february 2012
the BuZZ oN eNerGy driNkS
SWAPPING SOUP, SURVIVING DINNER
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TONY CARR TALKS ABOUT TOUGH STUFF
enJoy a romanTIC marrIed LIfe
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february Features 16 survIvInG WeeknIGht dInners Hosting a soup swap By Julie Kendrick 20 GettInG COmfOrtAble WIth “the tAlk” It’s never too early to begin talking to your kids about sex By Kelly Bartlett 38 QuestIOns fOr CAmps By Kathleen Stoehr
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Departments 8 ChAtter 13
10 tWeen sCene Energy drinks 12 GrOWs On trees Unsung heroes 13 hOt stuff Go green! 14 fIGht less, lOve mOre Enjoy a romantic married life 18 dIsCs We dIG Video game roundup
4 February 2012
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24 Out & About Featuring our pullout calendar 40 It’s my party Gifts for the homeless 42 Book shelf Pioneers, explorers, and heroes 46 Real life Real dad Tony Carr
February 2012 5
from the editor
Tough stuff There’s a little place near the corner of Kellogg Avenue and Valley View Road in Edina that bore witness to my (then) three-year-old daughter’s melt down. I’m not sure what set her off: indecision, fatigue, overwhelmed by the number of kids all taller than she, blocking her view of the tubs of colorful ice cream? In any case, she blew her stack and I carried her out of there, screaming and kicking, under my arm similar to the way a running back carries a football. I felt the eyes of many upon my back as we departed. My mother has related a time when my brother did something so horrific while hiding inside a rack of women’s clothing at Southdale that she could only collect her offspring and get out of there as quickly as possible. I’m sure you can attest to plenty of episodes like these: when our kids embarrass us; but real tough stuff, the stuff that tests parenting mettle, is a bit harder to talk about. When do we start talking to our kids about sex? What might we say to our children when they are confronted with racism? These are the tough stuff issues we dread, way more than the tantrums and the innocent spoutings in public about ladies with mustaches and men with no hair. When I was discussing Kelly Bartlett’s article, Getting comfortable with “the talk” in a management meeting, I saw colleagues in the room recoil slightly. Just the word, sex, even, makes some people fidget. But making the topic part of your child’s upbringing—before your child knows what embarrassment means—will go a long way in broaching more difficult discussions when they are older. Take a look at her article, beginning on page 20. As for racism, our “Real Dad” this month, Tony Carr, has turned that “tough stuff” intolerance on its head by becoming a collector of black memorabilia. So, how does he explain some of the most provoking pieces his collection contains to his four young daughters? His wise answers begin on the last page of this magazine. It is our hope at Minnesota Parent that our information can help you through some of your toughest challenges, as well as shine a light on all of the fun and joy that parenting brings. As always, let us know how we are doing or what you want to read more about via email (kstoehr@mnpubs.com) or our Facebook: facebook.com/ MNParentMag.
Kathleen Stoehr Editor
6 February 2012
Vol. 27, Issue 2 Co-Publishers Janis Hall jhall@mnpubs.com Terry Gahan tgahan@mnpubs.com General Manager Chris Damlo 612-436-4376 • cdamlo@mnpubs.com Editor Kathleen Stoehr kstoehr@mnpubs.com Contributing Writers/Photographers Alyson Cummings Julie Kendrick Kara McGuire Julie Pfitzinger Laurie Puhn Joy Riggs Jeremy Zoss Production Manager Dana Croatt dcroatt@mnpubs.com Senior Graphic Designer Valerie Moe Graphic Designer Amanda Wadeson Sales Manager Melissa Ungerman Levy 612-436-4382 • mungermanlevy@mnpubs.com Sales Administrator Kate Manson 612-436-5085 • kmanson@mnpubs.com Marketing & Events Coordinator Amanda Riley 612-436-5070 • ariley@mnpubs.com Circulation Marlo Johnson 612-436-4388 • distribution@mnpubs.com Intern Claire Walling Classified Advertising 612-825-9205 • sales@mnpubs.com Printing Brown Printing
52,500 copies of Minnesota Parent printed monthly, available at news stands statewide. Get Minnesota Parent mailed to your home for just $12 a year. Call 612-825-9205 for more information. Minnesota Parent (ISSN 0740 3437) is published monthly by Minnesota Premier Publications. POSTMASTER send address changes to: MINNESOTA PARENT, 1115 Hennepin Avenue S. Minneapolis, MN 55403. Minnesota Parent is copyright 2012 by Minnesota Premier Publications. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Address all material to address above.
February 2012 7
Sweets for your sweetie Be our friend on Facebook by February 10 for a chance to win a six-pint pack of Graeter’s Ice Cream, just in time to delight your favorite valentine. Hand packed and made with 100% cane sugar, no trans fats, and no rBST, it’s a treat you can find locally at Kowalskis, Lunds/ Byerlys, Whole Foods, and more as well. Go to Facebook/ MNParentMag and hit your “Like” button today!
Top baby names of 2011 tang erin e ta ngo
Ready to repaint? This year’s tone, as announced by Pantone, Inc., the big cheese of the color world, is “Tangerine Tango,” a “sophisticated, dramatic, and seductive” color that Minnesota Parent suggests is best used sparingly, as in accent walls, pillows, and other splashes. Thankfully, this color can be painted over if you consider your choice a big mistake (not half as harrowing an endeavor as choosing a baby name!).
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According to babynames.com, the top names for 2011 are (for boys): Liam, Noah, Aiden, Jackson, Caleb, Oliver, Grayson, Ethan, Alexander, and Owen; and for girls: Charlotte, Sophia, Amelia, Olivia, Ava, Lily, Emma, Scarlett, Audrey, and Harper. Noted names new to the charts are for boys: Silas (#67), Everett (#84), Ezra (#86), Theodore (#87) and Leo (#91) and for girls: Avery (#26), Adele (#50), Brielle (#61), Elise (#83), and Cora (#87), among others. But don’t look just to babynames.com: babycenter.com says Mason for boys is bounding up the charts and Emily for girls is jumping as well. Parenting.com cites Sookie and Isabella, Jacob and Max as the names that rose to the top for 2011. So who has the definitive list? No one—and who cares anyway? Choose the name that means the most to you, and own it.
In brief minnesota lice lady, Gonne Asser, has
opened a salon in Edina, at 3940 Sunnyside Road. Visit mnlicelady.com for more information; nan peterson, service learning director at The Blake School, was recognized with the National Youth Leadership Council Service-Learning Practitioner Leadership Award in December, in recognition of her 30 years of work at Blake, where she develops opportunities for students to learn through community projects both locally and abroad; destination maternity has opened on Level 2 at the Mall of America, coinciding with the soon-to-be closed A pea in the pod at the Galleria in Edina (Destination Maternity is the parent company for A Pea in the Pod and will carry the product there). Visit destinationmaternity.com for more information. sports resource Group donated a kid-sized hockey rink to the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board for installation on Lake of the Isles. “So many times, you see 10 to 12 adults skating on the big rink, with kids off on the side just shooting pucks,” SRG president Chris Guertin said, adding that he hopes the rink provides kids with an opportunity to hone their ice-hockey chops. The rink was originally slated for installation in midDecember, but unseasonably warm weather has pushed it to 2012; tutor doctor, an at-home tutoring franchise serving Chanhassen, Eden Prairie, Plymouth,
Minnesota Lice Lady
Wayzata and 27 zip codes in four counties opened in December. The company focuses on each child’s unique learning style, be it visual, auditory, kinesthetic, or other to tailor and maximize study sessions for the best result. Visit tutorsouthwestmn.com for more information; Minnesota Parent loves safe paw, a true environmentally sound pet- and child-safe ice melter with nonharmful ingredients that received the Parent Tested Parent Approved Seal of Approval. Visit safepaw.com for more info. Candy company peeps & Company, a purported “fun and energy-filled retail experience that appeals to all five senses” has opened at the Mall of America; Great for organizing tax time receipts, neat receipts for Mac or PC (neat.com) will help you tame that paper monster. Minnesota Parent appreciated how easy it was to set up and use. Finally, original Galleria tenant schmidt music, home to aspiring musicians of all ages for over three decades, will be moving to Richfield, location unannounced as of the printing of this magazine.
Butterflies for remembrance Youth Performance Company (YPC) worked out an agreement to participate in The Butterfly Project as part of its latest production, A Child Shall Lead. Holocaust Museum Houston is collecting 1.5 million decorated paper butterflies to memorialize the 1.5 million Jewish children killed in the Holocaust. As part of A Child Shall Lead, YPC is spearheading an effort for groups to make the butterflies, which will be first used to decorate their performance space; YPC will coordinate shipment of the butterflies to the museum where they will be featured in a Spring 2014 exhibition. So far, the museum has collected 900,000 butterflies. Visit hmh.org/ed_butterfly1. shtml for more information on the project and youthperformanceco.com for information on its latest production.
parents:
• My child gained self-confidence at camp (70%) • My child continues to participate in activities learned at camp (63%) • My child remains in contact with friends made at camp (69%) — Survey results courtesy of the American Camp Association, acacamps.org pArent ApprOved
Chew on it
pArent tested!
Some fashion concessions need to be made when baby is teething. When babies are grabbing anything within reach—and chewing on it, too—expensive jewelry must be put away so baby can play. Teething Bling, a parent-approved product, is safe from Phthalate, BPA, PVC, and lead—a great looking piece that will also provide hours of entertainment for baby. Mimicking the colors of jade and turquoise, and made from the same materials as most teething toys (think “coated” infant spoons, for example) the pendants hang on a black silky cord with breakaway clasp. Smartmomjewelry.com; about $20
After camp comments The American Camp Association, in conjunction with a grant from Lilly Endowment, Inc. conducted a survey of over 5,000 families regarding the camp experience. Here’s what parents and their children had to say after the summer stint was completed: kids:
• Camp helped me make new friends (96%) • Camp helped me to get to know other campers who were different from me (94%) • Camp helped me feel good about myself (92%) • At camp, I did things I was afraid to do at first (74%)
One vest, two people Peekaru is a super-comfy fleece vest that comfortably and fully zips over any baby carrier, including Baby Bjorns, Hotslings, Ergos, Mai Tais and Wraps, keeping baby and parent snug and warm. No more trying to tie and scrunch blankets in place or fit baby on over or under a jacket. Just put on the Peekaru over the baby in the baby carrier, slide baby’s head through the head opening and go. With sizes and colors for both women and men, the Peekaru is certified to be 100% non-toxic. Togetherbe.com; $79.95
February 2012 9
The buzz on energy drinks
I By Joy Riggs
’m going to date myself here: I remember when Jolt Cola became popular. I was in college, and people were buzzing—pun intended—about this new drink that contained all the sugar and twice the caffeine of a normal cola. It sounded crazy to me—who would drink such a product?
Many people, it turns out. Twenty-five years later, the production and consumption of energy drinks has exploded, and the contents of the newer drinks make Jolt look quaint by comparison. Energy drink sales in the United States were about $5.4 billion in 2006, according to the Journal of the American Medical Association; that same year, 500 new energy drink products were introduced worldwide. You may not be able to name more than a few, but chances are, your children can, even if they aren’t drinking them. When product manufacturers put Super Mario and Family Guy characters on the cans, it’s clear they are targeting children and young adults. My morning beverage of choice is coffee, so I hadn’t paid much attention to the growing energy drink industry until I attended a recent talk by Jay Jaffee, chemical health coordinator with the Minnesota Department of Health. Jaffee spoke to a group of parents, educators, and health care workers about why energy
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drinks are bad for children, and why parents should set and enforce rules about their consumption.
has 77 to 150 milligrams. “Most people don’t slam their coffee down; if it’s hot, it’s going to burn, and if you’ve spent four dollars on it you’re definitely not going to slam it down,” Jaffee said. “With energy drinks, they’re putting it all in their system at one time.” Energy drinks also contain sugar, and the combination of sugar and caffeine negatively affects the body’s blood glucose level, creating carbohydrate cravings that lead to weight gain, Jaffee said. As if the caffeine and sugar content weren’t worrisome enough, energy drinks often contain other ingredients like guarana (a potent source of caffeine) and Panax ginseng, a stimulant that may have hormone-like effects. “Panax ginseng is not recommended for children, period. It’s not recommended for people taking alcohol, and it’s not recommended for people taking caffeine—oops, there’s a problem right there, since they put it in the can with the caffeine,” Jaffee said. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommended last summer that children and adolescents should never consume energy drinks because the stimulants they contain pose potential health risks. It also said that most kids don’t need
Energy sap What’s wrong with energy drinks? First of all, they contain caffeine, one of the most popular drugs used by Americans. Nearly 80 percent of U.S. adults drink coffee every day, and many others drink caffeinated beverages like tea and diet soda. Caffeine is a stimulant: it can raise your blood pressure, increase your heart rate, increase feelings of stress and anxiety, and cause sleep disturbances. It’s not harmful in moderation—but there’s nothing moderate about energy drinks. As Jaffee explained, the amount of caffeine in energy drinks ranges from 50 to more than 500 milligrams per serving, and many cans contain more than one serving. In comparison, a 12-ounce can of cola has 34 to 54 milligrams of caffeine, and a six-ounce cup of coffee
What Can Parents Do? Tips from Jay Jaffee, chemical health coordinator with the Minnesota Department of Health: •T alk about caffeine with your children • Limit the amount you buy and have around the house • Set limits for how much your children may consume and enforce those limits • Pay attention to your children, as well as your garbage and recycling containers • Be a good role model • Talk to other adults, including relatives and parents of your kid’s friends • Take action if there’s a problem
sports drinks, and that water should be the principal source of hydration for children and adolescents. “It’s going to take a while for this to filter down to enough pediatricians, parents, and children but it’s a start,” Jaffee said. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not have guidelines on children and caffeine use, but Canada’s government does. Health Canada recommends not exceeding these maximum daily amounts of caffeine, based on the average body weights of children: 45 milligrams for children ages four to six (about one can of cola); 62.5 milligrams for children ages seven to nine (about one and a half cans); and 85 milligrams for children ages 10 to 12 (nearly two cans). Jaffee recommends that parents think about the messages they send with their own caffeine consumption and be role models for healthy choices. Don’t assume that your children know how you feel about the use of caffeine and energy drinks. Talk to them about the negative health effects, set limits on caffeinated beverages, and enforce those limits. “Let kids know how much they can have and enforce that. Don’t think that if you tell them what I shared today they’re not going to do it—there are too many forces working against them,” he says.
Resources American Academy of Pediatrics What’s best for thirsty kids? aapnews.aappublications.org/ content/32/6/32.2.full Energy Fiend Database of caffeine amounts in foods and drinks energyfiend.com Government of Alberta, Canada Caffeine and Kids healthyalberta.com/HealthyEating/698.htm Health Canada Information for parents on caffeine in energy drinks hc-sc.gc.ca/ahc-asc/media/nr-cp/_2011/ 2011-132bk-eng.php
February 2012 11
Unsung heroes
M By Kara McGuire
oms are notorious for comparing notes—and price tags—when it comes to big kid expenses (strollers, cribs, even breast pumps). But they’re quieter when it comes to everyday lifesavers, those cheap but dependable items that help quash tantrums, clean up spills, and save sanity. Maybe it’s because the stuff is so totally ordinary it seems silly to praise it. Now it’s time for the workhorses to have their day in the spotlight. Here are a few I’ve found cheap and helpful throughout the course of raising three kids.
A time-consuming snack. Goldfish crackers and other salty snacks anchor many moms’ snack arsenals. But they can be eaten quickly, and one overturned bag can create an embarrassing, dusty mess. Why not grab more healthful and cheaper foods such as apples or carrot sticks instead? Both are examples of non-messy, time-consuming treats that can divert young ones’ attention when mom is showering at the pool, filling out forms, or trying on clothes at the mall.
Baby wipes. Many think there will come a time when they will cross baby wipes off of the shopping list, but I suggest keeping a handy supply long past the diaper stage. From wiping sticky hands to cleaning a dirty bench, with a small box of wipes you’ll avoid the frantic hunt for something, anything that can absorb liquid or
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clean up a sticky mess in a hurry, and you won’t have to shudder when your kid goes from playground to popcicles. When the wipes are gone, the box comes in handy for all sorts of storage—whether it’s making sure that the parts of a toy set stay together to a sanity-saving place to stick collections of Silly Bandz or Pokemon cards. Plus the boxes are durable, easy to stack, and fun to decorate.
Cheap, kid activities. Whether it’s a magazine or coloring book you don’t mind leaving behind, or an easy-to-pack super ball or miniature toy, having a trick or two in your pocket or purse can be a lifesaver, especially when waiting in line or sitting at a restaurant. Loading the iPhone with free or cheap kid-focused apps is another tried and true time-killer, so long as you don’t mind sticky fingerprints on your screen.
“From wiping sticky hands to cleaning a dirty bench, with a small box of wipes you’ll avoid the frantic hunt for something, anything that can absorb liquid or clean up a sticky mess in a hurry.”
Matching socks. For moms with two kids who are close in age—even of different genders—think about sharable items that make life easier. Instead of frilly pink socks for one and sports socks for another, buy white crew socks that both can use. No hunting for the right match. Same with gloves and mittens—buy several pairs of identical black mittens. There’s nothing more stressful for a mom late to a meeting than hunting for a missing match. For items that can’t be shared, buy Rubbermaid containers for each kid to store coats, hats, and backpacks near the door so they can grab what they need on the way to the school bus.
Indulgences for mom. Most moms spend precious little time taking care of themselves. When the kids are born, both available time and available money shrink, and mom’s weekly tennis date with friends often morphs into taking Junior to tennis lessons. Moms in the know say to set aside a little money for a cheap, spiritlifting treat or two, whether it’s a bottle of brightly colored nail polish in a trendy hue, a favorite kind of chocolate, or a subscription to a favorite magazine. In order for mom to take care of her family, she also must take care of herself.
My Belle Made of soft organic cotton and hemp fabrics, Belle’s stylish organic baby carriers are lightweight, breathable, and have natural antibacterial qualities. All of Belle’s products are manufactured in the U.S. Designed with an independent waist-belt and cross-over shoulder straps, this design transfers the weight off the shoulders and onto the hips, using the same principles as high quality outdoor backpacks designed to carry a large amount of weight.
go ! n e e r g Keeping it real with products that won’t harm the environment
bellebabycarriers.com;
By Kathleen Stoehr
about $100
Watkins wow
Keen Kiki
Green clean
Winona, Minnesota-based J.R. Watkins has been around for ages, but it just launched a line of baby products sure to please. Including oils, balms, lotions, and head-to-toe wash, most formulas are at least 95 percent natural, with many 99 percent or more. Free of synthetic and irritating chemicals, and with 100 percent natural fragrances (rice flower and avocado), these products are super nice.
BPA free Pura Stainless Steel’s Kiki line offers parents a plastic free option for baby bottles. The electro-polished bottles are made from the highest quality, food service grade stainless steel making them resistant to corrosion and staining. Best, the feeding system even grows with your child, turning from a bottle with slowflow silicone nipple to a medium-flow bottle, and then ultimately a sippy bottle with sip spout.
Using only natural, non-irritating, supremely gently plant based ingredients, Live Clean (Baby) performs efficiently and gently to keep baby looking, feeling, and smelling great, especially through these cold winter months! Petroleum free, paraben and phthalate free (among other things), this collection addresses baby’s sensitivities well.
jrwatkins.com, about $8 each
live-clean.com, about $8 each
purastainless.com, starting at about $14
February 2012 13
Enjoy a romantic married life
W
here did the romance go? If you’re like most couples, you get home from a planned date night feeling wonderfully upbeat. The next night you can barely remember where you went or what you ate.
By Laurie Puhn
Sporadic attempts at romance are just that—temporary and easily forgotten. From date night to a Valentine’s Day weekend getaway, each has tremendous value, while we are doing it. But when we return home to our predictable routine of working and caring for our children, those special one-on-one moments quickly fade. Does this mean that a marriage with children is in trouble if the couple doesn’t have those heart throbbing romantic highs once shared in the dating phase? Absolutely not. When kids are in the mix, married couples should expect a more
tempered, but certainly visible, daily romantic connection. There are two kinds of romance, the one that spontaneously happens to you because of a special setting, like watching a sunset over the beach, and the one you make happen anywhere, by consciously choosing to say the right words at the right time to your mate. The first type of romance readily happens during the dating period; the second type requires greater awareness and effort if you and your spouse want keep your romantic attraction alive for the long run.
Communicating
Resources Laurie Puhn is a lawyer, couples mediator, relationship expert, and bestselling author of Fight Less, Love More: 5-Minute Conversations to Change Your Relationship without Blowing Up or Giving In. You can find her online at fightlesslovemore.com.
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The things we say and do, and don’t say or do, can spark or block a loving connection. Our daily word choices become what I call a couple’s “daily communication routine.” Hard-pressed for quality time with our partners and spouses, it’s easy to fall victim to a poor communication routine. To stop this
from happening, today I ask you to pay attention to your established communication routine. Then, if needed, include these loving comments in your conversations with your partner. Ask your spouse to do the same and the results will astound you. First, put your mate first, every day. What I mean by this is: when one of you walks in the door, immediately greet the other (not the little kids or your computer first). Or, if you see your kids first, greet them, but don’t stop there. Find your spouse. A gentle touch on the shoulder with a simple “hey, how was your day?” reestablishes your connection. If you’re on the phone when your mate gets home, end the conversation. Yes, your spouse’s arrival takes priority over others. Second, say “good morning” and “good night” to each other every day. These statements bring to mind that it is a good day or night because you are together and with your special person. Not surprisingly, in our online research we found that 25% of couples don’t consistently say goodnight to each other, and of those, 70% had thought about breaking up in the prior year.
Finally, show love by highlighting your mate’s positive character traits. Pick one out every day, and if you think that’s hard, simply look for the little things. Make comments like, “I love you for (fill-in-the-blank).” One of my favorite compliments (which my husband knows) is to hear him say some variety of, “You are such a good mother because you have so much patience with the kids.” Interestingly, in our research, when we asked people whether they’d prefer their mate compliment them for being good-looking (a visual compliment), or kind (a character compliment) 84 percent answered, “kind.” A positive daily communication routine is the way to keep love alive, when you don’t have time for a vacation or a hand-in-hand sunset walk in the park. For romance to thrive during child-rearing years you have to choose it, or lose it.
“The things we say and do, and don’t say or do, can spark or block a loving connection.”
February 2012 15
By Julie Kendrick
swapping soup, If you’ve been trying to cook more meals at home, you may have noticed improvements in your budget, your waistline, and your family together time. But unless you have a Cordon Bleu diploma tacked up on the wall in the family room, you might be encountering a downside to all this cooking—boredom with that same-old rotation of dishes and recipes. Here’s a way to get variety back into your repertoire, and have fun with your friends as a bonus. A soup swap sounds simple, but it makes people so happy, perhaps because there is something about the nature of soup-making that elevates the experience to a higher level. A salad swap wouldn’t work for reasons that are both practical and more intangible. You can’t lose a salad in the back of the freezer and find it six months later to enjoy like a belated gift, just received from a good friend. Here’s how to get started.
A month before Invite people. You’ll want to plan in advance so that there are a few weekends before the event. Be sure to let everyone know that they will need to bring six quarts of frozen, labeled soup. Set a guest limit. Take a look at the space where you’ll be hosting the gathering and decide how many people you
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can comfortably accommodate (remember that every swapper will arrive with a big bag of six frozen soups). Try to have at least 12 swappers, so there’s enough variety, but probably no more than about 25, because of the time required to complete the swap.
Week before Send a reminder. The weekend before the swap, send out a quick reminder to your guests and review instructions. Make, freeze, and label your own soup. Six quarts is usually at least two batches, so get out a couple pots and start cooking. There’s no need to buy expensive containers; Ziploc bags frozen flat work great. You can make any type of soup—as healthy or decadent as you desire. Try an old favorite or branch out with something you’ve always wanted to try. And be sure to make a little bit extra for your family. At one recent swap in my home, a woman picked the soup she’d brought, because she hadn’t made enough to allow for more than a small taste, and her family demanded more. The actual soup preparation can be the
best part of the swap. There’s an in-the-moment quality surrounding the time it takes to prepare soup, and deep comfort in knowing it will be shared with someone else. With all the chopping, stock-making and simmering, it’s a labor-intensive process. But that allows time to quietly observe what’s happening on the stove, and to think of someone who could really use a nice, warm bowl of soup. This labor, with its attendant memories and feelings of connectedness, translates into “I love you” for most of us, even the ones who can barely rustle up a can of Progresso on a chilly night.
Night of the swap Write it down. As guests arrive, write their name and the name of their soup on a big piece of paper (I call it the “Wall of Soup”). Have name badges on hand and put their name and name of their soup
Resources Seattle resident Knox Gardner is credited with launching a National Soup Swap event six years ago. Visit soupswap.com or “Soup Swap” on Facebook.
surviving dinner (this helps to spark conversation among shy guests). Feed everyone. Have snacks and drinks on hand, or offer a big pot of soup to get everyone in the mood. Pick a number. Write out numbers on scrap paper, one for every swapper, and have them draw numbers at random. Ask each swapper to write their number on the Wall of Soup, by their name (this helps to track them down later if they’ve wandered into the kitchen for another glass of wine when it’s their turn to choose). Telling of the soup. The person who picked number one tells first, then number two, and so on. This is a chance to offer a minute or two of fun facts about the soup—ingredients, history, health benefits, or even the sad story of how it would have turned out better if only there had been some turmeric in the pantry. The telling of the soup is always a memorable part of the evening, because it offers a chance for friends to share their creativity, their
history, and their special stories. Pick soups. Keep it fair by going in forward and reverse order, Fantasy Football style. Start with the person who has number one, and when you get to the end of your swappers, go backward for round two. On round three, go forward again, until you reach the end of six rounds, at which point everyone will have six brand-new soups to take home. To help keep track of what’s available, cross soups off the Wall of Soup once they’ve all been picked.
Spice it up Give back: During one swap, I had a friend who had just started a course of chemotherapy treatment, so I offered a “bring a seventh quart” option when I sent out the invitations. Thanks to the generosity of my guests, I was able to deliver 20 quarts of soup to my ailing friend and her family. Another “give back” idea is to have everyone bring canned goods for the food shelf. Offer prizes: Have your kids serve as judges if you want to get them involved. Awards can be for categories such as first soup picked, first to run out, most exotic ingredients, best recipe name, or best “telling of the soup.” Give old cookbooks (a cheap find at garage sales) or other cooking-related items as prizes. Collect recipes: Ask everyone to
Julie Kendrick begins compiling the “Wall of Soup” at the beginning of the swap.
photo by kathleen stoehr
email their recipes to you, and create a virtual cookbook for the group.
Be flexible I’ve had guests show up one week before the scheduled event, soup in hand and ready to swap. Guests who’ve had awful weeks at work have arrived with six quarts of Byerly’s finest, or no soup at all, but eager to observe the fun. One person who hadn’t quite understood the directions arrived at a swap with a giant pot of steaming soup she’d whipped up that afternoon. Whatever happens, remember that the purpose of the swap is to share creativity and nourishing food, and nothing else matters. At the swaps I’ve hosted over the years, we’ve seen dramatic recitations, original poems, heartfelt reminiscences of the beloved grandma who passed along the recipe, and re-enactments of marriage proposals that were delivered during the soup course. Friendships have been formed and a sense of community has been created. From such a simple notion—sharing some soup—a truly great tradition (and a lovely course of family meals) can be born.
February 2012 17
Video game roundup By Jeremy Zoss
Consider these great games for the dark winter days when it’s too cold for outdoor fun.
Bejeweled 3 The world’s most popular “match three” game is available on just about every digital device you can name, so it may seem unnecessary to buy another version. Or, it would—if PopCap’s flagship franchise wasn’t so much darn fun. For only $20, the threDes Nintendo DS version Wor Puzzley includes eight different Variet y versions of the game. Energ Our favorite is the addictive quest mode, which challenges players to finish 40 scenarios with specific goals. From matching moving jewels before they reach the top to using jewels to uncover hidden treasures, the variations are clever enough to keep players of all ages hooked. Recommended for children 8 and up. PopCap Games. Nintendo DS
uDraw Gametablet Kinect Sports Last year, THQ released the uDraw Season Two Gametablet for Nintendo’s Wii. Now a redesigned version has been released for Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. Both of the new versions feature a responsive drawing surface with a special pen that allows young artists to see their artwork come to life on the screen. The $80 device comes with uDraw Studio Instant Artist, which teaches kids the basics of art. Also available for the device are games Pictionary Ultimate Edition, an electronic version of the classic board game, and Marvel Super Hero Squad: threes Comic Combat. The WorD simple action game Art ity Creativles challenges players to d o o D defeat comic book-style enemies by drawing special moves on the tablet’s screen. Recommended for children 5 and up.
Most of the Xbox’s family-friendly games now rely on the motion-sensing Kinect sensor, and the games for the device keep getting better. Kinect Sports was a solid introduction to the sensor’s abilities, and Kinect threDes Sports 2 improves on Wor the formula with a fun Sports ion etit variety of sports and Comption Ac activities. Use your body to imitate the motions of playing darts, baseball, football, skiing, golf, and tennis—no controller required. Thanks to the variety of sports and variations on each game, there’s plenty of fun to be had for everyone, especially in multiplayer mode. Recommended for children 10 and up. Microsoft. Xbox 360. Kinect required.
THQ. Available for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and Wii.
LEGO Harry Potter: Years 5–7 LEGO Harry Potter: Years 5–7 recounts the final stories in the mega-popular Harry Potter books and movies. Players can use blocky ingredients to create their own spells, but experimentation can have hilarious results. No matter which franchise the kids in your household are more excited about, the LEGO games offer up simple, cartoonish action that’s acceptable for gamers of almost any age—both players and enemies crumble into LEGO blocks when defeated and players always rebuild themselves a moment later. Recommended for children 8 and up. LEGO Harry Potter published by Warner Bros. Interactive. Available on all major video game platforms.
18 February 2012
LEGO Star Wars III: The Clone Wars The LEGO video game series has become one of the most popular all-ages franchises around, thanks to the way they retell goofy, good-natured versions of familiar stories. The original LEGO Star Wars games retold the Star Wars movies with LEGO figures, but LEGO Star Wars III draws its inspiration from a source that’s likely more familiar to young fans, the Star Wars: The Clone Wars threDes cartoon. The game Wor LEGO recreates the events s Battle s of the series and adds Laugh large-scale battles bigger than anything seen in the LEGO games before. LEGO Star Wars III published by LucasArts. Available on all major video game platforms.
threDes Wor LEGO Action Spells
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Getting comfortable with ‘the talk’ By Kelly Bartlett
20 February 2012
never too early to begin talking with your kids about sex. In fact, the you start, the more comfortable you will feel when it’s time It’s earlier to talk about difficult issues. Here are some age-appropriate topics parents should bring up with children now to pave the way for lessstressful conversations about sexual health in the adolescent years.
ages 0 to 2
Positive perception There’s no better time to start practicing the language of body talk than when kids are infants. At this age, there’s no pressure to say the “right” thing, and your baby won’t laugh, get nervous, or ask any questions. It’s important to get comfortable verbalizing words or bodily functions that may cause some discomfort for you. According to Dr. Laura Berman, a sex educator, therapist, and author of Talking to Your Kids About Sex, something crucial for parents to do while their kids are infants is to adopt a positive view of bodily functions. Shift from looking at a poopy diaper as, “Oh, isn’t that stinky!” to a perspective of, “Wow, you’ve been eating well!” Dr. Berman says many parents have likely learned from their own upbringing to feel ashamed or embarrassed of bowel movements. “When really,” she says, “it’s just a part of life.” Functions involving the genitals are healthy and normal, not something negative or problematic.
ages 2 to 3
Touching and being touched Children will inevitably discover their genitals, and when this happens, it’s time to start the conversations about touching. Normalize self-touch by not reacting strongly to your toddler’s tactile curiosity about his or her body. Instead, just let him know that there are appropriate times and places to do so. If it happens at an inappropriate time, Dr. Berman advises parents, “Explain that while it feels good to touch your private parts, they are your private parts and this touching should only occur in private.” This age is also a good time to teach children that their private parts are their own; no one else should touch them other than parents or caregivers who are helping to clean them, or a doctor who checks to see if they are healthy. This includes people they know and love. Amy Lang, sex educator and author of Birds + Bees + Your Kids says, “More than 90 percent of the time, child molestation occurs by someone the child knows. Strangers very rarely molest children.” She also says to let kids know that while other people should never touch their private parts, they shouldn’t be touching anyone else’s either. If you haven’t started teaching your toddlers the proper names for their genitals, now is the time to do that, too. Using nicknames sends a message that there is something shameful or illegitimate about them, as opposed to something they should embrace. “When you use anatomically correct names for their private areas right from the beginning, you’ve already started the conversation,” says Lang.
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ages 3 to 5
First questions When children are old enough to ask questions about how babies are made, “Parents should buck up and tell them,” says Lang. Though, she says it’s fine to keep the explanation simple and brief. Something like, “Babies come from inside mommy’s belly,” is enough to start. When kids ask followup questions like, “How does the baby get in there?” continue to keep the answers simple and direct. “Mommies have eggs, and daddies have sperm. When a sperm and an egg come together, it starts growing into a baby.” Let the child’s questions lead the conversation. Reading books together is a great way to answer some hard questions. Amazing You by Gail Saltz is a good book for parents to read with their preschoolers. With its simple text and color illustrations, it is an engaging way to open the door to talking about bodies.
“
Let your kids know what you believe to be true about sex, relationships, and your spirituality. Kids need to know where you stand and what your family values are. — Amy Lang
22 February 2012
ages 5 to 8
For further reading To help broach some of these topics with kids, reading books together helps. These resources are all great for starting conversations about sex and body issues: Touching It’s MY Body by Lory Freeman Your Body Belongs to You by Cornelia Spelman The Right Touch by Sandy Kleven Anatomy and reproduction Amazing You by Gail Saltz It’s Not the Stork! By Robie Harris It’s So Amazing! by Robie Harris Elementary-age body books The Boy’s Body Book by Kelli Dunham (for boys) The Care and Keeping of You by American Girl (for girls) For parents Birds + Bees + Your Kids by Amy Lang Talking to Your Kids About Sex by Laura Berman
Sex and values When kids reach kindergarten, and by age seven at the latest, they need to know about intercourse. That might seem early, but according to Lang, it isn’t too much for them to handle. “Adults come to the conversation with a different perspective than kids,” she says. “We know all the good and the bad stuff about sex. They don’t. Little kids take in this information like they do everything else. We’re the ones who bring discomfort, shame, or embarrassment to the sex talk party.” The sooner the better is Lang’s rule of thumb. “Bring it up before the ‘ooh-gross!’ factor kicks in. When they are young, they are just very open and not grossed out.” Let your kids know what you believe to be true about sex, relationships, and your spirituality. Kids need to know where you stand and what your family values are. Lang tells parents, “The key to great conversations with your kids is combining the facts with your values.” Other topics to bring up at this age are the “logistics” of what’s coming next in their development, such as different hygiene habits that accompany body changes and puberty. Talk about how to keep their bodies healthy when it comes to sexual development. Parents should not be thinking about when they’re going to have “The Talk” with their children, but instead how they can start opening a dialogue about sex right now. No matter your child’s age, there are topics that can be broached. And the earlier you start, the easier the discussions go. Start now to turn one weighty talk into a dialog for life. As Lang tells parents, “No one has ever died from having conversations about sex and you won’t either!” •
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24 February 2012
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Out About The Lion King The Lion King roars again. It’s the phenomenon that dazzled audiences during its 1997 Minneapolis world premiere and now the musical recaptures the Orpheum Theatre for its fourth local engagement. This breathtaking spectacle of animals is brought to life by a cast of more than 40 actors and includes unforgettable music by Elton John and Tim Rice. When: Through February 12 Where: Orpheum Theatre, Minneapolis Cost: Tickets vary depending upon performance and seat selected Info: hennepintheatretrust.org or 800-982-2787
Real Pirates ÎÎThe golden age of piracy will come to life in Real Pirates: The Untold Story of the Whydah from Slave Ship to Pirate Ship. Organized by the National Geographic Society, Arts & Exhibitions International and AEG Exhibitions, visitors of all ages can dive into the pirate life that has inspired storybook pages and movie screens for generations. The exhibition features real treasures from America’s only known authenticated pirate shipwreck. Come face-to-face with authentic pirate treasure, pistols, cannons and swords—last touched by real pirates. See real treasure, meet swashbucklers, hoist a Jolly Roger, practice rope-tying, and more. When: Opens February 18 Where: Science Museum of Minnesota, St. Paul Cost: $22 to $31, timed and dated tickets Info: smm.org or 651-221-9444
26 February 2012
oNGoiNG
When: February 3 to 12 (Family Festival Feb. 3 to 5) Where: Around the Cook County area Cost: Many events are FREE; some require reservations Info: visitcookcounty.com/wintertracks
Harold and the Purple Crayon
the Sorcerer’s Apprentice
And a Child Shall lead Î A heroic story of children coming of age in Terezin, the “Jewish City” established by the Nazis as a way station before the death camps. In the face of unspeakable horror, these children use their determination and creativity to build lives filled with hope and beauty—playing, studying, making art, and writing an underground newspaper—all at the risk of being killed. Their actual poems and stories are woven into a fast-paced drama, evoking the universality of children caught in the insanity of war. Recommended for grades four and up. When: February 9 to 26 at varying times Where: Youth Performance Company, Minneapolis Cost: Adults, $12; under 18 and over 62, $10 Info: youthperformanceco.com or 612-623-9080
Winter tracks festival Î Citing that you should go to a few other winter festivals first—just for practice—the Winter Tracks 2012 Festival in Cook County offers activities every day and kicks off with a Family Festival at Lutsen Mountains that includes family Olympic races, snowshoe tours, bonfire and marshmallow roasting and fireworks. View the whole list of activities online. The 10-day celebration of the season highlights the best of what winter has to offer with downhill and Nordic ski events, snowmobiling, live music and many more family-friendly activities scheduled throughout the week.
Î Adapted for the puppet stage, a live orchestra accompanies magical marionettes and theatrical wizardry in miniature spectacle with this classic tale. Recommended for age eight and up. When: February 10 to March 4 Where: Open Eye Figure Theatre, Minneapolis Cost: Adults $15; Students & seniors $12; under age 12 $8 Info: openeyetheatre.org or 612-874-6338
Saint Paul Winter Carnival Î The coolest celebration on earth, now in its 126th year, will celebrate all things winter. When: Through February 5 Where: In and around downtown St. Paul and the Capital City’s surrounding areas Cost: Most events are FREE Info: winter-carnival.com or 651-223-4700
llama llama red Pajama Î World premiere! When Baby Llama faces bedtime, concerns arise. Is Mama still here? Will she come back if Llama calls? If Llama calls and she doesn’t return, what then? Can this crisis be averted? Based on the first of the extremely popular Llama Llama series written and illustrated by Anna Dewdney. When: Through February 12 Where: Stages Theatre Company, Hopkins Cost: Prices vary depending upon performance and seat Info: stages theatre.org or 952-979-1111
harold and the Purple Crayon Î World premiere! One crayon. One character. Go. Take a ride with Harold and his trusty crayon as he hops a ride on a flying saucer, shares a pie with French-speaking critters, and explores the heavens above using stars as stepping stones. Breathtaking animation, inventive puppetry and an indie-music score to brings Harold’s purple-hued world to life, perfect for introducing young children to theater and captivating their older companions. When: Through February 26 Where: Children’s Theatre Company, Minneapolis Cost: Prices vary depending upon performance and seat selected Info: childrenstheatre.org or 612-874-0400
hairspray Î It’s 1962, and pleasantly plump Baltimore teen Tracy Turnblad has
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Out About only one desire—to dance on the popular “Corny Collins Show.” A joyful, upbeat production, and very well cast. Note: this is set in 1962, so there will be derogatory comments related to the move toward segregation. However, this is a play about coming together and your kids will cheer for the lead character’s open minds and know that the naysayers will get their comeuppance. Some very slight sexual innuendo. When: Various curtain times, including matinees through May 26 Where: Chanhassen Dinner Theatre, Chanhassen Cost: Prices vary depending upon curtain time, age, and meal/no meal Info: chanhassentheatres.com or 952-934-1525
3 Friday Family Night at the Global Market ÎÎFree live music, a children’s play area, and free balloons for the first 50 children. Businesses will validate your parking (for up to three hours) with purchase if you park in the 10th Avenue parking ramp. When: Every Friday from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Where: Midtown Global Market, Minneapolis Cost: FREE Info: midtownglobalmarket.org or 612-872-4041
World’s Toughest Rodeo ÎÎThe toughest cowboys in the world show off their skill in action-packed events that will entertain the whole family. See “Toughest Cowboy” competitor Charlie Barker from Texas test his skill in the rodeo triathlon and champion cowboys prove their grit in bull riding, bareback, saddle bronc, and barrel racing exhibitions of power and agility. Will also feature Anthony Lucia, a nationally known trick and fancy roper. At a free pre-show starting at 6:00 come and meet all the cowboys, cowgirls, specialty acts, barrel man, and even take a peek at some of the best animal athletes in the business! When: 7:30 p.m.
28 February 2012
World’s Toughest Rodeo
Where: Xcel Energy Center, St. Paul Cost: Adults start at $17; under 12, $9.50 Info: 800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com
Saturday Live! Woodland Puppets ÎÎA very special Valentine’s Day puppet show at the library!
4 Saturday Free 1st Saturdays at the Walker Art Center: Snow Field ÎÎEmbrace the wonders of the winter city with sledding, “modern day” snowmen, artmaking, short films, hot chocolate, and more. When: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Where: Walker Art Center, Minneapolis Cost: FREE Info: walkerart.org or 612-375-7600
World’s Toughest Rodeo ÎÎSee description, Friday, February 3. Justin Moore will also perform this evening. When: 7:30 p.m.
When: 11:15 a.m. to noon Where: St. Paul Public Library, Central Library Cost: FREE Info: sppl.org/kids/parents/ saturday-live or 651-266-7034
Dog S.O.S. (Báltik el perro náufrago) ÎÎDude, Dudette ‘n’ Dude: A Mexican dog’s hairy disposition sends him North in search of cooler weather. After (or before), stay for the “Make-n-Take” workshop based on that day’s puppet show theme (an additional charge). When: Show times are 10:00 a.m. and noon Where: In the Heart of the Beast Puppet and Mask Theatre, Minneapolis Cost: $2 to $4 suggested donation, depending upon where you live Info: hobt.org or 612-721-2535
Out About 5 Sunday
10 Friday
Lego Time
Baby Storytime
ÎÎCome and play Legos and have some fun with other kids from the neighborhood.
ÎÎStories, songs, and playtime for children ages birth to two.
When: 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Where: St. Paul Public Library, Rice Street Cost: FREE Info: sppl.org or 651-558-2223
7 Tuesday Playdate Tuesday ÎÎVisit the Science Museum with your preschool-age children between 10:00 a.m. and noon, and take part in a special promotion that will keep little hands busy and little minds buzzing! Enjoy “Make and Take” projects, puppets and plays, storytime with a ranger and more. When: Every Tuesday, 10:00 a.m. to noon Where: Science Museum of Minnesota, St. Paul Cost: Children 5 and under are FREE; regular or member admission required for parent Info: smm.org/playdates
8 Wednesday Wee Wednesdays ÎÎWee Wednesdays at Midtown Global Market have plenty to see and do for toddlers and their families. Free, educational programming geared toward children five and under; also features hands-on activities and free lunch for children five and under at participating Midtown Global Market restaurants (with the purchase of an adult meal). When: Every Wednesday beginning at 10:30 a.m. Where: Midtown Global Market, Minneapolis Cost: FREE Info: midtownglobalmarket.org or 612872-4041
When: 10:30 to 11:00 a.m. Where: St. Paul Public Library, Central Library Cost: FREE Info: sppl.org or 651-266-7034
Family Night at the Global Market ÎÎSee description, Friday, February 3 When: 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
11 Saturday Fish Creek Snowshoe Hike ÎÎSnowshoe along the shores of Fish Creek, the wildest spot in south Maplewood’s newest Greenway. Learn about Fish Creek’s history and biodiversity, and the recent successful efforts to preserve the valley and surrounding bluffs. Dress for an active winter hike and be prepared for primitive trails and uneven terrain. When: 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Where: Oakwood Church, St. Paul Cost: $5 snowshoe rental fee (please indicate small or large size), or bring your own snowshoes Info: Call 651-249-2170 to register by Feb 8
Saturday Live! Wendy’s Wiggle Jiggle Jam! ÎÎA highly interactive musical show that gives everyone a chance to be a star on stage. Original music, colorful and engaging props, and high energy make it a can’t miss program! When: 11:15 a.m. to noon Where: St. Paul Public Library, Central Library Cost: FREE Info: sppl.org/kids/parents/saturday-live or 651-266-7034
Feathers and Strings ÎÎCan an ostrich fly? Can a bluebird juggle? You’ll learn the answers in this delightful marionette show. After (or before), stay for the “Make-n-Take” workshop based on that day’s puppet show theme (an additional charge). When: Show times are 10:00 a.m. and noon Where: In the Heart of the Beast Puppet and Mask Theatre, Minneapolis Cost: $2 to $4 suggested donation, depending upon where you live Info: hobt.org or 612-721-2535
14 Tuesday Arty Pants: Arctic Adventures ÎÎWhat do hip kids and their (possibly) cooler parents do to spark creativity? Attend Arty Pants: Your Tuesday Playdate, featuring activities for adults and youngsters ages three to five. Join the Walker Art Center each month on the second and fourth Tuesdays for art projects, films, gallery activities, and story time. When: 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Where: Walker Art Center, Minneapolis Cost: FREE with gallery admission; Walker members and kids ages 12 and under are always free. Info: walkerart.org or 612-375-7600
Songwriting ABCs ÎÎEnjoy an interactive creativity game where you write the words, create the music, and set the mood of the song. Led by Steve Sanders. When: 10:30 to 11:00 am. Where: St. Paul Public Library, Highland Park Cost: FREE Info: sppl.org or 651-695-3700
Playdate Tuesday ÎÎSee description, Tuesday, February 7 When: 10:00 a.m. to noon
February 2012 29
Out About 17 Friday Family Night at the Global Market ÎÎSee description, Friday, February 3 When: 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
18 Saturday Saturday Live! Science Live Theatre ÎÎLearn more about endangered resources with two great performances, Polar Bear’s Journey and Don’t Call Me Monkey. Each performance includes storytelling and puppetry to engage young audiences while educating about the natural world. When: 11:15 a.m. to noon Where: St. Paul Public Library, Central Library Cost: FREE Info: sppl.org/kids/parents/saturday-live or 651-266-7034
Are You Thirsty? ÎÎCome explore a myriad of questions contained in a cup of water—one of the most precious shared resources of our planet. After (or before), stay for the “Maken-Take” workshop based on that day’s puppet show theme (an additional charge). When: Show times are 10:00 a.m. and noon Where: In the Heart of the Beast Puppet and Mask Theatre, Minneapolis Cost: $2 to $4 suggested donation, depending upon where you live Info: hobt.org or 612-721-2535
Hip-Hop Lyric Writing & Performance ÎÎToki Wright from McNally Smith College of Music will work with students to write and perform hip-hop. Get hands-on experience using poetic techniques to write original work, get professional and peer feedback. For teens. When: 10:30 to 11:00 a.m. Where: St. Paul Public Library, Arlington Hills
30 February 2012
Cost: FREE Info: sppl.org or 651-793-3930
19 Sunday
overnight summer camps, be it music, art, technology, sports, or anything in between. When: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Where: Como Park Zoo & Conservatory Cost: FREE Info: mnparent.com/campfair or 612-436-5070
Target Free 3rd Sundays at the Minnesota Children’s Museum
Saturday Live! Magical Mia
ÎÎThanks to the generosity of Target Corporation, visitors can roam the Museum free of charge every third Sunday of each month.
ÎÎDon’t blink your eyes or you’ll miss one of Mia’s stunning tricks. She’ll mystify and entertain with sleight of hand and illusions.
When: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Where: Minnesota Children’s Museum Cost: FREE Info: mcm.org or 651-225-6000
21 Tuesday Playdate Tuesday ÎÎSee description, Tuesday, February 7 When: 10:00 a.m. to noon
22 Wednesday Wee Wednesdays ÎÎSee description, Wednesday, February 8 When: Beginning at 10:30 a.m.
24 Friday Baby Storytime ÎÎSee description, Friday, February 10 When: 10:30 to 11:00 a.m.
Family Night at the Global Market ÎÎSee description, Friday, February 3 When: 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
25 Saturday Minnesota Parent’s Camp Fair ÎÎGet a jumpstart on planning for day or
When: 11:15 a.m. to noon Where: St. Paul Public Library, Central Library Cost: FREE Info: sppl.org/kids/parents/saturday-live or 651-266-7034
Spinning Spiral of Time and more ÎÎHOBT Puppet Youth Troupe presents a fun, adventurous puppet show including racketeers, knights, a witch, a dragon, cow, and a pretty sunset. After (or before), stay for the “Make-n-Take” workshop based on that day’s puppet show theme (an additional charge). When: Show times are 10:00 a.m. and noon Where: In the Heart of the Beast Puppet and Mask Theatre, Minneapolis Cost: $2 to $4 suggested donation, depending upon where you live Info: hobt.org or 612-721-2535
28 Tuesday Full Circle: A Walk around Lake Superior ÎÎNaturalists Kate Crowley and Mike Link completed a 1,550-mile trek around the largest lake in the world. During their five-month walk they kept to the shoreline, taking photos and making observations about the natural environment. Hear their story and see photos of the experience. When: 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Where: Maplewood Nature Center, 2659 7th St. East, Maplewood Cost: FREE Info: ci.maplewood.mn.us or 651-249-2170
advertiser listings
Camp resources Academic Bell Museum Science Discovery Day Camps
June 18-August 31. From mammals to invertebrates, outer space and engineering, the Bell Museum’s weeklong Science Discovery Day Camps engage children in science through authentic objects and unforgettable learning experiences for grades Kindergarten through 6. University of Minnesota 10 Church St SE Minneapolis 612-624-9050 bellmuseum.org
Camp Invention
Unleash the creative genius in your child! Children entering grades 1-6 participate in four exciting hands-on classes every day, presented by local teachers. Take apart appliances, make new inventions, build a magnet-powered city, crash land on an alien planet, travel through time, create your own games. Camp invention is a STEM enrichment program from the nonprofit Invent Now in partnership with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. New curriculum every year. We make learning fun! 40 camps at local schools in Minnesota 800-968-4332 campinvention.org
Cyprus Summer Camps
Cyprus Schools offers many day camps throughout the summer. Music, STEM, gifted & talented, drama, language, art, sports camps and much more! Elementary summer enrichment program & summer preschool June 11-August 30. Online registration available or call today.
challenging setting. Held at Macalester, Northwestern, Stanford, and 60+ universities in 27 states 888-709-TECH (8324) internaldrive.com
Arts Art Academy, The
City Pages Winner: Best of the Twin Cities! Year-round traditional drawing and painting classes and camps for students ages 5-18. Exceptional student/ teacher ratio. Homeschool Program. A Renaissance Program for adults also offered. See samples of student artwork; visit our website. Call for a brochure. Classes held at: Holy Spirit Elementary 515 S Albert St St. Paul 651-699-1573 theartacademy.net
Kidcreate Studio
Kidcreate Studio offers art camps for young artist ages 3-12. Our camps are designed to inspire and educate in an environment filled with fun. Camps focus on art principles and introduce students to many types of art media. At Kidcreate, making a mess is the best! 7918 Mitchell Rd Eden Prairie 952-974-3438 kidcreatestudio.com
13560 County Rd 5 Burnsville 952-303-5183 cyprusschool.com/summer_camps. html
iD Tech Camps & iD Teen Academies
Take hobbies further! Create iPhone apps, video games, programs, movies, and more at weeklong, day and overnight programs held at 60+ universities in 27 states. Small classes for ages 7-17 in a fun and
Camp resource guide • Advertiser listings
February 2012 31
Loft’s Young Writers’ Program, The
The Loft’s Young Writers’ Program offers more than 50 classes this summer that foster creativity, enrich talents, and create friendships. Classes run all summer for ages 6-17 at all skill levels. Open Book 1011 Washington Ave S Minneapolis 612-215-2575 loft.org
MCAD Summer Kids Classes
The Minneapolis College of Art and Design’s Summer Youth Program offers exciting classes and weeklong camps on art and design topics for kids ages 5-18. Nurture your child’s creativity through these hands-on studio classes led by professional artists. 2501 Stevens Ave Minneapolis 612-874-3765 mcad.edu/youth
Camp Resources Minnesota Parent’s Camp Fair
February 25, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Summer’s here! Or, at least it will be when you attend Minnesota Parent’s 6th annual Camp Fair. Get a jumpstart on planning for day or overnight summer camps, be it music, art, technology, sports, and everything in between. Como Park Zoo & Conservatory 1225 Eastbrook Dr St. Paul 612-436-5070 mnparent.com
Dance/Music/ Performance Chan DT Theatre Camp
Chanhassen Dinner Theatres offers summertime theatre camps for kids and teens (ages 8-18). It’s a fantastic week of 1/2 day long sessions focusing on musical theatre fundamentals taught by Chanhassen professionals throughout the summer. Register now! PO Box 100 Chanhassen 952-934-1525 chanhassendt.com
32 February 2012
Advertiser listings • Camp resource guide
Children’s Yamaha Music School
Keyboard classes for children ages 3-8 encourage creative self-expression; & include singing, hearing, playing, reading, writing & ensembles. The focus is on total musicianship, including imagination, theory, composing & performing. Free preview classes each February & July/ August. Private lessons available for ages 9+ in piano & more. CYMS Edina: Edina Community Center 5701 Normandale Rd Edina CYMS Roseville: Hamline Center 2819 N Hamline Ave Roseville 612-339-2255 cyms.ws
Sing Minnesota
August 13-17, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Sing Minnesota is a weeklong day camp for girls and boys, ages 8-12 sponsored by the Minnesota Boychoir. While focusing on choral singing, campers also participate in other creative arts – drama and movement, visual arts, and outdoor fun and games! $300, scholarships available. Concordia University Buetow Music Center 300 Hamline Ave N St. Paul 651-292-3219 boychoir.org
StageCoach Summer Camps
See why parents and students love the unique StageCoach experience. Your 6–16 year old will be part of a fun-packed, creative summer camp. Camps include classes in dance, acting, and singing and end in a musical theatre presentation. Locations in Edina, Minnetonka, St. Louis Park, & St. Paul 952-300-5893 651-775-2849 952-367-6032 stagecoachcamps.com stagecoachschools.com
Camp resource guide • Advertiser listings
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34 February 2012
Advertiser listings • Camp resource guide
Camp resource guide • Advertiser listings
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SteppingStone Theatre School for Young Actors This spring and summer youth ages 3.5-17 will spark their creativity at SteppingStone Theatre. Young actors tap into their potential in unique ways-building confidence and acting skills while having tons of fun! Scholarships/ early-bird pricing available. 55 Victoria St N St. Paul 651-225-9265 steppingstonetheatre.org
Day International Kids Camp
The International School of Minnesota offers full and half day camp for ages 3.5-those entering Grade 6. From June 18-August 10 this is your passport to summer fun! An afternoon sports option is also available. For more info visit internationalschoolmn. com or call 952-918-1828. The International School of Minnesota 6385 Beach Rd Eden Prarie 952-918-1828 internationalschoolmn.com
36 February 2012
Yoga Center of Minneapolis
Kids 6-8: M-F, 1:30 to 4:00 p.m. Preteen 9-12: M-F, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Confidence, strength, focus, body awareness, and balance are woven into yoga classes, artwork, dance, games, and creating sequences with other campers. Give your kids the chance to groove, create, and connect. Preteen Camp: 212 3rd Ave N #205 Minneapolis Kid’s Camp: 4200 Minnetonka Blvd St. Louis Park 612-703-9601 yogacentermpls.com/ summer_camps.asp
Horseback Riding Sunnyside Stables Horsemanship Summer Camp
Sunnyside’s camp is a place to discover horses and new friends. Each day includes riding--rain or shine, as we have an indoor and outdoor arena as well as scenic trails. You will discover the basics of grooming, saddling, body language, posture, contact, and balance to develop
independent riding skills. 15400 Emery Ave E Rosemount 651-226-2027 sunnysidestables.org
Woodloch Stable & Bunker Park Stable
Horseback riding day camps for ages 5 and older. Individualized attention and structured lessons in Western and English riding. Our professional, caring staff and safe horses are dedicated to a safe and enjoyable riding experience for your child at an affordable price. Two convenient locations. 5676 170th St Hugo
Advertiser listings • Camp resource guide
651-429-3064 woodlochstable.com 550 Bunker Lake Blvd NW Andover 763-757-9445 bunkerparkstable.com
Other Minnesota Children’s Museum
At Minnesota Children’s Museum, children will have a blast discovering an exciting, interactive world that fosters their creativity, increases their understanding, and sparks an appreciation for lifelong learning. Each of our seven galleries is uniquely designed to provide a hands-on, stimulating environment for children six months to 10 years old. 10 W Seventh St Downtown St. Paul 651-225-6000 mcm.org
Overnight Audubon Center of the North Woods
Youth, adult, intergenerational, and family camps that expand your horizons! Our camps have a focus on wildlife, nature,
and outdoor skills. Overnight and day camps in June and July. East side of Grindstone Lake near Sandstone 888-404-7743 audubon-center.org/youth_camp.htm
Camp Olson YMCA
Since 1954 Camp Olson has been providing unforgettable and life changing experiences for youth and young leaders through quality camping programs. Traditional summer camp available as well as specialty programs in sailing, horseback riding, nature study, and leadership development. 4160 Little Boy Rd NE Longville 218-363-2207 campolson.org
Specialty Computer Explorers Technology Summer Camps
Nationally recognized technology camps for ages 3–14. Where learning is fun, innovative, challenging, and hands-on. With over 300 camps in Minnesota, we offer exciting classes in
Camp resource guide • Advertiser listings
Robotics, Video Game Design, Movie Production, Animation, Solar, Aerospace, Rollercoaster Engineering, and more! Throughout Minnesota 651-730-9910 computerexplorersmn.com
Sports and Fitness Vertical Endeavors Indoor Rock Climbing Summer Camps
Vertical Endeavors’ summer camp program provides a fun-filled experience for campers ages 6-17! Your child will have the opportunity to learn proper climbing techniques and they’ll leave camp with a sense of self-reliance and accomplishment. VE St. Paul: 855 Phalen Blvd St. Paul 651-776-1430 VE Minneapolis: 2540 Nicollet Ave S 612-436-1470 VE Duluth: 329 S Lake Ave Duluth 218-279-9980 verticalendeavors.com
February 2012 37
Questions
for camps
Be prepared with your queries, and you’ll get the answers you need to make the best decision
H
By Kathleen Stoehr
ad you been really thinking about it last year, you would already have a handle on which camp you were going to send your child to this year. As always, the best way to assess what a camp is going to offer your child is to visit it—which is (of course) when it is in session; typically in the summer months. But we can’t go back to the future, so here we are, stuck in February, trying to make decisions on a place you can’t fully evaluate right now. Thankfully, Minnesota Parent offers a cool event every year called the Camp Fair at the end of this month. It’s the next best thing to visiting a camp—and it may be actually even more convenient for you than a real visit. Why? Because if the answers you get from one place don’t seem to quite fit what you have in mind, you can literally walk three to five feet, and you are at the next “camp.” Think of all of the drive time you will save! All of the phone calls and web surfing you won’t have to do! But what do you say once you have the ear of a camp counselor or director? Everyone will no doubt say their camp is great (and yes, they probably all are); but your goal is to find a place that will fit many different requirements: budget, behavior, and more. I spoke with to the good people at the American Camp Association (aca.org) and they were kind enough to talk to me about the best kinds of questions to ask—and why they believe these questions will be of the most help. They are:
1. What is the camp’s philosophy? When asking this question, you will be trying to assess how camp values complement your own family values.
2. What are the qualifications of the camp director? Beyond looking at whether their personality is a good fit for your child, you need to be looking for solid education and experience related to camp administration.
3. What is the ratio of campers to counselors? As you have discovered from your child’s educational experience, different ages require different ratios. One staff member to every seven or eight campers is considered a medium range.
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4. What are the safety and medical procedures in place at camp?
6. What is the camp’s ratio of returning counselors?
The way they answer this question will demonstrate a camp’s commitment to the well being and safety of its campers.
A camp with 40 to 60 percent of returning staff is optimal. Don’t hesitate to question why the ratio is lower, should that come up.
5. How does the camp handle adjustment issues such as homesickness or behavior problems?
7. How much will camp cost?
Find a camp that actively commits to staff training and sharing knowledge in the area of child development. Positive reinforcement, fairness, and strong mentoring form the foundation of good counselor strategies. A good place to start would be with an ACA-accredited camp, which requires this as part of its accreditation.
This is huge, always a concern. Camp can cost anywhere from $20 a day to $200, depending upon various factors. But have hope: many camps offer scholarships and work-camp related opportunities for older children.
8. Will the camp be able to accommodate my special needs child? A discussion with the camp director outlining the nature of the special needs
offerings should answer your questions about the camp’s ability to provide the optimal environment for you and your child.
9. Are camp visits encouraged before enrollment? As noted earlier, the best time to visit camp is in the summertime when it is in full swing. However, many camps have videos and photo books that will help you to envision your child at that camp, should you not have the luxury of a visit. You should also note that attending the February 25th Minnesota Parent Camp Fair is a great way to begin your planning, whether you decide to send your child this year, or are beginning to plant the seeds for a 2013 camp experience.
10. Will the camp provide names and contact information of parents who are willing to share info about their own child’s experience at the camp? It may seem like a difficult cold call to make, but talking to other adults who have sent their child through the camp system is very helpful. Try to get at least one contact who can offer a non-biased perspective of their child’s experience.
I know it seems early to be thinking about camp, but by the time spring hits full bore, many of the best camps will have their prime slots filled for the summer. Choosing a camp now, truly just three months prior to the summer school break, will allow you to cross one major item off your list, save up and/or begin paying for the experience, and ensure your child gets into the camp you earmarked for them. If you have questions about the Minnesota Parent Camp Fair, visit mnparent.com/campfair. See you there.
February 25 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. & 12:30 to 1:30 Meet Minnesota Parent editor Kathleen Stoehr, at the Minnesota Parent Camp Fair, held at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory. Ask questions, let her know what you want to see more of in the magazine, and enter to win a variety of great prizes—our way to thank you for attending!
the Meettor i ed
February 2012 39
Gifts for the homeless By Kathleen Stoehr
“I know that children using their birthday parties to generate donations is something that’s happening all the time,” says Seema Pothini of Savage, Minnesota, “but what I think is different about this story is that Shrey is seeing, at a very early age, the power of using his voice to help others.” What Pothini is referring to is her son’s preference for a very particular type of birthday celebration. For the past two years instead of receiving gifts, Shrey Pothini has asked for new bath towels, with the intent to give them to Avenues for Homeless Youth, a youth homeless shelter in north Minneapolis. After the hometown venue he had used for his previous parties changed from free usage to fee-based, Shrey got on the phone and spoke with a representative from IGM Gymnastics in Burnsville, who agreed to sponsor his party/donation drive so that he could invite all of the students in his class.
40 February 2012
Because of IGM’s generosity (“a donation,” Pothini says, “that could have otherwise cost hundreds of dollars”), Shrey was inspired to ask other local businesses for help. He turned to Klein Bank because he saw that it has great outreach for children and spoke with the manager of the branch close to home. Says his mother, “so taken by Shrey’s passion over the phone, the manager agreed to help and is recruiting the three branches where he works—Savage, Burnsville, and Apple Valley—to encourage their customers to bring in new towels or body wash that will be donated to the shelter.” Shrey is excited about the possibility of supplying the shelter with a year’s worth of these items (the shelter also uses the donations to give to youths who move out on their own and into supportive housing). The folks at Avenues have come to rely on Shrey’s annual drive for support and to cut costs from their operating expenses. “I am fortunate enough to serve on the board for the organization,” says Pothini, “and Shrey has been to the shelter many times, which has solidified his desire to help in the small way he can.” The hope is that at a time when homelessness among youth is on the rise and when non-profits are needing more assistance, other adults and children will feel empowered to help in new ways. “Getting businesses like IGM involved is allowing Shrey to help others on a greater scale than we could do on our own,” says Pothini. “Although my husband and I are proud of what we see in our son, we have allowed him to take the lead in all of his efforts and [then] help in the ways that we can. Truly, this is his drive, and his innocence and ability to think big has led him to this much success at such an early age.” If you have a fun, themed, or unusual birthday party you’d like to see covered in Minnesota Parent, please email mnga@mnpubs.com.
February 2012 41
Pioneers, explorers, and heroes People who affected change, or those who learned how to make a change, are seen through the eyes of children. By Kathleen Stoehr
Goyangi means Cat By Christine McDonnell Viking, $16.99
We are America: A tribute from the heart By Walter Dean Myers and
In this beautifully illustrated book, young Soo Min comes from Korea to live with her American family, and everything is new and strange to her. There are strange foods, and words she doesn’t understand. But she finds a friend who is easy to talk to: Goyangi, the family cat. When he goes missing, it’s up to Soo Min to find him—and discover that home truly is here the heart is.
Christopher Myers Harper Collins, $16.99
The father-son team that created Harlem explore what it is to be an American, taking readers on a moving journey through U.S. history with vivid lyrical free verse and sweeping panorama paintings. This lovely picture book features vivid portraits of political Americans, from Tecumseh to Abraham Lincoln to Jimi Hendrix.
my Name is not isabella By Jennifer Fosberry Sourcebooks Jaberwocky, $16.99
Isabella takes a trip through history, pretending to be some of the groundbreaking women who affected change. Her imagination turns an ordinary day extraordinary as she becomes Annie the sharpshooter, Rosa the activist, Marie the scientist. and more. The book also features short bios in a “women who changed the world” section in the back of the book. Note: There is also My Name is not Alexander, offering the groundbreaking men of history in the same format.
elizabeth i: the People’s Queen, her life and times, 21 Activities By Kerrie Logan Hollihan Chicago Review Press, $16.95
Queen Elizabeth I, crowned at age 26 after a dramatic series of events including the execution of her mother, ruled her country with determination and spirit. Her eventful 45-year reign strengthened her country as a chief military power and made a lasting impression on its art and culture, paving the way for the English Renaissance. Also included are 21 activities to aid a child’s understanding of history, including creating a family coat of arms.
42 February 2012
Letters to the editor From Caroline Askew, City of the Lakes Waldorf School Enrollment office:
We were compared to another well-loved educational method, yet Waldorf schools are very different when explored beyond the surface. The Waldorf preschool is distinguished by the emphasis on the whole child and the natural development of the intellect, the emotional/psychological well being as well as the physical well being of the child. First and foremost the Waldorf preschool allows children to fully engage themselves in creative play—a true foundation for academic learning and creative intelligence. When a young child is at play they use more than their five senses to explore, they use their problem solving, planning, and cooperative skills. ... Children learn healthy boundaries and social skills, including how to treat each other with respect, how to take turns, and how to share. Days are also filled with beautiful music, and transitions are accompanied by songs. Teachers utilize the art of story-telling, providing children the opportunity to create their own inner pictures and to connect to the overall
A few preschools asked if they could clarify and/or correct any misconceptions related in Alyson Cummings’ brief rundown of preschool approaches in the October issue of Minnesota Parent. Letters have been edited for space considerations.
meaning of language. The teacher may use puppets to tell a story that the children have already heard or the children may act out the story. In this way, children are given an opportunity to experience the story in a way that reinforces learning and deepens the meaning and memory of the tale. ... Waldorf does not bring technology into the preschool classroom but understands and embraces that media and technology have a place in modern life. The question is a matter of when and how much? It is our hope to communicate an understanding of child development that inspires parents to see the benefit of limiting media and technology in the early years that is now supported by an abundance of research. From Sonja Jacobsen, District 279 ECFE:
ECFE provides classes for children and their parents from birth to kindergarten. Calling our classes “meetings” does not really properly describe our programs. One of the key parts of ECFE is the parent involvement. We see parents and families as key partners in the education of their children.
When parents are in the classroom with their children we have a structured environment prepared for them to have “free play” in. Part of the “free play” time also includes circle time where planned songs, books, and activities happen. The author of the article mentioned sessions being based around interests, which we do have, but not based on nationality or sustainable living. While some ECFE programs might do that, our classes are based more on child related themes. ... While we offer family literacy classes, which many English learning families attend, we do not segregate them according to their nationality. One point the author missed out on was that we are tied to the school districts so families can receive special education services. We also have many classes where the tuition is based on a sliding fee scale making it affordable to more families. ... We also offer home visits, sibling care during class, parent education, and new baby visits. I am glad that ECFE was mentioned in the article but I feel like the author really missed the boat on describing it.
February 2012 43
44 February 2012
February 2012 45
Has having kids changed how you collect
“I rotate my artifacts in accordance to my daughters, and what I think is appropriate to display based on their ages.”
and display?
Once my daughters began arriving, I changed my collection a bit. I rotate my artifacts in accordance to my daughters, and what I think is appropriate to display based on their ages. Without a doubt, the piece that children (and most adults) notice first is the Klansman statue. It’s an eerie thing... period. My parents could not even look at it. They had personal experience. I had to put it away when they were visiting. How has your collection affected your children in a positive way?
photo by krIstIna lynn
reAl dAd
Tony Carr Tony Carr knows all about bridging the tough issues. Just one look at the Stillwater native’s collection of memorabilia and it’s easy to see why. It’s a part of history that’s tough to view for both kids and adults—and even tougher to talk about. Carr, a former professional basketball player, and currently a professional diversity speaker, began collecting black memorabilia about 20 years ago. Every piece of Carr’s collection has a story, and he knows every word of it. — Kelly Jo McDonnell
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Q&A What was your first piece of memorabilia?
My first piece was an Aunt Jemima salt and pepper shaker [set]. I bought it down in northern Illinois for [about] 50 cents. After that, I started paying attention and researching memorabilia. I’d see an ashtray and wonder where it came from. That got the juices flowing. It’s history, but there’s no finger pointing. It’s not about that. It’s about everyone’s struggle.
One thing I’ve found, each time [my daughters] become more aware of my memorabilia pieces, it’s a history lesson. When it was Martin Luther King Day, they would see videos at school and see the KKK...they would come back to me and say, ‘I saw that (he gestures toward the Klan statue) in a video!’ This gives them an opportunity to talk about it. I try to give my daughters positive role models to gravitate toward. All my girls love the Muhammad Ali doll from the ’70s, for example. They saw him on a video and it gave me an opportunity to tell them what he stood for, and how active he was in the civil rights movement. What is it that you hope this collection conveys to your girls?
Two things: the first is to understand their ancestors, and how their blood, sweat, and tears gave them the privileges they have today. And number two, I tell them no matter what kind of day you have at school, it’s never going to be as bad as it was back in those days. It’s definitely a privilege to have that opportunity. I would like to take all of my daughters to Mississippi. I’m waiting until my youngest is around seven or eight. I’d like them to touch the dirt. It’s a weird feeling to sit on your roots, to feel it—it does overtake you. It’s instinctual, and it’s home. I want to see if they feel the same thing. They’re just about ready.