Peninsula Families Today by Peninsula Daily News & Sequim Gazette

families today PENINSULA

January 2014 volume 4, issue 1

A publication for families living on the North Olympic Peninsula. A supplement produced by the Peninsula Daily News and Sequim Gazette Advertising Department.

PLUS:

REMEDIES FOR CABIN FEVER Free family play nights — Page 6 Take a walk in the woods — Page 7 Blast boredom with these simple and fun ideas — Page 10

Daddy-Daughter Dance planned Page 3 Mobile dental clinic visits Page 5 Free Play & Learn Group Page 8

Make your dream contents 6 a reality. 5

FEATURES Mobile dental clinic visits Port Angeles SmileMobile accepting appointments for children with limited access to dental care. — 5

Free family play nights

8 Let one of our First Federal Bankers help

families today PENINSULA

Published by Peninsula Daily News’ and Sequim Gazette’s advertising departments Peninsula Daily News Sequim Gazette 305 W. First St. 147 W. Washington St. Port Angeles, WA 98362 Sequim, WA 98382 360-452-2345 360-683-3311

Learn more > Apply Online > 800-800-1577 Member FDIC

John C. Brewer, publisher & editor Steve Perry, advertising director Brenda Hanrahan, special sections editor Katy SanGregory, special sections editor

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Strengthening Our Communities Since 1923.

January 2014

Parents and preschoolers invited to free educational play group. — 8

Read 12 easy and affordable ways to fight cabin fever. — 10

Local Bankers • Local Decisions • Local Focus

PENINSULA FAMILIES TODAY |

Play & Learn group

Cures for cabin fever

New or Used Vehicle Boat • RV • Vacation

YMCA offers Free Family Nights to encourage active play this winter. — 6

Peninsula Families Today is a family-focused publication and is inserted into both the PDN and Sequim Gazette. Please let us know what you’d like to see in the next issue of Peninsula Families Today. This publication welcomes input and new contributors. Educators, parents and professionals in their fields are invited to contribute informative and educational articles or columns for consideration. We cannot guarantee publication due to space and content considerations. If your submission is accepted, we reserve the right to edit it. Send articles, columns and photos (JPEGs at 200 dpi minimum) to section editor Brenda Hanrahan at bhanrahan@peninsuladailynews.com. For more information, phone 360-452-2345, ext. 4072.

Advertising supplement of Peninsula Daily News and Sequim Gazette

3rd annual

Daddy & Daughter Dance

St., and Port Angeles, 2620 S. Francis St., and at Dungeness Kids Co., 163 W. Washington St. in Sequim. The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Olympic Peninsula Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Dancing starts at 6 p.m., will play host to the third annual Daddy & Daughter and the last dance will happen around 8 p.m. Dance in Sequim at the Carroll C. Kendall Unit, 400 A light dinner and a sundae bar will be available W. Fir St., starting at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8. before and during the event for nominal fees at Cupid’s Girls will receive free admission to the dance, while Cafe within the club. their dad, stepfather, grandfather, uncle or other male In addition to dancing, attendees will have a chance guardian pays $15 for an advance ticket or $20 at to try their hand at “the limbo” and play board games. the door. Gray said girls can have fun and dress up a little, The men pay for one ticket regardless of whether but formal dress is not required. they bring one daughter or granddaughter or three Free door prizes will be awarded to some lucky daughters or granddaughters to the dance, said Janet attendees. Gray, resource development director of the Boys & Raffle tickets will be sold, and a photographer will Girls Clubs of the Olympic Peninsula. be on site to take photos of the girls with their “date,” “The dance is a great way for young girls in our Gray said. A small fee will be charged for photographs. community to spend a little quality time with their Last year, about 100 people attended the dance, and father figures,” Gray said. the event raised approximately $1,000. “Other than promoting family bonding, the event Proceeds from the dance will provide funding for serves as outreach for the clubs, exposing more kids educational and fun club programs for local children. to the Boys & Girls Club and our mission. “It is a win-win for everyone,” Gray said. “In this small community, it adds a little something People interested in donating a dance ticket for a unique to do for kids and adults alike.” family to attend can purchase a ticket online at Advance tickets are on sale online at bgc-op.org and bgc-op.org or phone the club to make arrangements. at Boys & Girls Club locations in Sequim, 400 W. Fir story by BRENDA HANRAHAN, Peninsula Daily News

Queen of Angels

LEARN

PreSchool la

photo provided by BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF THE OLYMPIC PENINSULA

David Green of Sequim makes a sundae for his daughter, Michaela, during the 2013 Boys & Girls Clubs’ Daddy & Daughter Dance. This year’s dance will be held Feb. 8 in Sequim.

Club officials will offer the ticket to a family who may otherwise not be able to attend because of the admission cost. For more information about the dance, phone the Sequim Boys & Girls Club at 360-683-8095.

Olympic Peninsula Humane Society

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PENINSULA FAMILIES TODAY

Getting kids interested your children feel uncomfortable in their grandparents’ tiny apartment or nursing home, try inviting your parents to spend time with you and your children at a café or restaurant; the event might be considered a real treat, by both young and old. If conversation is the challenge, perhaps because the elderly person has hearing difﬁculties or cognitive loss, you might suggest an activity that requires little talk but that has togetherness-appeal — perhaps a game of dominoes or lawn bowling.

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Do your kids drag their heels when it’s time to visit Grandma and Grandpa? Do they plead to bring along their electronic games or to be left at home alone? While some of us have fun-loving over-ﬁfty parents who seem ever youthful and dynamic, many more of us have mothers and fathers who are elderly, frail, and lonely. It is understandable that our children might resist visiting a grandparent who is clueless about iPods, especially if it involves a trip to a nursing home. But for the sake of family, it is important to help the two generations ﬁnd a way to relate.

The most important thing is to respect everybody’s feelings by listening to them. If Grandpa is sad because he doesn’t get more frequent visits, offer him some empathy and then steer the conversation back to a neutral topic. If your child is frustrated because he or she would rather be doing something else, offer some understanding and thank them for making an effort. Hopefully, with time, your children will see that visiting elderly grandparents is just a part of taking care of family.

When planning a visit, pick a time of day when Grandma and Grandpa are likely to be awake and alert. If

Nominate a senior volunteer for a Salute to Senior Service Award and Home Instead, Inc., will make a $500 donation to each state winner’s designated non-profit charity of choice and a $5,000 donation will be made to the U.S. national winner’s charity. Starting January 15th submit your nomination by visiting:

FAMILY HEALTH CLINIC

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Call and schedule a preventative visit today

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Same Day Appointments Available Monday-Saturday

For more information please call (360) 681-2511

Home Care Is Our Mission

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• We provide care from one hour to twentyfour hour live in. We offer respite as well as overnight care and bathing services.

PENINSULA FAMILIES TODAY |

January 2014

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7 days per week physical therapy services that get you better, faster.

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Advertising supplement of Peninsula Daily News and Sequim Gazette

Giving children a reason to smile story by BRENDA HANRAHAN, Peninsula Daily News

The SmileMobile, a modern dental office on wheels, will provide dental examinations and treatment for children and teenagers March 10-21 at Jefferson Elementary School, 218 E. 12th St. in Port Angeles. The SmileMobile accepts Medicaid coupons and charges sliding-scale fees according to family income. The majority of families served by the SmileMobile qualify for a 90 percent discount off the $35 examination fee, so they pay only $3.50, said clinic manager Monika Foro. SmileMobile examinations take up to 30 minutes per family to complete. If additional treatment is needed, an appointment will be scheduled during the clinic’s stay in Port Angeles. The SmileMobile will provide dental examinations at Jefferson Elementary School from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, March 10; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, March 11; and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, March 12. In 2013, SmileMobile staff examined 189 children in Port Angeles, providing 501 preventive services varying from cleaning, fluoride and sealants and 76 restorative treatments (fillings), Foro said. The mobile clinic is staffed by a full-time dentist and local volunteer dentists and their staff, and provides a range of services from examinations and preventive

services to fillings and minor oral surgery. Parents are encouraged to take children to the dentist as soon as they get their first tooth or celebrate their first birthday. Even babies as young as 6 months and their parents can benefit from a visit with a dentist, Foro said. SmileMobile dentists focus on teaching prevention methods such as proper toothbrushing and flossing techniques, and they educate families on the importance of regular dental exams. “Dental decay is the single most common chronic disease of early childhood, and nearly 60 percent of elementary schoolchildren in the state have had dental decay,” Foro said, adding that reasons for this figure include everything from diet, babies falling asleep with bottles and areas without fluoridated water. “Dental neglect can lead to oral pain, recurring infections, badly decayed and lost teeth, eating disorders and low-self esteem,” Foro added. To schedule a SmileMobile appointment or for more information, phone 888-286-9105. Appointments must be made before Friday, Feb. 28. SmileMobile staff will also participate in Clallam County Project Homeless Connect from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Vern Burton Community Center, 308 E. Fourth St. in Port Angeles, on March 7. Children’s Hospital. The SmileMobile is a partnership between The SmileMobile is funded by Delta Dental of Washington Dental Service Foundation and Seattle Washington, a dental benefits company.

n Begins this w o i t a r t s eek gi for our February e R Session of Swim Lessons

Live Well Now.

OMC and Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe are working together for healthier kids.

Check out our website or stop by the pool for information on days and times. We offer swim lesson sessions every month!

Look for Event Details on our Easter Egg-stravaganza in April!!

360-417-9767

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MEDIA OVERLOAD Children in the U.S. watch an average of 3 to 4 hours of TV a day, which can have negative health implications. A healthier choice? Playing outside.

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January 2014

PENINSULA FAMILIES TODAY

photos provided by OLYMPIC PENINSULA YMCA

Children and parents play during a Free Family Night at the YMCA in Port Angeles. The free monthly events encourage physical activity, especially during the North Olympic Peninsula’s cool winter months.

play A powerful promoter of family health and well-being

submitted by JENNIFER VENEKLASEN, Olympic Peninsula YMCA’s director of healthy

lifestyles and member engagement

Put more play into your family’s day, and you will soon find yourself getting the activity that will have your family feeling energized and strong. “Playful movement is one of the keys to a healthy family home,” said Olympic Peninsula YMCA Chief Executive Officer Kyle Cronk. “It doesn’t matter what you choose to do — just think of all the choices you have from walking to gardening to vacuuming the carpet, let alone the fun you can have with your kids swimming in a pool, going for a hike, shooting some hoops or taking a favorite pet for a walk.” To get 60 minutes of moderate activity throughout your day, just add 10 minutes here and 15 minutes there. “Several times each week, spend a little more energy while moving,” Cronk said. “Try to engage in vigorous activities at least three times each week for 20 consecutive minutes, but don’t worry if five or 10 minutes leaves you feeling wiped out at first. Small steps will get you there, so don’t overdo it. When the play stops feeling good, take a break.” How can busy families put more play in their days? n Spend at least 20 minutes doing something physically active as a family, ideally outdoors.

PENINSULA FAMILIES TODAY |

January 2014

Play fetch with the dog, a game of tag before dinner, play outside before starting homework, play “chase” in the house, play “horse” with little ones. Take a family bike ride to the bank or post office. n Schedule family recess time by putting play on the weekly schedule, just like soccer games and piano practice. Block out time for a trip to the park playground or a family walk on the Olympic Discovery Trail. Shoot hoops, jump rope or play hopscotch in the driveway. n Count each effort, no matter how large or small. Take quick breaks between chores, meal preparation and homework to dance or run around the house. Create a “play jar” that allows each family member to put in desired fun activities for weekends or other days off. Turn chore time into play time. Crank up the stereo for a Saturday clean-thehouse party. Free Family Nights are one way the Olympic Peninsula YMCA strives to eliminate barriers to physical activity for families, especially during the cold, wet months on the North Olympic Peninsula. PLAY: A POWERFUL PROMOTER CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

Advertising supplement of Peninsula Daily News and Sequim Gazette

Explore outdoors: A walk in the winter woods story by JEANETTE STEHR-GREEN, a WSU-certified Clallam County Master Gardener

In winter, we spend too much time indoors. We gain weight, get out of shape and develop the blues. What is the answer? A walk in the winter woods. An outdoor adventure will provide much-needed exercise, lighten your spirits and enrich your appreciation of this beautiful season.

ART BY MOTHER NATURE

Even the most familiar of places is transformed by winter. The sun is lower in the sky, casting longer shadows and adding depth to the landscape. With the loss of leaves from deciduous trees and shrubs, views of mountains and valleys become more spectacular. Even mundane objects (like grass and rocks) become more interesting when dusted with snow or ice crystals. Some plants actually become showier in wintertime. For example, stems of red osier dogwood and the orange-red hips of wild rose become more vibrant. Snowberries cling to their white, berry-like fruits even though their leaves have fallen. In late winter, native willows sport furry catkins.

GETTING TO KNOW THE NATIVE PLANTS

Winter is an ideal time to become more familiar with native trees and shrubs. Without the bold and flashy colors of summer and fall, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easier to see plant structure and subtle differences that can help identify these plants. For example, bark texture and color often become

more noticeable in winter. Big-leaf maples have gray-brown bark that is ridged and often host to mosses, lichens and ferns. The bark of red alders is thin, gray and smooth, often with patches of white and greenish lichens that give the branches a scaly appearance. The peeling bark of Pacific madrona reveals the silky, smooth new skin beneath. The reddish-brown bark of western red cedar is stringy, soft and flexible, tearing off in long fibrous strips. Many deciduous trees and shrubs can be identified from their leafless twigs based on color, texture, bud shape and placement, remnants of fruits and seeds, and newly forming catkins. It is challenging at first but becomes fun once you learn the terminology and get the hang of it. For help, consult Winter in the Woods: A Winter Guide to Deciduous Native Plants in Western Washington (WSU Publication MISC 0274) and the Burke Museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s online Winter Twig Identification Key.

SIGNS OF WILDLIFE

Although some animals hibernate, evidence of wildlife activity abounds in winter. And nothing brings more excitement than following animal tracks in the snow or mud. Track size and shape and the distance in between can provide clues about the animal that made them. Other evidence of local wildlife include: n Scat and pellets.

Advertising supplement of Peninsula Daily News and Sequim Gazette

n Fur or feathers stuck on branches or found on the ground. n Claw or chew marks on tree trunks, branches or twigs. n Tunnels, holes and runways. n Chirps, whistles, calls and other sounds. Identifying the likely animal based on these findings can be fun. But remember, it is illegal (and unsafe) to chase or harass wildlife. And never disturb nesting or den sites. A walk in the woods at this time of year can be magical. With a closer look, the winter woods no longer seem like a dreary landscape but a beautiful place worth exploring in every season.

TIPS WHEN TAKING A WINTER WALK

n Check the weather forecast. n Know when to turn around if weather or terrain becomes unsafe. n If you are going off the beaten path, leave a planned itinerary with a family member or friend. n Wear appropriate footwear and clothing. Dress in layers for warmth. n Carry water and snacks. n Leave a dry change of clothes in the car in case you need to swap out wet clothing after a walk. n Bring tissues or a handkerchief for cold, runny noses. n If you plan on taking photos or notes, wear thinner gloves so you are not always putting them on and then removing them. January 2014

PENINSULA FAMILIES TODAY

Children, adults learn, play during free group story by BRENDA HANRAHAN, Peninsula Daily News

It’s free, it’s fun and it happens every Thursday. Open to all preschool-aged children and their parents or caregivers, Kaleidoscope Play & Learn Groups are offered from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at First Step Family Support Center, 323 E. Sixth St. in Port Angeles. During Play & Learn Groups, parents/caregivers and children participate in circle and storytimes, eat snacks and work on arts and crafts projects. Adults have the opportunity to learn from one another and discuss a variety of topics, including the importance of reading to children, school readiness and how to incorporate play and learning in busy lives. Children can enjoy free playtimes in the wellequipped, colorful playroom at First Step. Kaleidoscope Play & Learn Groups demonstrate to parents/caregivers that they are their child’s first teacher, even during playtime, and encourage them to build connections with one another. Every child participant receives a free book to help build the love of reading and encourage the development of a library at home. PLAY & LEARN GROUP CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

FITNESS FUN!

Good Things Are Happening at Olympic Christian School!

SARC HAS SO MUCH TO OFFER FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!!

A Classical Educational Approach, that includes a heavy college prep emphasis, awaits your child. • • • • • • •

Starting Fall 2013 introduction of Latin in Grades K-8 All-day Kindergarten with ½ day option Before & after school care with homework help & tutoring 7th & 8th grade enrichment classes Middle school team-building retreat Instrumental music for 4th-8th grades Vocal instruction for all grades…and so much more!

Preschool through 8th Grade

PENINSULA FAMILIES TODAY |

January 2014

aerobics and karate classes, as well as two racquetball courts.

Work Out: All the latest equipment in a friendly environment! Weight training & cardio rooms. The circuit room offers a fun fast-paced workout to music. Classes: SARC offers adult fitness, youth, and swim classes.

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Visit our website for classes, pool schedules & more!

www.sarcfitness.com

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Play: SARC has a gym for basketball, volleyball,

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Olympic Christian School

Swim: Full-size Olympic pool, shallow pool, dry & steam saunas, hydrotherapy pool, and a wild wonderful water slide!

Advertising supplement of Peninsula Daily News and Sequim Gazette

PLAY & LEARN GROUP CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

PLAY: A POWERFUL PROMOTER CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

“Play & Learn Groups give parents and children opportunities to enjoy one another and exchange ideas,” said Nita Lynn, First Step’s executive director. “All too often, we find that parents and caregivers of young children can feel isolated, and these groups provide socialization, education and empowerment.” Parents and siblings of preschool-aged children are welcome to attend. Local child care providers and children in their care are also encouraged to attend. First Step Family Support Center in Port Angeles. Pre-registration is not required. The group will not meet on Thursday, Feb. 13, but WHAT EXACTLY IS FIRST STEP FAMILY will resume on Feb. 20. SUPPORT CENTER? “Thanks to the generous contributions of First Since 1972, First Step Family Support Center has Step’s many loyal donors, including Doug Whatton of provided support and education services to thousands the Whatton Family Fund of the Clallam Community of local Clallam County families as part of the agency’s Foundation administered by United Way, the Kaleidomission to promote the healthy development of chilscope Play & Learn Group Program was expanded for dren and families. 2014 with continuing sessions offered throughout the First Step provides family-centered programs to year,” Lynn said. meet the needs of parents and their children in a Melissa Moore, a First Step staff member, leads the respectful and responsible manner through its drop-in group. Moore and four other First Step staff members centers located in Port Angeles and Sequim, Parents have been trained in the Kaleidoscope Play & Learn Groups’ method, which takes a whole child, whole fam- As Teachers Home-Visiting Program, Parent-Child Assistance Program, Maternity Support Services, ily and whole community approach. “Like First Step, Kaleidoscope Play & Learn Groups Safe Beds for Healthy Babies and Great Beginnings Parenting Classes. support families and the community so children can First Step is a United Way community partner. thrive,” Moore said. For more information about First Step Family For more information about Kaleidoscope Play & Support Center, phone 360-457-8355. Learn Groups, contact Moore at 360-477-7551.

“We believe that families that play together are happier and have stronger bonds,” Cronk said. “Not only that, but play may be one of the best ways to get moving and prevent childhood obesity.” The community is invited to the YMCA’s Free Family Nights on the first Friday of every month through May from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the YMCA, 302 S. Francis St. in Port Angeles. Families can romp in the bounce house, run through the gym, play Nintendo Wii sports games and enjoy tumbling on a giant mat. Free play nights are part of a new YMCA effort to promote a healthier lifestyle for families. YMCA of the USA and the Eli Lilly Co. have partnered to create an initiative called Healthy Family Home that provides tools and support for families who are ready to take a positive step in living a healthier, happier life. For more information and free resources for families, visit healthyfamilyhome.org. For more information, about Free Family Nights, phone the YMCA at 360-452-9244.

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January 2014

PENINSULA FAMILIES TODAY

Ways to combat cabin fever story by METRO NEWS GRAPHICS

People accustomed to spending time outdoors can grow restless when winter weather sets in for the season. After the novelty of the first cold snap wears off, many find themselves tired of being cooped up and begin dreaming of warmer weather. Cabin fever occurs any time a person is stuck indoors for too long. It can happen during an illness or if someone suffers an injury that limits outdoor mobility. Most often, it refers to a feeling of restlessness that occurs with spending most time indoors when the weather outside is cold, rainy or snowy. In general, by the time spring arrives, most people have experienced a bout of cabin fever. In addition to general restlessness, cabin fever can cause sluggishness, weight gain and negative changes in sleep patterns due to inactivity. Here are a few family-oriented remedies that can help zap cabin fever: 1. Get moving. Being a couch potato can lead to weight gain and feelings of depression. Make strides to exercise or do something that gets the heart pumping for at least 30 minutes every day. This can include hosting a family dance-off, firing up the gaming console for a round of virtual reality sports action, hopping on the treadmill or stationary bike, or any other activity that raises the heart rate. 2. Take daily walks. As long as sidewalks or paths are passable, head outdoors and stroll the neighborhood.

It’s amazing what sights can be missed when one is whizzing by in a car. Enjoy the snow-covered mountains before heading back home for some hot chocolate. 3. Get creative. Visit one of your local craft stores to stock up on items that foster creativity indoors for hours on end. Acrylic paints and plaster molds are an entertaining hobby. Avid knitters can spend time whipping up a new hat or scarf and glove set. Kids may find that scrapbooking or simply creating collages from magazine photos with scissors and paste is entertaining. 4. Do some spring cleaning. Spring is right around the corner, so use time spent indoors to get a head start on organizational projects. Clean out a closet or room that might have grown clutter over the winter. 5. Give your home a makeover. Now’s the time to tackle an interior home repair. Painting a room a new color or even installing ceramic or stick-down tiles can give a room a new look and keep a person busy for an entire weekend. 6. Backup computer files. Instead of simply browsing the Internet or updating a social network site status, use time on the computer to backup important files and photos to an external hard drive or CD. 7. Gather receipts and tax documentation. Tax season is almost here, and that means having all of the necessary forms and receipts handy for filing, whether a person handles that on their own or gets help from a tax professional. 8. Have a family game night. Host a night each

week when the entire family gathers to play a game. It makes a welcome alternative to watching TV. 9. Learn to cook. Use time indoors to prepare meals in advance or experiment with new recipes. 10. Visit a museum. Now’s the time to explore places in the area (or schedule a road trip) that are just perfect when the weather isn’t. 11. Host a party. Just for the fun of it, invite friends and family over for a party to beat cabin fever. 12. Head to the movies. Watching a movie on the big screen can be a change from watching TV at home. When you put your mind to it, it’s possible to think of dozens of ways to cure cabin fever.

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Advertising supplement of Peninsula Daily News and Sequim Gazette

Books provide fun, creative ideas for parents story by MARGARET JAKUBCIN, assistant director of the North Olympic Library System

For many parents, the New Year is a time for reflection on past, present and future. Parents often make resolutions to learn more, create more and connect more. In the fleeting moments between swimming lessons, storytimes and grocery shopping, parents may find themselves wondering: How can I learn more about parenting skills? How can I create and explore my own artistic interests and encourage creative exploration in my children? Can I find a way to connect with family members and others in different and more meaningful ways? The North Olympic Library System can help parents answer questions like these. The library’s Parenting Collection offers a variety of supportive, enlightening and entertaining materials to assist parents and families. The Parenting Collection consists of books and DVDs, and provides all kinds of useful information, with a particular focus on the needs of parents with young children. Whether you are interested in finding out more about food allergies, potty training, using sign language with babies, raising readers, growing healthy kids, adopting or dealing with discipline, sibling rivalry or autism, the Parenting Collection has something for you. The Parenting Collection can be found in the youth area of each NOLS library (in Port Angeles, Sequim, Clallam Bay and Forks), making it easy for parents to take a look while their children read, play and browse nearby.

To find books and other materials in the Parenting Collection, visit nols.org and click on “Catalog.” Here are a few suggestions of titles from the Parenting Collection to help parents learn and create: Are you new to parenting and still finding your best parenting style? Check out Heather Shumaker’s, It’s OK Not to Share . . . And Other Renegade Rules for Raising Competent and Compassionate Kids, Christine GrossLoh’s Parenting without Borders: Surprising Lessons Parents Around the World Can Teach Us or Duct Tape Parenting by Vicki Hoefle. Wondering how to make a homemade robot? Maybe The Geek Dad’s Guide to Weekend Fun by Ken Denmead is the book for you. Emma Hardy’s Green Crafts for Children: 35 Stepby-Step Projects Using Natural, Recycled, and Found Materials offers suggestions for hours of fun. Art Lab for Kids by Susan Schwake and Toad Cottages & Shooting Stars: Grandma’s Bag of Tricks by Sharon Lovejoy provide even more suggestions for creative exploration by the whole family. Don’t forget that local libraries also offer plenty of opportunity for families to connect with others. All four North Olympic Library System libraries offer regular storytime programs; children and their parents or caregivers interact in a warm, fun and supportive environment while building language and literacy skills. Music, puppet shows, magic, science and other special events for children and the adults in their lives, are an enjoyable way to connect with family, friends

54 Years of Family Fun

With an air of distinction, Priscilla sits with a look of grandeur. But she’s not pretentious at all. She’s friendly yet quiet and very mellow as well. She appreciates a good lap sit as she just wants companionship. Even though she still has energy for play if you bring out toys to encourage her, she’s more of a couch potato or window perch feline. Nothing wrong with that.

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and neighbors in a relaxing setting at the library. Ready for a little break from the kids? NOLS offers a selection of fun and educational events for adults “to learn, create and connect.” Simply visit nols.org to learn more about the services and materials the library has for families and find out about upcoming special events. Or phone or visit your local library: Port Angeles Library, 2210 S. Peabody St., 360-417-8500; Sequim Library, 630 N. Sequim Ave., 360-683-1161; Forks Library, 171 S. Forks Ave., 360-374-6402; Clallam Bay Library, 16990 state Highway 112, 360-963-2414.

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January 2014

Advertising supplement of Peninsula Daily News and Sequim Gazette