washingtonFAMILY.com DECEMBER 2020 GREAT Holiday Gifts Your Kids Will Love Helping Children Take Medicine Healthy FAMILY RESOLUTIONS for 2021 CONTENTS COSCARON / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS; T DECEMBER 2020 How to have a healthier, happier new year. Pg. 13 FEATURES DEPARTMENTS Holiday gifts for mom 11 HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS 13 Where to find festive family fun across the DMV NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS FOR KIDS AND PARENTS Is your family ready for a fresh start in 2021? Here are easy lifestyle changes you can make together. 17 LETTER TO SANTA A fill-in-the-blank wish list to tear out and mail to Santa Claus 18 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2020 Local experts share this season’s hottest toys, games and books. 21 “COURTNEY MOORE MAKES ME FEEL OLD” One mom’s mixed feelings about the newest American Girl doll 6 8 DIY WE WANT YOUR FEEDBACK We welcome your feedback on specific articles, overall themes and anything else related to editorial content. Email your comments to info@ washingtonfamily.com. Please note we reserve the right to edit or refrain from publishing comments we deem inappropriate. 2  Washington FAMILY  DECEMBER 2020 Make a clay rainbow ornament 10 RECIPE 28 30 Peppermint shortbread cookies INCLUSIVE FAMILY Saving money for your child’s future HEALTHY FAMILY Tips for taking medicine 32 BOOKMARKED 35 READERS’ RESPONSES EDITOR’S PICKS Winter-themed children’s books DAD LIFE John Gallagher, a dad of three, is the author and illustrator of a new graphic novel for kids DIRECTORIES 22 EDUCATION ADVERTORIAL OUR FUTURE LEADERS WILL COME FROM MONTESSORI If the COVID-19 crisis has taught us anything, it is that we are part of an interdependent, fragile world. It has also taught us the vital importance of scientific thinking. Finally, it has taught us that problems of this magnitude and complexity require adaptive leaders who can work with others to create effective strategies around which all segments of society can coalesce. Fostering an interdependent mindset, scientific thinking and adaptive leadership skills has been foundational to the Montessori approach to education since Maria Montessori launched her first school in 1907. These outcomes are natural by-products of the way Montessori classrooms function: teachers introduce concepts in a big-picture perspective, allowing students to move about freely and work in small groups, experimenting and engaging in self-directed projects. This structure provides many opportunities for students to practice leading teams and working together to accomplish a goal. Sometimes parents ask, “How will my child be prepared for the real world?” Our answer is that Montessori principles are the very things our children need to learn to not only be successful in the world, but to improve the world. Montessori principles such as self-motivation, initiative, creative thinking, scientific theory, emotional intelligence, ethics, communication and leadership will be integral if we want to see a world that can better address the next global crisis. At Oneness-Family Montessori High School, the only Montessori high school in the Washington area, we are building a 21st Century Leadership program founded upon Maria Montessori’s vision. We’ve gathered a team of exceptional thought leaders to create a program that incorporates essential leadership skill sets and will have students joining together for a real-world capstone project in their community each year. The program will launch in September 2020. 6701 Wisconsin Ave. / Chevy Chase, MD 20815 / 301.652.7751 onenessfamily.org / admissions@onenessfamily.org OFFERING the best in MONTESSORI EDUCATION for 30 years Join Us for a Virtual Tour 301-652-7751 admissions@onenessfamily.org admissions@onenessfamily.org VOTED “BEST MONTESSORI SCHOOL IN THE DC-AREA” — 2016, 2017, 2017, 2018, 2018, 2019, 2019 2020 — 2016, — — WashingtonFAMILY.com 3 OUR TEAM DECEMBER 2020 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, Stacie Shapero, Sylvia Witaschek BUSINESS Kris Ries, Accounting Manager • 443-471-5355 • kries@midatlanticmedia.com CONTRIBUTORS Elena Epstein, Lindsay Ponta, Jacqueline Renfrow, Jennifer Rothschild, Joy Saha, Jamie Davis Smith, Jennifer Marino Walters INTERNS Michelle Aguirre, Ceoli Jacoby, Sharmilee Rahman COMING IN JANUARY Winter Activities CREATIVE Jay Sevidal, Graphic Deisgner Rachel Frizzel, Intern James Meskunas, Digital Media Manager MID-ATLANTIC MEDIA Craig Burke, CEO/Publisher • cburke@midatlanticmedia.com Jennifer Perkins-Frantz, Director of Production • jperkinsfrantz@midatlanticmedia.com Jeni Mann Tough, Director of Marketing & Custom Media • jmann@midatlanticmedia.com 2020 Indoor Fun Camps Special Series 2020 Calendar of Events 2020 Family Matters Family Fun 2020 Table of Contents 2020 Single Page Design Interior Illustration Target parents in the DMV Print | Digital Call to advertise: 301-230-2222, Ext. 4 or email advertising@washingtonfamily.com © 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  DECEMBER 2020 FIRST WORD A Healthier New Year 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@washingtonFAMILY.com I feel incredibly lucky that my family has managed to stay in good health this year, but I’ll be the first to admit that we’ve also picked up some not-so-healthy habits while hunkering down at home. My husband, sons and I spend more time sitting in front of screens than we do moving our bodies; I can’t remember the last time I worked up a good sweat. We consume an embarrassing amount of pizza for four people, regularly stay up way too late and let ourselves get bogged down by stress. I don’t have the mental energy to completely make over our lives right now (honestly, does anybody?), but I know there are some small things we can do differently as a family to feel healthier and happier. To start, I’m going to follow the advice outlined by Jennifer Marino Walters in her story this month about New Year’s resolutions. She spoke to local experts and parents about the positive changes parents and kids can make together in 2021, and trust me, they’re all completely doable. But just in case your little one comes down with a case of the sniffles, writer Joy Saha has tips from a pediatrician on how to help children take medicine. It turns out that a spoonful of sugar does help the medicine go down! In our holiday issue, we also check in with D.C.- area toy stores about this year’s must-have gifts and share the festive family events happening in person and virtually in December. Arlington Public Library is back with children’s book recommendations about winter, and we meet Fairfax author and cartoonist John Gallagher, whose new graphic novel, “Max Meow: Cat Crusader,” will have young readers in hysterics. After a long, stressful year, I hope you are able to find peace this holiday season—and the time to bake a batch of peppermint shortbread cookies (flip to page 10 for a yummy recipe). Happy holidays, happy New Year and happy reading! ONLINE & IN PERSON MUSIC LESSONS LESSONS FOR ALL AGES & LEVELS THEATER CLASSES GROUP MUSIC CLASSES ONGOING REGISTRATION! HARMONIA DAY PROGRAM Supporting distance learning students with an in person, structured school day! - Homework/Study Help - Physical Fitness/Daily Dance Breaks - Small class sizes - Group Music & Theater Classes - Extracurricular Activities - Friday Flicks! - Sibling Discounts 703.938.7301 | WWW.HARMONIASCHOOL.ORG | VIENNA, VA WashingtonFAMILY.com  5 We Love It! Holiday Gifts for Moms By Elena Epstein, Director of the National Parenting Product Awards JJ COLE AGILITY FLEX STRETCH CARRIER This carrier slips on like your favorite T-shirt with no complicated wrapping required and is available in a one-size-fits-most design that can easily be swapped among parents. Enjoy comfortable stretch fabric with adjustable straps for a great fit and comfort. $39.99, walmart.com Super-soft and stretchy lounge and pajama pants will keep you comfy and cute during all hours of the day. An adjustable drawstring waistband makes them ideal for pregnancy and beyond. $27.99, kindredbravely.com 6  Washington FAMILY  DECEMBER 2020 ILONA VLASOVA / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS EVERYDAY LOUNGE JOGGERS LUXE MAKEUP BRUSH CLEANER The Luxe spinner gets all the dirt, grime and oil off of your brush within seconds of pressing the handle button. This brush cleaner uses high-speed momentum to ensure that your brush maintains its form. $35.99, walmart.com HAPPI TUMMI Like a warm hug that soothes and calms, this natural herbal external wrap relieves stomach aches, nervous stomach, menstrual symptoms, nausea, cramps, muscle aches and more without drugs or drops. Warm it up and feel the relaxation. $49.95, happitummi.com THE SPA GIRL LIFE – DAY AT THE SPA – LUXURY CANDLE Hand-poured with love and a little magic, this candle arrives with two stones, a link to a guided meditation and a mantra card. Discover this perfect way to destress and relax. $39.95, thespagirllife.com CAULIFLOWER POWER Featuring more than 75 recipes built around the five ways to prepare this versatile vegetable, the book features dishes that are low in carbs, fats and sugars and come naturally packed with vitamin C. $19.95, workman.com  T WashingtonFAMILY.com  7 w o b n a R i How to Make y Cla DIY By Lindsay Ponta These adorable rainbow ornaments are a fun craft that does double duty as a treasured keepsake to bring out year after year. They’re the perfect decorations to add to your Christmas tree or to hang up in your windows to inspire a feeling of community. Consider making and giving them as a year-end gift to all of your neighbors! 1 INSTRUCTIONS Condition white polymer clay by kneading it with your hands until it becomes soft and flexible. Tip: Make sure your work surface is as clean as possible to prevent debris from sticking to the clay while you’re working with it. 2 Once your clay is conditioned to the point that it no longer crumbles, use a rolling pin to roll the entire block to an approximate ¼-inch thickness. Tip: You can use silicone guide rings to help you. Slide one ring onto each end of your rolling pin to make the final thickness as perfectly uniform as possible. 3 4 Roll three additional colors into long, thin “snakes.” A clay extruder can help you create perfectly smooth and even stripes, tubes and more. Beginning with the innermost color of your rainbow, cut a small piece off the colored clay snake using an X-Acto knife. (Note: Do not allow children to cut with the X-Acto knife. Adults should perform all cutting required.) Gently lay the colored piece of clay onto the white clay and bend it into an arch. Bend another arch around the first, leaving a bit of space in between. Repeat with the third color. 5 Use the rolling pin to gently flatten the colored stripes, pressing them lightly into the clay. They don’t need to be completely flat, but they shouldn’t poke up too much when you’re done. 6 8  Washington FAMILY  DECEMBER 2020 Cut around the rainbow with the X-Acto knife, leaving a generous white border. Use the end of a pen or pencil to poke a hole at the top. 7 Preheat the oven to the temperature indicated on the package for your clay. This temperature can vary based on the type of clay you are using. Tip: Using an oven thermometer is highly recommended. If you bake the clay at too low a temperature, it won’t fuse properly. Instead of being strong and flexible, your ornament will be brittle, breaking off with the slightest pressure. Orn a SUPPLIES 1 Polymer clay in white and three other colors Rolling pin Silicone rolling pin guide rings (optional) 3 Clay extruder tool (optional) s ent m You can find all the supplies to make this project at your local craft store or on Amazon. Polymer clay comes in blocks divided into sections. You can make three large ornaments from one block of white clay. X-Acto knife Pen or pencil Flat-back pearls in mixed sizes Glue Twine or ribbon 4 9 8 Bake the ornaments in an ovenproof glass dish or a baking sheet lined and tented with aluminum foil to prevent the ornaments from burning. Bake for 15 minutes longer than the package suggests to make sure your clay is completely fused. Remove ornaments from the oven and allow to cool completely. (Note: The clay doesn’t set until it has completely cooled.) 9 Apply a generous amount of glue to the bottoms of each rainbow. Press the flat- backed pearls in a random arrangement to look like clouds. Let the ornaments dry overnight. 10 Thread a length of twine or ribbon through the hole at the top of the rainbow ornaments. Hang them in a window or on your tree. n 10 Lindsay Ponta created the DIY and lifestyle website Shrimp Salad Circus in 2009 to inspire busy women to live perfectly imperfect creative lives. Find easy DIYs and recipes at shrimpsaladcircus.com. WashingtonFAMILY.com  9 RECIPES Sweet, Festive Fun H oliday celebrations call for recipes of all kinds, but perhaps the most popular dishes are the desserts. Add flavor to your holiday baking with a festive treat like these Peppermint Shortbread Cookies, which call for the seasonal taste of peppermint and the versatility of dairy for a sweet bite after a holiday meal. Find more recipes for the holidays at milkmeansmore.org. Peppermint Shortbread Cookies Prep time: 15 minutes, plus 30 minutes freeze time Cook time: 15 minutes Servings: 40 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1 teaspoon salt 2 1/3 cups all-purpose flour 3/4 cup peppermint crunch baking chips In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream butter, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract and salt until smooth. Gradually add flour and mix on low until combined. Add baking chips and continue mixing on low speed until fully combined. On wax paper or parchment paper, form dough into a 12- to 14-inch log and freeze at least 30 minutes or until firm. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Cut shortbread dough into 1/4-inch slices; bake 13 to 15 minutes on parchment-lined baking sheets. 10  Washington FAMILY  DECEMBER 2020 United Dairy Industry of Michigan Holiday HAPPENINGS Compiled by Ceoli Jacoby and Sharmilee Rahman Whether you celebrate Christmas, Kwanzaa or Chanukah—or are just looking for some festive family fun— here are some local holiday happenings, a mix of virtual and in-person events, that you won’t want to miss. Editor’s note: Our staff verified information to the best of our ability at press time. Please check with event organizers prior to attending or participating in these activities to confirm dates, times, locations and other details. LIGHT BRIGHT WINTER LIGHTS FESTIVAL Experience the wonder of 450 illuminated displays and enchantingly lit trees from the warmth of your car on a 3.5- mile drive through Seneca Creek State Park. Tickets required. The Winter Lights Enchanted Evenings will not be happening this year due to the pandemic. Seneca Creek State Park, Gaithersburg, MD | Nov. 27 to Dec. 31 (closed on Dec. 25) | $12+ | gaithersburgmd.gov WINTER WALK OF LIGHTS PAPRIKAA/ISTOCK /GETTY IMAGES PLUS Enjoy a scenic half-mile walk through a gorgeous lighting display in the botanical gardens. Tickets are required. Social distancing guidelines apply and capacity may be limited. Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Vienna, VA | Nov. 11 to Jan. 3 | $11.25-$20 | novaparks.com to be entered into a weekly raffle for a swag bag of goodies from local retailers. The Boro, Tysons, VA | Dec. 1-27 | Free | theborotysons.com sure to support local businesses along your way. Check the website for a list of participating neighborhoods. | Dec. 1-31 | Free dcholidaylights.org ZOOLIGHTS EXPRESS NIGHTLY HOLIDAY TREE LIGHT SHOW The National Zoo’s dazzling annual holiday event is going mobile this year, visiting one D.C. ward each Friday and Saturday night from 6-8 p.m. It’ll be hard to miss the 24-foot truck decorated with festive lights and featuring “Panda Claws.” Washington, DC | Nov. 27 to Dec.19 | Free | nationalzoo.si.edu Bask in the glow of 2 million twinkling lights in the National Harbor Waterfront District. The 56-foot tree will light up every half hour from sundown to 9 p.m., and snow will fall over the tree during weekend light shows. National Harbor, MD | Nov. 13 to Jan. 3 | Free | nationalharbor.com BULL RUN FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS FESTIVE ART INSTALLATION Follow the magical glow of holiday lights on this 2.5-mile drive through Bull Run Regional Park. Santa will be waiting in the holiday village on select nights for family photos. Tickets required. Bull Run Regional Park, Centreville, VA | Nov. 6 to Jan. 10 | $20-$50 | novaparks.com Snap the perfect holiday photo at The Boro Park’s Instagrammable art installation, featuring giant interactive gift boxes wrapped with bright bows and glowing with holiday lights. Post a photo of the installation on social media and tag @theborotysons Take in the dazzling lights of Columbia Heights, Dupont Circle and other commercial corridors around D.C., then cast a vote for your favorite festive display. While you’re walking, be DC HOLIDAY LIGHTS NATIONAL CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING A live audience will not be allowed on the Ellipse for the 98th annual lighting of the National Christmas Tree and holiday performances, but families can watch the event online and then stream it on demand throughout the season. Stop by President’s Park during December to view the illuminated National Christmas tree and 56 student-decorated trees representing every U.S. state and territory. Streaming and The Ellipse, Washington, DC | Dec. 3-31 | Free | thenationaltree.org CHANUKAH ON THE ELLIPSE The annual lighting of the National Menorah includes musical performances from Dreidelman and the Maccabees, delicious packaged Chanukah treats and free dreidels and menorah kits. COVID-19 safety measures will be in effect. Registration required. The Ellipse, Washington, DC | Dec. 10 | Free | nationalmenorah.org HOLIDAY STAGE Holiday Sing-A-Long From Home Join the Wolf Trap Foundation for two virtual performances by the U. S. Marine Band and a sing- along of Christmas carols and Chanukah songs with local choir and vocal groups. Streaming Dec. 5 and Dec. 19 | Free | wolftrap.org WINTER SOLSTICE REVELS Gather around the laptop and get ready to sing at this live virtual event hosted by Washington Revels. Enjoy performances by virtual choruses, a special mummers’ play and a traditional horn dance. Streaming | Dec. 20 | $35 per device | revelsdc.org WashingtonFAMILY.com  11 Step Afrika!’s talented dancers showcase the African-American tradition of stepping in this festive virtual performance. Expect a visit from arctic friends like Popper the Penguin and polar bear twins. Registration required. Streaming | Dec. 16 | Free | stepafrika.org IN SPIRIT OF KWANZAA Now in its 15th year, this energetic virtual performance from Coyaba Dance Theater celebrates the seven principles of Kwanzaa through dance. Streaming | Dec. 29 | Free | danceplace.org THE NUTCRACKER STORYBOOK Imagination Stage. All winter long, families can tune into this retelling of the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale that inspired Disney’s “Frozen.” Tickets required. Streaming | Dec. 12 to Feb. 28 | $25-29 per household | imaginationstage.org WINTER ADVENTURE WITH THE SNOW MAIDEN Join teaching artist and performer Natasha Mirny for the exciting Slavic folk tale of Grandfather Frost and the Snow Maiden. Families are invited to become part of Hillwood Museum’s virtual storytelling experience through music, movement and props. Tickets required. Streaming | Dec. 12 | Free for members; $5 for the general public | hillwoodmuseum.org The Maryland Youth Ballet has reimagined its annual production of the classic holiday story. The pre-recorded performance will be available to rent or purchase after its premiere. Streaming | Dec. 19 | CHRISTMAS VILLAGE AT LEESBURG $10 to rent, $20 to purchase | ANIMAL PARK marylandyouthballet.org If you have an animal lover in the family, consider celebrating the holidays at this popular ‘THE SNOW QUEEN’ petting zoo. Take photos Make some hot chocolate with Santa Claus, ride the and settle in for an amazing at-home theater experience from Candy Cane Express, roast MERRY MAKING 12  Washington FAMILY  DECEMBER 2020 marshmallows and more. Tickets required. Leesburg Animal Park, Leesburg, VA | Dec. 4-23 | Prices vary by activity | leesburganimalpark.com THE ENCHANTED FOREST This annual fundraiser for the Junior League of Northern Virginia is happening virtually this year. The day-long event includes family-friendly activities such as calls with Santa, holiday cooking, gingerbread decorating, musical performances and more. Tickets required. Streaming | Nov. 21 | Prices vary by activity | jlnv.org WINTER GLOW Experience the wonder of George Washington’s estate illuminated with colorful lights and holiday patterns. Meet Aladdin the camel, listen to carolers and pick up a craft kit for the kids. Tickets required. George Washington’s Mount Vernon, Mount Vernon, VA | Dec. 11-13 and 26-28 | $25-$45 | mountvernon.org ICE & LIGHTS Skate around the ice rink, sip hot chocolate and say “cheese” at festively lit photo ops, including a reindeer family, color-changing trees and a 3D sleigh. Face masks and social distancing required. Ice skating tickets must be purchased online. The Winter Village at Cameron Run Park, Alexandria, VA | Nov. 20 to Jan. 3 | $9.35-$24 | novaparks.com OCCOQUAN HOLIDAYFEST Explore historic Occoquan during the holiday season through a series of online and in-person activities. Events include a gingerbread house contest, a virtual tree lighting, a fireside family night and a trivia competition. Registration required. Price varies by activity. Occoquan, VA | Nov. 20 to Dec. 13 | occoquanguild.org FIRST NIGHT ALEXANDRIA Looking for a family-friendly way to ring in the new year? Celebrate the end of 2020 with fan-favorite local entertainers and fireworks in an alcohol- free and safe environment. Both in-person and online activities will be offered. Alexandria, VA | Dec. 31 | $25- $35; children younger than 12 free | firstnightalexandria.org n TATYANA_TOMSICKOVA/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS MAGICAL MUSICAL HOLIDAY STEP SHOW New Year’s Resolutions By Jennifer Marino Walters for Kids and Parents Here are some healthy changes your family can make together in 2021 After battling a global pandemic for much of 2020, families across the Washington, D.C. area are more than ready for a fresh start. We all want to feel better, be happier and strengthen our relationships. Unfortunately, COVID-19 doesn’t seem to be going anywhere just yet. Still, families can find many ways to have a healthier and happier 2021. Discover some New Year’s resolutions that kids and parents can make together—and tips from experts and local parents on how to successfully execute them. MICROSTOCKHUB/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS WashingtonFAMILY.com  13 Just like grown-ups, kids can easily get caught up in the things that go wrong or in their worries about that upcoming math test or swim meet. To ward off these negative thoughts, have your child take a few minutes each evening to tell you three things they are grateful for and three things that made them proud of themselves. “It’s best to do it at the end of the day because it gives kids an opportunity to reflect on the day in a positive way, which will help them sleep better,” says Rachel Noble, a licensed professional counselor with the INOVA Health System. “And it’s important for parents to take part in it as well.” Noble also suggests hanging a clothespin line down a long hallway or across a wall. Each day when the kids get home from school—or log out of Zoom—have them hang up one thing they’re proud of, such as artwork, an award they received or a piece of writing. You’ll be surprised that the things 14  Washington FAMILY  DECEMBER 2020 they choose won’t always be the same ones you would have chosen. Get a better night’s sleep Sufficient sleep can greatly improve cognitive performance, alertness and attention, learning, memory and mood. But according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than one-third of adults, 60% of middle schoolers and 70% of high-school students don’t get enough sleep at night. The National Sleep Foundation recommends seven to nine hours of sleep per night for adults, eight to 10 hours per night for teens and nine to 11 hours per night for school-age children. Babies and younger children need even more than that. To ensure your family gets adequate sleep, create calming bedtime routines, have everyone disconnect from electronic devices at least 30 minutes before bedtime, keep bedrooms free from screens and try to make HUGGING: NIKOLA ILIC / E+; SLEEPING: CHOREOGRAPH; JENGA: KATARZYNABIALASIEWICZ / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS Focus on gratitude bedtime and wake time around the same time every day—even on weekends. COOKING: ND3000 / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS; DANCING: SOLSTOCK / E+; Carve out screen-free family time With work, school, sports and other activities taking so much of our time and attention, it can be difficult to steal away quality time as a family. Schedule family dinners, game nights or walks just like you would anything else. Make it a rule that during these activities, all cell phones and electronic devices will go in a basket where they cannot be seen or heard. “Devices can be a fun part of who we are and help us stay connected to others,” says Noble. “But if we don’t create guardrails around them, we won’t be able to connect with the people right in front of us.” To get your kids to open up during family time, ask plenty of open-ended questions. Rakelle Mullenix, a mother of two in Annandale, Virginia, has a jar full of fun questions such as “If you could have one superpower, what would it be?” and “What is something you know how to do that you could teach others?” Her family takes turns pulling questions from the jar and answering them out loud. “Every so often, we change the questions to suit our current life,” she says. Eat the rainbow We all know by now that we should eat fewer processed foods and more fruits and vegeta- bles. Elizabeth Owens, a certified nutrition specialist in Burke, Virginia, and owner of Wellness With Elizabeth, says a great way for families to do that is to increase the amount of colors they eat through fruits and vegetables. “Fruits and vegetables get their colors from phytonutrients, chemicals that provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits,” Owens says. “A good goal for families would be to eat one to two servings of each color each day.” WashingtonFAMILY.com  15 To encourage her young clients and her own children to eat more colors, Owens gives them a checklist of each color. Each time they eat an orange carrot, green broccoli or a yellow banana, they check off the color on the list. “It keeps kids actively engaged,” Owens says. Get moving together nicolesy / iStock / Getty Images Plus The CDC recommends that adults get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise (or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise) each week and that kids get an hour of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day. Exercise helps us to maintain a healthy weight, controls blood pressure, strengthens the heart, lowers the risk of diseases such as Type 2 diabetes and some cancers, and strengthens bones, muscles and joints. The benefits go beyond the physical, explains Marc Sickel, founder and president of Fitness for Health in Rockville, Maryland. “Physical activity improves self-esteem and confidence. It also leads to an increase in endorphins, which makes us happier,” he says. To encourage everyone in your household to move more, make a resolution to exercise 16  Washington FAMILY  DECEMBER 2020 together as often as possible. Go for a family walk or bike ride. Toss a ball around in the backyard. Go for a swim. To motivate reluctant kids, Sickel suggests giving them fun challenges. This works for Dori Sophia, a mother of two in Burke, Virginia, and her family. “We’ll play a basketball game and make it kids vs. adults or one parent and child vs. the other parent and child,” Sophia says. “Or we’ll challenge each other to make baskets from different places and give little rewards if we make them. It’s a lot of fun!” Don’t be afraid to think outside the box, especially during the winter months. Turn up some music and have a dance party in the living room. Set up a scavenger hunt. Build an obstacle course out of pillows, boxes and other household items. “You have to make exercise fun for kids,” says Sickel. “Whatever you’re doing, ‘gamify’ it.” Snack better With many parents working from home and kids doing virtual learning, it’s easy for everyone to snack throughout the day. To get the most from those snacks, Owens of Wellness With Elizabeth recommends including a protein with each one. “If there’s just a carbohydrate, you or your child will likely be hungry within an hour,” she says. Pair pretzels or crackers with a cheese stick or nut butter. Mix some fruit into plain Greek yogurt. Dip celery sticks, carrot sticks and bell pepper strips into a protein-rich dip such as hummus. Don’t be discouraged if your child doesn’t take to a particular food right away. “Most kids need to try a new food eight to 10 times before they’ll accept it,” says Owens. Continue to offer your children a variety of healthy bites and let them see you eating those same foods. Eventually, they’ll grow to love some of them. Remember—as with any healthy changes you plan to make, start small and work your way up. If you try to do too much too soon, your family will only get discouraged and you’ll fall back into some of your old habits. Good luck, and here’s to a happy and healthy new year! n Write your Christmas gift wish list to Santa Claus! . Dear Santa, My name is ............................................................................................................................ and I am ................... years old. This year I’ve been ................. awesome ................. good ................. naughty (but I can explain!). My Christmas wish for my family and friends is . . . .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... For Christmas, I would really love . . . a ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ a ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ a ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ a ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ I hope you, Mrs. Claus and the reindeer have a very merry Christmas! Ekaterina Romanova/iStock/Getty Images Plus Love, ........................................................................................................................................ WashingtonFAMILY.com  17 y a l o id ide H Gu i G ft 20 0 2 L ooking for the perfect holiday present for your baby or big kid? With many amazing toys, games and books available for kids, it can be hard to know what to pick. We spoke with the experts—Bridget Quinn Stickline, owner of Wee Chic; Caroline Roane, store manager at Doodlehopper 4 Kids; and Joe Guevara, store buyer at Sullivan’s Toys & Art Supplies—to learn about this season’s must-have gifts for children of all ages. Local experts share this season’s hottest toys, games and books BY WF Staff FOR BABIES & TODDLERS: Fat Brain Toys Rock ‘n’ Roller Piano** Perfect for tummy time, your baby can practice fine motor skills and coordination while jamming to some fun tunes. $30, 6 months+ Sources: *Wee Chic, 2905 District Ave. #120, Fairfax, VA 22031 | 703-936-0500 | weechic.com **Doodlehopper 4 Kids, 234 W. Broad St., Falls Church, VA 22046 703-241-2262 | doodlehopper.com ***Sullivan’s Toy & Art Supplies 4200 Wisconsin Ave., Washington, DC 20016 | 202-362-1343 18  Washington FAMILY  DECEMBER 2020 Green Toys Farm Playset** Tending to the animals in the barn and driving them in the green pickup truck will help your toddler develop communication, coordination and fine motor skills. All Green Toys are manufactured in the United States with 100% recycled materials and are dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. $50, ages 2-6 years Tegu Travel Pals Magnetic Blocks* Little hands can make an airplane or a bird with these colorful wooden blocks, or they can use the shapes to create something straight out of their imagination. This set is compatible with all Tegu Magnetic Wooden Blocks and is perfect for on-the-go fun. $24, ages 1+ years Melissa & Doug Vroom & Zoom Interactive Dashboard*** Start the driving lessons early with this hands-on play steering wheel. The dashboard comes equipped with lights, a radio, adjustable air-conditioning vents, sport mode button, gear shift, key start and a full GPS display. $55, ages 3+ years Fat Brain Toys Shape Factory*** Twist the top of this colorful puzzle to change the shape of the slots. As toddlers match the blocks to the slots, they’ll be working on spatial reasoning, experimentation and problem solving. $25, ages 2+ years FOR LITTLE KIDS: Good Banana Floor Floaties Play Space Cushion*** An inflatable pool floaty-plush furniture hybrid, this comfy cushion is the perfect spot for kids to play, read or watch TV. Choose from six adorable (and tasty) styles, including a cupcake, doughnut, pizza and cheeseburger. $120, Any age Thames & Kosmos Kids First Robot Pet Shop** Future mechanical engineers can learn to build a robotic pet that uses a battery- powered motor to move around. Kids can create eight different adorable animals, including an owl, sloth, chameleon and French bulldog. $30, ages 5+ years LEGO Super Mario Adventures with Mario Starter Course*** Gamers-in-training can build their own Super Mario course using LEGOs, combining this starter set with other expansion packs to create epic adventures. Mario lights up, and a speaker plays sound effects and music. $60, ages 6+ years ‘I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark’* This biographical picture book celebrates the life of the esteemed U.S. Supreme Court justice and teaches young readers the difference between disagreeing with others and being disagreeable. $19, ages 4-8 years BUILDZI by Tenzi*** Friends and family can compete against each other to be the first to build their colorful tower. This 3D game of Tetris is a great way to practice problem solving and team building. $25, ages 6+ years WashingtonFAMILY.com  19 FOR BIG KIDS: Fashion Angels Fashion Design Light Sketch Pad* This light-up sketch pad includes six stencil sheets and stickers, allowing wannabe fashion designers to trace and color their own line of clothing and accessories. $30, ages 10+ years Thames & Kosmos SolarBots 8-in-1 Solar Robot Kit** Powered by the sun, this DIY robot offers tweens a lesson in engineering as well as environmental sustainability. Once built, this bot can beat a drum, crawl, somersault and more. $25, ages 9+ years Thames & Kosmos Mega Cyborg Hand*** Introduce early elementary-age kids to engineering with a robotic hand they can build, wear and operate. This STEM toy uses hydraulic power to simulate Vango The #UpsideDownChallenge Game*** hand movements so they can Wearing goggles that make the world flip upside down, practice picking up and holding kids compete to do everyday tasks such as pouring water or different items. writing their name. The results are LOL hysterical. $40, ages 7+ $20, ages 8+ years Kids Against Maturity*** With its juvenile humor—including fart jokes, of course—this kid-friendly version of Cards Against Humanity will have kids in stitches. Parents can try not to laugh, but they won’t succeed. $30, ages 10+ years 20  Washington FAMILY  DECEMBER 2020 ‘The New AMERICAN GIRL DOLL Makes Me Feel Old’ American Girl Courtney Moore is from 1986, the year I turned 11. Am I really old enough for my childhood to become part of a historical story? AMERICAN GIRL debuted in 1986 with three historical dolls: Kirsten Larson, a pioneer girl living in Minnesota in 1854; Samantha Parkington, an orphan from New York City in the early 1900s; and Molly McIntire, a girl in Illinois awaiting her father’s return from World War II in 1944. When the company announced recently that it would be releasing its first historical doll in years, I was intrigued. Would it take its cue from “Hamilton” and give us a girl from 1776? Was it time for a suffragette’s story to be told or maybe one from the Roaring ’20s? Not even close. The newest historical American Girl, Courtney Moore, is from 1986—the year I turned 11. I processed this news slowly. Am I really old enough for my childhood to become part of a historical story? I did the math. When American Girl first released Molly in 1986, she was a historical figure from 44 years in the past. She seemed impossibly old to me at the time. Now, in 2020, Courtney—with her big hair, pink tights, acid-washed skirt and jelly bracelets—is a historical figure from 34 years in the past. She seems impossibly old to my 9-year-old daughter. (In an interesting nod to this timeline, one of Courtney’s toys is a mini-version of Molly McIntire, cementing American Girl’s founding as a seminal event in the 1980s.) As my daughter flipped through the new American Girl catalog, I wondered if she would find Courtney cool or lame. How would she take the news that her very own mother once sported hair like Courtney’s and had the same neon tights (plus pairs in lime green, yellow and blue)? “Hey! She likes Pac-Man just like you!” said my daughter, also noticing that Courtney has a clear phone like the one that’s seen in “The Baby-sitter’s Club” on Netflix. I explained that American Girl got same category as Kirsten’s prairie dress and bonnet from the 1850s— By Jamie Davis Smith historical relics meant to explain the olden days to modern kids. What would girls in 2020 gain from learning about the 1980s besides a series of fashion don’ts? Reading Courtney’s American Girl story, I realized that I had been living through history in the 1980s without knowing I was doing so. It was a decade of both advances for women and technology. The 1980s included several female firsts: Geraldine Ferraro ran as a vice-presidential candidate, Sandra Day O’Connor joined the U.S. Supreme Court and Christa McAuliffe become the first American civilian to go into space. Unlike me, Courtney knows that she is living through an important era in history. She’s inspired to learn coding, a new field back the details right because Pac-Man and “The then, so that she too can one day create Baby-sitter’s Club” (the books, that is) are games as awesome as Pac-Man. She is both from a time long, long ago: the ’80s. undeterred by gender. After all, if a girl can I started to think that Courtney could be grow up to be a U.S. Supreme Court justice a fun walk down memory lane rather than a or an astronaut, why couldn’t she grow up to reminder that I am now firmly in middle age, be a coder? my childhood as unrelatable to today’s girls Looking at Courtney was like looking at as World War II or the plains of Minnesota a younger version of myself, although if I’m were to me in the 1980s. I was pretty sure being honest, my hair was bigger and my I had the same Care Bear nightgown as tights were brighter. Courtney may well earn Courtney and called my mother to confirm a spot on my daughter’s holiday list, and I that I indeed had an identical one in pink. know what I’m adding to mine: American It was one of my most beloved possessions, Girl’s Pac-Man arcade game. After at least a now memorized forever in the American Girl historical collection. I also had her jean jacket, decade of not thinking much about it, thanks to Courtney Moore, I have rediscovered an scrunchie, Walkman and Swatch-like watch. old favorite. n Still, as much fun as I had looking through Courtney’s World with my daughter, I could not reconcile that all of these symbols of Jamie Davis Smith is a D.C. mother of four, my childhood had been relegated to the attorney, photographer and writer. WashingtonFAMILY.com  21 EDUCATION DIRECTORY 2020 EDUCATION Directory Now more than ever, parents are thinking about where to send their children to school and the various possibilities. Our Education Directory is filled with listings of school opportunities for your children from classic to STEM to Waldorf and more! 22  WashingtonFAMILY  DECEMBER 2020 PRIVATE SCHOOLS THE BETHESDA MONTESSORI SCHOOL bethesdamontessori.com admissions@bethesdamontessori.com 301-986-1260 7611 Clarendon Road, Bethesda, Md. Ages: 3-6 Open House: Call to schedule a tour. BMS, established in 1983, is located in the heart of Bethesda, offering two years of preschool and a Kindergarten year. Open 8 a.m.-6 p.m., AMI trained teachers, art, French & computer offered, and after school activities. BROOKSFIELD SCHOOL brooksfieldschool.org sarah@brooksfieldschool.org 703-356-5437 1830 Kirby Road, McLean, Va. Ages Served: 3-10 Open House: Call to schedule a tour. Mindfulness, nutrition, Spanish, dance, music & art, outdoor adventure program, extracurricular activities and summer camp. FEYNMAN SCHOOL feynmanschool.org admissions@feynmanschool.org 301-770-4211 11810 Falls Road, Potomac, Md. Grades: Preschool-Grade 8 Open House: Call to schedule a tour. The area’s leader in educating academically- gifted children, Feynman School features extraordinary programs in science, math, language arts, theater and music designed to maximize your child’s potential. GLENBROOK COOPERATIVE NURSERY SCHOOL glenbrookschool.org membership@glenbrookschool.org 301-365-3190; 10010 Fernwood Road Bethesda, Md. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Open House: Call to schedule a tour. At Glenbrook, we nurture our children in the early, formative years so they can define themselves as individuals. We strive for this through spontaneous play in a controlled and time structured environment. We believe that children can feel secure only when they understand and trust a set of limits. Their imagination, curiosity, and interests need time to wander, expand, and develop within these limits. Cooperative nursery schools are administered and maintained by the parents, allowing everyone to grow and learn together. The special nature of Glenbrook is the close working relationship between parents and teachers. Our approach builds a sense of community and togetherness for parents and children. HUNTER MILL MONTESSORI SCHOOL preschoolmontessori.com info@huntermillmontessori.com 703-938-7755 2709 Hunter Mill Road, Oakton, VA 22124 2 019 W IN N ER MONKEYBUSINESSIMAGES / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS Washington FAMILY Parenting isn’t easy, but there are strategies that can help. Parenting HelpLine: 800.243.7337 familytreemd.org/flip The Area’s Leader in STEM Education Winner for Best STEM Program for the 2nd consecutive year Please call 301-770-4370 to learn more! Preschool-8th Grade www.feynmanschool.org WashingtonFAMILY.com  23 Tours available by appointment Hunter Mill Montessori School provides an intimate and nurturing environment for two years, nine months to six years old year olds to develop their independence through the Montessori experience. We offer a complete educational and social environment and utilize the discoveries and methods of Dr. Montessori to help the child develop more fully the potential within him. The school provides a program specially suited to the needs of the child and offers individual attention to his whole development. Tours available by appointment Children learn in an intimate and unpretentious atmosphere, where they respect themselves and others and care for the environment around them. We offer a complete educational and social environment and utilize the discoveries and methods of Dr. Montessori to help the child develop more fully the potential within him. The school provides a program specially suited to the needs of the child and offers individual attention to his whole development. HOLLY BROOK MONTESSORI SCHOOL preschoolmontessori.com info@hollybrookmontessori.com 703-573-7800 2455 Gallows Road , Dunn Loring, Va. GOOSE CREEK PRESERVE goosecreekmontessori.com info@goosecreekmontessori.com 571-417-3999 42470 Rosalind Street, Ashburn, Va Tours available by appointment A brand new Montessori School in the Broadlands area of Ashburn. All of the classrooms are spacious with an abundance of natural lighting. The classrooms open to the playground with patios allowing children to freely work inside and outside. Goose Creek offers a complete educational and social environment and utilizes the discoveries and methods of Dr. Montessori to help the child develop more fully the potential within him. Puppet Shows For All Occasions (703) 444-9426 • Large and colorful marionettes and hand puppets • Lively music • Audience participation • Puppet-making workshops • Goody bags Susan Wall's www.carouselpuppets.com MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF CEDAR LANE preschoolmontessori.com info@cedarlanemontessori.com 703-560-4379 3035 Cedar Lane, Fairfax, Va. Open House: Call to schedule a tour. Montessori School of Cedar Lane has been providing over 40 years of Montessori tradition to Northern Virginia. We offer a complete educational and social environment and utilize the discoveries and methods of Dr. Montessori to help the child develop more fully the potential within him. MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF MCLEAN mcleanmontessori.org 703-790-1049 1711 Kirby Road McLean, Va. Ages: 2 ½-12 Open House: Call to schedule a tour. Preschool and elementary classes. Spanish, French, science, drama, music, P.E., computer, art, summer school, transportation available. NYSMITH SCHOOL FOR THE GIFTED nysmith.com; ebalberde@nysmith.com 703-713-3332 13625 EDS Drive, Herndon, Va. Ages Served: 3 yrs.-8th Grade Hours: 7 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Open House: Call to schedule a tour. The award winning Nysmith School for the Gifted is committed to making school fun. We nurture your student’s love of learning and help your child learn to their potential. Our 1:9 ratio allows us to differentiate the academic program up to 4 grade levels above grade. ONENESS-FAMILY HIGH SCHOOL Andrew Kutt 9411 Connecticut Avenue , Kensington, Md 240-426-2614 admissions@onenessfamily.org 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM Serving students from 2 years through grade 12 Virtual Tours for Lower School on Tuesdays and Fridays at 9:30 AM, and for High School on Wednesdays at 11:00 AM For 30 years, Oneness-Family School’s award win- ning Montessori program has served families of students 2 years thru grade 12. OFS features highly trained, supportive teachers and a diverse, engaged parent community. We create a collabo- rative learning environment where everyone feels successful. We foster students who are prepared to lead and succeed in a changing, challenging world by balancing college prep academics with a focus on well-being and shared values such as empathy, inclusion and equity. The Oneness-Family School has launched its new high school Results Leader- ship and Global Studies program. PINECREST SCHOOL pinecrestschool.org admissions@pinecrestschool.org 703-354-3446 Ages: 3-12 7209 Quiet Cove, Alexandria, Va. Hours: 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Please email for more information! Virtual Open Houses for the 2021-22 School Year: Dynamic sales professional needed to join our growing media company! Planting Seeds For Growth Mid-Atlantic Media (MAM), publisher of Washington Family, Washington Jewish Week, Montgomery Magazine and Consumer’s Eye among others, is seeking a new business development advertising sales professional to join our team of revenue hunters. Responsibilities and Duties Primary objective will be to acquire new advertising customers for our publication’s print and digital platforms. Secondarily, the advertising sales professional will be expected to manage an active book of advertising customers to reach established budgets. The advertising sales professional will have the opportunity to cross sell into MAM’s other publishing titles, including Baltimore Jewish Times, Frederick’s Child, Baltimore Style, Baltimore’s Child and Home Services Magazine. Early intervention is critical to treating autism. Qualifications and Skills High-Quality ABA Therapy Serving Children In Maryland, Washington D.C., and Virginia. w w w. l i tt l e l e ave s.o rg LL_20009 • Motivated to make money • Competitive • Excellent communication • High energy • Works well under pressure • Technical competencies including typing and familiarity with Outlook, Excel and CRM’s • Minimum two (2) years business-to-business outside sales • Strong understanding of digital media • Familiar with building customer relationships and cross selling techniques Please send cover letter and resume to hr@midatlanticmedia.com. No phone calls. 24  WashingtonFAMILY  DECEMBER 2020 MONKEYBUSINESSIMAGES / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS Wed., Dec. 9, 2020 / 9:15 AM — for families interested in grades 4-6 Thurs., Dec. 10, 2020 / 9:15 AM — for families interested in grades 1-3 Fri., Dec. 11, 2020 / 9:15 AM — for families interested in preschool and kindergarten Wed., Jan. 13, 2021 / 9:15 AM — for families interested in grades 4-6 Thurs., Jan., 2021 / 9:15 AM — for families interested in grades 1-3 Fri., Jan. 15, 2021 / 9:15 AM — for families interested in preschool and kindergarten Sat., Jan. 23, 2021 / 10:15 AM — for families interested in any grade level Virtual Open Houses will be held on Zoom and will last approximately 45 minutes. RSVP is required, and the Zoom connection details will be shared with you prior to the open house you register to attend. RSVP by emailing admissions@pinecrestschool.org; please specify which date you want to attend. Open Houses will include a presentation from our Head of School, time for questions and answers, and an opportunity for break-out sessions with current parents. Pinecrest School is a fully accredited progressive school offering small class sizes, hands on curriculum, individualized approach, Montessori School of McLean EXPANDING PRIMARY PROGRAM Exceptional Montessori Education for Toddlers through Upper Elementary: Ages 2-12 EXPLORE • WONDER • GROW 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 www.mcleanmontessori.org Accredited by Now Enrolling Ages 2 to 6 Toddler Program • Before & After Care Montessori Kindergarten & Preschool Advanced Academic Curriculum McLean, VA • 703-356-5437 • www.brooksfieldschool.org WashingtonFAMILY.com  25 EDUCATION DIRECTORY and a focus on a balance of academics and social and emotional well being. Offers preschool-6th, summer camp and before/after care. SPRING BILINGUAL MONTESSORI ACADEMY spring-bilingual.org 301-962-7262 3514 Plyers Mill Road Kensington, Md. Ages: 2-6; Hours: 7:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Open House: Call to schedule a tour. Montessori preschool with Foreign Language programs. FEVERPITCHED /ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS WESTMINSTER SCHOOL westminsterschool.com admissions@westminsterschool.com 703-256-3620 Preschool (3 and 4-year-olds) - Grade 8 3819 Gallows Road Annandale, Va. Schedule your virtual tour today. Westminster School provides a unique Preschool-Middle School education based on a classical curriculum; accelerated academics enhanced by the arts; and an emphasis on personal responsibility and good character. Students enjoy small classes taught by teachers who specialize in their field. ■ Pinecrest School N U R T U R I N G C U R I O S I T Y, CO N F I D E N C E, A N D A L O V E O F L E A R N I N G S I N C E 1957 • Preschool Age 3 - Grade 6 • Diff erentiated Instruction • Small Classes • Challenging Academics • Positive Social & Emotional Development Haircuts 10% Off SHAMPOO INCLUDED WITH EVERY HAIRCUT Valid at Wintergreen Plaza only. One coupon per person. Not valid with any other offers. Valid 11/1/20 - 12/31/20. Code WF20-11 Full Color Service 15% Off SHAMPOO INCLUDED WITH EVERY HAIRCUT Valid at Wintergreen Plaza only. One coupon per person. Not valid with any other offers. Valid 11/1/20 - 12/31/20. Code WF20-11 Wintergreen Plaza 835H Rockville Pike, Rockville MD (301) 762-5554 Participating salons only. Valid 10/1-10/31 Most salons independently owned and operated. ©2018 Fantastic Sams Franchise Corporation. FantasticSams.com 26  WashingtonFAMILY  DECEMBER 2020 Annandale, Virginia 703.354.3446 • pinecrestschool.org 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 THEY NEED US. WE NEED YOU. You can help keep Maryland seniors nourished, safe, and connected. Volunteer to pack or deliver meals, grocery shop, or make wellness calls. Learn more or sign up to volunteer at mealsonwheelsmd.org/volunteer-application INCLUSIVE FAMILY Financial Planning for Kids with Disabilities How to start the process of saving money and securing support for your child’s future BY JACQUELINE RENFROW inancially planning for a child’s future is a difficult process for many parents. It means facing the reality that you won’t always be around and the uncertainty of not knowing what your child will need, both financially and emotionally, for years to come. Add the stress of planning for the future of a child with a disability, and the concept can be completely overwhelming. “Financial security is one of the cornerstones of well-being for people with disabilities,” says Tia Marsili, director of trusts for The Arc of Northern Virginia Special Needs Trust (SNT) program. Marsili and her team manage trust services and support for families and individuals with all disabilities in Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C. “The biggest challenge for starting the process is overcoming the hurdle of navigating convoluted systems,” she says. invested money—when emphasizing the need to start financially planning as soon as possible. “The most powerful force in the universe is compound interest,” he says. Once parents are ready to begin the finan- cial planning process, Bogin recommends seeking out a seasoned professional. As an advocate who helps parents put trusts and wills into place, he works with financial planners to assist families in preparing for a multitude of needs, from who will take care of the child (if needed) after the parents are gone to how much this care will cost over a span of many years. “It’s not a do-it-yourself process,” Bogin says. “You don’t go on the Web and download documents and think you’ve done a good job.” He recommends consulting with a lawyer and financial planner who have experience in this field. When to start planning, saving During an initial trust and will meeting, an attorney will most likely recommend putting together a life-care plan, which is a blueprint for providing the economic security and services that someone with special needs will require over his or her lifetime. This document is evolving as circumstances changes. Don’t panic about creating a plan, says Ruta Kalvaitis Skučas of Darnestown, Maryland, who has two children with special needs. Both are now teenagers, and while one will be able to live independently, the other will need care for life. “You can make changes, revisit as things develop. Don’t get overwhelmed and put it off—just get something down on paper,” she says. “There are also many parts to planning: wills, trusts, guardianship, SSI (supplementary When planning for a child with a disability, parents first need to decide when to start putting aside money. Matthew Bogin, an attorney at Bogin Law Firm in Chevy Chase who specializes in special needs trusts, estate planning and guardianships, suggests that you begin saving money as soon as possible. “If you’re going to consider life insurance as part of the plan, premiums are only going to get higher as you age. Plus, people develop conditions, so the premiums will be even worse,” Bogin says. Therefore, the younger and healthier parents are, the better value they will get on a life insurance plan. Bogin quotes Albert Einstein’s Rule of 72—the formula popularly used to estimate the number of years required to double 28  WashingtonFAMILY  DECEMBER 2020 What to expect at your meeting MONEY: ZLISJAK/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS; FAMILY: SDI PRODUCTIONS/ E+ F security income). Evaluate each option and think through each one.” When speaking with parents, Marsili advises them to think about their own future and retirement first. Second, she reminds parents that they need to know about a variety of public benefit programs for which their (adult) children may be eligible. Knowing these benefits can considerably lighten the financial burden on the parents. “Such programs may provide rental and energy assistance, long-term care insurance to cover, for example, in-home care, assistive technology, job supports, etc. [and] funds one may use toward room and board [and] health care coverage,” Marsili says. n When meeting with a lawyer or a financial planner, here are a few of the questions that parents need to be prepared to answer: • Will my child’s grandparents or extended family be involved in decision making? • What role will siblings play in my child’s future? • Should I leave more money to the child with a disability or the neurotypical child? • Will my child need long-term care in a facility, and how much will that care cost? • What government assistance does my child qualify for now and in the future? Answering these questions may require discussions with the child’s extended family and medical specialists as well as research into government (both federal and state) assistance programs. WashingtonFAMILY.com  29 HEALTHY FAMILY BY JOY SAHA W hether it’s the unappealing smells, flavors or textures, medications—in liquid or tablet forms—are just not fun to take. But they are a necessity when it comes to maintaining and preserving your child’s immunity and well-being. In preparation for cold and flu season, Dr. Christina Johns, a pediatrician and pediatric emergency physician at PM Pediatrics in Washington, D.C., shares some tips and tricks to help lessen the overall fear and anxiety your child may have about taking different medications. 30  WashingtonFAMILY  DECEMBER 2020 Explain the ‘why’ of medicine Encouraging kids to sip or swallow their medicine can be a stressful ordeal. Before your child starts taking something new, have a chat about what medicine is and why it’s important to take. Johns recommends that parents keep the conversation short and to the point. Don’t delve into the mechanics and complications of the drug. Instead, make it clear to your child that medicine is there to “make them feel better”—it’s as simple as that. “Explaining the reason why you’re TIMSA/E+ Pediatrician- recommended tips to help your child take their medicine HEALTHY FAMILY Liquids and Pills and Tablets, Oh My treated like a supplemental health tool that only works best when other healthy habits are being followed, Johns says. “It becomes something that is just part of a continuum of staying healthy as opposed to something that kids have to focus on, whether it’s something scary or something that’s hard to do,” Johns says. Make it more appealing Applesauce, yogurt, ice cream and chocolate syrup are some of Johns’ favorite foods to pair with liquid medicine. These foods are easy to consume and can be safely mixed with most liquid medications, she says. Tablets and pills, which are a bit tricky for kids to swallow, go down easier when taken with small treats that are sweet and This method of transitioning from liquid to pill medication is really empowering for kids, Johns says. Although Johns says that most medications are safe to take with foods, she recommends that parents still talk to their child’s pediatrician before mixing any medications with food. Specific vitamins and other specialized categories of medicines may not be 100 % safe to consume with food. Iron, for example, cannot be mixed in with acidic foods such as orange juice. Experiment with alternatives “There are some children who have such a hard time taking oral medicine that they actually end up getting an injectable or a shot,” says Johns. “EXPLAINING THE REASON WHY YOU’RE ASKING THEM TO TAKE THE MEDICINE CAN BE HELPFUL IN GAINING THEIR TRUST AND UNDERSTANDING.” DR. CHRISTINA JOHNS asking them to take the medicine can be helpful in gaining their trust and understanding,” Johns says. During the conversation, Johns emphasizes that parents stress the value of health, wellness and taking care of one’s own body. Medicine should “become one element as part of a greater picture” rather than a central focus, she adds. It’s important to make it clear to your child that medicine itself won’t keep them healthy and safe. In times of sickness, medicine isn’t the only magical cure. Instead, medicine should be conveyed and hard. To help build their confidence, Johns recommends letting kids swallow their tablets with a small handful of sprinkles— the type that are frequently put on top of ice cream, cakes and cookies. Once comfortable with that, kids can move on to swallowing tablets with small hard candies like mini M&Ms. Finally, they can try taking their pills with nothing but a glass of water. When swallowing tablets with water, Johns says it is easier for kids to first place the tablet at the back of their tongue. Then the kids can take a sip of water and swallow both the pill and the water together at the same time. A surprising trick that Johns suggests is the squeeze-and-blow method. This unconventional method encourages kids to swallow a tablet placed into their mouth by lightly squeezing their cheeks and blowing a slight breeze directly onto their face. However, Jones emphasizes that such unconventional tricks and tips should not be the first method used by parents and that they should talk to their pediatrician before trying them. At the end of the day, Jones says that there’s no magic bullet to helping kids take their medicine. Like most things in life, it just takes time and patience. n WashingtonFAMILY.com  31 BOOK MARKED 12 Children’s Books About Winter With the advent of virtual school, snow days may be a thing of the past, but these wintery books may have readers wishing for one anyway. Warm up the cocoa, wrap up in a cozy blanket and enjoy! BY JENNIFER ROTHSCHILD, COLLECTION ENGAGEMENT LIBRARIAN, ARLINGTON PUBLIC LIBRARY PICTURE BOOKS Anna Hibiscus lives in Africa but is off to spend Christmas with her maternal grandmother By Kirsten Hall, in Canada. While there will be new foods and illustrated by Jenni Desmond a long plane journey, Anna is most excited to Rhymed couplets introduce young readers to finally see snow for the first time. But how will winter birds—the ones that stick it out in the she adjust to the cold and from being so far cold and snow instead of migrating south. In from home? addition to learning about several different bird species, readers are also introduced to the ‘Snowflake Bentley’ behaviors and traits these birds have that allow By Jacqueline Briggs Martin, them to survive the winter. While working as illustrated by Mary Azarian an introduction to different birds, the soft This Caldecott-winning book introduces color palate and gentle text also work well for Wilson Bentley, a 19th-century Vermont bedtime. farm boy who found snow fascinating. After reading about a new camera with an attached ‘Snow Song’ microscope, his family saved to buy it. Bently then developed a process to photograph By A. K. Riley, illustrated by Dawn Lo A snowy day brings the chance for a new arrival snowflakes and show their intricate crystal to make friends in their neighborhood, as a patterns. Through his photographs, the world small child finds other children to skate, sled, discovered that no two snowflakes are alike. catch snowflakes and otherwise explore in the winter wonderland. With a gently bouncing ‘Mouse and Mole, rhythm that captures snow’s many moods, the Winter Wonderland’ story is mostly told in pictures, making this a Written and cozy book to share. illustrated by Wong Herbert Yee When winter comes, Mouse is excited to go out ‘SkySisters’ and play, but Mole would rather stay warm and cozy at home. It’s not much fun to go skating By Jan Bourdeau Waboose, and sledding on your own, so Mouse decides illustrated by Brian Deienes On a cold winter’s night, two Ojibway sisters to build a Sno-Mole to keep her company. walk from their home to Coyote Hill to see the When Mole sees his snow-double, he gets Northern Lights, or SkySpirits. Along the way suspicious, but soon enters the fun with his they see animals, pick icicles, make snow angels own Sno-Mouse. and catch snowflakes. Luminous artwork shows a quiet and magical evening, as well as MIDDLE GRADE the bond between the two sisters. ‘Snow One Like You’ ‘Snow Birds’ EARLY READERS ‘Have Fun Anna Hibiscus!’ By Atinuke, illustrated by Lauren Tobia 32  Washington FAMILY  DECEMBER 2020 By Natalie Blitt Mia loves the fun of her town’s Winter Festival, but her family’s inn also depends on the tourism the festival brings. This year, there BOOK MARKED hasn’t been any snow and none is expected before the festival. Talk of cancelling the festival puts the inn and other small businesses at risk. The tension even spills over to Mia’s friend group, causing a rift. Add a light touch of romance for just the right amount of drama in this cozy read. ‘Prisoner of Ice and Snow’ By Ruth Lauren When Valor’s arrow missed the Prince, it was on purpose—she didn’t want to actually assassinate him, she just wanted to be arrested and sent to the prison where her sister is. The prison is supposed to be inescapable, but Valor has a plan. However, once trapped in harsh conditions and surrounded by snow, ice and frozen tundra, Valor realizes she needs to work with more people to make her plans a successful. A rollicking fantasy adventure with the feel of a folktale, readers will quickly be reaching for the sequel. breaks down in the middle of a snowstorm, they team up to make their way to their shared destination. Of course, every new mode of transportation they try brings its own problems, with both characters fearing they won’t arrive in time for their engagements. Told in alternating perspectives, readers slowly learn about Noah and Ammy’s backstories as the two characters grow closer to each other as they get closer to home. ‘Trapped’ By Michael Northrop When school is dismissed early due to a major snowstorm, Scotty and a few friends stay late to work on a project while waiting for their rides. But their rides never show, leaving the seven students stranded. A teacher goes for help and never returns. The power goes out and the pipes freeze as the hours turn to days. The situation becomes dire as the kids must work to survive; the first sentence reveals that not all of them will make it. A suspenseful ‘I Survived: The Children’s Blizzard, 1888’ page-turner. By Lauren Tarshis, illustrated by Scott Dawson John wasn’t happy when his family moved to cold and snowy Dakota Territory, but after a year, he’s settled in and made new friends. He thought his first winter was bad, but when a sunny day suddenly turns snowy, John finds himself stranded in one of the worst blizzards in history, with over 10 feet of snow falling in mere hours. Will he ever be able to find his way home through the snow and wind? ‘The Impossible Rescue: The True Story of an Amazing Arctic Rescue’ By Martin W. Sandler In the winter of 1897-98, eight whaling ships got caught in the ice off the Alaskan coast. Trapped there until spring, the crews faced a winter of starvation. Unable to send relief by boat, the US Revenue Cutter Service (a precursor to the Coast Guard) sent a small group to make the nearly 2,000- mile journey overland by sled and foot. Along the way, they gathered reindeer herds for the trapped YOUNG ADULT whalers to use as food. Sandler makes wonderful ‘Love and Other Train Wrecks’ use of primary sources, especially photographs, By Leah Konen Noah and Ammy do not make a great first in telling this gripping tale of survival against the impression on each other, but when their train elements. n WashingtonFAMILY.com  33 A SEAMLESS EXPERIENCE GUARANTEED One-Day Installation 1 ACT NOW AND GET One-Piece Seamless Wall Certified Technicians * Lifetime Warranty 2 bath-fitter.com/local24 1-833-828-3320 1Tub-to-shower conversions and fiberglass replacements typically require a two-day installation. 2Lifetime warranty valid for as long as you own your home. *Offer ends 1/1/2021. Minimum deposit required. Terms of promotional financing are 24 months of zero interest from the date of installation. See representative for details. Qualified buyers only. Minimum purchase required. All offers apply to a complete Bath Fitter system only, and must be presented and used at time of estimate. 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I began brainstorming with this group, and together we created a superhero cat, then added a scientist and a robot, and silliness ensued from there. Soon we had made a comic for our caped cat but had to cut our story short due to class ending. The next class I began a new lesson, but the same kids instead wanted to continue with the cat hero story to see what would happen next. I could tell there was something special about this hero cat and his scientist friend—and the story eventually developed into “Max Meow, Cat Crusader.” Grownups and kids have a very different sense of humor. How did you know whether Max and Mindy’s hijinks would amuse the elementary-school-age crowd? My three kids have been my best (and sometimes toughest) audience for testing stories and jokes. My youngest, Will, 13, helped with some of the character names and story elements for the first book and made a great sounding board. I wanted to get him involved because he was a reluctant reader, but graphic novels, especially Dav Pilkey’s Dog Man series, became his favorite type of reading. Max Meow held Will’s interest, and he became further engaged in the process. This attraction led to him reading the story over and over and, ultimately, to Max being a more enriching and entertaining character. Do your children share your passion for comics and graphic novels? What are some of their favorites? Each has had favorites through the years, with my daughter Katie enjoying the Bone and Baby Mouse series and her brothers Jack and Will reading “The Dumbest Idea Ever,” “New Kid,” the Amelia Rules! series, “Smile,” the Hilo series, the Amulet series and the Dog Man series, to name a few. They have also had a healthy appreciation for classic comics such as Garfield, Calvin and Hobbes and Cul-de-Sac, which we all still read on a regular basis. What is wonderful is that comics became a gateway to enjoying many different types of reading. What fun things have you and your family been doing to keep busy during the pandemic? Beginning in May, my wife and I started a family routine we dubbed “Cul-de-Cinema” where we’ve been watching movies projected on a tarp in front of our house every weekend. This activity has been a fun escape, especially once we all agree on the movie! We’ve also been taking lots of walks and have done some biking on the trails behind our house. Our golden retriever is likely the biggest supporter of the togetherness we’ve all had! What advice do you have for parents of reluctant readers? Being the parent of a reluctant reader, my advice would be to introduce your young reader to a large variety of materials—from storybooks and comics to magazines and trivia or joke books—until they find out what makes them want to read. Then seek out those types of books. The balance of text and artwork in graphic novels is what held Will’s interest as an early reader. This interest was a jumping-off point, and we kept seeking out similar graphic novels, and his world opened up from there. A school or public librarian can be so good at helping your child find the, or at least a, perfect starter book. I can’t say enough about librarians—they are a wealth of knowledge and love to work their magic by pairing kids’ interests with books. n Read our extended interview with John Gallagher—and learn how to draw Max Meow—on washingtonfamily.com. WashingtonFAMILY.com  35 Your best friend is waiting... Montgomery County Humane Society is a private, non-profit, no-kill cat and dog rescue that does not receive any operational funding from the government or from national humane societies. It relies on the support of the community to keep its doors open. Cats and dogs available for adoption today. Come meet your new best friend. ® 601 S. 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