Rhode Island Parent Magazine March 2016

Parent

March 2016

FREE

RHODE ISLAND

MAGAZINE

Summer Program & Camp Guide Governor Raimondo on her child initiatives Easter egg hunts

Potty Training!

Advice from Rhode Island’s potty training expert Potty training client, Belén Mérida, 2, of Wakefield

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Rhode Island Parent Magazine  March 2016

March 2016  Rhode Island Parent Magazine

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Rhode Island Parent Magazine  March 2016

Contents March 2016 / vol. 1 / no. 8

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Departments

6 A Note from the Publisher We need your story ideas!

10 My Turn On being a mother of advanced age.

12 Get Organized Create a family scheduling center.

14 Ask Dr. Day Care Your questions answered.

18 The Healthy Child Post-partum fitness.

24 Kid of the Month Giving voice to her beliefs.

28 Calendar Things to do in March.

SPECIAL SECTION 25 Directory of Advertisers They make the magazine possible and keep it free. Give them some love!

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Features 8 Cover Feature:

Potty Training!

Advice from Rhode Island’s potty training expert.

16 RI Initiatives for Children

From the desk of the Governor.

20 Summer Program & Camp Guide

Plan your children’s time for school breaks and summer!

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 issue.com/RIParentMag (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 March 2016  Rhode Island Parent Magazine

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A Note from the Publisher

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s it spring yet? Maybe not, but we’ve got a list of fun Easter Egg Hunts happening this month that might brighten things up a little. Please see the Calendar on page 28. And don’t forget to check out our Summer Program & Camp Guide on page 20.

This month we have a special report from Governor Gina Raimondo on several of her important children-related initiatives. We are excited to have the Governor writing for the magazine, and we are working to attract other state leaders to write articles about areas that are important to you.

We want to attract as many different writers as possible.

One of the main goals of Rhode Island Parent Magazine is to be a source for easily digestible articles that are specific to RI children and families. We want to bring you valuable content you may not find anywhere else and that makes your life easier.

We’re always looking for interesting stories, so contact us if you have ideas.

We are still working to make sure every Rhode Island parent knows about the magazine, so we could really use your help to spread the word. Also, if you are part of a business or non-profit organization, we want to include your announcements of events for children and families. Please send information to editor@RIParentMag.com as early as possible for the best chance of getting in the magazine. We try to fit everything in, but would love to get on your email list!

As part of our work to get out there, we are happy to announce that we have a new temporary member of our staff.

Cathlin O’Neill is a senior at Providence College where she studies marketing. Cathlin has taken on the big job of Public Relations Intern. She is researching non-profits and businesses that might be interested in the magazine, so keep your ears out – you just might get a call from her!

Over the next two months we'll be making big announcements about our website! We are working hard to create the most useful resource you could need as an RI parent.

If you have thoughts on what our website should feature, please contact me at publisher@RIParentMag.com.

If you celebrate, I hope the Easter Bunny is good to you!

Susan Gale

57 Rolfe Square, Suite 10094 Cranston, Rhode Island 02910 (401) 337-9240 Publisher/Editor 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.

©2016 All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

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

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Rhode Island Parent Magazine  March 2016

March 2016  Rhode Island Parent Magazine

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Cover Feature

By Jamie Glowacki

Advice from Rhode Island’s own

potty training expert I n today’s parenting world, nothing is a hotter button than potty training (well, maybe vaccinations are slightly hotter). As the author of Oh Crap! Potty Training, I come across all manner of bad potty training advice.

The reason I totally enjoy helping parents navigate this important milestone is because each child is so different. It amazes me that no kid learns any other life skill in quite the same way and yet people insist on making potty training a cookie-cutter, one-size-fits-all approach. And then, if your child doesn’t do it like the child of your sister, your cousin, your friend, or your Facebook friends, you end up feeling like you're mucking it all up.

Miraculous three-day potty trainings? Sure, some kids will potty train in three days. And some won’t. Did you fail? NO. Bribery with M&Ms®? Sure, some kids will potty train if you bribe them with candy. Some won’t, even with endless bribes.

Wait till they’re ready? Sure, some kids may one day decide to be done with diapers and take them off. And some kids will not. I regularly get clients unable to send their children to kindergarten because they are not potty trained; they were never ready.

No child will do this in the same way and I wish we would stop expecting them to do so. I’d like to give you some realworld potty training tips and tricks from my own practice.

These may or may not have been true for you. That’s okay.

Remember, someone else may be having a different experience than you.

Tips and tricks for potty training

Photo: Kimberly Dobosz, www.KimberlyDoboszPhotography.com 8

Rhode Island Parent Magazine  March 2016

Commando, aka no underpants: In the early days of potty training, it will behoove you greatly to keep your child commando. Underpants are snug around the waist and thighs and create the same feeling as a diaper. There’s a muscle memory cue to just use them as they would a diaper. It’s also wise to remember that all your child has ever known is this feeling. Right from the get-go, your child had a diaper on.

That muscle memory is strong, so best to just forgo the undies at first.

Prompting: When beginning potty training you will have to prompt your child to go use the potty. This prompting can be a statement, a choice, or a challenge but NEVER a yes or no question. Ask a toddler a question, almost any question, and the answer will be their favorite word: NO! And once you get a NO, your prompt can turn into a power struggle.

A statement: “Come. It’s time to use the potty.” A choice: “Do you want to use the big potty? Or the little potty?” Or a challenge: “I bet I can beat you to the potty!” Challenging prompts work especially well with spirited kids.

Stay off Facebook. Do not post on Facebook that you are about to start potty training. Do not seek help on social media. I know this seems silly. I don’t care what “method” you use to potty train or what your philosophy is behind it. Your consistency and commitment are what’s leading the show. If you post on Facebook, you will get 51 conflicting comments and they will only serve to undermine your confidence.

If you keep trying different “methods” or tons of different tricks, your toddler will pick up on anxiety, making them nervous, and this can rattle the whole process. If you need to vent, find some good, trusted, nonjudgmental friends you can call. Losing confidence due to Facebook posting is not what you need right now.

Wait till they’re ready: I always advise parents to look for capability. Is your child capable? The only problem with “wait till they’re ready” is that most parents don’t know what “ready” looks like. Children usually give signs of wanting to mimic grown-up toilet use around the 18-to-24-month mark (this can vary, of course).

These signs can be subtle and easily missed in our hectic lives.

Some children never show signs and other children are never really ready. If you are waiting till they’re ready, that’s cool.

Check in with yourself about what you think ready is going to look like, just so you have a marker in your head as to what you are actually waiting for.

Generally speaking, I think child-led timing can be beneficial, but I do need to tell you that I often work with children who just are never ready. Attempting to potty train a resistant five-year-old is not easy. The notion of “wait till they’re ready” came out of a time when most children used

cloth diapers and could feel wetness. Today, the miraculous wicking of disposables means that children don’t feel the wetness as they used to; this can make waiting a risky option.

The Timeline: Potty training can feel really overwhelming when you look at the big picture. I break it down into a simple timeline that looks a lot easier. You are simply bringing your child’s awareness from “Clueless” to “I peed” to “I’m peeing” to “I have to go pee.” That’s it. With this timeline it’s easy to see where your progress is, and also where you might be stuck.

Use your intuition: Use your parental intuition. I cannot state this enough. I am an expert at potty training because I’ve done it for a long time and worked with thousands of children. I have a million tips and tricks. However, you are the expert on your child.

You have been with your child since the dawn of their time. Do not ever listen to an expert, in any area of parenting, if it feels dead wrong in your heart.

There’s a lot noise on the Internet concerning all aspects of parenting, not just potty training. I always encourage parents to do what’s right in their hearts. And do it with consistency, commitment, and conviction. If you are struggling in any area, find an expert who resonates with you. Even then, only follow what makes sense to you. Far too many parents are willing to throw their own intuition under the bus of what some expert says.  Jamie Glowacki is an internationally-recognized parenting and potty training expert. Her two former careers of social worker and circus performer both serve her well working with toddlers and poop. She is the author of the book Oh Crap! Potty Training, released in June 2016 by Touchstone/Simon and Schuster. www.jamieglowacki.com

March 2016  Rhode Island Parent Magazine

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My Turn

By Abigail Addington-May

On Being a Mother of Advanced Maternal Age

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he obstetrician’s medical records described me as a female “of advanced maternal age.” I took that with good humor with the first pregnancy and even more so after the arrival of my second healthy baby at 48.

However, I’m now recognizing one of the consequences of being on the other side of 60 as my firstborn prepares to graduate from high school. Thoughts come about what life will be like for my children when I’m not here anymore. My health is fine and I truly expect to live to 100 as my genetic makeup suggests, but the thoughts still come. Beyond the fundamental moral and ethical lessons, what are the gifts I most value having given them? The answer is family stories and personal experiences.

Living with the past

If you look around our house at furniture, decorations, even kitchen utensils, almost everything has a story. We live with functioning heirlooms. So I make a point to tell the kids the story of how each item connects them to one of their ancestors.

For example, there’s the Limoges china. The kids know it is more than just a collection of nice plates. They know their grandmother fell in love with its beauty and translucence when she was working in Paris; that this china was last put on the table by my mother for my 14th birthday dinner, nine days before she went to the hospital for the last time; that it was packed up when we moved to my grandmother’s, “disappeared” from the cellar, and later reappeared, still wrapped in newspaper from 1970, in a trunk belonging to their favorite aunt, found after her death; and that they (my kids) were at the beautifully set Thanksgiving table when we used the Limoges again for the first time in 40 years.

Then there is the U.S. Army officer’s jacket with the Major’s insignia. It is more than just an old uniform. My kids know that it was last worn by their grandfather in October 1946, when he came home from the war, injured, but alive. They have the handwritten letters he sent home explaining the battle in which he was wounded and how “Jerry” (a term that referred to the opposition German 10

Rhode Island Parent Magazine  March 2016

soldiers) continued to bomb Normandy fiercely for three days while he was taken out by medevac. The jacket fits my 14-year-old son perfectly, and was his choice to wear for his 8th grade portrait. World War II is personal for him.

Saying “yes” to new experiences

To encourage varied experiences, I have made a point of saying “yes” as often as reasonably possible when the kids express an interest to do something different or go somewhere new. When my daughter was in 8th grade, she asked to attend a large convention where the participants “cosplay.” “What?” I kept asking, as one explanation only led to more questions. This was, of course, the Anime Boston (AB) convention, which was not an easy “yes” to arrive at. But after many phone calls and emails to the organizers, my safety concerns were more than satisfied and I took four girls for an incredibly fun day in Boston. The following year I was able to say yes to two days at “AB,” with an overnight at the Boston Youth Hostel.

Then there was the time my son wanted to hear his favorite metal band, “System of a Down” during their only North American tour – could we go? With no U.S. cities on the tour, this meant Toronto. I thought – what a great excuse to get them to Canada. It was a lot of driving for all of us, but we saw Niagara Falls on the way and learned what a great city Toronto is. My kids were so grateful to be at the concert, they didn’t care that I was 30 years older than the next youngest person there. How can you beat that?

So if my advanced maternal age has produced any wisdom, I hope it is that the gift of stories will ground my kids with knowledge of where they came from; that the gift of experiences will teach them what they truly love; and that somehow all of that will help them make their way through life while I’m here and long after I’m gone.  Abigail Addington-May lives in North Attleboro, MA, with her husband and their two teenagers.

March 2016  Rhode Island Parent Magazine

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Get Organized

By Lauren Silveira

How to build a family scheduling center

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ccording to the American Demographic Society, Americans lose a total of nine million hours every day looking for lost and misplaced items!

In today’s family, everyone is running on different schedules and piles of schoolwork are coming through the door. Coats, shoes, and everyday items constantly need to be accounted for and put away. Given how busy families are, perhaps the above statistic is not so hard to believe.

Creating consistency in the household around scheduling tends to become another task amidst so many others, and one that ends up at the bottom of the priority list. But with all those hours lost every day looking for items, why not take time to incorporate a scheduling system that manages household communication and keeps everyone on task?

There is one factor that should remain the same regardless of the family dynamic: consistency. Children thrive on routine.

When a scheduling system is incorporated as an everyday tool, children will view it as they do brushing their teeth every night before bedtime. Here’s how to begin the process of creating a scheduling center and the tools needed to keep your family organized and on time.

Decide on your scheduling zone

I’m going to suggest the kitchen or entryway as the two best locations for setting up a scheduling center. The kitchen acts as the hub of the house. Beyond cooking and eating, there is homework being done and meal prep for the days ahead. The entryway is the last stop on the way out and first on the way in. It’s that perfect checkpoint to review the day ahead, and to rally items together at the end of the day.

Planning out the space is key. Consider an underused corner in the kitchen and utilize the wall space to create your scheduling center. The side of the fridge is another great place to store magnetic dry erase boards and folders. Scope out your entryway for wall space. Remember to consider what would flow best for your family based on your everyday routine.

List what’s needed

Before approaching any organizing project, I have my clients check in with how they want a space to function and feel.

Take a few minutes to jot down what your family needs to stay on track for the week and intentions that describe how 12

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you want to feel. Relaxed, organized, and punctual are usually at the top of the list. Use this time as a way to organize your thoughts around your family’s schedule. Keep it as simple and streamlined as you’d like your day to go. The main ingredients to consider are below: Calendar style: Dry erase calendars are great for last-minute changes and having your appointments all in one place, in a way that is easy to add to and edit. They also are a great way to have your children involved. Have them add stickers, draw pictures and be included in the system of creating an organized routine. Hang their favorite artwork around the calendar to allow them to feel engaged in the process.

Morning and nightly routine checklists: In addition to doctor appointments and soccer practice, there is feeding the family pet, making the beds, and packing the backpacks.

A routine list in your scheduling zone allows for better time management and staying on task.

Bins for important paperwork: Paper is one of the biggest culprits in creating clutter. Keep it off the counters and contained to folders and bins in your scheduling center.

Designating an individual zone for homework, invites, and important papers keeps them from becoming misplaced and forgotten.

Corral items together: Jackets and backpacks easily end up on the floor, as do shoes. Utilize hooks to corral items and create a shoe bin or individual bins for shoes. Remember, storing like items together not only saves time, but makes cleaning up much faster.

The key to keeping your household running smoothly is committing to use your scheduling center as the family hub.

View it as the ingredient for less stress, and a way to add nothing but smiles on your way out the door.  Lauren Silveira is the Owner/Founder of Organized for Life - Making Your Favorite Spaces Come to Life. www.organizedforlife.net

March 2016  Rhode Island Parent Magazine

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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.

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Dear Dr. Day Care, At the end of the day, my child’s teacher wants to tell me about my child’s day in person. I am in a hurry to get home to make dinner for the family and I do not have time to chat. I would like the teacher to send home a note instead. What is your opinion?

- Too busy to communicate

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Dear Too busy, I am an advocate for one-on-one and parent/ provider conversations to discuss your child’s daily activities. When a written note or checklist is utilized to communicate, I feel it might not present the parent with a complete version of their child’s day.

When a teacher takes the time to explain, in person, about your child’s day, they can add detailed information about the learning activities and interaction that took place. Which information gives better feedback about a child’s day? A note that says: “Your child had a good day playing outdoors,” or hearing: “When your child was playing outdoors today, he put on his helmet and was determined to master peddling a threewheel tricycle. He practiced peddling the trike and within an hour he was riding all along the bicycle path and his friends and teachers were cheering him on. The smile was priceless!”

This time also gives you the opportunity to share experiences from home with the teacher, which can be very helpful.

I understand your time restraints. I would suggest that you and your child’s teacher schedule a time each day when you can both talk at your leisure. A simple code system will also work well. Each day, when you arrive to pick up your child, have your provider give a wave to indicate a typical day and if the teacher feels you need to talk more in-depth, find a time that works for both of you.

Another suggestion is to arrive a little earlier each day at drop-off time or establish certain days when you both can talk at the end of the day. I feel the best method of all is to take a few minutes each day at departure time to briefly chat. This will give you good, valuable feedback about your child’s day in a timely manner. Child care facilities are so lucky to be able to have parents drop off and pick up every day for this invaluable communication.

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Q

Dear Dr. Day Care, My toddler just began to walk. He is so cute waddling around. However, he is into everything he can get his hands on. Shall I move everything in my home to a different level where he cannot touch things, or continue to tell him “no touch” all day?

- “No touch” mom

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Dear “No touch” mom, Welcome to toddlerhood – a great stage of child development. You are correct, toddlers are into everything, or in child development terms – learning their world/environment.

I would highly suggest moving items that have value to a safe place. Repeating “no touch” becomes tiresome and can begin to develop power struggles between parent and child.

To develop their new learning experiences, toddlers need to have items and toys at their level so they can touch, feel, and handle them. Try setting up the living space in your home to be safe to the touch of a toddler’s exploration. There is a school of thought that says you should have a few items that a child is not allowed to touch in the home, so parents can begin to set limits.

I truly agree with this philosophy, as long as it is just a few items.

It is very important to remember when parenting: set your child up for success with more positive input than negative.

When or if your child begins to touch these few items, redirect your child to another area to play. A statement to your child with a positive attitude would be: “You cannot touch the DVR; however, you may play in this other area with your toys.”

The good news is toddlerhood does not last forever.

It quickly passes, but it is a very important stage of child development. How you set the relationship between parent and child at this age and stage will set the foundation for future discipline.  Do you have any questions about young children? I would love to hear any feedback! You can reach me any time at drdaycare@drdaycare.com.

“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, South County, and West Warwick. She is also a children’s book author: Edgar Graduates. www.drdaycare.com

March 2016  Rhode Island Parent Magazine

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Feature Story

By Governor Gina Raimondo

From the Governor’s desk: Initiatives for children

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s Governor, my days don’t always go as planned.

But in my house, my husband and I try to keep our kids (and ourselves) on a regular morning routine.

Regardless of what else is going on, we always sit down as a family to read a book and eat a nutritious, balanced breakfast. It’s one of the healthy habits my husband and I work hard to instill in our kids.

That’s why, earlier this year, we had so much fun learning about other families’ kitchen traditions. Andy and I hosted the first-ever Rhode Island Kids’ Healthy Recipe Challenge, asking young chefs to submit their favorite culinary creations. The recipes we got were overwhelming in both their imagination and variety, as you read about in February’s magazine. My family and I got to enjoy the winning dishes at a special luncheon with all of the finalists and their families, hosted by the Rhode Island Community Food Bank. All in all, it was a great way to encourage Rhode Island kids to start healthy habits early.

The Children’s Cabinet

My first year as Governor was full of exciting developments for me both as a parent and as a public servant. In July, I reconvened the Children’s Cabinet for the first time since 2007 to set a vision to improve the health and well-being of Rhode Island's kids. The group's priority is to strengthen and grow opportunities for children and their families, and is composed of leaders from throughout state government. Some of the issues we’ve worked on so far include early childhood education, Medicaid reforms, and strengthening collaboration between the Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) and the Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities and Hospitals (BHDDH).

Together, we have identified collaborative, data-driven actions to grow opportunities for our children, youth, and families. All kids deserve the chance to make it in Rhode Island, and government must work to set our families and our state on the path to a healthy, stable future.

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A focus on education

I have also made education one of my top priorities during my first year in office. In October, we launched the first formal review of the state's education funding formula in an effort to achieve better outcomes for our students, educators, and taxpayers. I signed an executive order appointing a group to examine whether the formula is working as intended with a particular focus on funding for students with special needs, English learners, career-technical education, and charter public schools.

In January, the group made a formal recommendation for how best to improve the way we fund our public education system. A significant part of jumpstarting our economy and creating opportunity for everyone is making sure our kids have access to an excellent education, and reworking the funding formula will help us keep improving.

Another key education initiative of mine has been creating the School Building Authority. We know our kids can't learn in crumbling school buildings and that they must have access to a learning environment that inspires them to do their best.

The Authority includes conducting the first statewide school construction assessment as well as a new funding mechanism for public schools with immediate renovation needs.

As part of my jobs plan in the FY2016 budget, the Authority was established alongside a Capital Fund with $20 million available to school districts in need. Last fall, the Council on Elementary and Secondary Education unanimously approved funding for 86 projects from 18 school districts or charter public schools. These projects are already putting people to work and will ultimately provide safer, healthier, better learning environments for about 30,000 students and their teachers.

Finally, I’m working with local organizations to ensure that every student is reading by third grade. In partnership with the United Way of Rhode Island and Rhode Island KIDS COUNT, we launched the Rhode Island Campaign for GradeLevel Reading last year. Studies show that children who do not read proficiently by the end of third grade are four times more

likely to drop out of high school than their peers. Too many of our children do not have the skills they need to succeed in today's economy, and they deserve better. This campaign focuses particularly on students from low-income families who need our help most.

As a parent, these statistics hit close to home. My son Tommy is in third grade, and I’ve watched him struggle with reading. But at the same time, I see his potential and have to encourage him to keep at it. Every student should have an adult in his or her corner, cheering them on and pushing them to succeed. We know that when a child is behind in reading by third grade it is hard, if not impossible, to catch up. We need to do better.

That’s why my FY2016 budget included funding for allday kindergarten and expanding pre-kindergarten programs, and I’ve worked with unions to make affordable child care an option for all families. Our work doesn’t begin in third grade – kids need to start early in order to succeed later. These programs will help them do that.

Advocating for children’s safety

While we’ve made progress in the last year, we still have more work to do. One of my goals for 2016 is to continue improving the DCYF. A key improvement will be to appoint a new Child Advocate. A strong Child Advocate will ensure we are all focused on our top priority: protecting kids and strengthening families. As a mom and as the Governor, I'm always thinking about children’s issues, and feel it is time to get someone with a new perspective in this important role.

I also look forward to working with my colleagues in the General Assembly on the issue of homelessness in our state. It is absolutely unacceptable that any child in our state should ever go to school without having had a roof over their head the night before. Homelessness and a lack of affordable housing threaten to undermine the very stability of our communities – it’s getting harder for our families to pay for their housing, putting more Rhode Islanders at risk of becoming homeless.

Economic recovery to help families

My first budget was a jobs plan. It’s a plan to spark our comeback and expand opportunities so every family can make it in RI. It includes funding for affordable housing, but it also takes a comprehensive approach to strengthen our economy and our families by creating high-quality jobs and making work pay. In 2016, I hope to continue our work to fight homelessness by providing more opportunities to Rhode Islanders. I plan to stick with our strategic plan, adopted in 2012, to eliminate chronic homelessness and homelessness among veterans within five years. We’ve started a trend, and we need to keep it going.

Governor for a Day

While there are a number of serious issues facing children and families in our state, I’ve also been lucky enough to meet a few of our youngest rising stars during my first year in office. In April of last year, I was honored to host Women's History Month essay contest winner Khatima Bulmer, a fifth grader from Newport's Thompson Middle School, at the State House as my very first Governor for a Day. Khatima had the opportunity to spend the day learning from strong leaders across state and local government, the legislature, and the judiciary.

Together, we attended events to recognize the importance of Earth Day, break ground on a new nursing home facility, and plant a tree at her school. I think it's important that girls know they can be whatever they want to be if they work hard, and Khatima’s visit was a perfect example of the opportunities available to all young Rhode Islanders. I’m so excited to have another Governor for a Day visit me this year!

Last year we made great progress towards making Rhode Island a place of opportunity for all families, and I look forward to building on that momentum in 2016.  Gina Raimondo is Governor of Rhode Island.

March 2016  Rhode Island Parent Magazine

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The Healthy Child

By Jacklyn O'Hara

Postpartum Exercise: Restore Your Core Before You Do More This article is written to be informational. Always consult your doctor or medical professional before engaging in any kind of exercise while pregnant or after delivery.

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id you know that during the third trimester of pregnancy, your abdominals actually separate to make room for your ever-growing uterus and baby?

Your uterus expands to 1,000 times its size over the duration of a full-term pregnancy, so it is no wonder your abdominals need to separate!

Before you return to or begin any type of exercise routine postpartum, especially abdominal-focused activity or weight lifting, it is very important to know if your abdominal wall has closed or if it is still separated, also known as diastasis recti.

Your abdominals are your core. If your core is in a weakened state, separated, attempting to use these muscles can be ineffective at best and dangerous at worst.

How to know the state of your abdominals post-delivery

At your six- or eight-week postpartum visit, your physician may check for you by asking you to lay down flat on your back and slightly raise your chin to your chest, which will engage your abdominal wall. The abdominal check is measured by how many fingers-width can fit in the gap of your abdominal wall. One to two fingers-width at this postpartum visit is considered normal.

Talk to your physician if the gap is over three fingers-width apart, as this may require physical therapy. You should not do the below exercises until the gap is closed. If your physician does not check, or you already had this visit and you cannot recall, then perform the abdominal check yourself! A really good postpartum fitness instructor will check this for you as well, and even modify your workout based on your results.

3 simple exercises to restore your core Begin with Hollowing: From a sitting position, gently use your abdominal muscles to pull your belly button straight backwards towards your spine (not straight and up, but straight back, and do not raise or tense your chest or shoulders) as you slowly exhale. You’re not ‘sucking in’ or making any forceful or exaggerated movements. Your pelvis shouldn’t tuck under as you do this – in fact nothing should be happening in your shoulders, chest, or pelvis! It is just a subtle drawing in at the lower abs.

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Master Kegels (“Quick Flicks” and the “Elevator”): A weakened core and weakened pelvic floor go hand in hand.

Quick flicks are just as they sound – a quick contraction of the pelvic floor muscle (the same muscle that stops the flow of urine) followed by a quick release of the pelvic floor muscle – aim for 30 quick flicks at every red light!

The elevator is slightly more advanced and takes some practice. Begin by contracting your pelvic floor muscle and holding it; now try and raise it up one level; then up one more level; hold, and then release down one level, slowly down to the next, and then fully release to a non-contracted muscle.

Progress to Wall-sits: A wall-sit will allow you to add in more muscle groups like your quadriceps, at the same time that you work your inner abs. Start by finding a free space on the wall (no moldings) or use a door or yoga ball positioned behind your lower back. Lower your body in a squat and aim to have your hips parallel with your knees. Be sure that your weight is in your heels and your knees are not passing over your toes. Here is the key – pull your belly button into your spine, pressing your spine against the wall, door, or yoga ball.

You will immediately feel your inner abdominal wall engage (and maybe shake!). There should be no space between your back and the wall/door. Hold this position and continue to pull your belly button to your spine for 15–30 seconds for three to six rounds.

Begin to exercise postpartum only when it causes no stress to do so, you are ready, and you have time to make it sustainable.

One of the best ways to return – and make it sustainable – is to join a gym or fitness studio that has childcare or a mommy and baby fitness class. As you begin this journey to reclaim your pre-baby body, focus on how you feel! As a mom of two young children, my body has changed. But I can tell you that I am strong – stronger than I was before I had them; my body just looks different. Own it and have fun!  Jacklyn O'Hara is a mom, perinatal fitness instructor, and owner of Oh Baby! Fitness Rhode Island, which offers prenatal fitness and mommy & baby classes. www.ohbabyfitness.com or email Jackie_ohbabyfitnessRI@yahoo.com.

March 2016  Rhode Island Parent Magazine

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Active Learning Services

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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. See ad, page 23.

ummer reaming D

Summer Program & Camp Guide

C

hoosing the right summer program or camp can

take time, so it’s not too early to think about what your kids will do this summer. Or even, during February and April school breaks. 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.

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Rhode Island Parent Magazine  March 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 23.

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. See ad, page 23.

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

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. Open House: Sunday, 5/15, 1–4 pm. See ad on this page.

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. (continued on next page) March 2016  Rhode Island Parent Magazine

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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!

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.

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Rhode Island Parent Magazine  March 2016

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.

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 13. 

March 2016  Rhode Island Parent Magazine

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Kid of the Month

By Susan Gale

Giving voice to her beliefs

W

hen Shea Heelan, 10, of Portsmouth, decides something isn’t right, she takes action.

Her mother, Beth Heelan, came home from work one day in January and found a handwritten letter on the counter. When Beth read the letter, she immediately took a photo of it and put it up on Facebook where it was then shared by Lite Rock 105. From there, it went viral with nearly 700 shares and more than 1,150 likes.

The letter? It was written with no adult encouragement and laid out Shea’s concerns about a toy she had received for Christmas – LEGO® Friends.

“I found the letter on the counter when I got home and I just think it's so awesome how kids really believe they can make a difference and that they have a voice,” said Shea’s mother.

“I think the most important thing to note is she did this on her own and there was no encouragement from me or any other adult. She got LEGO Friends sets for Christmas and just wanted them to be more like her,” she said. “We think LEGO is a great company and it had less to do with LEGO and more to do with how awesome it was that this child really believed she could stand up for something important to her.”

Here is the letter that Shea wrote: Dear LEGO company, How come the boy LEGOs get to go on awesome adventures like deep sea exploring and breaking people out of jail, while girl LEGOs are shopping and hanging out! The only real adventure the girl LEGOs go on is rescuing a few animals! That’s just one thing! The only thing boy LEGOs do is go on adventures. It’s so unfair! Some girls don’t like to shop or sing. Girls go on adventures too! For example, I went climbing once! I also was swimming in Maine and I saw a huge water snake! We also caught fish! Also the girl LEGO commercials have pretty, adorable music and pink everywhere, while boy commercials have action and daring

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Rhode Island Parent Magazine  March 2016

characters! I really hope you can do something about this, so girls don’t think boys can do so many things that girls can’t.

Love, (the girl) Shea Heelan Shea’s letter encouraged much online discussion on the issue of gender-specific toys. It even convinced a YouTube group called “Built from Bricks,” which talks about collecting and investing in LEGOS, to do a segment on her.

For Shea, having her letter go viral also taught her a few lessons.

“She was definitely surprised and I think overwhelmed by how many people reacted to it. She got to see first-hand how powerful social media is,” said her mother. “She has a heart of gold and I'm really proud of her.”

While not every reaction online was positive, many cheered Shea on and one even suggested LEGO pay attention in a unique way: “Well said and they should name the adventure set after this girl.” 

March 2016  Rhode Island Parent Magazine

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Directory of Advertisers Please support our advertisers. Tell them you saw their ad here.

These advertisers keep the magazine free for you!

Active/art/dance

Parties/workshops

Artist’s Exchange .................................................Page 7 Dream Big Academy............................................Page 4 Launch Trampoline Park......................................Page 3 Lincoln Johnny Lightning Race Club.................Page 23 Rock Spot Climbing.............................................Page 7 Teamworks....................................................Back cover To the Pointe of Performing Arts........................Page 15 YMCA of Greater Providence.............................Page 13

Animal Experiences............................................Page 19 Bjorn the Magician............................................Page 19 Bwana Iguana Reptile Adventure........................Page 19 Mad Science of Southern MA and RI.................Page 11 Ponies to Go......................................................Page 19 Pop n Bop Bubble Bash......................................Page 19 Reel to Real Recording Studio............................Page 19 Reptile Circus....................................................Page 23

Child care/preschool

Photography

BrightStars.........................................................Page 15 The Children’s Workshop.....................................Page 7

Kimberly Dobosz Photography..........................Page 27

Children’s Clothing Once Upon a Child..............................................Page 3 RI Kids Consignment Sale...................................Page 3

Education/tutoring Club Z In-home Tutoring................... Inside back cover

Health-related services Magnolia Pediatrics............................................Page 11 Psychological Associates of Warwick...................Page 25 The Groden Network...........................................Page 4 Thundermist Health Center.................................Page 4

Miscellaneous Cumberland-Lincoln Prevention Coalition.................................................... Inside Cover

Summer Program & Camp Guide...........Page 20 Active Learning Services (See ad, page 23) Adventure Zone Artists’ Exchange (See ad, page 7) Dream Big Academy (See ad, page 7) Community Boating Center (See ad, page 21) Girl Scouts (See ad, page 23) Kingston’s Camp on Larkin’s Pond (See ad, page 21) Mother of Hope Camp (See ad, page 21) Rock Spot Climbing (See ad, page 7) Roger Williams Park Zoo South County Movement Center Summer J-Camp at the Dwares JCC Teamworks (See ad, back page) To The Pointe of Performing Arts (See ad, page 15) YMCA of Greater Providence (See ad, page 13)

To advertise, call (401) 337-9240 or email sales@RIParentMag.com

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Rhode Island Parent Magazine  March 2016

See large-scale LEGO® models of American landmarks at Providence Place

H

ave you ever wondered what the White House would look like made out of LEGOs? Now is your chance to find out. The LEGO Americana Roadshow: Building Across America is now at the Providence Place Mall through March 6.

The show offers 10 one-of-a-kind, large-scale models of American landmarks made completely out of LEGO bricks by LEGO Master Builders. These include the U.S. Capitol Building, White House, Supreme Court, Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Statue of Liberty, Independence Hall, Liberty Bell, and Old North Church.

The show offers fun facts about the buildings and there is plenty to do, including a LEGO Brick Play Area for children of all ages, the chance to build your own Old North Church model to take home, and a LEGO Scavenger Hunt with a special prize.

Providence Place Mall is located at 1 Providence Place, Providence.

The exhibit is open during mall hours: 10:00 am–9:00 pm, Monday through Saturday, and 11:00 am–6:00 pm on Sundays.

March 2016  Rhode Island Parent Magazine

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March 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 April and beyond, please email them to editor@ RIParentMag.com.

collect a treat and enjoy other activities such as a Bubble Man, music, and educational stations. 10 am–3 pm.

Last Scavenger Hunt card given at 2:30 pm. Roger Williams Park Zoo, 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence.

Free with Zoo admission. $14.95/ adults; $9.95/children, 2–12; free/Zoo members, children under 2. www.rwpzoo.org

3/20: Woonsocket, 7th Annual

Easter Bunny events 3/19: Westerly, Easter Egg Hunt.

Children ages 1–8 hunt for Easter eggs and meet the Easter Bunny and Lucky the Duck. Bring a basket to collect the eggs. 1–2 pm, youngest age group first. Wilcox Park, 44 Broad Street, Westerly. Free. www.oceanchamber.org

3/19, 20, 25 & 26: Providence, Carousel Village Easter Bunny Extravaganza. Take your own photos with the Easter Bunny at his first-ever visit to the Carousel Village at Roger Williams Park. No pre-registration required and available to all ages. The Easter Bunny will be taking a special carousel ride every hour on the hour during the event. 10 am–noon and 1 pm–3 pm. Roger Williams Park Carousel Village, 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence. Free/Adults; $5/ children over age 1; $2/carousel rides. www.rwpzoo.org/carousel 3/20: Providence, Egg Hunt Safari.

Follow clues to different locations around Roger Williams Zoo to get egg stamps on a scavenger hunt card, then

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Indoor Easter Egg Hunt. Children ages 9 and under compete for prize baskets in each of three age groups.

Noon–2 pm. Sponsored by the Firm Foundation Christian Church, St Ann’s Art and Cultural Center, 84 Cumberland Street, Woonsocket.

Free. www.firmfoundationri.com

3/26: Exeter, Camouflaged Egg

Hunt. Children, ages 3–10, hunt for brown eggs in a natural setting, learning how well the eggs camouflage.

Prizes for all children, with grand prizes given to the finders of the "golden eggs." Participants are asked to bring a basket. This event is popular so advanced registration is required.

Check in at 9:30 am, hunt at 10 am.

Held rain or shine. Fisherville Brook Wildlife Refuge, 99 Pardon Joslin Road, Exeter. $7/child. www.asri.org

3/26: Providence, Annual Easter

Egg Hunt. Candy eggs and fun activities for children ages 9 and under.

10 am. George J. West Park, 1276 Chalkstone Avenue, Providence. Free.

3/26: East Smithfield, Annual Easter Egg Hunt. For children ages 2–5.

Please bring your own basket. Must register in advance for this event.

10:30 am. East Smithfield Public Library, 50 Esmond Street, Smithfield.

Free. www.eastsmithfieldpubliclibrary.org

Rhode Island Parent Magazine  March 2016

3/26: Saunderstown, Tenth Annual Easter Egg Hunt. Hunt for plastic eggs at Casey Farm. Each ticket includes a coupon for half a dozen fresh farm eggs. Explore the farm, visit the chickens and chicks, enjoy farm games, and make an Easter craft. Refreshments available. Rain or shine. Registration required.

Call 401-295-1030 or buy online.

10:30–11:30 am. 2325 Boston Neck Road, Saunderstown. $10. shop.historicnewengland.org/CASEASTEREGG-7103/

3/26: Newport, Easter Egg Hunt &

Brunch. Thousands of colorful eggs on Rosecliff's oceanfront lawn and breakfast brunch inside. Held rain or shine. Space is limited and reservations are required. For reservations, call (401) 847-1000 ext.140. 10 am.

Rosecliff, 548 Bellevue Avenue, Newport. All prices for non-members: $60/adults; $35/children 6–12; $30/ children 3–5; $12/children under 2. www.newportmansions.org/events/eventscalendar/easter-egg-hunt-brunch

3/27: Watch Hill, Easter Egg Roll and Hunt. The event includes prizes, photo opportunities, and a chance to meet the Easter Bunny. Reservations for this event can be booked by phone at (888) 5522588. 10–11 am. Ocean House Lawn, 1 Bluff Avenue, Watch Hill. $15/child. www.oceanhouseevents.com

Special events 3/5: Pawtucket St. Patrick's Day

Parade. The parade kicks off at noon from behind McCoy Stadium, at the corner of Division and South Bend Streets and ends at City Hall. It can be viewed from South Bend, Walcott Street, and across the highway down past the Apex store. After party at the Armory on Exchange Street includes food, drinks, vendors, and live Irish music starting at 1 pm. Free.

3/12: Newport St. Patrick’s Day

Parade. Starts from City Hall on Broadway, via Washington Square, Thames Street, and Carroll Avenue to St. Augustin’s Church. Ancient Order of Hibernians pipes and drums appearing in the parade. 11 am– 1 pm. Followed by a non-alcohol postparade family party with bagpipers, Irish step dancers, giveaways and prizes. 1–4 pm, Location TBD at press time. See website for details. Free. www.newportirish.com

3/19: Providence St. Patrick’s Day

Parade. The parade starts at Smith Street (Route 44) and Hilltop Avenue.

It continues eastward on Smith Street and ends at the Rhode Island State House. Noon. Free.

3/1–3/6: LEGO Americana

Roadshow. The LEGO® Americana Tour is a highly visual, educational and free traveling installation of larger-thanlife LEGO® models. Replicas of iconic buildings and architectural structures will be on exhibit at various locations throughout the mall. Some featured landmarks include: U.S. Capitol Building, White House, Supreme Court, Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, and Lincoln Memorial. 10 am–9 pm, Monday–

Satursday; 11 am–6 pm Sundays.

Providence Place Mall, 1 Providence Place, Providence. Free. www.providenceplace.com

Places to go Artists’ Exchange. A non-profit arts collaborative with multiple art studios, a gallery, art boutique and café as well as a secondary venue, Theatre 82 and Café, a multi-use performance, meeting, and instructional space.

Offers family events, such as shows and classes in art, music, and theater.

Owned and operated by Gateway to Change, Inc. 9 am–5 pm, Monday– Saturday. 50 Rolfe Square, Cranston.

Paid and free events. artists-exchange.org Audubon Society Environmental Education Center. 9 am–5 pm, Wednesday–Saturday and noon–5 pm, Sunday. 1401 Hope Street, Bristol. Some activities free. Admission $6/adults; $4/ children 4–12; free/under 4. asri.org RISD Museum. Museum, classes, family activities at different times 10 am–5 pm Tuesday–Sunday.

20 North Main Street, Providence.

Also enter from 224 Benefit Street, Providence. $12/adult; $10 seniors; $5/ college students; $3/youth 5–18; free/ under age 5. Free on Sundays and 5–9 pm on the third Thursday of the month. risdmuseum.org Roger Williams Park Zoo. Bundle up for the beautiful winter scenery and see the snow leopards, moon bears, and other cold-hardy animals in a wintry setting or soak in the heat at the Zoo’s Tropical America, Elephant & Giraffe, and Australasia buildings.

1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence. $14.95/adults; $9.95/children, 2–12; free/Zoo members, children under 2.

Providence Children’s Museum.

Different activities every day. 9 am– 6 pm daily except Mondays; open select Fridays until 8 pm. 100 South Street, Providence. $9/person; free/ children under 12 months. www.childrenmuseum.org

Friday nights 3/25: Meet Baby Animals! Meet

animals like bunnies and teacup pigs and learn about taking care of pets from the Providence Animal Rescue League.

11 am–2 pm. Providence Children’s Museum, 100 South Street, Providence. $9/person; free/children under 12 months. www.childrenmuseum.org

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. bringyourownimprov.com Every Friday: Frosty Drew Observatory & Sky Theater. Public stargazing. 6 pm. 61 Park Lane, Charlestown. $1/person suggested donation. frostydrew.org

Weekends Saturday/ March 5 Artists’ Exchange Open House.

Explore summer camp options. Free popcorn, games, ceramics demos, and crafts. 11 am–2 pm. 50 Rolfe Square, Cranston. Free. artists-exchange.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. artists-exchange.org (continued on next page)

March 2016  Rhode Island Parent Magazine

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March 2016 Open Studio – RISD Museum.

Artist-designed activities let visitors of all ages experience artworks in imaginative, thought provoking, and whimsical ways. 2–4 pm.

RISD Museum, 224 Benefit Street, Providence. Free. risdmuseum.org

Sunday/ March 6 Family Learning Sunday – Movement and Dance Program. Stretch, play, pretend and dance to fun and funky music. Everyone is encouraged to put on their boogie shoes, create shapes with their bodies, and express themselves through this action-packed program. For all levels of experience. Kelly Fenton is a Nia movement instructor and informal educator. For ages 5–10. 2–4 pm.

Providence Public Library, 150 Empire Street, Providence. Free. www.provlib.org “Mother Goose” at Blithewold presented by Island Moving Company.

A lively retelling of the familiar nursery rhymes using movement and live music.

Audience members will be led by a minstrel and the effervescent Mother Goose herself through the rooms of Blithewold for an interactive and entertaining performance event for children ages 3 and up. 2–3:30 pm.

Blithewold Mansion, 101 Ferry Road, Bristol. $25/adults; $15/children under 18. www.blithewold.org/event/show/895 Meditation for Kids and Families. A simple introduction to Buddha’s teaching, emphasizing loving-kindness, respect for others, and keeping a positive attitude.

9:30–10:30 am. Serlingpa Meditation Center, 339 Ives Street, Providence. $4. www.meditationinmass.org

Saturday/ March 12

Seussational! Celebrate Dr. Seuss's birthday with a wonderfully wacky weekend-long celebration full of crazy characters and Seussational activities.

Play games inspired by silly Seuss stories, make Seussical hats, and more. 11 am– 2 pm. Providence Children’s Museum, 100 South Street, Providence. $9/person; free/children under 12 months. www. childrenmuseum.org Eco Stories and Art. Bring a snack and relax while an Audubon naturalist reads a nature story. Then create a unique work of art from different recyclable materials and found objects. No registration required. 11 am–noon. Audubon Environmental Education Center, 1401 Hope Street, Bristol. Members/$3 materials fee; Non-members/$3 materials fee plus admission. www.asri.org Second Saturdays: Providence Children's Film Festival. A selection of this year's short film favorites curated especially for the Newport Art Museum by the Providence Children's Film Festival. Animation, live action, foreign and fabulous! Channel this inspiration to create your own imaginative film story board and sculpt your mini lead character. Must pre-register. 10:15 am screening, crafts to follow. Family-friendly museum tour at 11:45 am. Free. www. newportartmuseum.org/Programs-Events/ Second-Saturdays Family Performance Series. See 3/5.

Sunday/ March 13 Meditation for Kids and Families.

See 3/6.

Saturday/ March 19 Doctors at Play. Assemble a doctor's bag with real hospital supplies like bandages and stethoscopes, give a teddy bear a check-up, and have a cast made 30

Rhode Island Parent Magazine  March 2016

on your finger, presented by Hasbro Children's Hospital Child Life Services.

Recommended for ages 3 and up.

11 am–2 pm. Providence Children’s Museum, 100 South Street, Providence. $9/person; free/children under 12 months. www.childrenmuseum.org Family Performance Series. See 3/5.

Sunday/ March 20 Spring Equinox!

Open Studio – RISD Museum. See 3/5.

Meditation for Kids and Families.

See 3/6.

Saturday/ March 26 Imagination Playground. Kids invent their own ways to play as they stack and build with huge blue foam blocks, wheels, spools, tubes and a variety of loose parts. 11 am–2 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 3/5.

Sunday/ March 27 Imagination Playground. See 3/26.

Meditation for Kids and Families.

See 3/6.

401-229-2101 www.clubz.com/blackstonevalley March 2016  Rhode Island Parent Magazine

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Rhode Island Parent Magazine  March 2016