RAK magazine September 2020

SEPTEMBER 2020

RaisingARIZONA Kids your partner on the parenting path

Special Needs Resources Plus:

What to do when your child

STRUGGLES IN SCHOOL

WILL THE SHOW GO ON? How youth theaters are coping

PANDEMIC TRAVEL:

Hammock camping and beach escapes

Mazie (2) at Ryan House in Phoenix. Read more about Ryan House on page 29.

5 ways YOU can make a difference

A CCE SS T O I NT ERNET

CHANGE STARTS WITH YOU

In Arizona alone, 30% of students lack high speed internet access and 220,544 do not have access to appropriate devices; across the country, the number grows to between 15 and 16 million school-aged students, or 30% of all public K12 students.

SHARE a MAP with FREE WiFi & safe places to learn! (See link below)

A CCE SS T O D EVIC ES Rural communities and households with Black, Latinx, and Native American students face greater barriers to accessing online learning. Students with special education and/or English Language Learner needs who lack appropriate internet access and/or devices are at greater risk for significant gaps in learning.

DONATE a used device or help fund a discounted computer for a child! (See link below)

PPE FO R KIDS & T EAC HER S CONNECT school or district personnel to PPE resources at wholesale rates (See link below)

SCH O OL SU PPL I ES CDC guidelines require students to have their own supplies; they can no longer share freely for safety.

VISIT our site for a list of important school supplies to donate (See link below)

T EAC HE R L O VE

"The pandemic has taught us a hard lesson: high speed internet is not a luxury. It is an essential utility. It facilitates health, learning, and equity."

schoolconnectaz.org

Teachers are working around the clock to support our children.

WRITE a personal card or create a care package (See link below)

https://www.schoolconnectaz.org/make-a-difference

s s i M t ' n o Dhttps://bit.ly/ minit2winit

minit2winit play games - win prizes - connect

Make Valuable Connections in the School Connect App

Get Special Deals for YOUR School

SEPTEMBER 29 & 30

Meet Live with Potential Partners

CONTENTS

September 2020 FEATURES

38

THE SHOW MUST GO ON?

42

ALWAYS LOOK FORWARD

Youth theaters roll out live-streamed and drive-in performances to weather the ongoing pandemic.

Ellen Greenblum: A Holocaust survivor, my mother distilled life’s lessons to three profound basics.

SPECIAL NEEDS RESOURCES SECTION

20

• You don’t need to stop at “no”: Parents of students with learning differences have a right to independent, paid evaluations • Navigating the oral health of children with special needs • Study: Autism diagnoses can come years later for Black children • Gigi’s Playhouse offers free tutoring for kids with Down syndrome • Sponsored content: Special Needs Resources Directory

42

DEPARTMENTS

4

DIALOGUE

5

AZ GROWN

50

Looking forward

• Children’s Museum offers new activity boxes for ages 4-9 • Phoenix offers new virtual recreation programs • GCU offers free virtual tutoring for grades 2-12 • Applications due for D-backs $100,000 School Challenge grants • The Be Kind Break: Free, high-energy lessons on kindness • EVCT seeks student-written plays for December festival • Creating safety for children through gender-inclusive language • Benchmarks set for in-person classes to resume • AAP: Crisis drills can cause undo anxiety in kids • Early flu shots are critical during COVID-19 • Using Common Sense: Digital citizenship education gains importance as kids embrace online classrooms • Desert Botanical Garden hours expand for fall • Register by Oct. 5 to vote in Nov. 3 election • Spreading joy in a pandemic • Pandemic road trip: A short beach escape proved worth the risk • Raising Outdoor Kids: Hammock camping offers minimal gear, maximum star-gazing

FAMILY TIME! • Top August events • Around Arizona

2 September 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

26 22

When I’m at Ryan House, I’m able to bond, relax and hang out as a normal teenager in a way that I can’t anywhere else.

Madi

With our world-class care and programs, we embrace all children and their families as they navigate life-limiting or end-of-life journeys.

Providing palliative and respite care that addresses the needs of our children and families Providing our services at no cost to families Our Care Team will help families through the referral process

ryanhouse.org 602-200-0767

dialogue

Looking forward AS WE WERE WRAPPING up this issue,

get help when a child is struggling in

the fear that defined spring felt slightly

school.

less oppressive. COVID cases that were

September also typically features a

spiking in Arizona this summer finally

Performing Arts Preview. We pivoted

were falling. A weekend family road trip

to look at how youth theater in the

(with many new safety precautions) we

Valley has fared since March. Let’s face

hadn’t attempted for months proved

it — theaters, along with many small

doable. Online classes that started with

businesses catering to kids and families

a huge learning curve were starting to

— have been hard hit. But they’ve

feel, if not comfortable, then familiar

also been resilient and innovative,

— and a vast improvement over endless

streaming radio plays or hosting drive-in

video games and Disney streaming that

live performances. One is trying out

defined spring and summer.

an immersive experience that would

Our September family events calendar

be impossible with large audiences.

is also busier. It’s still filled with drive-in

It reminds me of the dedication and

performances (many of them live!) and

resilience of our teachers, who’ve had to

virtual events, but family venues like

master an entirely new way of teaching

the Arizona Science Center and Musical

over Chromebooks and iPads. They all

Instrument Museum are reopening. I

deserve standing ovations!

don’t want to jinx anything, but one can

Finally, a note about Marianne

only hope we’ve weathered the peak of

Greenblum — a Holocaust survivor

the pandemic, and, if we stay careful and

who experienced the worst and the

diligent (and get our flu shots ASAP) we

best of humanity in her 95 years. Ellen

can start to look forward to the possibility

Greenblum shares her mother’s big-

of small get togethers and steps toward

picture advice, which is so apt today:

normalcy — at least a new normal, one

Surround yourself with good people,

that will forever include hand sanitizer.

and always, always look forward. We’re

This issue is typically dedicated

looking forward to so many things — to

to those who attend our fall Special

cooler weather, yes, but ultimately to

Needs Resource Fair. The event wasn’t

new opportunities, to more hugs and

possible this year, but we have included

celebrations, and to better, more hopeful

a sponsored directory of resources

times ahead. Take care and stay safe!

offering help for children with learning with disabled or medically fragile a candid look at what parents can do to

4 September 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

PUBLISHER Karen Davis Barr EDITOR Kara G. Morrison CONTRIBUTORS Cassie Calvert, Ellen Greenblum, Ysidro Holmes, Ilana Lowery, Doris Nehrbass, Dolores Triopiano, Lisa Van Loo, Elaina Verhoff, Maggie Zehring

ART DIRECTOR Michèlle-Renée Adams COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Ryan House OPERATIONS MANAGER Tina Gerami-Bynum MARKETING CONSULTANTS Shannon Cornall, Kate Reed, Mary Vandenberg R aising A rizona K ids magazine (ISSN 1051-4295) was created to connect Valley families to local resources and share real-life stories about the challenges and joys of raising children. Copy­right © 2020 by R aising A rizona K ids, Inc. All rights reserved.

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

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

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

differences and resources for families children. And Dolores Tropiano shares

September 2020 | Vol 31 | No 4

Kara G. Morrison, Editor kara@RAKmagazine.com

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

education az grown

Phoenix adds new

VIRTUAL

RECREATION programs Children’s Museum offers new activity boxes for ages 4-9 THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM of Phoenix

has launched its newest labor of love:

• Cosmic Cadets Boxes and online content are designed

activities in a box for children who need

to be an easy and safe experience for kids

a creative outlet while education remains

and parents. Each item in the box will be

virtual for most students.

cleaned with a disinfectant by a Museum

The “Thinker Player Creator Box” is

staff member wearing a mask and

designed for ages 4 to 9. Each box contains

gloves, so parents can feel safe about the

four weeks of activities with five activities

cleanliness of the items being provided.

per week: fun, hands-on, engaging activities

Thinker Player Creator boxes are

THE CITY OF PHOENIX Parks and

Recreation Department has expanded its

that, while educational, offer children a

$139 for non-members and $119 per

schedule of free virtual PHX Plays at Home

much-needed break from academic screen

box for members. Boxes will be available

programs through October. Themed,

time. Each box includes an instruction guide,

for contact-less, curbside pick up at the

live-streamed sessions for ages 5-12

a schedule, project supplies, art materials and

Museum with AZ Milk Producer’s Daisy

this month include Dance Party, Dance

access to virtual content that fits with the

the Cow delivering the box to your car.

Performance, Fitness Challenge and Food

weekly themes, plus a special themed content

Twenty boxes will be available for at-risk

Fight: Junior Chop Shop.

bonus bag from AZ Milk Producers.

kids through a scholarship underwritten

by Barker Pacific Group, Inc.

Themes trend toward the spooky in October, with sessions about Halloween

The Children’s Museum of Phoenix

and Mystery Mansion, among others.

• Effective Detectives

remains closed to visitors because of the

Adults also have the option to “play at

• Ready. Set. Road Trip!

COVID-19 pandemic, and an opening

home” by participating in cooking classes,

• Superhero Adventures

date has yet to be decided. Contact

book events, “paint and sip” evenings,

• PAWsome Pets

Ricardo Bernal at 602-648-2777 or

virtual museum tours and more. All

• World of Magic and Fantasy

RBernal@childmusephx.org with

programs are free. Find links to times and

• Going, Going, Green

questions about activity boxes or visit

dates at https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/

• Dinosaur Discovery

childrensmuseumofphoenix.org

classes-and-programs

Themes include:

RaisingARIZONAKids.com September 2020

5

az grown education

FREE one-on-one virtual tutoring for grades 2-12 GRAND CANYON UNIVERSITY’S Learning Lounge — a tutoring

and mentoring program for local elementary, middle and high school students — now offers free online academic support.

GCU students who work as Learning Lounge tutors are called Learning Advocates or LEADs and are scholars in math, science and writing. They are trained to work with students in grades 2-12.

As part of Grand Canyon University’s outreach efforts, the GCU Learning Lounge has served local students for more than five years. Prior to the pandemic, 75 to 100 students per day were coming to two Learning Lounge facilities at GCU and the

Inspiring Students scholarship to GCU after graduating high

Milwaukee Brewers’ complex in Maryvale.

school. Students who apply for the scholarships also must

Now, the Learning Lounge offers 40-minute, one-on-one

demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum 3.5 GPA.

virtual sessions from 3-8 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m. to 2

SIS Scholarship recipients then volunteer their time at the

p.m. Saturday. Families also have the option to select a bilingual

Learning Lounge to help the next generation of scholars.

LEAD or a LEAD from a specific area of expertise.

Students who receive 100 hours of academic assistance at the Learning Lounge may be eligible for a full-tuition Students

Email questions about the Learning Lounge to k12learninglounge@gcu.edu or call 602-247-2030. Schedule a tutoring appointment at gcu.edu/LearningLounge

Applications due Sept. 30 for

D-backs’ $100,000 School Challenge grants THE ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS FOUNDATION is accepting

President and CEO Derrick Hall. “Over the last eight years, we

applications for grants — up to $5,000 per school — to help

have been able to give more than $1 million to some of the most

Arizona public, private and nonprofit charter schools afford new

innovative and talented teachers and administrators for schools

education programs, technology, nutrition and fitness programs,

across the state.”

school and campus improvements and other innovations. K-12

The $100,000 School Challenge, presented by University of

teachers and administrators are encouraged to “make their best

Phoenix, kicked off in spring 2012 with such an overwhelming

pitch” on why they deserve to receive this funding by submitting

response that the program has continued annually. The Arizona

an online application at dbacks.com/schoolchallenge by Sept. 30.

Diamondbacks Foundation has received more than 4,200

“This year, more than ever, we need to find creative solutions to help our schools get the funding they need,” said D-backs

6 September 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

applications and has provided more than 220 schools grants totalling $1,065,000.

EVCT seeks

STUDENT-WRITTEN PLAYS for 2021 festival

3:49 / 4:27

The Be Kind Break: Free, high-energy lessons on kindness THE BE KIND PEOPLE PROJECT is known for spreading positive messages through

high-energy presentations within school settings. With so many students and teachers

EAST VALLEY CHILDREN’S Theatre is asking

participating in online classes this fall, the Phoenix-based nonprofit is instead offering free

for plays written by students to be read

online resources in social and emotional education, academics, health and wellness, and

aloud during its annual Student Playwright

digital education.

Festival.

The Be Kind Break provides 5- to 10-minute grade-specific K-8 lessons with videos and

Playwrights ages 18 and younger must

activities for language arts, math, social studies and science classes. All lessons have a

submit original work no longer than 10

foundation in The Be Kind Pledge and are written to national academic and CDC standards.

minutes in length. The play should include

“We understand how busy teachers and parents are in adapting to this new normal,”

at least two (but no more than six) characters

Bo Whittenton, chief services and programs officer/chief kindness officer, said in a

in a single setting. A cover sheet must include

statement. “We wanted to provide high-quality, ready-to-use content they can use

the playwright’s name, age, email address and

however they wish.”

phone number, school, teacher’s name and

Bullying and cyberbullying impact one in three children in Arizona, according to the

teacher’s email address. Submit as a Word

organization. That’s why character education and proactive solutions that teach what to

document, typed and double-spaced, to

do rather than what not to do are so important.

info@evct.org. Deadline is Dec. 15.

“We have seen dramatic positive changes in the learning environment when The Be

All submissions will be part of the Feb.

Kind Pledge becomes a common code of conduct and expectations,” says Whittenton.

16, 2021 Student Playwright Festival,

“When classrooms are following The Be Kind Pledge, it gives more time for learning, with

featuring staged readings with oral and

less of a teacher’s time spent on discipline issues.”

written critiques from award-winning

Founded in 2011, The Be Kind People Project teaches positive conflict resolution,

playwrights. East Valley Children’s

communication skills and treating others with kindness. Most programs are led by The

Theatre’s February production will feature

Be Kind Crew — a group of 65 professional dancers and educators who teach through

the contest winner. For more information,

music, dance and spoken word. In non-pandemic times, the nonprofit also offers school

contact Karen Rolston, EVCT’s artistic

assemblies, after school and summer classes, leadership conferences and more. Visit

director, at 480-756-3828 or via email at

thebekindpeopleproject.org

info@evct.org.

RaisingARIZONAKids.com September 2020

7

az grown education EARLY CHILDHOOD

Creating safety for children through

GENDER-INCLUSIVE LANGUAGE

By Ysidro Holmes

AS A TRANSGENDER teacher, I socially

transitioned while teaching in the

RESOURCES FOR FAMILIES

classroom. Socially transitioning is a

Here are three books written in a developmentally appropriate way to open up conversations with young children about gender.

process that a transgender person may choose to do to start living in their gender and not the gender assigned at birth. This can be done by changing your name,

Julian Is A Mermaid by Jessica Love is about a child who explores his own identity and self-image through imaginary play and conversations with his abuela (grandmother).

pronoun, or gender expression.

I began the process of changing my name and pronouns as I was teaching

They, She, He, Me - Free to Be! by Matthew Sg and Maya Gonzales is about pronouns and different ways to think about gender.

4- and 5-year-olds. Naturally, they had questions about this change. After reading a book about pronouns and having a

I Am Jazz by Jazz Jennings is an autobiographical children’s book about one girl’s experience with being transgender and finding her voice to advocate for her identity.

conversation about how we can respect someone by using their correct pronouns, I knew I would have to be ready to answer their questions in a developmentally appropriate way.

I shared with the children that I would like to go by the name Ysidro and that I am

That was love to me.

The support I felt from my family

use of pronouns for all.

As children are still learning to use

now using he/him pronouns. The children

to live in my true self was incredible. It

the English language, they often mix

asked me things like, “Why do you want to

is something everyone should feel when

pronouns. An example would be a child

be a boy?” and “What if we forget your new

sharing themselves with the world. Imagine

calling every person they know “she.”

name and pronouns?” I replied that this is

every single child feeling loved in this way

Children learn how to differentiate

the way I feel in my heart, and assured them

and respected by the power of language.

pronouns in the same relationship-based

that this is going to be a change for all of us and will take practice.

way they learn differences in names.

THE WORDS WE CHOOSE

Normalizing conversations about

I came out to my family as a trans man

You may have seen an increase in the

when I was 25 years old. When I explained

number of people sharing their pronouns

classrooms and school environments. Adults

to my parents that I wanted them to use

lately on email signature lines or social

can practice normalizing pronouns around

he/him pronouns they tried hard to do

media. When cisgendered people (those

children by introducing their personal

so. They would often slip at first, but as

whose gender aligns with their sex assigned

pronouns to others. It can be as simple as

I noticed them actively working on this

at birth) use pronouns in this way, they

saying your name “and you can refer to me

change it made me feel heard and safe.

support and help normalize the accurate

as” before stating your pronouns.

8 September 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

pronouns is a practice that creates safety in

although there are others. This may

Benchmarks set for in-person classes to resume

naturally lead into a conversation with

NO ONE DISPUTES the importance

in another setting during standard case

children, when you could ask them what

of getting kids back into in-person

investigation or contact tracing.

their pronouns are.

classrooms. But in areas where

Common pronouns are she/her/ hers, he/him/his, and they/them/theirs,

The American Academy of Pediatrics

To learn more about gender-inclusive

COVID-19 continues to spread,

recently updated its COVID-19 safety

practices in the home and classroom is to

in-person instruction cannot be

recommendations and urged adults to

reflect on your own personal beliefs about

safely accomplished, according to the

do their part to stop community spread.

gender identity and construction, where

American Academy of Pediatrics.

those beliefs came from, and whether they

“This is on us – the adults – to

There are two key components

be doing all the things public health

create a safe, inclusive environment for

to reopening schools for in-person

experts are recommending to reduce

children and people who might identify

instruction, according to the Arizona

the spread of the virus,” AAP President

outside the binary of male or female. Talk

Department of Health Services. First

Dr. Sally Goza says. “If we can reduce

with educators, parents, and colleagues

is a quality school mitigation plan

the amount of COVID-19 in more

about these topics and see what different

to reduce the spread of COVID-19

communities, it will be possible for

ideas are out there.

among students and staff. The second

more schools to open, and this will be

is a significant decline in the level of

best for all of our children.”

Children receive a lot of messages about identity — what is acceptable and what is not — from the adults in their

community spread.

Ideally, COVID-19 cases should

When in-person learning does resume, the AAP recommends schools

lives. We have the power to create a world

fall below 100 cases per 100,000

implement a layered approach to protect

where every child is empowered to be

population, the percent of positive

students, teachers and staff that includes:

their most authentic self — bravely, and

cases should be below 7 percent for two

without shame. This work starts with

consecutive weeks, and hospital visits

us, the adults, first. It is just one small

for COVID-like illnesses in the region

part of the work of humanizing, and

should fall below 10 percent for two

creating more dignity and respect for, the

consecutive weeks.

experiences of all children.

Ysidro Holmes has been an early childhood education teacher for the past eight years and is currently pursuing a bachelor’s

AZDHS is tracking the progress of these benchmarks online at azdhs.gov.

Once open, schools must also report any COVID-19 outbreaks to their

• Requiring cloth face coverings for all adults and children over the age of 2 • Implementing physical distancing with desks placed 3-6 feet apart • Cohorting students to minimize crossover among students and adults • Using outdoor space whenever possible • Promoting hand and cough hygiene

local health department. An outbreak

and increasing cleaning and

education with a minor in

is defined as two or more laboratory-

disinfection

government and public service with the ultimate goal

confirmed COVID-19 cases among

of influencing educational policy. He serves on the

students or staff within a 14-day period

students and staff stay home when

boards of the Arizona Association for the Education of

in which the people testing positive

they are ill.

degree in early childhood

Young Children (AzAEYC) and the Southern Arizona AEYC and advocates for children, inclusivity, and higher education in his community.

do not share a household and were not identified as close contacts of each other

• Implementing protocols to ensure

For more information, visit healthychildren.org and azdhs.gov

RaisingARIZONAKids.com September 2020

9

az grown health

AAP: Crisis drills can cause undo anxiety in kids IN RESPONSE TO school shootings in

without advance warning or students’

children, high school students sobbed

recent years, many school districts

consent.

hysterically, vomited, or fainted, children

adopted live crisis drills to help students

“Mass shootings are, thankfully,

sent farewell notes to parents, and a

and staff respond to such an event.

extremely rare, but we understand

stampede ensued as students jumped over

While well-intentioned, some drills were

the need to think about the very real

fences to escape.

meant to help prepare adults and did not

possibilities and be prepared,” said Dr.

consider the emotional harm to children,

David J. Schonfeld, lead author of the

from participating in high-intensity

according to the American Academy of

policy. “There are safe ways to help

exercises that involve the use of real

Pediatrics. AAP recommends children be

prepare children and adults for crisis

weapons, gunfire or theatrical makeup

included in these drills only to the extent

with careful consideration and input

that depicts blood or gunshot wounds,”

that they prepare adults to meet the

from medical experts. What we have

said Dr. Marlene Melzer-Lange, co-author

unique needs of children during a crisis

seen in the past, however, is that some

of the statement.

and further children’s own preparedness

of these live active shooter drills may be

“We suggest that the focus remain on

or resiliency.

causing undo distress and anxiety, with

prevention, and creating a positive school

little evidence that they are effectively

climate and culture,” Dr. Schonfeld said.

preparing students for crisis.”

“As communities work toward the goal of

In its new policy statement, “Participation of Children and Adolescents in Live Crisis Drills and

“We do not believe children benefit

AAP advises against the participation

returning students to in-person learning,

Exercises,” AAP says more research is

of children and youth with the potential

schools more than ever will need funding

needed to determine the most effective

exception of teens who provide advance

to prepare educators to identify and help

drills, but recommends following

consent. Some high-intensity active

students who may be struggling with

best practices cited by the National

shooter exercises went so far as to mislead

mental health issues.”

Association of School Psychologists

students and staff into believing they were

and the National Association of School

experiencing an actual shooting event,

September 2020 issue of Pediatrics: https://

Resource Officers. Such drills should

according to AAP. In actual drills cited

pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/

not mimic gory events or be carried out

in the report, weapons were pointed at

early/2020/08/21/peds.2020-015503

10 September 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

The full report is available in the

Early flu shots are critical during

COVID-19

ARE YOU RAISING ARIZONA KIDS?

IT’S MORE IMPORTANT than ever to get a flu shot this month, doctors say. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended Americans receive this year’s influenza vaccine in September to build immunity early on for the upcoming flu season.

“The combination of both the coronavirus and influenza virus swirling together throughout the U.S. this fall and winter has the potential to exacerbate the strain on an already struggling public health system,” says Richard Webby, flu virologist at St. Jude Children’s Hospital and the World Health Organization. “The two viruses cause initial symptoms that are difficult to distinguish, have their biggest effect on the elderly and those with similar underlying conditions, and, at the severe end of the disease spectrum, cause competition for similar life-saving hospital equipment.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics and the CDC continue to recommend annual influenza immunization of all children without medical contraindications, starting at 6 months of age.

SIGN-UP FOR OUR FREE WEEKLY eNEWSLETTER! RAISINGARIZONAKIDS.com RaisingARIZONAKids.com September 2020

11

az grown technology

Using Common Sense

Digital citizenship education

gains importance as kids embrace online classrooms

By Ilana Lowery

T

HIS IS A CHALLENGING TIME for educators and parents navigating

inappropriate content.

First, parents need to be intentional

technology, learning online requires its own norms and procedures, many of

their children’s remote or hybrid

about the online culture created at home.

which will be new to students who are

learning. Understanding how to find and

The goal is to help children become

used to learning in a face-to-face setting.

use online curriculum is tough enough.

good digital citizens by using technology

Then comes the task of keeping kids

safely, respectfully and responsibly; and

Media tackles in its Digital Citizenship

supported and engaged.

to practice critical thinking by talking

curriculum, which is available free

about things like misinformation,

at commonsensemedia.org and

technology for learning, it’s important

bullying on social media and healthy

wideopenschool.org:

to revisit how parents and teachers

media habits.

As more and more students use

can best make sure kids know how to

Teachers also need to set expectations

Here are a few topics Common Sense

Online communication best practices.

use the internet in a safe, ethical and

for this new way of learning. It’s

Kids may be used to texting or chatting

responsible way. Constant online access

important to remember that even

with friends on social media, but how they

means kids can also more easily access

if students are comfortable with

interact in the online school setting will

12 September 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

good to know az grown be different. Help them learn what to do if they encounter hurtful language online, how to switch their communication style

Desert Botanical Garden

News and media literacy. The coronavirus

HOURS EXPAND FOR FALL

pandemic has many youngsters worried.

AS SUMMER TEMPERATURES (finally!)

While there is reason for concern, some

start heading down, the Desert Botanical

of their anxiety stems from incomplete

Garden is expanding admission hours to

or incorrect information they’re seeing

welcome visitors seeking an outdoor escape.

on social media. Help them build critical

Beginning Sept. 8, the Garden will be open

thinking skills so that they can identify

to the general public from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

what information is credible and what isn’t.

daily. On Oct. 1, hours will run 8 a.m. to

based on the setting, and how to debate and communicate with civility.

8 p.m. through December (with 4 p.m.

Learning media balance. When school

ISTOCK

happens online in addition to kids’

closure on holiday luminaria event dates).

Capacity will be limited and all tactile experiences — including Cocoon: A Place

already busy online social lives, they may

for Garden Play, Cactus Clubhouse, Ottosen Gallery and docent-let tours — remain

start to feel like they’re staring at a screen

suspended. Gertrude’s Restaurant and select trails also remain closed.

24/7. Talk with students about how much

The Garden has implemented one-way entry and exit routes designed to promote

time they’re spending on devices and

social distancing. Face coverings are required for guests age 6 and older. Make timed

help them reflect on how their media use

reservations online at dbg.org or by calling 480-941-1225.

makes them feel.

cyberbullying or even hate speech based

Register by Oct. 5 to vote in the Nov. 3 election

on misconceptions about COVID-

NOV. 3, 2020, may be the most significant national election of our lifetime. U.S. citizens have

19. It’s important to teach students

until Oct. 5 to register to vote in this election. For those who would rather not vote in person

how to identify, respond to and avoid

as the COVID-19 pandemic continues, Oct. 23 is the final day to request a mail-in ballot.

Stopping cyberbullying. Some students might witness or be the target of

cyberbullying. In addition, when you

Arizona counties will begin mailing ballots to voters on Oct. 7, which is also the first day of

address what is and isn’t acceptable online

in-person early voting. Mail-in ballots should be returned ASAP. If there are delays getting your

behavior, you promote a positive and safe

ballot delivered, or questions about your signature (mail-in ballots must include a signature that

learning environment.

matches the one on file with election officials), you could miss the chance for your vote to be

Ilana Lowery is the Arizona director for Common Sense

counted. Oct. 27 is the latest recommended deadline for returning mail-in ballots.

Voting promptly is extremely important this year. In recent months, the U.S. Postal

Media. She can be reached at

Service has taken some mail-sorting machinery offline and hauled away hundreds of public

ilowery@commonsense.org.

mailboxes. If you’re a registered voter but haven’t voted recently, it’s a good idea to check

Find more resources to help kids fact check the news, determine reliable sources and learn to separate fact from fiction

your voter registration status well in advance of Nov. 3 to make sure there are no problems.

Find answers to all your voting questions at the state website: arizona.vote

at commonsensemedia.org or wideopenschool.org.

RaisingARIZONAKids.com September 2020

13

az grown parenting

Spreading joy in a pandemic

By Maggie Zehring

IT’S ABOUT 8:05 A.M., and I’m driving a

Do a coffee, cookie or (fill-in-the-blank)

car full of kids, cookies and coffee while

drop off. Taking the extra step of saving

a podcast plays on the speakers. We’re on

a few cookies from a batch to share can

our way to deliver a book, some fresh herbs

mean a lot to a friend on the receiving end.

from our garden, and cookies we gleefully

With all the quarantine baking, you’re

(and haphazardly!) made the previous day.

bound to have extras. Drop off your latest

We’ve been doing drop-offs like this

baking adventure, along with a cup of

one since the middle of March, and it has

coffee — or even donuts, pizza or take-

become a staple activity in our weekly

out — at a friend or neighbor’s house and

routine throughout the coronavirus

spread some cheer!

pandemic. If there’s anything I’ve found more consistent in challenging times, it’s

Lend or trade toys. Trade or lend toys

the fact that giving and thinking of others

between households to spice up the kids’

is the quickest way to dig myself out of self-

activities and avoid spending money

pity, monotony and boredom.

unnecessarily. This gift to each other is easily

I know I enjoy a privileged spot amid this chaotic season. My husband is still

managed through the pandemic with a little sanitizing and scheduled drop offs.

employed, we’re all healthy, my day-to-day as a work-from-home mom hasn’t changed

Go on a Little Free Library hunt. Many

much, and the worst of our troubles is

libraries are open for borrowing (via

isolation, bickering and the ever-present

drive-up service), but you can leave a

longing for more freedom of activities.

book and take a book to keep at Little

So even though the pandemic has shifted

Free Libraries, which are scattered across

many aspects of our lives, we’re fortunate

the metro area. Find a Little Free Library

not to have had a complete upending of our

in your neighborhood by searching

family income or health.

littlefreelibrary.org/ourmap. Leave some

Spreading joy has been a way to act out

of your own gently used books, and pick

our gratitude. Here are a few easy, low-cost

up new reading material. Or think about

ways you can do the same:

starting a Little Free Library in your own neighborhood!

Send your loved ones something thoughtful.

I don’t know a single person who doesn’t appreciate (or even get giddy with excitement at) receiving mail. Write a thoughtful note, get the kids in on coloring a picture, or share a recipe the old-fashioned way.

14 September 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

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

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Mark Brnovich Arizona Attorney General

RaisingARIZONAKids.com September 2020

15

az grown travel

Pandemic road trip A short beach escape proved worth the risk

By Elaina Verhoff AFTER MONTHS OF SHELTERING in place,

scares you … do it.”

design, and the owner surprised us by

my soul was calling for an escape from

So we did. My 16-year-old son

providing a variety of snacks and seltzers.

reality — for new sights, tastes, sounds

chauffeured us to the coast, safely

The location was perfect. We parked

and experiences. And the ocean, which is

shuttling us to our destination in Mission

our car in the garage and forgot about it

always soothing, sounded

Beach, California — an adorable upper-

except for one late-night emergency run

especially appealing.

level duplex unit called Rockaway Place,

to Ralph’s for sunburn first-aid supplies.

There was just one problem: I was

fewer than 100 steps from the beach (I

afraid to leave the controlled environment

counted). I chose a short-term Airbnb

nature and keeping our distance. With

of home and take my two teenagers into

rental over a hotel to reduce contact with

miles of white sandy beaches, I never felt

the now-unfamiliar world, with the threat

other people and to have our own private

that people encroached on my space —

of unmasked people and virus droplets

space with a kitchen to prepare meals.

even with all the summer visitors. I’d say

lurking at every turn.

Check-in and check-out procedures were

about half the people walking down the

contactless, with a key left for us in a

boardwalk and the main drag of Mission

booking an Airbnb for mid-July, I

lockbox and questions handled through

Boulevard wore masks, but all were

had a moment of panic and nearly

responsive emails from the owner.

respectful of our six-foot bubble.

After setting my fears aside and

canceled. Then I got some well-timed

The one-bedroom condo (with pullout

Mission Beach was ideal for enjoying

Food options in Mission are endless.

encouragement in the form of an

couch) had everything we needed. It was

We walked to Juice Wave for acai bowls –

Instagram meme: “If it excites you and

sparkling clean, had Instagram-worthy

piled high with bananas, strawberries and

16 September 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Sponsored Sponsored Content Content nectarine chunks, and topped with house-made granola, raw honey and hemp hearts. For lunch, Yelp led me past the tourist traps and up to the real-deal La Playa Taco Shop, where the food was fresh, flavorful and perfectly spiced with a kicky green salsa. Breakfast burritos from the La Perlita takeout window were an easy and hearty way to start the day.

Masks were the rule, and I felt safe standing in socially distanced ordering lines and getting food to go. We stuck with outdoor activities, primarily on the beach. Football, paddle ball and boogie boarding provided plenty of action, and we never felt a need to take on any additional touristy activities. My kids had serious dayone sunburns, leading us to swap beach time on day two for a drive up to Laguna Beach. I was pleasantly surprised to see Forest Street in downtown Laguna closed to traffic to create a promenade where restaurants offered greatly expanded outdoor dining. It felt like a little European street scene, with plenty of space for social distancing while dining al fresco.

I thought travel would be stressful, but this trip actually helped alleviate the pressure that had been building up by staying home. Getting out and navigating the world reminded me of what life used to be like. Yes, masks, hand sanitizer, and not going in shops and restaurants any more than necessary are our new reality.

But a change of scenery, cooler weather and the calming sounds of the ocean were exactly the reset buttons I needed to recharge my positivity.

And the chance to reconnect with teenagers who spend the majority of this strange-new-world time on screens was truly worth celebrating!

Elaina Verhoff is a Phoenix freelance writer and the mother of a teenage son and daughter.

September September is is Childhood Childhood Cancer Cancer Awareness Awareness Month Month CHILDREN’S CHILDREN’S CANCER CANCER NETWORK NETWORK is is aa 501(c)(3) 501(c)(3) non-profit non-profit organization organization CHILDREN’S CANCER NETWORK is a 501(c)(3) non-profitchildhood organization dedicated to providing assistance to Arizona families dedicated to providing assistance to Arizona families battling battling childhood cancer. cancer. dedicated to providing assistance to Arizona families battling childhood cancer.

Serving Serving over over 800 800 families families annually, annually, Children’s Children’s Cancer Cancer Network Network strives strives to to Serving over 800 families annually, Children’s Cancer Network strives to support support children children and and families families throughout throughout their their cancer cancer journey journey with with programs programs support children andfinancial families assistance, throughout their cancer journey encourage with programs designed to provide promote education, designed to provide financial assistance, promote education, encourage designed to provide financial assistance, create promote education, encourage healthy healthy lifestyles, lifestyles, build build self-esteem, self-esteem, and and create awareness awareness of of the the issues issues they they healthy lifestyles, build self-esteem, and create awareness of the issues they face related to childhood cancer.

Children’s Cancer Network is committed face related to childhood cancer. Children’s Cancer Network is committed to to face related to childhood cancer. Children’s Cancer Network is committed tothat helping helping children children and and families families dealing dealing with with the the stressful stressful and and uncertain uncertain times times that helping children and families dealing with the stressful and uncertain times that begin begin with with initial initial diagnosis diagnosis and and often often continue continue for for years years thereafter. thereafter. We We address address begin with initial diagnosis and often continue for years thereafter.

We address the the highest highest priority priority needs needs at at the the time time when when they they are are needed needed most. most. Our Our intention intention the highest priority needs at the time when they are needed most.

Our intention is is for for each each family family to to realize realize they they are are not not alone alone in in their their fight fight against against cancer. cancer. is for each family to realize they are not alone in their fight against cancer.

Giving Giving hope hope to to children children and and families families is is our our goal. goal.

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Here’s Here’s how how you you can can help: help: Here’s howChildren’s you can Cancer help: •• Choose Choose Children’s Cancer Network Network for for your your Qualified Qualified Charitable Charitable • Choose Children’s Cancer Network for your Qualified Charitable Organization for the Arizona Tax Credit.

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RaisingARIZONAKids.com September 2020

17

az grown travel

Raising Outdoor Kids

HAMMOCK CAMPING offers minimal gear, maximum star-gazing

Story by Lisa Van Loo | Photos by Ron Abler

A

nyone who has camped has

time last summer, camping in Montana’s

rocks, twigs and bumpy ground. And the

experienced the frustration of

Glacier National Park. We had packed a

kids were just as protected as they would

fumbling with a tent — getting caught

couple of hammocks just in case we felt

have been in a tent.

while threading the supports through, or

inspired. In that environment, it was hard

working through a reroll after realizing

not to be, even after packing our food in

as we started to drive home from our

you didn’t fold it down tight enough to

steel boxes designed to deter hungry bears.

latest hammock-camping adventure in

get it back into the bag. It’s just part of

Two of our five kids gave it a try and

Now we’re all kind of hooked. In fact,

mid-August, one of the kids suggested we

the process. Preparing a temporary shelter

declared they had never slept better. It

“just find some trees” and stay another

takes a little work. And patience.

was cool, open to the stars and secluded

night. That is the exact spirit we’re trying

— meaning they didn’t get an elbow to

to instill. Here are a few reasons to give

extreme to some people, requires less of

the face from a sibling in the middle of

hammock camping a spin.

both. And less space. And the payoff is

the night like they might have in a tent.

pretty amazing. We tried it for the first

Hammocks also subvert sleeping on

Hammock camping, which can sound

18 September 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

IT EMBRACES MINIMALISM. Maybe you

Hammock camping tips TEST YOUR GEAR. Before heading out, pull your hammock out of its bag and

make sure you have straps and carabiners. Webbed straps make hanging the hammock easier, as opposed to rope or string. When buying a hammock, check to see that it comes with straps and carabiners.

PACK A TENT. You’ll need a space to change if you’re around other people, and

it’s nice to have a back-up shelter if it rains or if the weather turns. And, if you bring dogs, they might appreciate the cover at night.

SCOUT FOR TREES. This seems obvious, but if you’re choosing a managed

campsite, try to scout the tree situation before reserving. Trees — with the appropriate distance between them — are crucial for hammocks. If your site lacks what you need, check with the camp host to see if there are any alternatives.

HANG TIGHT. Do your best to keep the head and foot straps at the same level

and hang the hammock tight. Body weight will pull it down into a comfortable Pine Flat just north of Sedona along 89A.

sling. If it’s too tight, just loosen the straps a bit.

don’t camp much, or ever. Maybe you

that way. It’s also part of the reason

perks of hammock camping. You feel

don’t have a tent or any other camping

hammock camping is so great for your

the breeze, hear all the sounds from

gear. With hammock camping, a

mental health. It challenges your comfort

nocturnal creatures and watch as the

hammock is pretty much all you need. We

zone. Hammocks are fun and relaxing

world falls asleep.

lay our sleeping bags in our hammocks,

by day, but realizing you’ll sleep in it

but depending on where and when

at night could change the tone a bit. A

IT AFFORDS PERSONAL SPACE. There is

you camp, you could get away with

thin tent protects you no better from

only room for one in a hammock, at least

using a blanket and a small pillow. And

wildlife than a hammock. Honestly. Kids

for sleeping. And that’s a benefit. Tent

hammocks are totally affordable. We

realize that after spending just one night

camping squeezes everyone into one small

found great hammocks on Amazon for

in a hammock. And all of a sudden, their

room, which can lead to sleep interference

each of our kids for about $25.

comfort zone has expanded.

from flying elbows and snoring.

And the best part? They take up very

Hammocks eliminate all of that. And,

little space. Tossed into a backpack or

IT’S IMMERSIVE. When you spend the

because they require trees, it may mean

clipped to the outside of one, they can go

night in a tent, you zip yourself off from

kids and parents can enjoy a little buffer

anywhere, which gives you more freedom.

your surroundings. Even if you don’t use

of space at night that isn’t often available

Think of the places you could explore if

the rainfly on a tent, the view of the night

inside a tent.

you weren’t dragging a tent with you!

sky is still obstructed. In a hammock, there’s nothing between you and the

IT TAKES YOU OUT OF YOUR COMFORT

open air, the sparkling night sky and the

ZONE. Kids, and most adults, are used

canopy of trees holding you up. Falling

to sleeping inside a shelter — one with

asleep to the stars, and occasionally under

walls and a roof. And it’s normal to feel

meteor showers, is one of our favorite

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 September 2020

19

SPECIAL NEEDS It’s all about finding the right combination of services, schools and strategies so children can explore their strengths and experience success. In this special section, find answers about your rights to an independent evaluation for learning differences, meeting the oral health care needs of children with disabilities, understanding the complex array of special needs acronyms, and finding experts to help you navigate your family’s healthcare, education and planning concerns.

RaisingARIZONAKids.com September 2020

21

SPECIAL NEEDS

You don’t need to stop at no “ ” Parents of students with learning differences have a right to independent, paid evaluations

By Dolores Tropiano require special education administrators to have

husband sat at the kitchen table trying to

completed coursework in special ed. But that

teach him French, his native language.

“Un, deux, trois,” he said in the same simple way he used with our older child.

Our toddler recited the numbers

never stopped staff from evaluating him. And surprisingly, he received glowing reports.

Here’s the problem. And it was a big one.

My young son was not glowing at home. Many

beautifully the first time, but when asked

mornings we had to pry his tightly wrapped

to repeat them a few seconds later, the

hands from the bedpost and force him into the

words disappeared faster than we could say

car. He hated school. We soon learned that he

“croissant.” This process repeated itself over

was being targeted and teased by other students

and over until my husband was exasperated.

for his academic challenges.

“He needs to be tested!” my husband

When a parent and their child know

said, not really knowing what that meant. We

something is wrong, and are told by school

laughed at the time, but looking back, it was a

staff that their child is fine, it is beyond

hint of what was to come.

exasperating. Some teachers and school psychologists said “he seems fine,” without

Accurate assessments change lives In second grade, our son attended a charter

knowing what “not fine” looked like. In eighth grade, he was even told he was reading

school. His recently graduated, enthusiastic

at a 12th-grade level! There was a huge

but uncertified teacher, required him to

disconnect between what was being said and

copy whiteboard after whiteboard of notes,

what we were experiencing.

sit still for long periods of time and read out

Sadly, this is very common. An unknowing

KATARZYNA BIALASIEWICZ

W

hen our son was 3 years old, my Swiss

author of “The Cradle to Prison Pipeline: An American Health Crisis,” inaccurate

loud. That is when we knew there was a real

parent can watch his or her child struggle

evaluations impact our entire society. “Few

problem.

through 12 years of schooling while being

public schools have the resources to recognize

told there are no problems, due, in part, to

health issues such as dyslexia, attention deficit

the first of several evaluations by charter and

the training gap between a special education

disorder, hyperactivity disorder,” Edelman

public schools. Unfortunately, many teachers

teacher or school psychologist and a pediatric

writes. “Instead, the behavior is more often

and even school psychologists have limited

neuropsychologist, which can impact the

perceived as insubordinate or disruptive than it

knowledge of dyslexia, dysgraphia, attention

quality and accuracy of an evaluation.

is recognized as symptomatic of a disorder. …

We asked if he could be tested. This was

deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and working memory. And Arizona does not

22 September 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

According to Marian Wright Edelman, president of the Children’s Defense Fund and

Thousands of students are expelled and even arrested for subjectively defined behaviors such

as ‘disorderly conduct.’ ”

Securing an outside assessment

Scottsdale Unified School District said was

Fortunately for us, an advocate said

Karyn Zogopoulos knew nothing

wrong,” explains Zogopoulos. In the end,

we could actually disagree with the school

about this option. Her son was placed in a

her son received a 504 plan, which requires

assessment. Not only that, but the law

developmental preschool that provides extra

schools to provide accommodations to

required the district to pay for an outside

support, but later was reevaluated and deemed

children with disabilities.

evaluation performed by a specialist. This

no longer qualified. The Scottsdale mother of

This can be a common occurrence

was valuable information that we, and I’d

seven paid $2,200 for outside evaluations. The

says Susan Marks, a Phoenix-based special

wager many other parents, didn’t know. It is,

tests revealed that her son had many academic

education attorney and advocate. “Parents

however, outlined in the information packet

challenges.

know there is something not right, but the

parents of children with disabilities receive when seeking school services.

“There was a huge discrepancy between what the doctor said was wrong and what the

teachers and the schools say there is nothing wrong,” Marks explains. “[Parents] don’t know

RaisingARIZONAKids.com September 2020

23

Arizona Early Intervention Program (AzEIP) 3839 N. Third St., Suite 304, Phoenix 602-532-9960 https://des.az.gov/services/disabilities/ developmental-infant Any caring adult can request an evaluation for a child they think is not on track developmentally. AzEIP is Arizona’s statewide, interagency system of supports and services for infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities and their families. AzEIP partners with community providers to provide at-home screening and determine eligibility for early-intervention services. Families can benefit from AzEIP until their child is 3 years old or no longer needs services.

24 September 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

they can ask for an outside evaluation.”

Marks says outside evaluations are key

My son’s diagnosis included ADHD, specific

Janna Murrell is one local mom who was

learning impairments in reading (phonological

happy with the evaluation her son received at

to ensuring that parents have meaningful

dyslexia) and writing (phonological dysgraphia)

school. “What I saw in my son, Tucker, was

opportunities in the decision-making process

and more. It validated and confirmed our

exactly what [his school in the Gilbert Unified

for their child. “It is one tool that parents have

concerns. Knowing the truth about his abilities

School District] saw,” says Murrell, who is also

that can put them on an equal footing with the

gave us direction in seeking help. The charter

assistant executive director for Raising Special

districts,” she says. “It can be very intimidating

school gave him an IEP (individual education

Kids, a Phoenix-based nonprofit that provides

to be sitting around a table with all of these

program), while the Scottsdale Unified School

support and information to parents of children

professionals telling you the results of their

District initially denied him one but eventually

with disabilities. The organization is funded in

evaluations. It’s like getting a second opinion.”

provided a 504 with services. Parents of children

part by the U.S. Department of Education and

Parents concerned about their child’s

with learning differences know it’s a long process

the Arizona Department of Education.

academic abilities need to first have them

securing additional services and supports, but

Christopher Tiffany, executive director

evaluated at school. If they disagree with the

you have a better chance of doing so with an

for Raising Special Kids, says the procedural

evaluation, the parent has the option, for up to

accurate IEE than without one.

safeguards packet is not exactly reader-friendly,

a year, to request an independent educational

but contact information for his organization

evaluation.

and others is provided there. He encourages

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act requires that parents of a child with special needs receive a packet of procedural safeguards. Page five of this 26-page, denselywritten packet outlines parents’ rights to an outside evaluation at the public’s expense.

Once requested, parents can choose from a

An ACCURATE EVALUATION is the first step in

PINPOINTING PROBLEMS and IDENTIFYING HOW A CHILD LEARNS or WHY THEY CAN’T .

parents to call Raising Special Kids (602-2424366) if they need help managing the maze of special education material. The organization also is able to connect parents with peer mentors — other parents who have been down a similar path. Services are free to families.

“Parents are afforded procedural

school-provided list of specialists. But they are

safeguards,” says Tiffany, “and the independent

not bound by this list or severe financial limits

educational evaluation is a part of the package

placed on the testing. A thorough evaluation provided by a pediatric neuropsychologist can cost more than $2,000.

Marks cautions parents against asking

Funding special education services Many say funding for education is a factor

of parents’ rights.”

American illustrator George Evans once

in favorable evaluations, and consequent

said, “Every student can learn, just not on the

services provided. In 2016, the U.S. Census

same day, or in the same way.”

for an IEE — an independent educational

Bureau reported that Arizona was third from

evaluation — just because they don’t like the

last in funding for students. While states like

pinpointing problems and identifying how

results of school-based testing. The decision

New York spent nearly $9,000 per student that

a child learns or why they can’t. It provides

should be based on actual observations

year, Arizona doled out a measly $2,850. The

specific solutions for a student — solutions

and strong parental instincts that a child’s

funding formula for special education has not

that can change the entire trajectory of their

challenges have gone undetected or the child

been reviewed since 2007, while the number

education, and ultimately their lives.

did not receive an adequate evaluation. “If

of special education students has more than

a school believes that their evaluation was

doubled. But not all schools let funding impact

proper, it can file for a due process hearing,

the integrity of their work.

and if the judge finds that the evaluation was

“Some school districts do a good job on

proper, the school does not have to pay for an

their evaluations,” continues Marks. “And an

IEE,” she says.

outside IEE is not necessary.”

An accurate evaluation is the first step in

Dolores Tropiano is a Scottsdale freelance journalist and mother of two teenage sons. She was a reporter for the Arizona Republic for more than 20 years and hosted and produced a TV talk show on Channel 45 for 15 years.

RaisingARIZONAKids.com September 2020

25

SPECIAL NEEDS

N av

th g n i t i ga

e

H T L A HE

it h L w A n R e O of childr needs al i c e p s

By C

as

a lv sie C

ert

F

OR MOST OF US, preparing for a routine dental appointment doesn’t take much

thought. If you’re the parent of a child with special needs, it may require more

planning.

For Otilia Ceh, preparing for a trip to the dentist starts about a week before the appointment. Ceh is a Peoria mother of four, and her 10-year-old daughter, Chloe, has Down syndrome.

Leading up to an appointment, Ceh and her family start talking with Chloe about what will happen at the dentist’s office and the reasons for going. “We make the dental experience exciting by reading books and watching videos about [going to] the dentist,” Ceh says.

While it is important for all family members to practice good oral hygiene at home, children with Down syndrome or other disabilities need special attention when it comes to oral health. And it’s essential to find a dentist who understands their unique needs.

26 September 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Dr. Bruce Spigner, a Delta Dental of Arizona board member and dentist who is widely recognized for his expertise in hospital and special needs dentistry, points to some common oral health concerns for children with special needs: • Increased risk of early childhood cavities • Wearing down of teeth due to grinding • Crowding of teeth, caused by poor muscle tone or tongue posture • Congenitally missing teeth

• Do you provide different levels of sedation?

• Do you have privileges at a local children’s hospital?

“Chloe’s pediatric dental office is all about the movie theater experience,” said Ceh. “They are great at distracting kids and making the entire visit fun.”

Some dental offices, including Clore’s, have special rooms for children who are sensitive to sound, light and other sensory triggers.

“If Chloe is having a bad day, I let the office know when we

• Increased risk of trauma from seizures or falling

arrive and they give her care in that special room,” said Ceh.

• Enamel erosion caused by digestive disorders

“It’s also helpful that they are equipped to sedate Chloe when she needs more extensive treatment.”

Some medications also can harm oral health, according

The dentist and other caregivers are there to support you

to Kristine Larcey, a registered dental hygienist and pediatric

and your child. Find a dentist you trust and keep the same

dental expert who has worked alongside Spigner. Inhalers and

routine each time you go so your child is never surprised.

breathing treatments can affect oral flora and lead to thrush.

Some seizure medications can cause severe overgrowth of gum tissue. Regular use of antibiotics can stain a child’s teeth. Oral medications sweetened for taste can increase cavity risk.

Finding the right dentist Regular dental visits mean potential problems will quickly

At-home dental care Consistency also is key to ongoing oral health at home.

From morning and nightly dental routines to seeing the same hygienist each visit, it helps when your child feels confident and knows what to expect.

Spigner recommends kids brush twice a day and floss at

be identified and treated. So, how do you find the right dentist?

least once. When children are unable to adequately brush their

Start by understanding the difference between a general

own teeth, a parent should step in and help. A fluoride rinse or

practice dentist and a pediatric specialist.

“A pediatric dentist has completed two extra years of

toothpaste also can help prevent tooth decay.

Ceh and her family let Chloe brush her teeth first, then

training to specialize in the treatment of children, including

they follow behind to ensure she has brushed every spot.

those with special needs,” Spigner says. “They are highly skilled

Chloe’s family also flosses for her to ensure no food particles

at providing dental care and managing children at all stages of

are left between teeth.

development and ability.”

Each child is unique, so find a dental routine that works

Spigner recommends asking for referrals from friends who

and try to stick to it. Surround yourself with other parents who

have children with special needs. It’s also a good idea to ask your

have children with special needs and seek out experts when you

child’s doctor for recommendations. That’s how Ceh found a

have an oral health concern. A healthy mouth supports overall

dental home for Chloe. Once you narrow down your options,

wellness and keeps your child smiling for a lifetime.

Spigner suggests calling each office and asking questions: • Are you comfortable with/do you have experience treating children with [my child’s condition]?

• Are you a board-certified pediatric dentist?

Cassie Calvert is the marketing and communications manager at Delta Dental of Arizona, the state’s largest dental insurance company. For more tips for keeping your child’s teeth and gums healthy, visit deltadentalazblog.com.

RaisingARIZONAKids.com September 2020

27

SPECIAL NEEDS

GiGi’s Playhouse offers FREE TUTORING for students with DOWN SYNDROME Study: Autism diagnoses come years later for Black children A NEW STUDY highlighted by the American

Academy of Pediatrics found racial inequities in the timely diagnosis of autism in children.

The sooner the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, the sooner treatment can start, and the better the outcome, pediatricians say.

The study, “Timing of the Diagnosis of Autism in African Americans,” found that among a large cohort of African American

GIGI’S PLAYHOUSE PHOENIX — one of only 49 Down Syndrome Achievement

children enrolled in a National Institute of

Centers for children across the United States and Mexico — has turned its

Health Autism Center of Excellence gene

in-person programs into virtual tutoring sessions. Starting in September, children

discovery program there was on average a

as young as 3 can begin one-on-one math and literacy tutoring from the safety of

three-year delay between the time parents first

home.

expressed concern about a child’s development

“GiGi’s Playhouse was founded on the principle that individuals with Down

and the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder.

syndrome are accepted and embraced in their families, schools and communities.

Nearly half of parents reported seeing multiple

We support that by offering free educational and therapeutic-based programs,” said

providers before receiving a diagnosis, and

Robin Lea-Amos, executive director of GiGi’s Playhouse Phoenix.

31.3 percent said that lack of available professionals contributed to this delay.

The findings, in the September 2020 issue of Pediatrics (the official journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics) suggests

When COVID-19 forced the centers to suspend 4,400 hours a week of free therapeutic and education programs, its leaders sought alternative methods of service delivery. “We know that families need safe, quality virtual education resources now more than ever,” said Lea-Amos.

GiGi’s is accepting applications from students who would like to receive tutoring

broad implementation of timely diagnostic

as well as individuals 18 and over who would like to volunteer as tutors for the

and high-quality early intervention programs

fall session starting in early September. Tutoring sessions are built based on the

would reduce the disproportionate number of

ways individuals with Down syndrome learn best. Tutors are trained to begin at

Black children with autism whose conditions

a student’s current ability and build from there. Anyone interested in tutoring or

are complicated by intellectual disability.

becoming a tutor can submit an application by visiting gigisplayhouse.org/phoenix

28 September 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Sponsored Content

families as they navigate life-limiting or end of life journeys. Even through the current crisis, they have remained open, offering these mission-critical services.

Their world-class care team focuses on quality of life and continuity of care and provides palliative and respite care that addresses the emotional, spiritual and social needs of the whole family.

The precious children with life-limiting conditions, like two-year-old Mazie featured on the cover of this month’s issue and 11-year-old Jaxen pictured here, are just two of nearly 1,000 children who have received Ryan House’s world class respite, palliative and end-of-life programs since opening its doors and its hearts in 2010. That translates into 16,515 days of respite and hospice care along with outreach and grief support to parents or guardians, siblings, relatives and friends of the children they serve.

Celebrating 10 Years

of Open Doors and Open Hearts at RYAN HOUSE EVERYDAY THOUSANDS OF CHILDREN are born with some sort of life-limiting disease that alters the course of their life dramatically. Doctors’ appointments, surgeries, at home care around the clock; it can all become a bit tasking and tiring on the child and the other family members, especially in light of the current crisis.

Phoenix-based nonprofit Ryan House continues to be a lifeline for these families, providing much-needed pediatric respite and end-of-life care to Arizona’s most medically fragile children and their families. A national leader in pediatric palliative care, Ryan House is the only organization of its kind in the Southwest and one of three in the country.

They are celebrating their 10th anniversary this year and their families need them now more than ever.

Just as they have been doing for the last 10 years, they continue to embrace all children and their

Ryan House is more than just a facility; it is an innovative concept in Pediatric Palliative Care. It is a community. It is home. Their world class care is made possible by the community as currently, there’s no reimbursement for these services.

The 12,500 sq. foot facility has eight creatively themed cabins (bedrooms) for children. Families are always welcome to stay in one of three family suites.

Kids, families and volunteers have fun in the great room, the S’mores Café family kitchen and dining room, and a colorful and fun wheelchair- friendly playground. Specialized therapies are housed in the Swimming Hole (indoor hydrotherapy pool), Sensory Tent, Creative U, Do’Re’Mi’ Music Room, and the Story of Me multi-media legacy-building room.

Sanctuary and memorial gardens provide quiet, peaceful spaces for reflection, remembrance and celebrations of life because life is not determined by length but by how many happy moments we spent with those we love. For more information visit RyanHouse.org or call (602) 200-0767.

RaisingARIZONAKids.com September 2020

29

SPONSORED CONTENT

Proactive pandemic planning Fewer than half of Americans have done their estate planning.

Even if you have, COVID-19 creates new considerations.

By Jennifer L. Kupiszewski, Esq. and Emily B. Kile, Esq.

A

s the Covid-19 crisis continues, we

Your hospital “go package” should

his hospital bed and the phone was

hear a lot of talk about estate planning

include the following:

out of his reach.)

and the increased need for documents like a Healthcare Power of Attorney. Only 50 percent of Americans have completed this process. If you are one of them, congratulations! You have the peace of mind that comes with preparation.

But it’s not likely you did your

• A copy of your driver’s license, updated if necessary with your current address.

• A copy of your Social Security card (or at least list the number).

• Copies of your Healthcare Power of Attorney and Living Will.

• Pictures of your current prescription

planning during a pandemic. Covid-19

labels, or a list of your medications

poses some interesting challenges that

and any supplements you take.

The information in your “go package” can be kept in a binder or manila envelope — or you can prepare a digital copy on a thumbdrive you keep on your keychain.

If you go the digital route, make sure there is a note in your wallet saying this information is on the thumbdrive.

The best time to prepare for an illness is when you feel well. Let your loved ones

may necessitate a quick review. One

• A list of any medication allergies.

and decision makers know where you

example: Does Covid-19 change how you

• Key medical history: chronic

keep the “go package” in the event you are

feel about ventilators? Are you willing

conditions, prior surgeries, any

to authorize experimental treatment?

medical devices you use, etc.

With a novel virus our physicians and scientists still don’t know how to prevent or treat, you might have different

• A list of all your treating physicians with contact information.

• A list of who is allowed to contact you

unable to take it with you.

If you still need an estate plan or if you need to update your plan, Emily B. Kile in our firm can assist you.

feelings about these issues. If so, you

while you are in the hospital, along

Call us at 480-348-1590 or make an

should have your documents updated to

with their contact information. Given

appointment online at kilekuplaw.com.

reflect your current thinking.

that Covid-19 patients are not allowed

What else should you be considering

in-person hospital visits, you should

during a pandemic? First, whoever you

now include a list of people you would

nominated in your documents to serve

like to speak with on the phone or

on your behalf should know about the

“see” via video platforms.

documents and where to find them. If

• A copy of all health insurance cards.

you are too ill to tell anyone about the

• If you have long-term care insurance,

plan, they can’t use your planning to

include a copy of the policy or at least

protect you.

the policy number and company

This is an easy problem to address:

contact information.

Put together a “go package” of your

• Your cell phone and number.

essential documents. This package should

• An extra-long charging cord. (My

be easily accessible — not locked away in

husband and I learned during his last

your home safe or a safety deposit box.

hospital stay; the outlet was far from

30 September 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Emily (right) and Jennifer are the owners of Kile & Kupiszewski Law Firm in Scottsdale that handles special needs and ALTCS planning, guardianship/ conservatorship, probate and trust administration, estate planning and probate litigation.

FREE 30 minute consultation for children with autism.

Arizona Institute for Autism provides “Applied Behavioral Analysis/ABA” services by highly trained clinicians and experts in special education and behavioral health.

Our comprehensive clinical services are conducted in home, clinic or school settings with a focus on helping each child attain a greater sense of independence. Services include:

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Arizona Institute for Autism Integrity. Empowerment. Excellence.

8360 E. Raintree Drive, Scottsdale. Suite 105. Scottsdale Arizona 85260 azinstituteforautism.com 480.707.2195 info@azinstituteforautism.com

A Special Advertising Section Sponsored by Kile & Kupiszewski Law Firm

SPECIAL NEEDS RESOURCES ARIZONA ATTORNEY GENERAL’S OFFICE 2005 N. Central Ave., Phoenix • 602-542-2123 • azag.gov The Community Outreach Section of the Attorney General’s office provides free educational presentations and webinars for parents, teachers, and students (ages 5-18) on a variety of issues facing today’s youth. Topics include: Internet Safety, Suicide Awareness and Prevention, Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention, Anti-Bullying, E-Cigarette Awareness and Prevention, and more.

ARIZONA INSTITUTE FOR AUTISM 8360 E. Raintree Drive, Suite 105, Scottsdale • 480-707-2195 • azinstituteforautism.com Arizona Institute for Autism provides Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) services by highly trained clinicians and experts in special education and behavioral health. Our comprehensive clinical services are conducted in home, clinic or school settings with a focus on helping each child attain a greater sense of independence. Individualized and group sessions, school readiness program, parent consultation and training. All programs follow COVID-19 safety protocols and regulations.

AZ ASPIRE ACADEMY Campuses in Litchfield Park, Queen Creek, Scottsdale, Tempe and Tucson • 480-420-6630 • azaspireacademy.com AZ Aspire Academy is a fully accredited private day school for K-12 students with learning differences. Offers one-to-one and small-group instruction in a completely individualized, caring and safe learning environment.

DEVEREUX ADVANCED BEHAVIORAL HEALTH ARIZONA devereuxaz.org Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Arizona changes lives by unlocking and nurturing human potential for individuals with emotional, behavioral or cognitive differences. Since 1967, Devereux has been serving Arizona in the Phoenix and Tucson areas. Today our award-winning programs and services include: adolescent health and wellness, autism, brief intervention, outpatient counseling and treatment, prevention, residential treatment, respite and therapeutic foster care for children and adults.

DMG CHILDREN’S REHABILITATIVE SERVICES 3141 N. Third Ave., Suite 100, Phoenix • 602-914-1520 • dmgcrs.org DMG CRS is the only multi-specialty interdisciplinary clinic in Maricopa County and was designed to support coordinated, convenient and highquality care for children (infants to age 21) with complex conditions. Housed in a one-story building conveniently located in central Phoenix, DMG CRS includes more than 85 medical providers across more than 25 pediatric specialties. Social workers and other support services are on site to help coordinate care and make accessing the services and equipment you need as easy as possible.

HI-STAR CENTER FOR CHILDREN 5807 N. 43rd. Ave., Phoenix • 602-548-3038 • histarcenter.com The Hi-Star Center for Children is a private special education day school, serving students with severe language/communication, learning and behavioral needs. Hi-Star is an academically based program which incorporates language acquisition skills into the daily curriculum, along with a structured behavior management program. Hi-Star works with students in kindergarten through middle school.

HOPE GROUP 4530 E. Muirwood Drive, Suite 103, Phoenix • 480-610-6981 • hopegroupaz.com HOPE Group stands for Honoring and Optimizing the Potential in Everyone. Since 1997, we have provided services to those diagnosed with developmental and neurological disorders, including autism spectrum disorder. As a qualified vendor with the Arizona Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), we provide habilitation and respite services for ages 2 through adulthood. We also serve our community as a vendor through Vocational Rehabilitation services for youth in transition through adulthood. We offer HOPE for a more successful life!

32 September 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Do you have a child with special needs?

At DMG Children’s Rehabilitative Services, we don’t just provide medical care, we provide total care, including: • 25+ medical specialties • Occupational, physical and speech therapies

Common Diagnoses

25+ Specialties, including

• Cardiac anomalies • Cleft lip and palate • Cystic fibrosis • Neuromuscular disorders • Orthopedic conditions • Scoliosis • Spina bifida

DMG CRS accepts all AHCCCS and most commercial health plans.

• On-site imaging services • Social workers • And more

• Audiology • Behavioral health • Comprehensive assessment • Dental health • Genetics • Neurology • Orthopedics • Physical therapy • Primary care • Pulmonology • And more

Schedule your child’s appointment today!

(602) 914-1520

Visit our website: DMGCRS.org DMGCRS |

DMG_AZ |

DMG_CRS

A Special Advertising Section Sponsored by Kile & Kupiszewski Law Firm

KILE & KUPISZEWSKI LAW FIRM 8727 E. Via de Commercio, Scottsdale • 480-348-1590 • kilekuplaw.com Our law firm provides services to help you navigate the legal challenges families face when they have a child with special needs. We can help you complete an estate plan to ensure the assets your loved one may inherit do not interfere with the government benefits to which they are entitled. We can safeguard your planning for someone with a disability by creating a special needs trust. We also handle guardianship proceedings for children with special needs who are turning 18 and still need a decision maker. Everyone on our team will listen carefully to you because we value relationships with our clients above all else. Our attorneys will guide you through the legal process, making sure you understand and are fully informed about your options. Together we will determine which option is best for you and formulate a plan.

LAW OFFICE OF RICHARD J. MURPHY, PLC Serving students with disabilities across Arizona • 602-296-4962 • phoenixspecialedlawyer.com The Law Office of Richard J. Murphy, PLC represents students with disabilities in school disputes throughout Arizona. We provide assistance with issues such as IEP and Section 504 violations, due process and state complaints, evaluations and “child find” and suspension/expulsion. Our firm will stand by you and fight for your child’s right to an education. Free consultations available for all special education issues.

RYAN HOUSE 110 W. Muhammad Ali Way, First Floor, Phoenix • 602-200-0767 • ryanhouse.org Ryan House offers world-class care and programs that embrace all children and their families as they navigate life-limiting or end-of-life journeys.

Palliative and respite care address the emotional, spiritual and social needs of the family; continuity of care from diagnosis to end-of-life; expert care provided by prestigious care partners and highly-trained staff; and a loving community that offers ongoing support and compassion. Ryan House is the only facility of its kind in the state and only one of three in the country.

S.E.E.K. ARIZONA 1830 S. Alma School Road, Suite 130, Mesa • 4425 W. Olive Ave., Suite 167, Glendale • 480-902-0771 • seekarizona.org S.E.E.K. Arizona offers several evidence-based behavioral health services for clients who wish to learn appropriate, safe, and positive behavior choices to improve their quality of life and relationships with others. We specialize in working with children and young adults with autism and other intellectual disabilities, but offer programming that meets the needs of individuals with varying diagnoses. Services include direct care support, counseling, intensive behavior coaching, family training, social skills and social thinking programs, and intensive evidenced-based classroom programming through our Life Skills Learning Academy and BRIEF program. Many of our services are offered via telehealth as well as in person. All children and adult services are led by professionals who have extensive training or certifications in Applied Behavior Analysis and are experienced with developmental disabilities, behavioral disorders, or autism spectrum disorders

SOUTHWEST AUTISM CENTER OF EXCELLENCE 11221 N. 28th Drive, Phoenix • 1255 W. Baseline Road, #138, Mesa • 2850 N. 24th St., Phoenix • 602-388-1700 • saceaz.org Birth to adulthood (members throughout the lifespan). Depending on the needs of individuals and their families, we may provide services such as ongoing therapies, DIR/Floortime, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, housing stability goals, employment, education, healthcare, and other services. During evaluation or reassessment, adults may have a comprehensive assessment using the Aspire model, which helps participants create deeper social connections and develop independence. Determining appropriate housing and supports are crucial for adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

SOUTHWEST AUTISM RESEARCH & RESOURCE CENTER 300 N. 18th St., Phoenix • 602.606.9806 • autismcenter.org SARRC’s clinical model is grounded in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with a particular focus on naturalistic behavioral interventions in inclusive environments, including but not limited to in the home, in school, on the job or in the community. Each of SARRC’s therapeutic programs, classes and trainings are guided by best-practice models; the most currently available science; a goal of increasing independence and producing meaningful outcomes; and the individualized needs of the children, adolescents, adults and families we serve.

TAYLOR AND LIHN, PLLC 1747 E. Morten Ave., Suite 105, Phoenix • 480-699-3145 • taylorlihn.com Special Needs Planning, Special Needs Trusts, Guardianships & Conservatorships, Medicaid (ALTCS) Planning & Developmental Disabilities Division (DDD) Assistance, Benefits Protection, Estate Planning, Probate & Trust Administration, Probate Litigation

34 September 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

SOUTHWEST AUTISM CENTER OF EXCELLENCE SACE serves those diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families. SACE serves these members throughout the life span.

Southwest Autism Center of Excellence (SACE) is a collaborative effort of:

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL (602) 388-1700 OR VISIT WWW.SACEAZ.ORG

Hi-Star Center for Children

BRIDGES THE GAP with Parent choice of On-Campus Instruction or Remote Programming! ★ Is remote learning not working for your special needs child? ★ Overwhelmed, tired of helping your child with devices? ★ Is distance learning too distant?

We offer on campus learning for special needs students Hi-Star Center for Children is an academic day school for students experiencing delays and disabilities in language/communication, cognitive, and behavioral skills. ★ Small class sizes

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★ Social Skills Training & Emotional Support ★ Music and Art Classes ★ Over 30 years providing educational services to special needs students in the valley ★ We follow CDC Health & Safety Guidelines

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www.histarcenter.com ★ 5807 N. 43rd Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85019

RaisingARIZONAKids.com September 2020

35

A Special Advertising Section Sponsored by Kile & Kupiszewski Law Firm

THE UNITED SCHOOL 9590 E. Shea Blvd., Bldg. C, Scottsdale • 480-860-1339 • theunitedschool.com At The United School, we specialize in serving children affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in grades 1-12. Our unique ABA-based programming challenges all students to reach their highest academic and social potentials. We proudly offer two educational tracks to ensure every student is challenged to the highest level of their abilities. The objective of our 8:1 Transition Track is to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to integrate into a less restrictive/mainstream school upon completing 8th grade (or sooner). Our 4:1 Main Track is for students needing a little more support and introduces vocational/life skills courses in our high school level. All students benefit from our Direct Instruction methodology and challenging curriculum, as well as our full scope of extracurricular programming, including music, PE, art and social skills classes. We are committed to providing a safe, healthy and positive environment for our students and staff!

IMPORTANT CONTACTS ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION EXCEPTIONAL STUDENTS SERVICES ensures that public education agencies in Arizona have special education programs, policies, and procedures that comply with the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and that eligible children and youth with disabilities receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE). ESS supports the needs of families of students with disabilities, monitors schools for compliance with the regulations that implement the IDEA, and administers the IDEA Entitlement grant. Find links explaining student assessments, assistive technology, AZ Find/Child Find, a glossary of acronyms and terms, and more. https://www.azed.gov/ specialeducation/

ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SERVICES has an area devoted to Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs. It focuses on improving systems of care, providing information and referrals to families; providing training to families and professionals on best practices related to medical home, cultural competence, transition to adulthood and family and youth involvement; and supports telemedicine to provide services in remote areas of the state. azdhs.gov/prevention/womens-childrens-health/ocshcn

RAISING SPECIAL KIDS is a statewide nonprofit organization that provides free support, guidance and resources to parents raising children (up to age 26) with any type of disability. Raising Special Kids provides training, information and individual assistance so families can become effective advocates for their children. This is a good starting place to connect with other parents who have “walked the walk” and can help you get your questions and concerns answered. raisingspecialkids.org

Coming next month:

Birthday party resources!

36 September 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Taylor & Lihn, PLLC, a special needs planning firm, exists to serve our Arizona community by educating, empowering, and advocating for individuals and their loved ones who want to create a meaningful life and legacy.

www.taylorlihn.com (480)699-3145

1747 E. Morten Ave., Suite 105 Phoenix, AZ 85020

We know how important it is to maintain continuity of services. SARRC is committed to delivering ABA therapy to children, teens and adults with autism.

CONNECT WITH US TODAY!

autismcenter.org | 602-606-9806

RaisingARIZONAKids.com September 2020

37

– THE –

must go on?

Youth theaters roll out live-streamed

and drive-in performances to weather the ongoing pandemic

By Doris Nehrbass

38 September 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

OVID-19 hit the world of live

kids in the show. It regrouped to offer online summer

theater especially hard. Typically by now,

camps and Zoom dance classes and hosted a drive-in

local theater companies have announced

parking-lot show to showcase graduating seniors.

full schedules for the 2020-21 season. Those plans

“We did not charge for that,” says Maureen

are largely on hold. It could be months before large

Dias-Watson, producing artistic director of

groups are able to safely congregate indoors.

Greasepaint. “We wanted to lift up the kids

That hasn’t stopped family-friendly and youth

graduating, who were missing so much of what

theater groups across the Valley from exercising

should be the best of times. We filled the lot, and

their considerable creativity. Many have launched

that was a blast!”

innovative ideas to survive the pandemic — virtual

Beginning in August and wrapping up this

summer camps and fundraisers, online auditions

month, Greasepaint also rolled out “Thriller

and rehearsals and even small-group, live-streamed

Thursdays” offering live-streamed radio plays from

or outdoor drive-in performances that allow

the 1930s and ’40s, starting with the original (and

audiences to maintain socially distance.

infamous) radio script of “War of the Worlds” and ending with Edgar Allen Poe’s “The Fall of the

“THEATER IS MEANT to be an in-person experience,” says Karen Rolston, producing artistic

House of Usher,” on Sept. 10.

“We think [it’s a] fun, challenging and a great

director for East Valley Children’s Theatre in Mesa.

learning experience to have our kids try their hand

“However, we knew early on that it was not going

at acting with their voice alone — something none

to be possible for a while, so right away we started

of them has ever been asked to do in the world of

brainstorming what we could do to keep it alive.”

musical theater!” says Dias-Watson. Each performance

EVCT’s virtual summer classes ended up being a hit. “We found that many of the kids and parents liked the virtual classes, and they went really well,”

has a live studio audience of 25, wearing masks, and six to eight performers, all socially distanced.

Greasepaint is currently building a deck-style

Rolston says. “We did a radio play that turned out to

stage in its courtyard for five nonmusical plays

be an amazing show. Kids did the sound effects and

starting Sept. 18. “We know it’s safer to be out of

great character voices, because that is all there is.”

doors, and with the gorgeous weather in Arizona in

Now, EVCT is working on its first virtual play, to

the fall/winter, it presents a perfect opportunity,”

be presented on Sept. 19. “This is sort of a trial run

she says. The plays will feature small casts with

to see what kinds of things we can do with it,” says

socially distanced seating. Audiences will be limited

Rolston, adding they also have shows scheduled for

to 40 people and all must wear masks. The shows

October and November and are looking at options

will include comedies, dramas, classics and brand-

including recorded shows and drive-in performances

new pieces. Rehearsals will be held via Zoom until

from a portable stage in the parking lot with sound

the week of the performance, when the cast will

piped directly to people’s cars.

gather outside to block and stage the show.

AEROGONDO

Greasepaint Youtheatre in Scottsdale went dark on March 15, having finished its run of “13

“LIKE ALL OTHER arts organizations, Valley

The Musical,” which had sold-out houses and 40

Youth Theatre has been significantly impacted by

RaisingARIZONAKids.com September 2020

39

COVID-19,” says Bobb Cooper, VYT’s producing artistic director. Staff of the Phoenix youth theater started working remotely in mid-March. VYT had to cancel the last two shows of its 31st season, and the first two — and likely

“THE ARTS GET US THROUGH STRESSFUL SITUATIONS. WE NEED ART NOW MORE THAN EVER.”

-- Chris Hamby, producing artistic director of Peoria’s TheaterWorks

three — shows of its 32nd.

VYT’s virtual summer camps accommodated just a fourth of the usual number of campers, Cooper says. The theater recently live-streamed a long list of performers for its vital August fundraiser, rolled out virtual private acting lessons and kept VYTeens engaged with weekly video calls and collaborative initiatives. It’s considering streaming shows based on video diaries that don’t require sets.

“We’re also working on playwriting opportunities for kids to devise stories dealing with COVID-19,” says Cooper. “Because we’re doing things virtually and not paying for designers, costumes and lighting, we can afford to try things that are less commercial and have more of a social impact.”

Despite the innovations, changes have been tough on staff and students, who miss “the supportive, creative energy of being in a physical space together.” Cooper says.

“I’ve been heartbroken for all the young people who have lost so much time and opportunity to develop and share their talents.”

CHRIS HAMBY, producing artistic director of Peoria’s TheaterWorks, says 2020 started out promising for the theater and came to a screeching halt that led to 85 percent of the staff being furloughed.

“We were on course to have our largest year of growth,” he says. “We were fortunate to have two of our guardian angel donors come forward and provide funds to launch a matching giving campaign to help TheaterWorks sustain ourselves during the time when none of us knew how long this pandemic would last.”

Hamby and Managing Director Cate Hinkle have since brainstormed and explored Hamby’s long-held interest in immersive theater. From Sept. 10-Oct. 18, TheaterWorks will present “Curiouser and Curiouser” a first-of-its-kind multisensory theater experience that allows small audiences

40 September 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

to walk through the world of Alice in Wonderland.

precautions,” she says. “The final performance was attended

Recommended for ages 16 and up, the 100-minute show

by a parents-only audience but live streamed on Facebook

encompasses visual art, music, dance, puppetry and theater

for virtual audiences.”

and is available to up to 10 participants per performance.

This month, Desert Foothills is presenting “Lion

Masks and gloves are required (and will be provided) and

King Jr.,” live with many safety protocols. The

numerous other safety procedures will be in place.

performance will run Sept. 18-27.

“For now, we have a program that will fill the

“Actors have temperatures taken, wash hands, and

void and give the community a revolutionary way

wear masks,” Temple explains. “The audience size will

to experience live theater,” says Hamby, who adds

be limited, and seating will be set observing social

TheaterWorks was able to bring back staff and hire

distancing guidelines. Actor’s animal masks will be

designers with the help of a PPP loan. “It has been an

creatively constructed from full-face shields. We are also

amazing journey, invigorating as an artist to be able to

planning for the hopeful option of ticket selling for a

innovate and create something from the ground up. We

virtual performance.”

are also hoping those that were never interested in theater will give this experience a try.”

WHILE INNOVATIONS HAVE helped these nonprofits through months of dark theatres, there is still plenty

SPOTLIGHT YOUTH THEATRE in Glendale ran

of uncertainty about when and how life — and live

in-person summer camps with a small group of actors,

performances — will resume a new normal. Or what that

following strict safety protocols that included masks or face

will look like. Cooper hopes some of the online innovations

shields at all times. “The families got it, and the kids got it,

Valley Youth Theatre has been exploring will continue even

and the camps were very successful,” says Kenny Grossman,

once we resume attending live theater en masse.

artistic director.

Based on that experience, Spotlight plans workshopstyle shows with small casts this season. Each show will end with live performances in front of 28 people and the

“Working with these young people again has been exhilarating, invigorating and inspiring, to say the least,” he says.

However it plays out, local theater directors emphasize

option to watch it live streamed. Spotlight also will offer

the importance of the arts to any community —

virtual theater classes, including a 10-week “Homeschool

especially during tough times.

Show Program,” and plans to do a monthly “Car-Baret” performance in the theater parking lot.

“The arts get us through stressful situations,” says Hamby. “We need art now, more than ever. We still don’t

“I’m super excited about some of the shows we are

know how long this reality will last, we still don’t know

finalizing right now,” says Grossman. “They will be life

how this will affect the industry on a short-term and a

changing and very creative. … Even though we are very

long-term basis.”

limited on how we can present our season, we are not limited on the creativity that will come out of it.”

“Now more than ever, we need everyone to support all local youth theater in all of its forms,” agrees Spotlight’s Grossman. “We need people to buy tickets to the shows (live

GINNY TEMPLE of Desert Foothills Theater in

or virtual), we need actors to perform the shows (live with

Scottsdale says the theater was financially impacted by

masks or virtual), we need the entire community to help the

having to postpone three of its shows last season, but

entire youth theater community try to push through.”

staff members kept strategizing. “We offered a very small performance camp this summer that included all safety

Doris Nehrbass is a West Valley freelance writer and editor.

RaisingARIZONAKids.com September 2020

41

From left: Hanne and Marianne as children.

42 September 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Always

look forward

A Holocaust survivor, my mother distilled life’s lessons to three profound basics.

By Ellen Greenblum | Photos courtesy of the Greenblum family

M

aybe I was in denial. My mother seemed immortal.

After the war, relatives in the U.S. brought her to New York, where she met up with cousins, one of whom was dating my

Marianne Greenblum, the feisty

father. It only took one social get together before my father drove

Holocaust survivor “who never

my mother home from the beach instead of the cousin. The way

looked back” (my brother’s words),

my mom told the story made whomever was listening laugh out

was still gossiping about her neighbors

loud, because it was so matter of fact: My mom was the real catch,

and critiquing my fashion sense.

and the cousin “just thought she was hot stuff.”

The grandmother of seven and great-

To know my mother meant listening to her stories. There

grandmother of six had told us her heart was

was a whole lifetime full of them, but most were about my father,

failing, and that we should not get in the way of her process. It was

their kooky courtship and later what trouble my brothers and I

easier said than done, but we complied because she was still the boss.

caused. My parents married because my mother refused to go on

My mother was a remarkable woman. Her parents were killed

an overnight ski trip with my dad unless he put a diamond on

in the gas chambers of a concentration camp early in World War

her finger. When my brothers and I were little, his job required

II. My mother and her sister fled Germany for Holland, parting

traveling days or weeks at a time. She would complain that he left

ways. My mother’s dark complexion and hair made her vastly

her with “the rotten kids,” and he knew not to come home empty-

more vulnerable than my aunt, whose paler tones were not as

handed. And she had her sister, who also survived the Holocaust.

much of an identity giveaway.

My aunt was always there, the personal on-call nanny to rescue

Throughout the duration of the war, my mom hid in attics or basements, wherever she could find safety. But it was always

her from us “kinderen.”

In her final years, her raison d’etre was to celebrate life with

temporary shelter, because Nazi soldiers were relentless in their

ferocity, with family and dear friends all around her. In her

hunt for unaccounted Jews. As soon as there were leads to her

convivial senior apartment complex, she socialized over cards, at

whereabouts, she would move on, guided by devoted family

happy hour, during tea and meals. (She insisted meals were lousy,

friends in the Dutch resistance who continued to risk their lives

but she thrived on a good reason to get dressed up.) Every Sunday

— even after losing one of their own.

evening, any number of family members and friends would join

My mother attributed her will to survive — despite trauma

our weekly “party.” Weeks before she left us, she was still taking

and malnutrition — to an anchoring belief that her parents were

a daily walk up and down hills, reading a romance or mystery

alive, and that she would see them again. She did not. But anyone

novel a week, attending yoga and tai chi classes and talking on the

who knew my mother would agree she was a force all by herself,

phone — a lot. If she ever complained about an ache or a pain, I

with an uncontainable resilience that enabled her to get what she

would joke it might be time for a trip to the Grand Canyon, where

wanted and do what she wanted the moment she could put those

I could leave her as food for hungry wildlife. My mother would

horrific years behind her and begin anew.

laugh and say, “Don’t leave me there. Ship me to Florida to be

RaisingARIZONAKids.com September 2020

43

Above: Hanne and Marianne.

Right: Marianne with Ellen’s daughter Rachael and her great granddaughter Aviva.

Below: Ellen and her mom.

Left: Marianne as a young adult.

buried next to my husband. That’s where I’m going.”

Three weeks prior to passing, she began to talk seriously

the distillation of and a foundation for so much of what she stood for, and definitely played out in her final days. She said, “…only

about death, getting her finances in order, reviewing last requests.

good people, people that are honest and that you can be honest

Ten days prior, she was very sure about dying and wanted to die

with. Honesty is the most important thing, it starts there, because

comfortably in her bed. My family and closest friends worked

then you have trust.” I reflected on a conversation we’d had a few

together. Someone was always with her, and I welcomed the

months prior. She explained her good friends are family. “They

doctor’s call on Jan. 2 connecting us with hospice, which supplied

become that,” she said.

medications to make the final days and hours easier. My mother

My mother built community in all of her circles — with her

was relaxed and surrounded by the love of family, friends and

family, her friends, and the people she played bridge with — so she

grandchildren, who were there to hold her hand or stroke her face.

always had something special to look forward to. For every social or

If she was conscious, I can promise you she loved the attention.

family gathering, she planned her outfit days in advance and would

She left us on the afternoon of Jan. 4. The sun was shining, and

say, “I’m looking forward,” which is what she did her whole life.

there was a gentle breeze coming through the windows. It was a

I love you Marianne Greenblum. Thank you for giving me

perfect winter day in Arizona.

She had lived through so much history, but until her final

a greater capacity for opening my heart to others and to call my beloved friends family. Thank you for these life lessons: Find your

days, I hadn’t asked for her big-picture wisdom. I didn’t want to

people, work hard and play hard, and even through hard times,

hasten the end with weighty questions. Finally, while she was still

look forward. Always look forward.

lucid and verbal, I asked my mother what advice she had for those of us living and growing up in the world now — a complex time with extreme symptoms of systemic inequities and division.

Her answer surprised me. She talked about the importance of always surrounding yourself with good people. Her remark was

44 September 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Ellen Greenblum is a proud grandmother who chairs the Arts and Humanities department at Prescott College in Prescott.

She wrote this tribute to her mother, Marianne Greenblum, born Nov. 24, 1924, just before the pandemic.

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family time!

Congo Masks and Music: Masterpieces from Central Africa (Sept. 1-30) at Musical Instrument Museum.

SEPTEMBER TOP EVENTS

NOW-SEPT. 21: School supplies drive. To support students and teachers in need, The Promenade Scottsdale is collecting new back-to-school supplies during its Load the Lockers event. Place your donated items in the bright yellow lockers located near Office Max in the outdoor shopping complex. All proceeds benefit Arizona Friends of Foster Children

From interactive art exhibits to outdoor festivals, storytimes to the start of holiday lights, there is no shortage of activities in the Valley this month. Some of the events we’re excited about: history reenactments, author appearances and storytimes, fall festivals and anything that exposes children to the arts.

Foundation. Promenade Scottsdale, 16243 N. Scottsdale Road,

NOTE: Because last-minute schedule changes can occur, please confirm dates and times on event websites.

Video submissions for East Valley Kids Got Talent. This

Find more extensive day-by-day event listings at raisingarizonakids.com/calendar Send calendar info to familytime@RAKmagazine.com

46 September 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

Scottsdale. scottsdalepromenade.com

NOW-SEPT. 24: virtual competition is open to kids ages 5-18 who must submit a digital recording of their act no later than Thursday, Sept. 24. The talent show will be held at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 6 featuring a live announcer and judges. Results will be given at the end of the show, and winners will have an opportunity to speak. Learn more at evct.org

SEPT. 3-24:

Flashlight Night (Sept. ) at Desert Botanical Garden

Mindfulness Thursdays. Hospice of the Valley and Phoenix Art Museum present a 30-minute at-home Zoom session to promote mindfulness at noon on Sept. 3, 10, 17 and 24. Scientific studies show mindfulness can relieve anxiety, depression, pain and stress and actually change the way we feel, think, work and play by opening new pathways in the brain. Join Zoom meeting at https://hov. zoom.us/j/705719545 (ID: 705 719 545). phxart.org

DESERT BOTANICAL GARDEN

SEPT. 4: Rosson House Museum, a fully-restored 1895 Queen Anne Victorian house museum interpreting the history of Phoenix, is scheduled to resume tours. Tours begin at 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. $12; free for ages 4 and younger. Heritage Square, 113 N. Sixth St., Phoenix.

602-262-5070 or heritagesquarephx.org/rossonhouse/

SEPT. 5: Flashlight Night is a nighttime self-guided adventure for all ages through the Desert

Drive-in at Schnepf Farms. Watch a movie from the comfort of your vehicle

Botanical Garden. Enjoy engaging activity cards, see the Wild Rising by Cracking Art

at this family farm venue. Cars will be parked 8-10 feet apart for safe social

Exhibit, play with shadow puppets at the Center for Desert Living Trail and paint with light

distancing. Movie selections TBA. 8 p.m. $15 per vehicle. 24810 S. Rittenhouse

at Stardust Foundation Plaza beginning at 7:30 p.m. Bring your own flashlight. $14.95;

Road, Queen Creek. schnepffarms.com

$9.95 for ages 4-17; free for ages 3 and younger. 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. 480941-1225 or dbg.org

SEPT. 4-26: Free outdoor concerts. Desert Ridge Marketplace and Tempe Marketplace

SEPT. 5 AND 12:

have resumed hosting local bands for free outdoor concerts on Friday and/or

Drive-in puppet show “Old MacDonald.” Get out of the house and enjoy a bigger,

Saturday nights in September. See the full schedule at shopdesertridge.com and

bolder version of “Old MacDonald.” There’s lots of zany barnyard fun to be had with Old

tempemarketplace.com

Mac and his friends in this funny, sing-along show. Drive up, tune in and enjoy this classic from the comfort and safety of your own car! You can even order breakfast delivered to your vehicle from Fair Trade Cafe. Note: No restrooms available. $30-$40 per carload.

SEPT. 4-27:

Prepaid reservations required: 602-262-2050. 8 a.m. 302 W. Latham St., Phoenix.

Cruise the Zoo. Enjoy the Phoenix

azpuppets.org

Zoo at a socially safe distance as you drive your vehicle through the grounds

and more while listening to an audio tour.

UE

TT

to see flamingos, giraffes, elephants

D

THE MIM

SEPT. 4-5:

T

IM

SEPT. 9: Virtual author event. Arizona author Dusti Bowling presents her latest middle grade

Only 450 vehicles will be allowed from 7 a.m. to

novel, “Canyon’s Edge,” about a young girl’s struggle for survival after a climbing trip

noon Friday-Sunday Sept. 4-7, 11-13 and 25-27. $50 per

with her father goes terribly wrong. 6 p.m. $20 book comes with online Zoom call access.

vehicle. Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix. phoenixzoo.com

changinghands.com

RaisingARIZONAKids.com September 2020

47

family time! SEPTEMBER TOP EVENTS CCA Anywhere presents Ballet Etudes (Sept. 10) at Chandler Center for the Arts.

SEPT. 17: Constitution Day Lecture at ASU. On this day in 1787, delegates signed the U. S. Constitution. Arizona State University’s School of Civic and Economic Thought and Leadership hosts an online Constitution Day Lecture: “The Surprising History of Women’s Suffrage” with Ellen DuBois.

The lecture will cover 75 years of the U.S. women’s suffrage movement in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the Nineteenth

BALLET ETUDES

Amendment. 5-6 p.m. via Zoom. libguides.asu.edu/constitutionday

SEPT. 10:

SEPT. 18-20: Greasepaint Courtyard Theatre presents “Gifted.” Mr. Jenks

CCA Anywhere presents Ballet Etudes. Experience the beauty and grace of Ballet Etudes

revisits his high-school alma mater as a substitute teacher for a class of

dancers on the main stage at Chandler Center for the Arts during a free Facebook Live performance.

highly gifted students. Discovering the passage of time hasn’t erased his

Enjoy selections from “Cinderella,” “The Nutcracker,” and other beloved pieces from the Ballet

own painful experiences as a bully, he now faces a class of kids whose

Etudes repertoire. 7 p.m. https://www.facebook.com/events/750407552457649/

lives and experiences all too closely resemble those of the very students he taunted. $20. 7 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. 7020

Greasepaint radio plays. The fourth in its Thriller Thursday series of radio plays, Greasepaint

E. Second St., Scottsdale. greasepaint.org

presents “The Fall of the House of Usher,” an evergreen horror tale by Edgar Allan Poe. It’s the story of an heir driven insane by the ancient house of Usher, which he believes to be sentient. 7 p.m. on Greasepaint’s Facebook page. greasepaint.org

SEPT. 19: East Valley Children’s Theatre presents “Mirror Mirror” online.

The Evil Queen wishes to be the fairest of them all, but when her Magic

SEPT. 10-OCT. 18:

Mirror says Snow White is fairest, the queen is livid! She summons

Curiouser & Curiouser. TheaterWorks presents a first-of-its-kind multisensory theater experience

magic to look through all the mirrors in the kingdom, but now everyone’s

allowing audiences to walk through the world of Alice in Wonderland. Recommended for ages 16 and up,

mirror shows what they most wish to see. It’s a virtual show for the entire

the 100-minute immersive experience encompasses visual art, music, dance, puppetry and theater and is

family. Register for this online event at evct.org. 7 p.m. $15. 480-756-

available for up to 10 participants per performance. Masks and gloves are required (and will be provided)

3828 or info@evct.org.

and numerous other safety procedures will be in place. The experience is ADA accessible. Multiple performances Thursday-Sunday. $36-$48; purchase in advance, in quantities from 2 to 10. Peoria

Drive-in puppet show “The Three Little Pigs.” Enjoy a hilarious

Center for the Performing Arts, 10580 N. 83rd Drive, Peoria. 623-815-7930 or curiousertheater.org

musical rendition of the traditional tale about the dangers of shoddy home construction and a big, bad and very hungry (but not-so-smart) wolf. $30-$40 per carload. Prepaid reservations required: 602-262-

SEPT. 12:

2050. 8 a.m. 302 W. Latham St., Phoenix. azpuppets.org

Teddy Bear Day in Downtown Glendale. Purchase a $10 bear for the Glendale and Phoenix Fire and Police departments’ and the Maricopa County Sheriff Department’s Trauma Teddy Program,

Magician Michael Carbonaro live drive-in performance. Magician,

which offers kids who find themselves in a scary situation a friend to hug. Meet Arizona Search

actor, and improv artist Michael Carbonaro brings his bizarre antics and

Dogs at Bears & More. Plus make-and-takes, hands-on activities, raffles, special menu items and

mind-blowing magic to WestWorld of Scottsdale’s for a live drive-in magic

shuttle rides. Start at the Arizona Information Center, 5836 W. Palmaire Ave. in Glendale, for an

show! $160-$300 per carload. 6 and 9 p.m. WestWorld of Scottsdale Polo

activities sheet. 623-299-2060 or visitglendale.com

Fields, 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. Scottsdaleconcertseries.com

48 September 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

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family time! around arizona SEPTEMBER TOP EVENTS SEPT. 19-27: Desert Foothills presents “Lion King Jr.” Follow Simba

Raptors at the Rails (Sept. 10, 12

the cub as he struggles to accept the responsibilities of

and 24). Partnering with Phoenix’s

adulthood and his destiny as king of the Pridelands. Actors’

Liberty Wildlife, the Verde Canyon

masks are constructed from full-face shields, and actors will

Railroad offers an close-up glimpse

practice handwashing and have their temperatures taken.

of raptors such as hawks, owls, falcons,

Seating is limited to observe social distancing guidelines,

vultures and eagles at the train depot. Liberty volunteers share several rescued educational

and audience members must wear masks. $15. 7 p.m.

animals and fascinating information about each species with passengers on the patio. Free.

Friday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday. Holland Center, 34250 N.

11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., prior to the train’s 1 p.m. departure. Verde Canyon Railroad, 300 N.

60th St., Building B, Scottsdale. dftheater.org

Broadway, Clarkdale. 800-293-7245 or verdecanyonrr.com

DEWEY Mortimer Farms Pumpkin Fest & Corn Maze (Sept. 18-Nov. 1). Navigate a giant corn maze and find the perfect pumpkin. Daytime activities include farm-inspired rides, hayride farm tours, barrel train rides, pig races, circus shows and more. Weekend nights bring fire dancers, karaoke and barn dances. Hours and prices vary. 12907 E. State Route 169, Dewey.

928-830-1116 or mortimerfamilyfarms.com

FLAGSTAFF Coconino County Fair (Sept. 4-7). has been modified due to COVID-19 and will not include in-person activities such as a carnival, vendors, and concerts. Find daily entertainment on the Coconino County Fair Facebook Page and YouTube Channel, and the

Library of Congress National Book Festival (Sept. 2-27).

Coconino County Parks and Recreation Instagram. Find the Entertainment Schedule here.

Admission to this year’s Coconino County Fair is free. coconinocountyfair.com

SEPT. 25-27: ORACLE

Library of Congress National Book Festival. Virtual

Biosphere 2 Night Driving Tour (Sept. 4-6, 11-12, 18-19 and 25-26). is a chance to

stages will offer on-demand videos, live author chats,

drive through the property and learn more about its scientific research and history from the

discussions and more. The lineup includes National

comfort and safety of your own car. Download the free Biosphere 2 Tour app to serve as your

Ambassador for Young People’s Literature Jason Reynolds on

personal guide. 6-10pm. $20 per car (use code LIGHTS for a $5 discount). Tickets must be

his book “Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You,” which he

purchased online. Maximum six occupants per car and all occupants must be seat-belted.

co-wrote with Ibram X. Kendi. loc.gov/bookfest

Your visit contributes to the research and education mission of Biosphere 2.

PRESCOTT

SEPT. 26:

Zoo by Moonlight (Sept. 1). Visit the Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary every full moon

Drive-in puppet show “The Dinosaur Picnic.” In this

for the opportunity to see nocturnal residents out and about- something you might not

silly and interactive new show, a talented bunch of dinosaurs

see during a day visit. Docents will also be available to help locate and answer questions.

get together for a rollicking good time! $30-$40 per carload.

Bring a flashlight! 8-9:30 p.m. $10. 1403 Heritage Park Road, Prescott. 928-778-4242 or

Prepaid reservations required: 602-262-2050. 8 a.m. 302 W.

heritageparkzoo.org

Latham St., Phoenix. azpuppets.org

50 September 2020 RaisingARIZONAKids.com

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RaisingARIZONAKids.com September 2020

51

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