RAK magazine April 2018 by Raising Arizona Kids magazine

raisingarizonakids.com APRIL 2018

The social side of

KINDERGARTEN READINESS

RAISING DAUGHTERS

IN THE

#MeToo ERA

THE BE KIND PEOPLE PROJECT Birth to 5 Q&A Mikah Hannon (4) of Phoenix at Manistee Ranch Park in Glendale.

April 2018

CONTENTS

FEATURES 14

Raising daughters in the #MeToo era

Daphne Young, vice president of communications and prevention education at Childhelp, shares tips on raising daughters who are less vulnerable to abuse.

The Be Kind People Project

Marcia Meyer didn’t start out to create a movement, but she did — one that helps create kinder kids and safer schools.

The social side of kindergarten readiness

To build a classroom community where you can teach effectively, students need social-emotional skills.

Egg recipes offer great introduction to cooking for kids Three easy recipes Scramble Culinary Director Mike Williams teaches at his quarterly Kids Cooking Classes for ages 6-16.

DEPARTMENTS 2

dialogue

Kindness is cool

ages & stages

• Owlet Smart Sock baby monitor • SneakPeek Early Gender Test • Hands-free Freemie breast pump • Applications due for free Camp O’Connor • National Infant Immunizations Week • Arizona charitable tax credits

azgrown

• 6 picture books for Easter

14 COVER PHOTO SHOOT Cover: Photos of cover model Mikah Hannon (4) of Phoenix were taken at Manistee Ranch Park in Glendale. PHOTOS BY ALLEN PATROU

• Birth to 5 Q&A • Pal Experiences makes venues more accessible • Rich Berra hosts Arizona Quizbowl

family time!

• Top April events • Around Arizona • Onstage • Walks and fun runs • Easter events

first person Affirmations

raisingarizonakids.com APRIL 2018

dialogue April 2018 | Vol 29 | No 2 Publisher Karen Davis Barr Editor Kara G. Morrison Calendar Editor Liz Petroff Copy Editor Debra Citron

KINDNESS is COOL

Mary Anne Duggan, Karen Fernau, Lexi Peterson, Sheri Smith, Molly Strothkamp Art Director Michèlle-Renée Adams Photographer Allen Patrou THEBEKINDPEOPLEPROJECT.ORG

ARIZONA WEATHER is still in its glorious stage as other parts of the country are contending with snow storms. And April is another great month for family events and outdoor fun. Speaking of storms, we’ve been talking as a staff about the #MeToo movement and what parenting lessons we should be learning from it —especially the horrifying case of Larry Nassar, who abused children and young women for years as the USA Gymnastics national team doctor. We’ve wondered what we need to be teaching both our daughters and our sons about personal safety, about communication and about empowerment. Writer Sheri Smith — who wrote last year’s foster care series “Arizona’s Children” and is always up for taking on challenging stories — agreed to tackle this topic in three parts. In her first installment of the #MeToo parenting series, Smith talks to Daphne Young of Childhelp about how to raise daughters who feel empowered. In later issues, we will offer ways parents can protect both girls and boys from sexual predators and more. We also enlisted help from Molly Strothkamp, a child therapist at Southwest Human Development, who explains how very young children learn about safety from their parents and trusted adults. Mary Anne Dugggan, a former kindergarten teacher who is now a psychology lecturer at Arizona State University, offers more early childhood insight. She examines why social skills are imperative in an effective classroom in her story, “The social side of kindergarten readiness.” Writer Margaret Beardsley has been very busy. She describes Pal Experiences, a new

Contributors Margaret Beardsley, Debra Citron,

Operations Manager Tina Gerami-Bynum Sales & Marketing Manager Brandy Collet Sales Representatives Shannon Cornall, Kate Greene

organization that is making local venues more fun and stress-free for families with special needs. Beardsley also interviewed Rich Berra of KISS-FM’s Johnjay and Rich Show about his new role hosting the televised Arizona Quizbowl that showcases some of the state’s smartest high school students. Then, Beardsley sat down with Marcia Meyer, founder of The Be Kind People Project. Meyer has created a movement that helps children understand kindness is cool. The local nonprofit takes hip-hop dance crews to schools, offers youth development programs and aims to get a million kids to sign its Be Kind Pledge to help make schools “a safe and positive place for everyone.” “Being kind is not just something that happens,” Meyer told us. “It’s an intentional skill set that people have to think about, and they have to do something, and they have to practice.” Wholeheartedly, we agree.

familytime@RAKmagazine.com advertising@RAKmagazine.com subscriptions@RAKmagazine.com 5229 N. Seventh Ave. #102 Phoenix, AZ 85013-1974 P: 480–991–KIDS (5437) • F: 480–991–5460 raisingarizonakids.com

in partnership with

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 © 2018 by R aising A rizona K ids, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Subscription price is $12 for one year or $18 for two years. Back issues are $6 per copy. The Post Office will not automatically forward in the event of a move. Make address changes on our website or mail

Kara G. Morrison, Editor kara@RAKmagazine.com

changes to our office. Original, locally generated articles, illustrations and photographs are welcome. Guidelines are available at raisingarizonakids.com.

APRIL 2018 raisingarizonakids.com

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ages & stages

A “SMART

SOCK”

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baby monitor Mail-order blood test

PREDICTS BABY’S GENDER at only 9 weeks DON’T WANT TO WAIT for an ultrasound to find out whether you’re having

THE OWLET SMART SOCK 2 baby monitor’s motto is “rest assured.” It tracks your infant’s heart rate and oxygen levels and sends this information via Bluetooth technology to a base station that will notify caregivers with lights and sounds if something appears to be wrong. Using Owlet’s smartphone app, parents can also view real-time heart-rate and oxygen data and get direct notifications. Each Smart Sock contains three fabric socks that fit most infants up to 18 months or 25 pounds. It’s $299 at major retailers, including Target, Buy Buy Baby and Amazon. 866-3481767 or owletcare.com

a boy or a girl? SneakPeek Early Gender Test offers a quick, easy way to tell your baby’s gender as soon as nine weeks after conception. The mail-order test is $79 for a five- to seven-day turnaround or $149 for an expedited test that gives results in fewer than 72 hours. The test claims to be 99 percent accurate and works by detecting the presence or absence of the male Y chromosome in the blood sample, which is taken with a simple finger stick to obtain a small amount of blood. Refunds are given if a test proves inaccurate. (This requires a birth certificate that states the child’s gender.) 800-590-4110 or sneakpeektest.com

OK, NEW MOMS, here’s a product that is supposed to help make pumping breast milk as easy as walking around the house — or the office. What if you could wear breast milk collection cups under your clothes and they pumped for you while you were busy doing other things? What if you could even do your morning commute or take a nap while pumping breast milk? A product called Freemie offers a hands-free and a concealable way to pump and collect breast milk. Its collection cups have a funnel and valve integrated into the cup, so it feels and works like regular breast-pump equipment. Rather than collecting milk in bottles below the funnels, Freemie collects it in cups that surround the funnels. Freemie cups are compatible with most breast pumps, or buy a Freemie pump with cups. $60-$300. freemie.com

APRIL 2018 raisingarizonakids.com

FREEMIE

Collect breast milk while doing — anything, really

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CAMP O’CONNOR is a free, merit-based summer program for middle school students with a mission to educate, encourage and inspire the next generation of leaders through a greater understanding of and participation in our democracy. It’s a program of the nonprofit Sandra Day O’Connor Institute formed in 2009 by the retired U.S. Supreme Court Justice. This full-day, weeklong camp (June 4-8) provides incoming seventhand eighth-graders with an unique educational civics experience blended with leadership development held at ASU Law School, the camp includes field trips to the state Capitol and Supreme Court. The camp is free, but the applications are due Tuesday, April 3 and require a mentor, coach or teacher’s recommendation. campoconnor.org

National Infant IMMUNIZATION Week NATIONAL INFANT IMMUNIZATION WEEK is April 21-28, highlighting the fact that vaccines have drastically reduced infant death and disability caused by preventable diseases in the United States. Immunizations can now protect infants and children from 14 preventable diseases before age 2. That’s not to say these diseases aren’t still a danger; choosing not to vaccinate can have serious consequences. The United States experienced a record number of measles cases in 2014, with 667 cases from 27 states reported to the CDC. This was the greatest number of cases in the U.S. since 2000. In 2015, 147 people were part of a large, multi-state measles outbreak linked to a California amusement park. Almost one in 10 people who became sick with measles in this outbreak were babies too young to be vaccinated. They got sick because they did not benefit from the “herd immunity” produced when a high percentage of an eligible population is vaccinated. Parents and caregivers can call 800232-4636 to locate a facility that offers immunizations through the Vaccines for Children program, a federally funded program that provides vaccinations at no cost to children whose parents cannot afford to pay for them. Visit cdc.gov/vaccines or whyimmunize.org

There’s still time to take advantage of ARIZONA CHARITABLE TAX CREDITS IT’S NOT TOO LATE to make donations to programs for which Arizona taxpayers can take a dollar-for-dollar state tax credit for contributions. The deadline is Tax Day, which is April 17, 2018. If you donate between Jan. 1 and April 17, you can choose to attribute the contribution to either 2017 or 2018. Arizona provides state tax credits for the following contributions: • Qualifying charitable organizations (including those that serve the working poor and foster children) • Public schools for extracurricular activities • Private-school tuition organizations Tax credits count dollar-for-dollar toward the tax bill you owe. Visit azdor. gov/taxcredits for a list of eligible organizations for each tax credit and forms to claim the credits.

raisingarizonakids.com APRIL 2018

az grown books

PICTURE BOOKS FOR EASTER BASKETS By Debra Citron WHEN MY SONS were small, holiday celebrations were a big deal in our house. As the boys got older, though, one time-worn ritual after another was abandoned to age and sophistication (I use that term very loosely). The tradition with the greatest staying power was, oddly, one of the simplest — Easter baskets. Imagine, middle-school-age boys wanting, actually wheedling, for them! Before you think that our baskets must have been repositories of Oscar Night levels of swag, let me assure you, this was not the case. From year one, each kid got the same ratty basket filled with recycled paper grass, a large solid-chocolate bunny, unfancy jelly beans and Peeps (whose frequently careless misplacement prompted multiple cases of marshmallow butt syndrome). What made the baskets special were annual alternate-basket appearances of Flip the Bunny, a kitten-sized back-flipping wind-up toy, and soft-stuffed, life-sized Chickie Peep-Peep, as well as an Easter-themed picture book lurking under the grass in each basket. Picture books morphed into “Goosebumps” and “Harry Potter” over the years, of course; but I like to think that those early little surprises, more than Flip’s acrobatics, helped keep my boys reading and the Easter Bunny alive in our hearts for a few extra years. Here are some of our favorite Easter classics. Debra Citron of Phoenix is a writer and lifelong supporter of children’s literature and literacy.

APRIL 2018 raisingarizonakids.com

“Bently & egg,” written and illustrated by William Joyce. Ages 3 and up. Bently is a dapper artist and frog-about-town who reluctantly agrees to egg-sit during a Duck family 911. Bored, he beautifies the egg, which is promptly snatched by a Boy who thinks it’s for Easter. Bently makes multiple daring rescues and comes to love his charge dearly. Our all-time favorite; the pictures are charming and hilarious.

“Rechenka’s Eggs,” written and illustrated by Patricia Polacco. Ages 4 to 8. Babushka, a gifted Easter-egg painter, rescues Rechenka, an injured wild goose, who accidentally breaks the old woman’s delicate work. But days before the egg competition, a miracle begins to unfold. Glorious, gorgeous artwork.

“Max’s Chocolate Chicken,” written and illustrated by Rosemary Wells. Ages 3 to 5. A giant candy hen mesmerizes the world’s most adorable toddler rabbit. Sister Ruby says he must win the Easter egg hunt to have it. Max has other ideas. Laugh-aloud funny

“The Bunny Who Found Easter,” written by Charlotte Zolotow; illustrated by Helen Craig. Ages 4 to 7. A lonely rabbit wanders through the seasons looking for companions in a place called Easter. A new interpretation of the 1959 original by the artist.

“The Country Bunny and the Little Gold Shoes,” written by DuBose Heyward; illustrated by Marjorie Flack. Ages 4 to 7. Skeptics abound, but Little Cottontail dreams of being an Easter Bunny. Does marriage and family dull her dream? No way. Her charm, persistence and mad organizational skills teamed with 21 helpful, well-raised bunnies win the day.

“The Egg Tree,” written and illustrated by Katherine Milhous. Ages 5 to 9. This 1951 Caldecott winner is still very enjoyable today. Kids searching Grandmom’s attic for Easter eggs find antique painted ones instead. Grandmom, who made them as a child, teaches the children how to make and display their own egg tree, a Pennsylvania Dutch tradition.

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az grown parenting

BIRTH TO 5 Q&A:

Q: A:

What’s the right age to start teaching kids not to trust every adult? And what’s the best way to do this?

Keeping your child safe is one of the most essential aspects of being a parent. How and when do children learn about safety? How do we balance teaching them about safety without overwhelming them and making them afraid of the world? It’s important to keep age and developmental level in mind. Infants, toddlers and preschoolers are completely dependent on their parents and caregivers to keep them safe. They are too young to be responsible for determining who is safe, but they are learning. Young children learn about safety from their parent’s words and actions, and they also learn from their parent’s reactions. Because young children are so tuned in to their parents’ feelings and reactions, it’s worth reflecting on your own sense of safety and security in the world and how you might be projecting those feelings. Children start learning about safety and strangers through early relationships with their caregivers. Babies under the age of 6 months are beginning to differentiate between their primary caregivers, familiar people and unfamiliar people. As they reach the developmental stage that occurs between 6 and 12 months, children learn to differentiate their parents from familiar people and unfamiliar people. Babies of this age look to their parents to help determine who is “safe” and they may show hesitation, wariness and upset with less familiar people. As babies grow into toddlers and preschoolers, we can help them learn about safety by emphasizing who their go-to person is in any situation, including child care and school. Around age 3 or 4, young children have a clearer and emerging concept of strangers and are in the process of learning many rules about safety. They still aren’t ready to take on the responsibility of keeping themselves safe, and they require caregiver supervision in places where they could potentially come into contact with unsafe people.

APRIL 2018 raisingarizonakids.com

Here are some tips to keep in mind: • Explicitly tell your child who their trusted adult is in every situation. Clearly tell them to whom they should turn when they need help in any situation. Identify trusted adults/go-to people: “Your teacher Ms. Gina is taking care of you at school today. She and Ms. Kathy can help you if you need help.” Also, talk to children about what to do and who to go to if someone interacts with them in an uncomfortable or unsafe way. • Keep open communication. Early on, start building the conversation about who is safe and who can help. As children get older and more developmentally capable of protecting themselves, they’ve internalized the safety messages you’ve instilled through both your words and actions to keep them safe. Open communication also includes clear and explicit family rules and expectations for safety in public: stay close to your parent in the store, hold hands in the parking lot, etc. • Identify authority figures, people who can help. We don’t want to only focus on strangers as scary. Not all strangers are scary, and sometimes we need help. We want to protect children from strangers, and at the same time, we want children to know that there are times they may need help from someone they don’t know, such as a police officer, teacher, doctor, etc. • Give children ownership over their own bodies. Give children alternatives to physical contact. It may feel impolite or disappointing when children don’t show affection to others when we think they should, but honoring a child’s comfort level teaches them to tune in to and trust their own feelings. Don’t force your child to engage in physical contact or affection; help them learn that their body is their own and it’s OK to not want to hug someone. Other

Southwest Human Development provides this free resource for anyone — parents, grandparents, caregivers and even medical professionals — with questions or concerns about young children. Compassionate, bilingual earlychildhood specialists are available 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday-Friday. Common topics include: challenging behaviors, potty training, sleep issues, colic or fussiness, feeding and nutrition and overall parenting concerns. 877-705-KIDS (5437) or birthtofivehelpline.org

Please send parenting questions for this column to editorial@RAKmagazine.com.

options, depending on the situation, may include shaking hands or a high-five, waving or blowing kisses. And there may be situations where the child does not feel comfortable or able to give any kind of a greeting to another person. That’s OK. Teaching safety and boundaries is a big part of parenting, and we want to find balance so that children don’t become overly fearful of the world. The healthiest outcome for children is to grow up feeling safe in their important relationships along with confidence and a sense of security in the world. Molly Strothkamp is a child therapist at Southwest Human Development’s Good Fit Counseling Center.

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raisingarizonakids.com APRIL 2018

az grown special needs

Ricky (8) and Olivia (6) star in a Pal Experiences video. Below: They ride through the bicycle car wash at The Children’s Museum of Phoenix.

PAL EXPERIENCES

Making local venues more fun (and less worrisome) for families with special needs By Margaret Beardsley Photo courtesy Melanie Isaacs

APRIL 2018 raisingarizonakids.com

MELANIE ISAACS is describing Elle, an 11-yearold girl with autism, who went to a Phoenix Suns game with her family for the first time: “At one point, she stood and began shouting, ‘Defense! Defense!’ In that moment, she wasn’t the girl who needed special attention, she was just part of the crowd.” Pal is short for Partners to Assist in Learning, and it is Isaacs’ creation. Pal Experiences partners with local venues and creates videos that help walk families with children impacted by special needs through a visit before they do it in person. Pal helps parents and children know what to expect. Isaacs’ inspiration came when she was working as a marine biologist at Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. Riding home from work on the train wearing her Shedd T-shirt, she encountered a father and and son who wanted to know about the aquarium. The little boy was wearing a shark T-shirt, “So I knew he was my people,” Isaacs says, smiling. But when she asked if they’d been to the aquarium, the father explained it wasn’t something they could do, given his son’s autism. “It broke my heart,” Isaacs recalls. She immediately wondered how she could help. “I

started doing some research on it, and I found out that 79 percent of individuals with autism are socially isolated, as are their families.” This meant entire families were not able to fully participate as members of the community. Fast forward a year, and she had developed her first prototype of Pal Experiences for the Shedd: A video that took kids with special needs through every step of the aquarium experience. The video was shown to a group of children profoundly affected by autism. “They watched that video 72 times,” Isaacs recalls, explaining that, for this particular group, 72 viewings was the sweet spot. In the video, Isaacs included the fact that some animals may or may not be visible in their habitats, to help prepare kids against disappointment. Her most rewarding moment came when her group approached a walrus exhibit. “Oh no,” she said. “The walruses aren’t out!” The children all assured her, “It’s all right! The walruses may or may not be out.” At that moment, Isaac knew she’d prepared the children for some of the eventualities at the Shedd. Her videos typically start by showing the parking lot and continue through the entrance

to a venue and then to the different exhibits. It gives information on things that could be triggers for kids with sensory issues, such as loud hand dryers in the bathroom, or shouting spectators at a sporting event. The first step in developing videos is having a board-certified behavior therapist tour a facility or visit a sporting event to provide an analysis. All of the videos star children with special needs. Pal Experiences’ Phoenix partners include the Children’s Museum of Phoenix, Phoenix Suns, Arizona Diamondbacks, Phoenix Mercury, Take the Floor Dance Studio, and — coming soon — the Arizona Science Center and a first restaurant: Flower Child. Partners pay a fee that helps cover the cost of producing the videos, but Pal Experiences is free for families. Pal Experiences provides information about how loud the venue will be, the amount of walking required, the size of crowds, and how long visitors can expect to stay. Pal also gives nonverbal children a chance to communicate with caregivers to say “I like this,” “I am scared” or “This is funny” through different emoji options given during each segment of the videos. Hana is a Glendale mom whose 8-year-old son Rick stars in the Children’s Museum of Phoenix’s Pal Experiences video. She says prior to being filmed, he watched a prototype video for the museum, and it made a huge difference in their visit. “It really took away that initial apprehension, because he was able to see the space first, and he was able to point out the things he knew when he got there. Instead of me telling him it was going to be OK, he was able to watch for himself and know that he was going to be OK.” Hana adds, “It feels good that we don’t have to stay at home — that we know that there’s a group out there that makes sure special needs families are included as well. Sometimes it feels very lonely being a special needs parent.” “Everyone gets to go” is Isaacs’ motto for Pal Experiences. It appears she’s well on her way to making that happen. Learn more at palexperiences.org. Margaret Beardsley of Phoenix is a staff writer and former television-news executive producer. She is the mother of two adult children.

raisingarizonakids.com APRIL 2018

az grown education

Radio’s RICH BERRA hosts televised ARIZONA QUIZBOWL for high school students By Margaret Beardsley

HIPPOLYTA was the queen of what warrior tribe from Greek mythology? If you know the answer to that question, consider yourself well informed. And if you’re an Arizona high school student, you could be a candidate for Arizona Quizbowl. The show premiered on CW Channel 6 and 61.1 (KASW) in February, and airs at 7 p.m. Sundays through May. Two teams from different high schools square off against one another in a battle of the brains. The tournament-style show is hosted by Rich Berra of KISS-FM’s Johnjay and Rich Show. “I love that academics are the base of our show — highlighting great kids with brilliant minds,” Berra says. “I poke fun at myself for not knowing a lot of the stuff, but man, these kids are smart!” The game does have a professional, fast and furious feel to it as the students race to give the right answers before their opponents beat them to the buzzer. Two four-person teams compete in each round. “The idea is that jocks get a lot of notoriety — especially when a school does well in athletics,” Berra explains. “But what about the people [who are] studying? What about the future? What about the people who we are all

APRIL 2018 raisingarizonakids.com

going to be working for at some point?” he jokes, then adds, “The future is in good hands!” The teens are clearly having fun as they try to answer the questions faster than their opponents. And Berra likes to keep the action moving. He’s torpedoed some questions because they might slow down the game. The first season features students from 16 high schools. Next season, 32 Arizona high schools are already on board. According to Amy Was, creative services director for CW, the winning team will win a party and an Arizona Quizbowl trophy, and each member of the winning team will receive scholarship money. As Berra likes to say, it all builds up to a “Super Quizbowl.” The CW partners with the Arizona Quizbowl Association, which helps schools determine which students are strongest through a series of test tournaments. The questions come from the National Association of Quiz Tournaments, which writes and distributes the questions for local, state and national tournaments. Eventually some of the Arizona teams may compete nationally if they qualify for the national tournament. “I care about this so much, I don’t take any money for it,” Berra explains. “Anything they

would pay me goes to our Love Up Charity [the nonprofit Johnjay and Rich created to support children in the foster care system]. I’m doing it for love of the game. It’s six hours out of my Saturday.” This father of three brought all of his children to the first taping. Berra says his daughter has created a version of the game — complete with a buzzer — on her cell phone. The family plays it around the dinner table. “Part of the reason I do this is for my kids,” he says. “I tell them all the time, [school] is your job right now. I think it’s important to empower kids with [the idea] that it’s not just being a jock that makes you special. Being at the top of your class is a really special thing, too.” Berra is hoping the game will become a hit in the Valley. Visit azquizbowl.org to learn how to get involved with an existing team or to start a Quizbowl team. And if you didn’t get the answer to that question about Hippolyta in Greek mythology? She was the queen of the Amazons. Margaret Beardsley of Phoenix is a staff writer and former television-news executive producer. She is the mother of two adult children.

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raisingarizonakids.com APRIL 2018

RAISING DAUGHTERS IN THE #METOO ERA

By Sheri Smith

APRIL 2018 raisingarizonakids.com

AT RAISING ARIZONA KIDS,

we’ve been having discussions very similar to those happening all across the nation: about the #MeToo movement, the empowerment of women and what all of this means for our daughters — and sons. With disturbing sexual harassment and sexual assault allegations making regular headlines, we thought it might be helpful to ask experts what we, as parents, can be doing to help our children navigate this tricky terrain. In this first installment of our #MeToo parenting series, we will be discussing how to raise daughters who feel empowered. In later issues, we will address specific steps parents can take to protect children from sexual predators. Lastly, we will take on the critical topic of teaching boys how to respect women and how to avoid being the victims of abuse themselves.

DAPHNE YOUNG IS VICE PRESIDENT of communications and prevention education at Childhelp, a Phoenix-based national nonprofit that offers prevention, intervention and treatment programs for victims of child abuse and neglect. Young says she was overjoyed when she first heard about the #MeToo movement — a social media phenomenon that encouraged women who have been sexually harassed or assaulted to share their stories with the hashtag #MeToo. The goal was to help expose just how widespread this problem is for women, and to let victims of such behavior know that they are not alone. “I’m all for making life uncomfortable for predators and acknowledging the pain of victims,” Young says. She believes it is helpful for young girls to remove the shame of abuse and instead shine the spotlight on attackers: “They are the ones who should be ashamed.” Young feels optimistic about a day when society no longer looks the other way or normalizes abusive behavior. But she cautions that “it’s not going to happen without a fight” and says a hashtag is not enough. “We are going to have to pass legislation and revisit how we deal with one another,” she warns. “Otherwise, when the the social media moment disappears, we’ll be right back where we started.” She shares four tips for raising daughters who will be less vulnerable to abuse:

1.ACKNOWLEDGE SOCIETY’S MIXED MESSAGES.

In our culture, girls often receive mixed messages about their sexuality. “The conflicting narrative promotes prettiness and perfection on one hand, and then asserts that their looks/dress/attitude can account for their own abuse and victimization,” Young explains. “Highly sexualized images are promoted to young girls. We know from even pre-teen bullying that [girls] are mocked if they thwart these looks and chastised if they adopt them. The prevailing wisdom in rape trials for years was the ‘she asked for it’ [defense].” Social media can be a double-edged sword: “Girls are growing up and seeing there’s a movement out there, so they can feel a great sense of connection. They are ‘more woke’ as they say. But there’s a danger in that predators can get more access to these young girls,

too. People are able to exploit their vulnerabilities.”

2.TEACH EMPATHY, NOT SUBMISSIVENESS.

Too much emphasis is placed on girls to be nice, Young says. “Throughout recent history, there has been a finishing-school ideal of feminine politeness, demureness and propriety that promotes our modern notion of a proper young lady and wellbehaved child,” she says. “Unfortunately, this etiquette training also sets a stage for staying silent, keeping secrets and fearing to confront others even in the face of danger. ‘Niceness’ may be a curse for our daughters. Nice girls don’t rock the boat, they don’t speak until spoken to, they are beholden to a social sphere outside themselves, they are joiners rather than leaders and they often sublimate their feelings to keep others happy.” The emphasis should shift to empathy: “We want kind daughters who are compassionate human beings, but we don’t want to train ‘nice’ girls who make ideal victims. We need to shift the conversation to showing empathy toward others (curbing bullying), understanding self-value through intellect/ accomplishment rather than external qualities or the opinions of others and putting the power of voice into practice.”

3.TEACH BODY SAFETY.

It’s important to talk to children — both boys and girls — about body safety, from a very young age. Childhelp has a prevention program called “Speak Up Be Safe” that helps children recognize unsafe situations or abusive behaviors. It also helps kids build a “safety network” of safe peers and adults. Young says that giving children the right information and tools helps them from the “freezing up” that can happen when one is unprepared and afraid. Let them know that whatever happens, the brave survivor is never at fault.

4.LISTEN AND REMIND YOUR DAUGHTER THAT HER VOICE MATTERS.

Open communication with daughters is vital to their sense of selfworth. “Engage your daughters in discussions of the day, keep an open dialogue flowing and value their positive actions. Instruct them that they are what they do, not how they look or how they are valued by society. Teach daughters that no matter what the magazines say, a core of inner strength and values is the ultimate beauty secret.” Listen to your children and let them know you are on their side. “Believe your children,” Young says. “Know their patterns and behaviors so that when you see a change, a hurting heart, a secretive new attitude, emerging depression or any signs that your happy, empowered daughter is in crisis, you will have that open communication to start a conversation that can save a life. Sheri Smith, of Scottsdale, is the mother of Aidan (18) and Sarah (15).

CHILDHELP, A PHOENIX-BASED NATIONAL NONPROFIT, helps victims of child abuse and neglect through prevention, intervention and

ISTOCK

treatment. A 24/7 hotline is staffed by professional crisis counselors who can answer questions from children or adults: 1-800-4-A-CHILD. raisingarizonakids.com APRIL 2018

Through high-energy hip-hop,

THE BE KIND PEOPLE PROJEC T works to create kinder kids and safer schools By Margaret Beardsley | Photos courtesy of The Be Kind People Project

arcia Meyer didn’t start out to create a movement, but she did. The founder of The Be Kind People Project has seen her program go national, and this year the Phoenix-based nonprofit is hoping a million kids will sign Be Kind Pledge “to make schools a safe and positive place for everyone.” “Being kind is not just something that happens,” Meyer explains. “It’s an intentional skill set that people have to think about, and they have to do something, and they have to practice.” The goal of The Be Kind People Project is to build a generation of respectful, responsible, healthy and caring citizens and leaders.

APRIL 2018 raisingarizonakids.com

Meyer, who lives in Paradise Valley and retired as a senior executive from PetSmart, says the project grew from a women’s group she formed in 2011 to honor teachers. From there, she became interested in creating quality youth development programs for ages 5-13. “I quickly learned the challenges that both students and their teachers are facing and saw a gap in what was offered in quality character education and teacher recognition,” she says. It all started with a Be Kind Pledge that urges kids (and adults) to be encouraging, supportive, honest, helpful, thankful, considerate, respectful and more. The message

is conveyed in a variety of ways, including providing materials to teachers in classrooms and online. The Be Kind Crew also visits schools and groups, both locally and occasionally nationally. The crews consist of hip-hop dancers who spread the message about kindness. Meyer says the dance crews grab students’ attention from the get-go, and from there it’s easier to get the students to listen to the importance of being kind. The goal is to equip students “with a framework for decision-making and taking accountability for building respectful, interpersonal relationship skills, improving academic results and

Above: Marcia Meyer, founder of The Be Kind People Project. Far left: Be Kind Crew member Akellz at a Be Kind People Project school assembly. Right: Be Kind Crew members Michaela, Moose and Krysta.

forming enduring values.” Meyer recently talked to R aising A rizona K ids about her project and vision. What do you see in children today that makes you think The Be Kind People Project is necessary? One needs only to be aware of the headlines and state of current affairs and pressures that students are facing to realize that they need help from multiple levels. [They need help to] develop personal skill sets that will help them form positive and healthy interpersonal relationships, the accountability that can help them make smart and responsible decisions, and the motivation to be the best they can be in their academics and school career. Can you give us examples in which exposure to The Be Kind Crew helped students? The Be Kind Crew has been called into a wide variety of socioeconomic conditions in schools to work with administration. The results vary widely. Here are a few examples: A Title I school in the metro Phoenix area went from mid-to-lower achievement to an A+ school because the teachers, students and parents adopted the skills of the Be Kind Pledge. The learning environment changed, students had more self confidence and commitment, teachers spent less time disciplining and overall achievement improved. This was seen in an academic improvement, as well as a [more than] 50 percent decrease in annual referrals to the office for behavior issues. A school on a Native American reservation

found that traditional “anti-bullying” techniques just simply didn’t work; kids almost mocked posters and words, and, in fact, didn’t understand them. When the Be Kind Crew introduced a culturally relevant and modern way to approach relationships, the response was almost immediate. For once, kids weren’t being told what not to do, but were given the foundation and skills for what to do. They were simply empowered to do the right thing. In that school, behavior referrals decreased by over 70 percent in less than three years, and the dropout rate improved significantly. How have you seen kindness demonstrated by children exposed to The Be Kind People Project? Every child exposed to the Be Kind Crew gets an opportunity to take the skills and immediately put them into action. The pay-it-forward philosophy is discussed, and materials are given to students to show gratitude to others. Schools report that literally hundreds of “pay-it-forward” cards are given to teachers, to administration, to janitors, to cafeteria workers, etc. Things like that can brighten an adult’s life. Students have sent tens of thousands of messages of support to people they have never met who are undergoing crisis situations, all across the country. There is an effort at this moment to send gestures of support to the students in Parkland, Florida [where 17 people were killed by a gunman at a Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School]. Every September, first responders in neighborhood stations receive notes of thanks and support from local schools with materials supplied by

the Be Kind People Project. Perhaps one of the most touching things is to see the volunteer rate for help in classes for special ed students increasing. Students sense when other students need their help and demonstrate it in a very tangible way by being friends. What are your goals for this program? There’s still so much work to be done in Arizona! Today’s students are tomorrow’s adult citizens, leaders and parents. We want them to develop enduring skills and values that will help them — and help society — as they grow older. My absolute goal is to bring this program to every K-8 school in Arizona. We have the opportunity to lead the nation in proven, effective, innovative and relevant character education and youth development. How can students/teachers/ administrators get The Be Kind Project to their schools? The Be Kind People Project has been designated by the Arizona Department of Education as an approved supplier — one of very few — of character education. Any school, parent-teacher organization or business can contact us. In addition, we offer a free online program — The Be Kind Break — that any teacher or parent can use to link academics, health and character education. As a 501(c) (3) [nonprofit], any and all donations are appreciated so that we can continue to offer programs to those schools in greatest need. Margaret Beardsley of Phoenix is a staff writer and former television-news executive producer. She is the mother of two adult children. raisingarizonakids.com APRIL 2018

The social side of

KINDERGARTEN READINESS By Mary Anne Duggan | Photos by Monkey Business Images

MESA MOM JENESSA MOORE is part of a ritual that dates back to the mid-1800s. However, the ritual today looks dramatically different than it did when the first kindergarten was formed. Moore’s daughter Leia will be entering kindergarten in the fall. She and many other Arizona parents are busy preparing their children for that first day of school. “We started from a pretty early age getting number and letter recognition down,” says Moore, who brings her daughter to an in-home preschool twice a week. Moore says she chose the preschool for the social interaction because Leia picks up academics very quickly. “Now that she has been around a classroom-type setting, I think she will adapt a little easier once she actually starts kindergarten,” adds Moore. According to kindergarten teachers, Moore’s emphasis on social development is well-placed. Of course, in an ideal world, students would enter school with both academic and social readiness. However, the social side tips the teeter-totter: Social skills carry somewhat greater weight in the kindergarten-readiness balance. Sarah Simpson, kindergarten teacher at Griffith Elementary School in Phoenix, knows firsthand the power of these “soft skills.” “I’d rather have a student come in who believes they can accomplish things, who will work hard, who knows how to be a friend, than a student who knows all their letters and numbers but can’t get along with anyone else,” she says.

APRIL 2018 raisingarizonakids.com

Simpson, who is a National Board certified teacher, says to build a classroom community where you can teach effectively, students need to possess social-emotional skills. Leah Zilberman, kindergarten and firstgrade teacher at Desert Jewish Academy in Chandler, concurs. “Maybe a child can recognize all their letters and count to maybe 1,000,” says Zilberman, “But I would rather the kids understand, for example, that we need to share.” Zilberman explains that when kids come to kindergarten with academic skills, it’s a bonus. “But if the kids aren’t able to sit and listen to a story,” says Zilberman, “that takes almost more work than teaching them to read or write.” Here is a well-rounded approach to boosting kindergarten readiness skills.

Social relationships

“Share everything” is the first directive in Robert Fulgham’s “All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten.” “In an ideal world, I would love it if the students understand that they are part of a community,” says Zilberman. She cites the importance of listening when others are talking and understanding that everybody gets a chance to play. “I want them to realize they are part of something bigger than just themselves.” Simpson adds the importance of learning how to handle a situation that doesn’t go their way. “It’s important for kids to have lots of experience playing with other kids — not just siblings — and to learn to work out conflicts themselves.” Which leads to...

Independence

“If you help your child be self-sufficient, to take care of [himself or herself], that will lead to success,” Simpson says. She also believes selfsufficiency will transfer to learning. “A lot of parents want kids to be kids, and that’s great,” says Simpson, “but they don’t need you to open their milk carton every single time.” Of course it is important for students to ask for help when needed, Simpson says but they should be permitted to do as much as they can for themselves. “They can help others, too.” Zilberman adds that it is important for children to have some sort of responsibility at home, “even if it’s just putting their plate in the sink after dinner or putting their toys away.”

A learning attitude

Simpson encourages a “growth mindset” in her students. Based on the work of Stanford University psychology professor Carol Dweck, the term growth mindset means students understand that effort is worthwhile. The opposite is a fixed mindset. Children with this mindset believe if something is hard, it means they are not smart and they might as well give up. A fixed mindset can happen when parents label their children “genius” or “smart,” says Simpson. “What we should say instead is, ‘Oh, look at how hard you worked. I see the strategy you used to solve that problem.’” Simpson encourages parents to regularly help their children work through adversity. “We need to teach our kids that just because something is hard, we don’t give up,” says Simpson. “In fact, we want to do hard things to help us grow. We call it productive struggle.”

Experience with play

Zilberman is concerned that some kids don’t play enough. “They are so busy on their tablets, and I’m seeing that as a big issue,” she says, although she understands the pull of technology. “There is just a big difference between kids who spend a lot of time interacting with others and kids who park themselves in front of a screen,” says Zilberman. “So much of language development comes from sitting around at a table with others and interacting.” Simpson agrees: “We don’t let our kids play anymore. We need to let them play as much as possible, because they learn so much about

language and their social development.” Simpson also likes the idea of parents talking with their kids about the concepts of kindergarten in real life, such as, “Look! I see a green tree. Green is a color,” or “Let’s count these oranges.”

Reading aloud

Both Zilberman and Simpson praise the power of reading with children. Indeed, both cited reading with children as perhaps the most important activity parents can do to help boost kindergarten readiness. “The number one thing I would recommend to parents would be to read to your child,” says Zilberman. Simpson agrees: “If parents want one thing to do with their child, it would be to read to them, read with them on your lap, and just show them that reading is important. Reading with your kids every day develops their language and vocabulary. It also helps your relationship with your child.” With all this talk of a child being ready for kindergarten, the good news is that most schools see readiness from another angle; schools are “ready” to receive all children. “I hear parents say they are worried that their child is not ready for kindergarten,” Simpson says, “and I just reply, ‘Give me what you got, and I’ll teach them!’ ” Mary Anne Duggan, PhD, is a psychology lecturer at Arizona State University, a former kindergarten teacher and the parent of two adult children. Reach her at mary.duggan@ asu.edu raisingarizonakids.com APRIL 2018

EGG RECIPES offer a great introduction to cooking for kids By Karen Fernau

Braden and Hunter Harmon in class with Chef Mike Williams.

Photos courtesy of Angie Harmon and Scramble WHEN ANGIE HARMON enrolled her two young sons in a cooking class on eggs, she had more in mind than breakfast in bed. A board member at Local First Arizona, Harmon believes cooking is the best way to teach Braden, 9, and Hunter, 7, the essential link between eating well and feeling well. “I love that they have the confidence to scramble, fry or whisk eggs into banana bread. It’s a great life skill and, at the same time, helps them understand where food comes from and the importance of eating healthy to be healthy,” said Harmon, community development manager for Freeport-McMoRan in Phoenix. The Harmon brothers are alumni of the kids cooking program at Scramble - A Breakfast & Lunch Joint that teaches cooking classes for kids focused on egg recipes. On any given Sunday, the local chain restaurant cooks about 600 eggs at each of its three restaurants. Scramble chefs consider eggs the perfect protein for beginner cooks — an easier menu item for kids than steaks, seafood, chicken or pork. “Eggs are a blank canvas, a starting point for so many different meals and a good ingredient for kids just learning to cook,” says Mike Williams, Scramble culinary director, who teaches quarterly kids cooking classes. The high season for eggs is right now. These ancient symbols of new life are never more abundant than during Easter. But thankfully they are always in season, with an everyday practicality that trumps their brief

APRIL 2018 raisingarizonakids.com

holiday celebrity. Why? Because eggs are a nutritious workhorse, making speedy, inexpensive, proteinpacked meals. Fry and pair with bacon for a sandwich, whisk with ham and cheese into an omelet or bake with vegetables into a frittata. Eggs in the refrigerator means dinner on the table within 30 minutes or less — no need to grab dinner from a drive-through lane. Eggs also have shed their bad-for-you image. For years, they were shunned because they were considered high in cholesterol. But numerous studies now show that eggs today contain less cholesterol than a decade ago. A large egg has about 185 milligrams of cholesterol, down from 215 a decade ago, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The drop is attributed to improvements in hens’ diets. Nutritionists now recommend eating an egg daily for a healthy diet. One egg has about 75 calories, slightly more than 6 grams of protein and less than 1 gram of carbohydrates. In addition, eggs deliver healthy doses of vitamins A and D, folic acid and calcium. At Scramble, chefs teach kids to cook eggs like they do: Using local eggs from Hickman’s Family Farms. Local eggs are the freshest because of the short farm-to-market travel time. They recommend pairing them with as many other local ingredients as possible. “We are a local business that cooks with as many local ingredients as we can. It’s a way to support our community, and to cook with

the best possible ingredients,” says Scramble Co-owner Clay Moizo. Other helpful tips: Briefly whisk to combine yolks and whites with a fork. Whisking too long makes for tough eggs. So does frying, scrambling or baking at high temperatures. Cook eggs low and slow. To avoid shells in eggs, crack over a wire basket. Once students master the basics, including proper knife, cooking techniques and safety rules, they are encouraged to add their own touches. There are few limits to pairing eggs with flavors, from beans to smoked salmon, leftover chicken, chiles, diced vegetables and tofu sausage. Creations can range from decadent to vegan, all-American to Asian. For Williams, teaching his students ages 6-16 to cook gives them more than the ability to get breakfast, lunch or dinner on the table. Kids maybe struggled on a math test or stumbled on the soccer field, but can finish the day with a success by cooking a frittata for their family dinner. “It gives them a sense of accomplishment,” he says. “Cooking, for kids, is so much more than just food.” Karen Fernau is a longtime journalist and former food writer at The Arizona Republic.

3 RECIPES FROM SCRAMBLE - A BREAKFAST & LUNCH JOINT

with Phoenix locations at 9832 N. Seventh St. and 2375 E. Camelback Road. The Scottsdale store at 6590 N. Scottsdale Road hosts quarterly $25 kids cooking classes from 6-8 p.m. on select dates. 480-404-7264 or azscramble.com

SUNRISE SANDWICH • 2 bagels, toasted and lightly buttered • 4 slices bacon • 1 tablespoon butter

• 4 large eggs • 4 slices American cheese • Optional: sliced fruit

To prepare bacon, cook strips on medium heat in a sauté or griddle pan until crispy. Remove and place on paper towels to absorb the grease. Next, heat a large sauté pan on medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon butter to pan, and when melted, crack eggs into pan. Cook for 30 seconds. Tilt pan and use a spatula to gently flip eggs without breaking the yolk. Cook for another 30 seconds, or until yokes are as runny or firm as desired. To assemble sandwich, place 2 pieces of bacon and 2 eggs on each bagel. Top with 2 slices each of American cheese. Slice in half and serve with fruit. Makes 2 servings.

HAM & CHEDDAR OMELET

FRITTATA

• 1 tablespoon butter • 2 ounces or ¼ cup diced ham • 2 ounces or ¼ cup cheddar cheese, plus extra for garnish • 3 large eggs

• 2 cups turkey bacon diced into ½ inch pieces • 2 cups baby kale, washed and dried • ¼ cup diced zucchini • ¼ cup diced bell peppers • 16 large eggs

Add butter to sauté or omelet pan and heat on medium high. Meanwhile, crack eggs into a bowl and whip until frothy and with no visible whites. Set aside. When butter is melted, add ham and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently. Pour eggs into pan and cook for 1 minute while nudging the eggs off the side of the pan with a spatula. When eggs on the pan’s bottom are firm, tilt pan slightly and use spatula to flip omelet. Cook for 20-30 seconds. Add cheese and fold omelet over. Carefully flip omelet from pan to plate and garnish with cheese. Makes 1 serving.

• ¾ cup skim milk • ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided • ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided • 3 avocados, peeled and diced

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a large sauté pan on medium-high heat, cook turkey bacon, kale, bell pepper and zucchini until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Pour into a 9x13-inch pan greased with canola oil spray. Meanwhile, crack eggs into large bowl and whip until yolks and whites are blended. Add eggs, skim milk and half the shredded cheese to pan. Bake in 375-degree oven for 15 minutes. Remove from oven and sprinkle remaining cheese on the frittata. Bake an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Allow to stand for 5 minutes before cutting. Meanwhile, peel avocados and cut into quarters. Slice quarters into fans. Cut egg into equal squares and top with fanned avocado. Makes 8 servings.

raisingarizonakids.com APRIL 2018

family time! TOP APRIL EVENTS By Liz Petroff

We’re not fooling around. This month is going to keep your family busy. We hop into April with a full line-up of Easter egg hunts and fun runs. Great weather also brings plenty of opportunities to get outside and celebrate everything from the Earth to the arts.

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

MARCH 31 AND APRIL 1: Free Easter Egg Hunt. Enchanted Island Amusement Park hosts two days of age-appropriate egg hunts for families. Bring your own baskets and arrive early. The Easter Bunny will be available for photos. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free. 1202 W. Encanto Blvd., Phoenix. 602-254-1200 or enchantedisland.com

APRIL 6-7: Chandler Jazz Festival. Enjoy free performances and visit downtown Chandler’s galleries, restaurants and shops. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs. 5-10:30 p.m. Friday, 2:30-10:30 p.m. Saturday. Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 178 E. Commonwealth Ave. chandleraz.gov

APRIL 2018 raisingarizonakids.com

Kids Day at the Phoenix Film Festival (April 7) at Harkins Theatres in Scottsdale.

APRIL 7: Kids Day at the Phoenix Film Festival. Free activities include coloring, acting and creating short films. Kids can compose a musical soundtrack or write a “Mad Lib”-style script. Age-appropriate stations run the full gamut of filmmaking. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Harkins Scottsdale 101, 7000 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. 602-9556444 or phoenixfilmfestival.com Inflatable Run and Festival. Explore a kid friendly 1-mile or 5K inflatable obstacle course, plus family activities, live entertainment, inflatable attractions and food trucks. 8 a.m to 4 p.m. Free to $65. Rawhide Event Center, 5244 S. 48th St., Chandler. theinflatablerun.com Lake Pleasant Paddlefest. Try out kayaks, outriggers, rafts, whitewater kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards. All ages are welcome. Life vests are provided. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. $6 per vehicle. Lake Pleasant Regional Park north entrance, 41835 N. Castle Hot Spring Road, Morristown. maricopacountyparks.net

Because last-minute schedule changes can occur, please confirm dates and times on events websites. To submit calendar items for publication, visit raisingarizonakids.com/calendar.

APRIL 8:

APRIL 14-15:

Sunday A’fair. Grab your picnic basket and enjoy a free outdoor concert during this final event of the season. Plus, an arts-and-crafts market and kids activities. Bring blankets or lawn chairs. Noon to 4 p.m. Free. Scottsdale Civic Center Park, 3939 N. Drinkwater Blvd. 480-499-8587 or scottsdaleperformingarts.org

Sandfest. Arizona’s original beach party promises sandcastles, contests and fun. Enjoy food trucks, live music and free entertainment plus the Sand Guys from Travel Channel’s “Sand Masters” in the parking lot on Saturday. Sunday is Sand-Parents Day with free museum admission for grandparents and grandchildren and activities they can enjoy together. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Museum admission is $9 all weekend. Children’s Museum of Phoenix, 215 N. Seventh St., Phoenix. 602-2530501 or childrensmuseumofphoenix.org

APRIL 11-15: Maricopa County Fair. With nearly 35 rides and an impressive array of fair food, this is an outing the whole family can enjoy. Hours vary; gates open at 10 a.m. daily. $9; free for ages 7 and younger; $10 parking. State Fairgrounds, 1826 W. McDowell Road, Phoenix. maricopacountyfair.org

Musical Icons: Tito Puente and Celia Cruz. Two of the most popular Latin artists of the 20th century helped make Afro-Cuban and salsa music staples in the American musical landscape. Musical Instrument Museum hosts fun activities, performances and more. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. $20; $15 ages 13-19; $10 ages 4-12; free for ages 3 and younger. 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. 480-478-6000 or mim.org

Disney on Ice presents Frozen (April 12-15) at Talking Stick Arena.

ASU GAMMAGE

The Color Purple (April 17-22) at ASU Gammage.

FELD ENTERTAINMENT

PHOENIX FILM FOUNDATION

APRIL 17-22: The Color Purple. This American classic includes a soul-stirring score of jazz, gospel, ragtime and blues and a young woman’s journey to love and triumph in the American South. 7:30 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 1 and 6:30 p.m. Sunday. $45-$150. ASU Gammage, 1200 S. Forest Ave., Tempe. 480-965-3434 or asugammage.com

APRIL 12-15:

APRIL 21:

Disney on Ice presents Frozen. Travel to Arendelle with Princess Anna and Queen Elsa. Their adventure offers dazzling ice skating, special effects and unforgettable music. Sing along with Olaf, Kristof, Sven and the trolls and discover true love is the most powerful magic of all. 7 p.m. Thursday-Friday; 11 a.m., 3 and 6:30 p.m. Saturday; noon and 4 p.m. Sunday. $15-$85. Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix. 800-745-3000 or disneyonice.com

Earth Day Phoenix. At this zero-waste event, everything will be recyclable or compostable. Light Rail/biking/walking are encouraged. Exhibitors, mini eco-classes and more. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Steel Indian School Park, 300 E. Indian School Road. earthdayphoenix.org

APRIL 14: Earth Day at the Phoenix Zoo. “Party for the Planet” with earth-friendly games, activities and entertainment, including a fashion show, Hug-A-Tree station, T-shirt making, dinosaurs and face painting. Charity Recycling Solutions is accepting used clothing, bedding, shoes and books curbside to raise money for endangered species. $24.95; $14.95 ages 3-13; free for ages 2 and younger; online discounts. 455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. 602-286-3800 or phoenixzoo.org

Pat’s Run. Honor the legacy of Pat Tillman (the ASU and Arizona Cardinals football player who became an Army Ranger after 9/11) at the 14th annual 4.2-mile run/walk. The route winds through the streets of Tempe and finishes at Sun Devil Stadium with a party and expo. Proceeds support military veterans and their spouses through academic scholarships. Younger runners can participate in the .42-mile Kids Run. $10-$55. 6 a.m. to noon. Advance registration required. Arizona State University, 219 S. Packard Drive, Tempe. pattillmanfoundation.org

raisingarizonakids.com APRIL 2018

TOP APRIL EVENTS Continued

APRIL 22: Play ball! Baseball is in full swing this month. The first 5,000 fans at Chase Field will get a kids bat and ball set when the Arizona Diamondbacks take on the San Diego Padres at 1:10 p.m. Tickets from $16. 401 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix. dbacks.com

APRIL 27-29:

Cinddella

Chandler Center for the Arts | April 28-29 | $16, $22 Tickets: balletetudes.net

Camp Hubbard hubbardsports.com · 602.971.4044

Junk in the Trunk. Nearly 200 vendors from around the country participate in this vintage market. $8 admission 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday; $20-$25 early admission Saturday; $50-$65 VIP event 5-9 p.m. Friday. Westward of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road. junkinthetrunkvintagemarket.com

APRIL 28: Festival of Tales. This is a fun day of reading, literacy and cultural activities for kids. Enjoy storytelling, arts and crafts, games, face painting, live music and food trucks. More than 5,000 free books are provided at this event staffed by volunteers from PVCC and Southwest Human Development. 9 a.m. Free. Paradise Valley Community College, 18401 N. 32nd St., Phoenix. festivaloftales.com Chalk Art Festival. Vestar and the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance host more than 35 artists for this event. See giant murals, contribute your own chalk art and enjoy the KidsZone at Westgate Entertainment District and Tempe Marketplace. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. westgateaz.com and tempemarketplace.com

APRIL 29: Día del Niño. The Phoenix Zoo celebrates children, animals and Hispanic culture with folklorico dancers, mariachis, cultural crafts, storytelling-puppet shows, face painting and piñatas. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. $24.95; $14.95 ages 3-13; free for ages 2 and younger; online discounts. 455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. 602-286-3800 or phoenixzoo.org Celebrate Día del Niño. The Heard Museum offers storytelling, music, dance, games, and activities for kids of all ages. Free for ages 12 and younger plus two accompanying parents or guardians. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 2301 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. 602-252-8840 or heard.org

APRIL 30: FUN, FRIENDSHIPS, ACTIVE PLAY

Kids Day Camp (ages 4.5 - 12) Teen Leadership Camp (ages 13 - 16) Unplug, connect & build conﬁdence in skills to help you stay active for a lifetime June - August · 1 week sessions Full and half day · Extended Care

APRIL 2018 raisingarizonakids.com

AZ Assist 2018 Transition Expo. April is National Autism Awareness Month. The Autism Society of Greater Phoenix presents this event for families with teens on the autism spectrum who are navigating the transition through high school and into adulthood. 5-7:30 p.m. Peoria Community Center, 8335 W. Jefferson St. phxautism.org Calendar Editor Liz Petroff of Phoenix is the mother of Jack (10) and Lucy (8). Send event info to liz@RAKmagazine.com.

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raisingarizonakids.com APRIL 2018

family time! around arizona

Great Paper Airplane Fly-Off (April 7) in Tucson.

CLARKDALE Easter Bunny Express (April 1). This is the hoppiest celebration at Verde Canyon Railroad. The experience begins with face painting, photo opportunities and treats from the Easter Bunny. Onboard fun continues with a winner-takes-all jelly bean counting contest. Train departs at 1 p.m. $45-$65. 300 N. Broadway, Clarkdale. 800-582-7245 or verdecanyonrr.com

COTTONWOOD Verde Valley Birding and Nature Festival (April 26-29). This four-day event allows visitors to enjoy unique field trips, attend a workshop hosted by keynote speaker Nathan Pieplow and participate in several other seminars/ presentations. Times vary. Dead Horse Ranch State Park, Cottonwood. 928-2822202 or verderiver.org

PRESCOTT Easter Eggstravaganza (April 1). Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary hosts its annual EGGstravaganza. Easter egg hunts, special Easter treats for the animals, a scavenger hunt, concessions, raffles and more. Don’t forget your Easter baskets to collect eggs. 10 a.m. $10, $6 ages 3-12, free for ages 2 and younger. Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary, 1403 Heritage Park Road, Prescott. 928778-4242 or heritageparkzoo.org Chalk It Up! (April 21-22). This 10th annual family-friendly event inspires and supports creativity in people of all ages and abilities while raising awareness and funds for mental health,

APRIL 2018 raisingarizonakids.com

crisis intervention and substance abuse treatment services. Talk with artists and create chalk drawings. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free. National Bank of Arizona, 201 N. Montezuma St., Prescott. 928-308-9651 or prescottchalkart.com

SEDONA Sedona Spring Music Festival (April 4-8). This third annual event features a celebration of chamber music over four days. Enjoy live school programs, a concert in a private home and a special concert by Faure Piano Quartet. Times and locations vary. chambermusicsedona.org

SHOW LOW Family Camp Out (April 14-15). No camping experience? No problem. Learn the ropes and share the memories of being outdoors. Families learn to set up a tent and cook at a campsite. $90 for a family of four. Additional family members $5 each. Children must be 6 or older. Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area, Show Low. azstateparks.com/family-camp/

TOMBSTONE Rose Tree Parade and Festival (April 7-8). Celebrate the world’s largest rose tree. Festivities include a pancake breakfast, square dancing, rose parade, entertainment and high tea. 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. Free. Rose Tree Museum, 118 S. Fourth St., Tombstone. 520-457-3326 or tombstonechamber.com

TUCSON Eggstravaganza (March 31). Visit the International Wildlife Museum for crafts,

games with prizes and a candy hunt. Be sure to bring your camera; the Easter Bunny will hop by for photos. 10 a.m. to noon. $10; $5 ages 4-12; free for ages 3 and younger; discounts for seniors and military members. International Wildlife Museum, 4800 W. Gates Pass Road, Tucson. 520-629-0100 or thewildlifemuseum.org Great Paper Airplane Fly-Off (April 7). Ages 6-14 learn paper airplane folding and pilot “training” including fun on an inflatable obstacle course. Lunch, snacks and a prize wheel sponsored by Mars Wrigley Confectionery. Prizes include Double Eagle Aviation introductory flight above Tucson. 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Free; advance registration required. Pima Air & Space Museum, 6000 E. Valencia Road, Tucson. 520-574-0462 or greatpaperairplane.org Spring Fling (April 13-15). Tucson’s favorite student-run carnival with more than 40 rides and games, 20 original food booths and entertainment for both the University of Arizona and Tucson communities. 4-11 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m to 11 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. Free admission; rides and games vary. University of Arizona, 1303 E. University Blvd., Tucson. springfling. arizona.edu Pima County Fair (April 19-29). Traditional games, rides, arena events, entertainment, livestock and exhibits, food and more. Times vary. Pima County Fairgrounds, 11300 S. Houghton

Road, Tucson. 520-762-9100 or pimacountyfair.com Taste of Chocolate (April 15). The Rincon Rotary Club’s 10th annual event is a competition, and you’re the judge. Local chefs showcase their favorite chocolate creations. Plus raffles and wine and beer tasting. All proceeds benefit local education initiatives. 2-4 p.m. $15. Doubletree Reid Park, 445 S. Algernon Way, Tucson. tucsontasteofchocolate.org

YUMA Yuma County Fair (April 3-8). Celebrate “Yuma’s Pride, County Wide” this year. Exhibits, carnival rides, livestock shows, food and more. $6; $4 ages 6-12; free for ages 5 and younger; $2 Tuesday admission. Yuma County Fairgrounds, 2520 E. 32nd St. 928-7264420 or yumafair.com ARTbeat 11 (April 21). The Yuma Art Center presents this juried fine arts event in the historic downtown. 4-9 p.m. Yuma Art Center, 254 S. Main St. yumaaz.gov

WICKENBURG Cowgirl Up! (ongoing through May 13). More than 200 original paintings and sculptures by female artists express the uniqueness of the West. 10 a.m to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday through May 13. $12, $10 seniors and AAA members, free for ages 17 and younger and active military. Caballeros Western Museum, 21 N. Frontier St., Wickenburg. 928-684-2272 or westernmuseum.org

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raisingarizonakids.com APRIL 2018

family time! onstage

The Importance of Being Earnest (April 5-May 12). Two bachelors create alter egos named Ernest to escape their tiresome lives. Then they attempt to win the hearts of two women who claim to only love men named Ernest, and hilarity ensues. Showtimes vary. $20-$32. Hale Centre Theatre, 50 W. Page Ave., Gilbert. 480-497-1181 or haletheatrearizona.com A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Death Star (April 6-7). What if George Lucas had turned his epic space saga into a musical puppet show? Find out with this wacky “Star Wars” parody. Open to ages 12 and up. Reservations recommended. 8 p.m. $12. Great Arizona Puppet Theater, 302 W. Latham St., Phoenix. 602-262-2050 or azpuppets.org Little Women The Musical (April 6-22). Valley Youth Theatre brings Louisa May Alcott’s beloved story of the four March sisters to life. Filled with adventure, heartbreak and a deep sense of hope, “Little Women” tells a timeless story filled with music. Showtimes vary. $20. Valley Youth Theatre, 525 N. First St., Phoenix. 602-253-8188 or vyt.com Vanessa Williams (April 7). Williams and pianist/commentator Seth Rudetsky perform songs from great musicals, interspersed with a candid interview and commentary. 8 p.m. $59-$89. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-499-8587 or scottsdaleperformingarts.org The Princess, The Unicorn and the Smelly-Foot Troll (April 11-29.) The

APRIL 2018 raisingarizonakids.com

Great Arizona Puppet Theater presents its funny, original musical about a princess, a unicorn, and a friendly troll with bad hygiene. It’s guaranteed to make the family laugh. 10 a.m. Wednesday-Friday, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday. 2 p.m. Sunday (except April 22). $7-$10. Great Arizona Puppet Theater, 302 W. Latham St., Phoenix. 602-262-2050 or azpuppets.org Disney on Ice presents Frozen (April 12-15). Travel to Arendelle with Princess Anna and Queen Elsa with dazzling ice skating, special effects and unforgettable music. Sing along with Olaf, Kristof, Sven and the trolls and discover true love is the most powerful magic of all. 7 p.m. Thursday-Friday; 11 a.m., 3 and 6:30 p.m. Saturday; noon and 4 p.m. Sunday. $15-$85. Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix. 800-7453000 or disneyonice.com Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet (April 13-22). For the first time, Spotlight Youth Theatre performs this tale of jealousy, prejudice, betrayal and a chance that true love could conquer all. 7 p.m. Friday, 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday. $13. 10620 N. 43rd Ave., Glendale. 602-843-8318 or spotlightyouththeatre.org Dance Theatre of Harlem (April 14). ASU Gammage welcomes back this iconic American dance company with 14 diverse artists who bring new life to classical ballet and use familiar language to celebrate African American culture. 7 p.m. $20. 1200 S. Forest Ave., Tempe. 480-965-3434 or asugammage.com David Archuleta (April 14). The “American Idol” runner-up became a star at age 16 when millions of viewers fell in love with his voice during Season 7. 8 p.m. $51-$71. Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St., 480-644-6500 or mesaartscenter.com Clint Black (April 15). The country megastar is releasing his first fulllength album of new songs in a decade. 7 p.m. $38-$68. Chandler Center for

the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave. 480-7822680 or chandercenter.org The Color Purple (April 17-22). This American classic includes a soulstirring score of jazz, gospel, ragtime and blues and a young woman’s journey to love and triumph in the American South. 7:30 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 1 and 6:30 p.m. Sunday. $45-$150. ASU Gammage, 1200 S. Forest Ave., Tempe. 480-9653434 or asugammage.com Dance Theatre of Harlem (April 14) at ASU Gammage.

ASU GAMMAGE

The Cat Came Back (April 4-8). Based on the folk song by Fred Penner, this show tells the hilarious story of Mr. Johnson and a mysterious cat who keeps returning to his doorstep, presented by guest artist Mesner Puppet Theater. Recommended for ages 5-12. 10 a.m. Wednesday-Friday, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday. 2 p.m. Sunday. $7-$10. Great Arizona Puppet Theater, 302 E. Latham St., Phoenix. 602-262-2050 or azpuppets.org

Sgt. Pepper’s 50th Anniversary (April 20-22). If you like the Beatles, you’ll love the Classical Mystery Tour with original members from the Broadway sensation “Beatlemania” and two hours of non-stop hits, all performed exactly as they were originally recorded. 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday. $25$93. Phoenix Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second St., Phoenix. 602-495-1999 or phoenixsymphony.org Flora and Ulysses (April 22-May 20). Childsplay presents Kate DiCamillo’s Newbery-winning adventure of quirky 10-year-old Flora and Ulysses, a squirrel she saves from a vacuum cleaner. 1 and 4 p.m Saturday, 1 p.m. Sunday. $12$30. Tempe Center for the Arts, 700 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe. 480-3502882 or childsplayaz.org Phoenix Youth Symphony (April 22). The Side-by-Side Concert features

Phoenix Youth Symphony and Phoenix Symphony ensembles and winners from the 2018 Young Musicians Competition. 7 p.m. Free. Donations accepted. Phoenix Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second St. 602-495-1999 or phoenixyouthsymphony.org Cinderella presented by Ballet Etudes (April 28-29). A magical tale of kindhearted Cinderella, her wicked stepmother, two clumsy stepsisters, a loving Godmother and her prince. Rich in sets and costumes. 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday, 3 p.m. Sunday. $16-$22. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave. 480-7822680 or balletetudes.net Jack and the Beanstalk. (April 28 and May 5). Arizona Broadway Theatre presents the classic fairy tale. Jack sells the family cow, winds up with a bag full of magic beans and awakens from a nap to find a giant beanstalk. 10 a.m. $18. 701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria. 623776-8400 or azbroadway.org

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raisingarizonakids.com APRIL 2018

family time! fun runs and walks

Superhero Family Fun Run and Festival (April 15) at Kiwanis Park.

Oral Cancer Foundation Walk (April 7). Help raise awareness and funds for research and educational programs that support oral cancer survivors. Walk registration includes an all-day pass to the Phoenix Zoo. 7 a.m. $20-$35. 455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. donate.oralcancer.org The Hope Run (April 14). Walk or run to help victims of child abuse and domestic violence. Proceeds from the 5K and 1-mile walk/run support Winged Hope Family Advocacy Foundation’s programs to prevent abuse and help treat victims of child abuse and domestic violence. Donate a gift card for a chance to win a prize. 8 a.m. $5-$35. Freestone Park, 1045 E. Juniper Road, Gilbert. thehoperun.com Superhero Family Fun Run and Festival (April 15). April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Voices of CASA Children — a nonprofit that recruits and supports Court Appointed Special Advocate volunteers — invites families to fly across the finish line during its 5th annual

APRIL 2018 raisingarizonakids.com

event, which includes a 1K and Kids Dash. Mingle with supervillains, make arts and crafts and enjoy carnival games, prizes and food trucks. Proceeds go toward summer programs for foster youth in Maricopa County. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. $10, free for kids. Kiwanis Park, 5500 S. Mill Ave., Tempe. 480-685-4888 or voicesforcasachildren.org Pat’s Run (April 21). Honor the legacy of Pat Tillman (the ASU and Arizona Cardinals football player who became an Army Ranger after 9/11) at the 14th annual Pat’s Run. Proceeds support military veterans and their spouses through academic scholarships. The 4.2mile run/walk winds through the streets of Tempe and finishes at Sun Devil Stadium with a party and expo. Younger runners can participate in the .42-mile Kids Run. $10-$55. 6 a.m. to noon. Advance registration required. Arizona State University, 219 S. Packard Drive, Tempe. pattillmanfoundation.org Arizona’s Healthy Hike (April 28). Explore Arizona’s amazing trails with Healthy LifeStars, encouraging hikers of all ages to get outside and get healthy. Each hike features guest speakers with inspiring stories, helpful tips and giveaways for children. 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free. Papago Park, 625 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. healthylifestars.org Girls on the Run 5K (April 28). Men, women and children of all ages are invited to participate in a funfilled, inspirational race presented by the Jennings

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Run the Runway (April 7). This 6th annual 10K, 5K and Kids 1-Mile Mascot Dash at the Scottsdale Airport benefits Playworks Arizona, a nonprofit that helps schools create healthy play environments where every child can join in. At the festival, snap a photo with Arizona sports teams’ mascots, shop vendors and enjoy food samples. 6-10 a.m. $15-$60. Scottsdale Airpark, 15000 N. Airport Drive. runtherunwayaz.com

MACK MEDIA RELATIONS

JDRF One Walk (April 28) at Sloan Park.

Strouss Foundation. The 1-mile and 5K race integrates experience-based curriculum in running that inspires girls to be joyful, healthy and confident. Plus music, snacks, free photos, a happy hair station, massages and other fun activities. 8:30 a.m. to noon. $15-$45. Wesley Bolin Plaza, 1700 W. Washington St., Phoenix. gotrmc.org JDRF One Walk (April 28). Help the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Desert Southwest Chapter raise funds and awareness for Type 1 diabetes. The nighttime run includes food, giveaways and a live concert by Rock Lobster. 6 p.m. $35. Sloan Park, 2330 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Mesa. jdrf.org

Easter Events family time! Easter Egg Hunt (March 31). The Kiwanis Club of Tempe, along with Tempe High School Key Club and ASU’s Circle K International, hosts this event with more than 8,000 plastic prize-filled Easter eggs. The Easter Bunny will be available for pictures prior to the hunt. Plus, face painting, games and arts and crafts. Bring your own basket. 8 a.m. Free. Kiwanis Park (soccer field), 6111 S. All America Way, Tempe. kcot.org Downtown Mesa Tiny Tots Easter Egg Hunt (March 29). Ages 8 and younger can collect one egg at each participating business on Main Street. Plus face painting and photos with the Easter Bunny. 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Free. Main Street between Center Street and Country Club. downtownmesa.com Easter Egg-Citement (March 31). The Easter Bunny will be at Schnepf Farms. Kids can hunt for eggs and enjoy swings, jumping pillows, carousel rides and the petting zoo.

Register online; spaces are limited. 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. $20-$25 children; $3 parents. 24810 S. Rittenhouse Road, Queen Creek. 480-987-3100 or schnepffarms.com Easter Egg Hunt (March 31 and April 1). Enchanted Island Amusement Park hosts two days of egg hunts. Bring your own baskets and arrive early. The Easter Bunny will be available for photos. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free. 1202 W. Encanto Blvd., Phoenix. 602-254-1200 or enchantedisland.com

Easter Egg-Sperience (March 31). Celebrate spring with a day at Vertuccio Farms. Enjoy all the favorite farm play structures, an egg hunt, furry farm animals and photos with the Easter Bunny. Breakfast favorites available from the farm griddle. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. $11. Register online. 4011 S. Power Road, Mesa. 480650-6066 or vertucciofarms.com Easter Egg Stravaganza (March 31). Celebrate Easter on the front lawn of the Wigwam with Easter egg roll races, Easter egg hunt train ride and live entertainment.

Free. Optional breakfast buffet with the Easter Bunny for $15-$25 per person. 8 a.m. to noon. Wigwam Golf Resort, 300 E. Wigwam Blvd., Litchfield Park. 623-9353811 or wigwamarizona.com Kiwanis Easter Parade and Spring Fling (March 31). The 42nd annual parade is between Warner and Elliot Roads on 48th Street in Ahwatukee. Kiwanis Spring Fling follows with live entertainment, carnival rides, Easter egg hunt and photo opportunities. 10 a.m parade; 11 a.m. festival. Free. Ahwatukee Community Center Park, 4700 E. Warner Road. 602402-6272 or kiwanisahwatukee.org Easter Bunny Express (April 1). This is the hoppiest celebration at Verde Canyon Railroad. The experience begins with face painting, photo opportunities and treats from the Easter Bunny. Onboard fun continues with a winner-takes-all jelly bean counting contest. Train departs at 1 p.m. $45-$65. 300 N. Broadway, Clarkdale. 800-582-7245 or verdecanyonrr.com

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SPRING SESSION: April 13 - 15 FALL SESSION: August 31 – September 3

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We prepare our scholars for admission to top STEM High Schools and Colleges: MIT, Cal-Tech, Stanford and Harvard! • SySTEM is the only exclusively STEM middle school in Central Phoenix. • Focused on the specific needs of middle school aged students during their formative years. • Diverse student population, only 150 students school wide, small classes.

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summer camp

winter camp

9 Weekly Sessions: June 3 - August 4

WINTER SESSION: December 28 - January 1

HAVE THE BEST SUMMER EVER!

Archery • Campfires • Canoeing & Paddleboard • Crafts Airsoft Targets Performance Arts & Juggling • High Ropes • Hiking Horseback Rides Paintball • Camp Radio & Journalist • Photography • Swimming & More

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first person Traditional Day Camping in the Desert

• Ages 3-13 • Full-Day Program • Five Days a Week • 2, 4, 6, or 8 Weeks • 2 Pools On Campus • Middle School Field Trips • Extended Hours Available • Transportation Available • Optional Lunch Program

Camp Dates

June 4th - July 27th

Swimming Archery Tumbling Rock wall Arts & Crafts Dance Gaga Rocketry Game room Team sports Drama/Acting Mini Golf Cooking & more!

Located in Paradise Valley

Owner/Director: Karyn Roseman Miller

www.CactusDayCamp.com 480-836-CAMP(2267)

SUMMER CAMPS June 4-29 & July 9-20

APRIL 2018 raisingarizonakids.com

AFFIRMATIONS

...or, I was the perfect parent (before I had kids) By Lexi Peterson WHEN I WAS YOUNGER, I babysat for extra pocket money. It truly felt like a calling. From the age of 13, I could do it all. Have a blast with the kids? Check. Dinner on the table on time? Not a problem. Bedtime routine? My specialty. I was able to run the show. The kids I watched were quick to listen. When they weren’t, I was able to embody authority. Basically, I was the perfect parent — before I had my own kids. I knew that my own kids would be respectful. They would listen the very first time I asked them to do something. They would follow the rules and do so happily. Obviously, motherhood quickly brought me to reality. I have two iron-willed boys, each of whom has his own sense of how things should go. We’ve had some battles. I’ve made mistakes. I’ve reacted rather than responded. Some days, I found myself hating the sound of my own voice. Why did I have to repeat myself 10 times for my son to hear me? Why was he so distracted? Why was I so quick to anger? One day, my boys were playing in the other room while I was making lunch. I heard my oldest yell, “NO! Do NOT take my car! That is a BAD choice!” I froze. It wasn’t his words that upset me, but the tone of his voice. It was ugly. In it, I heard frustration and anger. I heard a lack of love and empathy. I heard my own voice in his. I was filled with instant and intense mom-guilt.

This is how I’ve been speaking to my children? The next day, I asked my son to repeat after me: “I am honest, I am kind, I am respectful, I am loved.” At first, he giggled, but he repeated me. That day, anytime I began to correct his behavior, I asked him to tell me his reminders again. Each time, he did, and over the next few days, I felt he was not only understanding, but also believing the words. More than anything I’ve tried before or since, these affirmations, or “reminders,” are the most effective way to help my son escape a negative frame of mind. Yelling, time-outs, threats — for whatever reason, these seemed to encourage poor behavior. It was as though he was fulfilling this self (or mom)-proclaimed prophecy. Instead of hearing me reprimand him for a poor choice, he is reminded instead of the goodness he holds within him. He is not defined by the mistakes he makes. Instead, he is reminded that he is honest. He is kind. He is respectful. And more than anything, he is so, so loved. Lexi Peterson of Gilbert is the mother of Jack (4) and Tucker (2).

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RESOURCE

RESOURCE FAIR Saturday, aug. 25 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Ability 360 Sports & Fitness Center 5031 E. Washington St., Phoenix

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Join RRESOURCE aising a Rizona K idsFAIR for a day of discovery, learning and support for families with special needs! Sign up for our eNewsletter at raisingarizonakids.com for updates on this FREE annual event. sponsored in part by:

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