RAK magazine June 2021

JUNE 2021

RaisingARIZONA Kids your partner on the parenting path

SUMMER SURVIVAL GUIDE Zion National Park

offers scenic family fun

What to do if BITTEN, STUNG or IMPALED by thorns

8 LIFE LESSONS

from the pandemic Wilson (10) and his father Jay Wiggins of Phoenix at Zion National Park in Utah.

If I could change one thing that day...

Eric was just 3 when he drowned in his Nana’s backyard pool

Eric and his twin Justin loved the water.

Eric’s family was living temporarily at his grandparent’s home. Like many children with autism,* he was attracted to water.

One day, he snuck out the back room and fell into the pool. The small size and shape of the backyard made an isolation fence unusable.

“If I could change one thing that day,” says Mom Elisa, “I would have figured out a better barrier to the pool.

We learned the hard way that kids need multiple layers to keep them from water.” *More than 90 percent of children with Autism die from accidental drowning.

You can make changes NOW to help your family reduce the risk of drowning.

Learn how: www.PreventDrownings.org In partnership with DPCA member:

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Practice the ABC’s of Water Safety: Adult Supervision, Barriers, and Classes & Coast Guard-Approved Lifejackets

contents

June 2021 FEATURES 22 Summer Survival Guide

22

From affordable family movies to flashlight hikes to reading programs that help stop the summer slide in learning, here are two dozen ways to get through the hot summer months.

30 Utah’s Zion National Park offers scenic family fun

Zion’s massive, crazy and wondrous canyons and rock structures are aweinspiring and filled with hiking trails, wildlife and a whole lot of natural beauty.

30 18

DEPARTMENTS 2 dialogue Surviving summer

4 az grown • D-backs host free family vaccination event at Chase Field • Pediatricians: Unvaccinated kids still need to wear face masks • What to do if a child gets stung, bitten or impaled by thorns • Arizona Sunrays boasts two Olympic hopeful gymnasts • Phoenix Children’s is building a new Glendale hospital • Sari on Science: Bug out in the backyard to study insects and arachnids

10

• Using Common Sense: Diverse children’s media help fight racism and teach empathy • Raising Outdoor Kids: Help prevent wildfires with safe campfire alternatives • 15 Father’s Day ideas

34 family time!

• Top June events • July 4th events • Around Arizona

COMING

IN JULY..

MORE SU M M E R SURVIVAL T IPS

.

RaisingARIZONAKids.com June 2021

1

dialogue

June 2021 | Vol 32 | No 4

Surviving summer AS WE WERE wrapping up this issue, the

this summer, from the Maricopa County

2020-21 school year was winding down

Reads program to Changing Hands

and children ages 12 and older became

Bookstore’s Summer Reading Bingo.

eligible for the COVID-19 vaccination.

Most parents are trying to rein in

PUBLISHER Karen Davis Barr EDITOR Kara G. Morrison CONTRIBUTORS Sari Custer, Lisa Van Loo, Ilana Lowery, Sheri Smith, Carrie Wheeler ART DIRECTOR Michèlle-Renée Adams COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Carrie Wheeler

As vaccination rates were rising statewide

screen time after a year when everything

and nationwide, life was beginning to feel

was virtual. Ilana Lowery, Arizona director

somewhat normal for the first time since

of Common Sense Media, shares why

March 2020 — although doctors caution

choosing high-quality, inclusive books and

that unvaccinated kids and adults still need

films is an important way to fight racism

R aising A rizona K ids magazine (ISSN 1051-4295)

to wear face masks and stay vigilant. Writer

and raise empathetic kids. She offers several

was created to connect Valley families to local

Sheri Smith decided to look at ways we’ve

book and film recommendations to explore.

resources and share real-life stories about the

forever changed in the aftermath of all this,

In addition to the searing heat, summer

MARKETING CONSULTANTS Shannon Cornall, Kate Reed, Mary Vandenberg

challenges and joys of raising children. Copy­right © 2021 by R aising A rizona K ids, Inc. All rights reserved.

and came up with eight life lessons from an

in the desert comes with some unsavory

unforgettable, historic year.

critters. In “Rattlesnakes, scorpions and

permission is prohibited. Subscription price is $20

cacti … Oh, my!” Dr. Jon McGreevy,

for one year or $35 for two years. Back issues are

Thrilled to be traveling again — at least on short, safe outdoorsy road trips

associate program director for the pediatric

— Carrie Wheeler walked us through

residency program at Phoenix Children’s

her family vacation to Utah’s scenic

Hospital, who specializes in pediatric

Zion National Park. She offers great

emergency medicine, offers tips on what to

tips for making the most of that 6.5-

do if a child gets stung, bitten or impaled

hour excursion and shares some of the

by thorns. He shares that rattlesnake bites

reasons family trips will have to be more

in kids are (thankfully) very rare, and that

meticulously planned this summer.

supervision is usually the key to keeping

The June issue of Raising Arizona Kids always brings our annual Summer Survival Guide, offering two dozen ways to stay out of the heat and still have fun with the

kids away from dangerous desert plants and animals.

Until next month, stay safe and enjoy summer.

kiddos. Some of our favorites are outdoors after dusk: Flashlight Nights at the Desert Botanical Garden, free evening concerts, etc. And several fun summer programs are aimed at getting kids reading and thinking

2 June 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Reproduction in whole or part without written

$6 per copy. Make address changes on our website or mail changes to our office. Content guide­lines are avail­able at raisingarizonakids.com.

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

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

Kara G. Morrison, Editor kara@RAKmagazine.com

az grown health

PEDIATRICIANS:

Unvaccinated kids still need to wear masks THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS — a professional

until the vaccine is available for younger age groups and vaccinations

organization of 67,000 primary care pediatricians, pediatric medical

within the pediatric population are high enough to prevent transmission

subspecialists and pediatric surgical specialists — says kids who

of COVID-19. Face mask use should also continue for unvaccinated

are unvaccinated and those who are not yet eligible for the COVID-19

kids playing indoor sports and outdoors sports that require close

vaccination should continue wearing well-fitting face masks.

contact.

“Children under age 12 are not yet eligible for the vaccine, so it’s

As of May 20, more than 3.94 million children had tested positive

smart to be cautious and careful, especially when they are playing with

for COVID-19 since the onset of the pandemic, according to a weekly

friends, accompanying their parents to the grocery store, attending

report by the AAP and Children’s Hospital Association. The AAP

school or camp, and in any other situation in which they are around

recommends vaccinating children 12 and older who are now eligible

groups of people, some of whom may not be fully vaccinated,” AAP

for the federally authorized COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible. The

President Lee Savio Beers said in a statement.

shots are free at state-run sites and pharmacies, including Walgreens

Science has shown face masks significantly reduce the spread of

and CVS. Arizona parents and guardians can register children ages 12

severe SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory infections in schools and

and older for vaccinations by visiting podvaccine.azdhs.gov or calling

community settings. AAP says schools, child care programs and camps

844-542-8201. Learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine for kids at

should continue to support the use of face masks for children and staff

healthychildren.org

4 June 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

D-Backs host FREE

FAMILY VACCINATION EVENT at Chase Field THE ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS — in

WE BLANKET THE AREA.

partnership with the Arizona Department of Health Services and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona — are hosting a free family vaccination event at Chase Field on Saturday, June 5. Each vaccinated person will have the chance to run the bases, take their picture on the

ISTOCK

field and receive a free ticket to an upcoming D-backs game.

Vaccines are available to anyone age 12 and older.

“With the school year coming to an end, and families still looking for a simple, comfortable and stress-free environment to get their family members vaccinated, we want to open the doors to Chase Field once again,” D-backs President and CEO Derrick Hall said in a statement. “We know that this can be an overwhelming experience for some of our younger fans, so we are proud to work with ADHS and BCBS on creating a familyfriendly environment for them to get vaccinated.”

The first dose will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 5, and appointments are encouraged, though walk-ins will be permitted on a first-come, first-served basis.

Appointments can be made at podvaccine.azdhs.gov or 844542-8201. (The D-backs are playing the Milwaukee Brewers in Milwaukee that day, so Chase Field will only be open for this vaccination event).

The Pfizer vaccine will be offered at this clinic, and second-dose appointments will take place on June 26 at Chase

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

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

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

Field. Upon completion of the second dose, each person vaccinated will receive a free offer for them and a guest to enjoy any weekday home game during the 2021 season. Learn

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

more at dbacks.com

RaisingARIZONAKids.com June 2021

5

az grown health RATTLESNAKES, SCORPIONS AND CACTI … OH, MY!

BOYLOSO

What to do if a child gets stung, bitten or impaled by thorns

YES, THE SONORAN DESERT is full of

plants and animals. If your child is bitten,

critters — many of whom are more active

stung or injured, here’s what parents need

during the summer months. It’s also filled

to know about getting treatment.

with sharp cactus spines and all manner

someone was stung.

Arizona and Mexico are home to the infamous bark scorpion, which can make scorpion stings scarier. Their venom

of flora that isn’t soft and leafy. So, how

What types of Arizona wildlife cause the most

can cause neurologic changes; most

can Arizona parents keep kids safe from

concern for parents in the summer?

commonly this is the “pins and needles”

potential snake bites, scorpion stings and

Rattlesnakes, scorpions and gila monsters …

sensation at and around the sting, which

all kinds of unpleasant run-ins?

oh, my! Well, maybe not gila monsters, but

can last for several days to weeks. In

I couldn’t really choose between the other

children, and infrequently in adults, we

two, as I get so many questions about both.

can see the venom cause other changes:

Jon McGreevy, MD, associate program director for the pediatric residency program at Phoenix Children’s

irritability, twitching muscles in the arms

Hospital, specializes in pediatric

What should a parent do when a child is

and legs, roving eye movements, drooling,

emergency medicine, and has treated

stung by a scorpion? In what instance

or tongue muscles moving in a wave-like

all types of summer accidents. He says

should they seek medical attention? For all

fashion. [Stings in] smaller children, as

rattlesnake bites in kids are (thankfully)

scorpions, there is pain at the site where

well as stings that are closer to the head

very rare, and supervision is key to

you were stung. Know that commonly

and neck, are more likely to cause severe

keeping kids away from dangerous desert

there is no identifiable mark where

symptoms. Typically, symptoms escalate

6 June 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

az grown health over the first 30 minutes to reach a peak around four hours.

The decision to seek medical care depends on the symptoms, timing and

Dr. Jon McGreevy Associate Program Director for the Pediatric Residency Program at Phoenix Children’s Hospital

the size of the child. In general, toddler-

A University of Arizona graduate, Dr. Jon McGreevy is board-

age children and younger, or anyone with

certified in pediatric emergency medicine and has been with

the more severe symptoms within the

Phoenix Children's Hospital since 2013 as associate program

first 30-60 minutes after a sting, should

director for the pediatric residency program. When he's not

be evaluated by a medical professional.

at work, he enjoys outdoor activities and challenges with his

This could include Emergency Medical

wife; they hope their daughters may one day join them on their

Services; we see this commonly. Typically,

annual rim-to-rim day hike in the Grand Canyon. In nearly

urgent care [facilities] do not carry the

22 years of living in Arizona, he has only been stung by a

anti-venom, and you should proceed to

scorpion twice. An avid desert hiker (three to four times a

an Emergency Department for this sort

week), he says he sees more desert tortoises than rattlesnakes.

of concern. Additionally, you can always call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.

Raising Arizona Kids partners with the Arizona Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics to bring evidence-based child-health information to our communities.

I’ve read that some cactus spines can contain bacteria or fungi that could cause

pain, swelling and redness about the area

in the cooler parts of the day, like early

infection. If a child runs into a cactus

where the puncture occurred. If you see

morning, evening or night. They also

needle, is it OK just to pull it out and wash

this, seek medical attention.

like to hide or shelter in areas that make

the area? By and large, you are safe to

them feel safe — under plants, rocks

follow your normal parenting instincts!

How rare are rattlesnake bites in kids? Have

or furniture. Like most everything in

Remove the cactus spine and clean the

you ever had to treat one? Thankfully,

parenting, supervision is key, whether

area. Obviously, you want to be careful

rattlesnakes make a noise to let us know

it be around water or to avoid bites and

removing the spine or spines so as not to

that we are too close and invading their

stings. However, you can also take steps

get stuck yourself; we like to use tweezers

space! Thus, rattlesnake bites are very

to prevent these critters from residing

for larger, more isolated spines and tape

uncommon in children, but we always

in or around your house with use of

for the more fine and numerous spines.

have a handful of pediatric patients that

extermination products or services.

The use of an over-the-counter triple

we care for each year due to rattlesnake

antibiotic ointment on the area for the

bites. Since I work at Phoenix Children’s

What should a parent do if their child is

next several days is cheap, painless, easy

Hospital, which is the largest and busiest

bitten by a snake? The good news is that

and never a bad thing. Any disruption

facility to care for children in Arizona, I

not all snakes are venomous, and even

of the skin has the potential to cause

have certainly had the opportunity to care

venomous snakes don’t always inject

infection, regardless of whether cactus

for children who have been bitten.

venom with their bite. However, any

spines have bacteria or fungi on them.

child that is bitten by a snake should be

With cactus spines, we worry about

What’s the best way for parents to prevent

evaluated at an Emergency Department

puncture wounds that “trap in” infection

dangerous encounters with snakes,

(not urgent care) where they can evaluate

as the surface of the wound closes faster

scorpions and other critters that are more

your child, do laboratory work and

than the deep parts of the wound. This

active in the summer months? Just like

consider the need for anti-venom or

results in an infection with increasing

us, most of these critters are more active

admission to the hospital.

8 June 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

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9

az grown community

Arizona Sunrays boasts two

OLYMPIC HOPEFUL GYMNASTS FINGERS CROSSED, Arizonans could be

University, which she has deferred in

cheering on two local gymnasts at this

order to train full time for the Olympics.

summer’s Olympic Games in Tokyo. Jade

McCusker, 19, is a five-time member

Jade Carey (above) and Riley McCusker (inset).

emotionally abusing gymnasts.

A selection committee will determine who is competing at the Olympic

Carey and Riley McCusker, who are training

of the United States Women’s National

Trials following the U.S. Gymnastics

at Arizona Sunrays Gymnastics & Dance

Gymnastics Team. She is the 2019 Pan

Championships June 3-6 in Fort Worth,

Center in Phoenix, are expected to compete

American Games and 2017 United

Texas, where both Carey and McCusker

at the June 24-27 Olympic Trials in St.

States National Uneven Bars Champion.

are competing. Arizona Sunrays is taking

Louis, Missouri, and may go on to Tokyo.

She was also a 2018 World Champion

donations to help these young women cover

Team Member. McCusker was offered

the cost of flights, hotels and meals on their

Ridge High School in Glendale and is

a full-ride scholarship to the University

Olympic journey at arizonasunrays.com

best known for her powerful and high-

of Florida, but has also deferred in order

difficulty vault and floor exercise. On

to train full time for the Olympics.

year in business in the Valley; it offers

vault, she is the 2017 and 2019 World

McCusker was born and raised in

gymnastics, dance and NinjaZone classes

Silver Medalist, 2019 World Champion

Connecticut and moved to Arizona in

for all ages, as well as classes for children

Team Member, 2018 Pan American

2020 to train with Carey at Arizona

with special needs, an accredited preschool

Champion and 2017 United States

Sunrays. Her former New Jersey coach,

and a summer day camp. The gym has two

National Champion. Carey was offered

Maggie Haney, was suspended for eight

locations: 15801 N. 32nd St. and 3923 E.

a full-ride scholarship to Oregon State

years by USA Gymnastics for verbally and

Indian School Road in Phoenix.

Carey, 21, graduated from Mountain

10 June 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Arizona Sunrays is celebrating its 30th

Phoenix Children’s building new Glendale hospital

Sign up for

RAK

magazine’s FREE WEEKLY eNEWSLETTER PHOENIX CHILDREN’S — one of the nation’s largest pediatric health systems — announced

it is building a new freestanding, three-story hospital in Glendale. Phoenix Children’s Hospital-Arrowhead Campus will offer inpatient care, an emergency department, an outpatient surgery center and a multi-specialty clinic. The new hospital is expected to open in the spring of 2024 on the north end of the Abrazo Arrowhead Campus, 18701 N. 67th Ave. in Glendale.

“Phoenix Children’s is heavily investing in communities throughout the state to ensure families can access high-quality care for children, right in their own neighborhood,” Robert L. Meyer, president and CEO of Phoenix Children’s, said in a statement. “This

and get more local parenting information right to your phone!

need is especially pressing in the West Valley, where booming population growth has spiked the demand for pediatric health care services.”

The new hospital represents an investment of $134.7 million, and is the third West Valley project Phoenix Children’s has announced in the last six months. All told, the projects are expected to bring 650 jobs to the area.

In March, the health system announced it will break ground on the Southwest Campus in Avondale — a freestanding emergency department and expanded specialty clinic will open in 2023 at the Phoenix Children’s Southwest Valley Specialty and Urgent Care Center. And Phoenix Children’s Sports Medicine Clinic-Avondale is expected to open later this year providing physical therapy, rehabilitation and education services to the West Valley’s young athletes.

The new Glendale hospital will offer 24 inpatient beds, six operating rooms, two minor procedure rooms, 30 emergency bays/trauma rooms, and other specialty services.

Phoenix Children’s comprises Phoenix Children’s Hospital-Main Campus, Phoenix Children’s Hospital-East Valley at Dignity Health Mercy Gilbert Medical Center, four pediatric specialty and urgent care centers, 11 community pediatric practices, 20

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outpatient clinics, two ambulatory surgery centers and six community-service-related

RaisingARIZONAKids.com

outpatient clinics throughout Arizona. phoenixchildrens.org

RaisingARIZONAKids.com June 2021

11

az grown science SARI ON SCIENCE

BUG OUT!

By Sari Custer

YOU MAY HAVE heard the headlines: Cicadas are coming out to greet many states in the Midwest

• Optional: magnifying glass, nature journal and drawing materials (colored pencils, crayons, etc.)

and on the East Coast. Billions of these red-eyed

should attract plenty of bugs. There are hundreds of species of insects and arachnids in Arizona, so have fun finding out what shows up in your backyard!

insects known as Brood X are digging their way out

Challenge

Does anything change if you leave the light up

of the ground and flocking to trees after 17 years in

1. Find a large, open spot on a wall or tree.

longer? Would there be different bugs at a different

the soil. We may not have many cicadas in Arizona

2. Tape the bed sheet or butcher paper to the wall

time of day? Would there be different bugs in a

this year, but there are plenty of arachnids, bugs and other insects waiting to be discovered.

or tree so that it hangs down vertically.

3. Set up flashlights so they are pointing toward the sheet or paper.

Did you know?

We use the term “bug” to describe all different types of creatures that crawl or fly — from spiders to gnats, beetles to butterflies — but there are

different season? How do you think the location that you picked impacted the variety and number of bugs that you found?

4. Turn on flashlights and leave them on for at least 30 minutes (longer is better). This step is best done right at or after sunset.

5. Come back and look at the different bugs on

Want to learn more?

Come check out the new exhibit The Art and Science of Arachnids at Arizona Science Center

specific differences. All are arthropods, with their

your sheet or paper using the magnifying glass

featuring spiders, scorpions and more! See 100

skeletons on the outside, called an exoskeleton,

or just your eyes.

live arachnids — one of the largest collections in

and segmented bodies. Insects have six legs,

6. How many bugs did you find? How many

North America — and learn about everything from

three body segments (head, thorax and abdomen),

different types of insects or arachnids did you

arachnids in film and literature to how they’re used

and sometimes wings, while arachnids have eight

find?

in medicine and even food.

legs, two body segments and no wings. Bugs are actually what scientists call specific insects like

7. Try sketching all the different types of bugs you found, then look them up and identify them.

aphids, cicadas and bed bugs, which have nonretractable mouth parts that can suck liquid.

Have you ever wondered how many different

While there, check out POP! The Science of Bubbles in a hands-on play space featuring a massive bubble drop every 15-20 minutes. Learn

What’s happening?

Flashlights attract insects. There are a few

the science behind what makes bubbles possible, exploring concepts of elasticity, surface tension,

bugs live right in your backyard? Try this activity to

different theories as to why some insects are

evaporation and geometry. General admission is

witness just how much biodiversity you have right

attracted to artificial light. Some scientists believe

$19.95; $14.95 for ages 3-17 and free for children

at home!

it’s because many insects use natural light sources

under age 3. azscience.org

like the moon and stars to navigate. Some believe Supplies

the light emits some ultraviolet light, signaling

• One large white bed sheet or piece of butcher

flowers or food. And some think a bright light just

paper • Two flashlights • Tape

12 June 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

means a clear, unobstructed path to move or fly in, basically just confusing the bugs.

Whatever the reason behind it, this method

Sari Custer is a lifelong science junkie, Chief of Science and Curiosity Officer at Arizona Science Center, and mom to daughter Carson (6). Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @ SariOnScience.

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RaisingARIZONAKids.com June 2021

13

USING COMMON SENSE

Diverse children’s books and films help fight racism and teach empathy

By Ilana Lowery

Clockwise: "Soul," “Woman in Motion: Nichelle Nichols, Star Trek and the Remaking of NASA”" and "Koshien: Japan’s Field of Dreams."

14 June 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

MEDIA PLAY a critical role in shaping how we understand and

showed no people of color, and only 26 percent showed a person

make sense of ourselves and the world around us. Media can

of color in a major role. The quality of content around diversity

also perpetuate stereotypes and bias, exacerbating injustice and

was also limited.

inequities. That’s why careful media consumption is important,

Munzer says when media lack authentic and positive

and why parents should find books and films for kids that play a

representation of diversity or discussion of race, “we miss

positive role.

opportunities for all kids to develop a positive sense of self,” in

Valley resident Eric M. Bailey, author of “The Cure for Stupidity: Using Brain Science to Explain Irrational Behavior,” says media that expose kids to diverse experiences, perspectives

which they feel a sense of belonging, value and acceptance by society and can envision limitless potential in what they can achieve.

We know media can potentially play a hugely positive role,

and characters can shape a child’s learning and their views on

reducing bias and division. Books especially have a way of

what is possible for themselves and others.

sparking empathy, drawing readers into the lives of characters

“Having representation in media matters, because our

who may be different from themselves — or different from other

worldview is built on what we perceive, experience and learn. If

characters in the story. Kids and teens walk in others’ shoes as

we raise our children with a narrow worldview, they will adapt

these characters — or real-life kids — navigate the school bus,

to it and expect that the world they live in will be exactly that

deal with bullying, fall in love, face physical or mental challenges

way … leading to potential cognitive dissonance in adulthood,”

or have fantastical adventures in another time or place.

explains Bailey, who is president of Bailey Strategic Innovation

Children’s book author and Valley resident Sam Baker said

Group in Phoenix. “Our adaptable brains look at this and

his second book, “Oscar,” was written because of the racial

begin to expect that the whole of the world looks the way our

climate at the time. “I wanted to present color and diversity

immediate surroundings look. If we don’t experience racism

issues in ways that little children could understand and relate

or know someone who has [experienced it], we believe that it

to — that blended into the story — as though it was nothing

doesn’t exist in the world anymore.”

new,” said Baker, who is in his 90s. Bailey says parents need

Dr. Tiffany Munzer, a pediatrician at the University of

to intentionally seek out diversity in children’s media and

Michigan’s C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital, says people who

choose media that educate kids in essential human values such

identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and/or people of color)

as love, understanding, kindness and compassion. He also

are historically underrepresented in TV shows and video games,

urges families to discuss how diversity, equity and inclusion

preventing many kids from seeing themselves reflected in culture

is portrayed, how stereotypes are perpetuated and how racial

and on screen.

experiences differ.

Munzer and the University of Michigan collaborated

“We need to identify that the media that we share with our

with Common Sense Media on a study that looked at racial

children mean more than in-the-moment entertainment, but

representation and diversity in YouTube videos. YouTube

rather, it is helping them develop their world view,” Bailey says.

garners more than 5 billion views every day and is one of the

“I do think that there may be an opportunity to use the tool

most popular apps used by young kids and families. But there

of media to paint a more complex and complete picture of the

was little data on what racial representation looks like in these

people around us.”

popular videos.

Researchers watched 100 of the most-viewed Englishlanguage YouTube videos in the world for kids. They found the videos did not feature representative racial and ethnic diversity

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

of people or characters in leading roles and lacked any dialogue around race and/or ethnicity. Forty-nine percent of videos

RaisingARIZONAKids.com June 2021

15

MOVIES and BOOKS

that emphasize diversity, equity and inclusion It’s a diverse world, and these videos and books reflect the view that we’re all in it together. Find more resources and recommendations at commonsensemedia.org Movies for ages 8-10:

Books for ages 8 and up:

• “Woman in Motion: Nichelle Nichols, Star Trek and the Remaking of

• “The Blossoming Universe of Violet Diamond”

NASA” — Star Trek’s Nichols was instrumental in pushing NASA to hire

— A sweet tale of a biracial girl in search of lost

women and minorities and helped recruit budding scientists to the space

family.

program.

• “Soul” — Disney and Pixar Animation Studios’ animated feature film introduces Joe Gardner, a middle-school band teacher who gets the chance

• “New Kid” — This funny, heartfelt middle school tale explores race and class.

• “Wishtree” — Red, a red oak who is “two

of a lifetime to play at the best jazz club in town. One small misstep takes

hundred and sixteen rings old,” narrates

him from the streets of New York City to The Great Before — a fantastical

this tale with themes of religious bigotry and

place where new souls get their personalities, quirks and interests.

environmentalism.

• “Koshien: Japan’s Field of Dreams” — Filmmaker Ema Ryan Yamazaki follows a coach and his team trying to win Japan’s national high school

Books for ages 5-6 and older:

baseball championship and explores how this national obsession is

• “The Invisible Boy” — A simple act of kindness

intertwined with the struggle to raise the next generation.

• “Dance Dreams: Hot Chocolate Nutcracker” — This documentary

transforms an invisible boy into a friend.

• “Not So Different: What You Really Want to

delves into the career of Debbie Allen, her early struggles with self-esteem

Ask About Having a Disability” — A young man

as a dancer in the ballet and modern dance industry and her drive to inspire

shares his story with honesty and humor.

children of color to pursue their dance dreams.

• “Finding ‘Ohana” — A summer in rural Oahu takes an exciting turn for

• “Princess Hair” — This picture book shines a spotlight on the beauty and diversity of black hair.

two Brooklyn-raised siblings when a journal sets them on an adventure with new friends and reconnects them with their Hawaiian heritage.

• “Hidden Figures” — Three brilliant African-American women at NASA

Books for ages 4 and older: • “All Are Welcome” —This picture book offers

help launch astronaut John Glenn into orbit, helping America win the

a kind, uplifting story of inclusion and diversity at

Space Race.

school.

• "From the Stars in the Sky to the Fish in the

Movies for ages 13 and older:

Sea" — A picture book about gender, identity and

• “The Most Dangerous Year” — This affecting documentary speaks up

acceptance.

for trans kids.

• “Rocks” — A coming-of-age teen drama with diverse, positive female leads.

• “The Prom” — A star-studded, slightly edgy musical about acceptance.

16 June 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

• "Parker Looks Up: An Extraordinary Moment" — A girl finds an inspiring role model who looks like her.

93% Graduation Rate

ARIZONA ANIMAL WELFARE LEAGUE’S

SUMMER CAMP Learn • Play • Inspire AGES 6-17

Best Summer Ever!

AAWL MAIN CAMPUS

Learn more and register at: aawl.org/education

With more than $53 MILLION in scholarships and 100 YEARS of excellence, Dysart Schools are preparing all students for success in college and career.

Veterinary Science Camp Dog Days at Camp Kitty Animal Advocacy Camp

RaisingARIZONAKids.com June 2021

17

Help prevent wildfires with safe campfire alternatives RAISING OUTDOOR KIDS

Story by Lisa Van Loo | Photo by Ron Abelar

18 June 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

S

ummer in Arizona means a few things. It means the perpetual

stages, and it helps to understand them.

Stage 1: This means that building

String lights. We came across battery-

powered string lights at Walmart for about

presence of air conditioning and heat

or using a fire or campfire, charcoal or

$5 last summer and tossed a strand into

so extreme one can get burned on hot

a wood stove, is not allowed outside of

our go-bag so we’d have them whenever we

seatbelts and steering wheels. It means

developed campsites and picnic areas.

head out. Although not rugged and wild,

splashing around at swimming pools

Fires are permitted within fire rings in

the lights are really cute and add a little

and water parks, and road trips to higher

developed sites, but not in undeveloped or

ambiance when strung over hammocks

elevations to escape the heat.

dispersed areas.

or around a makeshift lounge area. We

Summer in the desert also doubles

Stage 2: This means that building

used them while up on the Rim and loved

as fire season. Thanks to a scorcher of a

or using a fire or campfire, charcoal

having a little twinkle while camping at

summer in 2020, a nearly non-existent

or a wood stove, is not allowed even in

Horseshoe Bend. We also learned one

monsoon season last year — which

developed campsites and picnic areas.

strand isn’t enough. Grab a couple if you

ranked among the driest seasons in more

Propane is permitted.

want to give them a try.

than 100 years — and a winter season with little rainfall, the Arizona desert is

Closure: At this stage, public access to

certain areas is altogether restricted.

primed for what could be a dangerous fire

Lanterns. If you are looking for light

beyond headlamps while camping, consider packing a couple of lanterns. The light they

season. Officials have even predicted that

If you’re ever curious about fire

this summer would pose a “severe” threat

restrictions in the area you’re planning

offered by a campfire, and they’re portable!

for wildfires.

to visit, it’s easy to find out. Forestry

We love our solar-powered, collapsible

That kind of foreboding warning

officials release news of fire restrictions

lantern, and I personally have a soft spot for

means outdoor enthusiasts should prepare

that can be found online with a quick

the vintage-inspired metal lanterns (think

for fire restrictions, which could put a

search, and campgrounds may either

Little House on the Prairie) if you’re not

damper on traditional summer outings

update their websites with pertinent

limited on space. They’ll light any card

as families prepare for long weekends

information or be able to answer

game and lead the way to the bathroom in

camping in the woods. After all, what’s a

questions either by phone or upon arrival.

the middle of the night, no sweat.

weekend of camping without a campfire?

Please check, because humans are most

Still fun, is what it is.

As outdoor enthusiasts, it is our

often the cause of wildfires.

Last year, Arizona experienced one of

provide more than makes up for the light

Propane campfire. A propane

campfire is not the same. It just isn’t, we know. But, it gets you safely close

responsibility to respect the land we’re

its worst fire wildfire seasons in nearly a

to being able to enjoy the nostalgia of a

using, which is why we need to view

decade as nearly 1 million acres burned.

fire without the danger of wind-swept

fire restrictions as a means to protect

Experts estimate that humans were

embers in a dry landscape. We came

and conserve the spaces we love while

responsible for 82 percent of the fires.

across the Little Red Campfire recently,

preserving the safety of the people who

The U.S. Department of the Interior,

and although we haven’t tried it, it looks

live in the communities that are often

as cited by the Insurance Information

like a reasonable stand-in for a real

threatened by the danger of wildfires.

Institute, reports 90 percent of fires are

campfire, providing heat and ambiance

And, as parents, we need to show our kids

caused by humans.

at the same time.

the importance of following the guidance

So, Smokey was right all along. If

of forestry officials, the proper way and

we’re causing them, we’re the only ones

place to build a fire and the responsible

who can prevent them. Yes, campfires

way of putting one out.

are part of the camping experience. But

Fire restrictions are issued in three

alternatives do exist.

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

RaisingARIZONAKids.com June 2021

19

15

Father’s Day ideas

Take him to a Car Show: Summer Nights Car Show (June 18).

Come out for this monthly car show with cool custom cars and trucks, door prizes, live music and more.

Treat dad to a classic truck-stop-style diner. Free admission. 6-8 p.m. Phil’s Filling Station Grill, 16852 Clockwise: A classic Showboat ice cream sandwich from Mary Coyle, Galaxy Glazed donut with candy rocks from Alien Donuts and the Soy Capitan with vanilla "tSoft tServe," crunchy fruity cereal and strawberries from Nami.

E. Parkview Ave., Fountain Hills. 480-816-8200 or philsfillingstationgrill.com

Concert, Car & Bike Show (June 19). Noon

Give him something sweet:

car/bike show, 3 p.m. concert. $5. Desert Rose Pizza and

Alien Donuts offers a crazy selection from Lucky Charms donuts to classic glazed for delivery or pick-up.

Gastropub, 6729 N 57th Drive, Glendale. 623-937-3004

$10-$26. 7111 E. Fifth Ave., Suite D, Scottsdale. 480-588-4668 or aliendonuts.com

or desertrosepizzaandgastropub.com

Nami, a vegan breakfast/brunch spot and bakery, features doughnuts, fritters, turnovers, cookies, cakes and

Caffeine and Chrome (June 26). Bring your

cupcakes. Soy and gluten-free options. Their soft serve is made with organic unrefined cane sugar, organic soy

classic car and enjoy a community car cruise on the last

and coconut milk. 2014 N. Seventh St., Phoenix. 602-258-nami (6264) or tsoynami.com

Saturday of every month. Enjoy coffee and snacks, plus new posters and giveaways. Free. 9 a.m. to noon. Gateway

Mary Coyle has been a Phoenix favorite since 1951. Its rich ice cream is made onsite. Sherbets, seasonal and

Classic Cars of Scottsdale, 23305 N. 23rd. Ave., Phoenix.

sugar-free options available. 2302 N. Central Ave., Suite 5, Phoenix. 602-626-5996 or marycoyleaz.com

gatewayclassiccars.com/fluid-caffeine-and-chrome

20 June 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Clockwise: Grillin' and Chillin' plate from As You Wish Pottery. Cork coasters from Sunshine Craft Co. Plaid picture frame from Michaels. Canvas bucket tool organizer from Joann.

A family at Modern Round.

Make him something special:

Get out and play:

As You Wish Pottery has in-studio sessions and

immersive scenarios using state-of-the-art laser technology. Take on insurgents and tanks on a battlefield, save a

take-home kits. Paint a mug, a favorite plate, a picture

doctor in the spy-themed Monte Carlo or be a zombie slayer. Locations in Mesa and Peoria. modernround.com

Modern Round — part virtual shooting range, part upscale lounge — has virtual games that are lifelike with

frame or any item for Dad. Locations in Chandler, Desert Ridge (Phoenix), Glendale, Mesa, Norterra (North

American Paintball Coliseum. Have an energetic game of paintball, airsoft or laser tag. Fields feature

Phoenix) and Tempe. asyouwishpottery.com

obstacles such as airplanes and wings, a car and car parts, ammo crates, tires and more. 2915 E. Washington St., Phoenix. 602-275-5285 or americanpaintballcoliseum.com/phoenix-arizona-laser-tag

Sunshine Craft Co. Purchase studio craft kits or at-home craft kits and make Dad a cross-stitch luggage

TopGolf. Golf and Angry Birds have come together in this interactive virtual game that’s family friendly and

tag, a woven potholder (if Dad likes to cook) or a set of

perfect for all ages and skill levels. Use the Angry Birds characters (golf balls) to smash down structures, defeat

painted cork coasters. 700 W. Campbell Ave., Phoenix.

pigs and earn as many points and stars as possible. Or, play other high-tech games and enjoy the climate-

607-821-9700 or sunshinecraftco.com

controlled private hitting bays. Locations in Gilbert, Glendale, Scottsdale and Tucson. topgolf.com/us

Joann has Father’s Day projects for all crafters, including a canvas bucket tool organizer, NFL lap quilts,

Take him to a concert:

coffee canister, engraved leather bottle tags and more.

Father’s Day Concert: Joel Robin & Sons (June 20). What were the odds that a piano player

Locations across the Valley. joann.com

would be blessed with two sons who play bass and drums? Joel Robin & Sons perform a special Father’s Day concert. 3 p.m. $34-$39. The Nash Jazz Club, 110 E. Roosevelt St., Phoenix. 602-795-0464 or thenash.org

Michaels offers a free in-store Father’s Day picture frame class from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, June 6. Add a

Raul Midón: LIVE in Your Living Room (June 19). Make Dad a special meal and watch an online

favorite photo of the two of you to this plaid painted

performance by Grammy-nominated Raul Midón, who brings the acoustic guitar alive with a percussive flamenco

frame. michaelskids.com/instoreevents#id=make-a-

flourish. 7 p.m. $20; $40 VIP access to an exclusive post-show Q&A on Zoom. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250

father-s-day-frame-li-bayshore

N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. 480-782-2680 or chandlercenter.org

RaisingARIZONAKids.com June 2021

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2021 Summer Survival Guide The heat is here, and with it long days of staying indoors. If there’s a silver lining to the pandemic, it’s that we now know how to fill time. These favorite Arizona summer activities will help. As with everything lately, details have changed a bit as COVID-19 continues, and kids under age 12 are not yet eligible for the vaccine. But there are still plenty of fun things to do — from affordable family movies to flashlight hikes to reading programs that help stop the summer slide in learning. Here are 24 ways to get through these hot months.

1. Artwork. The Children’s Museum of Phoenix hosts its first traveling exhibit, “Very Eric Carle: A Very Hungry, Quiet, Lonely, Clumsy, Busy Exhibit,” through Sept. 6. Carle illustrated Bill Martin, Jr.’s book “Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?” then wrote and illustrated “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” which has been translated into 66 languages and has sold more than 50 million copies since it was published in 1969. “Very Eric Carle” features hands-on activities inspired by five of Carle’s classic books: Visitors can weave a web with the “Very Busy Spider,” compose a night symphony with the “Very Quiet Cricket,” and create artwork using many of Carle’s materials and techniques. 215 N. Seventh St., Phoenix. childrensmuseumofphoenix.org

2. Baseball. The Arizona Diamondbacks’ air-conditioned, domed stadium offers relief from the heat with kid-friendly amenities, starting with the D-backs Kids Club. It’s free to join, and kids can visit the new Kids Club Headquarters at Section 125 to redeem a prize for each game attended, including a Nick Ahmed poster, Topps baseball card pack, sweatband set, rally towel, wrist watch, kids clear bag, Phoenix Zoo ticket and a baseball.

Times and ticket prices vary. Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix. 602-462-6500 or dbacks.com

3. Basketball. Playoff tickets are expensive and hard to come by, but enjoy the Phoenix Suns first playoff run since 2010 from home or join a watch party at a favorite restaurant with a patio around town. The championship WNBA Phoenix Mercury team plays all summer in the air-conditioned Phoenix Suns Arena. And every home Sunday is KidsDay, when the first 400 kids (ages 16 and younger) who attend get a free clear bag, postgame selfies on the court with Mercury players and $2 kid-sized concession items. Plus interactive games, guest appearances, sign-making stations and more! phoenixmercury.com

4. Bowling. AMF’s Summer Games Season Pass (amf.com/summer-games) lets passholders bowl three games daily — and it covers shoe rentals — at a local AMF, Bowlero or Bowlmor bowling center. Buy your pass at a participating center or upgrade to a passport for use at all participating bowling alleys nationwide. Prices vary, but the pass starts at about $49.95 for ages 16 and up; $34.95 for ages 15 and younger. Kids Bowl Free — a national program designed by bowling centers to give children a safe, fun summer (kidsbowlfree.com) — lets each registered child bowl up to two free games daily. Let It Roll Bowl in Phoenix participates, as does Glenfair Lanes in Glendale. Bowlers still rent shoes for about $3.50. The offer is available to ages 15 and younger, and others can participate at discounted rates, making it a great family outing.

5. Cheap Movies. Even when it’s 115 degrees outside, it’s always cool in the movie theater! From June 11-July 22, The Harkins Family Fun Series offers a family favorite movie for $3 for My Harkins Awards Members (it’s free to join) and $5 for non-members at participating Harkins Theatres. Plus, get 50 percent off a Kids Combo for members each weekday before 6 p.m. Learn more at harkins.com/family-fun-series. Alamo Drafthouse movie theaters (drafthouse.com) in Tempe, Chandler and Gilbert hosts Kids Camp matinees

KRISTI JAN HOOVER

for $1-$5 that must be reserved online in advance. All ticket sales are donated to local nonprofits working to improve the community. And at FatCats movie theaters in Gilbert, Mesa and Queen Creek (fatcatsfun.com), movies are only $5 for everyone on Tuesdays!

RaisingARIZONAKids.com June 2021

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6. Crayons. Crayola Experience is now open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. WednesdaySaturday at Chandler Fashion Center. Kids and adults can enjoy hands-on art projects, such as creating a custom crayon, bringing 4D art to life, creating melted wax spin-art and more. The Crayola Store offers a huge array of Crayola products and souvenirs, including plush toys and apparel. General admission is $19.99; annual passes start at $35.99. Visit crayolaexperience.com/chandler

7. Flashlight Nights. On Saturdays all summer — June 5-Sept. 4 — shine your own flashlight along the Desert Botanical Garden’s trails to discover night-blooming plants and animals that only appear in the desert after dark. Plus, live performances by local bands, dance groups or puppeteers each week. $14.95, $9.95 for ages 3-17. 6-9 p.m. Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. 480-941-1225 or dbg.org

8. Free Concerts. Let the hottest part of the day pass, then head out to hear live music at Desert Ridge Marketplace (shopdesertridge.com); Westgate Entertainment District (westgateaz.com) or Tempe Marketplace (tempemarketplace.com) on various nights all summer.

9. Free Kids Meals. Kids Café at select Phoenix Public Library locations (phoenixpubliclibrary.org/kids/programs/kids-cafe) provides free meals courtesy of St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance for ages 18 and younger Monday-Saturday while supplies last.

Children do not need to be present, but parents/caregivers will be asked to provide proof of children and list each child’s name and age. On Fridays, customers may request double meals if supplies allow. The Peoria Unified School District (peoriaunified.org/breakfastandlunch) is also offering breakfast and lunch curbside free to ages 18 and younger this summer at 12 school sites. A snack and dinner will be available at the Peoria Community Center. Children must be present, or student identification must be presented, but children do not have to be enrolled in the Peoria Unified School District to participate. Meals for ages 19 and older are $1.75 for breakfast and $3.75 for lunch. For more free kids meal locations, call 602-528-3434 or 1-800-445-1914 or text “FOOD” or “COMIDA” to 877-877.

10. Free Museums. Summer is the perfect time to explore air-conditioned museums around the Valley, and many offer free or pay-what-you-wish admission days in the summer. The Phoenix Art Museum (phxart.org) offers voluntary donation days from 3-7 p.m. Wednesdays and First Fridays. The Heard Museum (heard.org) in Phoenix offers free admission from 4-8 p.m. on First Fridays. The Chandler Museum (chandlermuseum. org) offers free admission Tuesday-Sunday (closed Mondays). The Blue Star Museums program (arts.gov/bluestarmuseums) provides free summer museum admission to America’s active-duty military personnel and their families through Labor Day. More than a dozen Arizona museums participate, including the Commemorative Air Force Airbase Arizona Museum in Mesa and the Arizona Railway Museum in Chandler.

11. Kittens. Find a new friend and help save a kitten at The Kitten Pop Up [Adoption] Shop at Scottsdale Quarter from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on June 26-27 and July 24-25. Every summer, more than 1,200 kittens are rescued by the Arizona Animal Welfare League (aawl. org), which needs to find loving homes for these adorable fur babies. The AAWL Pop Up is on the second floor of building 15279, near the public restrooms, on 72nd Place between North Street and Quad Drive. scottsdalequarter.com

RaisingARIZONAKids.com June 2021

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12. Legos. Legoland Discovery Center inside Arizona Mills mall in Tempe boasts an indoor playground, two small rides, Lego-building areas, a car-testing space and a 4D theater showing short Lego films. There’s also a cafeteria and parents lounge. On display now is the Lego Trolls World Tour that includes a scavenger hunt, Troll Lego builds, a dance party, a giant Lego Poppy and more. Visit arizona.legolanddiscoverycenter.com

13. Maricopa County Reads. Ages 11 and younger can sign up for a free summer reading program intended to promote literacy and help stop the summer slide — the term given to the learning losses experienced by children between school years. Participants earn points, unlock badges and win prizes for minutes added to a personal reading log. Prizes include a free personal pan pizza from Peter Piper Pizza, a free kids meal from Rubio’s, a free lemonade from Raising Cane’s and even a free book.

Visit maricopacountyreads.org

14. Minigolf. Miniature golf is a great, safe outdoor activity that allows for social distancing, but still lets families get out and have some fun — especially in the cooler morning or evening hours. There are lots of places to enjoy minigolf in greater Phoenix, but three nice outdoor courses include CrackerJax (crackerjax.com) and Castles-n-Coasters (castlesncoasters.com) in Phoenix and Golfland Sunsplash (golfland.com) in Mesa.

15. Moonlight Hikes. Maricopa County parks (maricopacountyparks.net) offers popular full-moon hikes monthly. Also, check the event calendar for Arizona State Parks (azstateparks.com), which details a Sunset Stroll in Lost Dutchman State Park in Apache Junction and more.

16. Outer Space. Arizona has been at the forefront of space discoveries and NASA missions for decades. Explore “Ready to Launch: Arizona’s Place in Space” featuring objects from NASA, Lowell Observatory, Arizona State University and the University of Arizona, including an Apollo-era space suit, hand-drawn moon maps and photographs of deep space.

Learn about the researchers, astronauts and scientists who are taking us to the edges of our galaxy and beyond. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday through Nov. 30. $5-$10. Arizona History Museum, 949 E. Second St., Tucson. 520-628-5774 or azhs.org/tucson

17. Pottery Painting. As You Wish (asyouwishpottery.com) hosts $25 summer kids classes and to-go projects at its six Arizona locations. In-store classes are from 9-10:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Color Me Mine (phoenix.colormemine.com) at Biltmore Fashion Park also offers in-studio and take-home pottery painting projects.

18. Splash Pads. Splash pads abound at outdoor shopping centers and local parks Valleywide. This is a brilliant and free way for kids to cool off and get some exercise despite the heat. Family favorites include the Pioneer Community Park splash pad in Peoria (peoriaaz.gov), and one of the area’s largest new splash pad playgrounds — The Cloud — in Tempe’s Kiwanis Park (tempe.gov). We also love the beautiful fountain/splash pad area at Scottsdale Quarter (scottsdalequarter.com) along with splash pads at Tempe Marketplace (tempemarketplace.com) and Desert Ridge Marketplace in north Phoenix (shopdesertridge.com), which typically offer periodic kids entertainment. Find a favorite splash pad near you at raisingarizonakids.com/splash-pads RaisingARIZONAKids.com June 2021

27

19. Summer Bridge Activities. Kidstop Toys and Books in Scottsdale loves to help stop the summer slide in learning with its Summer Bridge Activities book program. Buy an age-appropriate Summer Bridge book for $14.99, and when your child finishes every page of the book, he or she will get to redeem it for 50 percent off a toy at Kidstop. Kidstop also partnered with Advantage Tutoring to give four lucky local teachers Summer Bridge books for their entire classes. Visit kidstoptoys.com

20. Summer Fridays at The Quad. Scottsdale Quarter outdoor shopping center hosts free family friendly Summer Fridays from June 4 through Aug. 20 at its scenic splash pad. Starting at 10 a.m., enjoy a DJ, snow cones by Tropical Sno and more. The first 100 kids get free toys to take home! Visit scottsdalequarter.com

21. Summer Reading Bingo. Changing Hands bookstores in Phoenix and Tempe are rolling out their summer reading program aimed at ages 8-12. The free program celebrates diversity and inclusion in children’s literature. Collect a Summer Reading Bingo Board in person (in store or curbside) or download it at changinghands. com/kidsread2021. Kids color in corresponding squares as they complete each task, such as reading a book with an evil villain or a graphic novel based on a real person or event. Other tasks include reading a book by a debut author, a book about an immigrant or refugee, or one with an animal as a main character. Those who complete enough tasks to connect five squares earn a prize pack. Kids who complete the whole board will be entered in a raffle for a $50 Changing Hands Kids’ Book Bundle.

22. Tie Dye. Tie-dye clothing is all the rage right now, and it’s a fun, easy summer project for all ages. Buy a kit — such as the Tulip One-Step Tie-Dye kits — from any craft store, and grab white shirts, socks, pillowcases, towels or anything that needs some new life. Pinterest.com offers lots of tutorials, from spiral techniques to heart-shaped patterns.

23. Tucson Nights. The Arizona-Sonoran Desert Museum — which is part zoo, part botanical garden — is even cooler after dark! It’s open until 9 p.m. on Saturday nights

summer reading

in June. See bats perform aerial acrobatics in pursuit of dinner, beavers splashing around in their pond, and scorpions glowing green under a black light. Bring your flashlight! 520883-2702 or desertmuseum.org

IMMIGRANTS are people who choose to live in another country REFUGEES are people who leave their country to escape danger.

"POC" a m eans of co lo r person

activism is when you work to make a positive difference in the world

novels in e verse arl lyrica or poetic

"debut" refers to an autho r's first published book

an awardwinner by a poc

a book about an immigrant or refugee

READ A FRIEND’S FAVORITE BOOK

a book with an activism theme

listen to an audio book

A GRAPHIC NOVEL an animal BASED ON A REAL PERSON OR EVENT main character

character goes on an unplanned adventure

A BOOK ABOUT AN ATHLETE OR SPORT

free space!

A BOOK BY A DEBUT AUTHOR

24. Youth on Course. Ages 6-19 can join the nonprofit Youth on Course for about $20 and golf for $5 or less at more than 1,400 participating golf courses

a book with an evil Villain

villains come in many different disguises

A BOOK WITH A CREEPY COVER

#ownvoices TRY AN ACTIVITY book based on FROM A STEM OR a folktale from MAKER BOOK another country

a book written in verse

A BOOK WITH AN ASIAN OR character with ASIAN AMERICAN magical powers MAIN CHARACTER

READ A BOOK PUBLISHED THIS YEAR

mc with a physical or learning disability

A CHARACTER WHO COPES WITH GRIEF

book by an read a lgbtq+ author or with an lgbtq+ picture book to a loved one character

one of the central characters is a bully

a book a parent read at your age

nationwide. The national nonprofit also offers a caddie program, paid high school internships and college scholarships. Participation includes a membership to the Arizona Golf Association, which offers additional access to local golf events and opportunities to connect with other young golfers. Visit youthoncourse.org

#o wnvo refersices diverseto characte written rs authors by that from diversesam e group

LGBTQ+ stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (or questioning) and others.

INSTRUCTIONS: Color in completed squares as you read! Connect five squares (horizontally, vertically, diagonally) to receive a prize pack. Complete the whole board and you’ll be entered in a raffle for a grand prize: a $50 Changing Hands Kids’ Book Bundle at summer’s end! Show us your bingo board in-store or curbside at either our Tempe or Phoenix locations.

For weekly updates on events throughout the summer sign up for our e-newsletter at changinghands.com.

One card per participant. Program runs until 8/1/2021.

Coming next month...

more Summer Survival tips RaisingARIZONAKids.com June 2021

29

Utah’s Zion National Park offers scenic family fun

By Carrie Wheeler • Photos courtesy of the Wheeler-Wiggins family

M

y family has never been particularly outdoorsy. Sure, we take the occasional spin on a bike or venture out on a (well-traversed) hiking path. Camping

trips only happen with my 10-year-old son’s bi-annual Scout campouts.

In non-COVID times, our family vacations generally revolved around big cities,

restaurants, shopping and sites. This year, obviously, things are different. COVID numbers are fluctuating, new variants emerging and travel is still unavailable in many places internationally. Even though my husband and I have been vaccinated, my son hasn’t, so we are not comfortable flying, dining inside restaurants or visiting crowded areas.

With these parameters in mind, we figured that the safest course of action was a destination accessible by car where we could spend most of our time outdoors. Bonus if we could try something new and different — not a tall order considering we’ve done a whole lot of nothing for the past year. Basically, we were ready to test the traveling waters, so we decided to do it at Zion National Park.

Zion National Park in Utah is a mere 6.5 hour drive from Phoenix. The massive, crazy and wondrous canyons and rock structures are awe-inspiring and filled with hiking trails, wildlife and a whole lot of natural beauty. The closest town, Springdale, lies at the south of the national park and has the feel of a smaller version of Sedona with restaurants, bars, art galleries and little shops.

In the past, I filed national park vacations away as aspirational — something I should want to do, but probably more meant for people excited to pitch a tent and squat in the forest who are able to exude calm in the presence of bears. In Zion, we definitely found provisions for those looking to rough it. But there’s also room for those who require a certain amount of luxury (like private toilets) on their vacations.

On our trip, we opted for a sliding scale of adventure. It started at Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort (zionponderosa.com), a family-friendly enclave and a destination on its own. Located about 15 minutes east of the park proper, Ponderosa has vacation rentals and cabin suites (the only options with private bathrooms), cowboy cabins, glamping options that ranged from spacious tents to

30 June 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

RaisingARIZONAKids.com June 2021

31

NATIONAL PARK

Conestoga wagons, RV hook-ups and tent

THIS 229-SQUARE MILE PARK in southwestern Utah is near the town of

a pretty good restaurant on property, or

Springdale. A prominent feature is Zion Canyon, which is 15 miles long and up to

some basic groceries for sale for those

2,640 feet deep. The park’s unique geography features unusual plant and animal

wanting to do their own campfire

diversity in its mountains, canyons, buttes, mesas, rivers and natural arches. Here

cooking.

are some tips for a family trip:

camping. Many of the accommodations include a free buffet breakfast (which we opted out of due to COVID), and there’s

As for things to do, there’s an array of activities on the premises: mini golf,

• You’ll need two to seven nights for a trip to Zion National Park. Get started at nps. gov/zion/index.htm

swimming/hot tubbing, rock-wall climbing, zip lines, paint ball, tennis, golf

• Plan ahead to get $1 shuttle passes, lock in an e-bike, or schedule a guided tour.

carting — as well as guided activities like

• Fourth-graders and their families get into any national park for free courtesy of

canyoneering, horseback riding, hiking

the Every Kid Outdoors program. Visit nps.gov/kids/every-kid-outdoors.htm • Consider an audiobook for the 6.5-hour road trip from Phoenix.

and Jeep tours. All the activities cost extra, but it makes planning adventures super simple.

Shuttle: At $1 per ticket, the park shuttle is the cheapest route through Zion, with

My family opted to glamp in a

periodic stops at or near most of the major hiking trails. A ticket (search “Zion” at

Conestoga wagon for one night. The king

recreation.gov) offers unlimited access to shuttles for the day. Tickets go on sale the

bed and bunks were plush and cozy, if a bit

day before travel, and they do sell out. If they do, there’s another shuttle company, St.

chilly. There were a couple of space heaters

George shuttle (zion.stgshuttle.com) that’s about $65 for a round-trip shuttle and will

in the wagon, though we were a little wary

take you to one stop with a specific pickup time.

of sparking up a heater in close quarters, so we just cuddled and powered through

Renting bikes: E-bikes are a great way to travel the approximately six miles of roads

the 25-degree chill. We spent our first

off limits to local traffic while also taking in the scenery at your own pace. They can

evening tooling around the grounds in a

be pricey, starting at $75 per bike per half day. Visitors can also rent traditional bikes,

golf cart and huddling by a fire in front of

though be warned, there are some elevation changes. Check Zion Cycles (zioncycles.

our wagon. It wasn’t exactly the Oregon

com), Zion Guru (zionguru.com) or Zion Peddler (zionpeddler.com) for availability.

Trail — but still novel for a family of

Zion Cycles and Zion Guru have double e-bikes for families.

city dwellers. Communal bathrooms and showers were about a half-block away, so it

Cars: Regular traffic is not permitted on the shuttle route, but there are pullouts along

was a good thing that we weren’t under a

the side of the main thoroughfare where the public can park and access some trails and

threat of dysentery.

climbing areas.

After a frigid night, we did some rock-wall climbing and zip-lining on the

For a longer trip: Take a day trip to The Shallows — a slot canyon within Zion

premises and then headed to our only pre-

National Park. Other options to extend your vacation include driving to the Grand

planned activity, a two-hour canyoneering

Canyon, Bryce Canyon (1.5 hours east of Zion), Petrified Forest or Horseshoe Bend

trip by East Zion Experience I found

overlook near Page.

on Airbnb. We took an ATV from the

32 June 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Orderville headquarters 10 minutes away to a nearby slot canyon where we met up with the rest of our group.

After a 15-minute hike with people ages 5 to 50, we descended the canyon through rappelling, shimmying, sliding on our butts … whatever it took. The rappelling drops ranged from 10 to 42

Wilson Wiggins (10) rock climbing at Zion National Park.

feet. The descent was a little scary, but a controlled scary. Our particular tour had a lot of people, so our two-hour trip ended up being closer to four. Despite the large group, it wasn’t too difficult to

sold out. We checked on renting

keep our distance. Everyone wore masks

e-bikes, and they were also

(though not always correctly). The entire

completely spoken for.

adventure was loads of fun and one of the highlights of our trip.

Exhausted and dirty, we drove to our

After one final check, we lucked out and snagged what was probably the last two-person e-bike in

next location in Springdale. To get to

Springdale. With our son perched

Springdale from Orderville, travelers must

on the back of my husband’s bike,

take the breathtaking drive through Zion.

and me on a single, we headed

Entering the park costs a fee ($35 for seven

through the pedestrian entrance of

days), unless you have a fourth-grader,

Zion and started our adventure.

The MASSIVE, CRAZY and WONDROUS canyons and rock structures are AWE-INSPIRING and filled with hiking trails, wildlife and a whole lot of NATURAL BEAUTY.

and then it’s free as part of the national

Bikes are allowed along the

Every Kid Outdoors program that gives

shuttle route, which isn’t open

free entry to fourth-graders, siblings and

to regular traffic, and unlike the

up to three adults (register beforehand at

shuttle, it allows visitors to go at their own

shuttle or e-bikes, there are family-friendly

nps.gov/kids/every-kid-outdoors.htm).

pace, stop at their own pace and enjoy the

trailheads along the main thoroughfare

We didn’t do a lot of planning for the

fresh air while doing so. The only rule

— The Overlook Trail being another

trip, instead thinking we’d get a feel for

bikers need to follow is pulling over when

recommended for families. We’d also

the town before pulling the trigger on any

a shuttle passes. We hopped on our bikes

heard about visiting The Shallows — an

activities.

intent to check out the Emerald Pools,

all-day hiking/rappelling trip into a slot

Big mistake.

which came highly recommended as the

canyon. That, however, will have to wait

Zion gets crowded. And since there

go-to hike for families with youngish kids.

for another trip. And there will be another.

are a finite number of ways to get into the

We stopped at The Grotto shuttle stop and

park and to many of the trailheads, it’s

took the Kayenta hiking trail down to the

good to at least know what your options

Emerald Pool Trail, which we were told is

are beforehand. We tried in vain to get

much less crowded than the route at the

any sort of shuttle pass. Everything was

actual Lower Emerald Pool shuttle stop.

For those who don’t get tickets for a

Carrie Wheeler is a Phoenix freelance writer and the mother of Wilson (10).

RaisingARIZONAKids.com June 2021

33

family time!

You're a Good Man Charlie Brown (May 28-June 6) at Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre.

June TOP EVENTS

Yes, it’s hot. But that doesn’t mean putting the breaks on summer family fun. After months of

MAY 1-JUNE 26: Dog Days At The Garden. Enjoy a “pawsitively” perfect morning with your pup exploring the beauty and sniffs along the garden trails. 7-10 a.m. Saturdays through June. $9.95-$29.95. Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. 480-941-1225 or dbg.org

virtual-only entertainment, in-person events are back: Flashlight hikes, evening concerts, splash pad fun, summer movies and theater performances. The Arizona Diamondbacks are stepping up to host a free family vaccination event at Chase Field this month, so ages 12 and up can get a free COVID-19 shot to protect themselves and our community from this pandemic.

NOTE: Because last-minute schedule changes can occur, please confirm dates and times on event websites. Find more extensive day-by-day event listings at raisingarizonakids.com/calendar Send calendar information to familytime@RAKmagazine.com

34 June 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

MAY 28-JUNE 6: You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown. Charles Schulz’s beloved comic strip “Peanuts” comes to life with a revue of songs and vignettes. 7:30 p.m. FridaySaturday, 3 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. $20. Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre at Scottsdale Fashion Square, 7014 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix. 480-483-1664 or desertstages.org

Curiouser & Curiouser (June 3-July 25) at Peoria Center for the Performing Arts.

Barbie Truck Totally Throwback Tour (June 5) at SanTan Village.

MAY 30-JULY 4:

JUNE 5:

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park: Summer Concert Series. Enjoy live music by local bands on

Barbie Truck Totally Throwback Tour. Barbie is hitting the

Sunday evenings at Scottsdale’s popular family park. Featured bands perform alternative, classic rock,

road to celebrate more than 60 years as a cultural icon (and

retro, country, and rhythm and blues. Bring blankets or chairs, pack a picnic or try out the onsite food trucks.

favorite children’s toy). 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Free. Limited-edition

7:30-9 p.m.; gates open at 5 p.m. $30 for up to six people in an 8-foot-square reserved space. Reservations

Barbie merchandise available for purchase. SanTan Village, 2218

required. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, 7301 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale. 480-312-2312 or

E. Williams Field Road, Gilbert. barbie.mattel.com/en-us/about/

therailroadpark.com

barbie-truck-tour.html

JUNE 1-AUG 1:

SIBSHOPS. This sibling support workshop for ages 7-14 offers

Tails and Tales: Summer Reading Program. The Maricopa County summer reading program

a safe place for children to bond through expressive recreational

encourages all ages to dive into summer reading, participate in challenges and earn prizes.

activities. Meet others to talk about having a sibling with special

Participants are urged to read or listen to audiobooks for at least 20 minutes daily. Sign up to join

needs and how to handle difficult situations. 9:30 a.m. to noon. $10.

and visit your local library for more information. maricopacountyreads.org or read20az.com or

Registration required. Surprise Team 4 Kids, 13601 N. Litchfield

leepor20az.com (in Spanish)

Road, Suite 124, Surprise. 623-322-8250 or team4kids.com

JUNE 3-JULY 25: Curiouser & Curiouser. Peoria’s TheaterWorks is bringing back its immensely popular immersive

JUNE 5-6:

theater concept. Audience members venture down the rabbit hole and see Wonderland as Alice would,

Celebrate Bluegrass. Enjoy lively bluegrass performances and

walking through rooms to discover scenes and encountering inhabitants. Recommended for ages 16

activities celebrating this American roots genre. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

and older, the 100-minute experience encompasses visual art, music, dance, puppetry and theater. ADA

$20; $15 for ages 13-19, $10 for ages 4-12, free for ages 3 and

accessible. Multiple entry times 7-9 p.m. Thursday, 7-9:40 p.m. Friday, 1-9 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. $46;

younger. Registration required. Musical Instrument Museum,

purchase in advance. Peoria Center for the Performing Arts, 10580 N. 83rd Drive, Peoria. 623-815-7930

4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. 480-478-6000 or mim.org

or theaterworks.org/events

JUNE 4:

JUNE 5 AND 26: Free Family COVID-19 Vaccination Event. The Arizona

Family Fridays: Pollinators. Museum of Northern Arizona’s educator Mari Soliday presents a short

Diamondbacks — in partnership with the Arizona Department

educational program, including activities to try at home. Free. 2:30 p.m. first Fridays via Facebook

of Health Services and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona — are

Live. facebook.com/musnaz/events

hosting a free family vaccination event at Chase Field for ages 12 and older. Attendees can run the bases, take a picture on the

JUNE 4-AUG. 20:

field and receive free tickets to an upcoming D-backs game (after

Summer Fridays. Spend Friday mornings splashing around at The Quad, complete with a DJ, snow

getting their second Pfizer COVID-19 vaccination on June 26

cones by Tropical Sno and water toys by the splash pad. Free toys for the first 100 kids. 10-11 a.m.

at Chase Field). 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Appointments encouraged at

Free. Scottsdale Quarter, 15059 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. scottsdalequarter.com

podvaccine.azdhs.gov or 844-542-8201.

RaisingARIZONAKids.com June 2021

35

family time! JUNE TOP EVENTS JUNE 5-SEPT. 4: Flashlight Nights 2021. On Saturdays, bring your own flashlight to glimpse the night-blooming plants and animals that appear in the desert after dark. Reservations required. $14.95; $9.95 for ages 3-17. 6-9 p.m. Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. 480-941-1225 or dbg.org

JUNE 6-AUG. 10: Cruise the Zoo: Drive your car on a special route through the Phoenix Zoo to see flamingos, giraffes, elephants, monkeys and more from the comfort, safety and security of your own vehicle.

Limited, timed entry beginning at 7 a.m. Sunday-Tuesday. Tickets must be pre-purchased online. $65 per vehicle; $50 for zoo

Flashlight Nights (June 5-Sept. 4) at Desert Botanical Garden.

members. Optional purchases include kettle corn, beverages, youth binoculars, zoo animal collectibles and digital photo. phoenixzoo.org/cruisethezoo

JUNE 8-JULY 22: As You Wish Summer Classes. Paint pottery with in-studio

JUNE 13:

instructions or reserve a take-home kit. $25 includes pottery,

Cool Nihongo. Want to learn Japanese culture? Practice your language skills? Or just enjoy

paints, instruction and firing. Classes are aimed at ages 5 and older.

all things Japan? Cool Nihongo is the answer. $15 per class; $10 for members. 10-11 a.m. The

9-10:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Visit asyouwishpottery.com

Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix, 1125 N. Third Ave., Phoenix. japanesefriendshipgarden.

for store locations, class descriptions and registration information.

org/event-details

JUNE 11-JULY 22:

JUNE 15:

Harkins Theatres: Family Fun Series. Bring the entire family

Virtual Book Launch Event: In The Heights. Before “Hamilton” became a global phenomenon,

to see animated favorites on the big screen. My Harkins Awards

and before Lin-Manuel Miranda became a household name, a little show called “In the Heights” shook

Members (membership is free) can see a family movie for $3 each

up Broadway with its hip-hop and salsa soundtrack and big, bilingual heart. In the new book “In the

($5 for non-members). Members also get half off a Kids Combo

Heights: Finding Home,” Miranda, Quiara Alegría Hudes and Jeremy McCarter tell the story of the

weekdays before 6 p.m. Learn more at harkins.com/family-fun-series

show’s humble beginnings, from rehearsals in a bookstore basement to the Broadway smash and soon-to-be feature film. 8-9 p.m. Tickets start at $46.39 for this Zoom event and a hardcover copy of

JUNE 12-13:

the book. changinghands.com/event/june2021/lin-manuel-miranda

The Little Engine That Could. The newly reopened Great Arizona Puppet Theater debuts this show about the optimistic little engine who

JUNE 16-27:

faces a seemingly impossible task. $12; $8 for ages 12 and younger.

Rumpelstiltskin. Enjoy a funny version of the classic tale of the strange little fellow with the hard-to-

10 a.m. Wednesday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Shows and

guess name and the miller’s daughter who must spin straw into gold. $12; $8 for ages 12 and younger.

showtimes subject to change. Great Arizona Puppet Theater, 302 W.

10 a.m. Wednesday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Shows and showtimes subject to change. Great

Latham St., Phoenix. 602-262-2050 or azpuppets.org

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

36 June 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Rumpelstiltskin (June 16-27) at Arizona Puppet Theater.

Kitten Pop Up [Adoption] Shop (June 26-27) at Scottsdale Quarter.

JUNE 20: Arizona Diamondbacks: Father’s Day Hawaiian Shirt.

Cheer on the D-backs playing the Dodgers. The first 15,000 dads will receive a D-backs Hawaiian shirt courtesy of Tyson Foods.

JUNE 18-27:

Game starts at 1:10 p.m. Ticket prices vary. Chase Field, 401 E.

Polkadots: The Cool Kids Musical. As the first Polkadot in an all-Square school, 8-year-old Lily

Jefferson, Phoenix. mlb.com/dbacks/tickets/promotions

faces the almost impossible task of gaining acceptance from her peers. A colorful history lesson, inspired by the events of The Little Rock Nine, reminds us that individual differences make us awesome, not outcasts. In person and live-streamed. 7 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday. Spotlight

JUNE 26-27:

Youth Theatre, 10620 N. 43rd Ave. Glendale. 602-843-8318 or sytaz.org/polkadots

Kitten Pop Up [Adoption] Shop. Find a new friend and help save a kitten at this Scottsdale Quarter event. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The

JUNE 19:

Arizona Animal Welfare League (aawl.org) Pop Up is on the second

Downtown Tempe Foodie Brunch Stroll. Supporting local businesses just got tastier! Join this

floor of building 15279, near the public restrooms, on 72nd Place

at-your-own-pace foodie brunch stroll in downtown Tempe. Outside patio dining available. $5 Access

between North Street and Quad Drive. Scottsdalequarter.com

Pass offers small bites and special tasting menus with $8-$10 food and drink options from participating restaurants, downtown Tempe swag and parking at the 201 S. Ash garage. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Check in at the southwest corner of Fifth and Mill avenues. downtowntempe.com/events/foodie-strolls

JUNE 30-JULY 11: Goldilocks. In this slapstick version of the traditional tale, there’s

JUNE 19-JAN. 17, 2022

big trouble for three bears when a rude little girl with golden

Build It opens at Arizona Science Center allowing visitors to explore basic design and engineering

curls visits their house. $12; $8 for ages 12 and younger. 10

concepts as they build, test, and tinker with variety of materials, including cardboard, Legos, blocks,

a.m. Wednesday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Saturday-Sundays. No show

and more. Open during regular hours: 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. $5 special-exhibition fee per person,

on July 4. Shows and times subject to change. Great Arizona

plus general admission: $19.95; $14.95 for ages 3-17, free for children under age 3. Arizona Science

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

Center, 600 E. Washington St., Phoenix. 602-716-2000 or azscience.org

azpuppets.org

RaisingARIZONAKids.com June 2021

37

family time! July 4th events in Arizona

Habitat for Humanity Grand Opry (July 3). This

the Giants and enjoy a firework show presented by

Park. Details TBA. 7-9:30 p.m. $5 parking.

Grand Opry 2021 show features the Flatcar Rider Band,

Gila River Hotels & Casinos. Plus, 10,000 clear tote

Tumbleweed Park, 2250 S. McQueen Road, Chandler.

a beer tent (sponsored by Grand Canyon Brewery),

bags will be given to attendees each day. 7:10 p.m.

chandleraz.gov/explore/special-events/july-4th-

food, carnival games, a live auction and a cake walk.

Saturday, 6:10 p.m.Sunday. Ticket prices vary. Chase

fireworks-spectacular

12:30-4 p.m. Tickets at venue: $30 families; $10

Field, 401 E. Jefferson, Phoenix. mlb.com/dbacks/

adults; $5 seniors and ages 14 and younger. Williams

tickets/promotions

Community Stage, 200 W. Route 66, Williams. experiencewilliams.com/grand-opry-2021

Hometown Fourth at Schnepf Farms (July 4).

Enjoy live music, watermelon-eating contests, a

City of Peoria All-American Festival (July 4).

national flag service, artisan vendors, food trucks,

Enjoy an evening of family-friendly entertainment,

lawn games and a 20-minute fireworks show. 4-10

Drive-in Fireworks Spectacular (July 3). Tune

food trucks, music and a fireworks display. Live music

p.m. (fireworks start at 8:30 p.m.) Prices TBA.

in to KOOL FM 94.5 for a pre-show and music

by three bands: Rob West, Mickey and the Motorcars

Schnepf Farms, 24810 Rittenhouse Road, Queen

during the “Titan Solar Power Arizona Celebration of

and Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers. Free parking

Creek. 480-987-3100 or schnepffarms.com

Freedom” fireworks show. 9 p.m. Parking lot opens

and admission, but tickets are required. 5-10 p.m.

at 7 p.m. Free. Fiesta Mall, 1425 W. Southern Ave.,

Peoria Sports Complex, 16101 N. 83rd Ave., Peoria.

PBS: Capitol Fourth (July 4). Tune in to Arizona

Mesa. azcelebrationoffreedom.org

peoriaaz.gov/events

PBS for a national celebration of America’s 245th birthday. This all-star salute will feature coverage

Let Freedom Sing (July 3-4). Let Freedom Sing

Gilbert Centennial 4th of July Celebration (July

from cameras around Washington, D.C., ensuring

is an inspiring celebration of the nation’s birthday

4). Lounge on the Great Lawn and enjoy live music, a

viewers are front and center for the nation’s greatest

in song uniting diverse backgrounds and fostering

DJ, kids activities and a fireworks show. Bring your own

fireworks display. 7 p.m. pbs.org/a-capitol-fourth

a sense of community. $40 per person; $75 for two;

food or grab something from the food trucks. 5:30-9:15

further discounts for multiple tickets (up to $165 for

p.m. (fireworks start at 8:45 p.m.) Free parking and

Scottsdale’s 8th Annual 4th of July Celebration

six). Advance tickets required. Park Place Mall, 5870

admission; VIP packages available. Gilbert Regional

(July 4). Enjoy live entertainment and fun for the whole

E. Broadway Blvd., #214, Tucson. 520-319-0400 or

Park, 3005 E. Queen Creek Road, Gilbert. gilbertaz.gov

family. Plus, twice the fireworks this year! 5-9:30 p.m.

arts-express.org

General admission: $21 per carload; Polo Field: $36 July 4th Fireworks Drive-in (July 4). Celebrate

per carload; VIP: $36, $18 for ages 12 and younger.

Arizona Diamondbacks Fireworks Spectacular

Independence Day with a drive-in style July 4th

WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road,

(July 3-4). Come watch the D-backs play against

Fireworks Spectacular at Chandler’s Tumbleweed

Scottsdale. scottsdaleindependenceday.com

38 June 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

2021 SUMMER CAMPS Summer camp is a chance for kids to learn new skills, make new friends, and have fun!

• Academics • Animals • Art • Leadership • Mixed Activities • Overnight • Performing Arts • Special Needs • Sports • STEM/STEAM • Theme • Virtual

s’ rizona Kid A g in is a R to browse Click here enture! mmer adv u s ’s d il h ur c to find yo

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family time! around Arizona

World’s Oldest Rodeo (June 28-July 4) in Prescott.

FLAGSTAFF

to 2 p.m. Free. City Hall parking lot, 211 W. Aspen Ave.,

from the Museum of Northern Arizona, 3101 N. Fort

Flagstaff Community Market (May 2-Oct 17). This

Flagstaff. flagstaffmarket.com

Valley Road, Flagstaff. 928-774-5211 ext. 284 or

community market helps support independent growers

musnaz.org/ventures-trips

and producers in Northern Arizona. 8 a.m. to noon

Red Mountain Day Trip (June 18). Join geologist

Sundays. Free. City Hall parking lot, 211 W. Aspen

Kent Colbath on one of his favorite short hikes to a

Local Author Signs “My Monster Moofy”(June 19).

Ave., Flagstaff. 928-853-2382 or flagstaffmarket.com

spectacular amphitheater created by a steam explosion

Pre-order your copy of “My Monster Moofy” by local

in a volcanic cone about 700,000 years ago. Erosion

author Annie Watson, then pick it up in the alley behind

Flagstaff Urban Flea Market (June 13-Oct 10).

sculpted the black, red and yellow eruptive materials

Bright Side Book Shop (weather permitting). Orders

In downtown Flagstaff on second Saturdays, meet an

into hoodoos, slot canyons and other exotic landforms.

come with a Moofy cookie made by Mozelle’s Downtown

eclectic mix of artisans and peddlers selling a unique

8 a.m. to 5 p.m. $95; $75 for museum members. Meet

Bakery, and you can take pictures with the 4-foot tall

variety of goods and flea-market-type treasures. 9 a.m.

at the Red Mountain trailhead parking lot or caravan

cardboard Moofy in the alley! Tutus are welcome, and

40 June 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Local Author Signs “My Monster Moofy” (June 19) in Flagstaff. masks are required. 3-5 p.m. Bright Side Bookshop, 18

PRESCOTT

N. San Francisco Street, Flagstaff. downtownflagstaff.org

Best Party of the Year (June 5-6). Enjoy a festivalstyle atmosphere where costumes and shenanigans

Wildflower Walks (June 26). Join the

are encouraged. This family-friendly event features

knowledgeable arboretum staff on a morning walk

food trucks, music, a beer tent, games, bike demos and

through the gardens and explore the colorful native

fun rides. A Paul Bunyan-sized wooden bike will be

Northern Arizona wildflowers. Bring water, a camera

burned at Saturday night’s festivities. Plus giveaways

and comfortable walking shoes. Participants must wear

and raffles. 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free. Pioneer Park, 1200

a mask, and advance registration is required. $5; free

Commerce Drive, Prescott. visit-prescott.com/event/

to arboretum members. 9:30-11 a.m. The Arboretum

best-party-of-the-year-june-5-6

at Flagstaff, 4001 S. Woody Mountain Road, Flagstaff.

928-774-1442 or thearb.org

Zoo by Moonlight (June 24). Bring your flashlight during every full moon through September to see

PAYSON

nocturnal residents out and about. Docents help locate

Summer Concert Series: at Green Valley Park

animals and answer questions. 7-9:30 p.m. $10; $7 for

(June 5-26). Grab the family and lawn chairs and

zoo members; free for ages 3 and younger. Heritage

enjoy live music under the stars. Dogs must be on a

Park Zoological Sanctuary, 1403 Heritage Park Road,

TUCSON

leash at all times. No smoking or alcohol. 7-9 p.m.

Prescott. 928-778-4242 or heritageparkzoo.org

Ready to Launch: Arizona’s Place in Space (May

Saturdays through July. Free. Green Valley Park, 1000

20-Nov 30). Arizona has been at the forefront of space

W. Country Club Drive, Payson. 928-472-5110 or

40th Annual Prescott Bluegrass Festival (June

discoveries and NASA missions for decades. Come

paysonrimcountry.com/concert-series

26-27). Enjoy free bluegrass music all weekend! Bring

discover objects from NASA, Lowell Observatory,

chairs and sit under the shade trees of the Yavapai

Arizona State University and the University of Arizona,

Mogollon Monster Mudda Mud Run (June 18-19).

County Courthouse Plaza. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday,

including an Apollo-era space suit, hand-drawn moon

Join the messy fun with challenging obstacles and

11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. Yavapai County Courthouse

maps and photographs of deep space. Learn about the

camaraderie among participants of all ages and fitness

Plaza (south side), 120 S. Cortez St., Prescott. 928-

researchers, astronauts and scientists who are taking

levels. New this year: Kidz heats on Friday, general

443-5220 or prescott.org or visit-prescott.com/

us to the edges of our galaxy and beyond. 10 a.m. to 2

heats, specialty heats and a Gladiator Challenge on

event/40th-annual-prescott-bluegrass-festival-2-2

p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. $10; $8 seniors and students;

Saturday. $65; $25 for ages 6-11. Payson Multi-

$5 for ages 7-13; free for ages 6 and younger. Arizona

Event Center, 1400 S. Beeline Highway, Payson.

World’s Oldest Rodeo (June 28-July 4). Prescott

History Museum, 949 E. Second St., Tucson. 520-628-

paysonrimcountry.com/mudda

Frontier Days presents the 134th annual World’s Oldest

5774 or azhs.org/tucson

Rodeo. Watch judged events (bareback, saddle bronc,

PINETOP/LAKESIDE

bull riding) and timed events (steer wrestling, tie-down,

WILLIAMS

White Mountains Balloon Festival (June 25-27).

team roping, barrel racing). Plus, the Prescott Frontier

Arizona Cowpunchers Reunion Rodeo (June

The skies will come to life with beautiful hot-air

Days Rodeo Parade, the Kiwanis Kiddie Parade, an arts

19-20). Come see rodeo performances such as wild

balloons. Plus live music, local food vendors and

and crafts show and a rodeo dance. 7:30 p.m. Monday-

horse races, wild cow milking, cowboy bronc riding,

fun activities for the whole family. 6 a.m. to 9:30

Thursday, 1:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 1:30 p.m.

ribbon roping and team roping at this 43rd annual

p.m. Friday-Saturday, 6 a.m. Sunday. Free. Mountain

Sunday. $12-$27. Please note the new clear-bag policy.

event. 1 p.m. $10; free for ages 10 and younger.

Meadow Recreation Complex, 1101 N. Woodland Road,

Prescott Rodeo Grounds, 840 Rodeo Drive, Prescott.

Williams Rodeo Grounds, 750 Airport Road, Williams.

Lakeside. 928-368-8696 or wmbfaz.com

928-445-3103 or worldsoldestrodeo.com

602-510-4940 or azcowpunchers.com

RaisingARIZONAKids.com June 2021

41

first person

8

By Sheri Smith

LIFE LESSONS from the pandemic

“HELLO WORLD!” I say, as I step outside,

where you can find comfort, where you

bring. Five years from now? That might

blinking into the glare of a world turned

feel safe, and where you can find simple

not be possible. If you really want to do it,

upside down by COVID-19, a world that is

joys and happiness.

don’t wait!

WE ALL DEPEND ON ONE ANOTHER.

IT WAS NEVER ABOUT HAVING THE TIME.

As someone who had truly created a

Whether we like it or not, we are all in

Remember that little lie we used to tell

CDC-approved life for the past year or

this together, and our success or failure

ourselves? The one about all the things we

more, I find myself feeling a bit like Rip

depends on everyone doing his or her part.

would do “if we just had time?” Well, you

Van Winkle waking from his 20-year

The words “essential workers,” became the

had time. Did you write that novel? Did

slumber and asking: “What did I miss?”

phrase of the day during lock-downs and

you lose 20 pounds? If not, that’s okay.

COVID surges. I hope we never forget how

Now you can quit beating yourself up over

part, feels wonderfully familiar and even

much we depend on grocery clerks, truck

it and just admit it was never about time.

more beautiful than I’d remembered. A

drivers, factory workers, public service

It just wasn’t worth the effort to you, not

hug feels more life-affirming. A smile,

employees, teachers and one another.

right now anyway.

more heart-warming. I’ve been pleasantly

When one part of the system breaks down,

surprised. I expected things to seem more

we all suffer. It’s important that we all work

I WAS DOING IT FOR MYSELF, NOT OTHERS.

different. Instead, the biggest changes, I’ve

for the greater good.

A big question that was answered for me

finally realigning itself to something more closely resembling “normal.”

Funny thing is, the world, for the most

discovered, are within myself.

was whether I was truly doing things MAKE HEALTH THE PRIORITY. It should be

for myself or to impress others. In the

person I was pre-2020. I suppose you

obvious by now that without good health,

beginning of my sequestered life, I learned

don’t go through something like a global

nothing else is possible. We can’t travel,

that cleaning was definitely for myself. No

pandemic without a few life lessons along

we can’t work, we can’t take care of our

one was coming over, but I wanted things

the way. It’s also true that it’s probably

children or grandparents. Hopefully, we

tidy and clean. I just like things that way.

worth reflecting on what those life lessons

will focus on our health and never take it

Dressing up? At least in the beginning,

might be. Here’s some of what I’ve learned:

for granted again.

not so much. I spent most days living in

I have realized I will never be the same

pajamas, only to shower and change into HOME SHOULD BE RESPITE. Whatever

DO IT NOW! If there’s something you really

— more pajamas. But after a few months

is going on outside, make your home a

want to do, make it happen. Don’t wait.

like that, I did start getting dressed and

place you enjoy being. It should be a place

You never know what tomorrow will

even putting on makeup, and some days

42 June 2021 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Catch up on what you missed! even styling my hair. It just made me feel better. I plan on remembering this going forward. I’m not going to worry about what others think. I will do it for me.

RaisingARIZONAKids

DIGITAL LIBRARY

ADAPTABILITY IS THE SECRET TO LIFE.

Planning is good. Goals are great. But adaptability is the key to it all. Plans are going to get ruined, and most of your goals are going to be at least delayed and more likely never realized, at least not in the way you expected. So, how will you handle this? If you’re adaptable, you will figure it out. And now we know we can. We figured a lot of “stuff” out in the last year. We should be proud of this.

We made it. And now we know: We can make it through.

THE CHILDREN ARE WATCHING. This is

probably the most critical lesson of all of this past year. A barrage of issues were thrown at us as parents. We didn’t have time to prepare. We didn’t know how to react, but one thing’s for certain: the children were watching. How you handle adversity has a big impact on how your children will react when life throws them curveballs. This is the greatest lesson we can give them. COVID is just the beginning in a long line of obstacles our children will encounter. You are their greatest teacher in how to handle the challenges of life. This is a lesson I will surely never forget: We teach our children how to cope.

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

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

43

WE’RE WITH

YOU EVERY STEP OF THE WAY

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

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