april 2012
Five new ways to say, “I love you”
Embracing the veggie lifestyle
{page 14}
{page 20}
Familyfriendly film fest
GreAt toddLer GAdGetS {page 43}
{page 22}
C reS AmP o LiSt urCe inGS { page 31}
caFeteRIa conFIdentIal mastering eating And socializing; vanishing chocolate milk; what the lunch ladies know — and more! {page 16}
April 2012 3
April
Features
16 What’s really happening in the school cafeteria? By Julie Kendrick
20 Raising “Veggie” kids isn’t as daunting as it seems 22 International film festival showcases family-friendly flicks By Pete Tedrow
4 April 2012
By Claire Walling
MINNESOTA PARENT IN THIS ISSUE
departments 8 chatter
10 tWeen scene Growing veggie kids 12 groWs on trees Stylish, yet affordable 14 fight less, loVe more Spring into love! 40 it’s my party Hayden and Harry
42 Book shelf Kids cook
43 hot stuff Toddler training 46 real life Real mom Taryn Krumwiede
calendar 24 out & aBout
April 2012 5
from the editor
Food and nutrition I have struggled with maintaining a healthful weight for as long as I can remember and have certainly embarked on my share of crazy diets in order to keep it in check. Food is a touchstone in my life—I can recall favorite meals from every decade, including the episode in which dry Jell-O was sprinkled onto newly-fallen snow at Concord Elementary and we had the equivalent of Sno-Cones on the playground. That one ranks right up there with the three course meal with wine pairings I recently had at Restaurant Alma in Minneapolis, in celebration of a major family event. In a word, both were transcendent. Research has shown that what a woman eats during her pregnancy may shape the food preferences of her offspring later in life. This could be why my daughter loves cream cheese puffs from LeeAnn Chin a whole bunch and why we both prefer vegetables ahead of meat, my mom being a farmgirl who used to pick vegetables after school and eat them right in the field. My daughter is a pescatarian—that is, she will eat fish, but no other meats. It was difficult at first to accommodate her decision within our family unit (she made the decision at age 10) but we
6 April 2012
got by with the kinds of meals in which meat could be added separately. I really enjoyed putting together the content for this issue focusing on food and nutrition. Getting a peek into the school cafeteria via Julie Kendrick’s “Cafeteria Confidential” on page 16 was a blast, hearing how Joy Riggs’ family adapted to their newly announced vegetarian was reassuring, and paging through all of the kid-style cookbooks for our book review gave me (a non-cook) plenty of ideas. The incredible rise of the locally grown food movement, the many farmers markets that have sprung up one after the other like little daffodils on a spring day, make our choices about food and lifestyle so much more vast and important—and fun. As Al Nowatzki says in our article on VegKins (page 20), “I’m a firm believer that you have to fit into the society that you have.” That means we have tremendous opportunity in Minnesota. How great is that?
Kathleen Stoehr, Editor
Vol. 27, Issue 4 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 Cy Dodson Julie Kendrick Kelly Jo McDonnell Kara McGuire Laurie Puhn Joy Riggs 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.
April 2012 7
Have a 2012 graduate? According to Pear Tree Greetings, an online personalized greeting card company (peartreegreetings.com), announcing a graduation is much more than a “one-sizefits-all” senior portrait. The 2012 graduation announcement has an emphasis on uniquely individual photos that exude character. Says Angela Ferrara, director of product development, “Graduates are looking for announcement designs that showcase their personalities, while parents seek that elusive combination of style and affordability.” When making final decisions on announcements, consider folded, die-cut or layered designs; a companion thank you note; bold stripes, as well as traditional patterns. And for those parents who will be scheduling a senior portrait session this coming summer? Consider that the location of the shoot and props, will add vibrancy and personalization to your soon-to-be-senior’s photo.
Changes to note: Acetaminophen Every maker of infants’ acetaminophen products is changing the amount (concentration) of acetaminophen in their medicines. These changes, according to the makers of Tylenol, are intended to standardize dosing across product lines and help reduce medication errors. What is important to note: • There may be a time when infants’ acetaminophen products with the old and new concentrations are in stores and in your medicine cabinet concurrently. • The old infants’ acetaminophen products are three times more concentrated than the new. • Using directions from the new product with the old product (concentrated drops) could result in serious
8 April 2012
Parent tested
Quick, and quick dried “I gave Ethan one of the dried pouches in his applesauce for dinner and it was a hit!” What is our parent tester talking out? A new powdered baby food brand, NurturMe, that is all natural, organic, gluten-free, and made of quick-dried fruits and veggies. Giving parents the flexibility to make it anyway baby likes it, you can add breast milk, whole milk, formula, or water in any amount and combination. As your baby’s tastes’ mature, try adding it to foods like grains, home-made purees, yogurt, and even macaroni and cheese to boost nutritional value. All packaging is recyclable and is manufactured using wind energy. Best, the company has partnered with feedthechildren.org. For each 18-serving variety pack sold (about $20), one will be donated to Feed the Children, with a goal of donating over 100,000 meals in six months. While our tester noted that the dried food “smelled a little funny” she also noted her child didn’t seem to notice and ate readily. Available locally at The Wedge, Target and Whole Foods, and also at nurturme.com.
overdose and cause liver damage. Always read and follow the label directions on the product you are using. • The dosing device will change as well. It is important that you always use the device that comes with the bottle you have. Old concentrations came with a medicine dropper; the new concentrations will have a dosing syringe. All bottles and boxes clearly label the concentration. This information came from the Tylenol.com website but you can find similar informational warnings on sites such as webmd.com and babycenter.com.
More area theaters announce 2012–2013 shows The 2012-13 season at Stages Theatre Company features eight productions for
children and young adults, with the
selected titles evoking imagination and inspiration. The 29th season includes six original commissions, two plays based on books with Caldecott recognition, as well as four world premiere productions. Shows include Duck for President, Sept. 21–Oct. 21; Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, Oct. 12–Nov. 4; and Madeline’s Christmas, Nov. 16–Dec. 27. In 2013: Diary of a Worm, a Spider and a Fly, Jan. 18–Feb. 17; Owl Moon, March 8–March 24; Zen Shorts, April 12–May 5; Cinder Edna, April 25–May 25; and Stages Theatre Company’s production of Disney’s Aladdin Jr., June 28–Aug. 4, 2013. For more information, go to stagestheatre.org. Over at the Children’s Theatre Company, there will be two world premieres, an American premiere, and a regional premiere. The season opens with the world premiere of Buccaneers!, Sept. 11–Oct. 21; Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat, Sept. 25–Dec. 2; and Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Nov. 6–Dec. 20. In 2013: Pinocchio, Jan. 15–Feb. 24; The Biggest Little House in the Forest, Jan. 24–March 17; Jackie and Me, March 12–
April 14; and Alice in Wonderland, April 30–June 15.
In brief The Choo-Choo Bob Show, a live-action television show based in the Twin Cities, will debut regionally on broadcast television this spring. While the TV Choo Choo Bob and his friends are played by local actors, there is a real Bob behind it all, Bob Medcraft, the show’s producer and owner of St. Paul retail store Choo Choo Bob’s Train Store. “Our show is about friendship and social learning. But it’s also educational and fun. Trains are so much a part of our country’s history—it’s great to introduce this generation to them,” says Medcraft. “What people like about ‘The Choo Choo Bob Show’ is that it’s simple, and demonstrates good values. It’s the live action fun many of us enjoyed when we were small. Everyone on our show’s nice, not cynical or rude.” Go to choochoobobs.com for more airdate information; Minnesota mom Lyndsay Szymanski won Working Mother magazine’s “Moms of Invention” contest for her Pump-a-Pair Hands-Free Pumping Accessory, an affordable hands-free accessory that works with any breast pump and top-hook nursing bra or tank. Go to yourpumpingstation.com for additional information; People for Parks announced that it received a $5,000 Quality of Life grant from the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation. The grant will be used for a Universal Access playground where children and adults, whether with or without disabilities, can challenge themselves to explore, interact, and play on universally accessible playground facilities with independence and dignity. The playground is planned for Wabun Picnic area, east of Minnehaha Regional Park. A universal playground is a playground that incorporates special features to make it accessible to people with disabilities, while also supporting the activities of people without disabilities.
April 2012 9
Tofu is a good source of protein.
Growing veggie kids
M
y 11-year-old son, Elias, decided in January to become a vegetarian. I wasn’t shocked, since he’s never been a big meat eater, but I was curious about his reasons. When pressed, he said it was because he likes animals and felt bad about eating them, and because he thought it would be healthier. Who could argue with that?
By Joy Riggs
His decision came at an opportune time; my meat-loving 15-year-old daughter, Louisa, had just read The Jungle in English class and was recovering from the slaughterhouse descriptions; my 13-year-old son, Sebastian, had just sworn off fast-food after watching Supersize Me in health class; and my husband, Steve, and I felt like we were in a menu-planning rut. So I bought a vegetarian cookbook with some appealing, uncomplicated recipes, and we began experimenting with meat-free family dinners. My main concern about this dietary change was ensuring that Elias would still meet all of his nutritional needs. I made him promise that he would be willing to
Rc Resou
es
u.s. department of agriculture’s healthful eating site choosemyplate.gov
academy of nutrition and dietetics eatright.org evidence-based vegetarian nutrition information vegetariannutrition.net
10 April 2012
try new foods, and that he would help with menu planning and preparation.
is this healthy? Suzy Sorensen, a registered dietitian and a certified diabetes educator with Children’s Hospitals and Clinics in St. Paul, says “Is this healthy?” is a common question she hears from the parents of children who become vegetarians in the tween and teen years. “Some parents will say, ‘Tell him to eat meat; he can’t live if he doesn’t,’” she says. “Or they will say, ‘Well, he’s interested in eating vegetarian. I don’t know how to help, and I want to make sure we are doing it in a healthy way.’ I’ve also heard people say, ‘I don’t know what to cook, and I don’t want to cook two meals, if I can help it.’” Sorensen says she reassures these parents that plant-based eating is extremely healthful for people of all ages; its benefits include a reduced risk of obesity and hypertension, which may be why more adults are adopting vegetarian diets. Accommodating a vegetarian child’s needs doesn’t have to be expensive or
involve cooking two separate meals. Sorensen suggests making a meal like tacos and letting each person choose whether to incorporate the meat; or, trying plant-based versions of meat products such as veggie hotdogs. Other good sources of protein are beans, tofu, and tempeh. Cheese contains protein, too, but it can be high in fat. Sorensen says online resources like the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s site, choosemyplate.gov, offer helpful tips for assessing whether a child is eating enough from the different categories of proteins, fruits, vegetables, grains, and dairy. She also recommends taking a daily multivitamin; a children’s chewable one (not the gummy kind) for kids under 12, and an adult version for kids 12 and older. Children who are extremely picky and refuse to eat other sources of protein might need to reconsider the decision to be vegetarian, Sorensen says. “Buttered noodles are not going to cut the mustard for very long.” If an overweight child begins to lose
tyPes oF VeGetaRIans lacto-ovo: Includes dairy products and eggs. Excludes meat, poultry, and fish. lacto: Includes dairy products. Excludes eggs, foods containing eggs, meat, poultry, and fish. Vegan: Includes only foods from plant sources, such as fruits, vegetables, beans, grains, seeds, and nuts. Excludes dairy products, eggs, meat, poultry, fish, and all foods containing these items. — From vegetariannutrition.net
weight on a vegetarian diet, there’s probably no reason to worry. But if a child who is already thin experiences significant weight loss, it might indicate that he or she isn’t eating enough of certain foods and needs help attaining a better balance. Although she hasn’t seen it with her own patients, Sorensen says some kids may claim to be vegetarians because it allows them to mask unhealthy eating behaviors. “If somebody really won’t eat any of those new foods, and has eliminated a lot of old foods, to me that’s a bit of a red flag,” she says. “Is this really about eating healthfully, or is there something behind the scenes, some kind of disordered eating?” Parents who have questions or concerns about their children’s eating habits should consult with a dietitian or health care provider. To find a certified local dietitian, she recommends searching the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics website, eatright.org. Sorensen says children who become vegetarians often have a positive influence on the health of other family members. This certainly is proving true for my family. Elias may be the only one who’s willing to give up bacon completely, but he has inspired us all to think more carefully about what we consume. I’m hopeful that our experiment in eating healthier meals will become a lifestyle.
April 2012 11
Stylish, yet affordable Tips from style mavens on how to dress, for less
I By Kara McGuire
love the mall. I used to spend hours there during a lazy weekend, browsing sales racks and people-watching. Then I had kids, though my mall rat ways weren’t automatically upended. I’d stroll my daughter along with me, and quickly learned which department stores had the nicest bathrooms for a feeding break.
Then came toddlerdom and it was then I learned that an afternoon at the mall with a whining, climbing, racing toddler was anything but enjoyable. That, plus our ever-growing kid expenses and my bit-flabby mom body conspired against my wardrobe, turning it from stylish to whatever I could find on a quick trip to Target. Sick of feeling dowdy and ready to restock my closet, I asked three Twin Cities style mavens for tips on how to transform from blah-moi to hot mama— on a budget, of course! Tracy Morrison,
fashionable St. Paul mom of three daughters and blogger at sellabitmum.com. • Shop online. If you’re like Tracy and love designers, sign up for “members only” sale sites. Her favorites? Gilt.com, Ruelala.com, and Ideeli.com, where “you can buy amazing fashionable designer
12 April 2012
items at a huge percentage off,” she says. She also uses coupon codes and monitors sales at Jcrew.com, garnethill.com, and anthropologie.com. If you don’t want to wait for an anthropologie sale, Morrison says shoprouche.com and modcloth.com both sell clothes with “the Anthro look for so much less.” • Shop locally. She loves Primp and Karma, both in St. Paul, for stylish looks for great prices. She routinely finds great designer brands at local consignment stores Elite Repeat, Nu-Look, and Fashion Avenue too. • Shop smartly. “Buy and invest in classic basics that will last season after season,” Morrison suggests. On her list? A little black dress, jeans, “go-with-everything” cardigans and “well-fitting” t-shirts. Then give your wardrobe an update with accessories or a new pair of shoes. These don’t have to be designer—she’s a huge Target fan and buys many of her shoes at the outlet site 6pm.com. Sally McGraw, Minneapolis-based style and body image blogger at alreadypretty.com:
• Try tunics: McGraw says tunics paired with leggings, or other skinny bottoms, is a “comfy-as-PJs” alternative to the jeans and a t-shirt uniform. Plus it’s “a modern, flattering silhouette on many figures,” she said. • Trade sneakers for flat boots. “Tall boots add sass to virtually any outfit, and flat styles are ideal for busy moms,” says McGraw, who shows off her own fabulous collection of boots on her blog. “A polished pair of flat boots will help you look sleek and chic while remaining mobile.” I’ll admit it: I’ve chased after toddlers in heels and have always been proudly smug about having never toppled over. But I probably looked like a fool and am lucky not to have broken a heel or an ankle. If flat is not for you, try a stacked heel rather than a stiletto for stability. • Shop sporty vendors: McGraw suggests brands such as Horny Toad, Athleta, and Title Nine. “[They] all cater to the athletic crowd, but they also make comfortable, stylish streetwear that’s meant to take a beating,” she says, adding that their clothes are also machine washable—a must for moms. I love Athleta’s stretchy pencil skirts and yoga pants. The main drawback? The items can be pricey, McGraw pointed out. And I’ve noticed that sales can be few and far between. Stock up if you find a good
“I’ve chased after toddlers in heels and have always been proudly smug about having never toppled over. But I probably looked like a fool.”
price on your favorite items. And remember, consider price-per-wear when you are shopping. If you’ll wear an expensive item multiple times per week and it will last a while, it will end up being a better deal than buying several cheap, ill-fitting items that either don’t last, are never worn, or both. Sasha Westin is a personal style concierge and owner of Fabuliss, a company that helps busy executives— many of them moms—put together the right looks. She also blogs at fabuliss.com. Her top three tips? • Examine your closet. “Make a list of the clothes you have that fit well and that you like to wear. Use the list to identify gaps and bring it with you when you shop to keep you focused,” she says. This will also keep you from duplicating pieces. • Pre-shop online. “Shop online before you shop the stores,” Westin suggests. “Use this time to determine where to spend your time when you get to the mall or shopping area and remember, you can shop online at any hour.” I always head online before heading to the mall to print coupons. Signing up for deals from your favorite retailers will also pay off, if you can stand the high email volume. • Don’t be shy. “Ask the store associates for help. They can help you cut down on shopping time by getting you different sizes, checking other stores for your size and helping you decide between two colors,” Westin says. Two of her favorite stores, Nordstrom and Macy’s, have free personal shoppers that can help save time and shop for pieces in your price range.
April 2012 13
Spring into love!
B By Laurie Puhn
efore you had children, you probably looked forward to spring as a blossoming time for fun and frolic. You enjoyed a rebirth of dating, dinners, happy hours, and plenty of outdoor activities to put you under the sun every weekend. Now, with children, the spring means one thing: Finally, the kids can go outside to play.
This year, I’d like the spring season to mean two things (yes, the kids are out of your house, more often), but also, it can and should mean that it’s the season to put a little zest into your love life. The difference between same-old evenings, and those that spark a smile, is the difference between saying this, and saying that. Could it be any easier?
Five new ways to say ‘I love you’ in 30 seconds or less 1. Use “follow up” bonds
When your mate tells you about something that’s going to happen that day, whether it’s a meeting, a doctor’s appointment, or taking your son or daughter to a soccer game, always make it a top priority to call, text, or email your mate to ask, “How did it go?” By following up you are saying, “you matter to me” and “I love you.” 2. Bestow “focused” talk
If you and your mate are away from each other during the day and you are busy but have access to email or text messaging,
14 April 2012
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.
take 30 seconds to send a romantic note saying, “Just thinking about you,” “How’s your day going?” or “Looking forward to seeing you tonight.” 3. Offer “pitch-in” connectors
Volunteering to help your mate with tasks (like those in the kitchen or child care) even when you are busy, tired, or overwhelmed yourself is another powerful way to say, “I love you. You are special to me and I care about you.” 4. Display “face-to-face” expressions
As love and companionship becomes a permanent fixture in our lives, we often take it for granted. Don’t ignore your mate. Routinely say hello and goodbye to each other and engage in one sentence face-to-face expressions of love such as “I love our life together,” “You’re a great mother/father,” or “You were so kind to do that for me.” 5. Exhibit “touch and go” contact
When you and your mate arrive home, how much time passes before you touch each other or offer a quick hug or kiss? When you and your mate are together, whether you are watching television, emptying the dishwasher, or reading, take 30 seconds to reach out to each other. If your kids see you doing this, even better. A quick touch says, “I see you. I hear you. I love you.” Spring is the time for new beginnings. Whatever you did yesterday, you can make today a little sweeter, a little kinder, and a little more loving with the right words at the right time.
April 2012 15
Cafeteria confidential The lowdown on what lunch ladies really know, vanishing chocolate milk supplies, and your kids’ biggest secret — they clean up after themselves! By Julie Kendrick
16 April 2012
photo courtesy st. paul public schools
uring a recent lunchtime in the cafeteria at Meadowbrook Elementary School in Golden Valley, Rosemary Frank, otherwise known as “Aunt Po Po,” sits down as a “special guest” for lunch with niece Elia Ittner, a kindergartener. Frank’s tray contains a greens-and-vegetable salad she created herself at the salad bar, fresh melon slices, and a carton of low-fat milk. “I’m surprised about that salad bar,” she says, and adds, “When I was in school, lunch was ‘plop, plop, plop;’ as they thunked the food on your tray. This looks great!” A few tables over, mother Sasha Goftarsh is sharing lunch with her son, Daniel. She says that she usually eats with him on her day off each week, and that she’s been pleasantly surprised. “There are lots of veggies, and I’m happy to see there isn’t a lot of pizza. I think warm food is always better, so he usually eats the cafeteria lunch.” Salad bars? Parents eating with their kids? Healthful choices? This may not be the picture that comes to mind when you think about the cafeteria during your own school days, but it’s increasingly a typical experience for kids in Minnesota. We recently talked with school principals, parents, students, and school nutrition professionals for this peek into what’s happening in the school cafeteria.
It’s actually pretty nice in there … Many schools have undergone major cafeteria remodels, and the areas are often pleasant and modern. At Meadowbrook, a large north-facing window lets in streaming light, and in the growing season, kids can see out to their school vegetable garden, which uses compost generated from the school. Kids are served salsa from the garden’s tomato plants, and raw veggies and stir frys made with other vegetables from the school’s harvest.
… But it’s really, really noisy “It can often be very loud in the cafeteria, but you need to remember that’s how kids relax and blow off steam,” says Allison
Bradford, who is the child nutrition programs director for Anoka-Hennepin Schools, and president of the Minnesota School Nutrition Association. “Even if it seems chaotic to you, lunch is one time of day for kids to have a break, let their minds rest, and just refresh and reenergize.”
There are lots of choices … “Our best kept secret is the big variety of fresh fruits and vegetables,” says Janeen Peterson, registered dietitian and nutrition supervisor for the Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan school district, who says that every school lunch offers students their choice of at least two servings of fruits and vegetables. “Most parents are surprised by our variety and choices, and they realize there’s no excuse for their kids not to eat right.” A recent School Nutrition Association report showed that nationwide, 98 percent of school districts offer fresh fruits and vegetables, 97 percent offer whole grain foods, and 89 percent offer salad bars or pre-packaged salads.
… But there’s still a lot of waste Just because healthful food is offered, you can’t make kids eat it. In the Meadowbrook cafeteria, Jack Thierer, a second grader, was munching on an unadorned hamburger while his classmates dug into trays loaded with baby carrots, salad, and bananas. “I HATE vegetables,” he declared, “So I don’t even bother taking them.” And while Jack knows his own tastes well enough not to select food he won’t eat, many schools struggle with overflowing trash and compost bins that are full of untouched items. Some have started an “extras” shelf for all the unopened cartons of milk, uneaten apples, and other food that would otherwise be wasted. Kids who are still hungry are invited to graze in the area, and some schools even package up the unwanted items for delivery to area food shelves.
Time is short School days are jam-packed, and lunch and recess are just one of many
April 2012 17
Stacey Broadway picks celery from the Meadowbrook Elementary School garden. Submitted image
activities that have to be completed before the bell rings at the end of the day. Nancy Pratt, mom of that hamburger-eating Jack Thierer mentioned above, says that the 15 minutes her son is given for lunch posed a challenge when he first started school. “Jack is very social, and I remember many a conversation with him about needing to talk less and eat more.” Now, she says laughingly, “I think he’s mastered the art of eating and talking.”
Goodbye, chocolate milk Some districts have worked with milk companies to reduce the added sugar in chocolate milk, and some have phased it out altogether. But don’t despair, says Meadowbrook principal Greta EvansBecker, whose school now offers chocolate milk only on Mondays. “If there isn’t a chocolate option, kids will happily drink the regular milk, and sometimes go back for more. Plus, there’s always a water fountain.”
Help is available “No one can tell which childen are on free
18 April 2012
or reduced lunch, since they enter a unique PIN code to receive a meal,” says Evans-Becker, and that system is one that’s replicated throughout the state. If you are experiencing financial difficulties, or if your circumstances change, consider submitting an application right away.
Meadowbrook, like many schools, works with a local food shelf for a weekend “backpack” program through which kids can discretely bring food home. “This is so important,” says Bradford, who reports that she has worked with kids in her district, the state’s largest, to help them
What Parents Can Do Discuss your Family’s Food Values. Are you committed to locally sourced, organic foods? Do you want to make sure your picky eater tries new things? Are you just happy if they don’t eat dessert first? Whatever you value most when it comes to food, it’s a good idea to talk about those concepts with your child, before they start eating one third of their weekday meals away from home. Read the School Menu, Together. Review the lunch menu with your child. If you hear a lot of “yucks” for the healthy options, you might want to try introducing those foods at home, before they’re served at school. Enforce Clean-Up at Home. If your child’s school has a composting and recycling policy, review it at home, and talk about what items need to go where. Encourage your child to participate in family clean-up time after meals, so it’s a routine they get used to and can replicate during the school day. Show Up. Bring your own brown bag or buy the lunch of the day, and sit in with your child a few times a year. You’ll learn a lot about your child’s daily life, and you can model good lunchtime behavior, too. Advocate. Offer to start a wellness committee, or sit in on an existing one, to help steer your child’s school toward reforms you think are necessary—an organic school garden, a farm-to-school program, or whatever you feel passionately about.
d To Fin re o M Out
Farm2SchoolMN.org Affiliated with the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy (IATP), this organization connects schools with nearby farms and ranches that produce fresh, healthful, and minimally processed foods.
FedUpWithLunch.com Known online as “Mrs. Q,” Chicago-area teacher Sarah Wu committed to eating school lunch every school day in 2010, documenting her experience on this blog and in a book of the same name. Free and Reduced Lunch Schools usually send applications home at the beginning of each school year, but you can apply at any time. Ask your school for a household application, submit it directly to them, and they’ll issue an eligibility determination. Note: If you are receiving unemployment compensation, you might also be eligible. LetsMove.gov First Lady Michelle Obama is tackling the issue of childhood obesity, and this website for parents, schools and community leaders is part of her efforts. Mix It Up At Lunch Visit tolerance.org/mix-it-up for tools and tips to conduct an event at your school cafeteria. SchoolMealsThatRock.org This is a blog created by Montana-based school nutritionist Dale Hayes, intended to serve as a good-news counterpoint to negative media coverage on school nutrition. TrayTalk.org Sponsored by the School Nutrition Association, this site offers information on healthier choices and nutrition education programs in schools.
get access to the weekend food. “Otherwise, they would routinely go from Friday lunch to Monday breakfast without eating anything.”
Lunch ladies rule The cafeteria staff are sometimes the only people in a school who see your student every day. “They understand that nurturing and helping kids is part of their jobs, and they usually know the name of every student,” says Bradford, who laughingly adds, “the lunch ladies see all and know all!”
You’re invited “We always ask parents to come in and have a meal with their child and see for themselves,” says Peterson. Just be sure to sign in as a visitor at the office before you head to the cafeteria. Then settle in at the table and start enjoying the scene. In elementary school, classes are usually required to sit together, although you’ll
probably notice a “boys’ end” and “girls’ end” at most tables. And yes, there is probably still a “cool kids” table at middle and high schools, although Teaching Tolerance, a project of the Southern Poverty Law Center, launched National Mix It Up at Lunch Day several years ago, with planned activities to encourage kids to take a new seat in the cafeteria one day a year and get to know one another better.
Your kids can clean up after themselves Just watch them wash hands nicely before the meal, then separate the compostables from dishes and recyclables, and you might be amazed that these are the same kids who become helpless at dinnertime. “We rotate table-cleaning duties in each class, and everyone is responsible for cleaning up after their own meal,” says Evans-Becker. “We come back and get them if they haven’t done it. If your child isn’t cleaning up at home, it’s time to start.” •
April 2012 19
Veggie kids o
o
Raising kids vegetarian or vegan isn’t as daunting as it seems Story and photos by Claire Walling
A
s Celeste Hill pushes her daughter, Evelyn, through the isles of Trader Joe’s, the three-year-old pipes up “Those are eggs. They aren’t vegan so we don’t eat them.” Evelyn is blunt, but her five-year-old brother is more thoughtful in his evaluation. “I don’t eat animals because that would make them sad.” Back at home, Hill prepares black bean burgers, a typical Tuesday-night dinner for her family. But this meal might look a bit different than the spread on your family’s dinner table; Hill is vegan and raising her two children that way too. A vegan diet doesn’t contain any animal products, so eggs, cheese, and honey are out along with meat, while vegetarians forego only meat. Either way, the idea can bewilder many parents who struggle just to get their child to eat a spoonful of peas.
Creating a community “Vegan parenting isn’t usually talked
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about within the larger animal rights community,” says Al Nowatzki, a co-facilitator of VegKins along with Celeste Hill. Animal rights coalition programming coordinator, Dallas Rising, who originally developed the idea for a vegan parents group, added, “We were seeing people who had been active with animal rights having kids. Their lifestyles have changed but they haven’t ditched their values.” “I’m a firm believer that you have to fit into the society that you have.” Nowatzki says. Which means that kids will go to birthday parties and eat in the school cafeteria with their friends; friends who will likely be enjoying hotdogs, chicken nuggets, cupcakes, and milkshakes. That’s where VegKins comes in. The gathering of about 20 kids and their parents seems like your typical playgroup, but with a twist. The adults discuss everything from packing lunches for school to dealing with extended family members who aren’t supportive of a vegan
5 At the monthly VegKins meeting, a program of the Animal Rights Coalition for parents raising vegetarian and vegan children, kids play with other veggie kids while parents hang out and talk about grown-up stuff. Or, feed their babies bananas.
lifestyle while the kids play games and nibble on snacks and sweets made without animal products. Vegan parents seeking to raise their kids on the same diet face some unique challenges. For instance, how do they tackle the sometimes-challenging question about why some people choose to eat meat while their family does not? Celeste Hill’s approach to this common conversation is straightforward but simple: “I tell my kids that some people eat animals and some people don’t, but that our family doesn’t need to eat animals. I don’t want to give a negative image of other people and I want my kids to be respectful of their choices.”
Letting the kids choose Once Hill, Nowatzki, and parents like them have worked their way through the inquisition by relatives and acquaintances the inevitable question comes: when their kids are older, will they be allowed to choose how they want to eat, or will they be expected to follow their parents’ lead? “What you eat is a choice, whether you acknowledge it or not.” Hill says. She hasn’t set a firm date when she will let Evelyn and Elliott choose how they will eat, but has developed a plan. “When they’re teenagers we’ll give them all the information and let them decide what they think is the most healthful” but she maintains, “If that’s the worst way that my kids can rebel, I’m doing pretty well.” While Nowatzki’s kids are still several years away from the infamously rebellious tween and teenage years, he doesn’t anticipate that their eating habits will change. “Kids usually rebel against the status quo, and veganism certainly isn’t that.” Regardless of what Anna and Liam, now ages five and three, respectively, choose, Nowatzki intends for veganism to remain the house rule. “When they’re older my kids can spend their money on whatever they want, but it won’t be my money, and it won’t happen under my roof.” Minneapolis mom Terri Bouressa had a different approach when raising her children, Maria and Saul, both now living on their own. “Growing up, I knew a family that wouldn’t let their kids have any candy. When they were away from their parents that was all that they would eat. I didn’t want meat to become a ‘forbidden’ thing for my family.” But she won’t make a different entrée for every member of her family, either. “I would buy lunch meat for my kids, but our dinners were always vegetarian. If they were eating out at a restaurant or at summer camp they could choose meat if they wanted, but I never cooked it for them.”
vegetarian in a family of meat eaters? Rising says, “Parents shouldn’t see her choice as a ‘disrespect thing,’ but rather be proud of their kid for being a critical thinker,” speaking partly from her own experience. Although her decision to become vegetarian, and later vegan, as a child created some tension with her mom at first, she is now more open to the lifestyle. Nowatzki was in his 20s when he made the switch from a self-described “meat and cheese guy” to being vegan but had a similar experience with his parents at first. “I’ve become closer with my mom through cooking together,” he says. “Before I became vegan I didn’t care about cooking.”
Healthy eating, any way you slice it Evelyn and Elliott Hill’s favorite foods seem typical of most American kids; pizza, tacos, and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches top the list (albeit vegan versions). But not far behind are broccoli and pineapple for Elliott, and kale chips and raspberries for Evelyn. “Sometimes people have this perception that veganism isn’t healthy for children, but I think it pushes my kids to try a greater variety of options. Instead of gravitating toward processed foods, they eat a lot more fruits and veggies,” Hill
Resources Al Nowatzki’s blog thislittlepiggyhadtofu.blogspot.com/ Celeste Hill’s blog growingupveg.blogspot.com/ More information about VegKins animalrightscoalition.com The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics eatright.org
says. Time-pressed parents need not worry, either. “There’s a false idea of how much time it takes to cook healthful food. It doesn’t take any longer than ordering take-out would.” The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) agree that vegan and vegetarian diets are healthy—if they are well planned. Parents of vegan kids will need to pay closer attention to their kids’ diets to make they’re getting adequate amounts of Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, calcium, iron, and protein, but otherwise are healthy and grow at similar rates to their omnivore counterparts. Bouressa says if she were to raise her kids all over again she would still approach eating the same way, but added, “It would be easier since now there are a lot more vegetarian options for kids.”
Food fight Here’s a flip side: what do you do when your daughter comes home from fourth grade and decides that she is now a
Celeste Hill with her daughter, Evelyn.
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childish films Family-friendly movies showcased in the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Film Festival
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By Deborah Girdwood, Isabelle Harder and Pete Tedrow
Finding a family-friendly movie can involve extensive research these days, especially with younger children. Every spring, though, comes one of the Twin Cities’ largest cultural events that provides a diverse array of quality cinematic choices for parents and their children. Presented by The Film Society of Minneapolis St. Paul, The 2012 Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival launches on April 12 and concludes on May 3. Each spring since 2005, the Festival’s Childish Films showcase has screened family friendly children’s films from across the globe over three weekends. Curated by Deborah Girdwood and Isabelle Harder, this is an excellent opportunity not only to share a good movie with your children but also to introduce them to other countries and cultures. Now on its 30th anniversary, this year’s Festival will include six children’s feature films and two shorts programs, one for ages five and up and one for ages eight and up, and a free family show at Central Library in downtown Minneapolis for ages three and up. The Festival calls St. Anthony Main Theatre’s five screens home, nestled along the banks of the Mississippi River in downtown Minneapolis. For show times and dates, visit mspfilmfest.org. Here are a few films to look for:
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Chandani, Daughter of the Elephant Whisperer Sri Lanka/Germany (documentary, ages 8+); Sinhala language with some English narration and subtitles
A 16-year-old Sri Lankan girl from a long line of (all male) legendary elephant whisperers, Chandani steps out of her culture’s traditional female role and begins to care for Kandula, a young spirited elephant. The film reveals an amazing portrait of a girl and her father breaking with tradition, and the complicated and ever-evolving relationships between humans and elephants.
Crocodiles Strike Back Germany (drama/adventure, ages 10+); Live action, In German with English subtitles
The sequel to last year’s Festival audience favorite Crocodiles about a misfit band of crime-fighting kids, this second film in the German kids’ trilogy packs even more fun-filled thrills. Outfoxing the bad guys on their bicycles, skateboard, and a souped-up wheelchair, the band of misfit friends triumph again in this highspeed coming of age action adventure.
Magic Silver
Norway (fantasy, ages 6+); Live action, in Norwegian with English subtitles
A huge hit in Norway, Magic Silver is a family-friendly fantasy about a colony of blue gnomes living in the Norwegian mountains and their young Princess Bluerose. Magic Silver is a classic fairytale told with stunning effects and colorful hues.
Nicostratos, Le Pelican Greece/France (drama/adventure, ages 9+); Live action, in Greek and French with English subtitles
U.S. Premiere! Fourteen-year-old Yannis lives in a small Aegean island community with his estranged fisherman father. Feeling lonely, Yannis rescues a fledgling pelican he names Nicostratos, and brings him home to raise him secretly. The only problem is Yannis’ foreboding father, who does not embrace the change.
Tales of the Night France (fantasy, ages 6+); Animated, in French with English subtitles
Tales of the Night weaves together six fables, each unfolding in a unique locale including Tibet, medieval Europe, and the Caribbean. Silhouetted characters set off against Day-Glo backgrounds transport viewers into brave, wryly humorous adventures with enchanted werewolves, talking bees, serpents, sorcerers, majestic horses, and magical drums.
Circus Dreams
U.S. (documentary, ages 8+)
This inspiring documentary goes on the road with Circus Smirkus, the only traveling youth circus in the U.S. Circus Dreams captures one summer’s Big Top Tour of some of the finest young circus arts performers in the country.
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Out About
Farm Babies at the Zoo ÎÎWhat goes “Moo, Baa, Quack, and Peep?” Get up close and personal with all kinds of adorable baby animals during Farm Babies, the annual rite of spring at the Minnesota Zoo’s Wells Fargo Family Farm. Volunteers will be available for questions and assist with hands-on interaction with baby chicks, piglets, lambs, calves, goat kids, bunnies and ducklings. When: Through April 30, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Where: Minnesota Zoo Cost: Two and under, free; $12 to $18, all others. Parking, $5 Info: mnzoo.org or 952-431-9200
Ongoing Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Boy ÎÎWorld Premiere! Turner Buckminster III can’t win: he’s the new kid in town, he plays baseball differently, and his only friend is Lizzie Bright Griffin from Malaga Island, an impoverished community founded by former slaves. When powerful forces threaten Lizzie Bright and her kin, Turner faces the ultimate test of his character—and learns a hard-earned lesson about courage and loss.
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Target Free 3rd Sundays ÎÎThanks to the generosity of Target Corporation, visitors can roam the Museum free of charge every third Sunday of each month. Please note: a set number of people are allowed in each hour to reduce overcrowding, though the wait is typically short. When: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Where: Minnesota Children’s Museum Cost: FREE Info: mcm.org or 651-225-6000
When: Through April 8 Where: Children’s Theatre Company, Minneapolis Cost: Prices vary depending upon performance and seat selected Info: childrenstheatre.org or 612-874-0400
The Sports Show ÎÎThis exhibition will explore the role of photography and media in transforming sports from a casual leisure activity into a spectacle of mass participation and will feature photographs from the MIA’s
collection and other cultural institutions together with mass media photographs, television clips, movies, installations, and videos. These are powerful artistic images and objects in their own right; at the same time, they communicate a broader social, political, and cultural significance through the mass spectacle that we know as sports. When: Through May 13 Where: Minneapolis Institute of Art, Target Gallery Cost: Up to $8, depending upon age Info: artsmia.org or 612-870-3000
Where: Stages Theatre Company, Hopkins Cost: Prices vary depending upon performance and seat Info: stagestheatre.org or 952-979-1111
Living with Orchids exhibit
Real Pirates ÎÎAhoy, landlubbers! Hollywood’s glamorous and adventure-packed portrayal of pirates has captured our imaginations for generations. But what was life on the high seas really like during the Golden Age of Piracy? You’ll find out in “Real Pirates: The Untold Story of the Whydah from Slave Ship to Pirate Ship.” When: Through September 3 Where: Science Museum of Minnesota, St. Paul Cost: Tickets are timed and dated, cost varies from $12 to $25 Info: smm.org or 651-221-9444
Grossology ÎΓGrossology: The (Impolite) Science of the Human Body” tackles all the sticky sources of children’s curiosity. This interactive exhibit’s goal is to harness kids’ natural curiosity about themselves and their bodies by teaching them about how the fascinating human body functions. When: Through May 13 Where: Minnesota Children’s Museum, St. Paul Cost: $8.95 for ages 1 to 101 Info: mcm.org or 651-225-6000
Giggle, Giggle, Quack
ÎÎWorld Premiere! When Farmer Brown takes a vacation, his brother Bob comes in to watch the farm. “I wrote everything down for you. Just follow my instructions,” Bob is told. Guess who finds a pencil and begins writing his own notes for brother Bob to find and follow? The very literate and mischievous Duck. For all ages.
ÎÎOrchids in all their variety and splendor will hold center stage when the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum presents the “Living with Orchids” exhibit, featuring hundreds of orchids—including many unique species and hybrids—all grown by renowned orchid experts Jerry and Jason Fischer at their Orchids Limited greenhouse in Plymouth. When: Through April 29 Where: Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Chaska Cost: Free with gate admission Info: arboretum.umn.edu or 952-443-1400
1 Sunday Wild Baby Animals ÎÎSpring is one of the best times to see baby rabbits, squirrels, and birds. Learn how these animals are cared for by their parents, as well as what to do if you find an injured or orphaned animal. When: 1:00 to 2:30 and 3:00 to 4:30 Where: Wood Lake Nature Center, Richfield Cost: $3 per person; FREE for members Info: woodlakenaturecenter.org or 612-861-9365
2 Monday Storytelling through Short Film ÎÎIs there a short story you want to tell through video? Have you wondered how to make films? Learn how to make a short film using cameras, Final Cut Express and your amazing creativity! For teenagers. When: 3:00 to 5:00 p.m.
When: April 13 through May 13
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Out About Where: St. Paul Public Library, Central Library Cost: FREE with pre-registration Info: sppl.org or 651-266-7000
3 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
Baby Storytime ÎÎStories, songs, and playtime for children ages birth to two. When: 10:30 to 11:00 a.m. Where: St. Paul Public Library, St. Anthony Park Cost: FREE Info: sppl.org or 651-642-0411
4 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, hands-on activities and free lunch for kids 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 612-872-4041
6 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
Farm Babies at the Zoo ÎÎSpecial kids activities in conjunction with ongoing Farm Babies, the annual rite of spring at the Minnesota Zoo’s Wells Fargo Family Farm. When: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Where: Minnesota Zoo Cost: Two and under, free; $12 to $18, all others. Parking, $5 Info: mnzoo.org or 952-431-9200
7 Saturday Free 1st Saturdays at the Walker Art Center: Flashback ÎÎJoin in an exciting day of art-making, films, performances, and tours that plays with the memories of young and old. Highlights include special guests Kevin Kling and Chris Monroe, who will share their new book, Big Little Brother, with audiences during two shows in the Walker Cinema. When: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (family activities until 3:00) Where: Walker Art Center, Minneapolis Cost: FREE Info: walkerart.org or 612-375-7600
Saturday Live! Loki Puppet Players present “The Poetry of Puppetry” ÎÎThe Library’s puppets share their favorite
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poems along with our talented troupe of staff and volunteer puppeteers using the Central Library’s historic puppet stage. 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
Farm Babies at the Zoo ÎÎSee description, April 6 When: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Easter EGGStravaganza ÎÎEaster egg hunt, prizes, activities and photos with the Easter bunny, plus eggstra special giveaways. All children invited. When: Downtown business hours Where: Downtown Longville Cost: FREE Info: Longville.com or 800-756-7853
10 Tuesday Arty Pants ÎÎArty Pants: Your Tuesday Playdate, features 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
Playdate Tuesday ÎÎSee description, Tuesday, April 3 When: 10:00 a.m. to noon
Out About 11 Wednesday Wee Wednesdays ÎÎSee description, Wednesday, April 4 When: Beginning at 10:30 a.m.
encouraged to clap and sing along. 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
12 Thursday
ÎÎJoin this workshop to learn how computer engineering and technology play a critical part of the creation of virtual reality. Attend this workshop to be inspired by technology as you learn about all it can do. This workshop is for middle school girls with disabilities.
13 Friday Baby Storytime ÎÎStories, songs, and playtime for children ages birth to two. 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, April 6 When: 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
14 Saturday Saturday Live! Ten Penny Tunes ÎÎTen Penny Tunes introduces their audiences to a wide variety of folk music, from Appalachian Mountain to Zydeco. The music is performed on an array of fun and unusual instruments. The audience is
Target Free 3rd Sundays at the Minnesota Children’s Museum ÎÎThanks to the generosity of Target Corporation, visitors can roam the Museum for free every third Sunday of each month. When: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Where: Minnesota Children’s Museum Cost: FREE Info: mcm.org or 651-225-6000
Technology for Girls: What is Your Reality?
When: 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. Where: PACER Center, Bloomington Cost: FREE, with advance registration Info: pacer.org or 952-838-9000
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Build a Bird House ÎÎConstruct a cedar wren house to help these melodious insect eaters. Learn about proper birdhouse placement while on a guided bird hike.
First Steps Baby Expo ÎÎThe First Steps Baby Expo will provide expectant parents, new parents, and their support people with information that will help them prepare for pregnancy, their newborn, and all the way up to preschool. When: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Where: St. Cloud Rivers Edge Convention Center Cost: Five and under, FREE; all others $3 Info: firststepsbabyexpo.com or 800-264-2940
St. Paul Citywide Cleanup ÎÎEach spring, about 1,000 community volunteers unite to remove tons of trash from St. Paul’s parks, natural areas, recreation centers, and neighborhoods. This event helps ensure the beauty, safety and environmental health of Saint Paul. Volunteers pick up their supplies and enjoy complimentary refreshments at one of four Kickoff Celebrations across the city, and then go to the park, natural area, or neighborhood of their choice to pick up trash. When: 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Where: Four pick up locations Cost: FREE Info: stpaul.gov/parks/environment or 651-632-2411
When: 1:00 to 2:30 and 3:00 to 4:30 Where: Wood Lake Nature Center, Richfield Cost: $3 per person; FREE for members plus $7 per birdhouse Info: woodlakenaturecenter.org or 612-861-9365
17 Tuesday Baby Storytime ÎÎStories, songs, and playtime for children ages birth to two. When: 10:30 to 11:00 a.m. Where: St. Paul Public Library, Saint Anthony Park Cost: FREE Info: sppl.org or 651-642-0411
Playdate Tuesday ÎÎSee description, Tuesday, April 3 When: 10:00 a.m. to noon
18 Wednesday Wee Wednesdays ÎÎSee description, Wednesday, April 4 When: Beginning at 10:30 a.m.
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out About 20 fridAY family night at the Global market Î See description, Friday, April 6 When: 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
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cost: FREE info: greatclothdiaperchange.com to find a location
Saturday Live! three rivers Park district Î Learn what animals do in the springtime in this entertaining and educational program featuring live animals. 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
24 tueSdAY Playdate tuesday Î See description, Tuesday, April 3 When: 10:00 a.m. to noon
25 WedneSdAY Wee Wednesdays eric manos: the Little Guitar Î Manos reads from his book, The Little Guitar, and plays his guitar, too. When: 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. Where: St. Paul Public Library, Dayton’s Bluff cost: FREE info: sppl.org or 651-793-1699
Great Cloth diaper Change Î The grand finale of Real Diaper Week culminates in an attempt to surpass the current Guiness World record for the most babies getting changed into cloth diapers one time…around the globe. Will also include free activities for parents and children and more. When: Times vary depending upon location but approximately 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with diaper changing from 11:15 to 11:45 Where: Colonial Church of Edina; also at DaVinci Academy of Arts & Sciences, Blaine and other locations
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Î See description, Wednesday, April 4 When: Beginning at 10:30 a.m.
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When: 10:30 a.m. Where: St. Paul Public Library, Central Library cost: FREE info: sppl.org or 651-266-7000
28 SAturdAY Vehicle day Î See the wheels around town up close. Put your kid in the driver’s seat and enjoy other kid-friendly activities. Bring your camera to capture the day. Children of all ages welcome, but must be accompanied by an adult. When: 10:00 a.m. to noon Where: Southdale Center parking lot by Herberger’s, Edina cost: FREE info: 952-826-0433
Saturday Live! Brodini Comedy magic Show Î Do a trick or two with the master of illusion with this fabulous all ages magic show! 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
meet Corduroy
Children’s ecoArts festival
Î Meet the costumed character Corduroy and listen to some of his stories.
Î Featuring live music, dance, and storytelling by local youth and adult performing groups, hands-on children’s cultural arts activities, professional artist and environmental demonstrations, and ethnic food vendors, the festival celebrates the common bond as one people reliant on a healthy environment, most especially water, through the arts. When: 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Where: Harriet Island, St. Paul cost: FREE info: artstart.org/eco-arts-festival or 651-698-2787 •
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
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 challenging setting. Macalester, Northwestern, Stanford, & 60+ universities in 27 states 888-709-TECH (8324) internaldrive.com
Science Explorers, Inc. Celebrating 20 years of amazing, handson science fun! Offering camps in all areas of science including amusement-park physics, chemistry, engineering, forensics, rockets, and more. Throughout Twin Cities and greater Minnesota. Ages 3-14. Check local school and park publications
Advertiser listings
to register. 620 Mendelssohn Ave N Ste 161 Golden Valley 763-544-5441 science-explorers.net
Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center Combine outdoor adventure with serious learning in Wolf Ridge’s Science Credit Camp. Earn high school or college credits as you focus on freshwater ecology and environmental ethics. Learning adventures include wilderness trips, research projects, and field trips with resource professionals. 6282 Cranberry Rd Finland 218-353-7414 wolf-ridge.org
Arts Art Academy, The
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
Hamline Young Writers Workshop HYWW is a creative writing day camp (June 18-22) for students ages 15-18. Participants will study with published authors, learn about book arts and literary magazines, meet other writers, participate in a field trip, and an open mic. Hamline University St. Paul 651-523-2479 hamline.edu/youngwriters
City Pages Winner: Best of the Twin
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International Music Camp A summer fine arts camp specializing in outstanding programming in over 40 disciplines since 1956: music, visual art, theatre, dance, creative writing, photography, speech, and more. Welcoming middle school, high school, adult students, and educators. International Peace Garden on the North Dakota/Manitoba border 701-838-8472 (Sept. - May) 701-263-4211 (June - July) internationalmusiccamp.com
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
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
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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
Summer Passport to the Islands of the Caribbean & Japan Explore the Caribbean Islands and Japan in all-day or half-day interdisciplinary arts camp for ages 4-12. Learn about the many unique art forms of these two diverse cultures through music, art, dance and drama taught by professional artists. 1300 Summit Ave St. Paul 651-698-2787 artstart.org
Dance/Music/ Performance Angelica Cantanti Youth Choirs Summer Day Camp Calling all kids who love to sing! Join us for a week (July 23–27) filled with singing, music games, and arts activities. This camp will serve as a springboard from which singers will explore their vocal potential and increase their confidence in singing. Age range: Grades 2-5. Cost: $95. 10 a.m.–12:15 p.m. Bloomington Center for the Arts 1800 W Old Shakopee Rd Bloomington 952-563-8572 angelicacantanti.org
Camp resource guide
Center for Irish Music Summer Camps Camps for children of all ages and abilities to explore, learn, and grow musically within the context of Irish tradition. Magical and explorative camps, introductory camps, specialized camps for young musicians to hone and expand their skills while trying something new. The Center for Irish Music 836 Prior Ave N St. Paul 651-815-0083 centerforirishmusic.org
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
O’Shea Irish Dance Camp Director Cormac O’Se original member of Riverdance. Highly skilled technical training for preschoolers through adults; for competition, for fun, and for fitness! Weekly Classes: Mondays-Thursdays. Beginners Spring and Summer Camps-registering now! The Celtic Junction 836 Prior Ave N St. Paul 612-722-7000 osheairishdance.com
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
Advertiser listings
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Camp resource guide
Advertiser listings
April 2012 35
SteppingStone Theatre School for Young Actors
Minnesota Historical Society Sites & Museums Day Camps
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/earlybird pricing available.
From Huck Finn to Finishing School for Young Ladies, the Minnesota Historical Society’s camps have something for everyone. Your campers will have a great time and learn about our state’s history, too.
55 Victoria St N St. Paul 651-225-9265 steppingstonetheatre.org
Day Academy of Holy Angels Summer Experience 2012 Starting June 11. For children grades 2-9. Camps feature photography, theater, computer animation, cartooning, and many sports including basketball, baseball, volleyball, and Larry Fitzgerald’s football camp! Fees vary; average is $75. Call or go online to learn more. 6600 Nicollet Ave S Richfield 612-798-0764 academyofholyangels.org
Benilde-St. Margaret’s School Summer Camps From Athletics to Music to Christian Service, BSM has a program for you. Camp dates are between June 11 and July 25, prices $80 to $585, depending on program. Visit our website and registration now. Questions? Contact: Jerry Pettinger, jpettinger@BSMschool.org. 2501 Hwy 100 S St. Louis Park 952-927-4176 bsmschool.org/activities/summercamps-2012
City of Lakes Waldorf School Early Childhood Camp Waldorf Early Childhood Summer Camp! Ages 3.5-5.5, must be toilet trained. June 1115 and June 18-22. Mornings 8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. or All Day 8:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m. A “taste of Waldorf”- singing, laughing, outdoor play, crafts, baking, story time, summer fun! 2344 Nicollet Ave S Minneapolis 612-767-1502 clws.org
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Historic Fort Snelling, Mill City Museum, Minnesota State Capitol, Alexander Ramsey House, Historic Forestville mnhs.org/summercamps
Playworks: Your Kids Will Flip For Summer Camp 2012 June 11-August 31. Open to kids entering grades 1-6. Arts & Crafts, Science & Nature, Field Trips, Games, Atrium, Fun. FT or PT. Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m.-7 p.m., SaturdaySunday 9 a.m.–7 p.m. Meals included. 2200 Trail of Dreams Prior Lake 952-496-6811 playworksfun.com
Tamarack Nature Center Summer Camp Adventures Is your child suffering from “nature deficit disorder?” The only known antidote is a summer of outdoor fun and adventure! We offer weekly half-day and full-day camps for ages 3-13. The adventures begin June 18th. Get your spot today! 5287 Otter Lake Rd White Bear Township 651-407-5350 co.ramsey.mn.us/parks/tamarack/ daycamps
University Youth & Community Programs University of Minnesota Youth Programs features over 200 day camps for ages 5-15 in a wide variety of enrichment and recreational topics at outstanding facilities. All camps include rock climbing, swimming, organized games, arts, campus exploration, and great 1:7 ratios. U of M, Twin Cities St. Paul Campus 612-625-2242 recsports.umn.edu/youth/summer
Yoga Center of Minneapolis Kid’s 6-8: M-F, 1:30-4 p.m. Preteen 9-12: M-F, 10 a.m.-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
Camp resource guide
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
Language Alliance Française French Summer Camps: Le Français de A à Z Discover French with Alliance Française summer camps! We offer weekly half-day camps for children ages 4-14 from June 25 through August 24. Experience French from A to Z through activities like art, cooking, and music. 113 N First St Minneapolis 612-332-0436 afmsp.org
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
Advertiser listings
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Overnight
Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center
Audubon Center of the North Woods
Adventure outside and grow inside at Wolf Ridge. Explore pristine lakes and streams, forests and wetlands during educationally accredited overnight camps, day camps, and wilderness trips. Exciting new activities, rock climbing, high ropes, and camp-outs offered each year.
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 Birchwood for Girls Camp Birchwood for Boys It’s more than fun and activities, the experience is about life-long skills, friendships and memories that develop at camp. We provide campers with choice and encourage them to challenge themselves and to discover who they are. We’re proud of what we do for boys and girls at Birchwood. Take a look at all the fun on our websites. Girls Camp: Steamboat Lake, Northern Minnesota Boys Camp: End of Gunflint Trail in BWCAW 800-451-5270 campbirchwood.com birchwoodforboys.com
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
Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center - Outdoor Skills Program Eagle Bluff offers summer camps for youth entering grades 5–8 and yearround opportunities for people of all ages. Southeastern Minnesota canoeing, campouts, high ropes, and shooting. Each camp offers a different theme: July 8-13 Forkhorn, July 15-18 Night Owls, and July 18-21 Outdoor Explorers. 28097 Goodview Dr Lanesboro 888-800-9558 eagle-bluff.org
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6282 Cranberry Rd Finland 218-353-7414 wolf-ridge.org
Specialty Bakken Museum, The Summer Science Day Camps Students explore the electrifying world of science through hands-on activities, creative dramatics, team challenges, and more. Campers learn The Bakken invention process and build their own take-home creation. Spaces fill quickly...register early! 3537 Zenith Ave S Minneapolis 612-926-3878 thebakken.org
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 Robotics, Video Game Design, Movie Production, Animation, Solar, Aerospace, Rollercoaster Engineering, and more! Throughout Minnesota 651-730-9910 computerexplorersmn.com
Sports and Fitness Lil Sluggers Twin Cities Lil Sluggers is a child development program that introduces children ages 2-6 to the game of baseball by developing skills such as throwing, catching, hitting, and base running. Lil’ Sluggers teaches the game of baseball in a fun and positive environment. Outdoor locations to be announced. 43 Hoops: 1002 2nd St NE Hopkins Strike 3 Pitching: 200 W 88th St #9
Camp resource guide
Bloomington 612-360-5818 lilsluggerstwincities.com
Richfield Gymnastics Club Summer Day Camps Richfield Gymnastics Club hosts weeklong day camps for girls ages 5+ MondayThursday mornings throughout July and August. No gymnastics experience is required. Camp themes will include Summer Olympics inspired games and activities! Packages starting at only $60. Richfield High School--Gymnasium Entrance 7001 Harriet Ave S Richfield 612-798-6386 richfieldgymnasticsclub.org
TAGS Gymnastics Camps Fun, Fitness, Friends! Gymnastics camps for boys and girls ages 3–17 in June, July, and August. Kids will learn fun, new skills while developing strength, flexibility, and coordination in a safe, positive atmosphere! TAGS Apple Valley: 5880 149th St W Apple Valley 952-431-6445 TAGS Eden Prairie: 10300 W 70th St Eden Prairie 952-920-5342 tagsgym.com
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
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Advertiser listings
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photos by cy dodson
Hayden and Harry A Potter party By Kelly Jo McDonnell
My son is a party-planner, and I have no one to blame but myself. I love a party... and a theme party? Even better. Best: my son is with me every step of the way during our party planning process. Hayden, now nine-years-old, chooses his “theme” each year. When he was really little, I chose for him, trying to match the theme to whatever my son was “into” at the time. At age five, it was bugs, so I booked Dr. Bruce the Bug Guy for a live bug demonstration complete with edible bugs and a strange looking bug cake (gift bags included rubber bugs and bug tattoos). By six and seven, he was in the Pokémon phase (I tracked down Pokémonthemed games including Pin the Tail on Pikachu). By eight, George Lucas had his hold and Star Wars ruled. Invitations stated, “Invited you are, on a Galactic adventure with Hayden,” and Yoda Sodas were a hit (lime sherbet with sprite). All the boys brought their own light sabers, and they proceeded to destroy the death star piñata, which was really just a painted soccer ball. The force was with them.
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So that brings me to the ninth year. I assumed that perhaps the Star Wars theme might hold strong. Did I have it in me to plan a Transformers party? Or, heavens, a Bakugan or Ninjago party? I’m still trying to figure out how to pronounce Ninjago. But a few months before his ninth birthday, Hayden proclaimed that Harry Potter would have the theme honor. Let the planning begin! I booked the party at Grand Slam, though the venue threw me off a little bit: a Harry Potter theme amidst laser tag and mini golf? I was out of my comfort zone, but I figured I would just bring all things Potter to our party room. While ordering a themed cake would have been easier (but expensive; my local bakery only offered one huge Harry Potter cake for the wee price of $100+), I decided to bake my own and add the characters myself (courtesy of Hayden’s LEGO Harry Potter collection). The treats were even more fun. On the menu was Magic Color-changing drinks and Honeyduke’s Wizard’s treat mix. I found out how to do “color changing” on the ivillage site: basically you place two to
It was (really) Your party. You party planner, you! Pat yourself on the back and then tell us about your child’s happy day! Email mnga@mnpubs.com with your recap; we’ll take care of making it look as good as your event.
three drops of food coloring at the bottom of each party cup and let it dry. Just before serving the drinks, fill each cup with ice to hide the food coloring. When you pour the drink over ice (helps if it’s a clear liquid), it magically turns into a color as the cup fills. I used a lot of different colors, so none of the boys knew what color they were going to get. For our Honeydukes treat mix, I used the standard Chex mix recipe (minus anything that might trigger a nut allergy), but added large gummy and novelty candies. All of the party favors were on display on the Harry Potter table, decorated with wands, potion jars of “gillyweed” and “truth serum” (green chives for gilly and lemon water for the truth serum). We had some Harry Potter magic right smack in the middle of Grand Slam, and it went over well. In the meantime, I’ll be on the look out for what birthday number 10 will bring. And who knows, perhaps this will lead to a future career for my son. I wonder what an entertainment director’s salary will be in the year 2024?
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Kids cook Want to involve your kids in their food choices? Here’s a few books to help! By Claire Walling
my favorite recipes By Annabel Karmel DK Publishing, $14.99
SpongeBob’s Kitchen mission Cookbook By Nickelodeon
Clueless in the Kitchen: a Cookbook for teens
Wiley, $16.99
By Evelyn Raab Firefly Books, $14.95
If your teenager calls you at work and asks how to make Mac & Cheese from a box, this book may be the perfect solution to their plight. Evelyn Raab gives step-by-step guides to navigating the foreign territories of the grocery store and kitchen, as well as simple, cheap, and nutritious recipes.
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Annabel Karmel is a renowned author of children’s cookbooks and her latest collection does not disappoint. The recipes are simple but delicious, the picture illustrations are easy-to-follow, and helpful tips are sprinkled throughout. Plus, this spiral-bound book has a built-in “stand,” making it convenient to use in the kitchen.
There’s a cooking contest in Bikini Bottom between SpongeBob and his friends, and the prize is getting kids to make healthful and creative dishes. Themes from the popular kids TV show pop up throughout this book in recipes like Sea Star Casserole, Chocolate Dippity Doo Dah, and Salty Sea Cucumbers and recipes are rated 1, 2, or 3 based on the skill level and amount of adult supervision required to make them.
Grow Your own for Kids
mealtime
By Chris Collins and Lia Leendertz
By Elizabeth Verdick
Octopus Publishing, $14.99
Free Spirit Publishing, $7.95
Put your kid’s inclination to play in the dirt to good use; grow your own fruits and veggies! This guide includes instructions to get your garden (or window box) started, trouble shooting for when things go awry, and abundant photographs. The payoff doesn’t get much sweeter than fresh raspberries, either.
Does your two-year-old prefer playing with her broccoli to eating it? This colorful board book will get kids excited about cooking and eating healthfully, even if they are too young to prepare food for themselves.
r e l d d To time From diapers to potty chairs, from bottles to cups, this is a time of transition By Kathleen Stoehr
Pourty potty It doesn’t play music and sing praise for your child’s “good jobs,” but if you start your kids on this potty before they are swayed by bells and whistles, you won’t have to worry about soiling the chair’s surface when Pourty is emptied. With a unique pouring duct and anti-drip lip, it enables contents to be emptied away from where a child sits or touches with no mess. Pourty.com; about $15
Clicky cups
Crawling along
Transitioning from a bottle to a cup is an exciting milestone, but unwanted sippy spills can make the experience anything but pleasant. Parents twist the cup’s lid to hear a click, assuring that drinks will stay in the cup and not on the carpet. Munchkin cups are BPA free and come in trainer, sippy, flip straw, and “big kid” sizes.
Designed to protect a child’s knees from the time they learn to crawl, walk and then run through the big wide world, Crawlings kneepads are great for indoor use and the rough and tumble great outdoors.
Munchkin.com; From $3 to $8
Crawlings.com; about $20
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Life in the NICU can be confusing, frustrating, and at times unbearable. It’s a time when babies, parents, and families all need extra comfort and care.
real mom
Taryn Krumwiede When Taryn Krumwiede went to the hospital at 24 weeks she wasn’t expecting to give birth; she didn’t even have a toothbrush with her. But she wasn’t about to leave her daughter, Ella, born weighing only one pound and two ounces, during those first critical days. Ella’s 83-day life sparked a passion for her parents to give the comforts of home to families of other premature babies around the Twin Cities, through their non-profit organization, Ella’s Halo (ellashalo.com). — Claire Walling
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Q&a What was your favorite moment with baby Ella?
Most mothers say their favorite moment was the first time they held their baby, but for me it was actually the first time my husband, Ryan, was able to hold Ella. It was fun to see the father-daughter interaction. She opened her eyes and would not take them off of him. Ella knew that she was in her daddy’s arms and didn’t care about anything else, even as I was running around trying to get the perfect picture. When a
baby is born at 24 weeks you aren’t able to pick her up right away, so that fact made the moment just a little more special. Why did you create Ella’s Halo?
We stayed at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at the University of Minnesota Amplatz Children’s Hospital in Minneapolis for about three months. Ryan and I were lucky to have a lot of extended family in the area to help us out, but we met a lot of new parents that did not have that. After Ella’s death we took some of the money that was donated for her funeral and bought blankets for the NICU. The nurses had tears in their eyes because they knew how much of a difference it would make to have the unit feel a little more like home. Life in the NICU can be confusing, frustrating, and at times unbearable. It’s a time when babies, parents, and families all need extra comfort and care. And that’s what Ella’s Halo is all about. Ella’s Halo was registered as a non-profit organization in January 2010 and we have been donating books, blankets, and welcome bags to the Level 3 NICUs in the Twin Cities since then. What have been the most rewarding moments for you working with Ella’s Halo?
Every May we have an event called “Bowling for Babies” and a lot of graduates of the NICU who are three- or fouryears-old now come out and join us. It’s amazing to see how big they are and the great things that they are going on to now that they’re healthier. We also work with local elementary schools to collect books and blankets. Kids that age are learning about everything, so it’s great that they we are able to help them learn something about volunteering, too.
Go onlIne To learn more about Ella’s Halo, visit ellashalo.com or scan this code with your smart phone.