RAK magazine February 2021

FEBRUARY 2021

RaisingARIZONA Kids your partner on the parenting path

Birth Babies and

issue

Pandemic Pregnancy Choosing a Pediatrician Top Baby Names in Arizona Baby Products & Gift Ideas

RAISING OUTDOOR KIDS

HIKING THE TRAILS LESS TRAVELED

Talking to kids about disturbing news and events This Valentine’s Day,

CELEBRATE YOU!

FEBRUARY FAMILY FUN Karlie Ayo of Phoenix.

contents

February 2021 FEATURE

38

38 Using Common Sense: Talking to kids about insurrection and other disturbing news events

No matter how old your kids are, threatening or upsetting news — like the violent insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6 where rioters brandished racist symbols — can affect them emotionally. Ilana Lowery, Arizona director for Common Sense Media, offers guiding steps to consider when talking to kids of all ages about tough topics.

BIRTH AND BABIES SPECIAL SECTION 18 Pandemic pregnancy and birth We found flexible, go-with-the-flow attitudes and grace from four families focused on celebrating the miracle of life.

24

• Pregnancy and birth resources in Arizona

• Top baby names in Arizona in 2020

• Local author writes “So There’s a Sibling”

• Cool baby products

18

• Great baby gifts

• What to know about choosing your baby’s pediatrician

DEPARTMENTS 2 dialogue

Birth and rebirth

4 az grown • Parada del Sol will mosey along to 2022

• Astronaut exhibition debuts at Arizona Science Center

• Tempe Empty Bowls will wait until 2022

• Children’s book celebrates “First Dogs” and other presidential pets

• Junior League Of Phoenix cancels its rummage sale

• Inauguration poet Amanda Gorman releasing kid's book

• Phoenix Art Museum extends free admission for military families

• 2021 Newbery Medal and other children’s book award winners

• United Cerebral Palsy of Central Arizona opens new facility

• Date night during a pandemic

Top February events

48 first person

This Valentine’s Day, celebrate YOU!

UP IN M NG A MI

H RC

42 family time!

• Raising Outdoor Kids: Hiking the trails less traveled

CO

• The Science of Ripley's Believe It or Not! opens Feb. 9

32 28

Education Update

RaisingARIZONAKids.com February 2021

1

dialogue

BIRTH and REBIRTH

BY NOW, my daughter’s teachers will have

new moms and parents who faced

reminded of the power of words — not

gotten their COVID-19 vaccinations,

childbirth during the pandemic. She

ugly ones that incite hate and fear — but

and in-person learning should resume

found stories of perspective, flexibility

the power of words to lift us up, move

this month. My central Phoenix

and gratitude.

us forward and lead us toward our better

neighbors who work in the medical field

Our always undaunted Kate Reed

selves. Her poem was both music and

or meet current requirements have either

is expecting her third son in May. This

therapy, letting us grieve and celebrate

been fully vaccinated or are scheduled

experienced mom with by far the most

all we’ve been through: “Let the globe,

to be. My daughter has enjoyed her first

current knowledge of anyone on our staff

if nothing else, say this is true: that even

play dates in months. Little by little,

about those early parenting years — her

as we grieved, we grew; that even as we

things are looking up.

older sons are 2 and 8 — shared some of her

hurt, we hoped; that even as we tired,

February is typically our Birth and

favorite must-haves for our baby gifts and

we tried.” She reminded me why I’m

Babies issue. Early on during stay-at-home

products guide. She also took the stunning

drawn to words, to journalism rooted in

orders, some predicted the pandemic

cover photo of Karlie Ayo as a January

truth, to hope.

would result in a baby boom. As the

thunderstorm rolled in. We wish Kate and

numbers roll in, predictions are turning

Karlie all the best as they enjoy the glorious,

The new dawn blooms as we free it.

toward a baby bust. America’s birth rate

sleep-deprived months of babyhood.

For there is always light

was already trending downward pre-

If only we are brave enough to see it,

pandemic, and couples concerned about

SPEAKING OF GLORIOUS, I enjoyed a rare

tighter finances share they’ve reconsidered

moment of serendipity listening to

growing their families. Nonetheless, the

Amanda Gorman at the Presidential

life cycle continues. Even as hospitals

Inauguration last month. [An instant

filled with COVID patients, floors or

star, Gorman will perform at the Feb. 7

doors away, babies were being delivered.

Super Bowl.] Her poem,“The Hill We

Publisher Karen Barr talked to several

Climb,” left literal tears of joy. I was

2 February 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

If only we are brave enough to be it.

— Amanda Gorman

Kara G. Morrison, Editor kara@RAKmagazine.com

Catch up on what you missed!

RaisingARIZONAKids February 2021 | Vol 31 | No 9

DIGITAL LIBRARY

PUBLISHER Karen Davis Barr EDITOR Kara G. Morrison CONTRIBUTORS Lisa Van Loo, Ilana Lowery, Sheri Smith, Dr. Jason Vargas, Maggie Zehring ART DIRECTOR Michèlle-Renée Adams COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Kate Reed 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 © 2021 by R aising A rizona K ids, Inc. All rights reserved.

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

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

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

raisingarizonakids.com/digital-library RaisingARIZONAKids.com February 2021

3

az grown community

CANCELED or POSTPONED

EVENTS

No chance to “rummage” this year JUNIOR LEAGUE OF PHOENIX has canceled its 84th Annual

Rummage Sale, originally set to take place in February at the Arizona State Fairgrounds. As one of JLP’s signature fundraisers, the Rummage Sale has attracted more than 4,000 shoppers each year and in 2020 raised $140,000.

“Canceling was not a decision we took lightly, but the health, safety, and well-being of our members, shoppers, and supporters are our utmost priority,” said Jennie Elser, JLP president, in a statement.

Parada del Sol

Funds raised from the Rummage Sale help support the

will mosey along to 2022

mission of Junior League of Phoenix, including its community

SCOTTSDALE’S HISTORIC Parada del Sol and Trail’s End Festival, typically

community partnerships are structured around Junior League

held in February, has been postponed until 2022.

of Phoenix’s focus area of “Fighting Hunger in the Greater

programs and leadership training curriculum. Current

The Parada board has been monitoring the COVID-19 situation closely and agreed that the ability to safely hold the parade was highly improbable this

Phoenix Community.”

JLP’s signature programs include Phoenix Food Day &

year, according to a news release. The theme "Hats Off to Essential Workers"

Heathfest, a partnership with the City of Phoenix; Kids in the

will be saved until 2022.

Kitchen, a nutritional initiative that seeks to combat childhood

The Parada was created by Scottsdale community leaders 67 years ago to draw visitors to small retail stores and hotels in the Old Town area.

In recent years, more than 30,000 spectators have crowded the streets of Old Town Scottsdale as nearly 150 parade entries marched down Scottsdale

obesity; and ROCKETS—Raising Our Children’s Knowledge

by Educating Through Science, a program that promotes early childhood development of STEM skills.

If you can help fill the fundraising gap that postponing the

Road. The accompanying Trail’s End Festival is a huge block party for all ages,

rummage sale will cause, visit jlp.org/invest. For information

featuring live concerts, food, and a KIDZ Zone with games, pony rides and more.

on sponsoring or donating items to the 2020 event, visit jlp.

Watch for updates at scottsdaleparade.com

org/rummage

Tempe Empty Bowls will wait until 2022 TEMPE EMPTY BOWLS, scheduled for Feb. 26-27, has been canceled, and the all-volunteer

Tempe Empty Bowls committee will focus on plans for celebrating its 20th anniversary event in February 2022.

The annual event offers participants who make a $10 donation a simple meal of soup and bread in a hand-crafted bowl. The meal represents the meager caloric intake that must sustain many people around the world for an entire day. In lieu of holding an event this year, the committee asks the public to support United Food Bank and Tempe Community Action Agency. United Food Bank and Tempe Community Action Agency — by making a donation at tempeaction.org/tempe-empty-bowls_2020

4 February 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

… is dedicated to strengthening families and protecting children through collaboration, education, and advocacy.

When you make a donation to Prevent Child Abuse Arizona today, you are helping families across Arizona build resilience, overcome stressors, and thrive.

We can prevent child abuse, Arizona,

because childhood lasts a lifetime.

P.O Box 26495, Prescott Valley, AZ 86312 info@pcaaz.org | (928) 445-5038 | pcaaz.org Prevent Child Abuse Arizona is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization and your donation may be tax-deductible as allowable by law.

az grown community

PHOENIX ART MUSEUM extends FREE ADMISSION for military families PHOENIX ART MUSEUM is continuing its

free-admission Military Access Program — called MAP@PAM — through 2022, providing free admission to all veterans, active-duty servicemembers, reserve members and their immediate families, including spouses, partners and children.

The program was made possible through local donations from the Ong family and Mrs. Hanley Eriksson, who live in the Valley of the Sun and have long histories of supporting veterans and arts and cultural organizations.

“Through this gift, they are not just providing vital support for Phoenix Art Museum during a time when we are actively recovering from a nearly seven-month closure and the resulting financial challenges — they are also removing economic barriers for military families to enjoy arts and culture,” said Tim Rodgers, the Museum’s Sybil Harrington Director and CEO.

Top: Fritz Scholder, Indian Images Suite (Indian with Flag). Above left: Robert Rauschenberg, Features (from Currents). Above right: David Bekker, Between Two Worlds. Part of the exhibit, Out of Print: Innovations of 19th- and 20th-Century Printmaking at the Phoenix Art Museum.

Phoenix Art Museum, which opened in 1959, is the largest art museum

through the museum’s partnership with

and open to the public 11 a.m. to 7 p.m

in the southwestern United States,

the Center for Creative Photography at the

Wednesday-Friday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

attracting 300,000 guests annually. It

University of Arizona.

Saturday-Sunday.

features more than 20,000 works of

Through April 25, visitors can see the

For more information about

American and Western American, Asian,

exhibition “Out Of Print: Innovations Of

MAP@PAM, contact the museum’s

European, Latin American, modern and

19th– and 20th-century Printmaking,”

communications office of at 602-307-

contemporary art and fashion design. The

featuring Paul Cézanne, Edvard Munch,

2003 or samantha.andreacchi@phxart.

museum also offers a film program, live

Paul Klee, Louise Nevelson, Robert

org. The museum is located at 1625 N.

performances and educational programs

Rauschenberg and many others. The

Central Ave. in Phoenix. 602-257-1880

for all ages, plus photography exhibitions

museum is closed Monday and Tuesday

or phxart.org

6 February 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

UCP of Central Arizona opens new facility at Ability360 2021 Spring Break Camps Need a fun, safe environment for kids

JERRYFERGUSONPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

FROM THE COLLECTION OF PHOENIX ART MUSEUM AND THE SCHORR COLLECTION

IN METRO PHOENIX

during spring break?

We have confirmed venues that are hosting spring break camps or drop-in programs.

UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY of Central Arizona — a nonprofit dedicated to helping children

and adults who have a wide array of disabilities — is opening UCP Downtown-East, a new facility housed at the Ability360 campus.

The move offers UCP clients improved accessibility to programs and amenities and more options for therapy. The Ability360 campus features the Ability360 Sports & Fitness Center, a 45,000-square-foot, fully accessible facility offering programs designed to empower people living with disabilities. Valley Metro Light Rail stops directly in front of the campus — 5025 E. Washington St. in Phoenix — and there is also an accessible parking garage.

UCP Downtown-East will provide programs in pediatric feeding as well as occupational, physical and speech therapy. It will begin serving individuals and families this month.

“We are so excited to open this new location within this wonderful campus,” Brenda Hanserd, chief executive officer of UCP of Central Arizona, said in a statement. “The amenities that Abilty360 offers [give] UCP a better position to fulfill the mission of our organization.”

UCP’s location at Seventh and Roosevelt streets in Phoenix will be closing in midFebruary. UCP impacts the lives of more than 3,000 differently abled people each year.

Visit ucpofcentralaz.org

LEARN MORE ABOUT SPRING BREAK CAMPS AT RaisingARIZONAKids.com February 2021

7

raisingarizonakids.com/spring-break-camps

az grown science

The Science of Ripley’s Believe It or Not! opens Feb. 9 at Scottsdale’s Arizona Boardwalk A NEW EXHIBITION — The Science of

the world’s tallest man, who grew to 8

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! — is set to open

feet 11 inches tall!

Beginning Feb. 2, guest can save 20 percent when they purchase tickets online

to the public at the Scottsdale entertainment

• See a calf with two faces.

at ripleysaz.com. Otherwise, tickets are

district Arizona Boardwalk on Feb. 9.

• Study an enormous megalodon shark jaw.

$21.95; $16.95 for ages 2-12 at the exhibit’s

• See a Rolls Royce made of matchsticks.

on-site ticket window. COVID-19 safety

• Marvel at a portrait of Albert Einstein

measures include limiting capacity in

Explorer Robert Ripley was fascinated by the weird, strange and unusual, and this exhibition offers a collection of such artifacts. Kids can crawl through a lifesize model of a prehistoric snake, explore

made of toast.

• Ponder some of the world’s most perplexing optical illusions.

a tiny, one-passenger Peel Car and marvel at intricate micro-sculptures so small they fit in the eye of a needle.

the exhibit to encourage proper social distancing and continual cleaning of all exhibit touch points. Masks/face coverings are required.

“This remarkable new, highly

Arizona Boardwalk, 9500 E. Via de

interactive exhibit is the perfect opportunity

Ventura in Scottsdale, features seven

to introduce our brand to an entirely

attractions, including OdySea Aquarium,

Not! is a fantastic exhibition combining

new audience,” Jim Pattison Jr., president

Butterfly Wonderland, VR Xtreme, Laser

unbelievable world oddities with real

of Ripley Entertainment Inc., said in a

+ Mirror Maze, Surprise Your Eyes, and

science,” Ran Knishinsky, chief marketing

statement. “It’s colorful, exciting, bursting

Pangea Land of the Dinosaurs, in addition

officer and managing partner at Arizona

with family fun and very hands-on.”

to multiple shopping and dining options.

Boardwalk, said in a statement. “We are

The Science of Ripley’s Believe It

Parking is free, and there is no admission

“The Science of Ripley’s Believe It or

thrilled to offer this fun and engaging

or Not! replaces Titanic: The Artifact

required to enter the complex. Arizona

family-friendly exhibition that will not

Exhibition at Arizona Boardwalk and will

Boardwalk is located within the Salt River

just entertain our guests but is likely to

be on display from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily

Pima-Maricopa Indian Community and

spark their imaginations and teach them

until Summer 2022, in a space adjacent

is part of the Talking Stick Entertainment

something new about the extraordinary.”

to OdySea Aquarium and Butterfly

District. Call 480-951-2100 or visit

Wonderland. The last entry time for guests

arizonaboardwalk.com

Other exhibit highlights include: • Measure up against Robert Wadlow,

8 February 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

is 45 minutes before closing.

Astronaut exhibition

debuts at Arizona Science Center ASTRONAUT, a new interactive and hands-on exhibition, is landing

at the Arizona Science Center Feb. 6-May 31, along with a “space lab” promising visitors a taste of what life is like outside of Earth and its atmosphere. The exhibition also explores the physical and mental challenges involved in space exploration.

“Astronaut is a really unique exhibition, because it reveals all the stages of becoming a space explorer,” Dean Briere, The Hazel A. Hare Interim CEO of Arizona Science Center, said in a statement. “From training to blasting off and living in space, Astronaut investigates the day-to-day activities alongside the unique science conducted in space, exposing a reality not often shown.”

Through its interactive exhibits, visitors can experience g-force, conduct maintenance on a space station, grow space food and learn the realities of showering, sleeping and using the toilet in space. The exhibition also focuses on teamwork to solve problems, accurately perform tasks and overcome challenges that an astronaut would face on a real mission to the cosmos.

Visitors will have the chance to test their grip strength in special gloves that mimic a pressurized spacesuit, or they can work together to launch a space mission smoothly. Built in the Scitech workshop in Perth, Australia, and produced by Imagine Exhibitions, Astronaut promises a fun adventure for all ages.

Explore Astronaut at the Arizona Science Center from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily at 600 E. Washington St. in downtown Phoenix. Visitors must reserve a timed general admission ticket ($19.95; $14.95 for ages 3-17) plus an $8.95 ticket for the Astronaut exhibition at azscience.org or by calling 602-716-2000.

The center features more than 300 hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, Dorrance Planetarium and the five-story Irene P. Flinn Giant Screen Theater. CREATE at Arizona Science Center, adjacent to the main building, is a 6,500 square foot community makerspace offering workshops, including 3D printing, laser cutting, woodworking and sewing.

RaisingARIZONAKids.com February 2021

9

az grown books

Children’s book celebrates

“First Dogs”

and other presidential pets HERE’S A WAY to ease young kids into

learning about American democracy just in time for President’s Day on Feb. 15: “Champ And Major: First Dogs” ($17.99, Dial Books), written by Joy McCullough and illustrated

by Sheyda Abvabi Best, tells the story of presidential pets in the White House.

Kids learn Champ and Major’s dad, Joe

Inauguration poet Amanda Gorman debuts “Change Sings” for kids this fall A SURPRISE STANDOUT from last month’s Presidential Inauguration was Los Angeles

Biden, is the new president of the United

activist and poet Amanda Gorman, who wrote and recited “The Hill We Climb” about this

States. Champ is excited to go back to the

time in our country, as Americans grapple with everything from the aftermath of a violent

White House, which he got to visit when his

insurrection to our civil rights shortfalls. “Somehow we’ve weathered and witnessed a

dad was the vice president. Major, adopted

nation that isn’t broken, but simply unfinished,” she wrote.

later, will be one of the first rescue dogs to live

Gorman’s poem and performance were so stirring that Changing Hands Bookstore

in the White House, and Champ can’t wait to

(with locations in Tempe and Phoenix) tweeted that they have been flooded with

show his little brother around.

requests to pre-order Gorman’s books, including her debut children’s book, “Change

Sheyda Abvabi Best’s art features two

Sings,” which won’t hit bookshelves until Sept. 21. On that same date, fans can also

proud German shepards, and the book

buy “The Hill We Climb,” ($20, Viking Books for Young Readers) — a compilation of

includes fun facts about the history of

Gorman’s poetry. Viking will also release a hardcover copy of only her poem “The Hill

presidential pets and information on how

We Climb” in April.

to adopt a shelter pup. Seattle-based author

“Change Sings,” ($19, Viking Books for Young Readers) written by Gorman and

Joy McCullough is known for her young

illustrated by Loren Long, is a call to action for kids to use their abilities to make a

adult novel “Blood Water Paint,” which was

difference. Long illustrated Barack Obama’s children’s book “Of Thee I Sing.”

longlisted for the National Book Award for

Gorman became the first ever Youth Poet Laureate of the United States in 2017 and

Young People’s Literature, and her middle

now works to support girls’ education and empowerment locally, nationally and globally.

grade novel, “A Field Guide to Getting Lost.”

She counts Oprah Winfrey and Lin-Manuel Miranda among her fans and has pledged

Her next young adult novel, “We Are the

to run for president in 2036. Having graduated from Harvard University, she lives in Los

Ashes, We Are the Fire,” debuts this month.

Angeles. Learn more at theamandagorman.com

10 February 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Make an Investment in Family—

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

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az grown books

ALA announces 2021 children’s book

AWARD WINNERS THE AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION announced the 2021 top books,

digital media, video and audiobooks for children and young adults on Jan. 25. ALA awards — judged by librarians and other literature and media experts — help guide parents, educators, librarians and teachers in selecting educational materials. Here are five noteworthy winners. For more information and award-winners, visit ala.org/yma

“See the Cat: Three Stories about a Dog,” ($8.99, Candlewick Press) written by David LaRochelle, illustrated by Mike Wohnoutka, won the Theodor Seuss Geisel Award for the most distinguished beginning reader book. Spoofing classic primers, Max the Dog will have early readers laughing out loud.

Recommended for ages 4-8.

12 February 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

“Everything Sad Is Untrue (A True Story),” ($17.99, Arthur A. Levine) by Daniel Nayeri, won the 2021 Michael L. Printz Award for excellence in literature written for young adults. Daniel’s classmates don’t believe his stories about life as a refugee. Recommended for ages 10 and up.

“R-E-S-P-E-C-T: Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul,” ($18.99, Atheneum Books for Young Readers) illustrated by Frank Morrison and written by Carole Boston Weatherford, is the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Book Award winner. Learn about Franklin’s rise from church choir to civil rights advocate. Recommended for age 4-8.

“When You Trap a Tiger,” ($16.99, Random House Children’s Books) by Tae Keller, is the 2021 Newbery Medal winner, honoring the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children. Korean folklore comes to life as Lily goes on a quest to unlock the power of stories and save her grandmother. Recommended for ages 8-12.

“Before the Ever After,”

“We Are Water Protectors,” ($17.99, Roaring Brook Press), illustrated

by Michaela Goade and written by Carole

($17.99, Nancy Paulsen Books) by

Lindstrom, is the 2021, Caldecott Medal

Jacqueline Woodson, is the Coretta

winner honoring the most distinguished

Scott King Author Book Award winner

American picture book for children. Both Goade

recognizing an African-American author

and Lindstrom are Indigenous women —

for outstanding books for children and

marking a first for the recipient of the Caldecott

young adults. 12-year-old ZJ faces his

Medal. When a snake threatens to destroy the

father’s mental decline following football

Earth’s most sacred resource, a young water

fame. Recommended for ages 10-14.

protector rises up. Recommended for ages 3-6.

RaisingARIZONAKids.com February 2021

13

az grown Valentine's Day

Date night during a PANDEMIC

By Maggie Zehring

LIKE EVERYTHING this past year, Valentine’s

this date night since then with glee, and

Day 2021 will be different. We’re all

honestly, it hasn’t lost its touch. Pancakes

contending with limited childcare

and coffee are simple, approachable, and

Dress up for no reason. It was year

options. Add in our three young kids,

best when hot and fresh. Put the kids to

two in our marriage, and we had recently

constant family togetherness and the

bed — or send them somewhere else in the

done some serious spring cleaning. I came

general anxieties of the ongoing COVID-

house with a screen— and recreate a date-

across my wedding dress when organizing

19 pandemic, and romance can feel like

night dinner from your earlier days. Keep

and pulled it out for a random dinner later

an afterthought.

it simple and go diner style like us or Lady-

that week. It’s funny how much dressing

and-the-Tramp style with easy spaghetti.

up or changing a style can really change

It’s one thing to get creative with love and affection after having babies, or that

to spark a new conversation.

the mood, but re-wearing your wedding

weird time and space when your kids

Gaze at the night sky (and each other).

dress — or any other fancy outfit you own

are up later and could barge into your

There’s nothing quite like a literal change

that you love — can really set the tone. Plan

bedroom. It’s another to find ways to woo

in perspective. Gain some ground and

your at-home date or even an outside dining

your partner when you’re together all the

find a scenic spot to take in the night

date in the fanciest duds you have. Don’t

time or, in some cases, only together when

sky. If you have littles, pack the kids in

mind the stares and just enjoy the fun!

exposure to coronavirus is mitigated.

the car with a movie (tablet/laptop) and

Our boys are ages 4, 3, and 1, and it’s

treats and let them hang out for a fancy

I hope all stressed-out parents can

tricky finding ways to set the tone for a

“drive-in” while you and your honey sit

find some time this month to celebrate

romantic couples night. Here are some of

on the top of your car in a parking garage

at least one date night amidst the chaos

our tried and true date night ideas as you

or scenic overlook to watch the stars and/

still surrounding us. Have a very Happy

plan for Valentine’s Day.

or city lights. If you’d prefer the comfort

Valentine’s Day!

of your home, send those rascals to bed Recreate a simple dinner date night.

and scale your roof for a nightcap on top

Nick and I ended our first night getting to

of your house. Or sit on your porch for a

know each other at IHOP over pancakes

drink and people watching. Sometimes a

and coffee a decade ago. We’ve recreated

simple change of scenery is the best way

14 February 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

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

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az grown recreation

RAISING OUTDOOR KIDS

HIKING the trails less traveled Story and photos by Lisa Van Loo

This is high season for hiking in

Hiking without having to navigate

3.2-mile hike near Gold Canyon in the

Arizona. With our unseasonably warm

crowds can be tricky. But there is a way.

Superstition Wilderness, and we didn’t

weather and all-too-brief “winter” this

Here are a few tips.

start until early afternoon. The hike was a

year, our trails are all the more attractive to locals and visitors in desperate need of Vitamin D, gorgeous scenery and a little outdoor cardio.

Start off-peak Since it seems that most days we have to

birthday “adventure” idea to my youngest from her best friend. With the drive factored in, it was much later than we

beat the heat in Arizona, it’s common to fall

generally would begin a hike, but we ended

So, it can get crowded out there.

into that habit of starting a hike early, even

up experiencing only light traffic on the

Being around crowds is the opposite

when it’s chilly. But, if you try a later start

trail, which gave way to a very thin crowd

of what we’re all trying to do right now in

time, you may miss some traffic. And later

inside the cave at the trail’s summit.

the midst of an ongoing pandemic, and it’s

start times are particularly helpful when

generally what people try to avoid when

hiking with kids. Just be sure you know you

summit of any hike, but especially ones

they head out on hikes. Usually, hikers are

can finish in daylight, or be prepared with a

that offer cool photo opportunities. With

looking to connect with relative solitude

headlamp to navigate in darkness, which we

a limited number of people in the cave,

and a beautiful landscape rather than

don’t recommend.

we were able to goof around on top of the

throngs of other outdoor enthusiasts.

16 February 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

We recently hiked the Wave Cave, a

You want some time to enjoy the

“wave” and take a bunch of different photos

Hiking destinations Wave Cave. Take Highway 60

Superstition Freeway east toward Gold Canyon. Go north on Peralta Road for 6.5 miles and access Wave Cave from the Carney Springs Trailhead or travel another half mile to the permit-free lot of the Lost Goldmine East Trailhead. Find other trails in the Superstition Wilderness Area at www.fs.usda.gov/detail/tonto/specialplace s/?cid=fsbdev3_018739 Far left: Lulu Nicita (11) enjoying the view at the Wave Cave trail in the Superstition Wilderness. Lulu with her best friend, Hadley Wine (11). This hike was Hadley’s “birthday adventure gift” to Lulu.

South Mountain Park and Preserve,

10211 S. Central Ave. in Phoenix, is one of the largest municipally managed

without worrying about having to hurry off

solid guide when trying to discover new

parks in the nation comprising more than

so someone else could get their turn.

routes. We use it quite a bit.

16,000 acres, three mountain ranges and

Light traffic meant we didn’t have to worry about our pace one bit, even though our pace generally doesn’t hold anyone up.

Leave town Phoenix doesn’t corner the market on

more than 50 miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking.

Dobbins Lookout, at 2,330 feet, is popular

But it’s a nice detail to cast aside when you

incredible hiking trails. If you have the

for its unobstructed panoramic view of

start a hike, with kids, off peak.

time, take a short drive out of town and

the Valley. www.phoenix.gov/parks/trails/

discover a new landscape, and any number

locations/south-mountain

Explore something different

of quieter trails that aren’t crawling with out-of-towners. From Strawberry to Payson

Sonoran Preserve in North Phoenix,

trafficked trails. There are 46 trails alone in

to Prescott to Flagstaff and Sedona, there

comprises more than 9,600 acres and

the Superstition Wilderness, not all of them

are endless possibilities for exploring — and

three trailheads: Desert Vista, 1900 W.

suitable for kids, but still. Just that one area

that list isn’t even complete. While you’re

Desert Vista Trail; Desert Hills, 705 W.

has dozens of options. South Mountain

there, wherever you are, explore the town,

Carefree Highway and Apache Wash,

Park and Preserve in south Phoenix has 50

too. It’s how we’ve discovered our favorite

1600 E. Sonoran Desert Drive.

miles of trails, and the Sonoran Preserve in

pizza and burger joints.

www.phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/

To avoid crowds, avoid the most heavily-

north Phoenix has 36 miles of trails.

All of this is to say, you can attempt to avoid crowds by giving some love to trails that aren’t plastered all over Instagram.

All Trails (alltrails.com) offers good user recommendations on trails and can be a

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

sonoran-preserve Alltrails.com. AllTrails offers curated

trail maps, driving directions and detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers.

RaisingARIZONAKids.com February 2021

17

Chris and Karlie Ayo of Phoenix.

Inset: An ultrasound of baby Rayne.

Pandemic Pregnancy

Expecting the unexpected

DURING COVID-19

By Karen Davis Barr

A

Ayo’s name, we learned, will be Rayne. How appropriate!

women have been experiencing it under the continuing cloud of

this couple’s deep respect for family ties. Chris’s grandfather, who

pandemic life.

died in recent months, was named Raymond. Karlie’s middle

S IF THE PHYSICAL AND EMOTIONAL adjustments to pregnancy

and childbirth weren’t enough, tens of thousands of Arizona

Hard to believe, but it’s been nearly a year since schools first

And purely coincidental. The name more meaningfully reflects

name is Rae. Rayne is a unique blend of those two names, but

closed, many jobs moved online, masks and self-quarantining

its meaning will always be clear: You are part of us, and so many

were recommended, and restaurants and other gathering places

others, now and forever.

experienced rolling lockdowns.

Hospital labor and delivery policies changed quickly, too.

Karlie, a payroll coordinator, has been working at home since last March. She is grateful for a job she can easily do from home,

The Arizona Republic reported in late March that many of the

though she misses friends at work and the daily interactions we all

state’s largest hospital networks — Banner Health, Dignity

once took for granted.

Health, Valleywise Health and HonorHealth — had limited

Chris, who works for the City of Phoenix Parks and

each labor and delivery patient to just one adult visitor. Most

Recreation Department, has continued to go to work at the

birth centers still do.

community center where he is based. The center has been closed

Here are profiles of four local women who gave birth — or

to recreational activities but provides childcare — with strict safety

soon will — during a particularly challenging time of added safety

and social distancing protocols — for essential city employees and

fears, lifestyle restrictions, enforced isolation and greatly changed

first responders.

expectations. No self-pity here. We heard flexible, go-with-the-

The toughest part of expecting during a pandemic, both say,

flow attitudes and grace from families focused on celebrating the

has been separation from friends and family. “We’re really social

miracle of life.

people,” says Chris. And Karlie’s mom lives in California, making visits difficult.

KATE REED WWW.JUBILANTPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

KARLIE AND CHRIS AYO of Phoenix can’t wait to meet their

“Everything has gone virtual,” Karlie says. “It’s hard enough

daughter, who is due on March 21. They’ve already picked out

getting used to what’s going on in the world, and then there

a name for this much-anticipated child, the first grandchild on

are changes to my body and my mood and still trying to get

Chris’s side of the family.

everything done [online].”

The couple shared their decision during a photo shoot for

They’ve been learning about childbirth, breastfeeding

this month’s cover. It was a gloomy Sunday afternoon of fierce

and postpartum care online, because their hospital, Banner

thunderstorms, angry clouds and muddy desert landscapes. Baby

Thunderbird Medical Center in Glendale, has halted in-person

RaisingARIZONAKids.com February 2021

19

classes and tours (as have most other hospitals and birth centers).

Karlie likes to focus on the unexpected gifts of pandemic

She relies on friends and relatives who have “been there” to fill in

life: “It has connected me with others I haven’t seen or talked

with support and suggestions.

with in awhile.” She has been methodically going through

Their obstetrics practice allows Chris to attend prenatal visits,

her contacts and reaching out. A virtual baby shower is in the

where their physician keeps them current on evolving hospital

works. “We’ve been thinking about games to do virtually,”

labor and delivery safety procedures. At this point, Chris will

Karlie says. “But mostly it will be about having time to connect

be able to attend the birth, but “can only leave the room every

with family and friends.”

24 hours,” Karlie says, “so we will have to be prepared with everything he needs — food and everything.”

In the meantime, she says, “The USP and FedEx delivery people must wonder what’s going on. We are getting packages

Barring any complications, it’s likely the new family will

almost every day.”

be discharged just 12 hours after the baby arrives. With the continuing presence of COVID patients in area hospitals, they’ve

When we talked with TRENISE NEWMAN-MILLER of Apache

been told, they are safer going home.

Junction, she was the very new mom to a healthy boy born Jan. 16, 2021.

Her tiny son bears a big, bold name: King James. And, of course, there is a story behind it. Her husband’s name is Jamison. Her mom’s husband, killed in a motorcycle accident in 1996, was named James. Her husband first suggested “Sir James,” but one night Trenise had a dream in which she heard her mom say “King James.” And so it became when their 4-pound boy entered the world by cesarean section, after Trenise had spent five days in labor.

This isn’t her first experience with pregnancy and parenting —

King James Robert Ronald Miller II (3 days old in photo).

Inset: Jamison and Trenise Miller of Apache Junction welcoming King.

20 February 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

she and her husband are raising a boy and two girls ranging

New Jersey), did job interviews on Zoom. Then Heather became

in age from 14 to 24. But with all the added uncertainties and

pregnant, and the family had a whole new realm of COVID-

adjustments of COVID, it “felt like the first time all over again.”

related changes to navigate.

Because of the pandemic, she says, she experienced some

“My husband wasn’t allowed to be part of the major

typical shared milestones by herself. Her husband couldn’t attend

experiences — ultrasound, hearing the heartbeat,” she says. “But

prenatal visits. He didn’t see any of the ultrasounds. He didn’t hear

the person it hurt the worst was my daughter. She’s been waiting

the baby’s heartbeat until they were at Banner Gateway Medical

so long [for a sibling].” Liliana wanted to be involved, every step of

Center in Gilbert, awaiting their son’s birth.

the way. She’d say, “Mommy, I can come with you to the doctor! I

Trenise remembers being tested for COVID-19 before being admitted to the hospital and learning that “if you were positive, they had you deliver in the ER. The babies ended up in the NICU.” Luckily, despite her long labor and an unexpected C-section,

can see the ultrasound!” When she learned it wouldn’t be possible, “that devastated her,” Heather remembers.

Heather took a teaching position in a kindergarten classroom, and in the fall, she and Liliana both went back to school — first under a hybrid model and later fully in person. Heather kept

“everything was OK.” King James was small, but his lungs were

working through Nov. 25. Her son Luca was born on Nov. 27, the

strong. He stayed with his mother throughout her hospital stay.

day after Thanksgiving, at Banner Ocotillo Medical Center in

King James’s arrival upset plans for the baby shower that was

Chandler. Because the baby was a week overdue, labor was induced.

planned that day, but the older kids threw the shower anyway.

Six-year-old Liliana was still attending in-person school when

They sent food, Rugrats-themed decorations, custom T-shirts

her parents came home with the baby. “When he was very newly

and plates bearing the baby’s name. They set up a video call and

home, it was part of her routine to strip down and get in the

laughed about how they would repurpose the decorations for King

shower right away,” Heather says. “We told her she couldn’t hold

James’s first birthday party.

the baby until she washed the germs away. We’ve explained it’s to

Trenise, who works for the Arizona Department of Transportation, was offered a permanent work-from-home

protect him, [and] she totally gets that.”

When we talked, Heather was preparing to return to her

position two months ago, for which she is grateful. With two of

kindergarten classroom after finishing eight weeks of maternity

her other children remote learning from home, she has plenty of

leave. She was scheduled to get a COVID vaccination and was

eager hands available to help with the baby. “They love him,” she

calmly anticipating this next stage. The pandemic has taught her

says. “They come knock on the door to my room and say, ‘Can I

“you just [have] to go with the flow, even when you don’t want to

get the baby?’ They all want to sit with him downstairs, and play

go with the flow,” she says.

with him. Of course, he’s mostly sleeping these days!”

JODI AMICK of El Mirage was just about three months pregnant HEATHER ALFANO of Fountain Hills remembers the uncertainty in the

when the coronavirus shutdowns began. She wasn’t particularly

air about a year ago, as COVID-19 was just becoming a threat.

fearful about getting sick, she says, but she was aware that

She and her husband, Gianni, had planned to take their daughter Liliana to Legoland California. Should they go? Should they cancel? Friends would be there, too. “We didn’t want to let the kids down,” Alfano says.

They made the trip. Just days after they returned home,

pregnancy can lower your immune system and did everything she could to avoid exposure to the virus.

Jodi works as a design consultant at The Container Store.

She was grateful when the stores made a quick pivot to curbside pickups, which allowed full-time staff to continue working.

Arizona closed K-12 schools, and learning for Liliana moved

“They needed help on the phones, so it was the perfect thing that

online. Gianna moved to remote work, too. Alfano, who was

happened for me. I was able to sit in the back, away from everyone,

seeking a teaching position (the family had recently moved from

and make calls for the corporate office, right up until my

RaisingARIZONAKids.com February 2021

21

maternity leave. I didn’t work with the public a lot.”

Her husband Chris, a business analyst with USAA, has been working remotely since March.

“My biggest fear was that my husband wouldn’t be able to be there with me when I delivered,” Jodi remembers. “For a little while, no other people were allowed in delivery rooms.”

Jodi says she’s “a huge planner,” but “one of the benefits of having a child later in life is I’ve learned from friends’ experiences.” With any pregnancy, she says, “it probably goes the way you plan about 10 percent of the time.”

Her obstetrics practice wasn’t allowing any extra people in for regular office visits, but Jodi’s high-risk pregnancy meant she also was seeing a perinatologist. That practice allowed her husband to accompany her for appointments, meaning he saw the ultrasounds and heard the baby’s heartbeat.

Jodi spent 10 days at home on bedrest because of gestational hypertension. Labor was induced at 37 weeks, and she eventually had a C-section at Banner Del Webb Medical Center in Sun City West. Her son, Max, was born on July 19, 2020, just as the number of coronavirus diagnoses was peaking ominously in Arizona. Chris was with her the whole time, “except for two hours after Max was already born, “when I told him to go home, take a nap in his own bed, take a shower, and get some clean clothes.”

Jodi took three months of maternity leave; Chris patched together family leave and personal time off for all but two weeks of that time.

The pandemic meant her pregnancy was “not

The Amick family of El Mirage. Jodi, Christopher, Max (1 month) and their pet Kaycee. Inset: Max (5 months in photo).

what I had envisioned,” Jodi says, “but there are a lot of things I’ve been very grateful for, a lot that has happened well in our favor. I feel guilty saying that, when so many families have been devastated by this disease. I was lucky.”

22 February 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Successful Mothers

ARE NOT THE ONES THAT HAVE NEVER STRUGGLED. THEY ARE THE ONES THAT NEVER GIVE UP, DESPITE THE STRUGGLES. Sharon Jaynes

RaisingARIZONAKids your partner on the parenting path

BirthandBabies

Pregnancy, birth and the postpartum months are just as challenging as they are rewarding. Here are some local resources that can buffer the journey.

Phoenix Children’s provides exceptional preventive and medical care for children from teeny to teens. Rated

by U.S. News & World Report as one of the nation’s best children’s hospitals, Phoenix Children’s offers everything from convenient primary care locations to urgent care, with access to hundreds of expert specialists. To find which of our many providers and convenient locations is best for you, visit phoenixchildrens.org for more information or to schedule an appointment.

The Nurtured Mama exclusively supports women through pregnancy and beyond. Services include prenatal and postpartum massage therapy, restorative healing massage, Yoni Hydrotherapy and The Arvigo® Techniques of Mayan Abdominal Therapy for fertility and overall women’s health. All therapists are trained and specialize in pregnancy massage. Massage can help you sleep, have fewer aches and pains and feel better overall.

Three locations: 7227 E Baseline Road #104, Mesa; 3295 N. Drinkwater Blvd., Suite 4, Scottsdale; and Premier Care for Women, 14239 W. Bell Road, Surprise. 480-208-9773 or nurturedmama.com

During these times of social distancing, Families

in Bloom continues to offer virtual classes to support

expectant parents as they prepare for their amazing journey into parenthood. We offer a variety of classes to meet all your needs. All classes are taught by an RN, Certified Childbirth Educator and Certified CPR instructor. Our class offerings include: Breastfeeding, Infant Care, Infant CPR & First Aid, Childbirth Refresher and Prepared Childbirth.

Visit familiesinbloom.net to learn more about our class offerings, pricing and inclusions. Call Lori Vraney to register for your class today! 623 572-7801 or familiesinbloom.net

Parent Partners Plus is a network of home visitation support programs that help give your child his or her best possible chance at a happy, healthy future.Our staff members connect families with programming and services that best meet your young child’s needs, helping place him or her on the best possible path toward positive cognitive, emotional and social development. Now enrolling families prenatal to age 3. Program sponsored by Southwest Human Development and First Things First. Learn more at parentpartnersplus.com or call (602)-633-0732

24 February 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

NOW ENROLLING FAMILIES PRENATAL TO AGE 3 IN OUR FREE PROGRAMS

WE CAN HELP Family Support, Developmental Screenings, and School Readiness Activities for families expecting a baby and with a child birth to 3 years old in Maricopa County

CALL (602) 633-0732 OR VISIT PARENTPARTNERSPLUS.COM

A PROGRAM OF

You Want Complete

[Pediatric Eye Care.]

We Are Your Healthcare Team.

Did you know there are 17 visual skills required for learning? Basic vision screenings are not equivalent to a comprehensive eye examination.

We recommend a child’s first eye examination be performed as early as six months of age.

Call for an appointment: 623-537-6000 Midwestern University Eye Intitute Your Family’s Home for Healthcare

5865 West Utopia Road Glendale, Arizona 85308 www.mwuclinics.com RaisingARIZONAKids.com February 2021

25

BirthandBabies

WE BLANKET THE AREA.

MORE pregnancy and birth resources in Arizona Arizona Department of Health Breastfeeding Program. Get answers to your breastfeeding questions 24 hours a day by calling the Arizona Department of Health Services 24-Hour Breastfeeding Hotline at 1-800-833-4642 or azdhs.gov

Birth to Five Helpline. Southwest Human Development operates this free service open to all Arizona families with young children. Call the Helpline 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday to speak with a bilingual (English/Spanish) early childhood specialist, or leave a voicemail, complete an online contact form, or text the Helpline 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 877-705-KIDS (5437) or swhd.org

La Leche League Arizona. La Leche League is an international, nonprofit, nonsectarian organization dedicated to providing education, information, support, and encouragement to those who want to breastfeed/chestfeed. In-person meetings have been suspended during the pandemic, but the helplines remain open in Phoenix (602-2341956), Tucson (520-789-6455), and en español (480-252-9897). lllofaz.org

What’s more comforting than having one of the best children’s hospitals in the nation nearby?

Knowing Phoenix Children’s is close to where you live, blanketing the area with a network of more than 1,100 expert primary care doctors and specialists in over two dozen convenient locations.

So if you’re looking for top-notch care right in your community, you can rest easy.

Power Me A2Z. Arizona women ages 18-45 can receive free vitamins designed especially for them, thanks to this outreach program from the Arizona Department of Health Services. And you don’t have to be pregnant – or planning a pregnancy – to qualify. Simply take a five-question online quiz that’s part fun, part awareness building. The vitamins include folic acid, a B vitamin that is important for red blood cell growth and is essential for women, especially during and before pregnancy. powermea2z.org

The Arizona Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program is a supplemental nutrition program that provides healthy foods and breastfeeding supplies to pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women, infants and children under the age of 5 who are at nutritional

Visit us at phoenixchildrens.org or call 602-933-KIDS (5437)

risk and who are at or below 185 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. Arizona WIC also has breastfeeding experts who can answer questions and provide support for breastfeeding goals. azdhs. gov/prevention/azwic

26 February 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

So there’s a new local children’s book author...

W

HEN SHE was pregnant with her

son Max, Sarah Land of Phoenix

She wanted to channel those thoughts

time parents ask themselves, like, “Is

in a positive direction that might prove

there enough space for you both in [my

underwent a period of self-reflection and

comforting to other families in the

heart]?”

angst common to many in the midst of a

same situation. Her book, “So There’s a

second pregnancy.

Sibling” offers affirmation and acceptance

she held both Max, now 4, and his big

to second-time parents while gently

sister Piper, now 6, in her arms. “It’s a

soothing the worries of an older sibling.

magic moment,” she remembers. “My

When the concept for her children’s

heart just grew. You can’t remember a

“You have this perfect firstborn, this perfect family dynamic, and you wonder, ‘What have I done? Why am I changing

Land remembers the first moment

it?’,” she remembers. “When you’re

book started taking shape, Land knew

moment when there was just one child.

pregnant, you tend to overthink things.”

that “illustrations could make or

Your love explodes, especially when you

break it.” She was immediately drawn

see your oldest being a sibling.” Some of

and worries in a private journal, figuring

to the “sweet, soft, honest, heartfelt”

the illustrations in her book, including

that’s where they would stay. Then, about

illustrations provided by her collaborator,

one where a toddler is trying to feed the

16 months ago, she revisited what she’d

Ari Miller, at Canadian-based

baby, “are from my own memory.”

written and “picked up the pen again.”

FreisenPress. “She nailed it every time,”

She realized her journal entries

says Land, who will work with Miller on

families? “I’ve been there, it’s going to

expressed misgivings many women feel

future books in the “So There…” series,

be OK.”

but don’t discuss. “We’re ashamed [to

tackling topics like moving to a new

express any doubts],” she says. “I didn’t

community or experiencing the loss of a

in hardback, paperback or eBook formats

feel particularly supported in my journey

loved one.

and retails for $8.99 and up (depending

She expressed her thoughts, feelings

through the second pregnancy. It didn’t feel like sunshine and roses to me.”

“So There’s a Sibling” doesn’t shy away from tough questions second-

Sarah’s message to other growing

Her self-published book is available

on the vendor) at FriesenPress.com, Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com

RaisingARIZONAKids.com February 2021

27

BirthandBabies

EXPECTING?

What to know about choosing your baby’s doctor

By Jason Vargas, MD, FAAP

A

GOOD TIME to start thinking about finding a pediatrician

chance they will stay at that practice long-term. Practitioners

for your new baby is at the beginning of your third

who have been in the community for some time also may

trimester. The last month of a mother’s pregnancy can be

have beneficial ties to local hospitals and specialists. On the

unpredictable, and you do not want to put this off until the end.

other hand, longstanding practitioners may be less available

So, do you just go online and search “best pediatrician”? That

because they serve a larger patient population. You may find

is probably not the best strategy.

easier access to someone who is newer to the practice.

Most prospective parents begin by creating a list of prospective pediatricians via referrals from friends, family

• Is your pediatrician a solo practitioner or part of a larger

members, next-door neighbors — people they respect and whose

practice? Think about whether you prefer consistency or

children appear to be well cared for. Before doing this, however,

convenience. When you choose a pediatrician in a solo

you should ask yourself a few questions, the answers to which

practice, you know you will always see that practitioner

will better inform your discussion:

when you make an appointment. However, a larger practice

• How available is your pediatrician, especially after hours or on weekends?

might be able to accommodate a last-minute appointment because you have the option of seeing another provider who is available sooner. Larger practices also may have more after-

• How long has your pediatrician been at this practice?

hours and holiday coverage.

Although there is no direct correlation, when a practitioner has been in the practice for a while, there is probably a higher

28 February 2021

RaisingARIZONAKids.com

• Does your practitioner speak another language or have

someone in the office who can translate if you have a family member for whom English is not their primary language?

• Does your child have a medical condition that was diagnosed prenatally? If so, you may want your child’s practitioner to have some experience in that area.

• What about the practitioner’s approach and style? Do you prefer brevity and efficiency, or would you prefer someone who takes extra time explaining — sometimes

FRANCESCO RIDOLFI

at the expense of running a little behind schedule?

Most modern pediatrics groups have websites, which offer clues to the culture of a particular practice and give families

breastfeeding consult in the office.

What else should you consider as your delivery date

opportunities to book online appointments, access their medical

approaches? During the pandemic, your pediatrician may not

records or even to schedule telehealth visits. Many offices also

be able to see you in the hospital but will be glad to see you the

now offer mobile check-in and access to a patient portal through

moment you are discharged. The hospital’s pediatric team will

a mobile app.

help coordinate that for you.

Often these websites will have robust information and

Make sure you have your car seat ready and that all family

resources. You might also find a detailed pediatrician’s bio,

members who will be near the new baby have been fully

which will give you some insight into his or her career, shared

vaccinated, including all boosters — especially Tdap and

interests or personality.

influenza. Newborns are particularly vulnerable to these diseases

Look for associations the pediatrician has — privileges or

and will not yet have been vaccinated against them. While

relationships with local hospitals and organizations that are important

breastfeeding has innumerable benefits, it does not adequately

to you. When pediatricians are members of the Arizona chapter of the

protect against these diseases.

American Academy of Pediatrics, it means they are dedicated to the specific issues of Arizona children and will advocate for all of them.

Make sure the pediatrician has the designation “FAAP” after his/her name. This means they are a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, a designation requiring

Especially during these pandemic times, it is a good idea to restrict visits to your newborn during the first couple of months. And when you do choose to welcome visitors, be sure to practice social distancing, use masks and wash hands.

If you are expecting a child, congratulations! I can speak for

board certification. This level of certification ensures that the

most pediatricians and pediatric providers when I say that meeting

pediatrician is maintaining a level of pediatric expertise that is

new families and developing relationships that last until children

up-to-date and evidence based.

move on to adulthood is one of the best parts of our job. We look

Pediatric care is often provided by a team. Most often that care is provided by a pediatrician. In some practices, you may have the option of seeing a nurse practitioner, physician assistant or physician extender. These team members can make more time available for consultation and education. One example:

forward to meeting you. Stay healthy.

Dr. Jason Vargas has been a board-certified pediatrician at Cactus Children’s Clinic in Glendale for the last 16 years.

He is the current president of the Arizona Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Practitioners who also have expertise in breastfeeding can offer a

RaisingARIZONAKids.com February 2021

29

Olivia and Liam

COVID-19

are once again the most popular baby names in Arizona

may affect pregnant women more severely

OLIVIA IS ONCE again the top name for girls, and Liam — for

the fifth year in a row — is the top name for boys, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services. The preliminary list of top baby names comes from 2020 birth certificates submitted to the ADHS Bureau of Vital Records.

P

REGNANT PEOPLE are at increased risk for severe illness from

COVID-19 compared to non-pregnant people, according to the

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (cdc.gov). The CDC also

The top five girls names in Arizona for 2020 are: Olivia,

warns pregnant people with COVID-19 could be at increased risk for

Emma, Sophia, Mia and Isabella. The top five boys names for

other adverse outcomes, such as preterm birth — delivering the baby

2020 are Liam, Noah, Oliver, Mateo and Benjamin. An official

earlier than 37 weeks. Here are the CDC’s guidelines for protecting

count of the year’s top baby names will be verified and posted

yourself and reducing the spread of COVID-19:

online at azhealth.gov in February.

• Limit interactions with people who might have been exposed to or infected with COVID-19.

Top baby names for girls in Arizona in 2020

• Take steps to prevent getting COVID-19 when you do interact with others. Wear a face mask — covering your nose and mouth

1. Olivia

10. Luna

19. Harper

— especially when you cannot keep distance from other people.

2. Emma

11. Giana

20. Victoria

Avoid people who are not wearing masks or ask others around you

3. Sophia

12. Scarlett

21. Sofia

to wear a mask. And stay at least 6 feet away from others outside

4. Mia

13. Evelyn

22. Aurora

your household.

5. Isabella

14. Mila

23. Elena

6. Amelia

15. Abigail

24. Ella

soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer with at least

7. Camila

16. Aria

25. Elizabeth

60 percent alcohol.

8. Charlotte

17. Penelope

• Avoid activities where taking these steps might be difficult.

9. Ava

18. Emily

• Keep all of your healthcare appointments during and after

• Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If

pregnancy and get recommended vaccines, including flu and

Top baby names for boys in Arizona in 2020

Tdap (whooping cough). If you’re concerned about visiting your healthcare provider because of COVID-19, ask what steps they are

1. Liam

10. James

19. Levi

2. Noah

11. Daniel

20. Ezra

3. Oliver

12. Santiago

21. Lucas

your pregnancy or if you get sick and think that you may have

4. Mateo

13. Michael

22. Logan

COVID-19. Also call if you think you are experiencing depression

5. Benjamin

14. Mason

23. Samuel

during or after pregnancy.

6. Elijah

15. Ezekiel

24. Luke

7. Sebastian

16. Aiden

25. Ethan

8. Alexander

17. David

getting COVID-19 if you need care. If you need emergency help,

9. Julian

18. Elias

call 911 right away and tell them that you are pregnant.​

30 February 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

taking to separate healthy patients from those who might be sick.

• Call your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about

• Do not delay getting emergency care because of COVID-19.

Emergency departments have steps in place to protect you from

Sleep right for a good night.

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RaisingARIZONAKids.com February 2021

31

Cool baby

PRODUCTS Innovative new baby products promise better sleep for all, easier ways to breastfeed and technology to make parenthood a tad smoother. Babies grow so quickly that not everything on the gift registry is a necessity — such as a good stroller, car seat, changing table, rocking chair or glider and a heavy-duty breast pump. Still, anything to make parenthood easier and more fun is worth considering if it’s in the budget. Here are a few items we found intriguing:

32 February 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

1. Aifi QuickSnap Diaper Bag. Aside from fashion trends, diaper bags haven’t changed much in decades — until now. Aifi designed a diaper backpack that expands to create a bassinet-type space for safe diaper changes or naps. $120-$200 at aifibags.com

2. SNOO Smart Baby Sleeper and Bassinet. With a new baby, sleep deprivation is real. That’s why Dr. Harvey Karp, pediatrician and author of “The Happiest Baby on the Block,” enlisted engineers to create this smart sleeper that shushes, rocks and soothes baby automatically. It promises to add 1-2 hours of sleep on average in newborn babies and to minimize the need for cry-it-out sleep training. Control SNOO remotely via a smartphone app by picking the best motion and white noise levels for your baby. You can also track your baby’s sleep progress daily, weekly and monthly. It comes with swaddlers that attach to the bassinet frame, keeping baby sleeping safely on his/her back. Plus, you can talk to a baby sleep expert 24/7. All this for $1,395 — or rent it for $129 per month at happiestbaby. com/products/snoo-smart-bassinet

3. Keekaroo’s Peanut Diaper Changer. This is undoubtedly a splurge, but Keekaroo’s soft-but-sturdy diaper changing surface means you don’t EVER have to wash diaper changing pads or covers. Just wipe down the surface and get on with your day. The solid shell also limits bacteria growth. $130 on Amazon.

4. Hiccapop Ultra Wipes Warmer.

Warmed baby wipes may seem like a luxury, but they make baby’s frequent diaper changes infinitely less stressful for all involved. This brand gets rave reviews and includes a night light with a 10-minute automatic shutoff for middle-of-the-night diapering. Plus, it also comes in grey, which looks nicer in a posh nursery. $35 at Amazon. or www.hiccapop.com

RaisingARIZONAKids.com February 2021

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5. Fisher-Price Soothe ‘n Snuggle Otter. This cute and cuddly stuffy helps soothe baby with calming music and sounds. Plus, it features a soft light and a rhythmic “breathing” motion. Customize it by choosing music, white noise, heartbeat, snoring or womb sounds. $40 on Amazon or Walmart.

6. Rent a hospital-grade breast pump. Modern Milk in Scottsdale makes breastfeeding easier on a number of levels, with its Happy Mom School, Happy Boob (support) Group, lactation services, fitness classes and a supportive community. They also rent out hospital-grade breast pumps, which are stronger and more efficient than pumps from a retail chain. Hospital-grade pumps make breastfeeding faster and easier by helping women quickly establish, sustain and increase milk supply. $200 for three months at modernmilk.com

7. Boon CACTI Bottle-Cleaning Brush Set. These durable nylon brushes help get the goop out of bottles, straws, sippy cups and breast pump parts. And the cactus theme is perfect for Arizona parents. $15 at us.tomy.com/ products/cacti

8. Simmons Kids Alexis 7-Piece Nursery Set. For about the same price as an IKEA nursery, this posh modern set really ups the bar on affordable luxury. Costco sells a seven-piece modern Simmons set that includes a convertible baby crib, six-drawer dresser, toddler guardrail, changing tray, contour changing pad, glider and ottoman. The crib features modern lines, upholstered ends and nailhead trim, and the glider promises comfortable hours of cuddling and rocking baby. The set in white or gray is on sale this month for $1,250 at costco.com

34 February 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

9. Skip Hop Light-Up Diaper Caddy.

This handsome portable caddy helps organize diapers, rash creams, lotion and more. The handle features a touch-sensitive light with a 10-minute auto-off feature, making night diaper changes easier. $42 at skiphop.com

10. Gerber Soothe ‘n’ Chew Snacks.

Forget plastic teethers or medicine. Gerber’s grainbased teething snacks naturally massage little gums with real food as babies chew. The hollow cylinder shape makes them easy to hold, and the banana flavor keeps them interesting. $5 for 6 individually wrapped snacks at walmart.com

11. Mobo Wobo 2-in-1 Rocking Baby Balance Bike. Help toddlers reach three milestones: rock, walk and ride. The rocking teaches coordination between hands, arms, legs and feet. It can quickly convert back and forth between a rocking toy and riding toy. It features rubber light-up wheels and multiple safety pads. $99 at mobocruiser.com

12. Spacewalk Light or Paris Chandelier. It can be tough to find the perfect light fixture for your child’s nursery or bedroom.

Arizona Lighting Co. offers whimsical options that stir the imagination including a flush-mount spacewalk themed light or or a mini chandelier that’s a modern take on Paris Market chic. $226-$234 at azlightingyuma.com

RaisingARIZONAKids.com February 2021

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Great 1. Lovevery Play Kits. This gift takes the guesswork out of choosing a toy for your favorite growing baby. Lovevery toys are designed by child development experts to be exactly what children need (and want) developmentally at every stage. $36 per month and up lovevery.com

2. Honest Diaper Cake. You can’t go wrong with this adorable “three-layer cake” made with 35 or 70 disposable diapers in cute prints and filled with Honest baby products: baby shampoo and body wash, lotion, all-purpose balm, Honest Wipes and baby laundry detergent. $40 or $100 at honest.com

3. Little Book of You. It can feel overwhelming finding the time to fill out a handwritten baby book, so this option makes a perfect gift for busy and sleep-deprived new parents.

Create a customized book online in minutes by typing in a few details, or give a gift certificate for a 32-page book filled with beautiful illustrations and details about baby’s world, state and country when he/she was born. $49.95 at littlebookofyou.com

4. Deluxe Magic Touch Piano. This safe and durable piano boasts great sound, encouraging toddlers to learn tones, scales and other musical skills. Recommended for ages 6 months and up. $40 at Kidstop Toys and Books in Scottsdale. kidstoptoys. com/deluxe-magic-touch-piano.html

36 February 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

5. Personalized Baby Block. A great, affordable baby gift, this engraved two-inch maple wood cube records baby’s birthday — time, location, weight, length, etc. — for a great keepsake. $19.50.

317-996-2124 or craftefamily.com

6. Wee Bloom Bunny With Face Mask. Bunnies By the Bay added face masks to some of its most popular stuffed animals to encourage young children to wear masks and reduce their anxiety about the pandemic. The result is a sweet, helpful keepsake of this bizarre historic time. Choose one of nine fabric masks for dolls and stuffies including the adorable Wee Bunny. $18 at bunniesbythebay.com

7. Muslin Swaddle Blankets. This is the best type of blanket for babies in Arizona or any warm climate. Hudson Baby sells sets of three 100 percent cotton swaddle blankets in cute prints.

They’re soft, gentle, breathable and not too hot. $20 for three at Target, Amazon or Buy Buy Baby.

8. Indestructible baby books. Workman Publishing has created the perfect first book for little ones! Indestructibles are lightweight, chew proof, rip-proof and waterproof. Made of ultra-durable tightwoven material, they come in many titles including classic nursery rhymes to introduce babies to the joys of bright pictures and written words. You can even clean them in the dishwasher! $4-$6 titles in English or Spanish at most bookstores.

9. Baby’s Brew. This cordless travel bottle warmer is battery-powered to provide perfectly warmed milk, water, or formula on the go. $75-$85 at thebabysbrew.com

10. Mushie silicone bibs. Designed in Sweden, Mushie bibs are made from food-grade silicone with rounded, built-in neck fasteners and a deep front pocket that is perfect for catching food. $12.99 at mushie.com

RaisingARIZONAKids.com February 2021

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January 19, 2021: Armed National Guardsmen on security detail at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC.

USING COMMON SENSE

Talking to kids about

insurrection and other

disturbing news events

By Ilana Lowery

FROM CORONAVIRUS and social injustice to the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol — which played out on national television and social media — our kids have been exposed to months of violence and disturbing events.

The storming of the Capitol was a shocking attack on the hallmark of American democracy: the peaceful transition of power from one democratically elected president to the next.

As Congress met to certify the 2020 Electoral College vote, a gathering outside the Capitol turned violent as rioters broke windows, unlawfully entered the building, ransacked House and Senate chambers and members’ offices and disrupted the democratic process. Five people died.

With wall-to-wall media coverage of such events in real time, children are witnessing tragic events they don’t understand, let alone have the critical thinking capacity to process. it’s nearly impossible to keep the news at bay until you’re able to figure out what to say.

“Kids are trying to make sense of what they’re seeing and hearing,” said Diane Lowrey, senior director of community partnerships for Common Sense Media. “Kids are often more

38 February 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

tuned into our emotions than we realize. If, as a parent, you’re

about. We can support our children in leading without leaving

showing fear, anger, sadness or frustration, explain to your kids

them to clean up our messes. Many young people have shown the

that these emotions are normal and that they have nothing to do

ability to tackle everything from climate change and gender equity

with anything they did.”

to mass violence.

For some adults and older children, Lowrey said images of the rioting crowd might trigger memories of past violent events in the

• Tackle important stuff in small doses. It is important to talk to

U.S. or in other countries. Racist imagery like swastika symbols

children about the bad things going on in the world, and in some

and Confederate flags in the Capitol are hurtful and disturbing.

cases, information can be doled out in safer doses. The images and

“It’s important to acknowledge these triggers and give everyone

sounds of tragedy and violence take a toll on kids. Pick one event,

the space they need to express their feelings,” she said.

one short clip from a protest, a social media post that resonates, or

Elementary school-aged children and some middle schoolers

a YouTube video and use that as a conversation starter.

have trouble fully understanding news events. And though older teens are better able to understand current events, even they

• Cultivate stories of resilience. Don’t forget that we have

face challenges when it comes to sifting fact from opinion — or

been through terror and trauma before. Every family has a story

misinformation. No matter how old your kids are, threatening or

of survival and of resilience, as does our country. Cultivate

upsetting news can affect them emotionally, said Caroline Knorr,

those stories. Listen and move into action with compassion and

former parenting editor at Common Sense.

empathy. Pay attention to, create and share narratives, images and

“Many can feel worried, frightened, angry or even guilty. And

sounds of our joy and resilience.

ISTOCK

these anxious feelings can last long after the news event is over,” she said. So how do we talk with kids about big, important topics

• Take action. Depending on the issue and kids’ ages, families

like violence, racism and political unrest?

can find proactive ways to respond to current events. Kids can

One way parents and caregivers can help their children is to

write postcards to politicians expressing their opinions; families

create a safe space and talk without distraction, according to Dr.

can attend meetings or peaceful protests; kids can help assemble

Allison Briscoe-Smith, a child psychologist and the director of

care packages or donate a portion of their allowance to a rescue/

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at the Berkeley, California-based

humanitarian effort.

Wright Institute. “Find out what they know and what they’re worried about, and watch for signs of distress,” she suggests.

What you say depends on your experience, but here are some

It’s nearly impossible to avoid all exposure to violence and unsettling media, but in your own home, you have a lot of control

guiding steps from Briscoe-Smith to consider as you talk with

over what your kids watch, see and play. For more information

your kids about tough topics:

on how to talk to your kids about a recent tragedy, visit the National Association of School Psychologists (nasponline.org) or

• Check in with yourself first. Before focusing on what to tell

the American Psychological Association (apa.org). For more on

your kids, what do you tell yourself? How are you staying well? If

how news can impact kids, check out Common Sense Media’s

you aren’t well, how do you get help?

publication “News and America’s Kids: How Young People Perceive and Are Impacted by the News” at commonsensemedia.org.

• Consider your own reactions. Your kids will look to the way you handle the news to determine their own approach. If you stay calm and rational, they will, too.

• Listen to your children. Listen deeply and support their actions.

Ilana Lowery is the Arizona director for Common Sense Media, an independent nonprofit dedicated to helping kids thrive in a world of media and technology by empowering parents, teachers and policymakers. She can be reached at ilowery@commonsense.org.

Don’t just talk at them. Hear what solutions they’re thinking

RaisingARIZONAKids.com February 2021

39

ISTOCK

Talking to kids about the news DRAMATIC, DISTURBING NEWS events can leave parents

to the Black Lives Matter protests? Do they use different

speechless. Here are some age-appropriate questions from

words to refer to this event and the people involved?

Common Sense experts to help you find out what your kids

• What do you think about the lawmakers who came back

and teens know about the event, and what questions they

and completed the job of certifying the election? What do

have, and to take care of their emotional well-being. You can

their actions communicate?

also use news events as a teachable moment to help older kids and teens develop critical-thinking and media literacy skills.

Teenagers. Teens often feel passionately and have strong opinions about events in the news. Give them space to express

Ages 2–7. Young kids aren’t yet fully able to understand complex

how they feel without judgment. Since most teens get their

situations. Kids at the younger end of this group still can’t tell the

news from social media, ask questions to help them think

difference between fantasy and reality. If you can, try to turn off

critically about what they’re seeing and reading. Help them

the news when young kids are around. Of course, they may still

consider various perspectives and connect the dots with what

hear about scary news from their siblings or friends — or overhear

they’ve learned in school. Older kids might be worried about

an adult talking about it. If they do, let them know that they and

the state of the country, events in their own town, or what

their family are safe, and use these questions to support them:

might happen next — especially since the news seems to

• What did you watch/hear about what happened? (Ask follow-up questions without adding unnecessary information.)

• How did that make you feel?

• What would make you feel better?

deliver new developments every 30 seconds. Use these guiding questions to start the conversation: • What are you seeing on social media or the news about the events in the Capitol? How do you feel about what you see? Whose perspective is being featured? Whose voices

Ages 8–12. Older kids can have various reactions to what they see on the news and social media platforms such as TikTok

are missing?

• Which words are journalists or social media influencers

or YouTube. Some are more sensitive than others to news of

using to talk about the situation or the people involved? Do

violence. Think about how they’ve reacted in the past, and use

you think they would use different words if the rioters were

these guiding questions to learn more about what questions

Black, Latinx or Muslim?

they have and how they’re feeling: • What did you watch/hear about what happened? (Ask follow-up questions, clarify misconceptions, and give them additional perspectives.)

• How was the police response and the news coverage different from the Black Lives Matter protests?

• Is this moment comparable to any other in U.S. history? (Use reliable sources to learn about past events. If your family has

• How do you feel? How do you think your friends and other

recently immigrated to the U.S., ask whether it compares

people in your family feel, including people from different

with anything that’s happened in your country of origin.)

backgrounds and races?

• For more mature kids: What differences do you see in the way the media is talking about the situation compared

40 February 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

• How can society prevent violent attacks on democratic institutions? What specific actions can you take to have a positive impact on the future?

WE’RE WITH

YOU EVERY STEP OF THE WAY

For 30 years, we’ve been right there with local families during both the good and challenging times.

RaisingARIZONAKids your partner on the parenting path

FREE weekly eNewsletter: raisingarizonakids.com/newsletter Calendar of family events: raisingarizonakids.com/calendar

family time!

Alexandra Bowers: A Murmuration of Found Feathers in Flight (Jan. 15-Apr. 4) at Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum.

42 February 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

FEB. 1-7 Waste Management Phoenix Open. Watch some of the most talented and popular golfers battle it out.

FEBRUARY TOP EVENTS Cool weather is here, and the pandemic continues. The good news is that thousands of Arizonans are being vaccinated against COVID-19

Organizers have limited the number of fans on the course each day. Masks required except when actively eating or drinking. Hours vary. $100 Wednesday, Thursday or Sunday; $125 Friday-Saturday. Free admission to all first responders; active, reserve or retired military; and ages 15 and younger when accompanied by a paid adult. Free admission to all Monday and Tuesday courtesy of Ford Free Days.

Scottsdale Tournament Players Club, 17020 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale. Wmphoenixopen.com

daily, including our teachers. There’s a light at the end of the tunnel, the FitPHX (Feb. 2-Apr. 6).

fun family events we used to look forward to each month. Until then, there are still lots of outdoor and virtual activities for families in February NOTE: Because last-minute schedule changes can occur, please confirm dates and times on event websites. Find more extensive dayby-day event listings at raisingarizonakids.com/calendar. Send calendar information to familytime@RAKmagazine.com

JAN. 15-APR. 4 Alexandra Bowers: A Murmuration of Found Feathers in Flight. This Arizona artist is known for her intricate, nature-inspired pyrographic (burned wood), watercolor and wax pigment colored drawings. For this exhibition, Bowers creates a healing, tranquil space during this time of change and transition and immortalizes in wood 1,000 feather photographs she received from the community. Free. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, noon-5 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday. Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum, 1 E. Main St., Mesa. mesaartscenter. com/index.php/museum/art/exhibits/alexandra-bowers

FEB. 2-APR. 6 FitPHX, the City of Phoenix healthy living initiative,

JAN. 22-MAR. 21

offers a variety of fitness formats — POUND, Cardio

Teed Up in 2021 is your chance to practice some putting at a fun, free and safely spaced mini golf experience

Kick, Zumba, High, SOULFusion, Ballet Bootcamp, and

near AMC Theatres at Desert Ridge Marketplace. Test your skills at the neon-lit, nine-hole mini golf course 4-10

more — virtually. Residents from any city are welcome

p.m. Friday-Saturday and 1-6 p.m. Sunday through March 21. Free. Clubs, balls, scorecards and pencils provided

to attend. 6-7 p.m. Tuesdays through April 6. Free.

on a first-come, first-served basis. Desert Ridge Marketplace, 21001 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix. 480-513-7586 or

Register in advance to get your Zoom link within six

shopdesertridge.com/event/golf

hours of each class. https://tinyurl.com/y3nv7c2m

RaisingARIZONAKids.com February 2021

43

family time! FEBRUARY TOP EVENTS Free Online Educational Webinars (Feb. 3-26).

FEB. 6-13 Drive-In Puppet Show: “The Frog Prince.” Enjoy this classic musical fairy tale about a spoiled princess who learns important lessons about friendship and keeping her promises. 10 a.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday. $40 per carload for non-members, $30 for members. Register and pay by 5 p.m. the day before the show. Great Arizona

FEB. 3-26

Puppet Theater, 302 W. Latham St., Phoenix. 602-262-2050 or azpuppets.org

Free Online Educational Webinars. The Arizona Attorney General’s Office offers virtual educational programming on topics including Internet Safety,

Connect2STEM (Feb. 6-27).

Opioid Awareness, Vaping and E-cigarettes, AntiBullying, Human Trafficking and Suicide Awareness and Prevention. Free. School-age children and their parents.

Times and dates vary. Webinars are available in English and Spanish. azag.gov/outreach/webinars

FEB. 3, 10, 17 & 24 Online MIMkids Mini Music Makers. Join Curator of Education Katie Palmer on Zoom for a 30-minute class.

Explore music through song, dance and play with your little ones using everyday household items. 10:15-10:45 a.m. (0-3 years); 11-11:30 a.m. (3-5 years). $4-$12. mim.org/mimkids/mini-music-makers

FEB. 5-28 The Great Flossini’s Totally Tooth-Ular Magic Show. February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, and the Children’s Museum of Phoenix with Delta Dental of Arizona hosts activities and shows about oral

FEB. 6-27

health on weekends all month. See The Great Flossini at 10

Connect2STEM. The University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Cox Communications and the Arizona

and 11 a.m. on Feb. 5, 12, 20, 26 and 28. Pediatric dentists

SciTech Institute present a series of live, virtual and family friendly events meant to inspire kids in grades K-12 to

host From First Tooth to Loose Tooth Q&A sessions at 10

think about careers in science, technology, engineering, math and medicine. This year’s event has been reimagined

a.m. to noon on Feb. 7, 14, 20 and 26. And Great Arizona

as an online interactive pavilion. Activities take place each Saturday this month at Connect2STEM TV. Each week

Puppet Theater performs for ages 2-8 at 10 a.m. and noon

features new themes and giveaways. Free. phoenixmed.arizona.edu/c2s/live

on Feb. 6, 13, 19, 21 and 27. $14,95; free for babies under the age of 1. Masks are required for ages 3 and up at the museum, 215 N. Seventh St. in downtown Phoenix, where

FEB. 6 AND 27

indoor spaces are closed, but the outdoor Adventure Play

Kids Night Out. Parents can enjoy a night out while Arizona Sunrays in Phoenix entertains kids ages 3-13. Themed

area is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday-Sunday. Purchase

activities, gymnastics, a foam pit and a trampoline, plus pizza and juice for dinner. 6-10 p.m. Register in advance. $35;

tickets in advance at childrensmuseumofphoenix.org

$30 for each additional child. Arizona Sunrays, 15801 N. 32nd St., Phoenix. 602-992-5790 or arizonasunrays.com

44 February 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

FEB. 6-MAY 31 Astronaut. This hands-on exhibition explores the physical and mental challenges involved in space exploration and gives visitors a taste of what life is like outside of Earth and its atmosphere. Through interactive exhibits, visitors can experience g-force, conduct maintenance on a space station, grow space food, and learn the realities of showering, sleeping and using the toilet in space. 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily through May 31. $8.95 plus general admission: $19.95; $14.95 for ages 3-17, free to ages 2 and younger. Arizona Science Center, 600 E. Washington St., Phoenix. 602.716.2000 or azscience.org

FEB. 7 Super Bowl Sunday. The NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers take on the Kansas City Chiefs.

FEB. 10 National Geographic Live! Scientific Exposure. Molecular biologist-turned-photographer Prasenjeet Yadav combines his experience in research with his photography skills to highlight natural history and science stories in

Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show (Feb. 11-21).

Asia. And Anand Varma has developed innovative techniques to create stunning images of creatures whose details are otherwise invisible to the naked eye. Join these explorers for their virtual presentation of stories and conversation on

FEB. 11-21

the intriguing intersection of science and photography. Presented by Mesa Arts Center in partnership with National

Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show. The horses and

Geographic. $20. 8 p.m. mesaartscenter.com

riders will be there, but the audience will not. Because of continuing COVID-19 concerns, the Scottsdale

National Geographic Live!

Scientific Exposure (Feb. 10).

Arabian Horse Show will be live streaming daily, Feb. 11-21. Watch the competitions — at no cost — from the comfort of home. Times TBA. scottsdaleshow.com

FEB. 12-14 17th Annual Arizona Electric Festival. Watch radiocontrolled model airplanes perform an air show. Food and hobby vendors available. 8 a.m. to 5.p.m. Friday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday. $6 per car. Superstition Airpark, Meridian Road and Levee Drive, north of Brown Road, Mesa. azmodelaviators. com/arizona-electric-festival

RaisingARIZONAKids.com February 2021

45

family time! FEBRUARY TOP EVENTS

FEB. 13 Annual Galentine’s Day. It is all about the value of friendships. Enjoy make-and-take activities, and fun photo ops and browse gifts and sweet treats from locally-owned boutiques and specialty shops. Follow the Historic Downtown Glendale Charm Trail to fill a bracelet with beautiful charms: $5 starter bracelet with charm, $2 each for additional charms. Pick up happy, heartfelt and joyful message cards along the Joy Journey. Free. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Start by picking up the activity list and walking map at the Arizona Information Center at Memory Lane Trinkets and Treasures, 5836 W. Palmaire Ave., Glendale. visitdowntownglendale.com

Fairy Happy Valentine’s Party. Celebrate in the garden at the Teapot with boutique shopping, photos opps, crafts, tea and treats and plenty of pixie dust. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free general admission. Fun for all ages.

Masks are required, and guests are limited to 50 at this outdoor event. The Teapot, 818 N. Fifth Ave., Phoenix. enchanteddreamproductions.com

Heard Museum 2021 Virtual Hoop Dance Contest. This annual celebration of artistry, sheer athleticism and cultural tradition is going virtual this year. Hoop dancing celebrates and honors Indigenous traditions throughout the U.S. and Canada and can involve the use of more than 50 hoops. See all ages — Tiny Tots to Seniors — compete to become Hoop Dance champions. Times TBA. Free. Event will be streamed via the Heard Museum’s Facebook and YouTube channels. heard.org/event/hoop

LIVE! Online Musical Adventures is the Musical Instrument Museum’s virtual educational program designed for ages 6-10. Participants discover new cultures by participating in music making, crafting musical instruments and virtually exploring MIM’s exhibits with designated tour guides. In this class, participants will craft east African thumb pianos and hosho shakers. 1:30 p.m. $15 per student includes instrument-building kit. Pick up kits in advance at MIM, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. mim.org

Love 2 Run Trail 10K/5K. Run a 10K or a 5K alone or as a couple. Each participant gets a finisher medal and event shirt. Top performers will get an award. 7:30-11 a.m. Coldwater Trail at Estrella Mountain Regional Park, 6864 Casey Abbot Drive N., Goodyear. runsignup.com/love2runtrail

Kids Night Out. Parents can enjoy a night out while Arizona Sunrays in Arcadia entertains kids ages 3-13. There will be themed activities, gymnastics, a foam pit and a trampoline. Plus pizza and juice. 6-10 p.m. Register in advance. $35; $30 for each additional child. Arizona Sunrays, 3923 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix. 602-9925791 or arizonasunrays.com

Parent’s Valentines Night Out. Ages 6-17 can enjoy activities at Impact Gymnastics Academy so Mom and Dad can enjoy date night. This North Central Phoenix children’s gym with Olympic-class coaching and state-of-theart equipment offers a Ninja Zone area, kinder programs, private lessons for children with special needs, master clinics and Friday night open gym. 6-10 p.m. $30 for one child, $5 off for each additional child in the family.

Impact Gymnastics Academy, 7812 N 12th St., Phoenix. 602-870-7574 or impactgymaz.com

46 February 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

FEB. 21-MARCH 7 2021 Arizona Bach Festival. Distinguished Baroque musicians perform virtual concerts from Poland, Minnesota and New Mexico for this annual festival celebrating the music of Johann Sebastian Bach. The three-concert festival will be held virtually on YouTube. Feb. 21: Organist Aaron David Miller of St .Paul, Minnesota. Feb. 28: LuteDuo of Poland. March 7: Arias with Violin and Organ of New Mexico. Household Festival Pass: $60 for all three concerts. $100 for all three concerts plus post-concert Zoom sessions with the performing artists. 3 p.m. arizonabachfestival.org

FEB. 14: Valentine’s Day

FEB. 24 National Geographic Live! Reimagining Dinosaurs. Groundbreaking science is changing what we thought we knew about how dinosaurs looked, moved and lived. Newfound troves from

FEB. 15: President’s Day

the Moroccan desert suggest that the immense predator Spinosaurus used crocodile-like jaws and a unique, paddle-like tail to actively pursue prey in the water: a first for dinosaurs. And in Chile, scientists have discovered a shocking new therapod. Unlike its cousins, Velociraptor

FEB. 16

and T. rex, Chilesaurus consumed a vegetarian diet. Join leading paleontologists and National

Student Play Writing Festival Performance. East Valley Children’s

Geographic Explorers Nizar Ibrahim and Sebastián Rozadilla for this virtual event: stories

Theatre will be performing staged readings and reader’s theatre style

and conversation about the evolving science of dinosaurs. Presented by Mesa Arts Center in

readings of the 10-minute plays from entrants of its 2020 Student Play

partnership with National Geographic. $20. 8 p.m. mesaartscenter.com

Writing Festival. Performances will be interspersed with judges’ comments about the original scripts. This is a virtual event. $10. 6:30 p.m. evct.org/ special-events

FEB. 27-28 Arizona Matsuri. This annual Japanese festival will be virtual. Listen to taiko drums, watch dance, comedy and acting performances. Free. Time TBA. azmatsuri.org

FEB. 20-21 Drive-In Puppet Show: “The Three Little Kittens.” Three Little Kittens

Drive-In Puppet Show: “The Three Billy Goats Gruff” Before the Three Goats Gruff can

have lost their mittens and don’t know where to find them. A whimsical,

cross the bridge, they must outwit a hungry troll! You can even order breakfast to be delivered

“mewsical” show for the whole family! 10 a.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday. $40

directly to your vehicle from Fair Trade Cafe. 10 a.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday. $40 per carload

per carload for non-members, $30 for members. Register and pay by 5 p.m.

for non-members, $30 for members. Register and pay by 5 p.m. the day before the show. Great

the day before the show. Great Arizona Puppet Theater, 302 W. Latham St.,

Arizona Puppet Theater, 302 W. Latham St., Phoenix. 602-262-2050 or azpuppets.org

Phoenix. 602-262-2050 or azpuppets.org

FEB. 21

FEB. 27-MARCH 30 Cactus League Spring Training. With 10 facilities hosting 15 Major League Baseball teams

Melrose Vintage Market. This local neighborhood market features 50+ local

in metro Phoenix, there are plenty of opportunities for fans to catch a Cactus League Spring

vendors carrying handmade goods, vintage collections, art and local food. Dog

Training game in the Valley of the Sun this spring. However, the Cactus League in January

friendly. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free. Melrose Vintage Market, 700 W. Campbell Ave.,

did ask Major League Baseball to delay the start of Spring Training because of the COVID-19

Phoenix. melrosevintagemarket.com

pandemic. Visit cactusleague.com for updates. Game times and ticket prices vary.

RaisingARIZONAKids.com February 2021

47

first person

This Valentine’s Day,

By Sheri Smith THERE’S A DISTURBING TREND I’ve noticed becoming more

And truly, a cluster of flowers picked up last minute from

fashionable over the years. I call it the scourge of the Valentine’s

the grocery story, no matter how well-intentioned, was probably

Day Grinch. You’ve probably met them — people who abhor the

haphazardly chosen. How could it not feel half-hearted and

holiday dedicated to love. They blame Hallmark, florist shops,

insincere? Because it’s difficult to express love on demand.

chocolate makers, women’s magazines and even capitalism itself.

“I don’t need a holiday to tell me how to love someone,” you’ve overheard them say.

Some of their points are valid. There has been increasing pressure on couples to find larger-than-life declarations of love for their partners each year on February 14th. Flowers,

Others feel left out of the festivities. Maybe romance isn’t going their way right now. There is no romantic partner, or even the prospect of one. Even worse is the feeling that your current situation isn’t exactly cruising along on the Love Boat of your dreams.

For many individuals, the over-saturation of heart-shaped

chocolates and those old-fashioned greeting cards are often

everything feels like a slap in the face during this shortest,

dismissed as cliche or unsentimental.

often coldest, month of the year. But let me interject something

48 February 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

controversial here: I think Valentine’s Day is (dare I say it) good.

Romantic love is wonderful, and so is the love shared

The abundant strings of pink hearts of happiness can be

among family and friends. An all-encompassing love of the

quite cheery when, let’s face it, we don’t have much in the way of

universe and toward our fellow humans is possibly the highest

celebrations to look forward to until around Easter, which — if

form of love. But none of this is possible if we don’t start first

you celebrate it — is basically just a big breakfast.

with love for ourselves.

As a once self-proclaimed Valentine’s Day Grinch myself, I have come to realize that Valentine’s Day is the observance of

Self-acceptance, self-actualization, self-care — this is where love begins.

something truly worthy of celebration — love. For as we learned

So, perhaps this Valentine’s Day, after a time when each of

back in kindergarten when we passed out those little cards with

us has faced so many of our own personal trials and tribulations,

lollipops Scotch-taped to the back for each kid in the classroom —

we should look beyond external validation and instead start with

everyone is deserving of love.

loving ourselves.

Even yourself.

Perhaps you’ve forgotten the lyrics to the pop hit: “Greatest Love of All,” first made popular by George Benson and then topping the charts again under the soaring vocals of Whitney

You can begin slowly: Tell yourself how proud you are to have made it through these difficult times, remember that it’s okay to have occasionally fallen short or to have felt unappreciated.

Remind yourself that it’s normal to be abnormal — to not

Houston. Perhaps it was overplayed to the point where you wanted

fit into some strange elusive idea of perfection — and that

to forget it. But I’m hoping enough time has passed that you are

even as you are a work in progress, you are perfectly you, and

ready to revisit the lyrics of one of the versus:

that’s enough.

For the next step: Do something nice for yourself. Make a

EVERYBODY SEARCHING FOR A HERO People need someone to look up to I never found anyone who fulfilled my needs A lonely place to be And so I LEARNED TO DEPEND ON ME

date with yourself to heal old wounds, to take in the world and its beauty, to enjoy the things that give you pleasure. Recognize how good joy feels and how you don’t need anyone else to experience it.

After you have fully accepted this self-love, you will be ready to take that feeling and spread it everywhere you go. To everyone you encounter. And before you know it, you may be inspired to decorate the world with strings of tiny pink hearts.

That’s when you may be shocked to realize how much of that

The song goes on to say that “The greatest love of all is easy

love comes right back at you.

to achieve. Learning to love yourself, it is the greatest love of all.”

Wow! That is powerful stuff for a pop song. No wonder it was

Happy Valentine’s Day! Everyone.

such a sensation.

Attempting to achieve the wise-beyond-wisdom lesson of this

Sheri Smith is a Scottsdale freelance writer and mother of two.

song, I have tried to recondition myself to think about Valentine’s Day as a way for me to reimagine that elusive word — love — of all kinds, in all its forms.

RaisingARIZONAKids.com February 2021

49

cookie OF LIFE, In the ❦

friends are CHOCOLATE ❦

CHIPS! Salman Rushdie

RaisingARIZONAKids your partner on the parenting path

❦