Golden Teddy 2019 by ParentMap

YOUR VOTES ARE IN! ParentMap readers pick the beary best bets for Seattle-area families

Give them the gift of swimming

Camp | Swim | Train

206-285-9279

SNSswim.com

Make Memories at any one of 120+ Washington state parks!

Bay View State Park

www.parks.state.wa.us

2 â&#x20AC;˘ ParentMap Family Directory 2019

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contents

Family Directory 2019

ere in the Pacific Northwest, we aim to be thoughtful and intentional parents. Other days, we ply the littles with cereal for dinner and just try to keep them alive through another bedtime. Either way, we rely heavily on our community village — the people, places and services that get us through. That’s why ParentMap asks its ever-discerning and dependable readers each year to share their top recommendations for the best resources, camps and classes, eats and treats, sanity-saving services, and activities for funseeking families. You’ve been there, done that — perhaps too many times to count — and we couldn’t trust anyone better than you. So, we’ve tallied your votes and read your reviews, and without further ado, we are proud to unveil your 2019 Golden Teddy Award winners and finalists for the beary best Seattle-area spots and services for keeping your kiddos enriched, entertained, educated, exploring — and, let’s just say it: exceptional — throughout the year. For complete coverage of winners and finalists, go to parentmap.com/ goldenteddy. ParentMap

FAMILY DIRECTORY 2019 GOLDEN TEDDY AWARDS PUBLISHER/EDITOR Alayne Sulkin

EDITORIAL

INTERIM MANAGING EDITOR Patty Lindley OUT + ABOUT EDITOR Nancy Chaney DIGITAL CONTENT EDITOR Vicky McDonald DIGITAL CONTENT PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Nicole Persun

CONTRIBUTORS

Gemma Alexander, Nancy Schatz Alton, Tiffany Doerr Guerzon

DIGITAL MARKETING

DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER

Lindsey Carter

SOCIAL MEDIA STRATEGIST + TRENDING EDITOR

Diana Cherry

MARKETING + OPERATIONS ASSISTANT

Maureen Taasin EMAIL PRODUCTION SPECIALIST Angelica Lai

OUT + ABOUT EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

ADVERTISING SALES + PARTNERSHIPS

COPY EDITOR Sunny Parsons

Ida Wicklund

Dora Heideman

parentmap.com/goldenteddy

SENIOR ADVERTISING + PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER

OUT + ABOUT

CAMPS + CLASSES

FOOD + DINING

SHOPPING + SERVICES

FAMILY RESOURCES

DIRECTORY

Thanks to this year’s sponsors:

PARTNERSHIP ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVE

Jen Dine

AD OPERATIONS MANAGER Elisa Taylor ADVERTISING CLIENT SERVICES SPECIALIST

ADMINISTRATION FINANCE MANAGER Sonja Hanson BUSINESS ANALYST Carolyn Brendel

Jessica Collet

ADVERTISING CLIENT SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

Angela Goodwin

EVENTS

EVENT OPERATIONS Brenna McCown EVENT COORDINATOR Mallory Dehbod MARKETING + EVENTS ASSISTANT Taryn Weiner

ART + PRODUCTION

SENIOR DESIGNER Amy Chinn CONTRACT DESIGNER Emily Johnson ADVERTISING DESIGNER Maureen Taasin

COVER DESIGN + ICON GRAPHICS

Maureen Taasin

ParentMap Family Directory 2019 • 3

DO YOU WANT TO SEE YOUR CHILD’S FACE HERE?

Start your child on a lifetime of good dental health with Eastside Pediatric Dental Group! Book today! (425)392-4048

185 NE Gilman Blvd. Issaquah WA 98027 EastsidePediatricDentalGroup.com

WILDERNESS AWARENESS SCHOOL

DAY - and - OVERNIGHT

SUMMER CAMPS SEATTLE & EASTSIDE LOCATIONS FOR AGES 4 to 18 Winner of ParentMap’s Golden Teddy award for

BEST NATURE CAMP 7 YEARS IN A ROW!

wildernessawareness.org 4 • ParentMap Family Directory 2019

parentmap.com/goldenteddy

out + about

OUT + ABOUT

ur area is jam-packed with family-friendly outings, from kid-focused museums to perfect pools and a plethora of weekend escapes. Whether you’re looking for ideas to fuel

your next big adventure or you just need to get out of the house for a couple of hours, you’ll find your fun among these reader favorites.

— Gemma Alexander

AWESOME ANIMAL ATTRACTION

Year after year, award-winning Woodland Park Zoo (zoo.org) earns voters’ adoration. Last year, we closely followed the adventures of baby red pandas online until they graduated to the viewable habitat, and this year, we welcomed a baby giraffe. Observe more than 1,000 animals populating the spacious, naturalistic exhibits, which have earned Woodland Park Zoo accreditation by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) — a status that fewer than 10 percent of American zoos achieve.

Finalists One reader says, “You can get up close and personal to some of the animals” at Cougar Mountain Zoo (cougarmountainzoo.org) in Issaquah; another describes it as “a small zoo with a wonderful mission” to increase the understanding and appreciation of the earth’s wildlife and the role of humanity in nature. An AZA fully accredited animal attraction, Northwest Trek Wildlife Park (nwtrek.org), located near the Paradise entrance of Mount Rainier National Park, offers guests an amazing animal experience: Take a tram ride through the park for close-up views of native species, such as bison, elk and bighorn sheep. Our readers know that Tacoma’s Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium (pdza.org; also AZA-accredited) offers “the most to see” with awesome viewing of animals in both water and land habitats. Guests love PDZA’s special programs and year-round appeal. parentmap.com/goldenteddy

JEREMY DWYER-LINDGREN/WOODLAND PARK ZOO

WINNER: Woodland Park Zoo

Woodland Park Zoo For close-up views of gorgeous sea creatures, our readers can’t get enough of the AZAaccredited Seattle Aquarium (seattleaquarium. org). Kids and adults alike love the interactive exhibit of Puget Sound tide pools, immersive underwater dome, and combination of indoor and outdoor viewing areas.

CAN’T-MISS HOLIDAY OR SEASONAL EVENT

WINNER: WildLights at Woodland Park Zoo Viewing WildLights (zoo.org/wildlights) at Woodland Park Zoo is a favorite holiday tradition for ParentMap readers, who voted it the winner again this year. This annual lights

extravaganza is certain to create lifelong holiday memories. Everyone loves the wild animals and exotic destination scenes, which are illuminated by more than 700,000 LED lights. Guests warm up around fire pits, have indoor snowball fights at Snowmazium, take night rides on the carousel and visit select indoor exhibits that are home to nocturnal animals, such as sloths and fruit bats.

Finalists Set against the beautiful backdrop of Bellevue Botanical Garden, Garden d’Lights (bellevuebotanical.org/garden-dlights) features more than a half million sparkling lights formed into whimsical shapes of plants, flowers, birds, animals and cascading waterfalls. ParentMap Family Directory 2019 • 5

out + about continued from page 5 Snowflake Lane (snowflakelane.com), The Bellevue Collection’s holiday show, is another favorite, with free nightly performances featuring giant snowflakes, live holiday music, toy soldiers, girls with tambourines and live toy drummers on stilts. Swansons Nursery’s Reindeer Festival (swansonsnursery.com) in North Seattle features its namesake reindeer, as well as a camel, a model train set and other magical holiday décor. Greet Santa and enjoy the convenient on-site café with an indoor koi pond while picking out your holiday greenery. There are many productions of “The Nutcracker” staged around the Puget Sound region each year, but the one by Emerald Ballet Theatre (emeraldballet.org) in Northshore, which features a combination of its own students and guest dancers from professional companies, is the one readers rave about.

FABULOUS FAMILY FARM OR U-PICK 206-652-4433 www.sancaseattle.org

674 S. Orcas St. Seattle 5#0%# KU C E PQPRTQƒV QTICPK\CVKQP

WINNER: Remlinger Farms

Remlinger Farms (remlingerfarms.com) in Carnation wins again this year. Remlinger is part amusement park, part produce paradise and all fun. Kids can pick berries in the U-pick berry fields and interact with bunnies and goats at the petting zoo. If it all gets too bucolic, get your thrills at the Family Fun Park, with choices ranging from a mini roller coaster to a canoe float ride. In the fall, don’t miss Remlinger’s Fall Harvest Pumpkin Festival.

Finalists

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Plant-Based and Gluten-Free Bakery and Cafe Fremont | West Seattle | flyingapron.com 6 • ParentMap Family Directory 2019

Biringer Farm (biringerfarm.com) in Arlington is a Northwest favorite for supplying strawberry shortcake at festivals. But it’s also a top U-pick choice for ParentMap readers who know that strawberries you pick yourself are the best, especially when paired with mazes and games at the farm’s annual Strawberry Fest in June. A real family working farm, Bob’s Corn & Pumpkin Farm (bobscorn.com) in Snohomish offers a challenging 10-acre corn maze and a 40-acre pumpkin patch every fall. People in the know also rent one of the farm’s 18 fire pits for a night of family fun, knowing that staff builds and maintains the fire for you! Hugging the banks of the lovely Snohomish River, The Farm at Swan’s Trail (thefarm1.com) is fun for the whole family. Guests enjoy apple picking, a 50-acre pumpkin patch, a corn maze, a petting farm, wagon rides, Farmer Ben’s famous Four Little Pigs Show and an on-site breakfast on weekends. Another well-loved family farm is Jubilee Farm (jubileefarm.org) in Carnation. It doesn’t have a U-pick option, but this organic operation offers a diverse selection of fresh produce and grass-fed and pastured meat. It has a year-round CSA and leads school-group tours three times per year.

parentmap.com/goldenteddy

KID-FRIENDLY MUSEUM

Pacific Science Center

It’s no surprise that Pacific Science Center (pacificsciencecenter.org) at Seattle Center has swept this category for several years running. Readers with kids of any age can find something to do and learn about: laser dome shows, dinosaurs, the butterfly house, hands-on fun at the Tinker Tank, the outdoor waterwheel, crazy-real IMAX 3-D movies and so much more. Added to these year-round features are world-class special exhibits. The museum has hosted China’s terra-cotta warriors and treasures from ancient Egypt. This year, learn about endangered species and the science of smell.

Finalists The Hands On Children’s Museum (hocm.org) in Olympia stimulates curiosity, creativity and learning through fun interactive exhibits and programs with all-ages appeal. One reader confesses, “Honestly, my husband has just as much fun as the kiddo!” Imagine Children’s Museum (imaginecm.org) in Everett is a hidden pearl beloved by in-the-know readers. Beyond its fun interactive exhibits, there’s a large rooftop outdoor space, an art studio and programs ranging from I-engineers to Cartoon Corner. (Trouble-free parking is a perk for parents.) Voters adore Bainbridge Island’s KiDiMu – Kids Discovery Museum (kidimu.org), a hands-on environment with eclectic attractions, from the Waldorf-inspired Totally Tot space to the Science and Literacy Hall, the Pirate Tree House, an outdoor play area and more! Tucked in the heart of downtown Bellevue, KidsQuest Children’s Museum (kidsquestmuseum.org) is a fantastic place where learning feels a whole lot like play. Highlights include an exciting climbing sculpture adjacent to the museum entrance, a fun outdoor space, hands-on studios for building and making art, and new STEM programs.

PACIFICSCIENCECENTER.ORG

WINNER: Pacific Science Center

LIVE FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT WINNER: Seattle Children’s Theatre

Seattle Children’s Theatre (sct.org) at Seattle Center takes the top spot again this year. The award-winning theater is one of the 20 largest regional theaters (for all ages) in the country, and voters like how it empowers young people to make new discoveries about the world around them. Look forward to next season’s lineup, which includes “Black Beauty,” “Corduroy,” “Snow White” and other productions.

Finalists Luckily for kindie rock fans, two of the top national acts are local. Finalists Caspar Babypants (aka Chris Ballew, the lead singer of The Presidents of the United States of America; babypantsmusic.com) and feel-good, up-tempo band The Not-Its! (wearethenot-its.com) are frequent favorites for live shows that the whole family can enjoy. Presented at five venues in the Seattle area, StoryBook Theater’s (storybooktheater.org) 55-minute musicals are a hit with kids (ages 3–10) who love catchy songs and clever stories. Sensory-friendly performances are a draw for neurodiverse children, but everyone can appreciate, as one parent put it, “fun music and great reworking of traditional stories to promote positive values.”

Celebrate your child’s next birthday party at

Please call us at

206.546.2421 to make an appointment! www.richmond-pediatrics.com parentmap.com/goldenteddy

www.funtasticplaytorium.com • 425.623.0034 Factoria Mall, Bellevue • Alderwood Mall, Lynnwood

Walk-ins always welcome for open play! ParentMap Family Directory 2019 • 7

out + about continued from page 7

rigorous

DESTINATIONHOTELS.COM/SUNCADIA-RESORT

Xakary the Magician (xakary.com) was a hit when he sawed Heidi Klum in half on “America’s Got Talent,” but his usual venue is kids’ birthday parties, where the birthday child is part of the act and every guest learns a magic trick and gets to take home a goodie bag.

Suncadia Resort

LOCAL FAMILY ESCAPE WINNER: Suncadia Resort

A finalist last year, this year’s winner, Suncadia Resort (destinationhotels. com/suncadia-resort) in Cle Elum, gives our readers a luxurious getaway in spectacular natural surroundings. Only a 90-minute drive from Seattle, just off Interstate 90, Suncadia offers accommodations in a 254-room lodge, a pool with thrilling waterslides, a day spa, hiking and biking trails, and many more amenities. Of primary importance to families is the Suncadia Junior Rangers program at CampCadia, where kids ages 4–12 can enjoy educational and exciting activities while parents relax.

Finalists

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Alderbrook Resort & Spa (alderbrookresort.com) in Union, a twohour drive from Seattle, is a Northwest tradition. Whether you stay in the hotel proper or in one of the cozy cottages nearby, Alderbrook lets families enjoy the views and wildlife of the Olympic Peninsula without the inconveniences of roughing it. You don’t have to go far to get away from it all. Converted from Bothell’s first junior high school, McMenamins Anderson School (mcmenamins.com/anderson-school) is pure fun, with on-site restaurants, a movie theater, a swimming pool and live all-ages shows. Last year’s winner, 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 wideopen beach, sports courts, indoor swimming pool, skimboards, pottery painting studio, spa, restaurants and more! 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, and delicious, sustainably sourced food (much of which is grown in the resort’s organic garden) at the Kingfisher Restaurant & Wine Bar.

parentmap.com/goldenteddy

PARTY-READY BIRTHDAY BASH SPOT WINNER: Funtastic Playtorium

Birthday parties at Funtastic Playtorium (funtasticplaytorium.com) in Bellevue and Lynnwood come with unlimited playtime on the indoor playground before and after the party. Packages cover 14–16 kids, but the facility can accommodate groups of 50 or more if you’re planning something really big. Parents rave about the dedicated party hosts, who coordinate everything from setup to passing out cake (not to mention cleanup!), taking pressure off the parents and making birthday parties here “stress-free.”

Finalists Ahoy Kitsap Playland (ahoykitsap.com) in Bremerton on the Kitsap

Peninsula lets families leave the party planning to the professionals. It offers Open Play parties, Night Owl and Rise & Shine PJ parties as well as special rates for end-of-the-year sports parties and nonprofit events. Painting pottery is a classic birthday option, and party parents have voted Anecdotes Pottery Studio (anecdotespotterystudio.com) in Ballard as their favorite pottery studio, whether celebrating the birthday of a pottery artiste or a complete newbie. Readers know that when you want a bouncy-house party, last year’s GT winner Pump It Up (pumpitupparty.com) delivers the goods. Go glowin-the-dark, play laser tag or enjoy bubbles with your bounce to kick up the fun a notch. You can also drop by for open jump time or themed jump events. Roaring Mouse Creative Arts Studio (roaringmouse.org) celebrates your child’s creative spirit as well as their birthday. Art projects for each party are specially selected to match your child’s interests, with an adjacent playroom for kids who’d rather do their own thing.

RAINY-DAY REFUGE

WINNER: Funtastic Playtorium Bursting into the top spot this year in two categories, Funtastic Playtorium (funtasticplaytorium.com), with locations in Bellevue and

Lynnwood, is ParentMap readers’ favorite rainy-day refuge. These indoor playgrounds for kids 10 and younger are based on the philosophy that kids deserve active play without restrictions on their movement and thrive on the exercise and social interaction that playtime provides.

Finalists Ahoy Kitsap Playland (ahoykitsap.com) in Bremerton won a boatload of

votes for its climbing structures and adjacent café, where adults can relax. Readers love Ahoy for its all-day-play admission policy, positive staff, cleanliness, great play equipment and amazing birthday parties. Last year’s winner, KiDiMu – Kids Discovery Museum (kidimu.org) is still a favorite worth the ferry ride to Bainbridge Island. This hands-on children’s museum brings sunshine to rainy days. The Waldorf-inspired Totally Tot space provides a calm oasis for younger visitors and their caregivers. Hands-on museums like KidsQuest Children’s Museum (kidsquestmuseum.org) in Bellevue are a natural choice for wet-weather parentmap.com/goldenteddy

ParentMap Family Directory 2019 • 9

out + about continued from page 9 activities, but perhaps it’s a little surprising that “water features” are among the reasons this museum makes the short list. It’s not just the wet stuff, though. At KidsQuest, “There is something for all ages and bits of history, some Bellevue nostalgia,” enthuses one voter. Offering three levels of fun for the kids and a welcoming environment for the parents (read: beer, wine and coffee selections), PlayDate SEA (playdatesea.com) is an all-ages hit. Rainy or not, Saturday-night laser tag for kids ages 6 and older beats sitting on the couch at home!

SPLASH-WORTHY POOL OR WATER PARK

WINNER: Mountlake Terrace Pool Families around the Puget Sound area love the Mountlake Terrace Pool (cityofmlt.com/526/aquatics). The youngest of swimmers can’t get enough of the large, beach-like swimming area, the fun lazy river and the wonderful opportunity to practice swim moves in an area so shallow that most kids can touch the bottom with their feet. Older kids will enjoy water basketball hoops and diving boards, and everybody appreciates the warm, 88-degree Fahrenheit water.

Finalists Last year’s winner, the Lynnwood Recreation Center

MLTREC.COM

(lynnwoodwa.gov) has room for every type of swimmer. Spray features, a lazy river and a sensational waterslide are hits with kids. Parents love the hot tub within watching distance of the pool, the warm-water therapy pool for quiet time and a lap pool Mountlake for serious teen swimmers. Terrace Pool Tucked just off Interstate 5 in North Seattle, the Northacres Park spray park (Seattle Parks and Recreation; seattle.gov) is a voter favorite that feels like a hidden gem. The beautiful tree canopy keeps everyone cool, and beyond the fantastic spray park, there’s a divided playground for younger and older kids. Home to the region’s only FlowRider surf-simulation machine, Snohomish Aquatic Center (www.sno.wednet.edu/domain/24) is a reader favorite once again. This 52,000-square-foot swim center also features an epic waterslide for older kids, a lap pool and a lazy river. Warm indoor pools are a must in our region, but nothing beats a day at a seasonal outdoor water park. Wild Waves Theme & Water Park (wildwaves.com) in Federal Way is an irreplaceable part of a Pacific Northwest childhood. 10 • ParentMap Family Directory 2019

TOURIST-IN-YOUR-OWN-TOWN ATTRACTION WINNER: Pike Place Market

Tourists and residents alike understand that Pike Place Market (pikeplacemarket.org) is a city within the city, with something for every age. Old favorites — like Golden Age Collectables (goldenagecollectables.com) comics store and the Market Theater Gum Wall — are as much of a draw as the market’s stunning new section, MarketFront, which affords amazing views of Mount Rainier and the Seattle waterfront.

Finalists Fine art can be a hard sell to kids, but the Museum of Pop Culture, aka MoPop (mopop.org), is all about things kids already care about. Learn about pop stars, video games and filmmaking in an interactive environment that celebrates creative expression as a life-changing force, even when it also generates branded merchandise. Built to host the 1962 World’s Fair, the nearly 60-year-old Seattle Center (seattlecenter.com) had it a bit rough in its middle age. But in recent years it has been transformed into a cultural center that draws families from all over to enjoy on-site museums, theaters, festivals and one of the region’s best playgrounds. Last year, our readers were looking forward to the big reveal of the Space Needle (spaceneedle.com) renovation. The updated revolving restaurant and floor-to-ceiling glass viewing experience on the observation deck’s exterior perimeter clearly met expectations, because readers have voted the Space Needle a favorite tourist-in-my-own-town attraction again this year. Few things are as iconic as a family outing to watch baseball. ParentMap readers say T-Mobile Park (mlb.com/mariners/ballpark) is a “great place to watch baseball!” So, buy some peanuts and Cracker Jack, and enjoy the views of Seattle’s downtown skyline, the sunset over the Sound and, of course, some Seattle Mariners game action. n parentmap.com/goldenteddy

out + about AWESOME ANIMAL ATTRACTION

WINNER: Woodland Park Zoo

FINALISTS Cougar Mountain Zoo Northwest Trek Wildlife Park Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium Seattle Aquarium

CAN’T-MISS HOLIDAY OR SEASONAL EVENT WINNER: WildLights at Woodland Park Zoo

FINALISTS Emerald Ballet Theatre’s “The Nutcracker” Garden d’Lights Snowflake Lane Swansons Nursery Reindeer Festival

FABULOUS FAMILY FARM OR U-PICK

WINNER: Remlinger Farms FINALISTS Biringer Farm Bob’s Corn & Pumpkin Farm The Farm at Swan’s Trail Jubilee Farm

KID-FRIENDLY MUSEUM WINNER: Pacific Science Center

FINALISTS Hands On Children’s Museum Imagine Children’s Museum KiDiMu — Kids Discovery Museum KidsQuest Children’s Museum

LOCAL FAMILY ESCAPE

WINNER: Suncadia Resort FINALISTS Alderbrook Resort & Spa McMenamins Anderson School Seabrook Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort

PARTY-READY BIRTHDAY BASH SPOT WINNER: Funtastic Playtorium

FINALISTS Ahoy Kitsap Playland Anecdotes Pottery Studio Pump It Up Roaring Mouse Creative Arts Studio

RAINY-DAY REFUGE WINNER: Funtastic Playtorium

FINALISTS Ahoy Kitsap Playland KiDiMu — Kids Discovery Museum KidsQuest Children’s Museum PlayDate SEA

SPLASH-WORTHY POOL OR WATER PARK WINNER: Mountlake Terrace Pool

FINALISTS Lynnwood Recreation Center Northacres Park Spray Park Snohomish Aquatic Center Wild Waves Theme & Water Park

LIVE FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT

TOURIST-IN-YOUR-OWNTOWN ATTRACTION

FINALISTS Caspar Babypants The Not-Its! StoryBook Theater Xakary the Magician

FINALISTS MoPop — Museum of Pop Culture Seattle Center Space Needle T-Mobile Park

WINNER: Seattle Children’s Theatre

WINNER: Pike Place Market

See the full write-up at parentmap.com/goldenteddy

parentmap.com/goldenteddy

We offer on the University of Washington Seattle campus: Transition School • UW Academy • Saturday Enrichment Summer Programs • Professional Development • RC Online Challenging K-12 students in an intellectual community through early entrance and outreach learning programs. SATURDAY ENRICHMENT Current Grades K-8 The Saturday Enrichment classes provide intellectually ambitious students with challenge, inspiration, and fun, in a collaborative, supportive learning environment. Classes meet for one or two hours per week on Saturdays at the UW Seattle Campus to explore topics not usually covered in the K-8 curriculum.

SUMMER CHALLENGE Current Grades 5-6 Summer Challenge is an academically advanced summer camp for motivated children seeking an intensive, hands-on, fun educational experience. The program runs for three weeks, five days a week from 9:00am – 2:20pm, on the UW Seattle campus. There is also an After-Class program available for an additional charge from 2:20 – 4:30pm. Classes are small, and instructors are all specialists in their field. Application criteria can be found on our website.

SUMMER STRETCH Current Grades 7-10 Summer Stretch offers in-depth, intensive learning experiences as accelerated courses and enrichment courses. Summer Stretch runs 3 days a week (9:00am – 2:30pm) for five weeks beginning June 25 on the UW Seattle campus.Classes are taught by specialists in their field with a high adult:child ratio. There is a substantial homework load; courses are graded and final transcripts are provided. Application criteria can be found on our website.

RC ONLINE Current Grades 9-12 (Registration is now open!) RC Online is a new accelerated learning opportunity, bringing advanced college-prep curriculum to an online platform for high school students. RC Online provides an inspiring, expansive educational experience as a window into what college-level work will be like; to move students rapidly from novice to advanced writers, readers and thinkers via specific skills, practices and tools. These courses provide challenging curriculum without the logistical, economic and other barriers that come between a student and educational opportunity. Additional information can be found on our website.

www.RobinsonCenter.uw.edu Phone: 206-543-4160 Email: rcys@uw.edu ParentMap Family Directory 2019 • 11

Fun loving Non- Competitive Gymnastics Gym in Kirkland

GYMNASTICS The

CONNECTION

Summer Classes Available All Day Gym and Play-During the summer on Fridays; drop your child off for fun while you have some time to get things done! (Full days or half days available)

Birthday Parties available year round Our Fall Schedule will be out Mid July and classes fill up quick!

Call The Gymnastics Connection with any questions or to sign up

425-486-6887

Info@gymnasticsconnection.com

gymnasticsconnection.com

You’re Always Covered. Whether it’s full-time, part-time or babysitting anytime - we have an amazing nanny or professional sitter for you.

Contact the ofﬁce nearest you: Bellevue | Mill Creek | Redmond Renton | Seattle | Tacoma collegenannies.com

12 • ParentMap Family Directory 2019

parentmap.com/goldenteddy

camps + classes

CAMPS + CLASSES

ptions abound when it comes to kids’ enrichment opportunities, whether your child wants to stay in the neighborhood or fish off the Pacific Coast. Read on for

reasons why families love these after-school and summertime experiences. We’ve got your kiddo’s passion covered, from music, theater and dance to soccer, outdoor survival skills, computer expertise and more!

— Nancy Schatz Alton

AFTER-SCHOOL ENRICHMENT

Ever a perennial favorite with voters, Seattle’s Creative Dance Center (creativedance.org) captured this year’s top spot. The CDC’s internationally recognized teaching methodology — called brain-compatible dance education — fosters an environment in which the brain is ready, willing and able to learn. Or, as one parent writes: “Rooted in research, [there’s] no fancy leotard required, just great dance with amazing teachers!” CDC offers numerous options for school-age children and teenagers, including ballet, modern, hip-hop and adaptive dance.

Finalists Parents and kids love that Premier Northwest Kids (premiernwkids.com) classes combine yoga, nature and art. Currently, themed enrichment classes for children (ages 2–6) and their adults are offered in Snohomish, Lynnwood and Mukilteo. Founder Sophia Lewis bases her curriculum on 10 years of work experience in early-childhood education and her love of nature exploration. She’s onto something — one parent notes that the yoga-art classes have helped her daughter develop a great love for yoga and all things creative. At Bellevue’s Russian School of Mathematics (RSM; russianschool.com/ location/bellevue), math equals fun. Beyond lots of votes, parents let us know that this program’s passionate teachers inspire confidence in students to understand math at a deeper level. RSM provides after-school math enrichment, parentmap.com/goldenteddy

CREATIVEDANCE.ORG

WINNER: Creative Dance Center

Creative Dance Center tutoring and test prep for kids in kindergarten through high school. At Sponge (spongeschool.com), children from newborn to 4 years old learn languages with their caregivers, and an array of classes are available for kids in preschool (age 3) through fifth grade. Your kids can learn Spanish, Chinese (Mandarin and Cantonese), French, Japanese and German at multiple locales in the Greater Seattle area and on the Eastside. Whether your child is new to theater or took to the stage at an early age, Wedgwood Drama Studio (wedgwooddrama.com) meets students where they are; its classes are appropriate for stage newbies and veteran performers alike. Parents rave about the warm, welcoming creative staff that teaches dramatic art classes at several North Seattle elementary schools.

AMAZING ARTS CAMP OR CLASS

WINNER: Roaring Mouse Creative Arts Studio Every year, voters heap a lion’s share of appreciation on Roaring Mouse Creative Arts Studio (roaringmouse.org). Parents adore the play-based creative nature of the art classes taught in this space, which has been a fixture in northeast Seattle for more than 20 years. “Roaring Mouse teachers know it’s the process, not the product, that’s important,” says one voter. “Their commitment to socialemotional development and their loving, patient environment put them in a class of their own.” ParentMap Family Directory 2019 • 13

camps + classes continued from page 13

Finalists

Kids ages 4–12 learn the techniques of the grand masters at Arts Aloft (artsaloftforkids.com) in Seattle’s Madrona neighborhood. Summer-camp themes cover a range of interests, from drawing women from the book “Rebel Girls” to Star Wars and Harry Potter, while after-school sessions offer an array of mixed-media experiences. Parents rave about the “top-notch” curriculum at Illumination Learning Studio (illuminationlearningstudio.com), which offers afterschool classes, school-year and summer camps, and a half-day beforeschool cultural arts immersion program at four locations in Greenwood/ Phinney Ridge, Ballard, the Ballard Locks and Pipers Creek. Illumination’s cultural, performing and fine arts curriculum incorporates instrumental music lessons and classes in drama, voice, art and dance. A Seattle-based arts-enrichment program for kids from ages 3 and a half to 14, Three Dragons Academy (threedragonsacademy.com) aims to foster a love of learning through a thoughtfully crafted arts education. “They do a fantastic job of integrating all of the arts into the projects, including music, history, physical arts, movement and drama,” writes one reader. Through Wedgwood Drama Studio (wedgwooddrama.com) classes, kids and teenagers learn how actors use their bodies, voices and imaginations to create characters. After-school classes are held at the studio and in six North Seattle schools, and a Theater in the Park summer camp takes place at View Ridge Playfield park.

The media-drenched world quickly becomes a distant memory for teens who attend Camp Gallagher (campgallagher.org), situated on the shores of Case Inlet in south Puget Sound. Campers tell us the counselors sing them to sleep at this classic camp. Activities include swimming, games and crafts, sailing, canoeing, kayaking and overnight excursions that campers plan themselves. Located in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains by the Snoqualmie River, Camp Gilead (campgilead.org) offers resident summer camps for kids in grades 3–12. This Christian camp’s programs are designed to help youth grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ. Classic camp activities include canoeing, obstacle courses, costume competitions, swimming, pickleball, drama and crafts. Parents tell us that attending YMCA summer camp at Orcas Island’s Camp Orkila (seattleymca.org/camp-orkila) is transformative and fun for their children. Campers enjoy spotting marine life on the beach, swimming-pool time, a zip line and a climbing wall, along with arts and crafts, archery and traditional camp games like capture the flag. One reader told us their son has attended since third grade and will be a camp counselor this year. Many campers begin their Camp Sealth (campfireseattle.org) adventure by traveling to its Vashon Island locale by boat. Run by Camp Fire Central Puget Sound, this camp ranges across more than 350 acres of forest and 1.5 miles of private beach on Puget Sound. Campers can attend Classic Camp, Horse Camp or an array of specialty camps, including Nocturnal Camp, during which campers stay up all night and sleep all day.

AWESOME OVERNIGHT CAMP WINNER: Wilderness Awareness School

At Wilderness Awareness School (wildernessawareness.org) camps, kids live outdoors, for real. As one parent notes, “The kids get to learn to safely use knives, make fire, build shelters to sleep in and really come alive!” With small teacher-to-student ratios, Wilderness Awareness School instructors can emphasize in-depth, experience-based learning and personalize the curriculum to match the skill level of each group of students.

ENGAGING INFANT OR TOT CLASS WINNER: Sunshine Music Together

It’s done it again: Sunshine Music Together (sunshinemusictogether.com) coasted into the winner’s spot for the eighth time. The youngest learners — from newborns to age 5 — learn music at locations throughout the Greater Seattle area. Parents rave about the parent-and-tot classes, and we’re guessing kids love that they can wear pajamas to evening classes. One voter wrote that “the vibe is always different, depending on kids’ energy level and silliness. This is such a great mix of singing, instruments, rhythm and dance.”

WILDERNESSAWARENESS.ORG

Finalists

Wilderness Awareness School 14 • ParentMap Family Directory 2019

It’s never too early to learn how to be a drummer! Children from newborn to 5 years old enjoy multilingual percussion and movement experiences at Baby Jam (babyjam.net) classes in Seattle’s Fremont neighborhood. Young participants drum, dance, play and sing songs in English, Spanish and Hebrew, and each class culminates with a jam session. Kids from newborn to age 8 benefit from an array of Music Together (musiccenternw.org) class options at the Music Center of the Northwest, and caregivers get to join in the fun, too. One reader tells us her 20-yearold son still sings songs from Music Together classes, sharing that this space was a “warm, engaging and supportive environment for a first music learning experience, and a great way to get to know other parents.” Parents adore the Redmond Toddler Group’s (redmondtoddler.org) parentmap.com/goldenteddy

Sunshine Music Together kind and sweet teachers, and note that the education and socializing offered are valuable for parents and their toddlers alike. That’s right: This is a parent and toddler education cooperative experience, with a parent educator for the parents, a teacher for the young, and community for everyone. Child & Caregiver classes at Sponge (spongeschool.com) are taught by native-speaking teachers. For the first 50 minutes of these 55-minute classes, everyone is immersed in the focus language and culture. Children ages newborn–4 years and their caregivers learn through play, song and dance at multiple locations in the Greater Seattle area and on the Eastside.

EXTRAORDINARY CAMP FOR KIDS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

*Phase I now open* Hands-On Exhibits

Preschool Program Special Events

Parties & Field Trips School Break Camps

www.SkagitChildrensMuseum.net

Monday-Saturday 10:00am-5:00pm Toddler Tuesday 8:30am-10:00am Sunday 12:00pm-5:00pm Closed some holidays

*Come see our new facility!* Located in Burlington, WA Tel: 360.757.8888

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VisitBurlingtonWA.com VisitSkagitValley.com

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WINNER: SANCA — School of Acrobatics & New Circus Arts SANCA — School of Acrobatics & New Circus

SANCASEATTLE.ORG

Arts (sancaseattle.org)

SANCA parentmap.com/goldenteddy

offers individual lessons, group lessons, classes with inclusion, and camps that benefit children and adults with a range of special needs in its Every Body’s Circus program. Cooler still: Instructors work to meet the specific needs of students in all the classes at SANCA. That’s because the school’s instructors break down every magnificent circus art into small, learnable steps, with the belief that “circus is for every body.” ParentMap Family Directory 2019 • 15

camps + classes continued from page 15

Finalists

At ProjectFUN, Your Child’s Future Starts Today! For 30 years, DigiPen has helped students realize their dreams in the arts, animation, video game development, music, sound design, computer science, and engineering. Jump-start your child’s dreams through our K-12 ProjectFUN summer workshops, online programs, after-school programs, and weekend workshops in Redmond, Washington.

Camp Korey (campkorey.org) empowers children living with serious medical conditions by offering life-changing camp experiences year around, all for free. The camp garners votes for its traditional summer camp weeks, gorgeous Mount Vernon setting and professional staff. Most frequently noted, though, is “the invaluable chance for kids with special needs to just be able to act and be treated like kids at a fun camp without focusing on their disabilities.” The votes are in: Parents are glad for Rosemary White’s Pediatric

Physical & Occupational Therapy Services’ Floortime Summer Camp (rosemarywhitepediatricservices.com). At this four-week, three-

hour-a-day camp, each camper is given the one-on-one support they need to help them engage in free play with their peers. “Amazing staff and experience for kids on the spectrum!” enthuses one voter. Year after year, parents pile up the votes for Seattle Children’s PlayGarden (childrensplaygarden.org). Located in South Seattle, these inclusive, nature-based summer camps welcome campers of all abilities, ages 1–18. One thankful parent wrote on her ballot, “Absolutely magical garden and amazing, caring staff.” Social Skillz Theatre School of Tacoma (socialskillz.org) is a place where neurodiverse children and teens (grades 3–12) learn social and emotional skills in a supportive environment. Weeklong camps incorporate games, arts and collaborative activities to teach these skills in a hands-on way, while its monthlong theater camp culminates in a performance production during the last three days of camp.

FABULOUS FAMILY CAMP WINNER: Wolf Camp

Parents and kids bond and learn outdoor survival skills at Wolf Camp’s Wilderness Family Camp

WOLFCOLLEGE.COM

(wolfcollege.com). Families can choose to attend the day camp or to immerse themselves by signing up for a primitive camping experience. “They are passionate and accepting of all to forage and partake in the nourishment and healing properties of bonding with the wild!” writes one voter. “They truly want people to grow into themselves in a natural, sustainable environment.”

OUR CAMPUS IS A CLASSROOM

16 • ParentMap Family Directory 2019

Wolf Camp

Finalists With numerous optional (and amazing) activities, Camp Gallagher’s (campgallagher.org) three family camp sessions give families time to both relax and play together. Our readers tell us they’ve enjoyed gorgeous sunrises and sunsets, really good food and fellowship, plus swimming, crafts and campfire time. Camp Gilead’s Family Camp (campgilead.org) provides parents parentmap.com/goldenteddy

North Cascades Institute Family Getaway weekends

(ncascades.org) offer a “magical” time away on the shores of Lake Diablo in North Cascades National Park. Families stay in cozy lodges and enjoy buffet-style meals created to please even the youngest eaters. Activities include paddling in the 14-person Salish Dancer canoe, scientific expeditions, hiking, arts and crafts, and outdoor games.

NORTHWESTGIRLCHOIR.ORG

time for twice-a-day chapel services, while their children (infants through grade-schoolers) partake in youth programs or spend time in child care. And there’s plenty of time for family fun, which includes boating, miniature train rides, a dirt-boarding course, ping-pong, horseshoes, box hockey, mountain biking and hayrides. At Family Camp at Camp Seymour (campseymour.org), the meals, activities and schedule are provided, so families can focus on being together. Located in Gig Harbor, this YMCA camp includes a half-mile of Puget Sound shoreline, 160 wooded acres to explore, a swimming pool and a ropes challenge course.

Northwest Girlchoir

GROOVY DANCE CAMP OR CLASS

PITCH-PERFECT MUSIC CAMP OR CLASS

Seattle’s Creative Dance Center (creativedance.org) is in the winner’s circle for the second year in a row. This nonprofit organization has provided brain-compatible dance education classes for infants through adults for three decades. This voter sums up the adoration: “A joyful, energetic, creative environment for all kids (and adults!) who need to move to music! And every class is taught with intentionality, a collaborative spirit and love.”

Parents tell us Northwest Girlchoir’s (northwestgirlchoir.org) weeklong Summer Sing Day Camp is a great introduction to an organization that aims to transform lives through music education, choral performance and community. “This is such a fun weeklong camp for girls who love to sing,” says one voter. Indeed, girls entering grades 2–7 spend the week singing, playing instruments, and participating in arts and crafts, group games and outdoor fun.

WINNER: Creative Dance Center

Finalists

WINNER: Northwest Girlchoir

Finalists

include both dance and art activities.

The very young get their jam on at Baby Jam (babyjam.net) classes in Seattle’s Fremont neighborhood. One voter says she thinks its infant class is marvelous, writing us about the really talented and bilingual teachers who play drums and guitar, read books, and do creative movement and songwriting with class participants. In Seattle’s Greenwood neighborhood, instructors combine an internationally recognized music program for children with a welcoming, down-to-earth attitude. At Music Together (musiccenternw.org) classes at Music Center of the Northwest, caregivers and children from newborn to age 8 develop musicality together. “It’s lovely to see how the kids engage during our sessions and the impact thereafter. I feel so lucky to have this resource … right here in our neighborhood,” says one voter. Seattle Girls Choir (seattlegirlschoir.org) knows that teaching serious musical skills needs to be seriously fun. Girls ages 6–18 learn teamwork, discipline and confidence through choral arts education. Choristers also collaborate with Seattle-area arts organizations and perform at festivals and competitions. Voters let us know how thankful they are for Sunshine Music Together (sunshinemusictogether.com) classes. This research-based program offers classes for children from newborn to age 5 and their parents and caregivers. “Excellent music program taught by wonderful and engaging teachers that manages to mix a strong educational approach with a fun and welcoming environment,” writes one parent.

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ParentMap Family Directory 2019 • 17

Did you know that All That Dance (all-that-dance.com) just moved into a new studio space in northeast Seattle? There’s a class there for every dancer — from toddlers to teens to adults — and free trial classes mean placement is carefully considered, with classes for beginners and experienced dancers, too. Voters tell us Cornish Preparatory Dance (cornish.edu) has compassionate and expert teachers who nurture every dancer’s potential. Offerings include creative dance (ages 4–5) and various preparatory dance company levels. “Prep dance is a great program, with age-appropriate learning, awesome instructors and small classes,” writes one parent. Darrah Blanton Dance (darrahblantondance.com) classes are offered at four locations: two in Ballard, one on Capitol Hill and one in Bellingham. All classes include brain-compatible dance education, and offerings include pre-ballet, ballet, ballet/tap combo and parent-toddler classes. Founder Darrah Blanton has been teaching dance to children since 1999. Voters tell us they love Emerald Ballet Academy’s (emeraldballet.org) inclusive environment. They also appreciate the Russian-influenced dance instruction at this school, which is located in Bellevue. While classical ballet is the school’s focus, it also offers thematic summer camps that

camps + classes Exceptional Education Christ-Centered Community Enrolling now for Preschool 3’s thru 8th grade www.ecswa.org (425) 641-5570

The Sammamish Montessori School In Redmond m

Call 425-883-3271 for a tour. ͻ Child-centered, joyful atmosphere with strong academic focus ͻ ǆƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞĚ͕ DŽŶƚĞƐƐŽƌŝͲĐĞƌƟĮĞĚ ƚĞĂĐŚĞƌƐ ͻ Preschool, kindergarten, and STEAM Enrichment ͻ Family owned and operated since 1977 ͻ ^ƵŵŵĞƌ͕ ďĞĨŽƌĞ Θ ĂŌĞƌ ƐĐŚŽŽů ƉƌŽŐƌĂŵƐ ͻ WƌĞƉ WƌŽŐƌĂŵ͕ ;ƐƚĂƌƟŶŐ ĂŐĞƐ Ϯ ПШЖͲϯͿ

continued from page 17

SENSATIONAL SPORTS CAMP OR PROGRAM

WINNER: SANCA — School of Acrobatics & New Circus Arts

Our voters want readers to know big-top fun is close at hand at SANCA — School of Acrobatics & New Circus Arts (sancaseattle.org), located

in South Seattle’s Georgetown neighborhood. Kids of all ages (including adults) learn that seemingly impossible tasks are possible with practice. One voter sums up SANCA by saying, “Circus stretches both the mind and body, letting kids be both creative and physical, supported by great coaches in small classes.” Class options include Baby & Me, Family Circus and Handstand Jam, as well as a range of offerings for flying trapeze, youth trampoline, tumbling, unicycling and more.

Finalists in g N o w E n ro ll

www.sammamishmontessori.com 425-883-3271

Kidz Love Soccer (kidzlovesoccer.com) is a program for kids ages 2–12

that’s focused on fun. Parents rave about the age-appropriate classes that are taught in several locations throughout the Greater Seattle area. “Soccer for fun — who knew??!! Soccer as it should be for the younger set,” writes one voter. Lil’ Kickers (lilkickers.com) coaches have been teaching soccer to Seattle-area kids since 1999. What started as a family business is now a national franchise operation, with five locations in the Greater Seattle area (and more than 100 locations nationwide). Readers tell us their kids love these high-energy classes taught by kind and fun instructors. There’s a class for everyone at The Little Gym (thelittlegym.com), which serves kids from 4 months to 12 years old at multiple locations in the Greater Seattle area. Classes are noncompetitive and interactive, and choices include karate, Kindermusik, sports skills, gymnastics, dance and parent-and-child classes for the very young. Seattle Gymnastics Academy (seattlegymnastics.com) aims to help young gymnasts gain skills and confidence while having fun at its three Seattle-area gyms. Parents are glad for this program’s wide range of classes for kids at every experience level, whether they’ve never done a cartwheel or want to compete in meets.

STELLAR SWIM CAMP OR CLASS WINNER: YMCA

Winner YMCAs of Western Washington earned a pool full of votes for its swimming lessons. Voters told us these high-quality classes not only turn your children into confident swimmers, but they’re affordable, accessible and welcoming for all kinds of families. At the Y’s swimming lessons, available at locations all over western Washington, kids and teens learn to enjoy swimming in a safe and fun environment.

Finalists Our readers say it’s not only the swimming lessons that make Bellevue’s PRO Club (proclub.com) special — it’s the number of pools: four! That means one pool is for swimming lessons only, another is reserved for family fun, the third is dedicated to lap swimming, and the fourth is reserved for deep-water activities. Rec time doesn’t 18 • ParentMap Family Directory 2019

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are based on questions kids ask daily. Classes for kids ages 2–14 focus on a new topic each week. Inquiries explored so far: Why are our shoes soft? Why does bread get moldy? How do you build your own chair? Can I build my own iPad?

end with swim time, as the club has a gym, a spa and a staff that includes an on-site acupuncturist. Bellevue’s Samena

Swim & Recreation Club

(samenaclub.com) offers private and group lessons to both its members and the Pinnacle Explorations community. Readers rave Outdoor School’s about the dedicated staff and (pinnacleexplorations.org) the club’s awesome themed hands-on STEAM curriculum summer swimming camps. focuses on environmental More cool news: The indoor education and outdoor skills. and outdoor pools are open School-year classes take place year around, and there’s a at several Seattle-area schools, summertime wading pool, too. while summer camps take place With one Mukilteo location at the MLK FAME Community and two Seattle locations, Center and the Phinney Russian School of Mathematics SwimGuru (swim.guru) Neighborhood Association’s provides private, semiprivate Phinney Center. “Not only is and small-group swimming lessons for kids and adults of all ages, the program engaging and sticks with your child, the staff is warm and with classes available for babies as young as 6 months. “Within three works hard to accommodate every child,” writes one parent. lessons, both of my swim-resistant kids were happily jumping in, going The instructors at Bellevue’s STEP Computer Academy (itstep.us) have underwater and loving the pool!” says one parent. real-world experience in the information technology industry. Its Junior According to our voters, Waterbabies Aquatic Program Computer Academy serves students ages 6–14, and there are also learning (waterbabiesusa.com) is top-notch, with great facilities, an easy-to-navigate options for teens (15 and older) and adults. At after-school and weekend enrollment process and fantastic teachers. With six locations in the Greater classes and summer camps, kids learn how to develop websites, design and Seattle area, there’s a class for every age (from infants to adults) and build robots, create games, animate characters, securely work with search swimming level. Better yet: Its mission focuses on safety and developing systems, and master photo and video shooting and editing. confidence in the water, and instructors follow a gentle, child-centered teaching method.

WILD NATURE CAMPS

SUPER STEM CAMP OR CLASS WINNER: Russian School of Mathematics

Instructors at Bellevue’s Russian School of Mathematics (russianschool.com/location/bellevue) know a mathematical mind can be trained. Our voters agree, telling us that RSM is a great learning program that builds their kids’ confidence in math and improves their logical thinking skills, too. Founded in 2012, RSM’s after-school enrichment program offers classes for K–12 students.

Finalists Illumination Learning Studios (illuminationlearningstudio.com),

a cultural, performing and fine arts academy, has four North Seattle locations. Its goal is to educate school-age children through a compelling curriculum that includes instruction in music, drama, voice, art, yoga and language. “They allow kids to find their interests and passions, and then help support them,” reads one parent testimonial. Located near Green Lake, Kids Science Lab (kidssciencelabs.com) offers hands-on science classes, summer camps, day camps and field trips that parentmap.com/goldenteddy

WINNER: Wolf Camp

Parents and kids alike adore the howling good time to be had at Wolf Camp’s (wolfcollege.com) authentic wilderness experience. Day camps for kids ages 6–11 take place in Puyallup and Lake Sammamish, while youth overnight camps (ages 9–17) take place in several locations, including Mount Rainier and on the Pacific Coast. “Wolf Camp taught me how to build lasting relationships with my peers to get through the tough conditions of the outdoors,” writes one participant.

Finalists Pinnacle Explorations Outdoor School (pinnacleexplorations.org) offers summer camps for kids ages 5–12 at the MLK FAME Community Center and Phinney Neighborhood Association’s Phinney Center. Camps are steeped in the organization’s mission to provide a meaningful educational experience that inspires students to develop lifelong connections with the natural world. Parents appreciate the well-organized classes and that their kids are learning about nature in a hands-on way. Parents tell us they love the themed enrichment classes at Premier Northwest Kids (premiernwkids.com), which are designed for children

ParentMap Family Directory 2019 • 19

camps + classes continued from page 19

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GIFTS • BUY • SELL • TRADE

and their adults. Parents also like the flexible punchcard option available for classes, just in case they can’t make it out the door with their preschooler on some days. It offers “creative and engaging nature walks for young children to learn math and science using materials they find in nature,” shares one voter. The votes are in: Families adore Tacoma Nature Center (metroparkstacoma.org/tacomanaturecenter), an urban greenspace offering nature programs for youth, 10:14 PM families and adults. Its summer camps program serves kids ages 4–12, with summer adventure camps for kids ages 8–15. One reader writes that its summer programs

“combat summer learning loss through interactive and hands-on science labs, hikes and activities focused on preserving the natural world.” Every year, readers let us know about their wonderful, screen-free experiences at Wilderness Awareness School (wildernessawareness.org). Day camps and programs for young kids start with building awareness of basic outdoor skills, while overnight camps and expeditions for teens teach serious survival skills. “This place sweeps my kids off their feet summer after summer and reminds them of what matters in life,” says one voter. n

camps + classes 9776 Holman Road NW, Seattle Open MonHolman thru Fri 10-6, Sat 10-5, Sun 11-5 9776 Road, Seattle Buying Hours: Mon thru Sat until 4pm No appointment needed

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DuPont Koulu 宄季安宬宱宱宬家宫季宆宲宱宦宨害宷季宖宦宫宲宲宯

宐室宻宬宰宬宽宬宱宪季宼宲宸宵季宦宫宬宯宧尋家季害宲宷宨宱宷宬室宯定宨季宷宵室宱家宦宨宱宧季宷宫宨季宥宲宸宱宧室宵宬宨家季宲宩季宫宲宰宨孯季家宦宫宲宲宯孯季宦宲宰宰宸宱宬宷宼孯季宵宨家宨室宵宦宫季室宱宧季宬宱宱宲容室宷宬宲宱孱

AFTER-SCHOOL ENRICHMENT

WINNER: Creative Dance Center FINALISTS Premier Northwest Kids Russian School of Mathematics Sponge Wedgwood Drama Studio

AMAZING ARTS CAMP OR CLASS WINNER: Roaring Mouse Creative Arts Studio

FINALISTS Arts Aloft Illumination Learning Studio Three Dragons Academy Wedgwood Drama Studio

AWESOME OVERNIGHT CAMP WINNER: Wilderness Awareness School

宜宨室宵孰宵宲宸宱宧季害宵宲宪宵室宰家孽季室宪宨家季孵孱學季将孻宖宸宰宰宨宵季宦室宰害家孽室宪宨家季孵孱學季将孴孵宏宲宦室宷宨宧季宬宱季宧宲宺宱宷宲宺宱季宇宸宓宲宱宷安宲宵季宬宱宩宲宵宰室宷宬宲宱孯季容宬家宬宷季宸家季室宷孽季

定宊宆宑定宄孱宲宵宪

20 • ParentMap Family Directory 2019

FINALISTS Camp Korey Rosemary White Pediatric PT & OT Services Floortime Summer Camp Seattle Children’s PlayGarden Social Skillz Theatre School of Tacoma

FINALISTS Kidz Love Soccer Lil’ Kickers The Little Gym Seattle Gymnastics Academy

WINNER: SANCA — School of Acrobatics & New Circus Arts

FABULOUS FAMILY CAMP WINNER: Wolf Camp

FINALISTS Camp Gallagher Camp Gilead Camp Seymour North Cascades Institute

GROOVY DANCE CAMP OR CLASS FINALISTS All That Dance Cornish Preparatory Dance Darrah Blanton Dance Emerald Ballet Academy

WINNER: Sunshine Music Together FINALISTS Baby Jam Music Together Redmond Toddler Group Sponge

SENSATIONAL SPORTS CAMP OR PROGRAM

WINNER: Creative Dance Center

FINALISTS Camp Gallagher Camp Gilead Camp Orkila Camp Sealth

ENGAGING INFANT OR TOT CLASS

EXTRAORDINARY CAMP FOR KIDS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

PITCH-PERFECT MUSIC CAMP OR CLASS

WINNER: Northwest Girlchoir FINALISTS Baby Jam Music Together Seattle Girls Choir Sunshine Music Together

WINNER: SANCA — School of Acrobatics & New Circus Arts

STELLAR SWIM CAMP OR CLASS WINNER: YMCA

FINALISTS PRO Club Samena Swim & Recreation Club SwimGuru Waterbabies Aquatic Program

SUPER STEM CAMP OR CLASS

WINNER: Russian School of Mathematics FINALISTS Illumination Learning Studios Kids Science Lab Pinnacle Explorations Outdoor School STEP Computer Academy

WILD NATURE CAMP WINNER: Wolf Camp

FINALISTS Pinnacle Explorations Outdoor School Premier Northwest Kids Tacoma Nature Center Wilderness Awareness School

See the full write-up at parentmap.com/goldenteddy

parentmap.com/goldenteddy

Schedule a Campus Tour Today!

TourSCS.org _ RIƓFH#VKRUHOLQHFKULVWLDQ RUJ Easy access to I-5 and Lake City Way, no matter where you commute!

Learn on. INFANTS • TODDLERS • PRESCHOOL • PRE-K • SUMMER CAMP

parentmap.com/goldenteddy 0619_kiddie_academy_1-2h.indd 1

When dinosaurs roamed her mind Children take in information in great, big, giant strides. That learning doesn’t stop in the classroom. It’s reinforced and amplified with every observation and interaction. At Kiddie Academy®, we recognize it’s never too early to nurture every learning opportunity.

Kiddie Academy of Kirkland (425) 242-0075 info@KAkirkland.com

Kiddie Academy of Mill Creek (425) 338-7101 info@KAmillcreek.com

Kiddie Academy of Bothell (425) 485-7200 info@KAbothell.com

Kiddie Academy of Seattle at Queen Anne (206) 886-3999 info@KAseattle.com

Kiddie Academy of Kenmore (425) 780-4149 info@KAkenmore.com

Kiddie Academy of Bellevue (425) 800-4242 info@KAbellevue.com

To learn more, schedule a tour and enroll visit kiddieacademy.com/greaterseattle

ParentMap Family Directory 2019 • 21 5/16/19 10:43 AM

food + dining

FOOD + DINING

ny eatery can offer a kids’ menu and toss out a few crayons. But to make a restaurant truly family-friendly, you need delicious food that kids and parents can both enjoy and an

atmosphere that keeps everyone entertained until the food comes. To find those elusive spots that have it all, we’ve turned to the folks who know best — our readers! We asked, and you answered. Here are family-friendly restaurants, sweet-treat spots and coffee shops that you have tested and approved.

WINNER: Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream (mollymoon.com) has been voted ParentMap readers’ favorite ice cream shop every year since 2012. Serving up crowd-pleasing scoops at seven locations — from cool seasonal flavors like orange habañero cookie dough to perennial favorites like Stumptown Coffee and honey lavender — it’s no surprise it tops the list. As if its fabulous flavors aren’t enough of a treat, this ice creamery sources 90 percent of its ingredients from the Pacific Northwest!

Finalists

CORNER COFFEE SHOP

WINNER: Cloud City Coffee and Café One of last year’s finalists, Cloud City Coffee and Café (cloudcitycoffee.com),

which is within walking distance from Seattle’s Maple Leaf Park, takes the top spot this year. One enthusiastic reader says, “Everyone is family here, and families are always welcome.” Cloud City feels like home, with comfy couches, a lending library, newspapers, games and a kids’ play area. But it’s a home with locally roasted coffee and a full menu.

FACEBOOK.COM/MOLLYMOONICECREAM

Full Tilt Ice Cream (fulltilticecream.com), another longtime favorite, may be old-school with its pinball machines and other arcade games at its five Seattle locations, but its ice cream is totally 21st century: gourmet flavors, vegan options and more. South Sound readers love Ice Cream Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream Social (icecreamsocialtacoma.com) in Tacoma (and other South End locations), which uses only natural and mostly local ingredients and no corn sweeteners. With a monthly rotation of locally inspired flavors, Nutty Squirrel Gelato (nuttysquirrel.com) scoops up traditional Italian gelato and sorbetto. It also offers Italian desserts like tiramisu and panna cotta, in the unlikely event that a family member doesn’t feel like eating frozen treats. Originating in Portland, Salt and Straw (saltandstraw.com) ice cream shops are now scattered along the entire West Coast, with different flavor options for every locale. Here in Seattle (with two locations!), we have Beecher’s cheese with peppercorn toffee and a vegan Rachel’s raspberry ginger beer.

22 • ParentMap Family Directory 2019

FACEBOOK.COM/CLOUDCITYCOFFEE

COOL ICE CREAM SHOP

— Gemma Alexander

Finalists With Anthem Coffee and Tea’s (myanthemcoffee.com) multiple South Sound locations, its “heroic hospitality” is a hit with families. (Maybe it helps that parents can order beer and wine in addition to a kid’s cocoa.) “The coffee and crêpes are amazing!” at Café Javasti (javasti.com) in Maple Leaf and Wedgwood, where everything is made from scratch daily. The crêpes are a specialty worth the drive at another finalist, CRAFT.19 Espresso + Creperie (craft19coffee.com) in Sumner, where local ingredients and craftsmanship are the order of the day. Some readers claim Kaffeeklatsch (kaffeeklatschseattle.com) in Lake City makes the best breakfast sandwich in the Northwest, while others wonder why you’d bother to find that out when you could just as well order Kaffeeklatsch’s authentic German pretzels. parentmap.com/goldenteddy

CRAVE-WORTHY CULTURAL EATS

open on weekends, and a café and bar in the Chinatown–International District that’s open all week. Saffron Grill (saffrongrillseattle.com) in Northgate brings an inventive fusion of Indian and Mediterranean cuisine to family dining.

WINNER: Din Tai Fung

Global Taiwanese chain Din Tai Fung (dintaifungusa.com) has won again! Locations in Bellevue, Seattle and Tukwila serve Taiwanese and Shanghai fare and dim sum, but the xiao long bao soup dumplings are the primary draw. This place is popular, so plan to let the kids run around outside while you wait for a table. Fortunately, once you’re seated, the service is as fast as the food is delicious.

Tamarind Tree

(tamarindtreerestaurant.com) has a surprisingly serene environment for being a family favorite. Perhaps that’s because kids are too busy chowing down on delicious provincial Vietnamese food Din Tai Fung to get up to any mischief. Families flock to Taste of India Finalists (tasteofindiaseattle.com) in the University District to sup on a flavorful and Hood Famous Bakeshop (hoodfamousbakeshop.com) specializes in wide array of Indian and Mediterranean dishes, served in ample portions desserts featuring Filipino and Asian-Pacific flavors. Famous for its ube and at reasonable prices — all in a family-friendly setting. Customers also (that’s purple yam) cheesecake, the business has a bakery in Ballard that’s note the attentive service (including generous chai refills).

BE CURIOUS. ZOOM IN.

New discoveries for all ages, every day. • Tons of interactive exhibits and experiences • Tropical Butterfly House • State-of-the-art IMAX , planetarium and laser shows ®

• And so much more!

pacsci.org/visit

Get your passport to adventure! Museums provide a unique opportunity to learn learn, explore and time-travel. With a dozen museums in Skagit County, there are ample opportunities to travel from the shore to the foothills! Visitors to Skagit Valley can pick up their passport at any of the museum locations, the City of Burlington Visitor Center/Chamber of Commerce, area visitor centers & The Historic Lincoln Theatre. • Anacortes Museum • WT Preston Sternwheel • Maritime Heritage Center • Children’s Museum of Skagit County • Clear Lake Historical Association • Concrete Heritage Museum • Heritage Flight Museum • Museum of Northwest Art • 3DFLÀF 1RUWKZHVW 4XLOW Fiber Arts Museum • Padilla Bay National Estuarine Funding Fundin Research Reserve provided • Sedro Woolley Museum by City of • Skagit County Burlington Historical & Skagit County Museum Lodging Tax Grants The Museum Passport Program is coordinated by the Children’s Museum of Skagit County. To learn more visit SkagitChildrensMuseum.net

parentmap.com/goldenteddy

Eat, Sleep, Play!

VisitSkagitValley.com Vis

VisitBurlingtonWA.com

ParentMap Family Directory 2019 • 23

food + dining

YOUR FAMILY IS OUR SPECIALTY

continued from page 23

Type Faster, Fast.

www.KEYTIME.com

Now Enrolling!

Since 1987

Touch-typing Classes All ages and abilities Individuals • Groups • Private

Come join the fun and jump into dancing!

Innovative, quick and easy Qwerty • Dvorak • Single-handed Vital for effective keyboarding!

Classes offered for ages 2 yrs – Adult Creative Movement, Tap/Ballet Jazz, Hip Hop, Lyrical, Ballet, Pointe, Musical Theater and Tap

www.gttadance.com • 425-861-5454

1218_gotta_dance_1-16.indd 1

Preschool at Maltby Elementary Preschool and Snohomish/Monroe

Kindergarten

Preschool and Kindergarten in in Everett/Mill Creek Everett/Mill Creek $50.00

FAMILY-FRIENDLY FARMERS MARKET WINNER: Ballard Farmers Market

Ballard families love visiting the Ballard Farmers Market (sfmamarkets.com), open on Sundays year around. The market boasts diverse local vendors and entertaining buskers on a street lined with charming boutiques. We won’t tell if you indulge in some sweet treats while you shop for local, organic produce and healthy prepared foods for the week ahead.

Finalists

The Edmonds Farmers Market (edmonds-on-puget-sound.com) runs from late spring through early fall. Technically, the early market, called the Garden Market, runs from May through mid-June, and the Farmers Market runs from mid-June through September, but whatever you call it, you will find lots of fruits, vegetables, jewelry, clothing and more at this cheery Saturday market. There are seven markets in the Seattle Neighborhood Farmers Market group (seattlefarmersmarkets.org), but two year-round markets stand out as reader favorites: the Friday Phinney Neighborhood Farmers Market and the Sunday West Seattle Neighborhood Farmers Market at the Junction. The Saturday Shoreline Farmers Market’s (shorelinefarmersmarket.org) Power of Produce (PoP) Program distributes $2 in market currency to kids ages 1–15 that can be used for purchasing fruits and vegetables.

Family Pizzeria WINNER: MOD Pizza

ad.

Now Enrolling for Fall 2014 Visit our website for more information or call to www.smallworldmontessori.com schedule a tour.

425-338-7771 www.smallworldmontessori.com 425-338-7771 24 • ParentMap Family Directory 2019

Ballard Farmers Market

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Small World Montessori

Visit our website for more or call to this offinformation registration with schedule a tour.

SFMAMARKETS.COM

www.RemlingerFarms.com

Readers have picked the pies at MOD Pizza (modpizza.com). MOD believes pizza is best straight from the oven, so it doesn’t deliver. Fortunately, with about a dozen Seattle-area MOD locations, families can conveniently enjoy the dine-in experience. Fast service and individualized pizzas (same price, no matter how many toppings!) keep kids happy, with no time to get antsy.

Finalists For more than four decades, family favorite Pagliacci Pizza (pagliacci.com) has expanded from the University District to more than 20 locations parentmap.com/goldenteddy

Discovnedr ent Schools!

MODPIZZA.COM

Indepe

MOD Pizza

throughout Seattle and the Eastside. Kids aren’t always as excited about Pagliacci’s creative seasonal pizzas as parents are, but everybody loves that it delivers, and cheese pizza aficionados (read: all kids) will crow about its signature, baked-on-bricks cheese pie. The pizzeria category doesn’t change much from year to year, but there’s one newcomer to the list this year: Spiro’s Pizza and Pasta (ilovespiros.com), with locations in West Seattle, Shoreline and Mukilteo, offers a classic pizzeria menu, with house-made pizza sauce and dough and 100% Danish mozzarella cheese. Celebrating 15 years of tossing traditional Neapolitan pizza this year, Tutta Bella Neapolitan Pizzeria (tuttabella.com) has five neighborhood shops spread out throughout Seattle, Bellevue and Issaquah. Ask about the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana to get a quick Italian history lesson about the disciplined method behind the Neapolitan pizza tradition. Seek Zeeks Pizza (zeekspizza.com) locations in Seattle, Lynnwood and Bothell (to name just a few of many locales). Founders Tom and Doug named the well-loved shop after a surfer buddy who once mused, “Life is too short for crappy pizza.” We couldn’t agree more.

KID-FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD RESTAURANT

WINNER: Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews Seattle-based chain Red Robin

REDROBIN.COM

Gourmet Burgers and Brews

(redrobin.com) dropped off the list last year, but now it’s back as the 2019 winner! Some of the reasons ParentMap readers love Red Robin: bottomless fries served with a heavenly array of dipping sauces (try the campfire sauce on your next visit), table games, patient staff and a lively atmosphere where you don’t have to worry about keeping the kids quiet.

parentmap.com/goldenteddy

Red Robin

There are over 40 independent schools in the Puget Sound region, all of which serve their students with high academic standards and character education, while maintaining their individual mission-based cultures and communities. Puget Sound Independent Schools promotes the value of this local independent school education, and works collaboratively to make the admission process more accessible for prospective families.

Visit our website

for more information on: Finding the right school for your family Regional school fairs in the fall The application process Financial aid

www.pugetsoundindependentschools.org ParentMap Family Directory 2019 • 25

food + dining continued from page 25

Finalists Last year’s winner, Elliott Bay Brewing Company (elliottbaybrewing.com) offers traditional pub fare (fish and chips, burgers and beer), ample space and a laid-back, if often busy setting at locations in Lake City, West Seattle and Burien. Endolyne Joe’s (chowfoods.com/endolyne-joes) in West Seattle satisfies kids with updated American classics while keeping things interesting for more adventurous eaters by taking the menu on a road trip through a different region of the country each quarter. While the “lounge” side of the Serendipity Cafe & Lounge (serendipitycafeandlounge.com) is strictly for the adults, the café side is a hit with Magnolia families. It offers coffee shop treats and delicious meals that parents can enjoy in peace while the kids hang out in the play area, reading books and playing games. A perennial favorite with ParentMap readers, Vios Cafe & Marketplace (vioscafe.com) serves traditional Mediterranean fare at its Capitol Hill location. Fans particularly crave the lamb skewers, spanakopita and galaktoboureko (creamy custard in flaky phyllo), and parents rave that the play area keeps kids busy.

Camps! Trail Rides! Riding Lessons! And more!

www.comeride.com (360) 424-7630

Sweet-Treat Shop

WINNER: Cupcake Royale

FAMILY ZONE BIRTHDAY PARTIES FAMILY STEAM DAYS SPEED ZONE

26 • ParentMap Family Directory 2019

CUPCAKEROYALE.COM

Our 2017 winner clinches the title again. Cupcake Royale (cupcakeroyale.com) isn’t just a cupcake place: It also scoops up made-from-scratch ice cream and is the exclusive purveyor for Rodeo Donuts. With a different featured cupcake every month, seasonal ice cream flavors and doughnut offerings that rotate throughout the week, you might have to make Cupcake Royale a regular habit — you know, for scientific reasons.

Cupcake Royale parentmap.com/goldenteddy

I am...

confident

BOLD

Finalists

creative

Snohomish families rave about Cookies by Kellyanne (Facebook, “Cookies by Kellyanne”). One reader says, “Cute, tasty, made with love. Best ever!!” while another gushes, “The most beautiful cookies that actually taste good! And the nicest owner!” We couldn’t have said it better ourselves. Hello Robin Cookies (hellorobincookies.com) got its start because Molly Moon Neitzel of Golden Teddy winner Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream encouraged baker Robin Wehl Martin to set up shop on Capitol Hill. And yes, you can get ice cream with your cookies. Larsen’s Bakery (larsensbakery.com) in Ballard has been serving Danish delectables for so long (more than 40 years!) that it’s not just a taste of the old country, it’s a taste of old Seattle. From marzipan marvels to wholesome breads, if it can be baked, Larsen’s bakers can make it. Mighty-O Donuts (mightyo.com) might not be good for diets, but they are good for the planet. All of Mighty-O’s doughnuts are made with certified-organic ingredients and are free of GMOs, artificial flavors, additives, dyes and preservatives. (For those with allergies, they’re also free of eggs and dairy.) All of which means you can indulge in a Cuckoo for Coconut doughnut guilt-free. n

engaged

curious thoughtful

STRONG

I am

Annie Wright

Attend a Preview this fall! Preschool - Grade 12 Boy & Girls

827 N Tacoma Ave, Tacoma WA | 253.272.2216 | www.aw.org

food + dining COOL ICE CREAM SHOP WINNER: Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream FINALISTS Full Tilt Ice Cream Ice Cream Social Nutty Squirrel Gelato Salt and Straw

CORNER COFFEE SHOP

WINNER: Cloud City Coffee and Café

FINALISTS Anthem Coffee and Tea Café Javast CRAFT.19 Espresso + Creperie Kaffeeklatsch

CRAVE-WORTHY CULTURAL EATS

WINNER: Din Tai Fung

FINALISTS Hood Famous Bakeshop Saffron Grill Tamarind Tree Taste of India

FAMILY-FRIENDLY FARMERS MARKET

WINNER: Ballard Farmers Market FINALISTS Edmonds Farmers Market

Phinney Neighborhood Farmers Market Shoreline Farmers Market West Seattle Neighborhood Farmers Market

FAMILY PIZZERIA

WINNER: MOD Pizza

FINALISTS Pagliacci Pizza Spiro’s Pizza and Pasta Tutta Bella Neapolitan Pizzeria Zeeks Pizza

KID-FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD RESTAURANT

WINNER: Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews FINALISTS Elliott Bay Brewing Company Endolyne Joe’s Serendipity Cafe & Lounge Vios Cafe & Marketplace

SWEET-TREAT SHOP

WINNER: Cupcake Royale FINALISTS Cookies by Kellyanne Hello Robin Cookies Larsen’s Bakery Mighty-O Donuts

See the full write-up at parentmap.com/goldenteddy

parentmap.com/goldenteddy

Just Between Friends

Kids grow fast.

Lowest Prices, Biggest SelectionȂ

jbfsale.com

ParentMap Family Directory 2019 • 27

Do you know a girl who LOVES to sing? SEATTLE GIRLS CHOIR has a non-audition prep choir for girls in K-1 which provides a foundation for choral singing!

Chickadee Music Together 䌀攀氀攀挀戀爀愀琀椀渀最䌀爀攀愀琀椀瘀椀琀礀 ☀ 倀氀愀礀䘀漀爀伀瘀攀爀㈀㈀夀攀愀爀猀℀

Learn more and register at seattlegirlschoir.org/Piccolini

Let her voice be heard!

Music and movement classes for children birth through ﬁve and the grown-ups who love them!

AWARD-WINNING ART CLASSES, WORKSHOPS AND CAMPS FOR KIDS. 206.920.2015 • artsaloftforkids.com

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chickadeemusic.com (206) 334-8002

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Ad 2019 HalfPage.indd 1 Directory 2019 28ParentMap • ParentMap Family

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shopping + services

SHOPPING + SERVICES

nquiring parents want to know: Where can I find quality consigned children’s and maternity clothing? What stylist can cut my squirmy toddler’s hair? And who shoots the best

family portraits? Our wise readers have weighed in on these burning questions and others, and their votes have been tallied. You won’t have to drive all over creation looking for the best services, because we have all the winners and finalists right here!

AWESOME BOOK OR TOY SHOP WINNER: Top Ten Toys

Readers love Top Ten Toys (toptentoys.com) so much that it has snagged the top Golden Teddy award for several years running. Its varied selection of toys supports the fundamentals of play: motor skills, visual learning, creative play, language development, logical thought and learning through music. At Top Ten Toys, located in the Greenwood neighborhood, you’ll find old-school wooden toys, educational and creative toys, and unique games, but you won’t find violent toys or media-based playthings. Readers love the friendly atmosphere, where kids can try out the merchandise or just play while parents shop. One reader sums up its appeal nicely: “Best toy store in the city, and the wrapping station is a pre-birthday-party dream come true!”

Finalists

Secret Garden Books (secretgardenbooks.com) has been an institution in independent bookstores for more than 40 years. Readers rave about the friendly, knowledgeable staff, wide selection and convenient location. The store offers opportunities for both adults and tweens to join a book club — but not at the same time, because the Young Readers Society is for kids ages 8–12 and no parents are allowed. Additionally, the shop, located in Ballard, offers free gift wrapping and discounts for educators and book club members, as well as a variety of author events. Snapdoodle Toys (snapdoodletoys.com) has “over-the-top customer service,” according to one reader. With stores in Redmond and Kenmore, Snapdoodle stocks unique toys as well as a wonderful book selection. Add in the free story times, drop-in “playdays” and a fun program called Paint Me a Story, and you can

“A boutique shop with stuff you don’t see everywhere,” comments one concise customer about The

Curious Bear Book & Toy Shop

parentmap.com/goldenteddy

see why Snapdoodle is a Golden Teddy finalist. At the Kenmore location, parents can even enjoy a free latte or cuppa as they browse. With locations in Lake Forest Park, Seward Park and Ravenna, Third Place Books (thirdplacebooks.com) is a community-minded bookstore where patrons can buy and sell quality used books or browse an extensive collection of new books.

COOL KIDS’ CLOTHING SHOP

WINNER: Just Between Friends This awesome franchise, with locations all over western Washington, allows you to buy and sell consignment items, and consignors who help out at events enjoy additional perks. Readers say that Just Between Friends (seattle.jbfsale.com) features quality merchandise at good prices and an organized store layout for an easier shopping experience. The business also gives back to the community: Across the country, JBF has given more than $16.5 million in cash and in-kind donations to and through local charity partners.

Finalists

TOPTENTOYS.COM

(curiousbeartoys.com), which is located next door to Paper Luxe Stationery & Gifts in Fircrest. Both stores are run by a mother and her daughter, and their family touch is evident thanks to the number of reader comments praising the staff. Curious Bear specializes in modern STEM- and Montessori-inspired toys as well as a carefully selected collection of children’s books.

— Tiffany Doerr Guerzon

Top Ten Toys

Readers praise Channing Baby & Co. (channingbaby.com) in Tacoma for its fashion-forward urban looks and wide inventory. The store features stylish clothing and gear galore to help keep baby decked out, fed, safe, clean and entertained. And bonus: You can shop its collections online! ParentMap Family Directory 2019 • 29

shopping + services

Your

Pierce County Library System...

continued from page 29

Prepares preschoolers to learn Supports school success Inspires imagination with books, movies and more Check out your Pierce County Library today! piercecountylibrary.org 253-548-3300

Childish Things (childishresale.com) has new, bigger digs in Holman Plaza, just one block west of its former location, in North Seattle — that means more space for more great clothing. Readers like Childish Things for its policy of pricing the items you would like to sell on a walk-in basis, Monday–Saturday. You receive an offer on the spot, which you can exchange for store credit or cash. One reader says, “Amazing selection of kids’ stuff AND maternity! Easy to sell, no appointments, same-day cash.” Although Kids on 45th (kidson45th.com) still operates a brick-andmortar store for browsing and consigning on 45th Street in the heart of Wallingford, it also has a super-cool subscription box service you should check out. This is how it works: They source the best used clothing from around the country to fill a box with seasonal clothing in your child’s size for an average of $3.29 per item — that’s as much as 90 percent off retail pricing. You can customize your box and order when ready — no sneaky styling or subscription fees to speak of. Rhea Lana’s Consignment Event (rhealana.com) is an upscale children’s clothing pop-up event where parents can consign and buy gently used clothing. Readers say the prices are always reasonable, the events are well organized and the selection is huge!

ESSENTIAL BABY OR MATERNITY SHOP

WINNER: Jack & Jill Consignment Sale Readers simply adore the Jack & Jill Consignment Sale events (thejackandjillsale.com) that are held each fall and spring at the Lynnwood Convention Center. If you are expecting, or have had a baby, or fostered/adopted a child within the past six months, check out the New Mom Presale. One satisfied customer raves, “This event is always well organized and always offers high-quality products at great prices. I never, ever miss it!”

Christian • College Prep Preschool through Grade 12 V I S I T B E A R C R E E K . O R G

30 • ParentMap Family Directory 2019

THEJACKANDJILLSALE.COM

tion & Tui ance on t tati sis As spor ble n a Tra Avail

Jack & Jill Consignment Sale parentmap.com/goldenteddy

Finalists Channing Baby & Co. (channingbaby.com) in Tacoma reaps praise for its knowledgeable, friendly staff and huge inventory. Readers love its highquality baby gear and one-of-a-kind items. It also offers online shopping, so you can put up your feet and browse from home. Readers go on and on about Just Between Friends (seattle.jbfsale.com) consignment events, noting the great selection of high-quality baby and maternity clothing. Attend one of the events and save 50–90 percent off name-brand items. You can also consign your household’s outgrown items for cash. Rhea Lana’s Consignment Event (rhealana.com) is an upscale children’s clothing pop-up event where parents can indulge their passion for (affordable) fashion by consigning and buying gently used maternity and children’s clothing, as well as toys and gear. One reader shares, “They have everything you need right there. Easy and very affordable.” Village Maternity (villagematernity.com) has been independently owned and operated in Seattle since 1983. The shop carries stylish maternity and nursing clothing, so women can look and feel good both during and after pregnancy. It also rents out hospital-grade breast pumps and baby scales, and offers a range of prenatal and postpartum classes for expecting and new parents.

FAVORITE FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER With more than 20 years behind the camera, “patient, kind, flexible and talented” Lydia of Lydia Brewer Photography

(lydiabrewerphotography.com) is a beloved wedding and family photographer. Readers praise her ability to capture emotion and personality in her portraits, saying that she “has a way with families and really ‘gets’ children.” Another voter comments, “She was pure magic with my son.” Lydia also volunteers her time and talent to photographing Roller Derby.

LYDIABREWERPHOTOGRAPHY.COM • PHOTO BY JOANNA MONGER

WINNER: Lydia Brewer Photography

CASH F

OR KIDS’

STUFF Lydia Brewer Photography

Finalists Alicen of Alicen Lum Photography (alicenlumphotography.com) is passionate about photographing newborns and is an expert at capturing those fleeting and enchanting early-days moments. Multiple readers refer to her as a baby whisperer because of her talent with newborns, but it isn’t only little ones she photographs; she also specializes in maternity and family portraits. Photos by Anela of Anela Deisler Photography (aneladeisler.com) celebrate the beauty, chaos and love of your family’s story. One voter parentmap.com/goldenteddy

HOW IT WORKS

BRING IN GENTLY USED KIDS’ STUFF LAID FLAT IN A BASKET OR BIN.

BROWSE THE STORE WHILE WE APPRAISE YOUR ITEMS.

CHOOSE STORE CREDIT OR CASH FOR PAYOUT ON YOUR KIDS’ STUFF.

12928 SE KENT KANGLEY ROAD in KENT | 253-236-4269 ParentMap Family Directory 2019 • 31

shopping + services continued from page 31 comments, “Anela is a true storyteller. … She captures the details you might never have thought of capturing.” Whitney of Hardie Photography (hardiephotography.com) specializes in documenting the most important and remarkable of life’s moments: a baby’s birth. She also shoots family portraits with the same artful care and attention. Offering award-winning family, maternity and portrait photography services, Kiley Riffell Photography (kileyriffellphotography.shootproof.com) earns scads of accolades (and votes) from readers. “She is magic — what an incredible talent!” enthuses one happy customer.

Cloth diaper service and baby boutique Diaper Stork (diaperstork.com) delivers clean cloth diapers to your door and whisks away the soiled ones, thank you very much. Serving the Seattle metro area, this mom-owned company helps parents make conscientious choices for their babies and the environment. Imperfect Produce

(imperfectproduce.com) protects perfectly good food from going to waste while saving you money. You can customize your order, whether you choose organic or conventional produce. This novel service helps farmers, the environment and your wallet! Family-owned dairy

SANITY-SAVING SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE

Smith Brothers Farms

(smithbrothersfarms.com) has been serving the Puget Sound region for more than 90 years. It delivers rBST-free (i.e., growth-hormonefree) milk and a host of other dairy, produce, pantry and bakery products right to your door!

WINNER: Amazon

Color no one flabbergasted that Amazon (amazon.com) is the hands-down winner in this category. With Prime membership, delivery of roughly a bazillion items is typically free and fast. Using the “subscribe and save” checkout option saves both money and your sanity by delivering household staples on a set schedule. The fact that you can find just about anything you need on Amazon elevates this company to super-service status. One reader puts it succinctly: “Prime delivery means affordable, quality products on my porch in two days! From cereal to kitty litter to bicycles, they have it all!”

Finalists Since 1946, Baby Diaper Service (babydiaperservice.net) has been diapering baby bums all over the Puget Sound area. The service provides a diaper pail and delivers clean, sanitized cloth diapers to your door in exchange for the soiled ones. Voters say that the “owner is great, with a big heart for weary moms and dads!”

Inspiring Gifted Students K-8

206. 691 . 2625

SUPER KIDS’ SALON WINNER: Kid’s Club

Centrally located in University Village, Kid’s Club (salonkidsclub.com) has been a Puget Sound–area go-to for haircuts since 1988. Not only does the salon do great kids’ cuts, but it also offers one-on-one hair tutorials for parents, hair-styling class events for private groups, coloring and special styling services (feathers and French braids, oh là là!) and more. One voter says, “Every kid comes out happy and full of glitter!”

Finalists “Fun for kids, stress-free for parents” is the motto at Cookie Cutters Haircuts for Kids (haircutsarefun.com). Cookie Cutters offers a play area complete with a slide (a great distraction for kids while a parent

< Degrees & Certificates < Co-op Preschools < Parent-Child Center

seattlecountryday. org

32 • ParentMap Family Directory 2019

parentmap.com/goldenteddy

pays) and fantasy-car chairs outfitted with an entertaining selection of kids’ shows and games. You can bring the whole family to Enchanted Cuts (enchanted-cuts. business.site), because this salon serves all ages. Readers love the variety of toys that keep siblings occupied while brother or sister gets their cut, as well as proprietor Michelle’s patience with little ones. One voter notes, “Consistent service, reasonable price and very patient with kiddos.” If you have a little one who needs distraction during a haircut, Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids (sharkeyscutsforkids.com) is the place to go. Children can sit in a Dodge police cruiser, a Barbie Jeep, a Lightning McQueen race car, a Buzz Lightyear vehicle, a Hummer, a “Frozen” Jeep, a fire engine, a No. 8 Dale Earnhardt NASCAR race car or a MINI Cooper while watching their favorite cartoons or Netflix! Where was this place when we were kids? Kids in Tacoma love going to the Wild Child Salon (Facebook, “Wild Child Salon”) for haircuts. Car and plane chairs, screens at every station and endless patience with kids are what voters like about this salon. Several reviewers say that the stylists are particularly good at working with kids who have special needs. n

Anecdotes Pottery Studio A paint-your-own pottery shop We’re perfect for birthday parties of all ages, corporate parties, private parties and more. Walk-ins welcome!

Summer Hours: Closed Monday Tues-Fri 12pm-8pm Sat 10am-9pm Sun 10am-8pm (206) 782–2882 5129 Ballard Ave NW Seattle, WA 98107 Anecdotespotterystudio.com

shopping + services AWESOME BOOK OR TOY SHOP

WINNER: Top Ten Toys

FINALISTS The Curious Bear Book & Toy Shop Secret Garden Books Snapdoodle Toys Third Place Books

COOL KIDS’ CLOTHING SHOP

WINNER: Just Between Friends

FAVORITE FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER

WINNER: Lydia Brewer Photography

FINALISTS Alicen Lum Photography Anela Deisler Photography Hardie Photography Kiley Riffell Photography

SANITY-SAVING SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE WINNER: Amazon

FINALISTS Channing Baby & Co. Childish Things Kids on 45th Rhea Lana’s Consignment Event

FINALISTS Baby Diaper Service Diaper Stork Imperfect Produce Smith Brothers Farms

ESSENTIAL BABY OR MATERNITY SHOP

SUPER KIDS’ SALON

WINNER: Jack & Jill Consignment Sale

FINALISTS Channing Baby & Co. Just Between Friends Rhea Lana’s Consignment Event Village Maternity

WINNER: Kid’s Club

FINALISTS Cookie Cutters Haircuts for Kids Enchanted Cuts Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids Wild Child Salon

See the full write-up at parentmap.com/goldenteddy

parentmap.com/goldenteddy

ParentMap Family Directory 2019 • 33

Traditional Summer Camp

REDMOND TOWN CENTER

Paint Your Own Pottery & Glass Fusing Studio

• Excellent Leadership • Small Living Groups •13, 19 & 21 Day Sessions • ACA Accredited

Walk-ins, birthday parties, summer camp, kids events, & more!

• Riding • Arts & Crafts • Sailing • Swimming • More!

(425) 330-2974 • hvc-wa.com

PA I N TAWAY N O W.CO M

hiddenvalleycamp@earthlink.net

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12/3/18 4:16 PM

wiggle

indoor play birthday parties theme play storytimes

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BELLEVUE indoor play Crossroads Mall birthday parties Findtheme us onplay Facebook! storytimes

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South Hill Mall wiggleworkskids.com

TWO LOCATIONS BELLEVUE 0319_wiggleworks_1-8h.indd 1 Crossroads Mall Find us on Facebook!

PUYALLUP South Hill Mall www.wiggleworkskids.com

Multi-Student Discounts and Flexible Tuition Available

2/12/19 4:15 P

OUR HOUSE IS A LWAYS O P E N ! Custom-tailored tours by appointment.

Vil•lag•es (plural noun) Multi-age classes set into quads with classrooms, a community room, and STEM space. E A R LY C H I L D H O O D T H RO U G H 8 T H G R A D E

*/26*3: &91-03"5*0/ $3&"5*7*5: 3&'-&$5*0/ '6/ 34 • ParentMap Family Directory 2019

parentmap.com/goldenteddy

family resources

FAMILY RESOURCES

ne of the toughest parts of parenting is finding the right resources for your family. It starts with pregnancy, when a supportive birth or breastfeeding service can be lifesaving,

and continues all the way through your kiddo’s early childhood, when you need to find the best preschool or drop-in childcare spot. Happily, ParentMap readers have done much of the legwork for you!

— Tiffany Doerr Guerzon

HANDY DROP-IN CHILDCARE SPOT

KIDS’ DENTIST TO SMILE ABOUT

Penny Pumpernickel Pants Playcare

With locations in Marysville, Monroe, Stanwood and Lake Stevens, Puget Sound Pediatric Dentistry (pugetsoundpediatricdentistry.com) provides dental care with a gentle touch. The practice offers special training for staff in caring for infants, children and adolescents, including those with special needs.

WINNER: Penny Pumpernickel Pants Playcare

Finalists If you need drop-in or regular child care up until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays or during the day on Sunday, Adventure Kids Playcare (adventurekidsplaycare.com) is your place! With locations in Issaquah and Bellevue, it has planned activities all day long and even serves breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks! Working parents trying to balance work and family will love The Inc. Community Coworking + Playschool (theinccoworking.org) in the Green Lake neighborhood. Drop off the kids in the playroom and then head down the hall to work and network with other likeminded parents. A meeting room, printer and high-speed Wi-Fi, along with flexible child care, make this nonprofit a godsend for busy parents. Drop-in child care by the hour can be parentmap.com/goldenteddy

PENNYPUMPERNICKELPANTS.COM

(pennypumpernickelpants.com) is an awardwinning play space in North Seattle that offers half-day preschool programs as well as drop-in care for kids between 2 and a half and 4 and a half years old. The philosophy at Penny’s is that children learn best through play that engages all five senses. Voters’ comments say it best: “Best environment for engagement, activities and friendly learning support!” “My 3-yearold is thriving!” “What’s not to say? Penny Pumpernickel Pants Playcare is the best!!”

WINNER: Puget Sound Pediatric Dentistry

Finalists

Penny Pumpernickel Pants Playcare found at KidsPark (kidspark.com/lynnwood) in Lynnwood. Whether you need just an hour or a full day of child care — even on weekends — KidsPark is a fun place for kids ages 2–12. Lunch, dinner and snacks are available, as well as teacher-led group activities that kids can opt into as they desire throughout the day. Located in Woodinville, The Nest (thenestkids.com) offers drop-in child care for as long as four hours per day between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., or take advantage of its daily classes or the arts-based preschool program. The Nest promises a playful learning experience for your child so you can get some time to yourself for work or your own play!

Voters praise the Ballard Pediatric Dentistry (ballardpediatricdentistry.com) staff for their patience with children, particularly those with special needs. Voters seem to agree that Bothell Pediatric Dentistry’s (bothellpediatricdentistry.com) Dr. Yea, Dr. McCoy and their team are wonderful. As one voter enthuses, “Staff, staff, staff! They make going to the dentist FUN!” The staff at Greenlake Kids Dentistry (greenlakekidsdentistry.com) has a passion for making kids feel safe, comfortable and important. They want to help their young patients maintain not only a healthy mouth, but a healthy mind and body as well. Dr. Rama of Woodinville Pediatric Dentistry (woodinvillepd.com) believes that a lifetime of excellent oral health begins with a positive experience with the dentist. Voters clearly agree, with appreciative comments such as, “Dr. Rama is the best! She loves the kids and is great at what she does!” ParentMap Family Directory 2019 • 35

family resources Pack more play into everyday

continued from page 35

waddler | toddler | preschool prekindergarten Capitol Hill • Madison Valley 206 - 329 - 5187 www.HarvardAvenueSchool.com

our Get y ! copy ParentMap.com/52adventures

PEPS.ORG

Preschool/Kindergarten Information Night 1/16/20 at 7 pm Principal Q & A 1/21/20 at 9 am All School Open House 1/26/20 at Noon

PEPS — Program for Early Parent Support

POSITIVE PARENTING GROUP OR CLASS

Visit St. John School 120 N 79th Street, Seattle, WA 98103 www.st-johnschool.org 206-783-0337 ext 323

WINNER: PEPS — Program for Early Parent Support Becoming a parent is one of the most challenging transitions in life. What new parents often want the most is social support; we all need our peeps, right? That’s where nonprofit PEPS — Program for Early Parent Support (peps.org) — comes in, helping parents of infants and young children to build communities that empower them to meet the challenges of parenting through mutual support and the sharing of information.

Finalists

Outstanding Academics. Faith-based values. Awesome extracurriculars.

Come to an Open House to See Why Students Love EC! High School - November 17 Middle School & High School - December 4 Coed, Grades 6 - 12 | eastsidecatholic.org 36 • ParentMap Family Directory 2019

Nonprofit Lake Washington Toddler Group (lwtg.net) in Kirkland welcomes children ages 5 months–4 years and offers classes for parents and siblings to promote strong, healthy families. Parents who join become students in parenting education classes and can even earn college credit. Started more than 50 years ago, North Seattle Cooperative Preschools (northseattlecoops.org) provide a warm, nurturing environment for children to explore and learn about community life at 11 convenient North Seattle locations. Moms and dads build friendships and benefit from parent education opportunities offered inside and outside the classroom. With five locations in West Seattle and White Center, South Seattle College Cooperative Preschools (westseattlepreschools.org) provide high-quality early childhood education, along with parent education, coaching and support. The goal of the Woodinville Toddler Group (woodinvilletoddlergroup.com) is to build a community of support among parents and provide an engaging environment in which toddlers can play and create with their peers. One appreciative voter notes, “It’s a very supportive and nonjudgmental group.”

PRICELESS PEDIATRICIAN WINNER: Richmond Pediatrics

Voters say Richmond Pediatrics (richmond-pediatrics.com) in Shoreline offers skilled doctors and a staff that is both friendly and great with kids. “Our pediatrician goes beyond physical wellness for my children,” one voter says. “She is very supportive and concerned for their well-being.” parentmap.com/goldenteddy

Finalists Being open 365 days a year is just part of why readers love Allegro Pediatrics (allegropediatrics.com). Voters praised the clean clinics (nine Eastside locations), caring staff and wonderful access to health care. One voter shares, “They always get us in! We are never rushed and always leave feeling comforted and taken care of.” The whole family can get medical care at The Polyclinic (polyclinic.com). Staff pediatricians offer both inpatient and outpatient care, ensuring continuity for your child’s health and well-being. Voters like the Circle app from Swedish Medical Centers (swedish.org) that “simplifies everything.” Add that convenience to Saturday hours, multiple locations and top-notch medical care by great staff and we have ourselves a finalist. Clean clinics, thorough checkups and great medical care make Woodinville Pediatrics (woodinvillepediatrics.com) a go-to favorite. One voter says, “Twenty years and counting, we travel to see them.”

(different-paths.com). The owner is a special education teacher who has expertise in coaching and providing support for children with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, sensory processing disorder and pervasive developmental disorders. Specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of cognitive and emotional disorders in children and adults, the Hallowell Todaro ADHD Center (hallowelltodarocenter.org) offers coaching, support groups and treatment plans. Based in Kirkland, it specializes in a strength-based approach. Speech language pathologists provide individualized speech, language and social communication services at finalist Pediatric Speech and Language Therapy (pediatricspeechtherapy.org; locations in Wallingford, West Seattle and Bellevue). One reader says, “We were matched with a therapist quickly and have had a wonderful experience. Plus, it’s easy to reschedule an appointment when needed.”

SUPPORTIVE BIRTH OR POSTPARTUM SERVICE

WINNER: Swedish Medical Center More babies are born at Swedish Medical Center (swedish.org) than any other healthcare system in western Washington, with several campuses and clinics. In addition to expert delivery, maternity and postpartum care, Swedish offers a wide variety of classes, including a “Welcome Baby” package covering all the basics about pregnancy and newborns. Swedish cares for both normal and high-risk pregnancies and births.

KINDERING.ORG

Finalists

Kindering

SPECIAL NEEDS RESOURCE OR SERVICE

Working with women through pregnancy and beyond, Edmonds’ Body Motion Physical Therapy (bodymotionpt.com) is a winner according to ParentMap readers. Voters say physical therapist Dr. Feldt is knowledgeable, compassionate and friendly. “Dr. Allison is the best! I am 6 months pregnant, and she is preparing my body for the best labor and delivery. I am so grateful for her!” You can find maternity care, breastfeeding services, postpartum care and childbirth classes all at EvergreenHealth (evergreenhealth.com) in

WINNER: Kindering

Offering evaluations, therapy, early intervention, education and support, Kindering (kindering.org) has multiple locations to serve children with special needs and their families. At Kindering, they believe that embracing children with diverse abilities can help skills soar. One voter says, “They come to our home, have classes, and we see a variety of therapists to get our kiddo’s needs met.”

Finalists College Nannies + Sitters + Tutors (collegenanniesandtutors.com), with multiple Puget Sound–area locations, is the nation’s largest nanny, tutor and sitter service. The tutoring services offered are unique in that the tutors work with the student’s guidance counselor to make sure the teaching support aligns with the curriculum. The service also carefully matches a tutor with each child, taking into account learning styles and personalities. “We walk beside you” is the motto of Different Paths Tacoma

parentmap.com/goldenteddy

ParentMap Family Directory 2019 • 37

family resources continued from page 37 Kirkland. “They saved me with their breastfeeding center,” says one voter. “Had both my boys there — highly recommend it,” says another. Michelle of Exhale: Body & Birth (exhalebodyandbirth.com) is a PALS-certified birth and postpartum doula with a commitment to health activism and reproductive justice. Exhale: Body & Birth always strives to provide culturally competent care and an inclusive environment for everyone. A nonprofit organized to support the doula community, PALS (Pacific Association of Labor Support) Doulas (palsdoulas.org) can help you find the perfect match in a doula. It maintains a list of PALS-certified doulas, so you can have the birth experience you’ve hoped for.

Top quality recreational services and ﬁtness since 1958 • Before & After School Care • Preschool • Swim Lessons • • Birthday Pool Parties • Fitness Center • Summer Camps

Stop by the club for a tour, visit our website or call!

samena.com • 425-746-1160 15231 Lake Hills Blvd. Bellevue 98007

EST RIDG OR

TLE

1907

ART

SCHO

FINALISTS Adventure Kids Playcare The Inc. Community Coworking + Playschool KidsPark The Nest

FINALISTS College Nannies + Sitters + Tutors Different Paths Tacoma Hallowell Todaro ADHD Center Pediatric Speech and Language Therapy

WINNER: Penny Pumpernickel Pants Playcare

FINALISTS Ballard Pediatric Dentistry Bothell Pediatric Dentistry Greenlake Kids Dentistry Woodinville Pediatric Dentistry

SPECIAL NEEDS RESOURCE OR SERVICE

WINNER: Puget Sound Pediatric Dentistry

HANDY DROP-IN CHILDCARE SPOT

KIDS’ DENTIST TO SMILE ABOUT

THE

family resources

POSITIVE PARENTING GROUP OR CLASS

WINNER: PEPS — Program for Early Parent Support

HERE, SHE CAN. There is power in every girl. Join Us for an Open House October 26, 2019 | 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

www.forestridge.org

FINALISTS Lake Washington Toddler Group North Seattle Cooperative Preschools South Seattle College Cooperative Preschools Woodinville Toddler Group

PRICELESS PEDIATRICIAN

WINNER: Richmond Pediatrics FINALISTS Allegro Pediatrics The Polyclinic Swedish Medical Centers Woodinville Pediatrics

WINNER: Kindering

SUPPORTIVE BIRTH OR POSTPARTUM SERVICE

WINNER: Swedish Medical Center FINALISTS Body Motion Physical Therapy EvergreenHealth Exhale: Body & Birth PALS (Pacific Association of Labor Support) Doulas

TRUSTED NANNY OR BABYSITTER SERVICE

WINNER: College Nannies + Sitters + Tutors FINALISTS The Nanny Consultant Seattle Nanny Network Sound Care Agency West Coast Nannies

See the full write-up at parentmap.com/goldenteddy

Independent, Catholic, All-Girls, Grades 5-12 38 • ParentMap Family Directory 2019

parentmap.com/goldenteddy

TRUSTED NANNY OR BABYSITTER SERVICE

WINNER: College Nannies + Sitters + Tutors Founder and CEO Joe Keeley worked as a “manny” (male nanny) himself, which made him realize that child caregivers can have a lasting impact on the kids in their charge. Today, College

Nannies + Sitters + Tutors

(collegenanniesandtutors.com) is the nation’s largest nanny, tutor and sitter service. These kid-care pros are screened, trained and reliable.

FOR

Finalists “[She takes] caring care of the parents [to make] sure they have the perfect nanny who fits their family,” says one reader about The Nanny Consultant (thenannyconsultant. com), Kyla Lopez-Perkins. She does it all: background checks, needs assessment, reference checks, and screening interviews. If you need long-term child care, backup care or child care for events, call on the Seattle Nanny Network (seattlenanny.com). Voters praise the excellent training of nannies and great customer service. Sound Care Agency

(soundcareagency.com) hires the best nannies, selecting only those candidates whom its staff members would trust with their own children. The agency offers both backup care and long-term nanny placement services. GT finalist West Coast Nannies (wcnannies.com) wants to help your family find the perfect nanny. This agency is open on weekends, has extended hours and will even do an in-home consultation to assess and accommodate your needs. n parentmap.com/goldenteddy

gifted kids WHO love to learn

FIND OUT MORE — SIGN UP FOR A PARENT TOUR A KINDERGARTEN THROUGH 8TH GRADE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL

(425) 747-2911 | www.openwindowschool.org

Seattle’s Most Effective Swim & Water Safety Instruction! North Seattle/Lynnwood

206-200-9449 www.swim.guru

Home of the BrainDance Nurturing Baby Modern Parent-Child Creative Dance Creative Ballet Ballet Hip Hop

AND Multi-Arts Summer Camps!

Enroll Now! www.creativedance.org • 206-363-7281

curious • abstract thinker • opinionated • sensitive • intense • imaginative • perceptive • perfectionist • learns quickly • debater • quirky • high energy • creative • passionate • funny • problem solver • asks deep questions • son • daughter • serious • reads early – often spontaneously • precocious • strong sense of justice • observer • daydreamer • sophisticated vocabulary • introvert • extrovert • out of sync with peers • talks early • clever • long attention span • good memory • good at puzzles • needs little sleep • gravitates to older kids mathematically talented • moved by beauty • logical • idealistic • bored with routine tasks • good student • poor student • walks early • highly alert baby • argues about everything • persistent • skeptical • big thinker • asynchronous • risk taker • asks ‘why?’ *

#GIFTED 30

SEABURYSCHOOL

Educating gifted children in the South Puget Sound since 1989

squared l Seabury The Center for Gifted Education

www.seabury.org * not all characteristics apply to all gifted children

ParentMap Family Directory 2019 • 39

Love of learning starts here.

425-373-5437 | livingmontessori.com 2445 140th Ave NE, Suite B-200 Bellevue, WA 98005

Creativity, play, and joy encouraged daily in downtown Bellevue!

Authentic Montessori Experience Engaging Community Nurturing Environment

Educating the whole child • • • • • •

40 • ParentMap Family Directory 2019

Infant & Toddler Program Primary Program Elementary Program Enrichment Options Summer & School Camps Living Montessori Education Community Organic Meal Program PREPARED FOR LIFE

parentmap.com/goldenteddy

directory Adventure Kids Playcare Bellevue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Unique, drop-in child care; infants– age 12 Bellevue; 425-453-4444 adventurekidsplaycare.com bellevue@adventurekidsplaycare.com Allegro Pediatrics . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Where healthier futures begin 9 Eastside locations; 425-827-4600 allegropediatrics.com Amazon.com Online retailer of nearly everything All areas amazon.com Anecdotes Pottery Studio . . . . . 33 Paint-your-own pottery, parties and events Seattle; 206-782-2882 anecdotespotterystudio.com anecdotespotterystudio@gmail.com Annie Wright Schools . . . . . . . . . . 27 Co-ed preschool–grade 8; singlegender day and boarding 9–12 Tacoma; 253-272-2216 aw.org; admissions@aw.org Arts Aloft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Classes, workshops, camps, parties; ages 4–12 Seattle; 206-920-2015 artsaloftforkids.com betsyerving@artsaloftforkids.com Ballard Pediatric Dentistry . . . . . 8 Accepting new patients; come grow with us Seattle; 206-946-6970 ballardpediatricdentistry.com info@ballardpediatricdentistry.com

Bright Water Waldorf School . . 43 Serving children from preschool– grade 8 Seattle; 206-624-6176 brightwaterwaldorf.org info@brightwaterwaldorf.org CareWorks Nanny Referral Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Expert, personalized nanny placements since 1993 Seattle; 206-325-7510 careworksnw.com careworks.seattle@gmail.com Cedar Crest Academy . . . . . . . . . . 47 An academically enriching program; preschool–grade 5 Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond 425-454-1234 cedarcrestacademy.org Charles Wright Academy . . . . . . 45 Independent, co-ed day school; preschool–grade 12 Tacoma; 253-620-8373 charleswright.org admissions@charleswright.org Chelsea Macor Photography . . . 18 Family photographer capturing authentic moments Seattle area 214-236-3112 chelseamacor.com chelsea@chelseamacor.com Chickadee Music Together . . . . . 28 Early-childhood music and movement classes; ages 0–5 3 Seattle locations 206-334-8002 chickadeemusic.com

Ballard Farmers Market Year-round neighborhood Sunday market Ballard neighborhood of Seattle sfmamarkets.com

Childish Things . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Children’s resale boutique with maternity, gifts, more Seattle; 206-789-1498 childishresale.com info@childishthingsseattle.net

The Bear Creek School . . . . . . . . . 30 Christian liberal arts education; preschool–grade 12 Redmond; 425-898-1720 tbcs.org; admissions@tbcs.org

Children’s Dental Center . . . . . . . 44 Dr. Seetin, pediatric specialist for kids and teens Everett; 425-355-1136 childrensdentalcenter.net

Bellevue Montessori School . . . 15 Inspiring life-long learners; ages 1½–12 Bellevue; 425-454-7439 bellmontessori.com

Children’s Museum of Skagit County . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15, 23 Hands-on exhibits and play, preschool, camps, parties Burlington; 360-757-8888 skagitchildrensmuseum.net

Boys & Girls Clubs of King County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Fostering health, character and academic success 31 Greater Seattle locations 206-436-1800 positiveplace.org

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Cloud City Coffee Neighborhood café with beverages, pastries, lunch fare Seattle 206-527-5552 cloudcitycoffee.com

College Nannies + Sitters + Tutors Mill Creek Providing screened nannies, sitters and tutors Mill Creek area; 425-358-3459 collegenanniesandtutors.com/millcreekwa millcreekwa@collegenannies.com College Nannies + Sitters + Tutors Renton/Tacoma Reliable, safe childcare and education professionals South King and Pierce County areas; 253-251-2477 collegenannies.com/rentonwa rentonwa@collegenannies.com College Nannies + Sitters + Tutors Seattle/Bellevue/Redmond . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Providing screened nannies, sitters and tutors Seattle and Eastside; 206-659-4156 collegenanniesandtutors.com/seattlewa seattlewa@collegenannies.com Creative Dance Center . . . . . 39 Classes for infants, children, teens and adults Seattle; 206-363-7281 creativedance.org info@creativedance.org Crossroads Bellevue . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Family-friendly shopping, dining, play, events Bellevue; 425-644-1111 crossroadsbellevue.com Cupcake Royale Serving baked goods, ice cream and espresso 5 Seattle locations; cupcakeroyale.com

Discovery Montessori School . . 42 Enriching early childhood learning; ages 2½–6 Seattle; 206-282-3848 discoverymontessorischool.org DuPont Koulu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 A Finnish concept school for ages 2½–12 DuPont; 844-344-1122 wgcnwa.org Eastside Catholic School . . . 36, 44 Catholic-based learning; grades 6–12 Sammamish; 425-295-3014 eastsidecatholic.org admissions@eastsidecatholic.org Eastside Christian School . . . . . . 18 Strong academics, Christian worldview; preschool–grade 8 Bellevue; 425-641-5570 ecswa.org; info@ecswa.org Eastside Pediatric Dental Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Specialists in oral health for kids of all ages Issaquah; 425-392-4048 eastsidepediatricdentalgroup.com Famous Dave’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Authentic barbecue restaurant and catering Tacoma, Tukwila, Everett famousdaves.com Flying Apron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Plant-based and gluten-free bakery and café 2 Seattle locations; 206-442-1115 flyingapron.com; info@flyingapron.com

Denise Louie Education Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 High-quality multicultural early learning 3 Seattle locations; 206-973-1810 deniselouie.org

Forest Ridge School of the Sacred Heart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Independent, Catholic, all-girls school; grades 5–12 Bellevue; 425-641-0700 forestridge.org admissions@forestridge.org

Diaper Stork . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Cloth diaper service, rental and boutique Greater Seattle area; 206-928-6982 diaperstork.com; service@diaperstork.com

Funtastic Playtorium . . . . . . . . 7 Active indoor playground for kids ages 1–10 Bellevue; 425-623-0034 funtasticplaytorium.com

DigiPen Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . 8, 16 Learn game design, art, engineering, music; grades K–12 Redmond; 425-629-5007 projectfun.digipen.edu projectfun@digipen.edu

Gotta Dance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Contemporary, hip hop, musical theater, ballet, jazz Redmond; 425-861-5454 gottadance.com

Din Tai Fung Taiwanese steamed dumplings and noodles Seattle, Bellevue dintaifungusa.com

Golden Teddy winner

The Gymnastics Connection . . . 12 Non-competitive gym offering classes, camps, training Kirkland; 425-486-6887 gymnasticsconnection.com info@gymnasticsconnection.com

ParentMap Family Directory 2019 • 41

directory continued from page 41

• Community in school and service in our community • Individual education in a prepared environment • School Year September to June • Summer Session July to August • Ages 2.5 to 6 years in 2 classrooms • Outdoor education and play on site

206-282-3848 • discoverymontessorischool.org

Try Our Free Demo Class!

Sunshine Music Together Weekly music class for children birth to age 5 & the grown-ups who LOVE them! www.sunshinemusictogether.com 206.281.1111 Queen Anne Queen Anne Montlake Montlake West Seattle West Seattle Greenlake Greenlake Lynnwood Redmond Redmond 42 • ParentMap Family Directory 2019

Harvard Avenue School . . . . . . . . 36 Caring, safe education and summer camp; ages 1½–5 Seattle; 206-329-5187 harvardavenueschool.com

King’s Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Challenging academics in a faithfocused community Seattle; 206-289-7783 kingsschools.org

Hidden Valley Camp . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Horses, sailing, art, hiking, swimming; co-ed ages 7–16 Granite Falls; 425-330-2974 hvc-wa.com hiddenvalleycamp@earthlink.net

Lang’s Horse and Pony Farm . . . 26 Day and overnight horse camps for ages 3 and up Mount Vernon; 360-424-7630 comeride.com langshorseandponyfarm@hotmail.com

Jack & Jill Consignment Sale Consigning opportunity and kids’ clothing and gear sale Lynnwood thejackandjillsale.com shopjackandjill@gmail.com JDS: The Jewish Day School of Metropolitan Seattle . . . . . . . . . . 34 Jewish community school; early childhood–grade 8 Bellevue; 425-460-0260 jds.org; wleberman@jds.org Just Between Friends . . . . . . . 27 Kid and maternity consignment events Multiple Puget Sound-area locations jbfsale.com KEYTIME, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Innovative and effective keyboardingby-touch classes Seattle; 206-522-TYPE keytime.com

LeMay — America’s Car Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Design, tinker and explore the world of automobiles Tacoma; 253-779-8490 americascarmuseum.org education@americascarmuseum.org Lincoln South Food Hall . . . . . . . . . 4 6 kitchens offering affordable, family-friendly dining Bellevue; 425-362-6082 lincolnsfh.com Little Red Wagon Preschool . . . 46 Play-based, social skills focus, halfday; ages 2–5 Seattle; 206-696-7034 redwagonpreschool.org redwagonpreschool@yahoo.com

Kid to Kid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Buy and sell quality kids’ clothing Kent; 253-236-4269 kidtokid.com/kent/

The Little School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Experiential learning within a socialemotional context Bellevue; 425-827-8708 thelittleschool.org reganw@thelittleschool.org

Kiddie Academy of Kirkland . . . 21 Child care for infants–age 5; camps for ages 1–12 Kirkland; 425-242-0075 kiddieacademy.com/kirkland kirkland@kiddieacademy.net

Living Computers: Museum + Labs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Hands-on computer tech from the ‘60s to present Seattle; 206-342-2020 livingcomputers.org

Kid’s Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Toys and haircuts for children at University Village Seattle; 206-524-2553 shopkidsclub.com

Living Montessori Education Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Early education, academy, enrichment; infants–grade 6 Bellevue; 425-373-5437 livingmontessori.com info@livingmontessori.com

KidsQuest Children’s Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Hands-on exhibits, classes, summer camp, special events Bellevue; 425-637-8100 kidsquestmuseum.org info@kidsquestmuseum.org Kindering Therapy and support for children with diverse abilities Bellevue, Bothell, Redmond, Renton 425-747-4004 kindering.org; info@kindering.org Golden Teddy winner

Lydia Brewer Photography Family, child and roller derby photographer Seattle; 206-446-8674 lydiabrewerphotography.com MOD Pizza Individual, artisan-style pizza and hand-tossed salads Multiple locations modpizza.com

parentmap.com/goldenteddy

Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream Seasonal flavors of ice cream, sorbet and toppings Multiple Seattle locations mollymoon.com; info@mollymoon.com

Paint Away! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Walk-ins, birthday parties, art camps, more Redmond; 425-861-8388 paintawaynow.com info@paintawaynow.com

Morningside Academy . . . . . . . . . 45 Rigorous full-year and summer; grades 1–9 Seattle; 206-709-9500 morningsideacademy.org info@morningsideacademy.org

Pediatric Speech and Language Therapy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Communication assessment and intervention for children Seattle, Bellevue; 206-547-2500 pediatricspeechtherapy.org info@pediatricspeechtherapy.org

Mountlake Terrace Pool Family-friendly warm-water pool and swim lessons Mountlake Terrace; 425-776-9173 mltrec.com/530/recreation Northwest Girlchoir . . . . . . . 39 Summer Sing day camp for grades 2–7; choirs year-round Seattle; 206-527-2900 northwestgirlchoir.org info@northwestgirlchoir.org Open Window School . . . . . . . . . . 39 For gifted kids who love to learn; grades K–8 Bellevue; 425-747-2911 openwindowschool.org admissions@ows.org Oxbow Farm & Conservation Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Farm stand, workshops, summer camps, CSA Carnation; 425-788-1134 oxbow.org; thedirt@oxbow.org Pacific Northwest Ballet School . 31 Recreational and pre-professional dance training Seattle, Bellevue; 206-441-2435, 425-451-1241 pnb.org/pnbschool; pnbschool@pnb.org Pacific Science Center . . . . . . 23 Exhibits, camps, programs for kids Seattle; 206-443-2001 pacsci.org; discover@pacsci.org

Penny Pumpernickel Pants Playcare Play-based preschool and drop-in care; ages 2½–4½ Seattle; 206-769-2387 pennypumpernickelpants.com PEPS: Program for Early Parent Support Connection, resources and support for new parents King and Snohomish counties 206-547-8570 peps.org; peps@peps.org Pierce County Library System . . . 30 Discover the world of information and imagination 20 locations; 253-548-3300 piercecountylibrary.org Pike Place Market Historic market offering food and artisan goods Seattle; pikeplacemarket.org PRO Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . back cover Camps, preschool, sports, swim lessons and parties Bellevue; 425-885-5566; proclub.com Puget Sound Independent Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Admissions collaborative connecting families and schools Greater Puget Sound area pugetsoundindependentschools.org

Puget Sound Pediatric Dentistry Nurturing, fun, kid-focused dental care 4 Snohomish County locations 360-659-8100 pugetsoundpediatricdentistry.com

Russian School of Mathematics After-school math enrichment; grades K–12 Bellevue; 425-518-6114 russianschool.com bellevue@russianschool.com

Pump It Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Birthday parties, open jumps, camps and more Kirkland, Lynnwood 425-820-2297, 425-774-2297 pumpitupparty.com

Safe N Sound Swimming . . . . . . . . 2 1-on-1 swim lessons, water and outdoor adventure camps Seattle; 206-285-9279 snsswim.com

Rain City Fencing Center . . . . . . . 34 Camps and after-school programs, equipment provided Bellevue; 425-747-6300 camps.raincityfencing.com info@raincityfencing.com

St. John Catholic School . . . . . . . . 36 Challenging academics for preschool–grade 8 Seattle; 206-783-0337 st-johnschool.org

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers Burgers, fries, wraps, salads, more Multiple locations; redrobin.com Remlinger Farms . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Fun park, specialty farm market, Railway Café, events Carnation; 425-333-4135 remlingerfarms.com info@remlingerfarms.com Richmond Pediatrics . . . . . . . . 7 Infant, child and adolescent medicine Shoreline; 206-546-2421 Richmond-pediatrics.com Roaring Mouse Creative Arts Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Preschool, art classes, camps, workshops Seattle; 206-522-1187 roaringmouse.org nformation@roaringmouse.org Rock Solid Science . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Field trips and hands-on fun with rocks and minerals Seattle area; 206-715-2556 rocksolidscience.com

Samena Swim & Recreation Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Preschool, before- and after-school care, swim lessons Bellevue; 425-746-1160 samena.com Sammamish Montessori School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Art, sports, science, more; ages 3–8 Redmond; 425-883-3271 sammamishmontessori.com info@sammamishmontessori.com School of Acrobatics & New Circus Arts (SANCA) . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Circus classes for ages 2 and up, camps for ages 6–17 Seattle; 206-652-4433 sancaseattle.org office@sancaseattle.org Seabury School and SeaburySquared Programs . . . . 39 School and center for gifted education; pre-K–grade 8 Tacoma; 253-952-3111 seabury.org; office@seabury.org

Pe d i a t r i c S p e e c h & L a n g u a g e T h e ra py

Communication Assessment and Intervention Birth through Adolescence • Articulation/ • Down Syndrome Motor-Speech • Language Delay • Autism Spectrum • Social Skills Disorders • Fluency/Stuttering

Learning here IS fun and games Appointments available in Seattle/Wallingford, Bellevue, and West Seattle

206-547-2500 • carolray@aol.com • www.pediatricspeechtherapy.org 206-547-2500 • info@pediatricspeechtherapy.org • www.pediatricspeechtherapy.org

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Golden Teddy winner

ParentMap Family Directory 2019 • 43

Big Smiles Start Here Specialist: Daniel Seetin, DDS

Know and Be Known Educating students in a culture of connectedness

Come see what the King’s community can offer your child. Call today for a tour of our beautiful campus. Preschool – High School Offering Spanish Immersion for Kindergarten

kingsschools.org 206.289.7783

Shoreline, WA

Options Program at Eastside Catholic High School

Inclusive

student-centered, faith-based, education for students with intellectual disabilities

Learn more!

eastsidecatholic.org/options 44 • ParentMap Family Directory 2019

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