ParentMap Insider’s Guide 2021

23/ Destination: Dessert

Utterly unique and delectable treats to seek out with the family

16/ ‘Rooms’ With the Coolest Views

Unleash your kids’ imaginations exploring forts, tree houses, gnome homes and more

INSIDER S’ GUIDE 2021/2022 | PARENTMAP.C OM

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C ONTENTS

Insiders’ Guide

2021/2022

PARENTMAP.COM

Great Escapes Legendary lodges and rustic retreats for unforgettable allseasons family getaways

8

‘Rooms’ With the Coolest 15 Views Unleash your kids’ imaginations exploring forts, tree houses, gnome homes and more Destination: Dessert 23 Utterly unique and delectable treats to seek out with the family Island Vibes 30 From serene San Juan to bucolic Vashon, your insiders’ guides to Puget Sound island getaways

34 Question: What’s better than a flaky, caramelized croissant?

Answer: See page 23.

23

Local Resources

to see the fiery art of glassmaking in action at Tacoma’s Museum of Glass.

15

Have a Ball This Fall 33 Get out and about for harvest season activities, autumn-color hikes and more A Museums Piece 34 With a little planning, you can visit almost any kid-friendly local museum for free

Stop by the Hot Shop

34 8

30

41

Thanks to our Insiders’ Guide sponsors:

INSIDERS’ GUIDE 2021 / 5

What’s your current food obsession?

DE AR R E ADER

A perennial case of ‘insider’ envy I laughed out loud when I read this comment in JiaYing Grygiel’s drool-triggering article on unique local treats (p. 23): “I always wanted to be that cool mom baking cookies and letting the kids lick the spoon, but that’s not happening, because who has the time? And eww, raw eggs.” Well, I always wanted to be the cool mom (like JiaYing, one of the coolest around our town) who keeps tabs on all the entertaining, educational, delicious and delighting activities, places, bites and experiences on offer in this adventureland we call home. I will admit that I have a case of insider envy. And I don’t mind one bit.

In fact, my perennial case of insider envy is ironically one of the most enjoyable aspects of my job as managing editor of ParentMap. While I may not be the most adventurous or in-the-know mama out there, I get to work alongside a team of card-carrying insider editors (tipping my cap to my genius coleguitas in the masthead at right) who are constant navigators and discoverers of all things family fun.

The same is true of the amazingly talented freelance writers and play experts who contribute daily to ParentMap’s mission. This year’s edition of the Insiders’ Guide brings you dozens of distinctive destinations (Great Escapes, p. 8), hidden-gem play spots (Supercool Tree Houses, Forts and Lookouts, p. 15), splurge-worthy treats (Destination: Dessert, p. 23), island-trip itineraries (Island Vibes, p. 30), and dozens of ways to explore and save on our region’s amazing array of family-friendly museums and attractions (p. 34).

It’s worth remarking that ParentMap published its first annual Insiders’ Guide one year ago, when we were all very much sidelined at home due to the pandemic. We’re not quite cut loose of its grip yet, but as summer winds down into my favorite Pacific Northwest season (Have a Ball This Fall, p. 33), and we continue to make our safety-first crawl back toward that brightening light of “normal,” we hope you accept our invitation to join the PNW insiders’ club.

Unlocking your next unforgettable any-season adventure or play potential is as easy as opening the pages of ParentMap. — Patty Lindley, managing editor

INSIDERS’ GUIDE 2021/2022

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Great Escapes!

Legendary lodges and rustic retreats for unforgettable family getaways in any season

By Lauren Braden From off-grid to utterly deluxe, the Pacific Northwest is dotted with amazing historic lodges and other unique accommodations that will transform your family vacation into a memorable adventure. Whatever your budget, these settings make for a perfect starting point to explore some of our region’s most beautiful landscapes, from hiking mountain trails to strolling stunning beaches.

Legendary lodges

Kalaloch Lodge comprises a main inn and collection of rustic cabins, most with woodstoves and kitchenettes.

Comb the rocky beach below for treasures, or watch the horizon for passing whales. The lodge restaurant serves Northwest fare at premium prices, or you can save money by cooking meals in your cabin.

Lake Crescent Lodge

416 Lake Crescent Rd., Port Angeles, Olympic Peninsula; 888-896-3818 •

By Nikki McCoy olympicnationalparks.com

Lake Quinault Lodge

345 S. Shore Rd., Quinault, Olympic Peninsula; 888-896-3818 • olympicnationalparks.com The gorgeous Craftsman-style Lake Quinault Lodge, built in 1926, is steeped in history. Main lodge rooms, some with fantastic lake views, feature period charm in the form of antique furnishings and claw-foot tubs. You’ll find some spacious suites suitable for families in the more modern detached buildings. There’s nothing particularly posh about the place, but kids won’t care; they’ll be too busy hiking in the surrounding rain forest or paddling a canoe on the lake. After dinner in the lodge restaurant, warm up with hot chocolate and a game of Scrabble by the crackling fire in the front lobby’s enormous fireplace. There’s also a swimming pool!

Kalaloch Lodge

157151 U.S. Hwy. 101, Forks, Olympic Peninsula; 866-662-9928 • thekalalochlodge.com Location, location, location! Perched on a bluff along the wild, pristine coastline in Olympic National Park,

families have come to these shores to shuck oysters, paddle the brackish water, roast marshmallows and relax away sunny summer days. That hasn’t changed, but the once-weathered gray inn they stayed in has been completely transformed into a grand lodge with swanky amenities, such as an on-site spa and a high-end restaurant that specializes in seasonal Northwest cuisine. Kids will love fishing from the dock, cruising around in a kayak or pedal boat, or just kicking a soccer ball on the expansive green lawn.

Families come to glacier-carved Lake Crescent to see its famed crystal-clear waters ringed with fragrant conifers.

They stay for an enchanting waterfall hike and a night at the historic lakeside lodge. Built in 1916 as a fishing resort, Lake Crescent Lodge retains a relaxed, campy vibe. All of the main lodge’s cozy rooms and cute detached Roosevelt Cabins boast stunning lake views. Hike in the surrounding temperate rain forest of giant fir and hemlock trees (the trail to the 90-foot Marymere Falls departs right from the lodge), and then relax over dinner in the waterfront dining room. End your evening in a lakeside deck chair and watch the sun set behind Olympic peaks. Rainy days are perfect for family board games beside the lobby’s stone fireplace. Lake Crescent Lodge is typically open from May through the end of each year.

Sun Mountain Lodge

Alderbrook Resort & Spa

Skamania Lodge

Alderbrook Resort & Spa sits on the south shore of Hood Canal, a long, glacier-carved fjord that runs parallel to Puget Sound and has dramatic Olympic peaks as its backdrop. For generations,

Scenery and nature are always on tap at Skamania Lodge, set on 175 forested acres that overlook the flood-scoured Columbia River Gorge in southern Washington. With 250

7101 E. S.R. 106, Union, Hood Canal; 360-898-2200 • alderbrookresort.com

604 Patterson Lake Rd., Winthrop, Methow Valley; 800-572-0493 • sunmountainlodge.com Sun Mountain Lodge, a deluxe getaway with rustic touches, is the Methow Valley’s premier resort, set on a ridge with panoramic views and recreation trails that depart right from the lodge (world-class cross-country skiing in winter, hiking in other seasons).

Rooms range from very nice to marvelous and so do the rates; the lodge also rents cabins on Patterson Lake.

Amenities are a big draw here, from heated pools in the winter and hot tubs to a game room and horseback riding. The lodge’s dining room serves Northwest cuisine with a view to match; the Wolf Creek Grill offers pub food and welcomes kids.

1131 S.W. Skamania Lodge Way, Stevenson; 509-314-4177 • skamania.com

INSIDERS’ GUIDE 2021 / 9

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rooms (including some suites and several amazing tree-house options), this lodge should be high on your list for last-minute travel: You’ll often find a vacancy, even in the high season. Built in the tradition of classic park lodges, Skamania features a grand communal lobby that centers on a massive stone fireplace, great for relaxing with books or board games. Kids will love splashing in the pool and trying the zip line tours that depart from the top of a Douglas fir. The lodge also features a golf course. Paved paths through the woods are perfect for strollers. For a more strenuous hike, head up nearby Dog Mountain.

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You’ll know you’ve reached Paradise when you get out of your car and say, “This really does look like paradise!” Built in 1916 of silver fir and renovated a few years ago, Paradise Inn hosts guests in summer months only and offers an unrivaled experience on “The Mountain.” Set in the shadow of an active volcano clad in snow and ice, the picturesque lodge is surrounded by vibrant meadows of blooming wildflowers. Several trails (some paved and flat enough for a stroller) depart from the lodge parking area and lead you through flower fields crossed by babbling streams and dotted with foraging marmots. Lodge room sizes vary and can accommodate from two to six people.

Enjoy evenings in the lodge restaurant or the huge communal lobby, where your kids can show off those music lessons on the antique piano.

Find a dozen more of Lauren’s legendary lodge picks at parentmap.com/lodges.

Read on for fabulous and affordable rustic retreats

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Rustic retreats that rock Veer off the beaten path when you book one of these affordable and amazing rustic retreats, perfect for families.

Cabins at Wallace Falls State Park, Gold Bar

How do you like the idea of taking a morning walk to a 265-foot plunging waterfall? After a night in one of the cozy private cabins at Wallace Falls State Park, you can do just that. The cabins are nestled within the park’s 4,735 lush acres of forest along the shores of the Wallace River. Each cabin has electric heat and light, and locking doors. Inside are bunk beds that sleep three and a full-size futon bed for two.

Outside is a 6-foot-long covered front porch, picnic table, firepit and barbecue stand. The park has trails for every hiker — flat interpretive nature trails through woodland, short trails to three waterfalls, and a longer, more chal-

lenging trail to Wallace Lake that was built by teenagers through the Washington Trails Association.

Details: Reserve the cabins year-round online at washington.goingtocamp.com.

As many as five people per cabin; pets are allowed in two of the cabins for a $15 fee per night.

Platform tents at Dosewallips State Park, Brinnon

Imagine you are a family of early pioneers camped near the shores of Hood Canal while staying in one of the white canvas wooden platform tents at Dosewallips State Park. Dosewallips is a favorite park for families with small children because of its variety of both forested trails and saltwater beaches.

The modern platform tents set in a maple forest are 14 by 16 feet inside and comfortably sleep five people.

Each tent has a bunk that sleeps three, a futon for two, electric lights, a table and a heater. Outside, you’ll enjoy a deck, picnic table, fire grill and utility

FOR

Cabins at Wallace Falls State Park; photo courtesy Washington State Parks

hookup. Walk to shared bathrooms and showers nearby. You’ll need to bring your own bed linens for the platform tents, as well as extra blankets and clothes in autumn for the cool evenings.

Details: Reserve the platform tents year-round online. The tents accommodates many as five people.

Dosewallips State Park also rents three cabins and one rustic bunkhouse. Pets are allowed in one of the platform tent for a $15 fee per night. washington.goingtocamp.com

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Cabins at Kitsap Memorial State Park, Hood Canal near Poulsbo

This small park is just 58 acres in size, but it has big views of Hood Canal and about 1,800 feet of shoreline to explore. One of these cute cabins at Kitsap Memorial State Park would make a nice base for visiting the “Little Norway” town of Poulsbo, just a few miles to the Photo courtesy south.

Washington State Parks Small kids will love the park’s grassy playfields and playground equipment. Parents will love a romantic stroll on the beach while the kids look for starfish in tide pools.

The cabins at Kitsap Memorial are a little less rustic than other state park rentals because they include kitchenettes with mini refrigerators and microwaves. The cabins are cozy (13 by 13 feet) and are simply furnished with a bunk bed that sleeps three and a futon that sleeps two. Enjoy electric heat and lights. Each cabin is accessible to people with disabilities. Bathrooms and showers are a short walk away. A firepit and picnic table are just outside your door. Bring extra blankets to stay warm while lounging outside.

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Photo credit: Stephanie Lenox

Yurts at Pacific Beach State Park, Washington coast

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simply furnished with bunk beds that sleep three, a full-size futon and a small end table. Each yurt is equipped with one overhead light, a heater and an electrical outlet so you could bring your own small lamp for softer lighting in the evening.

from reclaimed materials. Other signs of sustainability include used soccer goals that were converted into a green wall, and an old door that is now the kitchen table.

Outside you’ll find a picnic table and small covered porch. Both the yurts and nearby bathrooms are accessible to those with disabilities.

Shipping container rental at Tolt MacDonald Park

remote stretch of beach north of Ocean Shores that’s popular for razor clamming, beachcombing, flying kites and storm watching. No one wants to watch a storm from their tent, but the yurts at Pacific Beach provide a perfect refuge on blustery days. Located within walking distance of the beach, the yurts are 16 feet in diameter and

Details: The yurts can be reserved online at washington.goingtocamp.com.

Shipping container camping at Tolt MacDonald Park and Campground, Carnation Kids will love sleeping in a shipping container turned camping vessel set on the shores of the Tolt and Snoqualmie rivers in Carnation. This unique camping option features a full-size bunk bed, table and multipurpose cabinet made

Suspension bridge at Tolt MacDonald Park

Details: For more information visit Tolt MacDonald Park at kingcounty.gov.

Lauren Braden is a Pacific Northwest writer who focuses on recreation and local travel. She blogs at nwtripfinder.com.

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9 Supercool Tree Houses, Forts and Lookouts Unleash your kids’ imaginations exploring a fort, climbing a tower or touring a tree house

By Nancy Schatz Alton

Photo courtesy TreeHouse Point

Inspiration most often lies outside our front doors. And if kids happen to encounter a tree house, fort or hobbit door woven into an outing, their inspiration can go into overdrive. But where to find these secret spots designed to spark our kids’ imaginations?

older kids (and parents). While some tunnels and bunkers now have lights, bring your own flashlight to explore the darkest and spookiest corners of this expansive fort.

We’ve collected nine places in the greater Puget Sound area that could fuel hours of outdoor play for kids, from tree houses and decommissioned forts to hobbit abodes and playgrounds with build-it-yourself features.

Some are suitable for a day trip, while others are a short drive away.

Don’t miss: Explore the saltwater shoreline of Admiralty Inlet or along Keystone Spit, which separates Admiralty Inlet and Crocket Lake. Or venture to nearby Fort Ebey State Park, another fun park in the Coupeville area. Fort Ebey was built as a coastal defense during World War II. There, concrete platforms still mark the former gun locations and a dark tunnel makes for a short, chilly stroll.

Fort Casey State Park, Whidbey Island • parks.state.wa.us

Fort Casey Historical State Park, a point in the former “Triangle of Fire” built to protect access to Puget Sound, is still home to two 10-inch and two 3-inch historic gun emplacements.

Kids enjoy running around the expansive grounds and climbing the stairs around the emplacements, taking in the vast views provided by these features. You’ll need to exercise considerable caution here; there are many steep drops with no railings or barriers, but it makes for thrilling exploring for

Info: A Discover Pass is required to park in this and all state parks.

Canopy tower and tree houses at IslandWood • islandwood.org

Reasons to visit IslandWood abound.

This unique 255-acre outdoor learning center on Bainbridge Island offers three fantastic options for kids who like to explore, along with 6 miles of wooded trails and an amazing garden.

One exciting feature for kids is the 150-foot-tall forest canopy tower, a rebuilt fire tower. Formerly situated in

the North Cascades, it now sits on the edge of IslandWood’s ravine. At the top, the view is spectacular, with sightlines to Puget Sound and the mountains. (Note: This spot probably would not suit those afraid of heights.)

In addition, IslandWood includes two tree houses: the Bog Tree House and the Learning Tree House. The Learning Tree House appears more modern; the Bog Treehouse looks magical, as if elves or fairies might live there.

Info: You can only visit IslandWood during public events, and those fill up quickly. Bookmark the events calendar on the website — and note that the events listed as “adult-friendly” but not including the term “kid-friendly,” such as a public site tour, are designed for adults only. Instead, look for Open Trails Day or other events marked as “kid-friendly” and be sure to RSVP early. Pets are not allowed at IslandWood.

Also don’t miss: Cross the 190-foot suspension bridge 60 feet above Mac’s Creek and see a giant Douglas fir beam, 92 feet long and weighing almost 9,000 pounds, built into the truss system of IslandWood’s Welcome Center.

INSIDERS’ GUIDE 2021 / 15

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Tree house tower at Mercer Slough Environmental Education Center • bellevuewa.gov

Tucked away in Bellevue near Interstate 405 is one of Bellevue’s largest and most wildlife-rich parks, Mercer Slough Nature Park. Start your exploration of the park’s wetland ecosystems at the Mercer Slough Environmental Education Center, a complex of classrooms, stairways and lookout spots that allow visitors to see the forest from many vantage points.

And the Golden Teddy goes to …

For many years, ParentMap has invited its loyal readers to vote for their favorite regional adventures and family-friendly services in the annual Golden Teddy Awards. In the category of nearby family escapes, these destinations have consistently clinched your votes.

Seabrook (seabrookwa.com) is a lovely, walkable beach town on the Pacific Coast that’s roughly a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Seattle. Ride bikes on quiet streets and paths, and enjoy the wide-open beach, sports courts, indoor swimming pool, skimboards, pottery painting studio, spa, restaurants and more!

Mercer Slough Environmental Education Center; credit: City of Bellevue Stuart Heath via Flickr CC

The star lookout spot is the tree house. During the education center’s open hours, the ranger can unlock the tower for you. Climb the ladder and go through a hatch onto what is essentially an elevated platform with handrails and a roof. Here, you are at eye level with the surrounding forest canopy. It’s magical!

Info: The center is open daily, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., though occasional unscheduled closures do happen, when you might find a sign on the door indicating the center is closed for the day.

Also don’t miss: A hike on the shady trails, which are almost never crowded. Grab a trail map at the center.

A short walk from there, you’ll come to the Bellefields Trail. At one point, you can cross the bridge over the main channel of the Mercer Slough, where visitors often see wildlife.

Fort Worden Historical State Park, Port Townsend • parks.state.wa.us

Stunning Fort Worden Historical State Park, once a military fort, boasts more than 2 miles of saltwater shoreline, historic buildings and miles of trails, some of which lead to battery structures. Set your young explorers loose on Artillery Hill’s trail system.

Highlights include being able to walk the dank, unlit tunnels of 12 former batteries. These batteries served as emplacements for guns that once protected the entrance to Puget Sound and the naval shipyard at Bremerton.

1 6 / PA R E N T M A P. C O M

Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort (sleepinglady.com), perched in the Cascade Mountains near Leavenworth, is a distinctive Northwest destination experience. Marrying creature comforts with alpine beauty, the resort offers visitors access to hiking and cross-country skiing trails, an amazing spa, a dedicated Play Barn for the kids, and delicious, sustainably sourced food (much of which is grown in the resort’s organic garden).

Readers say that Suncadia Resort (suncadia.com) in Cle Elum offers a luxurious getaway in spectacular natural surroundings. Only a 90-minute drive from Seattle, just off Interstate 90, this family- and pet-friendly 6,000-acre resort furnishes a wealth of year-round activities, including a pool with thrilling waterslides, a day spa, hiking and biking trails, and many more amenities.

Insider tip: For a more rustic option in Cle Elum, Lauren Braden recommends Flying Horseshoe Ranch (flyinghorseshoeranch.com), which welcomes families for a Western-style vacation, complete with guided horseback rides, nature hikes and campfire cooking. Once a children’s summer camp, the ranch now offers a range of fun accommodations; choose from canvas platform tents, tepees, and simple bunkhouse cabins with shared bathhouses and a cookhouse for preparing your own meals.

Tips: Trail maps are available at the Commons building on the Fort Worden campus. Use caution when climbing the stairs of the gun emplacements, since many lack bannisters or hand rails. Bring a flashlight to explore the fun but very dark and twisty tunnels.

There are open areas in front of most of the gun emplacements that lead to the bluff overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Puget Sound.

Info: Note that you need a daily or annual Discover Pass for parking, as this is a state park.

Don’t miss: Memory’s Vault, an area on Artillery Hill that features pillars of poetry written by Sam Hamill; the poems speak of the fort’s sights, sounds, history and weather. The charming town of Port Townsend is always worth a visit. Or venture to Fort Flagler State Park, on the other side of Port Townsend Bay on Marrowstone Island, about a 30-minute drive away. Fort Flagler also has gun emplacements to explore, along with

a 1905 military hospital and plenty of beach for building forts.

Sammamish tree house, Sammamish • sammamish.us

In a quiet corner of Big Rock Park Central in Sammamish, there is an impressive tree house to explore. The tree house was constructed in 2013 and includes a stylish tapered stair entrance, a fully enclosed meeting room, a rigid bridge, a suspension bridge and a lookout. In short, this is a very fancy tree house with lots of unique features and a polished finish.

The tree house recently opened to the public, but reservations are limited to protect the integrity of the structure and the trees.

Info: The tree house is open for visitors four times per month through October 2021. Visits to the tree house are free and by reservation only; no walkups are allowed. Reserve a 20-minute visit on the website. (Unfortunately, it looks like 2021 reservation slots are

currently full, but check back as more visits may be added.) There is limited parking in the Big Rock Park Central lot, but there is more parking nearby at Big Rock Park North lot.

Also don’t miss: Opposite the tree house, you can explore a heritage garden with a variety of fruits, vegetables and herbs. Even if you don’t snag tickets for the tree house, you can admire it from the outside. And you can always visit nearby Big Rock Park North and its cool nature playground, which includes a zip line, a hillside slide and 1.5 miles of easy hiking trails — plus, as the name suggests, a seriously large rock!

TreeHouse Point, Fall City • treehousepoint.com

Why just watch reruns of the TV show “Treehouse Masters” when you can tour TreeHouse Point, a renowned tree house hotel built by Pete Nelson and his crew?

I N S I D E R S ’ G U I D E 2 0 2 1 / 17

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continued from page 17

A spruce tree holds the first tree house built here: Temple of the Blue Moon. Trillium has 80 windows, while The Upper Pond contains a bunk bed and a dumbwaiter to bring up guests’ luggage. The Nest (bird-themed) was built during a workshop, and it’s the only tree house with an outhouse.

Guests of The Burl must traverse a 40-foot-long steel bridge to arrive at their quarters, the only accommodation with a flush toilet and a sink.

Stump house at Guillemot Cove, Seabeck • kitsapgov.com

Wander a trail through the Guillemot Cove Nature Reserve, on the Kitsap Peninsula near Seabeck, and you’ll be rewarded with the sight of an awesome stump house. The house was created from an old western cedar tree stump after it was logged. Follow the Stump House Trail to reach it. While no one knows who built the stump

Magnuson Children’s Garden • seattle.gov

the minimum recommended age is 4. Tours book up fairly far in advance and last one hour. Overnight stays are geared toward adults. Guests must be 13 or older, and a tree house stay with shared bath can cost some $400 a night. You’ll also need to book far in advance, as reservations fill up fast.

Next time you visit enormous Magnuson Park in Northwest Seattle, perhaps for soccer practice or a romp on the beloved Junior League Playground, save a little time to explore the Magnuson Children’s Garden, a hidden gem just across the street and to the north of the playground.

Stump House; credit: George Stenberg

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Info: The hike down into the cove from the parking area is about a mile in length. Know that this can be a steep hike back up for young children. After or during rainy periods, the meadow may be flooded, so pack extra shoes or rain boots. Note that pets are not allowed.

Don’t miss: The beach. At low tide, seekers will find oysters, sand dollars and sea stars.

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continued from page 19

The garden is lovingly maintained

by Magnuson Nature Programs. An unexpected delight at the garden is the log pile. This 75-square-foot area contains splinter-free wood that kids can pull apart to see decomposition and its accompanying living creatures, or use to build small piles, forts and other constructions.

it’s not off-limits during Children’s Garden programs, but plan a visit in the afternoon during spring and summers to experience the full range of use.

Don’t miss: The Children’s Garden offers other highlights for kids in its small but very well-designed space. Take a roll down the “Rolling Hill,” walk the spiral path to a lookout, the highest point in the garden, and look for the Grey Whale Garden with its tail (which can be climbed!) and tall grass spout.

There is also a scavenger hunt that kids can go on, beginning at the Children’s Garden shed.

Hobbit abodes, various locations

Photo courtesy Magnuson Children’s Garden

Tips: Dress to get dirty, and some children might want gloves if they are first-time users or squeamish about touching rotting wood. Parents and their kids should know it’s fine to pick up roly-polys, potato bugs, worms and millipedes, but avoid picking up spiders and centipedes.

Info: The log pile is accessible during the hours that Magnuson Park is open;

Even if your child hasn’t yet read J.R.R. Tolkien’s classic “The Hobbit,” it’s easy to love a hobbit-size habitat. Pedal along Seattle’s Burke-Gilman Trail and you’ll discover a hobbit door built into a gnarly tree, between 75th Avenue N. and Matthews Beach Park in Northeast Seattle.

You can also spy a nifty hobbit door (also called the “gnome home”) at the Bellevue Botanical Garden (bellevuebotanical.org). Find the gnome home in the Shorts Ground Cover Garden. This gnome home used to be the cellar door to Cal Short’s root cellar. He and his wife donated their house and the 7-acre property on which it was situated as the original

Maple Valley Gnome Trail; credit: Godfrey Guerzon

founding site of the entire garden.

While at the garden, don’t miss the Ravine Experience, involving an exciting suspension bridge you can walk across in the heart of the garden.

Young tots will love finding the gnomes — some hiding out in natural homes and forts — along Maple Valley’s revamped Gnome Trail (Facebook, “Maple Valley Gnome Trail”).

Nancy Schatz Alton is the co-author of two holistic health care guides, “The Healthy Back Book” and “The Healthy Knees Book.” She’s the writer/editor at University Prep. This article first appeared in the guidebook “52 Seattle Adventures With Kids.”

Vicky McDonald, ParentMap’s digital content editor, contributed to this article.

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Destination: Dessert 5 unique and delicious treats to seek out with the family

By JiaYing Grygiel

Photo credit JiaYing Grygiel

The pandemic really messed up the local restaurant scene, but one cool thing is seeing the side hustles and small businesses figure out new ways to reach all of us dessert lovers. Our family bit the bullet for you (you’re welcome) and put five amazing and kid-delighting desserts to the taste test. Some of these places will deliver, some of them you have to stalk on Instagram for pop-up details, and all of them have bizarre hours and limited quantities. (Pro tip: Preorder so you’re not disappointed.)

Remember having actual hobbies?

Yeah, that was before kids. These days, our idea of a good time is going in search of a small but super-scrummy splurge. This is a dessert crawl that does require some planning; think of it as a sort of scavenger hunt with the most delicious rewards.

Sweet Nothings and More ● sweetnothingsandmore.com

Question: What’s better than a flaky, caramelized croissant? Answer: A flaky, caramelized croissant stuffed with raspberry cheesecake. I can die happy now.

But once that twice-baked raspberry cheesecake croissant is gone, it’s gone. It’s always chef’s choice at Sweet Nothings and More. Following a summer hiatus, the purveyors of pop-up pastry will be back with more events in September. You’ll find the current menu (and drool-worthy photos) on the website or on Instagram.

“Our menu changes every single weekend,” says Alina Muratova, chef and owner. “So, chances are if you see something you like on this week’s

menu, you better hurry to the pop-up, because we will not have it the week after.”

Find Sweet Nothings and More at pop-ups all over the Seattle metro area, or sign up for a subscription box delivery (onetime, weekly or monthly).

For $30, you get a care package with four different pastries and a cookie.

Pastry lovers, rejoice!

Muratova started Sweet Nothings and More as a wholesale dessert company in 2019, making desserts for hotels and restaurants all over Seattle. When all of her customers shut down because of COVID-19, she had to rethink her business model.

Muratova landed on the idea of pastry pop-ups, first in restaurants and then expanding service to coffee shops

INSIDERS’ GUIDE 2021 / 23

DE ST INAT IO N: D E S SE RT before trading engineering for sweets.

“I didn’t tell my parents for the first two years,” says Dang. “I didn’t want them to worry.”

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Photo courtesy Sweet Nothings and More continued from page 23

and other venues. She added delivery and started taking preorders last fall.

“The pop-up model has been working pretty well so far,” says Muratova. “We have big plans for the future and will most definitely be coming back, maybe even bigger than before.”

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To buy: Find the pop-up schedule and the week’s menu on the Sweet Nothings website and Instagram. We highly recommend preordering. Pop-up locations are sprinkled throughout the Seattle metro area, and care pack deliveries are available in Seattle, Renton, Bellevue, Mercer Island, Kirkland, Newcastle and Burien.

FogRose Atelier ● fogrose.com

FogRose Atelier founder Quyen Dang worked as a civil engineer for 11 years

FogRose opened its superchic doors in downtown Bellevue in the fall of 2019.

Four months into its operation, the pandemic hit. The dessert bar continued to take limited special orders for cupcakes and whole cakes, but it wasn’t until this spring that FogRose reopened its patio for scoops and slices. There are a dozen liquid-nitrogen ice cream flavors and six cake flavors to choose from.

Dang works with a team of young pastry chefs to experiment with creative flavors. The Vietnamese coffee cake is one of the most popular offerings, but heads up, parents, it’s made with actual coffee. For kid-friendly flavors, try the cookies and cream, lychee rose or blueberry lavender.

Even if you don’t live in Bellevue, these desserts are 100 percent worth the drive. They’re actual works of art. Need another excuse for a field trip with the kids? FogRose is located near three fantastic Bellevue playgrounds: Downtown Park’s Inspiration Playground, Meydenbauer Bay Park and Surrey Downs Park.

To buy: The patio is open Thursday–Sunday, noon–6 p.m. You can order online for pickup, and walk-ups are welcome.

(Pro tip: Snag two hours of free parking at Soma Towers.)

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Cupcakes by FogRose Atelier; credit: JiaYing Grygiel

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Dreamy Drinks ● dreamydrinksseattle.com

How about a dessert in liquid form? Dreamy Drinks, which bills itself as Seattle’s first bubble tea truck, opened in 2019. The owners are originally from the Bay Area, where there’s a bubble tea shop on practically every corner. To fill that gap in the Seattle market, they came up with a mobile bubble tea shop in a cute pink truck that comes to your neighborhood.

Come explore, enjoy, and learn from the great big world of wonder we live in.

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Lynnwood to Renton. In addition to bubble tea, you can order espresso drinks and smoothies. The smoothies and slushies are made with real fruit instead of just powder and sugar; my kids’ favorite is the taro smoothie ($5.50/medium). Another popular drink for kids is the sparkling soda made with edible glitter!

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Find it: You can find the pop-up schedule on the Dreamy Drinks website, follow the truck on Instagram and even place your order ahead of time to skip the line. Delivery is available on DoorDash on weekends.

My Friend’s Cookies ● myfriendscookiesseattle.com

Kids don’t want a bacon-matcha cookie with organic sea salt and shaved truffles; kids want a *really big* cookie. That’s where My Friend’s Cookies comes in.

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D E ST IN AT ION: DE S SERT

Photo courtesy My Friend’s Cookies continued from page 25

Sara Eveland is the chef behind this one-woman operation, and she makes really big cookies in classic flavors such as chocolate chip and snickerdoodle.

Her expert tasters are her nieces, ages 5 and 7. “I like traditional flavors with good ingredients,” says Eveland.

“But I’m also not serious. It’s important for me that in every single one of my recipes, there’s an item that’s not measured, that’s something that you toss in.”

delivers throughout the Seattle area, including to the Eastside, or you can find her cookies at occasional pop-ups and at Watson’s Counter (watsonscounter.com) in Ballard.

Eveland has a more than full-time job as the sous-chef at Restaurant Homer (restauranthomer.com). Like a lot of other people, she got into baking at the beginning of the pandemic. She made some cookies for a friend who was doing a pop-up. “Just say, ‘It’s my friend’s cookie,” she remembers saying, and the name “My Friend’s Cookies” stuck.

Sugar + Spoon ● sugarspoondough.com

“This is my fun job,” says Eveland. “I love to cook. This is the thing I get to do that involves my friends. It’s crazy, but it’s super fun.”

To order: Cookies are $5 each or $48 per dozen. Send her a direct message through Instagram or hop on to the My Friend’s Cookies website — Eveland is quick to reply on both platforms. She

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I always wanted to be that cool mom baking cookies and letting the kids lick the spoon, but that’s not happening, because who has the time? And eww, raw eggs.

So, I was really excited to find out about Sugar + Spoon, an edible cookie dough company that uses safe, heat-treated flour and no eggs. It’s a brilliant business idea that two University of Washington students, William Hubbell and Ivana Orlovic, came up with for their senior entrepreneurship project.

“We wanted to create something that would be easy to sell and all the

people around us would enjoy. Cookie dough does just that,” says Hubbell. “It’s a very fun product, but at the same time, it’s very nostalgic and comforting.”

After graduation in June 2018, the two bought their first food truck off Craigslist for $40,000. Their business grew to two trucks, a 60-square-foot microstore in the University District and 40 employees.

You can order online and have cookie dough shipped anywhere in the country, or hit a pop-up from their roving food trucks. The trucks go out every day, visiting two or three

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SCHOOL OF THE SACRED HEART

neighborhoods each throughout the Puget Sound region. (Pssst, there will be a Sugar + Spoon truck parked at Suncadia this summer.)

Hubbell’s favorite flavor, by far, is the Party Animal. It’s sugar cookie dough dyed pink, with Mother’s cookies and rainbow sprinkles. “It’s soooo good,” he says. “Tastes like childhood.”

I ordered the smallest-size cup ($4.95) to split three ways — and we still couldn’t finish it. It’s a fun treat, but verrrrry sugary.

To buy: The walk-up window on The Ave is open daily, 4–9 p.m., at 4518 University Way N.E. in Seattle. Check the Sugar + Spoon website or Instagram for pop-up times and locations.

JiaYing Grygiel is a mama of two boys, and a freelance photographer and writer. She blogs at photoj.net.

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Island Vibes: 11 Local Islands to Visit With Kids

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From serene San Juan to bucolic Vashon, your handy insider’s guide to Puget Sound island getaways

By Nicole Persun Here in western Washington, we’ve been blessed with myriad picturesque islands dotted throughout Puget Sound and the Salish Sea. Each island bursts with its own unique attractions, such as the lavender farms of San Juan and the quiet beaches of Vashon. If you’re ready for a family getaway that feels farther away than it truly is, read on.

These islands have something for everyone, especially the kids! (Follow the provided links to read our full insider’s guides for island-hopping families.)

Lummi Island ● parentmap.com/lummi

Sustainable farms and artist studios are just two features of Lummi Island’s free-range lifestyle. This island isn’t usually featured in local guidebooks, making it the perfect secret getaway.

For pristine protected habitats, be sure to explore the Lummi Island Heritage Trust’s (liht.org) multiple nature preserves.

Guemes Island ● parentmap.com/guemes

If your family’s goal is a sloooww pace, Guemes is just the ticket. Ride bikes, rent kayaks or spend your time beachcombing. Guemes is also a geocaching hot spot, so if your kids love scavenger hunts in nature, this island will be right up their alley.

Whidbey Island ● parentmap.com/whidbey

Vashon Island; credit: JiaYing Grygiel

San Juan Islands ● parentmap.com/san-juans

Carved out by ancient glaciers, the San Juan Islands — including Lopez, Orcas and San Juan — are an idyllic mix of charming towns, rolling farmland and steep forestland. If your family loves to ride bikes, head to Lopez, the flattest and most bikeable of the main islands.

On Orcas, explore the rugged and stunningly beautiful Moran State Park, which features panoramic views from the top of Mount Constitution. Looking for farm tours? Head to San Juan for lavender, alpaca encounters and more.

Whidbey Island has a bit of everything: hiking trails, walkable beaches, window-shop-worthy towns and more.

If you haven’t taken your kids to Fort Casey, they’re in for a treat: This historical state park was once used as a military training facility and has some of the best abandoned bunkers in the area. Ready for a little civilization? The quaint seaside towns of Coupeville and Langley beckon with strollable streets, cute shops and amazing food.

Jetty Island ● parentmap.com/jetty

Jetty Island is a mere five-minute ferry ride from the Everett shoreline and features one of the very best beaches in Puget Sound. With 2 miles of sand abutting shallow, warm water, Jetty is a summer must, especially during lowtide days. Reserve your spot on the ferry and don’t forget to bring snacks plus a beach umbrella for additional sun protection.

Bainbridge Island ● parentmap.com/bainbridge

If you want the luxuries of the city — museums, shopping and accessibility — but need a change of pace, head to Bainbridge Island. The fun starts on the 35-minute ferry crossing, during which you will enjoy beautiful views of the Seattle skyline. Once you disembark, wander over to the town of Winslow, which has a fabulous bookstore and toy shop. If your family loves a good museum, check out the beloved Kids Discovery Museum (kidimu.org) or the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art (biartmuseum.org). And don’t forget to visit Mora Iced Creamery (moraicecream.com) for a cone before you hop on the ferry to head back home!

Camano Island ● parentmap.com/camano

If you live in Snohomish or Skagit counties, Camano Island State Park is an easy trip. Visit for a day or rent a cabin (or go camping) for an overnight getaway. Hike on forest loop trails, enjoy birding along the shoreline or search for shells along rocky beaches. Love being on a boat? Camano is also great for crabbing and saltwater fishing.

Vashon ferry; credit: dirtsailor2003 via Flickr CC

INSIDERS’ GUIDE 2021 / 31

GET OUT AND PLAY

ON THE ISLAND THAT HAS IT ALL The Blake Island Fast Ferry is your newest connection to summer fun.

Plan your adventure at ArgosyCruises.com

Camano Island State Park; credit: daveynin via Flickr CC

Blake Island ● parentmap.com/blake

Ringed with rocky beaches and covered in walkable forest, Blake Island, a marine state park, offers plenty of outdoor pleasures, though the main draws are two family-friendly programs offered at the Tillicum Longhouse: a cultural presentation on Coast Salish peoples and a guided nature walk through Blake’s second-growth forest. With its minimal crowds, Blake makes for a pandemic-proof getaway perfect for more cautious families.

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Vashon Island ● parentmap.com/vashon

For families in West Seattle and South Sound, consider planning an easily accessible weekend day trip or overnight getaway to Vashon Island.

Perfect for beachcombers, Vashon features 45 miles of gorgeous shoreline, with orca sightings happening year-round. Be sure to check out Vashon’s famous 1885 lighthouse for Instagram-worthy photos of the kids. When you’re ready for a bite, head into Vashon’s tiny town for local eats. And cross your fingers that the exciting Vashon Sheepdog Classic (vashonsheepdogclassic.com) will be open to the public in 2022, because it’s quite the spectacle!

Nature Activities Credit: @teeter_totter_mom (top), Marcus Allenbach (bottom)

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Nicole Persun is an award-winning novelist, a writing instructor and the digital content production coordinator at ParentMap.

Is Fall the Best Season in the PNW? Endless harvest activities, gorgeous autumn-color hikes and iconic local creatures make the argument for us

By Nicole Persun A sunny fall day on the Mashel River, Eatonville, Washington

Autumn in the Pacific Northwest is a truly magical season.

The heat and smoky skies of August have abated. Apple and squash harvests are in full swing. And — despite Washington’s street cred as the Evergreen State — fall hues ranging from rich red to golden yellow decorate our favorite local trails. All of these things and more make fall a perfect time to take some holiday-card-worthy photos as a family and bolster a healthy mindset for the rather dreary months to come.

tests, apple-fritter purveying and more. parentmap.com/apple-events Once you’ve brought your harvest home, engage the kids in baking a delicious apple recipe, anything from a fall-themed breakfast hash to caramel apple pie. Yum. parentmap.com/apple-recipes

Fall in love with fall colors

Our deeply soul-satisfying, crisp, sunny autumn only lasts so long, so it’s best to make the most of it. We’ve rounded up our favorite insider ways to celebrate the season, from harvest activities to breathtaking hikes.

With kids back in school, you might not have fall hikes on your family itinerary, but we highly recommend them. At this time of year, there are fewer people on the trails and, of course, the fall colors are spectacular. Check out our list of best fall family hikes in the Greater Seattle area at parentmap.com/fall-hikes.

Apple of my eye

Sugar and (pumpkin) spice and everything nice

First up: apple picking (duh)! Did you know that Washington supplies 60 percent of the nation’s apple supply? From sweet lunch-box apples to tart apples for pies, at this time of year you can find a gazillion varieties for any occasion. There are so many amazing family-friendly orchards to visit — just be sure to bring baskets for collecting the sweet bounty and rubber boots for puddle stomping. parentmap.com/apples

Question: Is it really autumn without a visit to a pumpkin patch? Answer: Hell no!

In addition to picking apples, there are many fun apple harvest events and activities happening around Seattle, the Eastside and South Sound. Attractions include cider pressing, pie-baking con-

Nowadays, picking out the perfect pumpkin is only the beginning of the fall farm-visiting experience. From Snohomish to Olympia, families enjoy corn mazes, pumpkin slingshots, hayrides, petting zoos and so much more. Not sure where to go? Check out our list of awesome spots at parentmap.com/pumpkins.

Spotting salmon Every year, salmon evade fishing nets and predators to travel hundreds of miles back to the streams where they were born in order to mate, spawn and die. It’s part of the salmon’s remarkable life cycle, and at this time of year, you can witness the dramatic and incredible end to their journey from the edges of local streams. Venturing out to see the salmon as a family is an exciting and educational experience for the kiddos. Peep the best salmon-viewing spots at parentmap.com/salmon.

— Nicole Persun

INSIDERS’ GUIDE 2021 / 33

A Museums Piece

With a little planning, you can visit almost any kid-friendly Puget Sound–area museum for free

By Elisa Murray Museums and kids: Sometimes they mix, sometimes they don’t. For instance, I have fond memories of taking my then 3-year-old to a blockbuster Gauguin exhibit at the Seattle Art Museum.

He was more interested in the escalators, stairs and cars hanging from the ceiling (remember those?), but with a little coaxing, we did a fun walk-through of the special exhibit with no major issues.

On the other hand, I have not-so-fond memories of leaving the zoo (of all places!) carrying an inconsolable toddler and a fistful of unused, expensive tickets.

That’s why free museum days are such a gift.

You don’t have to worry about squeezing your money’s worth out of your admission and can just take off when something goes awry. Many museums around Puget Sound offer monthly (or bimonthly) free days, often with family programs happening on those very same days. And some wonderful museums — hello, Frye Art Museum and The Center for Wooden Boats — are always free. Some offer incredible deals for kids — note The Museum of Flight’s Connections program.

Read on for top strategies for saving on museum visits, as well as a list of discounts organized by museum. Before heading out, make sure to check the museum’s website for current hours, operating status and COVID-19 protocols.

Top strategies for seeing museums (and zoos and aquariums!) around Seattle for free Seattle Public Library museum passes ● spl.org

You have to plan a month ahead to snag the hottest tickets from Seattle Public Library’s (SPL) pass program, but it’s worth it. Mark your calendar for 9 p.m., exactly 30 days ahead — that’s when new passes become available. Then, log in to SPL’s museum pass webpage and you can choose a 3 4 / PA R E N T M A P. C O M

four-pack (sometimes two) of passes to top museums, including the Burke Museum, Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), The Museum of Flight, Seattle Aquarium and others. Of course, you can always log in at other times as well to see what’s available, but the hottest passes go very quickly. Fine print: You can reserve one pass to the same museum once every 30 days.

KCLS museum passes ● kcls.org/museum-passes

King County Library System’s (KCLS) museum pass program isn’t as extensive as SPL’s, but the timing complements it nicely: Log in to your KCLS membership (don’t forget, Seattle residents can get a KCLS card, too) two weeks ahead of time at 2 p.m. to reserve a pass that’s good for two people. Museums include: Bellevue Arts Museum, The Museum of Flight, MoPOP, Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI), Seattle Aquarium and the Washington State History Museum.

South Sound library museum pass programs Pierce County Library System (piercecountylibrary.org) and Tacoma Public Library (tacomalibrary.org) have similar museum pass programs, which cover six museums (including Tacoma Art Museum, Museum of Glass and the Washington State History Museum), but you have to pick up passes at a library location.

Free museum days Many Seattle-area museums offer free admission on first Thursdays, and several Tacoma museums offer free admission on third Thursdays (usually in the evening; check hours).

See more detail in the section on individual museums.

Free museums A number of excellent museums in the area don’t charge admission, including the Gates Foundation Discovery Center (temporarily closed; discovergates.org), Frye Art Museum, the Seattle unit of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park in Pioneer Square (nps.gov/ klse), the Harbor History Museum in Gig

Harbor (harborhistorymuseum.org), and the Duwamish Longhouse and Cultural Center (duwamishtribe.org). Donations, of course, are always welcome.

Bank of America Museums on Us ● bankofamerica.com

If you have a Bank of America debit or credit card, you are eligible for one free admission to five local museums (Bellevue Arts Museum, Northwest African American Museum, Tacoma Art Museum, Seattle Art Museum and the Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience) on the first weekend of every month, through its Museums on Us program.

More museum discounts Other discount programs include Museums for All (for EBT cardholders; museums4all.org) and Blue Star Museums (for families with active-duty service members; arts.gov/bluestarmuseums). Local residents also sometimes get deals (King County residents pay less at Chihuly Garden and Glass, for example); and reduced admission to area museums are often available through AAA membership discounts (wa.aaa.com) or to Microsoft Prime Passport holders (microsoftprime.com).

Bundled attractions: Planning a whirlwind tour? In Seattle, City Pass (citypass.com/seattle) offers a discount ticket to five of the city’s top attractions, including Seattle Aquarium, Woodland Park Zoo, MoPOP, Argosy Cruises, Chihuly Garden and Glass, and the Space Needle.

than 350 museums and science centers worldwide (astc.org).

TeenTix ● teentix.org

This amazing nonprofit allows teenagers ages 13–19 to get $5 day-of-show tickets at more than 70 Seattle-area arts venues.

How to save on Seattle museums The Museum of Flight, Georgetown ● museumofflight.org

This ever-expanding air-and-space museum offers many draws for kids and adults, such as the Aviation Pavilion, flight simulators, a space shuttle trainer exhibit and more. It offers a free family membership to students via its Connections program; kids enrolled in camps and clubs at the museum are eligible to join. Passes are also available through SPL and KCLS pass programs.

Henry Art Gallery, University District ● henryart.org

The only Seattle-area museum exclusively focused on contemporary art, the Henry is surprisingly kid-friendly, with intriguing exhibits and family activities, such as its free ArtVenture workshop program. Henry Art Gallery admission is free through Oct. 1, 2021.

Become a member Zoos and aquariums can be relied upon for offering memberships to families with young kids, but under-theradar gems with a lower-cost annual membership include The Museum of Flight and MOHAI. Just make sure you’d visit the attraction often enough to justify the cost of membership.

Reciprocal memberships These memberships can also be part of your membership calculation. For example, Pacific Science Center has reciprocal memberships with more

Burke Museum, University District ● burkemuseum.org

The new Burke Museum is a wonderland of dino skeletons, fossils, creature exhibits, hands-on fun and opportunities to see scientists in action. Not surprisingly, the admission price rose significantly when the museum reopened ($14–$22, children 3 and

INSIDERS’ GUIDE 2021 / 35

Call today for a tour!

206-329-3260 ext. 243 www.stjosephsea.org /admissions

ST. JOSEPH SCHOOL Seattle’s Jesuit Parish School

Asia Pacific Language School

Hybrid Learning Courses Available

Academic Success With A Second Language

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Federation’s Jewish experiences

designed just for YOU and your family!

The Jewish Federation is here to help your family figure out how Jewish works for YOU — from PJ Library® Jewishthemed books mailed directly to your home, to singing songs together! Every Jewish family has a home with Federation. jewishinseattle.org/youngfamilies

3 6 / PA R E N T M A P. C O M

Hands-On Exhibits Special Events

Memberships Parties & Field Trips

Museum Store Camps & Classes

Limited Days & Hours Registration Recommended Check website for current operations Closed some holidays

Located in Burlington, WA I-5 Exit 229 Tel: 360.757.8888

VisitBurlingtonWA.com VisitSkagitValley.com Photos courtesy HKP Architects & Mike Penney Photographer

continued from page 35

younger free). But the Burke is still free for all visitors on First Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (reserve tickets online), for EBT or SNAP cardholders and for Husky cardholders; passes are available through SPL’s museum pass program.

National Nordic Museum, Ballard ● nordicmuseum.org

HQ for Seattle’s Scandinavian heritage is the National Nordic Museum, which is located in a gorgeous space in Ballard.

Admission is free the first Thursday of the month, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (though there may be an additional cost for special exhibitions); and passes are available through SPL.

Seattle Art Museum (SAM), downtown Seattle ● seattleartmuseum.org

The museum has several free family spaces where you can take a break and make art. In addition, the region’s premier art museum is always free for kids ages 14 and younger. SAM offers free admission to its collections on the first Thursday of the month, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (though there’s still a fee for special exhibits); and passes are available through SPL and KCLS.

Seattle Asian Art Museum (SAAM), Capitol Hill ● seattleartmuseum.org

an art deco building in lovely Volunteer Park, the Seattle Asian Art Museum features Asian art exhibits for all ages to explore. SAAM is free on the last Friday of the month (with fun family activities and story times for kids ages 3–12).

Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience, Chinatown-International District ● wingluke.org

The nation’s only museum dedicated to the Asian Pacific American experience, the Wing Luke Museum is housed in a historic, multilevel building that began its days as a hotel that housed new Asian immigrants. The Wing is free on First Thursdays, 10 a.m.–8 p.m. Passes are available through SPL.

Northwest African American Museum (NAAM), Central District ● naamnw.org

Closed until further notice at press time, NAAM is currently offering virtual programming to explore the music, crafts, literature and history of African Americans. This pioneering museum is housed in the century-old Colman School building, just a block away from another Seattle treasure, Seattle Children’s PlayGarden. Once the museum is reopened to the public, admission is free on First Thursdays, and passes are typically available through both the SPL and KCLS museum pass programs.

Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI), South Lake Union ● mohai.org

Kids can hammer railway ties, watch a vintage TV and view Puget Sound through a periscope — these are among the many hands-on history activities at this surprisingly kid-friendly museum. Head there on the last Saturday of the month for Maker Days fun. MOHAI is always free for kids ages 14 and younger, and free for everyone on First Thursdays, 10 a.m.–8 p.m. (for special exhibits, there may be a reduced admission cost). Passes are available through KCLS.

The Center for Wooden Boats (CWB), South Lake Union ● cwb.org

Located right next to MOHAI, The Center for Wooden Boats’ stunning new home offers an opportunity to walk the docks, sail pond boats and explore beautiful crafted wooden boats.

Admission is always free, and at present, visitors can enjoy free onehour rowboat rentals through its Public Peapod Program every day during business hours.

Duwamish Longhouse and Cultural Center, West Seattle ● duwamishtribe.org

Learn about the history of the Duwamish Tribe, Indigenous residents of the Seattle area, and visit this traditional longhouse, which sits proudly near the mouth of the Duwamish River. Admission to the Duwamish Longhouse is always free.

Frye Art Museum, First Hill ● fryemuseum.org

Photo courtesy Frye Art Museum

small museum with a wonderful founding collection; a peaceful, immaculate space; and temporary exhibitions of contemporary art that can be fun to explore with kids.

Olympic Sculpture Park, downtown Seattle ● seattleartmuseum.org

Seattle Art Museum’s wonderful sculpture park — its signature piece is Alexander Calder’s gigantic “The Eagle” — offers 9 acres of outdoor sculptures and incredible views. Olympic Sculpture Park is always free.

Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, Pioneer Square ● nps.gov

The gold was in the Yukon, but thousands of hopeful prospectors got there in 1897 by way of Seattle. Located in the heart of Pioneer Square, this interactive museum tells this gripping story through plenty of hands-on exhibits and Junior Ranger activities. The Klondike is always free and is presently operating Friday– Sunday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

How to save on Eastside museums Bellevue Arts Museum, Bellevue ● bellevuearts.org

Housed in a building designed by celebrated architect Steven Holl, Bellevue Arts Museum is kid-friendly by nature, with intimate spaces and engaging art, craft and design exhibits.

Free First Fridays were still discontinued at press time, but BAM admission is free for kids younger than 6. Passes are available through KCLS. The museum is presently open Wednesdays–Sundays, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.

Always free, the Frye Art Museum is a

INSIDERS’ GUIDE 2021 / 37

continued from page 37

KidsQuest Children’s Museum, Bellevue ● kidsquestmuseum.org

KidsQuest Children’s Museum’s spacious and joy-filled home in downtown Bellevue stars huge windows, beautifully designed handson exhibits and an adventurous, two-story ropes-and-ladders atrium climber. KidsQuest doesn’t routinely offer discounts, but its Museums for All admission rate is $3 (with proof of participation in the following programs: EBT, CHIP, Provider One or WIC), and children younger than 1 enter for free.

Lewis-McChord, is the first children’s museum in the world to be located on a U.S. military installation. (A valid base access pass is required to visit.)

Museum of Glass, Tacoma ● museumofglass.org

How to save on South Sound museums

Tacoma’s Chihuly jewel offers many programs; don’t forget to stop by the Hot Shop to see the fiery art of glassmaking in action. Marvel at the stunning Chihuly pedestrian bridge as you walk over it. Admission is free every third Thursday, 5–8 p.m. Passes are available through Pierce County Library System and Tacoma Public Library museum pass programs.

Tacoma Art Museum (TAM), Tacoma ● tacomaartmuseum.org

Washington State History Museum, Tacoma ● washingtonhistory.org

The kid-friendly features of Tacoma Art Museum include a wing dedicated to

Photo courtesy Tacoma Art Museum

Western art (the Haub Family Collection) and a large art studio on the first floor that has free entry during museum hours. TAM also has an impressive collection of outdoor sculptures. Admission is free every Thursday night, 5–8 p.m. Youths 18 and younger enter for free. Passes are available through Pierce County Library System and Tacoma Public Library museum pass programs.

Children’s Museum of Tacoma, Tacoma ● playtacoma.org

Just a block from the Tacoma Art Museum, Tacoma’s kids’ museum has a warm and modern home, creative play spaces and an attractive pricing policy — pay what you can on any day the museum is open to the public (members enjoy additional members-only play sessions).

A recently opened second location of the Children’s Museum, at Joint Base

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This welcoming museum offers interactive exhibits about Washington history, as well as an enormous model railroad layout that delights train aficionados of all ages. Admission is free on Third Thursdays, 3–8 p.m. Passes are available through Pierce County Library System and Tacoma Public Library museum pass programs.

Hands On Children’s Museum, Olympia ● hocm.org

Located on Olympia’s East Bay, in a stunning space that makes it the biggest children’s museum in the Puget Sound area, Hands On features eight galleries of interactive fun, an Outdoor Discovery Center and more.

In the summer, make a play stop at the unique reclaimed-water stream just outside the museum on the East Bay Public Plaza. Committed to being accessible to all children and their families, regardless of their ability to pay, Hands On offers a number of free- and reduced-admission programs; check the website for more details.

How to save on North Sound and Kitsap County museums Children’s Museum of Skagit County, Burlington ● skagitchildrensmuseum.net

Reopened in its spacious (15,400 square feet!) new location at The Shops

at Burlington outlet mall in 2019, this beloved children’s museum makes good on its founding mission to furnish an interactive environment that engages children and their families in STEAM learning activities. Favorite features of the reimagined and expanded museum include climbing structures, the train exhibit, dedicated art and music rooms, a state-of-the-art semi-truck cab and sensory areas. Admission is kept low for visitors, and kids younger than 1 are always admitted free.

Imagine Children’s Museum, Everett ● imaginecm.org

A wonderful children’s museum in the heart of Everett, Imagine Children’s Museum has a fun outdoor area on the roof, a terrific art studio and even a small-scale wildlife clinic. During reduced hours of operation, timed ticketing is required. Admission for children younger than 1 is free; and a free Sensory Time is offered 9–11 a.m. on the third Sunday of each month for families with children ages 1–12 who want a less crowded, quieter experience. EBT cardholders enter for $3.

Kids Discovery Museum (KiDiMu), Bainbridge Island ● kidimu.org

KiDiMu, located just a short walk from the ferry terminal on Bainbridge Island, is a must-play stop for tots, from its Pirate Tree House to the giant Lite-Brite.

Booked playtime is Friday–Sunday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. KiDiMu offers discount codes for Museums for All, military/first responders and Northwest Association of Youth Museums (NWAYM) programs.

Bug & Reptile Museum, Bremerton ● bugmuseum.com

Skinks, boas and tarantulas — oh my!

This winner of a tiny (and free!) museum lets kids explore the world of bugs and reptiles through hands-on exhibits.

Don’t miss the 8-foot-long ant farm.

Elisa Murray is a former Out + About editor of ParentMap and the editor of the ultimate PNW insiders guidebook, “52 Seattle Adventures With Kids” (parentmap.com/52adventures).

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Explore your options at: samisfoundation.org/jewish-camps

* Generous scholarships supported by the Samis Foundation, and first-time camper incentive grants are available through the Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle Needs-Based Camp Scholarship and One Happy Camper programs

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DI RECTORY

Local Resources The support of these family-friendly businesses enables us to deliver our high-quality parenting content to readers for free.

Schools + Preschools + Education Annie Wright Schools ............................................................ 4 Co-ed preschool–8; single-gender day and boarding 9–12 Tacoma; 253-272-2216 aw.org; admissions@aw.org Asia Pacific Language School ............................................ 36 Chinese and Japanese camps and preschool Bellevue; 425-747-4172 apls.org; apls@apls.org The Bear Creek School......................................................... 30 Christian liberal arts education; preschool–grade 12 Redmond; 425-898-1720 tbcs.org; chazeltine@tbcs.org Bellevue Montessori School.................................................10 Inspiring lifelong learners; ages 1½–12 Bellevue; 425-454-7439 bellmontessori.com

FOR TICKETS:

Charles Wright Academy..................................................... 20 Independent, co-ed day school; preschool–grade 12 Tacoma; 253-620-8373 charleswright.org; admissions@charleswright.org Discovery Montessori School ............................................. 47 Enriching early childhood learning; ages 2½–6 Seattle; 206-282-3848 discoverymontessorischool.org Eastside Catholic School..................................................... 44 Faith-based learning; co-ed, grades 6–12 Sammamish; 425-295-3000 eastsidecatholic.org; info@eastsidecatholic.org Eastside Christian School.....................................................14 Academic excellence, commitment to Christ; pre-K–grade 8 Bellevue; 425-641-5570 ecswa.org; info@ecswa.org Forest Ridge School of the Sacred Heart........................... 27 Independent, Catholic, all-girls school; grades 5–12 Bellevue; 425-641-0700 forestridge.org; admissions@forestridge.org Heritage Christian Academy................................................21 Preschool through middle school Bothell; 425-485-2585 hcabothell.org; info@hcabothell.org Holocaust Center for Humanity.......................................... 46 Holocaust education, programs and field trips for students Seattle; 206-582-3000 holocaustcenterseattle.org

Previous reader-voted Golden Teddy Award winner/finalist

INSIDERS’ GUIDE / 41

DI R ECTO RY continued from page 41 Illumination Learning Studio.......................................... 36 Preschool/Pre-K, after-school care, camps, music lessons 2 Seattle locations; 206-466-1931 ilskids.com JDS: The Jewish Day School of Metropolitan Seattle....... 22 Jewish independent school; early childhood–grade 8 Bellevue; 425-460-0260 jds.org; wleberman@jds.org Jennifer Rosen Meade Preschool....................................... 27 Full- or part-time experiential preschool Bellevue; 206-323-8486 jrmpreschool.org; llevy@tdhs-nw.org Kid’s Country Learning Centers ......................................... 43 Safe and nurturing care for infants–age 12 9 Puget Sound-area locations; 360-668-5145 kidscountryinc.com; info@kidscountry.com KidsPark – Lynnwood ...................................................... 20 Hourly child care, preschool, before-/after-school care Lynnwood; 425-478-2213 kidspark.com Morningside Academy.......................................................... 25 Rigorous full-year and summer programs; grades 2–9 Seattle; 206-709-9500 morningsideacademy.org; info@morningsideacademy.org Open Window School ............................................................12 For gifted kids who love to learn; grades K–8 Bellevue; 425-747-2911 openwindowschool.org; admissions@ows.org FD21_pump_it_up_1-4.indd 1

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PacificWayFinder ................................................................ 43 Gap experience, college search/application consultation Greater Seattle area; 206-794-8595 pacificwayfinder.com; thomas@pacificwayfinder.com Primrose School of West Bellevue ..................................... 45 Early education for children, 6 weeks–pre-kindergarten Bellevue; 425-315-7305 primrosewestbellevue.com Puget Sound Independent Schools...................................... 7 Admissions collaborative connecting families and schools Greater Puget Sound area pugetsoundindependentschools.org Samis Foundation................................................................. 48 Supporting Jewish education in Washington state Seattle; 206-622-3363 samisfoundation.org Sammamish Montessori School ......................................... 20 Art, sports, science, more; ages 3–8 Redmond; 425-883-3271 sammamishmontessori.com; info@sammamishmontessori.com Seattle Girls Choir ............................................................14 Progressive choral music education for girls; ages 5–18 Seattle; 206-526-1900 seattlegirlschoir.org; info@seattlegirlschoir.org

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Small World Montessori........................................................19 Full-/half-day programs for kids ages 2.5–kindergarten Everett, Mill Creek; 425-338-7771 smallworldmontessori.com; info@smallworldmontessori.com Soundview School.................................................................13 Independent, private school serving early childhood– grade 8 Lynnwood; 425-778-8572 soundview.org St. John School......................................................................19 Catholic education for preschool–grade 8 Seattle; 206-783-0337 st-johnschool.org St. Joseph Parish School..................................................... 36 Seattle’s Jesuit Parish School Seattle; 206-329-3260 stjosephsea.org; school@stjosephsea.org Stroum Jewish Community Center ............................... 30 Early childhood school, family and youth programs, camps Mercer Island, Seattle; 206-232-7115 sjcc.org Washington College Savings Plans (WA529) ..................... 28 Helping families save with two flexible 529 plans GET, 800-955-2318; DreamAhead, 844-529-5845 wastate529.wa.gov Washington State Charter Schools Association................15 High-quality, innovative public school options Statewide; 206-424-2780 wacharters.org

Learning Starts Here Now Enrolling for Fall!

At Kid’s Country Learning Centers, we are proud to provide your child with a supportive, loving environment that encourages growth and independence.

• Serving children from 6 weeks to 12 years • 9 locations in the Seattle-Tacoma area Contact us to learn more or schedule a tour: (360) 668-5145 kidscountryinc.com

Yellow Wood Academy..........................................................41 Customized education, 1:1 and small group classes; K–12 Mercer Island; 206-236-1095 yellowwoodacademy.org; info@ywacademy.org

Camps + Classes Aspire Kinetic Arts ...............................................................14 Exceptional performing arts education for all ages Seattle; 206-466-2258 aspirekineticarts.com; info@aspirekineticarts.com Boys & Girls Clubs of King County......................................... 4 Full- and half-day camps, sports camps, teen programs 30 greater Seattle locations; 206-436-1800 positiveplace.org Chess4Life ........................................................................... 47 Life skills through chess; camps, clubs, classes, more Greater Puget Sound area and online; 425-283-0549 chess4life.com; kids@chess4life.com

Considering a Gap Year experience?

Pacific Wayfinder can help you make the most of your time “off”!

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Creative Dance Center ................................................... 24 Classes for infants, children, teens and adults Seattle; 206-363-7281 creativedance.org; info@creativedance.org Drama Kids of South and East King County.........................14 Confidence-building drama camps and classes Multiple King County locations; 425-654-0699 dramakids.com/wa3; dramakidsinternational.wa3@gmail.com

”Thomas cares deeply about providing opportunities for a full-spectrum education that helps young people become more fully themselves. He embraces new ideas, and his ability to notice the humor in life made it a joy to work with him.”

Thomas Weber 206-794-8595 cell/text thomas@pacificwayfinder.com

INSIDERS’ GUIDE 2021 / 43

DI R ECTO RY continued from page 43 Eastside Dance..................................................................... 28 Dance instruction and camps for kids ages 2 and older Redmond; 425-595-3455 eastside-dance.com; info@eastside-dance.com

Pride in excellence strength in character

Gage Academy of Art ...........................................................10 Art workshops and instruction for kids and teens Seattle; 206-323-4243 gageacademy.org; info@gageacademy.org Girl Scouts of Western Washington ............................... 11 Overnight and day camps for girls in grades 1–12 Seattle; 800-541-9852 girlscoutsww.org; info@girlscoutsww.org Hidden Valley Camp...............................................................13 Horses, sailing, art, hiking, swimming; co-ed ages 7–16 Granite Falls; 425-330-2974 hvc-wa.com; hiddenvalleycamp@earthlink.net

In-Person Learning this Fall

Visit us to see why students love EC! Learn more at eastsidecatholic.org/visit Coed, Grades 6 - 12

Music Works Northwest ...................................................... 27 All-ages lessons and music therapy, in person and online Bellevue; 425-644-0988 musicworksnw.org; registration@musicworksnw.org PRO Club ............................................................................... 40 Camps, preschool, sports, swim lessons and parties Bellevue; 425-885-5566 proclub.com Pump It Up ....................................................................... 42 Birthday parties, open jumps, summer camps and more Kirkland; 425-820-2297 pumpitupparty.com/kirkland-wa Rain City Fencing Center..................................................... 42 Group classes and private lessons, equipment provided Bellevue; 425-747-6300 raincityfencing.com; info@raincityfencing.com Redmond Parks and Recreation.......................................... 26 Equestrian, sports, arts, outdoor, STEM, teens Redmond; 425-556-2300 redmond.gov/register Rock Solid Science............................................................... 30 Explore rocks, minerals and fossils at your location!

Seattle area; 206-715-2556 rocksolidscience.com Samena Swim & Recreation Club.......................................... 7 Preschool, before- and after-school care, swim lessons Bellevue; 425-746-1160 samena.com Samis Foundation................................................................. 39 Supporting Jewish camp experiences for kids Seattle; 206-622-3363 samisfoundation.org

Family Dinners Delivered www.pickmeupseattle.com

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SANCA — School of Acrobatics & New Circus Arts .......41 Classes for ages 3 and older; circus camps for ages 6–17 Seattle; 206-652-4433 sancaseattle.org; office@sancaseattle.org Sunshine Music Together ............................................... 30 Early-childhood music classes; ages 0–8 4 Greater Seattle-area locations; 206-281-1111 sunshinemusictogether.com

FACT: Two Cranes Aikido................................................................ 24 Martial arts training and practice for kids and adults Seattle; 206-523-5503 twocranesaikido.com

It takes four weeks to go from egg, larva, pupa to adult.

Wilderness Awareness School ........................................ 7 Fun nature explorations and adventures; ages 4–18 Multiple King County locations; 425-788-1301 wildernessawareness.org; wasnet@wildernessawareness.org

Out + About Argosy Cruises...................................................................... 32 Sightseeing cruises and Blake Island excursions Seattle; 888-623-1445 argosycruises.com; cruises@argosycruises.com Children’s Museum of Skagit County ................................. 36 Interactive exhibits, parties, field trips, camps and classes Burlington; 360-757-8888 skagitchildrensmuseum.net; info@skagitcm.org Child Wonder the World....................................................... 25 Children’s store and play space to explore the world!

Burien childwondertheworld.com Childish Things .................................................................13 Children’s resale boutique with maternity, gifts, more Seattle; 206-789-1498 childishresale.com; info@childishthingsseattle.net Crossroads Bellevue............................................................. 11 Family-friendly shopping, dining, play, events Bellevue; 425-644-1111 crossroadsbellevue.com Famous Dave’s........................................................................ 2 Authentic, award-winning BBQ, smoked low and slow daily Everett, Tacoma, Tukwila, Northgate famousdaves.com Kaleidoscope Family Gym.....................................................21 All-abilities indoor playground and party space Puyallup; 253-222-1686 kaleidoscopefamilygym.com; arlene@kaleidoscopefamilygym.com

BALANCED LEARNING® WAY:

And in one magic moment, a scientist is born.

CALL TODAY TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR BALANCED LEARNING APPROACH.

Now Enrolling Infants - Pre-Kindergarten

Primrose School of West Bellevue 1150 114th Ave SE | Bellevue, WA 98004 425.315.7305 | PrimroseWestBellevue.com Each Primrose school is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools® and Balanced Learning® are registered trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2018 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved. See primroseschools.com for ‘fact’ source and curriculum detail.

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N E P O NOW

LeMay – America’s Car Museum ......................................... 46 Design, tinker and explore the world of automobiles Tacoma; 253-779-8490 americascarmuseum.org; education@americascarmuseum.org Oxbow Farm & Conservation Center.................................. 20 Farm stand, workshops, summer camps, CSA Carnation; 425-788-1134 oxbow.org; thedirt@oxbow.org Traxx Indoor Racing............................................................. 45 Go-kart racing for kids to adults, parties, events, more Mukilteo; 425-493-8729WW traxxracing.com; info@traxxracing.com

• Kids Track for Ages 6-10 • Fast Go-Karts for Ages 11-18 • Complete Party Packages Available • Drop-In Racing Available

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The Holocaust Center for Humanity teaches the lessons of the Holocaust, inspiring students of all ages to confront bigotry and indifference, promote human dignity, and take action.

Photo by Stefanie Felix

Plan your visit and learn more at

HolocaustCenterSeattle.org

FAMILY ZONE BIRTHDAY PARTIES FAMILY STEAM DAYS SPEED ZONE

Open Sundays, 10am-4pm at the corner of 2nd & Lenora, downtown Seattle

4 6 / PA R E N T M A P. C O M

Tacoma, WA | Open Thursday – Monday | 10am-5pm

8/11/21

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DI RECTORY continued from page 45

Family Resources + Services Annie’s Nannies, Inc. .......................................................... 30 Full-service nanny and household support agency since 1984 Greater Seattle and Eastside; 206-784-8462 aniseattle.com Flyhomes ................................................................................ 3 A simpler way to buy the home you love Greater Seattle area; 855-935-9466 flyhomes.com; hello@flyhomes.com Jewish Federation of Seattle — PJ Library ...................... 36 Free books for kids ages 6 mos.–11 yrs. mailed monthly Greater Seattle area; 206-443-5400 jewishinseattle.org/pjlibrary; info@jewishinseattle.org Jewish National Fund ...........................................................18 Supporting the people and land of Israel All areas; 800-JNF-0099 jnf.org; jewishnationalfund@jnf.org Pick Me Up Seattle................................................................ 44 Family meals delivered Seattle area; 206-939-2026 pickmeupseattle.com; phil@pickmeupseattle.com Seattle Nanny Network, Inc. ......................................... 22 In-home child care and corporate backup care Greater Seattle area; 425-803-9511 seattlenanny.com; info@seattlenanny.com See Kai Run.............................................................................12 Comfortable, stylish, quality children’s shoes Order online; 888-KAI-SHOE seekairun.com; customercare@seekairun.com Chess4Life LLC | All Rights Reserved

Sugarlump..............................................................................19 Consignment boutique for maternity and kids’ wear Seattle; 206-860-5083 sugarlumpshop.com

ONLINE

PREMIUM CLASSES

The Tidy Magpie ....................................................................19 Sustainable home organizing to transform your life Seattle; 425-276-1836 thetidymagpie.com; hello@thetidymagpie.com

Health + Wellness Allegro Pediatrics.............................................................18 Where healthier futures begin 8 Eastside locations; 425-827-4600 allegropediatrics.com Eastside Pediatric Dental Group....................................... 4 Specialists in oral health for kids of all ages Issaquah; 425-392-4048 eastsidepediatricdentalgroup.com

☑ Avoid Traffic, Join Class from Home ☑ Individualized Progress Tracking ☑ Top Tier Curriculum

One-month FREE!

Lynnwood Kids Dentist.................................................... 47 Comprehensive pediatric dental care Lynnwood; 425-774-1285 kidsdentist.com

Use Code: PA

RENTMAP21

Pediatrics Northwest ......................................................... 28 Multi-specialty practice caring for kids of all ages 4 South Sound locations; 253-383-5777 pedsnw.net

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Explore Jewish Day Schools READY TO TEACH, READY TO LEARN Academic excellence is just the start More than an education, a community Safe, live instruction for every student Whole person, social, emotional development

Explore Jewish Day School options in the Seattle area at

samisfoundation.org/jewish-schools