washingtonFAMILY.com APRIL 2021 Children’s Books About Autism Are You a Good Sports Parent? Naturally Dyed Easter Eggs Talking to Kids About Climate Change The Jewish Federation’s Sara & Samuel J. Lessans G od Deeds Week April 11-18, 2021 Food insecurity across our region remains a critical issue, especially in the wake of COVID-19. Join The Jewish Federation as we unite 60+ community partners and thousands of participants from across DC, MD, and Northern VA to meet this growing need. Together, we will fill the shelves of local food pantries, feed those who are hungry, and make a difference all week long. Find a volunteer project at shalomdc.org/GoodDeedsWeek Federation's Good Deeds Week is made possible by Drs. Ellen & Stuart Lessans, in loving memory of Sara & Samuel J. Lessans. R O F Y D REA R E M M U S A D N A N U OF F NG? I N R A E L MP A C R E M M YMCA SU IENCE R E P X E P M MMER CA U S MORE & C I T N S R A A T E N L A F O OFFER A RCAMP T E O T M D M E U T I S / EXC ADC.ORG C THE Y IS M Y T I S R! VI THIS YEA ! Y A D O T REGISTER 2  Washington FAMILY  APRIL 2021 CONTENTS LINDA FREUND IMGORTHAND / E+ / GETTY IMAGES APRIL 2021 Your kids will love this colorful (and edible!) experiment.  Pg. 16 FEATURES DEPARTMENTS 10 6 13 18 25 27 DYEING EGGS NATURALLY Learn how to create a rainbow of colors using ingredients already in your kitchen. PUDDLE PLAYTIME Go ahead, let little ones play in the rain E CO-ANXIETY AND KIDS How to ease your child's fears about climate change SIDELINE SPORTSMANSHIP The importance of being a good sports parent WEAN THEM OFF SCREENS Reverse the effects of recreational screen time with SPOIL activities. 8 16 30 EDITOR'S PICKS FAMILY FUN COVID-safe Easter events around the DMV DIY Make your own rainbow rock candy HEALTHY FAMILY The benefits of sports for kids with ADHD 32 BOOKMARKED Children's books about autism 34 MY TURN How word searches helped one local mom's kids learn to self-soothe DIRECTORIES 21 SUMMER CAMP READERS’ RESPONSES WE WANT YOUR FEEDBACK We welcome your feedback on specific articles, overall themes and anything else related to editorial content. Send an email to info@ washingtonfamily.com. Please note we reserve the right to edit or refrain from publishing comments we deem inappropriate. WashingtonFAMILY.com  3 OUR TEAM The Center for Ballet Arts • Ongoing registration • Live classes and virtual options Ballet . Pointe . Modern . Jazz Tap . Pilates . Kinderballet Ages 3 thru Adults 3955 Pender Drive, Suite 105 Fairfax, VA 22030•703.273.5344•thecenterforballetarts.com Reston Montessori School • Advanced academic curriculum •Award winning French program •STEM • Music, Art • PE / Yoga Ages 3 months - 6th Grade 1928 Isaac Newton Square West, Reston, VA 20190 703-481-2922 • www.restonmontessori.com “Free the child’s potential, and you will transform him into the world” -Maria Montessori APRIL 2021 WashingtonFAMILY.com • 301-230-2222 Craig Burke, Publisher EDITORIAL PJ Feinstein, Editor • 301-230-6696 • pfeinstein@midatlanticmedia.com Michael Vyskocil, Managing Editor • 410-902-2319 • mvyskocil@midatlanticmedia.com Katie Beecher, Staff Writer • 410-902-2328 • kbeecher@midatlanticmedia.com ADVERTISING Account Executives Mary Ramsdale, Kim Coates Schofield, Shera Sacks, Stacie Shapero, Sylvia Witaschek BUSINESS Kris Ries, Accounting Manager • 443-471-5355 • kries@midatlanticmedia.com CONTRIBUTORS Jennifer Cavallero, Elena Epstein, Linda Freund, Aliza Friedlander, Alexandra Frost, Hannah Grieco, Meghan Owenz, Lindsay Ponta, Jennifer Marino Walters INTERNS Jenn Attanasio CREATIVE Jay Sevidal, Graphic Deisgner James Meskunas, Digital Media Manager MID-ATLANTIC MEDIA Craig Burke, CEO/Publisher • cburke@midatlanticmedia.com Jeni Mann Tough, Director of Marketing & Custom Media • jmann@midatlanticmedia.com 2020 Special Series 2020 Calendar of Events 2020 Family Matters Family Fun 2020 Table of Contents 2020 Single Page Design Interior Illustration © Washington Family. Washington Family is published 12 times a year by Mid-Atlantic Media, and is distributed free of charge throughout Maryland, Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. Correspondence and editorial submissions from our readers are welcomed. We reserve the right to edit, reject or comment on all editorial and advertising material submitted. We are not responsible for the return of any unsolicited materials. The acceptance of advertising by Washington Family does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services or information. All rights reserved. Any reproduction of this publication, in whole or in part, is strictly forbidden without expressed written permission. 11900 Parklawn Drive, Suite 300 | Rockville, MD 20852 | 301-230-2222 or 703-318-1385 | washingtonfamily.com 4  Washington FAMILY  APRIL 2021 FIRST WORD Supporting Young Athletes O PJ Feinstein Editor pfeinstein@midatlanticmedia.com Facebook @WashingtonFamilyMagazine​ Twitter @FAMILYMagDC Pinterest @familymagazine Instagram @washingtonfamilymag Email us Let us know what’s on your mind. info@thefamilymagazine.com n Saturdays when the weather is cooperative, a group of kids from my son’s first grade class meets in our neighborhood park for a pickup soccer game. They divide themselves into teams and spend an hour or so running up and down the grassy field until a few get bored and decide it’s time to play football instead. One of the dads usually takes on the role of referee while the rest of us parents socially distance on sidelines, chatting or checking our phones. Except lately I’ve been paying more attention to the game than the conversations around me, shouting instructions at my 7-year-old who, while not terrible, is probably not the next Messi or Ronaldo. My intention is to help him learn, not to pressure him to win, but my sideline coaching obviously annoys him because he yells back at me, “I know what to do!” (Readers, he doesn’t.) As youth sports leagues across the DMV start their spring season, many parents may be wondering how they can best support their young athletes from the stands. In this issue, writer Jennifer Marino Walters shares tips from local sports psychologists on how to be a winning sports parent in her story, “Sideline Sportsmanship.” Turns out shouting instructions from the sidelines isn’t one of them. April is Autism Awareness Month, and our friends at D.C. Public Library are back with an assortment of books to help kids better understand autism and related disorders. We also have a personal essay from local mom Hannah Grieco about the unexpected effect word searches have on her three children, including one who is on the autism spectrum. Earth Day is April 22, and many kids are understandably worried about the future of our planet. In this issue, Aliza Friedlander writes about eco-anxiety and age- appropriate ways to talk about climate change. We also have a recipe for rainbow rock candy and tips for weaning kids off their electronic devices. Happy reading, and stay safe! EXPANDING PRIMARY PROGRAM 2 019 W IN N ER EXPLORE • WONDER • GROW Washington FAMILY The Area’s Leader in STEM Education Winner for Best STEM Program for the 2nd consecutive year Now Enrolling Ages 2 to 6 Toddler Program • Before & After Care Please call 301-770-4370 to learn more! Montessori Kindergarten & Preschool Advanced Academic Curriculum McLean, VA • 703-356-5437 • www.brooksfieldschool.org Preschool-8th Grade www.feynmanschool.org WashingtonFAMILY.com  5 BY ELENA EPSTEIN, DIRECTOR OF THE NATIONAL PARENTING PRODUCT AWARDS For more product reviews, visit nappaawards.com “THE MIGHTY RIVER” WINNER’S STABLE DOLL AND HORSE SET Take the reins and ride into exciting adventures with this spirited duo from Winner’s Stable. Each doll stands 5 inches tall and is accompanied by her beautifully accessorized horse companion. This dazzling duo has matching styling that highlights their inseparable bond. $9.99, ages 3+, justplayproducts.com ZURU GLOVE-A-BUBBLES The wildly popular glove with patented technology makes thousands of bubbles when kids dip the glove in ZURU’s bubble formula and wave it through the air. Each packet contains a resealable bag filled with bubble solution and adorable characters. $1.99, ages 4+, target.com 6  Washington FAMILY  APRIL 2021 Celebrate the community we share through nature and the diverse animals and plants that call rivers home. Children and early readers will learn an array of names of wild creatures and plants that live in the river’s ecosystem. The book includes facts about rivers, space to draw and describe river animals and scenes, and ideas that focus on how to protect our waterways. $15, ages 8+, beautifulworldbooks.com PCH-VECTOR/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS HERE’S WHAT WE’RE LOVING FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY THIS MONTH DUO TONE LIGHT-UP HOOP Check out this new sporty look for a classic toy, which features patented V-Grip Technology to allow for better grip while hooping. Light-up technology permits colorful play with enhanced visual effects. $7.99, ages 6+, kess.co “LOVE THE EARTH: UNDERSTANDING CLIMATE CHANGE, SPEAKING UP FOR SOLUTIONS, AND LIVING AN EARTH-FRIENDLY LIFE” This book is packed with ideas and information for readers who care about the earth and want to understand climate change, speak up for solutions and live an earth-friendly life. Discover profiles of real-life girls making real changes for a healthier planet, plus quizzes, crafts, party ideas and a science experiment. The work helps readers ages 8 and older to learn how they can use their passions and talents to make a difference. $9.99, ages 8+, americangirl.com YO RING Your kids can play with this interactive, challenging toy anytime, anywhere. A high schooler who wanted to get his friends away from their screens came up with the concept. Play solo, with a friend or as a group. Manufactured in the United States, these yellow, red and blue discs offer the perfect balance of flight, flexibility and fun. $7.25, ages 6+, yoring.com JUNIOR FOLDABLE FANTASY SCOOTER The three-wheel scooter made for toddlers features all the essentials, such as a patented steering lock button and folding system with a push button. This scooter’s wider deck comes in a range of fun colors and patterns. An adjustable T-bar best suits growing toddlers. $79.99, ages 2-5, globber.com WashingtonFAMILY.com  7 Hop Into Some FAMILY FUN Easter Fun COMPILED BY WF STAFF 8  Washington FAMILY  APRIL 2021 Whether in-person or virtual, these events offer celebrations the whole family can enjoy. For kids, Easter is a time for fun with the family. Although seasonal celebrations may be modified due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there’s still lots to do around the DMV, from socially distanced egg hunts to arts-and-crafts activities. Editor’s Note: Our staff verified information to the best of our ability at press time. Please check with event organizers prior to attending to confirm dates, times, locations and details. VARIOUS DATES Hop to It, Kids!: The Online Easter Egg Hunt This Zoom-based egg hunt was designed for kids ages 10 and older. Join a public game or reserve a private session to play with family and friends. Tickets cost $19; book online at watsonadventures.com. Bunnyland Festival Race down giant slides, bounce on jump pads, take a hayride, visit friendly farm animals and more during your two-hour visit. Face painting, pony rides and food cost extra. Open April 1, 2, 3, 5, 10 and 11. Reservations required. Butler’s Orchard, Germantown, Md. $10 per person. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. butlersorchard.com Egg Hunts Galore Between April 2 and 11, socially distanced egg hunts are included in your admission to the petting farm, and kids can trade in their eggs for a goodie bag. Clark’s Ellioak Farm, Ellicott City, Md. $8 per person. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. clarklandfarm.com SATURDAY, APRIL 3 3rd Annual Eco Easter Egg Hunt There will be three chances for kids to find candy-filled biodegradable eggs. Other activities include wagon rides, Easter games and feeding the animals. Whitehall Farm, Fairfax, Va. $7.50-$15 per person. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bunny Hop Parade Put on a pair of bunny ears and hop to Stead Park for socially distanced games and treats, hosted by Friends of Stead Park. Register for a 15-minute time slot online. Stead Park, Washington, D.C. FREE. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. eventbrite.com Easter Egg Hunts Bring your own basket for hourly egg hunts in the garden at Lee-Fendall House. Reservations are required for this socially distanced family event. Lee-Fendall House Museum and Garden, Alexandria, Va. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. $15 per child ages 2-12, $5 per accompanying adult. leefendallhouse.org Easter Egg Hunts Reserve a morning or afternoon session for some good old-fashioned egg hunting. Bags will be provided, and each age group will have its own start time. Leesburg Animal Park, Leesburg, Va. $13.95-$18.95 per person. 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. leesburganimalpark.com Easter Spring Fling Grab a pre-packaged coloring kit for some arts-and-crafts fun, get a glitter tattoo or race with an egg and a spoon. Just don’t miss the zoo’s warthog, pony, tortoises, goat and macaw on parade. Roer’s Zoofari, Vienna, Va. $20 per child, $25 per adult. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. roerszoofari.com n SATURDAY, APRIL 3- SUNDAY, APRIL 4 Kids Easter Crafting Workshop Young artists will enjoy this afternoon of making crafts, from Easter Bunny masks to spring-themed paintings. There will be workshops for kids ages 4-9, kids ages 5-11 and one for all ages. Supplies are included. FSC Workshop, District Heights, Md. $38. Times vary. fscworkshop.com Easter Egg Hunt Eight wooden eggs are hidden throughout the park. Fill out your egg hunt sheet as you find them, then return it to the nature center for a prize. Through April 4. Potomac Overlook Regional Park, Arlington, Va. $8 per child. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. novaparks.com CHRISGORGIO / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS WashingtonFAMILY.com  9 T hey symbolize creation and life itself. Each spring, eggs are dyed a multitude of colors, their dazzling shades enchanting those who display them, hunt for them or offer them as gifts during the Easter holiday. This year, skip the store-bought dye kits and turn eggs into gems with natural dyes. Your kitchen is already stocked with the ingredients you need: ground turmeric, onion skins, blueberries and heads of cabbage. Together with your kids, you can create dye in subtle shades or vibrant hues — the fun is in the experimentation. Double dip for two-toned eggs. Wrap them with kitchen twine and rubber bands to make stripes. When the dye has dried, young artists will delight in their colorful creations. Materials • Dye ingredients • Dry and liquid measuring cups • Knife and cutting board • Large saucepan • Strainer • Glass jar for each dye color Dyeing Eggs PROJECT METHOD AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDSAY PONTA TEXT BY MICHAEL VYSKOCIL 10  Washington FAMILY  APRIL 2021 • White vinegar • Hard-cooked eggs • Metal spoons • Paper towels • Lace, tape, twine, rubber bands, white crayon and vegetable oil (optional) Naturally Dye Ingredients Beets: 1 large beet (about 2 cups), cut into small dices Blueberries: 2 cups fresh or frozen berries, blended or mashed Red cabbage: 1/2 medium head (about 3 cups), shredded Red onion: Dry, papery skins from 6 to 8 medium and large onions Turmeric: 3 tablespoons ground turmeric Yellow onion: Dry, papery skins from 6 to 8 medium and large onions Directions 1. Combine the desired dye ingredients and 2 cups water in a large saucepan. Bring water to a boil; reduce heat to a simmer. Simmer for at least 30 minutes. The longer the mixture simmers, the more vibrant the dye. 2. Strain mixture into a glass jar or container. Use or compost left- over dye material. 4. A dd 1 tablespoon of white vinegar per cup of dye. 5. S oak hard-cooked eggs in dye following the instructions at right. 6. R emove the eggs with a spoon and blot with paper towels. Rub eggs with vegetable oil to apply a shine to the shells, if desired. 7. O ptional: Create designs on the shells by wrapping undyed eggs in rubber bands, lace or twine. You can also draw designs on the shells using a white crayon or blocking sections with tape. Use a small glass to dye sections of the shells in different colors, overlapping to mix colors. Note: Do not serve these eggs for breakfast; they’re purely decorative.  P Dye Instructions Ingredients from your kitchen can sometimes produce unexpected results. Find out what you need to create your desired egg colors. Yellow onion Turmeric • 30 minutes in hot dye yields a light yellow. • 3 hours in hot dye as it cools to room temperature makes a medium yellow. • 12 hours soaking in the refrigerator creates a brighter yellow. • 3 0 minutes in hot dye yields a medium orange. • 3 hours in hot dye as it cools to room tempera- ture makes a deep orange. • 1 2 hours soaking in the refrigerator creates a deeper orange. Red onion • 3 0 minutes in hot dye yields a light brown, similar to the color you’ll find with a naturally brown egg. • 3 hours in hot dye as it cools to room temperature makes a medium brown. • 1 2 hours soaking in the refrigerator creates a dark reddish brown. Red cabbage • 30 minutes in hot dye yields a very light blue. • 3 hours in hot dye as it cools to room temperature makes teal. • 12 hours soaking in the refrigera- tor creates a deep cobalt blue. Beet Blueberries • 3 0 minutes in hot dye yields a light blue-gray. • 3 hours in hot dye as it cools to room temperature makes a medium blue-gray. • 1 2 hours soaking in the refrigerator creates a deep purple-gray. • 3 0 minutes in hot dye yields a bright pink. • 3 hours in hot dye as it cools to room temperature makes a brighter pink. • 1 2 hours soaking in the refrigerator creates a deep magenta. WashingtonFAMILY.com  11 12  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2021 April Showers Bring Puddle Playtime BY MICHAEL VYSKOCIL he rain stops, and the clouds break. After a day of being cooped up inside, you decide it’s time to play outdoors. You step outside with your toddler and take in the scene. Puddles, puddles and more puddles pulling at your raincoat and begging you to let him stomp in one. You don’t understand why puddles are so fascinating, but you curb your impulse to pick him up and stop him from getting soaked. EVGENYATAMANENKO/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS dot the landscape. Before you rea lize it, your child is WashingtonFAMILY.com  13 You have questions about the future . With the new Tuition Track Portfolio , the cost of college doesn’t have to be one. Virginia529.com | 1.888.567.0540 There are certain eligibility requirements to participate in the Tuition Track Portfolio. See the Invest529 SM Program Description for more information. Call 1-888-567-0540 or visit Virginia529.com to obtain all program materials. Read them carefully before investing. An investor should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses of the programs before investing. For non-Virginia residents: before investing, consider whether you or the beneficiary’s home state offers any state tax or other state benefits such as financial aid, scholarship funds, and protections from creditors that are only available for investments in that state’s qualified tuition program. © 2021 Virginia College Savings Plan. All Rights Reserved. 14  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2021 “Jumping and hopping allow t hem to practice large motor coordination skills.” Dr. Joan Carney, assistant vice president of clinical programs, Kennedy Krieger Institute LEARNING ABOUT AND EXPLORING THE NATURAL WORLD AROUND US Splashing in puddles is child’s play, and play is how children learn about the world around them. Playtime is a crucial part of a child’s development. Some of toddlers’ favorite activities — which may seem messy at times to parents — offer more than meets the eye. While playing in puddles may not be particularly appealing to adults, the nature of the activity makes it excellent for nurturing a child’s developing mind. “Kids can learn so many things from this,” says Dr. Joan Carney, assistant vice president of clinical programs at Kennedy Krieger Institute. “They’re going to get the sensory context of cold or wet. If they’re jumping in a puddle, they get to use a lot of large body coordination. Jumping and hopping allow them to practice large motor coordination skills.” As a child’s motor skills develop between ages 1 and 2, playing in puddles turns into more of a lesson in consequences: jump in a puddle, and you’ll make a splash. When you splash in a puddle, you’ll get wet. This type of cause-and-effect experiment can translate to more situations a child encounters in life. At age 4, children may experiment with principles of engineering— digging ditches in the mud and watching them pool with water. By age 7, they may start incorporating the elements of scientific discovery by exploring puddle ecosystems and the living organisms they support. UNDERSTANDING THE VALUE OF HAVING UNSTRUCTURED CHILD’S PLAY Playing in puddles also fills an important need for children — the need for unstructured, individualized activities. While it’s great for parents to get involved with their children’s play — and little ones definitely require quality time with mom and dad — kids also need the freedom to play on their own. Puddles naturally lend themselves to this type of play. There are no rules to the game of splashing in puddles, Carney says. “There is no turn-taking; there is no structure. They are making their own decisions about doing things that are unstructured. Do they like it and want to keep doing it? Do they not like it, abandon it and try something else? The reason it’s important is that it gives children confidence and a sense of self.” “Unstructured play also allows children to learn how to share, resolve conflicts, develop communication skills and explore their interests in a meaningful and natural way,” says Dr. Mutiat Tolu Onigbanjo, who serves as medical director for UM Pediatrics at University of Maryland Medical Center, Midtown Campus. “It gets them to use their imagination skills, which help promote healthy brain development.” Parents’ Resources for Rainy-Day Activities 20 Ideas to Encourage Outdoor Rainy Day Play The Empowered Educator theempowerededucatoronline.com ................................................................................................................... 50 Ways to Play in the Rain Mother Natured mothernatured.com amp at Summer C Musical Theater & Creative Arts Camp Ages 5-7, Ages 8-14 Junior Music Camp Ages 4-6 er Summ ................................................................................................................... Play in a Puddle on a Rainy Day National Association for the Education of Young Children naeyc.org ................................................................................................................... GARYRADLER /ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS Rainy Day Activities: 20 Fun Things to Do When It Rains Climacell climacell.co MAIN STAGE ONGOING REGISTRATION! REGISTER TODAY! Cast Placement Auditions 6/11 As with any activity your child engages in, always think safety first. www.harmoniaschool.org | 703.938.7301 Toddlers shouldn’t be left to play unsupervised in standing pools of water. Children who are only a few years old or younger can drown in only several inches of standing water. As long as you are present to monitor your child, you can let your son or daughter get messy and have a good time with puddle jumping Sister Montessori preschools, Of course, puddles are certain to appear at proving Northern Virginia’s the most inopportune moments. What parent preschool children with quality hasn’t tried to find a way to avoid a child’s education for the past 50 years. inevitable plunge into a puddle during a trip to the supermarket or an appointment? The simplest thing to do is to take your child by the hand and direct him or her away from it. Make a distraction, talk about something silly or ask a question. Timing is everything in the world of puddle play. When you allow playtime with puddles, make sure your child is wearing play clothes THE BETHESDA you don’t mind getting dirty and sturdy MONTESSORI SCHOOL footwear. While most moms and dads may For 38 years, not hesitate to climb into a sandbox with teaching ages 3-6 their child, few may care to splash in a puddle. Onigbanjo suggests ways parents can join in ENROLL NOW FOR 2021 IN-PERSON LEARNING IN PROGRESS the fun without getting wet themselves. 8am – 6pm 7611 Clarendon Rd. “Bring along floating toys and explore the Bethesda, MD 20814 concept of what sinks or floats,” she says. 301-986-1260 “Sing a song together about being out in the Exceeds MD Covid-19 safety guidelines Email us to learn more and tour the school rain or playing in a puddle.” admissions@bethesdamontessori.com Puddles last only a short time, but memories www.bethesdamontessori.com of rainy-day play can last a lifetime.  T 20 1 8 RUNNER-UP RUNNER-UP WashingtonFAMILY.com  15 DIY Make Your Own BY PJ FEINSTEIN Whether your kids are in it for the science or the sugar, they won’t be disappointed with this edible experiment. W ith extra time on their hands this winter thanks to the colder weather and COVID-19 restrictions, Linda Freund and her 7-year-old son Arias started experimenting in the kitchen. Arias, who loves science and art, researched how to make rock candy and, in his mother’s words, “grew these glorious things from scratch.” There’s a science to candymaking, and crystallizing sugar produces varied results. Freund and Arias suggest making a lot of rock candy in case some turn out to be underwhelming. Keep in mind, however, that smaller, thinner rock candy is actually easier to eat and enjoy, according to Freund. Here, mother and son share their recipe for rainbow rock candy. Freund, a freelance video journalist, also filmed Arias making the candy. You can watch it at washingtonfamily.com. Steps: 16  Washington FAMILY  APRIL 2021 Also, make sure that the solution is cool enough so the seeds don’t fall off the skewer, but warm enough so slight bubbles forms around them. If the sugar coating on your skewer dissolves, don’t worry. Your kiddo can just coat the skewer in more sugar, let it dry a bit and then re-insert into the syrupy sugar water. Again, Arias wants to stress that these two things will guarantee success: - Cooling the sugar solution. - Making sure most of those seeds stays on your wooden skewer when you put it in your jar. 7 Put rock candy in a cool dark place to grow. Wait one week. Arias knows it’s a long time, but it’s worth it. Plus, you can go back each day to check on its progress. You’ll want to crack any sugar that forms around the top with a spoon. 8 Remove rock candy and hang upside down with clothespins in empty jars or glasses to dry. This could take a few hours. 9 Painting time! Put a little bit of liquid food coloring onto a small plate. Arias used the colors of a rainbow: red, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple. With a paintbrush, apply in a circle around the rock candy, one color at a time. In addition to a bowl of water, kids can dip their paintbrush in a bowl of vodka or Everclear before adding the next color. It’s a little trick to make the color more vibrant and dry faster. The alcohol will evaporate, but if you have very young kids who put things in their mouths, you may want to skip it. Optional: Add edible glitter for extra unicorn magic! 10 Let rock candy dry upright in empty jar or glass. — Linda Freund LINDA FREUND 1 Soak wooden skewers in water for 5 minutes. 2 Cover wet skewers in sugar. The sugar will serve as the seed for the rock candy when it grows, so you want to make sure it’s really caked on there. Then, set skewers aside to dry. 3 Heat water to a slow boil. Add sugar and stir until fully dissolved. The water may turn yellowish and the texture will be syrup-like. The more sugar, the thicker the consistency and the better and faster the rock candy forms. We’ve found it’s best to make one batch at a time, using a 3 cups sugar to 1 cup water ratio. 4 Let sugar solution cool for 40 minutes. This step will make or break your rock candy results. If the water is too hot, it will dissolve all the sugar (“seeds”) crusted onto your wooden skewer and the rock candy will not grow. Our son Arias (featured here) learned this the hard way and had to start all over after a week of no results! 5 Fill jars or glasses carefully. The bigger the jar, the more sugar solution, and the faster and larger the rock candy will grow. So if your kid is impatient and wants to see results in only a day or two, we’d suggest the big mason jars — but the rock candy may be too big for little mouths! Arias used mostly small glasses and made medium sized candies. 6 Hang sugar-coated skewers in the sugar solution from a clothespin resting across the top of each glass or jar. Only hang one skewer per jar, and make sure they are an inch or so above the bottom and placed in the middle. They need room to grow. Rock Candy Supplies: Arias Freund 3 cups of sugar 1 cup of water Wooden skewers Clothespins Jars/glasses (assorted sizes) Food coloring Paint brushes Edible glitter (optional) WashingtonFAMILY.com  17 Eco-Anxiety & Extreme weather events, a result of human- induced changes to our global climate, are happening more frequently — and causing many kids to worry about the future of our planet. Here’s how to help ease your child’s fears about climate change. 18  Washington FAMILY  APRIL 2021 BY ALIZA FRIEDLANDER As a parenting coach, Rachel Duffy spends her days helping entrepreneurs and high-achieving professionals develop trust, acceptance, accountability and connection within the family unit. So, when her 9-year-old son started expressing worries around climate change, Duffy began using those methods she shares with clients within her own family. “My son is a big supporter of environmental activism,” says Duffy. “He feels anxious about the permanent consequences to our planet and all living beings if we don’t eliminate the use of plastics.” Instead of pushing his fears away, Duffy and her son embrace those anxieties and work together to manage them. WashingtonFAMILY.com  19 enjoying the outdoors together as a family can help kids feel more comfortable with the environment. “Spend more time in nature. It’s not only proven to soothe, it can teach kids that they’re a part of nature,” says Katy Bowman, author of “Grow Wild: The Whole-Child, Whole-Family, Nature-Rich Guide to Moving More.” “Walking the same nature path with kids over the course of time helps them understand how seasons and time changes things. Talk about those changes like where a tree’s fallen but life continues to spring around it. Show them how simple it can be to take action — and that their actions matter,” she says. Bowman, a biomechanist who studies human movement and how it relates to health and human development, believes parents should focus on helping kids recognize what they can do about climate change as opposed to what they can’t. “Many families teach their kids recycling and forgo single-use water bottles for reusable ones. Just don’t stop there,” says Bowman. “Our kids host an annual clothing swap with all of their friends and we adults have our own too. Learn to sew or at least repair and patch otherwise perfectly fine clothes. Start or join a community garden or grow something, just to remind yourself how. Take a weekly walk to gather trash from your neighborhood or favorite green space. Don’t place more emphasis on the problem than the many opportunities that can be taken by all of us each day to improve the situation.” Duffy and her son are embracing those opportunities to take action in achievable ways. “We made a plan to reduce the carbon footprint of our family which included composting, changing all our lights to LED bulbs and installing solar panels on our roof,” Duffy says. “We also made a commitment, as a family, to immediately reduce and eventually eliminate the use of plastic in our everyday lives. The way we got to this plan was to list out all the ways in which we contribute to the emission of carbon.” And when Duffy’s son feels like he’s “too small and just a kid,” they discuss “how one “Ask your children what they know and what about climate change matters to them.” 20  Washington FAMILY  APRIL 2021 Talking to Kids about Climate Change Climate change is a complicated subject and can cause anxiety and fear among adults as well as children. So, what should parents do to help alleviate that worry? Not being afraid to discuss the issue with our kids is the first step. 1. Lean into the abstract concept but let kids determine the pace. Follow your child’s lead and truthfully answer any questions without giving away information that hasn’t been asked. 2. Explain the process around our carbon footprint or how single-use plastic can harm the environment before talking about the bigger problem of climate change. As parents, we need to resist the urge to spill all the beans right away. Not because we need to hide information from our kids, but because we need to respect their processing speed and ability. 3. Look for stories and books that inform children about ways they can help and show respect for our planet. Explore climate change together and look at trusted sources like NASA and National Geographic. 4. Let the kids explore their interests and try out their suggestions. There is a good chance they’ll do research on their ideas and feel empowered to take on an issue that can feel scary. person can have an enormous effect.” “We remember that while climate change is very real, and has potentially devastating repercussions, in this very moment we are in fact safe,” she says. “We are also not at a point of no return yet. This means we have the opportunity to act, and we can try to feel grateful that we can make an impact.” n MUSTAFAHACALAKI / DIGITALVISION VECTORST “We ask what our anxiety is trying to tell us, which requires patience because more often than not, we don’t know,” Duffy explains. “Possible messages that anxiety sends us are a warning or an alarm to protect us from a perceived threat. In the case of climate change, that would be an appropriate message.” With extreme weather events like the California wildfires and Winter Storm Uri in Texas, it’s understandable that children like Duffy’s son will have concerns about the current state of the environment. “Kids want to know what they can do,” says Laura Flusche, executive director at Museum of Design Atlanta. “They want to know if it’s too late or if we can reverse climate change. And they want to know why adults aren’t doing more and how we got into this situation. They’re also really interested in learning about out-of-the-box solutions and using their own skills to explore ways to make a positive impact.” Through online classes, camps and clubs housed on the Sawyer platform, an online marketplace of learning activities, MODA offers a variety of educational opportunities for kids around the country interested in knowing more about climate change and the environment. “MODA believes that the most important thing we can do is empower children to turn their passions into actions,” Flusche says. “We have a special initiative underway called The Climate & Change Project, by which we are teaching, celebrating and advocating for the power of design to make a difference in the fight against climate change, and our Earth Guardians Club invites kids to join bi-monthly meetings with other young climate activists to discuss issues and develop and implement action plans.” Flusche also believes it’s imperative that parents allow their children to lead the climate change conversation. “Kids are talking about climate change at school and other places, and they have a lot to say if you’re willing to listen and have the conversation with them,” she says. “We’ve learned so much by listening to kids tell us about climate change. Ask your children what they know and what about climate change matters to them.” In addition to education and discussion, Montessori School of McLean CAMP DIRECTORY Exceptional Montessori Education for Toddlers through Upper Elementary: Ages 2-12 2021 SUMMER CAMP W ith each new milestone that our children reach comes the need for information to guide them (and us) through this stage. This is particularly true when our children are old enough to attend summer camp. How do we know which camp is right for them? In an education-centered community like ours, there can be a lot of options—where do we even get started? Right here, actually, with these listings. Read about these camps, what they offer and the ages they serve. Then visit their websites to learn more. On our website, WashingtonFAMILY.com, you can find even more listings to help you in your search. Be sure to check back on our website and in our magazine in upcoming months for more stories and helpful tips. Cultivating each child’s unique ability to flourish in mind, body and spirit ENRICHMENTS • Science • Technology • Spanish • Outdoor Classroom • Library • Music • Drama • Art • Physical Education Aftercare • Transportation • Summer Camp 1711 Kirby Road McLean, VA 22101 703-790-1049 Accredited by www.mcleanmontessori.org Note: The camps on the following pages were still planning to be open as we went to press; however, that may change as we get closer to summer. Please be sure to contact the camps directly for up-to-date information about their operating status. Good luck! Here’s to a great summer. DAY CAMPS DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA WEEKEND IMAGES INC. / E+ DCI EXPEDITIONS Ages: Rising 5th-8th graders dcinternationalschool.org/ summercamp info@dcinternationalschool.org 202.808.9033 District of Columbia International School The Parks at Walter Reed 1400 Main Drive NW Washington, DC 20012 Categories: Language Intensives, Visual Arts, Dance, Music, Theatre, Cooking, Design, Sports and MORE! YMCA ANTHONY BOWEN 1325 W Street, NW Washington DC 20009 202-232-6936 member.service@ymcadc.org YMCA CALOMIRIS PROGRAM CENTER 1906 Allison Street, NE Washington DC 20018 202-526-4233 YMCA CAPITAL VIEW PROGRAM CENTER 2118 Ridgecrest Court, SE Washington DC 20020 202-889-0643 WashingtonFAMILY.com  21 THE CHILDREN’S HOUSE AT HUD 451 7th Street SW Washington DC 20410 202-708-1935 MARYLAND ATMTC ACADEMY SUMMER CAMPS Ages: Grades 1-12 registrar@adventuretheatre-mtc.org 301.251.5766 Categories: Traditional Day, Day Camp, Coed, Musical Theatre, Fine Arts CAMP ACCOMPLISH Ages: 5-18 melwood.org/recreation- programs/camp recreationcenter@melwood.org 301-870-3226 9035 Ironsides Road, Nanjemoy, MD Categories: Day Camp, Residential Camp, Boys & Girls, Teens, Sibling Discount, Transportation, Arts and Crafts, Cooking, Drama/Theatre, Educational Activities, Field Trips, Horseback Riding, Music, Overnight Camping, Special Needs, Sports, Swimming, Yoga SPRING BILINGUAL MONTESSORI SUMMER CAMP Ages: 2.5-6 spring-bilingual.org info@spring-bilingual.org 301-962-7262 3514 Plyers Mill Road Kensington, MD Categories: Sibling Discount, Extended Day, Arts, Educational Activities YMCA PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY 6600 Laurel Bowie Road Bowie, MD 20715 301-262-4342 YMCA AYRLAWN PROGRAM CENTER 5650 Oakmont Avenue Bethesda MD 20817 301-530-8500 VIRGINIA YMCA BETHESDA- CHEVY CHASE 9401 Old Georgetown Road Bethesda MD 20814 301-530-3725 member.service@ymcadc.org YMCA CAMP LETTS 4003 Camp Letts Road Edgewater MD 21037 410-919-1410 In-Person Summer Camps New safety protocols for cleaner, safer camps! Full-day Monday–Friday from 9AM–4PM daily Jump back into musical theatre with dancing, singing, and acting at a safe social distance! Grades 1–6: Glen Echo Park 2-week sessions Camps begin in June. Register now at SummerATMTC.org! Grades 6–12: Rockville 3-week sessions For more information, visit SummerATMTC.org or contact us at 301.251.5766 or registrar@atmtc.org. 22  Washington FAMILY  APRIL 2021 YMCA YOUTH & FAMILY SERVICES 9601 Colesville Road Silver Spring MD 20901 301-587-5700 DAY CAMPS ASHBURN ICE HOUSE Ages: 3-10 Affiliation: William Day ashburnice.com info@ashburnice.com 703-858-0300 21595 Smith Switch Rd Ashburn, VA Categories: Day Camp, Boys & Girls, Extended Day BROOKSFIELD SUMMER CAMP Ages: 3-10 brooksfieldschool.org camp@brooksfieldschool.org 703-356-5437 ext. 2 1830 Kirby Road, McLean, VA Categories: Extended Day, Arts, CIT, Cooking, Dance, Educational Activities, Field Trips, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Music, Sports, Swimming, Yoga CAMP GRIFFIN AT WESTMINSTER SCHOOL Ages: 3-14 Years www.westminsterschool.com/ campgriffin kmock@westminsterschool.com 703-340-7268 3819 Gallows Road Annandale, Virginia Categories: Day Camp, Boys & Girls, Sibling Discount, Arts and Crafts, Field Trips, Hiking, Sports, Swimming, Yoga HARMONIA SCHOOL OF MUSIC & ART Ages: 4-18 harmoniaschool.org harmonia@harmoniaschool.org 703-938-7301; 204-F Mill St., N.E., Vienna, VA Teens, Sibling Discount, Extended Day, Arts, Drama, Music. MEDSTAR CAPITALS ICEPLEX Ages: 4-14 627 N. Glebe Rd, Suite 800 Arlington, Va. 22203 Categories: Coed, Sports medstarcapitalsiceplex.com 571-224-0555 Info@MedStarCapitalsIceplex.com restonmontessori.com office@restonmontessori.com 703-481-2922; 1928 Isaac Newton Sq. West, Reston, VA Extended Day, Arts, Field Trips. SUMMER DANCE CAMP/ INTENSIVE AT THE CENTER FOR BALLET ARTS Ages: 3-adult thecenterforballetarts.com ctrbalarts@aol.com 703-273-5344 3955 Pender Drive Suite 105, Fairfax, VA Categories: Teens, Sibling Discount, Arts & Crafts, Dance, Drama YMCA ALEXANDRIA PINECREST PAVILION AT PINECREST SCHOOL Ages: 4-12 pinecrestschool.org camp@pinecrestschool.org 703-354-3446 7209 Quiet Cove, Annandale, VA Categories: Sibling Discount, Extended Day, Arts, Computers, Cooking, Drama, Educational Activities, Field Trips YMCA ARLINGTON TENNIS & SQUASH CENTER RESTON MONTESSORI SCHOOL Ages: 3-9 420 East Monroe Avenue Alexandria VA 22301 703-838-8085 member.service@ymcadc.org YMCA ARLINGTON 3400 North 13th Street Arlington VA 22201 703-525-5420 member.service@ymcadc.org 3400 North 13th Street Arlington VA 22201 703-522-1700 member.service@ymcadc.org YMCA ARLINGTON WOODMONT GYMNASTICS CENTER 2422 North Fillmore Street Arlington VA 22201 703-527-4966 YMCA FAIRFAX COUNTY RESTON 12196 Sunset Hills Road Reston VA 20190 703-742-8800 member.service@ymcadc.org DCI EXPEDITIONS VIRTUAL SUMMER CAMP YMCA LOUDOUN COUNTY PROGRAM CENTER 26B Fairfax Street SE Leesburg VA 20175 703-777-9622 YMCA LOUDOUN COUNTY YOUTH DEVELOPMENT CENTER 624 West Church Road Sterling VA 20164 Ph: 703-430-2781 OVERNIGHT CAMPS CAMP RIM ROCK Ages: 6-18 camprimrock.com; info@ camprimrock.com 347-746-7625; 343 Camp Rim Rock Rd., Yellow Spring, WV Girls Only, Arts, Dance, Drama, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Music, Swimming. n Join us for one, two, or all three sessions of our Language Immersion and Culture Camps in Spanish, French, or Chinese for rising 5th-8th graders! July 6-22 | Tues-Thurs: 10am-12pm Language Intensives, Visual Arts, Dance, Music, Theatre, Cooking, Design, Sports and MORE! Learn more at dcinternationalschool.org/summercamp REGISTRATION OPEN NOW IN-PERSON ACTING CLASSES For Cildren and Teens Ages 10-17 CLASSES BEGIN JUNE 28 AN JUL 1 To register, call 202.22.0714 or visit StdioActingConservator.org WashingtonFAMILY.com  23 SDI PRODUCTIONS / E+ BY JENNIFER TERS MARINO WAL 24  Washington FAMILY  APRIL 2021 Sideline Sportsmanship Local psychologists share the do’s and don’ts of being a winning sports parent. R oy Edwards will never forget one of the young players he coached on his son’s basketball team in Burke, Virginia. The child would resist going onto the court because of the pressure his parents put on him to play well. He was in first grade. Rob Porter, another Burke dad, coached and refereed youth and college lacrosse for 12 years. He says he has seen and heard “everything under the sun” from parents on the sidelines — yelling and swearing (at coaches, refs, their kids and even other players), shouting instructions, following the play up and down the field and more. “All of it affects the mood of the game, and almost always in a negative way,” Porter says. Unfortunately, Edwards’ and Porter’s experiences are not unusual. Bad behavior from parents on the sidelines is as common as missed goals on the soccer field. But while young athletes can eventually brush off a dropped ball or a missed shot, pressure and unruliness from parents can leave lasting negative effects on kids — both on and off the field. “Bad behavior by parents during a game can cause kids distress, embarrassment and the inability to make their own decisions,” says sports psychologist Christie Marshall, founder of Personal Best Sports in Ashburn, Virginia. “That can get into their heads and make them start to overthink, leading to more mistakes and less fun.” It can also make kids lose interest in the sport. “Researchers asked young athletes why they play sports, and the overwhelming response was, ‘Because it’s fun,’” Marshall says. “But a sobering statistic reveals that by age 13, 70% of athletes quit playing organized sports. The most cited response for why they quit? ‘It isn’t fun anymore.’” So how can you be your child’s biggest fan without piling on the pressure? Here are some do’s and don’ts: DO cheer for all the players, not just your own. Use positive encouragement such as, “Great job!” “Way to go!” and “Nice shot!” DON’T berate your child — or anyone else’s. You may think you’re being helpful by shouting things like “Run faster!” “You need to make that catch!” and “Get your head in the game!” But all your child will hear is negativity and disapproval. DO watch your body language. Your child is watching you as much as you’re watching her. So if you’re pacing the sidelines, shaking your head, waving your arms or laughing when she fumbles a play, she will notice. And remember, you are there to offer unconditional support and encouragement, not to make her feel bad. DON’T scream at the officials. “Referees and umpires are authority figures, and our children should be encouraged to respect them and their opinions, even if they disagree. It is about having WashingtonFAMILY.com  25 26  Washington FAMILY  APRIL 2021 How to Handle Common Youth Sports Scenarios WHAT TO SAY TO YOUR CHILD… Before a game “Have fun!” “Work hard!” “I love watching you play!” After a win “Kids know the point of playing a game is to win, and that’s OK,” says Marshall. “What’s less OK is when it becomes all about winning versus effort.” So join in your child’s excitement about the victory, but be sure to include specifics about the great effort she and the other players put in. “She needs to know that when she and her teammates work hard, great things can happen,” says Marshall. After a loss Remember that losing helps children learn and develop. Let your child feel his feels, then give him a hug or a pat on the back. “Win or lose, show your child that you respect him, believe in him and care for him,” says Silby. After she has a bad game or makes an error Do not lie about or minimize what happened. That could send the message that failure is so bad that we can’t even acknowledge or talk about it. Instead, remind your child that mistakes are inevitable and that even pros make them and come back stronger. “Accept what happened and let your child know you believe in her hunger to do better,” says Silby. “The magic in sport happens in the overlap between acceptance and challenge/hunger for more.” After every game First, applaud your child’s effort. “Tell him you expect him to do his best, not necessarily be the best,” says Marshall. Then, focus on his learning and improvement. Talk about what he did well, what he thinks went wrong and what he can do differently next time. WHAT TO SAY TO THE COACH… If your child isn’t getting a lot of playing time Speak with the coach privately to get the reasoning behind the decision. Ask what your child can do to get more playing time. That changes the discussion from a complaint session to a chance to get useful information. If your child is older, have her advocate for herself “It goes a long way in her development to be able to speak up, ask questions about her performance and look for ways to improve based on knowing her coach’s expectations,” says Marshall. If you have any other issue Never criticize the coach in front of your child. Reach out to the coach privately, but know that things likely won’t change. You may just need to ride out the season. WHAT TO SAY TO ANOTHER PARENT… If he or she is being disrespectful during a game It’s best to let the officials and coaches handle it. The last thing you want to do is create a confrontation that will disrupt the game or embarrass your child. n SDI PRODUCTIONS / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS good sportsmanship,” says Marshall. “If you loudly express your disagreement, you undermine the integrity of the game and risk embarrassing your child.” Remember, referees and umpires are humans who make mistakes. If they make a bad call, don’t take it personally. “They usually don’t have anything against a player or a team,” says Porter. DO keep your cheering in check. It’s perfectly fine to get excited when your child makes a good play, but cheering excessively can embarrass him and annoy the other parents and players. Plus, he’ll catch on quickly if you clap like a maniac for every easy play, and it won’t mean as much to him. DON’T yell out instructions. Ask any youth sports coach what parental behavior they find most annoying and they’ll likely say sideline coaching. Even if you’re an expert in the sport or your child is obviously doing something wrong, shouting instructions undermines the coach’s authority. It also puts your child in an awkward position if what you tell him to do differs from the coach’s instructions. “During games, athletes are already processing information from their coaches, teammates and their own instincts,” says Dr. Caroline Silby, a sports psychologist in Potomac, Maryland. “I have never had an athlete tell me they needed more information to process.” And micromanaging youth athletes robs them of the opportunity to learn some very important sports lessons, like making their own decisions, figuring out what does and does not work and bouncing back from mistakes. “Parents need to let their children fail on their own and discuss it with them after the game as a learning tool,” says Edwards. “Trying to coach from the stands does more harm than good.” If you really can’t resist giving instruction during games, talk to your child’s coach about helping out as an assistant — or consider become a coach yourself. DO praise your child’s performance, regardless of outcome. We all want our children to succeed, but what’s most important is seeing them do their best. “Children who believe their worth to Mom or Dad increases with every ribbon and trophy will most likely buckle under the weight of unrealistic expectations,” says Silby. “Communicate to your children that your love is based on who they are rather than what they accomplish. The pursuit of excellence is then transformed from a daunting task to a realistic goal.” n WEAN THEM OFF SCREENS CHIMP Y K / DIGITALV ISION VECTORS Kids spending too much time staring at screens? Focus on positive goals to get them moving and reading and talking. BY MEGHAN OWENZ, ASSISTANT TEACHING PROFESSOR OF REHABILITATION AND HUMAN SERVICES, PENN STATE As vaccines become more available and life begins returning to so-called normal, caregivers and educators may have to contend with dramatically increased screen habits that kids developed during the pandemic. My research offers a positive – dare I say joyful – way to wean a child off of a screen habit. Instead of focusing on the excessive screen time, my approach focuses on the healthy activities that kids could be doing instead. WashingtonFAMILY.com  27 Two theories explain the risks of excessive recreational screen time: the content theory and the displacement theory. The content theory – that what the children are watching or doing online is problematic – has received disproportionate attention. Most solutions that caregivers are familiar with, including co-viewing and being a media mentor, are designed to address the content. The displacement theory, on the other hand, explains that time spent online means not doing other things, and that it’s the loss of those other activities, such as outdoor play or reading, that may result in problems paying attention or gaining too much weight. This also gives caregivers, and those who work with caregivers, the opportunity to focus on a positive goal: increasing time spent in those activities, which may lead to less time online and better childhood health. Avoidance versus approach goals Focusing on a positive goal may work better than avoidance goals, such as staying away from sugary foods or cutting down on screen time. That’s because avoidance goals are typically associated with poor mood and reduced goal persistence. They COMING IN MAY rely on self-control, which can weaken over time. As a result, parents and caregivers typically struggle with screen avoidance goals and report a great deal of arguments about screen limits. In contrast, approach goals encourage a desired activity or outcome and they are associated with good mood, greater effectiveness and more goal persistence. Research on dieting and obesity demonstrates the effectiveness of approach over avoidance goals. For instance, in one study, families with one obese parent were assigned to either an avoidance diet plan that encouraged them to cut high-fat and high-sugar foods or an approach diet plan that encouraged them to eat more fruits and vegetables. After a year, families on the approach plan had lost more weight. In the process, they also reduced their intake of high-fat, high- sugar foods, which were edged Parties Mother’s Day, Teachers and more news that parents need! Target parents in the DMV Print | Digital Call to advertise: 301-230-2222, Ext. 4 or email advertising@washingtonfamily.com 28  Washington FAMILY  APRIL 2021 PAHA_L / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS Displaced activities out naturally by the fruits and vegetables. Similarly, parents and caregivers can edge out screen time by encouraging meaningful activities that have long been shown to promote child development. SPOIL system SPOIL is an acronym I developed to easily explain this information to parents and caregivers. It stands for Social activities, Play, Outdoor time, Independent work and Literacy. The SPOIL activities can reverse the effects of recreational screen time. For example, active time outdoors can promote sleep, while excessive recreational screen time can decrease sleep quality. Some elements of the SPOIL framework, such as social and literacy-based activities, encourage caregivers to spend time with children. Others like play and independent work, which includes chores, encourage children to entertain or occupy themselves and regulate their emotions without the aid of a screen or a parent, as pediatricians recommend. caregivers step back or are otherwise unavailable, allowing a child to direct their own attention. It also has an inverse relationship with screen time. OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES Outdoor time is associated with improved sleep, attention, creative problem-solving and decreased stress. Multiple studies have found an inverse relationship between time spent outdoors and recreational screen time in children. INDEPENDENT WORK Independent work includes goal-directed activities, such as homework and chores, that require a child to put aside an immediate interest. Participation in household chores has declined dramatically in recent decades, despite chores having positive links with self-esteem, responsibility, academic achievement and self-sufficiency. LITERACY Literacy involves all forms of reading and writing, including a child being read to, reading independently and listening to audiobooks. Reading is Here is a more in-depth look at associated with understanding what SPOIL involves. the perspectives of others, larger vocabulary and academic achievement. As with many SOCIAL ACTIVITIES of the SPOIL categories, the Social activities include time frequency of reading in the home spent with parents, friends or is inversely related to recreational siblings. In addition to obvious screen time. relationship-building benefits, Replacing excessive screen social activities allow children to practice cooperation, competition time with SPOIL activities may support children’s development and empathy. Since social interactions are inversely related during and after the pandemic. Because positive approach goals to recreational screen time, rely less on self-control, they emphasizing them can decrease may be more sustainable and screen time naturally. successful than avoidance goals. Additionally, these activities likely PLAY counteract some negative effects Free play, especially pretend play, has been linked to planning, of excessive recreational screen time, which makes the emphasis problem-solving and impulse- on screen limits less necessary in control skills as well as math the first place. n achievement and physical, social and language development in children. Free play takes time This article originally appeared on to evolve and may occur when The Conversation. WashingtonFAMILY.com  29 HEALTHY FAMILY BY ALEXANDRA FROST Can athletics help kids with ADHD? Experts say yes. 30  Washington FAMILY  APRIL 2021 SERRNOVIK / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS & TIMING IS EVERYTHING Typical medicines for ADHD can cause difficulty falling asleep, meaning most families may try to time the medication so that it wears off within a few hours of bedtime. For students playing after-school sports, this might be the time when they’re finally able to sit down to do homework. Dr. Michael Morse, psychiatrist at the Chesapeake Center for ADHD, Learning, and Behavioral Health in Bethesda, Maryland, advises parents to work with the school to find a solution. Perhaps the student can work in a study hall to finish homework, then proceed on with sports, dinner and bedtime. This prevents a tired, unmedicated child from trying to do homework late in the evening, which can end up taking double or triple the time, says Morse, and disrupt their sleep schedule. — Alexandra Frost WashingtonFAMILY.com  31 BOOK MARKED 15 Children’s Books About Autism April is Autism Awareness Month, an ideal time to share books about and written by members of the autistic community. BY JENNIFER CAVALLERO, CHILDREN’S LIBRARIAN, CENTER FOR ACCESSIBLIITY, D.C. PUBLIC LIBRARY PICTURE BOOKS “My Brother Charlie” By Holly Robinson Peete and Ryan Elizabeth Peete, illustrated by Shane W. Evans This story, co-written by a mother and daughter about their real-life experiences, is told from the point of view of Charlie’s sister, Callie. The book celebrates all the things she loves about her twin brother with autism and some of the differences in the ways they experience the world. “A Friend for Henry” By Jenn Bailey, illustrated by Mika Song Henry wants what every child wants: a friend that fits him just right. The story explains Henry’s sensory issues in simple text, and the search for a friend is relatable for everyone. “Too Sticky! Sensory Issues with Autism” By Jen Malia, illustrated by Joanne Lew-Vriethoff Our only selection that also includes a slime recipe, this book explores how a young student handles her sensory issues at school. “My Rainbow” By Trinity and DeShannia Neal, illustrated by Art Twink This true story describes a transgender child with autism, her loving family and her rainbow of curls. Readers will also learn about other aspects of the child’s life. NONFICTION “The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin” By Julia Finley Mosca, illustrated by Daniel Rieley 32  Washington FAMILY  APRIL 2021 Wonderful rhyming text makes this a fun and informative read about Dr. Temple Grandin’s journey, from a child who couldn’t speak to a world- renowned animal researcher. “My Friend Has Autism” By Kaitlyn Duling Simple text shows young readers what autism might look like and how they can be sensitive to different needs. “I See Things Differently: A First Look at Autism” By Pat Thomas, illustrated by Claire Keay Written by a psychotherapist and counselor, this work introduces younger readers to autism. MIDDLE GRADE “Rules” By Cynthia Lord Twelve-year-old Catherine has a complicated relationship with her younger brother and a healthy dose of pre-teen angst in this realistic portrayal of family, friendship and understanding autism. “Most Valuable Players” By Phil Bildner, illustrations by Tim Probert Rip and his best friend Red, who has autism, are nearing fifth-grade graduation and a high-stakes basketball game in the fourth book in Bildner’s Rip & Red series. “It’s Not Destiny: An Abby Story” By Kelsey Abrams, illustrated by Jomike Tejido Part of the Second Chance Ranch series, Abby Ramirez, a 10-year-old with autism, helps a German shepherd overcome its anxieties and her own fear of the ocean. BOOK MARKED “A Boy Called Bat” By Elana K. Arnold Third-grader Bat often finds the world overwhelming, but he's determined to care for a new friend, an orphaned baby skunk, when his mom brings it home. This heartwarming story is the first in a series. YOUNG ADULT “Same But Different: Teen Life on the Autism Express” By Holly Robinson Peete, Ryan Elizabeth Peete and RJ Peete Teen versions of their characters from “My Brother Charlie,” based on siblings and co-authors Ryan Elizabeth and RJ Peete, tell what it’s like navigating high school as the sibling with and without autism in alternating chapters. “The State of Grace” By Rachael Lucas A teen girl with Asperger’s syndrome navigates crushes, family problems and school accommodations in this sweet coming-of-age story. “Marcelo in the Real World” By Francisco X. Stork Marcelo, a 17-year-old with Asperger’s syndrome, faces social and professional challenges when he takes on his first big summer job working in a mailroom at his father’s urging. The first-person narration helps us understand Marcelo’s experience of the world and makes his dilemmas that much more compelling. “The Reason I Jump: The Inner Voice of a Thirteen-Year-Old Boy With Autism” By Naoki Higashida Translated from Japanese, this first-person account details what a teen with autism thinks and feels, and how he navigates a complex world.  n WashingtonFAMILY.com  33 WF MY TURN Finding r e d Or in How word searches have helped my children learn to self-soothe. By Hannah Grieco 34  Washington FAMILY  APRIL 2021 year-old, running behind the sofa to hide. Her pink fleece blanket, in dire need of a wash, covers her little body. She shakes and huddles down, desperate to sink into invisibility. It’s 9:05 a.m. on a Tuesday. I head to my laptop and quickly create an LOL Doll word search. “Hey, grab a pencil!” I call to her. “Something’s printing up for you!” She runs to the printer. A crisis averted. Selective mutism, like many anxiety- related disabilities, makes distance learning especially difficult. My daughter will talk to — and yell at — me, but not her teacher or classroom assistants. Not her peers. She stays silent online with them, refusing even to turn on her video camera. She only occasionally emails a short message to a friend she used to play with before COVID-19 hit. All of my kids are struggling with virtual learning, despite their kind and patient teachers and despite me feigning enthusiasm as I physically toggle between three kids who desperately miss human connection and who express that grief through meltdowns and school refusal. There’s only so much one mom can do, even with virtual therapy sessions for each child and a background in parenting uncomfortable behaviors. My oldest child is on the autism spectrum and my middle child struggles with mood dysregulation. All three of my kids fight when distressed, become irritable when sad and sink into fearfulness when their schedules become too loose or change too quickly. COVID-19 brought that to a whole new level. Isolated at home, the school experience fluctuating and confusing, friends all but lost to them, my kids’ behavior exploded in hard ways. But what can we do when all the coping strategies in all the child development books don’t work to soothe our kids? We improvise and frantically Google “hamster word search” one day, in hopes of keeping a kid from loudly crying during a Zoom meeting. “Can I have one, too?” my oldest asks when he sees the paper. “Me too!” his sister demands. HANNAH GRIECO “I hate school! I hate everybody!” screams my seven- All three sit down and work on the puzzle together, helping each other, laughing at the words: sunflower (backward and diagonal!), water bottle, Roborovski. “Can we do another one?” they beg. And so begins a new cognitive behavioral therapy practice, inspired by far too much time stuck at home and on iPads. I print word searches for everything. My 13-year- old’s cell biology unit? Everyone find the word mitosis! My 11-year-old’s research project on Albert Einstein? Equation, relativity, science, invention. I begin to make my own, quickly typing up searches that might make a child smile when they can’t stop crying or distract them in the middle of a meltdown. I include holidays and YouTube celebrities and silly facts about our dogs. Anything that might interest them. Panic eases into focus. When one of my kids starts to circle the hidden words, to announce “Ah ha!” and pump their fist, the others run over to see what they’re doing, pull up their own chairs and search, too. This isn’t homework, even when it’s about something they’re learning in school. The paper gets recycled afterward, sometimes just 30 seconds later. And yet the act itself centers and soothes. The puzzles give my kids what coloring books and yoga never could — peace, even pleasure, in the midst of distress. Now we’re heading back into the classroom but only two days a week and with the constant threat of closing again. It’s a lack of consistency that feels like torture for children who need routine and physical proximity to their teachers and peers to stay regulated. So we find fun where we can. More importantly, we find order in a time that otherwise feels chaotic to all people — big and little — right now. If I had known these puzzles provided this sense of purpose to my children, I would have started making them when my son first began school. I would have met him in the pickup lane with a Black Hole word search in hand. I would have given my daughter an Artists Who Draw Horses word search when she woke up far too early on a Saturday morning. I would have researched every Minecraft phrase and created a Mega Gamer word search for all three kids, keeping them busy for hours on those days we were stuck at home, long before COVID-19, simply because we struggled that day. If nothing else, the pandemic has given our family this gift. And I am grateful. n Washington FAMILY.com  35 V OTE F THE W OR INNERS 20 2 1 Vote for your favorite people, places and things in the DMV! The winners are chosen by popular vote, so let your friends know it’s time to cast their ballot. As a business, share with your audience to help you win the title of “Best” in your category! wn New Hometo gory Heroes Cate Voting for the winners begins on April 8 Winners will be contacted in June, and the results will be in the July issue of Washington FAMILY magazine. Go to washingtonfamily.com/bestforfamilies and VOTE TODAY! Print | Digital | Contact Jeni Mann Tough for more information jmann@midatlanticmedia.com