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.
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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—
DONATE TODAY
Arizona Helping Hands provides essential needs for the 14,000 children in the foster care system in Arizona. .92 cents of every dollar goes directly to programs for children in foster care. Find out how YOU can make a difference in a foster child’s life, today!
www.AzHelpingHands.org 3110 E. Thunderbird Road, Suite 100 Phoenix AZ 85032 480.889.0604 • EIN: 86-0935988
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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Always follow the ABCs of Safe Sleep. ALONE. ON THEIR BACK. IN A CRIB. Learn more: dcs.az.gov/services/safe-sleep
AZDCS-381682s-SafeSleep_RaisingAZKids.indd 1
3/15/19 12:55 PM
RaisingARIZONAKids.com February 2021
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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
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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
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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
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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
❦
