June 2016

TODDLERS: WHY, OH, WHY CAN’T THEY SLEEP? PAGE 14

June 2016

The best

BACKPACKS for carrying kids PAGE 36

Simple, fun

FAIRY GARDENS PAGE 31

Emilia, 2, Maple Grove

Pick your own

BERRIES PAGE 40

... and then make

PIE!

PAGE 28

Lesser-known local

PARKS PAGE 41

VOLUME 31

ISSUE 6

41

Super parks Need a new adventure? Explore one of these lesser-known natural areas this summer.

36

31

Fairy gardens Gather leaves, twigs, pebbles and more to help your child create a miniuture world in your very own backyard. (Fairies are optional!)

8 FROM THE EDITOR

Backpack carriers protect your back and shoulders from strain by putting your kid’s weight on your hips.

16 SCHOOL DAYS

24 ON BEHAVIOR

Unplugging — for real

Walking the walk

Stopping stigma

We cut back on screen time and found more time to bond and play outside.

It’s not just our kids who are addicted to devices. Here’s my plan for reform.

Kids suffering from mental illnesses are often needlessly feared.

10 CHATTER

18 TEENS AND TWEENS

26 BOOKSHELF

MSP hacks

The concave hug

Forts and more

Here’s where to park, lactate and play during the airport’s busiest time of year.

I’m not going to stop hugging my kids, even though touch changes with age.

12 BABY ON BOARD

20 GROWS ON TREES

Plan your next backyard — or backcountry — adventure with these super-cool books.

Enjoy the newborn stage by settling into these rich, satisfying distractions.

Seeing who takes the longest showers is one way to save money as a family.

14 TODDLER TIME

22 ASK THE PEDIATRICIAN

TV shows for parents

6

Carry on, hiking warriors

Bucket test

Zombie stage: Part 2

Summer rashes

He’s 2. She’s 3. How is it possible we aren’t past this whole no-sleep thing?

A local pediatric dermatologist explains how to deal with seasonal skin issues.

June 2016 • mnparent.com

28 IN THE KITCHEN

Berry, berry good Should you make strawberry pie or parfaits with your local U-pick bounty?

50 FROM OUR READERS

Born to explore Minnesota parents share photos of their kids braving the great outdoors.

WATER RENTALS

JUNE 2016

Lake Calhoun 612-823-5765

Lake Nokomis 612-729-1127

Lake Harriet 612-922-9226

Lake Como 651-487-8046

BIKE RENTALS

Wheel Fun Rentals MNP 0616 H6.indd 1

40 Pick your own!

Check out six local farms that allow you and the kids to pick your own produce — including berries!

44 Out & About About our cover kid Name: Emilia Age: 2 City: Maple Grove Parents: Rob and Rachel Nadeau Personality: Sweet, bold and charming Favorite activities: Singing and dancing Favorite foods: Blueberries and bananas Photos by Rachel Nadeau / delavue.com

Minnehaha Falls 612-729-2660

Duluth – Canal Park 218-722-1180

Lake Nokomis 612-729-1127

Lake Como 651-487-8046

5/18/16 12:22 PM

FROM THE EDITOR 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, Abbie Burgess, Jamie Crowson, Megan Devine, Dr. Kristen Hook, Rachel Guyah, Shannon Keough, Dawn Marcotte, The PACER Center, Renee Piersa, Jen Wittes, Jennifer Wizbowski CREATIVE DIRECTOR Dana Croatt dcroatt@mnparent.com SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Valerie Moe GRAPHIC DESIGNER Amanda Wadeson CLIENT SERVICES Zoe Gahan 612-436-4375 • zgahan@mnparent.com Delaney Patterson 612-436-5070 • dpatterson@mnpubs.com CIRCULATION Marlo Johnson 612-436-4388 • distribution@mnparent.com mnparent.com/find-a-copy ADVERTISING 612-436-4360 • sales@mnparent.com 50,000 copies of Minnesota Parent are printed monthly, available at news stands statewide.

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Nothing better to do W

elcome to our annual Outdoors Issue! It’s time to spend every minute we can outside, right?

How? We’ve got plenty of ideas for you — six local U-pick berry farms, five unsung parks to explore and even a cool backyard project for all ages — fairy gardens! And for those of you with little kids, we’ve got three awesome backpacks for carrying infants and toddlers anywhere.

And, finally, here’s my advice for making the most of these summer months ahead: Pull back on screen time.

I know, I know: I’ve read suggestions like these many times and I’ve said to myself, “No way! I NEED my kid’s screen time. How would I live?”

But I’m here to tell you: It’s worth a try.

Photo by Tracy Walsh / tracywalshphoto.com I recently reduced my 8-year-old son’s screen time from almost unlimited to 1 to 2 hours per day. He now does ½ hour in the morning before school, ½ hour after school and 2 hours on weekend days (usually split with 1 hour in the morning and 1 hour saved up for later in the day). I set my iPhone timer and demand the phone or tablet back when the time’s up. TV counts as screen time, too, with two exceptions — movie nights (with me or friends) and screen time at friends’ houses during play dates.

(I view these things as “social screen time.”)

I went in with real fear. Screen time had become my pacifier.

But, so far, I’m utterly shocked to say: I love it. Yes, there’s been some whining from my strong-willed son during these first two experimental weeks, but not nearly the constant battle I was expecting.

And I actually feel like I got my son — and even my real life — back. He hangs around me and helps me with things he wouldn’t have helped with when the allure of screen time was ever-present: We cook. We garden. We clean (with decreased whining). We play outside longer. He plays longer by himself, too. Yay! Recently, he helped me volunteer at a cold, windy plant sale at school for six hours, staying even to the bloody end with me and one other parent, doing clean up.

Would he have held out that long without protest if he knew unlimited Castle Clash was at home waiting for him?

I don’t think so.

Have I devoted more time to him under the new rules? Yes. But I’ve still been able to get a lot done. And I’ve felt more present, balanced and with him, too. And I think he feels more content.

Why? I’ve heard that our kids, most of the time, just want us.

And when they get us, we’re all happier.

Maybe it’s because we all know: We have nothing better to do.

Sarah Jackson, Editor

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June 2016 • mnparent.com

SUMMER SALE Expires 6-27-16

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mnparent.com • June 2016

9

CHATTER

MSP hacks for parents

NEW FETAL CARE CENTER There’s a new, pretty amazing resource for expectant parents in town.

The Michael and Ann Ciresi Midwest Fetal Care Center — a new 6,700-square-foot clinic located in The Mother Baby Center in Minneapolis — opened March 14.

It’s the first and largest advanced fetal care program in the Upper Midwest, made possible by a partnership involving Children’s Minnesota, Abbott Northwestern Hospital, Minnesota Perinatal Physicians and Pediatric Surgical Associates.

Mothers having high-risk pregnancies involving congenital conditions or abnormalities may be referred to the center, which offers the latest technology and treatments in fetal care.

Though the center is an outpatient facility, fetal specialists can perform a variety of fetal surgeries and procedures at the adjacent hospital. That includes potentially lifesaving fetoscopies — endoscopic procedures done during pregnancy that give doctors access to the fetus as well as the amniotic cavity, umbilical cord and the fetal side of the placenta.

One procedure — known as a fetoscopic laser ablation — involves the use of a laser to help treat twin-to–twin transfusion syndrome by balancing the blood flow between two babies in utero.

Specialized fetal care is nothing new for perinatal physicians in Minneapolis — 75 fetoscopies have been done since 2008. This new center, however, offers a single point of collaboration for the region’s many experts in the field.

Perinatologists, pediatric surgeons, neonatologists, cardiologists, ENT specialists, genetic counselors, ethicists, perinatal social workers and care coordinators work with families from diagnosis through care in the NICU. There are about 30 fetal care centers in the U.S. Of those, only eight — including the new Midwest Fetal Care Center — are classified as advanced.

The new facility was made possible in part through a $1 million gift from Minnesota attorney and Children’s Foundation past chair, Mike Ciresi, and his wife, Ann. Learn more at childrensMN.org.

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June 2016 • mnparent.com

Taking the kids on flights this summer?

July and August are the busiest months of the year at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are the heaviest due to business commuters. Here are some amenities that might ease your pain: ⊲⊲Quick Ride Ramp: Located a mile from Terminal 1 off Highway 5 at the Post Road exit, this ramp offers parking for $14 a day, compared to $24 a day for general parking a Terminal 1 (Lindbergh). Free shuttles run 24/7, offering five-minute rides to (or from) Terminal 1. ⊲⊲Lactation/nursing spaces: Mothers can find refuge in lactation rooms near Gate F2 and near Gate C13 and in two nursing rooms — one near the entrance to Concourse E and another on Concourse C. Terminal 2 (Humphrey) is adding a lactation room this fall. ⊲⊲Play areas: Let the kids explore a mock airplane and air traffic control tower with slides — at Concourse C at Terminal 1 and at Gate H6 at Terminal 2. ⊲⊲Airport Aircraft Viewing Area: Located in the heart of MSP’s airfield, this mini park, open from dawn to dusk, provides spectacular views of takeoffs and landings from multiple runways. Newly opened in 2015, the space features parking, picnic tables, benches and newly planted trees. Get directions at tinyurl.com/msp-mn-view.

Learn more about the family-friendly MSP amenities at tinyurl.com/msp-mn-family.

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Netflix for new parents I

never had such an appreciation for “the little things” in life until I had a brand-new baby in the house. Little things like slip-on winter boots, coffee shops with drive-thrus and decent food that can be eaten with one hand.

In other words, when you haven’t had more than two consecutive hours of sleep in the last two months, you’ll appreciate anything that makes your life even slightly easier (dry shampoo, Bite Squad gift cards) or that takes your mind off the mounting birth-associated medical bills (Netflix, Amazon Prime, YouTube).

⊲⊲You can fight back (later) Let’s face it, gang: Postpartum support is in short supply in this country. No one is guaranteed any paid parental time off; many women don’t even meet the requirements to qualify for unpaid time.

Post-birth hospital stays are short and often force you to “room in” with your baby: You get no sleep and do all the baby care yourself, even though you had a C-section and can’t take a step without holding a pillow over your abdomen.

This calls for serious change: Change you can start advocating for when your baby is 2 years old or more. Seriously, if there’s ever been a time to cultivate indifference and lower the proverbial bar, it’s during the first year of your baby’s life.

You’ll have the rest of your days to get involved and make the world a better place. But right now, your resources are limited.

So, in honor of the one-day-at-a-time slog of early parenthood, I present my fond reminiscences of the TV shows I watched when my kids were tiny babies.

⊲⊲The Wire Before I had kids, I didn’t watch much TV. I was too busy reading books, drinking on patios, obsessing about “my purpose in life” and riding my bike to the Hexagon Bar. Therefore, I had never seen The Wire — also known as the best TV show of all time.

The Wire was fascinating, troubling and often very hard to follow in my baby-induced coma. “Wait: Do you have any idea what just happened?” I asked my husband at the end of more than a few episodes.

He was usually just as lost as me. This mutual confusion strengthened our marital bond during a life phase often associated with marital discord. (I hope.) And we knew we had the option to watch it all again when Baby No. 2 came around!

⊲⊲Mad Men “I tried to watch Mad Men after I had my second baby, but I just couldn’t — it was too depressing!”

My friend said she could watch only lighthearted TV shows when she was caring for a baby. And while I enjoyed my fair share of comedy during the fourth trimester (Arrested Development, The Office, both British and American), there was just something great about brooding dramas filled with tortured characters that made being hooked to a breast pump six times a day more tolerable.

Plus, no matter how dire things get in your own life, you can always just say, “Well, I’m not as bad as [insert any character’s name],” and feel better in an instant.

⊲⊲Twin Peaks If you’re raising your baby with a partner, there’s a strong likelihood that you won’t always want to watch the same shows. Such was the case with Twin Peaks.

I’m a Twin Peaks obsessive. It aired on prime time while I was in the sixth grade and I totally imprinted on it.

For me, Twin Peaks marks the beginning of my transition from unpopular child outcast to disaffected teen loner;

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from Debbie Gibson to Nick Cave.

But for my husband, Twin Peaks has negative associations related to cutesy theme parties that happened in abundance at his college. I can respect this. (I have a similar aversion to ER: Every week when I finished my work-study shift at the cafeteria I’d walk in on an ER viewing party in my dorm room and I’d be forced to skulk away).

Therefore, Twin Peaks became my daytime soap opera, my secret indulgence while the spouse was away.

Whatever it may be — My So-Called Life, The Golden Girls — we all have a Twin Peaks.

So every day, once a day, give yourself the present of passive televised nostalgia.

Revolutionary social change can wait until next year.

Shannon Keough lives in Minneapolis with her husband and two children. Send questions or comments to skeough@ mnparent.com.

11/15/12 2:37 PM

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12:50 PM mnparent.com •4/14/14 June 2016 13

Are we still talking about SLEEP?! (Yes.) T

he whole shebang starts during your first brave masochistic trip to the grocery store, solo, with a 2-week-old.

You’re rocking a look I might gently call postpartum chic (not in PJs) meets zombie apocalypse (green-grey circles under your eyes, paper-thin pasty skin, hormonally imbalanced and wild-eyed with hunger).

A pack of evil grannies clucks and swoons and surrounds your youngling — TOUCHING HER — while asking just about every possible version of the following question: Is she sleeping through the night YET? Though you quickly learn that “sleeping through the night” is a myth from the early to mid-20th century — when babes were fed bottles fortified with cornstarch and Cream of Wheat — you nevertheless develop your own sleep obsession: Is she getting enough sleep?

Am I? Is dozing off in the stroller considered a nap?

⊲⊲The new normal As the months progress, you get a handle on your child’s sleep patterns, barring the

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June 2016 • mnparent.com

occasional surprise all-nighter. But as your “baby” hits the one-year mark and as your 1-year-old becomes a toddler, you find that sleep is still very much a hot topic.

Maybe the bedtime breastfeeding session is your last weaning step. Maybe the transition from crib to toddler bed seems insurmountable.

Perhaps you’ve been co-sleeping up until now and are ready to take back a bit of autonomy (and uninterrupted nighttime matrimony). Maybe it’s a combination of all of these things — plus the closet monster, sleepwalking, refusal to settle down and just one last glass of water.

And then Pull-Ups! And stomach bugs!

DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME. And the trepidation that comes from that sly suggestion from one parent to the other, “Do you … um … think it’s time to do away with … um … NAPS … like forever?”

Add to all this the mix of both vague and so-called ironclad suggestions from the “experts” who quite frankly make you ask: “Do you have recommendations for human parents of actual 2-year-olds?”

⊲⊲Here’s the deal The National Sleep Foundation says toddlers age 1 to 2 need 11 to 14 hours of sleep per night, but notes that 9 hours might be appropriate for your child, as may 16.

The same organization says 3- to 5-yearolds need 10 to 13 hours, roughly.

In their recommendations for setting good sleep habits, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that you NOT let your child sleep in your bed, as it will make it more difficult for her to fall asleep alone.

Attachment Parenting advocate and many times over bestselling author Dr. William Sears recommends bedsharing with your toddler to your comfort level, if it is a need of the child’s, rather

than a habit or desire. He says that a parent should instinctively know the difference.

⊲⊲Do what works for you Is your head spinning yet?

I’ve done it all — including sleeping sandwiched between my two children. As a postpartum doula, I’ve seen a full spectrum of sleep choices amongst many different families — families with toddlers, infants, teens, a single parent, two mommies, twins and beyond.

I know that “one more book” and “need a glass of water” are as habitual as bed sharing.

I know many, many parents who wait with bated breath for the midnight visit: It’s the point at which they nuzzle close, smell their child’s hair, relax, appreciate the bittersweet nature of time — and connect in a way they’re unable to do amid the buzz of daily life.

I know working parents who need nighttime cuddles to restore, reconnect and reestablish the will to drop their children off at daycare the next day.

And I know parents who say, “Nope.

Never. This bed is where the magic happens — and I don’t mean Yo Gabba Gabba.”

When I was a doula, from day one with a family, I’d say to the parents of infants and toddlers alike, “Do what works. Do what gets everyone here the maximum amount of rest. Just do it safely.”

As the experts tell us, there’s a wide range of possibility in terms of healthy toddler sleep. And as always, YOU are the expert when it comes to your own child.

Beauty of Summer… Gardens in POPs of color, Savage Gardens carnivorous plants exhibit.

Nature and Outdoors… Hiking woodland trails, yoga, Music in the Gardens concerts, weekend events for all ages.

13 OUTDOOR BUG AND POLLINATOR SCULPTURES YOU’LL WANT TO SEE UP CLOSE.

Come and play...

Community Big Builds; After-Dark events: lighted tour with libations or picnics, each with “It’s a Bug’s Life” movie

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.

MN Landscape Arboretum MNP 0616 2-3page with bleed.indd 1

5/19/16 11:05 AM

mnparent.com • June 2016

15

Mama screen time redefined Sometimes I need to remind myself that it is very rational to go out in public without my phone.

A

s a busy mother, teacher and writer, I sometimes find it hard to balance my online time — social media, texting, emails — with my offline time.

I find it necessary and valuable to make virtual connections, but I also yearn for and benefit from screen-free time on my own and with others who I love and care for.

There are times that I’ve been distracted or preoccupied by something trivial on a screen while a real live human being was seeking my attention.

I also admit to letting the addictive pull of checking social media feeds, emails or texts get the best of me and occupy more of my time — and mental energy — than I would like to admit.

Can you relate?

In our society, it’s not uncommon to form a dependence on electronic media. It can be addicting!

But we can assert some control over our technology use so our habits don’t interfere with our relationships or our connection with the real world.

To be truly accountable to myself and in hopes of inspiring others, I would like to share my goals and intentions as I work to develop more healthy habits of technology use in my life:

⊲⊲Practicing unplugging

⊲⊲Setting limits

I will make a point to disconnect from technology for stretches of time every-single-day.

This is a refreshing practice that helps me stay connected both with the people in my life and my surroundings.

Sometimes I need to remind myself that it is very rational to go out in public without my phone. I survived close to 30 years without a phone in my pocket.

I know I can survive a family gathering, a shopping experience, a walk around the neighborhood or a doctor’s appointment without checking out.

I can also go a couple of hours — or even a day — without checking a social media feed, text or email.

It is possible!

This type of disconnect actually helps me feel connected in a different way, one that’s a bit more real and genuine.

Creating and maintaining healthy habits with our technology use is important to create balance in our lives.

I’m grateful for all the gifts that come with technological innovations, but I also want to be responsible and in control with my actions so I can experience the richness of everyday, real-time interactions.

I will work to manage my time so that my technology use doesn’t unnecessarily interfere with family time. I will set boundaries and be appropriate with my use of technology.

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.

⊲⊲Walking the walk I will work to be a role model with my use of technology.

I know my children are at an impressionable age.

I know my choices and actions will influence the habits my children develop.

I will follow the rules that I want my children to follow in my home, in vehicles and in public places. I want to speak through my actions — modeling healthy, safe and respectful technology use in my home and community.

16

I don’t need to be “on call” all of the time. I will work to eliminate distractions by turning off my phone, tablet or computer when I want to be fully present with those around me.

Phone calls, emails and texts can wait when I’m sharing meals with my family, helping one of my children with homework or connecting with my husband at the end of a full day.

I want my children to know “there is a time and a place” for these types of communications and I want the people I’m interacting with to know that I honor and value their presence.

June 2016 • mnparent.com

The evolution of the hug H

aving two children hovering around either side of adolescence brings up new concerns to both to worry about and anticipate.

Some concerns tap you right square on the nose and make your eyes water.

They get you when you least expect them.

As both of my kids encounter the talked about “change,” I’ve been doing some introspection on the way they give affection and receive my love as a parent.

⊲⊲In our arms With babies, even in our most depleted, sleep-deprived states, we can be comforted by holding our precious children in our arms. We receive as much as our tired arms can give as we stare and admire their long lashes and perfect skin. We even find it within ourselves to muster sweet words and the soft hushes of lullabies.

The daily tasks of changing their diapers, feeding them and bathing them gives us the opportunity to mutually experience the benefit of touch.

As they grow into toddlerhood and the school years, we sense their physical needs change. It happens so quickly we hardly realize it, even with seeing them every day: We hug less, we touch less, we sing to them no more.

⊲⊲By our side I realized one day that my 13-year-old son was a foot away from me on the couch and we weren’t touching. There was something in me that sensed he noticed it, too.

Now let me assure you, when he was 10, he wasn’t sitting on my lap to watch TV: No way. But something about hugging your children makes you feel like you’re nurturing them in a way that words can’t.

And somewhere along the way, I began to hold back.

When I realized it, I started trying to reach out for him a bit more: I didn’t want there to be a gap between us.

I would give him a pat on the leg or a quick scratch on the back and got that same “I’m not sure about this anymore” feeling from him.

⊲⊲Round two About a year and a half ago, my then 11-year-old daughter started slamming the door shut when she got dressed in the mornings. At 12, she outright told me she did NOT want me to go into the dressing room with her when she was trying on clothes. (But what about dancing around to our own beat as I hung things on hangers and she grabbed her next thing to try on?

Is that just … gone?!)

At almost 13, she’s gotten to a point where she hugs her dad with a special concave hug — arms in full embrace without the chest touching at all.

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June 2016 • mnparent.com

⊲⊲Hug ’em through it I’ve done all the reading on the developmental benefits 12 touches a day from a parent.

And now, with the years ticking by, I’ve realized this is my chance to give them those touch points — while they still share a roof with me.

I’m so thankful for a husband that senses his daughter’s discomfort and chooses to hug her through it. He gives a lot more tickle torture than ever before.

I make it a point to kiss both of them right when they wake up and when they leave. I rub their backs when they’re focused on their homework, and I reach over and rub their heads or feet when we’re on the couch.

And yes, I’ll bake them cookies, send them encouraging texts and let them have noisy band practices in the basement.

But I’m going to hug them.

TEEN STUFF

Guide to empathy ⊲⊲Caring for others is an essential skill that can give today’s young people a leg up in all aspects of their lives. So says author Michele Borba, an internationally recognized parenting expert. Her new book — UNSELFIE: Why Empathic Kids Succeed in Our All-About-Me World, coming out this month — gives parents “science-backed” tools for teaching empathy the age of “selfie syndrome,” defined as a documented 40 percent decrease in empathy skills among today’s kids, compared to children 30 years ago. $25 • simonandschuster.com

⊲⊲Face to face When he was 14, my son, when he stood up in the morning, made it a habit to align his shoulders with mine, as if he were taking a measure of his growth from the night before.

There was a satisfaction that came when, one day, he could look me straight in the eye.

Now that my son is 15, I have to look up at him when he gives me the alignment hug in the mornings. I think maybe he’s still checking out — and affirming his progression into — the idea of adulthood.

And he has this new thing now: He tells me he loves me every time he comes and goes. And then, he gives me a kiss on the top of my head.

Jennifer Wizbowski lives in Excelsior with her husband, daughter and son. Write her at jwizbowski@mnparent.com. mnparent.com • June 2016

19

4 fun ways to save as a family S

aving money as a family fun activity? It sounds suspicious, I know.

After all, “saving” isn’t the first thing you think of when you’re looking for fun things to do with your offspring.

But you can have a good time together while also getting the whole gang on board with cutting costs. Try any of these as a family project. With older kids, you can even do some light math to figure out just how much you saved:

⊲⊲1. Do the shower experiment We use a lot of water when we shower.

Taking shorter showers not only saves you money on your utility bill, but it also saves water, which is good for the environment.

Have the kids grab a wide-mouthed bucket and head for the bathroom. Bring your phone or a stopwatch. Run the shower at the rate you would when you take a shower, and start your timer.

Collect the water in the bucket for 30 seconds, then measure how many cups of water are in the bucket.

Multiply that number by two to find your cups per minute ratio, then divide that number by 16 to find out how many gallons you use per minute.

Now, time everyone’s showers over the next few weeks and keep track of the results on a chart.

If you shower for 10 minutes and your shower spits out a gallon a minute, you’re using 10 gallons per shower. Post the chart where everyone can see it, and make a contest out of who can cut the most gallons from their weekly usage. Take things a step further and figure how much you pay per gallon on your bill and calculate your savings.

⊲⊲2. Hunt energy vampires You know how kids (and, cough, some adults) are always forgetting to turn off the lights when they leave a room?

The truth is, if you’re using CFLs or LEDs, the cost is really not that much. If you leave an LED bulb burning all day while you’re at work, it will cost you about a penny.

But other electronics cost much more — like stereos, phone chargers, air conditioners and televisions — so it’s a great idea to

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June 2016 • mnparent.com

build the habit of turning these things off. You can start with lights by letting kids draw energy vampires on some of your light switch plates.

First, unscrew them from the wall, then give your kids markers and let them draw vampires and slogans like, “Don’t feed the energy vampire: Turn off the lights!” (These vampires suck electricity instead of blood, get it?)

Once the habit starts to take hold, extend the discussion to other appliances: “When you’re done with the TV, turn it off so you don’t feed the energy vampire.”

When you’ve had enough of looking at the energy vampire, it’s about a buck to get a new, plain switch plate.

Also: Check out Belkin’s line of Conserve power switches ($6.99) that allow you to cut power to devices without unplugging them (belkin.com), including some that come with timers.

⊲⊲3. Plant a garden I love this idea even though I stink at gardening. Every year I get overexcited and plant more produce than I can keep up with. I can usually coax some tomatoes out of the earth, but my efforts at other veggies often fail.

So if you’re like me, it’s OK to focus on the one or two items you’re good at cultivating, and devote your full attention to them. If you’re even marginally more talented, you can go crazy.

Organic produce is expensive, as we all know, but not so much if you DIY. Even if you don’t have a yard, you can do a lot with window boxes, patio pots and even community gardens.

Most kids love to be part of planning and planting. Make a ritual out of weeding and watch kids’ wonder blossom as their seeds and starts turn into flourishing, food-producing plants.

You can put older kids in charge of a plant or the whole garden.

You might even get your reluctant eaters to appreciate having green things on their plates.

⊲⊲4. Cook from scratch Packaged food is typically loaded with sodium, dyes, preservatives, sugar and other stuff that’s not good for us. AND it’s expensive!

MONEY STUFF

Money and gratitude ⊲⊲The Opposite of Spoiled: Raising Kids Who Are Grounded, Generous and Smart About Money isn’t just rich with useful tips for teaching kids about finances — including parent best practices for the tooth fairy, birthdays, chores, mobile phones and beyond — it’s also relatable guide to combating materialism with gratitude and charity and many other nuanced life lessons, courtesy of New York Times money columnist Ron Lieber. $15.99 • harpercollins.com

Sure, it’s convenient to bake a frozen pizza or make a box of what-have-you when you’re tired and/or lazy. I’m not suggesting you never do that again.

But cooking with ingredients can be a project that involves the whole family.

Even preschoolers can help choose a recipe, find ingredients at the store, wash bell peppers, tear the lettuce, pass the spatula, and so on.

You save money, have a good time with your family, and you know exactly what’s going into everyone’s body.

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 or questions to ebraun@mnparent.com.

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12:45 PM mnparent.com •5/19/16 June 2016 21

Kristen Hook

Summer rashes!

S

ummer in Minnesota is synonymous with frequent trips to the cabin up, vacations up North, day hikes and camping for many local families.

But all that warm-weather outdoor fun can cause some major skin issues. Fortunately, most rashes, spots and bumps are easily treatable.

Here are some of the most common summertime conditions I see in my pediatric dermatology patients:

In the same way that little kids develop bad rashes when facing viruses and infections, they often have more severe reactions to things like mosquito bites.

Bug bites: These inevitable skin irritations are unavoidable in Minnesota, especially among active children. In the same way that little kids develop bad rashes when facing viruses and infections, they often have more severe reactions to things like mosquito bites.

Some bites can result in a persistent rash called papular urticaria. This occurs when a child’s immune system over reacts, creating a recurrence of bumps, similar to hives. Sometimes it can last for months.

This reaction, however, responds well to antihistamines and topical steroids, and eventually burns out.

Tick bites: A top concern when discussing tick bites is Lyme disease. The deer tick, a small eight-legged creature that’s about the size of a pin head, transmits this disease. Lyme disease often causes a red, ring-like rash called erythema migrans, which typically develops one to four weeks after the bite.

Although this rash will disappear without treatment after about six weeks, the Lyme disease will still be present. Patients need a blood test to confirm a diagnosis. Fortunately, the risk of transmission is lower if the tick is removed within 24 hours. Because there are 13 known tick species in Minnesota — most of which don’t cause Lyme disease — try to save any tick you find so you can show it to your provider to ensure proper identification.

Phytophotodermatitis: It’s the other “lime” disease.

This is a skin sensitivity to chemicals found in certain plants and fruits — exclusively triggered by exposure to sunlight or other ultraviolet light. Lime juice, celery, wild parsley, meadow grass and giant hogweed are common culprits. Affected areas can look sunburned or blistered or turn brown.

Often infants come into contact with these products after touching their parents’ hands. Sometimes kids can even develop these patches on their chin after drinking lemon or limeade — parents can, too, after sipping margaritas! This type of rash fades with time and no treatment is usually necessary.

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Sun exposure: Protection from the sun is more important now than ever before.

Rates of skin cancer continue to increase.

For infants younger than 6 months, barrier protections such as hats and protective clothing are a first line of defense, but sunscreens also are critical if you’re expecting significant sun exposure.

Sunscreens containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide with SPF 30 or more are recommended for children. Sunscreen products with DEET aren’t recommended because the chemical can penetrate the skin more quickly resulting in higher than advised concentrations of chemicals.

Contact dermatitis: Poison ivy, oak and sumac are all notorious for causing contact dermatitis. More than 85 percent of the population is sensitive to these plants and will show a rash within 24 to 48 hours of exposure. The fluid from the resulting skin vesicles isn’t contagious.

However, the irritant oleoresin from these plants deposited on gloves, pants and other clothing can stay active for many months. To prevent repeat exposure, wash clothes and don’t reuse contaminated gloves or clothing.

Pay special attention when having campfires. If these plants are burned, the resin can become airborne and result in a significant facial rash with swelling that’s often mistaken for infection.

As summertime in Minnesota approaches, keep these common conditions in mind to help you and your family enjoy rash-free outdoor fun! If you have any questions or concerns about these or other summertime skin issues, contact your primary care provider or a dermatologist.

Dr. Kristen Hook is an assistant professor in the Department of Dermatology at the University of Minnesota Medical School. She sub-specializes in pediatric dermatology and is one of the only board-certified pediatric dermatologists in and around the Twin Cities.

Hook practices at the University of Minnesota Health Pediatric Dermatology Clinic at the Masonic Children’s Hospital. Learn more at dermatology.umn.edu.

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How to stop the stigma T

he stigma surrounding mental-health conditions is very real, and it can be devastating for children who experience it.

Take Tara, 11, who started being left out of activities once she told her best friend, Amanda, that she was diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

When Tara asked Amanda why she wouldn’t play with her anymore, Amanda confessed: “My mom said I should stay away from you. She said you were probably ‘crazy’ and might do something strange.”

Tara’s mom, Alexis, was heartbroken for her daughter.

“I just don’t know what to do,” Alexis said. “She’s not a bad kid. I just wish people wouldn’t judge her without even knowing her. It’s so unfair.”

For generations, people with mental-health conditions have faced stigma — prejudice that stems from misinformation, a lack of understanding, and media sensationalism that often paints a woefully inaccurate picture of mental illness.

Gradually the stigma is fading for certain mental health conditions such as depression and ADHD. But for others — like bipolar disorder — people are still

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quick to assign scary labels.

Tara’s situation has motivated Alexis to help her daughter and involve other parents, who can teach their children about stigma and empathy.

Here are a few things she, and others in her situation, would like parents to know about the stigma of mental health and how it impacts children like her daughter:

⊲⊲My child’s ‘bad’ behavior isn’t her fault.

Please don’t think of Tara as a bad kid. Mental-health challenges can often lead to emotional and behavioral issues that may cause other parents and school administrators to think of children as a problems, rather than a people in need of support.

If you can understand the reasons behind the behavior, we’d be off to a better start.

⊲⊲If you have concerns, let me know.

If we’ve known each other for a long time and our kids have been playing together since they were little, I’d love for you to know more about Tara’s condition so that you

She’s not a bad kid.

I just wish people wouldn’t judge her without even knowing her.

It’s so unfair.

and your kids won’t be afraid of her.

If our kids are new friends, I want to assure you that Tara is getting the support she needs and is doing well. I’m happy to share more about my daughter if you would like.

⊲⊲Educate yourself.

Even if your child doesn’t have a mentalhealth condition, it’s important know about such challenges and the impact of stigma on kids and families.

Knowledge is so important, and many non-profits and health-care providers are working to end mental-health stigma.

There’s a lot of good information available online. See the National Institute of Mental Health and Time to Change.

⊲⊲Help your child learn more.

Once you have more knowledge, you can teach your kids about Tara and others with mental-health challenges, and help them be more empathetic.

It would be helpful if you passed the information on to other parents, too. The more children and families know, the less likely they are to treat Tara differently than other children.

⊲⊲Please don’t leave my child out.

It breaks my heart when Tara isn’t invited to participate, especially when the girls at school are talking about a birthday party or a movie they’re going to see together.

All children want to be included. Maybe we could arrange some activities together where the kids can play and we can supervise — things like bowling or iceskating, for example.

That will help you and the kids feel more comfortable around Tara, and she won’t feel so isolated. © Disney. Reprinted with permission from Disney Online. All Rights Reserved. This article originally appeared on Babble.com and was published in partnership with The PACER Center, a nonprofit organization based in the Twin Cities that helps families with children with disabilities and also runs the National Bullying Prevention Center.

Learn more at pacer.org. mnparent.com • June 2016

25

BOOKSHELF

Get out there!

By Sarah Jackson Kids need nature play and outdoor activities. But when there are 1,000 free cool games on the iPad, you’re facing an uphill battle, even in summer — unless you get creative and get excited to try new things. Here are just a few of the latest outdoors books perfectly tailored to families in need of inspiration and motivation.

Fantastic Forts: Inspiration for Wild Hideaways This ingenious guide is filled with ideas that can help you and the kids make a fort almost anywhere, out of almost anything — even from the base of your backyard trampoline (inset, left). Fort themes include nature detective, fairy, miniature, party, beach, sleepover, treehouses and, our favorite, garden teepees.

M Is for Minnesota Created in collaboration with the Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Minneapolis, each page of this glossy hardcover features a short poem written by kids from the Jewish Big Brother / Big Sister program as part of the publisher’s See My State series. Some of the Minnesota highlights, geared toward ages 4 to 8, include K for kayaking, O for Ojibwe and W for walleye, “our great state fish.” graphicartsbooks.com $13.99

quartous.com $19.99

Backyard Ice Rink Did you know you could build your own backyard ice rink for as little as $250? According to this “step-by-step guide for building your own hockey rink at home,” all you need is walls, supports and a liner (to hold the water). No, it won’t kill your grass, and, yes, you can even build one if your yard is sloped. Why are we telling you now? Because now — when you can actually see your backyard — is the time to start planning, and perhaps checking city ordinances. New Hampshire author Joe Proulx is the co-founder of Elite Backyard Rinks, a parts distributor and installer of home rinks.

But don’t fear a sales pitch: This paperback focuses primarily on DIY construction and simple hardware store materials. wwnorton.com • $19.95

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DISCOVER BADLANDS RANGER TIPS

D

on’t get too close to the edge of any overlooks or trails; the loose ground may erode beneath your feet.

Find a fossil? Don’t touch it, and report it to the visitor center.

TAKE IT EASY

G

o for a walk on the park’s many trails (center) or in the mixedgrass prairie, where you’ll wander through both ankle-high and waist-high grasses (top). f h

Welcome to

ds Badlanna l Park!

Natio

Early French-Canadian trappers

named it les mauvaises terres à traverser.

Translation? “Bad lands to cross.” But there’s nothing bad to say about this extremely unique region. Famous for its towering, jagged cliffs, steep-walled canyons, and bumpy gray terrain, the rocky landscape of Badlands National Park is often compared to the moon’s State: South Dakota surface. But the area is also home to Buffalo Gap Established: November 10, 1978 Size: 244,300 acres(98,865 ha) National Grassland, the second largest mixed-grass Website: nps.gov/badl prairie in the country. The combination of distinct rock formations and lush grasslands makes Badlands one of the most beautiful and bizarre places in the world.

BE EXTREME

ALL ABOUT ANIMALS

U

ark residents include pronghorn, mule and white-tailed deer, prairie dogs (below), coyotes, butterflies, turtles, snakes, bluebirds, vultures, eagles, and hawks. Bonus points if you spot the once endangered bison, bighorn sheep, swift fox, and blackfooted ferret, all species reintroduced to Badlands. d

p for a climb? Parts of the 1.5-mile (2.4-km) round-trip Notch Trail are so steep, you have to scale a log ladder to reach higher ground. Reach the top and be rewarded with sweeping views of the White River Valley Basin.

BEST VIEWS

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ead to Big Badlands Overlook for an outstanding aerial view of The Wall and glimpses of the cliffs and grassy prairie (below). The Cliff Shelf Nature Trail also offers a spectacular view of the plains. d

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The National Parks system turns 100 this year and to celebrate, National Geographic has published two information-packed guides — one for parents (500 pages) and another, more colorful 175-pager for ages 8 to 12. Both are glossy, gorgeous and full of ideas for families looking to explore the United States’ many natural and historic wonders. shop.nationalgeographic.com $28 / $14.99

mnparent.com • June 2016

27

IN THE KITCHEN

Berry tasty!

June is peak strawberry season in Minnesota — and this no-bake pie really shows off those red orbs’ freshness and bright flavors. Check local grocers or see minnesotagrown.com for a list of local farmers markets and strawberry farms.

FRESH STRAWBERRY PIE INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

3/4 cup sugar 3 tablespoons cornstarch Dash of salt 1 cup water 3 tablespoons strawberry gelatin 4 cups of strawberries, washed, dried with paper towels and, if desired, sliced 1 baked pie crust

Combine the sugar, cornstarch, salt and water in a medium saucepan.

Bring to a boil over medium-high to high heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens to an almost jelly-like consistency.

Stir in the gelatin until completely dissolved.

Remove from heat and cool slightly.

Fold in the strawberries.

Pour the mixture into a baked pie crust.

Chill for six hours or until set.

Garnish with whipped cream and strawberries and serve.

Refrigerate any leftovers.

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June 2016 • mnparent.com

STRAWBERRIES AND CREAM PARFAITS INGREDIENTS 1 cup chopped strawberries 4 teaspoons granulated sugar, divided 5 ounces Greek yogurt Âź cup cream cheese 1 tablespoon milk, half-and-half or heavy cream 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract Pinch salt 1/3 cup graham cracker crumbs

DIRECTIONS Place the strawberries in a small bowl and sprinkle with 2 teaspoons sugar. Toss gently and let sit for about 30 minutes, then strain to remove juices.

Whisk the yogurt, cream cheese, milk or cream, 2 teaspoons sugar, vanilla extract and salt until smooth.

Layer the ingredients, starting with graham crackers, followed by a layer of the cream mixture, then a layer of berries, then cream, berries and, finally, cream.

Sprinkle the top layer with graham cracker crumbs and top with a fresh strawberry.

Serve immediately.

Makes 2 parfaits Source: This recipe was adapted from brighteyedbaker.com.

ds

Tiny little life Looking to help your kids get outside, get into nature and make their own discoveries?

Start with a fairy garden!

By Abbie Burgess

Photo by Abbie Burgess

Tiny little life

Take

a walk through any craft or garden store and you’ll see them — miniature houses, teeny-tiny plants and dollhouse-sized outdoor furniture for making the newest craze in gardening: Fairy gardens!

Children’s imaginations are well suited to this crafty activity.

A pile of small rocks and pebbles becomes a walkway. A few sticks make a little bridge. A single fringed leaf becomes tree.

Fairy gardens’ diminutive scale works to introduce young ones to gardening. Small items fit perfectly in little hands, fostering the use of imagination and a tendency toward outdoor play.

Engaging toddlers and beyond Growing up on the East Coast, Crary Brouhard was fascinated by imagining the enchanted world of fairies.

Now a mother of a 5-year-old boy and 2-year-old girl, she’s found joy in sharing her love of the whimsical creatures with her children through fairy gardening in the Twin Cities suburban yard.

When her son was 3, the family created their first miniature garden. And every year since, it’s become an annual spring tradition.

“He loves rocks, so we created that one entirely out of rocks,” Brouhard said.

Then, the next year, a little twig house graced the garden.

This year’s edition features a twig swing set, a ladder and a pond adorned with glass gems and a seashell — all born from a 5-yearold’s imagination and just a little parental help.

What age is a fairy garden ideal for?

“Three to 99!” Brouhard said.

She expects her 2-year-old to begin to show interest in this year’s garden, adding: “Before this age, she would have put the rocks in her mouth.”

dining table centerpiece. Lakewinds Food Co-Op in Richfield even has a small garden on a display in a mug!

Fairy Houses of the Maine Coast, a 2010 homage to miniature fairy houses in New England, recommends children remember three things when building their first fairy gardens: 1. Fairies love privacy and natural beauty. 2. Respect the environment. 3. Have fun.

Setting a miniature budget The prices on those tiny accessories can seem out of scale. Indeed, all those little benches, ceramic mushrooms and resin fairy figurines really add up!

While they are, of course, adorable, opening your wallet isn’t the only way to build a miniature garden.

Brouhard looks for ideas on Pinterest, where she’s seen inexpensive wooden birdhouses and milk cartons converted into fairy dwellings.

“You can do it on a budget. You can do it for free,” she said, adding that fairy gardening is the best of both worlds: “If you’re a do-it-yourself gal or guy, you can make everything. But if you don’t have time or don’t want to get your hands dirty, you can buy it. It’s for all kinds of people.”

Fairy gardens for all Fairy gardens have been around for at least 100 years, first appearing as bonsai dish gardens at the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago.

Apartment dwellers can get in on the fun by creating miniature gardens in pots, terrariums or small dishes, all of which appear to be booming segments among local and national retailers.

Brouhard’s friends have a year-round fairy garden displayed as a

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June 2016 • mnparent.com

NEED MORE INSPIRATION? Find a ridiculous wealth of ideas and links at tinkerlab.com/fairy-garden, themagiconions.com/fairy-gardens and of course, pinterest.com.

Fostering imaginative play Parents don’t have to encourage the make-believe aspect of miniature gardening.

Fairy figurines are the only inhabitants of some gardens — no belief in mystical winged creatures is required.

On the other hand, imagining a world besides our own can help stretch and shape a child’s imagination.

Brouhard describes her son as a logical thinker who understands that the characters at Disneyland are portrayed by actors. She thinks creating a fairy garden has helped him become more imaginative.

If parents think their child isn’t the type to enjoy a fairy garden, Brouhard urges them think again. While fairies are marketed to girls, “Any boy who loves to be outside and loves nature would like to do a fairy garden.”

Her son has created his own favorite type of imagined woodland fairy, the archery fairy!

This year he has a more well-known tenant in mind for his garden — the Tooth Fairy (so she doesn’t have to fly so far away every night).

His mom says he must be planning ahead, since he doesn’t even have a wiggly tooth yet.

“He’s such a boy,” she said. “And he enjoys this.”

↑↑You don’t need a yard to get into fairy gardening — just a pot filled with soil and a little imagination.

Local craft stores (like Michael’s) and garden centers (such as Bachman’s) sell a variety of miniature gardening props — or you can make your own and add twigs, pebbles, leaves and even a LEGO guy if that’s what your kid wants!

mnparent.com • June 2016

33

Tiny little life

Photo by Abbie Burgess

Bringing play back outside Studies suggest that U.S. children play in nature less today than previous generations did.

Author Richard Louv describes this as “nature deficit disorder” in his book Last Child in the Woods. The journal Landscape and Urban Planning reports that parks are responding by developing special nature-play areas to improve children’s health and connection to nature.

There’s a reason to get kids outside: Research shows that unstructured outdoor play may improve classroom behavior and self-esteem, increase motor skills and concentration as well as decrease anxiety.

Brouhard is always looking for activities to do outside as a family, and making a fairy garden fit the bill.

“Kids are so fascinated by nature. I wanted them to get outside, get dirty, explore,” she said.

Even among adults, there’s something truly magical about sitting on the earth and envisioning nature from a different point of view.

Who knows, maybe mosquitoes won’t be the only creatures flying around your fairy garden.

Abbie Burgess is a Twin Cities freelance writer and lifestyle blogger at thepinkpaperdoll.com.

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June 2016 • mnparent.com

↑↑The Brouhard family built a fairy garden with simple materials in their Minnesota backyard, using the stump of a tree as an instantly whimsical starting point.

↑↑Fairy gardening is a kid-friendly project that families can revisit all summer with new ideas, props and stories to go along with their handcrafted, miniature scenes.

mnparent.com • June 2016

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Hit the trails this season with a baby — or tot — on your back with help from a robust backpack.

CARRY ON, HIKING WARRIOR

By Rachel Guyah

WHAT IS IT?

Well, it’s basically a framed hiking backpack with a built-in area — called the “cockpit” — to hold your baby or toddler. Backpack carriers are a great way for the whole family to experience adventures together — both on hiking trails in the woods as well as around town (at the zoo, farmer’s market or even on paved trails around the lakes). Backpack carriers are: ⊲⊲Ergonomically friendly: Padded, adjustable shoulder straps and a hip belt help alleviate shoulder/back strain by redistributing your child’s weight to your hips and pelvic area. Unlike baby-wearing slings and other popular infant carriers, the hiking backpack includes a sort of suspension system, made up of several adjustable features, including a back panel, shoulder straps, load lifters, a hip belt, stabilizer straps and a sternum strap. ⊲⊲Sensory-rich seating: Perched upon your back, your kid enjoys a 360-degree view and high vantage point from which to soak in all the surrounding sights, sounds and smells. ⊲⊲Extended baby-wearing: Many backpack carriers are built to support up to 40 pounds (sometimes more), meaning you can comfortably enjoy the benefits of baby-wearing well into toddlerhood (provided you don’t mind bearing the increasingly heavy load). ⊲⊲Terrain versatility: Backpack carriers can often go where strollers (and newly walking toddlers) can’t, including up stairs, down steep slopes and over puddles and rocks.

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June 2016 • mnparent.com

BREAKING DOWN THE FEATURES 1 4

Just like strollers and car seats, backpack carriers come in a variety of styles. Here’s a breakdown of the standard and optional features commonly found on backpack carriers.

3

2

6

5

8

www.StPaulFarmersMarket.com

6

6

7 1 GRAB HANDLES Most backpack carriers have two (one in front, one in back) for you to easily pick up and set down the carrier.

2 COCKPIT This is the area where your child sits. Look for soft padding, adjustable height settings and a wide seat for leg/hip comfort.

3 HARNESS Backpack carriers come with a safety harness to secure your child in place. Harness types vary from butterfly chest buckles to five-point contraptions.

5 HIP BELT Ideally wide, thick and padded, this adjustable belt buckles around your hips to distribute the weight of your child to your hips and pelvic area — instead of your shoulders and lower back.

6 STORAGE The number (and volume) of storage compartments varies widely across models.

Mesh pockets offer flexibility and easy access, while zippered compartments keep important items safe.

7 KICKSTAND Made of metal or aluminum, the kickstand is a stabilizing bar that can be kicked or locked out, allowing the backpack to sit upright on the ground while you’re loading/unloading your kiddo.

4

8

SHOULDER STRAPS These should be padded and adjustable for maximum parent comfort. Some models include a sternum/chest strap to help straps stay in the proper position.

SUN/RAIN HOOD Some backpack carriers come with a builtin shade or hood that can be deployed to protect your little one from the elements, while other models offer them as a separate add-on purchase (or not at all).

One hour east of Twin Cities (715) 778-4414 Spring Valley, WI

acoolcave.org mnparent.com • June 2016

37

THREE OPTIONS TO EXPLORE There are a lot of kid-carrying packs out there, but the brand and model you ultimately decide on will be based on your budget, comfort and fit for you and your child and your intended purpose/activity — quick urban errands versus long wilderness hikes, for example.

These backpack carriers are well rated and popular with parents.

All three are geared toward babies with enough neck strength to safely and steadily hold their heads up on their own.

Typically, this milestone is achieved around 6 months old, but check with your pediatrician if you’re unsure.

KELTY JUNCTION 2.0

DEUTER KID COMFORT II

Max weight: 30 pounds (40 pounds total, including child, backpack and cargo)

Max weight: 40 pounds (48.5 pounds total, including child, backpack and cargo)

Price: $190

Price: $249

Overview: This lightweight, low-cost backpack is ideal for errands and shorter hikes.

Five-point harness: While some backpack carriers feature only a chest clip, this model employs a five-point harness, offering added security on rugged terrain.

Budget-friendly: At under $200, it’s one of the more affordable options out there, yet it still offers ample storage and comfort.

Lightweight and compact: Several pounds lighter than the other two models featured, this petite pack is easier to store and transport. It also might be more comfortable for shorter parents.

Safety harness: Like the Deuter, this model features a five-point safety harness.

Downsides: With no built-in sunshade (nor is one available for purchase), this model leaves your baby/toddler much more exposed to the elements.

Side-entry buckle: Ideal for independent, “let-me-do-it” toddlers, this model includes a side buckle you can release to let your child climb into the seated area on his own.

Downsides: There’s no built-in sunshade on this model. It can be bought separately, but it’s a bit cumbersome to set up and take down. Also this pack’s deep, roomy cockpit is a bit looser than other brands, which works well for toddlers, but might concern parents with younger babies. That said, the five-point harness provides added security.

WHERE TO BUY

REI / Scheels / Dick’s Sporting Goods / Midwest Mountaineering, Minneapolis / Trailfitters, Duluth It’s best to shop for backpacks in person — with your kid. That way, you can try them on and work with a professional at the store on adjustments for a good fit for both you and your child. Outdoor store employees can also show you how to safely lift up and set down the backpack while your child is in it.

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June 2016 • mnparent.com

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Max weight: 40 pounds (48.5 pounds total, including child, backpack and cargo) Price: $290 Built-in sunshade: The top portion of this pack includes a zippered compartment for the collapsible sunshade, making it fast and easy to deploy or put away on the fly.

Highly adjustable: This pack’s 6 inches of torso adjustment can help parents customize its fit, which is an especially big benefit if two different-sized parents plan to use the backpack.

Supportive foot stirrups: These are ideal for toddlers because they help improve blood flow/circulation and also reduce stress placed on you child’s feet/legs (from prolonged sitting). Bonus: Your kiddo can play “Giddy up!” while you’re on the trail.

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Downsides: At nearly $300, this backpack carrier is an investment. That said, the quality, comfort and thoughtful features may be worth the splurge. We noticed one small design flaw: When the kickstand is folded in, it collapses part of the lower storage compartment, compressing the items inside.

Rachel Guyah is a Bloomington-based writer and mother to an adorably dimpled, gaptoothed energizer bunny (cleverly disguised as a toddler). Follow her musings about motherhood at themamalogs.com. mnparent.com • June 2016

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By Renee Piersa

PICK YOUR OWN!

Minnesota farms will soon be ripe with strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and much more.

There are more than 60 U-pick or pick-your-own farms in the greater Twin Cities area — and that includes farms with fresh berries! Minnesota strawberry season usually begins in early to mid-June, followed by raspberries and blueberries — beloved fruits for kids of all ages — in July and August. (See minnesotagrown.com for a complete list of farms and a harvest schedule for all fruits and veggies.) Here are six pick-your-own farms that are off the beaten path, courtesy of sKIDaddlers.net, a searchable directory of local, kid-friendly destinations for families.

NORTHEAST OF THE CITIES

NORTHWEST OF THE CITIES

SOUTH OF THE CITIES

Stilla Dal Farm

Knapton’s

Little Hill Berry Farm

This new-in-2015 U-pick berry farm is in Taylors Falls, about an hour northeast of the Twin Cities overlooking the scenic St. Croix River Valley. (Stilla dal means “peaceful valley” in Swedish.)

It’s near the Wild Mountain rec area, so it’s easy to make a day of this destination: Bring a cooler to keep your strawberries chilled while you pit stop in the rec area for a hiking, alpine slide rides or a visit to the waterpark.

Bonus: This farm is offering certified organic pastured poultry (by preorder) for the first time this year.

Blueberry Fields of Stillwater

Headed to Stillwater? Stop by this picturesque blueberry farm, about 4 miles northwest of the quaint riverside town.

Focused on sustainable growing practices and intergenerational mingling, this farm invites you to pack a picnic and find yourself a shady spot for lunch. If you have little kids, be sure to stop by the beloved Teddy Bear Park in Stillwater to complete your adventure.

Though this Greenfield farm — about 30 minutes west of downtown Minneapolis on Lake Sarah — is best known for having more than 100 different varieties of pumpkins available in the fall, it also offers a cornucopia of pick-your-own options, including strawberries (new this year), raspberries (a specialty), apples, cherries (yes, U-pick cherries!), pears, plums and flowers, too.

The Strawberry Basket

About 50 minutes northwest of Minneapolis off I-94 you’ll find this lovely Monticello farm, offering pick-your-own strawberries, blueberries and raspberries.

Bonus: Visit the far end of the strawberry field to see the honeybees. Local honey and honey sticks are available for purchase.

This organic Northfield farm actually encourages sampling while picking. Yeah!

And here the blueberry rows are set far enough apart for strollers to make it through. Roll your way in for a memorable family fun time.

Sam Kedem Nursery & Gardens

Don’t miss your chance to visit to this organic farm in Hastings, offering fruits, vegetables, plants, free-range eggs, local honey, homemade preserves and CSA shares. Pick your own strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, currants, gooseberries, cherries, apples, plums and even veggies.

TIPS FOR BERRY HUNTERS ⊲⊲Berry picking availability can change daily. Always check the farm’s website or call ahead before heading out the door. ⊲⊲Not all farms are setup for credit card payments. Bring cash or call to confirm payment options. ⊲⊲Bring a cooler to cool down your berries and gallon zipper-close bags to make sure they don’t spill on the ride home.

Renee Piersa, a Bloomington mother of two, is the co-founder of sKIDaddlers, a free online directory featuring thousands of local, kid-friendly outings. Parents can search by location, keyword, category, season, distance and more. Spend less time researching where to go and more time creating memories. See sKIDaddlers.net.

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June 2016 • mnparent.com

OFF THE H T A P N E T A BE ural areas this summer.

these 5 lesser-known nat Need a new adventure? Explore one of

BY DAWN MARCOTTE

T

he Twin Cities is home to a vast array of green spaces, including a fantastic mix of small neighborhood parks, many phenomenal regional parks and even a variety of educational farms nestled into urban areas.

With so many choices, it’s easy to miss some of the metro’s lesser-known natural areas. If you’re looking for a new adventure this summer, check out one of these five destinations. Go for the afternoon or check out our accompanying suggestions to make it a full day trip!

EAGAN

HOLZ FARM Tucked behind a suburban neighborhood in Eagan, this city-run historic site lets families experience farm life right in the middle town.

Situated next to small playground, the farm hosts a spring festival, a plant sale and summer day camps for ages 5 to 12.

Featured activities throughout the year include pony rides, haystack climbing, rope making, corn shucking, food for sale, guided farmhouse tours and hay rides that feature talks about the history of the farm and the area.

Upcoming events include a Grandparents, Grandkids & Seniors Day on Aug. 26 and Lone Oak Days Sept. 24–25.

Fun fact: There are several oaks on the property estimated to be more than 200 years old.

Where: 4665 Manor Drive, Eagan Make a day of it: Stop also at the Minnesota Zoo (five miles away) or Lebanon Hills Regional Park, just a mile away.

Info: cityofeagan.com

mnparent.com • June 2016

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OFF THE BEATEN PATH

MINNEAPOLIS

CEDAR LAKE EAST BEACH Formerly known as Hidden Beach, this small sandy stretch was once known as the only nude beach in Minneapolis, perhaps because of its out-of-the-way nature.

Today all ages enjoy swimming — and playing in the Mud Hole, a large area filled with a grayish claylike mud that rinses off easily in the lake. A lifeguard is on duty from noon to 7 p.m. daily June 11 through Aug. 28. Because the beach is located at the end of a dead-end street, you’ll have to park on the streets nearby and hoof it to the sands.

Fun fact: This beach is one of 12 in the Minneapolis park system.

See minneapolisparks.org for a complete list.

Where: Though the official Minneapolis Park and Rec Board address is 2000 Upton Ave. S., punching that into Google maps will send to you to 2000 S. Upton Ave., which is on Lake Calhoun. This beach is actually at the end of West 21st Street just west of the popular Kenilworth Trail.

EAGAN

CAPONI ART PARK AND LEARNING CENTER More than 30 sculptures are scattered around 60 acres of rolling woodlands here, courtesy of the park’s late artist-in-residence, Anthony Caponi. Your kids may have to look closely to see some of the art because many of the sculptures are built whimsically into the sides of the hills or tucked under ferns. The park’s Theater in the Woods hosts several events throughout the summer, including a Summer Performance Series and weekly Family Fun Tuesday performances that encourage kids to sing, dance, hear stories and experience art from other cultures.

Fun fact: In the fall, this park hosts a Medieval Fair for all ages.

Where: 1220 Diffley Road, Eagan

Make a day of it: Treat the kids to Chicago-style pizza at Giordano’s on Hennepin Avenue, just 8 minutes away, three blocks east of scenic Lake the Isles.

Make a day of it: Kids still full of ya-yas? Buzz three miles up the road to Good Times Park, an awesome indoor playground in urban Eagan.

Info: Get accurate directions to the beach by clicking on “get directions” at tinyurl.com/hidden-beach-mn.

Info: caponiartpark.org

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June 2016 • mnparent.com

ST. PAUL

BRUCE VENTO NATURE SANCTUARY This 27-acre urban oasis sits in the heart of St. Paul on the north shore of the Mississippi River, just a 10-minute walk from downtown destinations such as Mears Park and the Union Depot.

Families can explore paths that lead to stunning river and skyline views, towering limestone and sandstone bluffs, a babbling brook, spring-fed wetlands frequented by herons and other birds — plus views into a large cave (pictured, right) that Native Americans revered as a spiritual place known as WakanTipi, meaning “dwelling of the great mystery.”

One of the park’s highlights is its sandcastle-like cliffs. Children can climb them with some help or simply play barefoot in the sand below.

Fun fact: This park opened in 2005 after major restoration efforts supported early on by U.S. Rep. Bruce Vento.

Where: Fourth Street East and Commercial Street, St. Paul Make a day of it: Check out the Science Museum of Minnesota just two miles away.

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MINNEAPOLIS

ELOISE BUTLER WILDFLOWER GARDEN & BIRD SANCTUARY One of the oldest public wildflower gardens in the U.S., this 15-acre park has trails with interpretive stations that wander through a variety of landscapes and native flora.

Fun fact: More than 130 species of birds and 500 plant species have been spotted here.

Where: 1 Theodore Wirth Pkwy., Minneapolis Make a day of it: This area offers a wonderland of outdoorsy options: Just Theodore Wirth Parkway to the west is another system of trails that lead to Quaking Bog, a part of Theodore Wirth Regional Park. And just across Glenwood Avenue to the north, there’s a playground, more tails, sand volleyball and Wirth Lake Beach.

Info: tinyurl.com/eloise-mn Dawn Marcotte lives in Farmington with her husband and two daughters.

Follow her adventures around the Twin Cities at thingstodowithkidsmn.com. mnparent.com • June 2016

43

Out & About JUNE

mnparent.com/calendar

JUNE 4–5

Grand Old Days ⊲⊲This popular annual block party — one of the largest of its kind in the Midwest — will feature a parade, 150-plus food vendors, live music at six festival gardens, a Minnesota-artists’ showcase, a wellness district and a Family Fun District, all in addition to the offerings of the 350 businesses that line Grand Avenue. This year the festival is adding a second day (Friday) to further feature Grand Avenue businesses. It’s also expanding west to cover about 30 blocks along Grand Avenue.

When: June 4–5 / Where: Grand Avenue between Prior Avenue and Dale Street, St. Paul Cost: FREE / Info: grandave.com

ONGOING

Skyline Mini Golf ⊲⊲The Walker’s seasonal mini-golf course has moved to the rooftop, due to the renovation of the museum and sculpture garden campus. The nine-hole course features a giant hot dog, ping-pong paddles and a tricky chicken coop.

When: May 26–Sept. 4 Where: Walker Art Center, Minneapolis Cost: $12 adults, $9 for ages 7–12, free for ages 6 and younger with a paid adult Info: walkerart.org/minigolf

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June 2016 • mnparent.com

Music & Movies in the Parks ⊲⊲Both St. Paul and Minneapolis offer family-friendly outdoor summer concert and film series at local parks.

When: Ongoing Where: Como Dockside, Mears Park, Rice Park and Como Park Zoo & Conservatory in St. Paul and Lake Harriet Band Shell, Nicollet Island Park, Father Hennepin Bluffs Park, Minnehaha Park, Bryant Square Park and Theo Wirth Park in Minneapolis.

Cost: FREE

Info: stpaul.gov/musicintheparks and tinyurl.com/music-movies-2016

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 height-challenged stature. Inspired by the award-winning and bestselling book series, this brand-new musical features Rowley, Manny and, of course, Rodrick.

When: Extended through June 12

Where: Children’s Theatre Company, Minneapolis Cost: Tickets start at $10.

Info: childrenstheatre.org

OPENING JUNE 1

Eagan Market Fest ⊲⊲This award-winning farmers market event features 60-plus vendors, free art projects for kids, a Kids POP (Power of Produce) Club, concerts in the park (at the adjacent bandshell stage) and playground, plus many theme nights, including a family night on June 15 with jumpers, face painting, free family photos and an extra 30-plus family related booths with interactive demonstrations, crafts and giveaways.

When: 4–8 p.m. Wednesdays June 1– Aug. 31 and 3–7 p.m. Wednesdays in September Where: Eagan Festival Grounds at Central Park, Eagan Cost: FREE Info: cityofeagan.com/marketfest

JUNE 3–5

Edina Art Fair ⊲⊲More than 300 fine artists and crafters from around Minnesota, the U.S. and Canada will share and sell their work alongside local and regional musicians, fashion shows, cooking and lifestyle demonstrations, food and a kids-art zone.

When: June 3–5 Where: 50th & France neighborhood of Edina Cost: FREE Info: edinaartfair.com

watersheds. Featured attractions include canoe rides, fishing lessons, swimming, a bouncy castle, games, live animals, music and dance performances, food trucks and more.

When: 11 a.m.–4 p.m. June 4 Where: Lake Phalen Pavilion, St. Paul Cost: FREE Info: rwmwd.org/waterfest

JUNE 4–5

Flint Hills International Children’s Festival ⊲⊲This festival features local, regional and international professional artists representing more than 25 countries on seven stages.

When: Family weekend is June 4–5.

Where: In and around the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, including Rice Park and Landmark Plaza in downtown St. Paul.

Cost: All outdoor performances and activities are free. Indoor performance cost $5.

Info: ordway.org

Discover Aviation Days ⊲⊲View a variety of aircraft, including World War II bombers, modern corporate jets and even experimental and homebuilt airplanes. See flying demonstrations, take an airplane or helicopter ride and visit food booths.

Kids’ activities will be offered both days.

When: 7 a.m.–4 p.m. June 4–5 Where: Anoka County Airport, Blaine Cost: Free admission. Some activities are ticketed.

Info: discoveraviationdays.org

JUNE 10–19 JUNE 4

WaterFest

North Star Bicycle Festival

⊲⊲Celebrate local lakes and outdoor fun with hands-on learning opportunities for all ages, covering water quality, wildlife and the ecological features of local

⊲⊲Pro and elite cyclists from around North America — including Olympic, world and national champions — will visit host cities for races around the mnparent.com • June 2016

45

JUNE 16–19

Parktacular ⊲⊲Kick off summer with a weekend of events for all ages, including live music concerts, festival food, an expo, a climbing wall, a parade and a family day — Kidtacular on June 18 — featuring free pony rides, free canoe and kayak rides, a climbing wall, bingo and 10 inflatable water slides.

When: June 16–19 Where: Venues around St. Louis Park Cost: Most events are free. Water slide wristbands are $15 for the day.

Info: parktacular.org

JUNE 17–19

GermanFest

Kid Fest ⊲⊲Join Minnesota Parent for its third-annual summer kick-off event. Enjoy live music (including the Teddy Bear Band and The Bazillions), kids’ art activities, face painting and more. Plus, we’ll be giving away our hot-off-the-press annual Family Directory — your goto guide for local family-friendly destinations and activities throughout the Twin Cities.

When: 10 a.m.–1 p.m. June 18 Where: Lake Harriet Bandshell, Minneapolis Cost: FREE Info: mnparent.com/kidfest

state as part of this 17th-annual event.

Kids activities include the Park Dental Tour de Kids for ages 12 and younger, bike expos, stunt rider shows, live music and food trucks, plus beer gardens for parents at many of the venues.

When: June 10–11 and June 15–19 Where: Blaine (June 10–11), St. Paul (June 15), Cannon Falls (June 16), Uptown Minneapolis (June 17), North Mankato (June 18) and Stillwater (June 19) Cost: FREE for spectators Info: northstarbicyclefestival.com

JUNE 15–AUG. 3

Groovin’ in the Garden ⊲⊲This concert series lets grownups rock out with some of the Twin Cities’ best bands while the kids are entertained by a

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June 2016 • mnparent.com

⊲⊲Celebrate German culture at this relatively new festival, going on its third year, featuring food, live music, dance, art, education and other traditional activities — not a stereotypical beercentric Oktoberfest event.

When: June 17–19 Where: Historic Schmidt Brewery, St. Paul Cost: FREE Info: germanfestmn.org

climbing wall, a bouncy house and lawn games, all outdoors, all free.

When: June 15–Aug. 3 Where: Como Park Zoo, St. Paul Cost: FREE Info: comozooconservatory.org

JUNE 16

MoMs Mixer ⊲⊲Expecting and veteran moms of multiples are invited for an evening of food and drink, a MoM speaker and time to chat with each other, hosted by Welcome Baby Care of Edina.

When: 6 p.m.–8:30 p.m. June 16 Where: One Southdale Place, 6800 York Ave. S., Edina Cost: FREE Info: RSVP at tinyurl.com/ moms-mn-2016.

Back to the Fifties ⊲⊲More than 12,000 custom, classic and restored cars — all dated 1964 and earlier — will cover the fairgrounds, along with entertainment, live music, games, food, crafts and more as part of the Minnesota Street Rod Association’s 43nd-annual event.

When: June 17–19. Kids’ World will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 18 in the grandstand infield with games, music and dancing.

Where: Minnesota State Fairgrounds, St. Paul Cost: $10; one child (age 12 and younger) can attend for free with each paid adult.

Info: msra.com

Stone Arch Bridge Festival ⊲⊲This popular Father’s Day weekend event features art and music from 250 artists on three performance stages, plus family art activities, a car show and a motorcycle and off-road vehicle gallery, all on the Mississippi riverfront.

When: June 17–19, including a free concert from 8–10 p.m. at Water Power Park on June 18 Where: Northeast Minneapolis Cost: FREE Info: stonearchbridgefestival.com

JUNE 18

Midsommar Celebration ⊲⊲Welcome summer at the American Swedish Institute with a family-friendly day of cultural events in and around the Turnblad Mansion. Activities include singing, folk dancing, flower head-wreath making, face painting, storytelling, games, nature-based play activities and food from the museum’s FIKA cafe.

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When: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. June 18. At 11:30 a.m., see the raising of the Swedish Midsommar pole.

Where: American Swedish Institute, Minneapolis Cost: $10 for adults, $5 for ages 6–18, free for ages 5 and younger Info: asimn.org

JUNE 23–25

Twin Cities Jazz Festival ⊲⊲One of the largest civic jazz festivals in the Midwest, this popular event draws top talent and brings out more than 30,000 people. This year’s lineup includes the youngest headliner in the festival’s history — 13-year-old pianist and two-time-Grammy nominee Joey Alexander.

we can make homelessness history.

When: June 23–25 Where: Mears Park, St. Paul Cost: FREE Info: hotsummerjazz.com

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FROM OUR READERS

Born to explore! ←←Molly Mahoney, 5, of St. Paul jumps for joy amid the spring blossoms.

←←Marilyn Russell, 2, of Minneapolis bravely feeds a horse in Rochester.

↑↑Cecelia Dickie, 5, of St. Paul plays at the Rush River blueberry patch near Maiden Rock, Wis.

←←Josephine Feliciano, 4, of St. Paul, climbs a flowering tree along Minnehaha Creek in Minneapolis.

Congrats to our readers — Rebecca Hanten, Leah Sixkiller and Lacey Frigaard — the winners of our Okee Dokee Brothers CD/DVD giveaway!

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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June 2016 • mnparent.com

FOR REAL Hoot with owls on a moonlight hike. Bait a hook, walk a bog or campfire cook. Go dragonfly chasing. Get star gazing. Do all of this and more at thousands of free Minnesota State Parks and Trails programs.* Because nothing is more fascinating than nature, and our naturalists are the absolute best at playing show ’n tell.

*Free with a Minnesota State Parks vehicle entrance permit ($5/day or $25/year).

PUT THEM ON YOUR CALENDAR.

Events Calendar at mndnr.gov/parks