It’s never been more important to send your kids to Jewish day school. Fortunately, it’s also never been Families making up to $350K never pay more than $15,900 per child or 15% of AGI, whichever is less.
Find out if you qualify at: samisfoundation.org/eligibility-estimator or call the Admission Office at the Seattle-area Jewish day school of your choice. This incredible opportunity is provided by the Samis Foundation
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November 2024
Every Issue
Current 8 Play List 44
Local Resources
Holiday Gift Guide 21
Schools + Preschools 28
Camps + Activities 46
Parenting
RAISING GREAT KIDS
A Practical Guide to Gratitude 29
Eight simple way to encourage thankfulness in kids
BOOK BUZZ
Thoughtful Gifts for Book
Lovers 35
Thrilling new titles for readers of all ages (and their parents!)
EDUCATION
Supercool Science Programs 33
Just-for-girls STEM classes that promote science learning
COMMUNITY
Neighborhood Spotlight 43
There’s more than a pair of oversized boots for families to find in Georgetown
Features
Our Great Big Arts Guide 10
Grab your tickets to the hottest shows around the Sound for families
13 Unique Gifts From Northwest Makers 20
An enthusiastic gift giver shares her can’t-miss gifts of the season
Creative Ways Kids Can Give Back 25
Turn your child’s passion project into a volunteer opportunity
Family Fun
37 Kauai asks nothing of families other than to slow down and enjoy the sights
November Play List 44
Autumn activities to help families make the most of the cozy season
Rainy Day Play 46
Winter’s soggy days call for tree-covered parks and playgrounds
Kauai is a giving place that asks little of its visitors except the chance to let the true spirit of the island reveal itself.
Photo by Joe Moore
What is your favorite Thanksgiving side dish?
The Art of Being Useful
I’m truly a podcast junkie. (Just check my library if you don’t believe me.) And try as I might, I can’t resist the lure of podcasts featuring celebrities interviewing other celebrities. Most of it is self-aggrandizing blather — I know. But like a tractor beam pulling me in, I’m defenseless against the vocal wiles of “SmartLess,” “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend” and “Handsome.” Plus, every once in a while I eke out a little nugget of wisdom when I listen — a guilty-pleasure win in my book.
I uncovered one such nugget a few weeks ago on “Handsome” when Arnold Schwarzenegger asked the hosts “What do you do to make yourself useful?” At first glance it’s a simple question to answer: I help my kids with their homework. I cook healthy meals for my family. But, like the hosts, I found myself stuck on the word “useful,” a deceptively simple adjective. In the end, I landed where they landed: Being useful goes beyond tasks you do to help others. Being useful asks each of us to share our gifts to lift up those around us.
I couldn’t think of a better question to focus our Season of Giving issue around than the one Arnold posed. Our associate editor Kari Hanson has written a phenomenal answer in her article on ways kids can turn their gifts into volunteer opportunities (p. 25). Whether they like baking, sewing, writing or just lending a hand, local programs can put their passions and creativity to good use. Couple that article with our practical guide to gratitude for youngsters (p. 29) and parents, you should feel pretty good about the foundation you’re laying for your kids.
But that’s just the start of all the good stuff we’ve got packed inside this issue.
Also inside: Gemma Alexander has outdone herself (once again) creating a curated list of family-friendly shows that are opening soon around the region (p. 10). Sure, she’s got the biggies, but Gemma has a knack for uncovering unknown shows that are worth the ticket price. Either way, get tickets while you still can.
Senior editor Kristin Leong — a self-proclaimed “enthusiastic gift giver” — has done the heavy lifting and tracked down a baker’s dozen of truly unique Pacific Northwest-made gifts to help with your holiday shopping (p. 20). And if the Big Dark has you dreaming of sun-soaked days and sandy beaches, travel writer Amber Guetebier has mapped out a family-friendly itinerary full of laid-back vacay vibes and enough sunshine to last until spring. Her destination recommendation? Kauai (p. 37). Finally, our calendar editor Julie Dodobara has done it again — sharing 15 fantastic fall activities that deliver on family time (p. 44).
Benjamin Danielson, M.D. CLINICAL PROFESSOR, UW SCHOOL OF MEDICINE PRACTICING PHYSICIAN, UW MEDICINE
Joan Duffell
RETIRED EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, COMMITTEE FOR CHILDREN
John Gottman, Ph.D. THE GOTTMAN INSTITUTE PROFESSOR EMERITUS, UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON
Laura Kastner, Ph.D. PSYCHIATRY + BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES, UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON
Bea Kelleigh
VICE PRESIDENT, DOVETAILING, LLC
Yaffa Maritz, M.A. FOUNDER, LISTENING MOTHERS + COMMUNITY OF MINDFUL PARENTING
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nutted wild rice
pecan sweet potato casserole
stuffing with turkey gravy
roasted parsnips
chocolate French silk pie
MON, NOV 4, 2024–SUN, JAN 5, 2025
Gingerbread Workshops
FRI, NOV 29, 2024: 1–3pm & 5–7pm
SAT, NOV 30, 2024: 10am–Noon & 2–4pm
Gingerbread After Dark
FRI, NOV 29, 2024: 5–7pm | Ages 21+
Dinner and Dancing
FRI, DEC 6, 2024: 6–8pm
Fired-Up Friday: Sweets and Treats FRI, DEC 8, 2023: 5–7pm
The Current
Science says size matters
Both female and male turkeys sport a sassy red snood (the dangly face bit) and a wattle (the dangly neck bit). According to the Journal of Avian Biology, studies indicate that female turkeys prefer a longer snood. Apparently, length isn’t just about looks. Male turkeys with longer snoods appear to be healthier and better at bird battles.
Healthcare for many Native families in the U.S. is a literal journey
A 2021 report from the Bipartisan Policy Center revealed unique challenges faced by Indigenous American families, especially those living away from tribal land. Alarmingly, of the 250 Native parents surveyed, more than one-quarter of families reported living over 20 miles from the nearest major medical facility.
Washington coming in hot with eats from the East
According to Pew Research, if you’re dining out in King County, there’s a one in four chance you’ll end up eating Asian food — lucky you. Washington is one of five states where 45 percent of the nation’s Asian restaurants have set up shop. As with the rest of the U.S., Chinese food is winning the representation game in the Seattle area. If you’re looking for sushi, Snohomish County is the place to be. Eight percent of restaurants in Snohomish County are Japanese, ranking Everett and the surrounding cities second in the nation for the number of Japanese restaurants, just behind Honolulu.
Chicks dig faces
Yes, your newborn really does love your beautiful face — also the cat’s, and Bluey’s and any other face-like object such as an electrical outlet that happens to be within eyesight. It was long believed that the ability to recognize faces developed only after exposure, with brain neurons becoming specialized for face recognition later in life. However, scientists at the University of Trento in Italy have discovered that even without prior experience, one-week-old baby chickens respond to faces, suggesting that some freshly-hatched animals are hardwired for face fascination from birth.
By Kristin Leong, M.Ed.
Affordable homeownership … in Seattle?!
In a city where the average home value is over $800,000, there’s one organization that’s hoping to open doors to housing stability for more low- and moderate-income Puget Sound residents. Seattle’s Homestead Community Land Trust is testing a program that’s a possible game changer, offering houses priced around $300,000. Buyers invest in homes, while the nonprofit maintains ownership of the land. To qualify, buyers must meet income restrictions, live in the home and agree to sell at a reasonable rate if they move. For a family of four, income must be below $110,950 before taxes to qualify.
Kids notice when we’re posting while parenting
A recent Pew Research survey of over 1,400 U.S. teens and their parents revealed that nearly half of the kids (46 percent) feel that their parents are sometimes distracted by phones when they’re trying to talk to them.
24 Shows to See Before 2024 Ends
By Gemma Alexander
The back-to-school frenzy has settled into a new routine, and families have a little more breathing room in November and December, just in time to check out the amazing shows local arts organizations have put together for this season. As we approach the end of 2024, we’ve picked 24 great shows for families to enjoy.
Fantastic shows for families
“The Snow Queen”
Seattle Children’s Theatre presents its own unique adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s dramatic tale “The Snow Queen” in the newly renovated Charlotte Martin Theatre. “The Snow Queen” explores deep themes of human connection, belonging and loyalty as young Gerda undertakes a dangerous journey to rescue her dearest friend from the palace of the Snow Queen. Recommended for ages 6 and older.
In this all-ages musical adaptation of the Hans Christian Andersen story, Ugly meets a whole flock of unique characters and finds out that different is not the same as bad. Today the story of the ugly duckling seems timelier than ever. Kids need to experience as many joyful celebrations of the beauty of diversity and the power of inclusivity as possible before the algorithm takes control of what they see.
Details: Nov. 29–Dec. 22. $5–$55. Olympia Family Theater, Olympia.
“Anastasia”
Based on the animated movie, the Broadway musical has 20 new songs but is more grounded in history. (Instead of a demonic villain with a talking bat sidekick, the antagonist is a Bolshevik general.) But the questions it asks — What if a poor orphan was really a princess? And what if she didn’t really want to be one after all? — will still intrigue kids of all ages.
It’s rated PG-13 for, among other things, taking place during a murder trial, but if your kids have watched the movie, the musical adaptation won’t be too shocking. On film or on stage, “Legally Blonde” delivers a healthy dose of girl power as it humorously skewers all kinds of stereotypes about women. Additional show dates in Everett in January.
Details: Nov. 12–Dec. 22. $44–$123. Village Theatre, Issaquah.
“Mary Poppins”
Drawing from the original books and using iconic songs from the Disney movie, The Fifth Avenue Theatre presents an all-new musical production introducing the iconic nanny Mary Poppins to a new generation. Children younger than 4 will not be admitted. Details: Nov. 22–Dec. 26. $40–$160. The 5th Avenue Theatre, Seattle.
“Back to the Future”
The time-traveling movie that once helped Gen X understand their boomer parents is now helping Gen Z bridge the pop culture gap to understand their parents and their grandparents. The film’s original creators have adapted the story as a Broadway musical with a mixture of classic hit songs used in the film and new music by Alan Silvestri and Glen Ballard. Children younger than 4 will not be admitted.
Performers between the ages of 5 and 19 in Bellevue’s Youth Theatre program present this musical version of the classic Pixar film, which follows the clownfish Marlin as he journeys across the ocean to find his lost son, Nemo.
“Airbender” fans can enjoy more than two hours of music from the soundtrack of the original “Avatar” series performed by a live orchestra that includes taiko and erhu. At the same time, watch the series’ most iconic scenes playing on screen.
Details: Nov. 9–10. $36 and up. Moore Theatre, Seattle.
“Back to the Future”
Photo by Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman
FEATURE 24 SHOWS TO SEE
continued from page 11
Classic holiday shows for everyone
“George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker”
For generations of local families, it’s just not the holiday season without a trip to Seattle Center to watch Pacific Northwest Ballet perform “The Nutcracker.” At this point, the traditional “first ballet” has literally introduced tens of thousands of children to the art form. This may be the year your child will join their ranks.
This season, Edmonds Driftwood Players, one of the oldest theater companies in the region, presents the classic holiday movie adapted for the stage. Whether you’re a cynic or a dreamer, the story of a department-store Santa whose noncommercial approach to Christmas restores a little girl’s faith in the merry old elf, and her mother’s faith in others, will warm your heart.
Details: Nov. 22–Dec. 15. $25–$28. Wade James Theatre, Edmonds.
“A Christmas Carol”
Harlequin’s own adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic holiday ghost story is a South Sound tradition. In addition to the noteworthy special effects, there’s plenty of holiday music and cheer (aided, perhaps, by the hot buttered rum from concessions) to be found.
Details: Nov. 29–Dec. 24. $33–$55. State Theater, Olympia.
“It’s a Wonderful Life”
Lakewood Playhouse’s ensemble cast presents the holiday classic as a live radio broadcast. Although it’s a beloved traditional Christmas story of hope and redemption, when deciding if it’s appropriate for your family, remember that the plot involves George Bailey considering suicide on Christmas Eve.
Enjoy MainStage Theatre Company’s theatrical adaptation of the old black-and-white classic musical live and in full color. In Irving Berlin’s double romance, two pairs of performers join together to save a failing Vermont inn with classic song-and-dance numbers “Blue Skies,” “Sisters” and, of course, “White Christmas.” Children younger than 4 will not be admitted.
Details: Dec. 6–22. $33. Liberty Theatre, Puyallup.
“Black Nativity”
So much of Seattle’s past has been lost in recent years, but last year Seattle families gave a collective shout of joy at the return of Langston Hughes’ “Black Nativity.” After a decade-long hiatus,“Black Nativity” was brought back by Intiman Theatre in a reimagined production led by Valerie Curtis-Newton, Sam Townsend Jr. and Vania C. Bynum. This soulful retelling of the Christmas story combines actors, dancers, a rousing gospel choir and a sing-along.
The Cascade Symphony Orchestra’s holiday concert has a wide-ranging program that includes classic Christmas carols together with orchestral pieces by composers as different as Vivaldi (“The Four Seasons”) and John Williams (“Star Wars”). The Sunday performance will feature guest musicians from local high schools.
Details: Dec. 15–16. $10–$30. Edmonds Center for the Arts, Edmonds.
“A Christmas Carol”
Like Pacific Northwest Ballet’s “Nutcracker,” ACT Contemporary Theatre’s “A Christmas Carol” is a long held holiday tradition for many local families. For 49 years, ACT has presented Charles Dickens’ beloved story of hope and redemption with a dose of spookiness. The performance during that climactic part may be too intense for some sensitive youngsters, but the 90-minute runtime is a piece of cake for even the shortest attention spans.
Details: Nov. 29–Dec. 27. $10–$105. ACT Allen Theatre, Seattle.
“Ho Ho Ho!”
Seattle Men’s Chorus’ annual holiday concert is a Northwest tradition that has become even more family-friendly in recent years with the addition of a special, abbreviated children’s show on select dates. Whether you opt for the one-hour show with extra
“Black Nativity.”
Photo by Joe Moore
continued from page 13
dancing, extended sing-along and general-admission seating or the full monty (so to speak), you can expect seasonal classics mixed with songs like “Pink Christmas,” and a new holiday version of “Holding Out for a Hero,” as well as Christmas comedy, dancing Santas and a sing-along for the whole family. (Note that children younger than 5 are not permitted at Benaroya except for the kids’ show on Dec. 21.)
The Fremont Players are back with another original show in the British pantomime tradition. Usually performed during the holidays, pantos are rarely holiday stories. Instead they are wacky, noisy productions layering song, dance, slapstick and topical humor over the plot of a fractured fairy tale.
Details: Dec. 7–Jan. 5. $15–$25. Sunset Hill Community Hall, Seattle.
“Beauty and the Beast”
Centerstage Theatre is bringing back family-favorite holiday panto
“Beauty and the Beast.” If you’ve never seen a panto before, be warned—this is not your Disney fairy tale. Instead of sweeping romance, expect side-splitting comedy with over-the-top caricatures and pop culture references.
Details: Nov. 30–Dec. 22. $17–$40. Knutzen Family Theatre, Federal Way.
“A Very Die Hard Christmas”
It’s an age-old question as divisive as pineapple on pizza: Is “Die Hard” a Christmas movie? Whichever side you pick, there’s no question that “A Very Die Hard Christmas” is a uniquely Seattle holiday tradition. If your family likes action-packed Christmas entertainment loaded with ’80s jokes, soft rock jams and snarky German terrorists, this is the holiday show for you.
Details: Nov. 22–Dec. 22. $10–$100. Seattle Public Theater, Seattle.
“A Charlie Brown Christmas” If you’ve had enough of commercialism and need a reminder of what Christmas is all about, make an all-ages family outing to watch Taproot
Theatre Company bring the beloved “A Charlie Brown Christmas” holiday-special cartoon to life.
The dancers of the Grand Kyiv Ballet were on tour when Russia invaded Ukraine. Since then, they have made their temporary home in Bellevue and maintained an almost constant touring schedule. This fall, they are performing two classical ballets: “The Nutcracker” and “The Snow Queen.” It’s not often that local audiences have an opportunity to see dancers accustomed to the stages of the Opera National de Paris and the Tokyo Bunka Kaikan. And taking that opportunity helps to preserve the artistic heritage of a free and independent Ukraine.
Details for “The Nutcracker”: Dec. 10–12; $53–$63; Kirkland Performance Center, Kirkland.
Details for “The Snow Queen”: Dec. 28–29; $37–$92; Edmonds Center for the Arts, Edmonds. Dec. 24; $40 and up; Paramount Theatre, Seattle.
“Cirque Dreams – Holidaze”
This whimsical show combines a Broadway-style production with contemporary circus arts made relevant for the holidays with contemporary twists on seasonal favorites songs, like “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” and “Carol of the Bells.”
Seattle-based freelance writer Gemma Alexander focuses on the intersection of parenting and the arts. When she’s not writing for ParentMap, she blogs at gemmadeealexander.com and tweets @gemmadeetweet.
Grand Kyiv Ballet. Photo by Ksenia Orlova
“A Charlie Brown Christmas” Photo by Robert Wade Photography
Parenting isn’t easy. We’re here to help.
12 expert speakers to guide your journey
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2024–2025 Speaker Lineup
Q&A hosted by Laura Kastner, Ph.D.
ParentMap is honored to present Laura Kastner as the series host. Kastner is the author of numerous parenting books, including the acclaimed “Getting to Calm” series, and a clinical professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at the University of Washington. Kastner will lead each speaker through a live audience Q&A, addressing your most challenging parenting questions.
Level Up: Winning Strategies for Parents of Gamers | Nov. 7, 2024
Gaming expert and parenting coach Dr. Alok Kanojia will share strategies to protect your kids from the all-too-real dangers of gaming addiction, build healthy gaming habits, establish appropriate limits, and work with — not against — your kids as they play and grow.
Raising Digital Natives: Solutions for Healthy Screen Time Habits | Nov. 19, 2024
“Screenagers” filmmaker and physician Delaney Ruston offers valuable takeaways from her research on the impact of screens and will discuss how to foster open communication with kids about online experiences. Learn how to help your family find balance in the digital age.
All in a Day’s Play: Boosting Brain Power Through Play | Dec. 4, 2024
Beloved, Seattle-based educator Teacher Tom imparts insights learned throughout his decades-long career working with preschoolers. Learn his unique approach to child-led, play-based learning, and how you can foster a similar relationship and environment with the children in your life to help them learn and grow.
Navigating Neurodiversity: Strength-Based Support for ADHD Kids |
Jan. 16, 2025
Renowned pediatric psychiatrist Dr. Edward Hallowell shares decades of experience and personal insights about the unique gifts of ADHD and other atypical learners. Learn how to nurture your child’s strengths and empower their sense of self-awareness and confidence.
Confident Conversations: Guiding Kids Through Puberty and Adolescence | Feb. 5, 2025
Trusted experts Julie Metzger, RN, and Peter Metzger, M.D. offer confidence-boosting approaches to challenging conversations for parents and kids about puberty, body changes, sex and other growing-up topics.
The Lost Art of Civility: Raising Respectful Kids | Feb. 25, 2025
Authors Robert B. Brooks and Sam Goldstein share powerful insights on one surprising solution to the lost art of civility. Learn how to promote empathy and encourage constructive dialogue at home, school and beyond.
Harmony at Home: Successfully Navigating Parent-Child Differences | March 20, 2025
Esteemed pediatric psychologist and parenting coach Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart shares practical strategies for building a strong parent-child connection, while supporting your child’s individuality and embracing their differences.
From Chaos to Calm: Compassionate Discipline for Spirited Kids | April 1, 2025
Experienced parenting coach and “Raising Lions” author Joe Newman offers valuable insights on how to transform distracted and defiant children into kids who are motivated, respectful and attentive. Newman explores the deeper purposes behind conflict and what parents can do to spark change and work toward a calmer home.
Let Go and Let Grow: Raising Confident, Independent Children | May 6, 2025
Author and Let Grow founder Lenore Skenazy shares her personal journey raising confident, independent kids and the growing movement to resist the pressures to be a hyper-involved parent in favor of a more laissez-faire approach to supporting children’s creativity, independence and growth.
Nurturing Resilience: Essential Coping Skills for Kids | June 5, 2025
Author and licensed mental health professional Janine Halloran offers parenting approaches to help kids learn to cope with the daily challenges of life, develop resilience and thrive. *All talk times listed in Pacific Time (PT)
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13 Unique Gifts From Northwest Makers
From little artists to stylish tastemakers, this list has everyone on your list covered
By Kristin Leong, M.Ed.
Welcome to ParentMap’s all-local holiday gift guide, curated by ParentMap’s senior editor, an enthusiastic gift giver who is on a mission against plastic. As a bonus, many of these finds come from indie makers and sellers of color, and everything on this list cost less than $100.
Whether you’re shopping for a spouse, a little reader or treating yourself, this guide will help you celebrate the season with unique flair while supporting our vibrant Puget Sound–area small-business community.
1/ Ceramic animal cup, $28
For the whimsical animal lover in your life, artist Cary Lane’s ceramic animal cups from Seattle Art Museum’s gift shop are sure to bring some sweetness to every sip. Handcrafted in Bellingham, these charming porcelain cups feature delightful creatures and wishes of luck, and are perfect for hot coffee or green juice. Dishwasher- and microwave-safe.
2/ Shiro plum preserves, $16
Every jar of Ayako & Family’s shiro plum preserves is bursting with heritage and
flavor. Made from Yakima-grown plums and hand-preserved in Seattle, this jam blends the soft, honey-like sweetness of shiro plums with a hint of candied lemon, perfect with scones or baked chicken. Ayako & Family is a local, multigenerational Japanese American family business. Pro tip: Pair this spread with a pair of Eighth Generation’s Wild Plums crew socks for a very sweet gift.
3/ Warrior Belt hoop earrings, $40
I’m a ’90s-raised gold-hoopsforever kind of lady, so it’s with serious enthusiasm that I share these Warrior Belt hoop earrings, designed by Diné/Navajo and African American artist Ahsaki LaFrance Chachere. These gold-plated hoops feature a striking diamond design inspired by West African mud cloth symbolizing strength, bravery and protection, while the inset turquoise enamel honors Diné traditions. Eighth Generation is a Seattle-based art and lifestyle brand owned by the Snoqualmie Indian Tribe.
4/ Flame of the Forest fragrance, $93 Made by hand in small batches on Bainbridge Island, Anjali’s Flame of the Forest perfume is a captivating fragrance inspired by the lush memories of the perfumer’s childhood in India. With top notes of bay leaf
Cary Lane’s ceramic animal cups
and pink pepper, and heart notes of champaca flowers and saffron, this one-ofa-kind fragrance captures the essence of forest trees on fire with blooms.
5/ “The Universe in 100 Colors,” $25
For the visual learner on your list, “The Universe in 100 Colors” by Tyler Thrasher and Terry Mudge is sure to be a fascinating eye-opener. This stunning new coffee table book from Seattle-based publisher Sasquatch Books explores colors you’ve
likely never seen, through vivid images and fun facts that blend art, science and design. Whether it’s cosmic latte or dragon’s blood, the entries in this colorful collection are perfect for anyone interested in understanding the world in a new light.
6/ Flower press, $35
A beautiful addition to a child’s desk or a seasoned crafter’s workspace, this classic flower press is a lovely way to reconnect with nature and preserve blooms kept from special events or gathered in everyday backyard foraging. Measuring 6 by 6 inches square, this easy-to-assemble flower press is crafted from laser-cut plywood. It includes five sheets of corrugated card and eight sheets of sugar paper, providing plenty of materials to press floral finds for cards and crafts. As a bonus,
for every flower press sold, the company plants a tree.
7/ Wooden sound system, $78
This sleek and sustainable sound system speaker by Bitti Gitti Design Workshop just might convince the teenager in your home to dislodge their earbuds for a few songs. Handmade of birchwood, this cellphone speaker amplifier boosts sound by 400
continued from page 21
percent — no electricity needed — while delivering warmer tones and richer bass. There are seven colors to choose from, and a coordinating cloth bag comes with every speaker.
8/ Japanese folding utility knife, $46
Kobo Seattle’s Japanese folding utility knife is a beautiful blend of craftsmanship and tradition. Featuring a warikomi steel blade and brass handle, this handmade knife uses friction to stay open, presenting a simple yet elegant design. Perfect for the collector or outdoor enthusiast who appreciates finely made tools with a touch of history. Made in Japan.
9/ “A Flash of Color and Light,” $19
Introduce budding makers to the fascinating life of world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly with “A Flash of Color and Light” by author Sharon Mentyka and illustrator Shelley Couvillion. This gorgeously illustrated picture book biography by Little Bigfoot, the children’s imprint of Sasquatch Books, teaches children about the history of glassmaking through the remarkable story of Chihuly’s life journey of resilience and teamwork as he overcame personal challenges while finding his creative vision in the process. Best for ages 5–9.
Wild Plums socks, $18
Bring some sweet style to your wardrobe with Eighth Generation’s Wild Plums crew socks, designed by Anishinaabe/Ojibwe artist Sarah Agaton Howes. These socks combine traditional Ojibwe beadwork patterns with a modern color palette inspired by the plum trees that flourish around the Pacific Northwest. Eighth Generation is a Seattle-based art and lifestyle brand owned by the Snoqualmie Indian Tribe.
11/ Mushrooms and Moths baby set, $58 Sorry, grown-ups, but this Pacific Northwest–inspired set only comes in sizes for newborns through 18-montholds. The cozy Mushrooms and Moths top and bloomers set by Baby Nesh Organics is made from organic cotton and is ethically crafted in Oregon.
12/ “Emerald Street: A History of Hip Hop in Seattle,” $25
For the music lovers and history buffs on your list, “Emerald Street: A History of Hip Hop in Seattle,” by our city’s coolest professor (and my coolest friend), Daudi Abe, is the perfect gift for sharing four decades of cultural innovation in the Pacific Northwest. With an introduction by the one and only Sir Mix-A-Lot, this fascinating book from the University of Washington Press takes readers from Central District rap battles to the many ways Seattle hip-hop has impacted politics, fashion and the meaning of community all over the world.
13/ Honey-sweetened limoncello, $48
For the cocktail enthusiast who appreciates a little brightness in their glass, Letterpress Distilling’s limoncello offers a delightful twist on a classic. Crafted in Seattle with real lemons and sweetened with Pacific Northwest honey, this limoncello balances sweet and sour for a smooth, citrusy finish. Whether enjoyed neat or in a festive cocktail, it’s a refreshing, all-natural taste of Italy with a local touch. ■
Editor’s note: Prices were current at the time of publication, but can change.
Kristin Leong is ParentMap’s senior editor.
Creative Ways for Kids to Turn Their Passion Projects Into Volunteer Opportunities
By Kari Hanson
Diving into crafts, projects and new activities with kids is fun. It exposes them to new experiences, encourages creativity and can even help them discover a new passion.
But sometimes that new passion can lead to a house overflowing with half of your local craft store’s inventory. How many loaves of bread or desserts can you eat if you have a kid obsessed with baking? One can only wear so many handmade scarves and hats, and, if you’re like me, you’ve got homemade drawings and cards poking out of multiple drawers.
Why not take that creativity and add in some community involvement? There are lots of ways that your aspiring baker, crafter, ball of boundless energy or party planner can enjoy an activity they love while supporting a worthy cause in Seattle. The following are organizations your family can connect with to allow your child to use their passion projects to support their community.
For budding bakers Community Loaves
If, like the rest of us, your kid became obsessed with “The Great British Baking Show” or “Nailed It!” and is now compelled to bake everything, check out Community Loaves. This nonprofit strives “to nurture strong communities through the connection, training and empowerment of homebased bakers to reduce hunger and promote wellness.” To meet this goal, it works with
volunteer bakers (of all skill levels) across California, Oregon, Washington and Idaho. Volunteers bake and package bread and cookies, which then are given to local food banks. Volunteers are provided with two recipes — Honey Oat Sandwich Loaf and Breader Together Energy Cookies — and donations are collected twice a month at local neighborhood hubs. There is no required minimum donation, simply bake what you can.
For Goodness Cakes
If baking desserts is where your kid’s passion lies, you’ll want to join the Sprinkle
Squad (an excellent name for volunteers) today. For Goodness Cakes volunteers make and hand-deliver birthday and graduation cakes to children experiencing foster care and other youths overcoming adversity. Volunteers must be 18 to register, but the organization welcomes younger bakers as long as they are supervised by an adult.
The Pastry Project
The Pastry Project’s goal is to make pastry education and employment more equitable. It provides 14 weeks of free baking and pastry skills training, soft skills practice,
Photo courtesy of thepastryproject.co
Handwritten cards and letters for isolated elders. Photo courtesy of loveforourelders.org
continued from page 25
and job placement assistance to individuals with barriers to education and employment. This excellent training opportunity is supported by Pastry Kit subscriptions. When you subscribe, you’ll receive a box each month containing nonperishable ingredients and recipe instructions. Past Pastry Kits have included ube blondies, cheesy garlic knots, milk tea scones and brown butter banana cupcakes. After you bake your monthly goodie, pick a neighbor and surprise them with a special treat.
For crafty kids
Love For Our Elders
If you have a prolific artist or writer at home, this could be a truly impactful org on which to focus their skills. Love For Our Elders works to end social isolation faced by so many in old age. On its website, you’ll find the names and short descriptions of elders (nominated by a loved one) who
want to receive letters. Simply click “I’ll write” to send one of them a letter. The website contains letter guidelines (no glitter, make sure it’s legible, be kind, etc.) and all the other info you will need. Encourage your kids to write some kind words, and drawings are always welcome. When you are done, take a walk together to your closest mailbox and send your letter. We bet you’ll be inspired to write more than one. If you’d like to write to seniors at a specific facility, check out the volunteer opportunities at Letters Against Isolation.
A Million Thanks
If you’d like to send a letter or drawings to someone in the military — active, reserve or veterans — check out A Million Thanks. You’ll find letter guidelines on its website and information about where to send or drop off your letters. This nonprofit started in 2004 and has sent more than 14 million letters to date.
Dec. 4 | 7–8 p.m.
Knit-It-Alls
If your child has discovered the joy of knitting or crocheting, chances are you have a few (dozen) scarves and hats within arm’s reach. Point your fiber artist toward KnitIt-Alls and put those fabulous creations to work in the community. Volunteers with Knit-It-Alls knit and crochet warm clothing items (hats, scarves, mittens and more) year-round and donate them to Solid Ground, which distributes them to people experiencing homelessness in Seattle and King County.
Note: Volunteers younger than 18 will need a parent or guardian to complete and sign the youth volunteer waiver.
For athletic kids
Run 2 Be Fit
If you’ve got a kid who is always on the go, then you know any excuse to burn some energy is always a good thing. Since
they are bound to be running, why not have them enter some kid races and run for a good cause? Run 2 Be Fit has lots of fun-themed 5K runs that support a variety of organizations, from the Everett Animal Shelter to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to Toevember. There are lots of races that have kid fun run options.
City Fruit
Do you have a kid who loves to climb everything they see? Give them a bag next time they scale your fruit trees and turn their climbing joy into a fruit collection expedition. City Fruit collects excess fruit from local trees and shares it with those experiencing food insecurity.
Beach cleanup
When the sun comes out (or even when it doesn’t), kids love heading to the beach. So why not help make it a little more beautiful? Keep a few bags (and some plastic
gloves) in the back of your car and have your kids spend 10 minutes collecting any trash they see before playtime. Or join an organized cleanup and challenge your kids to see who can pick up the most trash.
For future party planners Birthday Dreams
Are you parenting a social butterfly who seems to be organizing slumber parties, get-togethers and movie nights every time you turn around? Teach your aspiring event planner to use their social powers and skills to do good.
Birthday Dreams is a nonprofit that provides birthday parties to kids experiencing homelessness, and partners with more than 80 shelters in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties. It encourages kids to get involved in a variety of ways, from raising money to decorating party hats and making cards. Have your little party
Giving Together
ParentMap is proud to highlight local area nonprofits making a difference in our community as part of our Giving Together campaign.
Since 1951, Friends of Youth has been a beacon of hope and support for young people in King County, helping to ensure that all youth have the opportunity to thrive. Through partnerships with youth and families, they offer essential relationships, resources and skills for personal growth and success. Guided by core values of accountability, collaboration, and cultural competence, Friends of Youth is dedicated to empowering the next generation to reach their full potential.
Learn more at FriendsOfYouth.org
planner organize a time for their friends to get together to support this great organization.
Food Lifeline
Next time your party planner wants to organize a weekend get-together, have them gather some people to spend time at Food Lifeline. Groups can volunteer to sort and organize food headed for local food banks, all while hanging out together and having fun. You will be amazed at the impact you can have in just a few hours!
No matter what activity or volunteer opportunity your child chooses to pursue, be sure to always encourage their passions and interests. Everyone can make a difference in their community! ■
Kari Hanson is ParentMap’s associate editor. She is the mom of two boys and has called Seattle home for more than two decades.
Raising Great Kids
8 Ways to Encourage Thankfulness
By Jill Morgenstern
As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s natural to be thinking about gratitude and how to encourage it in our kids. According to Harvard Health, being grateful is associated with greater overall happiness, and can help people deal with adversity and even help form strong relationships. These are qualities we want for our children all year long!
How do we cultivate a sense of gratitude
in our children? In her book “Raising Happiness,” Christine Carter writes, “Gratitude is a learned skill to be practiced, like kicking a soccer ball or speaking French.” What follows are eight ways you can help to build that skill in your child.
1/ Be a good role model.
Model “please” and “thank you” just the way you’d want to see it in your children.
Children are keen observers of how you treat others in your life, and they will naturally follow your lead. When eating out, for example, your server may or may not notice whether you thank them as they present your meal, but your children definitely will. The importance of being a good role model cannot be overstated and may be one of the most important ways to encourage gratitude, so keep your thankyous at the ready!
RAISING GREAT KIDS
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2/ Volunteer.
Volunteering can contribute to well-being in many ways, including increasing self-confidence, providing a sense of purpose and even improving physical health. There is also evidence to suggest that volunteering increases both gratitude and happiness. But there are even more benefits to volunteering. Depending on the activity, kids are given the opportunity to learn essential skills and increase their sense of responsibility.
3/ Do chores.
Believe it or not, doing chores can increase gratitude. By participating in housework, children get a firsthand look at what it takes to run a household. This can raise their awareness of what is being done for them on a day-to-day basis and can awaken a sense of gratitude.
4/ Encourage thank-you notes.
Actual thank-you notes seem to be going out of style as our forms of communication become almost exclusively electronic. However, there is still something quite meaningful about writing and receiving a thank-you the old-fashioned way. If your child resists, try making sure that he or she writes a thank-you note before using a gift. This will encourage even the most reluctant child to complete the notes.
5/ Count your blessings.
Whether it’s each night at dinner or as a bedtime routine, have children recount the best parts of their day. This account can be a reminder that even a bad day
Education Directory
The Power of Childhood
continued from page 30
has good points and help end the day on a positive note.
6/ Let kids earn some of their possessions. Children can learn not only gratitude from earning some of their own possessions, but also a sense of responsibility. When they have worked for a toy or other item, they have a better sense of its value, potentially increasing their gratitude not just for that item, but for their other possessions as well.
7/ Extending ‘thank you.’
According to the Raising Grateful Children Project at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 85 percent of parents prompt their children to say “thank you.” But going beyond common manners can help increase gratitude. Try asking children how a gift makes them feel, or why they think they received the gift.
8/ Look on the bright side.
Try looking for the positive when things get hard. Asking yourself or your child what good could come out of a hard thing is a way to see the best in situations and can help increase gratitude. Next time things aren’t going as expected, try to point out the bright side to your children. It might lift your own mood, too!
All of these skills can build gratitude in your child, which can lead to a happier overall child as well as a more resilient one. These are great skills to build not just at Thanksgiving, but all year around. ■
Jill Morgenstern is a mother to four. She has more than 20 years of teaching experience in various settings and earned a master’s degree in Reading and Literacy.
STEM Resources for Girls Around Puget Sound
By Gemma Alexander
When my daughters attended coding camp, they were the only girls enrolled. The teachers were welcoming, and the girls were proud of what they learned. But they didn’t make any new friends. When asked if they wanted to continue with coding, neither one said yes.
Technically, girls have access to the same science resources as boys, but a girl’s pursuit of STEM can be a lonely road. Despite equal access, the percentage of women pursuing STEM subjects in higher education is on the decline, with women achieving just 18 percent of new computer sciences degrees. And the percentage of tech-related jobs filled by women has decreased from 37 percent in 1995 to 26.7 percent in 2023.
We can protect girls’ interest in STEM by providing female role models and an encouraging, hands-on community of like-minded future scientists. Fortunately, our area is rich in resources specifically aimed at supporting budding female scientists.
Genome Hackers: Genome Hackers is a high school summer camp run by female graduate students in the University of Washington’s Genome Sciences department. The camp integrates biology and computer science with programming, lab techniques and DNA sequence analysis. Campers present their findings to the Genome Sciences department.
Girls in Engineering, Math and Science (GEMS). GEMS is a free, volunteer-run program for seventh- and eighth-grade
girls attending a Seattle public school. The once-a-month program provides handson activities, mentoring, field trips and information about a variety of STEM fields.
Amelia’s Aero Club: Amelia’s Aero Club is a Museum of Flight STEM program for middle school girls. The club hosts personal growth experiences providing members with opportunities to think critically, take risks, get creative, problem-solve and pay tribute to the history of women in aviation. The club is open to all young women and gender expression (queer, femme or gender nonbinary) who are in sixth, seventh or eighth grades.
Girls Who Code: With a bold mission to build the largest pipeline of future female engineers in the United States, Girls Who Code establishes after-school clubs for girls in grades 3–12 around the Puget Sound region
and beyond. Club members work in teams on computer science projects to solve real problems. All programs are free.
SPIN Girls: STEM Paths Innovation Network’s SPIN Girls program launched in fall 2018 to provide eighth-graders with immersive STEM learning experiences and mentorship by professionals of color from across King County. Participants in the program convene for multiple times over the course of a school year, dividing time between project-based learning (lab days) and visits to partner organizations (field days). ■
Seattle-based freelance writer Gemma Alexander focuses on the intersection of parenting and the arts. When she’s not writing for ParentMap, she blogs at gemmadeealexander.com and tweets @gemmadeetweet.
Book Buzz
Opinions on books as gifts are divided. Some people never give anything else, while others, like the little boy in “The Princess Bride,” are appalled that anyone would actually wrap a book and pass it off as a present. But as that boy figured out, no gift brings greater joy to both the giver and the receiver than just the right book. Here are my picks from among new releases that absolutely deserve the gift wrap treatment.
“When Black Girls Dream Big” by Tanisia Moore celebrates Black joy as a little girl discovers her heritage of Black female achievement through the accomplishments of 12 icons. Among them are changemakers Sojourner Truth, Michelle Obama and Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, and artists Jacqueline Woodson, Maya Angelou and Billie Holiday.
$19.99, October, ages 4–8.
“Barnaby Unboxed!” This standalone picture book set in the world of The Barnabus Project will delight fans of the Fan brothers (also known for “The Night Gardener” and “It Fell from the Sky”) with Barnaby’s wild journey searching for home in a tale of love found, lost and found again.
$19.99, September, ages 5–9.
“A Kids Book About Voting” is a timely rerelease with a new introduction by Jamia Wilson. It’s part of the Next Up series of children’s nonfiction books about just about every subject that parents might struggle to explain to curious children. Whichever way the election goes this year, reading this book with your child will help them understand what just happened.
$19.99, October, ages 5–9.
“Stella & Marigold” is here to enchant the next generation of early readers. Annie Barrows and Sophie Blackall, creators of the now complete “Ivy & Bean” series, are back with a new duo, the siblings Stella (age 7) and Marigold (age 4), whose adventures are centered on family connection, empathy and understanding.
$15.99, October, ages 6–8.
“The Hotel Balzaar” continues Kate DiCamillo’s “The Norendy Tales,” a trio of novellas bound by place and mood rather than a continuous plot. In this one, a mysterious hotel guest promises to tell seven stories to young Marta, who begins to suspect the tales contain the secret to her father’s disappearance.
$17.99, October, ages 7–10.
“With Twice the Love, Dessie Mei” is the debut middle grade novel by awardwinning local YA author Justina Chen. Chinese adoptee Dessie Mei is overjoyed to discover that her new classmate is actually her biological twin, separated at birth. But being sisters isn’t always easy when you’re not in the same family.
$12.50, May, ages 8–12.
By Gemma Alexander
“Beware the Dragon and the Nozzlewock” by local author Vikram Madan (known for the Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor–winning “Owl & Penguin” series) is a whimsical collection of hilarious poems like the one by Lewis Carroll referenced in the title. However, this one introduces its quirky characters in graphic novel format.
$19.99, November, ages 8–12.
“A Kid’s Guide to the Night Sky” by John Read might spark your child’s interest in exploring outdoors (see below). Stargazing can be a frustrating pursuit in cloudy, light-polluted Seattle, but if you have a vacation planned or are willing to make a nighttime expedition to a promising viewpoint, this book is your child’s guide to exploring the highlights of the galaxy without a telescope.
$16.99, October, ages 8–12.
And why not get a little something for yourself? “Digging Into Nature: Outdoor Adventures for Happier and Healthier Kids” by local pediatricians Pooja Sarin Tandon and Danette Swanson Glassy makes the case for nature’s value to children’s health at every age. The book offers suggestions for overcoming common challenges to ensure that you and your children can find a way to enjoy safe outdoor spaces and the health benefits they provide.
$19.95, October. ■
Out + About
Island Dreaming: Relax
and Recharge With the Kids in Kauai
By Amber Guetebier
Wandering chickens (moa), miles of beaches and a slower pace of life: Visiting Kauai with kids can be a truly magical experience. This island doesn’t want you to rush through its sights; it’s not the place to visit if you lack patience or need a packed itinerary. Don’t get me wrong, there’s plenty to do, probably more than you can manage in a week. But trust me when I say the beauty of Kauai is at its finest when you take your time. This isn’t an island that feeds FOMO. Rather, it’s a giving place that asks little of its visitors except the chance to let the true spirit of the island reveal itself.
continued from page 37
It’s a small island, making it easy to visit lots of places on a relaxed schedule. And like all of Hawaii, Kauai is truly family friendly. Here are some highlights and tips I took away from my recent visit.
1/ Prepare for rainbow weather. Kauai is known as the “Garden Island” because it is resplendent with plant life. All that beautiful green means it’s also one of the rainiest places on earth. We visited in mid-May, and although this is not typically the rainiest month, it rained at least a little every day. But as Dolly Parton said, “If you want the rainbow, you’ve got to put up with the rain.” Nearly every afternoon, the clouds would part and the sun would shine again.
2/ Take your time.
I can’t stress this tip enough. Kauai is a small island, and most of its roads have a speed limit of 35 miles per hour. This is not the place for impatient drivers and rushing to your destination. Kauai is very easy to navigate, local drivers are friendly, and when you drive slower, you can all see the landscape better. Plus, you can give yourself time to pull over when you see something interesting and explore it. Follow the signs that read “Old Town” or
“Historic Site” and you will be rewarded.
3/ Stay in the same place the entire time. There’s no shortage of accommodations on Kauai. Especially when you have kids in tow, staying a week in the same place is
just easier. It’s easy enough to stay in Lihue or Poipu and still plan to spend an entire day on the North Shore. Located near Lihue, the Outrigger Kauai Beach Resort & Spa is beautiful, has multiple pools and is surprisingly reasonably priced. If you want to be closer to Poipu Beach, Waikomo Stream Villas are welllocated vacation rentals with full kitchens.
4/ Sign up to volunteer.
Malama Hawaii is a statewide program throughout the Hawaiian Islands that offers tourists a way to minimize the negative impact of tourism and to malama (give back). Families with older kids and teens can sign up for more specific opportunities, but even those families with very young kids can participate by joining in beach cleanups with the Surfrider Foundation. In fact, some hotels offer beach cleanup kits. Showing up at a Saturday beach cleanup is a great way to make local friends and connections with other families.
5/ Park it on the beach.
You can’t go wrong at many of the beaches on Kauai, but some have better setups for kids than others. Don’t miss Lydgate Beach Park (near Lihue, Coconut Coast), which holds an ongoing Saturday beach cleanup. Lydgate also has restrooms, parking and lifeguards. On the South Shore, the popular Poipu Beach Park likewise has lifeguards and restrooms, and can be a great spot for older kids or adults to practice bodyboarding. Plus, it’s right across
Photo courtesy of Outrigger Kauai Beach Resort & Spa
the road from Puka Dog, which serves hot dogs, smoothies and other easy fare. My favorite of all the beaches in the south is Salt Pond Beach Park, which has gentle surf and is a little off the beaten path. Part of the joy of Kauai is exploring and trying out different spots so that you can find your favorite, too.
Remember that the ocean can be serene one minute and dangerous the next. Don’t let lifeguards lull you into a false sense of security. Visit Hawaii Ocean Safety to monitor conditions. Also, be aware that sunscreens that contain oxybenzone and octinoxate are banned in Hawaii. If you plan to bring some with you, be sure it does not contain either of those ingredients, even if the label claims to be “reef safe.” Or pick some up in Hawaii, where only truly reef-safe sunscreens are sold. Check out the Surfrider Foundation’s list of chemicals found in sunscreen that can damage coral reefs and other sea life.
7/ Visit Kauai’s “Grand Canyon.” Waimea Valley State Park treats visitors to a unique drive and landscape, offering lots of red dirt and spectacular views. The trip involves a long, windy road to the top, so if your kids don’t love being in the car, there are plenty of turnouts, such as Kekaha Lookout, for stopping along the way. Just be advised that this is a fairly rural location, and your cellphone may not get service here.
8/ Spend a day in the gardens, then chill out in Old Koloa Town.
Allerton Garden and McBryde Garden comprise one of the most beautiful spots on the island — and on earth. At McBryde Garden, you enter into a massive canyon with peaks surrounding you, and learn about the important native plants and foods of Hawaii. Selfguided tours can be booked online. To go on the Allerton tour, you need to make reservations in advance; it’s the only way to see this garden. During this tour, kids will love riding on the little bus, which makes multiple stops and allows you to explore on your own.
6/ Visit the westernmost bookstore in the United States.
Nestled in the heart of Hanapepe Town, a historic town featuring several shops, weekly farmers and artists markets, and its famous swinging bridge, is the westernmost bookstore in the U.S. Talk Story Books has been in business for 20 years and has the T-shirts to prove it. This delightful bookshop stocks something for everyone: new and used books, plus vinyl, journals, comics and gifts. And best of all, there are bookstore cats! Bonus: This little burg is along the scenic route to Waimea Valley.
A 10-minute drive from Poipu, Old Koloa Town is a great spot to ramble with the kids. It also has plenty of ice cream, shave ice and restaurants for easy to-go or quick meals with the kids.
9/ Stop and see Spouting Horn.
You’ll see signs on the South Shore for Spouting Horn. Follow them. It’s basically a natural lava tube through which, when the waves crash, the water shoots up in a column, as if from a whale’s blowhole. The sight is free, and it’s ridiculously amusing. We spent a
Allerton Garden Photo courtesy of ntbg.org
solid 30 minutes laughing every time it splashed up. The viewing spot for Spouting Horn is also a great place to look for humpback whales from December to May.
10/ Hang at the North Shore. No matter what part of the island you’re staying on, don’t skip the North Shore. Plan a visit to the Kilauea Point Lighthouse (book tickets ahead of time), grab lunch in Hanalei, then meander along Hanalei Beach and check out the historic pier. Be advised, the
waves can be a little bigger here. Most families find the sea gentler at Anini Beach, where sea turtles are often spotted. If you take Kuhio Highway (Route 560) nearly all the way to the end, through Princeville, you will find another botanical garden, the Limahuli Garden & Preserve, which has walking paths and some stunning scenic viewpoints. Experience a hidden gem by heading to the beachfront Opakapaka at the Hanalei Colony Resort for some delicious food, including a local taro burger.
11/ Shop local.
We spent one afternoon dedicated to shopping for gifts for loved ones back home, and found Kapaa Town to be the place to go. There are plenty of shops featuring local artists and Hawaiianmade goods, and several good restaurants in between. The entire area is walkable and easy to navigate.
Getting there: Most travelers taking flights from Seattle, Portland or other destinations will have a layover on either Oahu or Maui, then take a puddle-jumper flight (45 minutes) to Kauai’s Lihue Airport. Delta, Hawaiian, United, Alaska and other airlines offer daily flights. ■
Amber Guetebier is a freelance writer, editor and a mother with a penchant for pirates, plants and books, not necessarily in that order. Visit her at Writhing Ink.
Hanalei Bay
DECEMBER 6 & 7, 2024 |
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Neighborhood Spotlight: Georgetown
From indie records to a giant cowboy hat, this neighborhood rocks
By Kristin Leong, M.Ed.
THE VIBE
Industrial grit meets quirky charm in Georgetown. This Seattle neighborhood, just a few miles south of downtown, is awash with street art, excellent eats and great shops, all serenaded by the hum of Boeing planes overhead and trains passing through.
Georgetown may not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a family trip, but trust me, this one is a gem. My son and I have been hanging with friends in the neighborhood since he was baby.
Originally home to the Duwamish people, Georgetown was established as the official birthplace of King County in 1851. Previously known for breweries and factories (a shout-out to my fellow elder millennials who fondly remember the old Rainier Beer sign), today Georgetown blends its roughand-tumble history with an artsy, vibrant vibe that’s uniquely its own.
PLAY AND EXPLORE
Georgetown’s “Hat n’ Boots park” is an excellent first stop for families. Originally part of a 1950s Western-themed gas station, the giant cowboy hat and boots that give Oxbow Park its nickname are now a favorite play spot for adventurous climbers. If the kids still have energy to burn after summiting the hat, Georgetown Playfield is nearby. The park includes a basketball half-court, turf field and swings.
For parents looking to entertain older kids with a mix of culture and cool, Fantagraphics Bookstore & Gallery is a treasure trove for comic book lovers, filled with indie graphic novels and local art. Just steps away, Sub Pop Records is a utopia for music fans. The shop features vinyl, posters and merch from the city’s iconic label, which has represented bands such as Nirvana and Sleater-Kinney.
Before heading home, be sure to stop at The Museum of Flight, just a short drive from the neighborhood. Both parents and kids will love getting up close and personal with vintage planes, space shuttles and interactive exhibits. Pro tip: Plan ahead for
one of the museum’s special events, such as the R2-D2 Builders Club Expo on Nov. 9.
EATS + TREATS
For a family-friendly Mexican meal that doesn’t feel like a kids’ spot, head to Fonda La Catrina. Go for the bright décor and kid-pleasing tacos, but stay for the housemade tortillas, rich mole and tamarind margaritas.
If you’re looking for an opportunity to play with your food, Georgetown Pizza & Arcade is where the young and young at heart go. Its game room features an impressive collection of vintage pinball machines, such as Twilight Zone from 1993 and Pac-Man Battle Royale, which a family of four can play together.
Matcha Man Ice Cream & Taiyaki is the sweetest spot for a treat. Kids will get a kick out of ordering their soft serve in fish-shaped cones, and everyone will be tantalized by Matcha Man’s ever-changing flavors. If you’re lucky, Fruity Pebble cereal milk soft serve will be on the menu when you visit. But rest assured, any option you choose will be delicious. ■
Kristin Leong is ParentMap’s senior editor.
November Play List
Fill cozy-season family time with light shows, theater and outdoor adventures
Check out many more happenings online at parentmap.com/calendar
By Julie Dodobara
I’ve been seeing holiday gift wrap and decorations in stores since September, so it should come as no surprise that the merry-making season is now upon us! Ready or not, November means it is time to make festive family entertainment plans — stat! But it’s not all holiday happenings. In addition to favorite light shows, this month brings chances to play outside (no matter the weather), the return of family theater and more. There are lots of opportunities to fill your free time, so open your calendar and start planning!
� Disney on Ice returns with “Magic in the Stars,” featuring all your favorite Disney stars (56 in all!), including the cast from “Frozen 2” and “Raya and the Last Dragon.” Sing along as they take you on a magical adventure with jaw-dropping acrobatics. Skate on over to Angel of the Winds Arena in Everett, Nov. 1–3. Tickets start at $30.
� Cat people are having a moment! Pack up Whiskers in a carrier and head to the Sea-Meow Convention at the Seattle Center Exhibition Hall for a purrfect day with your feline friends. Touted as a “festival for all things cats,” come for kitty cuddles, cat cosplay, a cat-calling contest and of
course, commingling with other cat enthusiasts. Saturday–Sunday, Nov. 2–3, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Tickets $27 adults, $16 kids, ages 5 and younger free.
� Delight in the traditions of Diwali, India’s joyful festival of lights, with music, dance, martial arts, cooking demonstrations and more. Part of Seattle Center’s Festál series, this free celebration takes place on Saturday, Nov. 2, noon–6 p.m.
� There’s a new concert series in town with tot-focused bands playing music the whole family will enjoy. Little Beats concerts take place monthly through March at Pioneer Hall in Madison Park. You’ll recognize
some Kindiependent faves on the schedule, such as Brian Vogan and his Good Buddies, who will be rockin’ the stage on Saturday, Nov. 2, 11 a.m.–noon. Tickets $5 per show, $25 for a series pass.
� We all have beloved ancestors to remember. Visit the Tacoma Art Museum to participate in the Día de los Muertos tradition of honoring our deceased friends and relatives in a joyful and respectful way. View the tapetes (sand paintings) and contribute to community ofrendas (offerings) on Sunday, Nov. 3.
� Clear your calendar and book your tix ASAP! “Wicked” is in town Nov. 6–Dec. 1 at The
Highlighted Events for November
Nov. 2 | Saturday
Festal: Diwali – Lights of India
Seattle Center
Nov. 7 & 19
ParentEd Talks: Dr. Alok Kanojia (Nov. 7)
Delaney Ruston (Nov. 19)
Online
Starting Nov. 30 | Daily Garden d’Lights
Bellevue Botanical Garden
Paramount Theatre. Find out what happened in the Land of Oz, but from the perspectives of the Witches of Oz as they belt out their stories on stage. Recommended for ages 8 and older. Tickets start at $39.
� This month, join ParentMap for two talks that shed light on the topic of kids and screen time. On Thursday, Nov. 7, noon–1 p.m., psychiatrist and parenting coach Dr. Alok Kanojia shares strategies for parents to protect their kids from gaming addiction. And on Tuesday, Nov. 19, 7–8 p.m., “Screenagers” filmmaker and physician Delaney Ruston offers solutions for healthy screen time habits based on her research. Join our webinars live or receive the recording to watch anytime. $10 per talk or $50 for the entire 12-talk series. Members of partner schools join for free.
� Honor our country’s veterans and active-duty military at Auburn’s annual Veterans Day Parade, one of the largest in the U.S., now in its 59th year. Nab your viewing spot along East Main Street in downtown Auburn to catch the marching bands, military vehicles, honor guards and more. Saturday, Nov. 9 at 11 a.m. Free.
� Girl power! Ready your costume and book your passes to GeekGirlCon, the creative, inclusive (and family-friendly!) gathering of fans of game play, comics, STEM and design. Panels and workshops will highlight the participation of women and other underrepresented groups
in these fields. At the Seattle Convention Center, Saturday–Sunday, Nov. 9–10. Tickets $45 adults, $15–$35 kids and teens, ages 5 and younger free.
� School is out for the Veterans Day holiday, so don’t miss the opportunity to get outdoors as a family and enjoy one of our picturesque state or national parks. Entrance is free to honor all those who have served in our armed forces. Monday, Nov. 11.
� We’re all flushed with excitement for World Toilet Day! Learn about the important role this underappreciated household item plays in our daily lives through hands-on activities, games, water-tasting and more at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Discovery Center. Then explore the center’s special exhibition, “A Better Way to Go: Toilets and the Future of Sanitation,” for even more fascinating facts along with new inventions in sanitation, Saturday, Nov. 16, 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Free.
� It’s “supercalifragilisticexpialidocious”! Catch the family classic “Mary Poppins” live and on stage at the 5th Avenue Theatre. Based on the Disney film about everyone’s favorite nanny, the stage production promises to be a jolly good time with songs and characters we all love from the movie. Shows run Nov. 22–Dec. 26. Tickets start at $40.
� Back after a four-year absence, Enchant Christmas, the holiday light extravaganza that
fills an entire ballpark, returns to Seattle at T-Mobile Park. This year’s attractions include an allnew World’s Largest Christmas Light Maze, an ice skating trail, live entertainment, shops, food and Santa’s Landing — a special place to meet Santa, take photos and enjoy story time with Mrs. Claus. Nov. 22–Dec. 29. Ticket prices are dynamic, based on availability and date; ages 3 and younger are free.
� Make tracks this holiday season to Spanaway Park’s Fantasy Lights Walk. Book your tickets for one of four sessions taking place Saturday–Sunday, Nov. 23–24. $5 per person, ages
� Garden d’Lights at Bellevue Botanical Garden features whimsical animal and flower shapes — at an affordable price. Book your tickets to enjoy this display of more than half a million lights; opens Saturday, Nov. 30 and runs through Dec. 31. Tickets $8, children ages 10 and younger free; discounted $5 entry available during the first two weeks of the display. ■
Julie Dodobara is ParentMap’s calendar editor.
SPONSORED EVENTS
November 3
Holocaust Center Screening of “White Bird”
The Holocaust Center invites you to a special screening of “White Bird” on Sunday, Nov 3rd at 4 p.m. in Bellevue. Tickets are free for children under 12!
bit.ly/white-bird-HCH
Nov 15-Jan 12
Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink Presented by Symetra
The Eastside’s largest ice skating tradition returns to Bellevue Downtown Park! Advance tickets and season passes are available at online.
bellevueicerink.com
Our Favorite Parks and Playrounds for Rainy Days
By Linnea Westerlind
As a family with three very active boys, we spend our summers at parks and playgrounds, burning off all that fantastic kid energy. Although colder weather usually means more time indoors, I learned early on in my parenting career that there’s no need to stay inside on a wet day. Whether we’re hiking on a trail with good tree cover, jumping in puddles or watching a storm roll in on a beach, it’s always exhilarating to be outside. Here are some of our favorite rainy-day parks to play in.
Camp Long, West Seattle: Camp Long is one of the best spots for keeping kids entertained in any weather. Explore the half-mile Middle Loop Trail where there’s something new to discover around every corner, including Schurman Rock. Picnic shelters provide a dry spot for a lunch break, and you can also stop by the
Environmental Learning Center to escape a downpour.
O.O. Denny Park, Kirkland: Some of the oldest and tallest trees in our region shelter visitors at O.O. Denny Park. Start at the playground, which has a treehouse-style climbing structure. If the weather turns bad, a large covered picnic shelter is just steps away and provides plenty of protection for lunch or a snack.
Point Defiance Park, Tacoma: Tacoma’s showpiece Point Defiance Park has enough play options to occupy kids for a week, and with several covered shelters to pop under and heavy tree cover, it’s great for unpredictable weather. Climb and slide at the playground, get sandy at Owen Beach, hike through old-growth forest on the Inside Loop Trail or fish at the pier.
O.O. Denny Park. Photo courtesy of kirklandwa.gov
Schurman Rock at Camp Long. Photo by Taum Sauk courtesy of wta.org
Deane Children’s Park, Mercer Island: This Mercer Island park is also known as “Dragon Park” for the 45-foot-long dragon slide/ climbing structure. The forested park with dense trees and a nearby shelter provide protection and entertainment for kids on drizzly days. Even older kids will enjoy conquering the large
rock-climbing structure; and two playgrounds provide lots of fun. ■
Linnea Westerlind is the author of “Discovering Seattle Parks.” A mom of three, she documented her park adventures on the blog Year of Seattle Parks.
Deane Children’s Park. Photo courtesy of mercerisland.gov
Point Defiance Park. Photo courtesy of twontow.com
