RAK November 2020

NOVEMBER 2020

Raisingyour ARIZONA Kids partner on the parenting path What one family learned from

RAISING CHICKENS GIVING THANKS: 3 ways to practice genuine gratitude Teaching kids to give themselves grace

Socially distanced family fun

8

BOOKS FOR KIDS ON CIVIL RIGHTS AND DEMOCRACY

Lulu Nicita (10) of Gilbert, with two of her family’s chickens: Beyonce (left) and Hei Hei (right).

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CONTENTS

November 2020

18

FEATURES

18

GIVING THANKS: THREE WAYS TO PRACTICE GENUINE GRATITUDE

10

Sophie Strossberg decided if there was room for real gratitude this holiday season — in the face of hardship for so many families — she would find it. The verdict? Gratitude “seems kind of awesome.”

22

RAISING OUTDOOR KIDS: CHICKEN COOPS OFFER ADVENTURES BEYOND EGG HUNTS For Lisa Van Loo and her family, there is something calming about watching and hearing their new feathered friends.

24

PANDEMIC PARENTING Forget perfectionism, says Maggie Zehring. This is a great time to teach kids the concept of giving oneself grace.

DEPARTMENTS

2

DIALOGUE Remembering gratitude

4

22

AZ GROWN • Phoenix Art Museum offers $5 admission for kids • Hubbard Family Swim School opens in Goodyear • Arizona Snowbowl scheduled to open Nov. 20 • American Girl debuts 1980s doll, closes Scottsdale store • Don’t forget to vote on Tuesday, Nov. 3 • YMCA supports voting with free child care, mock elections for kids • 8 books for kids on civil rights, democracy and voting • Chandler High Spanish Teacher is Arizona’s 2021 Teacher of the Year • Using Common Sense: Why social and emotional learning is so important right now • Why you shouldn’t delay well-check visits • Sari on Science: Making magical dancing milk

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FAMILY TIME! • Top November events

RaisingARIZONAKids.com October 2020

1

dialogue

gratitude Remembering

I’LL BE HONEST. Eight months into this

pandemic, I thought I was doing pretty well with having zero in-person contact with my family in the Midwest. I was generally at peace with the fact that my daughter has had no big holiday celebrations, no birthday party, no real

grateful, as she says, “in the face of hardship

summer vacation and a twice-canceled trip

for so many families.” So here goes:

to Disneyland. She was a better sport about all of it than I would have been at her age.

Last month, she went back to school for the first time in months — an enormous smile under her cute face mask. The

• I feel so much gratitude for the friends

• I am enormously grateful to our amazing, dedicated teachers and educators who have made sure this year

who offered to bring candy when they

of chaos was still a year of learning,

heard my daughter was in quarantine

attention and care for our kids.

and would miss Halloween.

• I am genuinely grateful that — so

• I am grateful for everyone who wears a mask, to protect not only their health,

weather had finally turned cool at night,

far, fingers crossed — none of my

but to protect mine and everyone’s

and I was feeling hopeful and looking

immediate family members have had

around them.

forward to better days when all this was

to be afraid and alone in the hospital or

solidly behind us.

ICU battling COVID. I’m filled with

much energy and care into voting

empathy for so many enduring just that.

during a pandemic, and who strive

Now, my family is back in quarantine, after my daughter’s class was exposed

• I’m grateful for this time of

• I am grateful to those who put so

toward true public service.

to someone with COVID. We’ll likely

togetherness — not without its

• I am grateful for science/scientists.

spend Halloween, Thanksgiving and

challenges — with my little family.

• I’m grateful for everyone who can look

Christmas alone. The election is causing

For the crafts and books and creativity

outside the bubble of their own lives

no small amount of stress, and in our two-

we’ve been able to enjoy in our rare

and work toward a healthier, more just

journalist household, the future has never

down time. I’m grateful for a house and

country for all.

felt perfectly secure even in non-pandemic

lovely neighbors where quarantine has

times. So it was incredibly important for

been quite cozy.

me to read Sophie Strosberg’s feature on

• I feel gratitude that I have lovely,

practicing genuine gratitude in the face of

thoughtful, smart people to

isolation and worry.

communicate with, over the phone,

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite

masked coffees and FaceTime/Zoom.

holidays, not just because of the meal, but

• I am grateful to the nurses and doctors

because of the focus on gratitude rather than

who have given so much and worked

gifts. I can tell you, it’s very helpful to follow

so hard to heal our loved ones in these

Strosberg’s three tips for feeling genuinely

difficult times.

2 November 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Here’s to a month of practicing genuine gratitude as we head into the busy holiday season.

Kara G. Morrison, Editor kara@RAKmagazine.com

November 2020 | Vol 31 | No 6 PUBLISHER Karen Davis Barr EDITOR Kara G. Morrison CONTRIBUTORS Michael Arbel, Sari Custer, Ilana Lowery, Sophie Strosberg, Lisa Van Loo, Maggie Zehring

ART DIRECTOR Michèlle-Renée Adams COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Lisa Van Loo OPERATIONS MANAGER Tina Gerami-Bynum MARKETING CONSULTANTS Shannon Cornall, Kate Reed, Mary Vandenberg

R aising A rizona K ids magazine (ISSN 1051-4295) was created to connect Valley families to local resources and share real-life stories about the challenges and joys of raising children. Copy­right © 2020 by R aising A rizona K ids, Inc. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Subscription price is $20 for one year or $35 for two years. Back issues are $6 per copy. Make address changes on our website or mail changes to our office. Content guide­lines are avail­able at raisingarizonakids.com.

@RAKmagazine on Twitter; RAKmagazine on Facebook, Instagram, Youtube and Pinterest.

CONTACT US: editorial@RAKmagazine.com familytime@RAKmagazine.com advertising@RAKmagazine.com subscriptions@RAKmagazine.com 10645 N. Tatum Blvd. #200-314 Phoenix, AZ 85028 P: 480–991–KIDS (5437) | F: 480–991–5460 raisingarizonakids.com IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

RaisingARIZONAKids.com November 2020

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az grown good to know

Phoenix Art Museum offers

$5 ADMISSION FOR KIDS

Hubbard Family Swim School opens in Goodyear HUBBARD FAMILY SWIM SCHOOL has

opened a fourth location in the Market at Estrella Falls, 1785 N. Pebble Creek Parkway in Goodyear.

Derek Cochran, general manager BECAUSE MANY LOCAL families have been financially impacted during the

of the Goodyear location, says the new

pandemic, Phoenix Art Museum is lowering its admission price for visitors ages 17

pool uses a water-cleaning technology

and younger from $14 to $5 through Jan. 31, 2021.

called “AquaGen hyper dissolved oxygen

“We are very excited to offer this program for working families in Arizona in

system” designed to make the water

hopes that it will open doors to fun and educational experiences for parents and

cleaner, clearer and softer — using fewer

children alike, while also helping to reduce economic barriers that may prevent

chemicals.

community members from visiting,” Tim Rodgers, the Museum’s Sybil Harrington Director and CEO, said in a statement.

In addition to $5 youth admission, the museum is suspending the $5 special-

Hubbard Family Swim School, which has been in business for 22 years, offers year-round, indoor swim lessons

exhibition charge for ages 17 and younger during voluntary-donation hours: 3-7

for babies and children up to age 12.

p.m. on Pay-What-You-Wish Wednesdays and First Fridays. Discounts are made

Baby Splash classes for ages 8 weeks to 5

possible with support from UMB Bank and the Kemper Charitable Trust.

months are free to parents who pay a one-

The museum, which opened in 1959, welcomes more than 300,000 guests

time $25 registration fee and participate

annually to its national and international exhibitions and its collection of more

along with their baby in the 30-minute

than 20,000 works of American and Western American, Asian, European, Latin

water acclimation classes.

American, modern and contemporary art and fashion design. The museum, 1625 N.

Registration for fall and winter swim

Central Ave. in Phoenix, also hosts photography exhibitions through its partnership

lessons is underway at all Hubbard

with the University of Arizona’s Center for Creative Photography. Call 602-257-1880

locations. Call 602-971-4044 or visit

or visit phxart.org

hubbardswim.com

4 November 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

ARIZONA SNOWBOWL scheduled to open Nov. 20

ARIZONA SNOWBOWL is scheduled to open

will debut its new high-speed Arizona

for skiing and snowboarding on Friday,

Gondola that will run as a combination

Nov. 20, with enhanced public safety

detachable chairlift and gondola and will

measures in place.

transport guests up 2,000 vertical feet in

“We will be managing attendance levels on peak days and creating new

just seven minutes — less than half the time of the Agassiz lift it replaces.

flow areas to accommodate physical

Situated 14 miles north of Flagstaff

distancing,” Snowbowl Marketing

at 9,500 feet elevation in the San

Coordinator Li Cui announced. “Also,

Francisco Peaks, Snowbowl offers winter

we are going to all-online ticket sales to

experiences from November through

reduce contact.”

When open, the Snowbowl

April including dining, lodging and shopping. Visit snowbowl.ski

AMERICAN GIRL DEBUTS 1980s DOLL

but permanently closes Scottsdale store AMERICAN GIRL’S NEWEST 18-inch historical doll, Courtney Moore,

commemorates the 1980s with accessories that include a Pac Man arcade game, a cassette tape boombox and a Care Bears sleeping bag. A true Valley Girl, the Courtney character is growing up in California’s San Fernando Valley in 1986 with her stepsister, and her mom is running for mayor.

The doll will feel authentic to Gen Xers who will remember their own pleatedfront acid-washed jeans and cropped jackets with puffy shoulders — part of a $72 outfit you can buy for the $110 doll that comes with a storybook. Another Courtney accessory is a $30 mini Pleasant Company “Molly” doll — the mailorder historical doll brand that debuted in 1986, created by a former school teacher wanting to teach American History through the doll characters. Pleasant Company was sold to Mattel in 1998 and eventually became American Girl.

Unfortunately, Arizonans won’t be able to buy this “totally awesome” new doll in person. The American Girl store that opened in August 2015 at the Scottsdale Quarter shopping complex closed this spring during the COVID-19 pandemic, and a spokeswoman for the Mattel-owned brand confirmed it will not reopen. When it opened, it was the 20th American Girl store in the United States, featuring 12,000 square feet with a cafe and event space in addition to a walk-up doll hair salon and spa. Visit americangirl.com

RaisingARIZONAKids.com November 2020

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az grown election 2020

Election 2020

HALFPOINT

Don’t forget to vote on Tuesday, Nov. 3 VOTING IS THE MOST patriotic thing we can

required to show identification — such as

in line prior to closing time. If for some

do in a democracy — and 2020 may be the

a valid Arizona driver’s license or a valid

reason your name is not in the poll book

most significant election of our lifetime.

government-issued ID — when voting in

at your voting location, you are entitled

In addition to important local and state

person. Employers are required to grant

to a provisional ballot. If you encounter

elections and a proposition on education

three hours of paid leave to vote, unless polls

problems at the polls, you can call the

funding, Arizona’s 11 Electoral College

are open three hours before or after your

ACLU’s non-partisan Election Protection

votes could be pivotal in the outcome of

work shift. Employees must request leave

Hotline at 1-866-OUR-VOTE.

the presidential election. If you didn’t vote

before Election Day, and the employer may

Under the Help America Vote Act

during in-person early voting or request

specify the hours employees can be absent.

of 2002, voters are entitled to certain

a mail-in ballot, you’ll need to vote on Election Day — Tuesday, Nov. 3.

Voter intimidation is illegal —

rights and protections when voting in

including aggressive behavior, firearms or

the United States. Among them, voters

displays of weaponry, blocking entrances

have the right to receive instructions for

you haven’t voted in recent elections, it’s a

or intentionally disseminating false

how to vote their ballot, verify that their

good idea to check your voter registration

information. If you feel you or others are

ballot was counted as cast, make changes

status in advance of Election Day to make

being intimidated at the polls, talk to a

or corrections to their ballot before it

sure there are no problems. Find answers

poll worker or call the Secretary of State’s

is cast and vote using accessible voting

to all your voting questions and find

Office at 1-877-THE-VOTE.

machines. On election day, the Arizona

If you’re a registered Arizona voter, but

polling locations at the Arizona Secretary of State website: arizona.vote Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day. Arizona voters are

6 November 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

The American Civil Liberties Union

Center for Disability Law operates a

also helps safeguard voting rights,

HAVA hotline to address any election

including the right to vote even after the

concerns for persons with disabilities:

polling site has closed, as long as you were

602-274-6287 or 1-800-927-2260.

YMCA supports voting with FREE CHILD CARE NOV. 3, mock elections for kids

ON ELECTION DAY, the Valley of the Sun YMCA is helping citizens vote

by removing one potential barrier: childcare. Local YMCA branches will offer free childcare Nov. 3 for both members and nonmembers while they exercise their civic responsibility and head to the polls.

The service will be available from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Election Day. Children of all ages (if potty trained) are welcome.

Ages 5 and older must wear face coverings.

Up through Nov. 3, children ages 5-17 can participate in a free mock presidential election during regular business hours at all Valley of the Sun YMCA locations. It’s hosted by Kids Voting Arizona, the local affiliate of the Phoenix-based, national, nonpartisan voter education program. Mock elections allow children to vote on a ballot to better understand voting rights and civic duties.

Valley of the Sun YMCA is hosting the mock election to help a new generation understand democracy. Kids Voting USA is

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operated by the Arizona Bar Foundation. Kids who participate will get a $25 youth program credit good for all YMCA youth programming. Learn more about both childcare and the mock elections at valleyymca.org/kidsvote

RaisingARIZONAKids.com November 2020

7

az grown books

8

CIVIL RIGHTS, DEMOCRACY AND VOTING books for kids on

TUESDAY, NOV. 3, is Election Day in America, and while we may not

“Grace for President”

know the results immediately, we’ll likely be talking to our children

by Kelly DiPucchio,

about this year of civil unrest and reckoning, this election and its

illustrated by LeUyen

outcome for decades to come.

Pham. “Where are

Here are a few books that can help. From tomes that explain

the girls?” asks Grace,

the complex history of voting rights in the United States to books

who is astonished

about iconic women and men who have impacted our civil rights,

to learn the United

here’s a quick roundup of books for kids that help celebrate and

States has never had a

explore our democracy.

female president. She decides she’ll be the nation’s first and starts by running in her school election. Her popular opponent declares that he’s the “best man for the job,” while Grace works hard to be the best person. Kids get a brilliant and easy-to-understand introduction to the American Electoral College system.

Will popularity or hard work and character win the day?

“I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark,” by Debbie Levy, illustrated by Elizabeth Baddeley.

In this picture book about her life, Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg proves that disagreeing “Finish the Fight: The Brave and Revolutionary Women Who Fought

does not make you

for the Right to Vote” by Veronica Chambers and the staff of The

disagreeable. Ginsburg, who died in September, spent

New York Times. On the hundredth anniversary of women’s right

a lifetime disagreeing with inequality, arguing against

to vote, this book celebrates a diverse group of women who helped it

unfair treatment and standing up for the rights of

happen and whose stories are not widely known.

people everywhere.

8 November 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

“Start Now: You Can Make A Difference” by Chelsea Clinton.

This book explores problems large and small, from health to hunger, climate change, endangered species and bullying, and helps kids understand how they can make a difference in big and small ways.

It includes kids who are already engaged and explores ways kids can help make the world a better place.

“The Campaign,” by Leila Sales, illustrated by Kim Balacuit. Maddie Polansky never pays much attention “Sofia Valdez and the Vanishing

to politics, until she learns the frontrunner for mayor

Vote” by Andrea Beaty, illustrated

of her city intends to cut funding for the arts in

by David Roberts. Second-

public schools. Twelve-year-old Maddie persuades her

grader Sofia is named Election

babysitter, Janet, to run for mayor, and Maddie is her

Commissioner, in charge of

campaign manager.

overseeing a fair and honest election to determine what pet the class will

“This is Your

get. When the votes are counted,

Time,” by

there’s a tie, but one vote is missing.

Ruby Bridges.

How will Sofia restore democracy?

This book will be on shelves a few days before Nov. 14, the sixtieth anniversary

“Thank You for Voting: Young

since then

Readers’ Edition” by Erin Geiger

6-year-old

Smith. Kids learn about America’s

Ruby Bridges became the first Black student to

complex voting rights history,

integrate William Frantz Elementary School in

from the founding fathers to Jim

New Orleans. It is written as a letter from Bridges to

Crow to women’s suffrage to

readers, recounting her experience and culminating

gerrymandering. Readers learn why

in a call to action for a new generation of young

this civil right is so important.

activists and adults to unite.

RaisingARIZONAKids.com November 2020

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az grown education

Chandler High Spanish teacher is

ARIZONA’S 2021 TEACHER OF THE YEAR

By RAK staff

SARA WYFFELS, a nationally board-certified Spanish teacher

at Chandler High School, was named Arizona’s 2021 Teacher of the Year during a live-streamed program hosted Oct. 23 by the Arizona Educational Foundation.

“I’m so grateful for this recognition and what it means for my students, my school, and my district,” said Wyffels, who teaches Spanish, International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement classes at Chandler High. “2020 has been a tremendously tough year for teachers as we’ve been presented with new challenges in delivering instruction and maintaining vital connections with students. Being honored by AEF in this way celebrates and lifts up the entire education profession.”

Wyffels earned her bachelor of arts degree in Spanish from Western Washington University and a master’s degree in teaching from the University of Portland.

“Being a teacher is one of the most fulfilling careers an individual can have because you are changing lives,” Wyffels said. “As a Spanish teacher, I see firsthand how the power of language inspires human connection.

10 November 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Teaching language isn’t just about learning new vocabulary; it’s opening the eyes of my students to a world beyond themselves and learning alongside of them how to be global citizens.”

Wyffels said her love of languages was sparked by her study abroad experience in college.

As the winner, Wyffels gets a $15,000 cash prize and will represent Arizona in the National Teacher of the Year competition.

She will also attend International Space Camp and spend a week at Google’s main headquarters in California with other state Teachers of the Year.

A nonprofit dedicated to celebrating and supporting public education, the Arizona Educational Foundation chose Wyffels from among five finalists for its annual Arizona Teacher of the Year award.

This year, all five Teacher of the Year finalists were shown teaching their students online as they’ve had to do during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Teachers have been forced to become all things to all students,” said AEF executive director Kim Graham. “Not only do they teach academics, but they help students navigate life skills like managing emotions, hygiene, and nutrition. Many students come to class each day with trauma and teachers are often the only person in a child’s life who makes them feel loved.

“Teachers serve on the front lines of their students’ lives every day. That dedication deserves to be celebrated and honored.”

Learn more about the Arizona Teacher of the Year Awards at azedfoundation.org/teacher-of-the-year

2021 Ambassadors for Excellence 2020 Teacher of the Year finalists were named “Ambassadors for Excellence” at the award ceremony. They include: Estevan Carreon, special education teacher at Independence High School in Glendale Jillian Hernandez, fifth grade teacher at Puente de Hózhó in Flagstaff

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AD MIS 11: URD 00A AY SIO M-6 , N N :00 OV PM EM BER 14 AERIALS ARTIST DEMOS KIDS ACTIVITIES LIVE PERFORMANCES LIVE PERFORMANCES • ARTIST DEMOS ONLINE PERFORMANCES & VENDORS ONLINE PERFORMANCES & VENDORS AERIALS • KIDS ACTIVITIES MASKS REQUIRED INCREASED CLEANING PROCEDURES

SOCIALLY DISTANCED SEATING DAILY HEALTH SCREENINGS FOR VOLUNTEERS AND EMPLOYEES

Sara Mora, career and technical education teacher at Wrightson Ridge School in Sahuarita Hillary Stacey, chemistry teacher at Empire High School in Tucson HERBERGERTHEATER.ORG | 602.254.7399

RaisingARIZONAKids.com November 2020

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az grown technology

USING COMMON SENSE

Why social and emotional learning

is so important right now

By Ilana Lowery

E

VEN BEFORE THE PANDEMIC,

social media can have a powerful impact

scientist at New Amsterdam Consulting

experts were expressing growing

on their futures.

Inc. “Resilience is a product of self-

concern about a mental health crisis

This is why social and emotional

among young people in Arizona and

learning (SEL) is so important. Kids

nationwide. Then, the pandemic

need skills to think through their own

The five core competencies

upended all our lives, and kids were

emotions, and they need to understand

embedded in the SEL theory are:

redirected to online classrooms and

how to navigate online challenges. And

• self-awareness

quarantined away from friends and loved

another factor is key to making the right

• self-management

ones in what has been an all-around

choices: character.

• social awareness

tumultuous year.

“At the risk of stating the obvious,

According to the Collaborative for Academic, Social and Emotional

regulation and positive relationships, which are the goals of SEL.”

• responsible decision-making/critical thinking

the pandemic and the current social

Learning (casel.org), SEL is the process

and political climates are incredibly

through which children and adults

stressful,” says R. Bradley Snyder,

acquire and effectively apply the

for teaching these core competencies is

executive director for the Dion Initiative

knowledge, attitudes and skills needed

their own behaviors. “Our children are

for Child Well-Being and Bullying

to understand and manage emotions,

less likely to listen to what we say than to

Prevention in Phoenix.

set and achieve positive goals, feel and

model what we do,” he explains. “Parents

show empathy for others, establish and

should devote time to their relationships

decisions every day — decisions

maintain positive relationships and make

with their children in environments that

that often are complicated by digital

responsible decisions.

are free from distractions, where the

Kids are faced with making tough

technology. And now that kids are

“The term for a child’s ability to

• relationship skills Snyder says the best tool parents have

relationships can be the sole focus, where

online even more, how they respond to

cope with stress is ‘resilience’,” explains

active listening skills can be practiced,

cyberbullying or decide what to share on

Snyder, who also serves a senior research

where relationships can be discussed and

12 November 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

where role-playing can occur.”

Dr. Elizabeth Fedrick, with Evolve

romantically and professionally.”

It has been argued, Fedrick continues,

with varying backgrounds, life experiences and family dynamics, so it provides a

Counseling & Behavioral Health Services

that “soft skills” for effective social-

wonderful opportunity for children to

in Gilbert, agrees, saying it is “crucial” for

emotional functioning are among the

practice both self-awareness and social

parents to engage in SEL.

most defining factors of personal and

awareness, as well as a great place to assist

professional success in adulthood.

children in openly exploring together

“The primary method in which a parent can most effectively teach

Beyond modeling SEL, Fedrick

different cultures, worldviews and belief

their child necessary social-emotional

recommends mindfulness activities, role-

systems in a respectful and appropriate

skills … is through role modeling,” she

playing social skills, observing intentional

way,” she says.

says. “Children are products of their

one-on-one time with open dialogue,

environment and do not learn how to

and creating a safe environment in which

coordinated strategy across classrooms,

behave based on what they are told, but

children can openly experience and

schools, districts, homes and communities.

rather based on what they observe. Thus,

express emotions.

Experts have long said meeting the social

a parent desiring to teach SEL can only

Social and emotional stresses interrupt

Ultimately, effective SEL involves a

and emotional needs of students is critical

be effective if they are also modeling self-

learning, which is why schools across

to academic success — that students learn

regulation, mindfulness and appropriate

Arizona are adopting SEL standards as a

better when they feel heard, valued and

social skills.”

way to create safer school communities

respected. And we know SEL skills make

that are positive environments that

us better people at home, at school, in our

children in regulating, identifying and

provide a foundation for success in school

communities and in the workplace.

naming the emotions they are experiencing,

and in life.

When parents take time to assist their

as well as working together to solve the

“Without positive relationships, the

“SEL should be embedded in all of our interactions with each other and

problem at hand, the child starts to learn

school climate collapses, and grades and

with young people,” said Cierra Kaler-

how to engage in this process on their own,

test [scores] decline,” Snyder says.

Jones, Education Anew Fellow with

which ultimately leads to more responsible

Implementing SEL and character

Washington, D.C.-based Communities

and logical decision-making and behaviors,

instruction aren’t without challenge

for Just Schools Fund and Teaching

Fedrick says

or debate. There is a lack of consensus

for Change. “True SEL is about

about how to measure SEL skills, how

understanding our relationships with

something we are born with, but rather

technology fits into SEL instruction

ourselves and with others. It’s to know

something that is learned,” she says.

and whether “character” can truly be

ourselves as holistic human beings, and to

“Emotional intelligence is vital for

taught. But a few things are clear: SEL is

be able to see the humanity in others to

effective social skills and is also necessary

important, teachers value it, and digital

fight, together, for the world we deserve,

to maintain positive relationships, as it is

technology is permanent part of our lives.

which is rooted in equity and justice.

“Emotional intelligence is not

through SEL that children are taught how

The classroom is “a highly

We can’t do this or do this well if we

to be aware of the experiences of others,

advantageous environment for SEL

compartmentalize SEL to being just a

and how to relate and show empathy for

instruction” because kids are actively

portion of our day.”

others. All humans have a basic need to

engaging and communicating with peers

be seen and heard by others. Teaching

and authority figures, as well as learning

our children how to do this at a young

how to interact, compromise and set

Media. She can be reached at

age is setting them up for success in all

boundaries with others, Fedrick said.

ilowery@commonsense.org.

future relationships, including socially,

Ilana Lowery is the Arizona director for Common Sense

“The classroom consists of individuals

RaisingARIZONAKids.com November 2020

13

az grown health

Why you shouldn’t delay WELL-CHECK visits Dr. Michael Arbel THE CORONAVIRUS IS SCARY for all of us.

Pediatric offices across the Valley are doing their best to keep everyone safe and provide good care to our patients even at this time.

In our office, we are taking multiple extra safety steps to protect ourselves and our patients. We screen ourselves to make sure we are not sick. We measure our temperatures twice a day. We use masks and goggles all day, and if we suspect a patient has the coronavirus, we put on N95 masks, face shields and gowns. We set aside a special designated room for that patient.

All patients come in separate entrances

growth and development. At these visits we

would be for babies and young children.

marked “sick” and “well” to keep sick

can detect signs of major illnesses — such

A pediatrician’s office is a resource for

patients from infecting healthy ones.

as congenital heart disease or, very rarely,

patients and their parents. We address lots

Patients can wait in their cars and get called

cancer. Kids with congenital abnormalities

of questions about healthy developmental

in via text so they don’t have to sit in a

need close followup, as do premature

milestones, new parents’ anxieties and,

waiting room. The whole office is cleaned

babies. We look for signs of failure to

especially now, Covid-related topics.

frequently. We also offer telemedicine

thrive or developmental disabilities like

Preventive medicine is critical, particularly

consultations via phone or computer.

autism — and intervene early.

during a public-health crisis. We

Even when a child seems perfectly

And immunizations are key,

pediatricians can serve your family safely,

healthy, it’s important to come in for

particularly right now, when vaccination

helping keep your children healthy even

regular doctor visits. It’s understandable

rates throughout the population are down

during a pandemic.

that parents would put off appointments

significantly. Immunizations protect

during this unusual time, but that can

our kids from meningitis, severe blood

board-certified pediatrician

create its own consequences, particularly

infection, vomiting and diarrhea viruses,

for 30 years. He practices at

for infants and young children, who need

influenza and other illnesses.

Southwest Pediatrics in Phoenix

to come in for scheduled well checks and get immunized on time.

Well checks are designed to screen for

14 November 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Older kids also need to come in for regular visits, but a short delay in scheduling those is not as serious as it

Dr. Michael Arbel has been a

and is a member of the Arizona Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, which partners with Raising Arizona Kids to provide monthly health columns.

The Arizona Autism Coalition improves the

lives of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families in Arizona by sharing resources

KAMIL MACNIAK PHOTOGRAPHY

and affecting autism systems reform through state-wide collaboration and advocacy.

Register for these events at azautism.org!

5th Annual

Saturday, February 20, 2021 | 9am - 1pm Ability360 Sports & Fitness Center

AUTISM EXPO is a FREE RESOURCE FAIR for families, caregivers and individuals to connect with supports in Arizona!

RaisingARIZONAKids.com November 2020

15

az grown science

SARI ON SCIENCE

MAKE MAGICAL “DANCING” MILK

By Sari Custer LOOKING FOR ACTIVITIES to keep your family

2. Add 3 to 5 drops of food coloring to the milk (I

When soap is added to the milk, one end of the

busy while staying home? All you need to do is

suggest adding multiple colors spaced apart).

soap molecule is attracted to the fats (or really trying

take a look around your kitchen. Chemistry is the

Do not stir.

to get away from the water) in the milk, while the

branch of science that looks at substances and how they interact and change. This happens daily in your kitchen when doing simple things from

3. Take a clean cotton swab and touch the tip to

other end is attracted to the water in the milk and dye.

the center of the liquid. What happens?

These molecules zip around, trying to form clusters

4. Take another clean cotton swab and place a

around the fat molecules. This rapidly mixing fat and

boiling water to baking, washing dishes to (my

drop of dish soap on the end. Now touch this

soap causes swirling and churning, making your milk

daughter’s favorite) watching your cereal milk

swab into the center of the milk. Avoid stirring.

“dance!” When the fat droplets have been surrounded

change colors!

Did anything happen?

and dispersed throughout the milk, the motion stops.

“Dancing milk” is one of our favorite family

5. What observations did you make? Did the liquid

Try touching the milk a second time with a

science activities. And it uses ingredients you

react the same way with both cotton swabs? Why

soapy cotton swab. Did anything happen? Test your

likely already have in the house.

do you think the milk reacted the way it did?

results further by swapping your 2 percent milk with skim or whole milk to see if anything changes. Find

Materials needed:

What’s happening?

• Plate or pie pan

• Soap

• 1 cup 2 percent milk

• Cotton swabs

• Food coloring

This activity has some great chemistry going mostly made of water, but it also contains vitamins,

Directions:

coloring you’re using is made of water and dye.

1. Pour enough milk to cover the bottom of the

Soap molecules are hydrophobic (water fearing) at

16 November 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

@ Arizona Science Center at azscience.org

on! Let’s look at what’s in our materials: Milk is minerals, proteins and tiny droplets of fat. The food

plate or pan.

more great science activities online with CONNECT

one end and hydrophilic (water loving) at the other.

Sari Custer is a lifelong science junkie, Chief of Science and Curiosity at Arizona Science Center, and mom to daughter Carson (6). Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @ SariOnScience.

CCS

MICHELLE-RENEE ADAMS

TODDLER-4TH GRADE

PRESCHOOL-ELEMENTARY

602.381.9906

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This holiday season, make your child’s future light up.

A college education helps make for a brighter future. An AZ529 account helps make it possible.

Open an AZ529 Plan today!

Hurry! Plan must fund by December 31 to qualify for 2020 tax deduction.

RaisingARIZONAKids.com November 2020

17

Giving thanks 3

ways to practice genuine gratitude

By Sophie Strosberg | Illustrations by Franzi

18 November 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

S

omeone you know has just told you about the power of “practicing gratitude.” What’s your reaction?

Are you interested? Curious? Or are you like me: slightly skeptical and irritated that anyone would think our pandemic-rattled minds have the bandwidth these days to add whatever it is that practicing gratitude entails? Maybe your feelings are mixed.

I decided that if there was room for gratitude this holiday season — even in the face of hardship for so many families — I would find it. Over the last few months, I went on a quest to learn more about being thankful. The verdict? Gratitude doesn’t just seem useful. It seems kind of awesome.

Yes, I began this quest with a skeptical view. After all, gratitude-asself-improvement can seem a bit instrumentalist (i.e., “I’ll be grateful to you so that I can boost my own oxytocin levels”). And public calls for gratitude can seem designed to counteract work for social or political change (i.e., “Stop complaining and just be grateful”). In fact, in a recent “Psychology Today” article, psychologist Alfie Kohn blasts what he calls “generic gratitude” for both its capacity to conceal the very real ailments and hardships we may face and its implication that we ought to accept the societal status quo.

Caveats aside, couldn’t we all use a little of that sweet gratitude

observant members of my own faith, Judaism, there is said to be

serotonin this year? And what about gratitude strengthening our

a blessing thanking our higher power for just about everything,

connections to those around us at a time when our neighbors

from seeing a rainbow to going to the bathroom.

might as well be miles away? Could gratitude give us a reason to keep going when the going gets tougher than ever?

Yet, appreciating the contributions of other humans also counts as gratitude, and can go a long way toward securing

The short answer: yes. Here are three ways to practice

interpersonal relationships. For instance, Arizona State University

gratitude — and actually mean it — as a parent in 2020.

psychologist and gratitude researcher Frank Infurna and his wife,

Hey, you — thanks for that!

Lauren, consistently show gratitude for one another each day on their small Phoenix farm. During an interview for the university’s

I call the first approach to gratitude a grateful-to approach.

blog, he explained that “gratitude contributes to individuals’

Even a vague definition of gratitude, like this one from “Harvard

feelings of belonging with others.” He notes that humans are

Health,” distinguishes feeling grateful for something in one’s life,

social creatures, and that gratitude can build community.

and being grateful to the person or force who gave it to you: “With gratitude, people acknowledge the goodness in their

Still, gratitude toward other humans can be hard. “People are complex, and they give in such confounding ways,” writes Jewish

lives. In the process, people usually recognize that the source

scholar Alan Morinis in his book, “Everyday Holiness.” “But we

of that goodness lies at least partially outside themselves. As a

need to be ready to give thanks to a fellow human being, even if

result, gratitude also helps people connect to something larger

he or she has not done anything special for us. Why? Because the

than themselves.”

soul-trait of gratitude holds the key to opening the heart” and to

For those who already feel a connection to a higher power, the grateful-to approach might come fairly easily. Indeed, for

connecting with humans and inanimate objects (“Thank you, soft bed!”) as well as with the divine.

RaisingARIZONAKids.com November 2020

19

Several years ago, I went to a meditation group session. Our guide told us to give thanks to the person toward whom we held the most resentment. I knew I had to direct this toward an old

one’s whole life, being reflective in a way that most of us are not, most of the time.”

Therefore, this second, reflective approach entails using

romantic foil I’d long called my arch-nemesis. At first, I was

gratitude to really consider our lives — all the wonder and

reluctant, but during a very long 10 minutes of meditation, I

goodness they contain. My fiance takes this approach. As someone

managed to find that I was grateful to her for the challenges she

in recovery, he takes gratitude practices very seriously, so I recently

had set up for me. After that day, my feeling toward her went

asked him more about the topic. Cultivating appreciation and

from deeply negative to shockingly neutral: she had given me the

gratitude as a general frame of mind, he said, keeps him reaching

chance to grow into the woman I am today.

toward healthy coping mechanisms — art, music, nature,

One thing you can do: Try letting members of your family know that you are grateful to them for something. Even if they can’t — or don’t — answer, you will be deepening the connection between you.

Consider the wonder of life itself

relationships and community — instead of harmful ones. In turn, these things make gratitude more possible.

He also pointed out that in 2020, we are all in recovery — the pandemic and national political tension has likely touched us all.

His suggestion? Ask yourself, “What are the permanent things we appreciate? We can cling to those to keep us grounded.”

As I sat down to write this article, I came across a 2004

Not long after my discussion with him, I got an alert that a

volume called “The Psychology of Gratitude.” In its foreword,

book had arrived for me at my library branch. It was “Gratitude,”

philosopher Robert Solomon picks apart the difference between

by Oliver Sacks, an adored neurologist and writer who died

being grateful-to and being grateful-for. He finds that gratitude in

recently at age 81. In this collection of four essays penned shortly

the form of a relationship to another has its role, but that it is also

before his death, he, too, takes this reflective approach.

about “seeing the bigger picture. … It is a matter of being aware of

20 November 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

“I cannot pretend I am without fear,” Sacks writes. “But my

predominant feeling is one of gratitude. I have loved and been

like “... even though I’m being screwed over by Cox Internet” or

loved; I have been given much and I have given something in

“... because some people don’t have a great family to be thankful

return; I have read and traveled and thought and written.”

for.” These sentiments just seemed off, but “be thankful” didn’t

His active engagement with the world around him left him with a broad sense of gratitude — something we all might hope to

give me enough to diagnose the problem.

My sister has consciously incorporated gratitude into her

harness in the face of uncertainty. One thing you can do: Think

thought processes for years as she has worked to improve her

about some activity that gives you space to reflect. Is it star-gazing?

mental health. And she agreed — this wasn’t what gratitude was

Uninterrupted family time? Uninterrupted non-family time?

about. These were comparisons, she said.

Journaling or meditating? Consider how you can integrate these things further into your weekly routine.

Don’t compare, relish One day this summer, I was griping about gratitude during a phone conversation with my sister. On top of my other concerns

First, I was comparing what I appreciated in my life to what was wrong in my life. Second, I was comparing what I had to what others do not. Both of these comparisons led my thoughts away from that upon which I was trying to focus gratitude — my experience of my family.

The solution, my sister told me, could come out of mindfulness

with the concept, I told her, instructions to “be thankful” weren’t

practices, in which one focuses on what one is sensing and feeling

specific enough. I explained that I found myself consistently

in the present, without judgment. I call this a mindfulness

finishing thoughts like “I’m grateful for my family” with things

approach. For instance, I might use mindfulness methods to focus my gratitude on a particular family moment — say, sitting around the kitchen table painting together. Through mindfulness, I could simply relish that moment, think about how it made me feel, truly absorb every aspect of it.

I wouldn’t think about the argument I’d had with my daughter earlier that day, or how dumb my internet bill was, or how I pity those without this family closeness, or even how I’m going to deal with the next stretch of the pandemic. The point, in that moment of gratitude, wouldn’t be to solve problems. It would be to bolster my spirit. It would be to help me survive/support/fight again tomorrow. It would help me remember what it is I am working for.

One thing you can do: Set aside 5 minutes and pick one thing (or person) you are grateful for. Be as specific as possible: it could be something that happened yesterday or a food you love or friend you’ve spoken to recently. For a few minutes, turn this thing around in your head. In what ways has it improved your life? How great is it that you get to have this thing in your life? How can it inspire you tomorrow?

Sophie Strosberg is a Tucson freelance writer and mom to 4-year-old Poppy. At this moment, she’s grateful to be part of the RAK community. Reach her at sophiestrosberg.com

RaisingARIZONAKids.com November 2020

21

RAISING OUTDOOR KIDS

Chicken coops offer adventures beyond egg hunts Story by Lisa Van Loo | Photos by Ron Abler

T

he adults used to be the first ones awake at our house, pretty regularly.

In recent weeks, that’s changed. Now, it’s not uncommon for us to hear a couple of feet walking across the floor before we’ve gotten out of bed — feet carrying a little kid to the door that leads to our backyard.

And it’s all because of chickens.

We’ve arrived at the chicken chapter of our lives. It includes constant reports from the kids on chicken activities, involves a new kind of food in our chewy.com cart and gives us fresh eggs every day. We had talked about chickens for years, and we finally fell into owning them a few weeks ago, when we stumbled across the perfect coop — an item we’ve been scouring OfferUp for with conviction since the

22 November 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Coops were hard to come by, or at least

What we’ve learned from raising chickens

the kind we wanted: one with a full-size

• PROTECT YOUR PLANTS.

beginning of the pandemic.

We must not have been the only ones.

door, so we wouldn’t have to crouch to clean their tiny ladder or refill their water dish. It’s idealistic to think kids will do all the extra chores — feeding, cleaning the coop, opening it in the morning and closing it at night — but we all know adults are going to have to be involved on some level, even if it’s a supervisory role.

When the coop’s owner said he’d only sell if we took the two chickens he had, we looked at the clock and figured out how quickly we could get to him. The coop was so good that we were prepared to be unprepared about chicken ownership.

How unprepared? We knew nothing about the different kinds of chickens. We

Chickens will eat a garden as if they’re weed wackers, so protect your plants with chickenproof barriers.

• HUNT FOR EGGS. We

wanted chickens because with seven people in the house, we easily consume an 18-pack of eggs in a few days. But chickens will lay where they want, so keep your eyes open. The kids like everything about the chickens, but they love the daily egg hunt.

• OFFER TREATS. Chickens like freeze-dried mealworms as treats. And they’re not

gross for humans to hold.

• OBSERVE BEDTIME. They put themselves to bed. It’s amazing.

• DISCOVER EGGS OF ALL SHADES. Hens begin laying, generally, around six

months or so depending on the breed. Find the right breed, and you’ll get blue or green eggs, just like Dr. Seuss.

had just planted our “microfarm,” and had

• ENJOY THEIR ANTICS. Chickens are social. They like hugs. They’re chatty, but

begun to see sprouts on our winter greens.

not loud. Their distinct personalities are a crackup. And there is something super calming about going in the garden and just watching them and hearing them throughout the day.

And we didn’t have a fully functioning gate on our little farm, one designed to keep chickens in and dogs out.

So we researched and found chicken groups on Facebook. We watched, with

We discovered, in a separate gardening

Other than that, we look for eggs,

sadness, as the chickens snacked our

group, that little sprouts can be protected

because they don’t lay eggs in their cute

fresh sprouts into extinction, and then

by using upside-down, mesh trash cans

little nesting boxes. Not one of them.

we researched how to protect our garden.

found at the 99 Cents Only store. So, we

They’ve all decided to lay them behind our

We socialized our herding dogs with the

hunted down enough (read: we went to

compost bin, for whatever reason chickens

chickens, after learning while on vacation

three different locations) and populated

choose these types of things. We’ve become

that one chicken did not survive a run-in

our garden boxes with them. For the most

so spoiled, we’re almost disappointed if we

with one of the dogs.

part, they’ve kept the hens out.

don’t find three eggs every day.

These things happen. But we bounced

Now we make sure the dogs are

back. We found two hens in need of a

supervised. The chickens are enclosed,

home and scooped them up. Although we

but they can slip through our fence, and

had decided against naming the birds, the

the dogs generally want, so badly, to be

kids decided one should be Beyonce and

good girls. But, we still supervise to make

the other RBG. Who can argue with that?

sure instincts don’t take over.

Lisa Van Loo is a Gilbert freelance journalist. Ron Abelar is an avid outdoorsman and photographer. Together, they are parenting five children.

Follow them on Instagram @ RaisingOutdoorKids

RaisingARIZONAKids.com November 2020

23

Forget perfectionism.

The pandemic is an opportunity to teach kids the concept of giving oneself grace

By Maggie Zehring

24 November 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

If

the pandemic has taught me anything

Center in Tempe challenges that a little. A marriage and family

in the last seven months, it’s that we all handle stress

therapist, Drachenberg works with families in child-parent

differently, and these differences create conflict within a

psychotherapy and counsels family units in overcoming trauma.

family. It can be challenging enough to mitigate different

She agrees that structure is helpful for kids — especially in

coping mechanisms between adults, but it’s an added

stressful times. But she insists rhythm is the real goal.

challenge to model healthy reactions to stress for our children.

COVID-19 affected more than just what we wear to protect

Rhythm allows for creativity and flexibility amid the unknown, says Drachenberg. The goal is to be flexibly firm

ourselves when going out in public, or even who we spend time

and avoid rigidity. She gave the example of always playing with

with. The pandemic brought to our attention the importance of

your child for the same amount of time at the same time each

showing grace and caring for ourselves when things around us

day (i.e. 20 minutes before bedtime), but being flexible in what

feel like they are swirling and out of control.

that play might look like. Maybe one day you go on a walk, or

Arthur C. Evans Jr., CEO of the American Psychological Association, insists self-care should be a priority right now.

another day you cuddle on the couch and watch TV. The key, she says, is to be consistent in the connection but

“For many parents, it can feel overwhelming to face competing

flexible in the ways you connect. To that end, Drachenberg

demands at home and work along with possible financial

cautions us to avoid the pressure to be a perfect parent in such

challenges during this crisis,” he said in response to an APA

unprecedented times.

survey showing parents are exhibiting high stress levels during

In this space of navigating new normals, it’s normal for

the pandemic. “Children are keen observers and often notice and

us parents to want to do the exact right thing to help our

react to stress or anxiety in their parents, caregivers, peers and

children make it out of the pandemic with minimal tension

community. Parents should prioritize their self-care and try their

and conflict. But it’s unrealistic to think that we’re going to

best to model healthy ways of coping with stress and anxiety.”

handle this new stress perfectly — and on top of it, teach our

Stress responses for both children and adults can include trouble sleeping, increased or decreased appetite, impatience,

children to do the same.

If my husband and I responded to shelter-in-place orders

anxiety, fearfulness, agitation, and depression. These responses

with such polar opposite approaches (painting versus napping),

can manifest in different ways for different people.

just imagine the varied responses we see from our kids.

In our home, I decided to repaint the greater part of our

Drachenberg encourages parents to use these differences and

house, deep clean baseboards, and study for the Law School

the conflict that might arise between adults as an opportunity

Entrance Exam (LSAT) during the pandemic. My husband

to teach grace and reconciliation to our kids.

Nick tackled our taxes, refinanced our home and took extra

“A lot of parents put themselves into this idea that they have

naps. Our kids have been taking advantage of extra screen

to be perfect and always get it right,” said Drachenberg. “Kids

time and wearing us down on our snack guidelines.

need to see their parents be people and know that they don’t

These disparate coping strategies are benign enough to make you laugh, but were not without marital tension. I had leftover

have to be perfect.”

None of us could have seen the pandemic coming, so it’s

energy and felt cooped up, so changing my environment sounded

crucial that we are patient with each other. If there’s any silver

great to me but unnecessary to my husband. He felt overwhelmed

lining, COVID-19 has given me more than freshly repainted

by the sudden change in our freedom and wanted to take

walls. It’s offered me a chance to step up my self-care,

advantage of time to research our financials. I had unspoken

prompted me to model flexibility and pushed me to show

expectations that his new work-from-home arrangement would

family members — and myself — grace.

lend itself to more help with the kids. Conflict was inevitable.

Then there’s the kids. Many experts during this pandemic have stressed children’s need for structure and consistency in

Maggie Zehring of Scottsdale juggles her writing and social media skills with being a mom to three rambunctious young boys.

ISTOCK

times of trauma. Jessica Drachenberg of Journeys Counseling

RaisingARIZONAKids.com November 2020

25

family time!

Canal Convergence (Nov. 6-15).

NOVEMBER TOP EVENTS

OCT. 29-NOV. 2: Scottsdale Día de los Muertos Art Installation Experience. Explore large-scale sculptures, art installations and altars filling the Old Adobe Mission area of Old Town Scottsdale and Scottsdale Civic & Performing Arts Center. 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Free. 3817 N. Brown Ave. and 7380 E. Second St. in Scottsdale. scottsdalediadelosmuertos.com

NOV. 1:

Cooler weather is here. American democracy is in action. And the pandemic

Phoenix Conservatory of Music Open House. Tour the conservatory’s

is refusing to disappear, as COVID cases tick up globally and nationwide.

new facilities, explore an instrument “petting zoo” and meet current students,

We’re back to drive-in performances and socially distanced outdoor events

families and staff. PCM offers in-person and online private music lessons and

heading into the holiday season. Fortunately, it’s easy to enjoy movies and

classes. Enjoy live small combo, ensemble and solo performances, a local food

holiday lights from one’s car. Let’s mask up, so we can tamp down this new

truck and a 1:30 p.m. community drum circle. Bring lawn chairs or blankets.

wave and get on a path toward a happier, healthier 2021.

Plus make-and-take activities and an art project. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. 1316 E. Cheery Lynn Road, Phoenix. pcmrocks.org

NOTE: Because last-minute schedule changes can occur, please confirm dates and times on event websites.

Find more extensive day-by-day event listings at raisingarizonakids.com/calendar

Pumpkin and Chili Party. It’s the final day to pick a pumpkin and enjoy a chili dinner at Schnepf Farms. Admission includes rides, corn maze, mini golf, petting zoo, tractor play yard, deer feeding, Carousel Museum, giant yard games, corn hole games, line dancing, face painting and more. 1-9 p.m. $10-23. Schnepf

Send calendar info to familytime@RAKmagazine.com

26 November 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Farms, 24610 S. Rittenhouse Road, Queen Creek. schnepffarms.com

NOV. 4:

NOV. 6-15:

Thrivin’ at the Drive-in. Join the Chandler Children’s Choir for a safe,

Canal Convergence. Scottsdale’s annual art celebration will still feature large-scale

socially distanced live performance under the stars, then enjoy a family-

art installations along the canal at the Scottsdale Waterfront and multiple Scottsdale

friendly movie. Masks are required where social distancing is not possible.

locations to increase social distancing. Scottsdale Public Art and Scottsdale Arts Learning

6 p.m. (gates open at 5:30). $40/car (concert only); $55/car (concert

& Innovation host online streaming events and an augmented reality app to showcase

plus movie). Digital Drive-In AZ, 1901 N. Alma School Road, Mesa.

live music, workshops, artist talks and more. Rosy and Alex Mack music and dance

thethompsoneventcenter.ticketspice.com/chandler-choir

performance (Nov. 6), alt-pop musician Gabe Kubanda (Nov. 7), The Sawmill Grinders (Nov. 8), Jazz from the Nash (Nov. 9), LuMar (Nov. 10), The Hourglass Cats (Nov. 12). Plus ITCH Theatre’s Scratch Comedy Troupe on Nov. 11 and “Gather” storytelling at the Kerr

NOV. 3:

Cultural Center on Nov. 15. canalconvergence.com

ELECTION DAY in America. Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Valley of the Sun YMCA locations are offering free childcare for citizens while they vote.

NOV. 6-28: Free outdoor concerts. Desert Ridge Marketplace and Tempe Marketplace host local

NOV. 6-8:

bands for free outdoor concerts on Friday and/or Saturday nights. See full schedules at

Musical Instrument Museum’s 10th anniversary celebration. Embark

shopdesertridge.com and tempemarketplace.com

on a musical journey around the globe to commemorate MIM’s 10th anniversary and reflect on a decade of music — the language of the soul. Diverse musical and dance performances, activities and drumming circles will bring MIM’s immense collection to life. $10-$20. 1-4 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. SaturdaySunday. 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. 480-478-6000 or mim.org

NOV. 6-10: Scottsdale International Film Festival returns for its 20th anniversary as an online event

NOV. 7:

showcasing 20 curated films — including one with

The Junior League of Phoenix Touch-a-Truck event will be a drive-thru experience at

a local connection, “Butter,” written by local YA

Paradise Valley Mall. Your children can explore some of their favorite big trucks and heavy

author Erin Jade Lange and set in Scottsdale. $9.99 per film; $45 for 5; $90 for

machinery from the safety of your vehicle. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with a “horn-free hour” from

10. $170 VIP all-access pass includes a commemorative mask. “Unlock” and

9-10 a.m. for children with special needs and sensitive ears. Preregister. $25/vehicle; all

watch your selections any time beginning Nov. 6. scottsdalefilmfestival.com

proceeds benefit JLP programs. jlp.org/touch-a-truck

NOV. 6-12: Movies in Your Car. Enjoy drive-in movies from the comfort of your car

NOV. 7 AND 28:

at the Arizona State Fairgrounds! Sound is distributed through car radios.

The Dinosaur Picnic Drive-in Puppet Show: Join a talented group of dinosaurs for a

$19 per carload (up to 8); the number of passengers must not exceed the

boisterous good time at the Great Arizona Puppet Theater’s interactive show. Drive up, tune

vehicle’s safety belts/seats. 7 p.m. Movies: Rocky Horror Picture Show (Nov.

in, and enjoy the prehistoric antics from the comfort of your car. 10 a.m.; the parking lot

6), Grease (Nov. 7), Toy Story 4 (Nov. 11), Edward Scissorhands (Nov. 12).

opens 15 minutes before showtime. $40 per vehicle ($30 for members); tickets must be

All cars must enter from 17th Avenue and McDowell. azstatefair.com/ciyc/ or

purchased before 5 p.m. the day before the show. Call 602-262-2050, ext. 0 to purchase

concertsinyourcar.com/arizona

tickets. 302 W. Latham St., Phoenix. azpuppets.org

RaisingARIZONAKids.com November 2020

27

family time! NOVEMBER TOP EVENTS

ZooLights (Nov. 7-Jan.31).

NOV. 7-JAN. 3:

NOV. 8:

The Polar Express. Grand Canyon Railway’s Polar Express comes to

Gratitude Party in the Park. Sing, dance and jam like a tiny Woodstock with Music Together in

life on a journey from Williams, Arizona, to “the North Pole” — where

Phoenix — an early childhood music program for babies through the early elementary years. Wear

Santa Claus and his reindeer are waiting with a keepsake present for

masks, bring a picnic blanket (set up six feet apart) and something to shake, tap or swoosh. 1 p.m.

every good girl and boy. Watch children’s faces light up when the

Roadrunner Park (northeast corner), 3502 E. Cactus Road, Phoenix. Park along 36th Street. Free

train arrives, and enjoy hot chocolate and chocolate chip cookies. The

with RSVP at musictogetherinphx.com/demos.aspx

90-minute train ride departs at 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. most nights with the exception of holidays and select Mondays and Tuesdays. $33-$47 Sunday-Thursday, $47-$59 Friday-Saturday, $59-$85 Christmas Eve.

NOV. 11:

thetrain.com/events/polar-express

East Valley Veterans Day Parade. Attendees can participate in this reimagined event by driving their cars past dozens of stationary parade entries parked along the East Valley parade route.

Spectators are encouraged to decorate cars in patriotic themes to honor America’s veterans. Free.

NOV. 7-JAN. 31

11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Enter the parade route waiting area off University Drive at Centennial Way evvp.org

ZooLights. For the first time in its history, see ZooLights from the comfort of your own car on select nights, or walk through to see the millions of twinkling holiday lights and dazzling animal sculptures.

NOV 12:

The Africa Trail and all-new Wildlife Lantern Safari feature polar bears,

Phoenix Film Festival. Arizona’s largest film festival hosts more than 220 independent films

mammoths, koalas, kangaroos and more. 5:30-10:30 p.m. Purchase

during 11 days at the Harkins Scottsdale 101. For its 20th anniversary event, the festival will

Cruise Zoolights tickets in advance. Cruise-through: $75/carload ($60

offer fewer screenings, seating will socially distanced and Harkins employees will fully clean and

for members). Walk-through: $16-$20 per person. Kettle corn, hot

disinfect theaters between films. Many other safety protocols, including mandatory masks, will

cocoa, souvenir photos and select glow items for sale. 455 N. Galvin

be observed. $15 per ticket, $40-$200 per festival pass, $350-$400 VIP pass. See schedule at

Parkway, Phoenix. phoenixzoo.org

phoenixfilmfestival.com

28 November 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

YOU WANT

[Comprehensive Care.]

We Are Your Healthcare Team.

• Multispecialty Clinic

Family Medicine Foot and Ankle Services Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine

• Therapy Institute

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Physical Therapy Clinical Psychology Speech-Language Pathology Occupational Therapy Vision Therapy

• Dental Institute • Eye Institute • Animal Health Institute

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RaisingARIZONAKids.com November 2020

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family time! NOVEMBER TOP EVENTS

NOV. 13-14: Concerts in Your Car. Enjoy live concerts from your car at the Arizona State Fairgrounds! Sound is distributed to attendees via their car radios. $99-$249 per carload (up to 8); the number of passengers must not exceed the vehicle’s safety belts/seats. Nov. 13: 311 at 5:30 and 8:30 p.m. Nov. 14: Sublime with Rome at 8:30 p.m. azstatefair.com/ciyc/ or concertsinyourcar.com/arizona

NOV. 13-15: Greasepaint Courtyard Theatre Presents: Charlotte’s Web. Greasepaint

seating. Fern saves the tiny pig Wilbur, who was born the runt of his litter. Charlotte weaves an intricate spiderweb proclaiming “Some Pig!” 7 p.m. Friday, 2 and 7 p.m.

Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday. $20. 7020 E. Second St., Scottsdale. greasepaint.org

NOV. 14:

Run for Ryan House (Nov. 15-22) is a virtual event this year.

NOV. 14-15 Kierland Pop. Explore an art walk to see works by local professional artists and emerging

Say It! Sing It! Play It! In Cherokee. Great Arizona Puppet Theater guest artists

artisans. Interactive artist presentations, culinary demonstrations, fashion displays,

Z Puppets Rosenschnoz present a drive-in family-friendly sing-along to help keep

vintage street market shopping, live strolling music and arts performances. Between

an endangered language alive. Through catchy songs and storytelling, award-

Kierland Commons and The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa in Scottsdale. Free. 10 a.m. to

winning Minneapolis performers Chris Griffith (an enrolled tribal member of the

5 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. kierlandpop.com

Cherokee Nation) and Shari Aronson lead an adventure into language reclamation.

10 a.m.; the parking lot will be open 15 minutes before showtime. $40 per vehicle ($30 for members); tickets must be purchased before 5 p.m. the day before the

NOV. 14-JAN. 3:

show. Call 602-262-2050, ext. 0 to purchase tickets. 302 W. Latham St., Phoenix.

Lights at the Farm. Vertuccio Farms’ holiday lights show runs 5:30-10 p.m. nightly,

azpuppets.org

with ice skating, a 10-foot snowman, ceramic elves, reindeer and a life-size nativity scene. Limited capacity to observe social distancing. On-leash dogs are welcome. $13

Festival of the Arts. This 11th annual festival has been re-imagined offering

at gate ($10 on select dates), $11 online, free for ages 2 and younger. $8 skating ($5

both live performances on an outdoor stage, aerials and artist demos (in a safe and

on select dates). 4011 S. Power Road, Mesa. 480-882-1482 or vertucciofarms.com or

physically distanced space) and virtual performances and activities for kids. Plus:

lightsatthefarm.com

an online vendor market. Free. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix. herbergertheater.org/herberger-theater-festival-of-the-arts/

NOV. 15-22: AZ Children’s Business Fair. This one-day marketplace features dozens of

Run for Ryan House. Spend this week helping provide world-class care and programs

booths showcasing kids ages 6-13 who developed a brand, created a product

to medically fragile children during this virtual event. Simply record your time as you run,

or service, built a marketing strategy, and then opened for customers. An

walk, or push a stroller or propel a wheelchair in your neighborhood, on a treadmill, or in

inspiring place for other kids to do some holiday shopping! Free admission.

a park any time during the race period. $40. All participants receive a custom event medal

10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Acton Academy Phoenix, 3330 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix.

and T-shirt — or opt for no shirt and receive $5 off your registration. ryanhouse.org or

childrensbusinessfair.org/phoenix

raceroster.com/events/2020/34623/run-for-ryan-house-virtual-run

30 November 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

RYAN HOUSE

Youtheatre stages this beloved classic in its outdoor courtyard with limited

We’re here for you.

The only traditional school in Surprise that offers FREE, FULL-DAY KINDERGARTEN

Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Arizona is a leading nonprofit behavioral health organization that has been serving Arizona families since 1967.

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Autism Adolescent Clinic Brief Intervention Outpatient Counseling

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family time! NOVEMBER TOP EVENTS Las Noches de las Luminarias (Nov. 27-Dec. 31) at Desert Botanical Garden.

NOV. 20-DEC. 31: Christmas at the Princess. Every winter, the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess resort becomes a twinkling holiday wonderland for both hotel guests and the public. Their socially distanced outdoor holiday celebration offers ice skating, light shows, s’mores, pictures with Santa Claus, water lantern ceremonies and more. 4-10 p.m. peak days, 5-10 p.m. off-peak days. $15 per person or $60/vehicle with four activity wristbands; $90/vehicle for valet parking and six wristbands. 7575 E. Princess Drive, Scottsdale. 480-585-4848 or scottsdaleprincess.com/christmas-at-the-princess

NOV. 21: The Little Red Hen Drive-in Puppet Show: Join the Great Arizona Puppet Theater for this drive-in show and find out if the Little Red Hen will get the help she needs to get wheat made into bread. This singalong shares a valuable message about helping each other. 10 a.m.; the parking lot will be open 15 minutes before showtime. $40 per vehicle ($30 for members); tickets must be purchased before 5 p.m. the day before the show. Call 602-262-2050, ext. 0 to purchase tickets.

NOV. 22: Melrose Vintage Market. Local vendors and artists sell handmade goods, upcycled items and edible gifts at this local neighborhood market. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free. 700 W. Campbell Ave., Phoenix. melrosevintagemarket.com

NOV. 26: THANKSGIVING NOV. 27-DEC. 31 Las Noches de las Luminarias. Desert Botanical Garden comes to life with more than 8,000 luminarias and thousands of twinkling lights. Face masks required for ages 7 and older and social distancing will be observed. 5:30-10:30 p.m. Nov. 27-28 and Dec. 11-13, 17-23 and 26-31. $29.95 and up; $10.95 for ages 3-12, free for ages 2 and younger. Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. 480-481-8188 or dbg.org

32 November 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Make an Investment in Family—

DONATE TODAY

Arizona Helping Hands provides essential needs for the 14,000 children in the foster care system in Arizona. .92 cents of every dollar goes directly to programs for children in foster care.

Find out how YOU can make a difference in a foster child’s life, today!

www.AzHelpingHands.org 3110 E. Thunderbird Road, Suite 100 Phoenix AZ 85032 480.889.0604 • EIN: 86-0935988

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