BEST BOOKS FOR TODDLER PARENTS Page 16
March 2016
THE
CAMP ISSUE
TRY A
SPORTS SAMPLER Page 32
GET
CRAFTY
Eshaan, 6, Eagan
Page 40
SPEAK FRENCH AS A
FAMILY Page 46
LEARN
MAGIC Page 51
COPE WITH
CANCER Page 56
SLEEP OUT IN
TENTS Page 60
+ CAMP RESOURCES
Page 65
Surviving your picky eater Page 26
A granola bar you can make with kids! Page 30
CONTENTS
VOLUME 31
10 FROM THE EDITOR
ISSUE 3
22 GROWS ON TREES
Why we need camp
Advergames
Parents depend on camps during working hours — but wait, there’s more!
Yeah, that’s a thing for kids. And it’s kind of freaking me out.
12 CHATTER
24 ASK THE PEDIATRICIAN
A local author has a message for moms in her new book: You are enough.
Depending on your kid’s needs, he or she may need it throughout childhood.
16 TODDLER TIME
26 ON BEHAVIOR
Dear You
Vitamin D
Partners in crime
Picky, picky
Go to these Toddler Parent books for laughs, insight and even an escape.
There’s picky eating and there’s problem eating. And there are some important differences to know. 28 BOOKSHELF
Bored no more Spice up your board book collection with these nine top picks for kids. 30 IN THE KITCHEN 18 SCHOOL DAYS
Taco Tuesdays! Tired of the dinnertime grind? Here’s how to get the kids to help every night. 20 TEENS AND TWEENS
The new ‘busy’ Every season of parenting is different. So far, I’m liking the carpool stage!
14 BABY ON BOARD
Disappearing act Did you become an invisible woman after giving birth? I’m afraid I did.
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March 2016 • mnparent.com
Easy bars
You can, we swear, make these bars — with your kids — with minimal fuss. 82 FROM OUR READERS
Girls day out
Readers share their favorite photos of their energetic, brilliant daughters.
CONTENTS
VOLUME 31
32
ISSUE 3
THE CAMP ISSUE
Sports revolution
On campus
This camp offers the ultimate sports sampler, featuring more than 25 athletic activities.
Ages 6 and older can try more than 100 activities at this new Owatonna camp.
40
56
Get messy
Facing cancer
Summers at Leonardo’s Basement help kids discover their creativity and smarts.
Camp Angel in Eden Prairie helps kids cope with a parent’s cancer diagnosis through fun and games as well as camaraderie.
46
60
Go together
No phones
All ages are welcome at Concordia Language Villages family camps. (Bonus: Kids 3 and younger can attend for free!)
Out & About 8
March 2016 • mnparent.com
51
Kids at this wilderness camp sleep in tents and make their own meals over open campfires.
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65 CAMP RESOURCES
About our cover kid Name: Eshaan City: Eagan Age: 6 1/2 Parents: Vaishnavi and Amit Parnerkar Personality: Eshaan is a sweet and kind-hearted boy who loves experimenting with things around him. Favorite toy: Transformers and LEGOs (or anything related to LEGO) Favorite book: Rabbids Invasion and Fly Guy Favorite activities: Going on kayaking trips with Dad; reading books with Mom; growing tomatoes and cucumbers in the backyard with little brother, ViRaj; going to the gym for swimming/fun; helping make smoothies; and experimenting with music on his piano. Favorite foods: Tandoori chicken, pasta and marshmallows Want to see your kid on the cover? Find out how at mnparent.com/coverkid. Photos by Jess Pratt Studio 220 Photography
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mnparent.com • March 2016
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FROM THE EDITOR
Why we need camp Welcome to our annual Camp Issue! This is our biggest edition of the year for Minnesota Parent. Why? Summer camps — whether you’re looking for a half-day camp for your preschooler or an overnight camp for your teen — have become a tremendously important part of growing up in the Twin Cities. That’s partly because parents today are constantly on the prowl for interesting enrichment activities for their kids: Think music, horseback riding, art, science and even circus skills! But it’s also because — let’s be honest — working parents simply can’t take their summers off to stay Photo by Tracy Ann Walsh / Poserdesign.com home with the kids. Oh, how I wish we all could! Isn’t that what they do in Europe? Alas: If your kids have started school and both parents in your household work full-time — or even part-time — camp isn’t likely to be an optional endeavor. I have to sign my son up for camps. And because I work 40 hours a week, I need camps that offer before- and after-care hours as well. Without summer camps located near my home, I’d have a hard time working a full-time job. Fortunately, Minnesota offers a truly amazing array of options for families. And so many of them are in this very issue — either in the extensive resource listings in the back, in the advertisements peppering our pages or in our features, where you can take a deeper look at seven amazing local camps. We’re here for you! So, yes, we have to fill our kids’ summers with something, but the good — no, great — news is: These aren’t just glorified day-care programs. These camps are potentially life changing. Benefits of camp include opportunities for our kids to slow down, unplug from technology, reconnect with nature, exercise, build character and confidence — and develop teamwork or even communal-living skills. Camps also give our kids chances to try new things and fail — and to be OK with that. A recent article by the Camping and Education Foundation said so rightly: Camp doesn’t involve grades, tryouts or the pressure of being the best: “Children can play for play’s sake. They can try something and not worry about the consequences of not doing it perfectly.” My advice: Sign up early. Popular dates and camps fill up quickly! You don’t want to miss out because you waited too long. Need some motivation and inspiration? Stop by our 10th annual Camp Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 27 at the Como Zoo in St. Paul. It’s free! Or check out our online Camp directory at mnparent.com/camp.
Sarah Jackson, Editor
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mnparent.com
PUBLISHER Janis Hall jhall@mnparent.com SALES MANAGER AND CO-PUBLISHER Terry Gahan tgahan@mnparent.com EDITOR Sarah Jackson 612-436-4385 • editor@mnparent.com CONTRIBUTORS Eric Braun, Lauren Cutshall, Megan Devine, Dr. Kimara Gustafson, Shannon Keough, St. David’s Center, Jodie Tweed, Tracy Walsh, Jen Wittes, Jennifer Wizbowski CREATIVE DIRECTOR Dana Croatt dcroatt@mnparent.com SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Valerie Moe
Are you currently pregnant or had a baby during the previous month and interested in participating in a telephone-based health and wellness program? The University of Minnesota is seeking women who are currently pregnant or less than 6 weeks postpartum to participate in a research study examining the effect of exercise and wellness on mood following childbirth • Participants receive a motivational exercise program or a health and wellness program, which begins after the birth of your baby (participants can sign up for the program during pregnancy) • Program delivered to you via the mail and phone • Must be 18 years of age or older; must not currently exercise regularly • Must not take antidepressants • Must have a history of depression • You will receive $100 for your time
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Amanda Wadeson CLIENT SERVICES Zoe Gahan 612-436-4375 • zgahan@mnparent.com Lauren Walker 612-436-4383 • lwalker@mnparent.com Emily Schneeberger 612-436-4399 • eschneeberger@mnparent.com CIRCULATION Marlo Johnson 612-436-4388 • distribution@mnparent.com mnparent.com/find-a-copy
Call 612-625-9753 or email mompro@umn.edu to see if you qualify for this research study U of M - Kinesiology Dept MNP 1212 S3.indd 1
11/15/12 2:37 PM
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mnparent.com • March 2016
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CHATTER
SOLACE FOR MOMS You are enough. And Jacquelyn B. Fletcher’s hand-stamped words — in Dear You: Messages For Moms, released in February ($16.95) — will give you permission to connect fearlessly with that truth. Billed as a manifesto for mothers, Fletcher’s latest book (a sweet Mother’s Day gift) features the imagined voice of Your Heart, which gives moms permission to take time off, find ways to connect with their partners and children, and pat themselves on the back for a job well done. Fletcher, a Lakeville mother/stepmother to four kids age 7 to 20, is also the author of Dear Body, Love Me; Dear You: It’s Time for a Leap of Faith; Dear You: Messages From Your Heart; and A Career Girl’s Guide to Becoming a Stepmom. She’s also the co-creator and host of the Healing Words TV show and a founding faculty member of the Creative Writing at the Bedside program, both administered by the Mayo Clinic’s Center for Humanities in Medicine in Rochester. Learn more at jacquelynfletcher.com and amazon.com.
Foodie magazines for kids! Which would you rather have your kids learn — where food comes from (and how to cook and eat it) or the habits of dinosaurs? This pointed question comes from Jill Colella, the St. Paul founder of not one but two gorgeous bimonthly magazines for kids that encourage food savvy as well as early reading: Ingredient is for ages 6–12 and, new in 2015, Butternut caters to ages 3–6. “We love dinosaurs, but there are very few adults who think about dinosaurs every day,” says a Butternut webpage. “Here’s what adults do think about: If the curbside to-go parking spot is open as they swing by a chain restaurant to pick up dinner on the way home from work. If their kids will ever eat beans or only just bright orange macaroni and cheese. If, between the granola bars in their desk drawers at work and the vending machines, they will have a satisfying lunch. If they will find a way to use the veggies they bought with good intentions at the farmer’s market before they start to rot. Again.” Colella knows what it’s like to be a picky eater. She was one herself until she learned to cook in her mid-20s. We think this makes the cookbook author — Grow It, Cook It (DK, 2008) and Jewish Holidays Cookbook (DK, 2008) — uniquely suited to teaching kids about food. She’s also a former English teacher with a passion for literacy. Every issue includes oodles of photos, farm adventures, critical-thinking questions, puzzles and STEM concepts. And you won’t have to worry about preachy content: “We believe in kale and cookies. You may not, and that’s okay,” says another Butternut webpage. “We believe that food and eating are personal choices. Butternut tries not to yuck anyone else’s yum. We do not have an overt health agenda. We avoid words like ‘good’ and ‘bad.’” Print and digital subscriptions — $35 and $10, respectively — are available at ingredientmag.com and butternutmag.com. Gift sets (which include a year’s print subscription) are available at local Kowalski’s markets.
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The invisible mother E
veryone loves you when you’re pregnant. (Well, maybe not everyone — there are those militant anti-breeders who will shoot you disgusted looks when you deign to enter Five Watt Coffee, distended abdomen in tow.) But in general no matter how lousy you might feel, you can count on friends and strangers alike to smile at you approvingly and insist that you’re “beautiful” and “glowing.” For women who crave the spotlight, the pregnancy experience often draws an enthusiastic audience. For those of us who are more reserved, the unasked-for attention can feel imposing — but at least you know your existence is recognized. Then your baby is born, and everything changes. Your friends and family stop by to meet the baby (emphasis added for effect). Grandmotherly types charge at your stroller, cooing aggressively at your infant. Unless there’s a demand for a name or age, these stranger-baby interactions frequently don’t even include a glance in your direction. You’re now a mode of transportation, a source of milk, an invisible caretaker.
⊲⊲Disappearing act What happened to all that gushing about your vibrant beauty? The smiles of approval from strangers? The slightly unsettling, “Hey there, mama!” from the random guy on the street? You used to be a goddess-like symbol of fertility — and now, evidently, you’re just a spent vessel.
I took an informal poll on Facebook, asking the members of my Minneapolis Mamas group whether they’d experienced a feeling of invisibility after they became mothers. Happily, a few women reported that they’d never felt invisible, that in fact they’d never felt more important and valued than when they became mothers. However, most of the responses were more along these lines: “It’s hardest at home — I often felt and still feel invisible to my husband sometimes.” “The vast majority of my struggle in the transition to motherhood was to be doing this quietly heroic thing alone, both in my own home and in society,
Maybe the cute Pizza Lucé counter dude could at least give me a weak smile instead of staring right through me like a sliding glass door.
BABY STUFF
Wipes for sensitive skin ⊲⊲A new natural baby wipe has hit the market and the Amazon reviews are overwhelmingly positive (tinyurl.com/new-wipes). Bloom Baby Sensitive Wipes are made with “HydroPure water that comes from a glacier,” plus plant-derived vitamins A, B-complex and D, and hypoallergenic moisturizing lotion. And they’re made with 100 percent wind energy. You can find them at Sam’s Club and on Amazon.com. $20 for 640 jumbo wipes • bloomcare.com
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and then to also be invisible, ignored, devalued and/or actively judged while doing so.” “My daily adult interactions are often limited to preschool drop-offs, grocerystore checkout clerks and my nanny.” “I was surprised at how lonely becoming a mother can be.” So, it looks like I’m not alone.
⊲⊲The twilight of my sex appeal When I talk about feeling invisible as a mother, I’m not just talking about the isolation associated with parenting young children while working from home or the mysterious name change I’ve undergone (from “Shannon” to “Lydia’s mom”). I’m also talking about the fact that dudes no longer check me out. “You shouldn’t feel that way!” I scold myself silently. “You’re too old to be noticed anyway — you shallow, ungrateful imbecile.” Relationship expert Esther Perel — in her book Mating in Captivity — explains that the struggle is, in fact, real. She calls it “desexualization.” And it is, she argues, “a mainstay of traditionally patriarchal cultures, which makes the sexual invisibility of modern Western mothers seem particularly acute.” “Perhaps it’s our Puritan legacy that strips motherhood of its sexual components,” she says. “Perhaps we are convinced that lustfulness conflicts with maternal duty.” So there! It’s a widespread cultural phenomenon — along with objectified “MILFs” and male movie stars celebrated for their “dad bod” physiques. The way I see it, if the Whole Foods cashiers can label my husband “the hot dad,” then maybe the cute Pizza Lucé counter dude could at least give me a weak smile instead of staring right through me like a sliding glass door. Shannon Keough lives in Minneapolis with her husband and two children. Send questions or comments to skeough@mnparent.com.
Books for parents S
aid the gal who writes a parenting column: “What you REALLY need to know about parenting cannot be found in a book, blog or magazine.” If you follow me here at Toddler Time, you know I encourage readers to parent individualistically. We all have different levels of patience, different ideas about how long to breastfeed, different backgrounds and — even amongst our own collections of offspring — children with different personalities. I may point out universal truths and share a few tricks I’ve learned along the way, but I wholeheartedly believe in instinctive parenting. You do you. Though I’m against clinging to books for answers — as if parenting were possible by formula — I am in favor of books in general and believe they’re an important part of the toddler years. So, without further ado, I present my picks for toddler parent reading:
⊲⊲Toddlers Are A**holes: It’s Not Your Fault How could I not recommend this to you, Toddler Parent? I believe there’s comfort in recognition and Honest Toddler blogger Bunmi Laditan’s take on this stage brings me pure, belly-busting laughter. Here’s to misguided attempts at eating out as a family and saying things you never thought you’d hear yourself say. My own personal best was, “Do not lick Target. Yes, I mean ALL of Target.” Solidarity, my friends.
⊲⊲Someday My kids have hidden this book from me, because it makes me weep uncontrollably — but in a really good way, and only when I read it out loud to my children. Author Alison McGhee, a Minnesota parent herself, pinpoints the combo of exhilaration and torturous
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heartache in watching your kids grow up. The pretty pictures will keep your kids entertained, until they decide to hide the book from you.
⊲⊲The Book With No Pictures B.J. Novak — Ryan from The Office — wrote this gem. Toddler Parent, you’re right in the small window of time in which this book really works. Illustration free, the entertainment value relies upon making the grown-up read and say ridiculous things. Perfect for older toddlers.
⊲⊲Kitten’s First Full Moon Though I feigned exhaustion over reading this book 70-some times in a previous edition of Toddler Time, I really love this book because it’s so enjoyable on repeat mode. It’s a simple story with hidden nuggets about perspective, imagination, adventure, home and love. And the black-and-white illustrations are adorable.
⊲⊲Beautiful Ruins Because it’s not ALL about Kitten and Corduroy and Little Quack. In the thick of the spilled-milk, psychotic-playdate, classes-at-The-Little-Gym lifestyle, you deserve an escape. This frothy, yet well-crafted novel explores the idea of lost love while taking you on a journey along the Italian Coast and through iconic Hollywood. Breathtaking and displacing, it’s an ideal break book for busy parents.
⊲⊲Go the F**k to Sleep The title of this popular — satirically lyrical — international bestseller says it all. Samuel L. Jackson fantastically narrates the audio version. Also look for the follow-up, You Have to F***ing Eat (audio version read by Stephen Fry).
TODDLER STUFF
Quote cards ⊲⊲You know your kid says outlandish and hilarious things all the time, right? But how can you capture those cute quotes beyond the occasional Tweet or Facebook post? Check out Milestone Mini Cards: These 100 small cards, which come in a simple keepsake box, could be just the thing to motivate you. $20 • milestonecards.com
⊲⊲Making the ‘Terrible’ Twos Terrific I hesitantly add this one to the list for those who can’t help but crave parenting dogma. This was given to me after the birth of my second child, as my firstborn hit “the twos” with a vengeance. I don’t remember every piece of advice and I don’t recommend taking ANY parenting book word-for-word to heart. I do remember the author — nationally syndicated parenting columnist, author and psychologist John Rosemond — has a sense of humor, humility and a basic message every parent can understand: The parent is boss (and this is actually what the child craves), and toddlers are — by nature — egomaniacs. Just good perspective, if you take it as that. If your bedtimes don’t look like Rosemond’s suggestions … so what. Jen Wittes is a freelance writer and mother of two who lives in St. Paul. Learn more about her work at jenwittes.com. Send questions or comments to jwittes@mnparent.com.
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Kids in the kitchen A
s a working mom with four growing children, getting healthy meals on the table is a daily challenge. My children have the kind of appetites that provoke “I cannot believe how much ______ eats!” comments from anyone who shares a meal with them. And they have such high metabolisms, it’s a necessity for us to buy pants that come with elastic-button pull-tighteners. Cooking daily for six is a big enough challenge on its own. But when I have to double the portions — or when my children are requesting a second breakfast before they leave for school — it seems I could make feeding them a full-time job! As my kids — ages 4, 6, 8 and 11 — begin to take on more responsibilities, I’m trying to work smarter, not harder, by teaching them responsibility and self-sufficiency. This means involving my kids in the kitchen in practical and meaningful ways — teaching them how help prepare healthy snacks and simple meals, so they’re doing a little more contributing, not just consuming.
⊲⊲Proactive snack time If I didn’t offer them any guidance or direction, my children would probably be perfectly content eating granola bars and other packaged, processed foods all day long. We typically have these on hand for quick and easy snacks, especially when we’re on the go. Although many of these types of snacks appear to be good for us, they aren’t really the most nutritious or even cost-effective options. Hands down, whole foods are best for us. But if we want to eat whole foods, we must have them readily available. We also need to be role models when making our own food choices. We can encourage our school-age kids to make healthy snack choices by starting conversations about the importance of good nutrition to fuel their bodies. Check out an extensive guide by Lisa Leake at 100daysofrealfood.com (tinyurl.com/100days-mn). We also need to stock our refrigerators and pantries with simple, yet sustainable healthful snacks such as fruit, vegetables, yogurt, cheese, hard-boiled eggs, whole grain breads and nuts. When our kids understand what constitutes a healthy snack choice and when options are readily available, I believe they’re more likely to gravitate toward healthful choices.
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⊲⊲Master skills School-age kids can learn how to prepare simple meals with guidance from adults. My three big kids have mastered cereal, toast and bagel breakfast options and my two oldest are building confidence with some simple stovetop dishes such as scrambled eggs, omelets, grilled cheese sandwiches, quesadillas and noodles. My 11-year-old daughter has developed an interest in baking and has independently made batches of cookies, muffins and cakes, boosting her confidence and expanding upon her basic culinary skills. My younger kids like to be involved in the kitchen by measuring and stirring — and of course quality control (tasting and sampling). I recently made Grab-and-Go Granola Bars — featured in this issue’s In the Kitchen on Page 30 — from Deanna Cook’s gorgeous book, Cooking Class: 57 Fun Recipes Kids Will Love to Make (and Eat!). I’ve found when kids become more active participants in the kitchen, they become more interested — and maybe even a little more appreciative — of what they’re eating.
⊲⊲Taco Tuesdays I’ve also put one of the strategies from Kim John Payne’s book, Simplicity Parenting, into practice to support my efforts. I’ve followed his suggestion to create a generalized weekly meal plan: Lately we’ve been having soup night on Mondays, Mexican on Tuesdays, homemade pizzas on Wednesdays, pasta on Thursdays and fried rice on Fridays. This has worked well for our family, and with the predictability of each meal’s theme, there’s been opportunity for experimentation for my whole family when selecting recipes and ingredients. For example, on some of our pizza nights we make personal pizzas. We’ve found some unique pizza topping inspiration on Pinterest and my kids have expanded their palates with creative topping choices. I encourage you to involve your child(ren) in the kitchen. You may be surprised how much they can contribute while learning important life skills. Megan Devine is an elementary school teacher who lives with her husband and four children in Northeastern Minnesota. Follow her on Instagram @megtdevine. Write her at mdevine@mnparent.com.
Embracing the new ‘busy’ I
remember when my kids were young and our evenings were spent with them playing with the neighbors’ kids in the street. While they rode bikes or rollerskated, I chatted with the other parents of the neighborhood and went in and out as I got dinner ready. I usually had a glass of white wine on the counter that I’d sip between chopping, stirring and running out to check on them. I thought I was so busy. One evening during this season of child rearing, I saw a news special on moms, most residing in major cities, who were literally living out of their cars in the evenings. Their kids were involved in play auditions and practices in New York City, or private violin lessons in San Francisco. I was appalled at their mini vans full of snacks, homework and garbage. There was one mom who regularly ordered pizza to their family car so they could eat dinner. I couldn’t believe how preposterous this seemed to me. And even more preposterous? The absence of the evening glass of wine missing from the picture.
This California girl no longer drives two hours to the coast to grab a clam chowder or sit and watch the waves. Instead, I’m booking hotel rooms in Iowa for weekend tournaments. I’m also now the proud parent of a ski racer. (No, I don’t have the bumper sticker). This means I stand on the side of hills for hours in subzero temps, just to snap a pic on my iPhone that I hope will be clear enough to share with her grandparents. (Or maybe just to prove to my 12-year-old daughter that I actually stood out there and watched her.)
⊲⊲Practicing for life My girl is really independent and self-sufficient. While, as her mom, I could easily feel pushed aside, I actually find these to be admirable traits. Every ski day, without my prompting, she gets her skis and boot bag sorted. She knows she needs her season pass card, her gloves
⊲⊲From one season to the next Of course, things change. They always do. It’s that way with parenting. As soon as I think I’ve figured something out and I’ve got a rhythm, new things come along. So we adjust and find ourselves in a new season. Just like that. One hour of practice and one early-morning match per week of rec soccer turns to travel soccer. Living in a new state for this phase means I’m travelling 40 minutes on icy roads to indoor soccer matches in burbs I’ve never even heard of.
TEEN STUFF
Study guide ⊲⊲Early spring is ACT season in Minnesota. Elizabeth Smart — president and founder of a boutique online tutoring company that prepares students for the SAT, ACT, AP and SAT exams — has crafted a concise ACTprep pocket guide: Acing the ACT: An Elite Tutor’s Guide to Tricky Questions and Secret Strategies that Make a Big Difference is fewer than 150 pages, so you might actually get your teen to read it. $12.99 • amazon.com
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and helmet. She has her water bottle for practice filled and wears her base layer to school — ready for a quick change after school. Thanks to this extra activity, I get a chance to see a new side of her, a side I don’t often see at home amongst the daily parenting gripes about her leaving socks all over the house, or her forgetting to rinse out her cereal bowl. I see how thorough of an adult she’ll be — how she thinks through details.
⊲⊲Partnering with parents Through my daughter’s extracurricular activities, I’ve discovered a precious gift in my life. This gift is called carpooling. Her friends’ moms and I always work it out one way or another. This helps us avoid sitting alone in our cars; and it gives me at least a chance of getting dinner on the table. Not only is this wonderful for my time management, but it also gives me a sense of community. I know that I’m in this with some great ladies. My sense of belonging is enhanced tenfold. And not having to order pizza directly to a vehicle is a plus, too.
⊲⊲Back in the car And, hey, I actually like it. Right now, for me, nothing beats driving down the road listening to pop music I’d never choose, looking in my rearview mirror and seeing four sets of messy braids beneath pompom ski hats. Their cheeks are pink from cold. Their laughter is loud. It makes this once-crazy driving thing crazy fun. Jennifer Wizbowski lives in Excelsior with her husband, and daughter and son, ages 12 and 15. Send comments, questions and story ideas to jwizbowski@mnparent.com.
A flood of marketing E
ver think about the sheer volume of marketing our kids are exposed to? Me neither, most of the time. But the other day, I stumbled across (OK, I was on Twitter) a comprehensive study of media use by young people (tinyurl.com/study-mn). Among other things, I learned that kids age 8 to 12 average about six hours of “entertainment media” a day — and that got me to fretting. Of course, I immediately turned toward my two sons — one was watching YouTube videos (with headphones on) while the other was playing a game on his phone — and hollered at them to do something creative with their lives. My teenager pulled aside one headphone and said, “What?” But by then I’d already turned back to my screen. Some example I set.
⊲⊲What they’re doing OK, so it’s not shocking news that kids spend a ton of time with media. But there’s a lot going on in those hours. For one thing, entertainment media includes listening to music, so it’s not necessarily all screens. Girls tend to use social media more than boys, while boys play more video games.
Low-income kids have less access to devices, but when they do have access, they spend more time on them. And the vast majority of kids’ engagement with media is passive — consuming (not creating) content.
⊲⊲Overexposed It was that bit about consuming content that kind of ruffled my emojis. I started thinking about all the marketing muscle directed at youth. That can’t be a good influence if we’re trying to raise responsible earners, savers and — can’t get around it — consumers. The aforementioned study (done by Common Sense Media) doesn’t address marketing directly, but with a little digging I found a study from 2014 that does. Kids are exposed to advertising and marketing through virtually every media channel they use. They still see traditional commercials on TV, and most YouTube videos start with a pre-roll ad. Products are placed in the shows themselves in myriad ways, from a character walking past a billboard to products being built right into the script. They’re also placed in video games. Ads appear in our social media feeds, and kids often engage with product profiles.
⊲⊲Advergames? Did you know there’s such a thing as an “advergame?” It’s an online game sponsored by — or often created by — a company with the purpose of advertising a product. In them, kids are often playing with a branded item, like using Oreo cookies as gaming pieces, or playing in a “heavily branded environment,” like going on a Barbie treasure hunt. Advergames can keep kids engaged for much longer than a regular ad can, and they blur the line between entertainment and advertising. With phones and mobile devices, advertising can target kids anytime and anywhere. In fact, with location tracking, they can be targeted specifically based on where they are
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in relation, say, to the nearest Burger King. Apps, including branded apps, can access personal information (as well as contacts) to hone their marketing even more precisely.
⊲⊲Steps you can take What’s a parent to do? Here are a few things I learned in my fretting-induced research: Until about age 8, kids don’t understand that ads are trying to sell them something. They see ads as part of the entertainment. Teach them what ads are and what they’re trying to do, and as much as possible, try to avoid commercials for these younger kids. Visit a product website with your child and talk about what it’s doing. How do the images, videos and games make the product seem appealing? Look at advertisements, too. With older kids, go further: Analyze sponsored status updates on social media, or ask them why they think a particular pre-roll ad comes up for a particular YouTube video. Teach them to avoid obviously branded sites (or block them with parental controls). When given the option, buy the paid app rather than the free version, which is supported by ads. Watch a show or play a game together and identify all the products or logos that appear. Talk about the way ads manipulate our emotions. Ask, “How is this ad trying to make you feel?”
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By talking with our kids about what marketers are trying to do, we can raise their awareness, making them savvier consumers (even if their consumer days seem way out in the future). I also plan to set a better example by limiting my own media use. Eric Braun is a Minneapolis dad of two boys and the co-author of the forthcoming book for young readers, The Survival Guide for Money Smarts: Earn, Save, Spend, Give (Free Spirit Publishing, September 2016). Send comments, story ideas and questions to ebraun@mnparent.com.
mnparent.com • March 2016
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Bathing toddlers How often do toddlers need baths? We don’t want our kid’s skin to dry out! Bathing a couple times a week may be sufficient for toddlers if they have days where they manage to stay relatively clean. But it really depends on how active toddlers are and how dirty they become each day. One factor may be if they’re still in diapers or toilet trained. And then, if they’re toilet trained, it may depend how actively a parent helps them wipe after they use the toilet. During the summer, toddlers may warrant more frequent bathing as they’re likely to be outside and playing in dirt and sand or swimming in lakes and/or chlorinated pools. Another factor in determining bathing frequency is likely how clean or messy of an eater your toddler is. Some toddlers are very meticulous and tidy eaters, whereas others seem to often get more food on
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them than in them! Also: For some families bath time can be part of a calming, winding-down bedtime routine. It can send a signal to your child that the body should start getting ready for sleep. If this is the case, there’s no reason to drop this part of the routine in the winter for fear of overdrying the skin. To counter the potential drying effects of bathing, you could limit the time in the water and make sure the water isn’t overly warm/hot. You could also add in a step of applying lotion following the bath, which can help retain the skin’s moisture; the massage can further help your toddler relax at the end of the day, too. It’s common for toddlers to have sensitive skin, so try to use bathing and moisturizing products that have minimal ingredients and/or are made for sensitive skin.
Your advice in the November issue — recommending that parents generally avoid multivitamins for their kids (mnparent.com/ vita-mn) — prompted me to write. I believe the American Academy of Pediatrics supports the recommendation of a daily supplement of vitamin D. I didn’t see this mentioned in your article. Do you happen to know what the current practice is for vitamin D supplementation? You are absolutely correct: The AAP recommends a daily supplement of 400 IU of vitamin D starting just after birth. This can be administered with supplemental vitamin D drops for breastfed and partially breastfed infants. For formula-fed infants, as well as older children, if they’re taking in less than 32 ounces of vitamin D-fortified formula or milk, they should also receive 400 IUs of supplemental vitamin D. This supplemental amount of vitamin D holds true into the adolescent age. Teenagers may also be lacking in their daily need of dietary calcium, iron and zinc intake. Ideally these daily recommended amounts are met by a balanced diet. But if teenagers have a poor diet or specific metabolic needs (such as particularly high athletic demands), they may need further supplementation. Talk to your doctor or pediatrician about your child’s specific needs. Kimara Gustafson is a Minneapolis mother who works as a pediatrician at Masonic Children’s Hospital and the Adoption Medicine Clinic, both at the at the University of Minnesota. Send your questions to kgustafson@mnparent.com.
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Feeding the picky eater W
hen Chris and Gina’s son was a baby, he would cry and often throw up when it was time to eat. Because he had severe acid reflux, his avoidance of eating was so extreme that family mealtimes were miserable, and his parents worried about his growth and development. Luckily, intervention from physicians and feeding therapists helped to diagnose and improve their son’s eating. While Chris and Gina’s son has an underlying medical condition that exacerbated his feeding difficulties, most picky eaters do not. But that doesn’t necessarily make them any less challenging.
⊲⊲What is picky eating? Unlike Chris and Gina’s son, picky eaters don’t usually throw up. Picky eaters are selective (macaroni and cheese for breakfast, lunch and dinner, anyone?), but still have at least 30 foods they’ll eat. Children who are picky eaters might avoid certain tastes or textures, but they’ll tolerate new foods on their plate. Picky eating is often seen at certain times in a child’s development, such as toddlerhood.
⊲⊲What can we do? If your child is a picky eater who refuses to try new foods or puts up a fight over eating veggies, here are a few tips for increasing the number and variety of foods your picky eater will eat: Involve your child: Let your child help in the planning and making of meals —whether it’s washing the potatoes or a trip to the grocery store with his or her own miniature cart. Your child will enjoy a sense of ownership and pride surrounding mealtimes. Ask your child to pick out a new recipe from a kids’ cookbook or website and help with cooking it. Children are more likely to try foods they’ve prepared themselves. Eat on a schedule: Three or four hours after a meal, a child will run out of energy as blood-sugar levels go down and stress hormones kick in. Making sure your child eats healthful foods at regular intervals helps establish a hunger-satiation cycle in which a child actually wants to eat at mealtimes.
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Play with the food: Playing with food can help children get past the barriers of foods they dislike. Present foods in fun ways such as a stack of cheese “bricks” or banana “caterpillars.” Allow children to explore their foods: Let them touch the mashed potatoes with their fingers or drink milk from a straw. You might let your toddler spread her own peanut butter on crackers or dip vegetables in hummus or guacamole. Eating regular foods in different — and sometimes messy — ways also helps children be more willing to try new things. Try, try again: It can take 10 to 15 separate times of tasting, chewing and swallowing before a body decides whether it likes a new food. Be sure to give your child — and yourself — opportunities to try new foods multiple times. Discuss the taste, smell and texture of new foods and talk about them positively (even if you don’t like it, your child may). However, children (toddlers in particular) are notorious for their ability to become set in their ways, so don’t let it turn into a battle of wills. Relax, unplug: Both you and your child will benefit from relaxed meals.
WHEN TO GET HELP A referral for feeding evaluation may be warranted if a child exhibits two or more of the following: ⊲⊲Ongoing poor weight gain or weight loss ⊲⊲Ongoing choking, gagging, coughing or vomiting during meals ⊲⊲History of nasal or gastric reflux or a traumatic choking incident ⊲⊲Inability to make age-appropriate food transitions ⊲⊲Aversion or avoidance of all foods in specific texture or food group ⊲⊲Eats fewer than 20 different foods ⊲⊲An infant who cries and/or arches at most meals ⊲⊲Family mealtimes feel like battles
Avoid distractions while eating — no TV, books, videos or phones. When children eat in front of the TV, they’re less able to tune into their own bodies and process the sensory experience of foods. Also, wait until the meal is over before you start washing hands or cleaning the mashed peas out of kids’ hair. Engage in conversation during meals and talk about the food in positive terms. For most picky eaters, all you need to do is continue to provide them with foods that meet their nutritional needs, ensure relaxed and regular meals and then step back. And, with early intervention, even more complex feeding difficulties can be addressed. For Chris and Gina and their son, mealtimes have improved and their son, although still selective about foods, is growing and thriving.
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St. David’s Center for Child & Family Development is a nonprofit organization that serves nearly 2,600 children and their families in the Twin Cities with inclusive early childhood education, children’s mental health services, speech and occupational therapies, autism programs, services for individuals with special needs, and feeding therapy for children with severely restricted eating patterns. Learn more at stdavidscenter.org. mnparent.com • March 2016
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BOOKSHELF
Board book treasures By Sarah Jackson
Need some fresh ideas for your kid — or upcoming baby showers, child birthdays or even Easter baskets? Check out the latest and greatest in board books, including classic characters and even a new, colorful offering by a local grandmother. These are just the thing for the preschoolers in your life.
Corduroy’s Colors Corduroy’s Numbers
Sundogs A to Z Kay Elliott of Richfield came out with her first children’s book, Sundogs: Journey to the Great Windmill, in 2012, appealing to young readers with dogs of many vibrant colors (dedicated to all the canines she’s called her own). When Elliott learned she would become a grandmother for the first time, she decided to write a board book in the same vein to read with her soon-to-be granddaughter. Kids will love seeing the different breeds — all playfully illustrated by Kevin Cannon — jumping, playing, napping and more. For every book purchased, a paperback version will be donated to North Star Therapy Animals of Minneapolis. $9.99
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If you’re a fan of Corduroy’s Day — a board-book classic — you’ll love these super-sturdy books (7 inches square) that help your child practice counting and color spotting with one of the world’s most fuzzy and cuddly bears. Corduroy’s Seasons and Corduroy’s Shapes will be out in May, too. $5.99 each
The Hueys This quartet of comical stories — It Wasn’t Me, None the Number, The New Sweater and What’s the Opposite?— are now all available in 6-inch-square board-book formats from the illustrator of the bestseller, The Day the Crayons Quit, and the author-illustrator of the classic, Stuck. $6.99 each
I’m Grumpy I’m Sunny Explore the nuances of emotions with your toddler with this new duo from the new My First Comics series from the brother-and-sister authorillustrator team of Jennifer and Matthew Holm, the creators of the Babymouse and Squish graphic-novel series for school-age kids. $7.99 each
mnparent.com • March 2016
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IN THE KITCHEN
Mix it up! L
et the kids make this recipe with a little help from you! Minnesota Parent columnist and mother of four Megan
Devine made these bars with her kids and they were a hit. She said her 10-year-old could easily make them on her own, too. “We added the coconut and chocolate chips,” she said. “We didn’t individually wrap them. They didn’t last that long!”
FUN AND TAST Y MIX-INS! ⊲⊲Raisins ⊲⊲Shredded coco
nut ⊲⊲Dried cranberri es ⊲⊲Mini M&Ms ⊲⊲Puffed rice cere
al
Photo by Julie Bidwell
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GRAB-AND-GO GRANOLA BARS 3 tablespoons butter, plus more for the pan ⅓ cup packed brown sugar ¼ cup honey 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 3 cups quick-cooking rolled oats ¼ cup chocolate chips Makes 12 bars
DIRECTIONS Butter an 8-inch-square baking pan. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, honey and vanilla extract. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved. Turn off the heat. Pour the oats into the pot. Stir well (for about 5 minutes). Spread the oat mixture into the pan and press it down with your hands to even it out. (You may need to rub a little butter on your palms so they don’t stick to the bars. Press hard!) Press chocolate chips into the top of the bars. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until chilled (about 1 hour). Bring to room temperature, then ask an adult to help you cut the dough into 12 bars, using a sharp knife. Wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap, aluminum foil or waxed paper. Store the bars in the refrigerator for up to a week.
DON’T HAVE QUICK OATS? Place rolled oats in a food processor and pulse 4 or 5 times until they’re coarsely chopped but not powdery.
Source: Deanna Cook’s gorgeous new book — Cooking Class: 57 Fun Recipes Kids Will Love to Make (and Eat!) — features playfully illustrated recipes to inspire even picky eaters to cook (and, yes, try) new foods.
←←A camper takes aim at one of the many basketball hoops — set to different heights for various age groups — at a Revolutionary Sports camp.
CAMP
Sports sampler Story and photos by Lauren Cutshall
Revolutionary Sports offers day camps that allow kids to try as many as 25 different athletic activities
M
any parents know all too well the answer they’ll get if they ask their child what he or she did on any given day: “Nothing.” But after a day at a Revolutionary Sports summer camp, that answer might get a bit more interesting. It might go something like: “Soccer, basketball, cricket, Frisbee, lacrosse, handball AND tennis!” At Revolutionary Sports camps, kids can learn to play up to 25 sports each week in a non-competitive environment designed for exploration. This summer, Twin Cities kids as young as 4 can attend camp at three locations — Minneapolis (Northeast Ice Area), St. Paul (Vadnais Sports Center) and Eden Prairie (AirMaxx Trampoline Park and Champions Hall); and there’s a chance even more locations will be added come summer.
Coach John Revolutionary Sports founder John Richardson, who’s perhaps better known as “Coach John,” has more than 20 years of experience in sports instruction for kids. His local business started to take shape in 2002 when the Minneapolis Park Board asked him to start preschool soccer classes to be taught at local parks. mnparent.com • March 2016
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CAMP
Sports sampler
His classes became incredibly popular. Parents spread the word. And Richardson found himself coaching multiple sports year-round at parks across the city. Parents can now find a Revolutionary Sports class nearly every day of the year at more than 50 Minneapolis parks and schools as well as communities around the Twin Cities. Kids as young as 2 can take part in the company’s year-round programming, which has grown to include more than 100 coaches leading instructional classes, day camps and fundamentals leagues in more than 25 different sports. Summer day camps — as well as year-round day camps — are geared toward ages 4 to 14.
Sports tracks At camp, kids get to try their hand at a variety of tracks that create the ultimate sports sampler: Each track, eight currently, feature multiple sports. For example, the soccer track includes lacrosse, field hockey, Ultimate Frisbee and capture the flag, as well as soccer. The baseball/softball track includes similar sports such as cricket, golf and kickball. Tennis covers badminton, Frisbee golf and four square. The five other tracks include football, basketball, volleyball, lacrosse/hockey and a “track and adventure course.” At the Minneapolis location, Friday afternoons include a field trip to a waterpark. And all campers, regardless of location, get a chance to visit the AirMaxx Trampoline Park and the obstacle course training facility known as Conquer Ninja Warrior. Both are part of the Eden Prairie camp location, which also includes time at the Champions Hall sports complex at the same site.
Discovering cricket Richardson said playing sports during camp isn’t just about keeping kids distracted or occupied. It’s also about teaching them correct techniques so they can avoid injuries and eventually improve.
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“Sports are important — and doing them ↑↑A Revolutionary Sports camper the right way is important,” he said. navigates the rings That includes lesser-known sports. on an obstacle course at the “We do as many sports as we can,” Conquer Ninja Richardson said. “We’re not afraid of Warrior training trying anything.” facility during camp. During a camp last summer, 8-year-old Juniper Sulser said cricket was one of her favorite sports to learn. Though cricket may be unfamiliar, the kids learn it in relation to other sports they do know. “You have a paddle and a ball,” Juniper explained. “It’s like baseball, only it has two bases instead of four.”
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GYMNASTICS TUMBLING TRAMPOLINE
CAMP
Sports sampler
↑↑Soccer day at Revolutionary Sports camps also includes lacrosse, field hockey, Ultimate Frisbee and capture the flag.
Coach expertise
Gleason’s Gymnastics School Strengthening children in mind and body through successful gymnastics experiences
www.gleasons.com Maple Grove 763.493.2526 9778 85th Ave. N Eagan 651.454.6203 2015 Silver Bell Rd. 36
March 2016 • mnparent.com
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With such a varied athletic curriculum, Revolutionary Sports employs a range of qualified coaches who emphasize safety as well as instruction. “Our staff are very patient,” Richardson said, adding that the camp maintains a 10:1 camper-to-coach ratio. One of the toughest things about sports camp for some kids is learning that mastering a skill can take time and work — and trial and error. Success isn’t — usually — instant. If a child gets hurt, coaches react quickly. But rather than immediately giving kids long breaks or ice packs, coaches first encourage kids to take a deep breath and collect themselves. Since many mishaps are amplified by embarrassment and fear of failure, it’s often more important to first remind the kids that not everyone succeeds right away.
5/14/13 1:31 PM
“It’s OK to fail or not succeed,” Richardson said. “That’s part of challenging yourself.” Sports are about so much more than physical skills, Richardson said. “We try to teach kids how to handle competition when it arises,” he said. “It’s developing the kids socially as well as athletically.”
Growing up Long after their days as Rev Sports campers are over, kids can continue to participate in the program by volunteering. Thirteen-year-old Maxim Buehler is a veteran camper. This summer, he’ll participate as a junior counselor. Buehler said he enjoys demonstrating responsibility in front of the kids. “When kids disagree, I help them get along,” he said. “That makes me feel good.”
Revolutionary Sports What: This year-round program offers day camps for ages 4 to 14 at multiple Twin Cities locations. Campers get to try up to 25 sports a week in a non-competitive environment geared toward teamwork and leadership. Ages: 4–14 Dates: Summer camps will be offered June 6–Sept. 2 in Eden Prairie and June 13–Aug. 26 in Minneapolis and St. Paul Hours: 9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. with drop off as early as 7:30 a.m. and pickup as late as 5:30 p.m. Locations: Minneapolis Sports Camp (Northeast Ice Arena, 1306 Central Ave. NE, Minneapolis); AirMaxx Sports Camp (AirMaxx Trampoline Park and Champions Hall, 7000 Washington Ave. S., Eden Prairie); Vadnais Sports Camp (Vadnais Sports Center, 1490 County Road E., St. Paul). More locations may be added. See pla-it.com. Weekly costs: Full-day camp, depending on the location, is $235–$295 ($195–$255 if you book at least two weeks in advance); half days are $165 ($140 if you book at least two weeks in advance). Single-day rates are also available. Ages 4 and 5 may sign up for only one morning or afternoon half-day session, not both. Info: pla-it.com/camp
Buehler said his favorite sport at camp is Ultimate Frisbee “because there’s a lot of teamwork.” With so much variety — typically a half-dozen sports each day — kids rarely get bored. One camper, attending a session last summer, tried to explain the math: “It’s six sports each day — 6 plus 6, or 5 times … well, a lot of sports!” Lauren Cutshall is a Minneapolis-based freelance writer and a student at the University of Minnesota. Minnehaha Academy MNP 0316 S3.indd 1
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SAVE $15
per session March 3 – March 8
DAY CAMPS Camp Christmas Tree 6365 Game Farm Rd., Minnetrista, MN 55364, 952-544-7708. Located on 45 acres at Dutch Lake near Mound, MN. YMCA Camp St. Croix – DayCroix 532 County Rd. F, Hudson, WI, 612-465-0560. Located on 400 acre site overlooking the St. Croix River. Camp Guy Robinson 3100 217th Ave NW, Oak Grove, MN, 763-785-7882. Located at Lake George Regional Park. Camp Heritage 7732 Main Street, Lino Lakes, MN; located across from Wargo Nature Center in Lino Lakes. YMCA Day Camp Ihduhapi 3425 Ihduhapi Rd., Loretto, MN 55357, 763-479-1146. Located on Lake Independence. Day Camp Ihduhapi offers the beautiful, north woods feel of camp. Camp Kici Yapi 13220 Pike Lake Trail NE, Prior Lake, MN 55372, 952-835-2567. Located on 80 acre site in Prior Lake. Camp Kumalya 1515 Keats Ave. N., Lake Elmo, MN, 651-731-9507. Located at Lake Elmo Park Reserve in Lake Elmo. Camp Manitou 763-535-4800. Attraction-packed new location at Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Park. Camp Spring Lake 13690 Pine Bend Trail, Rosemount, MN 55068, 651-456-9622. Located at Dakota County Spring Lake Park Reserve in Rosemount. Camp Streefland 11490 Klamath Trail, Lakeville, MN 55044, 952-898-9622. Located on Lake Kingsley in Lakeville.
Ihduhapi Kici Yapi Kumalya Manitou Spring Lake Streefland
Membership not required. Financial assistance available.
Kids get crazy with shaving cream in a 2015 workshop titled The Art of Messiness at Leonardo’s Basement in Minneapolis.
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CAMP SUMMER CLASSES AT LEONARDO’S BASEMENT LET KIDS MAKE MISTAKES AND MESSES WHILE THEY DREAM, BUILD AND EXPERIMENT THEIR WAY TO NEW DISCOVERIES
HANDS ON! W
STORY AND PHOTOS BY LAUREN CUTSHALL
hen you open the catchall junk drawer in your home, what do you see? A mess? Clutter? Trash? How about the makings of an amazing art project, a super-cool robot or all the necessary ingredients for a never-seen-before science experiment? Kids in Leonardo’s Basement summer classes are encouraged to see the latter. They’re urged to use their creativity and imaginations to the fullest. With the right mindset, a bucket of trinkets can turn into an invaluable treasure trove of inspiration and — with work and determination — brand-new creations. Thanks to an incredibly diverse class list and a collection of cool tools and supplies at the south Minneapolis workshop, it’s not too hard to get enthused. In June and August, for example, a morning class titled Mega Marble Run will challenge kids age 6 to 9 to make “the biggest, most amazing” marble track ever. mnparent.com • March 2016
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In July, ages 11 and older can sign up for an afternoon class — titled A Small Buoyant Structure for Travel on Water — in which kids build boats or personal contraptions that float, followed by a day of play at Lake Harriet. The A-to-Z list of more than 100 other classes available at Leonard’s Basement includes kidand teen-friendly topics such as American Girl Doll Carpentry; LEGO Robotics; Millennium Falcon; Dog Houses and Cat Furniture; Bows, Arrows and Katniss’s Quiver; Build What You Want; 3D Printing; and Geek Barista.
STUDENT-DRIVEN Thirteen-year-old Mana McBurnie from Northeast Minneapolis said she’s enjoyed Leonardo’s Basement art classes such as tie dye
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and mosaics as well as more technical classes, such as a CNC router class in which kids learn to program a computer-controlled cutting machine. (This year a class called Intro to Raspberry Pi will teach kids how to program credit card–sized single-board computers.) Leonardo’s Basement staff members take into account feedback from the previous summer’s students when they’re trying to come up with new classes every year. They also try to see the world from a kid’s point of view by asking themselves: “What would my 10-year-old self want to do?” Students are also given the freedom to tailor their classes to their whims by tweaking class themes on the fly if there’s common interest among the kids.
“
THE MOST IMPORTANT SKILLS THEY DEVELOP ARE THE ONES YOU DON’T SEE. — Leonardo’s Basement founder and executive director Steve Jevning
←←Instructors encourage kids to use their imagination and creativity during classes at Leonardo’s Basement, which is dedicated “to helping students develop projects by dreaming and taking risks, to learn decisionmaking by making decisions and to learn problem-solving by solving problems.”
For example, a few summers ago, kids in one class realized they all had a fascination with the British television show, Doctor Who. Soon, it evolved into a Doctor Who-themed class, inspiring the kids to create a life-sized TARDIS. (This summer, there’s a Doctor Who Accessories class.) Mana’s younger brother, 10-year-old Morien McBurnie, said he remembers one of his first classes changing its theme, too. After one of his classmates started to craft a baseball bat, he wanted to make one too. Soon the entire class realized a common love of baseball and decided to shift the focus of the class. Empowering kids in this way gives each class a fresh and undiscovered feeling, said program director Tracy Nielsen.
SIGN UP NOW FOR
SPORTS CAMPS YEAR ROUND DATES OFFERED BY DAY OR WEEK
NEW LOCATION Leonardo’s Basement — formerly located at Nicollet Avenue and 43rd Street — moved two miles south to West 60th Street (between Nicollet Avenue and Lyndale Avenue) last year. Though the location has changed, the emphasis on designing, making and doing is as strong as ever with a new workshop — nearly three times the size of the one in the previous location — plus special areas dedicated to LEGOs, electronics, woodworking and metal working. A new outdoor space will be used for team-built structures and sculptures this summer. “It’s never the same week twice,” Nielsen said. And that’s quite a feat for a nonprofit going into its 18th year of programming.
Multiple Locations Offered Across Metro Flexible Camp Options Between 7:30 AM & 5:30 PM All camps divided by age and ability
Multi-Sport Half-Day & Full-Day Camps Ages 6-14 — 25 different sports activities played every week
Sport Sampler Half-Day Camps Ages 4-8 — three different sport activities offered every day
Positive Coaching Environment to Encourage Learning Challenging Non-Competitive Approach to Foster Teamwork Child Development Best Practices for Sport Instruction
PLA-IT.COM | Info@RevSports.org | (612)234-7782
DORIAN SUMMER MUSIC CAMPS
CAMP
HANDS ON!
AT LUTHER COLLEGE
CAMP DATES:
June 12–18 and June 19–25 Decorah, Iowa Visit our website for more information
luther.edu/music/dorian Dorian Music Camps MNP 0316 12.indd 2
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↑↑A bowling-ball version of Newton’s Cradle — a device created by Sir Isaac Newton to demonstrate the conservation of momentum and energy with a row of swinging spheres — is one of many creations to come out of Leonardo’s Basement.
LOOKING BACK It all started in 1997 when a dozen elementary-age students at Clara Barton Open School, a Minneapolis public school, asked their parents about forming an after-school club where they could choose and direct their own projects and go on field trips. Those kids’ parents incorporated Leonardo’s Basement as a tax-exempt, nonprofit educational organization one year later. They named their endeavor after Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519), beloved throughout the ages for his curious and observing mind. “He is the exemplary Renaissance man — integrating engineering, art, science and technology,” the nonprofit’s website says. “Second, the name conveys our interest in discovery and experimentation and the informal nature of heading into the ‘basement,’ where tinkering and explora-
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tion is encouraged.” The workshop has served more than 11,000 students — including adults — since 1998.
MORE THAN JUST BUILDING Kids at Leonardo’s Basement learn art and science through hard work and play. In the process, they also learn about trial and error — the failure that often comes before success — and the importance of perseverance. “The most important skills they develop are the ones you don’t see,” said founder and executive director Steve Jevning. While the kids may learn many technical skills during classes, Jevning said, “It’s more important that they continue to be imaginative and curious.” That’s part of the organization’s philosophy of valuing “process over product.”
Leonardo’s Basement What: This art and science workshop in south Minneapolis offers more than 100 summer classes focused on encouraging kids to design and build imaginative engineering, art and technology projects. Ages: 6–17 Dates: June 13–Aug. 26 Hours: 9:30 a.m.–noon and 12:30 p.m.–3 p.m. with drop off as early as 8:30 a.m. and pick up as late as 4:30 p.m.
Year Round Riding Lessons Available for All Ages Horse Camp · Birthday Parties Rosemount, MN
651-226-2027 • sunnysidestables.org
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New location: 150 W. 60th St., Minneapolis, Weekly cost: $185 for half-day classes, which can be combined to create full-day experiences; extended care costs are $25–$50 per week Info: leonardosbasement.org
It’s about embracing difficulty, not avoiding it. And the kids are supported with a student-to-staff minimum ratio of 8-1. Kids who want a real challenge can visit the workshop’s command-center simulator — a small pod with just enough room for a chair and buttons galore. While sitting inside, they have to figure out a correct sequence of buttons to press and levers to switch. Through a process of trial and error, kids continue to tinker until something works. And when it comes to creating art and other inventions, kids won’t find all the perfect supplies on site. When a project needs some eyeballs, for example, the workshop encourages more than just googly eyes. “We try to get them to think about using materials in a different way,” Nielsen said. “There’s always another way to do something.”
Junior Achievement Summer Camp Young entrepreneurs will learn how to run a successful business through a variety of fun, interactive activities. Held at JA BizTown, our unique kid-sized city.
apply for a job • learn to manage finances run a business • earn a paycheck explore STEM careers $185 per session; $350 for both
June 20-23
651-255-0037
jaum.org/ja-summer-camps
Junior Achievement MNP 0316 H6.indd 1
(STEM Camp)
July 25-28
(Young Entrepreneurs Camp) 12/18/15 11:48 AM
Lauren Cutshall is a Minneapolis-based freelance writer and a student at the University of Minnesota.
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FAMILY CAMP
All ages can immerse themselves in different languages and cultures at Concordia Language Villages
By Jodie Tweed
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estled along the wooded shores of Turtle River Lake, about 12 miles northeast of Bemidji, Concordia Language Villages is a tranquil setting for a Minnesota camp. But as soon as visitors arrive at the 875-acre property, they quickly find they’re no longer in Minnesota. At Concordia Language Villages, villagers (not campers) are quickly immersed into one of the 15 different languages spoken at the camp’s many cultural immersion programs. Village passports are required to cross the border into the country they’ll inhabit, complete with their chosen foreign country’s food, language and customs. And it’s not just the kids who can experience these immersion-style adventures. Concordia’s weekend and weeklong family camps allow entire families to learn a new language — and culture — together.
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The perfect summer quest
Pre-k Camps
Grade School Camps
PREPARING FOR TRAVEL? Can’t afford an international trip? This is it — without the expense and without having to leave the state. In fact, many families who plan global travel experiences often go to family camp together first to get a feel for the language and culture of the country they plan to visit. (Family camp is free for children 3 and younger.) Martin Graefe, senior group director at Concordia Language Villages, said family summer programs are becoming increasingly popular: Last summer the camp experienced a 65 percent increase in its family programs alone.
Monday–Wednesday 1p–4p AND Wednesday 9:30a–12:30p
Thursday 1:00p–4:00p Friday 10:30a–1:30p
The Little Gym of Edina thelittlegym.com/edinamn • 952-924-0083 Little Gym MNP 0316 H4.indd 2
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↑↑Sing-alongs — sometimes including hand actions — are a big part of learning languages during family camps at Concordia Language Villages. ←←Traditional summer-camp activities such as archery are an important part of family language camps, too. Photos courtesy of Concordia Language Villages mnparent.com • March 2016
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Concordia also offers family camps during certain holiday breaks — such as the three-day weekends of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and Presidents Day — and during the MEA break each October. Erik Tennant of Apple Valley, brought his 16-year-old son, Ryan, to a French family weekend camp last year for the second time. He wanted an immersiontype program to complement his son’s high school French class. “We’re building up to a trip to France,” Tennant said. “I wanted to help him connect with the language and have it become more natural.” “It’s super fun,” Ryan Tennant said. “It forces you to say something in French, even to get your food.”
START THEM YOUNG Graefe said more families are recognizing the benefits of having their children become bilingual early in life when they’re at their most receptive to learning. Overall, enrollment in Concordia Language Villages programs is up 12 percent in the past year. “Families understand that their kids are going to be exposed to people from around the world in today’s global economy,” Graefe said. “Parents today are much more engaged in their children’s lives.” When children learn languages, they have an easier time than grownups because they don’t see the words as foreign. They’re just new, Graefe said. That’s why they have a higher success rate of pronouncing words and enunciating correctly, Graefe said.
MORE THAN WORDS A typical day at family camp varies. Food is an integral part of every culture: At the Japanese camp, villagers awake to morning exercises and a typical breakfast of fish, rice and miso soup. At French camp, lunch may feature Tunisian couscous. Every meal at each language program is freshly prepared by staff. Each program incorporates music and songs — in both small and large group activities — to help villagers learn their target language. Each village within the camp has its own waterfront for canoeing, swimming and other water activities. (At the Swedish camp, villagers can earn a badge in sailing.)
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↑↑Villagers at Concordia Languages with the highest Language Villages family camps enrollments at Concordia’s don’t just learn how to speak camps, in order, are Spanish, the languages of other cultures. French, German, Chinese, They’re also immersed in the cuisine and customs every day. Japanese and Norwegian. The Arabic program is small but growing and offers many scholarship opportunities. Other popular language camps include Portuguese, Russian, Swedish, Swiss, Finnish, Danish, Italian and English.
MAKING IT A TRADITION Nearly half of all youth who attend a Concordia Language Village camp return a year later, Graefe said. About 45 percent of villagers are from Minnesota, but the rest are from throughout the U.S. or abroad. Francois Fouquerel, dean of the French Les Voyageurs program, is a native of France and has taught at Concordia Language Villages since 1985. When he leads the French family camp with villagers of all ages, he speaks only French. He uses hand gestures and animated facial expressions to get his messages across, too. “We give people the encouragement to learn and produce things in a fun and supportive environment,” he said. “They’re going to be excited about learning French, and they will have tasted food they’ve never had. It opens your mind to other cultures, and they can take lessons from here for the rest of their lives.”
MULTILINGUAL Amy Colon drove from Minneapolis to bring her 5-year-old son, Oskar, to French family camp. Her son spent two years in a French immersion preschool, and then moved onto kindergarten at a
2016
Concordia Language Villages What: In addition to its youth programs, Concordia Language Villages, a program of Concordia College in Moorhead, offers family camps in 11 languages, including Chinese, Finnish, French, German, Japanese, Norwegian, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swedish and Swiss.
CLAY CAMPS June 13– August 19
|
Ages 6 & up
Week-long camps | Half-day and Full-day Monsters & Minions, You Spin Me Right Round, Jurassic Studio, and more! Limited, need-based scholarships are available.
Register online now! 2424 Franklin Ave. E. | Minneapolis, MN 55406 | www.northernclaycenter.org
Ages: All ages are welcome. Dates: Weeklong family camps (six days) are offered in June, July and August. Family weekends (four days) are held during the school year in January, February, April, May and October. Locations: Most family camps are hosted at the Bemidji site, about four hours north of the Twin Cities. Concordia’s Hackensack site offers one French family camp, a Cass Lake site offers a Portuguese family camp and a Chinese family week is held at Maplelag Resort near Callaway. Cost: $675 per person for ages 19 and older, $545 per person for ages 4–18 for family week camps (six days) and $290 and $155, respectively, for family weekend camps (four days). Ages 3 and younger can attend for free. Info: concordialanguagevillages.org
Chinese immersion school. Colon said learning a new language came easier to him at his young age than it did for her when she tried to learn Swedish as a teen. She hopes being multilingual will open doors for her son in the future with college scholarships and job opportunities. “It’s flipping me out how fast he’s picked up languages,” Colon said. “We’ll probably be returning to these French family weekends because it will keep him in the game. I also want to have time away with him. “This is a great resource in our backyard.” Jodie Tweed is a freelance writer living in Pequot Lakes.
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Super Summer Camps • Project KIDS Summer Break • Rockin’ Reader • Wednesday in the Park Concerts ISD 191 Community Education: Burnsville, Eagan and Savage
952-707-4150 • communityed191.org ISD 191 - General Comm Ed MNP 0316 H4.indd 5
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mnparent.com • March 2016
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M West Bloomington (952) 886-4382 Brooklyn Park (763) 269-6969 Chanhassen West (952) 474-6284 Eagan (651) 815-0303 Eden Prairie (952) 500-2138 SW Edina (763) 269-6969 Lakeville (952) 891-1100 Maple Grove (763) 269-6969 SW Minneapolis – Lynnhurst (763) 269-6969 Minnetonka (952) 500-2139 Plymouth (763) 567-8143 Savage (952) 226-3000 Shakopee (952) 236-1699 St. Louis Park – Edina (763) 269-6969 St. Paul (651) 698-6284 Stillwater (651) 300-2252 White Bear Lake (651) 888-2541 Woodbury (651) 330-4184 (Expires 5/31/16) Mathnasium MNP 0316 H2.indd 1
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CAMP
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e than r o m try ld at e r can h e , d l y r o u 6 and amp Pillsb watonna Ages C at nO vities e campus i i t c TES a g N WIT 100 e l E l J o Y c B er a form
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amp Pillsbury is not your typical woodsy, lakeside summer camp. It’s not remote, secluded or even a little bit rustic. Instead of cabins, Camp Pillsbury lodging is comprised of dormitories on a beautiful 20-acre campus in the city of Owatonna, population 25,000, 65 miles south of the Twin Cities. Held at the former Pillsbury Baptist Bible College — now known as Pillsbury College Prep and Camp — Camp Pillsbury lets campers experience the feeling of attending a small campus in a quaint college town. 1:42 PM Though some aspects of Camp Pillsbury give a nod to traditional camp life, such as togetherness, friendship, team building and a communal dining hall, others are completely unique.
FROM MUSIC TO MAGIC Camp Pillsbury, going into its third year this summer, offers more than 100 programs to choose from including circus arts, music, magic, even aviation at North Star Aviation at the Mankato Regional Airport (for an up charge). Pillsbury employs talented experts from various fields, including — to name a few — performing arts, fashion design, cheerleading, gymnastics, rock music and culinary arts. While there’s a strong emphasis on the arts, Pillsbury also offers sports — soccer, basketball, watersports such as tubing, and extreme sports such as skateboarding. Campers will also find traditional camp activities such as horseback riding.
↑↑Held at the former Pillsbury Baptist Bible College in Owatonna, Camp Pillsbury lets campers experience the feeling of attending a small college in a quaint town — but without the heavy academic load. Photos courtesy of Camp Pillsbury
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FREEDOM OF CHOICE
↑↑Skateboarding, rollerblading and scootering are classified as extreme sports at Camp Pillsbury in Owatonna.
There’s no set routine of swimming then lawn games, followed by crafts. Campers decide what they want to do and plan their days accordingly, inspiring many to call Camp Pillsbury “the dream summer.” Attendees simply follow their dreams. Campers who go for two weeks can select three majors for morning sessions and three minors for the afternoon. Campers can change their minors daily, allowing them to experience many activities. A kid could potentially take violin lessons, get IT training and fly high on a trapeze, all in a single summer session. “With so many activities to choose from, Camp Pillsbury campers’ biggest problem is how to fit it all in,” said Camp Pillsbury executive director and founder, Vonda White.
FIELD TRIPS The middle Sunday of every two-week session is an Adventure Day at Camp Pillsbury. Campers staying over that Saturday and Sunday get to participate in a field trip. Typical adventures include the Mall of America, Valleyfair, a Mississippi River cruise, a Twins game, a water park trip, the Steele County Fair or Owatonna’s Crazy Days, where campers get the chance to perform on stage and march in a parade. The emphasis on “experiWhat: Held at a former bible college campus in ence” and the pursuit of Owatonna, this camp offers half-day, full-day and personal passions is meant overnight camps. Campers design their own schedules to boost self-confidence in with more than 100 activities such as circus arts, the campers so they can cooking, dance, sports, horseback riding, magic, music, theatre, visual arts, outdoor adventures, rock and roll, return home stronger, sports, tech/multimedia/digital arts, watersports and happier and more selfmore. assured than before. Ages: 6–17 There’s a good chance Dates: June 12–Aug. 21. Overnight camp also includes they’ll have honed at least a special-session trip to Chicago Aug. 21–28. One- and one talent quite a bit as well, two-week sessions run either Sunday to Sunday or too, White said. Monday through Friday. “It’s a loving, positive Location: Owatonna, about an hour south environment,” White said. of the Twin Cities “All campers try new things. Weekly camp costs: $149 for half-day camps; $349 for Everybody is going to day camp ($399 with busing from Burnsville, Mankato become pretty good at or Rochester); $599–$799 for overnight camps something. Kids who may
Camp Pillsbury
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Why a camp on a college campus? By Sarah Jackson Vonda White — a longtime insurance broker and now the founder of Camp Pillsbury — came to Minnesota in 2014. Her journey started about six years ago when she was living in Florida and looking for summer activities for her three kids. She wanted something to further their interests in the arts. Her administrative assistant suggested a camp in New York that offered arts, sports and more. “I had never heard of camp,” White said. That summer, her kids had an outstanding time participating in theater productions, music lessons, circus arts and skateboarding sessions, among other things. When she flew up to attend the end-of-session performances, she was floored. “I was amazed to see everything they could do after a 2½ week period,” White said. Her son had learned how to play the drums and how to skateboard (including how to safely fall). More important, her kids came back with confidence, thanks to everything they found they could achieve in a matter of weeks. “You think, ‘If I can do that, what else can I do?’” White said. White was inspired. How could she help more kids discover camp — and have those kinds of experiences? And was there a business opportunity here? Her entrepreneurial spirit said yes. “They teach you to always be looking if you’re a serial entrepreneur,” White said. White immediately set out to see if she could purchase a camp of her own. She didn’t find much inventory, despite looking all over the U.S.: Few camps were for sale. And the ones on offer were too remote for year-round activities or they were far too expensive. Then — by Googling “college campus for sale” — she found the Pillsbury campus, a former Baptist bible college that had been sitting vacant since 2008 in Owatonna. In April 2014, she bought the historic property for $1.8 million — with no money down — with a dream of creating the ultimate summer camp.
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Hoping to host her first camp that very summer, White upgraded one of the dormitories and managed to have the old dining hall, kitchen and gymnasium remodeled as well. Few folks believed she could launch a camp on such a short timeline. But she did. Now entering its third summer this June, the camp is growing. More than 250 kids attended last summer and more are expected this year. Most campers attend for at least four weeks, White said. Many sign up for two weeks and end up staying longer. All of White’s children, who now live in Minnesota, too, attend or work at the camp. Meanwhile, White continues to revamp the campus facilities — which boasts 13 buildings in all and historic-register status — and she’s slowly launching a boarding school, which is now in its first year with 15 students in grades 6 to 12 who attend a variety of local public and private academic programs. She’s also still running her Florida-based insurance company, Collegiate Risk Management, which specializes in health insurance for students. White, recently featured in a story about female entrepreneurs on Inc.com, has been honored with multiple awards in her central-Florida community for her women-owned, small-business successes. She said the can-do spirit found at Camp Pillsbury has proven equally powerful in the business world. “I’m a dreamer,” White said. “I believe you only have one life. Allow yourself to dream and think big.” Sarah Jackson is the editor of Minnesota Parent.
FUN, EDUCATIONAL CAMPS FOR PRESCHOOL –7TH GRADE! • Week-long camps June–August • Behind-the-scenes experiences • Meet zookeepers and gardeners
• Discover Como’s Tropical Rainforests • Prepare enrichments for animals • Learn a new art technique
651.487.8272 • comozooconservatory.org Como Zoo MNP 0316 H6.indd 1
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↑↑Circus arts, which include unicycling, are one of the most popular majors at Camp Pillsbury.
be bullied at school or a misfit in other places, they find themselves. And they realize, ‘I’m OK.’”
INTERNATIONAL CAMPERS White hires counselors from all over the world to broaden campers’ horizons. She also markets the camp to an international audience — offering English immersion, quintessential small-town American life and instruction in the arts. That means kids will have the opportunity to learn about other cultures beyond those found in Minnesota. Lynn Peterson, a Twin Cities parent who sent her 13-year-old son, Evan, to Camp Pillsbury last summer, said her son was supposed to stay for one session. “He ended up spending another five weeks,” Peterson said, adding that Evan now has friends from around the world, thanks to camp. “Every cent that he has now he is setting aside for next summer.” Jen Wittes is a freelance writer and mother of two who lives in St. Paul. Learn more about her work at jenwittes.com. Send questions or comments to jwittes@mnparent.com.
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facing cancer together Camp Angel helps kids age 5 to 18 cope with a parent’s cancer diagnosis Story and photos by Lauren Cutshall
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O
ne of the very first activities at Camp Angel involves getting all of the campers to stand in a line. Campers are then asked to step forward when a leader calls out a characteristic that speaks to them. When prompted by their favorite foods, colors or animals, kids gradually start stepping forward in small groups. But it’s not until the end, when the kids are prompted with, “If you love someone who has or had cancer,” that everyone steps forward and recognizes — in an obvious and physical way — that they all have something pretty important in common. “I think it opens a door, as soon as people can look left and right and see that everyone here understands,” said Dan Mundt, a 2015 Camp Angel staff member. “Then they’re so much more open.”
Camaraderie amid complexity Geared toward ages 5 to 18, Camp Angel — a project of the local nonprofit Angel Foundation — is a three-day camp for kids who have a parent with a current or past cancer diagnosis. It’s a lot like other summer camps, complete with T-shirt tie-dying, ropes courses and a variety of other traditional camp experiences. Now in its 11th summer, Camp Angel (formerly known as Kids Kamp) is held at Camp Eden Wood, a collection of cabins north of Eden Prairie. “Camp is a fun and therapeutic opportunity for children and teens who have a parent with cancer to be around other kids like themselves,” said Melissa Turgeon, the
←←Camp Angel, held at Camp Eden Wood north of Eden Prairie, helps campers build camaraderie and meet the challenges of having a parent with a current or past cancer diagnosis.
director of Facing Cancer Together at the Angel Foundation. Program staff and volunteers encourage kids to talk with their peers — kids going through the same thing — about the tough disruption that inevitably comes out of a situation involving cancer. Missy Lundquist, one of the camp’s co-founders, said the camp fosters a special camaraderie among the kids. “It really helps them feel less isolated and normalizes a really abnormal situation,” she said. The camp’s other co-founder, Janice Haines, said Camp Angel started more than a decade ago when she and Lundquist recognized there weren’t many places to support the children of cancer patients. “There was a need for it,” Haines said. “It was instantaneously popular.” There are two sessions of Camp Angel — one in June and one in August — each averaging about 100 kids. “We’re unique in that we serve families with any type of cancer — any stage of the diagnosis too,” Haines said. “We have newly diagnosed and we have campers who come back years later just because of the connections.”
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Common understanding Those connections are part of what make the camp special for so many kids. Numerous specially trained staff and volunteers, including teen mentors, give campers a nearly 1-1 counselor-tocamper ratio. All of the teen mentors have attended camp themselves, meaning they, too, have experience with cancer in their families. Teen mentor Lucas Kempf of St. Louis Park came to camp after his mom was mnparent.com • March 2016
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CAMP facing cancer together
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RegisteR today!
↑↑Campers age 5 to 18 come to diagnosed with cancer. Camp Angel in Eden Prairie to Now he’s happy to give back by volunteering as a play games, run around outside mentor. and work on art projects as well as talk about the challenges of “I was overwhelmed by the positivity and support,” having a parent with a cancer Kempf said about his first time at Camp Angel. diagnosis. “There’s no drama. It’s easier to be yourself around people who know what you’re going through.” Eleven-year-old camper Wyatt Jellison felt supported at camp. “You’re not going to get teased,” he said. “No one is going to judge you here.” Volunteers at Camp Angel also include cancer survivors and medical professionals,
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offering campers a rich depth of knowledge and understanding.
It’s free, flexible
Camp Angel What: The Angel Foundation’s Camp Angel (formerly known as Kids Kamp) is a threeday camp for kids who have or have had a parent or caregiver with cancer. The Angel Foundation, based in Mendota Heights, provides emergency financial assistance, education and support to local adults with cancer and their families. The foundation has helped more than 25,000 people through its programs since 2001.
Go Big or Go Home !
At Camp Angel, ages 5 to 12 attend day camp. Ages 13 to 18 are encouraged to for a complete camp schedule, please visit: stay overnight. WWW.SHELLLAKEARTSCENTER.ORG Perhaps what’s most surprising about music • art • theatre Camp Angel is the cost: It’s free. shell lake arts center Paying for camp, while also affording Ages: 5–18 treatment and lost work hours, isn’t easy Shell Lake Arts MNP 0316 12.indd 1 2/4/16 3:21 PM for families. Dates: June 16–18 and August 16–18 “This is a way for them to have a Location: Camp Eden Wood, Eden Prairie normal childhood experience under Cost: Free extraordinary circumstances, and Info: mnangel.org without costing the family money,” Lundquist said. The Angel Foundation, established in 2001, also offers year-round help for families. Camp is an extension of Facing Cancer Together, an Angel Foundation program that offers families with young children and teens — who are living with a parental cancer diagnosis — receive accurate, age-appropriate information about cancer and its effects on the family at no cost to participants. master teachers. magic setting.
Communication skills During camp, kids can talk about cancer with each other and their leaders. But it’s just as important that campers take those skills home, Lundquist said. Communication, of course, is a two-way street, so parents are given the opportunity to learn these skills, too, with a drop-in parent support group each morning of camp. Parents can meet some of the other parents and expand their own support network and knowledge — or they can simply go home and have a few days to themselves. Finding some time to be alone, especially when children are young, can be just as therapeutic, Lundquist said.
Seeing real change Whether kids are new to camp (and cancer) or camp/cancer veterans, Lundquist said the - Program CELEBRATING -8:29 AM Lutheran Music MNP 0316 12.indd 40 1 YEARS 12/18/15 transformations campers experience over the three days is always remarkable. On the final day of camp, there’s a special family celebration. O F M I N N E S O T A “They learn they’re not alone. They get to learn that they can handle it,” she said. “They Join us for a great week of Korean still get to be a kid — even in the midst of a very trying experience in the family. The culture, history, language, art, dance, power of being around other people who share a challenging experience, it just lessens martial arts and fabulous food! your load.”
Korean Culture Camp
Lauren Cutshall is a Minneapolis-based freelance writer and a student at the University of Minnesota.
Registration fee is $185
FOR QUESTIONS PLEASE CONTACT LISA BENTLEY AT 952.994.2815 www.kccmn.org July 18–23, 2016 • 9:30 am–2:50 pm mnparent.com • March 2016
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CAMP
Campers at Star Lake Wilderness Camp sleep in tents, not cabins.
Minnesota
unplugged Campers at the rustic Star Lake Wilderness Camp sleep in tents, cook their own food and — perhaps most important — relax By Jodie Tweed 60
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A
s she drove away from MORRIS AREA COMMUNITY Star Lake Wilderness EDUCATION & RECREATION Camp for the first Where Fun, Thinking and Learning time, Michelle Come to Life! Hargrave worried she’d 17th Annual Camp Alpha Summer Camps in Minnesota! made a huge mistake. June 19–22 | Morris, Minnesota Kids’ Battle Bots • Dynamic Art Design Robotic Camps • Aeronautics with Drones • Air Powered Rockets She’d dropped her son, Zane Coyle, then • Solid Fuel Powered Rockets 10, off in the middle of the woods, under a • Principles of Flight Use code MIN1660M5 for 60% OFF • Star Party at the UMM Observatory tarp in the rain — about 2½ hours north of • Hands-on Activities Register and learn more at • Fun Night (swimming, waterslide, their Twin Cities home — at a primitive ROBOTS-4-U.COM gym…and more!) campground in northern Minnesota. or email angela@robots-4-u.com Register now! morris.k12.mn.us or 320-589-4394 Zane would spend the week living in the woods, building campfires, cooking his Robots-4-U MNP 0316 12.indd 1 2/15/16 Morris 9:45 AM Area Comm Ed MNP 0316 12.indd 1 2/16/16 9:39 AM own food and sleeping in a tent at the rustic youth camp. There was no dining hall, no camp store or even a main lodge. Campers are assigned to family groups of about 10 to 15 campers who are responsible for feeding themselves, Daily language classes and cultural exploration in Spanish or American washing their own dishes, cutting Sign Language firewood and maintaining their tents Swimming, crafts, canoeing, nature and campsites. hikes, beach days New Additional activities available for residential All campers turn in their phones and grades 2-8 camp to learn other electronics when they arrive and can • Kevin Lynch Basketball English also pick them up when they leave. • Music and Theater available! • Engineering Challenges Hargrave had a hard time getting her head • Soccer • Explore MN Biology around the camp’s back-to-basics nature. • Adventure Camping Skills “I had way overpacked his stuff, and it was hard for him to carry it. I was worried about him having enough mosquito repellent,” Hargrove said. “It was scary to do that as a mom.” But when she came back to pick him up, he was beaming: “He was having such a great time,” she said. Now 16 and living in Mankato, Zane has returned to Star Lake Wilderness Camp The Basic Elements of near Crosslake — about 2½ hours north of Drawing and Design — Mary Cassatt, 1844–1926 the Twin Cities — every summer since Ages 5-8 then, often for two to four weeks at a time. Providing the foundation for later study in watercolor and oil painting. “When I’m at camp, it’s nice not to have the distractions of technology — and finding other stuff to do to Call or go online for entertain myself,” he said. “I think most Class Information of the other campers feel the same way. 6 51.69 9.1573 It’s nice to get our phones back and Malcom Kelner, Age 8 theartacademy.net listen to music, but you kind of forget about it during the week.” Chosen by WCCO “2013 Best Places for Summer Art Activities” | Winner: City Pages “Best of the Twin Cities”
Blast into Space!
“I have had a joy from which no one can rob me. Can you offer anything to that joy of an artist?”
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CAMP Minnesota Unplugged
A long history
↑↑Free time at Star Lake Wilderness Camp near Crosslake includes swimming on more than a mile of local lakeshore. Photos courtesy of Star Lake Wilderness Camp
Star Lake Camp was started in 1962 by the United Methodist Church, which operated the camp until 2012. Camp supporters then created a nonprofit organization to keep the wilderness camp running, leasing the 435-acre wooded property from the church for $1 a year. The camp is located in the heart of the Whitefish Chain of Lakes, where multi-million dollar lake homes dot the shore. But campers remain secluded from such modern development deep in the woods. They spend their days kayaking, canoeing and swimming along an undeveloped mile of sandy beaches on Little Star Lake. The camp also encompasses large portions of three other neighboring lakes. Walter Lockhart, a Methodist minister from St. Paul, serves as camp director. He employs a staff of seven camp counselors, including many who started out as campers themselves, along with several adult volunteers. Star Lake offers both Christian wilderness camps and traditional secular camps. Most campers have completed grades 5 to 8, though there are camps for younger elementary students, plus service camps for high school students. Younger campers often stay for three to four nights, while older campers may stay for a week or longer, participating in service camps that include work on trails and other facilities.
Making camp affordable What makes Star Lake unique is its cost. If families can’t afford the suggested camp fees of about $65 per day, then they don’t need to pay. Kids should get to attend wilderness
camp, regardless of income, ability or gear, Lockhart said. If campers show up without camping gear, Lockhart and his staff will provide it. Kids do need to bring weather-appropriate clothing, including closed-toed shoes, and completed mandatory health forms. Everyone is equal at Star Lake. “This is a very different type of adventure,” Lockhart said, standing under 150-year-old Norway pines at the wooded camp. “We sit down, write a schedule and ignore it the rest of the week.” Each week the camp typically hosts 25 to 35 campers spread out at three campsites, with a 6-1 ratio of campers to counselors. The campground has three storage buildings on site and a pavilion with no walls, which doubles as an emergency storm shelter. There are also two small rustic cabins for staff.
Coming back
Sarah Hoh of St. Paul was 8 years old when she first attended Star Lake as a family friend of the Lockharts. She enjoyed the experience so much she continued to go back each summer. Now a sophomore in college, she spent her second year as a counselor there last summer. “I struggled as a child with being very shy,” Hoh said. “My family never went camping, and I just really enjoyed being outside. I remember having a lot of beach time, and that was the coolest thing to me as a kid.”
Summer Engineering Camps (Itasca Community College – Grand Rapids, MN)
Star Lake Wilderness Camp What: This rustic camp in the Brainerd Lakes area is held in a wilderness setting. Campers sleep in tents and cook over a campfire. Activities include swimming, canoeing, kayaking, tubing, snorkeling, sand volleyball, hiking, a low-ropes course, night games, campfire songs and more.
Explore engineering applications & careers • Engage in hands-on team projects & experiments • Build professional & problem solving skills • Enjoy recreational & traditional camp activities
Senior High Engineering Camp July 11–16 (entering grades 10–12, fall 2016)
Junior High Engineering Camp July 20–23 (entering grades 7–9, fall 2016)
ICC camps are residential experiences; a nurse is on-site daily
Quality child care at a school near you! Now enrolling for summer.
Call Kim Damiani at 218-322-2370
kimberly.damiani@itascacc.edu | engineering.itascacc.edu
1851 East Hwy. 169, Grand Rapids, MN 55744
Age: Most campers have completed grades Itasca Community College MNP 0316 12.indd 5 to 8, though there are camps for younger elementary students, plus service camps for high school students.
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Dates: July 10–Aug. 13 Location: Crosslake, north of Brainerd, about 2½ hours north of the Twin Cities Cost: $65 per day with reduced or free rates for families who are unable to pay Info: starlakewildernesscamp.com
Creating community Star Lake’s rustic features encourage kids to grow up and develop self-reliance skills, Hoh said. “Campers use tools that they wouldn’t otherwise use; they cook and they make their own home,” she said. “It gives them an opportunity to live in a place that’s different, but also in a small group of people their own age.” Nathan Lockhart, Walter’s son, has spent most of his summers at Star Lake. Last summer, he returned from Emerson College in Boston, where he’s a theater major, to serve as head cook and lifeguard, among other duties.
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CAMP Minnesota Unplugged
“I needed some time in the woods,” Lockhart said. “Star Lake is special to me. You may come to camp with a friend, but you leave camp knowing 12 other people who have built a community with you.”
Adventures and s’mores, too Each summer many of the older campers attempt to complete the Brainerdarian, a camp tradition. Campers push off from shore at 5 a.m. in canoes and navigate the Whitefish Chain of Lakes and the Pine River to canoe more than 40 miles to Brainerd. Last year three groups of canoeists nearly made it before sundown. They were picked up seven miles short of the finish line.
Like all summer camps, ↑↑Campers turn in their phones and other electronics when they campers also enjoy singing arrive at Star Lake Wilderness songs around the campfire Camp for a week of unplugged each night, making s’mores, living. performing camp skits and playing tag in the woods. “It’s a labor of love for me,” said Walter Lockhart, who’s been involved with the camp since 1987. “And it’s a wonderful experience for kids,” he said. “We’re not in the middle of nowhere, but we make it feel like we’re in the middle of nowhere.” Jodie Tweed is a freelance writer living in Pequot Lakes.
CAMP RESOURCES Advertiser listings
EPIC Summer Camp with Eden Prairie Schools Community Education
Academic
Join us for EPIC fun this summer! Halfday and full-day camps for ages 4 and up. FREE care is included for extended, convenient drop-off and pick-up times. Hundreds of camps to choose from: academic, STEM, sports, art, dance, drama, music, chess and more!
191 Community Ed Summer Programs ISD 191 Community Education offers activities and camps for your K–6 student. Art, sports, swimming, dance, theater, and technology classes are offered throughout the summer at an affordable cost. #191community Burnsville-Eagan-Savage 200 W Burnsville Pkwy, Ste 100 Burnsville 952-707-4150 communityed191.org
Bell Museum Science Discovery Day Camps Unearth unforgettable STEAM experiences at the Bell. Week-long camps include outdoor adventure, space exploration, science labs, creative play, and U of M scientists! June 13–September 2, pre-K–6. New camps in sustainability, climate, and paleontology! Minneapolis 612-626-9660 bellmuseum.umn.edu
Camp Invention Camp Invention reinvents summer fun! Local educators lead a week of hands-on activities created especially for 1st-6th graders. Time will be spent constructing and personalizing a DIY solar-powered cricket with a unique habitat and disassembling electronics using real tools. Early registration discounts are available. Eagan, Mendota Heights, Lakeville, Eden Prairie, Maple Grove, Golden Valley, Plymouth, Bloomington, St. Paul, Shoreview, Vadnais Heights, Northfield, New Prague, Woodbury, St. Michael 800-968-4332 campinvention.org
8040 Mitchell Rd Eden Prairie 952-975-6940 edenpr.org/epcommunityed
Gifted & Talented Institute (GTI) Find Your Challenge South of the River. A partnership of south metro school districts, managed by ISD 191 Community Education. GTI provides gifted and talented youth in grades K–9 opportunities for challenge and exploration. Classes run late June through July. Half- and full-day, week-long course options in a variety of core disciplines. 952-707-4150 giftedtalented.org
Green Earth Children’s Academy We provide magical, natural spaces for children (ages 3-7) to enjoy summer creating their own spectacular play ideas and learning from myriads of art, nature, and environmental science projects. Children experience a diverse and authentic summer experience with a focus on nature and sustainable practices. 4115 26th Ave S South Minneapolis 612-272-5466 greenearthpreschool.com
Groves Academy Summer Programs Groves Academy offers summer programs for students entering grades 2–12 from the community with learning and attention challenges. Taught by Groves teachers, our small class sizes and customized instruction build success and confidence. Both
mnparent.com/camp academic and enrichment programs are available. Contact us for more information. 3200 Hwy 100 S St. Louis Park 952-920-6377 grovesacademy.org
Hennepin History Museum History comes alive in this unique museum where kids and adults of all ages will be inspired to look at the world around them in a new way. Make history of your own at our summer camps for kids! 2303 Third Ave S Minneapolis 612-870-1329 hennepinhistory.org
ICC Summer Engineering Camp Explore the world of engineering through hands-on project work, industry tours, and engineering design challenges; live and work at Wenger Engineering Center; enjoy campus life and recreational activities while learning about a great career field. Sr. High Camp: grades 10–12, July 11–16; Jr. High Camp: grades 7–9, July 20–23. Itasca Community College Grand Rapids 218-322-2370 engineering.itascacc.edu
Junior Achievement Summer Camps Students in grades 4–8 will learn how to run a successful business through a variety of fun, interactive activities. Held at JA BizTown, our unique kid-sized city. June session explores STEM careers; July session will appeal to the young entrepreneur. Junior Achievement of the Upper Midwest 1800 White Bear Ave N 651-255-0037 jaum.org/ja-summer-camps
Lake Area Discovery Center Summer World of Wonder Camps A high-quality, NAEYC accredited preschool/ childcare serving families at nine metro locations, offering affordable/flexible schedules for children ages 6 weeks–5 years. Four-yeardegreed teachers engage the “whole-child” in welcoming, stimulating classrooms designed to meet the needs of young children. Fun summer themes: Now enrolling! Metro-wide 651-762-7884 ladcfamilies.org
Minnehaha Academy Summer Programs Our high-quality program offers more than 60 half-day and full-day athletic, enrichment, and academic classes for grades pre-K–12. 4200 W River Pkwy 612-728-7745 minnehahaacademy.net/summer mnparent.com • March 2016
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CAMP RESOURCES Minnetonka Community Education Minnetonka Community Education offers more than 300 summer enrichment, recreation, and academic summer camps for children ages 18 months–18 years. From art to archery, STEM to soccer, and everything in between — there’s a camp that appeals to every child’s interests and passions. 5621 Cty Rd 101 Minnetonka 952-401-6800 minnetonkacommunityed.org
Mounds Park Academy Mounds Park Academy (MPA) is an independent college preparatory day school for students in grades Pre-K through 12. Located in Maplewood, Minnesota, MPA teaches students to think independently, communicate effectively, and act with respect and integrity in a diverse community. 2051 Larpenteur Ave E St. Paul 651-777-2555 moundsparkacademy.org
School Chess Association Summer Day Chess Camp All levels of chess instruction, professional educators tailored to the student’s individual needs. Fun activities include swimming, water slides, field ball, Magic the Gathering, soccer, tennis, roller skating, bowling, fishing, sign language, and role-playing games. Programs: June 27–30, July 11–14, July 18–21, July 25–28, Aug 1–4, Aug 8–11, Aug 15–18. Registration forms online or call Lorene 763593-1168. St. Louis Park Recreation Center 3700 Monterey Dr St. Louis Park schoolchess.org
Spring Break & Summer at Blake Love of learning and courage are central to Blake's mission and summer offerings, spanning pre-K–12, are open to students throughout the Twin Cities. Students investigate topics and skills with time to delve deeply and take risks. No grades, just growth. Hopkins, Minneapolis, Wayzata 952-988-3463 blakeschool.org/summer
The Works Museum Science & Engineering Camps for girls and boys in pre-K–grade 6 who love to explore, design, and build! Kids learn how things work through fun, hands-on science and engineering projects. Coding, robotics, architecture, inventing, chemistry, and more! Camps run June–August 2016. 9740 Grand Ave S Bloomington 952-888-4262 theworks.org
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Arts Adventures in Cardboard: Mythic Play in Wild Lands! Build your own arms and armor, create giant castles to defend, battle along trails, fields and shorelines. Plan invasions from land and sea. Bows, swords, catapults, magic and monsters! Make your own history! Full days spent in beautiful parks across the metro region. Twelve sessions, June 13–September 2, 2016. Minneapolis, St. Paul, Bloomington, Eden Prairie, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Eagan, Arden Hills 612-532-6764 julianmcfaul.com
fun events, craft ideas and camp info! Kenwood Minneapolis 612-423-7554 be-artrageous.com
Hamline Young Writers Workshop This creative writing day camp is a chance for high school students, ages 15–18, who are passionate about creative writing to explore the craft, connect with other young writers, and work closely with Hamline’s Creative Writing faculty and published authors. Hamline University St. Paul 651-523-2479 hamline.edu/youngwriters
The Art Academy
Immanuel’s Music and Arts Camp
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.
Immanuel’s Music and Arts Camp is a summer day camp for K–8th grade students. Children will participate in a wide variety of visual and performing arts. Highly qualified teachers will engage the youth in exciting and fun ways!
651 Snelling Ave S St. Paul 651-699-1573 theartacademy.net
Art Camps at Studio Seven One week painting and drawing camps for students ages 7–18. Compositional elements will be explored through landscape and figure studies. Students will paint and draw both in the studio and outside. Trips to galleries and museums included. Camps are Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. $550 per week, all materials are included. kahlowcurtis@gmail.com. 708 N 1st St Minneapolis 612-376-0381 studio7artmn.com
ArtiCulture Art Camp ArtiCulture Art Camp encourages kids to explore a variety of media, and emphasizes personal creativity — fun and educational! Themes range from claymation to food as art. Runs June 13–September 2 for ages 4 and up. Full and half day options. $119–$270. 2613 E Franklin Ave Minneapolis 612-729-5151 articulture.org
ARTrageous Adventures Fun, creative weekly camp themes, parties and events throughout the year! Paint, reARTcycle, sculpt and collage in our handson studio right in the heART of Kenwood, Minneapolis. Check us out on Facebook for
104 Snelling Ave S St. Paul 651-699-5560 ilcsp.org
Kidcreate Studio Kidcreate Studio’s award winning summer camps are designed to inspire and educate young artists, ages 3–12, in an environment where giggles and grins are encouraged. Camps focus on art principles and introduce students to many types of art materials and techniques. Camps include: 3D Art Adventure, All About the Sparkle, Beyond Pinch Pots, Canvas and Clay, Disney Princess Dress-Up, Glow-in-the-Dark Art, How to Draw Animals, Let’s Paint on Canvas, Masters in Clay, Star Wars, The Messiest Art Camp Ever and many more! At Kidcreate, making a mess is the best! 7918 Mitchell Rd Eden Prairie 952-974-3438 edenprairiemn@kidcreatestudio.com 1785 Radio Drive, Ste F Woodbury 651-735-0880 woodburymn@kidcreatestudio.com kidcreatestudio.com
The Loft’s Young Writers’ Program The Loft’s Young Writers’ Program offers more than 100 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
mnparent.com/camp Minneapolis College of Art and Design
Textile Center
Circus Juventas
Join us at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design for a series of innovative, handson, and engaging visual art and design camps and classes for kids and teens ages 5–18! Weeklong and multi-week options. Scholarships available.
SEWING, QUILTING, KNITTING, FELTING, DYEING, FASHION DESIGN & MORE! In small hands-on classes with skilled teaching artists, create one-of-a-kind fiber items — from costumes to monsters — to take home. For boys and girls 6 and up. Half, full, extended day options.
Travel the globe without ever leaving our Big Top! Our full-day, week-long camps explore a vast array of circus arts from Morocco to Mongolia, China to Russia. Reserve your spot now to be a part of one of the most talkedabout and unique summer camps anywhere.
2501 Stevens Ave Minneapolis 612-874-3765 mcad.edu/ce
MPLS Photo Center Digital Photography Camp Day camps for kids and teens in Minneapolis. Indoor/outdoor fun with digital cameras, capturing pictures cellphones can’t! Portraits, candids, action, still-lifes, nature, landscapes, natural light and flash. In a professional photo studio. Bring your digital camera! Limited DSLRs available to rent. 2400 N Second St Minneapolis 612-643-3511 mplsphotocenter.com
The Phipps Summer Art Camp Partial-day and full-day classes in drawing, painting, sculpture, mixed media, pottery, art & science, fiber arts, and jewelry-making, as well as theater productions and dance. For ages 4 through teens. Taught by experienced artists. June 27–August 12. The Phipps Center for the Arts 109 Locust St Hudson, WI 715-386-2305 thephipps.org
See Kitty Sew See Kitty Sew teaches boys and girls (kids and adults!) to sew or advance their skills. Beginning projects include tote bags, drawstring backpacks, water bottle holders, and more! Semi-private (max. 4) instruction and no need to have your own sewing machine! 5821 Newton Ave S Minneapolis 612-805-8845 seekittysew.com
Spring Break & Summer at Blake Blake's visual and performing arts challenge students to creatively express themselves in an array of disciplines and materials from the kiln to the stage! These programs, spanning pre-K–12, are open to students throughout the greater Twin Cities area. Hopkins, Minneapolis, Wayzata 952-988-3463 blakeschool.org/summer
3000 University Ave SE Minneapolis 612-436-0464 textilecentermn.org
Dance/Music/ Performance Angelica Cantanti Youth Choirs Day Camp For all elementary & middle school boys & girls who love to SING! Join us for a week in July filled with singing, music games & making friends. Singers will explore their vocal potential & increase their confidence. Grades 2–5 & 6–8. 9 a.m.–12 p.m. $99. Bloomington Center for the Arts 1800 W Old Shakopee Rd Bloomington 952-563-8572 angelicacantanti.org
The Center for Irish Music (CIM) All ages and abilities will explore and grow musically within the context of the Irish tradition. CIM offers half-day camps, private and group lessons on whistle, song, fiddle, harp, and drumming as well children and teen programs at the Minnesota Irish Music Weekend, June 12–14. 836 Prior Ave N St. Paul 651-815-0083 centerforirishmusic.org
Chan DT Musical Theatre Camp Chanhassen Dinner Theatres offers summertime theater camps for kids and teens (ages 5–18). It’s a fantastic week of full and half-day sessions focusing on musical theater fundamentals taught by Chanhassen professionals throughout the summer. Sessions begin June 13th. Register now! PO Box 100 Chanhassen 952-934-1525 chanhassendt.com
1270 Montreal Ave St. Paul circusjuventas.org
CREO Arts & Dance Conservatory Wholesome, creative, joyful dancing for all ages & stages. June 14–August 19. Our noncompetitive dance studio provides expert instruction in ballet, jazz, contemporary, and hip-hop. Summer classes include: Girl’s Power, Frozen Ballet, Faith Based Dance, Ballet/Jazz/Modern Intensives. Wayzata Home Center 1250 Wayata Blvd E Wayzata 612-636-6893 creoartsconservatory.com
Dorian Music Camps This summer marks the 52nd year of Luther College Dorian Music Camps. Each summer 325 junior high and 300 senior high students come to this scenic campus to study with Luther music faculty, whose reputation for excellence makes these camps a unique musical experience. 700 College Dr Decorah, IA 563-387-1389 luther.edu/music/dorian
Greater Twin Cities Youth Symphonies (GTCYS) Summer Programs Two unique summer programs in Minneapolis and St. Paul provide fun and challenging orchestral experiences for string, woodwind, brass, and percussion students of all abilities, ages 8–18. No auditions required; scholarships available. Details and registration at gtcys.org. 408 St. Peter St, Ste 300 St. Paul 651-602-6800 gtcys.org
Lutheran Summer Music Lutheran Summer Music is a 4-week residential music academy for talented musicians, grades 8–12. Band, choir, orchestra, pipe organ, and composition. June 26–July 24, 2016 at Luther College in Decorah, IA. Now offering a 2-week option! Check us out today! 122 West Franklin Ave, Ste 230 Minneapolis 612-879-9555 888-635-6583 lutheransummermusic.org
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CAMP RESOURCES Murco Music Academy
StageTime Camp
Summer Camp at Murco Music Academy — Come spend the summer rocking out on your favorite instrument. Murco Music offers a wide variety of camps for a number of instruments and ability levels. Check out all Murco has to offer you. Multiple Sessions: Half-Day camps and individual lessons. June 20–August 12. Ages 7+
StageTime musical theatre performance camps for ages 6–16. Campers rehearse age appropriate musicals in small groups. No experience/lots of experience, campers get a chance to show their amazing skills — a stage-school experience culminating in a musical performance.
8000 Powell Rd, Ste 200 Hopkins 952-500-8957 murcomusic.com
O’Shea Irish Dance Classes Director Cormac O’Se, original member of Riverdance. Professional Irish Dance training for preschoolers through adults; for competition, for fun, and for fitness! Weekly Classes: Mondays– Saturdays. Beginners Classes registering now! Summer camps June, July, August. The Celtic Junction 836 Prior Ave N 612-722-7000 osheairishdance.com
Sing Minnesota August 8–12, 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! $350, scholarships available. Concordia University Buetow Music Center 300 Hamline Ave N St. Paul 651-292-3219 boychoir.org
Minnetonka, Glen Lake Elementary School, St. Paul, Concordia University 952-300-5893 stagetime.camp
SteppingStone Theatre Camps & Classes SteppingStone Theatre explores creativity year-round with youth grades pre-K–high school. Check out our summer camps as a unique way for students to build confidence, theater skills, and community! Have fun this summer at SteppingStone Theatre! Scholarship/Membership pricing available. 55 Victoria St N St. Paul 651-225-9265 steppingstonetheatre.org
Theatre Arts Training at Children's Theatre Company June 13–August 12, ages 4–18. Theatre Arts Training offers camps for all levels in acting, musical theater, improv, and more, making it easy to find the perfect fit for the young actor in your life. Be Curious. Be Creative. Be Confident. Registration now open. 2400 3rd Ave S Minneapolis 612-874-0400 childrenstheatre.org/education/classesand-camps
University of Northwestern – St. Paul, Academy of Music Whatever the age or musical ability of your child, UNW Academy of Music has a summer camp to excite and challenge them on their musical journey. Brio Music Camp, Intro to Music for ages 4-8, Show Choir for ages 9-16, Piano Institute for ages 10-18, Music Recording Camp for ages 13 and up. Northwestern Campus, 3003 Snelling Ave N 651-631-5108 unwsp.edu/academyofmusic
West Bank School of Music (WBSM) There's something for everyone at WBSM this summer! Camps: Rock, Pop, Funk, Brass, and Girls Rock; Ensembles: Jazz, Gypsy Jazz, Fiddle, String Quartet, and Irish; Guitar Classes: Blues, Celtic, and Finger-style and more! Call or go online. 655 Fairview Ave N St. Paul 612-333-6651 wbsm.org
Young Fiddlers Association July Fiddle Camp July 25, 26, 27, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Grace Church, County B2, Roseville. Fiddling taught by master Swedish and American fiddlers, whistle making and folk dancing. $235 by March 1, add $20/month until $305 in July. Download registration form at yfaminnesota. weebly.com. E-mail questions to directors Mari Carlson yfaminnesota@gmail.com or Mary Allen 651-323-4106. Roseville Covenant Church St. Paul 651-323-4106 yfaminnesota.weebly.com
Spring Break & Summer at Blake
Threads Dance Project Dance Camp
Youth Performance Co. (YPC)
Blake’s performing arts engages and challenges students to express themselves creatively. From jazz to improv, Blake offers experiences for novice to accomplished performers. Blake’s programs, spanning pre-K–12, are open to students throughout the Twin Cities.
August 8–12, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Ages 5–15. Dance Connections teaches ballet and modern dance skills, the history of dance, and movement creation in an empowering environment. Classes taught by professional dancers. Join us this summer!
YPC features summer classes offering theater camps; both skill and performance based. For musical theater fans or those seeking confidence and a performing outlet. Camp sessions are weeklong for the entire summer; with several options for K–12.
Hopkins, Minneapolis, Wayzata 952-988-3463 blakeschool.org/summer
1320 Mainstreet Hopkins 414-534-4526 threadsdance.org
Stages Theatre Company
Twin Cities Trapeze Center Circus Camp
Summer Theater Workshops: June 15– August 24. Calling all actors, singers, and dancers: Have fun learning about theater from some of the area's finest teaching artists. Stages Theatre Company offers a variety of age appropriate workshops for students ranging from ages 4–17.
Circus camp! Students enrolled in our weeklong, half-day camps will experience a variety of circus disciplines (including Trampoline, Static Trapeze, Acrobatics, Circus Bike, and of course Flying Trapeze!), then showcase their new skills in a Performance on Friday afternoon!
1111 Mainstreet Hopkins 952-979-1111, option 4 stagestheatre.org
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719 E Minnehaha Ave St. Paul 651-262-9477 twincitiestrapeze.com
3338 University Ave SE Minneapolis 612-623-9180 youthperformanceco.org/classes
Zenon Dance Company & School Summer Camps Week-long dance camps for ages 6–14. Each day will include technique and choreography classes. Participants will perform for family and friends on the last day! Hip Hop Camps: June 20–24, August 1–5. Youth Dance Sampler Camp: July 18–22. 528 Hennepin Ave Minneapolis 612-338-1101 zenondance.org
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Day 3 Weeks of Vacation Bible School 1–3 week Vacation Bible School fun with half and full-day options, with afternoon field trips. June 13–17: Cowabunga! (Minneapolis). June 20–24: Musicals, 1st–12th graders. June 27– July 1: Barnyard Roundup (Minnetonka). Age 4–High School. Register online. Minneapolis, Minnetonka 612-312-3400 bethlehem-church.org
American Swedish Institute Have fun exploring a different Swedish or Nordic theme each week including Pippi Longstocking, Vikings, or cooking through dance, studio arts, music, imaginative play, and outdoor games. Perfect for kids entering grades 1–5! Thursdays, July 15–August 11. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $50 per session. 2600 Park Ave S Minneapolis 612-871-4907 asimn.org
Camp Tanadoona Explore 103 acres of forest and prairie along Lake Minnewashta in the southwest metro. Campers ages 5–17 enjoy water and nature activities, archery, adventure course, 90-yearold traditions, and more! International and local staff! Day and Resident Camps weekly, plus Northwoods Adventure Trips and Leadership Development Programs. Open House: May 7, 12–3 p.m. 3300 Tanadoona Dr Excelsior 612-235-7284 camptanadoona.org
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory Como is an experimental learning center that engages visitors in a multitude of encounters with animals, plants and cultures. Home to 9 of the 10 animal species that visitors most want to see, in habitats that allow visitors to observe them at close proximity. 1225 Estabrook Dr St. Paul 651-487-8201 comozooconservatory.org
Gibbs Farm Day Camps We’ve created the perfect mix of day camps for your kids! Family-friendly pricing, fun for kids ages 4–13. Choose Pioneer PeeWees, ages 4–5; or one of our three-day camps, ages 6–10, including Pioneer Kid, Gibbs Girl or Say It In Dakota. Digging History, our newest three-day camp, is for ages 11–13. Offered June 21–August 25. Pioneer Kid, Gibbs Girl, Say It In Dakota, Digging History camps: $99 per week. Pioneer Peewees: $19 per week.
2097 W Larpenteur Ave Falcon Heights 651-646-8629 rchs.com
Gibbs Girl Three days, three experiences! For girls 6–10. This craft-rich camp explores the lives of girls in Minnesota during the 1800s: Life as a Pioneer girl, Dakota girl and Victorian girl. Tuesdays–Thursdays, July 19–21 and 26–28; August 2–4, 9–11 and 16–18, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. each day. $99 per week. 2097 W Larpenteur Ave Falcon Heights 651-646-8629 rchs.com
Hopkins Camp Royal Summer Rocks A camp for youth K–6. Add the sizzle to your child’s summer! Full- and half-day camps— build your own schedule. Art, sports, dance, legos, pottery, cooking, theater, music, chess, STEM, crafts, plus more! Eisenhower Community Center 1001 Hwy 7 Hopkins 952-988-4070 hopkinssummer.org
Kid Yoga Minnesota Camp Yoga Urban Adventures. Campers age 5–12 explore – create – invent – play! Located on the Greenway for daily field adventures. Art making, inventing; team building activities, fitness. Gardening and crafts. Yoga infused throughout the day via story, dance and games. Hours 9–3. Extended care available. June 20–24, July 18–22, August 1–5. 3628 Lyndale Ave S Minneapolis 612-202-5164 kidyogamn.com
Kids R.O.C.K. Kids will have non-stop fun including games, swimming in indoor water park, theme weeks, field trips and more! Make it a summer your child will never forget! Pay for only the weeks you come! 8055 Barbara Ave. Inver Grove Heights 651-450-2585 invergroveheights.org
Loppet Foundation Adventure Camp Loppet Adventure Camp hosts week-long day camps at Theodore Wirth Parks for kids ages 9–13. Explore outdoor adventure with mountain biking, roller skiing, canoeing, orienteering, swimming, capture the flag, ultimate frisbee, gardening and more! Scholarships available. 1301 Theodore Wirth Pkwy Minneapolis 612-604-5330 loppet.org
Minnesota Waldorf School Summer Day Camp Old fashioned summer fun on our 8 acre campus! A relaxed schedule of crafts, nature play, games, music, gardening, and more. Ages 3.5–entering 5th grade. 5 full, or half-day sessions from June 13–August 19. 5% early bird discount for registration by March 31. 70 E County Rd B St. Paul 651-487-6700 x202 mnwaldorf.org/summercamp
Nativity Early Learning Center Summer Camp (NELC) The NELC Summer Camp is a 12 week program designed to keep children from ages 33 months–6th grade involved in a fun educational atmosphere. We offer convenient hours with flexible day options as well as knowledgeable, dedicated staff. Each week is filled with handson activities, field trips, gardening, and much more! The NELC is accredited by NAEYC. 1900 Wellesley Ave St. Paul 651-696-5437 elc.nativity-mn.org
Playworks Summer Camp 2016 Sign up now for Camp Xtreme: Xtreme Learning, Xtreme Adventure, Xtreme Fun! June 13-–September 2. Open to grades 1–6. Children learn through hands-on experiences and interactions in outdoor play, field trips, and entertaining educational programs. Daily meals included. 2200 Trail of Dreams Prior Lake 952-445-PLAY (7529) playworksfun.com
SCL Academic and Sports Camps Summer art, basketball, bowling, football, science, soccer, volleyball, and wrestling camps led by varsity coaches and professional faculty June–August. $50–$125/ week. Space is limited. Register Early! Online registration and info at stcroixlutheran.org/ camps or call 651-455-1521. St. Croix Lutheran Grades 6–12 1200 Oakdale Ave 651-455-1521 stcroixlutheran.org/camps
Shoreview Parks & Recreation Camps Three-day to eight-week, half- and full-day sessions including playground programs, specialized sports, art camps, dance and more. Ages 3–15. Camps available June 13–August 26. Visit our website or call for more info. 4580 Victoria St N Shoreview 651-490-4750 shoreviewcommunitycenter.com
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CAMP RESOURCES St. David’s Center’s Summer Early Childhood Education The Reggio Emilia-inspired summer program at St. David's Center for children ages 16 months to 7 years includes field trips and outdoor activities; science, music, language and art enrichment experiences; and exploration of the 2.5 acres of our School Forest. 3395 Plymouth Road Minnetonka 952-548-8700 stdavidscenter.org/preschool
Summer Adventure Camp The International School of Minnesota offers full- and half-day camp from June 12–August 12 for ages 3.5 to those entering grade 8. Camp activities include Spanish or American Sign Language, swimming, arts & crafts, nature hikes, outside play, and beach Friday. Options include basketball, soccer, music & theater, MN biology, rockets and engineering. 6385 Beach Rd Eden Prairie 952-918-1828 internationalschoolmn.com
Summer at Blake Looking for adventure, sports, arts and friendships? Blake's Acoma camp has gathered children from the Twin Cities for 50 years. Campers develop curiosity, creativity, and positive risk-taking skills. Unique themes provide opportunities for physical, social, and intellectual skills in a friendly, safe environment. Hopkins, Wayzata 952-988-3463 blakeschool.org/summer
Three Rivers Park District More than 100 camps across the Metro. Including: farm life, extreme fishing and hunting, survival, archery, pirate and fairy adventures, golf, sailing, photography, art, raft and kayaking, the Civil War, Laura Ingalls, nature and science exploration, more! Scholarships available. St. Anthony to Minnetrista, Maple Grove to Prior Lake 763-559-6700 threeriversparks.org
University of Minnesota Summer Youth Programs Explore more with exciting topics and new discoveries on the Twin Cities campus. Hands-on academics, arts, and sport instruction combine with quality recreation to create a summer like no other. Offering over 200 weeklong day camps for ages 5–15. St. Paul Gymnasium 1536 North Cleveland Ave St Paul 612-625-2242 recwell.umn.edu/youth
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Wargo Nature Center Day Camps Wargo Nature Center Day Camps are about exploring our world, having fun, and getting dirty outside! Nature is our guide and we look forward to sharing an amazing world of wonder with your pre-K–7th grader. Register at anokacountyparks.com 7701 Main Street, Lino Lakes 651-429-8007 anokacountyparks.com
Zoo Camp Half-day to week-long adventures for toddlers to 12th graders at the Minnesota Zoo. Campers will meet animals, make new friends, and have fun learning about the natural world! Check out our popular Horse Camps and NEW! Treetop Adventure Camps. Register at mnzoo.org/zoocamp. Minnesota Zoo 13000 Zoo Blvd Apple Valley 952-431-9320 mnzoo.org
Horseback Riding Golden Ridge Stables Want to hug a horse? Our amazing summer day camps include a daily riding lesson and “hands-on” horsey fun. Year-round quality lessons for youth and ladies on well-mannered school horses. Conveniently located via Cedar Ave or I-35 South; just 15 minutes south of MOA. Visit our website for details! 8315 190th St W Lakeville 952-469-4640 goldenridgestables.com
Lost Creek Ranch Lost Creek Ranch Camp Confidence is the best overnight camp for horse-crazy kids! Campers get their "own" horse. Ride a minimum of four hours every day! Individual attention. Make new friends and begin a lifelong passion for horses. Less than one hour from the Twin Cities. N6842 570th St Beldenville, WI 715-273-6070 lostcreekranch.info
Pine Ridge Stables Summer week-day horse education camps. Ages 7 and up. Discount for multiple weeks. Drop off 6 a.m.–9 a.m.; Pickup 5 p.m.–7 p.m. Terminology, anatomy, demonstrations in vet, farrier, focused rides, clipping, bathing, feeding, cleaning stalls, trips to Canterbury Park backside, and trail rides. Come discover the joy of riding. 1716 Stagecoach Rd Shakopee 612-701-0056
Regent Arabians: Developing Equestrians for Life Lessons and horsemanship mentoring. Handle, groom, & ride beautiful & intelligent Arabian horses. We educate year round on horse care & riding. Students improve their physical & mental fitness, self-esteem, respect & focus while pursuing their dream with horses! 26125 Tucker Rd Rogers 763-428-4975 regentarabians.com
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 Berlitz Kids® Summer Language Camp Berlitz provides engaging programs yearround for children and teens designed to excite and motivate them to learn a new language. Expect all the educational advantages Berlitz is famous for: Summer Camps, After School programs, and Private and Group Tutoring available. Berlitz Minneapolis Learning Center 6800 France Ave S, Ste 180 Edina 952-920-4100 berlitz.us/summercamps
Concordia Language Villages We are the premier language and cultural immersion program in the U.S. Since 1961, we have provided an authentic experience with programs for all ages offered in 15 different languages. Day camps, residential youth camps and family camps offered. 8659 Thorsonveien Rd NE Bemidji 1-800-222-4750 concordialanguagevillages.org
English Language Learner Residential Summer Camp — International School of MN ISM’s ELL Residential Summer Camp is designed for students to learn or improve their English as they enjoy everything Minnesota has to offer. Students will participated in exercises and activities that
mnparent.com/camp will strengthen their written and spoken English in the morning while afternoon cultural activities are organized to practice English skills. 6385 Beach Rd Eden Prairie 952-918-1812 internationalschoolmn.com/englishlanguage-learner-summer-camp
Spring Break & Summer at Blake Join the Blake School for Latin, Greek, Spanish, and Programming camps! Spanning grades 1–12, offerings are open to students throughout the Twin Cities area. Hopkins, Wayzata 952-988-3463 blakeschool.org/summer
Other Discovery Club St. Paul Public Schools Pre-K through 6th grade children participate in recreational & academic activities supporting positive youth development. Weekly field trips, optional tennis and swim lessons. Open 6:30 a.m.–6:00 p.m. at multiple elementary locations. $42/day offering flexible schedule options June 20– August 26. 1780 7th St W St. Paul 651-632-3793 discoveryclub.spps.org
Faith Adventure Day Camps Offering "Cave Quest" for ages 3½–grade 6 (June) and "Summer Impact" for grades 5–6 (August 1–4) — great opportunities to get to know God, grow in faith and give back! See website for dates, costs and registration details. Calvary Lutheran Church 7520 Golden Valley Road Golden Valley 763-545-5659 calvary.org
Venture Photography At Venture we capture your precious moments in time and beautifully present them in our stunning hand-crafted product. Our innovative photography, exceptional quality, and first class customer service continues to redefine family photography, creating lasting memories for generations to come. 705 Mainstreet Hopkins 952-345-3392 facebook.com/ venturephotographyminneapolis
Wolf Camp at the Wildlife Science Center Live wolves, bears, raptors, and other Minnesota wildlife are the focus of Wolf Camp at the Wildlife Science Center. Program topics include predator/prey ecology, animal behavior, radio telemetry, creating souvenir track casts and archery. Overnight and Day Camps available. 5463 West Broadway Forest Lake 651-464-3993 wildlifesciencecenter.org
Overnight Audubon Center of the North Woods A variety of youth summer camps with a focus on wildlife, nature, and outdoor skills. Rocks, Ropes & Rafts (ages 12–14); Ways of Wildlife 1 & 2 (ages 10–12 & 12–14); Junior Naturalist Camp (ages 12–14); Outdoor Explorations (ages 10–12). June–July. info@ audubon-center.org. East side of Grindstone Lake near Sandstone 888-404-7743 audubon-center.org/summer-camps
Camp Alpha Camp Alpha is designed for children completing grades 4–8. Our goals are to provide meaningful, hands-on experiences in the space sciences and to foster the natural curiosity and interest that children have in space exploration. June 19–June 22. 153 S Columbia Ave Morris 320-589-4394 morris.k12.mn.us
Camp Birchwood for Boys Hike, bike, fish, canoe, kayak, or rock-climb, it’s up to you. Campers choose their own adventures and activities. Between adventures campers choose from archery, riflery, waterpark, crafts, tubing, fishing, and more. Boundary Waters Canoe Area 218-252-2641 campbirchwoodforboys.com
Camp Birchwood for Girls At Camp Birchwood the experience is about lifelong skills, friendships, and memories. We provide campers with opportunities for making their own choices, encourage them to challenge themselves and to discover who they are through a long list of available activities. Northern Minnesota 800-451-5270 campbirchwood.com
Camp Bovey A summer youth program of East Side Neighborhood Services. We provide a safe place for youth to have fun while participating in outdoor activities. Campers gain confidence in outdoor living skills. Our Visual and Performing Arts sessions are extremely popular. Northwestern Wisconsin 612-787-4030 esns.org/campbovey
Camp Foley Grow Grit. Investigate Independence. At Camp Foley, kids from all over the world put aside their phones to work on face to face social skills all the while trying new activities and taking risks in a safe, kid focused environment. 9303 Father Foley Dr Pine River 218-543-6161 campfoley.com
Camp Minnesota Camp Minnesota provides an unparalleled experience for children and youth to learn teamwork, gain independence, try new things, enjoy the outdoors and explore God in a new way (Camps run all summer for all ages). Northern Pines, Park Rapids Kowakan, Ely Koronis Ministries, Paynesville 855-622-1973 (toll free) campminnesota.org
Girl Scouts River Valleys’ Summer Camps All girls welcome, including non-Girl Scouts. Residential sessions at four locations, each with unique scenery and outdoor opportunities. Classic camp experiences, with horse and wilderness opportunities, canoeing, kayaking, archery, swimming, biking, arts and crafts, and more. Financial assistance available. Camp Elk River, Zimmerman Camp Lakamaga, Marine on St. Croix Camp Northwoods, Mason, WI Camp Singing Hills, Waterville 800-845-0787 girlscoutsrv.org/camp
Star Lake Wilderness Camp Star Lake Wilderness Camp provides life changing experiences for 3rd–12th grades. Campers sleep in tents; swim in lakes; hike; canoe; cook on fires; and live in guided small groups. Some weeks have Christian programing. Pay only what you can afford. 10992 Star Lake Camp Dr Pequot Lakes 651-263-0578 starlakewildernesscamp.com
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CAMP RESOURCES Wolf Ridge Summer Camp
Camp Choson
St. David’s Center’s Summer Adventure
Campers and families will find outdoor adventures to match their curiosity at Wolf Ridge. Share nature up-close every day with lifelong friends at our 2000-acre campus near Lake Superior and the BWCA. Learning is the greatest adventure there is! Choose yours at www.wolf-ridge.org.
Camp Choson is a dynamic, welcoming day and resident camp that offers youth ages 4–17 opportunities to explore Korean arts and culture. A camper’s experience includes Korean language and culture, traditional dance and drum, Taekwondo, music, selfrespect, archery, and swimming.
Adventure offers daily therapeutic recreation during summer break for teens and young adults with special needs. The program provides a wide variety of group activities in a structured environment. Mondays–Fridays, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. June 20–August 26.
Finland, MN 218-353-7414 wolf-ridge.org
YMCA Camp Olson 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 Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM) Summer Camps AuSM’s summer camps are tailored for youth and adults with autism and feature options including 1:1, 1:2, and 1:4 staff to camper ratios. Parents and caregivers can rest assured knowing that their campers are being cared for by highly trained, experienced staff, while campers make memories that last a lifetime. Camps for AuSM members include Hand in Hand (residential, 1:1); Wahode (day, 1:2); and Discovery (residential, 1:4). E-mail camp@ ausm.org for more info. Register today! 2380 Wycliff St, Ste 102 St. Paul, MN 651-647-1083 ausm.org
Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM) Summer Social Skills Classes AuSM Social Skills summer classes for youth and adults with autism offer low-stress, accepting environments that encourage learning and growth while participants develop social skills and confidence. Classes centered on special interests including computer design, the great outdoors, exciting community outings, zoos, plants, animals, art, drama, and more are offered in locations throughout the metro area. E-mail education@ ausm.org for more info. Register today! 2380 Wycliff St, Ste 102 St. Paul 651-647-1083 ausm.org
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Camp Lakamaga 12300 Lakamaga Tr N Marine on St. Croix campchoson.org
Camp Odayin For children with heart disease in grades K–11. Camp Odayin provides day and residential camping experiences where campers discover outdoor, athletic, and creative activities in a safe and medicallysupervised environment. Residential Camp: July 11–25 (grades 1–5/6), July 18–22 (grades 6/7–8), July 2–-29 (grades 9–11); Day Camp: August 1–5 (grades K–1). Crosslake & St. Paul 651-351-9185 campodayin.org
Computer Explorers Technology Summer Camps Nationally recognized leaders in technology education for ages 3–14. With over 300 camps in Minnesota, we offer exciting STEM Camps in robotics, video game design, Minecraft modding, Java coding, engineering, movie production and more. Where learning is fun, innovative, challenging, and hands-on. Throughout Minnesota 651-730-9910 computerexplorersmn.com
Dynamic Arts, Aeronautics with Drones & Robotics Offering multi-level Robotics. Our expanded Dynamic Arts bringing Art & Technology together building moving sculptures. In addition, offering Aeronautics & Drones, Students are introduced the Forces of Flight & Physics while learning to fly their robot for "aerial competitions". Throughout Minnesota 651-303-8955 robots-4-u.com
Spring Break & Summer at Blake From robots to rockets, Blake challenges students to creatively express themselves in an array of disciplines. Sports, academics, arts, and day camp spanning pre-K–12, are open to students throughout the Twin Cities. Hopkins, Minneapolis, Wayzata 952-988-3463 blakeschool.org/summer
Brooklyn Park, Minneapolis, St. Louis Park 952-548-870 stdavidscenter.org/special-needs/ adventure-program/summer
Tech Academy Summer Camps We are an exciting learning environment, specializing in Technology Education for children and teens ages 4–14. Offering 2 & 4 day STEM camps in coding, robotics, engineering, Minecraft & game design. We host birthday parties, workshops, and summer day camps. Centrally located in Roseville area 651-486-2780 techacademymn.com
True Friends’ Camp Courage & Camp Friendship True Friends is the parent company of Camp Courage and Camp Friendship. Offering residential and day camp sessions for people with developmental, physical, or learning disabilities. Need-based scholarships are available. Camp Friendship, Annandale Camp Courage, Maple Lake Camp Eden Wood, Eden Prairie Camp Courage North, Lake George 800-450-8376 truefriends.org
Sports and Fitness 3rd Lair SkatePark The 3rd Lair Action Sports camp program has been a part of MN action sports development for 17 years. We are the originals, offering the most experience, the most well trained instructors, and a proven reputation for success. Instruction is based on ability level and we cater to individual needs. All ages and skill levels are welcome. 850 Florida Ave S Golden Valley 763-797-5283 3rdlair.com
mnparent.com/camp Active Kids Association of Sport (AKASPORT) AKASPORT's mission is to keep kids and families well rounded through sports and fitness. The goal is to get kids more active through sport and exercise and provides multi-sports camps, clinics, school programs and charitable events. National Sports Center, Blaine Coon Rapids Ice Center, Coon Rapids 651-447-2454 akasport.org
Classic TaeKwonDo Studios Summer Camp We emphasize active outdoor play during the day with trips to beaches, pools, and climbing parks. In addition, we go to museums and historical landmarks. Kids are also encouraged to embrace imaginative play with forts, costumes, and crafts. The day ends with one hour of taekwondo. Offered daily through the summer with the flexibility to pay only for days you need. Includes organic/natural lunch and snacks. 5159 Bloomington Ave S Minneapolis 612-810-2051 classictkdstudios.com
Gleason’s Gymnastic School What better way to spend summer than learning something new at Gleason’s Gymnastic School? Our fun facility and our professional instructors combine to make Gleason’s classes a tremendous learning experience for children of all ages and experience levels. 2015 Silver Bell Rd Eagan 651-454-6203 9775 85th Ave N, Ste 500 Maple Grove 763-493-2526 gleasons.com
InnerCity Tennis Summer Camps Learn a sport you can play for a lifetime in a fun, group setting! Outdoor lessons at 23 park locations across Minneapolis. Indoor lessons with air conditioning at Reed Sweatt Family Tennis Center. Camps open to boys and girls ages 6 and up of all ability levels. Scholarships available! 4005 Nicollet Ave S Minneapolis 612-825-6844 innercitytennis.org
JOTP Soccer Day Camp Innovative, fun, and unique, each JOTP themed camp focuses on different soccer skills. Designed to attend multiple camps. Morning training and afternoon free play soccer with Splash Court and Inflatable Fields. Lunch and snack provided. Weekly
fee of $100–$129. Now in two locations: St Paul and Edina/St Louis Park! admin@ joyofthepeople.org. Joy of the People Soccer Center 890 Cromwell Ave St. Paul 651-252-1775 joyofthepeople.org
Legacy Gymnastics Summer Camps We offer kids age 4–17 a great way to stay active over summer vacation. Kids gain confidence and fitness while having fun learning gymnastics skills. Summer Camps are offered June, July and August. Legacy Gymnastics 14785 Martin Dr 952-746-8183 gymlegacy.com
The Little Gym of Edina Anytime Summertime Camp For kids ages 3–12. The most flexible camp in town lets you pick one day or as many as you want! Each week has a fun new theme with games, art, physical activity, and a whole lot of fun. 8223 Hwy 7 St. Louis Park 952-924-0083 thelittlegym.com/edinamn
Nike Tennis Camps Come join the fun and get better this summer at the University of Minnesota Nike Tennis Camp. Overnight and day camp options for boys and girls, ages 6–18 of all ability levels. Special Tournament Training component offered during the second and third session. University of Minnesota Minneapolis 800-645-3226 ussportscamps.com/tennis
PLA-IT: Revolutionary Sports Offers instructional classes, day camps, and fundamental leagues for players as young as age two. Coaches combine active sport instruction with child development best practices to create a fun and positive learning environment. The challenging but noncompetitive approach helps foster teamwork and leadership skills. Over 25 sports taught. AirMaxx: 7000 Washington Ave S Eden Prairie MPRB NE Arena: 1306 Central Ave NE Minneapolis Vadnais Sports Center: 1490 County Rd. E St. Paul Additional metrowide locations 612-234-7782 PLA-IT.com
Southwest Christian High School Southwest Christian High School offers sports camps for students entering grades 6–8 including volleyball, girls and boys basketball, and girls and boys soccer. Camps run for one week during the months of June & July (see website for specific dates) and cost is $99. Have fun and develop skills with great coaches in a positive atmosphere! 1981 Bavaria Rd Chaska 952-556-0040 swchs.org
Spring Break & Summer at Blake Blake sports camps offer opportunities to try new activities, enhance skills and deepen physical fitness. Campers are guided by Blake's award-winning coaches and championship athletes. These programs, pre-K–12, are open to students throughout the Twin Cities. Hopkins, Wayzata 952-988-3463 blakeschool.org/summer
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 952-431-6445 TAGS Eden Prairie: 10300 W 70th St 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 651-776-1430 VE Minneapolis: 2540 Nicollet Ave S 612-436-1470 VE Duluth: 329 S Lake Ave 218-279-9980 verticalendeavors.com
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Out & About MARCH
mnparent.com/calendar
Kids’ Film Festival ⊲⊲Watch films from around the world that celebrate the small things — the adventures and the silliness of life — as part of the Walker’s Free First Saturdays event for families in March. Catch screenings of animated shorts at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., plus a feature-length animated film, the Oscar-nominated Boy & the World, (pictured above), at 3 p.m. When: March 5 Where: Walker Art Center, Minneapolis Cost: Admission and all screenings are free. Info: walkerart.org/free-first-saturdays
ONGOING
Mummies: New Secrets from the Tombs ⊲⊲Scientific findings once bound in ancient Egyptian and Peruvian remains will be revealed in this first-of-its-kind traveling exhibit from the worldrenowned Field Museum in Chicago. Real mummies and coffins will be on display, including one of the oldest mummies in the world, plus animal mummies, stone sarcophagi fragments, mummified heads and trophy skulls. When: Feb. 19–Sept. 5
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Where: Science Museum of Minnesota, St. Paul Cost: Exhibit admission is $24 for adults and $15 for ages 4–12 and 60 and older. Ticket prices include admission to the museum’s permanent exhibit galleries. Visitors must choose a specific date and time for their Mummies visit when they purchase tickets. Info: smm.org
Omnifest ⊲⊲The Omnitheater’s annual giant-screen film festival features five films running in rotation on its 90-foot domed screen, including Tropical Rainforest, Jerusalem, Forces of Nature, Mysteries of the Great Lakes and Humpback Whales. When: Through March 3 Where: Science Museum of Minnesota, St. Paul Cost: Film tickets are $8 for adults
CORRECTION Sid the Science Kid: The Super-Duper Exhibit will not be on display at the Minnesota Children’s Museum this year in St. Paul. An item in the February Out&About calendar incorrectly listed the exhibit, which was featured in 2015. Learn more about current exhibits and events at the museum’s St. Paul, Rochester and Mall of America locations at mcm.org.
and $7 for ages 4 to 12 and age 60 and older. Subsequent same-day film tickets are sold for 15 percent off the original price. Info: smm.org/omnifest
Tropical Beach Party ⊲⊲Escape the cold at the zoo with a party in the tropical exhibit space, featuring a giant indoor sandbox! Bring your own pail (BYOP) or favorite sand toy and play surrounded by palm trees, exotic animals and special activities on weekends. When: Through March 6 Where: Minnesota Zoo, Apple Valley Cost: Free with zoo admission ($12 for ages 3–12 and 65 and older, $18 for ages 13–64) Info: mnzoo.org
Dinosaurs: Land of Fire and Ice ⊲⊲Maneuver through a swampy bog, buzz around a fiery volcano and get up close with a triceratops. Meet touchable dinosaurs, slip down an icy slide and dig for fossils, too. When: 10 a.m.–8 p.m. daily, except Sundays 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; see the exhibit through May 15. Where: Minnesota Children’s Museum @ MOA (Mall of America, Bloomington) Cost: $7.95 for ages 1 and older Info: mcm.org
FEB. 19–28
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland ⊲⊲In this inaugural Theater for Young Performers production, recommended for ages 8 and older, a rather boring day for Alice turns quite interesting when she spots a White Rabbit with a pocket watch. When: Feb. 19–28 Where: Lyric Arts Main Street Stage, Anoka Cost: $10–$22 Info: lyricarts.org
FEB. 27
Minnesota Parent Camp Fair ⊲⊲Get a jump on summer planning with Minnesota Parent’s 10th-annual Camp Fair. Meet one-on-one with representatives from more than 50 summer camps, including sleep-a-way camps and day camps, too. While you explore camps, your kids can enjoy family-friendly activities, including face painting, crafts and a few featured animals from the zoo.
PHANCY FACES
When: 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Feb. 27 Where: Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, St. Paul Cost: FREE Info: mnparent.com/campfair or 612-825-9205
Professional Entertainment Company Picnics, Parties, Bat Mitzvahs, Bar Mitzvahs, High Schools, Colleges, Promotional Events, Corporate Events, Sweet Sixteen Parties, Birthday Parties, Grand Openings & More!
OPENS MARCH 4
National Parks Adventure
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Face Painting Bounce Houses • Balloon Animals • Costumed Characters • Temporary Tattoos • Henna
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⊲⊲The U.S. National Park Service is turning 100 in 2016, and this Omnitheater film, narrated by Robert Redford, features stunning footage from 30 well-known parks such as Yellowstone and Glacier, as well as lesser-known parks such as Bryce Canyon. When: Opens March 4 Where: Science Museum of Minnesota, St. Paul Cost: Admission is $8 for adults and $7 for ages 4 to 12 and 60 and older. Info: smm.org
Custom Airbrushed Hats + T-Shirts Fun Edibles — Pucker Powder, Cotton Candy, Snow Cones • Perfect Party Favors for All • •
MARCH 4
Dive-In Movie ⊲⊲Enjoy crafts and games followed by a family-friendly movie projected on a screen over Shoreview’s popular indoor water park. Bring your own noodles or floaties. When: 7 p.m. March 4 Where: Tropics Indoor Waterpark, Shoreview
Call or email today!
612.310.8292 phancyfaces@msn.com phancyfaces.com
mnparent.com • March 2016
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Out & About
MARCH 6
Steps of Hope ⊲⊲This Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM) fundraiser supports local autism programs. Festivities for spectators will include children’s activities, live music, face painting, balloon animals, free snacks and beverages — and Minnesota’s largest autism resource fair. When: 8:30–11 a.m. March 6 Where: Southdale Center, Edina Cost: FREE Info: sohwalk.org
Rock the Cradle
Peppa Pig Live ⊲⊲Peppa and George — and all their friends from the hit Nick Jr. show — sing, dance and play games as part of Peppa’s first-ever U.S. theatrical tour, featuring life-size puppets (perfect for preschoolers). When: 5 p.m. March 19 Where: Northrop Memorial Auditorium, Carlson Family Stage, Minneapolis Cost: $31–$46 Info: peppapigliveus.com
Cost: $9 for ages 1-17, $9.99 for ages 18 and older or $36 for a family (up to six), plus discounts for Shoreview residents Info: tinyurl.com/dive-in-movies-2016 or 651-490-4700
MARCH 4–20
The Snow Queen ⊲⊲The magical fairy tale by Hans Christian Anderson that inspired Disney’s Frozen springs to life in this world-premiere ballet. When: March 4–20 Where: Stages Theatre Company, Hopkins Cost: $16 Info: stagestheatre.org or 952-979-1111
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MARCH 4–SEPT. 3
Beauty and the Beast ⊲⊲A prince harshly turns a beggar woman away from shelter in his castle. She’s secretly an enchantress, who, angered by the prince’s lack of compassion, changes the prince into a hideous beast. The enchantress tells the beast that before the last petal falls from an enchanted rose, he must find true love or all will remain forever altered. When: March 4–Sept. 3 Where: Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, Chanhassen Cost: $49–$85; ages 5 and older are allowed in the theater. Info: chanhassendt.com or 800-355-6273
⊲⊲Kids up to age 8 are invited to a day of indoor fun celebrating music and art. Families can march with the McNasty Brass Band, sing along with Lucy Michelle, play hopscotch and craft their own instruments at this kid-friendly event put on by 89.3 The Current radio. Kids can also take hip-hop dance lessons, rock out to disco music and listen to story times with DJs from The Current. When: 11 a.m.–5 p.m. March 6 Where: Minneapolis Institute of Art and Children’s Theatre Company campus, Minneapolis Cost: FREE. Street and ramp parking are available around the venue. Event parking is available in the ramp next door to the event and in nearby surface lots for $10. Free parking is available at the nearby Wells Fargo lot with a shuttle service that will run from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Info: rockthecradle.org
MARCH 17
St. Patrick’s Day Irish Celebration ⊲⊲Mark the holiday with the Irish Music and Dance Association, offering live music and dancing, plus workshops, seminars and a tea room with refreshments for sale. Kids activities include a children’s craft area with a free project, and a children’s stage with age-appropriate live music, dancing and games.
When: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. March 17 Where: Landmark Center, St. Paul Cost: Tickets are $6 for adults and $4 for age 5–12. Info: landmarkcenter.org
MARCH 18
Adult Nights Out ⊲⊲Imagine going to the zoo without your children! You could actually take your time to learn about the animals at your own pace (not your toddler’s). That’s the joy of the Minnesota Zoo’s new grown-up, kidfree nights, held after normal zoo hours. Participants must be 18 to attend. When: March 18, April 22, May 27 and June 16 Where: Minnesota Zoo, Apple Valley Cost: Admission is reduced to $10 and food and beverages are available for purchase. Info: RSVP at mnzoo.org/adultnights.
the rapturous joy in a child’s day-to-day life. In this new staging of a variety of Keats’ beloved works — with puppet designs by Italy’s renowned Fabrizio Montecchi — star performers will bring the little boy in red to life.
Do you have twins or siblings ages 6-11?
Want to earn $60?
When: Through March 20 Where: Children’s Theatre Company, Minneapolis Cost: Tickets start at $10. Info: childrenstheatre.org or 612-874-0400
MARCH 20
If so, you may be eligible to participate in a new study in the Family Interaction & Development Lab! For more information, call (651) 523-2935 or email developmentlab@hamline.edu
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Day of Irish Dance ⊲⊲More than 700 dancers from 10 Irish dance schools and performance groups from around the Twin Cities will perform. When: 11 a.m.–5 p.m. March 20 Where: Landmark Center, St. Paul Cost: Tickets are $6 for adults and $4 for age 5–12. Info: landmarkcenter.org
MARCH 19, 24–27
Egg Hunts and More ⊲⊲Celebrate spring by hunting for hidden eggs along a wooded trail, meeting live animals, dyeing eggs and learning about rabbits at a variety of events hosted by the Three Rivers Park District. When: March 19, 24–27 Where: Silverwood Park in St. Anthony, The Landing in Shakopee, Eastman Nature Center in Dayton, Richardson Nature Center in Bloomington and Lowry Nature Center in Victoria Cost: Most events cost $5 per person. Info: tinyurl.com/egghunts2016. Find more Easter events and egg hunts — courtesy of Twin Cities Moms Blog — at guide.twincitiesmoms.com with events starting as early as March 4 at local shopping malls.
THROUGH MARCH 20
Snowy Day ⊲⊲Ezra Jack Keats had a gift for capturing
MARCH 22–MAY 1
Animal Dance ⊲⊲ World-renowned choreographer and performance artist Ann Carlson and a variety of animal buddies star in this brandnew piece developed for preschoolers. When: March 22–May 1 Where: Children’s Theatre Company, Minneapolis Cost: Tickets start at $10. Info: childrenstheatre.org or 612-874-0400
MARCH 25–26
Harlem Globetrotters ⊲⊲The world’s most famous basketball stars bring their unrivaled family show to town to celebrate 90 years of smiles, sportsmanship and service to millions of people worldwide. When: 7 p.m. March 25 and 1 p.m. March 26 mnparent.com • March 2016
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Out & About Where: Target Center, Minneapolis Cost: Tickets start at $20. Info: harlemglobetrotters.com
MARCH 27
Best Egg Hunt Ever
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Lights or power out
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Troubleshooting
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Storm damage
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Emergency service
•
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Fuse to circuit breaker panel upgrades Bath exhaust fan installations & servicing
763-544-3300 • Harrison-Electric.com
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⊲⊲Passion Church will host its sixth-annual egg hunt — billed as the largest event of its kind in the Twin Cities — with 75,000 peanutfree, candy-filled plastic eggs. Parents drop off kids with the church’s kids ministry team members, who will present music, games and a Bible-based lesson, followed a massive egg hunt. Parents and ages 13 and older, who are not allowed at the egg hunt, will be asked to attend Easter Worship services. Parents will be given a check-out number for picking up their children. The Easter Bunny, Frozen characters and live animals will be on hand after each egg hunt.
11/24/14 9:10 AM
When: 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. March 27 (Easter Sunday) Where: Maple Grove Senior High School, 9800 Fernbrook Lane N., Maple Grove Cost: FREE Info: See bestegghunt.com for a video showing last year’s event.
MARCH 29 Supporting organizations that provide all aspects of support, resources, opportunities and outreach programs to children and families. 95% of all proceeds go to charities we support
Zumba Jr. ⊲⊲This MOA Toddler Tuesdays danceand-play party helps kids let loose and get silly while getting exercise, too.
Go online to donate jimandjudefoundation.com Join us at our annual events:
Vintage Vegas Casino Night – February Golf Event – August We are proud to support Children’s Cancer Research Fund®
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When: 10 and 11 a.m. March 29 Where: Rotunda at the Mall of America, Bloomington Cost: FREE Info: tinyurl.com/zumba-jr
ON SALE NOW
Marvel Universe Live ⊲⊲More than 25 Marvel icons — including Spider-Man, The Avengers, Iron Man, Black Widow and The Hulk — come together in one epic quest. Feel the energy of cuttingedge special effects, pyrotechnics, aerial stunts, martial arts and motorcycles. When: April 7–10 Where: Target Center, Minneapolis Cost: Tickets start at $15. Info: marveluniverselive.com
Wild Kratts Live ⊲⊲Martin and Chris from the hit PBS series will activate a variety of Creature Power Suits to confront a classic comic villain, Zach. When: 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. April 30 Where: Orpheum Theatre, Minneapolis Cost: $33.75–$53.75 Info: hennepintheatretrust.org
Robot Day ⊲⊲Celebrate National Robotics Week by interacting with robots of all kinds, experimenting with kid-friendly robotics and watching demos by robotics experts and student teams. When: April 9 Where: The Works, Bloomington Cost: $8 for all visitors older than 2 Info: theworks.org/events-and-camps
COMING UP
Urban Expeditions ⊲⊲Experience cultures from around the world without leaving St. Paul — for free! Experience cultural events featuring music, dance, food, animals, crafts and more from each featured country. When: April 10 (Taiwan), April 24 (Turkey) and May 15 (Nigeria) Where: Landmark Center, St. Paul Cost: FREE Info: landmarkcenter.org
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Musical ⊲⊲Greg Heffley is in survival mode — All. The. Time. He faces middle-school bullies, his big brother and his own heightchallenged stature. Inspired by the awardwinning and bestselling book series. When: April 12–June 5 Where: Children’s Theatre Company, Minneapolis Cost: Tickets start at $10. Info: childrenstheatre.org or 612-874-0400
I Love You, Stinky Face PRESENTS THE 11TH ANNUAL
⊲⊲This heart-warming, new, all-ages musical will have you hugging your loved ones a little tighter and laughing with glee. When: April 15–May 15 Where: Stages Theatre Company, Hopkins Cost: $12–$16 Info: stagestheatre.org or 952-979-1111
2016
FREE!
Number the Stars ⊲⊲All the drama, pathos, adventure, terror and humor of Lois Lowry’s Newbery Award-winning book come to life in this production, geared toward ages 8 and older. Annemarie Johansen and Ellen Rosen play carefree games in the streets of 1943 Copenhagen, until the Nazi occupation of their city becomes increasingly more perilous.
SATURDAY, MARCH 26 • 10AM–3PM BURROUGHS COMMUNITY SCHOOL, 1601 W 50TH ST, MPLS
When: April 29–May 22 Where: Stages Theatre Company, Hopkins Cost: $12–$16 Info: stagestheatre.org or 952-979-1111
MORE ONLINE! ⊲⊲Want to learn about even more local events? Check out Minnesota Parent’s Out&About calendar at mnparent.com/ calendar. ⊲⊲Have a cool family-friendly event coming up? Send all the details (plus photos) to calendar@mnparent.com at least six weeks in advance.
Meet with over 40 representatives of the Twin Cities’ best landscaping, plumbing, interior design, painting and remodeling companies as they showcase their work and present solutions for your home improvement needs.
Free Admission • Door Prizes For more information call 612.825.9205 or visit southwestjournal.com/homefair SW HI Fair MNP 0316 V2.indd 1
SPONSORED BY:
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mnparent.com • March 2016
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CHILDCARE/EDUCATION
Mis Amigos Spanish Immersion
Bring Growing With Music to your child care program or playgroup!
Now offering infant child care in Hopkins!
Call 952-935-5588 and schedule a tour! www.misamigosimmersion.com
sing. play. learn.
Locations in Hopkins, Minnetonka, and St. Paul
www.growingwithmusic.com ~ info@growingwithmusic.com
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Playing
Visit our studios in Maplewood and Rochester
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Creative Kids Academy
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Celebrating Over 40 Musical Years in Minnesota!
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That’s why I depend on NARI.
Learning Center & Day Care
7/22/15 11:12 AM
Visit narimn.org or call 612-332-6274 to find a NARI-certified professional for your next remodeling project or to become a NARI member. The NARI logo is a registered trademark of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. ©2008 NARI of Minnesota.
Rainbow Montessori
952-888-8052
rainbowmontessoriinc.com
8736 Nicollet Ave S Bloomington, MN
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MISCELLANEOUS
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Nonprofit seeks volunteer host families for foreign exchange students
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FREE Lice Head Check Up to $20 value Limit one coupon per visit or per family.
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MISCELLANEOUS
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Theme shows for ALL AGES and BUDGETS!
Inspiring Natural Pregnancies
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30th Anniversary! Nationally awarded & recognized by child development experts!
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Have a Wild Birthday at Como Zoo!
Year Round Riding Lessons Available for All Ages Horse Camp · Birthday Parties
Fun Birthday Parties for children ages 3 and up!
Call 651-487-8272 for more information or to schedule your party.
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Rosemount, MN
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“Highly recommended.”
RETAIL
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@MNParentMag
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Full of outstanding musicianship & unpredictable lyrics, Duke Otherwise’s “Beehives & Bedheads” will delight the entire family with its twelve songs of whimsy and wild imagination. Buy Beehives & Bedheads from DukeOtherwise.com
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FROM OUR READERS
Girls just wanna have fun!
↑↑Julianna Boit, 18 months, Minneapolis ↑↑Alyanna Le-Thompson, 3, Brooklyn Park
↑↑Joanna Urbanz, 5, Minneapolis
↑↑Mallory Peterson, 4, Shakopee
↑↑Hailey Johnson, 8, Hudson, Wis.
↑↑Chaya Dawodu, 3, Crystal
↑↑Lianna Loose, 5, Eden Prairie
↑↑Jovie Jensen, 14 months, St. Paul
Want to see your kid on this page? Send photos with your child’s first/last name, age and city to editor@mnparent.com.
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