 a.m. to dusk ❑ Winter: 8 a.m. to dusk ❑ www.parks.wa.gov ❑ The state park is a 512-acre day-use park with 6,858 feet of waterfront, some of which is monitored by lifeguards in
summer in designated swim areas.
Pools Lakeside Pool/Klahanie ❑ (open year round) ❑ 4210 244th Place S.E. ❑ 391-8503 ❑ Winter hours: 6 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. Monday-Friday
❑ 7 a.m. - 9 p.m. Saturday
Columbia Athletic Club at Pine Lake ❑ 2930 228th Ave. S.E. ❑ 313-0123 ❑ www.columbiaathletic.com/locations/pinelake.html
❑ 5 a.m. - 10 p.m. Monday Friday
❑ 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturday ❑ 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. and 3-6 p.m. Sunday
❑ Lessons are $49 for members; $70 for nonmembers.
❑ Memberships are required for therapy, sport and aquatic activities.
PAGE 25 NOVEMBER 2009
Plateau Club ❑ 25625 E. Plateau Drive, Sammamish
❑ 868-6063 ❑ www.plateauclub.com ❑ 5:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. Mon-
Be thankful.
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❑ 7:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. Saturday
❑ 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday ❑ Memberships are required for all swim and aquatics activities.
Sammamish Club ❑ 2115 N.W. Poplar Way ❑ 313-3131 ❑ 5 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. MondayFriday
❑ 6 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. Saturday ❑ 7:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. Sunday ❑ www.sammamishclub.com ❑ Lessons are $50 - $80 for members; $60 - $100 for nonmembers. ❑ Memberships are required for sports and aquatics activities.
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By Ari Cetron
Teacher Robyn Johnson reads a book to children in Skyline High School’s preschool program.
Never too early to learn Take easy steps now to ensure your kids are ready for kindergarten By Ari Cetron enydi Randolph, 4, has her eyes on the important things that will come with starting kindergarten next year. “There’s a playground there,” she said. “If you go there, you can play on it.” This time of year, many parents with 4-year-olds are beginning kindergarten preparations in earnest. While public school registration doesn’t usually happen until March, private schools are already into open house season.
K By Ari Cetron
Bronte Pitzele, 17, helps Kenydi Randolph, 4, make a Halloween decoration.
But some parents, particularly those who have children with summer birthdays, are grappling with a more fundamental question: Is it time now, or should their child start next year? Robyn Johnson, who heads the preschool program at Skyline High School, says the question is probably premature for most parents. Children at that age mature very rapidly, and one who does not seem ready for kindergarten in March may be up to the
Continued on Page 28
PAGE 27 NOVEMBER 2009
Kindergarten readiness More general self-reliant requirements include speaking clearly, sharing and understanding cause and effect. Physical skills, like cutting with scissors and bouncing a ball, are also needed. Before entering kindergarten, a child should be able to sit for about 15 minutes. However, remember your child will be sitting and listening to a story, not just sitting with nothing to engage them. Other kindergarten readiness skills might include: ❑ Recognize rhyming sounds ❑ Trace basic shapes ❑ Recognize authority ❑ Manage bathroom needs ❑ Button shirts, zip zippers ❑ Separate from parents without anxiety ❑ Speak understandably ❑ Use complete sentences of five to six words ❑ Make up a story about a picture ❑ Identify a few alphabet letters ❑ Sort similar objects by color, size and shape ❑ Count to 10
Kindergarten registration
By Ari Cetron
Carli Grant, 4, and Kiana Miles, 4, work on motor and social skills while they fill containers with rice.
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Issaquah School District kindergarteners will register March 3 and 4, 2010. Times will vary by school and will be posted on the district Web site. To be eligible for kindergarten registration, a student needs to be 5 years old by Aug. 31. Parents must bring identification, immunization records, proof of child’s birth date, and a gas or electric bill as proof of residence. Parents can, however, choose to hold their children back and start them later. Conversely, parents may want mature children with a September birthday to start early. In that case, parents must have their children assessed, at their own expense. The school district has a list of assessors. Issaquah district students are generally placed in a half-day program. The district offers a full-day program on a space-available basis. Parents seeking a full-day program for their child will be placed in a lottery. A tuition fee is charged for a full-day class.
PAGE 28 NOVEMBER 2009
Which school to attend? Issaquah schools are starting a new boundary system in 2010. Find out which school your child would attend at www.issaquah.wednet.edu/ schools/2010/elink2010.aspx. Get information about private schools in the area at the Pacific Northwest Association of Independent Schools at www.pnais.org.
By Ari Cetron
Jason Dua, 4 (left), and K.J. Lewis, 4, are at the hammer table, a favorite among the children.
From Page 26 challenge by the end of summer. “I tell a lot of parents not to make a decision until August,” she said. “You can’t always know in March.”
Some basic skills are needed Johnson said there isn’t real-
ly a checklist of skills a child absolutely needs to have. In the end, most parents will make the right decision if they go with a most unscientific indicator — their gut. “You have to know your child,” Johnson said. However, there are some basic skills that a child should be able to exhibit before starting. Perhaps the hardest to imag-
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ine, for parents of 4-year-olds, at least, is that their child should be able to sit still for about 15 minutes. Johnson said that doesn’t necessarily mean that they should be able to sit and contemplate the universe. What is really important is that they sit and pay attention. When the class is reading a story or doing a project, children should be
able to sit and engage with the class in a fun activity. Other things children should be able to do can fall into the realm of self-help, like putting on a coat, going to the bathroom and washing their hands, or opening a container for their lunch by themselves. Some gross motor control skills are also important, like being able to use scissors or hold a pencil. Johnson was quick to say that holding a pencil doesn’t necessarily mean holding it in the proper way, just that a child is able to grip it and control the marks he or she makes on a piece of paper.
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Testing for higher IQ Some private schools cater to gifted children and require what amounts to an IQ test performed by a private psychologist. Many schools require students test in at least the 95th percentile. Parents may be hesitant to have their children tested, but a psychologist will also prepare a narrative report and can usually discuss options for schools that may be a good fit for a particular student. Testing costs vary by psychologist, but expect to pay about $400 for a two-hour test. from their parents and take directions from people who are not their parents. While most pre-schoolers have ample practice with these skills, children who have not been in such an environment might want to find other ways to practice them. Children should also have the communication skills to resolve conflicts. They should be able to talk through a problem and find ways to share without resorting to hitting. One thing Johnson said is not as important is the academic end. It’s OK if your child does not know his or her ABCs. They should probably understand the idea of what a letter is, and maybe know that it stands for a sound. But going into kindergarten, it is fine if children don’t know which letters make which sounds. “Academically, they can be behind,” Johnson said. “Socially and emotionally, they can’t.” Lesha Engels, who teaches child development at Skyline, agreed. She said that the social and emotional aspects of a child’s development are the most important indicators at this age. “It’s not just an academic thing,” Engels said. “Are they ready as a whole?” Johnson had some other advice for parents who may be wavering. First, don’t give in to peer pressure. Just because a neighbor or friend is sending their child to kindergarten doesn’t mean that it’s the right time for your child. Another is, once you make your decision, stick with it. If you are unsure, your child will pick up on that. “That gives them insecurities,” Johnson said.
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PAGE 30 NOVEMBER 2009
Easy tips for packing safer lunches You do everything you can think of to ensure your children eat a healthful lunch. But do you also consider the safety of the food you pack in their lunch bags each day? “Packing your child’s school lunch not only helps you know they’re eating healthful fare, it can also save money — an important consideration in the current economy,” said food safety expert Dr. Don Schaffner, of the Institute of Food Technologists and Rutgers University. “Parents also need to keep in mind, however, the importance of safe handling practices when preparing food for their children’s lunch boxes.” The U.S. Department of Agriculture offers a few safety tips to keep in mind when packing school lunches for kids or your own lunch for work:
Keep it clean Hand washing is an important part of ensuring food safety. Washing your hands can stop bacteria from spreading.
Before beginning food preparation, wash your hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds. Wash them again before eating. Wash cutting boards, dishes, utensils and countertops with hot, soapy water after preparing each food item.
Start with safe food Keep perishable foods, like prepackaged lunch combinations — like the kind that include lunch meats with crackers, cheese and condiments — cold by using freezer gel packs or a frozen juice carton. Insulated, soft-sided lunch boxes or bags are best for keeping food cold. If you use a paper bag, be sure to create insulating layers by double bagging.
Pack light Don’t pack more than your kids are likely to eat. That way, you won’t have to worry if leftovers they bring home have been kept at safe temperatures throughout the day and on the
commute home. Consider preparing food the night before and storing it in the refrigerator. Then, pack your lunch bag in the morning. This will help food stay cold longer.
Avoid cross-contamination Never reuse packaging materials, such as paper or plastic bags, food wraps and aluminum foil; this can lead to cross-contamination. Throw away all food packaging after you eat lunch, and discard perishable leftovers unless you can safely chill them immediately after lunch and upon returning home.
Keep hot foods hot, cold foods cold Use an insulated container, like a thermos for hot foods like chili, soup and stew. Before using the container, fill it with boiling water, let it stand for a few minutes, empty it and then pour in the piping hot food. Keep the container closed until lunchtime, which will help minimize bacterial contamination and growth.
Harmful bacteria multiply rapidly in the “danger zone” of temperatures between 40 and 140 degrees. Transport cold food with an ice source and refrigerate it immediately once you reach your destination.
The right way to reheat If you reheat food in the microwave, cover the food to hold in the moisture and promote safe, even heating. Reheat leftovers to at least 165 degrees. Food should come out of the microwave steaming hot. Cook frozen convenience meals according to package instructions. “Following these simple steps can help you and your family enjoy a packed lunch at school or work, while reducing the risk of food-borne illness,” Schaffner said. Learn more about how to pack a safer lunch and download a free fact sheet at www.IFTFoodFacts.org. Source: ARAcontent
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PAGE 31 NOVEMBER 2009
Easy sanity savers for moms on the go Whether it be to the grocery store, the doctor’s office or a play date at the park, moms today are constantly on the go. Juggling the ever-changing needs of a child while out and about can be challenging, stressful and sometimes expensive. Child and parenting expert, “TODAY Show” contributor and the author of “The Big Book of Parenting Solutions: 101 Answers to Your Everyday Challenges and Wildest Worries,” Dr. Michele Borba understands the challenges busy, modern moms face. “Moms today have it tough,” Borba said. “Long lines, endless errands, sitting at a doctor’s office or waiting for a sibling’s practice to end are difficult on both kids and moms. Your best defense to turn off tantrums or prevent messy situations is to think
ahead and always be prepared.” Borba offers four quick and easy “sanity savers” to help keep both mom and child happy while out and about.
Car games While in the car, kids should occupy themselves with things that don’t make a mess or spill. Hanging a shoe organizer on the back of a seat creates a great place to keep all their favorite games and toys organized and within reach. “One of my favorite things to recommend for moms is to keep cookie sheets in the car stored under a seat,” Borba said. “Cookie sheets instantly turn into eating trays or lap desks, with endless opportunities for small children to play with magnets or reusable stickers, and older ones to color or do homework on after school.”
Smart snacking Hungry kids are not happy kids, so it’s important to bring munchies to keep their spirits up. For healthy snacks that will stay fresh for hours, Borba recommends using insulated food and beverage containers and encourages parents to plan ahead for cleanup as well. “Carrying a pack of wet wipes in your purse or diaper bag is a must,” she said. “To save money, you can wet paper towels, add a small amount of bleach and keep them in a plastic baggy.”
The two-for-one To lighten your load and get the most use out of any item, try to find a second purpose for it. Your hair clips tied to a napkin can create a restaurant bib for baby in a pinch, and your
soft cooler can become a storage compartment for kids’ toys and belongings. “Moms don’t have to carry the entire nursery with them every time they leave the house,” Borba said. “Think about practicality and range of use for any item you take with you on the go.”
Hydration salvation Keeping a sippy cup or beverage bottle filled with water, milk or juice is a must while on the go, but can easily fill up an already-bursting bag. Look for options that are convenient and multipurpose. By taking these easy tips into consideration, busy moms can be stress-free, economical and prepared for any situation. Source: ARAcontent
PAGE 32 NOVEMBER 2009
Ensure your tot’s ‘TV diet’ is healthy The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents think of managing their children’s television watching as they would their diet, because the amount of television has an impact on children’s health, just like how much and what they eat does. Children who watched educational television improved in reading-related skills, such as phonics, phonemic awareness and vocabulary acquisition, according to a study by the Annenberg School for Communication Children’s Media Lab at the University of Pennsylvania. Children love to learn and pick up new facts, ask questions and generally want to know how things work. When possible, they eagerly seek answers for themselves by making observations, gathering
data, identifying patterns, and forming generalizations — much like professional scientists do. This is why the right television show has proven to be beneficial. The AAP (www.aap.org) suggests parents take advantage of high-quality television. Here are some things to do before letting your kids plop down in front of the television:
Preview shows
Parenting magazines and Web sites, such as PBSKids.org, often have previews of upcoming children’s television shows. Find these and you can find high-quality programming.
Talk to teachers
Preschool teachers can give
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guidance on types of programming that can help your child learn better. Educational programming can help children learn history, phonetics, language, science and how to use their imaginations.
Use shows to nurture interests
Capturing and holding the attention of younger children can be challenging, so shows can be great tools to help reinforce important educational and social skills. Finding a show that matches children’s interests can help them build upon their love of a particular activity or hobby. One new show attracting the attention of kids and parents alike is “Dinosaur Train,” created by The Jim Henson Co. on
PBS Kids. The show features Buddy, a preschool-aged Tyrannosaurus Rex. Children can join Buddy and his adoptive Pteranodon family on a voyage through prehistoric jungles, swamps, volcanoes and oceans as they unearth basic concepts in natural science, natural history and paleontology. Paleontologist Dr. Scott Sampson helps bring the show’s natural history and science elements to life in live-action segments. Learn more at www.pbskids.org/dinosaurtrain. The AAP suggests parents read reviews of the shows their children want to watch, as well as watching the shows and discussing them with their children — which can lead to longlasting benefits. Source: ARAcontent
PAGE 33 NOVEMBER 2009
Fun ways to create lasting family traditions Like families, traditions come in many forms — from cooking to storytelling — and making new memories is easy and fun.
Gather for a family baking day Have everyone meet in a central location and bring their favorite recipe and the ingredients to make it. Everyone will have the chance to learn about cherished recipes and leave with a goodie bag of treats.
Plan a family reunion Gather relatives far and wide for an enjoyable time to reminisce, share photos, cook and eat together. Use the time to share favorite family stories and swap recipes. Make sure to take a group photo and share it with participants and those who couldn’t be there.
Get tech-savvy Get everyone involved in a
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family Web page or blog that highlights recent get-togethers, news, photos and favorite recipes. Online sites provide a great way to connect and keep long-distance relatives up to date and involved.
Host international family dinners Pick one night a week to take the family on a culinary journey to another part of the world. There are countless meal options waiting to be explored. Ex-
perience more culture by learning some phrases associated with the meal, play authentic music and include decorations.
Make movie magic Host monthly movie nights as a way for family to catch up and experience old classics and the latest blockbusters. Include an ice cream sundae bar and movie snacks, and schedule intermissions to talk about the movie and characters.
PAGE 34 NOVEMBER 2009
Activities abound in area clubs Boy Scouts of America
4338, raelynn6@hotmail.com
Troop 609 Issaquah
Briarwood
❑ ❑ ❑ ❑
David Marsh 785-9379 David.e.marsh@comcast.net www.troop609.com
Girl Scouts Issaquah & Maywood Middle schools and Liberty High School
❑ Shäna Daum 206-755-7033 shana.daum@gmail.com
❑ Nancy Julius ❑ 277-1659 ❑ njjul@comcast.net
Cascade Ridge
❑ Trina Gratchner ❑ 837-5332 ❑ desertskyhome@yahoo.com
Challenger
Middle schools
❑ Sandi Dong ❑ 557-1914 ❑ sandi.dong@comcast.net
Carol Stamper
Clark & Issaquah Valley
❑ 313-1954 ❑ carol.stamper@comcast.net
Elementary schools
❑ Teri Sytsma ❑ 391-3400 ❑ terisytsma@comcast.net
Cougar Ridge
Apollo Cub Scout Pack 638
❑ Andrea Trinneer ❑ 641-1215 ❑ andrea@trinneer.com
Girl Scouts
Discovery
❑ Sue Broderick, suebroderick@comcast.net ❑ Raelynn O’Connor, 228-
❑ Athena Angelis
❑ 392-7911 ❑ athena.angelis@gmail.com
Endeavour
❑ Pandy McVay ❑ 837-8348 ❑ cpjmhome@comcast.net
Grand Ridge
❑ Julie Siefkes ❑ 391-5362 ❑ jsiefkes@siefkesgroup.com
Maple Hills
❑ Tonya Wilson ❑ 223-5797 ❑ tonyarwilson@comcast.net
Camp Fire USA
❑ Cindy Scott ❑ 885-0477 ❑ www.campfire-usa.org
Community Family Club (Campfire USA) ❑ Amy Hendricks ❑ 313-1600
❑ Libbie FitzGerald ❑ 557-0589 ❑ fitzgerald510@comcast.net
Kids ’n Critters (llamas)
Newcastle
Tiger Mountain Archers
❑ Michele Havery ❑ 206-618-7445 ❑ sum_k-3_su444@comcast.net
Sunny Hills
❑ Lori Walters ❑ 313-7599 ❑ loriwalters100@comcast.net
Sunset
❑ Jerry Thomas ❑ jthomas_family@msn.com ❑ Pat Moore ❑ wcarchers@comcast.net
Eastside Hush Puppies 4-H
❑ Heather and Mike Smith ❑ 644-9770
Eastside Rabbit and Cavy Club ❑ Mark Fredrickson ❑ 206-251-0698
PAGE 35 NOVEMBER 2009
Pet Partners 4-H (dogs)
YMCA Adventure Guides
NW Outdoor Exposure (outdoor adventure)
YMCA Youth and Government
❑ Debbie Bracelin ❑ 865-9471
❑ Grace Stiller ❑ grace2u@isomedia.com
Worldwide Adventures (plant, science, archery)
❑ Renee Kuehn ❑ peachy_kuehn@yahoo.com ❑ FAWN (Friends Appreciating Wildlife & Nature) ❑ Donna Mikula ❑ fan4club@yahoo.com
Blue Ribbon 4H (sheep, swine) ❑ Darlene DeBruyne ❑ debruyne1@comcast.net
Cedar River Rascals (cats) ❑ Nancy Stewart ❑ nancygs@msn.com
Teen Leaders of Tomorrow & Know Your Government
❑ Linda Toycen ❑ 391-4840 ❑ www.seattleymca.org ❑ Heidi Bohall ❑ 391-4840
Issy’ Couture fashion club
❑ Issaquah Youth Center ❑ 837-3310
Issaquah Gliders
❑ Issaquah Parks & Rec Dept. ❑ issgliders@comcast.net ❑ http://thegliders.8k.com
Issaquah Youth Football
❑ www.issyfootball.org
Issaquah Youth Soccer
❑ www.issaquahsoccerclub.org
Issaquah Youth Basketball
❑ Issaquah Community Center ❑ 837-3300
❑ Floy Ziegler ❑ flzwez@yahoo.com
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Issaquah Little League
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PAGE 36 NOVEMBER 2009
Irresistible activities for parents and kids Parent and kid time too often comes down to adults telling children to clean up, turn off the television and do their homework while kids do their best to ignore instructions. When it’s time to “let kids just be kids,” why not join them and be a kid again yourself? It’s easy to get bogged down in day-to-day to-do lists, so here are a few irresistible activities to get parents and kids playing together:
Park play Go to the local park and play on all of the equipment. See who can go highest on the swings, go down the slide, get all the way across the monkey bars (harder when you don’t let your feet touch
the ground) and share the seesaw.
Food frolic Make cookies or cupcakes together and agree ahead of time to split the cleanup work between adults and kids. Then, go crazy with the sprinkles and chocolate chips. Lick the frosting from the beaters and, while the goods are baking, set the timer to find out which team can clean up the fastest.
Virtual vacation Log on to a highly interactive, customizable game, such as Disney’s Toontown Online, which encourages collaboration and, most of all, fun. At Toontown.com you can create
your own Toon avatar and have endless cartoon adventures alongside Mickey, Goofy and other Disney characters. Parents and kids can build Toon Estates together, team up to save Toontown from robot takeovers, have Toon Parties, play fun mini games and more. Setting aside time for a virtual toon vacation will make you the most fun parent on the block.
Bowling blast Whether you’re playing indoors with empty plastic bottles and a rubber ball or you’re at the lanes, let the kids be in charge of the score (it doesn’t matter who wins anyway). Even the playing field by having the adults bowl backward through their legs.
Wacky walking Take a family “I spy” adventure walk. Pull together a list of items you might spot on a walk around the neighborhood. Then, grab a coin and designate which side represents right and left. Let a flip of the coin decide if you’re going to turn right or left and cross items off your “I spy” list as you see them. Even the dog can get in on this adventure.
Fort fun
Gather up all of the blankets, pillows and cushions in the house and make a super fort. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the family fort and, when it’s time to clean up, be human bulldozers to knock it down. Source: ARAcontent
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PAGE 37 NOVEMBER 2009
Make a healthy home for growing kids How healthy is your family’s home? It’s not an easy question to answer because, depending on your child’s age, there are different concerns. Children grow up faster than we could ever imagine, and each age brings a different stage of growth, development and learning. Since we can all use a few new tricks, Heidi Murkoff developed the “What to Expect Guide to a Healthy Home” through a grant from The Clorox Co. A new supplement to the guide, “What to Expect Healthy Home Growth Chart,” gives parents helpful tips for a healthy home during each milestone of a child’s first few years. Did you know that the average child can touch up to about 300 surfaces every 30 minutes? That can add up to a lot of germs being passed around. But don’t stress out about all those microscopic menaces. The good news is that your home is probably a lot cleaner than you think. Thanks to improved sanitation and personal hygiene, food safety and preventative medicine, the likelihood that you or your kids will get seriously sick from the mess you call home is pretty slim. Still, you don’t want to give all those germs an all-access pass
to your home and kids. So, when you’re doing regular cleaning, pay special attention to frequently-touched “germ hot spots” around the house — doorknobs, light switches, keyboards, phones, hard toys, kitchen counters and bathroom surfaces — by wiping them down with a disinfecting cleaner or wipe. Hand washing is the most effective way to help keep germs from spreading. Make hand washing a house rule — before meals, after using the toilet, after coming in from playtime, after blowing noses and so on. To make hand washing fun and effective, have your kids wash in warm, soapy water for as long as it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice. Add to the fun by using foaming soap or soaps with yummy smells.
0 to 3 years By the time your baby reaches his or her first birthday, you’ll have changed nearly 2,500 diapers. Setting up small changing stations with baby wipes and diapers in multiple rooms in your house can make diaper changing a little easier on you. To help ensure all those diaper changes don’t contribute to the spread of germs, remember to wash your hands with warm soapy water before and
after changing a diaper, and wash the changing pad cover in hot water once or twice a week. Clean hard surfaces of the changing table with mild detergent and water every few days, and for those times when soap and water won’t cut it, disinfect by wiping surfaces of the changing table with a disinfecting cleaner or wipe.
1 month To make bottle cleaning easy, put bottles and nipples in the dishwasher. If you wash them by hand, use hot water, soap and a bottle brush for hard-to-reach places.
3 months You’ll notice babies will put toys — and just about everything else — in their mouths. Keep toys clean by washing them with soapy water (rinse well) or tossing them in the dishwasher.
6 months The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends all children get an annual flu shot, starting at 6 months old.
1 year It’s now time to baby-proof your house. Make sure your outlets are covered, wires and cords
are hidden, and cabinet doors and drawers have breaks or locks on them. Also, make sure small items that could be a choking hazard are out of reach.
2 years Toss stuffed animals in the laundry. If a stuffed toy isn’t machine-washable, you can put it in a plastic bag in the freezer overnight to help get rid of dust mites.
3 years Make sure everyone has his or her own toothbrush and no one shares; store toothbrushes at least an inch apart.
4 years Remind your child to always wash his or her hands when coming inside. Try limiting food and drinks on the go.
5 years Don’t leave home without hand wipes or hand sanitizer, and pack bottled water or a juice box, so you can skip the public water fountain. Download free copies of “What to Expect Guide to a Healthy Home” and “What to Expect Healthy Home Growth Chart” at www.Clorox.com. Source: ARAcontent
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PAGE 38 NOVEMBER 2009
Help your newborn sleep like a baby Whoever coined the phrase “sleeping like a baby” probably never had the frustrating task of trying to get an infant to fall — and stay — asleep. Most parents know good rest is as vital as good nutrition for the health of their newborns — even if they can only dream about getting a good night’s sleep themselves. Women’s health nurse practitioner and award-winning author Barbara Dehn offers a few tips to help mothers get through restless newborn nights and ease into a better bedtime routine. “On average, an infant can sleep a total of 16 to 18 hours over the course of a 24-hour period,” Dehn said. “During this time, a baby’s body is growing and developing at rapid speed, while adjusting to a natural sleep cycle. Parents can help support their baby’s natural sleep patterns with a few simple changes to their routine.” Dehn suggests these few tips:
Lose the guilt “One of the first things I always tell new moms is to lose the guilt,” she said. It’s inevitable for new parents to feel nervous, unsure and often guilty when caring for their infant — especially when it comes to sleep. Moms and dads should go with their gut feeling on all fronts and follow their infant’s lead. If your newborn tends to fall asleep in his swing or rocker — go with it. Not allowing yourself to feel guilty during the first few months will only help your baby acclimate to a schedule. Typically, confidence and a bit of relaxation will follow.
Proper feeding schedule Moms can maintain their baby’s natural sleep patterns and overall health with a proper feeding schedule. By establishing both day and night feeding routines that follow
your infant’s natural hunger cues, you are helping your baby receive the nourishment that will support growth and development.
Turn off the TV “I’m often telling new moms to turn off the TV,” Dehn said. Feeding time is often a good opportunity for mom to kick up her feet and unwind. Use this time to connect with your baby and avoid your regular relaxation routine, like flipping on the TV. The light and noise can distract your newborn and interrupt his eating.
Bath time vs bed time Bath time does not always need to take place before bedtime. Some infants are extremely agitated from a bath, regardless of the calming scents, soft sounds and soothing touch you use. If you notice your baby is re-
laxed and calm without a bath before bedtime, go with it. Changing the bath-time routine can make the overall experience more enjoyable for both mom and baby. This can also help your newborn develop daytime and nighttime routines.
Safety Keep safety top of mind. As a new parent, keeping your newborn safe and healthy is extremely important. The American Academy of Pediatrics and other experts recommend that caregivers place babies on their backs to sleep – for naps and at nights. Placing an infant on his back to sleep is the most important step to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome in a natural and effective way. Learn more about infant nutrition at www.StrongMoms.com. Source: ARAcontent
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