DECEMBER 2020
Raisingyour ARIZONA Kids partner on the parenting path GOING VIRTUAL WITH
HOLIDAY TRADITIONS
Managing
SCREEN TIME
over winter break
FACETIME with SANTA? Performances, events and gifts for the holidays
Ezra Kubalek of Maricopa City.
CONTENTS
December 2020 FEATURES
20
TAKING HOLIDAY TRADITIONS VIRTUAL Sophie Strossberg’s extended family lives more than 2,000 miles away. Here's her plan to make Zoom dinners and online chats a little more fun.
24
4 30
VIRTUAL SANTA VISITS Grand Canyon University graduate Eli Miller started working on his Santa Calls app well before the pandemic hit. Now it’s giving kids and families a safe alternative to the traditional Santa visit.
26
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2020 Everyone deserves a toy or whimsical gift this season. Here’s what we found for kids of all ages — at local shops and online — to help spread holiday cheer.
30
HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES FEATURE OUTDOOR VENUES AND SMALLER AUDIENCES Here’s where families can still enjoy live holiday shows and socially distanced performances around greater Phoenix.
DEPARTMENTS
2
DIALOGUE A happier new year
4
AZ GROWN
20
• Children’s Museum of Phoenix expands outdoor play space • AAP: Nationwide pandemic strategy needed as more than 1 million U.S. children have contracted coronavirus • Loud toys to avoid this holiday season • Celebrating holidays during the time of COVID-19 • High schools can earn $2,500 for supplies or tech upgrades • Mesa launches one-stop portal for STEAM curriculum • Sari On Science: Learn paleontology via cookie “excavation” • Using Common Sense: Balance family screen time with oldschool holiday traditions this month • Raising Outdoor Kids: Footwear for a new year of adventures
34
FAMILY TIME! Top December events
RaisingARIZONAKids.com December 2020
1
dialogue
happ ppie ierr A happier NEW YEAR NOVEMBER BROUGHT SOME good news
have struggled to keep up. Visits to Santa
about real pandemic relief on deck in the
will be much different this year, as we
new year. At least two pharmaceutical
unravel in “Virtual Santa visits.” Scottsdale
companies announced their vaccines are
entrepreneur Eli Miller created the Santa
testing at more than 90 percent effective,
Calls app (experiencebelief.com) so all kids
and work is underway on many more.
can still experience the wonder of Santa.
Of course, manufacturing and
A recent Grand Canyon University grad,
distributing these vaccines is complex, so it
Miller says he understands firsthand how
could be months before most of the general
families can struggle this time of year, and
public can be vaccinated against COVID-
how much kids need to believe there’s still
19. But relief is in sight for our frontline
magic in the holiday season.
medical workers — possibly as soon as
If we’re being responsible, holiday feasts
this month in Arizona. We hope our most
will continue to be smaller, and loved ones
vulnerable populations and our teachers
will likely be miles away. Understanding
and educators will have access ASAP.
that reality, Sophie Strosberg made a plan
It’s a nice feeling to know that a return
to make Zoom holidays a little nicer for
to normalcy — at least at new normal — is
everyone in “Taking holiday traditions
on the horizon. These 10 hard months of
virtual.” She’s having a little fun with the
worry during a pandemic that has claimed
concept, and we hope all of us can find
more than 265,000 lives (ncov2019.live)
a way to do the same. One thing we can
in this country and waylaid millions of
all agree on is that no one will ever forget
paychecks and careers continues to take a
2020. Please have a safe and happy holiday
toll on families. But we enter the holiday
season as we look forward to a brighter,
season knowing help is on the way, and
more hopeful new year.
2021 already is looking brighter. curveballs to the end. Many of us had our as COVID rates climbed and hospitals
2 December 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
PUBLISHER Karen Davis Barr EDITOR Kara G. Morrison CONTRIBUTORS Sari Custer, Ilana Lowery, Doris Nehrbass, Sophie Strosberg, Lisa Van Loo
ART DIRECTOR Michèlle-Renée Adams COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Laura Liz Photography 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.
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Meanwhile, 2020 continues to throw kids return to online and distance learning
December 2020 | Vol 31 | No 7
Kara G. Morrison, Editor kara@RAKmagazine.com
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az grown good to know
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OPENS EXPANDED OUTDOOR PLAY SPACE By RAK staff
THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF PHOENIX
Play also includes:
Museum’s Art Studio, this space invites
reopened on Friday, Nov. 20, with 15,000
• The Workshop: Build with hammers,
kids to paint a classic car.
additional square feet of imaginative outdoor play space featuring a straw-bale castle, a sand and corn pit, rock painting and a Tike Motocross area. The new Adventure Play area — created in the museum’s north parking
nails, wrenches and other tools. • Building Play: Climb over, on and through tires, crates and other items. • Cornville: Play in one ton of corn kernels. • Rock Painting: Children and adults
• Explore-A-Truck: Kids can climb into and explore a fire truck and a mail truck. “Adventure Play is an awesome new play experience for kids and their families opening just in time to take advantage of our beautiful
lot — lets children learn through
can paint rocks to take home or to
winter weather,” says Marion
physical activities that require both
leave somewhere in the community
Wiener, the museum’s marketing and
fine and gross motor skills and through
for others to find, with the purpose of
communications director. “We’ve taken
thought-provoking discoveries. The
spreading joy.
some of our most beloved exhibits inside
centerpiece is Colossal Castle and a maze built using 400 straw bales. Adventure
4 December 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
• Paint an Alfa Romeo: Much like painting the Robot in the Children’s
the Museum, changed them up a bit, and presented them in a new way. Plus,
SIGN-UP FOR
we’ve added some brand new experiences as well. It’s still the same Museum we all love … just 100 percent outside!” Visitors can also plant, water and
DOES YOUR CHILD SUFFER FROM ANXIETY?
harvest crops in the Children’s Garden; scoop sift and measure in the Mud Kitchen; build with pine cones, logs, rocks, sticks and dirt in Nature Nook; jump rope and hula hoop in Retro Recess; ride a trike or balance bike in TMX (Tike Motocross); play in the Sand Pit and more. Sock Skating also returns to the Museum at the end of the month. Adventure Play is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays
MICHELLE- RENEE ADAMS
and Sundays. Only the outdoor play
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areas of the museum are open as a safety precaution during the ongoing COVID19 pandemic. Adventure Play will be
Book Your Free Consultation Today!
PATHOFWELLNESSACU.COM
open additional days during the holidays, including Dec. 21-23, Dec. 28-31 and Jan. 2-3. The museum is closed on Christmas Eve Day, Christmas and New Year’s Day. All visitors ages 3 and older must wear face masks, and limited capacity and timed entry tickets allow for social distancing.
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MAGAZINE’S FREE WEEKLY eNEWSLETTER AND GET MORE LOCAL PARENTING INFORMATION RIGHT TO YOUR PHONE!
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Advance reservations are required for all visitors including members. Tickets are $14.95; $13.95 for seniors; free for Children’s Museum of Phoenix members
reach families valleywide. Learn more about print and digital options.
and babies younger than age 1. The Children’s Museum of Phoenix is a nonprofit organization located at 215 N. Seventh St. in downtown Phoenix. It works to foster a joy of learning through open-ended, fun, exploratory play experiences for children ages birth to 10. Purchase tickets and make reservations online at childrensmuseumofphoenix.org/ museum-admission
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RaisingARIZONAKids.com December 2020
5
ISTOCK
az grown health
AAP: NATIONWIDE PANDEMIC STRATEGY NEEDED
as the number of children diagnosed with COVID-19 surpasses 1 million MORE THAN A MILLION INFANTS, children
we had vaccines for measles and polio,” said
behavioral health for their children. Child
and adolescents in the U.S. have been
Goza, adding that until a vaccine is readily
immunizations for children ages 2 and
diagnosed with COVID-19 since the
available, we need to do more to protect
younger have also fallen substantially
beginning of the pandemic, according
one another. “We urgently need a new,
during the pandemic, and the AAP is
to data released in mid-November by
nationwide strategy to control the pandemic,
concerned children are missing important
the American Academy of Pediatrics and
and that should include implementing
developmental screenings.
Children’s Hospital Association, which
proven public health measures like mask
are tracking data reported by state health
wearing and physical distancing.”
departments. The data showed new cases in children
AAP notes the pandemic continues
“We know from research on the impact of natural disasters on the mental health of children that prolonged exposure to
to take a toll on children’s mental and
this kind of toxic stress is damaging,” Dr.
appear to be spiking, with 111,946 such
physical health. The Centers for Disease
Goza said. “Most natural disasters have
cases nationwide in the one-week period
Control and Prevention reports emergency
an end, but this pandemic has gone on for
ending Nov. 12. AAP President Sally Goza
department visits by children and
over eight months, and is likely to continue
called the number “staggering and tragic”
adolescents for mental health problems
to disrupt our lives for many more. We’re
and said a new nationwide pandemic
have increased more than 24 percent
very concerned about how this will impact
strategy is needed to protect the mental
during the pandemic. And in a national
all children, including toddlers who are
and physical health of families.
survey, 27 percent of parents reported
missing key educational opportunities, as
worsening mental health for themselves
well as adolescents who may be at higher
and 14 percent reported worsening
risk for anxiety and depression.”
“We haven’t seen a virus flash through our communities in this way since before
6 December 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
LOUD TOYS
to avoid this holiday season EVERY YEAR, the Arizona Commission
• Leap Frog Fridge Phonics (94 dB)
for the Deaf and the Hard of Hearing (acdhh.org) tests popular toys just before
• Vtech Helping Heroes Fire Station (93 dB)
the holidays to determine whether any
• Adventure Force Mighty Dragon (92 dB)
are loud enough to potentially damage a
• Leap Frog 100 Words Book (92 dB)
child’s hearing. According to the American SpeechLanguage-Hearing Association, 85 dB is the maximum volume a child should be exposed to for no more than eight hours a day, and sounds louder than 100 dB can damage a child’s hearing in less than 15 minutes. Noise is the number one cause of
• Vtech Peppa Pig Learn & Discover Book (91 dB) • Vtech Brilliant Baby Laptop (90 dB) • Vtech Magic Star Learning Table (89 dB) • Fisher Price Leave a Message Smart Phone (89 dB) If these toys are on your child’s must-
hearing loss, according to the ACDHH,
have list, or if you already own these toys,
and nearly 15 percent of children ages 6-19
ACDHH suggests turning down the
have some degree of hearing loss.
volume and taping over the volume control
Loud noises, ACDHH warns, also can
or applying waterproof tape to the speaker
increase fatigue, decrease a child’s ability
to help mute it. Parents can conduct their
to pay attention and reduce short-term
own decibel test with smartphone apps
memory. Toys on their “2020 Toys to
such as Decibel X or Too Noisy Pro. “It is important to consider how the
Avoid” list for the holidays include: • Leap Frog Scrub and Play Smart Sink (103 dB)
child will use the toy,” Sherri Collins,
• Vtech Turn & Learn Driver (101 dB)
statement. “Children aren’t always using
• Fisher Price Sing & Learn Music Player (98 dB)
these toys at arm’s length as they may be
• Leap Frog 100 Animals Book (98 dB)
the decibel levels of other sounds around
• Nickelodeon Baby Shark Musical Playpad (98 dB)
the child in addition to the toy, such as the
• Jada Police Hero Patrol Lights & Sound (95 dB)
all making noise simultaneously. They can
executive director for ACDHH, said in a
intended. It’s also important to consider
television, kids yelling or other loud toys quickly add up and cause hearing loss.”
RaisingARIZONAKids.com December 2020
7
az grown health
CELEBRATING HOLIDAYS
during the time of COVID-19 By Gretchen Hull, M.D.
2020 HAS BEEN a challenging year for
around the country it is necessary that we
if your family includes individuals at
all of us and we are all exhausted, but
take precautions and be flexible. Here are
high risk of serious infection.
as we head into the holidays it is so
some suggestions and tips as we plan to be
very important that we continue to stay
with our loved ones as safely as possible
limit the size and minimize the number
vigilant and safe.
and still be together.
of households coming together.
We all want and need to spend time with family and friends; it is hard to
• If you are inviting people over, please
• Eat outside. Fortunately, here in • The safest option is to stay home and
Arizona the odds are favorable that
imagine not doing so during the holidays.
celebrate with the members of one
we will have decent weather. If at all
But as cases of COVID-19 are surging
household. This is especially important
possible, eat outside, still limiting the
8 December 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
FLU or COVID? The flu and COVID share many common symptoms, including: • Fever/chills • Cough • Shortness of breath, difficulty breathing • Extreme tiredness
• Muscle or body aches • Headache • Stuffy, runny nose • Vomiting or diarrhea
A key symptom more likely with COVID-19 is a loss of taste or smell, but even that symptom is less common in children. It is important to remember that children with COVID-19 usually have milder symptoms that are often missed. They still can spread the disease to others. Children under the age of 10 years old are less likely to spread COVID-19 (while more likely to spread the flu), but they still can transmit the virus to others. Adults and adolescents are the primary vectors and it is strongly encouraged that they
MONKEYBUSINESSIMAGES
wear masks when gathering with people outside of their household.
number of people. It does no good if
be extra diligent about staying home
unite and bring it under control so
the yard is packed with people, even
the week before coming to minimize
that our children and ourselves can
if outside. It is then impossible to
risk. Getting tested three days before
be whole again. I firmly believe that
maintain any distance between people.
arriving is helpful but doesn’t eliminate
we can do this. May we all celebrate
the risk. There are examples of people
in a thoughtful, safe, warm way this
are inside and turn on the exhaust fans
tested just before family reunions,
holiday season.
over the stove and in the bathroom.
remaining asymptomatic during the
Gretchen Hull, MD, was
Homes are built to be energy efficient
function, and still spreading COVID
born in California but grew
and air circulates slowly, making it
to many in the family.
up in Tucson, graduated from
• Open windows in each room if you
easier to transmit the virus. • Shorten the time of the gathering. This
Brown University and attended medical school at the University
As 2020 comes to end, the
of Arizona. She completed
is challenging as we are all so excited to
COVID-19 pandemic is still active
her pediatric residency at
see others that we want to be together
and threatening many. We are all tired
Children’s Hospital Los Angeles in 2002 and has
longer, but that increases the risk.
and want this to be over, but unless we
• If watching sports, everyone should
can all come together as a nation and
worked at Tucson Central Pediatrics ever since. She serves on the boards of the Arizona Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics and Parent Aid,
wear masks so that as they get excited
be willing to follow recommendations
an organization dedicated to preventing child abuse.
they minimize spreading the virus
of masking, social distancing, and
She volunteers with the Flying Samaritans in Baja
into the air.
hygiene, the pandemic will continue to
• Make an agreement with people who are coming over that they and you will
wreak havoc on our lives, emotionally, physically and financially. We can
California Sur and has been on several international medical trips to countries such as Guatemala and India. Her hobbies include photography, travel and studying foreign languages. She is fluent in Spanish.
RaisingARIZONAKids.com December 2020
9
az grown education
HIGH SCHOOLS CAN EARN $2,500 FOR SUPPLIES OR TECH UPGRADES RAISEME, an Arizona-owned college
and Google Classroom. Teachers can
scholarship dollars in their hands and
readiness and scholarship tool that
then check rankings compared to other
ultimately helping these learners reach
helps high school students earn micro-
Arizona schools. The contest ends Dec.
their full potential.”
scholarships for academic and other
11, and the two Arizona high schools
achievements, is launching an educator
with the highest percentage of students
college and scholarship attainment.
challenge. Two Arizona high schools
signed up will win.
Students get guidance, and colleges
RaiseMe is a free app that promotes
that sign up the highest percentage of
“We know being an educator is a
their student body to join raiseme.com
challenging job, especially with all the
visiting campus. Students can join
will earn $2,500 for classroom supplies,
hurdles of 2020,” says Amanda Schwabe,
RaiseMe as early as ninth grade, and
technology upgrades or cleaning
director of student partnerships for
earn incremental, achievement-based
necessities.
CampusLogic, the Phoenix-based tech
financial aid from more than 300
company that owns RaiseMe. “As an
participating colleges, including Arizona
RaiseMe educator account and click the
Arizona company, we are proud to help
State University, University of Chicago,
blue “invite” button on the profile page
our local high schools in this way. Plus,
University of Nebraska, University of
to invite students to join. Invitations
we are making college more attainable
Iowa, Syracuse University, Tulane and
can also be sent via email, social media
for Arizona students by putting
Georgia Tech.
Participating teachers create a free
10 December 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
can engage students years before
MONKEYBUSINESSIMAGES
GET READY
for a Santa adventure
SANTA PHOTOS Santa wouldn’t miss his visit for anything! Rest assured, he’s made every effort to give kiddos a joyous, contactless experience.
RESERVATIONS PREFERRED CLICK TO RESERVE NOW
ARROWHEAD TOWNE CENTER BILTMORE FASHION PARK CHANDLER FASHION CENTER DESERT SKY MALL KIERLAND COMMONS PARADISE VALLEY MALL SANTAN VILLAGE SCOTTSDALE FASHION SQUARE SUPERSTITION SPRINGS CENTER Masks may be required per local ordinances
az grown education
Items from the virtual "Dino Hall Experience" STEAM program. Courtesy of the Arizona Museum of Natural History.
Mesa launches one-stop portal for
STEAM CURRICULUM THE CITY OF MESA Arts and Culture
offered should be able to help enliven
Contemporary Arts Museum hosts virtual
Department has launched Learning
classrooms, engage students’ critical
gallery tours and discussion.
ReimaginED, a virtual portal offering
thinking and creativity, and help motivate
STEAM curriculum — science,
students to stay engaged with learning.
History’s programs for students in
technology, engineering, the arts and
The lion’s share of these resources are
grades 3-5 include: Dinosaur Teeth,
mathematics — for educators and home-
offered free of charge.”
Fossil Detectives, Science of Sauropods
schooling parents. The portal was created because school
Through the curriculum, students can
Arizona Museum of Natural
and Paleo Art and Diets. And i.d.e.a.
journey back in time to Arizona’s pioneer
Museum’s programs for preschool
field trips are on hold during the ongoing
days, discover the power of image and
through sixth-graders include: Art of
COVID-19 pandemic. The Mesa Arts
metaphor through Shakespeare and works
the Story virtual guided tours with an
Center, Arizona Museum of Natural
of art, experience music, and learn about
art-making activity and an Artful Tales
History, i.d.e.a. Museum, Mesa Historical
dinosaurs that roamed Arizona more than
Experience linked to a video of a themed
Museum and Southwest Shakespeare
60 million years ago.
book, age-appropriate artwork and
Company have all contributed programming. “We are thrilled that these five
Mesa Arts Center will host several virtual and in-person programs, including
discussion. Southwest Shakespeare Company will
Project Lit that uses poetry, spoken word
share several virtual performances with
institutions have come together to support
and hip hop to promote literacy and
study guides as well as live workshops.
Arizona students during these challenging
activate social and emotional learning.
Finally, the Mesa Historical Museum will
times,” Cindy Ornstein, director of arts
The Classical Music Inside Out program
host virtual field trips to the Women in
and culture for the City of Mesa and
features Grammy Award-winning
Aviation and Mesa & Arizona Pioneer
executive director of Mesa Arts Center,
cellist Zuill Bailey performing and
History exhibitions. Visit mesaartscenter.
said in a statement. “The programs
engaging with students. And the Mesa
com/learningreimagined
12 December 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
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 December 2020
13
az grown science SARI ON SCIENCE
Learn about paleontology via COOKIE “EXCAVATION” By Sari Custer WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE DINOSAUR? Don’t worry, there’s no wrong answer — because,
Directions:
as my daughter would tell you, all dinosaurs are
1. Place your cookie
awesome! But if you said Tyrannosaurus rex, you
on a plate and observe this
would be among the majority of Americans.
cookie "site." Look for any chocolate chip “fossils”
Right now, at Arizona Science Center, you can still get a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see a real T. rex in person. Victoria the T. rex — one of the largest and most complete T. rex specimens
you can see before excavating (i.e. digging). 2. Draw a picture of your cookie and note what you see. 3. Using a toothpick, attempt to remove each
ever found — is on display with all 199 of her
chocolate chip “fossil” without breaking it.
real bones, along with a variety of interactive
4. Try using other tools to see if they work any
exhibits that help explore what she looked like, sounded like, how she hunted and more!
better or worse.
the skills needed in an excavation, the challenges a paleontologist might face, and the importance of using the right tools for a specific job. With your cookie excavation, which tool worked best? What was surprising about your excavation? What problems did you encounter? How do you
5. If you uncover more chocolate chip “fossils,” keep
think paleontologists know what’s underground?
adding them onto your drawing. Mark on your
How would you have worked differently if you had
then practice your paleontology skills on all
drawing which “fossils” you were able to remove
no idea what was buried inside?
those sweets that seem to be constantly around
whole and which ones were damaged. Also write
with this fun, at-home chocolate chip cookie
what tool you used to excavate each one.
This holiday season, come visit Victoria,
excavation activity. Can you excavate your “fossils” (chocolate chips) from their dig site (the cookie) without breaking them?
Did you know? The name Tyrannosaurus rex means “tyrant
What’s happening? Paleontology is the study of ancient life on Earth
lizard king,” but the T. rex is more closely related to modern chickens than to modern lizards. Find out
from fossils — including dinosaurs, plants, mammals,
more fun facts in Victoria the T. rex, now through Jan.
Supplies:
fish, insects, fungi and even microbes. Fossils are
3 at Arizona Science Center! Visit azscience.org for
• Chocolate chip cookie • Other tools to test
the remains of organisms that have been replaced by
details.
(or any cookie with
(craft sticks, mini-
rock material or impressions of organisms preserved
“chunks”)
spoons, tweezers,
in rock, and can help us understand how organisms
• Toothpicks
dental picks, paint
changed over time and what our planet was like long
• Plate
brushes, etc.)
ago. Fossils are usually very delicate and deeply
• Paper • Pencil
• Optional: Magnifying glass
14 December 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
buried in rocks. Removing them takes skill, patience and the right tools. This cookie excavation simulates
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.
Now Open
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15
az grown technology
USING COMMON SENSE
Balance family screen time
with old-school holiday traditions this month By Ilana Lowery
W
E ALL KNOW the holidays will
— not the iPhone kind. It may sound
Be jolly but firm. Let your kids know
be different this year. From
a bit like a Hallmark movie, but think
that you’ll be enforcing time limits on
smaller family gatherings to Zoom
about reviving these traditional holiday
screen time to create more quality family
calls with relatives who live far
activities as a family: bake cookies, build
time. Agree if possible that the rules will
away, celebrating anything in 2020
a gingerbread house (the kits make it
apply to grown-ups as well. Use your
continues to be a challenge.
pretty easy), make holiday cards to send
phone’s built-in features to determine
to U.S. troops, volunteer at a homeless
how much time you’re spending online
creative, take advantage of new
shelter or soup kitchen, read great holiday
and which apps you use the most, and
opportunities and focus on the good
books, break out traditional board games
pare back where you can.
things in front of us. It’s also a chance
(remember “Sorry”?) or settle in with
to balance our reliance on technology
popcorn for some classic holiday films.
Still, this is a good time to get
and devices with time to share festive, decidedly low-tech traditions. This month, work to balance your family’s screen time with real face time
16 December 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
Common Sense Media’s parenting
Make a list, and check it with your kids. Schedule daily tech time for
experts recommend these ideas to help
yourself and your kids. Get their
families balance screen time and limit
input on which devices they absolutely
technology usage over the holidays:
can’t live without. If their apps have
More at-home
PROSTOCK-STUDIO
holiday family activities Beat boredom and promote positivity with these at-home family activities.
settings that help curb usage — Tik Tok,
Try some tech togetherness. Unplugging
YouTube and Snapchat all have these
for its own sake isn’t the point. Family
settings — then by all means, enable
time is. Plan a night of video games,
them. Learn how with Common Sense
movies or even preselected YouTube
Thank essential workers. Write
Media’s guide to using these features:
videos you can all enjoy together.
thank-you letters to essential workers to acknowledge their acts of service
commonsensemedia.org/blog/use-yourphone-less-with-tools-from-apple-google-
Plan for offline activities. Document your
and kindness. 826digital.com/lessons/
snapchat-and-more
family memories and consider compiling
essential-words-letters-of-gratitude-to-
them into scrapbooks and journals.
essential-workers
Plan device-free family dinners. Put all
This is a perfect time to share your own
the phones and tablets in a basket and
holiday memories with your kids.
Interview a family member. Get to know each other better and
don’t check them until the dishes are Don’t sneak away to check Twitter or
share life stories by interviewing a family
email. Remember, your kids learn their
member, such as a grandparent. Family
Have a download day. Browse the app
media habits partly from you. Use quiet
Tree Magazine offers question prompts
store together. Look for games and
time to reflect on ways you can maximize
(familytreemagazine.com/kids/interview)
activities that the whole family can
the benefits of technology without letting
and StoryCorps — an American Oral
enjoy, such as the ones on Common
it take over your family’s life.
History project in conjunction with
cleared — or washed.
the Library of Congress — preserves
Sense Media’s Best Apps lists: Have an old-fashioned holiday. Challenge
these types of interviews for future
your family to choose low-tech or no-tech
generations. storycorps.org/participate/
Make setup fun. No matter how user
versions of favorite activities, such as
storycorps-app
friendly new devices or apps can be,
backyard games or board games.
commonsensemedia.org/app-lists
there’s always some (often frustrating) setup time. Truth be told, kids often figure out thorny tech glitches faster than parents, so involve your kids in
Ilana Lowery is the Arizona director for Common Sense
Wide Open School. Find more at-home activities, such as the Family
Media. She can be reached at
Kindness Challenge, at Common
ilowery@commonsense.org.
Sense Media’s Wide Open School.
the process. Use that time to discuss the
wideopenschool.org/student-activities/
responsible use of the new device.
holiday-gratitude
RaisingARIZONAKids.com December 2020
17
az grown Raising Outdoor Kids
Clockwise from top: TEVA Men's Omnium 2 sandal in Bungee Cord. KEEN Women's Ravine H2 Sandal in Purple Tropical. BROOKS Men's Launch 7 Running Shoe in Tie Dye. MERRELL Women's MTL Skyfire in Capri. SALOMON Men's Speedcross III in Black Goji Berry.
Footwear for a new year of adventures Story by Lisa Van Loo
W
henever we tell the kids it’s time
against Vans, they’re just not great for
through countless obstacle course races.
to leave for an adventure, there are
exploring where the cement ends and the
We needed shoes that gave us support
wilderness begins.
and traction, kept us light on our toes
three enduring questions that follow: Will I need a sweatshirt? Will I need a swimsuit? What shoes should I bring?
It turns out, we’re always looking for
and drained quickly after getting wet.
recommendations. So we figured other
Salomon Speedcross sneakers have become
adventurous families might be, too —
a go-to for Ron. I recently discovered
“Where are we going?” question, because
especially this time of year, as people
Merrell Skyfires, and I’m wondering where
we told them to stop asking, and by now,
look to a new year, new habits and new
they’ve been all my life. They’re grippy,
they trust it’s somewhere cool. Those first
routines. (And need holiday gift ideas!)
light, colorful and they have extra cushion
two questions are always easy. There’s
Shoes make all the difference, for anyone,
right where you need it while hiking. The
never really a wishy-washy answer. Shoes,
but especially for adventurers. Here are
shoelaces are stretchy, too, which sounds
though, are different.
some of our favorite kicks — the ones that
like a minor detail, but it makes me happy.
That’s it. We’ve wiped clean the
What we know for sure, is we wish
haven’t let us down.
their feet would stop growing long enough
WATER SHOES. We’ve tried SO many
to make it worthwhile to buy them
FOOTWEAR FOR TRAILS. Before COVID-
different ones. Too many. But, we’ve
something other than Vans. Nothing
19 came along, our whole family muscled
finally found some we love, and as soon
18 December 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
we see a clearance table with all the kids’
a couple years ago, we were instantly
sizes, we’ll upgrade every kid who still
sold. It was like tying marshmallows on
Make sure hiking shoes drain easy.
needs something better than the classic
our feet — tie-dye marshmallows, to be
Heavy sneakers won’t. And you don’t want
water sock — the kind that slides over
exact. They were so comfortable and light
to slop your way through the rest of a hike
your foot like a glove but offers little
and supportive, all at the same time. I’m
all soggy after trekking through water. Find
traction. Because they’ve performed for
hooked now. And I’m so smitten with
the right socks, too. Runners may need arch
us, we have a pretty dedicated affection
them, I keep them only for running, which
support and compression, while hikers may
for Teva sandals and the Keen water
happens almost every day. But, they don’t
want merino wool. And give yourself some
shoes that come with an enclosed toe
run errands or do yardwork. The Brooks
space. You’ll want a little toe room, especially
box. They’re both versatile, grippy
only run for exercise.
when running or hiking. And keep some
and can be worn with (cringe!) socks.
room in those water shoes for the day you’ll
The socks part is actually pretty key,
OVERALL ADVENTURE SHOE TIPS. For
especially when camping.
kids, insist on something other than Vans or Converse. If only for the grip. They
SHOES FOR HITTING THE ROAD. The first
need some traction. For adults whose feet
time Ron and I slid our feet into a pair of
aren’t constantly growing, invest. Do some
Brooks running shoes, the night before the
research, read some outdoor magazines, ask
Rock & Roll half marathon in Phoenix
around and get the shoes that will help you
93% GRADUATION RATE
Four comprehensive high schools featuring: AVID Cambridge AP & Honors Dual Enrollment Career and Tech Ed International Baccalaureate State Champion Athletes Award-Winning Arts Program
and keep you comfortable. It’ll be worth it.
need to warm up with a layer of socks. 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
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19
HOLIDAY TRADITIONS virtual Taking
By Sophie Strosberg | Photos by Jacob Lund
I
MAY HAVE CRACKED the virtual
scraps left behind from holiday card-making.
holiday code. That is, figured out how to
Gaze in a stupor at the Christmas lights that
conduct all of the rituals and traditions for this
took forever to hang. Listen to the sound of little
pandemic-plated edition of holiday season 2020
“elves” nibbling on the cookies you baked earlier.
— albeit online. If you are like me, and have
Consume the scent of the pine-vanilla candle.
family far away, or distant places in your heart,
(No, do not actually eat it.) Then order enough
read on. I, myself, am ready to pounce on the
candles to make it smell like you are a squirrel
2020 virtual winter festivities like a kid pouncing
family living inside a ponderosa pine.
on his sleeping parents on a Saturday morning. Here’s my game plan:
STEP TWO. Plot the family Zoomscapades. In normal language, plan
STEP ONE: Set the scene. There’s no
out your family’s holiday “video chat adventure.”
depending on other households to deliver that home-
And let everyone know the expectations. This
for-the-holidays feeling, so we’ll need to get our non-
time, it will not fly if your sister sits passively,
virtual homes ready in Arizona. There are numerous
video camera on her face, while she answers emails
holiday traditions that simply cannot inhabit a screen,
in another browser window. Because everyone’s
and you will want these components well positioned
full attention will be required for participation in
before you hop on the computer.
whatever you are plotting. You may be working to
Think of it this way: Do you want a real
get everyone ready for the group discussion your
Christmas tree with all of the Christmas
cousin has proposed on the ethics of eating meat,
tree smells and all of the pricked fingers and
for instance. I plan on MCing my family’s first
everything? You had better get one yourself,
ever sketch comedy showcase. I will be emailing
because an online glimpse of Grandma and
out instructions imminently.
Grandpa’s tree in Minnesota just isn’t going to
The important thing here is that in order to feel
cut it. Do you want your kids to be able to spin
like everyone is really getting together, we all need
100,000 dreidels all at once on the floor like you
to be able to maintain focus on the conversation. It
did as a young whippersnapper? They will not
needs to stay interesting. The “Hey, how ya been
have access to Uncle Benny’s collection, so get
doing in 2020?” conversation must be avoided at
yourself to the Judaica store website now!
all costs, and utterances of “now more than ever”
It helps to engage all of your senses as you
should be met with a swig of adult beverage. And let
prepare your home. Inhale the factory-fresh scent
guests relax into the call. This is not a five-minute
of new flannel PJs. Wiggle your toes across paper
check in, it is a five-hour long call. It will not be
20 December 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
RaisingARIZONAKids.com December 2020
21
complete without at least two children and/or adults having tantrums, three instances of toilet-flushing everyone can hear, and four views of people chewing with their mouths open. STEP THREE. Embrace technology that helps connect us. This part of the virtual family plan calls for activities that are interactive yet indirect — and therefore more relaxing. For instance, a gift swap can easily be arranged from a distance through an online system like Elfster — “the world’s No. 1 secret Santa generator,” through which little elves take a break from munching on cookies to match you with the relative whose gift you truly need this year. A well-planned swap can be executed at each participant’s leisure instead of at one predetermined time. That is, you could buy a locally made artisan gift for the exchange now and get it out of the way. Or you could lean over your kitchen table at 1 a.m., the day before the deadline, trying to figure out how to assemble a DIY
22 December 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
chocolate-chip-cookie mix that uses only the whole wheat flour you already have on hand. And then there’s Teleparty, a browser add-on that, whatever our families’ creed, religion, or level of festive cheer, can connect us over long distances through the magic of watching motion pictures “together” — if not in person. We all treasure that together-but-not-talking feeling of the afternoon matinee, and this will be the same, but with a paralyzing range of viewing choices. Just avoid surprises by discussing in advance if you will be watching “Olaf ’s Frozen Adventure” or “Midsommar.” STEP FOUR. Cook traditional holiday food. That’s not virtual, you argue. But you have to eat anyway, I and all Jewish mothers counter. Besides, all of this holiday brouhaha would not be complete without Hanukkah latkes, Kwanzaa stew or Christmas tamales, even if you are cooking just for yourself, your picky 4-year-old and Instagram. Traditional holiday foods, and the special, slow meals that accompany them, help us hearken back to the days of our ancestors. Maybe said ancestors will reach across the ages and have some useful values or wisdom or whatever to share with our strung-out 2020 selves. Just do not burn the food or set anything on fire. We could obviously do without any more “2020” stories. And do not take too long eating, because the kids are ready to tear open all of the gifts you just wrapped. This holiday season is going to be a searing (or
SOCIALLY DISTANCED family fun Apps for
ELFSTER is a free gift exchange website meant to help make gift giving easier. Invite friends or family members to a Secret Santa circle via email, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger or text message. Then make your wish list, draw names and shop. Done! elfster.com READEO fosters the perfect virtual storytime session between loved ones. Its patented platform combines video chat with an award-winning library of kid's books. So you can see both the pages and the faces of loved ones while you read and/ or listen together. readeo.com TELEPARTY. Formerly Netflix Party (that’s still the website name), Teleparty lets friends and family members watch the same movie at the same time, and people can comment about what they’re seeing in a chat space. netflixparty.com
is it roaring?) success. My plan for a contact-free winter holiday will siphon us into blissful merriment in no time. Or at least, into a Yuletide season that nobody will forget. So close your eyes with me. And count slowly to 10. And visualize your perfect version of virtualized holiday traditions. Sophie Strosberg is a Tucson freelance writer and mom to 4-year-old Poppy. She looks forward to love-filled holiday shenanigans with her extended family members, all of whom live more than 2,000 miles away.
TRIVIAMAKER. Want to spice up the virtual holiday party? Put the tech-savviest relative in charge of hosting a holiday trivia contest. You can make your own or use an already created one on this app, which can be used on video chats like Zoom. triviamaker.com VIRTUAL BINGO. Ramp up the fun with a game that works well with video chat platforms. MyFreeBingoCards.com is quick, easy and free for up to 30 players. myfreebingocards. com/virtual-bingo
RaisingARIZONAKids.com December 2020
23
VIRTUAL SANTA VISITS
Just one more way Christmas 2020 is unlike any other By Kara G. Morrison
T
here will be no sitting on Santa’s lap this year or whispering into the jolly old elf’s ear. No pictures of Santa hugging a screaming toddler, or photos with St.
Nick that look like any other Christmas. Instead, in true 2020 fashion, many malls are offering “contactless” Santa visits, complete with a mask-wearing Santa seated six feet from any kid making a holiday request. And venues are also contracting with companies that offer virtual-only Santa visits, including the local entrepreneur behind Santa Calls. Eli Miller never dreamed this would be the scenario when he envisioned his 2019 startup. He was frankly thinking more about the decline of the traditional mall setting than anything else for starting Santa Calls. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit early this year, he fast-tracked his app, creating a safer, affordable alternative to the traditional in-person Santa visit. “I started it under the notion that with the rise of ecommerce, malls would eventually lose their significance. What happens to Santa after that?” asks Miller, who calls himself Santa’s Helper and is a big believer that all kids deserve the wonder of St. Nick this time of year. The Phoenix native also thought there
24 December 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
was value in offering a visit with Santa that, while virtual, is actually more personal for kids who get up to two whole minutes to video chat with Santa via FaceTime, Google Duo or Skype. Plus, in this pandemic, it keeps everyone safer — especially Santa, whose age and tummy put him in the higher-risk category for COVID-19. The app (find it at experiencebelief.com) is national, and Miller, who is 22, was busy last month hiring professional Santas from across the country to address the demand for virtual visits. While right now his service doesn’t offer virtual photos with Santa, he’s rolling out a recorded keepsake of a child’s video session with Santa in 2021. Miller has also worked with Westgate mall in Glendale and the Shops at Norterra in North Phoenix erecting kiosks with big-screen TVs to host Santa Calls, so kids can still have that feeling of getting dressed up to go “see” Santa. It’s not just the magic of the holidays that motivated Miller, who graduated recently from Grand Canyon University with a degree in finance and economics and originally planned to go into stock trading and investing. He realized he wanted to do something more altruistic,
More low-contact
OUTDOOR and VIRTUAL Santa visits Biltmore Fashion Park, Kierland Commons and SanTan Village outdoor malls are offering contactless Santa visits and photos Dec. 4-24. Face coverings are required for ages 2 and up, including Santa, and both queues and visits with the Jolly Old Elf will observe social distancing. Reserve a time at shopbiltmore.com/santaphotos, kierlandcommons.com/ santaphotos or shopsantanvillage.com/santaphotos
HALFPOINT
and he points out, who is more of a philanthropist than Santa? “It is getting pricey in the malls, and by going virtual, we are cutting back on costs a lot. We keep our prices very affordable,” Miller says of Santa Calls, adding he knows firsthand how families can struggle during the holidays just buying gifts for their kids — much less pricey photos with mall Santas. Santa Call packages start at $6 for a personalized video message from Santa to a $20 Magic Bundle featuring a two-minute video chat with Santa and a personalized follow-up video message from Santa after Christmas. Other virtual Santa visits — such as santasclub.com — are more expensive, with prices ranging from $35-$65. In the spirit of the season, Miller is donating 10 percent of all call proceeds to the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, including free calls for kids who can’t afford the $15 video chat so that “every child has an opportunity to believe in and talk to Santa.” “We keep our prices very affordable. I do want to support parents and their families,” says Miller, who says his family experienced homelessness for a time when he was in high school. “I’m in a position where I’m actually giving back
Desert Ridge outdoor mall offers virtual Santa photos now through Christmas Eve. Upload a photo for a digitally created momento at picturemesanta.com. ($5 discount with code SantaDRM). shopdesertridge.com/event/holiday Scottsdale Quarter outdoor mall is offering a contactless Santa experience OR virtual Santa visits. Reservations are recommended for the in-person visits with Santa in his cabin on the Quad. Masks are required while taking photos with Santa. Or, choose a virtual Santa visit using a phone, computer or tablet. Upload a photo, and Santa will be added into the background as the perfect 2020 holiday memory. scottsdalequarter.com Find low-contact indoor Santa visit locations at: whereissanta.com or simon.com/mall/arizona-mills
and giving to children what I wished I’d had.” Kara G. Morrison is editor of Raising Arizona Kids magazine and mom to 8-year-old Sofia.
RaisingARIZONAKids.com December 2020
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Holiday Gift Guide 2020
Toys and family games have become more important than ever to keep us occupied and laughing throughout an unforgettably difficult year. We think everyone deserves a toy or whimsical gift this season. Here’s what we found for kids of all ages — at local shops and online — to help spread holiday cheer.
1. SCOOBI.
A 5-in-1 convertible scooter — grows with your
child as it switches from balance bike, to tricycle, to scooter. It’s designed for ages 2-5 and is made from recyclable materials. $99$119 at larktale.com
2. MASKED STUFFIES. Perfect for this COVID-19 holiday season, Bunnies By The Bay created huggable stuffed bunnies, lambs, puppies and soft dolls wearing face masks to “encourage wee ones, and adults alike, to wear their masks, … to stay protected and protect others with our actions.” Customize your doll or bunny by choosing one of nine face mask designs. $19.95$42.95 at bunniesbythebay.com
3. STEM-ULATING DISCOVERY GIFT BOX. Changing Hands Bookstore in Phoenix and Tempe has weathered the pandemic in part by creating some amazing curated care packages, book bundles and gift boxes. Their STEM-themed box for kids includes an “Awesome Science Experiments for Kids” book, a thermochromatic pencil that changes colors, hydrophobic sand, a grow-your-own-crystals kit, balloon experiments, faux winter snow and much more! $50 at changinghands.com
4. YOTO PLAYER. This screenless speaker system was created by parents who were concerned about screen time for young children — its potential for sleep disruption, delays in fine motor skills, etc. Yoto lets kids make decisions about the stories, music and podcasts they listen to. Using a system of inserted cards, the Yoto player reads classic storybooks, plays classical music and much more. $99 and up at us.yotoplay.com. Cards sold separately.
26 December 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
5. BALANCE JOUSTING SET. All ages can try this, and KidStop’s toy testers report it’s a blast for the whole family. Step onto one of two balance boards and duel it out using giant inflatable joust-boppers. $39.99 at KidStop Toys in Scottsdale or kidstoptoys.com
6. RAINBOW UKULELE. Why settle for toy instruments? Amahi makes beautiful musical ukuleles, recommended for ages 4-12. While you’re at it, sign the recipient up for some ukulele lessons, and everyone benefits! $49.99 at KidStop Toys in Scottsdale or kidstoptoys.com
7. FUJIFILM INSTAX. Remember Polaroid prints? Fujifilm has preserved the fun of watching instant photos develop. It’s a great holiday gift for a tween or teen with an artistic eye — or anyone wanting to preserve precious memories on film with a retro flair. $95 on amazon.com with 20 photos (instant film), a photo album, frames and stickers. target.com
8. ZURG GLOW-IN-THE-DARK BLASTER. Step into the role of Toy Story’s evil Emperor Zurg battling archenemy Buzz Lightyear for control of the universe with this tri-barrel blaster that shoots glow-in-the-dark foam balls. With flashing lights and sound effects. Recommended for ages 6 and up. $24.99 at shopdisney.com
9. ORIGINAL SONG. Want something your family will treasure for decades? How about a one-of-a-kind song for your child. The song title is your child’s name, and all the lyrics are about him/her and what he/she means to you. Choose from an a cappella or studio-recorded package, and professional songwriters will customize the song based on provided details about your child. $99 for an a cappella recording up to $600 for a completely original tune recorded in-studio with checkpoints along the way to review the final product. Songs take 2-6 weeks at mamasingmysong.com
RaisingARIZONAKids.com December 2020
27
10. DISNEY SKETCHY TALES. This new family game is like a drawing and guessing game of telephone sprinkled with Disney magic. Choose a character card and a scenario card, and draw a doodle of the combo. Earn points for the best drawings and silliest guesses. Recommended for ages 8 and up. $19.99 at Target and Amazon.
11. ROLLING STONE: THE ROCK & ROLL PARTY GAME. This music trivia game features pop culture, rock music and karaoke showdowns. Face off in a quick-fire karaoke battle, then move to a charades round. Recommended for ages 14 and up. $19.99 at amazon.com
12. RETRO TAG GAME.
Get everyone in the family
up and running for a retro game of tag featuring Velcro vests and balls that stick to them. Ikea sells a LUSTIGT tag game featuring two vests and accessories for $14.99. ikea.com
13. DESERT ORNAMENTS. Frances Boutique — which until this year hosted a popular Crafeteria holiday fair featuring local artisans — still sells adorable handmade holiday ornaments in store or online. Find them in the shape of glittery saguaros or the Grand Canyon state. $12-$15 at Frances Boutique in Phoenix or shopfrancesboutique.com
14. LOL HOLIDAY PRESENT SURPRISE. Girls ages 6-7 and up seem to go crazy for all things LOL, mostly because they don’t know which 3-inch doll they’re getting until they unwrap it. This round package doubles as a holiday ornament, and the limited edition series features one glittery LOL doll with wintry accessories and a tiny elf character in a present box! Recommended for ages 6-11. $10 at most retail stores that carry toys, including Target and Walmart.
28 December 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
15. PINBALL SCIENCE: EVERYTHING THAT MATTERS ABOUT MATTER. This STEM book doubles as a kit to make your own pinball machine! Engaging graphics help young scientists understand gravity, force, acceleration and more. Recommended for ages 7-10. $14-$22 at Costco, most bookstores and Amazon.
16. OOLY SMOOTH STIX GEL CRAYONS. Art supplies are always a great gift idea for creative kids. These crayons are smooth like gel pens. But you can add water and use the included brush for an artistic watercolor effect. Recommended for ages 3 and older. $5.99 at The Container Store.
17. SPIROGRAPH RETRO DESIGN TIN. Here’s a throwback that’s fun for a whole new generation. Create intricate art designs with this system of wheels and rings, originally designed for mechanical engineers. This Spirograph kit comes in a sleek carrying tin with six precision wheels, ring, rack, reusable putty, two pens, a design guide and drawing pad. Recommended for ages 8 and older. $14.99 at The Container Store.
RaisingARIZONAKids.com December 2020
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Childsplay’s “A Christmas Carol” Nov. 28-Dec. 23. Photo by Tim Trumble.
30 December 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES feature outdoor venues, smaller audiences By Doris Nehrbass
Local artists have been innovating for months to bring back live
Revue.” The live show with a rock ‘n’ roll vibe runs Dec. 2-23
theater. And while there won’t be holiday tunes ringing out from
and features classic and contemporary holiday gems from
Phoenix Symphony Hall, or flocks of little girls lining up to get
Pentatonix, NSYNC, Hanson and more.
pictures with ballerinas from “The Nutcracker,” families can still
Hale Centre Theatre in Gilbert isn’t cancelling its traditional
enjoy holiday shows at outdoor or drive-in venues and see socially
“A Christmas Carol” production — its 18th production of the
distanced performances around greater Phoenix.
holiday classic since the theater opened in 2003. But the Nov.
In mid November, the Herberger Theater opened the Pavilion
27-Dec. 26 run of the show will feature smaller audiences with
— an outdoor stage built on recently cleared land on the theater’s
face masks and physical distancing required of audience members.
east side. The Herberger plans to host performances here through
Production Assistant Jessica Ottley says the script and show will be
April 2021. Arizona Artificial Lawns donated turf to create a
mostly the same, but with a slightly smaller cast and fewer musical
welcoming space for guests that can accommodate about 160
and dance numbers in order to limit large groups singing together
people following social-distancing guidelines. As restrictions on
onstage. Small adjustments are made every year to keep the show
large gatherings loosen, the space could eventually accommodate
fresh, “but this year’s is more true to Dickens’ book,” she adds.
more than 300. It is the biggest stage ever constructed on the
For the third year in a row, Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre is
Herberger Theater plaza, featuring more than 700 square feet of
presenting “A Christmas Story: The Play,” Nov. 27-Dec. 20 inside
performance space.
Scottsdale Fashion Square. Ellen Versen, the theater’s executive
Here, audiences can see Childsplay’s one-woman production of “A Christmas Carol” Nov. 28-Dec. 23. Actress Katie McFadzen presents
director, says the show is becoming another local holiday tradition. “We decided to move this show to our larger space — Cullity
this Charles Dickens classic using vivid narration and in-character
Hall — so we could accommodate the same number of people
storytelling. Social distancing and masks will still be required.
with adequate social distancing,” Versen explains. “The stage and
“The opening of The Pavilion outdoor stage is about hope and giving an opportunity for companies to meet their audiences in a new way,” Mark Mettes, president and CEO of the Herberger
dressing room are also bigger in this space, so the relatively small cast of 11 will also be able to social distance.” Cullity Hall’s seating has been revised to a staggered pattern,
Theater, said in a statement. “We have heard from our guests that
and tickets will be sold in pairs, leaving four empty seats between
digital offerings are just not the same. We want to answer the call
pairs, although accommodations can be made (in advance only)
and provide a live arts experience for the community. These outdoor
for families who want to be seated together.
performances are about being together, yet safely apart, in order to experience performances in a safe and socially distanced way.” The Phoenix Theatre Company has also erected an outdoor stage on its campus next to the Phoenix Art Museum. All month, families can enjoy “Unwrapped: An Original Christmas
“We wanted to make sure our first show upon reopening is a comedy, so audiences can laugh, and possibly escape, from their cares for a couple of hours,” Version says. “The nostalgia in this show will transport adults back to a simpler time.” Doris Nehrbass is a freelance writer and editor in greater Phoenix.
RaisingARIZONAKids.com December 2020
31
HOLIDAY FAMILY PERFORMANCES in greater Phoenix
Ballet Arizona dancers Ethan Price and Mimi Tompkins. Photo by Alexander Iziliaev.
BALLET ARIZONA. Stream digital performances of
CHILDSPLAY stages a one-woman production of “A Christmas Carol” Nov. 28-Dec. 23 at the Herberger
“Nutcracker Suite” at 3 p.m. Dec. 12 and 19; they’ll be available
Theater Center’s new outdoor stage. Actress Katie McFadzen presents this Charles Dickens classic using
on demand for 24 hours. This local holiday tradition is slightly
vivid narration and in-character storytelling. Social distancing and masks are required. Herberger Theater
abridged, but with no shortage of magic in the wintry forest
Center, 222 E. Monroe St, Phoenix. childsplayaz.org
of the Snow Queen and King and the Land of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Filmed performances ($20) include behind-the-scenes
GREAT ARIZONA PUPPET THEATER now hosts drive-in shows, and audiences can order breakfast
segments. A limited number of in-person performance tickets
delivered to their vehicle. Dec. 5-6: “The Elves & the Shoemaker.” Santa’s elves help a poor shoemaker
($100) are available, as well as Capture the Magic at Home
and his wife. Dec. 12-13, 19 and 24: “A Dinosaur Christmas Revue.” The giant dinosaurs are back to share
packages that include kids coloring books, ballet shoes worn
all their favorite Christmas carols, dances and jokes! Showtimes vary. $40 per vehicle ($30 members);
by performers and more. 602-381-1096 or balletaz.org
tickets must be purchased in advance. 302 W. Latham St., Phoenix. 602-262-2050 or azpuppets.org
32 December 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
HALE CENTRE THEATRE is staging its 18th annual “A Christmas Carol,” Nov. 27-Dec. 26. The Gilbert theatre will have limited seating for social distancing and is requiring face masks. 50 W. Page Ave., Gilbert. 480-497-
THEATERWORKS
1181 or haletheatrearizona.com
REG MADISON PHOTOGRAPHY
THEATERWORKS presents “A Curiouser Nutcracker” Nov. 27-Dec. 30. This family-friendly holiday version of its “Curiouser & Curiouser” production takes audience members on a real walk through the realms of Winter Wonderland, the Land of Sweets, the Poinsettia Forest and the Land of Snowflakes, before facing the Mouse King in the perpetual Holiday Gala to save the Nutcracker. Peoria Center for the Performing Arts, 10580 N. 83rd Drive, Peoria. 623-815-7930 or theaterworks.org
THE PHOENIX THEATRE COMPANY brings rock ‘n’ roll muscle to “Unwrapped: An Original Christmas Revue," featuring songs from Pentatonix, NSYNC, Hanson and more Dec. 2-23. 1825 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. 602-254-2151 or phoenixtheatre.com
SCOTTSDALE DESERT STAGES presents “A Christmas Story: The Play,” at its theater inside Scottsdale
on the classic movie, and seating is limited for social distancing. 7014 E. Camelback Road, Suite 0586 Scottsdale. 480-483-1664 or desertstages.org
SPOTLIGHT YOUTH THEATRE presents “Wanted: Santa
VALLEY YOUTH THEATRE
Fashion Square Nov. 27-Dec. 20. The show is based
Claus” live-streamed and for a limited audience Dec.
VALLEY YOUTH THEATRE hosts a virtual holiday concert to support HopeKids at 3:30 p.m. Dec. 19 featuring
18-20. Santa Claus has been framed! Now it’s up to the
nearly 20 favorite holiday songs. HopeKids provides fun events and activities to families who have a child with a
elves and a special angel to set greedy department store
life-threatening medical condition, such as cancer. A portion of proceeds raised from online concert donations
moguls straight and help Santa save the true meaning of
will go directly to HopeKids, and the theatre will be a drive-through location for HopeKids families to pick up
the holidays. Recommended for all ages. 10620 N. 43rd
donated meals during the concert. Five meals are $40, 10 meals are $75 and 20 meals are $140. The goal is to
Ave., Glendale. 602-843-8318 or sytaz.org
provide 200 meals to these families. vyt.com
RaisingARIZONAKids.com December 2020
33
family time!
The Polar Express (Nov. 7-Jan. 3).
DECEMBER TOP EVENTS It’s the holiday season! While it’s a little less busy this year, there’s still plenty of things to do for some holiday cheer. Here’s what’s happening in greater Phoenix. 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
NOV. 7-JAN. 3: The Polar Express. Grand Canyon Railway’s Polar Express comes to life on a journey from Williams, Arizona, to “the North Pole” — where Santa Claus and his reindeer have a keepsake present for every good boy and girl. Watch children’s faces light up when the train arrives, and enjoy hot chocolate and chocolate chip cookies. The 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. thetrain.com/events/polar-express
NOV. 7-JAN. 3: 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. The Africa Trail and all-new Wildlife Lantern Safari feature polar bears, mammoths, koalas, kangaroos and more. 5:30-10:30 p.m. Purchase Cruise Zoolights tickets in advance. Cruisethrough: $75/carload ($60 for members). Walk-through: $16-$20 per person. Kettle corn, hot cocoa, souvenir photos and select glow items for sale. 455 N.
Send calendar info to familytime@RAKmagazine.com
34 December 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. phoenixzoo.org
NOV. 14-JAN. 3: Lights at the Farm. Vertuccio Farms’ holiday lights show runs 5:30-10 p.m. nightly, 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 at gate ($10 on select dates), $11 online, free for ages 2 and younger. $8 skating ($5 on select dates). 4011 S. Power Road, Mesa. 480-882-1482 or vertucciofarms.com or
NOV. 20-DEC. 31: Christmas at the Princess. Every winter, the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess 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 Christmas at Schnepf Farms (Nov. 24-Jan. 2).
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.
NOV. 24-JAN. 2:
com/christmas-at-the-princess
Christmas at Schnepf Farms. Enjoy more than 25 acres of family holiday entertainment nightly including vendors, a Santa’s workshop letter-writing station, pine-cone decorating, Christmas carousel and snow-globe mini golf. Take a hayride to feed the reindeer, ice skate or frolic through a Christmas-themed obstacle course. The Illumination Express
NOV. 23-DEC. 31:
train travels through a light tunnel that doubles as Santa’s magic portal. Christmas campfires, s’mores kits and adult
Holiday Lights at Salt River Fields. The Spring
beverages available. Because of limited capacity due to social distancing, purchase tickets in advance. $15-$17; $5
Training home of the Arizona Diamondbacks hosts
veterans; free for ages 2 and younger. Schnepfchristmas.com
a 1.2 mile drive-through holiday light show. Enjoy more than 5 million lights while holiday songs are simulcast into vehicles on an FM radio signal.
NOV. 27-DEC. 20:
Enjoy it all from your car ($31-$51 per carload)
“A Christmas Story: The Play.” Set in the 1940s Midwest, and based on the movie that launched a whole new genre
or an electric carriage ($300 and up). 5:45-10
of holiday films, 9-year-old Ralphie Parker goes to all lengths to get his dream Christmas present: a genuine Red Ryder
p.m. nightly including holidays. Salt River Fields
BB gun. Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre presents this show in its largest theater (inside Scottsdale Fashion Square)
at Talking Stick, 7555 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale.
to allow for social distancing, and masks are required. 7:30 p.m. Friday, 3 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 3 p.m. Sunday. $25.
480-656-9940 or holidaylightssrf.com
7014 E. Camelback Road, Suite 0586, Scottsdale. 480-483-1664 or desertstages.org
RaisingARIZONAKids.com December 2020
35
MICHELLE-RENEE ADAMS
GRAND CANYON RAILWAY
lightsatthefarm.com
family time! DECEMBER TOP EVENTS DEC. 2: Mindfulness Strategies for Managing Holiday Stress. Jennifer Kizer — a licensed professional counselor and mother of 6 — offers quick and easy mindfulness strategies in time for the holidays. Learn how to release expectations of ourselves, other people, and the world and to savor the present during this online Zoom and Facebook Live event presented by 4th Trimester Arizona. 10-11:30 a.m. facebook. com/4thtrimesterAZ
DEC. 5-6: Christkindlmarkt. The Arizona Center for Germanic Cultures presents its 12th annual traditional German Christmas market in Scottsdale. Enjoy German and Polish cuisine, and traditional handicrafts including candles and Christmas ornaments, and family activities and entertainment. Kids can visit St. Nikolaus. Free admission. 4-8 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to
ODYSEA AQUARIUM
6 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Ac4gc.org
SeaTREK Santa (Nov. 27-Dec. 24).
DEC. 5-6: “The Elves & the Shoemaker.” Great Arizona Puppet Theater hosts drive-up performances of this show,
NOV. 27-DEC. 24:
where Santa’s elves help a poor shoemaker and his
SeaTREK Santa at OdySea Aquarium. Helmet-diving makes two daily appearances at Arizona’s largest
wife. It’s a holiday experience for the whole family. 10
aquarium on select dates from Thanksgiving weekend through Christmas Eve. Each appearance kicks-off with
a.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday. $40 per vehicle ($30
a live reading of OdySea’s original, “T’was the Night Before FISHmas” at the window of the Deep Ocean exhibit,
members); tickets must be purchased in advance. 302
then SeaTREK Santa appears. Noon and 4 p.m. Nov. 27-29, Dec. 5-6, Dec. 12-13 and Dec. 19-24; plus a 1 p.m.
W. Latham St., Phoenix. 602-262-2050 or azpuppets.org
appearance on Dec. 24. $37.95; $27.95 for kids (when purchased online). 9500 E. Via de Ventura, Suite A-100, Scottsdale. 480-291-8000 or odyseaaquarium.com
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
36 December 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
“The Elves & the Shoemaker” (Dec. 5-6).
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family time! DECEMBER TOP EVENTS
“ A Christmas Story” (Nov. 27-Dec. 20) at Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre.
DEC. 10-13:
DEC. 12 AND 19:
El Zócalo Festival. Childsplay and the Cultural Coalition host this free
Ballet Arizona’s Nutcracker Suite. These digital performances will be available
in-person and online event, celebrating Indigenous and Latin American art.
to stream at 3 p.m. both Saturdays and are available to view on demand for 24 hours.
Online starting Dec. 10, learn from local artists Zarco and Carmen Guerrero
While Ballet Arizona’s holiday tradition looks a little different this year, there will be no
to create festive masks and decorations (papel picado). On Dec. 13, enjoy a
shortage of magic, beautiful dancing and the music to capture the spirit of the season!
multicultural line-up of live musical and theater performances and cultural dances
Escape to the wintry forest of the Snow Queen and King and the Land of the Sugar Plum
on Herberger Theater Center’s new outdoor stage, including performances of
Fairy. The filmed performance includes behind-the-scenes segments! $20. balletaz.org/
“Dreamers,” based on the book by Yuyi Morales, local ballet folklorico and
performance/nutcracker-suite-digital-performance
mariachi ensembles and a celebratory parade. 222 E. Monroe St, Phoenix. Seating is socially distanced and masks are required. childsplayaz.org/zocalo
NOV. 27-DEC. 20: “A Christmas Story: The Play.” Set in the 1940s Midwest, and based on the movie
DEC. 12-13, 19 AND 24:
that launched a whole new genre of holiday films, 9-year-old Ralphie Parker goes to all
“A Dinosaur Christmas Revue.” Great Arizona Puppet Theater hosts drive-up
lengths to get his dream Christmas present: a genuine Red Ryder BB gun. Scottsdale
performances that are fun for the whole family. The giant dinosaurs are back to
Desert Stages Theatre presents this show in its largest theatre (inside Scottsdale Fashion
share all their favorite Christmas carols, dances and jokes! 10 a.m. Dec. 12, 19 and
Square) to allow for social distancing, and masks are required. 7:30 p.m. Friday, 3 and
24, 2 p.m. Dec. 13. $40 per vehicle ($30 members); tickets must be purchased in
7:30 p.m. Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday. 7014 E. Camelback Road, Suite 0586, Scottsdale.
advance. 302 W. Latham St., Phoenix. 602-262-2050 or azpuppets.org
480-483-1664 or desertstages.org
38 December 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
Bringing Hope to Children in Foster Care
Arizona Helping Hands is the largest provider of essential needs for children in the foster care system in the state of Arizona. .92 cents of every dollar goes directly to programs for children in foster care.
SCOTTSDAL DESERT STAGE THEATRE
www.AzHelpingHands.org 3110 E. Thunderbird Road, Suite 100 Phoenix AZ 85032 480.889.0604 EIN: 86-0935988
Find out how YOU can make a difference in a foster child’s life. DONATE TODAY!
RaisingARIZONAKids.com December 2020
39
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