19 minute read
Family F.Y.I
2020-21 Annual Childcare & Preschool Guide
Our 2020 Childcare & Preschool Guide includes articles on how to find the best program for your child, questions to ask the program, determine if your child is ready, and more! Read it online at
BostonParentsPaper.com by clicking on the Childcare & Preschool Guide under the Magazines tab.
Keep Those (Non Covid-19) Vaccinations Coming!
In the US, federal health officials reported in May that routine vaccinations of children dropped dramatically in March and April as a result of the coronavirus response. This could lead to a measles outbreak or, even the return to Polio in the US. Pediatricians recommend that children still receive their inoculations, even amid the pandemic.
Craft Ideas for Father’s Day
With most stores closed this year, kids can still make their dad feel special by making a unique gift that he’ll never forget using any of the fun tutorials from CraftProjectIdeas.com, a site that inspires creativity.
Celebrate Dad with a 3D card or custom picture frames that tell him “EYE love you” or gives him a special message. Give him something to garnish his favorite drink with these cute straw toppers or make a decorative crossword sign or wheelie truck for the fridge or his desk.
Parents can also search for projects based on their children’s age, material and season using the “Project Finder” in the top right corner of the site!
Incoming Call Harbor Seal
Missing your aquarium friends? Let’s catch up. Learn how at neaq.org.
Window Fall Prevention
Barbara DiGirolamo Injury Prevention Coordinator, Boston Children’s Hospital
As the temperature rises and sunshine finally hits Boston, opening up your windows to clear your house of winter germs is always one of the first things we do. Albeit a great idea, if you have children under the age of six in your home, you should take the below precautions before letting in that spring air.
Windows should be open from the top, down. If you must open them from the bottom, be sure to have window locks on them, so that they may only be open a maximum of four inches. Screens are meant to keep the bugs out, not your children in. Children are very curious and very agile, if windows are open any more than for inches; there is a good chance they can push their way out. There should be no furniture near windows, especially if they are open. Jumpers and climbers may slip and fall into or out of the window.
If you child does fall out of the window, never move them. Call 911 immediately in case of any spinal cord injury.
With these tips, we hope you have a safe and fun filled June! Children are very curious and very agile, if windows are open any more than for inches; there is a good chance they can push their way out.
ANOTHER WORRY FOR PARENTS: Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome (MIS-C) associated with Covid-19
Until recently, it was thought that Covid-19 wasn’t that dangerous for children. Then in New York, several children who had been exposed to Covid-19 developed symptoms such as fever, abdominal and/or neck pain, vomiting, diarrhea, etc., alarming doctors as they determined the relation to Covid-19 now calling this MIS-C. MIS-C is a condition where different body parts can become inflamed, including the heart, lungs, kidneys, brain, skin, eyes, or gastrointestinal organs. We do not yet know what causes MIS-C. However, we know that many children with MIS-C had the virus that causes COVID-19, or had been around someone with COVID-19. MIS-C can be serious, even deadly, but most children who were diagnosed with this condition have gotten better with medical care.
Celebrate Flag Day
THIS FLAG DAY (JUNE 14), bust out some facts about the American flag to impress your kids. For example, only Pennsylvania observes Flag Day as an official holiday. Each color of the flag has a special meaning. White signifies purity and innocence, red stands for hardiness and valor, and blue is for vigilance, perseverance and justice.
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Commemorating 400 Years 1620-2020
FRESH AIR AND FUN AWAIT YOU AT PLIMOTH’S OUTDOOR LIVING HISTORY EXHIBITS!
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Time for a Back-up Plan
By Mira Browne
Sometimes my brain goes into crazy overdrive. That often happens right before I go to sleep. The other night my head started spinning as I thought about this summer. Back in January, my husband and I had painstakingly planned every day to make sure we had childcare coverage, learning enrichment for the boys and an opportunity to see family. Now I’m wondering: will there be camp for Gabriel? Daycare for Miles? What about our plan to visit grandparents and cousins? We no longer feel comfortable traveling out of state.
As we slowly come out of lock-down, we all have worries, questions and concerns about what happens next. All those well-crafted plans are probably out the window, but we’re resilient. Our minds are remarkable, made to find meaning in chaos. Figuring out how to develop a back-up plan is just one example.
Don’t dwell on what could have been
Focus on the ultimate goal from your original plan. What was your hope for that time? Can you still achieve it? How?
Start with the non-negotiables
What are those things that cannot be changed like your work schedule, the family budget and other obligations? What compromises are you willing to make? How can you create an alternate plan with these in mind?
Identify your options
Recognize what you can’t do, like travel, and stay nimble. Decisions about shelter-in-place and stay-at-home orders are region-specific and subject to change depending on whether local curves are flattening or not. Not knowing what’s ahead can heighten levels of worry and stress and that robs us of enjoyment in the present, saps our energy and keeps us up at night. Instead accept that things are a bit uncertain right now.
What this looks like for our kids
The act of making a back-up plan enables us to take initiative. We’re being proactive by solving a problem and that builds resilience. Resilience makes it easier to pick ourselves up, giving us a new sense of purpose and a feeling of pride and confidence. When we involve our kids in making the new plan, we’re giving them a really powerful skill-set they can use in all areas of their lives. Without the ability to respond to challenges and set goals, kids often give up. They feel like what they want to accomplish is just not possible.
We want to be optimistic, so we often say, “let’s think positive.” However, the science of human motivation tells us, it’s not the power of positive thinking that gets the job done. When we only think positively, we tend to get lost in our rosy dreams and underestimate any obstacles that may arise. Learning to overcome obstacles is an important step in finding solutions to problems. Gabriele Oettingen and Peter M. Gollwitzer, psychology researchers at New York University, developed a strategy called WOOP, based on the concept that the obstacles that we think most impede us from fulfilling our wishes can actually help us to realize them.
What’s WOOP? WOOP is an acronym for: Choose a WISH. Imagine the OUTCOME. Identify the OBSTACLE. Make a PLAN.
WOOP is useful because it boils down the process of reaching a goal into simple steps while forcing us to consider everything that can go wrong. It’s been proven to help people achieve all kinds of goals from losing weight to making better grades in school.
This exercise works for adults and children. Mentally imagine one positive outcome and one obstacle that stands in the way of achieving a goal. Naming and planning for obstacles is energizing, and helps us take action and move
forward. It becomes a virtuous cycle as we achieve a greater chance of success, pushing us towards bigger wishes and dreams.
Prepared Parents has developed an activity for practicing WOOP to use with your kids. Try it when making your family’s new plan for this
summer. ²
Mira Browne is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Prepared Parents, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping parents raise kids to be independent, kind, and resilient using the best learning science and research. More tips and tools are available at preparedforsuccess.org.
A Day in Scenic Cape Ann: The Other Cape Rockport, by John Phelan
By Alyson Gregory
With summer so close you can almost taste the sand in your lunch, and your kids stuck on Zoom calls until mid June, day-tripping offers the perfect quick and much-needed getaway with the family. Cape Ann, Massachusetts’ lesser-known (and lessertraveled) Cape, is only 30 miles northeast of Boston and represents the quartet of charming seaside towns: Essex, Gloucester, Manchester-by-the-Sea, and Rockport— each with its own distinct landmarks and local flavors.
Getting there is half the fun—Cape Ann lies at the heart of the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway, so New England’s finest is guaranteed to roll past your windows. Visit the area’s interactive website before you go, and search by town to discover the historic harbors, shoreline, and quaint villages full of places where you will want to linger, explore—and eat, of course. EssexCoastalByway.org
Essex
Woodman’s of Essex, home of the fried clam, is still a “must stop” on Main Street over 100 years later, and will give you bragging rights back in Boston on National Fried Clam Day, which apparently was declared as July 3rd. You can walk off all the award-winning seafood by making your way farther down the street to the Essex Shipbuilding Museum, where you will learn about shipbuilding and a fascinating chapter of America’s maritime history from a local. If running free in open fields with expansive views is your thing (“Sound of Music” anyone?), Cox Reservation on the Essex Bay estuary is the place to go. Abundant wildlife and air fragranced with apple and pear blossoms make this a true oasis. When you’ve had enough terra firma, take a narrated tour on the Essex River, and explore the spectacular coastal tidal estuary and salt marsh in a protected bay. Recognized by Yankee Magazine as “A glittering coastal view few travelers are lucky enough to see” is a surefire reason to take the 90-minute cruise.
Fried clams from Woodman's of Essex
Manchester-by-the-Sea Known for its dramatic rocky coastline (almost 13 miles long) and scenic shoreline, Manchester is a beachgoer’s paradise. Singing Beach, named for the whistling sound the sand makes when walked upon, will have your entire family kicking off their flipflops. Collect sea glass to take home as you stroll the north end of the beach to take in the stunning view of Eagle Head, famously painted by Winslow Homer. Head to Coolidge Reservation for an easy hike past freshwater ponds and forest to view the famous Ocean Lawn and, on a clear day, maybe even the Boston skyline. Stop at Captain Dusty’s for the best ice cream in town, and drive scenic Route 127 for stunning estate views on your way to Gloucester.
Gloucester
All things maritime prevail here at America’s oldest fishing port, and there’s no better way to get a taste of salty air than at the waterfront’s iconic Fishermen’s Memorial Monument, aka Man at the Wheel. The Gloucester HarborWalk will lead you on a self-guided, relaxing harborfront path with 42 granite story posts highlighting its rich history and culture—both past and present—in today’s fishing industry. The city’s commercial fishing heritage is cause for celebration here and is a long-standing Gloucester tradition every summer at the St. Peter’s Fiesta (usually held at the end of June but postponed, TBD, due to Covid-19), a five-day citywide festival honoring the patron saint of the fisherman, St. Peter. It features a carnival and the infamous greasy pole contest. For a look at the home and laboratory of eccentric inventor and pioneer of remote control, John Hays Hammond, Jr., visit Hammond Castle Museum, a medieval-style castle on the coast sure to wow your whole clan.
Rockport Tucked away at the northern tip of the Cape Ann Peninsula, Rockport truly is a seaside escape, best known for its rugged beauty, charming shops, and rich artist colony. Even if you forgot your oil paints, you should still head over to Motif Number 1 to shoot a family photo for your holiday card. This fishing shack on Bradley Wharf in town is notable as “the most-often painted building in America. Put on your sensible shoes for the 1/8-mile ocean walk on the Rockport Breakwater. For “one of the most unique sites you will ever see,” visit The Paper House, an abode constructed entirely out of paper— along with some furniture. Rumor has it there’s even a piano inside! Thacher Island and the Light House Cruise has been halted for 2020. ²
Alyson Young Gregory is a native New Yorker, Bostonbased freelance writer, and mother. She has a passion for finding inspiring local activities for families.
Movies and TV shows filmed on Cape Ann
Olive Kitteridge The Proposal Grown Ups The Perfect Storm The Crucible Mermaids Bewitched Manchester By The Sea Wicked Tuna Devil You Know
Tent? No tent? Yurt?
Cabin? RV? Camping these days comes as individually tailored as you’d like—you can even dial your wilderness experience up or down depending on how close you prefer to sleep to nature— but whatever you choose, it all comes to down to the same
Pitch Perfect: Favorite Family Campgrounds
thing: sleeping under the stars and making memories with your family! Check out these top campgrounds near Boston where you can escape summer in the city and spend a night or two in the great outdoors with your favorite people (and animals too!).
continued page 16 >>> By Alyson Young
Enjoy Our 4-Diamond Rated Resorts on Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket
It’s a perfect summer for bicycling, kite flying, stargazing & fun family activities. Explore pristine beaches & outdoor spaces. Arrive by car & ferry & we’ll pick you up in our private van with proper social distancing. Featuring 1-to-4 bedroom suites and private cottages & homes with kitchenettes/full kitchens and expanded outdoor dining options, private dining rooms & take-out meals. Our swimming pools, fitness centers & Children’s/Family Activities Programs will be open in June (per Government approval).
Each resort features proper COVID-19 protocols & guidelines, including Staff training; high cleanliness standards *Cancellation offer valid through July 1st We can’t wait to welcome you!
Sweetwater Forest
Sweetwater Forest F amily owned and operated since 1958, this fourth generation campground located in the heart of Cape Cod (perfect for exploring in any direction) has 250 wooded campsites designed for reconnecting to nature, and the wildlife of the Cape’s wetlands. When you take a break from bird watching with the fam, you’ll find plenty of activities to keep everyone busy till your next campfire! The kids fishing dock and Catch & Release derbies on Griffith’s Pond are a thrill for all, and canoe rentals anytime of day are pure relaxation. An old-school arcade, six playgrounds, and horseshoe pits round out on-site recreation, and a lit basketball court and brand new 18-hole mini golf course keep the family fun going after dark. Check the website for special weekend celebrations, and don’t forget to grab a souvenir from the wellstocked Camp Store. Brewster, MA sweetwaterforest.com
Boston Minuteman Campground I f nearby undisturbed relaxation among the pines is what you’re looking for, this is your place. 30 miles northwest of Boston, woodsy tent campsites and one and two-room rustic cabin rentals make communing with nature easy. Quiet hours, no late-night activities, and a peaceful family atmosphere to sit around the campfire, toast some marshmallows, and enjoy being on vacation is what has been attracting people here since 1973. Challenge family members to a game of Bocce, tetherball, ladder ball, basketball, or cornhole in the sports area, followed by a refreshing dip in the pool. You’ll find a playground for the kids, a game-filled Rec Hall, and a store full of goodies. Want to do a little sightseeing? Revolutionary towns Lexington and Concord are both a short drive away. Bonus: Four-legged friends are welcome in the top-rated dog park! Littleton, MA minutemancampground.com
Normandy Farms
Normandy Farms J ust 30 miles from Boston, and voted among the top 13 campgrounds in the world by the Travel Channel, this luxury camping resort has the convenience of being nearby and is loaded with amenities and activities. The staff of 15 dedicated solely to your entertainment provide a daily schedule of
PHOTO COURTESY NORMANDY FARMS
continued on page 18 >>>
Are You Ready for Some Mountain Air?
It’s time to get away and get busy having fun!
Escape to the fresh air, cool waterfalls, easy hiking trails and endless mountain merriment at the Red Jacket Mountain View Resort. Spacious guest rooms welcome families of all sizes. Experience classic family fun frolicking in the outdoor pool, zooming down waterslides in the 40,000 square foot Kahuna Laguna Water Park, or simply relaxing with a picnic on our sweeping grounds. We’re prepared and ready so you can unwind and have fun with peace of mind knowing we’ve thought of everything so you don’t have to!
800-752-2538 redjacketresorts.com north conway, nh
recreation from breakfast breakfast until after dark featuring everything from Zumba and Tai Chi to candy bar bingo. Toddler time, parachute play, and family softball games guarantee everyone’s smiling, and the four swimming pools and fishing pond offer plenty of water play. With 400 travel trailer campsites, cabin, yurt, and safari tent rentals (glamping is still camping), it’s hard to believe there was room for the phenomenal bike park! Huevos for breakfast anyone? The “snack bar” even delivers to your campsite if you’re enjoying some quiet time with the family! Foxboro, MA normandyfarms.com
Cape Ann Camp Site T ent camping near the beach? Yes, please! This family-run, treecovered campground offers 200 campsites and the best of both worlds when it comes to summer fun with the scent of pine in the air mixed with salt from the ocean just down the road. Explore local tide pools and history in and around the fishing village of Gloucester, and maybe even schedule a whale watching expedition or side trip to Salem before heading back to your quiet, wooded campsite to completely unplug. Wood and ice available to buy in the small camp store. Gloucester, MA capeanncampsite.com
Myles Standish State Forest R obert Frost would have loved this place! Forest trails you can hike for miles with ponds, lakes, and crystal clear water (visit the favorite Curlew Pond) promise a peaceful camping experience at any of this massive park’s spacious sites. Heaven for swimmers and cyclists, yurts available on a limited basis, and the ideal place to start that family meditation practice! Plymouth County, MA, 508-866-2526 ² Alyson Young Gregory is a native New Yorker, and Boston-based freelance writer, mother, and Holistic Health Educator specializing in Ayurveda. She has a passion for maximizing vitality through nutrition based on environment and individual body constitution for all ages, supporting children’s wellness policies, and finding inspiring local activities for families.
PHOTO DAVIDALANC, WIKIMEDIA
Myles Standish State Forest
STARGAZING
Got darkness? No need to take a crash course in astronomy! Download one of the many free (and entrylevel) apps designed for child-friendly nighttime sky viewing to identify and learn about constellations, far-off galaxies and even satellite fly-bys! Bigger is better when it comes to the screen here as you can live-touch any object in view and get a real-time info pop-up!
Images on right from Star Walk 2 App.
Vermont’s MostBeautifulAddress
FamilyFirst — No more “are we there yets,” never another “howmuch longer?” Everything you need for a perfect familyvacation is right here. The Woodstock Inn &Resort is NewEngland’s most luxurious familydestination.
Experience. Together.
FamilyActivities • Falconry • Just for Kids Camp • Tennis • Golf • Hiking Teen Spa • Biking • FlyFishing • Swimming • Game Room • CulinaryStudio Garden Tours &FairyHouses • Farm Animals • Arts &Crafts
