May 2018 by seattleschild

MAKING ROOM M AY 20 1 8

Romp

TAKE THEM OUT TO THE

BALLGAME

HOW LOCAL FAMILIES SET THEIR PRIORITIES FREE

YOUR GUIDE TO A KID-FRIENDLY CIT Y

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ANXIETY & KIDS Cy Ohiso is ready for fly balls at Safeco Field

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

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>>Contents Seattle’sChild May 2018 // Issue 463

WHAT PARENTS ARE TALKING ABOUT......... 5 DAD NEXT DOOR..................11 ROMP............................................13 CHOMP........................................15 SHOP............................................17 FEATURE FAMILY PRIORITIES............ 20 MAKING HOME.......................31 CALENDAR............................. 33 NEW MOM DISPATCH...... 39

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PHOTO COURTESY OF XXXXXX XXXXXXXXX

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„ Find us online at seattleschild.com Cover photo by JOSHUA HUSTON Ma y 2 0 18

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Seattle’sChild May 2018 // Issue 463 “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 SARAH RIVERA Managing Editor srivera@seattleschild.com JULIE HANSON Website Editor jhanson@seattleschild.com NICOLE SANTORA Calendar Editor calendar@seattleschild.com MIKE MAHONEY Copy Editor JEFF LEE, MD, BECCA BERGMAN BULL Columnists JO EIKE, ANDIE POWERS, NAOMI TOMKY Contributing Editors ERIKA LEE BIGELOW, REBEKAH DENN, JIAYING GRYGIEL, AMY HATCH, JILLIAN O’CONNOR Contributing Writers ASHLEY BRECKEL Website Managing Editor abreckel@seattleschild.com 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 (June 1 for July/August publication). Include date, time, cost, appropriate ages, address, contact information and description. E-mail to calendar@seattleschild.com Seattle’s Child is published monthly with combined issues in January/February and July/August.

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„ Find more education and health news on seattleschild.com

GET OUT! Find May outings for your family with our complete online calendar of events. It’s mobile-friendly, constantly updated, and searchable by location, age and cost » seattleschild.com E D U C AT I O N , H E A LT H , D E V E L O P M E N T & M O R E

»What Parents

B Y A M Y H AT C H

Are Talking About HEALTHY FAMILIES

Alison, 10, was 8 when she was diagnosed with general anxiety disorder. Read her story on page 8.

When worry overwhelms P H OTO BY JOS H UA H U STO N

A NEW DOCUMENTARY HELPS FAMILIES UNDERSTAND CHILDHOOD ANXIETY AND WHAT THEY CAN DO TO HELP Since last fall, dozens of local area schools and organizations have hosted screenings of the documentary Angst, directed by Seattle resident and filmmaker Matt Skerritt. The hour-long film explores

the disturbing uptick in anxiety in children; its causes, effects and how to deal with it. Anxiety is a hot topic, to say the least. To date, Angst has had 450 screenings in 11 countries since October 2017.

For Skerritt, whose daughter suffers from anxiety, making Angst was a good way for him to understand the topic. Before his daughter was diagnosed with general anxiety disorder (GAD), he and his wife thought that she may have been struggling with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), not anxiety, based CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE >

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"Kids will love to pore over the art and tell their own versions of the story." —SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

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< Child

anxiety CONTINUED

on some of her symptoms. “She was so smart and capable, I didn’t always believe her when she said she had anxiety,” says Skerritt, who admits he didn’t necessarily handle his daughter’s anxiety well at the onset. While worry is a natural part of life, kids with acute anxiety are often dysfunctional with worry. Some have physical symptoms such as headaches or stomach pains. Others may exhibit anger, aggression, restlessness and impulse control. Trouble concentrating, procrastination and withdrawal from social activities are other signs of anxiety. While boys tend to externalize their anxiety more with kicking, cursing and angry outbursts, girls often internalize, with symptoms like stomach aches, becoming withdrawn or trouble sleeping. Complicating matters further, anxiety often co-occurs with other disorders, including depression, eating disorders, sleep disorders and ADHD. Is anxiety really on the rise? Why? According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one-third of adolescents ages 13 to 18 will struggle with an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. That number may seem high, but most experts say it’s actually lower than what’s actually occurring because there’s no current nor comprehensive data around anxiety disorders in younger children. Many experts agree it’s on the rise for children of all ages. Occasional anxiety is a normal part of the human condition, and in small doses is good for us: it may drive us to finish a project, take a big decision seriously, or avoid a dangerous situation. But anxiety disorders involve more than temporary worry or fear. For a person with an anxiety disorder, the anxiety doesn’t go away and may worsen over time. The feelings and physical symptoms of anxiety can interfere with the ability to do normal daily activities, and the time and energy spent avoiding anxiety can begin to take over a child’s life. Dr. Laura Kastner, a clinical psychologist at the University of Washington and author of Getting to Calm, The Early Years, encourages parents to examine the frequency, intensity and persistence of their child’s anxiety for clues about when to seek help: “Everyone has fears and worries, but if they are persistent and intense and affecting a child’s ability to participate in everyday life, then you should speak with a healthcare provider.” At the Adolescent Medicine Care Team at Seattle Children’s Hospital, Dr. Cora Breuner says she regularly sees patients who first come in because of chest pain, headache, diarrhea or eating disorders, where the underlying issue ends up being anxiety. “I absolutely do believe anxiety is occurring more often,” says Dr. Breuner,

The hour-long film explores the uptick in anxiety in children.

who may see as many as 30 kids a day. “I also believe that as healthcare experts we are better at diagnosing it. The more you see, the better you get at being able to gauge the situation.” Dr. Judy Ferguson, a national certified school psychologist with the Seattle School District who has 20 years of experience working with children in schools, agrees: “There is absolutely no question in my mind that anxiety in children is increasing. Without a doubt, it is noticeably more palpable to me over the last five years.” If that’s true, then why? Too much of everything. “Most people get a bit of a zing, a rush of dopamine from cramming the schedule and ‘Keeping up with the Joneses,’ but the constant adrenaline stream all day is like poison to our system,” says Dr. Kastner. “Families had a calmer schedule 40 years ago. In modern society, there is less downtime, constant streams of information coming at us. Some of the most profound things you can do for your child are not glamorous: a calm home, less media, more sleep, and get your child outside and in nature.” Anxious parenting. Research shows that anxiety disorders run in families, and have a biological basis, much like diabetes, allergies and other disorders. Anxious parenting can create an anxious child. Dr. Kastner encourages parents to take a serious look at how their own behavior may be contributing to their child’s anxiety. “It’s impossible to parse the nature and nurture,” she says. “Some sources of anxiety are biological, while others may be environmental or social. That said, if mom is anxious, she may parent in an anxious way. When a parent knows that they have a predilection to anxiety, it’s important for them to work hard to override their own anxiety about their child’s anxiety.” A fear of (any) failure. “For a long time now, we have been a trophy culture in the name of self-esteem,” says Dr. Ferguson. “We don’t give kids a lot of opportunities to

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#BFFGOALS

What Parents Are Talking About handle small failures and losses. “Getting a B is OK. Crying because you don’t win a contest is OK. Happiness all the time is the expectation, that’s not realistic. Some days are the bummer and that is OK; It will ultimately help them cope with struggles as they grow.” An overwhelming need to succeed. Similar to a fear of failure, but often the result of an underlying drumbeat of pressure from well-meaning parents concerned for their child’s future success. Dr. Kastner points to the shrinking middle class and the pressures that parents feel to make sure their child is ‘set up for success.’ Drs. Breuner and Ferguson both said they’ve seen a significant increase in young children being overly worried about college acceptance, not having perfect grades, or excelling at a sport. “I’ve interviewed kids for 20 years now, and I can tell you there is a ton more pressure on kids to perform,” Ferguson says. “Kids feel watched all the time and constantly supervised. Kids perform for their parents; it’s innate how much they want to please, even if they don’t show it.”

Anxiety: What parents should (and shouldn’t) do to help When Dr. Breuner hears a parent say, “My daughter is anxious, I’m thinking about homeschooling her,” her advice is always “Don’t. “ “I remind parents that they must teach their kids social skills,” she says, “unless [they] plan to have them live in [their] garage and play video games for the rest of their lives.” “A big natural pitfall of well-meaning parents is that they want to help their child avoid the situation that is causing anxiety,” says Dr. Ferguson. “It is a really disastrous thing when really well-meaning parents remove their child from class or school. That can make the child feel isolated, lose confidence and ultimately increase the anxiety or depression, and they don’t get to learn coping skills.” Dr. Breuner says either

therapy — where a child focuses on how to cope with anxiety in the best way for him or her, or therapy in combination with medication, have proven to provide the best results: “You don’t need to go for 10 years, you can get a lot of great cognitive behaviors down in five to six sessions that can make a real impact.” She also recommends unplugging from social media: “Designate a time, every evening, as a family, to shut off — this includes parents — and wait until morning to turn it all back on. Be consistent about it, seven days a week.” When an anxious child is worked up, distract and refocus his or her attention, take a five-minute break from studying to read a fun book, talk to a friend, go outside and play; engage in a new activity. Distraction allows a child’s amygdala (the fight-or-flight

HEALTHY FAMILIES

part of the brain triggered by an anxiety break) to calm down. But use this for shortterm management of anxiety, not prolonged periods. Avoidance of stressful situations may reinforce a negative thought process and fear. Parents can’t ignore anxiety away. “As Mr. Rogers used to say, feelings should be mentionable and manageable. Not validating them is the same as being dismissive, which makes things worse,” says Dr. Kastner. “That said, once acknowledged, the next step is coping. It becomes the child’s responsibility to learn healthy coping habits (reading, jumping rope, creating art, etc). It is the parents’ job to assist and support — not rescue, not avoid challenge nor fixing. Instead, supporting them as they face fears and approaching challenges.”

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Real life: Living with anxiety Alison is a smart, sweet and loving 10-year-old. She’s a doting big sister, an avid reader and a self-taught unicyclist. She was also diagnosed with general anxiety disorder the summer after second grade. “I started to worry more and more,” says Alison. “About everything, like getting sick or getting hurt. I was having trouble falling asleep and waking up in the middle of the night, and then waking my mom up because I couldn’t sleep.” That summer, Alison suffered two full-blown panic attacks. Catherine, Alison’s mom, remembered her waking them up one night when she was hyperventilating and practically hysterical, convinced she wasn’t able to walk straight, even though her parents saw nothing physically wrong. Her pediatrician referred them to a psychologist who specializes in children and adolescents. After just one visit, Alison was already looking forward to going back. For the last few weeks of the summer, she went two times a week to help get things under control before the school year, then settled into weekly sessions. Together they tackled things that seemed to be a source of anxiety for Alison, such as the fear of going to the doctor when she was sick or hurt. At the psychologist’s suggestion, they made arrangements for the school nurse to have Alison come by once a week for a visit at a time that was not disruptive to her school schedule. The nurse would get called down and come in to just talk with Alison or ask questions, slowly getting more comfortable with the idea. They also put more routines and structure in place, which has been shown to help kids with anxiety. They moved up Alison’s lights-out time, and created a schedule she could maintain, prioritizing a regular sleep schedule over certain kinds of travel and social activities. Alison also worked on breathing exercises and meditation she could do on her own when she needed to wind down. A year later the sessions went to every other week, and both Alison and her mom feel like she now has great tools in place to help her manage anxiety. In another instance of managing anxiety, Jen’s daughter Sarah began having panic attacks in the third and fourth grade. “The panic attacks seemed to be triggered by overstimulus, and she just couldn’t come out of it,” says Jen. The anxiety and panic attacks would manifest into tantrums that would spiral into complete meltdowns that Sarah couldn’t just come out of, often triggered by jet lag, small spaces or big crowds. It began to adversely affect her interactions

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with some kids at school, and at one point, Sarah herself became frightened by her own actions, which was a wake-up call for both her and her parents. For Sarah, managing anxiety has meant dietary changes that seemed to improve her mood, making a good sleep schedule a priority and seeing a therapist. “It’s important for us to help her know that it’s OK to see a therapist, and to talk openly about her journey. We want to empower her,” says Jen. “She knows this is something she will always have to manage, but she knows we believe she can do it.” Her advice to other parents of anxious children is to model good self-care, show them how to take care of themselves with healthy sleep and eating habits, and help them establish a routine that works for them. She also says it’s important to focus on the good moments, not just the negative, and to name what has gone well, like praising them for doing great with sleep or managing their worry.

Resources q Access the “Symptom Checker”

developed by the Child Mind Institute at angstmovie.com

q To host a screening of Angst, visit

angstmovie.com/host-a-screening/

q The makers of the documentary

Angst have also created an amazing online resource for parents, including a helpful website, books and videos, as well as common questions about anxiety and ways to find a therapist. angstmovie.com/resources/

q Anxious children (ages 5 to 17)

and their parents can participate in Seattle Children’s Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine Anxiety Program, which offers concurrent groups for parents and children (based on age group) around anxiety management techniques. seattlechildrens.org or 206-987-2164

Books for parents q Parenting Your Anxious Child

with Mindfulness and Acceptance by Christopher McCurry, Ph.D.

q Helping Your Anxious Child by Ronald Rapee, Ph.D.

q Getting to Calm, The Early Years by Laura S. Kastner, Ph.D.

q Getting to Calm: Cool-Headed

Strategies for Parenting Tweens + Teens by Laura S. Kastner, Ph.D.

Books for children q I Bet I Won’t Fret: A Workbook to

Help Children with Generalized Anxiety Disorder by Timothy A. Sisemore, Ph.D.

q What to Do When You Worry Too

Much: A Kid’s Guide to Overcoming Anxiety (What to Do Guides for Kids) by Dawn Huebner, Ph.D.

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HY HEALT S IE FAMIL

How to feed babies for stronger brains WHEN DEVELOPING YOUNG MINDS, TIMING

(AND NUTRITION) IS EVERYTHING BY JILLIAN O’CONNOR Everyone knows it’s hard to get some kids to eat right. Now the American Academy of Pediatrics says kids’ brains depend on it. Karen Morse, a Ballard mom of two, has seen firsthand how some fussy toddlers refuse nutritious foods, even when they’ve been raised in a house where junk food is pretty much nonexistent and vegetables are homegrown. “I did all the things that you read about in books that they tell you to do,” says Morse, laughing. She was not above hiding vegetables in pasta sauce. It didn’t work — at all. But her son did try berries. Once. Better nutrition in utero and during babyhood helps low-income toddlers keep on pace cognitively and developmentally

with their peers early in life and as the children grow up, according to the new advocacy policy statement, published in the AAP’s journal Pediatrics this February. The key nutrition window is the “first thousand days,” beginning at conception and culminating at about age 2. The AAP calls for increased funding of programs that help ensure all families can feed their babies well during essential building years, and encourages exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. While a much bigger issue abroad, undernourishment also happens in Seattle. “There are families, certainly with the high cost of living that we have here … that

are food-insecure,” says Dr. Lenna Liu, a University of Washington School of Medicine professor of pediatrics and pediatrician at Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic in the Central District. “They go hungry.” The AAP’s cited inspiration was a study from rural Guatemala in the 1960s. Mothers and their children in two villages were given two different eating plans: one group received low-protein, low-calorie food supplements; the other, high-protein, high-calorie food supplements. The children from the first village scored lower overall on cognitive tests measuring facility with numbers, reading, and vocabulary and knowledge. The children from the better-supplemented village showed advantages well into their teen years. The upshot? Plentiful, nutritious food can help build better brains and healthier children and adults. Sufficient levels of protein, calories and glucose during this period are crucial for early brain development, in addition to fatty acids, such as DHA, and vitamins and minerals. That’s all achievable with access to nutritious foods, says Dr. Aisha Jimoh Reuler, a pediatrician at Polyclinic Northgate. She says the study is not quite groundbreaking, but thinks it could have “significant impact” on how doctors guide patients.

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What Parents Are Talking About

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by Jeff Lee, MD

A little encouragement from across the fence

P H OTO BY JOS H UA H U STON

Unspoiled The other day, Pippa had this conversation with her mom: Pippa: Mummy, what does pampered mean? Jess: Spoiled. Pippa: Spoiled like an egg, or like Veruca Salt? (For the uninitiated, Veruca was the atrocious little rich girl in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.) Jess: Like Veruca Salt. Pippa: Her Mummy and Daddy gave her everything she asked for. Jess: Yup. That’s right. Pippa: If I were spoiled, I’d only ask for things I really, really, really wanted. Jess: Like what? Pippa: Like a servant. Well, OK then. I’d say, life lesson learned, wouldn’t you? To be fair, who among us hasn’t fantasized about having a personal servant? It’s really why I had kids in the first place. So far, that hasn’t worked out so well. But when our children start complaining about how hard it is to get good help these days, you have to wonder if our attempts to fill their every need are doing them a disservice. Let’s be clear here, Pippa is no Veruca Salt. She’s well-versed in the virtues of thrift and self-reliance. She does her chores, wears hand-me-downs, and knows better than to waste electricity, water or food. But like most American kids, she has more material wealth and comfort than 90 percent of the world’s children. She lives a life of privilege, and mostly she takes it for granted. It’s easy to see the benefits of that privilege, but what are the costs? I know — this seems like kind of a “First World Problem.” Boo-hoo, my child has everything they want — I’m afraid it might damage them. But as I look around me, and read the news every day, it’s clear that privilege is causing plenty of damage in the world, both to people who have it and the ones who don’t. One reason that

damage is so hard to stop is that people who have privilege can’t even see it. It’s simply the air they breathe. White people don’t know what it’s like to be stopped by the police just because they’re driving in a nice neighborhood. Men don’t know what it’s like to avoid the park at night for fear of being raped. Native English speakers don’t know what it’s like to show up sick and scared at an emergency room where no one speaks

So if our children are lucky enough to enjoy privilege, how do we neutralize its toxic effects? How do we fend off a sense of entitlement, a loss of empathy, and a lack of resilience that comes when everything is handed to them on a silver platter? One thing we can do is make the air around them visible. We can teach them to see their privilege.

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their language. And I have no idea what it’s like to put my kids to bed hungry because I had to choose between food and rent. All of that is understandable — none of us know what we just don’t know. But our ignorance has consequences. Turn on cable news and it’s never long before some talking head claims that those who suffer most cause their own misfortune. They’re lazy. They were CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE >

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er m Sum ur o y n Pla

DadNextDoor

Find camps and activities throughout this issue.

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

asking for it. They came here illegally. They brought it on themselves. And all the while, the thousands of unearned advantages, both big and small, that helped lift that speaker to their position go unmentioned and unseen. This pattern plays out again and again all around us: when people are hired, when people are arrested, when laws are made, and when votes are cast. It sets the trajectory of our lives. So if our children are lucky enough to enjoy privilege, how do we neutralize its toxic effects? How do we fend off a „ Read all of Jeff sense of entiLee’s columns on tlement, a loss seattleschild.com of empathy, and a lack of resilience that comes when everything is handed to them on a silver platter? One thing we can do is make the air around them visible. We can teach them to see their privilege. At times, this might feel clumsy or contrived — like when our mothers told us: “The starving children in Africa would give anything for your broccoli!” But that doesn’t mean we stop talking about it. And when we can, we should do more than talk the talk, we should walk the walk — and ask our kids to walk it with us. Take them to volunteer at a food bank. Join Habitat for Humanity and build houses for the homeless. Donate gifts to a needy family during the holidays. Invite your kids to give a small portion of the resources they’ve enjoyed to others who make do with less. After that conversation with Pippa, Jess was appalled, but I wasn’t too worried. Seven-year-olds are notoriously susceptible to bling, and Pippa is no exception. Luckily, she’s generous, kindhearted, and surrounded by compassionate, ethical adults. She’s going to be fine. Still, we have some work to do. We won’t stop giving her most of what she wants and all of what she needs. We won’t stop worrying about her future, or helping her succeed when we can. We won’t try to undo the privilege she’s so fortunate to have. But we will shine a light on it, so she recognizes it for what it really is: A stroke of luck. An opportunity. A responsibility. A gift.

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

5 PLACES TO WORK WITH YOUR KIDS

TOYTOPIA IN TACOMA Ever wonder what life is like inside a dollhouse? Or how big the world’s largest Etch-a-Sketch is? This toy-focused exhibit, at the Washington History Museum in Tacoma through June 10, turns oversized toys into a magical wonderland. Kids can hop into the car from Monopoly or make music on the keyboard from the movie Big. All the classics are here, from Mr. Potato Head to the Chucky doll from Child’s Play, along with free arcade games. 1911 Pacific Ave., Tacoma 3washingtonhistory.org/visit/wshm/exhibits/toytopia

»Romp THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS

>> Romp > Chomp

q BY N AO M I TO M KY

> Shop

The Inc. Community Coworking and Playschool Cowork with on-site care

This full-service coworking space offers options to keep kids around — in the supervised preschool and toddler rooms, or in the parentsupervised cowork/play combo room. West Seattle and Green Lake locations 3 theinccoworking.org

The Riveter Women-first workspace

A coworking space that’s community focused on women and their businesses. Babes in arms are welcome at the offices, which also offer fitness classes and business programming for members. Fremont and Capitol Hill locations 3 theriveter.co

Roo’s Coworking Space Indoor play + office space

At Roo’s World of Discovery in Kirkland, the main draw is the sensory-friendly playground and activities, but the coworking space with supervised childcare makes this a convenient office, too. Kirkland 3 roosworldofdiscovery.com

PlayHappy Café Watch and work café Photo opportunities in the Moose Den delight M’s fans young and old.

Parents can keep one eye on their kids and one on their work from the Wi-Fienabled café, separated from the playspace only by a low wall. Lynnwood

SA F ECO F IE L D BY JOSH UA HUSTON TOYTOPIA COURTE SY OF STAGE NIN E PROD UCT IONS

3 playhappycafe.com

Mariner fun’s a home run “Where go moose?” my 1-year-old asked me at our final Mariners game of the season last year. As the long days faded into fall over Labor Day weekend, my husband and I watched the hapless M’s bats struggle, but all Jordana cared about was where that big, fluffy mascot had wandered off to.

Ichiro pulled on a Mariners jersey again last month and the Moose re-upped his dance moves. Baseball season is back, and Safeco Field continues to find ways to help kids and adults best spend their time at the ballpark. The Mariners Kids Club, Children’s Hospital

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE >

Romp All-ages drop-in

This elegantly outfitted spot, with play area, kitchen and classrooms, offers all-ages drop-in programming that makes it convenient to work while the kids take a class. Bellevue 3 romp-community.com

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Kids don’t have to stay seated: Mason tries out the slide at the Children’s Hospital Playspace.

< Mariner

fun’s a home run

CONTINUED

Playfield, Moose Den, and Kids Corner play area help kids find their own ways to enjoy going to the ballgame. “Baseball connects across generations,” says Mariners Director of Public Information Rebecca Hale about why the team works so hard to make the game and team accessible to fans of all ages. “People who learned to keep score at the Kingdome can now teach their kids how to do it.” Wallingford’s Ragsdale family has been going to Mariners games for nearly seven

years; the kids grew up going to four or five games a year. They like sitting in the bleachers, where there’s a chance to catch a home-run ball. Once, in some choice seats behind home plate, a foul ball was lined toward their daughter, Caitlin. An avid fan with a glove reached out and caught the ball, practically landing in her daughter’s lap. He gave the ball to Caitlin, likely having saved her from being struck. ”He actually became a friend of ours. It was a cosmic force that brought our families together,” says Sallie Ragsdale. “I had no idea balls could come back there.” The Mariners extended the protective netting for fan safety in 2016 and again this year. But for the most part, baseball’s slow pace allows families and friends to connect and visit with each other, rather than keeping their focus on the field at all times. The natural breaks in the game provide an opportunity to check out Safeco’s kid-friendly areas, starting with a visit to the Moose Den in Section 191. For kids like my daughter, the most important part of the game is from 90 to 30 minutes before it starts and during the third, fourth, seventh and eighth innings, when everybody’s favorite mascot will happily pose with little ones. Get more photo ops in the Kids Corner on the 300 level behind home plate, where smaller M’s fans can lean over

the kid-sized dugout rail, as well as take swings, throw pitches, and run the bases on a miniature baseball diamond. Every family has their own traditions: Carrie Whitney and Rich Hall of Tacoma just got their infant son a certificate commemorating his first baseball game. Ragsdale’s son, a ballplayer, loves to go to the bullpen and watch the relievers warming up. They even hit the gift shop. “I am a logo junkie,” says Ragsdale, who loves the old-school logo, with an upside-down trident as an M. “We know that kids can’t sit still for an entire game,” says Hale, “so we make sure to have areas where they can blow off energy and give parents a break.” For younger kids, the climbing structure and padded floor of the Children’s Hospital Playspace presents a more age-appropriate, if less baseball-centric, stadium fun zone. “It’s a long game for kids,” says Ragsdale. “We have completely given up the 7:10 pm game, unless it’s a fireworks night.” They often get food to break up time in their seats a bit — her daughter loves Dippin’ Dots. And this year, along with the usual Cracker Jacks and garlic fries, kids can load up at the On Deck donut bar, complete with toppings and dipping sauces. q mlb.com/mariners/fans/junior-mariners

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JOSHUA HUSTON

Romp

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

GET SOME MANNERS! With ever-shrinking lunchtime, many school-aged kids are being rushed through lunch. The result? Fifteen minutes of chewing with mouths open, and loud talking while eating at warp speed. This behavior may follow them home. But help is on the way with the Magical Manners Etiquette class at Satsuma kids’ shop in Wedgwood. “Table manners are so important. When I talk about etiquette,

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

MARITIME FUN IN BALLARD

TACOS C HU KI S BY J OS HUA HU STO N M ANNER S : S HU T T ER STOC K, TR U CK CO U RT E SY O F FO R K & F IN

Just in time to help the kids learn about the sea-to-table movement is the spectacular Seattle Maritime Festival Family Fun Day in Ballard. This free event offers a bounty of activities for kids — including boat-building, fishingnet repair, the chance to throw one of those really huge lines, survivalat-sea courses, welding and diving demos, tours of the ship canal on the Argosy (limit 200 people; get tickets there), a

fireboat display and demonstrations from the Coast Guard, to name a few — in this all-out celebration of the waterfront. When hunger strikes, look for Trident Seafood’s first-ever food truck, the Fork & Fin, with a pollockforward menu, designed to introduce the plentiful and sustainable whitefish to a young generation. Before you head home, be sure to point out the Edith Macefield house across the street that became known as the “Up” house after the 2009 release of the Pixar movie of the same name. Saturday, May 12, 11 am-4 pm, 4455 Shilshole Ave. NW 3seattlemaritime101.com

it’s not a rigid set of rules. Instead, it is a way to make people around you feel comfortable,” says Satsuma’s Jennifer Porter, who says teaching kids table manners can help them build strong relationships. And kids with good manners are more likely to be invited back. The one-hour manners course runs about every six weeks or so. $25, Limit 10 kids, ages 5 to 12. 8511 35th Ave. NE 3 satsumadesigns.com/collections/events

qBY JO EIKE

»Chomp > Romp >> Chomp > Shop

Vivienne Thomas-Kennedy proves that Mexican food is always the perfect compromise at Tacos Chukis in South Lake Union.

Cinco your teeth into this Whether you’re raising a chile-chomping brood who like a little kick to their food, or kids who deem garlic and ginger (and anything else they don’t feel like eating) as “spicy,” most families have a place at the dinner table for tacos, tortillas and nachos, among others. Packed full of bright flavors that appeal to diners of all ages, and a ton of

vegetables and protein to help little bodies grow, Mexican food offers something for the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a fun and tasty way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo, or just to expand your kids’ culinary horizons, here are some of the best places around town to take your niños for some stellar Mexican cuisine. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE >

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Chomp cuisine

neighborhood schools and local charities. q Various locations; pecadobueno.com

Pecado Bueno has expanded to four locations around Seattle and the Eastside, offering high-quality taqueria fare in casual, family-friendly settings. The complimentary chips and salsa bar keep hungry kids going until their food arrives, and the spacious patios and cozy fire pits are perfect spots to kick back on warmer evenings. A bonus feel-good factor: Pecado Bueno is heavily involved in the community, having donated more than $600,000 to

Tacos Chukis has long served Seattlites what many consider the best tacos in town from a tiny, elusive location on Capitol Hill. Lucky for us, they’ve recently expanded to more spacious, family-friendly spaces in Beacon Hill and South Lake Union, where it’s much easier to bring the kids for a taco fix. The al pastor is a house favorite — sweet slices of grilled pineapple play off smoky grilled pork — and don’t forget to top it with a dollop of housemade

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guacamole. Look for a fourth location opening later this year in the Central District. q Various locations; facebook.com/ TacosChukis

Georgetown’s Fonda La Catrina offers contemporary spins on authentic Mexican food in a funky, eclectic setting. Their vegetarian options are a particular draw, and the popular weekend brunch is always packed with hungry families. The extensive menu begs for multiple visits; don’t miss their weekday happy hour from 3-6 pm, where crispy tostadas appeal to emerging palates as parents enjoy an excellent house margarita. q 5907 Airport Way S., fondalacatrina.com Popular local mini-chain Cactus now has five locations, from the Eastside to West Seattle. Cactus serves innovative Southwestern and Mexican fare made from high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Wikki Stix will keep your little ones happy until dinner arrives, and the ever-popular quesadillas are big enough for two hungry kids to share. Their Alki location is located right across from the beach, so follow your meal with a stroll by the water. q Various locations; cactusrestaurants.com

This official birth certificate is personally signed by the Governor and State Registrar.

Tacos Chukis guacamole tops all.

Señor Moose offers authentic, delicious central Mexican food in a colorful and cozy spot on Leary Avenue, just off the main Ballard strip. Breakfast is a particular standout, with huevos rancheros you’ll be dreaming of for days, housemade chorizo with just the right amount of spice, and stellar chilaquiles you can order with a choice of housemade salsas: bright, zingy green, or deeply smoky red. Lunch and dinner offer excellent, reasonably priced tacos and a wide range of thoughtfully composed plates, including a fantastically complex mole sauce comprised of 25 spices and ingredients. The happy hour is one of Seattle’s (barely) best-kept secrets, with a queso fundido that kids love scooping up with warm tortillas, and some of the best guacamole in town. Bonus: the menu lists which part of Mexico each dish comes from, so you can give your kids a geography lesson as you eat. q 5242 NW Leary Ave., senormoose.com

TACOS CHU KIS PH OTO BY JOSHUA HU STON

< Tasty Mexican CONTINUED

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A favorite Edmonds children’s shop changes owners.

A new Belly & Co. If downtown Edmonds wasn’t cute enough, one of its downtown mainstays, Belly & Co., which has been trading in on the precious and high-end in maternity and toddlers’ merchandise, got a new owner on May 1. Brittani Straub, founder and designer of Little Bipsy, an Everett-based baby

custom shop and design company, bought the business, making it her first storefront after a couple of years selling online. Straub got into the baby business with the birth of her son. She was reselling her his outgrown clothes online and got really into it, wrapping her items up in ribbons

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Little Bipsy’s graphic style gets a storefront.

< Belly & Co. CONTINUED

by Little Bipsy

and tissue with a handwritten note. The clothes may have been used, but she wanted the moms who bought them to have a special treat when they opened their purchases. “I loved it, getting in touch with all these moms from all over the world,” says Straub. Soon she had a following and customers who liked her sense of style. She started Little Bipsy (her granddad’s nickname for her), reselling a custom blend of baby clothing. And a search for the exact right pair of shoes led to her designing a tiny high-top for tots. It sold out in months. Now, in addition to shoes, Little Bipsy has its own line of basics including rompers, T-shirts, knit pants and shoes. They are spendy, but definitely pair well with some elastic-waisted, distressed Hudson jeans. “My son is often dressed better than I am,” concedes Straub. Little Bipsy had just opened its headquarters in Everett when Belly & Co. owner Kristina Freeburg approached Straub about buying the store. The two immediately clicked. Belly & Co.’s 5th and Main Street location is one of the most sought-after storefronts in Edmonds, and Freeburg, looking to spend more time with her family, wanted to keep the store as a children’s goods store, as it’s been for more than 40 years. Straub loved Little Bipsy’s offerings, and the 77,000 followers on Instagram didn’t hurt. “I don’t think brick-and-mortar is going anywhere. We’re tactile, we like to touch and feel,” says Freeburg. The new store will have a new look, but a lot of the same quality gear and community feel. “We’re going to call it Belly & Co. by Little Bipsy because they’ve done such a great job down there,” says Straub. There will be events to meet customers and an official grand opening, with giveaways soon to be announced. She’s even talking with the folks at Teri’s Toybox, located next door, about some collaborations. q 422 Main St., Edmonds, littlebipsy.com This May, take 15% off with code LBC15, online only.

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BOOK CLUB

Books for when a new brother or sister is on the way Making room for a new family member isn’t always pleasant for the kids who have to do the rearranging. As parents, we need to help our kids realize that change can lead to joy. Here are four books that ease the growing pains. — Andie Powers

Snuggle the Baby

Wolfie the Bunny

by Peter McCarty

This book has been torn lovingly to shreds in our home, as the interactive format allows for snuggling of your own little cardboard baby. Kids can get ready for a newborn by feeding, changing, and rocking the baby with this modern board book.

Chloe loves being the middle bunny, with 10 older brothers and sisters, and 10 younger brothers and sisters — but when her dad brings home a special surprise, Chloe’s happy routine has to change.

Harry N. Abrams, 2014 Toddlers and up

The Nest

by Ame Dyckman and Zachariah OHora

Balzer + Bray, 2012 Toddlers and up

by Kenneth Oppel and Jon Klassen

Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, 2015 Preschool and up

Simon & Schuster Books; reprint edition, 2016 Age 10 and up

When Dot’s parents adopt a wolf cub into their bunny family, she is insistent that they’ll be eaten! Her enamored parents brush her off, until a scary event causes Dot to change her tune.

This is a creepy tale written for kids who love a good, scary story. Steve’s anxieties are put to the test when a mysterious wasp visits him in his dreams and offers to “fix” his sick, newborn baby brother.

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MAKING ROOM As the fifth most expensive city in the U.S., Seattle is hard to afford. We found families who are making it work, sometimes as single parents or without full-time jobs, while still going to school, starting businesses and taking vacations. When time and money are in short supply, these families find ways to prioritize what’s important. How do they do it?

MAKING R OOM

for more freedom

frugality creates opportunity ‘I have a 4-year-old and I have bought him maybe a handful of things in 4 years.’ BY JIAYING GRYGIEL Barrie Arliss and her husband are freelancers in the gig economy — she’s an advertising copywriter, he’s a videographer. They live with their 4-year-old son in a townhouse in Ballard. What are your priorities? Budget-wise, I just pride myself on not buying anything. I have 4-year-old and I have

Annual check-ins keep Barrie Arliss and her husband on target to retire at 55.

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bought him maybe a handful of things (like swimming goggles or a jacket when I forgot to bring one while traveling) in four years. We have neighbors with older kids, and we’re constantly swapping clothes with each other. We don’t need things. We don’t buy things. If we do ever buy anything — like our recent new-to-us couch — it’s always secondhand. Where are you spending your money? Mortgage and daycare. Food and travel. We’ll buy all the best farm food there is. We have a share in a CSA (community-supported agriculture) for fruits and vegetables. Those kinds of conveniences are just a little more expensive, but they’re important to us. We bought our townhome in 2010, right when things were great for buyers. We got lucky enough to be able to afford that and daycare. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE >

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May 20 18

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< Frugality

and opportunity CONTINUED

MA KING RO O M

We have one kid. We can’t have any more due to my infertility, and after two years of treatments we decided one is good for us. Looking at my friends who have more than one (especially in the daycare years) we are now grateful that we’ll only have one to send to college, one to send to camp, one to buy the sporting and music must-haves. We won’t have to move out of our townhouse for a bigger space. Having just one is a game changer for sure. How do you stretch your budget? We only have one car. And it’s a Prius, so we barely pay for gas. There are so many free things here. I could just go to a park for free and have a great time. We hike. We play games. We check out free events and concerts. My mom lives a block away from us. So we never pay for a babysitter. At least once a week, she’ll take my son for a sleepover so we can have a date night. That saves us $60 for an evening. When she can’t do it, we trade babysitting with friends. Any splurges? A big expense for us is joining a gym. It’s $150 a month for my husband’s gym, but it makes him happy, so it’s $150 well spent. Mine’s $500 for the year. I use it every weekday. Traveling and showing our kid the world is important to us. This year alone, we’ll probably spend $5,000-$6,000 traveling. We recoup some of our travel money by renting out our home on Airbnb. Whenever we go away, we basically cover the cost of staying somewhere else. In the summertime, we’ll put up our place for the weekend. If someone takes it, we’ll go camping. Or we’ll go stay at a friend’s house. What are your long-term goals? We do an annual check-in: Are we still on track? It keeps us honest, and we analyze if we need to change anything in order to retire at 55. That is our target right now.

M A KI N G RO O M

for a career

taking control ‘My passion has been to help moms get back to whatever type of job they feel is perfect’

lost my sense of self-worth as a result of being a stay-at-home parent so long. It can really do a number on your psyche. Women today are raised to be active thinkers, problem-solvers, creators and builders on a larger scale. I’ve always wanted to relaunch, but the divorce was the kick in the ass I needed.

Two years ago, former stayat-home mom Julia Freeland founded her own company, REvolve YOU, a coaching business to help moms get back to careers. Julia is divorced, and her children — ages 9, 12 and 14 — live with her half-time in Wallingford.

How long did you stay at home? I became a stay-at-home mom when my first one was born. Our second was born very quickly — they’re just 17 months apart. Just at the time I was considering going back, we decided to have a third. I knew it would reset my clock and my ability to work. One year turned into 10 very quickly.

Why did you start your own business? Part of my motivation for REvolve YOU is I realized I would have been happier in my marriage and with myself if I had relaunched my career sooner. I wanted to go back, but there was always an excuse: health reasons, something with my children, travel plans, something with his job or my sport (beach volleyball). I forgot about me, and my dreams. Now, I know looking back, I had

What was going back to work like? I was a stay-at-home mom for 10 years. When I got divorced, I shifted into high gear because I had to recoup 10 years of lost career growth. I worked really hard, and I got back to my former title in less than a year. In the process of relaunching and working with Fortune 500 companies, I realized what it really took to relaunch a career. Ever since, my passion has been to help moms get back to what-

Julia Freeland’s goal is to budget money so she doesn’t have to worry about it running out.

ever type of job they feel is perfect. Starting a business takes years to get to where you are earning real money. I was lucky I had spousal support, but it’s running out and my business isn’t growing fast enough. Basically, I haven’t earned a salary for two years — it’s all gone back into the business.

for going back to school

Caroline Millet is a single mom who works in a commission-only job. She works full-time as an independent headhunter, and part-time

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How do you keep track of your budget? I know college-level Excel, but it’s honestly way easier to look at this stupid little note on my phone. Here are my expenses, here is what I have coming in. How much do I have left? I’ll sit there with a calculator. I’ve had times when I’ve had 12 cents for a week.

as an insurance agent. She’s also going to school full-time for a bachelor’s degree in business. She and her daughter, 10, live in an apartment near Green Lake. Where are you spending your money? Rent, car payment, all those fixed expenses. Utilities. Any fees for classes. Phone. Internet. If I don’t make a commission, rent is over half of my income. I’m an independent headhunter. At my job, I have the potential to make a lot more

How did you learn to budget? The best lesson I learned about money was when I was 13. I grew

money. If I get smart about the kind of candidates I work with, there’s no reason I can’t do a lot better. Let’s say I need $3,000 a month for rent, gas and food. I could easily make that with one placement.

Side hustles, Having a plan ‘If money is your only problem, you don’t really have any problems.’

Where are you spending money? Mortgage. Paying for my own insurance. Costs associated with all the different tools I use with my business. Food. I have a teenager who eats twice as much as me.

Caroline Millet’s long-term goal is graduating and working only one job.

Any splurges? I can’t look like this — I have to get my hair cut. I’m just going to do it and figure it out. Every time I look in the mirror, I’m so irritated.

up pretty wealthy, and we got really snotty growing up. We wouldn’t be seen in a certain wing of the mall. We only wanted to wear Esprit and Gap (it was the ’80s). My parents said, “That’s enough. You guys are on a budget.” As a result, my two sisters and I became extremely thrifty because

we started understanding the actual cost of everything.

How do you stretch your budget? You know how everyone has stuff in the back of their pantry they never eat? Well, at one point, I had eaten most of it. I really dug down. Food and convenience eating are the places I make the cuts. This month I know I’m going to end up short, so the last week of the month I’m pet-sitting and house-sitting on Rover.

What are your long-term goals? Graduate. Get down to one job. And have that be enough. It should be. I’m getting there. Do you remember pushing the jogging stroller? It was so hard. Then one day you’re running without the jogging stroller and you feel like you’re flying. That’s pretty much how I think I’ll feel after I graduate. If money is your only problem, you don’t really have problems. It’s solvable. It’s not like being sick. There’s always more to be found. I sell stuff. I go, ‘Hmm, what could I sell?’ Find more. It’s there. Just find it. My advice is to have a full-time job, and part-time hustles. Always have an option, and always have a backup plan.

How do you work your daughter’s expenses into your budget? She’s about to go through a growth spurt. I don’t spend a ton of money on clothes. I buy her clothes maybe twice a year. Summer camps — that’s really expensive. I’m really lucky I don’t pay for those things on my own. Her dad pays for a lot of that.

What are your long-term goals? I always want to have enough money in savings, and I want to spend my money so that I never worry about running out. There’s nothing like divorce to teach you that.

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for another child

Love is redefined for foster mom ‘It was doing the work that built the love’ This May, in celebration of Mother’s Day and National Foster Care Month, Seattle’s Child spoke with Central District resident Carla Saulter about her experience as a foster mother. Her story, as she told it to us: I am married, with two biological children who are 8 and 10. I wanted to become a parent through adoption for as long as I can remember. It just spoke to me. I got married and right away, I was pregnant and my life took a different path. My husband had always said no more than two kids, but when my youngest was about 2 or 3, he was open to it, so we decided that we wanted to expand our family by one. We wanted to do something that is called foster to adoption,

which is when you foster a child who either already needs a permanent home or is very likely to need one in the future. We worked with the nonprofit agency Amara, and they helped us through the licensing process and also did our adoption home study. They ask you what age range and gender you are interested in, what kind of disabilities you are able to deal with and also the legal risk you are willing to tolerate. Legal risk is the likelihood that a child will be returned to their birth parents or be placed with a relative. A lot of parents who come to the foster system with the intention of adopting don’t want high legal risk. But we were open to legal risk. The idea was to be there for a child for as long as he or she needed us. Our foster son was 16 months old when we first got him, and over 2 years old when he left. Coming into it, my kids just loved him with their whole hearts. My husband said that it felt just the same as when our biological kids came home. Getting him — my life was upended. I got a call that they had a child for us and 24 hours

later, he was living with us. He was a toddler. Right when he moved in, I got really sick. And I was home all day alone with him. I was completely overwhelmed and felt like I had just made a lifetime commitment to a stranger. I talked with the social worker and she said it’s very common to feel this way at first. She advised me to just take it one day at a time. It was such a relief. Being a foster mom redefined love for me. I mean more than having my own kids, or when I helped care for my mother during a long illness and her eventual death. For my biological kids, the love started the second I saw them. With my foster son, I didn’t have those same initial feelings. It was doing the work that built the love, the day-to-day caring for him. I remember a moment about five weeks in, when I was up in the middle of the night with him, cleaning some gunk out of his nose to help him breathe, when it just dawned on me: This is love. I love this person. And it was after that that I was able to really tune in to everything that was special about him. The way he pumped his arms up and down when he danced, how he would gently pat your back every time you picked him up. The experience taught me so much. As a biological mother myself, I felt it was important to stay in touch with his family and keep that bond. So our love to him included extending that love to his family. About eight weeks in, there was a meeting that involves parents, lawyers, social workers. The family wanted him back.

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P HOTO BY JOSHUA HUSTON

M A KI N G RO O M

When he was taken from their custody, the family member who was caring for him was overwhelmed and needed support. But slow state processes meant that he lived with us for many, many months after that meeting. It was always very important to me that he feel at home with us. He was just blossoming, and really adjusting to living with us when we found out he would probably have to move. It felt almost cruel, making him a part of our family knowing he would likely leave. But it is good developmentally for kids to form secure attachments. So, I just focused on our bond. I would wake up every day and say, “I’m his mom today,” and do everything I could to love him up on that day. We don’t know what tomorrow holds, but we have control over how we love today. We were really careful when we talked with our biological kids about foster care. We always told them we are caring for him while his own family could not, and that he might go away. Both of my kids adored him. He worshipped my son and tried to copy everything he did. The kids were sad when he left, but honestly, I think they rolled with the changes better than the adults. Eventually, he went to live with his aunt and uncle after about nine months of living with us. We miss him every day. I definitely want to foster again. I’m still dealing with the emotional fallout. I’m proud of how my family handled it. We took a break and then signed up to do respite care, which is just what it sounds like: providing respite for other foster parents, if they need to go out of town, or if they have a high-need child and need a break. That felt more like babysitting, and didn’t involve as much emotional commitment —- or as much commitment, period. If we foster again, I don’t think we’ll approach it with the intention of adopting, though that might end up being the outcome. Instead, we’ll think of it as standing in the gap while the child’s family is in need. There is such a shortage of foster parents right now that kids are being moved hundreds of miles away and spending nights in hotels because there is no place to send them. It’s troubling that we remove kids from their families when we can’t offer them more. We have to do better as a community if we are going to say we are protecting kids. For folks considering becoming foster parents, I would say that it’s one of the most beautiful and rewarding experiences I’ve ever had. It’s really hard and you can do it. If I can do it, anyone can.

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FOSTERING RESOURCES q Alliance for Child Welfare Excellence: allianceforchildwelfare.org/caregivers

q Amara, foster-care and adoption

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q Foster Parent Association of Washington State: fpaws.org

q Fostering Together: fosteringtogether.org

q Washington State Department

of Social and Health Services: dshs.wa.gov/ca/foster-parenting

q Treehouse: treehouseforkids.com q Mockingbird Society: mockingbirdsociety.org

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Find more Summer options throughout this issue and view our guide and directory online at .com 26

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Summ erTim e

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M A KI N G RO O M

for solitude

The

Summe r Experi ence at Forest Ridge Cooking • STEAM • Arts • Outdoors & More!

It’s 3:30 am. Do you know where your mom is? A basement treadmill is this mother’s little helper

PH OTO BY JOS HUA H USTON

BY JIAYING GRYGIEL A few Mother’s Days ago, I orchestrated precisely what I wanted on my day: no flowers please, hubs picks up takeout and everyone leaves Mama alone. Ahh, solitude. On school days, my alarm buzzes at 3:30 am. Not going to lie; I waste an hour scrolling through social media and answering email first. Then I head to the basement to do a couple of miles on the treadmill before the rest of the house wakes up. I’m not athletic, by any stretch of my yoga pants. In high school, it was a bad day if I broke a sweat in gym class. So why do I wake up in the pre-pre dawn — and for exercise? It started in college. Initially, money was my motivation. A friend pointed out that the campus gym is free for students, and not going would be like throwing away a free gym membership. Sold! That first mile was hard. I worked myself up to 1½, then 2 and eventually 6 miles. I rarely took a day off through my 20s. My treadmill time became a part of my routine, like brushing my teeth. When motherhood hit, in between nursing and changing and soothing a baby, that daily run became more

crucial. My younger self ran so that I could eat whatever I wanted. A decade and two babies later, it’s for the peace and quiet I need. Real runners scoff at treadmills, but that beast is my best friend. For the chubster who was always the last one picked for a team, treadmill running turned out to the perfect exercise for me for a lot of reasons. It was easy. The only thing I need is a treadmill, space for a treadmill and a pair of sneakers. No classes, no gym membership. I can exercise even if it’s wet or dark out. It’s also motivation to keep going, because if my feet stop or slow down, I fall off the track. I like that running is a solitary activity. Sure, I could join a running group. Or not. I use the term “running” pretty generously. What I do is more like “heavy lumbering.” Nine-minute, 10-minute, 11-minute miles… It doesn’t matter. All that matters is that no one needs me while I’m plodding along. Sometimes I mentally plan my to-do list for the day, sometimes I pick over some nagging worry. Most of the time, I don’t think about anything at all. I let my mind go blank. I’m not totally nuts — I go to bed when my kids do, so I get nearly eight hours of sleep. The middle of the night is so quiet,I can hear little snores coming from upstairs. That’s when I unload the dishwasher, pack lunches and yes, hop on the hamster wheel. Getting up at 3:30 am. just to be alone? Seize the moments where you find them.

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Chef Herschell Taghap makes room for his most important new diner BY REBEKAH DENN As a chef, Herschell Taghap has some advantages when it comes to feeding his family. But not even restaurant experience prepares a cook for learning someone’s tastes as intimately as a parent knows a child. Mealtimes are different now — and that’s not a complaint. Fatherhood has opened the door to a whole new side of dining for the 37-year-old: “Every day is fulfilling. I don’t want to sound like a Hallmark card, but watching him grow has been the coolest thing for me.” he says. Kitchen prep time at home is now scheduled during his son’s two-hour morning nap. Portion sizes are a lot smaller for the new diner, now 11 months old, than for other family members or restaurant clients. Taghap’s home is “like a small-scale catering kitchen,” where he might prepare a month’s supply of sweet potatoes — about a half-pound — into individual freeze-ahead servings. Taghap, a chef-instructor at the Hot Stove Society and former digital manager for Tom Douglas Restaurants, hasn’t changed what he cooks that much, generally starting up a separate frying pan for the baby’s meal. He uses the same basic ingredients as the adults, now that his son has been exposed to all the major allergens, but is holding off on big-gun additions like added salt and sugar until he turns 1. “I’m purposefully not following my French training, my culinary school training,” says Taghap, whose background includes DJing and computer programming as well as culinary school. For years, though, cooking has been the major source of creativity and catharsis for this dynamic, deep-thinking cook, at home as well as in his restaurant work.

You could say he prepared for the job of family cook early, or that he’s been doing it all his adult life. When his wife, Liana, was pregnant at the height of summer, Taghap sampled a few precious Frog Hollow peaches, the famously sweet, fragrant stone fruits from Northern California, slicing and freezing the best one so that his son could taste it months later. In the beginning, with a nursing newborn, “It was frustrating, not being able to cook things for him,” Taghap says. Once solid food was on the table, Taghap has cooked every meal. It’s a gift that goes both directions. “Cooking, to me, was the first thing I could do for them that I own. And my wife let me own it,” he says. Congee porridge — rice and water — was his son’s first meal. “It was important that his food memory was something that was so important in my life. My mom served rice for every meal … and I serve rice for almost every meal,” he says. At nine months, he added dried scallops to the porridge. Taghap shops more efficiently now than before, trying to avoid last-minute trips to the grocery store. He buys meat in bulk on sale, portioning it out for stir-fries or other recipes, and freezing it. He makes his own sausage. He still takes time to plate food attractively, even though his primary customer, now toddling around the room, prefers speed over presentation. “He doesn’t care if the tomato was concasseed (peeled, seeded and precisely chopped.) He doesn’t care about perfect bias (a diagonal cut.) He just wants to eat it,” says Taghap. So far, everything except Brussels sprouts has been a hit. (Boiling and puréeing them may have been a mistake, Taghap says — next time, he plans to brown them.) “He has been watching me eat since he was born, and he always looked at us with wonder when we were eating,” Taghap says. “So when we gave him food there was no learning curve. He put it in his mouth and he just did whatever we were doing, and it was awesome.”

P H OTO COU RTE SY O F H ER S CH E L L TAGH A P

(High chair) table for one, please

M A KI N G RO O M

BABY

for exercise

3 seatt leschil d.com / baby

New moms ease back into workouts (and skinny jeans) Phinney studio specializes in maternal fitness

PHOTO BY JIAYING GRYGIEL

BY JIAYING GRYGIEL Registered nurse and certified pregnancy fitness educator Maura Shirey walks around the room and checks on each of the moms in her group. It’s the final week of the eight-week Return to Fitness course at Bodies for Birth, a fitness studio for moms anywhere from conception to postpartum. The class of seven is about to graduate. Becky Meldrum mentions her back feels funny, possibly from side nursing and holding the baby. Maggie Meyers, back at work after her maternity leave, appreciates the encouragement she got from the class text stream. Jenny Boe tells her fellow mothers, “We had a lot of tears this week. A lot of crying in the crib.” The studio is just big enough for seven or

Instructor Maura Shirey, far right, pushes her class, but offers modifications if it feels like too much: “This is where you can go to, you don’t have to go there today.”

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE >

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4206 Stone Way North 206.428.6004

< Bodies

for Birth CONTINUED

eight women to lay down mats. In the little office off to the side, there’s a comfy chair for nursing and moms gather to chat and trade notes before and after class. Babies are welcome too — there’s a special mom-and-baby workout time, where moms can bring their new babes (because finding time to work out is hard enough without figuring out childcare). The babies in the group ranged from 16 weeks to 15 months. Do the math — some of the moms started working out just eight weeks after giving birth. What do postpartum moms need? It’s often about restoring what pregnancy and childbirth has altered. “In the beginning, gentle core and pelvic restoration is really important,” Shirey says. “In the early days, I’m thinking about alignment. About how moms are using their bodies in everyday life. Nutrition, hydration, sleep, core and pelvic movement, joyful moment.” Beyond that foundation, Shirey works with new moms in a progressive retraining program to get back to high-intensity workouts. There are weights. Pulsing. Wall-sits. And always, command over core. Shirey encourages the class to challenge themselves. “If you want more, bring it to the top!” she calls out. “Maybe with more sleep,” a mom sasses. Shirey started Bodies for Birth four years ago after having her son, Will. “I used to joke I didn’t even have a shirt on the first three months. I was just overwhelmed, adjusting to motherhood,” she says. Her body felt different, and she couldn’t find any guidelines for new moms getting back into exercise. Shirey’s goal for the postpartum class is to empower moms, help them heal and guide them back to fitness in a safe way. Maybe moms want back into their skinny jeans. Or maybe they just want to laugh without peeing. The class is part workout, part gab fest. This sorority of new moms is social and supportive, and they’re all in on the same inside jokes. “My mom network has grown so much from being here,” says Meyers, who has a 17-week-old baby. “I came because I was worried about my body. Now I realize it’s more about community.” Meyers worked out at Bodies for Birth through her pregnancy, and signed up for the postpartum class because she wanted to stay fit. As a huge side perk, she gained a community of women who’d all been through the same thing. It made going back to work an easier transition. “So I have to admit,” Meyers says between crunches, “my work pants? My butt is a little better.” Cheers all around from the class: “Whooo!” q Bodies for Birth, bodiesforbirth.com, 6512 Phinney Ave. N., Seattle

„ Find more nest-making ideas on seattleschild.com

LOCAL RESOURCES FOR BUSY PARENTS: Find classes, plan birthday parties and more with our constantly updated online directory of family-friendly businesses » seattleschild.com/directories L I V I N G L A R G E I N S M A L L A N D U N I Q U E S PAC E S

q BY A N D I E P OW E R S

@ A N D I E GW P OW E R S

>>MakingHome

Richard Nixon and Stephen Malkmus with their family inside a custom catio.

A purrfect space P H OTO BY JOS H UA H U STON

THIS TACOMA FAMILY MAKES ROOM FOR THEIR PET MENAGERIE WITH A UNIQUE DIY ADDITION It’s tight quarters on a busy street for a couple, their baby and their four pets — two dogs and two cats. When Adam Meeks and Kylie Agostino moved into the

1,200-square-foot house on a busy street in the Highline neighborhood of northeast Tacoma, they knew that Richard Nixon and Stephen Malkmus would have to become

indoor cats to stay safe. But oh, the pet hair that began to overrun the house, followed by the huge amount of housework it required. With new baby Nora, 1, toddling about the house, Kylie and Adam needed a way to make more room for everyone in their home. So they built a “catio,” an enclosed cat patio, to give the cats a safe outdoor environment. “The catio lets us separate our lovely, hairy pets from the rest of the house when needed,” says Kylie. “Our dogs rule the backyard. The catio gives Nora CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE >

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MakingHome space

CONTINUED

somewhere safe to play away from the street. Now she has a clean house and a less stressed-out mom.” To build the catio, the couple set posts and built an 85-square-foot framework off of the back of the house. Salvaging a 20-year-old fence from Kylie’s parents, they repurposed the wood to create the 1-inch slats that make up the catio’s lower half. They capped the space with a clear, corrugated roof and wire across the upper half, so the cats can enjoy a full 360-degree view. Then they set about decorating the catio. There are extra ramps for sleep and play, a bird feeder outside the fence so the cats can watch birds, and some low-maintenance landscaping including catnip plants and a baby rocking chair for Nora and the cats. When the cats aren’t lounging outside, they have access to half of the house, lessening the housework. “We leave the craft room that leads to the catio open all the time, so they can just jump in and out,” says Kylie. While the catio is definitely a sanctuary for the furry felines, Nora will be able to join them as she gets older. Stephen is a recluse, but Nixon and Nora have become fast friends, and often play together on the catio or in Nora’s playpen. “Nixon is the

A charming catio is a safe semioutdoor space for felines.

mouse and Nora is the cat,” says Kylie. “I have to put Nixon on the catio when Nora is napping, or she will nuzzle and headbutt her awake every time.” When it comes to tips they have for people who want to build their own catios, Kylie advises: “Make a game plan first. You don’t need to be an expert. Just do a little

homework and find a style that inspires you, as well as suits your family’s needs.” They found a lot of free and discounted building supplies on local websites. If building a catio is beyond your skill set, find someone more familiar with yard construction: “Don’t be afraid to ask for help,” Kylie says.

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P HOTOS BY JOSHUA HUSTON

< Purrfect

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

Erika’s picks for May 1

May 5

q B Y E R I K A L E E B I G E LOW

May 11-12

May 17

May 19-20

May 27

Cartoonist Workshop Cartoonist Vishavjit Singh demonstrates his skill and shares his inspiration during a fun, free, interactive storytelling session at the Wing Luke Museum. Stick around for a tour of the current exhibit.

Northwest Paddling Festival Tired of watching other people having fun out on the water? Try canoeing, kayaking and standup paddleboarding at Sunset Beach in Lake Sammamish State Park, with races to see and demonstrations.

Syttende Mai: 17th of May Festival Celebrate Norwegian Constitution Day in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood. Visit the Nordic Heritage Museum, listen to live music and entertainment at Bergen Place, then watch the parade at 6 pm. Skål!

University District Street Fair Don’t miss the longestrunning street fair in the country on “The Ave,” with hundreds of craft, food and information booths, multiple entertainment stages, street performers and a kids’ area.

I Dig Dinos: Undersea Environments The UW’s Burke Museum hosts three prehistoric stations, where kids can touch real fossils, solve dinosaur mysteries, play dino dress-up and make discoveries in the dino dig pit.

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W H AT ’ S H A P P E N I N G A R O U N D T O W N

qBY NICOLE SANTORA

»Calendar 05/18 Tuesday, May 1 S E AT T L E A R E A

May Day. Celebrate spring with a dance around the maypole followed by a potluck. Wearing white is encouraged. Games and sack races for kids. 5 pm. FREE. Woodland Park, Seattle (Fremont). EASTSIDE

Reading with Rover. Kids can practice reading skills in front of a trained therapy dog. 6:30 to 7:30 pm. FREE. Half Price Books, Redmond. www.readingwithrover.org

Thursday, May 3 S E AT T L E A R E A

PHOTO BY C HRISTOPHE R NE LS ON

Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience. See a funny rock musical based on the book by Mo Willems. Best for ages 5 and older. 3:30 pm today; various times through May 13. Seattle Children’s Theatre, Seattle (Lower Queen Anne). www.sct.org Burien Carnival & Flea Market. Carnival rides, games, and a flea market. 2 to 10 pm today through Sun. Free admission, $$ for rides and games. Puget Sound Park, Burien. www.facebook.com/ BurienFarmersMarket

It’s tulip time! Read our tips for taking the best family photos on page 34.

The Lamp is The Moon. See this world premiere by author Kirk Lynn, filled with audience interaction and playful energy. Best for ages 3 and older. 3:30 pm today and various times through May 20. Seattle Children’s Theatre, Seattle (Lower Queen Anne). www.sct.org

Northwest Folklife

Friday, May 4 S E AT T L E A R E A

Taco Trivia. Enjoy tacos, trivia, a piñata and games. 6 to 7:30 pm. $, free ages 3 and younger. Pre-register. Loyal Heights Community Center, Seattle (Loyal Heights). www.seattle.gov

Girls’ Night Out. Girls from 5th to 8th grade are invited to engage with female professionals from different STEM fields through one-on-one interactions and hands-on activities. 4 to 7 pm. $$$. Pre-register. Pacific Science Museum, Seattle (Lower Queen Anne). www.pacificsciencecenter.org

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

The Sammamish Montessori School

Teen Night Out. High-school-age teens are invited to an after-hours event featuring showcases, DJs, and hands-on art workshops. 7 to 10 pm. FREE. Seattle Art Museum, Downtown Seattle. www.seattleartmuseum.org

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The Wizard of Oz. See a live-action, family-friendly version of the classic musical. 7 pm tonight; various times through May 12. $$. Bellevue Youth Theatre, Bellevue. www.parks.bellevuewa.gov

Saturday, May 5 S E AT T L E A R E A

www.sammamishmontessori.com • 425-883-3271

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Auntie Lena’s African Stories. Storyteller Val Thomas-Matson and her friend Possum introduce animals that tell three stories of friendship from Africa. 1 and 3 pm through Sun. Magnuson Park Theatre Building #47, Seattle (Sand Point). www.thistletheatre.org

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Nordic Museum Grand Opening Community Festival. Celebrate the opening of the newly built Nordic Museum with live performances by storytellers, musicians, folk performers and more. FREE, admission and pre-registration required to visit galleries. Noon to 5:30 pm today, 9 am to 7 pm Sun. www.nordicmuseum.org

Sleepover & Day Camps

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Romeo & Juliet. Hear Prokofiev’s interpretation of the Shakespeare classic. This is part of a Classical KING-FM Family concert series best for ages 5 to 12. Pre-concert activities begin include crafts and instrument exploration. 11 am. $$ to $$$. Benaroya Hall, Downtown Seattle. www.seattlesymphony.org Spring is in the Air. Hear three youth choirs perform a variety of songs including Jabberwocky, We are the Music Makers, and Everlasting Melody. 2 pm. $$, free ages 17 and younger. Glendale Lutheran Church, Burien. www.facebook.com/nwassociatedarts Fiesta 5K Olé!. A fun run/walk on Cinco de Mayo followed by a food truck festival and live music. 9:30 am. $$$. Volunteer Park, Capitol Hill. www.fiesta5kole.com Cartoonist Workshop. Cartoonist Vishavjit Singh shares his work and inspiration with an interactive storytelling session. Afterwards, tour the current exhibit, Wham! Bam! Pow! Cartoons, Turbans, and Confronting Hate. 1:30 to 3 pm. Included with admission, $$, free ages 5 and younger. Pre-register online. Wing Luke Museum, Seattle (International District). www.wingluke.org iFEST. See what’s new at this festival devoted to indie games of all types: video, board, and card. 11 am to 3 pm. FREE. Seattle Center Armory (Lower Queen Anne). www.ifest.us Cinco de Mayo Celebration. Traditional Mexican food for sale, children’s activities, arts and crafts from local vendors, performances and more. 11 am to 5pm. FREE. El Centro de la Raza (Beacon Hill). www.elcentrodelaraza.org Windermere Cup and Opening Day Boat Parade. Official opening of Seattle’s boating season features the Windermere Cup Regatta crew races (10 am) followed by a decorated boat parade with all sizes of boats, from rowboats to Seattle Fire Department boats. FREE. Montlake Cut, Seattle (Montlake). Parking available in University of Washington lots. www.windermerecup.com EASTSIDE

Rapunzel. See a live-action musical version of the classic tale performed by StoryBook Theater. Best for ages 3 and older. Sensory friendly performances available ($), see schedule online. 11 am, 1 and 3 pm today through Sun. $$. Kirkland Performance Center, Kirkland. www.kpcenter.org May Day. Celebrate Spring with games, food trucks, hayrides, and a maypole. 11 am

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Mini Maestros: Peter and the Wolf. Each instrument represents a different character in this classic Russian folktale. 2:30 to 3:30 pm. $ to $$. Schneebeck Hall at the University of Puget Sound, Tacoma. www.symphonytacoma.org

Monday, May 7 SOUTH SOUND

Three Billy Goats Gruff. See a short, interactive show perfect for ages 5 and younger based on the classic tale. 10 am today;various times through Sun. $. Olympia Family Theater, Olympia. www.olyft.org

Wednesday, May 9 EASTSIDE

An Art-astic Evening. See demonstrations, enjoy hands-on art activities, and enjoy live performances. 6 to 9 pm. $. Pre-register. KidsQuest Museum, Bellevue. www.kidsquestmuseum.org

Friday, May 11 S E AT T L E A R E A

Kaleidoscope Spring Concert. See young showcasing the work of eight choreographers from Seattle and around the country. 7:30 pm tonight; various times through Sun. $ to $$$. Broadway Performance Hall, Downtown Seattle. www.creativedance.org

Girls on the Run

to 2 pm. FREE. Jubilee Farm, Carnation. www.jubileefarm.org

Sun. $$ to $$$. Federal Way Performing Arts & Event Center, Federal Way. www.fwpaec.org

The Great SBCC Challenge. Teams of 3 to 5 kids compete against other teams to earn points by completing physical, mental and creative feats. Ages 6 and older. 10 am to 1 pm. $$. Pre-register. South Bellevue Community Center, Bellevue. www.bellevuewa.gov

Youth Fishing Derby. Kids ages 14 and younger can fish for trout. Bring your own gear, limited gear available to borrow. 8:30 am to noon. FREE. Mill Pond Park, Auburn. www.auburnwa.gov

A Festival for May. Maypole dancing, craft demonstrations, games and entertainment. Medieval clothing optional (greens and yellows preferred). Noon to 5 pm today and Sun. $ to $$. Feast at 5 pm; by reservation only ($$$). Camlann Medieval Village, Carnation. www.camlann.org NORTH SOUND

Powwow. One of the largest powwows in Washington, a celebration of Native American singing, drumming, dancing, and arts and crafts. Grand entries 1 and 7 pm today, 1 pm Sun. FREE. Edmonds Community College’s Seaview Gym, Lynnwood. www.edcc.edu/powwow Watershed Fun Fair. Guided nature walks, nature crafts and kids’ activities, plus information on conservation topics. 11 am to 3 pm. FREE. Edmonds Wildlife Habitat and Native Plant Garden at Willow Creek, Edmonds. www.edmondswa.gov Youth & Family Wellness Fair. Third annual event features resources and education on topics like mental health, bullying, suicide prevention, LGBTQ issues, music therapy and parenting. Also enjoy live entertainment, face painting, a bike rodeo, games and family photos. 10 am to 3 pm. FREE. Evergreen Middle School, Everett. www.uwsc.org/wellnessfair

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Everett Rock and Gem Club Show. Hourly door prizes, kids’ activities, demonstrations, displays, vendors and refreshments. 10 am to 6 pm today, 10 am to 5 pm Sun. FREE. Everett Community College Student Fitness Center, Everett. www.everettrockclub.com Kids’ Fishing Derby. Bring your own gear or use the equipment provided. Door prizes and grand prizes are determined by a random drawing of all participants. Limit one fish per child. No pets. 8 to 11 am. FREE, bring canned food donation. Optional pancake breakfast ($). Kiwanis Pond in Jennings Park, Marysville. www.marysvillewa.gov SOUTH SOUND

Cinderella. Tacoma City Ballet performs Cinderella with a live orchestra. 2 p.m. through

Lacey STEM Fair. Meet with school clubs and teams who will showcase their science, technology, engineering and mathematics projects. 10 am to 3 pm. FREE. Huntamer Park, Lacey. www.ci.lacey.wa.us Cinco de May 5K. Chip-timed race and 1-mile kids’ dash. Strollers and leashed dogs welcome. 10 am. $$. Wright Park, Tacoma. www.metroparkstacoma.org

Sunday, May 6 S E AT T L E A R E A

Youth Sailing Open House. Take a sailboat ride, play games, see demonstrations, and more. 11 am to 3 pm. FREE. Sail Sand Point, Seattle (Sand Point). www.nwyouthsailing.org Walk for Water. 5K walk benefits clean water programs in Ethiopia, Bangladesh and Honduras. 1 pm. $$. Seattle Center fountain (Lower Queen Anne). www.water1st.org Kodomo no Hi (Children’s Day). Kids’ activities, crafts, food, Japanese cultural performances and more. 11 am to 5 pm. FREE. Japanese Cultural & Community Center of Washington, Seattle (Central District). www.jcccw.org Asian-Pacific Islander Heritage Month Celebration. Song, dance, music and art celebrate the diverse cultures of the Asian-Pacific Islander communities. Watch youth drill teams, dance performances, a hum bow eating contest and more. 11:45 am to 5 pm. FREE. Seattle Center Armory (Lower Queen Anne). www.apiheritage.com EASTSIDE

Growing Musicians. Stroll the gardens and hear music from students with Bellevue Youth Symphony Orchestra at stations throughout the grounds. 2:30 to 4 pm. FREE; donations welcomed. Bellevue Botanical Garden, Bellevue. www.byso.org SOUTH SOUND

Photo Fest. Explore the art of photography with hands-on art activities, story time, and the exhibit Captive Light: The Life and Photography of Ella E. McBride. Noon to 4 pm. FREE. Tacoma Art Museum, Tacoma. www.tacomaartmuseum.org

PhinneyWood Art Walk – The Big One. See work from more thanr 150 artists in 75-plus Phinney/Greenwood locations, plus enjoy food, music, kids’ activities and more. 6 to 9 pm today, noon to 5 pm Sat. FREE. Greenwood/Phinney Ridge business district, Seattle. www.artupphinneywood.com Mother’s Day Plant Sale. Explore the garden in bloom and take part in kids’ activities. The annual Mother’s Day Plant Sale offers native plants, bulbs and exotics, including items from guest nurseries. 10 am to 5 pm through Sun. FREE. Kruckeberg Botanic Garden, Shoreline. www.kruckeberg.org EASTSIDE

Northwest Paddling Festival. Try out canoeing, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding ($), watch races and demonstrations, visit vendors and more. Kids can try out aqua paddlers or build a toy boat. 2 to 7 pm today, 9 am to 5 pm Sat. FREE, parking $10 or free with Discover Pass. Sunset Beach at Lake Sammamish State Park, Issaquah. www.northwestpaddlingfestival.com SOUTH SOUND

Cinder Edna. A play about Cinderella’s next-door neighbor, who also has a wicked stepmother, but decides to take a more self-reliant approach to get to the ball. 7 pm tonight; various times through June 3. $$. Olympia Family Theater, Olympia. www.olyft.org

Saturday, May 12 S E AT T L E A R E A

The Pilot Experience. Kids 10 and older can take flight in a professional-grade flight simulator. Kids under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. 11 am and 1 pm today, 11 am and 2 pm Sun and May 26-27. $$. Museum of Flight, Tukwila. www.museumofflight.org Thousand Faces Chinese Opera. See a traditional Chinese opera with ornate costumes, acrobats and fire-spitting stunts. 7:20 pm. $$$. Chief Sealth International High School, West Seattle. www.asiapacificculturalcenter.org Curiosity Days: Seeds to Eats. Learn about the science behind agriculture, nutrition and taste from local experts. 10 am to 6 pm through Sun. Included with admission $$$, free ages 2 and younger. Pacific Science Center, Lower Queen Anne. www.pacificsciencecenter.org Pierogi Fest. Eat Polish dumplings (pierogi) and other foods, plus enjoy cultural activities and entertainment. 11:30 am to 4 pm. FREE. Dom

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Calendar Polski (Polish Cultural Center), Seattle (Capitol Hill). www.polishhome.org Seattle Maritime Festival. Ship tours, harbor tours, kids’ activities, live music, food and more. 11 am to 4 pm. FREE. Seattle Maritime Academy, Seattle (Ballard). www.seattlemaritime101.com River Run/Walk 5K. Run or walk along the Duwamish River Trail. Wildlife themed costumes encouraged. Strollers and leashed pets welcome. 10 am. $$. Tukwila Community Center, Tukwila. www.backyardwildlifefestival.org Backyard Wildlife Festival. Arts and crafts, speakers, kids’ area with hands-on activities, entertainment and more. 10 am to 3 pm. FREE. Tukwila Community Center, Tukwila. www.backyardwildlifefestival.org Richmond Beach Strawberry Festival. Food, arts and crafts, car show and more. Kids Parade with a Superhero theme (no bikes or pets) for ages 8 and younger at 11:45 am. Shuttle available from Richmond Beach Congregational Church. Noon to 5 pm. FREE. Richmond Beach Community Park, Shoreline. www.richmondbeachwa.org Mom & Me at the Zoo. Moms enjoy half-price admission, plus family activities on the North Meadow. 9:30 am to noon. Included with admission. $$. Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle (Phinney Ridge). www.zoo.org

PetPalooza

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Creekside Caddisflies. Explore the creek with a park ranger and learn about caddisflies, dragonflies and more. Best for kids ages 5 to 10 with an adult. 2:30 to 3:30 pm today and May 20. FREE. Lewis Creek Park Visitors Center, Bellevue. www.bellevuewa.gov Mothers Ride Free. Northwest Railway Museum’s scenic 70-minute round trip departs from Snoqualmie or North Bend. See schedule online. $$, moms free through Sun. with paying child of any age. www.trainmuseum.org NORTH SOUND

Reptile Expo. See a large variety of reptiles along with educational booths, art, hands-on activities and more. 10 am to 5 pm. $ to $$, free ages 5 and younger. Evergreen State Fairground, Monroe. www.nwreptileexpos.com Kids Fish-In. Kids can get tips from experts as they try their hand at fishing. Bring your own rod, bait and tackle. Ages 4 to 14. Space is limited, pre-registration required. 7:30 am to 1:30 pm. FREE. Thornton A. Sullivan Park at Silver Lake, Everett. www.everettwa.gov Mothers Day Celebration. Visit with Mother Goose (noon to 3 pm today) plus kids can pick up materials at participating shops to make a wind chime for their moms. 11 am to 4 pm through Sun. FREE. Country Village, Bothell. www.countryvillagebothell.com Mother’s Day Saturday Sail. Enjoy a free boat ride (sailing, rowing, paddling or motor) and build a toy boat while you wait for your turn. Sign-ups fill early for rides throughout the day. 10 am to 4 pm. FREE, Discover Pass required for parking. Cama Beach State Park, Camano Island. www.cwb.org Kids Plant for Mom’s Day. Young gardeners can decorate and plant a Mother’s Day flowerpot. Join the Children’s Parade from the Edmonds Library (noon, FREE). 9 am to 2 pm. $$. Edmonds Farmers Market, Edmonds. www.edmondsinbloom.com SOUTH SOUND

Special Needs Fishing Derby. Preschool and school-age kids with special needs are invited to catch fish from a well-stocked pond. Bring gear

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or borrow (limited quantity available). 9 am to 1 pm. FREE. Mill Pond Park, Auburn. www.auburnwa.gov 5K for Abilities. Celebrate all abilities in this 5k on a flat, scenic course. Wheelchairs and strollers welcomed. 9 to 11 am. Roegner Park, Auburn. www.skillsinc.com Olympia Wooden Boat Fair. Kids can build their own small wooden boat today. The fair features wooden boats of all types, ages and sizes on display, food and craft vendors, and live entertainment. 10 am to 6 pm today, 11 am to 5 pm Sun. FREE. Character’s Corner, Olympia. www.olywoodenboat.org Half-Price for Moms at the Zoo. Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium in Tacoma is offering moms half-price admission today. 9:30 am to 5 pm. $ to $$, free ages 2 and younger. www.pdza.org

Sunday, May 13 Mother’s Day S E AT T L E A R E A

ArtVenture: Poster Party. Use posters that have inspired you to create a poster using mixed media. Materials provided. 1 to 3 pm. FREE. Henry Art Gallery, Seattle (University District). www.henryart.org Free Admission for Moms at Museum of Flight. Moms accompanied by kids are given free admission to the museum. 10 am to 5 pm. $$ to $$$, free ages 4 and younger and mothers.

Mother’s Day Half Marathon and 5K. Half marathon run/walk (7:30 am, Northwest University), 5K run/walk (8 am, Juanita Beach Park), and free kids’ dash for ages 10 and younger (10 am). $$$. www.promotionevents.com NORTH SOUND

Rapunzel. See a live action musical version of the classic tale performed by StoryBook Theater. Best for ages 3 and older. 11 am and 1 pm. $$. Everett PUD Auditorium, Everett. www.storybooktheater.org SOUTH SOUND

Thousand Faces Chinese Opera. See a traditional Chinese opera with ornate costumes, acrobats and fire-spitting stunts. 7:20 pm. $$$. Pantages Theater, Tacoma. www.asiapacificculturalcenter.org Mother’s Day 5K. Run/walk and a free 1-mile kids’ dash (ages 12 and younger). 8:30 am kids’ run, 8:45 am 5K. $$ to $$$. Hands On Children’s Museum, Olympia. www.fscss.org FA R T H E R A F I E L D

Nature’s Nurturers: A Celebration of Mothers. Celebrate mom with hikes, games, food, and a special Mother’s Day Tea. 1 to 5 pm. $$ to $$$, free ages 3 and younger. IslandWood, Bainbridge Island. www.islandwood.org

Tuesday, May 15 S E AT T L E A R E A

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The Color Run. Wear white and get doused in nontoxic colored powder at each kilometer of this 5K fun run. 8 am. $$$. Seattle Center (Lower Queen Anne). www.thecolorrun.com EASTSIDE

Free Admission for Moms. Moms and grandmas will enjoy free admission today. Noon to 5 pm. $$, free younger than age 1. KidsQuest Children’s Museum, Bellevue. www.kidsquestmuseum.org Woof Hike. Explore the park on a ranger-led, 3.5-mile hike with your dog. Limit one dog per participant. 10 am to noon. FREE. Lakemont Community Park, Bellevue. www.parks.bellevuewa.gov Mother’s Day at the Garden. Open house includes music and light refreshments in a beautiful garden setting. 10 am to 4 pm. FREE, donations accepted. Bellevue Botanical Garden, Bellevue. www.bellevuebotanical.org

Take A Spin. Ride in classic vehicles from antiques and pre-war Classics to the Fabulous Fifties. 11 am to 2 pm. $$. LeMay America’s Car Museum, Tacoma. www.americascarmuseum.org

Thursday, May 17 S E AT T L E A R E A

Fun Run for Tots. Kids ages 3 to 6 can run a 1k complete with racing numbers, prizes and treats. Participants must wear running shoes. Pre-register by May 10 to receive a T-shirt. 6 pm. $$. Magnuson Sports Meadow Park, Seattle (Sand Point). www.seattle.gov

P HOTO COU RTE SY O F C IT Y OF AU BU R N

Charlotte’s Web. See a live action, kid-friendly performance based on the classic book by E.B. White, part of SecondStory Rep’s Theater for Young Audiences Series. 1 and 3 pm today and weekends through June 2. $$. SecondStory Repertory, Redmond. www.secondstoryrep.org

Calendar Syttende Mai: 17th of May Festival. Day-long celebration of Norwegian Constitution Day in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood. Events are FREE, food and merchandise available for purchase. Visit the Nordic Heritage Museum for FREE (2655 NW Market St.) plus enjoy entertainment with a Nordic flair at Bergen Place (Market Street and Leary Avenue), 2 to 5 pm. From 6 to 8 pm is the 17th of May Parade, starting at NW 62nd Street and 24th Avenue NW. www.17thofmay.org Park in the Dark. Learn about nocturnal and crepuscular creatures active at the arboretum, and go on a hike to listen and look for them. 8 to 9:30 pm today and May 19. $. Pre-register. Washington Park Arboretum Graham Visitors Center, Seattle (Montlake). www.depts.washington.edu/uwbg

Friday, May 18 S E AT T L E A R E A

Classic British Tales. Theatre for Young Children performs two classic tales from Britain to celebrate spring — The Fairy Tulips and Tale of Peter Rabbit. Best for ages 2 and older. 11:15 am. FREE. Green Lake Community Center, Seattle (Green Lake). www.seattle.gov Everfree Northwest. Seattle’s only My Little Pony fan convention with discussion panels, games, live music, kids’ activities and costumed characters. Today through Sun. $$$, free ages 12 and younger. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Seattle Airport, SeaTac. www.everfreenw.com EASTSIDE

Batty Nights. Learn about bats in their habitat on this ranger-led hike. Best for ages 5 and older. 8:30 to 10 pm. FREE. Pre-register. Lewis Creek Park Visitors Center, Bellevue. www.bellevuewa.gov

Saturday, May 19 S E AT T L E A R E A

Mammals of Mercer Slough. Join a park ranger to learn about the residents of the park through exploration, hands-on activities and crafts. Best for ages 5 to 10. 2 to 3 pm. FREE. Pre-register. Mercer Slough Environment Education Center, Bellevue. www.parks.bellevuewa.gov Auntie Lena’s African Stories. Storyteller Val Thomas-Matson and her friend Possum introduce animals that tell three stories of friendship from Africa. 1 and 3 pm through Sun. Sunset Hill Community Club, Seattle (Ballard). www.thistletheatre.org Hello Mrs. Piggle Wiggle! Studio East performs a fun musical based on the children’s book by Betty MacDonald. Best for ages 5 and older. 2:30 pm today; various times through June 10. $$. Studio East, Bellevue. www.studio-east.org Rapunzel. See a live-action musical version of the classic tale performed by StoryBook Theater. Best for ages 3 and older.11 am. $$. Shoreline Conference Center, Shoreline. www.storybooktheater.org Get Up & Go Pajama 5k. Fun run and kids’ dash to raise funds for Seattle Children’s Hospital research and uncompensated care. Pajamas encouraged. 9 am. $$$, free ages 10 and younger. Pre-register. Lake Forest Park City Hall, Lake Forest Park. www.getupandgo5k.com West Seattle Bee Festival. Fun run (9:30 am), kids’ and pet parade (11 am), games, crafts, beehive demo (noon), food and live music. 9:30 am to 3 pm. FREE. High Point Commons Park, West Seattle. www.westseattlebeegarden.com A Glimpse of China: Seattle Chinese Arts and Culture Festival. Music, dance, art, food, kids’ activities and more. 11 am to 6 pm. FREE.

Seattle Center Armory (Lower Queen Anne). www.chinaartandculture.org University District StreetFair. The l ongest-running street fair in the country features hundreds of craft, food and information booths, entertainment stages, street performers, a kids’ area and more. 10 am to 7 pm today, 10 am to 6 pm Sun. FREE. University Way Northeast, Seattle (U District). www.udistrictstreetfair.org Kenmore Waterfront Fair. Try out kayaks, paddleboards, canoes and dragon boats, and learn about paddling clubs, camps and lessons. Noon to 2:30 pm. FREE. Log Boom Park and Squires Landing, Kenmore. www.kenmorewac.org NORTH SOUND

Peter and the Wolf, Les Sylphides. Emerald Ballet Theatre’s spring production features two classic ballets in one performance, with live musicians. 2 pm today through Sun. $$ to $$$. Northshore Performing Arts Center, Bothell. Paine Field Aviation Day. Kids’ activities, aircraft displays, historic plane flyovers, food and more. 10 am to 5 pm. $$, free ages 9 and younger. Paine Field, Everett. www.flyingheritage.com Health & Fitness Expo. Explore booths and activities highlighting sports, healthy eating and more. Family fun run ($$ to $$$) at 10:30 am. 9 am to noon. FREE. Edmonds School District Stadium, Edmonds. www.hfexpo.edmondswa.gov UW Bothell Husky 5K. Run/walk benefits student scholarships. Pups & Cubs Crawl 1K for young kids (10 am). Leashed dogs welcome. 9 am. $ to $$$. UW Bothell Campus, Bothell. www.uwb.edu SOUTH SOUND

Robot Design Challenge. Learn from a high school robotics team and create your own robot.

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Calendar

11 am to 4 pm. Included with admission, $$, free ages 5 and younger. LeMay America’s Car Museum, Tacoma. www.americascarmuseum.org Beyond Borders. Rainier Youth Choirs’ six choirs and three local guest ensembles will perform separately and together in this multicultural concert. 3 pm. $. Lindbergh High School, Auburn. www.auburnwa.gov Touch-a-Truck. Explore vehicles that build, serve and protect communities. Also enjoy giveaways and food trucks. 11 am to 2 pm. FREE. Parking lot adjacent to Performing Arts and Event Center of Federal Way, Federal Way. www.itallhappenshere.org Evans Memorial Fishing Event. Kids ages 5 to 14 can try their hand at fishing. Fishing gear provided. 9 am to 3:30 pm. $$. Pre-register. American Lake Park, Lakewood. www.cityoflakewood.us Queen Victoria’s Birthday. Fort Nisqually celebrates with volleys of muskets, birthday toasts, music, games and other 1850s-style fun. 11 am to 5 pm. Included with admission. $, free ages 4 and younger. Fort Nisqually Living History Museum, Tacoma. www.fortnisqually.org Spring Fairy Festival. Music, dancing, juggling and other live entertainment, artisan market, workshops and more. Costumes encouraged. 10 am to 7 pm. FREE. Crescent Moon Gifts, Tacoma. www.springfairyfestival.com Lacey Spring Fun Fair. Annual celebration features games, face painting, a train, inflatables, pony rides, crafts, live entertainment, lip-sync contest (2 pm Sun.) and more. 10 am to 6 pm today, 11 am to 5 pm Sun. FREE. Saint Martin’s University, Lacey. www.laceyspringfunfair.com Armed Forces Day. Military vehicles on display, historic battle reenactments, music, roving entertainers, rides, food, crafts and more. 10 am to 6 pm FREE. Joint Base Lewis-McChord, I-5 exit 119. www.jblmmwr.com/armedforcesday Petpalooza. Dog Trot 3K/5K Fun Run (9:30 am, $$$), live entertainment, pet contests, petting area, demonstrations, kids’ activities, pony rides, agility areas and more. Leashed, licensed, well-behaved pets welcome. 10 am to 5 pm. FREE. Game Farm Park, Auburn. www.auburnwa.gov Capital City Marathon Kids Run. 1.2-mile race just for kids (8th-graders and younger). 4 pm. FREE. Heritage Park, Olympia. www.capitalcitymarathon.org FA R T H E R A F I E L D

Armed Forces Day Parade. See the largest, longest-running Armed Forces Day parade in the country, featuring all branches of the military, police and firefighters, youth organizations, dignitaries and more. 10 am. FREE. Downtown Bremerton. www.bremertonchamber.org

Sunday, May 20 S E AT T L E A R E A

JazzEd Jamboree. Hear a lineup of young musicians play jazz. See complete schedule online. Noon to 5 pm. FREE. Langston Hughes Performing Arts Center, Seattle (Central District). www.seattlejazzed.org Rapunzel. See a live-action musical version of the classic tale performed by StoryBook Theater. Best for ages 3 and older. 11 am, 1 and 3 pm. $$. Hales Palladium, Seattle (Fremont). www.storybooktheater.org Bicycle Sundays. The four-mile stretch of Lake Washington Boulevard between Mount Baker Beach and Seward Park is closed to motorized traffic. 10 am to 6 pm today, May 27 and several Sundays through September. FREE. Lake Washington Boulevard, Seattle (Mt. Baker). www.parkways.seattle.gov Beat the Bridge. Run benefits Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. 8 am 3-mile family walk (strollers and baby joggers allowed), 8:15 am 1-mile fun run, 8:30 am 8K race, 9:50 am diaper derby (free, ages 3 and younger). $$$. Husky Stadium, Seattle (Montlake). www.beatthebridge.org Touch-a-Truck. Explore construction trucks, emergency vehicles, vintage trucks and more. Quiet, horn-free hour (9 to 10 am). Also enjoy food, games, and crafts. 10 am to 1 pm. $. Magnuson Park, Seattle (Sand Point). www.jrleagueseattle.org Girls on the Run 5K. Support hundreds of grade-school girls in this noncompetitive 5K fun run/walk by joining them or cheering on the side. Kids fun run for ages 3 to 7 (8:45 am). Family fun fair afterward. 9:30 am. $$$. Renton Memorial Staduum, Renton. www.girlsrun.org

Friday, May 25 S E AT T L E A R E A

Northwest Folklife Festival. Hundreds of acts on dozens of stages, participatory dances, workshops, crafts, food and more. No pets. 11 am to 10 pm through Sun., 11 am to 9 pm Mon. Discovery Zone for kids (11 am to 6 pm daily) on the Next 50 Plaza. $$ suggested donation. Seattle Center (Lower Queen Anne). www.nwfolklife.org

Memorial Day Weekend Run. Magnuson Series fun runs including 5K, 10K, 15K and a Kids Dash. Kids Dash at 9:45 am, all other events at 10 am. $ to $$$. Magnuson Park, Seattle (Sand Point). www.magnusonseries.org Seattle Mineral Market. Gem and fossil displays plus free minerals for kids. 10 am to 5 pm through Sun. FREE. Lake City Community Center, Seattle (Lake City). www.seattlesmineralmarket.com EASTSIDE

Auntie Lena’s African Stories. Storyteller Val Thomas-Matson and her friend Possum introduce animals that tell stories. 2 and 4 pm through Sun. Bellevue Youth Theatre Crossroads, Bellevue. www.thistletheatre.org Memorial Day Weekend Steam Train Rides. Northwest Railway Museum’s 70-minute round trip departs from Snoqualmie or North Bend. Special weekday train ride on Monday, with $5 round-trip price today through Mon. for military. See schedule online. $$ to $$$, free younger than age 2. www.trainmuseum.org NORTH SOUND

TankFest Northwest. See restored tanks, military vehicles and artillery weapons, scale models and more. 9 am to 4 pm. $$ to $$$, free ages 5 and younger, free admission today for veterans and active duty. Flying Heritage Collection at Paine Field, Everett. www.flyingheritage.com SOUTH SOUND

Gig Harbor Street Scramble. How many checkpoints you can find on foot or bicycle? 8:30 am registration, 9:30 am maps distributed, 10 am start. FREE. Skansie Brothers Park, Gig Harbor. www.streetscramble.com

Sunday, May 27 S E AT T L E A R E A

I Dig Dinos: Undersea Environments. Enjoy touching real fossils to solving dinosaur mysteries, dino dress-up and more. 11 am to 2 pm. Included with admission. $ to $$, free ages 4 and younger. Burke Museum, Seattle (University District). www.burkemuseum.org

Saturday, May 26

Monday, May 28 Memorial Day

S E AT T L E A R E A

NORTH SOUND

Lego Extravaganza. See a collection of cultural and historic themed Lego art, and build your own masterpiece. 10 am to 1 pm. $$. Nordic Heritage Museum, Ballard. www.nordicmuseum.org

Memorial Day Parade. Parade sponsored by the American Legion. 10 am. FREE. North Olympic Avenue, Arlington. www.arlingtonwa.gov

Maker Day: Fun with Fibers. Enjoy a handson art activity with Pacific Northwest African American Quilters. Noon to 3 pm. Included with admission. $$, free ages 14 and younger. Museum of History and Industry, Seattle (South Lake Union). www.mohai.org

Thursday, May 31 S E AT T L E A R E A

Cascade Summer Stage. Free concert today and every Thursday throughout the summer. 4 pm. FREE. Cascade Playground, Seattle (South Lake Union). www.facebook.com/cascadeplayground

Your guide to a kid-friendly city

on the go

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Xxxxxx NewMomDispatch

by Becca Bergman Bull

Learning the parenthood ropes one month at a time

8511 35th Ave NE | SEA 98115

P HOTO BY J OS HUA HU STO N

Second coming Leading up to the early March birth of our second daughter, two main concerns kept me up at night (in addition to the discomforts of late pregnancy — I hope everyone knows by now to never torture a pregnant woman with the “advice” to ”get your sleep now!”). These worries, I imagine, are likely universal. The first was who would care for our 2-year-old, Fiona, when we went to the hospital and how that hand-off scenario would occur. At bedtime she always asks if we’ll all eat breakfast together, and I’d feel my voice catch as I disingenuously promised “yes” while wondering who might take our place. Second was the drive to the hospital. For us car-less folks, it would take place in a Lyft and last anywhere from 25 to 45 minutes. Nothing extraordinary, but definitely something. And if there’s one thing I kept hearing about second labors, it was how much faster they progress. But in the end, neither concern was well-founded. Labor started only after my mom, the best Fiona caretaker we could wish for, flew in on a one-way ticket. We went to the hospital on a traffic-free Saturday morning while the contractions were still relatively mild — the dramatic second-time speediness did occur, but only later. Indeed, when Clara Raphaela Bull decided to appear, she did so slowly, and then seemingly all at once. The second time around, plenty of things are different. Yet especially postpartum, many things — things I had all but forgotten — rushed back in a wave of familiarity: The feel of a baby’s impossibly soft, downy new skin. The painful uterine contractions when first breastfeeding.

The slow trips to the hospital bathroom and the first halting walk around the block. The warmth of a baby asleep on my chest. The mewing and purring and squeaking and coos and gulps. How much they initially sleep, anywhere and anytime, and those sleep smiles and phantom nursing suck-suck-sucks. The fuzz that accumulates between toes and the perfection of tiny ears and slender fingers. The skin that flakes off their feet and the acne that mottles their cheeks. Eyes that drink in the big world one minute, then roll back, milk-drunk, the next. Chunky arms and legs creased like croissants. How the hours blend together and sleep goes from linear to snatched two-hour chunks. Long, difficult nights and calm, cuddly afternoons. The agony of that blaring, red-faced cry and the ecstasy the minute it stops. The endlessly amusing sight of a swaddled baby burrito. The sore wrists and tight shoulders and perpetually swaying motion of a new mother. The middle-of-thenight hunger that has me gulping down bags of trail mix (and yes, maybe finding a sunflower seed hidden in her neck folds). The way a baby’s body curls into a soft ball in my arms or drapes over me like a content monkey on a branch. Having to do everything with one hand. Remembering the glass of water is still by the sink every time you start breastfeeding. The giddy joy at having something so precious and the spikes of anxiety that something might happen to it. The tired tears over nothing and everything. The smiles of strangers and the pride about what you’ve created. The quotidian miracle of it all. Born and raised in Seattle, Becca Bergman Bull is a writer, editor and new mom (again) .

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Day Camp and Wrap-Around-Camp

THEREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NOTHING LIKE SUMMER AT

Camp Colman & Camp Orkila Boys & Girls Outdoor Leadership Development

ykids.org Everyone is welcome. The YMCA of Greater Seattle strengthens communities in King and south Snohomish counties through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Financial assistance is available.