January/February 2018 Issue by seattleschild

ROMP EMERALD CITY TRAPEZE CHOMP HEALTHY SEASONAL DINING SHOP TOYS THAT TEACH JAN UARY/FEBRUARY 2018

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YOUR GUIDE TO A KID-FRIENDLY CIT Y

OUT Active WINTER

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Enjoy sand without sunscreen at Sandbox Sports

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R S E AT T L E S C H I L D.C O M

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>>Contents Seattle’sChild

January–February 2018 // Issue 460

WHAT PARENTS ARE TALKING ABOUT......... 5 DAD NEXT DOOR..................9 ROMP.............................................11 CHOMP........................................13 SHOP............................................15 FEATURE....................................17 CALENDAR..............................25 q Making Home and New Mom Dispatch are on vacation until March

PHOTO COURTESY OF XXXXXX XXXXXXXXX

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January–February 2018 // Issue 460 “Seattle is my town. I know this city inside and out… or so I thought until I had kids.” Seattle’s Child is your guide to getting to know your city all over again. Finding things to do, places to eat, and how to get around — it’s a whole new ballgame with kids in tow. We’re interested in how parents make homes in a space-challenged urban environment, how families create community, and what parents are talking about. Seattle’s Child reflects real Puget Sound families and their broad range of parenting experiences. ANN BERGMAN Publisher, Founder abergman@seattleschild.com BOO DAVIS Art Director bdavis@seattleschild.com MAGGIE TRAPP Executive Editor mtrapp@seattleschild.com NICOLE SANTORA Calendar Editor calendar@seattleschild.com MIKE MAHONEY Copy Editor

s h o r e l i n e c h r i s t i a n . o rg 206.364.7777

JEFF LEE, MD, BECCA BERGMAN BULL Columnists JO EIKE, REBECCA MONGRAIN, ANDIE POWERS Contributing Editors ERIKA LEE BIGELOW, MARTHA BROCKENBROUGH, FIONA COHEN, YVONNE MARK, SYDNEY PARKER, SAMANTHA CLAIRE UPDEGRAVE Contributing Writers AMY CADWELL Publisher’s Assistant ADVERTISING KIM LOVE Ad Production Manager klove@seattleschild.com MELIA WILKINSON Senior Sales Account Manager mwilkinson@seattleschild.com 774-253-2219 STEPHANIE KONAT Sales Account Manager skonat@seattleschild.com 425-770-4768

Seattle’sChild Seattle’s Child has been providing useful information to parents since 1979. In addition to our monthly magazine, look for our special themed publications — Explore, FamilyPages, School and SummerTime — distributed free throughout the Puget Sound area.

VOICE 206-441-0191 MAIL c/o USPS #112 1463 E Republican St. #193 Seattle, WA 98112 ONLINE seattleschild.com Like us on Facebook facebook.com/seattleschild Follow us on Twitter @SeaChildMag TO ADVERTISE advertise@seattleschild.com STORY IDEAS editor@seattleschild.com CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS Deadline is first of the month, one month prior to publication (Feb. 1 for March publication). Include date, time, cost, appropriate ages, address, contact information and description. E-mail to calendar@seattleschild.com

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Seattle’s Child is published monthly with combined issues in January/February and July/August.

„ Find more education and health news on seattleschild.com

GET OUT! Find winter family fun with our mobile-friendly, constantly updated online calendar of events » seattleschild.com

»School F O C U S O N E D U C AT I O N

MARTHA BROCKENBROUGH

«What Parents Are Talking About »

The author with her daughter at Hamlin Robinson School.

Seeing differently P H OTO BY JOS H UA H U STO N

WHEN DYSLEXIA IS THE DIAGNOSIS: HOW ONE MOTHER LEARNED TO HELP HER DAUGHTER OVERCOME ADVERSITY Here’s one thing I know about parenthood: seconds after your kids start sleeping through the night, you start losing sleep over everything that comes next. One thing

I never thought to worry about with my firstborn was school. After all, my daughter’s pediatrician called her a “developmental star.”

But I had little twinges that all was not OK when Lucy was in preschool: Why was it harder for her to color in the lines? Why wasn’t she keeping up with the other kids in math? Maybe it was too early for academics, I reasoned. I was thrilled when my daughter got her teacher assignment at our neighborhood public school. I volunteered in class on Mondays with her baby sister in one arm, helping out with classroom tasks and lice checks with the other. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE >

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School < Seeing

differently

CONTINUED

Out of the corner of my eye, I’d watch Lucy. She wasn’t her usual bright-eyed self in school. And, despite all of our practice at home, she was struggling to read. The teacher did not share my concerns, though. I could see the way she looked at me: like a Tiger Mom unable to come to grips with the fact that my kid wasn’t Marie Curie. Maybe it was the environment, I thought. We decided to try a small, structured private school instead. Lucy repeated kindergarten because their age cutoff was earlier than Seattle Public Schools’. Things were better at first. Because of our endless practice, Lucy was reading ahead of many of her peers. By first grade, though, she was falling behind in math. Her handwriting was not good. And one of her teachers gently raised the possibility that Lucy might need extra learning support. That, I said OK to. But I wasn’t willing to have her tested for learning disabilities yet, although I knew such a thing existed. By the end of second grade, Lucy was still struggling, but not for lack of effort. I agreed to have Lucy tested with the idea that understanding how her brain worked might give us some new techniques to try. I still couldn’t say “learning disabilities.” My own confidence in life had come from the fact that I was good in school. If my daughter didn’t have that, what would become of her? During the next two years, we worked with the results of that expensive test and with the skills support people at the private school to address her dyslexia and dysgraphia diagnosis. But Lucy didn’t catch up or close the achievement gap. I took this as a sign that the intervention wasn’t working. My concerns were met with a shrug. I understand it, sort of. They didn’t know my child like I did. But when I saw on one teacher’s Facebook page that another had suggested dysgraphia might go away if a child worked hard enough, I nearly lost my mind. We’d been practicing her handwriting regularly since she was 4 years old. We’d filled stacks of paper with letters. It felt like a teacher saying a visually impaired child could try squinting a little harder to fix everything. To make matters worse, Lucy was struggling socially. I’ve since learned it’s common for kids with learning disabilities to be ridiculed and ostracized by their peers. When we mentioned these difficulties to the school, they brought someone in to study Lucy’s behavior — as if she were the problem. If she were the cause, I was willing to help her develop new skills. It puzzled me, though. Everywhere else she went, she was beloved. During her learning disabilities testing, she offered the psychologist a candy bar so she could keep her strength up. In the midst of the meeting with the school counselor, I had an epiphany: It wasn’t my kid. Rather, she was in an environment that had insufficient empathy for children who struggle to read and write. And my daughter had been suffering with

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that for five years — more than half her life. Devastated, I took her out of school. I quit my freelance writing business to homeschool. We were already paying out my whole salary in tuition anyway — something I recognize as a privilege most families don’t have, which is why I consider it my responsibility to be the voice for families like ours. I wish I could say that love and hard work worked. But they didn’t. I was terrified that this latest failure, trying to educate her on my own, would ruin her life. That spring we applied to private middle schools for her, and she was turned down by every single one. Over the summer, as I faced the prospect of another year of homeschooling, I learned about a place that hadn’t been on my radar: Hamlin Robinson School, a school for kids with dyslexia and other language challenges. I’d heard about it, but my profound denial about Lucy’s learning disabilities — fear, really — had made me look elsewhere. I thought if she went there, she would forever be separate from the world of real academia. Special ed. Surely my smart, lively, thoughtful kid didn’t need that. I couldn’t have been more wrong. She attended middle school there and it was a revelation. The most important thing, perhaps, was that she was for the first time with kids who were like her. Instead of being socially isolated, she was surrounded by friends. And she had teachers who viewed her as normal and not lazy or problematic. And it’s right that they did. Dyslexia is normal. One in five kids has it. One in five adults has it. It is not something that goes away, although it is certainly something that can be understood, accommodated and leveraged into great success. At Hamlin Robinson, Lucy discovered her skills as an artist and a musician. She discovered a great love of science. She enjoyed reading and writing, too, because she did not feel alone in her struggles. If they offered a high school program, we would have kept her there. Today, she is a junior at Garfield, taking some advanced placement classes and doing well academically, after a bit of transition. Although she did encounter some of the same peer hostility she encountered in previous schools, she’s also developed resilience and found a trustworthy group of friends. And I don’t worry about her, at least not any more than any parent worries. Yes, she has dyslexia — and this learning difference might be the reason she’s a wildly creative thinker and empathetic performer. It makes school harder, but it also makes her life and work richer. It’s common for kids with dyslexia to go on to become entrepreneurs and inventors. Richard Branson is one. Likewise, Einstein and Leonardo da Vinci. For now, Lucy’s aspirations are more grounded: She wants to be a teacher. I’m certain she’ll be a great one. She’s taught me some of the most important lessons I know.

What Parents Are Talking About

Putting ‘no homework’ to the test A YEAR AFTER SEATTLE’S WHITTIER ELEMENTARY ADOPTS A NO-HOMEWORK POLICY, THERE ARE NEW LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES FOR EVERYONE BY YVONNE MARK

SHUTTERSTOCK

Homework-free evenings, once a pipe dream of countless school-aged children, are a reality in about a dozen Seattle district schools, including Whittier Elementary. Seattle’s Child reported in September 2016 that Whittier was adopting a “no homework” policy based in part on research conducted by Duke University psychology professor Harris Cooper, which found a positive correlation between homework and academic success but only for students in grades 7 to 12, not elementary-aged children. A year later, how has this change impacted the Whittier community? “No loss with no homework,” says Scottie Nash, mother to a sixth-grader and second-grader. She values the new emphasis on unstructured play and believes

Teachers report decreased student anxiety in the classroom as a result of no nightly worksheets.

it strikes a good balance between learning and family time. At home, her children participate in a dedicated reading time after school as recommended by Whittier teachers. Though homework isn’t formally

assigned, classroom work that’s incomplete at the end of the day is sent home with the student to be finished. Whether the omission of homework CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE >

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What Parents Are Talking About < Putting

‘no homework’ to the test

CONTINUED

is a benefit “is dependent on the teachers,” says Brian Sayer. He clarifies that his two children, in kindergarten and second grade, “have good teachers.” Special Education teacher Kyle Robinson-Jaynes, who works with students who might struggle academically, says not having homework has improved students’ opinion of school. Steph Turner-Busiel, a performing arts teacher at Whittier (whose children, a sixth-grader and third-grader, attend another homework-free Seattle district school), is effusive. She cites decreased student anxiety in the classroom as a result of being unburdened from nightly worksheets. At home, she enjoys the freedom “to plan learning extension activities with [her] children that don’t involve a piece of paper and pencil.” Some parents are more guarded in their opinion. Gwen Weed describes her husband as “surprised and disappointed” last September when he learned that homework was no longer part of the school culture. She likes the idea of homework as a “habit setting” exercise, though she admits she has access to other options. At Curriculum Night, her son’s

teacher provided a long list of resources to help parents incorporate learning activities at home. Weed has no concerns with her son having more play time — he’s only in kindergarten, after all — but feels that when he’s older, homework will be an external deadline to push him: “We’re human. Homework is a forcing function.” She adds, “But I can see how families with two working parents might view this differently.” Whittier principal Melissa Schweitzer describes the past year as a “learning curve year.” To gauge the effects of the no-homework policy, over the summer she sent an online survey to parents of the 495 Whittier students. One common theme surfaced from the comments: parents wanted to partner with the teacher but felt communication was lacking. As a result, teachers are reaching out to parents more, which now includes sharing completed student work every two weeks online. Parents know exactly what their children are learning. “Elevated teacher practice” is another benefit of the new policy, according to Schweitzer: “Teachers have had to rethink how to cover the material without homework.” As a result, they’re considering the curriculum differently by determining the heart and meaning behind what they

teach, trimming away the extraneous and maintaining appropriate pacing of the material while still meeting statewide common core standards. Teachers are also offering parents more real-life applications to reinforce concepts taught in the classroom. More changes are ahead, including the spring STEM Fair, which traditionally has comprised projects that students worked on at home. Schweitzer admits that parents were likely overinvolved in many STEM projects judging by the number of students unable to comprehensively answer questions about their projects. The STEM Fair was optional in spring 2017; not surprisingly, it had a lower-thanusual participation rate. This coming year, Schweitzer foresees a classroom-based assignment that will be student driven and require active learning. Though it’s too soon to evaluate how the no-homework policy will affect more objective measures like test scores, teachers and parents are happy with the stronger partnership forged between educators and families and with the fact that parents can tailor home learning to their children’s needs. Clearly, removing homework has presented new learning opportunities to everyone involved.

Inspiring Gifted Students K-8 206 .691.2625 seattlecountryday.org

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DadNextDoor

NEW YEAR NEW PRESCHOOL COMING JANUARY 2018

by Jeff Lee, MD

A little encouragement from across the fence

P H OTO BY JOS H UA H U STON

The country in Pippa’s room A year and a half ago, when Pippa was just 5, she came up with a new dish called Bagaleelee, which consists of pasta, tomatoes, cheese, raisins and dates. She wrote down the list of ingredients, complete with detailed drawings, and supervised me while I cooked up a batch for her. It wasn’t half bad. When we asked her where she got the recipe, she told us it was a famous dish from another country — the country in her room. It turns out, there’s an entire island nation somewhere among her bookshelves, toys and loft bed, though it’s a little unclear exactly where. Since then Pippa has taken me on many a tour of this uncharted land. It is, to say the least, remarkable. The climate is sunny but cold enough to ice skate any time of year and features occasional hazardous precipitation in the form of falling lawn furniture and food. The streets are lined with trees that bear small dogs as fruit, and the wildlife includes a creature called a High-Tongue Licker, which has three long tongues protruding from the top of its head. Pippa is the supreme leader, as you might expect. She took over when the former president (an evil winged creature called a Hoak) began behaving badly and needed to be replaced. By all accounts she is a just and benign ruler, and she presides over a happy, peaceful citizenry. There are no courts and no jail, though there are police officers charged with controlling a gang of clever octopuses who have taken to a life of crime. The only law I’ve discovered so far is that one is required to have the right number of popsicles. That number is 10 per hour. The economy is a wonder of egalitarianism and abundance. There’s one factory on the island that supplies everything you need on demand. You simply state

your request, and it’s delivered via special expandable tubes that course through the countryside and supply every home. Should you ever want something that the factory can’t make, you simply barter for it. The current exchange rate is as follows: A set of marbles = a small parakeet. Some books = some butterfly wings. Of course, no 5-year-old’s imagination is purely utopian. There are scary things

This Christmas I helped Pippa create a travel guide to the country in her room as a present for her mom. As we worked on it I began to realize that her country actually makes a lot more sense than mine right now. I’d wake up to headlines about nuclear threats, rising sea levels and mass shootings, and I’d immediately dive back into our book project, escaping to a place that was kinder, simpler and a lot more fun.

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that go bump in the night. In addition to High-Tongue Lickers and evil Hoaks, there are the Towers of Terror. Each one is guarded by a ghost, including the King of Ghosts (recognizable by the fish skeleton protruding from his head). No one lives in the Towers of Terror, but reportedly there CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE >

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is excellent trick-or-treating there. In the country in Pippa’s Room, no one has to work or go to school, but somehow there are many stores and restaurants. My favorite breakfast spot is Jean’s Special Crepes, Pancakes and Other Flippy Stuff. And there’s good window shopping at Mrs. Swan’s Curtain Drawing and Pillow Plumping, and Mickey Thinky’s Stinky Bikinis. For entertainment, you can skate, ski, scooter or skateboard anywhere on the island. There’s good snorkeling at Eyeball Tail Reef, and pan- „ Read all of Jeff Lee’s columns on oramic views seattleschild.com at Oceanviewcliff (which is pronounced exactly as it’s spelled as long as you say it very rapidly in one breath). But the favored place to go for a night out on the town is the amusement park, known as the Land of Light Bulbs. The best ride there is the Light Bulb Roller Ride where you climb into a giant light bulb and ride continuously for a week. Luckily, there are extra shirts and underpants inside if you need them and a vending machine that supplies ice cream, lollipops and “healthy food.” This Christmas I helped Pippa create a travel guide to the country in her room as a present for her mom. As we worked on it I began to realize that her country actually makes a lot more sense than mine right now. I’d wake up to headlines about nuclear threats, rising sea levels and mass shootings, and I’d immediately dive back into our book project, escaping to a place that was kinder, simpler and a lot more fun. An Aqua Unfortunately, I can only visit Ice Bullet the country in Pippa’s room accomHypno panied by a certified guide, and the High-Tongue Licker only one I know just turned 7 and shows no sign of getting younger anytime soon. Eventually she will have to live in my world, one where there are scarier things than High-Tongue Lickers lurking in the shadows. So here’s my New Year’s resolution. This year, I’d like to make my country a little more suitable to pass on to Pippa. After all, she was nice enough to share her country with me. It wouldn’t be fair if I had nothing worth sharing in return. Jeff Lee does his own curtain drawing and pillow plumping in Seattle.

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I L LU STR AT I ON BY P IP PA STA N TON - H SI AO

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

„ Find more things to do with kids on seattleschild.com Right under your nose!

5 GREAT INDOOR PLAY SPACES

GET ARTY AT KIDS’ SATURDAYS Vroom! Vroom! That’s the sound of dozens of cardboard cars pulling up to the Seattle Art Museum’s Winter in the Park drive-in movie theater. On designated “Kids’ Saturdays” (Jan. 20, Feb. 10 and March 17; 11 am-2 pm), the Olympic Sculpture Park offers themed art activities and story times designed to teach kids about the environment. January’s event focuses on the birds of Seattle’s winter sky, so the movie will be Up, and kids will get to create their own hot-air balloon. February’s focus is on nature in the middle of the city; the movie is Wall·E. 3seattleartmuseum.org

Ballard Playspace A free place for free time

This local church has turned part of its space into a no-fee, no-stringsattached play area for kids. Free, 1460 NW 73rd St., Seattle 3 ballardchurch. com/playspace

»Romp THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS

>> Romp > Chomp

q BY N AO M I TO M KY

Roo’s World of Discovery A working sanctuary

This indoor playground comes with a bonus: an in-house co-working space. Perfect for when daycare is closed or the kids just won’t let you get things done. $20, 108 Central Way, Kirkland 3 roosworldofdiscovery.com

> Shop

Seattle Parks and Rec Indoor Play Areas Easy access for everyone

More than two dozen Seattle community centers open their doors on a weekly basis for kids of all ages to play. Most have a variety of toys and games as well as plenty of room for kids to get out their energy. Free, Various 3 seattle.gov/parks/find/ toddler-indoor-play-areas

We Rock the Spectrum Sensory-safe fun

E M ERA L D C ITY T RAPE ZE A RTS PHOTO BY J OSHUA HUSTON KIDS’ SAT URDAYS : ROBE RT WAD E

Lexi Klassen soars into acrobatic fun in Seattle.

spectrumeastsideseattle.com

Harness the power of fun Flying through the air with the greatest of ease turns out to be quite a bit easier than it seems from the ground. The circus artists and acrobats at Emerald City Trapeze Arts can have your kids swinging and flipping before you’ve even had a chance to quell your own anxieties. But that

Specially designed ziplines, trampolines and swings allow all children to move, play and develop in a place where the staff understands their needs. $12, 1910 132nd Ave. NE #7, Bellevue 3 werockthe

Seattle Bouldering Project Up the intensity

sharp learning curve is part of what makes trapeze so great: unlike, say, skiing, there’s no ramp-up time; the fun begins with the first swing. Kids, wearing a harness operated by staff on the ground, learn moves like the Superman and the monkey. As they leave the high platform CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE >

For older kids (4+) looking for something that will stretch their brains as well as their bodies, Seattle Bouldering Project offers a new way to play: puzzling out rockclimbing routes. $12, 900 Poplar Pl. S, Seattle 3 seattleboulderingproject.com

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Romp Escape from Seattle!

GET OUT THE WINTER WIGGLES IN WENATCHEE

< Emerald

City Trapeze

CONTINUED

grabbing the thick bar in two hands, squeals of delight echo around the room, morphing into exhilarated sighs as they gently drop into the net below. The adrenaline is practically visible as kids race to the ladder to try again. Something about the flying, flipping and flopping is addictive, and with each turn kids will learn, improve and want to do more. While trapeze classes are open to age 6 and up, older kids (12+) have the opportunity to do a catch: to fly out on their own

trapeze and catch the hands of someone swinging on a second one across from them. It’s a trick that looks complicated, but like so much in trapeze, it can be picked up quickly by an enthusiastic learner, and it doesn’t require any particular athleticism (making it an appealing activity for those who aren’t already sports stars). Emerald City offers summer camps for kids ages 5 and older, winter camps for ages 8 and up, and their regular classes, which start at age 6. q 2702 6th Ave. S, emeraldcitytrapeze.com

The Sammamish Montessori School In Redmond

Parents can pass on a love of skiing at Mission Ridge.

Challenging K-12 students in an intellectual community through early entrance, online, and outreach programs Transition School • UW Academy Saturday Enrichment • Summer Programs Online Program • Professional Development

Call 425-883-3271 for a tour. • Child-centered, joyful atmosphere with strong academic focus • Experienced, Montessori-certified teachers • Preschool and kindergarten • Family owned and operated since 1977 • Summer, before & after school programs • Prep Program, (starting ages 2 1/2-3)

in g N o w E n r o ll www.sammamishmontessori.com • 425-883-3271 12

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APPLY NOW

www.robinsoncenter.uw.edu 206-543-4160 • rcys@uw.edu

EMER ALD CITY TR AP EZE: JOSHUA HUSTON, COURTESY OF MISSIONR IDGE.COM

Kaylin Klassen takes a leap of faith at Emerald City Trapeze Arts.

Less than three hours from Seattle, Wenatchee offers a home base for walking — or skiing — in a winter wonderland. Hit the gentle, affordable slopes of Mission Ridge, just 12 miles to the south, where the cool air makes for soft snow, and tickets for kids under 10 cost $7. Or check out local wildlife on the 13-mile Apple Capital Recreation Loop Trail (cross country skis or snowshoes recommended). Speaking of snowshoes, the picturesque town of Leavenworth is just a half-hour to the northwest on Highway 2, and the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery will conduct free guided snowshoe tours on their trails (and provide free snowshoes!) Fridays and Saturdays in January. In the evening, keep your winter sports streak alive at a Wenatchee Wild hockey game, and grab an easy dinner at the Pybus Public Market.

„ Find more ideas for eating with kids on seattleschild.com

DOWNTOWN DUMPLINGS Popular Eastside dumpling chain Dough Zone finally opened its first location this side of Lake Washington last October. For those looking for their xiao long bao (soup dumpling) fix without the long lines at Din Tai Fung, Dough Zone’s affordable and sumptuous dumplings rival the best in town.

CELEBRATE THE YEAR OF THE DOG

SW E E TGR ASS FO OD CO. BY J OS HUA H U STON DU MP LI NGS , NO ODL E S: S HUT T ER STO CK

Kung Hei Fat Choy! The Year of the Dog is upon us, so grab your little pups and head to Seattle’s International District for one of the region’s largest Lunar New Year celebrations, showcasing the diversity and rich culture of the Asian community. Enjoy traditional lion and dragon dances, Japanese drumming demonstrations,

martial arts displays, cultural performances and arts and crafts the whole family can enjoy. Kids can come wearing traditional Chinese outfits or their favorite dog costumes and compete in a slurp-worthy noodleeating competition. This fun celebration is also a great opportunity to introduce your kiddos to new cuisines as restaurants all around the International District are participating in the neighborhood food walk, offering a variety of $3 bites from China, Vietnam, Japan, Thailand, Cambodia and beyond. Sunday, Feb. 11, 11 am4 pm, Hing Hay Park, 423 Maynard Ave. S, Seattle 3 cidbia.org/events/ lunar-new-year

E AT I N G W I T H K I D S

If your little diners aren’t dumpling fans, the green onion pancake, pan-fried pork buns and onion soy sauce noodles offer delicious, kid-friendly alternatives. Dough Zone is located right across from family favorite supermarket Uwajimaya, so follow your meal with a fun shopping adventure. 504 5th Ave. S, Ste. 109, Seattle 3 facebook.com/DoughzoneSeattle

qBY JO EIKE

»Chomp > Romp >> Chomp > Shop

Sweetgrass Food Co.’s green and sunny juice with a Buddha bowl will keep you healthy.

Healthy seasonal dining Whether you’re looking to lose a few pounds following a New Year’s resolution or just trying a healthier lifestyle, eating out can often derail your best efforts. Here are a few options around Seattle to enjoy delicious and healthy food you’ll feel good about feeding your family. Sweetgrass Food Co. is all about “100% good food,” offering an inventive menu of healthy choices for

diners young and old. Everything is made in-house from mostly organic, locally sourced ingredients, and the menu is full of delicious options for those with dietary restrictions. Kid favorites include the vanilla chia pudding, overnight oats, and the smoothies and juices always go down as a treat. Thoughtfully composed grain bowls and salads round out the menu, and be sure to check out the upstairs balcony, with a giant whiteboard for kids to doodle on. 1923 7th Ave, Seattle, sweetgrassfoodco.com CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE >

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Chomp < Healthy seasonal CONTINUED

dining

Sprout offers a selection of generous salad and wrap combinations packed with flavor and high-quality seasonal fare. Sprout is as good for the planet as it is your body as all of their packaging is either compostable or recyclable. Be sure to get one of their pressed juices on the side or some frozen yogurt for a treat. A second location recently opened in South Lake Union, but take the kiddos to their original

spot in historic Smith Tower and follow lunch with a trip to the top to enjoy the view. 512 2nd Ave., 501 Fairview Ave. N, sprout-salads.com Chaco Canyon is a mini chain of ecologically conscious vegan cafés offering healthful cuisine bursting with goodness and flavor. They offer a wide range of salads, sandwiches and gluten-free grain bowls (including the standout yam, kale and quinoa bowl punched up by a drizzle of smoky paprika oil). They make all ingredients in house and are very open to substitutions,

making it a great choice for families navigating food allergies. Their West Seattle location is particularly kid-friendly with a spacious play area full of toys, games and books. 3770 SW Alaska St., 4757 12th Ave. NE, 8404 Greenwood Ave. N, chacocanyoncafe.com Chop’t is the newest offering from Makini Howell, chef and owner of the popular vegan Plum restaurants. A great option for busy parents on the run, Chop’t offers a variety of grab-and-go salads packed with bold flavors and healthful ingredi-

ents for $9. The World Traveler is a house favorite: a protein-packed Asian salad with coriander-rubbed tofu and edamame. 1429 12th Ave., plumbistro.com Bounty Kitchen is a charming Queen Anne café offering organic food and an extensive children’s menu. They serve breakfast all day as well as a wide range of grain bowls, salads and a killer bánh mì served on a Sea Wolf roll — some of the best bread in Seattle. 7 Boston St., Seattle, bountykitchenseattle.com

STEAMING BOWLS OF COMFORT AND WARMTH In the heart of winter when the days are short and the nights are cold, we look to warm and comforting food. From Japanese noodles to homestyle soups, here are some great options around Seattle where you can warm your family from the inside out. Ba Bar offers authentic Southeast Asian comfort food in three locations around Seattle, including a new spot at family-friendly University Village. Their pho is the perfect antidote to a cold winter’s day, and the crispy pork rolls are great for kids to snack on while they wait for their noodles. 550 12th Ave., 500 Terry Ave. N, 2685 NE 46th St., babarseattle.com West Woodland’s Stock serves a warming and comforting congee made with eight-hour stock topped with egg, scallions and your choice of protein. There are books and games for kids, and both the congee and pho are available in a mini size for pint-sized diners. 500 NW 65th St., stockseattle.com

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Kizuki Ramen & Izakaya has served ramen in Japan since 2002 and now has four locations around Seattle and the Eastside. Kizuki imports its ingredients from Japan and delivers a rich, flavorful broth filled with toothsome, slurpable noodles and your choice of toppings. The fried chicken karaage, gyoza and edamame are just a few kid favorites to round out the meal. (It’s up to you whether or not you tell your kids that in Japan it’s considered good table manners to slurp your noodles loudly.) 320 E Pine St., 4203 SW Alaska St., 319 NE Thornton Pl., 14845 Main St., Bellevue, kizuki.com

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If you’re looking for a warming bowl of soup, head to Georgetown and check out Lect’s Soup Stop, housed inside an old train switching station. Lect’s serves a number of sandwiches and salads, but diners flock here for the excellent rotating selection of soups, all prepared daily. Specials feature soups from all around the globe; the house-favorite country vegetable is available every day. 5327 Denver Ave. S, lectssoupstop.com

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A toy testing lab Located within Bothell’s Country Village is Toys That Teach, a small, independent toy store packed with innovative, thoughtfully designed toys that encourage creativity, exploration and excitement in children of all ages. The store has been locally owned for

more than 30 years, and the proprietors pride themselves on having lots of toys to test and play with — something you just can’t find online. “We try hard to pick toys for the shop that are more than just a one-trick pony,” said Esther Schaeperkoetter. “It’s also CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE >

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important to us to have a price tag that is reasonable and fair. I’ve heard more than once that you can find something for less in our store than on Amazon!” The store also includes a free giftwrap station, reading corner and — always a customer favorite — a dressup area. Additionally, store employees are extremely knowledgeable about every product, from books to science experiment kits, stuffies and games. One of the owners, Scott Loveless, posts his toy picks on the store’s website, and its Facebook page is updated regularly with new toy suggestions. After searching out new toys, enjoy Country Village’s daily train rides, playground with a pirate ship, duck pond and live animals including ducks, chickens and geese. q 23716 Bothell-Everett Highway, Suite F, Bothell, toysthatteachbothell.com

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Ditch the often-rainy Seattle winters and learn to ski indoors at Mini Mountain.

Learn to ski without the snow at Mini Mountain

Many of the kids Tom Waldron teaches to ski come to class in a T-shirt and shorts. While most skiers start in a uniform of Gore-Tex and gloves, Waldron knows better. He owns Mini Mountain, a local ski school that operates an indoor ski hill in addition to its traditional outdoor classes. “If they learn here and stay dry, that’s half the battle,” he

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explains, discussing how to get kids to fall in love with the sport. Located in a warehouse just off 405 in Bellevue, the facility sports two swaths of white fabric “ski slope” that combined are about the size of a tennis court. Both “slopes” rotate like tilted treadmills for giants. They take up surprisingly little room, especially when compared to the sprawling, imposing snowfields where most skiers take their

first turns. Instead of a lodge serving up powdered hot chocolate and overpriced French fries, the bottoms of these hills meet a few couches and tables, with one spot occupied by a friendly dog. Lessons, which start for kids as young as 2, are all one-on-one. A 20-minute lesson ($50), which includes all the equipment and is right in town, might be more likely to result in a successful

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Camaraderie and CURLING, WITH NO REFS AND AN EMPHASIS ON FAIR PLAY, IS A SPORT APART BY YVONNE MARK Jane O’Connell hits the gentle indoor slopes with some encouragement from Tom Waldron.

< Mini Mountain CONTINUED

first day of skiing for kids than a cold, windy real mountain. “People get overexcited,” Waldron says of learning to ski, “and this results in disappointment.” First days on snow for learners are often marked by falls, rarely involve getting on an actual chairlift, and (especially at Seattle’s warm local resorts) practically require getting wet — from rain or spills on the snow. By starting kids indoors, Waldron can make sure that first day on real snow will be inspiring rather than fear inducing. Mini Mountain allows kids to build a foundation of skills so that once they’re on a bona fide slope they can jump straight to the fun part of skiing. Waldron recommends 10 indoor lessons for kids 5 or under, and at least 6 for older kids. But then once they hit the snow, they’ll be off — ready to ride the chair, make turns and stay on their feet. He tells of a 6-year-old who clocked 20 runs her first night on snow. It’s inspiring even — or especially — for die-hards who want nothing more than to spend family vacations shredding the gnar with their small set. “Don’t rush,” advises Waldron. “It’s a lifelong sport,” and getting kids off to an indoor start helps ensure an easier path to them falling in love with the sport instead of just, well, falling. Mini Mountain offers lessons inside all year, including summer camps, so kids can start learning any time. And for kids who sign up now for indoor lessons they offer a special two-week, spring on-snow lesson package. — Naomi Tomky MINI MOUNTAIN

1900 132nd Ave. NE A3, Bellevue minimountain.com

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Are you weary of the vitriol coming from the internet? Embarrassed that your children regularly witness adults behaving badly on social media or TV? If you’re looking for an environment free of this negativity and a sport in which your entire family of varying ages and levels of athleticism may participate, consider your local curling club. Yes, that curling. The one on ice, with brooms. But curling is also an Olympic sport that emphasizes courteous play and good, sportsmanlike behavior. Players call out their own errors. Self-policing is the norm, and referees are usually absent from games. (Imagine watching soccer or football without a referee!) The World Curling Federation Handbook states: “A true curler never attempts to distract an opponent, nor to prevent them from playing their best, and would prefer to lose rather than to win unfairly.” And afterward, winners buy the losing team a round of drinks. “Graceful winning is emphasized. There’s a real camaraderie,” says Joe Rob-

The goal of curling is to slide a rock across the sheet and place it closer to the button.

erts, North Seattle’s Granite Curling Club president. He describes the members of the curling leagues as being “like one big family.” As for newcomers, Roberts says, “It’s a sport that’s easy to learn but takes a lifetime to master. The basic mechanics of throwing the rock can be taught in about half an hour.” Longtime players focus not only on physical finesse and skill, but also on strategy. Good curlers anticipate future moves, which

may explain why this sport is often known as chess on ice. Curling shares similarities with shuffleboard but possesses its own unique jargon. The goal is to slide a “rock” (a 42-pound, polished piece of granite) across the pebbled ice surface (“the sheet”) and place it closer to the button (the center of the target) than the opposing team. Teammates known as sweepers apply pressure to the ice with brooms, which determines where the rock

Indoor play spaces to add to your list We might have our share of inclement weather here in the Northwest, but don’t let that deter you this winter. When active kids get restless, there are some excellent indoor activities to stretch their muscles and keep them entertained on a rainy day. If you’re looking to visit a tropical paradise in the midst of winter, head to Bothell, where the McMenamin brothers have

transformed the historic Anderson School building into a luxurious hotel, cluster of restaurants and entertainment complex. One of the greatest draws is the North Shore Lagoon, a tiki-themed indoor saltwater pool area complete with Polynesian statues, bamboo structures and Balinese masks. The full-size swimming pool maintains a temperature of 88 to 90 degrees: positively balmy in

the middle of winter. They offer open swim time (free to Bothell residents and kids 3 and under), swim lessons and fitness classes. The adjacent Lagoon restaurant offers a South Seas-inspired menu with thoughtfully composed rice bowls, salads, burgers and a comprehensive kids’ menu (word to the wise: don’t pass up the tater tots). If you want to make a night of it, catch a movie in the on-site theater

SHUTTER STOCK

d cold

eventually comes to rest by slightly melting the ice. The U.S. Curling Association estimates there are approximately 16,000 American curlers. The Granite Curling Club, established in 1951, is the only club of its kind in the state of Washington. The club offers a number of different leagues catering to a variety of age groups (some players are as young as 7) and levels of competitiveness, and it also hosts bonspiels, or tournaments, some of which attract curlers from all over the country as well as Canada. Reading about curling cannot fully convey its delights. Consider booking a group session or taking the whole family (grandparents included) to an open house. Even those with back problems or who cannot crouch can participate using a special stick to deliver the rock. Dress warmly, learn the jargon (What’s not to love about a game that involves argot like hog line, hammer, biter and bonspiels?) and get ready for a good time. Your family may even be inspired to watch the U.S. Olympic curling team when they compete in Pyeongchang, South Korea, in February. q curlingseattle.org q teamusa.org/USA-Curling q worldcurling.org

The North Shore Lagoon is a tiki-themed indoor saltwater pool.

Peter digs in during Lil Diggers playtime.

Life’s a beach at Sandbox Sports The setup is like something out of a 4-year-old’s fantasy: what if the sandbox were so big you couldn’t even see the edge? What if you never had to worry about bugs or sticks when you ran across the beach? When Golden Gardens is soggy and a weekly trip to Hawaii is out of the question, hitting the beach is still possible at Sandbox Sports where the pristine sand and giant courts make for an endless playspace. The indoor beach volleyball facility in Georgetown opens its doors to “Little Diggers” three days a week.

The idea sprang from a volleyball league in which the adults took turns stepping off the court to watch the kids back when Sandbox first opened in a hangar at Magnuson Park. Now, years later and across town, Sandbox has codified those informal playtimes into scheduled weekly sessions that run throughout the winter. What serves as volleyball courts in the evening becomes a sprawling sandy playground during Little Diggers, which transforms the space into one dotted with beach balls, dig-

(located in the school’s old gymnasium), grab dinner in one of their many kid-friendly restaurants, and book a room in the hotel (which includes complimentary use of the pool). 18607 Bothell Way NE, Bothell, mcmenamins.com/ anderson-school For a fun, retro bowling or roller-skating experience, Lynnwood Bowl and Skate is the place to go. They offer open skate sessions throughout the week as well as lessons on Saturday and Sunday

ging toys, wagons and shovels. The sand is deep enough for the classic “bury the kid” high jinks, and it’s clean enough that you won’t even care that your toddler played that game. Let the kids frolic all they want — the sand is large grain, so it wipes off easily. 9:30-11 am and 11:30 am-1 pm on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. $8 buys your tot entry — up to age 5. — Naomi Tomky SANDBOX SPORTS

5955 Airport Way S sandboxsports.net

mornings. To try your hand at bowling, head on weekends between noon and 2 pm for a special family rate, and hit the arcade afterward to school your kids in air hockey and Pac-Man. 6210 200th St. SW, Lynnwood, bowlandskate.com Ice skating is a traditional and fun winter activity the whole family can enjoy, and lucky for us we have we have great rinks on our doorstep. Winterfest Ice Rink at Seattle Center is arguably Seattle’s

most popular skating rink, so plan for crowds. After skating, enjoy a delicious meal from one of the many eateries in the Armory’s food court: including Pie and Skillet. 305 Harrison St., Seattle, seattlecenter.com/winterfest For families north of Seattle, Shoreline’s Highland Ice offers a year-round arena with open skating time and lessons. Head there on Sundays from 1:30 to 5 pm for a special family rate. 18005 Au-

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rora Ave. N., Shoreline, highlandice.com Nearby Olympic View Arena in Mountlake Terrace runs a weekend hockey league for budding NHL stars. 22202 70th Ave. W, Mountlake Terrace, olympicviewarena.com Wallingford’s OmCulture hosts drop-in play MondayFriday, 9:30 am to noon, for tots age 1 to 5. This safe and colorful play space includes swings, balance beams, gymnastic rings, tumbling mats and a daily song and drum circle. They also offer afterschool programs for older kids focusing on yoga, circus arts and ninja training! 2210 N Pacific St., Seattle, omculture.com All Together Skatepark is Seattle’s only indoor skateboarding facility and welcomes skaters of all abilities. They offer open skate sessions, camps and lessons. For your little skater gals, check out their Sunday “Skate Like a Girl” sessions, which focus as much on empowerment and leadership as they do on exercise and skating skills. ATS is located a stone’s throw from the Burke-Gilman Trail and family-friendly Fremont Brewing in case you want to follow the skating with a family walk and a pint. 3500 Stone Way N, Seattle, alltogetherskatepark.com

If you’re sick of your kids clambering on your furniture, consider taking them to one of Seattle’s excellent indoor rock climbing spaces. Stone Gardens, located in Ballard (2839 NW Market St.) and Bellevue (15600 NE 8th St.), offers classes, camps and all-day passes for kids who want to boulder (low-level, no-rope). stonegardens.com Vertical World, which became the country’s first climbing gym in 1987, offers classes to kids as young as 3; they have locations in Seattle (2330 W. Commodore Way), Redmond (15036 B NE 95th St.) and one soon to open in Lynnwood, verticalworld.com We Seattleites are lucky to have 25 community centers spread around our city offering free toddler playtime for kids aged 5 and younger. Their toddler gyms and indoor play areas are equipped with a variety of toys, tumbling blocks, trikes, scooters, push-bikes and more. Some locations also offer “babyland” areas for those aged 2 and younger. These community spaces provide a wonderful option for families looking for a low-cost activity on a rainy day. Locations around Seattle, seattle.gov/parks/find/ toddler-indoor-play-areas — Jo Eike

All aboard as kids try out skateboarding.

Good oldfashioned tubing fun is less than an hour outside of Seattle.

Get tubular at Snoqualmie! Here in Seattle we’re lucky to have the mountains right on our doorstep, complete with all the active winter sports they offer. For families without skiing or snowboarding experience, tubing offers a great alternative to enjoy some fun in the snow. The Summit Tubing Center at Snoqualmie is a winter wonderland for kiddos who are ready to take it up a notch from sledding. For a reasonable fee, you can enjoy two hours on their excellently maintained hill of 12 individual lanes of groomed snow. The

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incline is gentle enough to not scare young kids but still works up an exhilarating speed that will thrill kids and adults alike. Even better, there’s an automated tow line that makes your ascent back to the top a breeze. Be sure to book tickets ahead of time and fill out the liability forms on the website before your trip. 1001 State Route 906, Snoqualmie Pass, summitatsnoqualmie.com After you’ve worked up an appetite on the tubing runs, stop in Issaquah for a bite to eat on your way home. Rogue Issaquah Brewhouse is a fun, family-friendly

spot serving upscale pub grub and plenty of excellent craft beers. There’s a LEGO table to keep your little ones happy, and kid meals are served on a take-home frisbee. 35 W Sunset Way, Issaquah. For something a little different, check out retro ’50s drive-in Triple XXX. The burgers are the size of your plate, and the root beer floats (big enough to share) might be your kids’ new favorite treat. 98 NE Gilman Blvd., Issaquah. facebook.com/ IssaquahBrewhouse, triplexrootbeer.com — Jo Eike

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Encounters with nature: Free! GET OUTSIDE AND MAKE THE MOST OF WINTER IN AREA PARKS BY FIONA COHEN

P H OTO COU RTESY OF ALL TOGETHER SKATEPAR K, TUBING, NATUR E: SHUTTER STOCK

It may be dark, cold and dripping, but Seattle’s natural areas teem with life in the winter months. Here are some good reasons to hustle your kids into warm, waterproof clothes and head for one of the area’s beautiful parks. Pooh sticks First described by A.A. Milne in The House at Pooh Corner, Pooh sticks may be the ideal family contest. The rules are simple: Players find sticks and then drop them off one side of a bridge. The winning stick is the one that floats past the other side of the bridge first. But from the first round, complexities emerge. Some sticks go straight through. Others get caught on obstacles or swept back in eddies. The questions of what kind of stick to use and exactly where to drop it contain more than enough variables to fascinate adult players, and preschoolers have fun with it too. The game also hits a sweet spot for satisfaction. If you lose, it’s bad luck; if you win, it’s because of your cunning assessment of stream flow and stick dynamics. This is a contest that can take an hour or more and result in grown men and women yelling cheers at the progress of inanimate objects. You just need to find a suitable bridge over a suitable stream — usually one that doesn’t move too quickly. (Extreme Pooh sticks is

not a good idea.) It’s helpful to have woods nearby in order to have a supply of sticks or cones, but driftwood also makes for excellent Pooh sticks material. There’s a very fine Pooh sticks bridge over a small creek at the south end of Golden Gardens Park. Other Seattle-area Pooh sticks destinations include Piper’s Creek in Carkeek Park, Mackey Creek at Farrel-McWhirter Farm Park in Redmond, the Salmon Bone Bridge on Longfellow Creek in West Seattle, or anywhere else walkers can pause above a meandering stream. Kelp The gales of November rip up kelp forests that grow in nearshore waters all summer, depositing kelp on beaches in tangled heaps. They’re interesting to investigate — you can get an idea of the many living things that depend on kelp, starting with the swarms of silvery amphipods that bounce away as you start to investigate. And fresh bull kelp makes an excellent toy. (Don’t take it home unless you have a seaweed-gathering permit, available from the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife.) Sand sculptors can use many parts of kelp to decorate castles and other creations. The gnarled holdfast could be a stand-in for a tree. Also, the stem is hollow, so the most ambitious castle builders can use it for pipes to, say, bring in water for a moat. Kelp also has musical applications. Lengths of it make a decent, if quiet, xylophone. And if your child knows how to “buzz” into

Winter is when this region’s forests come alive.

the mouthpiece of a brass instrument, then a length of kelp can become a bellowing horn. Winter waterfowl Ducks, geese, loons, grebes, gulls and other waterbirds come to the Seattle area by the hundreds to feed and find mates. They’re out in the open, so you don’t need birding skills or special devices to spot them, and because they’re intent on courting, the males are quite flamboyantly beautiful. For example, the male hooded merganser, a common sight at Green Lake, has a black face, bright-yellow eyes and a large, semicircular crest that is white with a black border, which he can unfurl and flash when he wants to show off — which is often. Our placid gray

waters become a parade of jaunty markings, crests and iridescence. Favorite spots to catch the action: Washington Park Arboretum and Mercer Slough in Bellevue. Wet-season woods In a lot of ways, winter is when this region’s forests come alive. Moss that turns brown in the summer swells back in lush green, and licorice ferns sprout from tree branches. Mushrooms — alive all year underground — sprout up in a variety of weird shapes. And stately banana slugs glide along the forest floor, no longer needing to take shelter from the heat. Some great places to enjoy this wooded winter world include Discovery Park, Schmitz Park and Seward Park, and in Bellevue, Coal Creek Natural Area.

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Feeling gloomy at 5 o’clock? HERE’S HOW TO RECOGNIZE

— AND COMBAT — SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER THIS WINTER BY YVONNE MARK Why, what’s the matter, That you have such a February face, So full of frost, of storm and cloudiness?

With the holidays a distant memory and the days blurring into a monotony of slate-colored skies and relentless drizzle, it’s easy to feel lethargic. But anyone who is persistently feeling fatigued, having difficulty focusing, sleeping poorly (or too much) or feeling hopeless could be suffering from something more serious. According to the American Psychiatric Association, seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is a form of clinical depression that occurs at a particular time of year and affects about 5 percent of the American population. Although the onset of SAD often coincides with the fall and winter seasons, it can also be triggered in the spring and summertime. Fall-winter-onset SAD is thought to be caused by numerous factors, including changes in brain biochemicals and the internal body

SHUTTERSTOCK

— Much Ado About Nothing, William Shakespeare

“Daylight can mean sunshine, or it can be eight hours of rain. They’re not equal.”

clock falling out of sync due to the decrease in the number of daylight hours. Some deny the existence of SAD and cite certain published studies, such as one that did not find a correlation between reduced daylight hours and the incidence of depression.

Clinical psychologist Laura Macleod, Ph.D., with the Everett Clinic Shoreline Center for Behavioral Health, notes that evaluating daylight hours may not be specific enough. “Daylight can mean sunshine, or it can be eight hours of rain,” Macleod says. “They’re not equal.”

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Guide t o Activ e Winter Fun

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SEATTLEʼS PREMIER NANNY AGENCY But how do you know if you have SAD, or if what you’re feeling is simply winter doldrums? “If symptoms persist or interfere with day-to-day activities, work or personal relationships,” then you know it’s something more serious, says Macleod. Waiting for symptoms to pass or ignoring them is not the answer. “Depression creates more depression,” Macleod says, meaning that sad feelings or losing interest in once-enjoyable activities may cause one to retreat from the world, leading to a worsening of depressive symptoms. Behaviors that might ease SAD symptoms include good sleep hygiene (such as going to bed and rising at the same time every day), maintaining social relationships with friends and family, and exercising regularly, especially taking a daily half-hour midday walk outside. If after making these adjustments you aren’t feeling better, see your primary care doctor or mental health professional to discuss other options. Dr. Macleod partners with her patients, and their preferences are paramount in decision making. Commonly used treatments include antidepressant medication, talk therapy and bright light therapy. Light therapy was first used in the 1980s to make up for fewer daylight hours during the winter months. Amanda Focht, M.D., Medical Director of Outpatient Psychiatry with UW Medicine, cites the advantages of using light boxes: easy availability from retail outlets, few side effects when used appropriately and a relatively fast response rate. “Light therapy can have effects within one week,” says Dr. Focht. “But it can take up to four weeks” in some cases. Make sure your light box delivers 10,000 lux of illumination, and that it’s positioned slightly above the eyes, about 16 to 24 inches from the face. Morning use of light therapy is best. Those with eye diseases (e.g., cataracts, glaucoma and others) should check with their doctor before starting light therapy. Maintaining open communication with your primary care doctor or mental health specialist is important in ensuring treatment is achieving your goals. There’s no reason to suffer in silence or to try to slog through the winter on your own. Dr. Focht says that someone feeling sluggish in the winter could, even without a diagnosis of SAD, benefit from bright light therapy. Anyone with thoughts of suicide should contact the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.

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Local resources

for busy parents

Tired of winter? Start your summer planning now ENJOY A UNIQUE ARTS

EXPERIENCE AT SUMMER CAMP FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY BY SYDNEY PARKER Do you dream of heading off to summer camp with your kids? Now you can! Cazadero Performing Arts Family Camp has been bringing families together through the arts in Northern California for more than 30 years. Now the camp is launching a new Washington location with the help of Jeff Lee, M.D., Seattle’s Child columnist and longtime Cazadero camper. Seattle’s Child: What makes Cazadero Northwest Performing Arts Family Camp unique?

Searching for summer camps? Planning a birthday party?

Lee: Cazadero is a camp for the entire family. Families share accommodations for sleeping but can choose activities to do together or apart. It’s a place where kids and teens learn that building community around the arts is something really important. Where and when will the Northwest camp be in session? Sound View Camp and Retreat Center in Longbranch, Washington. The grounds are in this beautiful, lush forest right on the water. The camp will run the week of July 1-7, 2018. What kinds of activities will be offered?

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We’ll have world music classes, dance classes for couples, drama, circus arts, yoga, painting, drawing, graphic art, storytelling and more. For many people, it’s their first chance to get up on stage. Risk-taking in such a supportive environment is an amazing experience. What is the age range of campers? All ages. Babes in arms are welcome. Kid City is offered for campers ages 2½ to 5. Parents can drop off their younger kids with camp leaders and take classes with other adults and older kids. How can families learn more and sign up? Visit cazfamilycamp.org to learn more and register for the summer session.

„ For our mobile-friendly, totally searchable, constantly updated calendar go to seattleschild.com

Erika’s picks for January + February 1

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Feb. 24

Winter Adventure Hike Learn about animals in winter during a free guided twomile hike along Rattlesnake and Christmas Lakes. Great for ages 7 and older.

A Thousand Cranes An original play brought to life by SecondStory Repertory based on the true story of Sadako Sasaki, and her life after an atomic bomb was dropped on her hometown, Hiroshima. Through Feb. 3.

I Dig Dinos Calling all potential paleontologists. Kids ages 3 to 7 can come to the Burke Museum to dig for fossils in the dig pit. Uncover fossils from different eras and learn about these prehistoric creatures.

Pancake Breakfast and Short Film Smorgasbord There’s no better way to start a weekend day. Enjoy pancakes, bacon and a short children’s film program as part of the Northwest Film Forum.

Maker Day: Makerlab NW Dream big, then experiment with and build amazing flying contraptions. You’ll even get to test them out in a wind tube at the MOHAI! Event included with admission, free for kids ages 14 and younger.

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»Calendar Jan/ Feb 2018 Monday, January 1 S E AT T L E A R E A

COURT ESY OF ME T RO PA RKS TACOM A

Free State Parks. Start the year off with a free hike through one of 140 state parks. FREE. Parks throughout Washington state. www.parks.state.wa.us Polar Bear Plunge. Start the New Year off by jumping into Lake Washington. Costumes encouraged. Warm refreshments provided. Noon. FREE. Matthews Beach Park, Seattle (Sand Point). facebook.com/ polarbearplungeseattle Resolution Run and Polar Bear Dive. 5K run/walk, kids’ dash (ages 10 and younger, FREE), optional Polar Bear Dive includes a dip in Lake Washington. Post-race warm refreshments, plus heated

Polar Bear Plunge in Tacoma

changing rooms. 9 am registration, 10:30 am run/walk, 11:30 am kids’ dash. $$$. Magnuson Park, Seattle (Sand Point). www.promotionevents.com

10 am to 11 pm today, various times daily through Jan. 15. FREE today, and $ to $$ other dates, includes skate rental. Bellevue Downtown Park, Bellevue. www.bellevuedowntown.com

EASTSIDE

Bellevue Magic Season Ice Arena. Covered open-air ice arena.

SOUTH SOUND

Polar Bear Plunge. Hot cocoa,

coffee, a fire and music at noon, then jump into chilly Long Lake at 1 pm. FREE. Long Lake Park, Lacey. www.ci.lacey.wa.us Polar Bear Plunge. Cub Plunge (ages 9 and younger) at 11:30 am, adult and family plunge at noon.

E V E NT S AR E SUB JE CT TO C H ANG E Please call ahead or check the venue’s website before you go. E V E NT P R IC ING $: Under $10 / $$: $10–$20 / $$$: $20 and over

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Calendar Costumes welcome. Life jackets available and lifeguards will be on duty. Heaters and hot drinks available afterward. FREE. Point Defiance Boat Launch, Tacoma. www.metroparkstacoma.org New Year’s Day 2K/5K. Take on a flat 2K or hilly 5K on the golf course away from cars. Leashed dogs welcome. 10 am. $$$. Meridian Valley Country Club, Kent. www.active.com

Tuesday, January 2 S E AT T L E A R E A

Spoilers! Book Challenge. Kids ages 8 and older are invited to choose a book, read it, and then try to trick a librarian with a made-up ending. Prizes awarded. FREE. 5 pm today, and Tuesdays through Feb. 27. Boulevard Park Library, Seattle (Boulevard Park) www.kcls.org

Thursday, January 4 S E AT T L E A R E A

FREE Museum Visits on First Thursdays. Burke Museum, Seattle (U District). 10 am to 8 pm. www.burkemuseum.org. MOHAI, Seattle (South Lake Union). 10 am to 8 pm. www.mohai. org. The Wing Luke Museum, Seattle (International District/Chinatown). 10 am to 8 pm. www. wingluke.org. Seattle Art Museum, Downtown Seattle. 10 am to 9 pm (fee for special exhibits). www.seattleartmuseum.org. Seattle Asian Art

Museum, Seattle (Capitol Hill). 10 am to 9 pm first Thursdays and 5 to 9 pm second Thursdays, 10 am to 5 pm first Saturdays for families. www. seattleartmuseum.org. Northwest African American Museum, Seattle (Central District). 11 am to 7 pm. www.naamnw.org. Henry Art Gallery, Seattle (U District). 11 am to 9 pm, also free Sundays 11 am to 4 pm. www.henryart.org. The Museum of Flight, Seattle (Boeing Field). 5 to 9 pm. www.museumofflight.org

EASTSIDE

Friday, January 5

NORTH SOUND

S E AT T L E A R E A

Dance Party. Parents and kids ages 6 and younger are invited to dance and explore movement to ring in the New Year. 10 am. FREE. Valley View Library, Seattle (Sea Tac). www.kcls.org Sing-A-Long A Sound of Music. Sing along with the classic film, complete with subtitles and a costume contest. 7 pm tonight and Sat., 1:30 pm Sat. and Sun. $$$. 5th Avenue Theatre, Downtown Seattle. www.5thavenue.org Small Frye: Storytelling + Art. Preschoolers and their caregivers can enjoy dramatic storytelling by Seattle Children’s Theatre in the galleries, followed by an optional art-making session. Must attend storytelling to be part of the art-making. 10:30 to 11 am stories, 11:15 to 11:45 am art on first Fridays. FREE. Frye Art Museum, Seattle (First Hill). www.fryemuseum.org

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Xakary the Magician. Kids ages 5 and younger are invited to see a Dr. Seuss-themed magic show (10:30 to 11:15 am) followed by indoor play (11:15 am to 12:15 pm). FREE. South Bellevue Community Center, Bellevue. www.parks.bellevuewa.gov FREE Bellevue Arts Museum. Visit for free 11 am to 8 pm the first Friday of each month. www.bellevuearts.org Disney’s Newsies. Now in an extended run, see this high-energy, award-winning musical based on the film. 8 pm tonight; various times through Feb. 4. $$$. Everett Performing Arts Center, Everett. www.villagetheatre.org

Saturday, January 6 S E AT T L E A R E A

Shi Shi Mai Blessing. See a traditional Japanese shi shi mai (lion dance) blessing to drive away evil spirits and bring good luck. FREE, admission required to see exhibits. 1 pm. Wing Luke Museum, Seattle (International District). www.wingluke.org Cinderella – A British Panto. The Fremont Players present their unique and hilarious British Panto style play for all ages. 4 and 7:30 pm Saturdays, 1 and 4 pm Sundays, through Jan. 14. $ to

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S E AT T L E ’S C H I L D

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Calendar $$. Hale’s Palladium, Seattle (Fremont). www.fremontplayers.com Cinderella. Young actors with the Hi-Liners present a “getting to know” version of the classic fairytale that’s perfect for kids. 7 pm Fridays and Saturdays, 3 pm Sundays, through Jan. 14. $$. No babes in arms. Renton Civic Theatre, Renton. www.hi-liners.org EASTSIDE

Wetland Waddlers. Preschoolers and their caregivers are invited to explore the Mercer Slough with art, play, and story time. Today, get creative with ice — build with it, melt it, and create art. 9:30 to 11:30 am. $$$. Pre-register. Mercer Slough Environmental Education Center, Bellevue. www.pacificsciencecenter.org NORTH SOUND

Worst Day of the Year Run. Costumes encouraged at this fun run that isn’t likely to have great weather. 9 am registration, 10 am 5K, 10:15 am 10K. $$ to $$$. Space is limited, pre-register. McMenamins Anderson School, Bothell. www.worstdayrun.com SOUTH SOUND

Run the Greens 5K. Family-friendly crosscountry-style run/walk along a variety of terrain. 8 am. $$$. Meadow Park Golf Course, Tacoma. www.metroparkstacoma.org

CulturalFest International Expo at University of Washington

Sunday, January 7 Family-Friendly Ranger Walk. Take an hour-long, ranger-led hike through Mercer Slough. Learn about local animals and their habitat. 2 pm. FREE. Pre-register. Mercer Slough Environmental Education Center. www.parks.bellevuewa.gov Winter Adventure Hike. Learn about animals in winter during a guided 2-mile hike along Rattlesnake and Christmas Lakes. Ages 7 and older. No dogs or strollers. 1:30 to 3:30 pm. today and several Sundays through March 25. FREE. Pre-register. Cedar River Watershed Education Center, North Bend. www.seattle.gov

Wednesday, January 10 EASTSIDE

Fun by the Fireside. Gather around the imaginary fire, and join in a sing-along led by Elephant Umbrella. 10:30 to 11:30 am. FREE. Issaquah Library, Issaquah. www.kcls.org.

Friday, January 12 S E AT T L E A R E A

Beauty and the Beast. See an all-youth production of the Disney classic featuring performers from Broadway Bound Children’s Theatre. Ages 4 and older. 7 pm today and various times through Feb. 18. University Heights Center, Seattle (U District). www.broadwaybound.org

On The Move. Explore the history and future of transportation with displays and activities including the 44th Annual Model Railroad Show. 10 am to 6 pm through Mon. Included with admission. $$. Pacific Science Center, Seattle (Lower Queen Anne). www.pacificsciencecenter.org MLK Weekend Run. Magnuson Series fun runs including 5K, 10K, 15K and Kids Dash. Kids Dash at 9:45 am, 5K, 10K and 15K at 10 am. $ to $$$. Magnuson Park, Seattle (Sand Point). www.magnusonseries.org Hawaii Weekend. Celebrate the Pacific Coral Reef exhibit and Hawaiian fish with special entertainment and activities. 9:30 am to 5 pm through Mon. Included with admission. $$ to $$$, free ages 3 and younger. Seattle Aquarium, Downtown Seattle. www.seattleaquarium.org EASTSIDE

A Thousand Cranes. Based on a true story of Sadako Sasaki, and her life after an atomic bomb was dropped on her hometown, Hiroshima. 1 and 3 pm weekends through Feb. 3. $ to $$. SecondStory Repertory, Redmond. www.secondstoryrep.org NORTH SOUND

X-Treme International Ice Racing. Watch specially equipped motorcycles and ATVs race on an ice track. 7:30 pm. $$ to $$$. Angel of the Winds Arena, Everett. www.xfinityarenaeverett.com

Monday, January 15 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day S E AT T L E A R E A

Free State and National Parks. In celebration of Dr. King Martin Luther King Day, explore one of many state and national parks. FREE. Parks throughout Washington state. www.parks.state.wa.us Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration. View films about the Civil Rights Movement, access speeches by Dr. King, and participate in hands-on activities. 11 am to 5 pm. Donations accepted. Northwest African American Museum, Seattle (Central District). www.naamnw.org SOUTH SOUND

15th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration. Hear live music from choirs including Total Experience Gospel Choir. 10 am to noon. FREE. McGavick Conference Center, Lakewood. www.cityoflakewood.us Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration. Music, dance, poetry, guest speakers and a community service award ceremony. 11 am to 1 pm. FREE. Greater Tacoma Convention and Trade Center, Tacoma. www.cityoftacoma.org/mlk

Thursday, January 18 S E AT T L E A R E A

SOUTH SOUND

Monster Jam. Watch monster trucks compete against each other in speed runs and stunts. 7 pm today and Sat., 1 pm Sat. and Sun., 6:30 pm Sun. $$ to $$$. Tacoma Dome, Tacoma. www.tacomadome.org

Elephant & Piggie’s We Are In A Play. Join the theatrical fun as two of Mo Willems’ characters come to musical life on the stage. 11 am and 2 pm Saturdays, 2 pm Sundays, through Jan 21. $$. Tacoma Musical Playhouse, Tacoma. www.tmp.org

The Little Prince. Adapted from Antoine de Saint-Exupéry classic novella about a young boy from an asteroid. Ages 6 and older. 7 pm tonight, various dates and times through March 4. $$ to $$$. Seattle Children’s Theatre, Seattle (Lower Queen Anne). www.sct.org

Saturday, January 13

Sunday, January 14

Friday, January 19

S E AT T L E A R E A

NORTH SOUND

Saturday Family Concert: Johnaye Kendrick. Hear jazz vocalist Johnaye Kendrick along with her quartet. 11 am. $, free ages 12 and younger with adult. Phinney Center, Seattle (Phinney Ridge). www.townhallseattle.org

Seattle Family Dance. Traditional dances for kids ages 9 and younger and their families, featuring live music and a caller. 3 to 5 pm. $. Phinney Neighborhood Center, Seattle (Phinney Ridge). www.seattledance.org

Free Friday Night. Explore the museum for free on the third Friday of each month. 5:30 to 9 pm. FREE. Imagine Children’s Museum, Everett. www.imaginecm.org

Family and Community Day. Join MOHAI in a celebration of community with a day full of live music, craft activities, and more inspired by the current exhibition, Seattle on the Spot: The Photographs of Al Smith. 10 am to 5 pm. MOHAI, Seattle (South Lake Union). www.mohai.org

ArtVenture: Move, Act, Animate! Experiment with stop-motion and photography to explore how the body, movement, and gestures can express personal identities. 1 to 3 pm. FREE. Henry Art Gallery, Seattle (U District). www.henryart.org

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Saturday, January 20 S E AT T L E A R E A

Winter Figure Skating Exhibition. Celebrate National Skating Month and see competitive figure skating. Four teams from this evening will represent Washington in a national

P H OTO CO U RT ESY OF F I U TS

EASTSIDE

Calendar NORTH SOUND

GroundFrog Day. “Frognosticator” Snohomish Slew will predict if we’re in for spring weather or six more weeks of winter, plus enjoy other fun activities. 12:30 to 2 pm. FREE. Event Gazebo, Downtown Snohomish. www.snohomishcoc.com/ groundfrog Ursulmas Medieval Faire. Combat tournaments, kids’ activities, demonstrations and a village marketplace. Minors must have a permission form signed by a parent or guardian (download online). 9 am to 6 pm today, 9 am to 5 pm Sun. $$ to $$$, free ages 17 and younger. Evergreen State Fairgrounds, Monroe. www.ursulmas.org SOUTH SOUND

The Velveteen Rabbit, Reborn. See the Pushcart Players bring to life the adventures of a boy and his rabbit. 1 and 3 pm. $$ to $$$. Theater on the Square, Tacoma. www.broadwaycenter.org

Kindiependent Concert Series: Red Yarn

competition. Dress in warm clothing; seats are rinkside. 12:15 pm. FREE. Highland Ice Arena, Seattle (Shoreline). www.highlandice.com Emerald City Trapeze Arts Student Show. Watch students of all ages perform choreographed acts. 7:30 pm. FREE. Emerald City Trapeze Arts, Seattle (SoDo). Winter in the Park: Kids’ Saturdays. Families will enjoy hands-on art activities and outdoor exploration, plus kids can decorate a box to serve as their “car” for a drive-in movie at 12:30 pm. 11 am to 2 pm today and Feb. 10. FREE. Olympic Sculpture Park, Downtown Seattle. www.seattleartmuseum.org Exploration for All: Autism Early Open. On the second Saturday of each month, families affected by autism can explore the museum before it’s open to the public, with lower levels of light, noise and crowds. 8 to 10 am. FREE. Pacific Science Center, Seattle (Lower Queen Anne). www.pacificsciencecenter.org

P H OTO BY AA RON H EW I TT

Thursday, January 25

Friday, February 2

S E AT T L E A R E A

SOUTH SOUND

Children’s Film Festival Seattle. The largest children’s film festival on the West Coast, with 200 films from more than 50 countries around the world. 7 pm tonight, various times through Feb. 10, see online for schedule and content advisories. $ to $$. Northwest Film Forum, Seattle (Capitol Hill). www.childrensfilmfestivalseattle.org

3 Impossible Questions. Enjoy humorous tales from Islamic folklore for all ages. 7 pm tonight and various times through Feb. 18. $$. Olympia Family Theater, Olympia. www.olyft.org

Friday, January 26 EASTSIDE

From Pole To Pole. See the first episode of Planet Earth, narrated by David Attenborough. 5 pm. FREE. Pre-register. Mercer Slough Environmental Education Center, Bellevue. www.parks.bellevuewa.gov

NORTH SOUND

Arlington-Stillaguamish Eagle Festival. Guided eagle tours, demonstrations, exhibits, an animal show, music, wagon rides, hands-on arts and crafts, and more. FREE, fee for some activities. Today and tomorrow. Various locations in and around Arlington, see online for schedule. www.arlingtonwa.gov/eaglefest

Saturday, February 3 S E AT T L E A R E A

Pre-school Drive-In Movie. Kids will each create and decorate a cardboard car then park it to watch a short movie with a snack. 1 to 2:30 pm. FREE. Kent Library, Kent. www.kcls.org

Peter Pan Jr. See a modern version of the J.M. Barrie classic with an all-youth cast, presented by Ludus Performing Arts. 7 pm tonight, and various times through Feb. 10. Snohomish County PUD, Everett. www.ludusperfomingarts.org

Laughra Cadabra: Steve The Pretty Good Magician. Funny show mixes music and magic with audience participation. 2 pm. $. Auburn Avenue Theater, Auburn. www.auburnwa.gov

S E AT T L E A R E A

Tacoma Nature Center, Tacoma. www.metroparkstacoma.org

NORTH SOUND

Pier Peer in Tacoma: Jelly Jubilee. Join an aquatic nighttime adventure to explore mysterious marine life below the docks. Warm up afterward with hot cocoa. Ages 8 and older. 7:30 to 9 pm. $$. Point Defiance Marina, Tacoma. www.metroparkstacoma.org

Sunday, January 28 I Dig Dinos. Kids ages 3 to 7 are invited to dig for fossils in the dig pit, uncovering fossils from different eras in this monthly event. 11 am to 2 pm. $. Burke Museum, Seattle (University District). www.burkemuseum.org

SOUTH SOUND

Great Train Show. See hundreds of trains, accessories, scale models and collectible toys. Also, enjoy kids activities and special exhibits. 10 am to 4 pm. $$, free ages 11 and younger. Western Washington Fairgrounds, Puyallup. www.trainshow.com

Family Snowshoe Hike. Wear sturdy shoes, pack food and water, and enjoy a guided snowshoe hike. Snowshoes and transportation provided. 9 am to 4 pm. $$$. Pre-register. Tacoma Nature Center, Tacoma. www.metroparkstacoma.org

SOUTH SOUND

You Me We. A community celebration featuring live music, hands-on activities, games, inflatables, sports competitions and more. FREE. 6 to 8:30 pm. ShoWare Center, Kent. www.kentwa.gov

Saturday, January 27 S E AT T L E A R E A

Pinocchio. StoryBook Theater presents a charming retelling of the familiar tale about telling the truth. 11 am today and Sun., 1 and 3 pm Sun. $$. Renton Carco Theater, Renton. www.storybooktheater.org

No Sun Fun Run. Chip-timed 5K along the Nathan Chapman Trail, or a 1-mile course. 10 am. $$$. Heritage Recreation Center, Puyallup. www.co.pierce.wa.us

Kindiependent Concert Series: Red Yarn. See a unique blend of family-friendly puppetry and folksongs for a high-energy show. 10:30 am. $$. Mount Baker Community Club, Seattle (Mount Baker). www.mountbaker.org

Family Snow Play Day. Meet other families and play in the snow at Mt. Rainier. Transportation provided; bring your own snow toys. 9 am to 4 pm today and Feb. 24. $$$. Pre-register.

Disney Live! Mickey and Minnie’s Doorway to Magic. See a variety of Disney characters brought to life in a live show. 1 and 4 pm today. $$$. Spirit of the Winds Arena, Everett.

Pancake Breakfast and Short Film Smorgasbord. Enjoy pancakes, bacon, and a short children’s film program. Part of Children’s Film Festival Seattle. 9:30 am breakfast at the church, film at 10:30 or 11 am at Northwest Film Forum. $$. Greek Orthodox Church of the Assumption, Seattle (Capitol Hill) and Northwest Film Forum (Capitol Hill). www.childrensfilmfestivalseattle.org Lunar New Year Family Festival. Celebrate Lunar New Year at SAM with live music, martial arts performances, dress-up, story time, family tours, and drop-in art activities. FREE. 11 am to 2 pm. Seattle Art Museum, Downtown Seattle. EASTSIDE

Pinocchio. StoryBook Theater presents a charming retelling of the familiar tale about telling the truth. 11 am, 1 and 3 pm today and various times through Feb. 11. $$. Kirkland Performance Center, Kirkland. www.storybooktheater.org SOUTH SOUND

Oliver! See the classic, award-winning musical based on the Dickens novel. 7 pm tonight, various dates and times through Feb. 18. $$ to $$$. Sumner Performing Arts Center, Sumner. www.manestagetheatre.com Dental Health Month. Kids can get a free dental health screening every Saturday in February, hours TBD. The museum also offers a variety of

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S E AT T L E ’ S C H I L D

Calendar tooth-related art and science activities all month long. Included with admission. $ to $$. Hands On Children’s Museum, Olympia. www.hocm.org Polkadots: The Cool Kids Musical. A fun musical about 8-year-old Lily Polkadot, who just moved to the “Squares Only” small town of Rockaway. 11 am and 1 pm today; various times through Feb. 10. $$. Tacoma Musical Playhouse, Tacoma. www.tmp.org

Monday, February 5 SOUTH SOUND

The Three Little Pigs. See a short, interactive play about the classic tale. Part of the Let’s Play series. 10 am today through Sat., and 11:30 am Fri. $. Olympia Family Theater, Olympia. www.olyft.org

Wednesday, February 7 S E AT T L E A R E A

Northwest Flower & Garden Show. Preview spring with display gardens, vendor marketplace, seminars, and a treasure hunt for kids. 9 am to 8 pm through Sat., 9 am to 6 pm Sun. $ to $$$, free ages 12 and younger. Washington State Convention and Trade Center, Downtown Seattle. www.gardenshow.com

Thursday, February 8 Wintergrass

Cherry Blossom Scroll Workshop. Create a cherry blossom tree using ink and paint, then create a Japanese scroll. All materials provided. Ages 5 and older. 4 to 6 pm. FREE. Pre-register. Boulevard Park Library, Seattle (Boulevard Park). www.kcls.org CulturalFest International Expo. Arts and crafts, games, and hands-on activities with international students and volunteers representing a variety of cultures. 10:30 am to 3 pm. FREE. Husky Union Building at University of Washington, Seattle (U District). www.fiuts.org

Saturday, February 10 S E AT T L E A R E A

Popsicle Stick Bridge Contest and Engineering Fair. Watch local teams of high school students build bridges that are judged, then tested to failure with a hydraulic press. Also, learn about engineering careers from professionals with NASA, Boeing and local universities, and take part in hands-on activities. Bridge contest 10 am to 2 pm, engineering fair 10 am to 4 pm. Included with admission. $$ to $$$, free ages 4 and younger. Museum of Flight, Seattle (Boeing Field). museumofflight.org Tet Festival: Vietnamese Lunar New Year. Explore traditional and contemporary Vietnamese culture with performances (including a lion dance), food, crafts and other activities. 11 am to 7 pm through Sun. FREE. Seattle Center Armory and Fisher Pavilion, Seattle (Lower Queen Anne). www.tetinseattle.org Valentine’s Day Celebration. Watch as zoo animals receive heart-shaped fruit-juice ice pops, honey, strawberries, heart-shaped steaks and other favorite treats. 10 am to 2:30 pm. Included with admission. $ to $$, free ages 2 and younger. Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle (Phinney Ridge). www.zoo.org Kindiependent Concert Series: Johnny Bregar. Folksy, bluesy tunes for kids. 10:30 am. $$. Mount Baker Community Club, Seattle (Mount Baker). www.mountbaker.org EASTSIDE

Wetland Waddlers. Preschoolers and their caregivers are invited to explore the Mercer Slough with art, play, and story time. Today, get creative with rocks — how they can become instruments, tools, building blocks and more. 9:30 to 11:30 am. $$$. Pre-register. Mercer Slough Environmental Education Center, Bellevue. www.pacificsciencecenter.org Valentine Fun. Kids ages 3 to 6 and their care-

S E AT T L E ’S C H I L D

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givers can create Valentine cards and meet farm animals. 10 to 11:30 am. $$$. Pre-register. Kelsey Creek Farm Park, Bellevue. www.parks.bellevuewa.gov SOUTH SOUND

Family Nature Walk. Explore nature, and learn about plants and animals in this naturalist led walk. Recommended for ages 3 and older. No strollers. 10 am. FREE. Pre-register. Titlow Park, Tacoma. www.metroparkstacoma.org

Thursday, February 15 S E AT T L E A R E A

Get Creative With 3-D Pens. Learn how to bring doodles to life with a 3-D pen, take home your masterpiece. FREE. 3:30 to 5:30 pm. Boulevard Park Library, Seattle (Boulevard Park). www.kcls.org

Friday, February 16 S E AT T L E A R E A

Asia Pacific New Year Celebration. Food, crafts, live entertainment and more, from a variety of Asian and Pacific Island countries. This year’s featured country is Korea. 11 am to 6 pm. FREE. Tacoma Dome Exhibition Hall, Tacoma. www.tacomadome.org

Goodnight Moon. Enjoy a special musical performance featuring piano and voice. Part of the Tiny Tots concert series for kids ages 5 and younger. 10:30 am today and Sat., 9:30 am and 11:30 am Sat. $$. Benaroya Hall, Downtown Seattle. www.seattlesymphony.org

Love at the Zoo. Watch as animals receive Valentine-themed enrichment treats. 10 am to 4 pm through Sun. Included with admission. $ to $$, free ages 2 and younger. Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, Tacoma. www.pdza.org

FaerieCon. Enoy live music, a fashion show, costume contests, meet fantasy authors and more. Kids are admitted FREE on Sunday for Family Day. 1 pm to 6 pm today, 10 am to 6 pm Sat., and 10 am to 5 pm Sun. $$$. Sea Tac Doubletree Hilton, Sea Tac. www.faerieworlds.com

Sunday, February 11 S E AT T L E A R E A

Love ‘em or Leave ‘em Valentine’s Day Dash. 5K run/walk with a “tunnel of love” fence for leaving notes to participants. 9:10 am kids’ dash (ages 10 and younger), 9:30 am run/walk. $$$, free kids’ dash. Green Lake Park, Seattle (Green Lake). www.valentinesdaydash.com Lunar New Year Festival. Lion dance, martial arts, drill teams and other performances, plus food, kids’ activities and more. 11 am to 4 pm. FREE. Hing Hay Park, Seattle (International District). www.cidbia.org ArtVenture: Memory Treasures. Explore how history stays alive through objects and craft a personal souvenir of the past. 1 to 3 pm. FREE. Henry Art Gallery, Seattle (U District). www.henryart.org NORTH SOUND

My Father’s Dragon. In collaboration with author in celebration of the Newbery Honor book’s 70th anniversary, Enchantment Theatre Company brings the three tales of My Father’s Dragon to life on stage. Part of Village Theatre’s Pied Piper series. Free, sensory-friendly performance at noon. 2 pm. $$. Everett Performing Arts Center, Everett. www.villagetheatre.org

NORTH SOUND

The Great Northwest Glass Quest. Pick up a guide book for tips on where to find a clue ball. Clue balls will be hidden in Stanwood and Camano Island parks and businesses through Feb. 25. Find one and you win a piece of glass art. FREE. Stanwood and Camano Island. www.thegreatnwglassquest.com Free Friday Night. Explore the museum for free on the third Friday of each month. 5:30 to 9 pm. FREE. Imagine Children’s Museum, Everett. www.imaginecm.org

Saturday, February 17 S E AT T L E A R E A

NW Scale Modelers Show. See hundreds of detailed scale model planes of all types at the largest model show in the Northwest. Featuring special displays, modeling seminars and hands-on activities. 10 am to 5 pm through Sun. Included with admission. Museum of Flight, Seattle (Boeing Field). Presidents Day Run. Magnuson Series fun runs including 5K, 10K, 15K and Kids Dash. Kids Dash at 9:45 am, 5K, 10K and 15K at 10 am. $ to $$$. Magnuson Park, Seattle (Sand Point). www.magnusonseries.org

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Tet Festival: Vietnamese Lunar New Year

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EASTSIDE

Junie B. Jones, the Musical. Adapted from the book series by Barbara Park, this story explores Junie’s first day of first grade. 1 and 3 pm weekends through March 18. $ to $$. SecondStory Repertory, Redmond. www.secondstoryrep.org SOUTH SOUND

Sa-Heh-Wa-Mish Days Pow Wow. All are welcome to watch dancing and drumming from members representing tribes throughout the United States and Canada. 1 and 7 pm. Grand Entry today, 1 pm Sun. FREE. Little Creek Casino Resort, Shelton. www.little-creek.com Western Fest. Create Western-themed art, hear authentic cowboy poetry and Western music, and more. Noon to 4 pm. FREE. Tacoma Art Museum. www.tacomaartmuseum.org Kids ’n’ Critters. Crafts, activities, and trailside encounters with some of the park’s smaller animals, plus half-hour tram tours. 9:30 am to 3 pm through Mon. $$, up to 4 kids ages 12 and younger will be admitted FREE with each paid adult or senior during this event. Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, Eatonville. www.northwesttrek.org

Thursday, February 22 EASTSIDE

P H OTO BY SA DD L E BU RN M ED I A

Wintergrass. Bluegrass music festival includes concerts, dances, music jams, workshops, and kids’ workshops. 9 am today, various hours through Sun. (see schedule online). $$ to $$$, free ages 11 and younger. Hyatt Regency, Bellevue. www.wintergrass.com

Saturday, February 24 S E AT T L E A R E A

The Story of Babar. Join Babar, the little elephant, as he explores the jungle and the city in this orchestrated story. Part of the Classical KING-FM Family Concerts. Recommended for ages 5 to 12. Doors open one hour prior to showtime for pre-show activities including crafts and instrument exploration. 11 am. Benaroya Hall, Downtown Seattle. www.seattlesymphony.org

Maker Day: Makerlab NW. Experiment with and build flying contraptions, then test them out in a wind tube. Noon to 3 pm. Included with admission. $$, free ages 14 and younger with an adult. MOHAI, Seattle (South Lake Union). www.mohai.org Kindiependent Concert Series: Brian Vogan and His Good Buddies. Enjoy danceable music from one of the kindie-rock founders. 10:30 am. $$. Mount Baker Community Club, Seattle (Mount Baker). www.mountbaker.org

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SOUTH SOUND

Daddy-Daughter Princess Ball. Girls and their dads (or father figures) are invited to enjoy dinner, dessert and dancing. 3:30 to 5:30 pm (ages 3 to 6), and 7 to 9 pm (ages 7 to 13) tonight. $$$. Pre-register. Auburn Community Center, Auburn. www.auburnwa.gov

Sunday, February 25 S E AT T L E A R E A

Pinocchio. StoryBook Theater presents a charming retelling of the familiar tale about telling the truth. 11 am, 1 and 3 pm today. $$. Hale’s Palladium, Seattle (Fremont). www.storybooktheater.org

Four ultra kid-friendly coffee spots

Fall is in full swing and summer’s a distant memory. It’s time to trade the splash pools and outdoor parks for somewhere a little more roof-friendly. Enter a new trend of coffee shops, geared less toward hipsters and more toward families, offering parents a place to eat and drink whilst their kiddos play and stay dry. Here are some great

NORTH SOUND

How I Became A Pirate. Dallas Children’s Theater brings to life the popular book about a young band of comical pirates. Part of Village Theatre’s Pied Piper series. Free, sensory-friendly performance at noon. 2 pm. $$. Everett Civic Auditorium, Everett. www.villagetheatre.org

Wednesday, February 28 S E AT T L E A R E A

Pajamas & Puppets. Toddlers and preschoolers are invited to enjoy a story time with silly puppets. Pajamas encouraged. 7 pm. FREE. Northeast Branch Library, Seattle (Ravenna). www.spl.org

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