Rhode Island Parent Magazine July 2016 by Rhode Island Parent Magazine

Parent

July 2016

RHODE ISLAND

MAGAZINE

New party planner Kid-friendly restaurants Rainy day crafts

The Lemonade Stand Using lemons to make a difference Madison Kuzmiski, 9, of Warren, founder and operator

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Rhode Island Parent Magazine ď&#x201A;§ July 2016

July 2016 ď&#x201A;§ Rhode Island Parent Magazine

Rhode Island Parent Magazine ď&#x201A;§ July 2016

Contents July 2016 / vol. 1 / no. 12

8 16

Departments 6 A Note from the Publisher A wish for our children. 10 My Turn A recipe for success. 12 News Briefs Filmmaking opportunity; Avoid the summer learning slide.

14 Ask Dr. Day Care Your questions answered.

18 Education Rainy day crafts.

24 The Healthy Child The first tobacco-free generation.

26 News Briefs Soccer Scholars program; Teacher summit.

28 Calendar Things to do in July.

Features 8 Cover Feature:

When lemons become more than lemonade

16 Kid-friendly Restaurants

A local mom lists some of her favorite places to take children to eat.

20 Summer Program & Camp Guide

NEW! Looking for ideas for a birthday party

or other event? See our new Entertainment & Party Needs directory on pages 25 and 27.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not too late to get your kids into summer activities!

ON THE WEB: We are working on our website to make it a great place to get even more information about parenting and kids in Rhode Island. The magazine is available digitally online at our website (great for reading on a tablet, phone, or computer) and you can join our Facebook and Twitter pages. Visit www.RIParentMag.com, Facebook.com/ RIParentMag, and Twitter.com/@riparentmag July 2016 ď&#x201A;§ Rhode Island Parent Magazine

A Note from the Publisher

s I write this, the horrendous attack in Orlando has just happened. My goal with Rhode Island Parent Magazine is to be a positive, happy place that celebrates children and parenting but it is hard to think about anything else after seeing 49 people killed and 53 injured in a terrifying hate crime against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) people as well as people of color, since most at the nightclub were Latino. As a lesbian, this attack hits home in a way that is not really describable. All LGBTQ people are careful, paying attention to who is around us, calculating the danger level, because just holding our partner’s hand or using a public restroom could get us hurt or worse. These little calculations we do every day add up to a heavy weight. Each past generation of LGBTQ people have had to live with a “big incident” – a publicized crime that increased our sense of vulnerability in the world. My generation had Matthew Shepard, a gay college student lured to a field, tied to a fence, beaten and pistol-whipped, and left for dead. He wasn’t found until the next morning and died days later. That event set the tone for my early days of being openly gay. But those of us who are older and have worked on LGBTQ rights had hoped that our children and future generations would not have to live with a “big incident.” There are still many hate crimes, especially against transgender women of color, but we hoped that today’s LGBTQ children might grow up feeling a bit safer and more accepted than we did. So I cry for the young people whose lives were cut short in Orlando – they were all somebody’s children – but I also sob for all of today’s LGBTQ children and young adults who had been living in a slightly better time, who knew the reality but in a different way. Now they must carry around this “big incident” and can’t avoid the fact that some people want us dead because of who we love. Their lives will never be the same again. In future issues, I will include more information for parents of LGBTQ kids. For now, here are two wonderful local resources: • For LGBTQ youth and young adults: Youth Pride Inc. (YPI) is a non-profit offering many different programs. www.youthprideri.org; 401-421-5626; info@youthprideri.org • For families and friends of LGBTQ people: PFLAG of Greater Providence provides support, education, and advocacy in RI and southeastern Massachusetts. See their website for monthly meetings. They are also available to meet privately. www.pflagprovidence.org; 401-307-1802; pflagprovidence@gmail.com Chances are you know an LGBTQ person, so please reach out to them – especially if they are a young person. They are hurting. Parents, teachers, doctors – everyone – let the LGBTQ people in your life know that you support them living fully as themselves and that together, we will create a better future for the next generation of children. Peace,

Susan Gale 6

Rhode Island Parent Magazine  July 2016

57 Rolfe Square, Suite 10094 Cranston, Rhode Island 02910 (401) 337-9240 Founder and Publisher Susan Gale publisher@RIParentMag.com Art Director/Graphic Designer Rob Kenney artdirector@RIParentMag.com Copy Editor Sheila Flanagan editor@RIParentMag.com Business Manager Lisa Koulibaly sales@RIParentMag.com Advertising Sales (401) 337-9240 sales@RIParentMag.com On the cover: photo by Kimberly Dobosz of Kimberly Dobosz Photography. kimberlydoboszphotography.com Publisher photo taken by Keith Jochim. KeithJochimPhotography.com Rhode Island Parent Magazine is published monthly by Gale Force Communications. Unless specifically noted, no advertisers, products, or services are endorsed by the publisher. Editorial submissions welcome.

Like us on Facebook and Twitter: Facebook.com/RIParentMag @RIParentMag

July 2016 ď&#x201A;§ Rhode Island Parent Magazine

Cover Feature By Susan Gale

When

lemons T

he idea started simply enough. Last year, at age 8, Madison Kuzmiski, known as Madi, wanted to help her cousin with Down’s Syndrome who had been diagnosed with cancer. She decided that a lemonade stand which donates the money earned would be the right choice. That’s when things got a little out of control. “She came up with the idea of a lemonade stand and we took it to another level,” said Madi’s mother, Andrea Pannoni, of Warren. With the help of her mother and mother’s boyfriend, Matthew Rene of Providence, Madi’s idea blossomed into a full non-profit organization called Stand 4 A Difference. In its first year, they donated $8,000 to various charities, Pannoni said. This included last summer’s proceeds from the stand as well as off-season fundraisers such as a meatball dinner and food drive. Now, they are looking for groups and individuals who want a unique fundraising tool and hope to grow into a children-asentrepreneurs’ program.

Learning the hard way

Photo by Kimberly Dobosz, www.kimberlydoboszphotography.com 8

Rhode Island Parent Magazine  July 2016

To reach their dream, there were long meetings with lawyers and town officials – all of which Madi attended. They had more than their fair share of bumps in the road as they worked to follow health codes and other requirements. “I was always shy growing up, but now that I’ve done this, I’ve met many people and I’m not shy anymore,” said Madi, who is now 9 years old. “None of us knew how difficult it was going to be to start,” added her mother. “But she’s learned that no matter what, you have to keep going.” Madi’s family had the help of many friends in their quest to develop the unique fundraising tool. One helped build the impressive – and heavy – wooden mobile lemonade stand, complete with a glass top, large yellow and white striped umbrella, and bright yellow-topped wooden stools. Another donated hours of legal assistance. Their lemonade recipe was developed over time last summer in Warren’s Market Street Pub, which donated the use of their kitchen for the endeavor. It required a great deal of trial and error to figure out how much lemon and sugar to add, and Madi and her family suffered through the stomach aches that came with all the testing. Their lemonade is all fresh-squeezed and they produce five gallons at a time.

become more than

lemonade

Making a difference

The lemonade stand will travel to events this summer where Madi and other children will volunteer their time running it. They ask for a donation of at least $1 per cup. At each event, the stand donates its proceeds to the organization running the event. They are looking for sponsors to increase their donation ability at each event. Thus far, about 40 children ranging in age from two to 12 have worked at the stand, which offers various jobs from getting the cups, lids, and straws to pouring the lemonade to taking the money. They work in an assembly-line format, taking turns with each job. The children, who each wear a white apron with Stand 4 A Difference’s logo, work in teams so they can trade in and out and still enjoy the event. Pannoni said it grew through word of mouth as more parents learned about the stand and wanted their children to get involved. “It’s a family day that produces memories,” she said. “Kids will be able to look back and have those memories.” Starting this summer, Stand 4 A Difference will also loan out their stand to organizations that want to run it themselves as a fundraiser. For instance, the Boys and Girls Club plans to use the stand a couple of times. Stand 4 A Difference donates the lemonade and delivers the stand. Pannoni said that even individuals could use the stand to raise money for a cause or their own child who has medical bills or other hardships – the money raised must benefit children. For instance, Pannoni said, a family might have a big birthday party and sell lemonade for donations instead of having people bring presents.

A dual-purpose lemonade stand

While it is a lemonade stand that teaches children about philanthropy, Stand 4 A Difference is designed to also encourage children to learn business skills and entrepreneurship. There is plenty of math to be learned from the stand. How many lemons does it take to make five gallons? How much does it cost to produce each cup of lemonade? How do you decide how much lemonade to bring each time? Pannoni said she is working on a business curriculum around the lemonade stand and in the future, hopes to run programs for kids as well as bring entrepreneur programs to schools and non-profits. They would also like to eventually offer scholarships.

The best rewards are the smiles

This past school year, Madi won a “Reach for the Stars” award at Hugh Cole Elementary School in Warren for going above and beyond to make a difference with her lemonade stand. But awards are not her proudest accomplishments. She often gets to meet the children for which her organization is raising funds, and that is what she likes best. “It makes me sad but also happy at the same time because I can help them,” she said. “When I get to see the people, see the smiles, that’s my favorite part.”  Susan Gale is founder and publisher of Rhode Island Parent Magazine.

Some places you can find the Stand 4 A Difference lemonade stand this summer: July 4: Bristol parade at the VFW August 7: Lippitt Park in Providence for the Boys and Girls Club September 3: Burr's Hill Park in Warren for Family Fun Day Sept 4: Slater Park in Pawtucket for A Day In The Park with Jayce the Healer Foundation To contact Stand 4 A Difference: 401-749-1038 or aipannoni@ stand4adifference.org.

July 2016  Rhode Island Parent Magazine

My Turn By Karen Haskell

A Recipe for

s s e c c Su

y grandfather used to cook. He’d make breakfast pierogies from scratch, filled with sugar-sprinkled blueberries. Sometimes galumpkis. But he was best known for his red clam chowder. When I was old enough to request a recipe, his reply would go something like: a little of this, a lot of that, oh, a shake of this, and the secret ingredient – love. The last part would come with a small, quick smile and a distinct eye twinkle from behind his thick-rimmed frames. At my daughter's pre-K graduation ceremony in June, the teachers presented a recipe for a delicious class. Each added cup was a heartfelt description of a child. My daughter’s read: “Add a dash of Lainey’s fierce determination and ‘never give up’ attitude, her ability to be a good friend to everyone, and her love of movin’ and groovin’, soccer, dancing, running … you name it!” It was more than enough to bring on the tears; every parent quickly, quietly wiping their eyes. Every child sat up a little straighter and smiled a little bigger when their ingredient was added to the proverbial pot. It is a beautiful tradition the school, Barbara M. Tufts Cooperative Preschool (BMTCP), located in East Greenwich, has carried on for many years. The school will celebrate 50 years in 2017. A copy was neatly tucked into my daughter’s end-ofthe-year portfolio. But re-reading it today, I realize that the teachers did not include the most important ingredient in the recipe: love. These women (it’s all women at BMTCP) have incredible hearts. Every year they open their hearts and fall in love with every single child that walks into their classroom.

Rhode Island Parent Magazine  July 2016

There is the woman seven months pregnant crouching under the desk to help find the glue cover. One with the smile that is permanent, faithful, and large, every day for every child. Another cutting stacks of construction paper into pumpkins and gourds. And another tallying field trip money and book orders. They fall in love and then lose their love. Every year. Over and over again. It’s undeniable that there is a certain magic at BMTCP. One teacher has been there nearly 30 years and one of her former students is now her co-worker, and too many parents to count are former BMTCP students themselves. Nearly every teacher has this superpower, this ability, this secret ingredient, this immeasurable love – that allows them to grow their hearts bigger every year. We’ve just gone through graduation season. From preschool to middle to high school to college, everyone says it goes fast. As my older daughter moves on to kindergarten, I can only hope that her future teachers also know the secret ingredient.  Karen Haskell, of Coventry, is the mother of two daughters, and a published poet; she teaches part-time at URI and NE Tech.

Have something to say? Write a “My Turn” column! Have thoughts on parenting? A funny kid story to tell? A parenting-related issue to educate others on? Write for our “My Turn” column! Keep your column to 700 words or less and send it along to editor@ RIParentMag.com for consideration.

July 2016  Rhode Island Parent Magazine

News Briefs

Filmmaking opportunities for students and teachers

resh Films and Subway® are selecting a teen from Rhode Island to travel with a parent and stay for free in a large city where he or she will participate in producing new episodes of a kids’ TV show called “Moochie Kalala Detectives Club.” Teachers and schools can also apply for film-related grants and programs. Hundreds of teens in eight cities, including New York, Chicago, and Washington, DC will “replace the pros,” taking over cameras, lighting, and sound during the week-long experience. Participants will get hands-on experience in media jobs such as sound engineering, visual effects, and animation. No experience is necessary. To apply, teens should complete a short form at www.fresh-films.com/FEATURE/index.php before July 17, 2016. Applicants must be between ages 12–18 during the program. The program is sponsored by Subway and Best Buy®. “Fresh Films is such a fresh way to connect with teens,” said Robert Keramidas, owner of Subway restaurants in Rhode Island and Bristol County, MA. “Teens have the opportunity to enrich their futures while having fun and making new friends.”

Fresh Films is the non-profit arm of Dreaming Tree Films and offers year-round initiatives for teens. Visit www.fresh-films.com for more information. Here are some other opportunities they offer: • Teacher Grants: To make it easier to get kids excited about science, Subway is giving away $300 science grants to 95 teachers as part of its partnership with Fresh Films. Teachers can go to www.fresh-films.com/educators to apply. • Movie School Tour: Best Buy and Subway have funded a 25-stop school tour of Fresh Films’ soon-to-be-released movie, “Traveling Without Moving,” starring Steve Guttenberg. The events will include screenings of the teenproduced film, tech/effects demos, and career exploration to change the way teens think about STEM and their futures. Schools can visit www.fresh-films.com/educators to apply for the free school tour. 

The importance of summer learning By BrightStars

ummer learning programs are important to a child’s year-round learning experience. The reason is simple: most children, regardless of socioeconomic status, lose up to two months of grade-level equivalency in math if they spend their summers not engaged in any form of learning. Children from low-income families also experience a loss in reading achievement. The summer slide: Summer learning programs are designed to help offset the “summer slide” that occurs when children are not engaged in active learning opportunities. Highquality programs offer a blend of enrichment, academics, and recreation that allow children to explore concepts using handson, experimental learning opportunities. Access your community: Good programs often take advantage of the treasures in their community (e.g., parks, libraries, rivers, and streams) allowing for further exciting opportunities. These programs often include a service-learning

Rhode Island Parent Magazine  July 2016

component, giving children a chance to make positive changes in their city or town, while simultaneously developing their civic-mindedness and social conscience. What you can do: Even if you aren’t able to access a summer learning program for your child, you can still play a big part in your child’s learning over the summertime. Fun trips to the beach, the museum, the local market, or the library not only help build language and simple math skills, but also support important abilities like communication and creative thinking.  BrightStars evaluates the quality of early learning and education programs in RI, helps families to find care, and assists child care providers in expanding best practices. earlyeducationmatters.org

July 2016 ď&#x201A;§ Rhode Island Parent Magazine

Ask Dr. Day Care: Advice for Parents By Mary Ann Shallcross Smith, Ed.D.

Dr. Day Care answers your questions about children from infancy to school age. Send questions to: editor@RIParentMag.com or ask them on facebook.com/RIParentMag.

Dear Dr. Day Care, My nine-year-old son attends a day camp for summer care because I am a single mom who needs to work. Many times when I pick him up from camp, he is missing articles of clothing. Today, he was missing an expensive beach towel he received for his birthday. I have called the camp director to request cost reimbursement or the replacement of the towel. The director refused both options. What shall I do next? – Summer Camp Expenses

Dear Summer Camp Expenses, This is definitely a very frustrating situation, I am sure! I would imagine the decision not to reimburse your family for the beach towel was probably based on the camp’s policy regarding lost articles of clothing. To avoid lost articles in the future, I would highly suggest that you make sure to label every piece of clothing and all articles which your son brings to camp. This may help to ensure the return of the article if found or accidentally brought home by another child. It is very typical for children to lose articles at camp. During the summer months, schedules often include activities that keep children moving, like hiking, field trips, swimming, sport games, etc. Many of these activities call for different articles of clothing and attire. Spend some time teaching your son to be responsible for his belongings. A nine-year-old is very capable of keeping track of things that belong to him. Help him learn organizational skills by getting him a backpack to contain all of his belongings. Another suggestion is for you and your son to count how many items he has in the backpack in the morning, and then take the time to count again when you pick him up from camp. Sometimes it is easier for camp counselors to locate items if they are alerted the day they go missing.

Rhode Island Parent Magazine  July 2016

Most importantly, do not send your child to camp with valuable items such as mobile phones, hand-held technology, or anything else expensive or of sentimental value that could be lost or damaged. My final suggestion would be to pack as few items as necessary for your son’s day, as this will help him to keep track of his belongings. I understand that this is a frustrating situation for you, your family, and the camp director. Hopefully these suggestions will help minimize any further frustration, and at the same time help teach your son skills such as responsibility and organization.  “Dr. Day Care” is Mary Ann Shallcross Smith, Ed.D., CEO/ President of Dr. Day Care and Kids Klub, which has locations in Cumberland, Foster, Pawtucket, Providence, Smithfield, West Warwick, and the newest location in South County. She is also a children’s book author: Edgar Graduates. www.drdaycare.com

July 2016 ď&#x201A;§ Rhode Island Parent Magazine

Feature Story By Stephanie Bernaba

Kid-friendly restaurants that won’t break the bank

ining out with kids can be tricky. Some people don’t even try. Sometimes it’s a hassle just getting everyone in the car, let alone finding a place everyone will like. And finding a restaurant that tolerates, even welcomes families with kids, is an even bigger challenge. So, I’ve searched the state up and down for places the whole family will enjoy. If you’re looking for glitz and glamour, you won’t find it here. But you will find some great food, and family outings that fit snugly into your budget. So go out, relax, and enjoy that ever-elusive family meal!

Asia Grille

622 George Washington Highway, Lincoln (401) 334-3200, www.asiagrille.com When your family is in the mood for Chinese, head to Asia Grille. Boasting a relaxed atmosphere, two large dining rooms, and an even larger menu, Asia Grille is a great choice for the hungry family. With oversized entrées and combination plates, sharing, mixing, and matching to please picky kids is a breeze. As a testament to Asia’s staying power, their takeout line is often out the door – even on weeknights! The restaurant is also allergy-friendly. Just remember to inform your server! The greatest thing about Asia, though, is its location, in walking distance to shopping, a movie theater, and a bowling alley with games for the kids. Make a night of it! Open for lunch and dinner seven days a week. Eat in or take out.

El Fuego Mexican Grill

344 Main Street, Wakefield (401) 284-3353, www.elfuegomexicangrill.com Fresh, cooked-to-order Mexican is on the menu at El Fuego. Offering a large selection of tacos, quesadillas, nachos, and burritos, as well as fresh daily specials, El Fuego can satisfy even your strongest Tex-Mex cravings. Specials include Hawaiian and buffalo-style items. They are also very allergy-friendly, and have several seafood and veggie options (try the fish burrito!). Their prices are low, and their portions large. Their children’s menu offers pint-sized versions of their fresh, local fare. And no entrée on El Fuego’s menu is over $9.99. As a starter, try the warm tortilla chips and salsa, and for dessert – churros! Open seven days for lunch and dinner. Eat in or carry out.

Bluebird Café

554 Kingstown Road, Wakefield (401) 792-8940, www.bluebirdcaferi.com The Bluebird Café offers diners tummy-pleasing tastes of New Orleans, Mexico, the Southwest, and the Caribbean. Featuring 16

Rhode Island Parent Magazine  July 2016

falling-off-your-plate breakfasts such as blueberry buckwheat pancakes and husband-approved jambalaya hash, the Bluebird Café hits the spot for the whole family. If you’re ready to spice things up a bit, try the huevos rancheros or Boudin, a Cajun sausage filled with pork and rice. Restless kids? Hit the book nook for some kid-approved reading. Offers daily specials and specialty coffees. Open for breakfast and lunch (closed Tuesdays), and for breakfast, lunch, and dinner on Fridays. Eat in or take out. BYOB.

Crazy Burger Café & Juice Bar

144 Boon Street, Narragansett (401) 783-1810, www.crazyburger.com Featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives in 2009, Crazy Burger has become a bit of a household name. Offering a large selection of gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian fare, along with juice and smoothie bars, Crazy Burger satisfies the surfers and the sandcastle smashers alike. Kids love the homemade milkshakes and the eclectic décor, and moms and dads love the Magic Green Soup (it really is magic!), homemade pickles and ketchup, and the Mumbai Turkey Burger. Be warned! The dining room fills up fast, so arrive early! Open seven days for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Eat in or take out.

The Charlestown Rathskeller

489A Old Coach Road, Charlestown (401) 792-1000, www.thecharlestownrathskeller.com Nestled deep in the woods of Charlestown, the Rathskeller is a hidden gem. With ample seating, a large outdoor recreation area, and an impressive sampling of American fare, the Rathskeller is a treat for both kids and adults. Unique plates like roasted beet salad, mussels frites, and, of course, their famous truffle pecorino fries, will please Mom and Dad, while a full kid’s menu and fresh lemonade will satisfy tiny tummies. With so much great food to choose from, you’ll have no choice but to come back again and again! Open for lunch and dinner seven days a week. Eat in or take out.

Kingston Pizza

West Warwick, Wakefield, Kingston, Narragansett, Middletown, Wickford, Charlestown www.kingstonpizza.com With all the pizza options out there, people have become very choosy – and not just the kids! Kingston Pizza offers families both really tasty pizza and reasonable prices. With a full menu including calzones, salads, dinner specials, and the ever-popular hot wiener (at select locations – check local menu

offerings), it would be nearly impossible to not find something your family would like. Sprinkle in specialty creations like the Garlic Rose pizza, with cloves of fresh garlic and roasted roma tomatoes, and the 735-I Beemer, featuring spinach and feta, and you’re certain to get everyone’s motor running. Kingston Pizza offers flavorful sauce, top-shelf toppings, and fresh, thick, crispy crust. They also offer gluten-free crust and several vegetarian options. And what’s best – when you order a large pizza, you get a small cheese for free! I dare your kids to turn it down. Open seven days for lunch and dinner. Eat in, take out, or delivery.

Mew’s Tavern

456 Main Street, Wakefield (401) 783-9370, www.mewstavern.com You may know Mew’s as a busy watering hole, or for its famous wood-grilled pizzas, but did you know that Mew’s is also a great place to dine with your family? With an extensive menu, creative specials, and countless beer selections, Mom and Dad can enjoy the meal of their dreams while kids munch on nachos and delicious kid-sized options. The dining room has a large tree guests can sign at its center, and hanging from the ceiling and walls there are items like boats and dollar bills, which definitely sparks mealtime conversation. And have you tried their amazing southern barbecue? I recommend the half chicken with their house-pickled veggies. For a twist on the ordinary, try the Rhody Red Eye Burger or the Pork Belly Fried Rice. Swing by the lobby on the way out to buy a tee or sweatshirt to commemorate your trip. Open for lunch and dinner seven days a week. Eat in or take out.

Seven Moons

6900 Post Road, North Kingstown (401) 885-8383, www.sevenmoonsonline.com If you know Seven Moons simply for its extensive menu and friendly takeout, you’ve been missing out. In addition to offering seven types of South Asian cuisine, Seven Moons offers a novel dining experience for the whole family. Kick off your shoes in the sushi lounge, with Japanese-style seating (each table seats four), and an open sushi bar, or enjoy your dinner in one of several traditional dining rooms. Try the Seven Moons Lettuce Wraps or Crispy Chicken Wings with Red Pepper (a personal favorite), while your kids expand their palates with kid-friendly Chicken Tatsuda and Green Tea Tempura Ice Cream. Seven Moons has a full bar and is allergy-friendly. Open for lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday, and dinner only on Sunday. Eat in or take out.

Village Haven Restaurant

90 School Street, Forestdale (401) 762-4242, www.thevillagehaven.com If you’re looking for pay-one-price, family-style eats, Village Haven is the place to go. Village Haven offers a family-style dinner featuring chicken, salad, pasta, french fries, and ice cream for dessert. And kids under four eat free! If that isn’t enough food, Village Haven also offers a full menu with daily specials (try the sirloin tips!). Large party? No problem! Village Haven has several dining rooms, and can reserve your table in advance, great for birthdays and celebrations. They even do weddings! Ask your server for a bag of their famous cinnamon rolls to go. Open for dinner Wednesday through Saturday, and for lunch and dinner on Sunday. Eat in or take out.

Wine & Cheese

1861 Smith Street, North Providence (401) 349-3446, www.wineandcheeserestaurant.com If you’re looking for a traditional Italian dining experience, you’ll find it at Wine & Cheese. With entrées ranging from spaghetti and meatballs to baked fish, and a full lineup of pizzas, calzones, and salads in between, Wine & Cheese is a great place for a night out with extended family. Not into Italian? Try the Wine & Cheese Burger, a hand-pressed Angus burger with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, tomatoes, and provolone cheese. Kids love the cheese ravioli, bread, and butter, and the moms (well, this one) love the garden salad and sausage and broccoli rabe. Celebrating? Ask about their function room, which can accommodate up to forty people. Open seven days for lunch and dinner. Eat in or take out.  Stephanie Bernaba, of Richmond, is a writer, photographer, artist, and mother of three school-aged children, who creates handmade gifts and jewelry, searches for unique treasures, gardens, and works for the Preservation Society of Newport County. She blogs about how to eliminate waste by using existing resources and can be found at www.instagram.com/stephaniebernaba/.

July 2016  Rhode Island Parent Magazine

Education

Rainy day? Try these crafts!

ummer vacation is upon us. Even if your kids are signed up for camps, sports, and learning programs, there’s bound to be a rainy day or two. For the days when the kids are bouncing off the walls, file away these fun, easy kids’ crafts that require almost nothing but household items. These craft ideas came to Rhode Island Parent Magazine by email. We get a lot of emails, many for products people are trying to sell – baby items, kid’s backpacks, toys, and on and on. We don’t do much with products that aren’t locally made, so these emails usually get put aside. But recently we received an email from the Epson Salt Council – yes, that’s a real thing. It is a non-profit organization. We thought their crafts sounded fun and perfect for kids. And here’s an added bonus: epsom salt is actually a mineral – magnesium sulfate, or MgSO4.7H2O. You can take these crafts one step further by looking up this mineral with your children to learn about it.

Information from the Epsom Salt Council: All Epsom salt contains the naturally occurring minerals of magnesium and sulfate. There are different ways of manufacturing and packaging Epsom salt, but chemically, it’s all exactly the same. There are also different “grades” of Epsom salt for different applications, such as human use and agricultural applications. Any package that has a “drug facts” box or that’s labeled “USP” has been manufactured, tested, and certified to meet stringent regulatory standards of the FDA and the United States Pharmacopeia, and is deemed safe and acceptable. For human use, the Epsom Salt Council recommends only Epsom salt with the USP designation. One of the earliest discoveries of magnesium sulfate, the scientific name of Epsom salt, occurred back in Shakespeare’s day in Epsom, England, which explains the first half of the name. The term “salt” probably refers to the specific chemical structure of the compound, although many people mistakenly assume it refers to the crystalline structure of Epsom salt, which has an appearance similar to that of table salt. (Table salt consists of sodium chloride, an entirely different substance than magnesium sulfate.) Visit www.epsomsaltcouncil.org for more information. To see a demonstration of making the luminaries, visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=BoQdd0tbaBE 18

Rhode Island Parent Magazine  July 2016

Homemade DIY Shimmering Luminaries Supplies: Spoon Measuring cup Epsom salt Microwaveable dish Clear, plastic lid String Instructions: 1. Heat ¼ cup of water in the microwave for 30 seconds. 2. Add in ¼ cup of Epsom salt. 3. Stir until the salt crystals have dissolved. 4. Pour mixture onto the plastic lid (just enough to cover the bottom). 5. Let sit by a window overnight. 6. When completely dry, cut a small hole near the edge of the plastic lid. 7. Tie string through the hole. 8. Hang in window!

Homemade DIY Greeting Cards Supplies: Card stock White craft glue Epsom salt Food coloring Bowl Instructions: 1. Put a cup of Epsom salt into a bowl. 2. Add in food coloring (we used red) and mix to desired hue. 3. Add in another cup of Epsom salt and mix to create a red/pink/white mixture. 4. Carefully fold the card stock. Draw a heart on the front with the white craft glue. Sprinkle the Epsom salt mixture onto the glue, shaking/wiping off any excess. Allow to dry overnight. 5. Give to somebody you love!

July 2016 ď&#x201A;§ Rhode Island Parent Magazine

Active Learning Services

Rocky Hill School, 530 Ives Road, East Greenwich 1-888-652-4377 www.activelearningcamps.com Fun enrichment camps for chess and video game creation that help develop critical thinking skills and improve creativity so important to the STEM fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.

ummer reaming D

Summer Program & Camp Guide

till deciding what to do this summer? To

help you, Rhode Island Parent Magazine offers the following Summer Program & Camp Guide, in alphabetical order. Check out the programs and camps for many fun things to do.

Rhode Island Parent Magazine  July 2016

Adventure Zone

Drop off & pick up in Coventry (401) 487-9331 www.advzone.org Explore, Discover, Have Fun. Mobile adventure-based youth enrichment program that provides new and exciting outdoor opportunities for campers (rock climbing, surfing, kayaking, biking, and much more). Our programs encompass many types of challenges, ensuring that each camper is able to find an experience that suits their level. And because our programs are designed to build upon one another, returning campers are able to try new adventures and further their personal growth–year after year. Ages 6–15. Visit website for early specials, schedule, and price chart.

Artists’ Exchange

50 Rolfe Square, Cranston (401) 490-9475 www.artists-exchange.org Fantastic day camps for the creative mind! Art, Theater, Rock 'N' Roll, and Ceramics. Ages 5–15. Camps start June 20th, and run through August 26th. Monday–Friday, 9am–3pm, before and after care available. See ad, page 7.

Dream Big Academy

41 Comstock Parkway, Cranston 70 Industrial Road, Cumberland (401) 228-8946 www.dreambiggym.com A high-energy, fun-filled, 1/2 day or Full Day Camp Experience. Boys and Girls ages 4 and up will be placed in age- and level-appropriate groups with qualified coaches to learn gymnastics skills, play games, do crafts, and play outdoor water activities. Thrilling zip line and Super Awesome 20-foot-high waterslide at our Cranston location! Extended day available. See ad, page 4.

Community Boating Center

India Point Park, Providence (401) 454-7245 www.communityboating.com Two-week youth sailing camps offered June-August, Monday-Friday, 9 am-3:30 pm. NEW one-week Save The Bay Camp. Two age groups, 8–11 years old and 12–16 years old. Waterfront “Sailabration” skippered sailing events, room/deck rentals, youth afterschool programs, and evening or weekend adult lessons, recreational sailing, and NEW kayaking also available. See ad on this page.

Girl Scouts

Glocester; West Kingston; Newport; Swansea, MA (401) 331-4500/1-(800) 331-0149 www.gssne.org Day and overnight summer camps with a girl-empowered focus! Archery, swimming, canoeing, rock wall, ropes course, sailing, etc. Financial aid available. See website for Camp Catalog, being released in February. Registration opens in March.

Kingston’s Camp on Larkin’s Pond (401) 783-8620 www.kingstonscamp.com

Mother of Hope Camp

1589 Putnam Pike, Chepachet (401) 568-3580 www.motherofhopecamp.com American Camp Association Accredited, Traditional, Co-Ed Day Camp on Beautiful Echo Lake in Chepachet for Boys & Girls ages 5–12. Camp offers Archery, Arts & Crafts, Canoeing, Daily Prayer, Hiking, Low Element Challenge Course, Nature Exploration, Pet Stewardship, Sports, Swimming, and Weekly Mass. Free Convenient Busing for Neighborhoods around RI. Affordable Tuition. Early Bird and Sibling Discounts.

RISD Young Artists

2 College Street, Providence (401) 454-6200 CE.RISD.EDU Summer is busy at RISD, where kids shape their creativity and imagination, and teens develop their personal style as artists and designers. Camps and classes for kids and teens ages 6–17. See ad, page 23. (continued on next page)

July 2016  Rhode Island Parent Magazine

Rock Spot Climbing

100 Higginson Avenue, Lincoln, (401) 727-1704 1174 Kingstown Road, Peace Dale, (401) 789-SPOT www.rockspotclimbing.com Indoor rock climbing is an amazing experience that is both fun and great exercise for kids of all ages, fitness levels, and experience. Classes run different days/times. See website or call for info. See ad, page 7.

Roger Williams Park Zoo

1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence (401) 785-3510 www.rwpzoo.org Campers ages 4–13 enjoy fun-filled days at Roger Williams Park Zoo in age-appropriate programs. Younger children learn to explore the natural world while tweens/teens learn to become conservation leaders. More affordable than many vacation options, small camper-to-counselor ratios, optional after care and pre-paid lunch offerings. Details and easy registration on the website. Discount for RWP Zoo members and another discount when siblings are registered in the same account.

South County Movement Center

335 Woodville Alton Road, Hope Valley (401) 539-2512 www.southcountymovementcenter.com South County Movement Center will have 4 weeks of Camp this summer. June 27–July 1: Skills and Thrills Camp for competitive team gymnasts; August 1–5: Princess Dance Camp; July 18–22: Safari Gymnastics Camp; August 15– 19: Wild West Gymnastics Camp. Ages 4+. Camp times: 1/2 day camp: 9 am–12:30 pm or 1:30 pm–5:00 pm; Full day Camp: 9 am–5:00 pm. You provide the child, we provide the fun. Great way to keep kids active throughout the summer. Kids work on balance and coordination, play group games, have snacks, make crafts, and learn fun and exciting new skills! See ad, page 11.

Stepping Stone Ranch

201 Escoheag Hill Road, West Greenwich (401) 397-3725 www.steppingstoneranch.com See ad, page 21.

Rhode Island Parent Magazine  July 2016

Summer J-Camp at the Dwares JCC

401 Elmgrove Avenue, Providence (401) 421-4111 www.jewishallianceri.org June 20–August 19, Monday–Friday, 9 am–4 pm. For children ages 2–15. Welcoming all faiths and backgrounds. We offer a variety of activities with themes including mystery, creepy crawlers, space, and Olympics. Schedules filled with assorted sports, swim lessons, art, cooking, science, drama, field trips, and more. Lunch and snacks are included. Early arrival and extended day options; half-day options for 2–5 year olds; sibling and early bird discounts; payment plan options; counselor-in-training opportunities for teens.

Teamworks

170 Jefferson Boulevard, Warwick (401) 463-5565 www.teamworkswarwick.com See ad, back cover.

To The Pointe of Performing Arts

Cranston: 999 Oaklawn Avenue (401) 942-5554 North Providence: 1525 Smith Street (401) 354-0054 Coventry: 2435 Nooseneck Hill Road (401) 385-9500 www.tothepointeofperformingarts.com Dance Camps & Summer Dance Classes: Fun weekly day camps include full day/half day options for ages 3–16. Recreational or intensive camps available. Reasonable rates. Healthy snacks provided. Campers learn dance techniques in various styles as they relate to the camp theme, make arts n’ crafts related to the theme, and perform in a minirecital on the last day of the camp. Lots of fun and very educational. Great teaching staff. All camps are offered in air-conditioned rooms at any of our three locations. Exact dates and age groupings will be listed on our website on the SUMMER CAMPS page. Registration is accepted by phone or online. Regular fee waived if your child is signed up by May 1st. See ad, page 15.

YMCA of Greater Providence

Barrington; Cranston; Warwick; Peace Dale; Seekonk, MA See ad or website for site telephone numbers www.ymcagreaterprovidence.org Day camps, pre-school camp, specialty camps, overnight camp. Fun, adventure, excitement, and new friends. We nurture campers in a challenging and supportive environment where safety is a top priority. All programs directed by full-time YMCA staff. Financial aid available. See ad, page 3.

July 2016 ď&#x201A;§ Rhode Island Parent Magazine

The Healthy Child By Susan Gale

CVS Health helping RI children be the first tobacco-free generation

f current smoking rates persist, 16,000 Rhode Island children under age 18 who are alive now will die prematurely from smoking, according to the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. That’s about 7% of today’s Ocean State children. Ninety percent of adult smokers begin while in their teens or earlier; and two-thirds become regular, daily smokers before they reach the age of 19.4, according to a 2013 survey by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Now, Rhode Island parents are getting some help with this issue. Woonsocket-based CVS Health and its nonprofit arm, CVS Health Foundation, are working to create the first tobacco-free generation in the U.S. and have brought their support to a Rhode Island organization.

“Be the First” initiative

In 2014, CVS stopped selling cigarettes. This year, they launched a $50 million, five-year national initiative called “Be The First,” which works with anti-tobacco and youth organizations around the country to increase education, advocacy, tobacco control, and healthy behavior. The CVS initiative has several national goals: a 3% decline in the national youth smoking rate; a 10% decline in the number of new youth smokers; and double the number of colleges that are smoke-free. Eileen Howard Boone, senior vice president of corporate social responsibility and philanthropy for CVS Health, said she was surprised to find that only 14,000 college campuses in the U.S. are smoke-free. In Rhode Island, only Brown University is officially smoke-free, she said. “Our purpose is helping people on a path to better health,” she said. “We’ve been traveling around, talking to non-profits, looking at trends in smoking and gaps in coverage.”

Supporting local kids

As part of CVS Health’s $5 million partnership with the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, a $38,000 grant was awarded to the Rhode Island Mentoring Partnership, a nonprofit which helps mentoring agencies collaborate to improve and expand quality mentoring services. “One of the things that really appealed to us about their program is they understand how to be in the schools and build that mentoring program. It was an opportunity for us to get a new module into their dialogue … teaching how to be successful with mentees when it comes to [smoking] cessation,” Boone said. 24

Rhode Island Parent Magazine  July 2016

Focusing on more than cigarettes

Partners with the CVS program include the American Cancer Society and the National Urban League. Scholastic Inc. has initiated a learning curriculum for schools about tobacco and nicotine, the highly addictive substance in tobacco. The CVS initiative plans to heavily use social media and focus not only on cigarettes but also other tobacco-related products such as flavored tobacco and electronic vapor products, known as e-cigarettes, which include nicotine. While self-reported tobacco use by RI high school students fell in recent years from 8% to 5%, the use of electronic vapor products rose. In 2015, 41% of high school students reported trying an electronic vapor product and 19% said they had used one in the past 30 days, according to the 2016 Kids Count Factbook.

Talking to your children

For Boone, the initiative is personal – her aunt died of a tobacco-related health condition. She and her husband have six children, some of whom are teenagers, so she knows how important it is to talk to them about tobacco. “You need to start the conversations even though they are uncomfortable,” she said. “You need to ask the tough questions and keep asking them often; once isn’t enough.”  Susan Gale is founder and publisher of Rhode Island Parent Magazine.

Rhode Island Tobacco Facts Each year, 500 Rhode Island kids under age 18 become new daily smokers. RI kids under 18 purchase or smoke 800,000 packs of cigarettes each year. RI spends $640 million annually in health care costs directly caused by smoking. Source: Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. For more information, visit www.tobaccofreekids.org

E N T E R TA I N M E N T & PA R T Y N E E D S

July 2016 ï&#x201A;§ Rhode Island Parent Magazine

News Briefs

Soccer Scholars program now available

he third annual Santander Bank Soccer Scholars™ program offers the chance to win awards, including an on-field experience with the New England Revolution. The program rewards students ages six through 17 for their hard work and dedication to academic and athletic excellence. Now through October 13, 2016, adults can enter a deserving student for the opportunity to win a host of prizes. The grand prize winner will be awarded $500 towards their education, as well as a visit to the student’s school from Revolution player Charlie Davies. The grand prize also includes a VIP match day experience with four tickets to a designated New England Revolution home match, an on-field photo opportunity with Davies, and the chance to stand on the sidelines and cheer on the team as they take the field. Eight first prize winners will receive $500 for education and the VIP Revolution match day experience. Santander Bank will also randomly select 126 prize winners who

will receive two tickets valid for any 2016 New England Revolution home match and a Santander New England Revolution drawstring bag. Visit santanderbank.com/soccerscholars for more information on the Santander Soccer Scholars program. Davies, from Manchester, NH, attended Boston College, and has played professional soccer in France, Sweden, Denmark, and with Major League Soccer. He has also played for the U.S. National Team. “As a new father of twin boys, the power and synergy between academics and athletics in the enrichment of children’s lives has taken on a whole new meaning for me, and I'm thrilled to once again join Santander to be part of the Soccer Scholars program,” said Davies. “Celebrating the academic and athletic achievements of New England students last season was an inspirational experience, and I look forward to helping Santander honor the students’ hard work in 2016.” 

Professional leadership training offered for teachers

he Total Teacher Project (TTP), a nonprofit organization launched by a group of educators, parents, and students, is offering a professional development day. The Teacher Leadership Summit 2016 will be held from 9 am-4 pm on August 10 at Bryant University, Smithfield. Personal development, leadership, and education experts will present at the event, which is planned as an interactive experience that will build camaraderie among teachers and help them to maximize their leadership potential, according to TTP. While they will accept registrations through July, TTP asks that educators sign up as soon as possible for planning purposes. Visit www.totalteacherproject.com/registration-form.html to register. The cost for the event is $45. “We are pleased to offer this event to enable teachers to see themselves as the leaders they are and to appreciate the important role they have in modeling leadership for their students,” said Ellyn Metcalf, founder of TTP. “This is an opportunity to interact with renowned experts in order to develop and sharpen their leadership qualities.” Metcalf is a sixth

Rhode Island Parent Magazine  July 2016

grade science teacher at the Dr. Kevin M. Hurley Middle School in Seekonk, MA. She has more than 25 years of experience in leadership development for the military and business. Those scheduled to present at the event include: Courtney Lynch: Power Plenary Speaker and leadership consultant. Megan Allen: 2010 Florida State Teacher of the Year and director of the master’s program in teacher leadership at Mount Holyoke College. Dr. Celine Coggins: Founder and CEO, Teach Plus, and nationally recognized expert on education policy. Elaine Pouliot: Professional image consultant who has provided workshops at Yale School of Management and Harvard Business School. April Frazier: Mindfulness instructor who has brought mindfulness and meditation programs to N.Y.C. schools. Dr. Edward Kairiss: Educator development expert with more than 25 years of experience in innovative teaching and learning. 

E N T E R TA I N M E N T & PA R T Y N E E D S

July 2016 ï&#x201A;§ Rhode Island Parent Magazine

July 2016 Our calendar is as up-to-date as possible at press time. Be sure to check information with event sponsors for updates/ changes. To submit calendar items for August and beyond, please email them to editor@ RIParentMag.com.

Fireworks!

Special events

July 1

Parades on July 4: Bristol: 10:30 am. Chestnut and Hope Streets; Arnold Mills: 11 am. Nate Whipple Highway, Cumberland; Ancients and Horribles: 4 pm. Chepachet Village, Putnam Pike, Glocester.

Warwick. 9 pm. Oakland Beach Seawall, 889 Oakland Beach Avenue. Rain date July 5. Call 401-738-2000 for updates on delays or cancellations.

July 3

North Providence. 9 pm. Governor John A. Notte Jr. Park, 1160 Douglas Avenue. Rain date July 5. Entertainment and food, 6–9 pm. East Providence. At dusk. Pierce Memorial Stadium, 201 Mercer Street. Rain date July 5. Gates open at 6 pm with concert and food concessions. Bristol. 9:30 pm. Bristol Harbor, 259 Thames Street.

July 4

Block Island. 8:30 pm. Crescent Beach, 7 Corn Neck Road.

Have your child’s car seat checked Technicians from the Injury Prevention Center at Lifespan will check car seats and provide parents with resources about car seat and passenger safety. July 22. 5:30–7:30 pm. Providence Children’s Museum, 100 South Street, Providence. Free. www.childrenmuseum.org

Narragansett. At dusk. Narragansett Town Beach, 39 Boston Neck Road. Newport. 9:15 pm. Newport Harbor, Wellington Avenue/Washington Street. Rain date July 5. Providence. At dusk. Music at 7:30 pm. India Point Park, 109 India Street. Portsmouth. 9:30 pm. Escobar’s Highland Farm, 133 Middle Road. South Kingstown. 9 pm. Children’s activities, food, and music at 5:30 pm. Old Mountain Field, 875 Kingstown Road. Westerly. At dusk. Misquamicut Beach, Wuskenau Beach Pond Side, Atlantic Avenue. Rain date July 5.

Rhode Island Parent Magazine  July 2016

Mondays/Saturdays: Kid’s Story Time. Storytellers. Mondays 10:30– 11 am. Saturdays, 11–11:30 am. For children six months to six years old. Occasionally cancelled, call 401-3319097 to check. Books on the Square, 471 Angell Street, Providence. Free.

Every Wednesday: Wheels at Work. Explore a different vehicle every week in July and learn from the people who use them. July 6: police car; July 13: fire truck; July 20: Bobcat utility vehicle; July 27: dairy delivery truck. 10 am–noon. Providence Children’s Museum, 100 South Street, Providence. $9/person; free/children under 12 months. www.childrenmuseum.org July 14: Green Animals Children’s Party. Play in the topiary garden overlooking Narragansett Bay with music, rides, and food. 4–8 pm. Green Animals Topiary Garden, 380 Cory’s Lane, Portsmouth. Tickets sold at the door. $25/adults; $10/ages 6-17. July 14 and 28: Movies in the Park at Rocky Point. July 14: Minions. July 28: E.T. the Extra Terrestrial. 5:30 pm. Rocky Point Park, 1 Rocky Point, Warwick. Free.

July 21: Aurora Over the Silk Road. Learn about the cultural diversity of the Silk Road in China, one of the world’s oldest trade routes. Interactive performance with dance, music and games, and hands-on activities. 1–2:30 pm. Providence Children’s Museum, 100 South Street, Providence. $9/person; free/children under 12 months. www.childrenmuseum.org

Fridays Every Friday: Food Truck Friday.

Purchase food, ride the carousel, and explore Hasbro's Boundless Playground. Also, live music and a beer garden. 5–8pm. May 13–October 28. Roger Williams Park Carousel Village, 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence. Free to attend.

July 15: Books Are Wings. Explore the wonder of books with hands-on activities and story readings presented by Books Are Wings, and pick out a free book to take home! 5:30–7:30 pm. Providence Children’s Museum, 100 South Street, Providence. Free. www.childrenmuseum.org Every Friday: Rogues & Scoundrels

Walking Tour. See where scoundrels lived, pirates profited, and criminals were punished. Find out why this colony was known as “Rogue’s Island.” 10:30–11:45 am. Purchase tickets and depart from the Museum & Shop at Brick Market, 127 Thames Street, Newport. $15/person; $10/Newport Historical Society members, active and retired military with ID; $5/children ages 5–12.

Every Friday: Bring Your Own Improv. Family–friendly comedy show. 7–8:30 pm. Warwick Museum of Art, 3259 Post Road. $8/adults; $4/children under 12 and seniors. www.bringyourownimprov.com Every Friday: Frosty Drew Observatory & Sky Theater. Public stargazing. 6:30–11:30 pm. 61 Park Lane, Charlestown. $1/person suggested donation. www.frostydrew.org

Weekends 2/Saturday Jump In! Kids hop, skip, and jump as they experiment with long ropes, short ropes, flat ropes, and round ropes in the Providence Children’s Museum’s Children’s Garden. Runs Saturday– Monday. 9 am–6 pm. 100 South Street, Providence. $9/person; free/children under 12 months. www.childrenmuseum.org Family Performance Series. Different performances each week such as magic, puppet shows, music, theater, storytelling, improv, and more. 11 am–noon. Theatre 82, 82 Rolfe Square, Cranston. Pay what you can. www.artists-exchange.org Storytime. Storytime with an activity every Saturday on the Storytime Stage. Barnes & Noble, 1350 Bald Hill Road, Warwick. 11–11:30 am. Free.

3/Sunday Jump In! See July 2.

9/Saturday RI Indian Council Annual PowWow. Listen to and watch the performances of Native American Indian singers and dancers. Try Native American food, check out Native American crafts and jewelry on display. 9 am–6 pm. Warwick City Park, 1085 Asylum Road, Warwick. Free. Light and Color. Kids experiment with light and color in Discovery Studio, the Providence Children’s Museum’s open-ended art and science exploration space. Choose from an array of colorful materials to create sun catcher sculptures and explore and build with vibrant blocks and prisms. 10 am–3 pm. 100 South Street, Providence. $9/person; free/children under 12 months. www.childrenmuseum. org Family Performance Series. See July 2. Storytime. See July 2.

10/Sunday RI Indian Council Annual PowWow. See July 9. Light and Color. See July 9. (continued on next page)

Free Family Fun Day. The Audubon Environmental Education Center is free to the public the first Saturday of every month. Crafts, nature stories, animal discoveries, hikes, and more. 9 am–5 pm. 1401 Hope Street, Bristol. Free.

July 2016  Rhode Island Parent Magazine

July 2016 16/Saturday

Lippitt Labs at the Lippitt House Museum. Interactive activities for the whole family with a new theme each month as the Lippitt House museum, a National Historic Landmark, is transformed into a laboratory for exploring the Victorian era. Not wheelchair accessible. 2–4 pm. Governor Henry Lippitt House Museum, 199 Hope Street, Providence. $10/adults; $5/students; free/children under 12; free/active duty military; $8/person for groups with advanced registration. Bubble Blowout. Kids experiment with ways to blow bubbles big and small and use an array of wacky tools such as bubble wands and blowers in the Providence Children’s Museum’s Children’s Garden.11 am–2 pm. 100 South Street, Providence. $9/person; free/children under 12 months. www.childrenmuseum.org Family Performance Series. See July 2. Storytime. See July 2.

17/Sunday Bubble Blowout. See July 16.

23/Saturday Spatial Thinkers. Kids explore shapes and spaces in Discovery Studio, an open-ended art and science exploration space. Experiment with tangram puzzles and blocks and morph two-dimensional designs into 3-D cubes. 10 am-3 pm. Providence Children’s Museum, 11 am–2 pm. 100 South Street, Providence. $9/person; free/children under 12 months. www.childrenmuseum.org

WaterFire. A multisensory art installation featuring a series of bonfires that seem to float along the rivers of Providence. 7:30 pm. Waterplace Park, Providence. Free. Family Performance Series. See July 2. Storytime. See July 2.

24/Sunday Spatial Thinkers. See July 23. Family Performance Series. See July 2.

30/Saturday Stars and Night Sky. Design your own constellations, create star systems using geoboards and rubber bands, make moon phase rubbings, and more in Discovery Studio, the Museum’s hands-on art and science exploration space. 10 am–3 pm. Providence Children’s Museum, 100 South Street, Providence. $9/person; free/children under 12 months. www.childrenmuseum.org Craft Bash. Different crafts each month. 11 am–2 pm. Artists’ Exchange, 50 Rolfe Square, Cranston. Free. www.artists-exchange.org Family Performance Series. See July 2. Storytime. See July 2.

31/Sunday Stars and Night Sky. See July 30.

Rhode Island Parent Magazine  July 2016

401-229-2101 www.clubz.com/blackstonevalley July 2016 ï&#x201A;§ Rhode Island Parent Magazine

Rhode Island Parent Magazine ď&#x201A;§ July 2016