SUMMER SURVIVAL GUIDE

Summer is the time to engage in all kinds of fun! Whether it’s going on vacation, finding ways to stay cool, or doing your best to create some memorable family moments, we’ve got you covered. In this section you’ll find our Summer Survival Guide with tons of activities to get you out of the heat and having fun. We’ve also got the roundup on several destinations throughout Arizona where the weather is cooler with local attractions you won’t want to miss. Road trip anyone? You’ll also find some summer at-home date night ideas, tips on how to keep your pet safe this 4th of July, ways to rent a backyard pool, and more!

MEASURED Risks

By Lisa (Van Loo) Abelar Photos by Ron Abelar

HE DIDN’T THINK we’d let him when he asked. But he asked anyway. And after he climbed the sheer wall of that Winslow canyon, flipped off the top of it into the water below and swam back to our paddleboards and kayak, he admitted he didn’t think we’d allow him to try it.

“We wouldn’t have if we didn’t believe you could do it, and we wouldn’t have if we didn’t think it was safe.”

That’s what I told him, an almost 13-yearold still trying to catch his breath, which he lost from a combination of physical exertion and adrenaline. He had rocked climbed before, but nothing that tall or sheer or wild. The big climbs he had done were reserved for indoor walls with harnesses attached.

But here, in Winslow, with a stunning creek below him, a misstep just meant a splashdown. That’s when we reminded him of measured risk, a philosophy we practice without preaching — meaning, we just live that way without having to think about it or talk about it. It honestly applies to everything, allowing the kids to explore and try new things that come with a balanced, palatable risk.

Some people may classify that as freerange parenting. Maybe it is. But for us, with kids who regularly want to test their limits, we encourage that spirit as long as we know they will benefit from it either physically or emotionally and we know those limits being tested are age appropriate.

To compare, minutes before he climbed and jumped from that cliff, which was 20 to 25 feet or so, we had pulled to the side on our paddleboards and kayak to allow a couple of daredevils to jump into the water from at least 60 feet up. Just the sound of them hitting the water hurt.

And without a doubt the kids asked to try it, but we only needed to shake our heads. That type of risk wasn’t worth it. But 20 to 25 feet? It was. Because it was just him on that wall. He had to rely on only him and the encouragement he heard from us, below.

And, he and his siblings had been building up to this type of thing. They all started small, jumping from rock outcroppings at the lake, graduating to actual cliffs that require depth checks and climbing higher and higher from there.

They moved from jumps at the lake to jumps in The Narrows at Zion National Park to jumps from a waterfall at Fossil Creek, to this — a true bouldering climb leading to a rewarding descent. And where they used to rely on us entirely to check for hazards and depth, they now work together to assess safety and decide where exactly to climb and jump.

We supervise, of course. But we’re backstops, in their minds. They’ve done the work and they get the reward.

And why would this be important, this whole exercise of measured risk? For me, it’s a proving ground for that phase of life where the teen years slide into early adulthood — for when they’re on their own with friends who may not have had a similar upbringing.

We’re not interested in raising adrenaline junkies, although it does make adventuring more fun. We’re interested in raising humans who respect danger and analyze risk before staring fear in the face and giving something a try. We’re raising little people who will know what to do when we’re not with them and they hear the call to try something new, potentially from uneducated friends looking for a thrill for thrill’s sake.

At least, that’s the idea.

Dominic Nicita (13) after his climb in Winslow.

When it comes to measured risk, here’s what we’ve learned:

• Start small. Every time. • Let them lead. • Know you have the final say. • Talk it out with them, before and after. • Try whatever it is with them!

Lisa Alber is a Gilbert freelance journalist. Ron Abelar is an avid outdoorsman and photographer. Together, they are parenting five children. Follow them on Instagram @RaisingOutdoorKids

Summer Camp-at-Home

By Rosalind Prather

IS ANYONE ELSE wondering how we went from taking down Christmas decorations to frantically seeking childcare for summer in the blink of an eye? The cliché phrase “time flies” is understood well by parents. Just when it feels like we might have a firm grasp on our schedules - whoosh! Another curve ball is thrown our way.

Summer camps can be a great option for families but they have some drawbacks. First, the days and times offered might not line up perfectly with mom/dads’ schedules and care needs. Second, going to a summer camp requires parents to get the kids out the door and transported to and from the camp location. This may feel like it takes away from the best thing about summer vacation, which is avoiding the morning gettingout-of-the-door-for-school madness. Finally, these camps can be pricey since you are paying per kid, often hundreds of dollars per week.

So, what is a parent to do?

More and more parents are opting for short-term, in-home care by using a nanny to fill in the childcare gaps. Roasalind Prather, co-founder of Trusting Connections and Timeless Play, has 5 reasons you might consider a nanny for your summer childcare needs.

1. The Nannies come to you!

Your time is valuable and every minute you spend in the car is a minute you are not tackling your to-do list, knocking out emails, or taking some time for self-care. It’s easy to sign up for summer camps but the logistics of getting your kids to and from isn’t as simple. A summer nanny comes to your home so you don’t have to worry about transportation (or wrangling the kids out the door).

2. A nanny can provide fully customizable, personalized care.

You get to determine the type of care that is provided when you hire a nanny. You get to imagine the perfect day for your kids (outdoor play, quiet reading inside, baking, fun outings, etc.) and a good nanny can help make it happen. Your nanny might even be willing/able to help come up with some fun or educational crafts or activities for you, tailored to the ages and interests of your children. You can also require the nanny to follow a specific meal or nap schedule to help keep everything running smoothly.

3. It can be less expensive.

Depending on how many kids you have, even a well-paid nanny or sitter service can be more affordable than summer camp, because adding on additional children does not add much more to the base rate. You can expect to spend about $20-$35 per hour for a qualified and safe nanny.

4. Nannies can help around the house, too!

Remember when considering the cost, that you aren’t comparing “apples to apples” when it comes to choosing between camp or a summer nanny. With a nanny, you can often expect to also get some additional help around the house with laundry, dishes, light housekeeping etc. which can really help keep you organized (and sane) during the summer. A nanny might also be able to walk a dog, handle some meal prep or help you finally get that playroom organized.

5. Nannies can accommodate all different ages.

Camps can be very limited and allow only for certain ages. However, a nanny is typically experienced with all different ages and can care for an infant and school-aged children at the same time. It’s difficult finding camps for toddlers but a nanny can do it all.

If you decide to hire a summer nanny, Trusting Connections can help. They offer a wide range of services- from part-time, or occasional sitters to short-term summer nanny placements and offer screening services (background checks, drug tests, etc.) for a small fee if you want a way to screen a candidate you found on your own. Whichever way you decide to find a nanny, it’s recommended that you start your search as soon as possible as summer is rapidly approaching and demand is high.

5Summer At-Home Date Night Ideas

By Monique Seleen

BABYSITTER CANCEL? Summer heat have you not wanting to leave the airconditioned house? On a budget? You can still enjoy a fun evening with your spouse with these 5 at-home date night ideas.

Play board or video games

Games aren’t just for the kids! Enjoy a little friendly competition and bust out some games for an at-home date night. Whether it’s Mario Kart or Battleship, playing games is a great way to have some light-hearted fun together!

Order pizza and have a movie night

A classic date: dinner and a movie. Order some pizza, grab a couple blankets, and watch a movie on the couch while you eat. If this is one of your go-to date ideas, mix it up and take turns on who gets to pick the movie each time.

Work on a puzzle together

When the pandemic hit, it seemed like puzzles made a comeback. This can be a fun and challenging thing to do together. Make it classy and have some wine and a homemade charcuterie board to munch on while you work on it.

Make ice cream sundaes

There’s nothing better than some ice cream on a hot summer day! Gather some of your favorite toppings and make some sundaes together (and no, you don’t have to share with your kids!).

Plan your next vacation

Whether it’s a family trip or a getaway for just the two of you, why not dedicate a date night to planning your next vacation? Grab your phones or computer and spend time researching a destination together, looking at the best hotels, and picking out fun things to do when you go.

Ice, Ice Baby

By Kate Reed LOOKING FOR AN EASY (and free!) activity for your toddler this summer? Try taking small toys, trinkets, and surprises and freezing them in water! You can use different sized containers, pots, baking dishes, or other creative vessels…like a sandcastle bucket! We used a plastic food storage container because it was handy. My favorite is a metal cake pan though because it’s shallow and wide.

When you need something to occupy the little ones while it’s 115° or more outside, give this activity a try. Kids can get creative on how to get the toys out…while staying cool! This activity can be done outside, inside, or even in the bath!

We like to use a fork, baby knife, small hammer, and warm water (in a jar or spray bottle) or try ‘painting’ on water with a brush. Slowly chip away at the ice to discover new treasures.

Here are some ideas of what to freeze but the ideas are endless. Make sure to use age-appropriate toys for your child as some of these can be choking hazards:

• Toy cars • Kitchen utensils • Lego figurines • Dyed ice cubes • Jumbo Googly eyes • Crayons • Buttons • Old keys • Pool torpedoes • Small toy animals • Letters or numbers • Easter eggs

SUMMER: The ideal time to prepare for KINDERGARTEN SUCCESS

By Ofelia Gonzalez

SUMMERTIME IS A GREAT OPPORTUNITY to help kids prepare for their first day of kindergarten. Today’s schools expect 5-year-olds to arrive with basic academic and social skills so they are prepared on day one to start learning to read, write and do basic math.

The first day of kindergarten is an important time in both the child’s and family’s life. And for families for whose first child is starting school, the transition can be especially stressful.

As Arizona’s early childhood agency, First Things First (FTF) has online resources to help parents and caregivers prepare their child for kindergarten on the FTF Kindergarten Readiness page found at FirstThingsFirst.org/resources/kindergarten-readiness

FTF offers the following summer tips to help parents and caregivers get their kids ready for success in kindergarten and beyond:

1. Reading: Read with your child at least 20 minutes per day. Try books that repeat words about familiar objects. Ask questions about the story like, “What do you think happens next?” 2. Talking: Talk and sing with your child everywhere – at home, in the car, at the store. Make up stories or songs about your outings. 3. Routines: Help your child get used to the structure of the school day by establishing regular routines for waking up and dressing, meal times, and bath and bed times. Do a test-run of the big day by practicing all the activities that will happen in the morning and at school.

writing tools to play with like crayons, chalk, or markers and blank paper. Ask your child to tell you about their drawings. 5. Healthy breakfast: Start every day with a healthy breakfast. It helps kids concentrate.

6. Sleeping: Make sure your child gets 8-10 hours of sleep every night. 7. Staying healthy: Schedule a visit with your child’s doctor and dentist.

Health problems make concentrating difficult. 8. Sharing: Teach your child how to share and let them help you clean up so they get used to putting things back where they found them. 9. Hygiene: Teach your child how to use the bathroom by themselves, to wash their hands after going to the bathroom and before eating, to blow their nose and sneeze into their elbow.

10. Talk change: Start talking to your child about the change that is coming when they start school. Be positive, and give your child the opportunity to ask questions or express fears. Before the first day, talk with your child about what to expect during the school day and types of after-school activities they may be involved in. The more details kids know, the less anxious they will feel.

If you don’t have kindergarteners this year, it’s never too early to start helping kids prepare. Children who have positive experiences from birth to age 5 are more likely to be prepared when they start kindergarten and do well in school. By turning everyday moments into learning moments, we can send our young kids to school with the skills and confidence that will help them succeed in kindergarten.

This July 4th keep pets Safe & Sane

By Alessandra Navidad

WHILE AMERICANS HAPPILY celebrate the birthplace of our nation on the Fourth of July, many pets do not feel the same excitement. Between July 4 and July 6, 30 percent more pets are lost than any other time of year. It’s a holiday that many local rescues and shelters dread because of the massive intake they receive from runaways. The increase in fireworks often scares pets enough to flee in terror, and sometimes they never return home or reunite with their original owners.

To combat these unfortunate outcomes, the Arizona Animal Welfare League has put together a list of simple precautions to avoid a lost and endangered pet. Here are a few expert measures that owners can take to alleviate pet anxiety on America’s birthday.

Exercise Pets Ahead of Time

Exercise will help dwindle a pet’s possible anxiety by the time the fireworks start. Pet owners should research when their neighborhood will have Independence Day events and exercise hours beforehand, not at the moment of. Depending on the pet’s age, experts recommend giving them 20 to 40 minutes of exercise to be sure they are somewhat tired out by the time they hear the barrage of loud noises. Walking is enough to calm a dog down, and cats could benefit from playing with a toy. However, even after a pet is tired, experts recommend keeping animals indoors. There is still a slight risk they will attempt to escape the sound and consequently, their home.

Keep Them Secure

Pets are lost when they run from their homes in an effort to escape loud fireworks. It’s important to keep pets inside as much as possible on the Fourth of July. If a dog must go outside to use the restroom, the pet owner should escort them on a leash. Cats who usually wander from indoor to outdoor shouldn’t be allowed to wander on their own on this night, either. Instead, pets should be given a special spot where they feel comfortable. Owners should nurture whatever toys or habits tend to relax them. Even offering a place to hide could help them feel more secure so that they don’t run away. Gates and surrounding fences should also be checked ahead of time to be sure there are no escape routes.

Update IDs

Pet owners need to be sure IDs and microchips are updated before this holiday in the case that something does happen. A microchip will help locate a lost pet and is extremely useful in finding them. If an ID has old or incorrect information, then people who find a lost dog on the street will not know how to contact the owner. This is an important step to ensure safe return.

Minimize Noise

The noise, not the bright blast, is what results in so many pets being lost during Independence Day. To minimize the sound of fireworks, pet owners can utilize white noise like a fan or white noise machine. A TV or radio can also drown out the sound of fireworks. YouTube carries videos specifically designed for dogs that include soothing sounds and songs, but pet owners should choose what their pet prefers to listen to.

Shelters like the Arizona Animal Welfare League experience a drastic increase in lost cats and dogs every Independence Day. However, by taking these mentioned precautions, pet owners across Arizona can ensure pet safety and limit the burden to local shelters.

For resources and more information, please visit the Arizona Animal Welfare League at aawl.org

By Alessandra Navidad, CEO & President of AAWL. Alessandra lives in South Phoenix with her husband, Alex and their four kids.

Gilbert.

Peoria. Paradise Valley.

Rent a Backyard Pool this Summer

By Monique Seleen

EVER WANTED TO have a backyard summer get-together but lacked the space for it? Maybe you’ve envisioned having a family barbeque or pool party but don’t actually have a pool.

Introducing Swimply– an online platform where owners of private pools rent out their pools and backyards by the hour to people looking for that perfect outdoor oasis.

Similar to Airbnb, Swimply pools can be found in all different cities and neighborhoods with a variety of amenities and sizes, depending on what you’re looking for.

“From Swimply’s founding in 2018, we had the vision for a variety of use cases,” said Bunim Laskin, co-founder and CEO of Swimply. “First and foremost, the majority of our swimmers seek out pools from their neighbors for ongoing, regular use such as daily lap swimming, family time and to enjoy the way in which water activities increase the quality of their lifestyle. We’ve also had spaces rented for experiences such as photo shoots, scuba diving certification, the testing of underwater drones, and even dog parties.”

Not only can it benefit those seeking to rent the space, but it’s also become a source of income for people with underutilized pools.

“Swimply has created a new income stream for the owners of the 10+ million pools in the US, with some earning more than 30K last year,” said Edward Yip, Partner at Norwest who will be joining the Swimply board. “Over the past year we’ve witnessed a movement in how people rethink the way we use space and earn a living wage. Swimply is well-positioned to help a lot of people.”

Swimply pools cost on average around $45 per hour based on pool area size, amenities, timing, and demand. They can be booked and listed on swimply.com or on the iOS and Android app.

“Water brings joy and people together, and as we come out of the pandemic, we expect Swimply to continue to grow as it brings communities and neighbors together in a safe, affordable way,” said Laskin.

Pictured are some local pools from around the valley.

2022 Summer Survival Guide

The hot summer months can leave you feeling trapped at home with the kids all day when it’s too hot for them to go outside and play. But don’t let that stop you from having some fun, there’s plenty of air-conditioned entertainment that awaits. From indoor playgrounds, rock climbing, skating, live theater and more, you’ll be sure to find something to keep your kids cool and occupied all summer long!

FatCats of Mesa.

Phoenix

Air Conditioned Fun

Stay cool indoors with plenty of air-conditioned attractions throughout the Valley to keep your little ones entertained. Find your next adventure at Medieval Times, a familyfriendly experience where you’ll be served a four-course banquet as you cheer for one of six knights competing in the joust. Get the ultimate adrenaline rush at Octane Raceway in Scottsdale where karts go up to 45 MPH. Junior drivers must be at least 4’6” tall. Visit the LegoLand Discovery Center in Phoenix where you can spend the whole day immersed in the land of Legos through interactive displays, rides, and a 4D cinema. You won’t believe your eyes at Ripley’s Believe It or Not in Scottsdale where you can measure up against the world’s tallest man, marvel at intricate micro-sculpture, see a calf with two faces, a portrait of Einstein made of toast, and more! Make it a dino-mite day at Pangea Dinosaurs with a variety of dinosaur exhibits, an arcade, and hands-on activities, it’s the perfect destination for any dino enthusiast. Immerse yourself in a rainforest experience at Butterfly Wonderland–the largest butterfly conservatory in the country! Learn about Monarchs in a captivating 3D movie, get up close to unique reptiles that inhabit rainforests across the world, and even indulge in edible insects!

Arcades.

Bring on a little friendly competition! Experience unlimited bowling, laser tag, and billiards for only $18 per person Monday through Thursday at Mavrix in Scottsdale. You won’t lack for things to do at Main Event (Avondale, Goodyear, Tempe)--whether it’s bowling, arcade games, virtual reality, laser tag, gravity ropes, mini golf, karaoke–there’s something fun for everyone! Plus, kids under 12 eat FREE on Tuesdays when you purchase a menu item for $8.99 or more. Grab some pizza and let the kids get their energy out at Peter Piper Pizza. With an arcade full of games and prizes, it’s a great way to spend the afternoon having fun! Play some classic arcade games at Dave and Busters (Glendale, Phoenix, Tempe) such as Pac-Man or Skee-Ball or try out some of the newest additions such as Hungry Hungry Hippos. Get the full experience for half the price on Wednesdays.

Aquariums.

Get up close and personal with the sea creatures in Arizona at OdySea Aquarium (Scottsdale). You’ll enjoy the stingray exhibit, penguins, freshwater fishes, otters, and sharks in the bathroom! Don’t miss their summer camp programs! Explore an underwater world with incredible creatures at Sealife Aquarium (Tempe) which features a 360 ocean tunnel, touchpool, and a Zebra Shark named Mochi. On the west side, Wildlife World Zoo (Litchfield Park) allows you to discover the wonders of life in the water with the longest acrylic tunnel in Arizona, Sea Lions, and exotic River Monsters. Make sure to grab lunch at Dillon’s KC BBQ where you can dine with the sharks.

Bowling.

AMF and Bowlero are offering a ‘Summer Games’ pass which lets you bowl three games, every day, all summer long! And it includes shoe rentals! Kids Bowl Free — a national program designed by bowling centers to give children a safe, fun summer (kidsbowlfree.com) — lets each registered child bowl up to two free games daily. Let It Roll Bowl in Phoenix participates, as does Glenfair Lanes in Glendale and Cotton Bowl Lanes in Casa Grande. Mavrix in Scottsdale offers weekly (Monday-Thursday) discounted lane rentals for $5 per person (six people total).

Climb the Walls.

When your kids are driving you up a wall, consider visiting AZ on the Rocks in Scottsdale, Black Rock Bouldering or Gecko Climbing Gym in Phoenix, Phoenix Rock Gym or Climbmax Climbing Gym in Tempe, Alta Boulders in Chandler, or Focus Climbing Center in Mesa for some safe energy-burning fun. Great for all ages, beginners and advanced.

Creativity

Visit Pinspiration (Peoria, Mesa, Phoenix) for a unique ‘Splatter Room’ where you’ll make a mess with paint. You keep your masterpiece! Stop by Color Me Mine (Phoenix) or As You Wish (Chandler, Phoenix, Glendale, Mesa, Tempe, Queen Creek) to paint your own ceramics. Make a reservation at Board & Brush for a DIY wood sign painting workshop or consider a membership to Rachel’s Young At Art Studio (Scottsdale) for your little Monets. The Crayola Experience (Chandler) has melt and mold crayons, naming and wrapping your own crayons, drip art, modeling clay, rainbow rain, and more! A great way to sneak away from the summer heat.

Cool Treats.

Visit the Danzeisen Dairy Creamery Store (Laveen) for rootbeer floats, milkshakes, and ice cream scoops using local milk. Sweet Republic (Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe) uses fresh ingredients to come up with delicious flavors of ice cream like Strawberry Buttermilk, Sweet Cream Pie, and Horchata. Make sure to try a sundae or milkshake! Sugar Bowl (Scottsdale) features authentic 1950s soda fountain seats and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time for dessert! AZ Pops (Phoenix) makes some amazing popsicles like Prickly Pear Lime, Hibiscus, Blue Cheese Honey, and Thai Tea. Creamistry (Gilbert, Scottsdale) puts a scientific spin on dessert when they freeze their ice cream with dry ice! Kids will watch the magic take place right before their eyes. Get some delicious flavors like PB&J, Tropical Paradise, or Cookie Monster.

Farmers Markets.

Spend the morning meeting local businesses, sampling treats, and buying your fresh breads, produce, coffee, specialty products, gifts, and more. Uptown Farmers Market (Central Phoenix) is open every Saturday from 7 a.m.-11 a.m. and features over 200 local vendors. Gilbert Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 7 a.m.-11 a.m. and features local produce, farm fresh eggs, meat, cheese, bread, sweets, coffee & tea, sauces, seasonings and many other locally made artisan products. Downtown Chandler Farmers Market is on Saturday mornings, the Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market, Verrado Farmers Market, and Roadrunner Park Farmers Market (Paradise Valley) are open from 7 a.m.-11 a.m. on Saturday, Ahwatukee Farmers Market and Carefree Farmers Market are open 8 a.m.-11 a.m.. Shoppers will find seasonal produce & herbs, flowers, baked goods, meats, seafood, and local arts and crafts. A wonderful way to spend the morning as a family! Arrowhead Farmers Market (Glendale) is open 8 a.m.-11 a.m. and farmers, vendors, food trucks, and family fun!

Flashlight Tours.

Flashlight Nights Saturday Nights at Desert Botanical Gardens. Jul. 16 – Sep. 3. 7 to 10 p.m. General Admission: Adults and children $14.95. Grab your flashlight and get your glow on! Experience the desert after dark with hands-on activities, live dance, musical performances, cool treats, a farmers’ market and more. Perfect for a “cool” summer date night or family adventure. Dads receive FREE Garden admission with the purchase of any additional admission on June 18.

Health & Fitness

Summer is a great time to make and meet fitness goals! Join a gym with a childcare facility and you’ll get up to two hours of kid-free time, plus a work out! Mountainside Fitness and EOS Fitness offer great family packages plus tons of activities for the little ones! Join your local YMCA for some serious family friendly fun, group classes, community events, swimming, summer camps, and more. If you’re a new mom consider a mom & baby class at Modern Milk or Mama Bare (Scottsdale) or FIT4MOM (valleywide). For the older kids, through August 31st, teens 14-19 can work out for FREE all summer long at all Planet Fitness locations!

Indoor Play.

On those days you need to keep the little ones busy but want to sit for a minute in peace… an indoor playground is key! For a full day of play try Makutu’s Island (Chandler) for huge winding slides and a park big enough for grown ups to play. Jordan’s Corner (Scottsdale) just recently opened and offers a safe, all-inclusive place for purposeful play. Giggles (Chandler, Glendale), offers a venue with wooden jungle gyms and lots of open-ended play toys for kids six and under. Luv2Play (Surprise, Peoria, Phoenix), Party Jungle (Phoenix), Kids Empire (Phoenix), The Rush Fun Park (Phoenix, Peoria), Uptown Jungle (Phoenix, Peoria, Avondale) offer plenty of climbing structures, slides, arcades, trampolines, toddler & baby areas and more! Urban Air Adventure Park (Ahwatukee, Goodyear, Gilbert, Peoria) is the ultimate indoor playground complete with trapeze, indoor skydiving, mini golf, go kart, laser tag, bowling, ropes course, and more! $12.99 monthly memberships are available for unlimited play. For a unique sports experience try KTR (Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale, Glendale) which features skate & scooter parks, trampolines, tumbling, parkour and more.

Jumping.

When the kids start to jump on the furniture maybe check out one of your local jump parks for hours of energy busting fun. Sky Zone (Phoenix, Laveen, Peoria, Chandler) has mega launcher slides, zip lines, wipe outs, dodge ball and offers a Summer 90 Day Pass for $1 a day fun. Stratosphere Adventure Park (North Phoenix) offers a $59.99 unlimited jumping pass to use on their trampoline basketball courts, ninja warrior course, jousting, and parkour! Gravity Extreme Zone (Chandler) offers an indoor rock wall, trampolines, bungee jumping, and summer camp! Altitude Trampoline Park (Gilbert) offers a $25/month membership, summer camp, battle beams, rock wall, foam pit, trampoline, dodgeball, and more! Elevate Trampoline Park (Mesa, Goodyear) features 23,000 square feet of safe and exciting jump fun. They’re offering summer passes which allow 90 minutes of daily weekday play for $99.

Movies.

Grab some popcorn and settle in for a classic kid-friendly movie with the Harkins Summer Movie Series. Kids can enjoy a movie a week for 8 weeks, for just $1 per movie! Visit a participating AMC movie theater before 4 p.m. and get 30% off the evening ticket price–perfect for when you want to escape the heat! Alamo Drafthouse offers a Kids Camp where all tickets are $5 (yep, even adults!) and each week offers a new movie selection ranging from recent picks to timeless classics.

Museums.

Encourage imaginative play at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix, imagine, design, and build at the i.d.e.a Museum in Mesa, or have a roaring good time at the Arizona Museum of Natural History in Mesa. Submerge yourself in art at the Phoenix Art Museum, take in all you can about American Indian cultures at the Heard Museum in Phoenix, or learn about firefighter history at the Hall of Flame in Phoenix. Explore hands-on learning at the Arizona Science Center, see over 15,000 different instruments at the Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix, or learn how important water conservation is at The River of Time Museum in Fountain Hills. Get up close and personal with real wartime planes and artifacts at the Commemorative Air Force Museum in Mesa.

Reading Programs.

Help prevent a summer learning loss by keeping your kids engaged with reading. Join the Maricopa County Library’s Oceans of Possibilities Summer Reading Program, June 1- August 1. Read for 20 minutes a day, every day over the summer and earn a variety of prizes including a free book, food coupons at various participating restaurants and be entered into grand prize drawings for the Phoenix Zoo, Legoland Discovery Center, or Sea Life Aquarium. Barnes & Noble also offers a summer reading program where kids read a designated number of books, write about their favorite part in a Reading Journal, and bring the completed Reading Journal to a Barnes & Noble bookstore. They then can choose a free book from the books listed on the Reading Journal and collect their free book from a store near them during July and August.

Skating.

Keep your kids busy with a nostalgic nod to the past at Great Skate (Glendale) and Skateland (Mesa). Roll around the rinks to music and lights and see who can do the best tricks! Put it on ice with Ice Den (Scottsdale, Chandler) or AZ Ice (Scottsdale, Gilbert, Peoria). Whether you have a budding hockey player or ice skater, these facilities will offer loads of fun for both beginner and advanced skaters. Spend a few hours on the ice and you’ll forget it’s 115 degrees outside!

See a show.

Experience the magic of theater this summer with High School Musical at Valley Youth Theatre (Phoenix) June 10-26. See one of Nickelodeon’s favorite shows make it to stage with The SpongeBob Musical at Arizona Broadway Theater (Peoria) June 10-July 17.Fountain Hills Theater has two kid-friendly hits this summer with Winnie the Pooh (June 3-12) and Urinetown The Musical (July 8-24). Theater Works (Peoria) features Junie B. Jones Jr., August 12-28 which is a delightful adaptation of four of Barbara Park’s bestselling books, brought to life in a genuinely comical (and not strictly-for-kids) musical. For the little ones, get ready for some silly animal antics and sing-along fun with “Old Macdonald” June 10-26, a hilarious version of the classic “Rumpelstiltskin” July 1-17, and “The Three Little Pigs” August 4-21 at the Arizona Puppet Theater (Phoenix)

Summer Camps.

What is summer break without CAMP?! Get up close and personal with reptiles at Phoenix Herpetological Sanctuary, experience hands-on-learning at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix, embrace your inner-picasso at Creative Color Art Studio (Scottsdale), or have a blast making friends at Cactus Day Camp (Scottsdale) or Summer Camp AZ (Valleywide). Camp Grace day and overnight camps are completely FREE for all Arizona youth in K-12th grade this summer thanks to the new AZ on Track initiative. You can find a great list of state-wide camps on our website!

Water Fun.

Great Wolf Lodge in Scottsdale is a fun staycation treat but also offers day passes for families. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor in Glendale is Arizona’s largest and most thrilling outdoor waterpark and offers season passes, memberships, and day passes. Golfland Sunsplash in Mesa has affordable packages for families or just passes to the waterpark. Don’t forget to check out our list of swim lessons and splash pads online! Salt River Tubing (for 8 years of age AND 4ft tall) offers a day of leisurely floating down the river. You have to do it at least once! Don’t forget sunscreen and water.

Lyman Cabin in Lyman Lake State Park in St. Johns.

4incredible state parks families must-visit

By Michelle Thompson

AS THE WEATHER HEATS up, plan your summertime escape to Northern Arizona and the incredible state parks! Whether you have all summer or just want a weekend adventure, there are plenty of amazing outdoor spaces that will create lasting family memories.

First, head to Cottonwood’s Dead Horse Ranch State Park and set up camp. This park has rustic (air-conditioned) cabins as well as RV and tent camping spaces, and the shady cottonwood trees will cool you off and set the stage for fun. You can go kayaking, horseback riding, hiking or biking, plus try out other fun water activities. Casting a line from shore at the relatively shallow lagoons is a perfect way to get your fishing skills up to par, or catch your own dinner!

Next, escape to the cool pines in Payson, where you can visit Tonto Natural Bridge State Park. This park hosts the world’s largest natural travertine bridge – and you won’t believe your eyes. Hike one of the four trails to get a closer view and cool your feet in Pine Creek, or just picnic at the top, where the views are still impressive. If you’re lucky, you might catch sight of one of the javelinas that call the park home.

In St. Johns, Lyman Lake State Park is a hidden gem that meets all the summer vacation requirements. Boating, fishing, swimming, kayaking and hiking will fill your days, and you can choose an RV site, pitch your tent, or bunk down in one of the lakeside cabins. The Petroglyph Trail will transport you back in time, and the dark skies will showcase the vastness of the universe. Plus, the park has plenty of great summer events and programs!

For those willing to drive a bit to escape the heat, a trip to Homolovi State Park near Winslow, Arizona is the perfect spot. The cool temps and the wide-open spaces will give you plenty of space to run and play. Learn about the ancient Hopi people with hikes through cultural sites or peer through the telescopes at the Winslow Homolovi Observatory for a great view of the amazing night sky.

Arizona State Parks and Trails has more than 30 parks around the state, each offering a different experience and a great way to learn about Arizona’s history. There are parks within a couple hours or a day’s drive that you can check out. Plus, kids can get involved in the Junior Ranger program and learn more about being responsible stewards of our land, all while having fun. Collect the activity sheet at each of our park’s visitor centers, complete the activities during your visit, and bring it to a park ranger when complete. When the park ranger sees your kiddo’s hard work, they’ll take the pledge to be sworn in as our newest Junior Ranger, and will be given a Junior Ranger button.

Learn more about Arizona’s state parks and plan for your visits at AZStateParks.com, or try out one of our road trip itineraries.

Tucson/Southern Arizona

Arcades.

Challenge the kids to a game of skee-ball, Hungry Hungry Hippo, or Pac-Man at Dave and Busters, enjoy exclusive games imported from Japan at Round 1 Arcade and Bowling, or beat the heat with classic arcade games and laser tag at Funtasticks.

Bowling.

There’s no shortage of bowling in Tucson! Check out Bowlero for a Summer Games Season Pass–bowl all season (three games a day!) for one low price, including shoe rentals. Tucson Bowl, Lucky Strike, Cactus Lanes, & Fiesta Bowl offer weekday specials, youth programs, junior leagues, lock-ins, and camps this summer. Bowling starts at just $5/person at Round 1 plus you’ll find other games like ping ping, darts, and billiards.

Camps.

Summer is the perfect time for kids to learn a new skill, have an epic adventure, and make new friends at summer camp. Explore art and science at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, learn about anatomy at the Children’s Museum Tucson, cool off in the water at Camp SPLASH at the Oro Valley Aquatic Center, explore the Great Outdoors (Indoors!) at the International Wildlife Museum, plus tons of other camps!

Climb the Walls.

Keep kids entertained and tire them out with rock wall climbing in Tucson! Summer is the perfect opportunity to try a new sport while having fun. Climb the walls with Rocks n Ropes which offers climbing, bouldering, youth programs, and a three month seasonal membership for fun all summer long. Rock Solid offers open climbing times, youth programs, climbing club, and summer camps for beginners or more experienced climbers. Tanque Verde Ranch.

Cool Treats.

You’re in for a ‘treat’ at the Hub Ice Cream Parlor with custom shakes, Old Puebloinspired popsicles, ice cream sandwiches wrapped to go plus 300 rotating flavors with 24 available at a time. Peace, Love & Pops is opening just in time for the summer heat by bringing handcrafted popsicles to Tucson families. They’ll offer some core menu items with some seasonal ones as well. The Screamery is Arizona’s first ice cream pasteurizer and all their treats are locally made. Some of their locally made creations include ice cream nachos, ice cream flights, milkshakes, banana splits, and more! Sonoran SnoCones highlights traditional snow cone recipes made of fresh fruit native to Mexico. Plus ice cream, craft juices and snacks like churros, elote, and nachos, yum!

Creativity

If you have little artists at home then summer is the perfect time to stop by the Creative Juice Art Bar to allow your child to explore their creative side or take a paint kit to-go! Color Me Mine Studios is an easy drop in activity for paint-your-own-ceramics and it’s suitable for all ages–even grown-ups! Encourage a mess at This n’ That Creative Studios and experience a splatter room, goop station, slime making, string art, and more! Artistry Academy offers painting and drawing classes for a variety of skill levels to cover fundamentals, techniques, and fun!

Farmers Markets.

If you love to shop local, don’t let the summer heat keep you away! Many farmers markets switch their hours to the morning. These are an easy way to entertain the kids for a few hours and help you with maximizing your grocery budget! Heirloom Farmers Markets is open 8 a.m. to Noon during the summer months and open on Wednesdays in Green Valley, Fridays at Udall Park, Saturdays in Oro Valley and Vail, and Sundays at Rillito Park. Enjoy fresh produce, nuts, eggs, dairy products, sea food, goats milk products, and more! St. Phillip’s Plaza Market is open 8 a.m. to Noon Saturdays and Sundays and shoppers will love the clay pottery, authentic Mexican and Native American merchandise, plants, fresh coffee, pastries, live music, and more! FoodinRoot Farmers Market is open 8 a.m. to Noon on Sundays and has local produce, breads, pastas, sauces, jams, desserts, coffee, honey, and more!

Indoor Play.

When summer time temperatures are soaring your kids will be thrilled with one of the many indoor playgrounds in Tucson. Wild Katz offers an extreme net course, spider towers, climbing walls, plus different areas separated by age. Our Play Place is for kids under eight and features climbing structures, slides, play houses, activity boards, and craft areas. From new crawlers or wobblers to Ninja Warriors My Gym Tucson offers a variety of classes to help get the wiggles out this summer. We Rock the Spectrum features swings, crash mats and pillows, tunnels, ziplines, trampolines, indoor play structures, sensory-based toys, and more. It’s a specially-designed all-inclusive playground for kids of all ability levels to play together.

Jump Around.

There’s no shortage of jumping when you have kids at home! This summer try Get Air Tucson for wall to wall trampolines, dodgeball, foam pit, ninja activities, and more. Defy Tucson is Pima County’s largest trampoline park! They also offer summer camp! Elevate Trampoline Park is a 35,000 square foot jump park that offers summer passes for $99 that allow 90 minutes of jumping every weekday throughout summer!

Movies

When it’s scorching outside, consider a chilly movie theater complete with buttered popcorn over the next few months. There are lots of new movies hitting the theaters! Get a great deal with the Harkins Summer Movie Series…kids can enjoy a movie a week for eight weeks, for just $1 per movie! Cinemark Theaters offer a Summer Movie Clubhouse where kids can enjoy eight weeks of safe and exciting movies for $1.50 (plus taxes/fees) plus get $1 off certain snacks! Galaxy Theatres offers Summerfest where kids can celebrate no school with $2 movie tickets for select movies & dates during the summer. Plus discounted snack packs! Loft Cinemas brings back Kids Fest this summer for 10 days of movie viewing every Saturday and Sunday starting July 2. In addition to the film families will enjoy prizes, games, raffles, and free popcorn!

Museums.

Spend a day at the Children’s Museum of Tucson & Oro Valley and learn about gravity, animals, music, science, agriculture, while playing! Pima Air & Space Museum features six indoor hangars of exhibits and about 400 historic aircrafts for the aviation enthusiasts while the Arizona History Museum tells the story of Arizona’s past with transportation, treasures, mines, and more. Arizona Sonora Desert Museum offers an aquarium, stingray experience, botanical gardens, museum covering geology, Earth Sciences, and mineral collections, and an indoor play area for kids of all ages! See over 400 species of insects, mammals, and birds from around the globe at the International Wildlife Museum plus learn about water conservation.

Night Events.

The summer nights are always cooler and a more bearable time to get outside. Experience the Sonoran Desert at night with the Moonlight Zipline Experience. Arizona Zipline Adventures gears up with headlamps and glow sticks so you can zip beneath the stars. Enjoy some free evening live music at Catalina State Park’s Music in the Mountains concert series, happening June 4, July 2, and Aug. 6 at 6 p.m. Grab some popcorn and join the Oro Valley Community & Recreation Center for a fun night out with family and friends for a movie under the stars. The movies will begin shortly after sundown (approximately 7:30 p.m.) and will take place the third Saturday of the month. Upcoming features are Encanto (June 18), the Goonies (July 16), Sing 2 (August 20). The Tucson Botanical Gardens and Tonono Chul also offer evening or night events so visit their websites for upcoming details!

Other Fun.

Need a fun way to stay out of the heat? Visit Golf n Stuff for laser tag, arcade games, and bumper boats. Skate Country offers a nostalgic way to spend your summer days with roller skating. They offer open skate and designated times for smaller skaters. Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch offers ostrich feeding, stingray petting, plus other animals! Summer hours in June, July, & August are 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Colossal Cave just outside Tucson offers cave tours, more advanced climbing tours for kids 12+, a peek at resident bats, picnicking, and a cafe. Push comfort limits and soar through the Sonoran Desert with Arizona Zipline Adventures while learning about the desert flora and fauna.

Prickly Pear Harvest

Tanque Verde Ranch, Tucson’s old-time dude ranch is hosting its annual Prickly Pear Harvest from August 14-31 and it’s the perfect way to bask in the true Arizonan experience. With prickly pear cacti in full bloom, guests will have the opportunity to harvest it straight from the Sonoran Desert while partaking in several other events at the ranch. Harvest weekends are filled with lots of fun-filled activities and prickly pear preparations, including cocktail and dessert demonstrations, and a prickly pear pancake breakfast ride via horseback. All-inclusive double occupancy rates at Tanque Verde Ranch start at $530 per night which includes three meals, supervised children’s programs, a variety of outdoor adventures such as hiking, mountain biking, and swimming, as well as evening activities and entertainment. During the harvest season, guests also receive enhancements to the package including prickly pear treats and a prickly pear shirt. For more information visit tanqueverderanch.com

Reading.

Nothing passes the summertime better than reading. Join a reading program at the Pima County Public Library, Bookmans, or Barnes & Noble to earn prizes, freebies, and discounts when kids reach their reading goals. My Summer Library through United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona offers free books to kids preschool through 2nd grade to encourage a love for reading and mitigate summer reading loss, and a love for reading.

See a Show.

Get ready for a giggle this summer when Ghostblasters comes to life June 9-August 28 at the Gaslight Theater. Jump into an evening of old-world magic and be mesmerized by the Vaudeville-inspired roadshow that is Carnival of Illusion.

Water Fun.

Cool off with colorful water slides, water wheels, waterfalls, and a tipping bucket of 1000 gallons of water at Funtasticks Tucson! They also offer rides, laser tag, and an arcade. Don’t forget the local splash pads and aquatic centers for a free (or cheap) way to beat the heat!

Strawberry Festival at Mortimer Farms.

Exploring Arizona

The summer months in the Valley can be brutal. With triple digit temps, you might find yourself locked inside but longing for some fresh air. Thankfully, not all of Arizona is created equal. If you’re looking for ways to cool off, enjoy the outdoors, and explore some new places with your family, check out these destinations and things to do while you’re there.

Camp Verde

• Go cliff jumping at ‘The Crack’ at Wet Beaver Creek in

Rimrock. For an easier (but still fun!) day try parking at the picnic area. There are smaller rocks and watering holes for endless kid-friendly jumping! • Explore artifacts from the Sinagua People at

Montezuma Castle National Park. • Experience the cowboy way of life with Wild Western

Horseback Adventures.

Crown King

• Rent a UTV at Happy Trails Sport UTV Rentals and ask about a guided tour! • View the remnants of the OroBelle Mine and townsite. • Cool off in the water at Horsethief Basin Recreation

Area. • Grab a bite to eat at the oldest saloon in Arizona, The

Crown King Saloon.

Flagstaff

• Get your cowboy and cowgirl boots on for the

Flagstaff Rodeo June 23-25. • Test your limits at Arizona’s Only Adventure & Zip Line

Course: Flagstaff Extreme • Take in the dramatic scenery with a bird’s eye view on the Arizona Gondola. • See where a meteorite made a huge (mile wide!) impact with Earth at Meteor Crater, about 45 minutes outside Flagstaff.

Greer

• Zip through the pines on the Apache High Flyer,

Arizona’s longest and fastest zip line! • Rent or bring your own ATV/UTV and explore the scenic mountain trails • Visit the Butterfly Lodge Museum, whose name is inspired by the countless butterflies in the meadows surrounding the cabin.

Heber/Overgaard

• Visit for the 4th of July weekend and enjoy the largest hand-lit fireworks display in Arizona. • Stroll the western town-themed Bison Ranch Shops where you’ll find the Wild Women Saloon & Grill, local stores, horseback riding, and a playground! • Pack a lunch and take a hike on one of the dozens of local trails for families, beginner, or advanced hikers.

Jerome

• Explore the Douglas Mansion featuring historical exhibits of photographs, artifacts, and minerals in

addition to a video presentation and a 3-D model of the town with its underground mines. • Go on a ghost tour and learn about the haunted history of Jerome. • Indulge in some homemade fudge at OJ’s Copper

Country Fudge shop. • Are ghosts for real? Find out when you get a bite to eat at The Haunted Hamburger.

Payson

• Walk across Tonto Natural Bridge, believed to be the largest natural travertine bridge in the world. • Get a history lesson when you tour the Rim Country

Museum and Zane Grey Cabin. • Reserve tickets to the World’s Oldest Continuous

Rodeo August 19-20–yee haw! • Try your hand at fishing (no license required!) at

Rancho Tonto Catch-a-Trout.

Prescott

• Visit endangered species at Heritage Park Zoological

Sanctuary. • Brush off your cowboy hat and get tickets to the

World’s Oldest Rodeo June 28-July 4. • Eat at the oldest operating bar and business in all of

Arizona, The Palace Restaurant and Saloon. • Visit Mortimer Farms, just outside Prescott, for the

Blackberry Festival in July and Strawberry Festival in

August.

Sedona

• Go on a scenic ride to see the red rocks with A Day in the West Jeep Tours. • Bring your swimsuits and cool off in the natural water slide at Slide Rock. While you’re there learn about the historic apple farm and see the still-standing homesteads and cabins. • Visit Tlaquepaque Toy Town in the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village. • Hike along the water at West Fork, a flat fun hike for a variety of ages.

Show Low/Pine Top

• Explore the picturesque Fools Hollow Lake and have a picnic, fish, boat, or camp! • Stop for lunch at The House, listen to live music, play corn hole, and relax on the swings. Then grab a sweet treat at The Red Barn Creamery on site! • Experience panoramic views on the Sunrise Park

Resort scenic lift ride. • Watch the skies come to life at the White Mountains

Hot Air Balloon Festival June 24-26.

Strawberry-Pine

• Stay a few days at the beautiful Strawberry Inn, a boutique hotel with rooms or private cabins for adventure seekers and nature-lovers. • Tour the historic Pine Lavender Farm on July 10th for the Lavender Harvest Day and take home a bag of fresh lavender! • Grab a sweet or savory treat at Pie Bar–eat on site or take to go!

Safford

• Drive up the curvy road into the Pinaleno Mountains and watch the desert turn into seemingly endless green pines with cool weather. • Fish, boat, or picnic at Riggs Flat Lake at the top of

Mount Graham. • Go tubing or kayaking down the Gila Box Riparian. • Gold pan at Bonita Creek and step back in time when you peek into the historic Serna cabin.

Tucson

• Hike through the cool pines of Mt. Lemmon and hop on the Sky Ride to get a sweeping view of the Santa

Catalina Mountains. • Explore the dark and chilly cave formations at

Kartchner Caverns, about 45 minutes outside Tucson. • Tour different man-made ecosystems such as a mature rainforest, savanna grasslands, and a swamp at Biosphere 2, about 50 minutes outside of Tucson. • Discover the magical world of miniatures at The Mini

Time Machine Museum of Miniatures with over 500 antique dollhouses, roomboxes, and special exhibits. • Pack a picnic lunch and go fishing at Rose Canyon

Lake on Mount Lemmon.

Williams

• Take a historic train ride on the Grand Canyon Train from Williams to the Grand Canyon. Watch out for those bandits! • Get up close and personal with the deer at the Grand

Canyon Deer Farm. You’ll also see wallabies, llamas, coatimundi, bison, peacocks, and more! • Visit the bears, wolves, reindeer, and other wildlife at

Bearizona, a drive-through park. • Walk along historic Route 66 and enjoy shopping, dining, and highway memorabilia.

HOW TO SURVIVE

Summer as a Working Mom

By Ashley Richards

AH, SUMMER. Think sunny days, pool time and barbecues with family and friends. It’s a wonderful time of year, but it can certainly be an overwhelming time for working mothers, especially if they have little ones or school-aged kids at home.

The school year brings routine and set hours to get work done, but it’s different over the summer, where oftentimes the lack of a schedule can cause a working mama to feel overwhelmed while trying to do it all! Have no fear, friend. Here are a few tips to help you survive this summer:

• Invest in summer camps: I am a huge fan of camps! It is something exciting that my kids look forward to and gives me some hours to focus on my business each day. Find a few camps that align with your children’s interests. We are enrolled in a basketball camp, gymnastics camp, and a fun water camp this year!

• Find a buddy system: I coordinate play dates with mamas I trust where I can drop off my kids and sneak away to get work done.

And — this is the most important part — I always return the favor and host a playdate at my house. This is a great way for your kids to enjoy time with friends while giving mom a few hours away so she can get things done.

• Adjust your hours: If you can, adjust your hours to accommodate your family’s needs. I tend to work a few more hours in the evening once my kids go to bed, just to free up some time the next day to do some fun activities with my kids. I know this is not an option for everyone but if you can pull it off, I recommend it!

• Invest in arts and crafts supplies: During the hot summer months, be prepared with some fun indoor activities for your kids to do while you can hopefully sneak some work in. For us, arts and crafts are always a big hit and it keeps our kids entertained for an hour or so, depending on the project.

No matter what you decide to do this summer, remember that we are all in this balancing act together. It’s OK to spend more time on work sometimes, while other times you can focus more on your family. It’s certainly a challenge trying to juggle it all during the summer months, but we only have a handful of these before our kids are grown and away in college. Let’s remember to find joy in the everyday, even if it’s in the little things.

Ashley Richards, is the founder and CEO of E Squared Marketing with 15 years of experience executing digital strategies to transform businesses. In 2017, Ashley launched E Squared Marketing to provide creative digital solutions and heightened value to small to medium-sized businesses. Ashley is a graduate of the University of Phoenix and when she’s not working, you can find this Arizona native enjoying hikes with husband Brandon and their two children, Ellie and Eli.