JULY 2020
Raisingyour ARIZONA Kids partner on the parenting path Prepping for
KINDERGARTEN
from home
Safer summer EXCURSIONS It takes a village to fight COVID-19
12
ways to help kids be
CRITICAL
THINKERS
BUILDING
“ANTI-RACIST”
FAMILIES
Self Development Academy teaches critical and creative thinking, from the mastery of physics to the performing arts. Here, Cadem (6) of Glendale, in costume. Learn more about Self Development Academy on page 31.
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LOCATIONS 455 E. 6th St. Ste. 100 Mesa, AZ 85203 (480) 844-4702 10238 E. Hampton Ave. Ste. 301-B Mesa, AZ 85209 (480) 632-2004 1327 S. Higley Rd. Gilbert, AZ 85296 (480) 257-2700 1492 S. Mill Ave. Ste. 201 Tempe, AZ 85281 (480) 257-2777
CONTENTS
July 2020 FEATURES
22
IT TAKES A VILLAGE TO FIGHT COVID-19
26
BUILDING ANTI-RACIST FAMILIES
34
PLAY CHEF AT HOME
Sophie Strosberg reminds us why this pandemic is still serious, and why we need one another to get through it.
“Not racist” is not enough. Change requires courage and intentional, proactive efforts from all of us.
These takeout kits from local restaurants let kids and adults decorate cookies, make gourmet pizzas and create delectable pasta dinners.
26
DEPARTMENTS
4
DIALOGUE
6
AZ GROWN
10
The kids are all right
• Start of in-person school year delayed until Aug. 17 • Register to vote by July 6 for the Aug. 4 primary election • Phoenix Children’s recognized in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Children’s Hospitals for excellence in all 10 specialties • Help stop child drownings during these peak months • JOANN donates face masks to schools • COVID-19 cases in kids are increasing • Estate Planning: A global pandemic is a stark reminder to make a will • Safer summer excursions • Media literacy skills help kids navigate truth vs. “fake news” • Prepping from home: How to get your child kindergarten ready
36
FAMILY TIME!
12
• Top July events • July 4th events • Around Arizona
COMING NEXT MONTH:
What will the 2020-21 school year look like?
RaisingARIZONAKids.com July 2020
3
dialogue
July 2020 | Vol 31 | No 3 PUBLISHER Karen Davis Barr
The kids are all right ONE HAS TO DIG deep to find something
Another such kid is Jarem Bailey,
to celebrate in the midst of a global
12, who stood in front of a crowd of
pandemic, massive unemployment and
about 400 peaceful protestors gathered
racial injustice. When the stress of these
in downtown Phoenix for the Valley’s
times feels too heavy, I try to think about
first Kids Walk for A Change in support
amazing kids who are pushing us in the
of Black Lives Matter, to share his
right direction — a wave of upcoming
devastating experiences with racism in
voters who won’t stand for bigotry,
our community. Our Publisher Karen
ignorance or hate.
Barr, talked with the Bailey family
Every day, I look at the ncov2019.live
about the June walk and ongoing efforts
website to check the impact of COVID-
to help address systemic racism. The
19 on our world, country and state. This
bottom line is, we can all do more.
site — so thorough that epidemiologists
If anything, 2020 is a stark reminder
consult it — was created by Washington
that democracy dies when citizens are
State teenager Avi Schiffmann. He was
uninformed, don’t vote or are purposely
following the pandemic before most in
excluded from voting. July 6 is the
our government were taking it seriously,
deadline to be registered to vote in the
and he stepped in to scrape and compile
Aug. 4 Arizona primary election. If you
worldwide data in a way that would be
are a registered Arizona voter concerned
helpful to all. He did the same in the
about casting an in-person ballot during
wake of George Floyd’s death, creating
a pandemic, consider signing up for the
2020protests.com, a hub pinpointing
Permanent Early Voting List that provides
state-by-state protests and resources to
a convenient mail-in ballot sent to your
help people peaceably and safely assemble
residence for every upcoming election.
in support of Black Lives Matter.
Arizona residents can also request a one-
This is just one kid, doing big things
time ballot at azsos.gov/votebymail
to make our country more informed, more who see adults aren’t fixing some of and are finding their voices.
4 July 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
CALENDAR EDITOR Carrie Wheeler CONTRIBUTORS Katie Kurtin, Illana Lowery, Lisa Van Loo, Sophie Strosberg, Elaina Verhoff ART DIRECTOR Michèlle-Renée Adams COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Allen Patrou OPERATIONS MANAGER Tina Gerami-Bynum MARKETING CONSULTANTS Shannon Cornall, Kate Reed, Mary Vandenberg
R aising A rizona K ids magazine (ISSN 1051-4295) was created to connect Valley families to local resources and share real-life stories about the challenges and joys of raising children. Copyright © 2020 by R aising A rizona K ids, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Subscription price is $20 for one year or $35 for two years. Back issues are $6 per copy. Make address changes on our website or mail changes to our office. Content guidelines are available at raisingarizonakids.com.
@RAKmagazine on Twitter; RAKmagazine on Facebook, Instagram, Youtube and Pinterest. CONTACT US: editorial@RAKmagazine.com familytime@RAKmagazine.com advertising@RAKmagazine.com subscriptions@RAKmagazine.com 10645 N. Tatum Blvd. #200-314 Phoenix, AZ 85028 P: 480–991–KIDS (5437) | F: 480–991–5460 raisingarizonakids.com
inclusive and just. There are so many the biggest problems we face right now,
EDITOR Kara G. Morrison
Kara G. Morrison, Editor kara@RAKmagazine.com
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RaisingARIZONAKids.com July 2020
5
LIGHTFIELDSTUDIOS
az grown good to know
START OF IN-PERSON
SCHOOL YEAR
delayed until Aug. 17 WITH COVID-19 CASES continuing to spike
the end of July — to slow the spread of
in Arizona, Gov. Doug Ducey on June 29
COVID-19. And public gatherings of more
issued an executive order delaying the start
than 50 people are banned.
of in-person classes for the 2020-21 school year to Monday, Aug. 17 at the earliest.
State Superintendent of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffmann clarified that
from the pandemic.
“Our numbers continue to increase
schools can start virtual instruction/distance
in Arizona. They’re going in the wrong
learning earlier than Aug. 17. She also urged
by Aug. 17th remains unclear. But one thing
direction,” Ducey said about the pandemic,
Arizonans to wear face coverings in public
is for certain: If efforts are not taken across
adding that Arizona has had more than
and to stay home whenever possible to slow
the entire state to curb the spread of this
74,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and is
the spread, so in-person classes will not be
virus, our schools will only continue to face
now averaging 2,857 new cases per day.
further delayed.
complications in re-opening their facilities,”
Ducey also announced that bars, gyms,
So far, there have been more than 1,700
“What Arizona’s numbers will look like
Hoffmann said via Twitter. “I urge all Arizonans
movie theaters, water parks and tubing
fatalities in Arizona due to coronavirus, and
to #StayHome and #MaskUp to slow the
will be shut down for 30 days — through
more than 129,000 Americans have died
spread of this virus in our communities.”
REGISTER TO VOTE BY JULY 6 for the Aug. 4 primary election ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT rights we have in a democracy
can also request a one-time ballot for the Aug. 4 primary
is determining who will make and enforce our laws. Arizona’s
election (the request deadline is July 24) and the Nov. 3 General
primary election is on Aug. 4, and voters will be deciding which
Election at https://recorder.maricopa.gov/earlyvotingballot/
candidates for city, state and federal office will make it onto the
earlyvotingballotrequest.aspx
Nov. 3 general election ballot. The deadline to register in order to vote in the Aug. 4
In order to vote in Arizona, you must be at least 18 years old by Nov. 3, be a United States citizen and a resident of Arizona and
primary is July 6. To register or to update your voter registration
the county listed on your registration. You cannot register to vote
information, including your address, name, or political party
in Arizona if you have been convicted of a felony and have not
preference, visit www.servicearizona.com.
yet had your civil rights restored or if you have been adjudicated
Arizona residents have long been able to vote from home
incapacitated by a court of law. For more information, visit the
by signing up for the Permanent Early Voting List at https://
Arizona Secretary of State’s website at azsos.gov or arizona.vote.
recorder.maricopa.gov/earlyvotingballot/earlyvotingballotrequest.
Registered voters in Maricopa County can double check
aspx. Doing so provides a convenient mail-in ballot sent to your
their registration status at the Maricopa County Recorder’s
residence for every upcoming election.
office and preview their ballot at https://recorder.maricopa.gov/
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Arizona residents
6 July 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
BeBallotReady
PHOENIX CHILDREN’S RECOGNIZED IN U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT’S
Best Children’s Hospitals for excellence in all 10 specialties
PHOENIX CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL is one of only 24 children’s
hospitals in the country to earn top rankings in all 10 surveyed
• Orthopedics: No. 23, represented by the Herbert J. Louis Center for Pediatric Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
specialties in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Children’s Hospitals
• Pulmonology & Lung Surgery: No. 37
rankings for 2020-21.
• Urology: No. 45
The national publication annually ranks children’s hospitals
“We are extremely proud of this recognition, but there is
on measures including clinical expertise and patient outcomes.
always more work to do,” Dr. Michael Ritchey, senior vice
This marks the 10th consecutive year that Phoenix Children’s has
president and chief medical officer at Phoenix Children’s, said in
been named among the nation’s Best Children’s Hospitals and the
a statement. “Quality improvement is an organizational mind-set
fourth time the local health system has received top marks in all
that’s supported by clinicians, patients, technology, community
10 surveyed specialties by the publication. Of the 118 children’s
and everyone involved in our healthcare organization. Phoenix
hospitals ranked by U.S. News & World Report, only 24 ranked in
Children’s is committed to challenging itself to do better every day.”
all 10 pediatric specialties. Phoenix Children’s specialties rankings were as follows: • Hematology and Oncology: No. 35, represented by Phoenix Children’s Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders • Cardiology and Heart Surgery: No. 27, represented by Phoenix Children’s Heart Center
Scoring for pediatric health centers heavily reflects patient outcomes and care-related data. U.S. News & World Report sends clinical questionnaires to nearly 200 pediatric hospitals across the U.S. Every surveyed hospital also receives a reputation score, which is a contributing factor in its final ranking. Specialties are measured by national surveys of pediatric specialists who rank top
• Diabetes and Endocrinology: No. 39
pediatric hospitals in specific specialties by indicating where they
• Gastroenterology and GI Surgery: No. 34
would send their sickest patients, without respect to proximity or
• Neonatology: No. 20
cost. Phoenix Children’s is the only Arizona hospital to make the
• Nephrology: No. 33
list. One of the largest children’s hospitals in the country, Phoenix
• Neurology and Neurosurgery: No. 29, represented by Barrow
Children’s delivers care across more than 75 pediatric specialties.
Neurological Institute at Phoenix Children’s
Visit phoenixchildrens.org
RaisingARIZONAKids.com July 2020
7
az grown safety
HELP STOP CHILD DROWNINGS during these peak months JUNE, JULY, AND AUGUST are peak times for
diligent. Sutton, who is board president of
same as they were in the past couple of years.
child drownings in Arizona. So far this
both the Drowning Prevention Coalition
We are just starting to look at the May data
year, Maricopa and Pinal counties have
of Arizona and the National Drowning
and will have June’s soon, which is showing
reported 22 deaths by drowning, including
Prevention Alliance, shared these safety tips:
an increase in our pediatric and adult
15 adults and seven children under age 6.
numbers from 2019, but not 2018.
Phoenix, Mesa and Glendale had the most
There’s been concern drownings
incidents, according to childrenssafetyzone.
would increase during the pandemic,
How can parents be more diligent? We
com, which compiles numbers from fire
with kids staying home and working-
know that these are stressful times for so
departments across the Valley.
from-home parents too distracted to
many reasons. We also know that stress in
properly supervise. Have you seen
the home is proven to be a precursor and
to home pools, and in-person water safety
this? Everyone in the water safety and
an indicator of potential unintentional
events reminding parents about “layers
drowning prevention community is keeping
injuries occurring. The more layers one
of protection” were canceled, we asked
a close watch on this. Initially, in March and
can put in place is going to buy you more
Melissa Sutton how adults can be more
April, drowning rates seemed to be about the
time. A highly motivated child, wanting to
Because kids now have increased access
8 July 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
go back to the place where they had the most fun, is going to be hard to stop. Making their path to water difficult buys the time (hopefully) needed before they reach the pool and tragedy occurs. Put high locks on the doors, secure the doors with child-proof door locks, lock the doggie doors, and activate door alarms. These are things you can do
JOANN donates FACE MASKS to schools
in the home before they even get outside. Outside: Fence the pool, cover the pool and ensure the gate and fence are maintained and are in proper working order and meet code. Add a pool cover as one more layer! The last layers are going to be swim lessons and CPR. We hope it never gets to having to administer CPR, but if it does, ensure everyone is trained who will be around your children. Swim schools were mostly closed during the shutdown, affecting one “layer of protection.” Fortunately, we have some clever people and
JOANN STORES, a national fabric and crafts retail chain, is helping to prepare
organizations within our membership. Places like the
the most at-risk schools as students and teachers go back to classrooms with
City of Peoria Aquatics and SWIMkids USA were
its Masks for Schools program. With every pre-made protective face mask
offering either “How To” videos or Zoom lessons
purchased from its stores, JOANN will donate one to a school in need through
during the shut-down. … The private swim schools,
the Kids in Need Foundation (kinf.org).
the YMCAs, JCCs and most of the municipalities are
“We realize that as schools — from preschools to universities — resume
back open and offering lessons. The coalition reached
in-person classes, they will be in need of masks,” Wade Miquelon, CEO &
out to our membership to see who was offering
President of JOANN, said in a statement. “We aim to continue the mission we
either free or discounted swim lessons and [we] were
set forth in March — to help mask and protect all, while supporting those on
surprised to get a rather healthy list back.
the frontlines, and regardless of any ability to pay.” So far, JOANN has provided nearly 200 million masks to Americans by way of
What other trends do we need to be aware of?
store and corporate donations, and customer mask-making purchases throughout
We are seeing a spike in above-ground and pop-up
the COVID-19 pandemic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
pools. If the pool can’t be drained at the end of each
advises wearing cloth face coverings to slow the spread of coronavirus and to
use, it absolutely needs a 5-foot fence around it or
help asymptomatic people from transmitting it. As of June, face coverings are
a very secure pool cover designed for that kind of
mandatory in public settings in Maricopa County as numbers of COVID-19 cases
pool. It is imperative that ladders are taken out so
and hospitalizations continue to rise in Arizona.
that children cannot gain access when an adult is
JOANN has more than 865 stores across 49 states. For more information
not present and toys are never left in the pool (any
about its Masks for Schools program, visit joann.com/masks-for-schools. For
pool) so that there is not [an] added draw back to
free mask-making tutorials, patterns and updates on the Make to Give effort,
the water.
visit joann.com/maketogive
RaisingARIZONAKids.com July 2020
9
az grown health
SCOTTSDALE PEDIATRICIAN:
COVID-19 cases in kids are increasing While there’s still no cure for coronavirus, Dr. Sarah Wiersma urges families to wear face masks in public, continue observing social distancing and keep up-to-date with childhood vaccinations. By Kara G. Morrison CASES OF COVID-19 were spiking
had to mandate that people wear
patient volume since March as parents put
dramatically in Arizona when we checked
them. What’s the case for face masks
off care for fear of COVID-19 exposure.
in with pediatrician Sarah Wiersma,
as a tool to lower the transmission
With the decreased number of children
M.D., who has seen the troubling trend
of COVID-19? Some recent studies have
immunized, I worry about an outbreak of a
play out at her practice, North Scottsdale
shown that masking when around others
vaccine-preventable illness such as measles
Pediatrics. Wiersma serves on the Board of
not from your household can significantly
or pertussis (whooping cough). I hope
Directors for the Arizona Chapter of the
slow the spread of the coronavirus. A
families can see how essential vaccines are to
American Academy of Pediatrics and is the
surgical mask or cloth face covering
protecting our children from serious illness
Vice Chair of Pediatrics for HonorHealth.
provides some protection to the mask
by watching the course of the coronavirus
As a mom, she also understands firsthand
wearer, but much greater protection to
pandemic and vaccine development efforts.
the stresses of parenting and working
their close contacts. Since the coronavirus
Optimistically, this represents only a
during this summer of COVID-19.
is very contagious in the days preceding
temporary delay in vaccinations as we get
symptoms, it’s important to wear a mask
kids caught up on well care this summer.
Have you treated many children for
even when feeling well. Wearing a mask
COVID-19? Our practice had only seen
out of the house is a way to show you care
How do you reassure parents that it’s
a few children diagnosed with the new
for the most vulnerable in our community.
OK (and important) to bring kids in for vaccinations and annual check-ups
coronavirus during the spring, but we have seen an increasing number of teens
According to the American Academy
right now? The decrease in vaccinations
and school-age children testing positive
of Pediatrics, childhood vaccination
is likely due to many families avoiding
since the rise in cases statewide in June.
rates have been decreasing nationally.
medical offices due to the pandemic.
We continue to encourage our community
Hasn’t COVID-19 made people better
Many parents are also not calling because
to practice social distancing measures to
understand the importance of
they think we are busy — but we are
prevent continued spread in our area.
vaccines? In Arizona, we are seeing a
not too busy to take care of your kids!
similar decrease in vaccination rates and
Check with your pediatrician about what
There’s been some resistance locally
office visits as noted nationally. In a recent
practices they’ve implemented to keep
to wearing face coverings in public —
survey of Arizona pediatricians, there has
your family safe when coming to the
and mayors across Arizona recently
been about a 70-80 percent decrease in
office. Many offices are implementing
10 July 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
telemedicine visits, separate locations or
that most children have done well after
each day to connect as a family, but don’t
times for sick and well care, and increased
hospitalization. There is still much we
worry if your kid’s days are not full of
cleaning and hygiene practices.
need to learn about MIS-C and the long-
social media-worthy activities.
Also, everyone over the age of 2
term effects of the coronavirus in kids. If
should wear a mask when out in public,
you have any concerns about your child’s
Do you have concerns about kids
including attending medical appointments.
health, call your pediatrician! We’re here
going back to school campuses and
We’re encouraging parents not to put off
for our families and happy to answer any
regular routines for the new school
preventative healthcare for their kids.
questions you may have.
year, or do you think we’ll be ready?
Call your pediatrician! The American
So much can change between now and
Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recently
What are your recommendations to
the fall. School districts and universities
launched an educational campaign
parents about keeping kids safe while
have been diligently planning now with
#CallYourPediatrician to highlight the
we come out of quarantine — and
the information we currently have.
importance of well care even during a
while there’s still no cure or available
Hopefully classes can resume safely with
pandemic and for parents to contact their
vaccine for COVID-19? Staying home as
some level of social distancing to keep
pediatrician with any concerns. Routine
much as possible and physical distancing
kids safe but connected. However, likely
well care not only includes vaccines but
from those not in your immediate
things won’t be fully back to normal until
important screenings such as growth,
household are still the safest options.
after a vaccine is widely available.
development, and mental health concerns.
However, for parents returning to work, sending kids to daycare and camps may be
What would you like to add? I have
While coronavirus seems to have
the only childcare options available. The
been getting questions from parents about
impacted adults much more than
CDC has helpful guidance regarding social
the safety of a potential coronavirus vaccine
children in terms of severity of
distancing for daycares and camps, and I’d
in kids. Currently the vaccine candidates
sickness and fatalities, there is news
encourage parents to check what policies
are still undergoing early-phase trials
about Multisystem Inflammatory
their childcare provider has enacted.
enrolling adults. As a pediatrician, I would
Syndrome in kids linked to COVID-19.
want to ensure there are rigorous trials to
Have you seen any cases of this in
How have you been holding up through
assess safety and efficacy before we give a
your practice or locally? With COVID-
all of this? I am a mom to a very active
new vaccine to children. The coronavirus
19 such a deadly illness for adults, globally
1-year-old son, so it’s been a bit chaotic
vaccine development has been going at an
young children have done remarkably well.
at my house! Usually my parents provide
unprecedented speed, but this shouldn’t
Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome
our childcare when my husband and I are
compromise vaccine safety. The process
in Children (MIS-C) is a seemingly rare
working. We decided to isolate from my
has been shortened due to trials being run
condition associated with the coronavirus
parents due to their age and my potential
simultaneously or in quicker succession than
affecting mostly school-age children and
exposure at work. Like many families right
normal. We don’t have information on the
teens. I haven’t heard of cases thus far
now, we’re juggling my husband working
ultimate vaccine candidate as of now, but as
in Arizona, but the trend seems to be
from home while watching our son. My
information becomes available your child’s
that hospitals see cases about a month
advice to families finding themselves in
pediatrician will be your best resource.
after a location is hard hit by coronavirus
similar situations is to give yourself grace.
infections. Parents should know that the
The silver lining to social distancing is the
Kara G. Morrison edits Raising Arizona Kids
condition is considered very rare, and
found family time. Try to take some time
magazine and is the mother of Sofia (8).
RaisingARIZONAKids.com July 2020
11
az grown finance
ESTATE PLANNING:
A global pandemic is a stark reminder to make sure the kids will be OK ISTOCK
By Elaina Verhoff
CREATING AN ESTATE PLAN is something that
know you or your family will decide what
will make your healthcare and financial
often sits on parents’ to-do lists for years —
is in the best interest of your children,
decisions and see that your children are
one of those unchecked boxes we’ll get to
says Paine, who helps clients with estate
cared for. An estate plan provides for
eventually. Being in the midst of a global
planning, probate, trust administration
guardianship of your children and the
pandemic may be the motivation we need
and more. And probate — the court-
distribution of your assets if you die. Some
to get our affairs in order.
supervised process for managing assets
plans can help your estate avoid probate
and appointing guardians — can be more
altogether.
Though your chances of becoming incapacitated or dying from COVID-19
costly than proactive preparation. What could happen to my kids if I die
may seem remote — even as more than 120,000 Americans and more than 1,300
If my assets and affairs are fairly
without an estate plan? Ensuring that
Arizonans have died from the virus in a
modest, do I really need an estate
children are cared for is a primary reason
matter of months — there’s something to
plan? Sometimes the word “estate”
parents of young children form estate
be said for the peace of mind of outlining
makes people think planning is only
plans. The best way to be certain that your
how our children will be cared for if the
for the wealthy. However, estate plans
children would be cared for by the person or
worst should happen for any reason.
do not have to be overly complicated or
people you choose is to put plans in place.
expensive, and everyone should have some
If both parents die, and there is no estate
sort of a plan in place.
plan, any interested party can petition the
Estate planning is not just for the wealthy, says Lisa Paine, an attorney at the Phoenix law firm of Jaburg Wilk, and the
An estate plan includes documents to
court for guardianship of your children.
mother of two young children. If no plans
ensure that you are cared for during any
A judge who does not know you, your
are in place, a judge who likely does not
periods of incapacity — including who
children or your family will hold a hearing.
12 July 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
Considering only the information presented
you a questionnaire to fill out before your
regarding life-sustaining interventions you
at that hearing, the judge will decide what is
first meeting. Review it and fill it out to the
would want under certain circumstances,
in the best interest of your children.
best of your ability, but do not let it become
such as if your death were imminent
a stressor or roadblock to your planning. It is
from a terminal condition or if you were
by the court will have the responsibility of
meant to gather information and to have you
in an irreversible coma. Life-sustaining
caring for your children and their finances
start thinking about the types of decisions
interventions can include feeding tubes,
until they reach the age of 18.
that will be made.
hydration tubes, CPR and more. Some
The guardian and conservator appointed
Guardianship decisions are difficult,
people are hesitant to sign a living will,
and for some parents, there is no obvious
Do you have any tips on deciding who
because they are afraid that doctors will
choice. However, I still recommend you
will be in charge of handling my estate?
stop trying to treat or cure them. However,
go through this process and list the option
This is an important decision. After paying
the living will does not come into play
that is currently the best (or at least not
your debts and taxes, this person will
until doctors have taken the steps necessary
the worst) choice. Remember that you
oversee distributing your assets as you have
to be reasonably certain of your condition.
can always change your documents if
instructed in your estate plan. In most
circumstances change.
circumstances, you want to provide for your
How do I choose a lawyer to handle
children and their education, but you do not
my estate plan? You will be discussing
What documents do I need to put
necessarily want them to be handed large
intimate details of your finances and
together before meeting with a lawyer
checks on their 18th birthdays. To address
family relationships with your estate
to start my estate planning? Being
this issue, you can set up a trust for your
attorney. It is important that you choose
prepared can save you time and money.
children. The person you name as your
someone you feel comfortable having these
You certainly don’t have to have all
successor trustee will oversee the trust until
conversations with (or as comfortable as
decisions made before meeting with your
your children reach the ages where your trust
these conversations get), and that your
lawyer, who will spend much of your
allows them to have the money outright.
attorney fully listens to understand your
first meeting answering questions and
The person you choose for this
specific circumstances. Your attorney
giving guidance. But it is helpful if you
responsibility can be the same person who
should explain concepts and documents in
have thought about who you would like
will be named as guardian to care for
a way that is understandable to you.
to name in your documents to care for
your children, or you can choose someone
your children, manage your money and
different. Either way, you want to think
area of law is because we enjoy working
make health care decisions if you are
about your family dynamics. Ideally,
with individuals and families who are
unable to do so. If you are married or
this person is someone who has a healthy
taking steps to care for themselves and
in a committed relationship, your first
relationship with your family members
others. I think it is important that estate
choice may be your spouse/partner, but
and children. This person also should be
attorneys establish ongoing relationships
I recommend having at least one backup
someone who is responsible with finances.
where clients are comfortable reaching out
person. Have each person’s address and phone number with you. It is also a good idea to list your assets and
One reason estate attorneys choose this
with questions or concerns in the future. What exactly is a living will? If you are unable to make your own medical
their approximate value, including checking/
decisions, your estate plan should name
savings accounts, brokerage accounts,
a health care agent to make medical
retirement accounts, real properties and
decisions on your behalf. A living will
business interests. Some attorneys will send
gives guidance to your health care agent
Elaina Verhoff is a Phoenix freelance writer and the mother of two teenagers.
RaisingARIZONAKids.com July 2020
13
az grown Raising Outdoor Kids
The Salt River.
SAFER
SUMMER excursions Story by Lisa Van Loo | Photos by Ron Abler
T
he email came two days before we were ready to leave. We had hotel rooms rented, we had kept up with our training, and we were
already planning out our meal situation for the quick, 24-hour trip to Payson when we found out our favorite mud run of the year was canceled. It actually fell victim to a raging wildfire instead of COVID-19 — which is itself, according to reports, again spreading like wildfire in Arizona. Cancellations in 2020 are becoming all too familiar: Campsites we had reserved earlier this year for a summer getaway were canceled, as was a concert, which would have been the first ever for one of the kids. One of our favorite city pools will remain closed all summer, too. To stay sane, and to keep disappointment at bay, we retreat to the outdoors. But we do that differently, too, these days. Instead of flooding shorelines with public access, we look for that tiny spot, big enough just for us, away from other people. Sometimes it comes with more thorns or
14 July 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
Canyon Lake.
a rockier entry into the water, but it also comes with peace of mind. We know we’re doing everything we can to keep our distance, get our valuable infusions of vitamin D and seize opportunities to unplug. Arizona is a desert, yes, but it sure does have a bounty of water to splash around in. And most of our bodies of water come with incredible views of the mountains, up close and off into the distance. So instead of crowding together in areas of public access, challenge yourself this summer to uncover a spot for just you. Wear water shoes and hike along the shoreline, be it at one of Arizona’s many lakes, along a river or through a creek. It requires a little planning and a little research
Less crowded spots to explore There are multiple ways to cool off, safely, in and around the Phoenix
before heading out, but it costs basically zero dollars
area. Here are a few of the less crowded spots to check out this summer.
to try, if we’re not counting gas money. Consider
Remember to wear water shoes for rockier water-entry points, stay a safe
venturing over to the Salt River to see the wild horses
distance from others and always pack out what you bring in.
that frequent the area, or taking a road trip north to jump into Oak Creek. Study the lake closest to you, be
❱ Oak Creek Canyon. Everyone is aware of Slide Rock State Park, which
it Saguaro or Pleasant or Canyon, and target a place to
fills to capacity early, but some people may not know that the creek can be
splash around.
accessed at multiple points along 89A. Between the north end of town and
Regardless of the destination, bring a raft, float
up to Slide Rock, visitors will find a number of places to pull off and hike
on a noodle or find a cool, rocky outcropping waiting
down to the river. The earlier you go, the better chance you’ll have at finding
to be jumped off of — after first testing the depth,
a parking spot on the side of the road and a secluded area on the river.
of course. After monsoon storms pass, hike out to
Remember: “No parking” signs are enforced.
trails that get replenished with running water, from little pools spilling into one another to waterfalls that cascade down a mountain. We have the privilege of living in an area where
❱ Local lakes. We like to scoot out to Canyon Lake, because it’s the closest
to us. And when we do, we park in a pull-off on the side of the road, away from the public access point near the marina. It avoids crowds and the
mountains meet water and water meets desert. Open
usage fee. At the lake nearest you, look for those types of pull-offs. Every
space is plentiful; we’ve got plenty of elbow room. Take
lake is different, so have patience when you’re headed out. Most fill up
this social distancing thing as an opportunity to safely
early in the day.
and economically explore parts of our state offering refreshing relief to overheated bodies and spirits in need of lifting.
❱ Salt River. Salt River Tubing has been closed for the month of July the
there are different parts of the river you can explore on your own terms. A number of managed recreation sites offer river access, and within
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
those sites are spots to find solitude. Tonto National Forest’s website lists recreation areas where you can find space just for you. Be sure to pick up a Tonto Pass if you plan to park at any of the designated areas. https:// www.fs.usda.gov/detail/tonto/recreation/?cid=fsbdev3_018742
RaisingARIZONAKids.com July 2020
15
az grown education
Using Common Sense
Media literacy skills help kids navigate what’s true
and WHAT’S “FAKE NEWS” By Ilana Lowery
P
ARENTS ARE CONSUMING A
— training them to think critically about
studies of how young people get their
mountain of information from
information. With strong media-literacy
news, engage with it and feel about it.
multiple media platforms as they follow
skills, they’ll be informed, engaged and
Some key findings released in April found
news about COVID-19, protests following
less likely to be duped.
that many teens look to social media
the death of George Floyd, the upcoming
“The news isn’t what it used to be.
personalities, influencers and celebrities
presidential election and more. Like adults,
What was once shared by newspapers,
for news. The most commonly mentioned
kids also have a lot of information to sift
radio and TV now comes in Snapchat
personalities teens say they trust are
through and a lot of sources to evaluate.
stories, on Facebook Live broadcasts,
Swedish YouTuber PewDiePie, The Daily
That’s why media and news literacy is
in Twitter conversations and through
Show host Trevor Noah, President Donald
critical for young people whose exposure
other new forms of communication,”
Trump and pop star Beyoncé. CNN,
to “fake news,” political satire and scary
says Michael Robb, director of research
YouTube, Instagram and Snapchat are top
content is greater than ever. According to
for Common Sense. “To an extent, that
news sources for kids.
Common Sense Media’s ongoing research,
means kids must understand what’s
a vast majority of kids today feel scared
happening in the world and apply
have many questions, but they honestly
and depressed about the news.
critical-thinking skills to information in
take it all as true,” says Katey McPherson,
all its forms and from all sources.”
whose daughters — ages 11, 12 and
So how can we help them? It starts with asking questions and encouraging kids to question what they see and hear
16 July 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
Common Sense Media is one of the only organizations to conduct large-scale
“My kids enjoy watching the news and
13 — attend school in Chandler. “From social media memes on Tik Tok about
HIGHWAYSTARZ-PHOTOGRAPHY
us going to WWIII to immigration
understand what’s going on in the world,
policy and school shootings, their
but I wouldn’t say I ‘value’ it,” said her
general impression is that it’s all bad
14-year-old daughter. Her 12-year-old
news. I don’t hear them speak of anyone
had a completely different opinion: “I
at school helping them to decipher the
don’t really like it or understand it, and
difference, and in general, they are
it’s scary sometimes.”
worried about what they see and hear.”
Low’s children say they get their
Local realtor Dianne Keck’s son is 7,
news primarily from Instagram and
so his exposure to the news is “extremely
other social media platforms, from kids
minimal, by design,” she says. “I think
at school or on the radio on the way
that is more common these days, because
to school. Some of the news is filtered
many people are ‘cutting the cord,’ so-to-
through mom.
speak, with cable TV. Instead, they have
“I want my children to be aware of
Netflix and other streaming services,
what’s going on in the world and to be
so they have a high level of control over
cautious of what and whom they listen
what content their kids are exposed to.”
to, and to know that not all the news that
Keck says she and her son don’t spend
[is] reported is indeed true,” says Low,
time in places or with people who leave
founder and CEO of U & Improved, a
television news on around children.
Scottsdale-based leadership development
“In first grade, children do not have
and training company. Both of Low’s
enough life experience or social context
girls say the news can negatively affect
in which to evaluate news they are
their moods, making them sadder or
hearing, so our primary goal in raising
more scared rather than depressed, but
informed citizens is to educate them
neither of them said they could spot
on science, history and culture so they
fake news or really know what media is
have broad context to draw upon when
considered credible or trustworthy.
they eventually start consuming news,” Keck says. Jarrett Ransom, president and CEO of The Rayvan Group, says her
That’s why teaching media literacy skills to evaluate where information comes is an important life skill. “I can see this generation as a whole
9-year-old son, a student at Great Hearts
constantly wondering what’s true or
Academies, understands what news is
not and that the undercurrent of the
and can be skeptical of things like click
world seems generally negative,” says
bait, but she acknowledges he really
McPherson. “It’s always in the back of
doesn’t know which sources are better
their minds.”
than others. “If he hears it or sees it, he often believes it,” she says. When asked if her tween and teen
Ilana Lowery is the Arizona director for Common Sense Media. She can be reached at ilowery@ commonsense.org. Find more resources to help
understood and valued the news,
kids fact check the news, determine reliable
Scottsdale mom Jodi Low asked
sources and learn to separate fact from fiction at
them. She got this reply: “It helps me
commonsensemedia.org or wideopenschool.org.
12
ways to help kids become critical thinkers and smart consumers of information • Kids hear about the news at home, at school and in communities they’re a part of. Explain that “word-of-mouth” stories and rumors aren’t always true. Playing an oldschool game of “Telephone” illustrates how information can get twisted along the way. • Make sure kids know the difference between fact and opinion. If they’re older, talk about objective vs. subjective information and bias. Ask them for examples of indisputable facts and colorful opinions. • Explain the difference between credible news organizations that follow specific professional standards and other types of publishers. • Talk about the different kinds of news sources: investigative journalism, research studies, opinion pieces, blogs, punditry, evening news and so on. • Watch out for viral videos. Videos that circulate around the internet may or may not contain nuggets of real news, but they rarely represent the whole situation. And, like photos, videos can be doctored and edited to bend the truth. • Teach kids to avoid sharing, forwarding or commenting on stories until they’ve verified that the stories are true. • Talking about a real-life situation can help little kids understand the idea that different people have different points of view. • Older kids already understand the concept of perspective, but might need help transferring the idea to the news. Ask them to consider how different audiences (by gender, race, and culture) might interpret a story. • Walk kids through the questions they can ask to test a source’s validity: Who made this? Why did they make it? Is it for or against something or someone? Are they trying to get a big reaction from me or just inform me? How can I tell? Is anyone else reporting this news? • Look for signs that the source is legit and not fake, such as a clear “About Us” section and a standard URL (for example, “.com” instead of “.com.co”). • Remind kids that it’s hard to have all the facts all at once. Even respected news outlets make mistakes or jump the gun. It’s smart to wait to make up your mind about something until you have more information. • Model a wise approach to news by using medialiteracy skills yourself. Show kids how you
check other sources and ask questions.
RaisingARIZONAKids.com July 2020
17
az grown education
PREPPING FROM HOME:
How to get your child kindergarten ready By Katie Kurtin
PREPARING FOR KINDERGARTEN? Me
more fun and developmentally appropriate
problems that occur frequently in stories.
too! This year, I will begin my 12th year
ways to help ensure they start the year off
Creating a predictable ritual around
of teaching young children and will
with their best foot forward.
be heading back to the kindergarten classroom after spending the last year substitute teaching across the age
reading shows children that reading is valued and deepens the connection
Create a reading ritual You may already be doing this
between parent and child. If you don’t already have a bedtime reading ritual,
span. I feel excited, nervous and a little
without even knowing that it’s one of
consider starting one. Let your child pick
overwhelmed.
the most important ways to prepare
the book or books, and you pick one, too.
children for kindergarten. Reading
This can help make bedtimes predictable,
things as you prepare your child to start
aloud to children is one of the leading
ease power struggles that may arise and
kindergarten. You may be flooded with
determinants of children becoming strong
set a calm and connected tone for your
questions, concerns and emotions. You
readers during their school-age years.
children before they drift off to sleep. In
may be thinking it’s time to buy a 300-
Reading three stories a day for at least
addition to a bedtime reading ritual, use
page workbook and cram your 5-year-old’s
15 minutes helps children develop and
reading together to help reset your child’s
brain with something all summer to get
understand language, begin to decode
brain and your relationship throughout the
them ready. Think again! There are way
their surroundings and understand social
day. The loving connection that develops
You may be feeling some of these same
18 July 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
around reading together can have lasting
make signs for plants or objects around
what you did. Teaching children to “read
effects on the parent-child bond as well as
the house by copying the letters from a
the pictures” is a helpful tool for raising
the child’s school success.
reference sheet.
strong readers.
One of my favorite ways to write with
Practical writing practice
children is to create love notes and artwork
the family bond and creates connection,
for family and friends. Drawing a picture
but it also helps children develop their
write before they enter kindergarten; this
and helping your child label “to” and “from”
sense of identity. You can print photos
is part of what kindergarten is for. Some of
can give meaningful writing practice.
and create books of favorite people, places,
It’s OK if your child is still learning to
the first writing they learn in kindergarten is how to write their name. You can practice this at home with writing utensils,
foods or anything you can think of.
Play!
Your child can help label the pictures or
I cannot stress this enough. Play with
decorate the pages, and then you can add
writing in the sand with a stick, letting
your child! Play is the work of children and
these homemade books into your bedtime
your child trace their name written in
is the way they make meaning of the world
reading rituals.
chalk with a wet paintbrush, or a million
around them. Board games, card games,
other creative ideas.
Legos, Magna-Tiles and blocks all help
Young children are still building the
FIZKES
Sharing family stories not only deepens
facilitate mathematical thinking, strategy
Promote their autonomy One of the scariest parts of sending
muscles in their hands that allow them to
and planning. Simple games like Go Fish,
a child off to school is the idea that they
grip a pencil and write successfully. Playing
Uno, Candy Land, checkers and Spot
will be more on their own, and you won’t
with play dough, picking up items with
It! can help build number sense, spatial
likely be there to help. First of all, don’t
small tongs, painting with different types
awareness and skills for comparison and
worry! We teachers will be there to care
of brushes, coloring and drawing all help
measurement.
for, love and help your child throughout
strengthen these small muscles and help
Games like hopscotch can be made
the school day.
develop the fine-motor control children
with letters or numbers and incorporate
need for handwriting.
large-muscle development. Pretend play
for this new level of responsibility by
with dress up, stuffed animals or dolls
helping build autonomy. Let your child
widely in children ages 3-6 — some may
can help children create their own stories,
pick out clothes and get dressed (even if
be navigating how to grip a marker or
act out stories they’ve heard and make
shoes go on the opposite feet). Let them
pencil, while others can begin to write
meaning. Create a play of your family’s
be in charge of basic hygiene tasks like
on their own. Encouraging your children
favorite book. Craft some simple costumes
brushing their teeth and washing their hair
when they use emergent writing (scribbles)
or puppets and have a narrator read the
and body in the bath. You can absolutely
can help them see themselves as a writer.
story, or just make it up as you go.
support them as they’re learning to do
Development of these muscles varies
Ask your child to tell you about their work and writing, or have them dictate a story to you that they can illustrate. If your child is interested in learning
However, you can prepare your child
these things on their own, but as time
Share family stories Sharing oral stories with children can
goes on, they will become more and more independent with these tasks and more
prepare them for listening and sharing
responsible for themselves. This will
more about writing, offer support with
ideas in class. Look through some family
prepare your whole family for success
practical life writing activities. Have
photos together or make a slideshow of
in the morning as you get ready for and
them help you write the grocery list or
photos from a favorite trip and talk about
transition to school and work.
the weekly meal plan. Children can
where you were, who you were with and
Kindergarteners love to help! Giving
RaisingARIZONAKids.com July 2020
19
az grown education Try not to dwell in worries. Offering a time of the day to do a “worry dump” can help — a 10-30 minute session where your family talks about what they’re worried about without trying to fix or make it better. Children overhear conversations and sense your worries. Addressing them as a family can help create a safe space for children to share discomfort in the future. Once more information about what schooling will look like in the fall becomes available, share it with your children. Set them up for success by them fun ways to be of service around the
Take photos of your child (or use
giving them information and creating a
house can help them build responsibility
clip art) of each step of the process of the
plan. Find time throughout the day to
and independence. Have your child help
task, and create a chart on the wall or a
read, play, sing and cook together with
prepare parts of meals, pick out and pack
small book for reference. For example,
your child. A connected child is a child
lunches or do some simple cleaning around
the before-school routine might look like
who is ready to learn.
the house. Jobs like sweeping, washing
this: 1. Eat breakfast 2. Brush teeth 3.
dishes, tidying toys and folding towels
Get dressed 4. Pack backpack 5. Put on
and clothes are absolutely appropriate for
shoes 6. Drive to school. To help children
many parents who were worried about
5- and 6-year-olds. Make these jobs fun,
take charge of their own morning routine
whether or not their child would be ready
and do them together. Put on some fun
and limit power struggles, creating a
for kindergarten. Something I tell parents
music as you clean or make up a song and
wall chart or book of what to do and
often is that we’re all in this together.
work together, especially in the beginning
what it looks like can help children
We are here to work together in the best
as they are learning.
begin to manage their own behavior and
interest of the children and find ways
responsibilities. You can do this with any
to help them be kind, safe, connected
and persevere through simple tasks will
task or any routine where power struggles
and successful. If you want your child to
develop focus and resilience and prepare
are happening: the steps of brushing teeth,
learn some academic skills before his or
them for a future of independent school
bedtime routine, cleaning up, etc.
her first day of kindergarten, keep it fun!
Helping kindergarteners be self-starters
work and homework.
Make things visual This is one of the most helpful tips I
Play and read as many books as you can.
Build trust and connection and deepen the family bond Children are very aware and observant.
have learned in my years working with
With everything happening in the world
young children: Their brains think in
right now and as we wait for more details
pictures, not in words. Making tasks and
about what schooling will look like in the
routines visible in pictures can relieve a lot
fall, reassure your child (and yourself) that
of the stress of constant reminders and help
however school looks, you will make the
children be more independent.
choices that are best for your family.
20 July 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
Over my years of teaching, I have met
Spend time together, listen to your child and strengthen your family bond. This is the ultimate preparation for a successful school career. Katie Kurtin is a kindergarten teacher, a parent and family consultant and serves on the board of the Arizona Association for the Education of Young Children (AzAEYC.org).
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RaisingARIZONAKids.com July 2020
21
It takes a village to fight COVID-19 When you’re sick and scared, reaching out to friends and family can be the best medicine By Sophie Strosberg
22 July 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
M
Y SYMPTOMS FIRST arrived
nose swab. As the nurse got ready to
on a Thursday at the end of
administer it, Ben held out both of his
May. I was dizzy and unable
hands to me, and I clung to him. The test
to focus all morning. My partner, Ben,
itself wasn’t as bad as I’d expected, but I
was out with our 3-year-old daughter,
wouldn’t have made it through even that
Poppy, so I had some time to myself. I was
hurdle without him.
trying to focus on an editing job, but I couldn’t make heads or tails of the chapter in front of me. Sentences seemed to grow
As the days crept along, I listened
and shrink as I stared at them. I’m usually
to Ben and Poppy playing and stewed
adept at imposing order on others’ writing.
feverishly in bed, thinking that they
But not that morning.
sounded a million miles away. I was
I’ve gotta take a nap, I thought. I drank
getting bored and lonely. Ben had his
a beer instead. But the drink made me
hands full with Poppy and me sick.
woozier than any wheat beer should, and
Work was out of the question, and even
by early that evening, I was in bed. I had
a pulpy mystery novel wasn’t holding my
a low-but-miserable fever, complete with
attention. I picked up my phone blearily
chills, body aches and random stabs of
for the hundredth time, and decided it
pain in my limbs. The next morning, I was
was time to tell others about my state. I
worse. I met Ben in the kitchen and told
had already told my parents, my sister, my
him I was feeling bad. COVID-y bad. And
close friend Marita, and a few others. But
that I didn’t know what to do.
it was time to tell Facebook.
Usually, I have an answer for everything.
I don’t usually share about my personal
Want to break up with your boyfriend?
life on Facebook, but I needed more
Here’s what you should do. What should
connection. Feeling too sick to talk on
you feed your infant? I’ve just done five
the phone had added another layer to the
hours of research on that. Trouble getting
isolation of months of quarantine. So, I
your life together? Here’s a spreadsheet I
wrote a one-line post that was meant to
made with your personalized five-year plan.
be funny. Humor always makes it easier
But that day, I needed someone else to
for me to draw attention to myself. What
manage my life. Ben helped me back into
I received in return were heartfelt and
bed, had me call the El Rio health clinic
personal comments, direct messages from
and made me a doctor’s appointment for
friends around the world, get-well cards
that morning. Between my symptoms and
a few days later, and a special delivery of
the fact that I’d had a known coronavirus
medicinal elderberry syrup to my doorstep.
exposure, I was presumed positive, but was
An old boss in a faraway city offered to
told I should get tested the next day.
send me fire tonic.
My symptoms worsened over the next
TSINGHA 25/ISTOCK
REACHING OUT
“Anytime Poppy needs to be
24 hours, and by the time we were all in
entertained, give us a FaceTime call and
the car driving to the test, I was almost in
we’ll do our best to occupy her,” my
tears with anxiety and discomfort. I was
mother and sister texted.
terrified of the test itself — the aggressive
“Please know that I am sending healing
RaisingARIZONAKids.com July 2020
23
energy your way, and that I will keep you
Coast — would be asleep.
in my thoughts,” my editing client wrote.
Marita in California would
After that, someone checked in on me
be awake. Sheltering in place
just about every day. Because I’d reached
on her own, she almost
out, the loneliness scampered away.
always picked up the phone.
FRIENDSHIP TO THE RESCUE Sometime in the middle of my sixth day of symptoms, the fever broke for good, and was replaced with a sore
It wouldn’t be the first time I had dialed her number since this began. But could I really bug her for support, again? I could, and I did.
throat. No fever meant I could think
And when she picked up,
clearly at last. But that, in turn, meant I
my fears streamed out. I was
had more attention with which to scour
worried that I would die or have
the internet for COVID information.
COVID-19 forever. That the wheezing
Everything I read indicated that I may
and coughing was coming for me. I
car? Something else happened in that
very well experience a resurgence in
don’t remember quite how she did it,
moment. I recall Poppy chiming in with
symptoms. And if I followed the same
but she calmed me down. And then she
her dad from the back seat: “It’s OK,
pattern as a friend of mine, who’d also
helped me process the historic protests
Mom, it’s OK.” I remember feeling a wave
had a weeklong, mild-but-miserable fever,
that had erupted across the country
of guilt for letting her see me so panicked
the worst — those dreaded breathing
while I was laid up. And finally, after
and needy. But now, I believe that
problems — was yet to come.
an hour or so, we were bantering and
she probably learned something really
goofing around like we usually do. The
important in that moment: Adults have a
inhabiting my throat only until it could
next morning, I woke up to a bouquet
hard time too, sometimes. But we can all
find its way to my lungs. I’d read the story
of magenta gerbera daisies and a load
face our fears if we have a hand to hold.
of the 27-year-old woman who’d had a
of get-well snacks she’d had delivered.
double-lung transplant to save her from the
Friendship to the rescue.
Surely, I thought, the coronavirus was
ravages of the virus. It was not comforting. It wasn’t long until I found myself fully
My first instinct after talking to Marita
As I write this, three weeks exactly since I first fell ill, I have finally overcome my sore throat. I never developed
had been to apologize for calling in tears.
breathing problems. But even a mild
panicked once again. Ben tried to talk me
But looking at the pile of snacks sitting
case of COVID-19 can be unpleasant
down, but he was emotionally burned out.
under the flowers, I realized that a “thank
and scary. Running a household when
Besides, we still couldn’t have a serious,
you” would be more appropriate. Her
the coronavirus has caught you is
private discussion without our little third
actions were truly appreciated; she had
an intimidating prospect. My latest
roommate reminding us of games to be
helped a great deal. I had to trust that she
pandemic preparedness advice? Be ready
played and water to be fetched.
wasn’t just putting up with me. I had to
to let others in with grace and gratitude,
accept her acts of friendship with grace.
and leave the guilt behind.
On my eighth day of symptoms, I was particularly upset. It was about 8:30 p.m., and Ben was putting Poppy to bed, so I hid my tears and stepped onto our back
TEACHING EMPATHY Remember when I was about to get
porch. I had my phone, but who to call?
my nose swabbed, and I was freaking
My family — all of whom live on the East
out in the passenger seat of Ben’s
24 July 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
Sophie Strosberg is a Tucson freelance writer and mother to 3-year-old Poppy.
ARE YOU RAISING ARIZONA KIDS?
SIGN-UP FOR OUR FREE WEEKLY eNEWSLETTER! RAISINGARIZONAKIDS.com
Get them care, while still being careful.
Even in times like these, your child’s healthcare needs don’t stop. At Phoenix Children’s, we’re making it safer for you to see us, with telehealth appointments and enhanced precautions for in-person visits. Whether your child requires vaccines, an appointment with a specialist or a scheduled surgery, don’t let being careful stop you from getting your kids the care they need.
Vaccines. Scheduled surgeries. Specialist visits. Visit phoenixchildrens.org or call 602-933-KIDS to schedule an appointment.
RaisingARIZONAKids.com July 2020
25
“Not racist” is not enough. Change requires courage and intentional, proactive efforts from all of us. By Karen Davis Barr | Photos courtesy of Kids Walk For A Change
T
welve-year-old Jarem Bailey stood in front of a crowd of about 400 peaceful protestors. He paused, momentarily unsure. His face reflected the deep
emotions and doubt simmering inside. He looked to his parents for strength. His father got up, embraced him, and stood beside him as he told his story: “I may be young, but I’ve been called a very, very offensive name four times. Twice at school by classmates and twice by adults on public streets. I just want to let everyone out there know: Always stand strong, no matter what happens.” Jarem was not the only child to courageously share a painful story that day. Others stood up to talk about their experiences within the safety of a supportive crowd of families gathered in downtown Phoenix for the Valley’s first Kids Walk for A Change in support of Black Lives Matter. It was, quite likely, one of the greatest challenges of their young lives. And perhaps the most transformative.
26 July 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
Clockwise: Eric Baily stands beside Jarem while he speaks to the crowd. Protester with signs. The protest crowd Jarem addressed. RaisingARIZONAKids.com July 2020
27
Malia Winey delivered a powerful speech about racism and her own personal experience with it at school.
28 July 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
The first time it happened, it caught
family and moved. “We don’t need that
Jarem, then in 5th grade, by surprise. In
kind of environment for our kids to learn
fact, he wasn’t even sure he’d heard the
in,” Eric says. The Baileys now live in
word correctly. When he got home that
Chandler, where their children will be
day, he asked his parents, “What is a
attending a southeast Valley school district
niggle?” Eric and Jamie Bailey called the
with a more diverse population.
principal, who called in the other child’s family. Everyone agreed the word was
Feb. 23, 2020: Ahmaud Arbery, a 25-year-
unacceptable. Promises were made.
old aspiring electrician in Brunswick,
The next time it happened, Jarem was
Georgia, is out jogging two miles from
bike riding with his parents in their Cave
his home in Brunswick, Georgia, when
Creek neighborhood. Someone jumped
he is shot three times by two white
out at them, screaming “f***ing n****rs!”
men claiming they believed him to be a
The third time, the Baileys had stopped
burglary suspect.
in Las Vegas during a road trip. They
Small steps toward being anti-racist
wanted to experience the Tournament
March 13, 2020: Breonna Taylor, a
of Kings, a kid-friendly jousting dinner
26-year-old emergency room technician, is
theater experience at Excalibur Hotel &
fatally shot by Louisville, Kentucky police
Casino. They had some extra time, so
officers who use a battering ram to enter
Encourage your school to register
they decided to take a walk to catch the
her home shortly after midnight and fire at
for the Anti Defamation League’s No
dramatic Fountains of Bellagio water show.
the unarmed woman at least eight times.
Place for Hate initiative, which supports preK-12 educators and students in
Eric had his daughter Jasmine, then 6, on his shoulders. He held his 7-year-old
May 25, 2020: George Floyd, 46, is killed
understanding and challenging bias,
son Kai’s hand. Jarem, then 11, walked
by police in Minneapolis, Minnesota
building ally behaviors, and creating a
behind them, hand in hand with Jamie.
during an arrest for allegedly passing a $20
climate of respect. Registration is due
A woman walked toward them in
counterfeit bill. The horrific incident lights
by Aug. 20. https://arizona.adl.org/
an aggressive manner, yelling at them to
a match to long-simmering frustration
no-place-for-hate/
get out of the way: “Move, you f***ing
and outrage about excessive use of force
n****rs!” she screamed. The vicious
against Blacks by police officers around
Join your PTA, go to school board
words landed just as she came adjacent to
the country.
meetings, learn more about the curriculum. Demand accurate history
Jarem, leaving him frightened and crying inconsolably. The fourth time, when Jarem was
The murder of George Floyd
lessons about race.
proved to be the tipping point. Graphic,
again harassed by classmates using the
horrifying video images offered
Support policies and legislation
derogatory epithet, his parents arranged
inescapable, incontrovertible evidence of
designed to educate all students
yet another meeting with school
casual disregard for the life of a Black man
about race, racism, its history and its
administrators and the parents of the name
by a white police officer who couldn’t be
effects. Change.org recently circulated
callers. Then, a couple of months later,
bothered to remove his hands from his
a petition designed to lead to national
they found out the only other Black boy in
pockets while he slowly snuffed the breath
legislation to include comprehensive
the school also was being harassed.
and life from someone who was unarmed,
race and racism education in schools
outnumbered, and certainly not posing an
nationwide.
That’s when they packed up their
RaisingARIZONAKids.com July 2020
29
“If we can come to that place, we can MOVE PAST the PAIN and the HURT and get to the HEART OF THE MATTER,”…
“But it’s going to take ALL OF US to make that happen.” -Phoenix Police Chief Jeri Williams
immediate threat. It’s hard to avoid the sickening images,
ASU early childhood experts, it affirmed
Raising Arizona Kids is doing to address
the importance of addressing racism in
issues of systemic racism?”
which keep playing on the news as though
ongoing, purposeful and age-appropriate
I flashed back to the first time we
on a loop. They kicked off massive, global
discussions and family practices. I added
featured a Black child on the cover of our
protests. Most were peaceful. Some were
links to related articles we had run: books
magazine. It was September 1990. The
hijacked by malicious elements determined
celebrating diversity, an essay about racial
magazine was just seven months old. We
to take advantage of the situation by
profiling, a troubling resurgence of the use
were excited about that issue, our first to
looting and burning.
of the “n” word among young people.
be available for sale at magazine racks in
As tensions escalated, fueled by the risk
Then came her Facebook message:
Valley grocery stores, bookstores and resort
of new coronavirus infections as thousands
“You did address BLM … kind of. To be
gift shops. When the magazines arrived at
of people congregated and marched, it
honest, it looks like you posted in a way
our distributor’s warehouse, he called me.
felt like the world was falling apart. The
that allowed you to check the box, but
“What were you thinking?” he said. “No
collective anguish and rage was — and
avoided the larger conversation that needed
one is going to buy this!”
remains — palpable.
to happen. … Small statements can be big
I was stunned. And the experience
when you have a large audience. You have
only strengthened a commitment to
A young woman I’ve known since she
a responsibility to speak up when you have
fairly and adequately represent all
was in my sons’ middle school orchestra —
that audience.”
members of our community in the
a beautiful, thoughtful, nurturing mother
Only the truth can sting like that.
magazine. It is something we often
of two with a compelling, if sometimes
The next challenge came from a
discuss in planning meetings, counting
acerbic, social media presence — took
woman who subscribes to our email
on guidance and perspective from our
Raising Arizona Kids to task in those early
newsletter. “For each company that has
art director, who has been with us since
days after Floyd’s murder.
sent me information on how they are
2005 and is Black. As a staff, we have
dealing with COVID-19, I have decided
a shared mission to promote values of
were scrambling for appropriate ways to
to ask them how they are dealing with
inclusion, understanding and empathy in
respond. It suddenly seemed everyone
systemic racism in their own company,”
our coverage. But is that enough?
felt compelled to make public statements
she wrote. “COVID-19 is important, and
I called the email subscriber and
denouncing racism.
my family has taken it very seriously, but
asked what she was hoping to hear. Even
systemic racism is a long-term issue that
she wasn’t exactly sure. But she defined
too effortlessly — by simply reposting a
has a much larger economic, personal and
it as “the difference between saying the
story we first ran in 2016. Written by two
public health cost. Can you tell me what
right words and building policies that are
Businesses and nonprofits Valleywide
I responded too hastily — and perhaps
30 July 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
Sponsored Content specific, sustainable and meaningful.” Shortly after George Floyd’s murder, Eric Bailey’s phone started ringing. “People kept asking me, ‘What do I do?’” he said. Bailey, author of “The Cure for Stupidity” and international speaker whose work focuses on effective leadership and communication based in brain science and psychology, still has not watched the Floyd video. Knowing about it was painful enough. He stepped back a moment to examine his feelings. Not just about Floyd’s murder, but “all the other Black men and Black women who have been killed by the police in recent and not-so-recent years — and about a system that makes me intentionally act differently so folks are not afraid of me,” he says. “I am one of the sweetest,
ANALYSIS + CREATIVITY = DISCOVERY at Self Development Academy and Preschool
gentlest people you’ll ever meet. Seeing
SELF DEVELOPMENT ACADEMY has one driving ethos: full brain learning. Students
people be afraid of me just because I’m
enjoy our diverse coursework that teaches critical and creative thinking through an enriched
Black? It’s heartbreaking. And it has been
and captivating curriculum. Key to our success as consistently one of AZ’s top performing
breaking my heart since I was a child.”
schools has been our focus on critical and creative thinking. From Philosophy to Precalculus,
He and Jamie decided to take their
students engage in a deep, socratic dialogue with themselves and each
three kids to one of the protest rallies.
other. Unlike traditional schools we see mastery as a base level.
They wore masks and hung out at the back
From mastery, students can reimagine and create what they learn
of the rally, not sure what to expect.
in their Physics class or their Formal Logic course. Students excel
“The march we went to started off with a prayer,” he says. “Everyone was positive. There were police officers walking in front with the organizers, in the middle, and in the back, walking with us. It was wonderful.” The couple posted about their experience on Facebook and soon realized there was “an appetite for parents to engage their kids in this kind of movement and spark dialogue between kids and adults about race and racism.” Eric and Jamie started thinking about organizing a family-friendly rally. Through
at our courses taught multiple grades ahead of state standards because our veteran education experts serve as academic coaches
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for students, creating a caring, nurturing environment in which students thrive. Education is more than imparting knowledge. At stake, is no less than the full range of humanity’s sensibilities. Our duty is to develop every students’ self: their art self, intellectual self, curious self, and truth self — and we take that duty seriously. We are Self Development Academy FOR MORE INFORMATION ON TUITION OR HOW TO ENROLL: Self Development Preschool Vernetta Madsen | 480-396-3522 vernettam@selfdevelopmentacademy.com Self Development Academy Sami Majeed | 480-641-2640 sami@selfdevelopmentacademy.com
a mutual friend, they connected with
environment in which we shop.’ Find
milestones, the stories have a different
football coach and former pro Rudy Burgess
ways to break it up a bit” by traveling to
impact, Jaimie says.
and his wife Brandi, who had the same idea.
different neighborhoods once in awhile to
The two couples put their heads together.
do your shopping.
They got on the phone to learn about city
Speak up if you don’t feel your child’s
Being “not racist” is not enough, as the political activist Angela Davis
permits, notify the police department and
school is doing enough to raise the subject
has said. Her powerful voice and many
get advice on radios, water for walkers and
of racism, the Baileys suggest.
others urge us to be actively anti-racist,
other logistics. They announced the event
“Our [prior] school didn’t do anything
which demands more listening, rigorous
on Facebook just a few days before the
for Black History Month,” Jaimie says.
Saturday, June 13 event. More than 400
“Black History Month is not just for
people showed up in the late afternoon to
Black kids! It’s about appreciation for this
unfortunate first name of “Karen” (which
walk a mile, in 106-degree heat, in support
culture.”
has suddenly become slang for obnoxious,
of Black Lives Matter. Jarem was one of several children who
When kids grow up without
thinking, and intentional action. As a white woman with the
entitled, privileged and even racist white
experiencing racism, the only
women), I have often held back in these
spoke to the crowd that day. Until then,
conversations they have about it are in
conversations. I tend to overthink my every
his mother says, he didn’t talk much about
history class, Bailey says. “Racism with
word, fearing I will unintentionally say the
the hurtful episodes he’d experienced.
slavery was in the past. Jim Crow laws
wrong thing or come across as insensitive.
“Putting it out so openly, in front of 400
were in the past. Martin Luther King
people, getting that off his chest fully — it
was in the past. And so kids believe that
was such a relief,” she says. “He realized,
racism doesn’t exist anymore.”
‘I’m safe here.’ Bringing it into such a
In the metro-Phoenix area, he says,
I confessed that fear to Eric Baily, who encouraged me to jump in anyway. “It’s OK to be uncomfortable,” he said. “That’s how you work through it.” It’s a
public forum gave him some power, gave
where Blacks make up no more than 5
message he shares broadly in his work and
him a voice.”
percent of the population, generations
his own relationships. He reminded me that
of children are growing up without
caring people can always backtrack and
events in the future, but for now, with
meaningful relationships with Black
try again if something we say doesn’t come
COVID-19 numbers spiking ominously
authority figures. The Bailey children have
out right. The important thing is that we
in Arizona, they have taken their efforts
never had a Black teacher.
continue to engage in the conversations.
The families hope to organize similar
online. The Kids Walk led to a private
Ask school leaders what they are
He addressed that theme in his remarks
Facebook group that now tops more than
doing to include People of Color on the
at the Kids Walk in June, validating an
600 members.
staff, “and not just the janitor,” Eric adds.
approach that conveys “‘I don’t know, but I
“Schools need more teachers who are
want to understand.”
Developing an anti-racist family
Black, Hispanic, Latinx. Kids need to
value system means thinking about “small,
learn authority looks like this.”
realistic steps we can all implement into
Keeping a diverse home book shelf is
He was followed by Phoenix Police Chief Jeri Williams, the first woman and only the second Person of Color to be
our daily lives to combat discriminatory
important, says Jamie Bailey. “We are a
named chief of police for Phoenix, the
attitudes” Eric says.
big reading family. We want our children
fifth largest city in the U.S.
Think about your choices in everyday
to have plenty of opportunities to explore
“If we can come to that place, we can
habits, he suggests. “There are little
alternative stories. We’re not forcing it
move past the pain and the hurt and get to
signals toward how we treat people that
down their throats; we just make the
the heart of the matter,” she says. “But it’s
show up in our daily lives, whether we
books available.”
going to take all of us to make that happen.”
acknowledge it or not. For example, if
Sometimes their kids will pull a book
we only go to stores where certain types
out they’ve ready before, when they were
Karen Davis Barr is founder and publisher of Raising
of people shop, that signals ‘this is the
younger. As they hit new developmental
Arizona Kids.
32 July 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
The Bailey and Burgess families organized the event for families.
Conversation starters Arizona PBS LearningMedia resources
Conversations with Common Sense
The New York Times
on race, racism, protests, civil rights and
Experts in child development, children’s
How to Raise an Anti-Racist Kid
more. https://azpbs.org/2020/06/pbs-
health, and trauma care talk about ways
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/24/well/
learningmedia-resources-on-race-racism-
families can support their children, one
family/how-to-raise-an-anti-racist-kid.html
protests-civil-rights-and-more
another, and a just future as they navigate near-constant exposure to news and social
Holy Post - Racism in America
ASU Now
media about violence against Blacks and its
Three years ago, Veggie Tales founder Phil
Eleanor Seaton, an associate professor in
aftermath. https://youtu.be/dhjMyOqu2G8
Vischer and his brother Rob co-taught a class
Arizona State University’s T. Denny Sanford
that discussed issues of racial injustice. The
School of Family and Social Dynamics, explains
The mural project “Spread the Love”
class turned into a popular podcast episode,
how racism is “baked in” to our society and its
Downtown Tempe is displaying the artwork of
they have now turned into this video. Vischer
institutions, “including schools, neighborhoods,
three local Black artists who share their vision
is the creator of the computer-animated
workplaces, banks, health care, the media and
of a better world filled with love, diversity,
video series VeggieTales and provided the
policing systems.”
inclusion and positivity. Look for the murals
voice of Bob the Tomato. https://youtu.be/
https://asunow.asu.edu/20200614-discoveries-
at Centerpoint Plaza (near the AMC theater at
AGUwcs9qJXY
%E2%80%98systemic-racism%E2%80%99-
Seventh Street and Mill Avenue) or check is
defined-and-deconstructed
out on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter. RaisingARIZONAKids.com July 2020
33
takeout
PLAY CHEF AT HOME WITH LOCAL
FOOD KITS By Elaina Verhoff
WHILE MANY LOCAL RESTAURANTS have reopened, families in greater Phoenix may
be hesitant to venture back for dine-in service while COVID-19 cases continue to rise. One of the ways restaurants have gotten creative during this pandemic is by creating takeout food kits that let their customers assemble a restaurant-quality meal at home. So grab the kids and the aprons. These make-at-home kits will let you have some fun as a family while creating tasty meals and treats.
Make-athome pizza kits The Parlor in Phoenix offers pizza kits, so everyone can play chef and make their own pizza masterpiece. The standard kit comes with fresh dough,
Cookie and cupcake decorating kits
Parlor secret pizza sauce, house-blend cheeses (mozzarella and aged cheddar), Schreiner’s pepperoni and fresh basil. For a different price, any Parlor pizza
Known for its whimsical and inventive sweet creations, Ruze Cake House in
can be made into a kit, or you can
Scottsdale is offering boxed kits that let the kids have some fun decorating either mini
pick and choose from the restaurant’s
cupcakes or iced sugar cookies. Ruze’s Boredom Buster kits have featured unicorns,
extensive list of toppings. $12 for
trolls and ninjas. Check their Instagram page for the latest offerings, and email
a standard kit. The Parlor, 1916 E.
jessicarose@ruzecakehouse.com to place an order. Prices vary. Ruze Cake House,
Camelback Road, Phoenix. 602-248-
7033 E. Main St., Suite 100, Scottsdale. ruzecakehouse.com
2480 or theparlor.us
34 July 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
Cook-at-home pasta kits Love serving up big flavorful bowls of pasta, but don’t feel like cranking out the homemade noodles and sauce? The Sicilian Butcher’s pasta kit serves four, and includes bread, your choice of pasta (spaghetti, paccheri, pappardelle or creste de gallo) and sauce (marinara, amatriciana, parmigiano cream or bolognese). Extra hungry? Add eight Sicilian meatballs (made with ground veal, prime beef and pork, pine nuts, raisings, pecorino cheese, garlic and fresh herbs). Cook, assemble, and you have a gourmet meal without the hassle. $32 for bread, pasta and sauce; additional $12 for meatballs. The Sicilian Butcher, 15530 N. Tatum Blvd, Suite 160, Phoenix; 602-775-5140. 3151 W. Frye Road, Chandler; 480-573-8550. thesicilianbutcher.com/meal-kits
Gourmet sandwich kits Miracle Mile Deli in Phoenix is offering
Fresh fish taco kits
some of its most popular gourmet deli
A trip to the coast may not be in the cards, but you can still enjoy amazing fish tacos
two pounds of hot pastrami, brisket
at home. Chula Seafood in Phoenix and Scottsdale is now offering fresh fish taco kits
or corned beef plus cheese, rolls and
for home delivery. Each kit serves four and includes one pound of fresh chef’s choice
dressing/sauerkraut for $45. 4433 N.
whitefish accompanied by pico, cabbage, salsa verde, eight tortillas and a molcajete
16th St., Phoenix. 602-776-0992 or
(mortar and pestle for food preparation). The type of fish varies by availability and
miraclemiledeli.com
sandwiches as takeaway kits featuring
typically features grouper, swordfish, mahi or sea bass. Order for next-day home delivery. $38. Chula Seafood, chulaseafood.com/delivered.html, email delivery@
Elaina Verhoff is a Phoenix freelance writer and the
chulaseafood.com for more info.
mother of two teenagers.
RaisingARIZONAKids.com July 2020
35
family time!
India: Fashion’s Muse (July 1-31) at phxart.org
JULY TOP EVENTS By Carrie Wheeler
Drive-in destinations, virtual performances and exhibits and take-home crafts are just a few of the safe and socially distanced family options for summer fun this month. Here’s what you won’t want to miss. NOTE: Because last-minute schedule changes can occur, please confirm dates and times on event websites.
JUNE-AUG. 1: Imagine Your Story. The Maricopa County summer reading program continues this month encouraging all ages to dive into a good book. Log reading minutes, participate in online challenges and earn prizes — all from the comfort of home. This year’s theme is “Imagine Your Story.” The program challenges participants to read or listen to audio books for at least 20 minutes a day. read20az.com or leepor20az.com (in Spanish)
JULY 1-2: A Midsummer’s Night Dream. Shakespeare’s beloved romantic comedy featuring love triangles, mistaken identities and transformations will be streaming for one week on the UK National Theatre’s YouTube site. nationaltheatre.org.uk
JULY 1-31: India: Fashion’s Muse. Take a virtual tour featuring more than 50 stunning ensembles and accessories celebrating the extraordinary craftsmanship of fashions from India. See
Find more extensive day-by-day event listings at raisingarizonakids.com/calendar
36 July 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
the clothes as well as the global trends and they’ve inspired from famous designers like Alexander McQueen, Givenchy, Halston, and Chanel. phxart.org
JULY 2-6: Cruise the Zoo. Enjoy the Phoenix Zoo at a socially safe distance as you drive your vehicle through the grounds to see flamingos, giraffes, elephants and more while listening to an audio tour. Only 450 vehicles will be allowed daily from 7 a.m. to noon. $50 per vehicle. Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix. phoenixzoo.com
JULY 2-4:
PHOENIX ART MUSEUM
Drive-in Movie Night at The Princess. Take in a family-friendly movie on a giant, inflatable screen from the safety of your vehicle with a festive fireworks show during the intermission. $40-
JULY 5:
$60 per vehicle includes admission and parking, one bag of popcorn, two bags of cotton candy and
Medieval Times will open its doors and resume its dinner shows —
four bottled waters. Purchase tickets online. 8 p.m. movie. Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, 7575 E.
two-hour medieval jousting tournaments on horses. 9051 E. Via de
Princess Drive, Scottsdale. scottsdaleprincess.com
Ventura in Scottsdale. 214-596-7600 or medievaltimes.com
JULY 2-30:
JULY 6:
Mindfulness Thursdays. Hospice of the Valley and Phoenix Art Museum present a 30-minute
Desert Botanical Garden will open its trails to guests. All visitors will
at-home Zoom session to promote mindfulness at noon on July 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30. Scientific studies
be required to make a timed reservation online or by calling 480-941-
show mindfulness can relieve anxiety, depression, pain and stress and actually change the way we
1225 in advance. The garden will limit capacity and provide a touchless
feel, think, work and play by opening new pathways in the brain. Join Zoom meeting at https://hov.
admissions experience. $14.95; $9.95 for ages 3-17. 1201 N. Galvin
zoom.us/j/705719545 (ID: 705 719 545).
Parkway Phoenix. dbg.org
Watch Hamilton on Disney+ (July 3).
JULY 6-17: As You Wish Summer Classes. Ages 5 and older can visit As You Wish locations Valleywide on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays for a range of in-studio or to-go crafts. $25 includes the pottery, paints, instruction and firing. In-store classes are from 9-10:30 a.m. At-home kits are available for pick up after 10 a.m. Check the website for locations, a list of projects and registration information. asyouwishpottery.com
JULY 7, 14, 21 AND 28: Drive-thru Out of Africa. Visit the zoo safari-style and see hyenas, DISNEY +
zebras, tigers and more from your vehicle every Tuesday in July. 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. $20; $10 for ages 3-12. Out of Africa Wildlife Park, 3505 W. State Route 260, Camp Verde. 928-567-2840 or outofafricapark.com
JULY 3: Watch Hamilton on Disney+. Lin Manuel Miranda’s wildly popular Broadway show “Hamilton”
JULY 8 AND 22:
will air in movie form on the Disney+ streaming channel today. Get ready to celebrate Independence
Remix It: Teen Summer Virtual Workshops. From 2-3:30
Day by learning about Alexander Hamilton in a whole new way.
p.m., teens 13-18 can put their own spin on an existing work of art, combining old and new influences to create a mixed media artwork
Kids Club Crafts. This 1-hour Zoom class will have kids making red, white and blue crafts the
during this series of interrelated virtual workshops from the Phoenix
whole family can use to celebrate Independence Day. The first 1,000 participants will receive
Art Museum. Each session will explore a different approach to the
access to the 1 p.m. call. Free. michaels.com
creative process. phxart.org RaisingARIZONAKids.com July 2020
37
family time! JULY TOP EVENTS Free Comic Book Summer (July 1 – Sept. 9).
JULY 17: The Whole Story. This live stream storytelling show celebrates the nuances of our humanity through personal stories told from the Black perspective. The pay-whatyou-wish program will be live-streamed on Facebook Live, YouTube Live, and on phxart.org
JULY 18: Sensory-Friendly Day. Enjoy Dave & Buster’s minus the excessive noise and televisions. This sensory-friendly morning will have the lights turned up and all music and TV’s turned off. Plus, there will be quiet rooms available with coloring and more. 9-11 a.m. $17. Dave & Buster’s at Tempe Marketplace, 2000 E. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe. tempemarketplace.com
JULY 8-29:
JULY 18, 25: AZ Virtual Summer Storytelling. Every Saturday through Aug.
Online MIMkids Mini Music Makers. Introduce your child to the wide and wonderful world of
8, Pueblo Grande Museum is hosting a free virtual summertime
music through MIM’s early childhood music and movement courses. This 30-minute Zoom class
storytelling event featuring Arizona authors reading their own
on Wednesdays explores music through song, dance, and play. Participants don’t need musical
books. Videos will be posted on their YouTube page and can be
instruments; this class uses household items to make music. 10:15 a.m. for ages 3 and younger; 11
accessed through Sept. 5. Craft kits to accompany each story
a.m. for ages 3-5. Choose what you pay between $4 -$12. mim.org
will be available online for $5 per kit and can be picked up from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday the week before the story at the
JULY 10-AUG. 16:
Pueblo Grande Museum. The July 18th story will be Phoebe Fox’s
Broadway Jukebox. Copperstate Productions presents “Broadway Jukebox,” an original, interactive
“Panda Proud;” July 25th is “Green on Green” by Dianne White.
musical revue where no two shows will be the same. The theater will be kept at half capacity for social
Free. Pueblo Grande Museum, 4619 E. Washington St., Phoenix.
distancing purposes. 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays. $33; $18 for children 17 and
phoenix.gov/parks/arts-culture-history/pueblo-grande
younger with student IDs. Mainstage at Fountain Hills Theater, 11445 N. Saguaro Blvd., Fountain Hills. fhtaz.org
JULY 23-24: Baseball’s back! Major League Baseball’s regular season
JULY 11:
is set to start July 23-24, although the 60-game schedule
Historic Downtown Glendale Christmas in July. Avoid the Christmas rush by doing your holiday
has not yet been finalized. To limit travel distances, teams
shopping in July! Glendale boutiques, specialty shops and iconic eateries will feature festive treats,
will play a majority of games against their division op-
holiday gift ideas and merry make-and take-crafts. A shuttle will be available to transport event attendees
ponents and the rest against their geographic counterpart in
throughout the area. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 5836 W. Palmaire Ave., Glendale. visitdowntownglendale.com
the other league. Find details at mlb.com or dbacks.com
JULY 15-SEPT. 9: Free Comic Book Summer. Free Comic Book Day has been rescheduled and reworked to take place from July 15 through Sept. 9, making it a Free Comic Book Summer! Comic shops will receive five or six Free Comic Book Day titles each week, but the release of the titles may vary from shop to shop. Check out the site to see participating comic shops in your area. freecomicbookday.com
38 July 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
Calendar Editor Carrie Wheeler is the mother of Wilson (9). Send calendar info to Carrie@ RAKmagazine.com.
MET015_AZ_KIDS_AD_7.25x4.75_FINAL.qxp_Layout 1 6/6/20 2:38 PM Page 1
You already have good grades, great attendance and an appreciation for art. Now enroll in a school where you fit in, a school that appreciates you, your talents and will offer you a challenge - every day. Metro-Arts is a tuition-free charter school for grades 7-12. Focusing on visual, performing and literary arts, college prep academics, and honors classes in a safe, closed campus with small class size.
Metropolitan Arts Institute A tuition-free charter school in Phoenix.
ENROLL TODAY! Please visit the “How to Enroll” section of the website for an application. For more information, pleavse call our Admissions Department at 602-258-9500 ext. 13. Apply early as spaces fill up quickly. www.metro-arts.org
RaisingARIZONAKids.com July 2020
39
family time! around AZ
OUT OF AFRICA WILDLIFE PARK
Out of Africa in Camp Verde.
CAMP VERDE
Bird Walks (July 18). Join the
PRESCOTT
available to help locate animals and
Out of Africa. You can drive your
Audubon Society to see some of the
World’s Oldest Rodeo (June
answer questions. Bring a flashlight!
vehicle through this safari-style
more than 130 species of birds found
29-July 5). Prescott Frontier Days
8-9:30 p.m. $10. 1403 Heritage Park
zoo and see hyenas, zebras, tigers
at the gardens. All participants will
presents the 133rd annual World’s
Road, Prescott. 928-778-4242 or
and more on Tuesdays. The rest of
need to wear a mask, and advance
Oldest Rodeo. Watch judged events
heritageparkzoo.org
the week, take self-guided walking
registration is required. $10; $5 for
(bareback, saddle bronc, bull riding)
tours. 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. $20; $10
ages 4-17; $7 for seniors/military.
and timed events (steer wrestling,
YUMA
for kids ages 3-12. Out of Africa
9:30 a.m. The Arboretum at Flagstaff,
tie-down, team roping, barrel racing).
4th of July Fireworks Spectacular
Wildlife Park, 3505 West State Route
4001 S. Woody Mountain Road,
Plus, the Prescott Frontier Days Rodeo
(July 4). The city of Yuma will host a
260, Camp Verde. 928-567-2840 or
Flagstaff. thearb.org
Parade, the Kiwanis Kiddie Parade,
20-minute drive-in fireworks display.
an arts and crafts show and a rodeo
8:45 p.m. at the Pacific Avenue
Wildflower Walks (July 25). Join
dance. 7:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday,
Athletic Complex, 700 E. 8th St.,
FLAGSTAFF
the knowledgeable Arboretum staff on
1:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 1:30 p.m.
Yuma. yumaaz.gov
Flagstaff Urban Flea Market (July
a morning walk through the gardens
Sunday. $12-$27. Please note the new
11). On second Saturdays, local artisans
and explore the colorful varieties of
clear-bag policy. Rodeo Grounds, 840
WILLIAMS
sell their wares — handmade wood and
native Northern Arizona wildflowers.
Rodeo Drive, Prescott. 928-445-3103
Arizona Cowpunchers Reunion
leatherwork, ceramics, soaps, vintage
Bring water, a camera and comfortable
or worldsoldestrodeo.com
Rodeo (July 24-26). Contestants
clothing, used tools, comics, toys,
walking shoes. All participants will
household goods, jewelry, upcycled
need to wear a mask, and advance
Zoo by Moonlight (July 4). Visit the
in wild horse races, wild cow milking,
goods, flowers and flea-market-type
registration is required. $10; $5 for
Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary
cowboy bronc riding, ribbon roping
treasures. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free. City Hall
ages 4-17; $7 for seniors/military.
every full moon for the opportunity
and team roping. 1 p.m. $5; free for
parking lot, 211 W. Aspen Ave., Flagstaff.
9:30 a.m. The Arboretum at Flagstaff,
to see nocturnal residents out and
ages 10 and younger. Williams Rodeo
flagstaffmarket.com
4001 S. Woody Mountain Road,
about — something you might not see
Grounds, 750 Airport Road, Williams.
Flagstaff. 928-774-1442 or thearb.org
during a day visit. Docents will also be
azcowpunchers.com
outofafricapark.com
40 July 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
ranging in age from 3 to 90 participate
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.
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5/28/2020 9:48:00 AM
RaisingARIZONAKids.com July 2020
41
family time! July 4th events Scottsdale’s Rockin’ 4th.
Instead of attending parades and block parties, this
festive fireworks show during the intermission. Movie
Town of Queen Creek will set off large-shell fireworks
year we are celebrating our country’s independence
begins at 8 p.m. The $60 fee per vehicle includes
that go much higher and can be viewed by east Valley
with drive-ins and virtual events. Families can still
admission and parking, one bag of popcorn, two bags
families from the safety of their homes. 9 p.m.
enjoy fireworks displays around the Valley while
of cotton candy and four bottled waters. Purchase
observing social distancing — and maybe develop
tickets online. Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, 7575 E.
VIRTUAL EVENTS
some new July 4th traditions.
Princess Dr., Scottsdale. Scottsdaleprincess.com
Let Freedom Sing. Some of Tucson’s greatest musical talents will embrace the patriotic spirit of
MESA
Scottsdale’s Rockin’ 4th. Scottsdale hosts a
Southern Arizona at this unique virtual concert.
Drive-in Fireworks Show. Due to Covid-19 concerns,
drive-up Fourth of July celebration at WestWorld that
Streaming video is available anytime after 2 p.m. Tickets
the Titan Solar Power Arizona Celebration of Freedom is
will start with a parade honoring all of those on the
available by donation starting at $10. arts-express.org
turning into a drive-in fireworks show. Cars will convene in
front-lines of the COVID-19 fight including nurses,
Fiesta Mall parking lot while sponsor 94.5 KOOL-FM plays
doctors, police, fire, EMTs, restaurant workers,
PBS: Capitol Fourth. Tune in to Arizona PBS for a
patriotic music over the radio. 9-9:30 p.m. Free. 1425 W.
truck drivers and others. The evening will end with a
nation-wide celebration of America’s 244th birthday.
Southern Ave., Mesa. azcelebrationoffreedom.org
fireworks show. All proceeds benefit Not My Kid, a
This all-star salute will feature coverage from cameras
non-profit that inspires positive life choices for youth.
all around Washington, D.C., ensuring viewers are
SCOTTSDALE
front and center for the greatest display of fireworks in
Drive-in Movie Night at The Princess. Watch
QUEEN CREEK
“Sonic the Hedgehog” on a giant, inflatable screen
Hometown Fourth at Schnepf Farms. The on-site
from the comfort and safety of your vehicle with a
event has been cancelled but Schnepf Farms and the
42 July 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com
the nation. 7-9:30 p.m.
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