GUIDE S CAMPS, MONTESS OR OPEN HOU I & SES washingtonFAMILY.com JANUARY 2020 Talking POLITICS KI R U O Y H T I W BRITISH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF WASHINGTON A NORD ANGLIA EDUCATION SCHOOL DS 5,000 YEARS OF CIVILIZATION REBORN “It’s like being in heaven!” —Paul Behrends, consultant “It is breathtaking! I am walking away deeply inspired and profoundly moved!” —Rita Cosby, Emmy Award-winning journalist “The energy , the precision , the beauty ... I’m just overwhelmed. It’s so beautiful!” —John Anthony, retired judge “ I’ve reviewed about 4,000 shows . None can compare to what I saw tonight.” —Richard Connema, Broadway critic Jan 16–19 & Mar 10–11 Fairfax, VA GMU Center for the Arts Jan 31–Feb 2 Baltimore, MD Hippodrome Theatre T hroughout history artists in almost every culture looked to the divine for inspiration. Art was meant to uplift, bringing joy to those who created and experienced it. Today, Shen Yun Performing Arts pays homage to this tradition, weaving the wisdom and virtues of Chinese civilization with ancient legends and modern heroic tales on stage. SHEN YUN brings to its audiences a whole new experience, revealing a China untainted by communist rule. Be prepared to traverse time and space and be mesmerized by the action, humor, and beauty of five millennia. It’s an experience that will uplift your spirit and touch your heart. Apr 7–12 Washington, DC Kennedy Center ShenYun.com/DC 888-974-3698 Discover your capable, confident Montessori child. From infancy through elementary school, children learn best when they’re working with activities they love. At Guidepost, your child will enter the wonderful world of Montessori lessons and learning materials, designed to captivate and inspire. Now Enrolling! Visit us online today to RSVP for an event or schedule a tour! guidepostmontessori.com/northern-virginia Open House Events at Aldie, Broadlands and Herndon Campuses Saturday, January 11. Time varies by campus. Aldie 24328 Marrwood Drive Aldie, VA 20105 (703) 542-5522 Broadlands 42945 Waxpool Road Ashburn, VA 20148 (703) 723-3364 Fairfax 3909 Oak Street Fairfax, VA 22030 (703) 934-0920 Herndon 13251 Woodland Park Road Herndon, VA 20171 (571) 203-8686 Reston 11579 Cedar Chase Road Herndon, VA 20170 (703) 404-9733 Montclair NEW CAMPUS! 3551 Waterway Drive Montclair, VA 22025 (571) 402-1888 Chantilly GP121119 4550 Walney Road Chantilly, VA 20151 (571) 321-0364 Spanish and Mandarin Immersion programs available at selected campuses Infant • Toddler Preschool • Kindergarten Elementary CONTENTS JANUARY 2020 CITIZEN KID ON THE COVER Help your kids get hooked on civics.  Page 24 Students at the British International School of Washington FEATURES DEPARTMENTS 14 8 CALENDAR HOW TO WORK WITH A CAMP CONSULTANT Let the experts help you choose the right camp for your kid 16 NEXT-LEVEL CAMPER The many benefits of being a counselor-in- training 24 CITIZEN KID How to raise civic-minded children while avoiding the ugly side of politics GUIDES 17 SUMMER CAMPS 28 SCHOOLS/OPEN HOUSES 36 MONTESSORI SCHOOLS 12 FAMILY FUN 13 AT A GLANCE 38 FAMILY TALK 40 HEALTHY FAMILY 42 YOUR SPECIAL CHILD A recipe for hot chocolate slime that smells as delicious as it looks Take a walk in Dr. Jane Goodall’s shoes at the National Geographic Museum Local parents share the New Year’s resolutions they wish their kids would make How one mom learned to reframe her children’s tantrums when tempers are flaring Special needs families often struggle to accept help, even when they need it the most 44 BOOKMARKED New books to inspire your kids to become readers in 2020 WE WANT YOUR FEEDBACK We welcome your comments on specific articles, overall themes and anything else related to editorial content. Share your thoughts using the “Feedback” tab on our website: www.washingtonfamily.com. Please note we reserve the right to edit or refrain from publishing comments we deem inappropriate. 4  Washington FAMILY  JANUARY 2020 46 MOM LIFE Angie Goff, a Fox 5 DC anchor, talks about creating family traditions and more PROVIDED READERS’ RESPONSES — ADVERTORIAL — Making a World of Difference Learning and service are core components of school trip to Tanzania E SAHER AHMED, YEAR 13, AT THE BRITISH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF WASHINGTON PHOTO COURTESY OF INTERNATIONAL BRITISH SCHOOL very year the British International School of Washington (BISW) offers an incomparable oppor- tunity for all our high school juniors to travel abroad and help communities and schools in rural areas of Tanzania as part of their IB Diploma Programme. During the 10-day trip, our students work collab- oratively with students from other Nord Anglia schools to install solar panels and build desks, benches, classrooms, goat sheds and smokeless stoves. “It was incredible being able to see the tangible effects of the work we were doing, like bringing the desks we had built into a classroom for children to use or watching a family experience having lights in their home for the first time after installing solar panels,” says Annamaria McHugh, a BISW senior who participated last year. In preparation for the trip, which strengthens the school’s partnerships with the Seeway Tanzania charity, students raise money to pay for the supplies they will use to develop infrastructure in Arusha, Tanzania. The fundraising helps them to build valu- able leadership, project management and organization skills while allowing them to empathise with those they will help when they arrive in Tanzania. Minna Abdel-Gawad, a BISW junior, is looking forward to making an impact when she travels with the school in February. “My Annamaria McHugh builds a student desk outside a school in Tanzania. Jordy Oranje delivers a family a goat for their newly constructed goat shed. The goat provides milk for the family and excess milk can be sold to generate income. Students from the British International School of Washington, and other Nord Anglia schools, stand in front of a completed goat shed they built. expectations for the trip are that of any com- munity service, but in a much larger scale,” she says. “I am especially excited to be work- ing in schools to promote education and build desks and chairs to provide children with the necessary commodities to further their learning.” Abdel-Gawad adds, “I am fully aware how lucky I am to be receiving an amaz- ing education and cultural awakening, and I hope that others experience the same elsewhere in the world.” BISW students are also given the chance during the trip to appreciate the beauty and natural diversity of Tanzania. They go on a safari through Tarangire National Park and have the rare opportunity to camp Jordy Oranje talks with some local children about their new goat shed. overnight, hike on Mount Meru and learn to cook traditional dishes. “We found our expedition to Tanzania invaluable and unforgettable,” says BISW stu- dent body co-president, Isabella Impavido. “For many of us, it was our first time vis- iting the continent of Africa and we had no idea what to expect. Though everyone that attended the trip enjoyed themselves and learnt so much.” Impavido’s co-president, Thomas Pierce Jones, says, “I knew going into the trip that we would encounter poverty, but the expe- rience made me fully realise how little some people have and what lengths they go to for things we take for granted. It was surreal helping people.” According to Principal Ian Piper, attend- ing the Tanzania trip allows students to engage with global issues and develop the ten IB learner profile characteristics. They return with first-hand knowledge that they can make a difference. “The students who go on this trip are all positively impacted by helping others in less fortunate situations. Even if only 10 percent of those students are inspired to make continued change, their impact in their community, and the world, is expo- nential. That’s the true power of a global experience at an international school like ours,” he says. WashingtonFAMILY.com  5 OUR TEAM JANUARY 2020 WashingtonFAMILY.com • 301-230-2222 Craig Burke, Publisher ADVERTISING Account Executives Kim Coates, Tamara Morris, Mary Ramsdale, Stacie Shapero, Sylvia Witaschek BUSINESS Kris Ries, Accounting Coordinator • 443-471-5355 • kries@midatlanticmedia.com EDITORIAL Jessica Gregg, Lifestyle Editor • 410-902-2319 • jgregg@midatlanticmedia.com PJ Feinstein, Managing Editor • 301-230-6696 • pfeinstein@midatlanticmedia.com Adranisha Stephens, Staff Writer • 410-902-2328 • astephens@midatlanticmedia.com CONTRIBUTORS Adora Brown, Deb Greengold, Hannah Grieco, Lindsay Ponta, Erica Rimlinger, Molly Szymanski, Theresa Wang CREATIVE Lonna Koblick, Art Director Rachel Levitan, Graphic Designer Caroline Swartz, Graphic Designer James Meskunas, Digital Media Manager David Stuck, Staff Photographer MID-ATLANTIC MEDIA Tickets Start at $15! Craig Burke, CEO/Publisher • cburke@midatlanticmedia.com Jennifer Perkins-Frantz, Director of Production• jperkinsfrantz@midatlanticmedia.com Bill Sims, Director of Circulation & Audience Development • bsims@midatlanticmedia.com Jeni Mann, Director of Marketing & Custom Media • jmann@midatlanticmedia.com Restrictions, exclusions and additional charges may apply. Subject to availability. Tickets at market pricing. Purchase tickets at venue box office or ticketmaster.com. CAPITAL ONE ARENA FEB 13 – 17 DisneyOnIce.com Table of Contents Single Page Design Calendar of Events © 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 6  Washington FAMILY  JANUARY 2020 FIRST WORD Planning Ahead T PJ Feinstein Managing Editor pfeinstein@midatlanticmedia.com Facebook @WashingtonFamilyMagazine​ Twitter @FAMILYMagDC Pinterest @familymagazine Instagram @washingtonfamilymag Email info@washingtonfamily.com wo months after school started, I began receiving texts from my friends about summer camp. “Will you be sending your boys back to the same camp next year?” they wanted to know. At the time, I couldn’t possibly think about next year. My kids were still adjusting to elementary school, and I was preparing for my new job here at Washington FAMILY. Things were chaotic, to say the least, and considering summer camp options in early November just wasn’t priority. But now that it’s 2020, I don’t think I’ll be able to put off making summer plans for my boys much longer. Registration is now open for most camps in the area, and my friends aren’t letting up on those text messages! It’s decision-making time. If you’re in the same boat, we’re here to help. We asked camp consultants about finding the per- fect camp for every kid and talked to local camp directors about about hiring teens for their coun- selor-in-training programs. And speaking of decisions, there’s a big election coming up in 2020. Your kids may not be able to vote, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be engaged little citizens! We asked child development experts for tips about getting kids interested in politics as well as book recommendations for future political junkies. Also this month, Hannah Grieco talks about better understanding her children’s tantrums, and Erica Rimlinger explores why special needs fam- ilies are often resistant to accepting help — and how to change that. We’re also sharing a DIY slime recipe that looks — and smells! — like hot chocolate and new books that’ll inspire your children to read more in 2020. I’m thrilled to kick off a new year and a new decade with you! Please send me your questions, comments and ideas via email or find me on Twitter and Instagram at @pjfeinstein.  T WashingtonFAMILY.com  7 CALENDAR {  j a n u a r y } WEDNESDAY 1 First Hike of the Year Kick off 2020 with a breath of fresh air! Take a guided hike along the Underground Railroad Experience Trail with conductors who can provide historical context. Ages 8 years and up. Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park, Sandy Spring, MD at 12 p.m. $8. montgomeryparks.org THURSDAY 2 Tiny Tot Explore the wonders of nature with your toddler through songs, crafts, finger plays and hikes. Gulf Branch Nature Center & Park, Arlington, VA at 10 a.m. $5. parks.arlingtonva.us FRIDAY 3 Parent and Tot Skate Make a skate date with your toddler! All skill levels are welcome, and pushing skate aids are available for no additional fee. Cabin John Ice Rink, Rockville, MD at 11:15 a.m. $5 for one parent and one child (age 4 and under). montgomeryparks.org ‘Alice in Wonderland’ Don’t miss the final performance The British Players’ seasonal pantomime, a slapstick retelling of the classic story. Children in the audience are encouraged to boo at the bad guys and cheer for the heroes. Ages 4 and up. Kensington Town Hall, Kensington, MD at 7 p.m. $15-$26. britishplayers.org SUNDAY 5 Elephant & Piggie: We Are Doing Yoga! Children ages 3-7 will enjoy this silly yoga class, which uses yoga poses to act out Elephant and Piggie stories like “I Am Frog” and “Today I Will Fly!” Shining Kids Yoga at Early Intervention Associates, Rockville, MD at 9:30 a.m. $25. shiningkidsyoga.com 4:10 p.m. FREE admission, $1 skate rentals. parks.arlingtonva.us MONDAY 6 Read to the Dog Kids in grades 1–5 can bring a book or borrow one from the library to read aloud to a therapy dog. This is a fantastic way to practice reading skills in a safe and relaxed environment. Registration required 30 minutes before program starts Montclair Library, Dumfries, VA at 4 p.m. FREE. pwcgov.evanced.info WEDNESDAY 8 Mommy, Daddy & Me Art Classes Infants, toddlers, preschoolers and their parents are invited to discover the world of color through introductory art at this drop-in class. Smocks, canvases, Adapted Ice Skate Night paint, brushes and other supplies Individuals of all ages with are provided. disabilities have exclusive use of MedStar Iceplex, home of the 2018 Tychelle Mosely Art, Silver Spring, MD Stanley Cup Champions. A limited at 10 a.m. $30 for one child and one number of BOB strap-on ice skates parent. tychellemosleyart.us will be available or participants can bring their own skating aids. MedStar Iceplex, Arlington, VA at FRIDAY 10 Kids Concert & Family Happy Hour with King Bullfrog King Bullfrog performs high- energy acoustic music for kids that will have your little ones on their feet. Pizza is included in admission price. Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital, Washington, DC at 5 p.m. $5-$10. hillcenterdc.org ‘Narnia’ A musical adaptation of the C.S. Lewis story, this Encore Stage & Studio production follows four brave kids on an adventure through the magical world of Narnia. Through January 19. Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre, Arlington, VA at 7:30 p.m. $15. encorestageva.org SATURDAY 11 Nationals Winterfest This two-day event at Nationals Park provides baseball fans of all ages the opportunity to meet, take photos with and get autographs from their favorite players and coaches. Also January 12. Nationals Park, Washington, DC at noon. $25-$35. mlb.com/nationals ‘MOUSE ON THE MOVE’ SATURDAY 4 Jan. 11 | 10 a.m. | $12 MAKER Morning: New Year, New Color Celebrate the New Year with a musical color parade around the Hirshhorn! Then stop by hands- on MAKER stations around the museum to build noise-makers, create art using light and make a photographic print. Hirshhorn National Museum of Modern Art, Washington, DC at 10 a.m. FREE. hirshhorn.si.edu Explore the winter wonders of the great outdoors while keeping an eye out for trees and wildlife listed on scavenger hunt sheets. All ages are welcome. Maydale Conservation Park, Colesville, MD at 3 p.m. FREE. montgomeryparks.org In this interactive play for children ages 1-5, two adventurous mice, Nellie and Amelia, decide to leave their mouse-hole and explore the moon, which they believe is made of cheese. Register for a free workshop following the show. Through February 16. Imagination Stage, Bethesda, MD at 10 a.m. $12. imaginationstage.org 8  Washington FAMILY  JANUARY 2020 PROVIDED Family Scavenger Hunt and Hike CALENDAR SUNDAY 12 MONDAY 13 Hibernation & Winter Animal Homes Music & Motion Children ages 1-5 and their caregivers will sing and dance with Where would you sleep if you hibernated in the winter? Children scarves, beanbags, parachutes and more. Arrive 30 minutes early to ages 3–8 will learn about the hibernation habits of local animals, receive a token to participate. enjoy a story and go on a short Haymarket Gainesville Library, guided hike. Haymarket, VA at 10:30 a.m. FREE. Locust Grove Nature Center, Bethesda, pwcgov.evanced.info MD at 1 p.m. $7 for one adult and one child. SATURDAY 18 montgomeryparks.org Progressive International Motorcycle Show In addition to checking out the hottest new bikes and custom rides and watching stunt shows with you, children ages 3 and up can ride battery-assisted balance bikes on a closed course in The Kids Zone. Also Jan. 10-11. Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Washington, DC at 10 a.m. FREE for kids 12 and under. $17 for adults. motorcycleshows.com/ washingtondc Origami + Bonsai: Ancient Arts Collide + ICE CREAM TRUCK Nature Makerspace: Recycled Art Wall Help build a wall from recycled materials such as egg cartons and newspapers that will be on display in the visitor center for the rest of the month. Supplies will be provided. Registration is required. Black Hill Nature Programs, Boyds, MD at noon, FREE. montgomeryparks.org BOOK NOW FOR YOUR Summer Programs School Fairs Corporate Venues Birthdays 571-283-2408 ❤  Family Production: ‘The Pied Piper’ The American Pops Orchestra After a private tour of the National takes children (Pre-K – 3rd grade) Bonsai & Penjing Museum’s bonsai on a journey in this musical retelling of the well-known collection, children ages 6 and up will learn how to make four origami fairy tale. Arena Stage, Washington, DC animals under the guidance of at 11 p.m. and 2 p.m. $17 - $32. an experienced origami teacher theamericanpops.org and artist. U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC at 10 a.m. $15. bonsai-nbf.org SUNDAY 19 Family Fun: Groovy Nate Children’s entertainer and Wolf Trap Teaching Artist, Groovy Nate, exposes kids to various genres of NOW OPEN! • Homemade Ice Cream • Freshly Baked Cupcakes Daily • Pupcakes • Milkshakes • Cookies & More! • Catering • Special Events • Made to Order Cakes Ages 4-14 Sunday-Thursday 10:30am-9:30pm Valley Mill Day Camp Friday-Saturday 10:30am-10pm Open House Dates @ www.valleymill.com Spring & Summer 488 N. Frederick Avenue • Gaithersburg, MD 20877 Transportation Provided Located next to Ross & Chuck E Cheese www.lilcakesandcreamery.com • 240-474-5850 Buy 1 Cupcake, Get 2nd Cupcake 50% OFF With this Off er. Must Present off er. Valid though 1/31/20. Buy 1 Ice Cream Scoop, Get 2nd Ice Cream Scoop FREE With this Off er. Must Present off er. Valid though 1/31/20. Half Dozen Cupcakes (6) One Dozen Cupcakes (12) 18.99 $ 37.99 $ Reg $22.99 Reg. $41.99 With this Off er. Must Present off er. Valid though 1/31/20. With this Off er. Must Present off er. Valid though 1/31/20. WashingtonFAMILY.com  9 CALENDAR music using exotic instruments and puppet skits. Full food and drink menus are available. Capitol Cider House, Washington, DC at 10:30 a.m. $5. capitolciderhouse.com LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATION Jan. 26 | 11 a.m. | FREE The sixth annual Lunar New Year celebration will ring in the Year of the Rat with interactive art demonstrations plus live magic and musical performances. Food is available to purchase. Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood LIVE! Daniel Tiger, the beloved PBS KIDS television character, and his friends are coming to the district for a live performance with music, dancing and fun! Warner Theatre, Washington, DC at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. $30-$52. danieltigerlive.com While you’re there, explore two special Sackler exhibitions and the Freer’s permanent collection of Asian art. Wasington FAMILY Camps and Summer Programs Fair Meet with reps from local day and overnight camps and find the perfect summer experience for your child! Enjoy family fun activities, raffles and prizes, giveaway bags and more. Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax VA at noon. FREE. washingtonfamily.com Freer and Sackler Galleries, Washington, DC at 11 a.m. FREE. asia.si.edu DISCOVER HOW the JOURNEY SCHOOL OFFERING Quality, Engaging Education is Navigating Growth and Learning Serving Grades 1-8 Located in a picturesque country setting, we off er a curriculum built on the Montessori Method of Education for both middle and elementary school-aged children focusing on:  A strong academic environment that exceeds local and state standards  Fostering independence, confi dence, and critical and analytical thinking  Respectful, welcoming, multi-age classroom and school environment OPEN HOUSES: 1/25 & 3/28 • 10AM-1PM Contact us today for a tour and more information: 240.324.6160 • cthomas@thejourneyschool.net • www.thejourneyschool.net 2430 Spencerville Road, Spencerville, MD 20868 10  Washington FAMILY  JANUARY 2020  Hands-on, interdisciplinary learning  Daily connection to the outdoors The Journey School CALENDAR Winter Wonderland Workshop tapping a maple tree. kids ages 1-5 years will practice connective games led by a holistic Brookside Nature Center, Wheaton, MD at 3 p.m. $3. montgomeryparks.org sleep coach. Birth Club, Alexandria, VA at 11:30 a.m. $35-$50. thebirthclub.com FRIDAY 24 Tip-Tapping Maple Trees Bedtime Games Workshop MONDAY 20 MONDAY 27 Disney Dance This one-day camp for kids ages 4–9 focuses on Disney numbers and includes time for stories, arts Strong Start DC Community Monster Jam Triple Threat and crafts, games, lunch and a much-needed rest. Playgroup “The hottest show on wheels” is Learn about early childhood back in town! Young fans can meet Salsa with Sylvia, Washington, development, developmental DC at 8:30 a.m. $100 - $120. the massive trucks in person and Salsawithsylvia4kids.com screenings and the Strong Start get autographs and photos with DC Early Intervention Program drivers and crews at the post-show referral process while engaging in Pit Party! Also January 26. FRIDAY 31 age-appropriate play with your 2–3 Capital One Arena, Washington, DC TUESDAY 21 Paw Patrol Live! year old. Registration required. at 1 p.m. & 7 p.m. Tickets start at $20. Race to the Rescue Bring Your Own Baby: Northeast Library, Washington, DC at monsterjam.com Mayor Goodway has gone missing Gems & Minerals 10 a.m. FREE. dclibrary.org before the Great Adventure Bay Learn some of the science SUNDAY 26 Race against Foggy Bottom’s behind the stones housed in the SATURDAY 25 Mayor Humdinger! In this new ‘Matilda’ Smithsonian’s Janet Annenberg live show, it’s up to the Paw Based on Roald Dahl’s popular Hooker Hall of Geology, Gems, and Pokémon Day Patrol to find the mayor while Bring your Pokémon cards children’s book, the Tony Minerals while your baby takes in taking her her place in the race. and Nintendo DS games for a Award-winning musical tells their exciting colors and shapes. Through February 2. morning of playing and trading the story of a special little National Museum of Natural History, as your kids try to catch them all! girl with an extraordinary Eagle Bank Arena, Fairfax, VA at Washington, DC at 10:15 a.m. $15. Ages 5 and up. 6 p.m. $19 - $175. imagination. Presented by Levine seecstories.com pawpatrollive.com  T Music Theatre. Dale City Library, Dale City, VA at 10:30 a.m. FREE. pwcgov.evanced.info Arena Stage, Washington, DC at 2 p.m. THURSDAY 23 $15-$25. levinemusic.org Kids ages 5-7 can spend the afternoon learning dances and making crafts inspired by the sights and sounds of winter. The event will conclude with a short performance for families. Local Motion Project, Alexandria, VA at 1:30 p.m. $45. localmotionproject.org Using drills, spiles and metal buckets, children ages 5 and up will learn the old-fashioned way of Learn how to make bedtime smoother by revamping your child’s nightly routine. Parents and EXPLORERS WANTED. Investing in the early years of learning. Building a foundation for their future. Advanced, Research-Based Curriculum for: Passionate Learners Creative Problem-Solvers Collaborators Engaged Citizens ATTEND AN OPEN HOUSE Wednesday, January 15 at 9AM 1st Round Application Deadline: Jan. 17 Schedule a Tour: 703-533-1064 Preschool - Grade 8 Co-ed, Independent School in Falls Church • Contact us about our Infant and Toddler Program WashingtonFAMILY.com  11 FAMILY FUN How to Make Hot Chocolate Slime Your kids will love this gooey and delicious-smelling DIY BY LINDSAY PONTA I t’s only January, but it’s been cold long enough that you might be running out of ways to keep the kids busy indoors. Fortunately, I have a solution: hot chocolate slime! Slime can be tons of fun for a wide range of ages. For toddlers, it’s a sensory activity. Put it in a muffin pan with a few tiny toys and your lit- tle one will have a blast stretching, squeezing and transferring the goo from one compartment to another. Or dump it onto a plate and let them stamp shapes into it and then watch as the impressions disappear. Slime also makes a fantastic STEM activity for older children. It’s chemistry in action! A non- Newtonian fluid, slime responds like a solid when squeezed but acts like a liquid when released. If you want to really dig into the science behind slime with your kids, ACS.org has a great resource on its website. This recipe makes enough hot chocolate slime for two to four kids, but it can be easily doubled for a larger group. As the slime sits, the foam beads will float up to the top slowly, so it looks just like a mug of hot chocolate with marshmallows! You can expect to get at least a few weeks of play from your slime if you store it in an airtight container. Almost all the supplies for this slime recipe can be found at your local grocery and craft stores or online. While it’s safe to play with, please remind your kids that Borax is a soap and shouldn’t be consumed. If you’re making a batch with toddlers, you may want to skip the yummy chocolate fra- grance oil so they aren’t tempted to eat the slime. Bonus: Slime makes an adorable gift or party favor when packaged in nonbreakable container with a bright bow.  T 12  Washington FAMILY  JANUARY 2020 SUPPLIES:  White school glue  Warm water  Borax  Brown gel food coloring  White craft foam beads  Plastic jar or container  Optional: chocolate fragrance oil (available online) INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Use a fork to mix together ½ cup white glue and ½ cup of water in a bowl. 2. Add enough brown gel food coloring to achieve the look of hot chocolate and about 10 drops of chocolate fragrance oil. Stir until the color is evenly mixed. 3. Dissolve Borax into ½ cup of warm water in another bowl. 4. Pour half the Borax solution over the glue mixture and stir with the fork. It should start to stick together and clump up a bit. 5. Continue adding the Borax solution a little at a time, stirring constantly, until it all sticks together in one big blob. 6. Use your hands to knead the slime until it’s smooth and no longer sticky. You may need to add a bit more Borax solution to get rid of stickiness. I like to dip my fingers into the Borax solution and then knead them into the slime. 7. Pour some foam balls onto the finished slime, kneading them in with your hands. 8. Separate the slime into plastic jars or another type of airtight container for storage. THIS RECIPE CAN BE ADJUSTED IN SO MANY WAYS TO CREATE DIFFERENT SLIME CONCOCTIONS. HERE ARE A FEW IDEAS TO STRETCH OUT THE FUN ALL WINTER LONG:  Use an extra ¼ teaspoon of Borax for a more putty-like consistency.  Use different colors to explore color mixing.  Add glitter for some fun sparkle.  Mix in pom poms or water beads for different textures.  Add a generous dollop of shaving cream for fluffy slime.  Use clear glue for a transparent version. Please share pictures of your hot chocolate slime on social media with the hashtag #washingtonfamilymag so we can see your creativity. Happy crafting, friends! T Lindsay Ponta created the DIY and lifestyle website Shrim p Salad Circus in 2009 to inspire busy women to live perfectly- imperfect creative lives. Find easy DIYs and recipes at shrimpsaladcircus.com. AT A GLANCE A WALK IN JANE GOODALL’S SHOES “Becoming Jane” Now Open at the National Geographic Museum on what artifacts to display but also on which stories to tell. For example, she was particularly passionate • My Life with the Chimpanzees about including a video on animal by Jane Goodall intelligence featuring Pigcasso the • Me...Jane Painting Pig, a South African rescue by Patrick McDonnell pig with a knack for landscapes. • I am Jane Goodall The kid-friendly exhibit also by Brad Meltzer includes a replica of Goodall’s research tent, where visitors can • Who is Jane Goodall? explore her supplies and jot down by Roberta Edwards their own observations in a field • The Watcher journal. They can take a virtual by Jeanette Winter reality expedition to Tanzania’s Gombe Stream National Park, learn Jubilee the plush animal is just programming at the National how to pant-hoot like a chimp in an one of many artifacts from Geographic Society. “Through interactive augmented reality (AR) Goodall’s childhood on display immersive media, authentic scenic activity and watch a hologram-like at a new National Geographic and interactions, this exhibition projection of Goodall take a trip Museum exhibition, “Becoming takes visitors into the field and Jane: The Evolution of Jane Goodall.” down memory lane. around the world with Jane, walking At the end of the exhibition, When she returned to her family in her shoes and experiencing her visitors can pledge to help Goodall home to retrieve Jubilee for the powerful message of hope firsthand.” in her mission to ensure a more exhibit, Goodall also brought back “Becoming Jane” is open at the sustainable future by choosing to the Tarzan and Doctor Doolittle National Geographic Museum books that, as a young girl, inspired use less plastic, avoid palm oil or (1145 17th St. NW, Washington, DC take a nature walk. Each pledge her to want to work with wild 20036) through the summer of 2020. appears as a leaf on an interactive animals as well as a handmade doll Tickets cost $15 for adults; $12 for Tree of Hope. she received from her mother. seniors, students and military; and “This exhibition allows us to $10 for children ages 5-12. For more experience [Goodall’s] amazing A partnership between the information, visit natgeoevents.org life story in a highly personal National Geographic Society or janegoodall.org.  T and powerful way,” says Kathryn and the Jane Goodall Institute, “Becoming Jane” is an interactive Keane, vice president of public — PJ FEINSTEIN multimedia exhibition that takes visitors on a journey through the life of the celebrated animal behavior expert, conservationist and activist. Goodall is best known for her behavioral research on chimpanzees and her then-unorthodox approach to field research: She immersed herself in their habit in what is now Gombe, Tanzania. When it opened at the end of November, visitors were surprised by how such an immersive experience could still feel so personal. That’s because Goodall herself was involved in the project Children can explore artifacts on display at “Becoming Jane: The Evolution of scope, sharing her thoughts not only Jane Goodall,” organized by National Geographic and the Jane Goodall Institute. Twenty-five years before Dr. Jane Goodall traveled from England to Africa to study chimpanzees, a chimp at the London Zoo gave birth to a baby. Born the same year as King George’s Silver Jubilee, celebrating the 25th anniversary of his reign, the baby chimpanzee was named Jubilee. Plush chimpanzees were produced to commemorate the birth of Jubilee, and Goodall’s father brought one home for his 1-year-old daughter. PHOTO BY REBECCA HALE/NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC INTRODUCE YOUR KIDS TO DR. JANE GOODALL AND HER INSPIRING WORK BY READING THESE RECOMMENDED CHILDREN’S BOOKS BEFORE YOU GO. WashingtonFAMILY.com  13 DMV FUN HOW TO WORK WITH A CAMP CONSULTANT BY ADRANISHA STEPHENS Finding the right camp for your child can seem daunting. After all, there are so many choices! Luckily, there are experts who can help. Think of camp consultants as expert advisors who makes it their mission to match each child with the camp that is the best fit, all while offering free information to families. Tips on Trips and Camps in Baltimore shares summer options from a group of screened and selected residential summer lineups — more than 600 — based on a child's interests and a family’s needs. It is, in essence, a matchmaker for summer programs. And for director Eve Eifler, the consultant process is simple. Based on a call, her advisors research programs they think are right for that individual child. “There are thousands of programs on the web, and the process can become very confusing. Our goal is to do the research and vetting for a family,” she says. “A Tips advisor will email websites of about four to six options that we think will match what the family wants. Then we discuss the options to make sure we are on the right track and if not will suggest more. It is a partnership, and often, we will introduce a kind of experience that the family did not even know existed.” 14  Washington FAMILY  JANUARY 2020 But if parents want some face-to-face planning, they have that covered, too. “We have advisors in 12 cities and offer camp fairs as well as personal consultations. We are always happy to meet in person,” she says. Laurel Barrie, co-owner of Camp Connection, a consulting business that serves families throughout Delaware, Maryland, Washington, D.C. and Virginia, also shares her tips for first- time campers looking for help. “I think it’s important that parents do their due diligence and research when looking into where they should send their kids to camp,” she says. “What are their interests? Are they competitive or noncompetitive? Do they have special activities they would like to pursue? What kind of distance are you looking for?” Once you know that, you can begin the camp- planning process, she says. Another thing to keep in mind is what you want your child to get out of the experience. Is your child extremely active and athletic? Then perhaps a sports camp is the right fit. If you want your child to gain more hands-on learning, then an overnight camp or other specialty camp might be the best choice. From campfires to water skiing, there are all sorts of diverse activities that have some instructional and recreational component to it, Barrie says. But it’s bunking in a cabin 24/7 with others that builds self-control and empathy. It’s helping carry someone else’s equipment on a hike, making a fire and cooking together, trying new foods and overcoming homesickness that builds independence, she adds. Eifler agrees, adding that summer camp can help kids become more liberated, learn resiliency, build self-esteem and self-reliance and absorb social skills. “Camps offer the opportunity to learn new skills, but perhaps more importantly, [they] teach kids to advocate for themselves, problem solve and learn to get along with other kids who may be quite different from them,” she says. “It also encourages kids to try new things and teaches them that it is OK to fail the first time and persevere. It teaches kids to be good losers and also good winners — all without parents who often jump in to fix things.” GRAPHICS: GETTY IMAGES; ALL OTHERS PROVIDED Another bonus? Camps are now generally “media-free” zones. While many parents cannot get their children to turn off electronics, especially during the summer, most camps today provide a space that is electronics free. This leads to campers learning better communication skills, Barrie says. “At traditional camps, they can’t bring their cellphones or iPads. They actually have to string words together and talk to one another,” she says. “As difficult as it might seem for kids in today’s digital world, they also seem to appreciate the way camp used to be. You’re not only learning activities, you’re also learning social skills and appropriateness. You’re remembering to say ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ and to show consideration.” What also usually happens is the feeling of creating a new family, says Meridith Jacobs, a Montgomery County mom. She has two elementary school-aged kids and has been using Summer365, a camp consultant service, for years. Jacobs says that camp has become a “community” for her kids. “It’s their home away from home,” she says. “We wanted our daughter to have another life and other friends outside of her world here. Now, when she’s having a bad day, she FaceTimes one of her friends from camp. That’s what she lives for. Camp has become very much a part of our entire family.” As for how the camp consultant process benefited her family? Jacobs says that using a consultant has produced some happy campers each summer. “When we first started looking for camps, we went in open-minded,” she says. “We knew we wanted either a four-week camp or a seven-week camp. We didn’t know which would be a better fit.” That’s where Andrea Grinspoon of Summer365 came in. Jacobs set up a time to speak with Grinspoon by phone, at which time she shared her child’s background, likes and dislikes and what they were looking for in terms of location, duration, activities and general ambiance. Grinspoon then talked all things summer camp and how to find the best sleep-away spot for her two children. From there, Grinspoon emailed Jacobs a list of eight camps. “She was completely neutral. She would not tell me where her kids went camping; she would not give opinions,” Jacobs says. “It was more just factual information because she wanted to make sure we made the right decision for us.” “I think it’s a really helpful resource for parents, and using a camp consultant was a phenomenal experience, honestly,” she adds.  T When Adranisha Stephens isn’t chasing down a story, she is traveling, blogging, photographing or spending time with family and friends. She has a bachelor’s degree in mass communication from Frostburg State University and a master’s degree in journalism/digital storytelling from American University. WashingtonFAMILY.com  15 Next-Level Camper Learning leadership as a counselor in training Given the choice, the typical 10th grader would likely choose to have a carefree summer as a camper at sleepaway camp rather than work at one as a counselor. But 15-year-old Lukas Kroner of Burke, Virginia, isn't your typical 10th grader. While most of his friends will be traveling or playing video games, Kroner will be returning to Camp Twin Creeks in Marlington, West Virginia for his ninth summer — and his first as a counselor-in-training, or CIT. “I’m looking forward to making memories with my fellow CITs and working with the junior campers,” he says. “I can’t wait to teach them new things and to help them have a great time at camp.” Kroner is confident in his abilities because he believes he works well with kids and knows what they think will be fun. Although he won’t be getting paid to be a CIT, tuition for the CIT program costs less than camper tuition, which, Kroner says, “I know my parents like.” Plus he'll have the opportunity to participate in camp activities when he isn't working as a CIT. Not every camp charges 14 and 15 year olds to be part of their counselor-in-training program, but not all camps provide camper-like experiences for CITs either. At Camp JCC in Rockville, Maryland, daily hour-long training sessions for CITs may include an activity led by a specialist, but they mostly participate in camp activities alongside 16  Washington FAMILY  JANUARY 2020 the kids in their assigned group. They also been integrated into our camps and knows a lot don't pay (or get paid) to work, instead earning about them,” says Sifri, explaining that CITs at McDonogh Summer Camps are given priority service-learning hours towards graduation. for interviews What makes a good CIT? However, “there’s so much you can While CIT programs vary from camp to camp, learn from being a camp counselor that is the qualities that camp directors seek out in applicable to school life and job life,” says teenage hires tend to be similar, starting with Sharon Rosenberg Safra, assistant director at the desire to work with children. “We can teach Camp Ramah in Germantown, Maryland. She a lot of skills. We can teach them how to do most highlights communication skills, such as talking of their day-to-day things, but we can’t teach to kids, peers and supervisors as well as crucial them to want to interact with kids,” says Phil problem-solving skills like the ability to think on Liebson, camp director at Camp JCC. one’s feet. Ramzi Sifri, director of McDonogh Summer Then there’s the ability to put oneself in Camps in Owings Mills, Maryland, agrees. someone else’s shoes. “When some of our “We’re looking for people who are teens come to us, they’re maybe focused on sincere in their desire to work with themselves as the priority,” explains Liebson. kids, as opposed to just getting a “Whereas once they’ve worked with kids, and job,” he says. once they’ve been part of camp, they have Flexibility and patience are that perspective of ‘Well, this is why they’re two additional key characteristics saying this.’ Now they might be able to mediate of a good counselor. “We plan conversations between friends or maybe they everything every single day of camp, can help facilitate something that’s a little bit and then every possible change more collaborative.” that could happen, does happen,” Camp JCC CITs also have the added says Camp JCC’s assistant director, responsibility of running the camp carnival, Aliza Glatter. which teaches them program design. They’re Interestingly, most camps learning everything from creating a budget and aren’t just looking to hire super acquiring supplies to running the program and extroverted teens. As Liebson debriefing at the end, Liebson explains. explains, campers who are less Sifri says that working at camp provides outgoing or may have wallflower younger Generation Z kids the opportunity to tendencies aren’t likely to bond put down their phones, spend some time in the with loud, boisterous CITs. sun and enjoy eclectic experiences such as art “It takes all sorts of different personalities and science, computers and sports. “It just kind and style to make sure we’re able to reach every of helps them develop their personality and . . . kid,” he says, using his own Pokémon-loving as they get closer to the college level what their son as an example of the type of camper who future interests might be,” he says. connects with counselors who also aren’t as For Michael Thompson, 19, working as a interested in sports. CIT at Camp Levine in Washington, D.C., and then as a counselor at Roundhouse Theatre and The benefits add up Imagination Stage camps, both in Bethesda, The most obvious benefit of being a CIT is that Maryland, helped him decide what he wanted to your teen will already know the camp’s culture pursue as a career. and traditions when they return later on as a “It really solidified for me the fact that I paid counselor — and that knowledge often fast want to work with kids for a living, most likely tracks the interview process. “If we’re going to as a music teacher as I’m currently majoring in hire a young person, we’d like to hire somebody music at college and plan to get a master’s in who’s taken our CIT program, who’s already education after,” he says.  T GRAPHIC: GETTY IMAGES; PHOTO PROVIDED BY PJ FEINSTEIN CAMP GUIDE OVERNIGHT CAMPS CAMP HORIZONS Ages: 6-16 camphorizonsva.com camp@horizonsva.com 540-896-7600 3586 Horizons Way, Harrisonburg, VA Categories: Residential Camp, Boys & Girls, Teens, Sibling Discount, Arts and Crafts, Cooking, Dance, Drama/Theatre, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Music, Overnight Camping, Photography, Swimming 2020 Summer Camp Guide W PHOTO AND ART COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES 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. Good luck! Here’s to a great summer. levinemusic.org/camp camp@levinemusic.org 202-686-8000 2801 Upton Street, NW Washington, District of Columbia 20008 Categories: Day Camp, Boys & Girls, Sibling Discount, Extended Day, Arts and Crafts, Drama/ Theatre, Music SMITHSONIAN SUMMER CAMP Ages: K-9 smithsonianassociates.org/camp customerservice@ smithsonianassociates.org CAMP TALL TIMBERS 202-633-3030 Ages: 7-16 Smithsonian’s S. Dillon camptalltimbers.com Ripley Center info@camptalltimbers.com 1100 Jefferson Drive SW 301-874-0111 District of Columbia Washington 1115 Reflection Lane, High View, WV Categories: Day Camp, Boys & Categories: Residential Camp, Girls, Extended Day, Educational Boys & Girls, Teens, Sibling Activities Discount, Transportation, Arts & Crafts, Boating, CIT Program, DAY CAMPS Dance, Dance/Drama, Educational MARYLAND Activities, Field Trips, Gymnastics, CAMP LEVINE – Hiking, Horseback Riding, LEVINE MUSIC SCHOOL Martial Arts, Overnight Camping, Camper Age: 3 1/2-12 Swimming, Sports, Sports – Teen Apprentice Age: Extreme Rising 7th-12th Graders  BURGUNDY CENTER levinemusic.org/camp-levine FOR WILDLIFE STUDIES camp@levinemusic.org Ages: 8-15 202-686-8000 burgundycenter.org The Music Center at Strathmore, 703-842-0470 5301 Tuckerman Ln., North Capon Bridge, WV Bethesda, MD Categories: Swimming Teens, Sibling Discount, Extended Day, Arts, CIT Program, Dance, DAY CAMPS Drama, Educational Activities, WASHINGTON, D.C. Music. BEAUVOIR SUMMER - GLEN ECHO PARK BEAUVOIR, THE NATIONAL AQUARIUM CATHEDRAL ELEMENTARY Ages: 4-7, 8-12 SCHOOL gepaquarium.org Ages 3-11; CIT program for info@gepaquarium.org grades 6 to 12 301-955-6256 beauvoirschool.org/summer; 7300 MacArthur Blvd. beauvoirsummer@cathedral.org Glen Echo, MD 202-537-6485 Categories: Arts, Educational 3500 Woodley Rd., N.W., Activities, Hiking Washington, D.C. INTERNATIONAL Categories: Day Camp, Boys SCHOOL OF MUSIC & Girls, Extended Day, Arts and Ages: 3-12 Crafts, CIT Program, Dance, ismw.org Drama/Theatre, Educational info@ismw.org Activities, Field Trips, Music, 301-365-5888 Swimming 11325 Seven Locks Rd., Suite 255, CAMP ARISTOTLE AT Potomac, MD THE AUBURN SCHOOL Categories: Drama, Music scott.swick@catapultlearning.com KIDS FIRST SWIM 201-588-8048 9115 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring, MD SCHOOLS larissa.vlassich@catapultlearning.com Ages: 2 months-Adults kidsfirstswimschools.com 703-793-9353 contact@kidsfirstswimschools.com 3800 Concorde Parkway, Check our website for a list of all Chantilly VA 35 locations. CAMP LEVINE Categories: Educational Ages: 3.5-12 Activities, Sports, Swimming WashingtonFAMILY.com  17 CAMP GUIDE SPRING BILINGUAL MONTESSORI SUMMER CAMP Ages: 2½-6 spring-bilingual.org info@spring-bilingual.org 301-962-7262 3514 Plyers Mill Rd., Kensington, MD Categories: Sibling Discount, Extended Day, Arts, Educational Activities SUMMERSPORTSCAMPS T h e S t . J a m es i s t h e p re m i e r s p o r t s , e n te r ta i n m e n t a n d we l l n es s d es t i n a t i o n i n t h e co u n t r y, w i t h ove r 4 5 0 , 0 0 0 s q u a re fe e t o f fu n a n d exc i te m e n t . Ca m p e rs a g es 3 –1 5 ca n p l a y m o re t h a n 2 0 s p o r t s , a l l u n d e r o n e ro o f. AC T I V I T I E S I N C LU D E : BAS E BA L L • S O F T BA L L • G O L F S Q UAS H • S W I M M I N G • WAT E R PO LO GY M N AS T I C S • DA N C E • I C E S K AT I N G YO G A • H O C K E Y • FO OT BA L L S O CC E R • BAS K E T BA L L • L AC ROS S E VO L L E Y BA L L • F U T SA L • WAT E R PA R K CLIMBING & BOULDERING V R • E S PO R T S Tra n s p o r ta t i o n fro m D C , M D & VA l o ca t i o n s , a s we l l a s b e fo re a n d a f te r ca re a re a va i l a b l e. Lu n c h o r s n a c k i s p rov i d e d . L E A R N M O R E & R EG I S T E R N OW AT t h es t j a m es .co m /ca m ps 6 8 0 5 I n d u s t r i a l Ro a d | S p r i n g f i e l d , VA 2 2 1 5 1 | 70 3 . 2 3 9. 6 870 Ramah Day Camp of Greater Washington, DC Ask about our Hebrew Immersion program! A premier camp experience in a setting of love, friendship, wonder and discovery, and a place where Judaism is integral to daily activities. For children entering grades K-5. (301) 500-8251 • dcdaycamp@campramahne.org • www.ramahdcdaycamp.org 18  WashingtonFAMILY  JANUARY 2020 BARRIE CAMP Ages: 4-14 barrie.org; camp@barrie.org 301-576-2815 13500 Layhill Rd., Silver Spring, MD Categories: Day Camp, Boys & Girls, Teens, Sibling Discount, Extended Day, Transportation, Arts and Crafts, Boating, CIT Program, Drama/Theatre, Educational Activities, Field Trips, Horseback Riding, Martial Arts, Overnight Camping, Swimming BASIS INDEPENDENT SUMMER Ages: 2 - 18 Affiliation: BASIS Independent McLean mclean-summer@ basisindependent.com basisindependent.com/summer 703-854-1253 8000 Jones Branch Drive McLean, Virginia 22102 Categories: Day Camp, Boys & Girls, Teens, Arts and Crafts, Dance, Drama/Theatre, Educational Activities, Field Trips, Music CAMP LEVINE – LEVINE MUSIC SCHOOL Camper Age: 3 1/2-12 Teen Apprentice Age: Rising 7th-12th Graders     levinemusic.org/camp-levine camp@levinemusic.org 202-686-8000     The Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Ln., North Bethesda, MD Categories: Teens, Sibling Discount, Extended Day, Arts, CIT Program, Dance, Drama, Educational Activities, Music CAMP SHEEO – SHEEO ACADEMY Ages: 7-16 beasheeo.com/camp contact@BEaSheEO.com 866-697-4336 Check website for various locations in Maryland Categories: Girls only, Teens, Educational Activities CONGRESSIONAL CAMP Ages: 4-14 congocamp.org info@congocamp.org 703-533-0931 School Affiliation: Congressional School 3229 Sleepy Hollow Road Falls Church, VA 22042 Categories: Day Camp, Boys & Girls, Extended day, Transportation, Arts and Crafts, CIT Program, Computers, Cooking, Field Trips, Horseback Riding, Swimming GLEN ECHO PARK AQUARIUM Ages: 4-7, 8-12 gepaquarium.org info@gepaquarium.org 301-955-6256 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, MD Categories: Arts, Educational Activities, Hiking INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF MUSIC Ages: 3-12 ismw.org info@ismw.org 301-365-5888 10450 Auto Park Ave. Bethesda, MD Categories: Drama, Music KIDS FIRST SWIM SCHOOLS Ages: 2 months-Adults kidsfirstswimschools.com contact@kidsfirstswimschools.com Check our website for a list of all 35 locations. Categories: Educational Activities, Sports, Swimming MANOR MONTESSORI SUMMER CAMP manormontessori.com/ summer-camp 10500 Oaklyn Dr., Potomac, MD 11200 Old Georgetown Rd., Rockville, MD 5450 Massachusetts Ave., Bethesda, MD Categories: Educational Activities, Arts, Music, Swimming, Sports RAMAH DAY CAMP OF GREATER WASHINGTON, DC Ages: Children entering Kindergarten through 5th grades. 11411 Neelsville Church Road c/o Wellspring Conference Center Germantown, Maryland 20876 301-658-6627 ramahdcdaycamp.org dcdaycamp@campramahne.org Categories: Day Camp, Boys & Girls, Extended Day, Transportation, Arts and Crafts, Computers Cooking, Dance, Drama/Theatre, Educational Activities, Field Trips, Music, Special, Needs Sports, Swimming SAVE THE DATE! 2020 Join Us For a Day of Family Fun! • Raff les and prizes • Family-fun activities • Exhibitors from all over the DMV • Giveaway bags Northern Virginia: Sunday, January 19, 2020 Noon-4pm Fair Oaks Mall Register: WFCampFair2020NOVA.eventbrite.com Maryland: Sunday, February 9, 2020 Noon-4pm Westfield Montgomery Mall Register: WFCampFair2020MD.eventbrite.com Contact your account executive to become an exhibitor Contact advertising@washingtonfamily.com or call 301-230-2222, ext. 4 CAMP GUIDE VALLEY MILL CAMP INC. Ages: 4-14 valleymill.com; valleymill@ valleymill.com 301-948-0220 15101 Seneca Rd., Darnestown, MD Category: Day Camp DAY CAMPS VIRGINIA ART CAMP AT THE ART LEAGUE Ages: 5-teen theartleague.org/classes school@theartleague.org 703-683-2323 305 Madison St., Alexandria, VA 22314 Categories: Day Camp, Boys & Girls, Teens, Arts and Crafts, Boating, Educational Activities, Photography BROOKSFIELD SUMMER CAMP Ages: 3-10 brooksfieldschool.org camp@brooksfieldschool.org 703-356-5437 ext. 2 1830 Kirby Rd., McLean, VA Categories: Extended Day, Arts, CIT, Cooking, Dance, Educational Activities, Field Trips, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Music, Sports, Swimming, Yoga BURGUNDY FARM SUMMER DAY CAMP - GRACE EPISCOPAL SCHOOL Ages: 4-16 burgundyfarm.org/summer- programs; admissions@ graceschoolalex.org 703-549-5067 Alexandria, VA Categories: Arts and Crafts SERRNOVIK / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS SPRING BILINGUAL MONTESSORI SUMMER CAMP Ages: 2½-6 spring-bilingual.org info@spring-bilingual.org 301-962-7262 3514 Plyers Mill Rd., Kensington, MD Categories: Sibling Discount, Extended Day, Arts, Educational Activities CAMP ARISTOTLE AT THE AUBURN SCHOOL scott.swick@catapultlearning.com 201-588-8048 9115 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring, MD Away from the everyday BALLET, HIP-HOP, JAZZ/TAP & MORE! In addition to our award-winning program, we off er special clinics and extended sessions. Professional Instruction Free Leotard with Registration Children & Adult Classes 3, 2 & 1 Week Sessions Coed | Ages 7 to 16 Enroll now for Summer 2020! 301-515-8908 info@commotiondance.com commotiondance.com REGISTER NOW! To register & for more info visit www.camptalltimbers.com 301.874.0111 20  WashingtonFAMILY  JANUARY 2020 GERMANTOWN, MD D A N C E. L E A R N. S H I N E. CAMP GUIDE larissa.vlassich@catapultlearning.com 703-793-9353 3800 Concorde Parkway, Chantilly VA 703-548-1154; 200 S. Carlin Springs Rd., Arlington, VA Categories: Teens, Extended Day, Dance, Drama CAMP GRIFFIN Ages: 3-14 Years westminsterschool.com/ kmock@westminsterschool.com 703-340-7268 Westminster School 3819 Gallows Road Annandale, Virginia 22003 Categories: Day Camp, Boys & Girls, Sibling Discount, Extended Day, Arts and Crafts, Educational Activities, Field Trips, Swimming, Travel HARMONIA SCHOOL OF MUSIC & ART Ages: 4-18 harmoniaschool.org harmonia@harmoniaschool.org 703-938-7301 204-F Mill St., N.E., Vienna, VA Categories: Teens, Sibling Discount, Extended Day, Arts, Drama, Music IT’S ELEMENTARY Ages: 3-9  encorestageva.org/camps/ summercamps/ CAMP KAY - KAY SCHOOL info@encorestage.org Ages: 2 1/2-12 kayschool.org; info@kayschool.org 703-548-1154 Swanson Middle School 703-264-9078 3005 Dower House Rd., Herndon, VA 5800 Washington Blvd. Arlington, Virginia 22205 Categories: Sibling Discount, Categories: Day Camp, Extended Extended Day, Transportation, Day, Drama/Theatre Arts, CIT Program, Cooking, Dance, Drama, Educational INSTITUTE FOR THE ARTS Activities, Field Trips, Hiking, Affiliation: Fairfax County Public Music, Sports, Extreme Sports, Schools Swimming, Travel, Yoga 8270 Willow Oaks Corporate Drive Fairfax, VA 22031 CAMP LEVINE – LEVINE Categories: Extended Day, MUSIC SCHOOL Transportation, Arts and Ages 3 1/2-12 Crafts, Dance, Drama/Theatre, Teen Apprentice Age: Rising Educational Activities, Music, 7th-12th Graders Photography Special, Yoga levinemusic.org/camp-levine, camp@levinemusic.org KIDS FIRST SWIM 202-686-8000     SCHOOLS 1125 N. Patrick Henry Drive, Ages: 2 months-Adults Arlington, VA     kidsfirstswimschools.com Categories: Teens, Sibling contact@kidsfirstswimschools.com Discount, Extended Day, Arts Check our website for and Crafts, CIT Program, Dance, a list of all 35 locations. Drama, Educational Activities, Categories: Educational Music Activities, Sports, Swimming ENCORE STAGE & PERFECT POINT STUDIO - IT’S ELEMENTARY DANCE STUDIO Ages: 4-9  Ages: 3-11 encorestage.org;  perfectpointe.com info@encorestage.org staff@perfectpointe.com 703-548-1154 703-533-8830 5800 Washington Blvd., Arlington, VA 2499 N. Harrison St., Ste. I-LL, Categories: Day Camp, Boys & Arlington, VA Girls, Drama/Theatre Categories: Dance, Drama, Gymnastics ENCORE STAGE & STUDIO – SCENES PERFECT POINTE FOR TWEENS (FORMERLY HEARTBEATS) Ages: 8-12 MUSIC & DANCE STUDIO encorestage.org Ages: 3-16 info@encorestage.org hbeats.com; staff@hbeats.com 703-548-1154 703-440-9000 4000 Lorcom Ln., Arlington, VA 8060 Rolling Rd., Springfield, VA Categories: Extended Day, Categories: Teens, Sibling Dance, Drama Discount, Extended Day, Arts, CIT Program, Dance, Drama, ENCORE STAGE & Gymnastics, Martial Arts, Music STUDIO – STAGE DOOR & TECH CAMP PINECREST PAVILION AT Ages: 11-15 PINECREST SCHOOL encorestage.org Ages: 4-12 info@encorestage.org pinecrestschool.org Bus transport from DC! Award-winning sleepaway camp in The beautiful shenandoah valley for ages 6-16. camp horizons offers 50+ activities that challenge our campers to reach their fullest potential, and experience their best summer ever! 540.896.7600 • www.camphorizonsva.com THE ADVENTURE STARTS HERE! Our year-round programming will help your swimmer get ready for the summer! REGISTER TODAY & try us out for FREE! SwimLabs Swim School – Montgomery County 353 Muddy Branch Road, Gaithersburg, MD 20878 (240) 449-4900 | swimlabs.com WashingtonFAMILY.com  21 CAMP GUIDE camp@pinecrestschool.org 703-354-3446 7209 Quiet Cove, Annandale, VA Categories: Sibling Discount, Extended Day, Arts, Computers, Cooking, Drama, Educational Activities, Field Trips info@encorestage.org 703-548-1154 Kenmore Middle School 200 S. Carlin Springs Rd. Arlington, Virginia 22204 Categories: Day Camp, Boys & Girls, Drama/Theatre RESTON MONTESSORI SCHOOL Ages: 3-9 restonmontessori.com office@restonmontessori.com 703-481-2922 1928 Isaac Newton Sq. West Reston, VA Categories: 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 Dr., Ste. 105, Fairfax, VA Categories: Teens, Sibling Discount, Arts, Dance, Drama WESTMINSTER SCHOOL (CAMP GRIFFIN) Ages: 3-14 Camp Griffin at Westminster School westminsterschool.com campgriffin@westminsterschool.com 703-340-7268 3819 Gallows Rd., Annandale, VA Categories: Teens, Sibling Discount, Extended Day, Arts, Cooking, Dance, Drama, STAGE DOOR & TECH CAMP Educational Activities, Field Trips, Ages: 11-15  Hiking, Martial Arts, Music, Sports, encorestageva.org/camps/ Swimming, Yoga.  ■ summercamps/ SCENES FOR TWEENS Ages: 8-12  encorestageva.org/camps/ summercamps/ info@encorestage.org 703-548-1154 Encore’s Main Campus 4000 Lorcom Ln., Arlington, Virginia 22207 Categories: Day Camp, Extended Day, Drama/Theatre Camp Levine S DAY CAMP MUSIC & ART . 2019 Voted Best of D.C Paper! ty Ci n by Washingto Join us for this year’s theme Rock the Red Carpet: Music from the Movies! Activities Include Instrumental Music - Singing - Musical Theatre Arts & Crafts - Dance & Movement - Games & Sports 2019 Camp Dates Session I: June 29 – July 17 | Session II: July 20 – August 7 Full Day, Half Day, Extended AM & PM available! Ages 3 1/2 – 12 (entering 6th grade) and Teen Apprentices sic.org/cam 00 p u m e in v e .l w w w 80 .org | (202) 686- usic camp@levinem DC, LOCATIONS IN 22  WashingtonFAMILY  JANUARY 2020 MD & VA Cover 1 SENIOR LIFESTYLE NEWS ARTFUL AFTERNOON AMOS OZ DIES Page 20 Page 6 YO U S H O U L D KNOW DOWN FOR DUMPLINGS Page 35 January 11, 2019/5 Shevat 5779 wash ingto A MAGAZINE FOR BER 2019 AUGUST/SEPTEM m nFAM ILY.co & ONLINE PARENT S IN PRINT Eye mer’ s C onsu % 25 OFF PHAR Life 1 per customer. Expires d Rd Smallwoo MD 8541 Ft. • Pasadena, Ste G Rd 3820 Mountain MD Pasadena, Ste G • 410-255-0099 410-255-1800 MACY PHAR acy & 1/31/19 Melissa r. 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He’s not a student at the yeshiva but this isn’t a normal is Thursday. The federal government shut down and employees like Werner — who would only say that he works in the executive branch — have been esmag.com I Netanya hu dogged by inquiry as election looms J ss Montesso See SHUTDOWN, page 13 SEE PAGE 51 IN TH PAGE 12 MOM'S FIGH 24 TE ACHING YOU SHOULD KNOW TALKING MASSAGE #METOO E ING GOA L-TR ACK Pictured: Student jewishtimes.com 1 Highway 8037 Ritchie MD 21122 Pasadena, 3311 410-768- At This Location Available Brake Service MID-ATLANTIC MEDIA has been covering both Beltways in a MAJOR LEAGUE way for nearly a century. T BO YS ERA Re aders' Choice IS BACK ZINE ANN E ARU FOOD ALLERGIES ONE SEE PAGE 30 CAMP FAIR • FEB. S M A GA Fall 2018 Su mmer Camps furloughed. For Werner, the shutdown has its up- his sides. He can spend more time with family and use an otherwise lazy week- the day morning to learn Torah. 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Senior Olympics, the longtime Rockville Jaron Bourke, left , and Sarinah Kalb work in the Jewish Community Center’s D25 day of the Edlavitch DC resident and member of Tikvat Israel were among 700 volunteers for Dec. 25. See page 25. Photo by Lloyd Wolf Congregation looks ahead to compet- service on set ing in the National Senior Olympics her for June in Albuquerque, N.M. — my second trip to the nationals. “It’s hope to bring home a national ribbon in or a medal.” It would be her fi rst the nationals. in Her 2018 Maryland golds were an- women’s doubles and mixed doubles Mandelblit has decided to wait to two By Marcy Oster badminton; she took silvers in nounce his decision in the cases known the 50-yard swim events, women’s breast as 1000, 2000, and 4000 until aft er ERUSALEM — Israel’s attorney gen- stroke and freestyle. She’ll compete eral likely will wait until aft er na- one in those swim events and at least See ELECTION, page 15 tional elections to announce whether 0 74470 0 1977 7447 19778 8 2 badminton event. he will indict Prime Minister Benjamin Competition is generally stiff er in the Netanyahu in three corruption inves- age nationals. She will be in an older but the allegations could be 84, tigations, bracket than in recent years — 80 to central to the early elections. “Every which may work in her favor. Sources reported to be close to Avichai Mandelblit told Hebrew media includ- the KAN national broadcaster that OLYMPICS , page 14 ing See OLYMPICS, D.COM VALUE OF EA VOLU .FREDERICKSCHIL BR K SPRING CAMP ERICK S ’S CHILD ONLINE AT WWW ® BEHIND WORRY www.bo Visit us at other offer or used in addition in the LEAVE with any Lube locations in any cannot be combined at participating Jiffy or altered This coupon reproduced value 1/100 c. Only valid Cash CONEYESS12 to fleet discounts. 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Bomba is a Frederick-based psycholo- gist who specializes in child and adolescent anxiety — the clients who were feeling so overwhelmed were actually kids. “It came up in all of my sessions,” she says. “I had a lot of kids coming in with very high anxiety and a lot of fear.” This year, of course, brings another round of elections. There is also a presiden- tial impeachment inquiry unfolding in our capital. And a 24-hour news cycle that has increased its reach from our own phones and 24  Washington FAMILY  JANUARY 2020 TVs to Snapchat, TikTok and the other places our children like to inhabit. How can today’s parents educate their kids about the political process and at the same time shield them from the tumultuous Twitter tit-for-tat that feels so demoraliz- ing? We asked media and parenting experts for their navigational advice. Find their fears When Bomba talked with her clients about their post-election anxiety, she found out that many had been exposed to news they were not ready for. It’s hard to shelter kids in today’s news-saturated world, she admits. Even if parents succeed at doing this, there is another influencer: kids at school. “Kids talk at school and information gets skewed, like that old-fashioned telephone game,” she says. If a child is worried, find out what he or she heard, and ask about the “what if” scenarios that are going through their minds. “Ask them, ‘What are you afraid of?’” Bomba says. “If it’s something ridiculous or absurd, you can squash that right away.” Younger children might think that news they heard will lead to a catastrophic result, such as war. Parents can tell them that’s really unlikely to happen, and using collaborative problem solving, they can brainstorm with a child for five reasons why, she says. Engage Your Kids ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Getting kids involved in elections can happen without anxiety, says Marie Heath, an assistant professor of education at Loyola University Maryland Indeed, kids can “shape the world they live in and make it better,” says Heath, who researches online and offline civic engagement. Believing they matter is what she hopes for her students and her own kids, ages 12, 10 and 8. Here’s how it can be done. First, find out what your kids care about, she says. If it’s the environment, for example, encourage your children to find out how this year’s candidates feel about climate change. Ask your children what they would like to hear from the candidates on these issues. They can go directly to the candidates’ websites to find out what they have said or written. If they can’t find this information, kids can reach out to the candidates themselves. Then they can share what they’ve found with their friends. When her 8-year-old son pointed out that he can’t vote, Heath told him, to his surprise, that he is still a citizen — “It’s not something that magically happens when you turn a certain age” — and that he has an opportunity and obligation to get involved. “It’s important to help kids feel that they can make a difference,” she says.  T Fact-Checking Tools ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ How can today’s parents educate their kids about the political process and at the ALL ART AND PHOTOS COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES same time shield them from the Your teen finds a news item on social media and doesn’t know if it’s true or not. What next? There are several sites that Common Sense Media recommends for fact-checking. The complete list is available at commonsensemedia.org, but here are three you can check out now. All of the sites are rated for educational value, positive messages and other factors. They also include reviews from both parents and kids. >> FactCheck.org Recommended for kids ages 13 and older, this site looks into political speeches, Facebook posts, science stories and more. >> PolitiFact.com tumultuous Twitter Also for kids ages 13 and older, the site has a truth-a-meter, among other features, that evaluates recent statements from politicians. tit-for-tat that feels >> Poynter.org so demoralizing? This journalism organization offers MediaWise, a digital initiative to help teens become more media savvy.  T WashingtonFAMILY.com  25 Finally, keep it simple, Bomba says. Tell children the news (“we’ve had an election, and here’s who won”), and then ask them about the questions they have. Don’t shun social media “Twitter is our public conversation now, but it can be very inappropriate for chil- dren,” says Caroline Knorr, senior media editor for Common Sense. The organization is a national nonprofit that provides fami- lies and schools with tech and entertainment recommendations. But what’s said on Twitter makes its way quickly to other news outlets. This can pro- vide parents with many teachable moments, Knorr says. The most obvious one for 2020 is that politics is a “contact sport.” Political com- ments are often emotional and designed to get attention — two great points to make with children. “It’s a good time to talk about your own family values,” she says. Parents can say, “When we disagree in our family, we are respectful, and we use facts to support our views,” she suggests. A Common Sense survey revealed that kids get most of their news from their families and other kids, but they like to get news from social media. Parents should not trivialize a ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ child’s inter- est in social media, Knorr says, but use it as another opportunity. Find out how media lit- erate your child is, she advises. Common Sense also has a checklist to help teens fact-check the news they consume (see sidebar). Ask these questions After the 2016 election, many educators started to look into how we consume news and con- sider our news sources. Sarah McGrew, a former teacher in Washington, D.C., is one such researcher. McGrew works as an assis- tant professor of education at the University of Maryland, College Park, and studies how students evaluate information online. Parents should have conversations with their children not only about the news, she says, but also how the news is produced. It’s easy for both adults and kids to jump into appealing or riveting online content. But they should first ask where the content comes from and if that source is reliable and recognizable. What makes a source reliable? Parents should explain to kids how reputable news sources have reporters who name their sources, editors who read over stories and fact checkers Raising a political junkie? to verify information. Reputable news sources also print cor- rections when they get something wrong. “That’s the process of news that leads us to put our trust in an organization,” she says. The third question to consider is whether there is evidence to support this news. What do other sources say? This is particularly important to evaluate as kids view videos, photos and infographics, which they con- sider to be reliable even when they are not, McGrew says. “One of the strengths of the internet is that there are always other sources,” she says. “We do not have a scarcity of information.” A study from the Stanford History Education Group released in 2016 revealed that 82 percent of middle schoolers can’t tell the difference between an online news story and an online advertisement. It’s good then for parents to review with children the different types of content on a web- site — news story, opinion, advertisement and more, says McGrew, who was one of the study’s co-authors. “An informed citizenry is the bedrock of democracy,” she says. “And we are increasingly informing ourselves on the internet.”  T ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Here are four books for kids hooked on civics, thanks to Keren Joshi, children’s librarian at D.C. Public Library’s Deanwood Neighborhood Library. Visit baltimoreschild.com for more book suggestions as well as website suggestions from Maryland Public Television. “What’s the Big Deal About Elections” by Ruby Shamir | Nonfiction, grades K-4 Did you know that Election Day is on Tuesday because that was the best day for farmers to vote? Or that George Washington was our only elected president who ran unopposed? Or that Native Americans were only given the right to vote in 1924? It’s all true! Find out more election fun facts. “Book Uncle and Me” by Uma Krishnaswami | Fiction, grades 2-5 Every day, 9-year-old Yasmin borrows a book from Book Uncle, a retired teacher who has set up a free lending library next to her apartment building. But when the mayor tries to shut down the rickety bookstand, Yasmin has to take her nose out of her book and do something. “The Great Greene Heist” by Varian Johnson | Fiction, grades 5-8 Jackson Greene swears he’s given up scheming. Then school bully Keith Sinclair announces he’s running for Student Council president, against Jackson’s former friend Gaby de la Cruz. Gaby wants Jackson to stay out of it, but does he? “Your Own Worst Enemy” by Gordon Jack | Fiction, grades 9-12 For fans of Andrew Smith and Frank Portman and movies such as “Election” and “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” comes a hilarious and satirical novel about the highs and (very low) lows of the electoral process, proving that the popular vote is the one that matters most.  T 26  Washington FAMILY  JANUARY 2020 — ADVERTORIAL — Teaching Shakespeare in Middle-School Wherefore, forsooth? SUSAN GLAZIER, ASSISTANT HEAD OF SCHOOL, WESTMINSTER SCHOOL W illiam Shakespeare died more than 400 years ago. His language seems archaic, if not downright foreign. Most of his characters and plots were bor- rowed. What possible appeal could his works have for middle-school students today? Although the Bard was an inveterate bor- rower, his dazzling language and fascinating characters transformed musty histories and half-forgotten legends into fresh, excit- ing stories. As Marchette Chute wrote, “Shakespeare told every kind of story – comedy, tragedy, history, melodrama, adventure, love stories and fairy tales – and each of them so well that they have become immortal.” Shakespeare’s stories shine past the boundaries of time and culture. Modern writers and film makers continue to adapt his plays because they touch on deeply meaningful relationships and life challenges. Think of The Lion King (Hamlet), West Side Story (Romeo and Juliet), Throne of Blood (Macbeth) or 10 Things I Hate About You (The Taming of the Shrew). Inseparable from his stories are the char- acters whose personalities drive the plots. Events don’t just happen to the protagonist; they spring from his or her own character. Romeo’s romantic fancy leads him to crash a party at the Capulet’s home, where he falls hard for his enemy’s daughter. Juliet’s pas- sionate nature catches fire and, from a bright but forbidden beginning, their impetuous love spirals ever downward into darkness and death. Macbeth, an honored general, meets three weird sisters who foretell an even more glorious future. Macbeth’s deep-seated ambition is ignited by their prophesy, explod- ing into murder, tyranny, and ultimately, despair. Even in a romantic comedy, such as A Midsummer Night’s Dream, the fickleness of young lovers is translated into a madcap night of love turned topsy-turvy. This intertwining of character and fate rings true to our minds and hearts. These people seem real to us, and we believe the things that happen to them. Of course, any lover of language must embrace Shakespeare’s genius. His elo- quence, originality and skill in poetry are unsurpassed. Not only does his imagery capture reality in startling and vivid detail, but the words and phrases he invented still course through modern English. But how can we expect 12, 13, and 14 year olds to embrace him? Because Shakespeare’s breakthrough revelation of his characters’ multi-faceted inner lives corresponds pro- foundly with adolescents’ most pressing developmental challenge. Just at the time when children are striving to transform into young adults, when they are seeking to define their own personhood distinct from their peers and independent of their par- ents, Shakespeare shows them that each person is not a single entity represented by an impermeable façade (cool guy, rich girl, brainiac, nerd), but comprises many con- flicting, and even unknown, parts. By revealing characters with complex inner worlds, Shakespeare demonstrates the crucial process of self-discovery. Witness Hamlet, who is buffeted by so many conflict- ing thoughts and emotions that he becomes nearly incapable of the action that his situ- ation demands of him. Hamlet appears to others as a madman, to himself as a coward and to his audience as completely vulnerable. That may be the most perfect description of an adolescent we can find! Shakespeare’s characters make it clear that the transfor- mation young people seek is only possible if they are willing to look within and discover and express their own complexity. That doesn’t mean Shakespeare is an easy sell to middle-schoolers. At Westminster School, where classics form the heart of the literature program, students are introduced to Shakespeare gradually. In younger grades, they gain familiarity with Shakespeare by watching older students perform one of his plays (a traditional part of Westminster’s K-8 drama program). In their required sum- mer reading, rising 7th graders read Lamb’s Tales from Shakespeare, followed by an early school-year enrichment class highlighting Shakespeare’s life, plays and sonnets. Then they begin study and rehearsals for their own Shakespeare play. As they master the language and strive to bring to life a unique and challenging char- acter, each student finds new depths and broader scope for expression of their own personality. Through studying and perform- ing Shakespeare, these youngsters discover the value of giving up a protective façade in order to discover the real, multi-faceted person they have the potential to be. Citations Mabillard, Amanda. “Why Study Shakespeare?” Shakespeare Online. August 2000. Fitzsimmons, Declan. “Shakespeare’s Characters Show Us How Personal Growth Should Happen.” Harvard Business Review. January 2017. WashingtonFAMILY.com  27 OPEN HOUSE GUIDE 2020 OPEN HOUSE GUIDE 28  WashingtonFAMILY  JANUARY 2020 BASIS Washington, D.C.™ basisdc.org malika.walters@ basised.com 202-804-6390 410 8th St. NW, Washington, D.C., 20004 Grades/ages range: grades 5-12 • Founded year: 2012 • Coed/ boys/girls: coed • Enrollment: 640 • Enrollment: 640 • % Minorities: 43% • Average Class Size: 25 • Student-Teacher Ratio: 10:1 • Entrance Exam: N • Grading System: (A-F or Number) Varies by grade level and subject, primarily A-F • Uniforms: N • Foreign Languages: Latin, French, Spanish, Mandarin • Grade Foreign Language • Begins: 5th grade – Latin only; 7th grade – student choice • Tuition Range: $0--FREE • Number of Computers: 150 • AP Classes: Y • Gifted/Talented Program: N • Learning Disabled Program: Y • Special Needs Program: Y • Enrichment Activities: Y • Sports: Y • Enrichment Activities: Y • Transportation: N • Extended Day: Y • Summer Program: N • Additional Programs: The Extracurricular Program offerings change year-to-year based on the interests of the teachers, students and availability of resources. BASIS Washington, D.C.™ believes that every child deserves a world- class education. We set the bar high and provide students with the support they need to succeed. Our school culture encourages content mastery and guides students toward their full potential. Our students practice creative and critical thinking, drawing connections that strengthen understanding. They outscore their peers and earn impressive scholarships to top colleges. Our academic model builds foundations and develops essential skills and habits for success. BASIS Washington, D.C. ™ graduates the leaders and innovators of a global future. Open House Dates: February 1 BEAUVOIR, THE NATIONAL CATHEDRAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL beauvoirschool.org margaret.hartigan@ cathedral.org 202-537-6493 3500 Woodley Road, N.W. Washington, D.C. Grades: PreK-3rd • Year Founded: 1933 • Religious: Cathedral School • Coed • Enrollment: 390 • % of Minorities: 41% • Average Class Size: 21 • Student-Teacher Ratio: 6:1 • Foreign Language: Spanish beginning in PK • Tuition Range: $36,655 • Enrichment Activities • Extended Day • Summer Program At Beauvoir, the National Cathedral Elementary School, we provide an extraordinary early childhood education in a diverse community that values every individual. Beauvoir’s program encourages creative, courageous learners and builds an enduring foundation for a lifelong spirit of inquiry and joy in learning. Open House: Call to schedule a tour. BRITISH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF WASHINGTON biswashington.org admissions@biswashington.org 202-829-3700 2001 Wisconsin Ave., N.W. Washington, D.C. Grades PK2-12 • Year Founded: 1998 • Coed • Enrollment: 500 • Average Class Size: 14 • Uniforms • Foreign Languages: Spanish beginning in PK2, French for non- beginners • Tuition Range: $13,000 - $34,000 • Enrichment Activities • Sports • Transportation • Extended Day • IB World School British International School of Washington is a thriving international school in Georgetown. We are a premier private school for children age 2 through to the International Baccalaureate Diploma from more than 60 nationalities. Open House: Individualized visits available, Monday – Friday GETTY IMAGES / E+ / KALI9 DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA OPEN HOUSE GUIDE MARYLAND THE AUBURN SCHOOL theauburnschool.org info@theauburnschool.org 410-617-0418 Park Heights Ave. Baltimore, Md. 301-588-8048 9545 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring, Md. Grades K-8th • Year Founded: 2010 (Silver Spring), 2011 (Lutherville) • Coed • Average Class Size: 8 • Student-Teacher Ratio: 8:2 • Grading System: A-F • Foreign Languages (Silver Spring): Spanish, Mandarin • Internet Access • Learning Disabled Program • Enrichment Activities • Summer Program The Auburn School grows the social and academic potential of bright students with social and communication challenges, supporting the development of academic skills, social competency and pragmatic COMING IN FEBRUARY language in an engaging educational environment. Open House: Call to schedule a tour. BARRIE SCHOOL 13500 Layhill Road Silver Spring, Maryland 20906 301-587-2800 barrie.org admission@barrie.org Ages: 12 months - Grade 12 Open House Dates: Saturday, January 11 at 10:00am, and Saturday, April 25, at 10:00am BETHESDA MONTESSORI SCHOOL bethesdamontessori.com admissions@ bethesdamontessori.com 301-986-1260 7611 Clarendon Road Bethesda, Md. Ages 3-6 • Extended Day Established in 1983, Bethesda Montessori School cooperates with the Washington Montessori Institute and is staffed by AMI trained teachers. Approved by the MD State Department of Education, and Montessori Schools of Maryland, and is a member of the Northern American Montessori Teachers Association and other educational organizations. It leases its facility from the Bethesda Presbyterian Church, but it has no religious affiliation with the church. It is centrally located in the heart of Bethesda business district on Wilson Lane near the intersection of Old Georgetown and Arlington Roads, three blocks from the Bethesda Metro station. Open House: Call to schedule a tour. FEYNMAN SCHOOL feynmanschool.org admissions@ feynmanschool.org 301-770-4370 11810 Falls Road, Potomac, Md. Grades: PS-8th • Year Founded: 2009 • Coed • Enrollment: 107 • Average Class Size: 14 • Student- Teacher Ratio: 7:1 • Entrance Exam • Foreign Language: Spanish beginning in PS • Tuition Range: $12,910-$28,565 • Number of Computers: 15 • Internet Access • Gifted/Talented Program • Enrichment Activities • Extended Day • Additional Programs: Music, Art, P.E., Drama, Robotics, Chess, Basketball, Chinese 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 while also providing time for unstructured play. Half- and full-day preschool programs. January 9, 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM (adults only) or call to schedule a tour. Camps & Summer Programs 2 019 W IN N ER Camps Open House Dates Washington FAMILY The Area’s Leader in STEM Education Camp Fairs: January 19, 2020 (NOVA) & February 9, 2020 (MD)  Print readership 147,000  Website page views 34,776  E-news subscribers 22,657  Social Media Followers 15,330 Call to advertise: 301-230-2222, Ext. 4 or email advertising@washingtonfamily.com Best for Families Winner for Best STEM Program for the 2nd consecutive year Open House: Thursday, January 9, 2020 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM (adults only) Or Contact Us for a Private Tour: admissions@feynmanschool.org or 301.770.4370 Preschool-8th Grade www.feynmanschool.org WashingtonFAMILY.com  29 OPEN HOUSE GUIDE FRIENDS COMMUNITY SCHOOL friendscommunityschool.org connie@friendscommunity school.org 301-441-2100 5901 Westchester Park Dr. College Park, MD Grades: K-8 • Year Founded: 1986 • Religious • Coed • Enrollment: 248 • % of Minorities: 51% • Average Class Size: 14 • Student- Teacher Ratio: 8:1 • Grading System: Progress Reports Only • Foreign Languages: Spanish beginning in K • Tuition Range: $20,200-$22,400 •Computers • Internet Access • Gifted/Talented Program for all • Enrichment Activities • Sports • Carpools • Extended Day • Summer Program • Outstanding Instrumental Enrichment Program Experience the joy of an extraordinary Quaker education! For life-long learners, courageous risk-takers, and joyous peacemakers. We welcome all backgrounds, educate the whole child, and offer exciting curricula. Grads enter leading high schools and colleges. Open House, all 9-11 am: January 7, January 11 HOLY TRINITY EPISCOPAL DAY SCHOOL htrinity.org admissions@htrinity.org 301-464-3215 or 301-262-5355 11902 Daisy Ln., Glenn Dale, MD and 13106 Annapolis Road Bowie MD 20720 Grades: Preschool-Grade 8 • Year Founded: 1963 • Religious • Coed • Enrollment: 444 • % of Minorities: 95% • Average Class Size: 20 • Student-Teacher Ratio: 10:1 • Entrance Exam • Grading System A-F • Uniforms • Foreign Languages: Spanish beginning in Kindergarten • Tuition Range $9,690-$13,370 • Number of Computers: 1:1 • Enrichment Activities • Sports • Extended Day • Summer Program • Drama • Art • Music • Technology We offer a transformative education to bring out “The Best You.” Our academic program is challenging and complemented with a variety of enrichment programs to educate the whole child. We are a private, independent school that serves preschool to grade 8. Open House: Friday, January 10, 9:30-11:30am Sunday, February 9, 1:00-3:00pm Friday, April 24, 9:30-11:30am THE JOURNEY SCHOOL thejourneyschool.net cthomas@thejourneyschool.net 240-324-6160 2430 Spencerville Road Spencerville, MD 20868 Grades/ages range: Grades 1 - 8 Founded year: 2015 • Coed/boys/ girls: Coed • Average Class Size: 15 • Entrance Exam: N • Uniforms: N • Tuition Range: 15,000.00 - 17,000.00 • Enrichment Activities: Y • Extended Day: Y • Summer Program: Y • Additional Programs: Outdoor education, farm education, electives by interest, field experiences and overnight trips The Journey School offers a rigorous curriculum using integrated projects grounded in real world applications for grades 1 - 8. We support an active engaged education. Montessori is the foundation for stimulating a love of life-long learning. Open House Dates: January 25; February 28: 10am - 1pm and by appointment. Register Now for Summer Classes, DANCE Register JOIN Now OUR for Summer Classes, Camps, and FAMILY 2018/2019 School Year! TODAY! Camps, and 2018/2019 School Year! Celebrate HAPPINESS// CHALLENGE// Unique Minds Encourage CURIOSITY// Now Enrolling! Campuses in Fairfax VA, Silver Spring MD and Baltimore MD ▪ www.theauburnschool.org ▪ A school for academic and social success! 703-533-8830 • perfectpointe.com/arlington 2499 N. Harrison St., Suite 1-LL, Arlington, VA 22207 Register for 2018/2019 School JOIN OUR now DANCE FAMILY TODAY! Year Classes, don’t miss out! Does your child need… A place to make friends with support? A camp with structure & consistency ? A supportive & highly trained group of staff? A more understanding camp environment? A low camper to teacher ratio? A small camp environment? Camp Aristotle at The Auburn School a camp program that supports social development through fun and friendship! Fairfax, Silver Spring and Baltimore www.camparistotle.org 30  WashingtonFAMILY  JANUARY 2020 8060 Rolling Road, Springfield, VA 22153 • 703-440-9000 • perfectpointe.com/springfield THE MANOR MONTESSORI SCHOOL manormontessori.com 301-299-7400 10500 Oaklyn Drive Potomac, Md. 5450 Massachusetts Av Bethesda, Md. 11200 Old Georgetown Road, Rockville, Md. Ages: 2-9 Open House: Call to schedule a tour. SPRING BILINGUAL MONTESSORI ACADEMY spring-bilingual.org info@spring-bilingual.org 301-962-7262 3514 Plyers Mill Road, Kensington, Md. Ages: 2-6 Hours: 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Since 1967, Spring Bilingual Montessori Academy (SBMA) has protected and encouraged children, and at the same time challenged and stretched them to the limits of their intellect and imaginations. Children arrive at SBMA as two year olds, barely out of diapers, and leave after kindergarten at the age of six: confident, assured and well- educated, possessing qualities of mind and character which serve them well as they continue to learn and achieve. Within the walls of our school children become literate and numerate. They develop pride in their own accomplishments and respect for the talents of their classmates. This is, above all, where children learn how it feels to do one’s best work, and to have the effort as well as the product recognized and celebrated. Open House: January 11 WashingtonFAMILY.com  31 through Elementary aged students by combining a high-quality, academically accelerated program with a Biblical foundation. Open House: Call to schedule a tour. 32  WashingtonFAMILY  JANUARY 2020 Washington FAMILY M V Chantilly: 703-488-9800 Bowie: 301-262-SWIM 301-262-SWIM I Bowie: Falls Church: 703-534-SWIM VA: 703-444-9673 R Sterling, Sterling, VA: 703-392-SWIM 703-444-9673 Manassas: 703-392-SWIM G Manassas: Manassas: 703-392-SWIM Midlothian: 804-744-6513 MD: 301-725-SWIM I Laurel, Laurel, MD: 703-321-SWIM 301-725-SWIM Springfield: N North North Bethesda: Bethesda: 301-984-SWIM 301-984-SWIM I Sterling: 703-444-9673 A E E N W ER IN RA Falls Church: 703-534-SWIM Falls D Waldorf: Church: 301-638-SWIM 703-534-SWIM NEW NEW CUSTOMERS CUSTOMERS ONLY ONLY TO TO RECEIVE RECEIVE DISCOUNT DISCOUNT PRESENT PRESENT COUPON COUPON AT AT REGISTRATION. REGISTRATION. 2 019 S T E M P RO G M Bowie: 443-755-0111 301-262-SWIM Columbia: Columbia: 443-755-0111 A Columbia: 443-755-0111 Rockville: 301-217-5910 R Rockville: 301-217-5910 Germantown: 301-540-SWIM Germantown: 301-540-SWIM Y Germantown: 301-540-SWIM Laurel: VA: 301-725-SWIM Chantilly, 703-488-9800 L Chantilly, VA: 703-488-9800 301-984-SWIM A North Bethesda: Waldorf: 301-638-SWIM Waldorf: 301-638-SWIM N Rockville: 301-217-5910 $10 OFF RY A N D R U N E We We Offer: Offer: • • Group Group or or Private Private instruction instruction • • Mommy & Me Classes Mommy & Me Classes • • Developmental Developmental Swim Swim Team Team • • Homeschoolers Programs Homeschoolers Programs • • Birthday Birthday Parties Parties N TA EST P B R V V is is it o f f a a c c e it b o o o u u r r p p a a g g e e b f o o o k k a a li li st o e f fo r r s lo lo c c a t t o io f n o o u u r r atio n s s • Preschool Age 3 - Grade 6 • Before-Care & After-Care • Summer, Winter & Spring Camps • Diff erentiated Instruction • Small Classes • Challenging Academics • Positive Social & Emotional Development ME N GIVE GIVE THE THE GIFT GIFT THAT THAT WILL WILL LAST A LIFETIME! LAST A LIFETIME! Teach Teach a a child child to to swim swim at at KID’S FIRST KID’S FIRST Swim Swim Schools! Schools! Nurturing curiosity, confi dence, and a love of learning since 1957 LE -U THE THE WORLD’S WORLD’S LARGEST LARGEST PROVIDER PROVIDER OF OF CHILDREN’S C CHILDREN H H I I L L D D R R E E N N S S SWIMMING S SWI W W I I M M M MING I I N N G G INSTRUCTION I I INSTRUCTION NS CHILDREN’S SWIMMING C CHILDREN S SWI M MING NS S S T T R R U U C C T T ION ION N N E R B E S T P R I V AT ACADEMY OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION myschoolace.com 703-471-2132 10800 Parkridge Blvd., Ste. 150 Reston, Va. • Tuition: $20,000 • Number of Computers: 80 • Internet Access • Enrichment Activities • Extended Day • Summer Program • Mommy & Me Classes The Academy of Christian Education provides a unique learning experience for Toddlers NN Grades: Toddler-Grade 6 • Year Founded: 1996 • Religious • Coed • Enrollment: 170 • % of Minorities: 90% • Average Class Size: 12- 13 • Elementary Assessment • Grading System A-F • Uniforms • Foreign Languages: Spanish beginning in Sr. Kindergarten WI VIRGINIA THE AUBURN SCHOOL theauburnschool.org info@theauburnschool.org 703-793-9353 3800 Concorde Parkway Chantilly, Va. Grades K-8th • Year Founded: 2009 • Coed • Average Class Size: 8 • Student-Teacher Ratio: 8:2 • Grading System: A-F • Foreign Languages (Silver Spring): Spanish, Mandarin • Internet Access • Learning Dis¬abled Program • Enrichment Activities • Summer Program The Auburn School grows the social and academic potential of bright students with social and communication challenges, supporting the development of UPCOMING OPEN HOUSE JANUARY 12, 2020 1-3PM 703.354.3446 • Annandale, Virginia • pinecrestschool.org The Center for Ballet Arts Register Now for Winter Ballet . Pointe . Modern . Jazz Tap . Pilates . Kinderballet Ages 3 thru Adults 3955 Pender Drive, Suite 105 Fairfax, VA 22030 • 703.273.5344 • thecenterballetarts.com OPEN HOUSE GUIDE academic skills, social competency and pragmatic language in an engaging educational environment. Open House: Call to schedule a tour. curriculum with a STEM focus. Open House: January 11 BROOKSFIELD SCHOOL brooksfieldschool.org brksfield@aol.com 703-356-5437 BASIS INDEPENDENT MCLEAN 1830 Kirby Road, McLean, Va. Grades: Toddler-Kindergarten mclean.basisindependent.com • Year Founded: 1987 • Coed • mcLean_admissions@ Enrollment: 100 • Average Class basisIndepedent.com Size: 20 • Student-Teacher Ratio: 703-854-1253 5:1 (Toddlers) 10:1 (Primary) • 8000 Jones Branch Dr. Foreign Language: Spanish McLean, VA beginning as Toddler • Tuition Grades: Twos Program-Grade Range: $14,220-$23,907 • Number 12 • Year Founded: 2016 • Coed of Computers: 6 • Internet • Enrollment: 470 • Student- Teacher Ratio 8:1 • Entrance Exam Access • Enrichment Activities • Transportation (for before/after • Foreign Languages: Mandarin, FCPS care program) • Extended Latin, Spanish, and French Day • Summer Program • Junior beginning in PK1 • Tuition Range: Achievement • Robotics • Organic $25,500 - $30,000 Gardening • Outdoor Adventure • AP Classes • Enrichment Activities • Sports • Transportation Program • Extended Day • Summer Program A unique Eco-Friendly, Montessori Students, age 2-grade 12, receive a School idyllically situated on 5 secluded acres in McLean, Va.. well-rounded, liberal arts Open House: Tours run Monday through Thursdays at 9:30 or 10:30am. CONGRESSIONAL SCHOOL congressionalschool.org admission@ congressionalschool.org 703-533-1064 3229 Sleepy Hollow Road Falls Church, VA 22042 Grades/ages range: Infants – Grade 8 Founded year: 1929 • Coed/boys/ girls: Coed Enrollment: 350 • Average Class Size: 13 • Student-Teacher Ratio: 6:1 • Entrance Exam: N • Uniforms: Y • Foreign Languages: French, Spanish, Latin • Grade Foreign Language Begins: Kindergarten • Tuition Range: $25,000 - $30,000 • Number of Computers: 1:1 • Enrichment Activities: Y • Sports: Y • Enrichment Activities: Y • Transportation: Y • Extended Day: Y • Summer Program: Y • Additional Programs: Equestrian Program A co-ed independent day school in the heart of Falls Church, VA. Dedicated to young learners— infants through 8th graders— Congressional School serves 350 students and 2,000 campers annually through its academic and summer programs. Open House Dates: January 15 at 9:00 AM GUIDEPOST MONTESSORI guidepostmontessori.com/ northern-virginia 866-202-8593 24328 Marrwood Drive Aldie, Va.. 42945 Waxpool Road Ashburn, Va.. 4550 Walney Road Chantilly, Va. 13251 Woodland Park Road Herndon, Va. 3551 Waterway Drive Montclair, Va e Join us in 2020 for a summer of Jun 15 to Aug 14 Learn more at Open House! Autism is treatable. Early intervention is critical. www.littleleaves.org 202-420-8359 info@littleleaves.org en Op ! w ay N c o tod i in nfo C s l e i or u B d r m le i L � ll fo Ca Ages 4-14 Sun., Jan. 12 | 1 - 3 pm Camp camp@barrie.org 301.576.2818 barrie.org/camp 13500 Layhill Rd. , Silver Spring, MD Minutes from ICC & Glenmont Metro Transportation and Extended Day Available WashingtonFAMILY.com  33 OPEN HOUSE GUIDE Ages: Infant to elementary Guidepost Montessori in Loudoun, Fairfax and Prince William counties is among a growing, worldwide network of schools that offer language immersion for ages infant through elementary. Open House: Call to schedule a tour. HARMONIA SCHOOL OF MUSIC & ART 204 F Mill St, NE Vienna, Virginia 22180 202-909-3412 harmoniaschool.org harmonia@harmoniaschool.org Ages: All ages Open House Dates: January 11th at 2 p.m. KAY SCHOOL kayschool.org director@kayschool.org 703-264-9078 3005 Dower House Drive Herndon, VA Ages: 2 1/2 through kindergarten Kay School provides a safe, loving and caring environment for children ages two-and-a-half through kindergarten, as well as for school-age children through middle school in our before and after school programs. Open Houses: All from 9-11 a.m. January 18, February 1 MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF CEDAR LANE preschoolmontessori.com info@cedarlanemontessori.com 703-560-4379 3035 Cedar Ln., Fairfax, Va. Grades: PreK-K • Year Founded: 1971 • Coed • Enrollment: 100 • Average Class Size: 25 • Student- Teacher Ratio: 12:1 • Foreign Language: Spanish • Tuition Range: $9,312-$17,405 • Internet Access • Sports • Half and Full- Day Program • Summer Program • Music 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. Open House: Call to schedule a tour. NYSMITH SCHOOL FOR THE GIFTED 13625 EDS Drive Herndon, Virginia 20171​ 703-713-3332 nysmith.com ebalberde@nysmith.com​ Grades: 3 years - 8th Grade • Founded: 1984 • Religious: No • Enrollment: 550 • % Minorities: 49 • Average Class Size: 18 Entrance Exam: Yes • Foreign Languages: French/Spanish/ Latin • Grade Foreign Language • Begins: 3 Years • Tuition Ranges: $27,750 - $37,900 • Number of Computers: 400+ • Sports Programs: Yes • Enrichment Activities: Yes • Transportation: Yes • Extended Day: Yes • Summer Program: Yes The award winning Nysmith School for the Gifted is committed to making school fun. We nurture your student’s love of learning and help your child learn to their potential. Top 10 School in the World. Open House: Tour and Information Session every Thursday at 9 am. PINECREST SCHOOL pinecrestschool.org admissions@pinecrestschool.org 703-354-3446 7209 Quiet Cove, Annandale, VA Grades: Preschool-6th • Year Founded: 1957 • Coed • Enrollment: 80 • % of Minorities: 32% • Average Class Size: 9 • Student-Teacher Ratio: 9:1 • Find us on FAMILIES SCHOOL GROUPS SCOUTS BIRTHDAYS 7300 MacArthur Blvd Glen Echo, MD 20812 301-955-6256 OPEN: Saturdays 9-5 Sundays 12-5 is Mention th t a ad and ge ! FREE GIFT (Weekdays by request) glenechopark.org/aquarium NOW ENROLLING FOR THE 2020-2021 SCHOOL YEAR Kay School Offering preschool, prekindergarten, kindergarten and School Age before and after care options. A NATURE BASED AND ARTS INTEGRATED PROGRAM IN HERNDON, VA b UPCOMING OPEN HOUSE DATES a Jan. 18 and Feb. 1 Each Sat. from 9-11 RSVP to director@kayschool.org www.kayschool.org • 703.264.9078 3006 Dower House Dr. Herndon, VA 34  WashingtonFAMILY  JANUARY 2020 See how far your heart can reach this year! See how far your heart can reach this year! Join a community of your neighbors to enrich and share! Volunteer with Join a community of your neighbors to enrich and share! Meals on Wheels of Central Volunteer with Meals on Wheels of Central Maryland. Call Emily Trotter at: 443 573-0925 Maryland. 0($/6 OF CENTRAL MARYLAND ™ More than a meal ^^^TLHSZVU^OLLSZTKVYN Call Emily Trotter at: 443-573-0925 OPEN HOUSE GUIDE Grading System: Number • Tuition Range: $6,700-$15,850 • Number of Computers: 20 • Internet Access • Enrichment Activities • Extended Day • Summer Program • Community Service Club Small classes, hands-on curriculum emphasizes problem-solving and critical- thinking skills. Individualized progressive approach; each child grows academically, socially and emotionally within a caring and positive environment. Summer Camp. Before and after care. Open House: January 12, 1-3 p.m., February 9, 1-3 p.m, April 19, 1-3 p.m. RESTON MONTESSORI SCHOOL restonmontessori.com office@restonmontessori.com 703-481-2922 1928 Isaac Newton Sq. West, Reston, Va. Grades: Infant-6th • Year Founded: 1986 • Coed • Enrollment: 200+ • Average Class Size: 24 • Uniforms: K and up • Foreign Language: French beginning at Toddler • Number of Computers: 12 • Internet Access • Enrichment Activities • Sports • Extended Day • Summer Program • Academic Therapy Services • Additional Programs: Music, PE, Art Open House: Call to schedule a tour. WESTMINSTER SCHOOL westminsterschool.com admissions@ westminsterschool.com 703-256-3620 3819 Gallows Road Annandale, VA Grades: Pre-K-8 • Year Founded: 1962 • Coed • Enrollment: 270 • Average Class Size: 14 • Student-Teacher Ratio: 7:1 to 18:1 • Entrance Exam • Uniforms • Foreign Languages: French, Latin beginning in K • Tuition Range: $10,926- $23,466 • Internet Access • Enrichment Activities • Sports • Transportation • Extended Day • Summer Program • Drama • Arts • Orchestra • Daily PE • Odyssey of the Mind • Math Counts • Science Olympiad Westminster School provides a unique elementary 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. Open House: Monday, January 27th, 9 - 10:30 a.m.  ■ JOY AND MATH CAN BE USED IN THE SAME SENTENCE. EXPLORE • WONDER • GROW Beauvoir offers an extraordinary education designed for early learners. Accepting applications for pre-kindergarten to third grade for the 2020-2021 school year. Now Enrolling Ages 2 to 6 Toddler Program • Before & After Care NEW Outdoor Education Classroom Montessori Kindergarten & Preschool Advanced Academic Curriculum McLean, VA • 703-356-5437 • www.brooksfieldschool.org WashingtonFAMILY.com  35 MONTESSORI GUIDE Discovering Montessori MARYLAND THE BETHESDA MONTESSORI SCHOOL bethesdamontessori.com admissions@ bethesdamontessori.com 7611 Clarendon Road Bethesda, Md. Ages: 3-6 301-986-1260 VIRGINIA Montessori School Guide BROOKSFIELD SCHOOL brooksfieldschool.org brksfield@aol.com 1830 Kirby Road, McLean, Va. Ages: 2-6 703-356-KIDS COMMUNITY MONTESSORI SCHOOL cmsreston.com bonnieredcms@gmail.com 1700 Reston Pkwy., Reston, Va. Ages: Infants-6 years 703-478-3656 HOLLY BROOK MONTESSORI SCHOOL preschoolmontessori.com info@hollybrookmontessori.com 2455 Gallows Road Dunn Loring, Va. Ages: 3-5 703-573-7800 C OMMUNITY M ONTESSORI S CHOOL 6 years CELEBRATING 25 YEARS! ➾ ♦ STEM ♦ Music ♦ Spanish ♦ PE & Yoga ♦ Infants to ENROLLING NOW 7:30am to 6:30pm ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS / FATCAMERA 1700 Reston Parkway, Suite 1, Reston, VA 20194 703-478-3656 ♦ cmsreston.com Email bonnieredcms@gmail.com to schedule a tour. 36  Washington FAMILY  JANUARY 2020 Montessori School of McLean MONTESSORI GUIDE HUNTER MILL MONTESSORI SCHOOL preschoolmontessori.com info@huntermillmontessori.com 2709 Hunter Mill Road Oakton, Va. Ages: 2 years 9 months-5 703-938-7755 RESTON MONTESSORI SCHOOL restonmontessori.com office@restonmontessori.com 1928 Isaac Newton Sq. Reston, Va. Ages: 3 months-Grade 6 703-481-2922 MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF CEDAR LANE preschoolmontessori.com info@cedarlanemontessori. com 3035 Cedar Lane, Fairfax, Va. Ages: 3-6 703-560-4379 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.  ■ MONTESSORI SCHOOL AT GOOSE CREEK PRESERVE goosecreekmontessori.com 42470 Rosalind St. Ashburn, Va. Ages: 16 months to 6 years 571-417-3999 Exceptional Montessori Education for Toddlers through Upper Elementary: Ages 2-12 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 ALL THE RIGHT RESOURCES … AT YOUR FINGERTIPS! WashingtonFamily.com/guides/ Back-to-School • Education Theater & Arts •Party Extravaganza Private Schools •Special Kids Welcome to Washington Baby & Maternity •Camps Dentist & Orthodontist •Entertainment Indoor Play •Preschool & Child Care Private School Open House Spring Break Camps/Holiday Camps Tutoring, Therapy & Special Needs Virtual Camp Fair A parent’s resource for Education, Special Needs, Party Planning, Arts, Music and Sports Programs … and more! Open House: December 6th from 6:30pm-7:30pm. Matilda F i n D FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE DMV washingtonfamily.com WashingtonFAMILY.com  37 FAMILY TALK If you could make a New Year ’s resolution for your child, what would it be and why? BY PJ FEINSTEIN “I would be so happy if they (daughter, 5 & son, 8) stopped fighting. My husband and I have to be constant referees. It can be exhausting.” —Gabriela Christie, Vienna, VA “My New Year’s resolution would be for my daughter who is 9. I would love to see her take a theater class even though she has stage fright! She’s so dra- matic and funny and would even be great at set design with her love of art. And I think she would enjoy it so much!” — Hannah Grieco, Arlington, VA “I wish my 5-year-old son would be willing to try sports! He has decided that he is not good at sports, so he won’t even do it for fun.” —Dorothy Matlis, Potomac, MD “I wish my 10 year old would make a resolution to NOT put every article of clothing that she may have worn or just tried on in her hamper. This creates so much unnecessary laundry, and, while it’s great she uses her hamper rather than the floor, and clean clothes are better than dirty clothes, she often thinks she has nothing clean because everything is in the hamper. I wish my toddler would show some interest in using the potty. We’re waiting until he’s ready to potty learn, but between him and our newborn, we are up to our ears in buying and changing diapers!” —Summer Jones, Arlington, VA My 23 month old’s New Year’s resolution is to stop chewing on his toothbrush and use it for brushing. He is going to learn that it’s about cleaning his teeth and not eating the toothpaste.” —Ali Shein, Arlington, VA TOP: GETTY IMAGES/E+/A FOTOSIPSAK ; BOTTOM: ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS/ STUDIO-ANNIKA Next question... If you could go anywhere with your family to escape the cold weather, where would you go and why? Send your answer to editor@washingtonfamily.com and your response could be featured in our February issue! 38  Washington FAMILY  JANUARY 2020 “I would love for my boys, ages 5 and 7, to willingly change into a new pair of underwear each day and understand this is just a part of life. I would love for them to not put their clothes inside out in the hamper so I don’t have to fix it all before washing. And I would love for them to appreci- ate the wonderful life they have and not whine about the little things that don’t matter. Like, why don’t I have a surprise donut for them today after school?” —Lauren Forbes, Vienna, VA “For my 5 year old to get his own milk in the morning!” —Jamie Maier, Rockville, MD “He (son, age 2) washes and dries his own dishes!” —Motrya Hanas Calafiura, Washington, DC MAKE THE MOST OF PLAYTIME LAUNCH RIGHT IN WITH . . . a SUPER SPACECRAFT! GATHER THESE MATERIALS: Pencil 2 toilet paper tubes Paper towel tube 2. Draw a rounded 1. Lay a toilet paper tube on top of a piece of cardboard. Trace it. nose to the traced shape. Then draw two rounded triangles for wings. Small piece of cardboard Markers or paint 3. Cut out Scissors (with an adult�s help) Paper 5. Glue your cut tube on top of the cardboard in the shape of a spacecraft, and let it dry. the shape. 4. Trace the bottom of a toilet paper tube on top of another. Then cut out the round shape. 6. Color or paint your spacecraft. You can also decorate it with stickers. Place a small toy inside and go for a ride. Tell a story about where you’re going! TinkerActive Workbooks cover essential skills using curriculum-based exercises and interactive tinkering, making, and engineering activities using common household materials! The Active Way to learn through play 20 2 0 Glue Odd Dot An imprint of Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group AVAILABLE WHEREVER BOOKS ARE SOLD NOMINATIONS HAVE STARTED Nominate your favorite people, places and things in the DMV! The winners are voted on and 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! Nominations close March 9 Voting for the winners start on April 1. 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! washingtonfamily.com Contact Jeni Mann for more information jmann@midatlanticmedia.com WashingtonFAMILY.com  39 HEALTHY FAMILY Reframing Your Child’s Tantrums How one local mom learned to stay calm when tempers are flaring “My parenting approach changed when I began to view my children’s tantrums as physical responses to big emotions.” 40  Washington FAMILY  JANUARY 2020 “I’M NOT GOING TO SCHOOL!” my 6-year-old screamed, running upstairs and slamming her door. The cause of her melt- down? I asked her to clean up her dolls before we left for school. I was already guilty of yelling that morning, too. Both of my daughters had argued almost continuously since their pre-6 a.m. wakeups, and my 9-year-old daughter erupted like a volcano because of a forgotten homework assignment. When her cereal went flying (one more thing for me to clean up), I exploded in anger. Eventually, I managed to settle everyone down and get us all in the car. But on the way to school, an SUV in the next lane abruptly swerved into our lane, its front bumper aimed at me and my older daughter in the seat behind me. I slammed on the brakes and honked, and the driver braked and skidded, stopping less than an inch from us. The entire street of traffic stopped, too, as if an actual accident had taken place. My 9 year old screamed. Her little sister, strapped in a booster seat next to her, began to wail. I moaned as adrenaline rushed through my body, cramping my muscles and flooding me with nausea. The other driver got out of her car and crouched down in the street, her hands over her face in shock. I sat paralyzed, not injured but overwhelmed by the experience. It took several minutes for me to snap out of it and restart the car, wave in acknowledgment of the other driver and continue driving. “Mom, what...” “I’m sorry. I need a minute.” When my breathing regulated and my muscles loosened, I tried to alleviate my daughters’ concern and confusion. We began to talk about how accidents happen and how our bodies and brains respond when we’re scared. As we spoke, it hit me: The adrenaline rush, increased heart- rate and upset stomach I felt must be how my children feel when they’re in the midst of a tantrum. And just as I couldn’t respond to them after the near-accident while I was experiencing such intense emotions, they aren’t able to process what I’m saying to them while they’re melting down. That’s why therapists advise against arguing with or lectur- ing a child during a tantrum. Meltdowns are caused by overload, explains Laura Baker, a clinical psychologist from Fairfax, VA, and the mother of two boys. When her sons start to lose it, Baker stops talking. She stays present but doesn’t make any demands. Once they’re ready to talk, she asks them what they need. “They may not know what they really need, but it’s a way of helping them think,” she says. ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS/MOFLES BY HANNAH GRIECO We adults have these moments, too. Moments where we make impulsive deci- sions we later regret, decisions fueled by emotions instead of logic. This is not an easy to thing to admit, but yelling is my go-to response when I’m feeling panicked or angry, when adrenaline floods my body like it did that morning on our way to school. It took a huge effort on my part not to scream at the other driver, and even my own daughters, as the stress hormones raced through my body. My parenting approach changed when I began to view my children’s tantrums as physical responses to big emotions. Even if the tantrums themselves are absurd and abrasive, like the time I wouldn’t let my toddler stick a fork in the electrical outlet, children need to be calm before they can process and learn. And I need be calm before I respond. Recently, while my 6 year old and I were listening to music as we baked cookies, I made a casual comment about the song’s lyr- ics: “It’s ‘moves like Jagger,’ not ‘moves like a jaguar!’” I wasn’t expecting her to meltdown over something so silly, but my daughter was outraged. When she called me a name and knocked over a chair, I found myself quickly rising to her emotional level. How dare she treat me this way? I was ready to yell and send her to her room. Then I remembered that yelling and taking away privileges never actually deesca- lates an emotional situation or redirects my kids into compliance. So I took a step back and breathed deeply. There would be time to discuss respect and rules later. Right then, it was my job to help her calm herself. I apologized for raising my voice and knelt down with my arms open. She immediately came over and sunk into me, her small body shaking. I sang the lyrics her way. She laughed. We talked about funny songs. And after a few minutes, we talked about acceptable behavior when we disagree with others. A mother-daughter lesson learned.  T Hannah Grieco is a parent advocate and writer in Arlington, VA. She can be found online at www.hgrieco.com. Healthy Smile... Healthy Child SAVE THE DATE! 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Springfield office: 6120 Brandon Ave. Suite 114, Springfield, VA 22150 WashingtonFAMILY.com  41 YOUR SPECIAL CHILD Help Is On the Way Here’s how to accept it BY ERICA RIMLINGER Taking the time to come up with a list of concrete tasks ahead of time allows parents to accept help offers when they arise, and it can lessen a family’s reliance on the go-to response of “we’re fine.” ‘We’re not fine’ Michele P., whose daughter has hearing loss, says people offered to help after her daughter had surgery, but she was reluctant to accept because she didn’t want to incon- venience them. Instead, she told those who offered, “We’re fine.” Shepley advises parents who may feel their lives are too complicated for outside help to “remember that people ask to help because they want to help.” The first step in accepting help is hon- estly acknowledging you need a strong support system. Shepley suggests families sit down and inventory types of situations in which they feel overwhelmed. Taking the time to come up with a list of concrete tasks ahead of time allows parents to accept help offers when they arise, and it can lessen a family’s reliance on the go-to response of “we’re fine.” 42  Washington FAMILY  JANUARY 2020 Determine parameters Shepley advises saving “the big asks” for regular helpers or family members, rec- ognizing that not everybody who offers to help is willing (or able) to take on a regular commitment or get specialized training. But that doesn’t mean the offer can’t be accepted. Shepley recommends asking follow-up questions to find out “the comfort level of the person. Some people may be totally fine and say, ‘Just show me what to do,’ or they have a medical background.” These helpers can be placed in the role of child- care — a position that parents of children with disabilities often find difficult to fill. Kayla S. has a 3-year-old daughter with Down syndrome. “If someone asks how they can help us or offers us help, I usu- ally say the biggest thing is helping us find sitters to hang out with [our daughter] so we can get some date nights,” she says. “A lot of times it feels like any alone time we do get is spent catching each other up on information from daycare or preschool or private therapy. Having someone offer to let her spend the night so we can get dinner and talk about something other than Down syndrome is the biggest help on earth.” Shepley suggests helpers who have a trusted relationship with a child take on duties that can overwhelm a parent’s day. “Would a relative be willing to come and, maybe for one time or regularly, do physi- cal therapy exercises with a child?” Shepley asks. “Maybe they could take the afternoon shift three times a week.” People who aren’t comfortable getting hands-on can nonetheless provide an extra set of hands to help pick up siblings or run errands like getting groceries and prescrip- tions. Or maybe a friend can come along to the movies with the family, so if a child needs to run around in the hallway, there would still be an adult with the other kids. Parents can get creative and think in terms of their ultimate goals, Shepley says. Maybe, she suggests, parents don’t necessarily need babysitting during a stressful time of day. GETTY IMAGES/E+/IVANJEKIC C aring for Jen and Clark Hudak’s son Joe is not a casual undertaking. Their 9 year old suffers from multi- ple diagnoses, and to explain the intricacies of his schedule to a potential babysitter, “You could write a novel,” says Jen. “There is such a precision in how to han- dle Joe that unless you live it and see it, you don’t fully understand what you have to do,” she adds. That’s why the Hudaks are often reluctant to accept help when it’s offered. “Sometimes, it’s just easier for us to do it ourselves even though we really want the break and really want the rest,” says Jen. “I always like to ask for help, but then in the end, it’s so much easier to do it myself.” Friend who are fellow parents may say, “I’ve done this before,” but Jen feels com- pelled to reply, “You did it before, but you didn’t do it with Joe before.” Patricia Shepley, director of social work at Kennedy Krieger Institute, says families of kids with disabilities and special needs feel the need for a break “acutely,” but there are barriers — both psychological and medical — that stand in the way. YOUR SPECIAL CHILD Maybe having someone to help siblings with homework or start dinner would help allevi- ate stress. “Holidays are always really stressful,” she says. Family members can help simply by allowing parents of a child with a dis- ability to eat a meal. During dinner, family members could alternate “taking the child for a walk in the stroller or even to the other room to read a book,” she suggests. Small gestures can add up to real stress how.” She suggests parents plan or come up relief, and sometimes, “you’ve just got to with suggestions for activities they know take help in aggregate.” their child can enjoy with another child or accompany their child to drop-off playdates until the other family knows the child well Model inclusion When people ask Anna F. how they can help, enough to feel comfortable. Offering concrete, easy ways with instruc- she says, “What I’d like is for people to invite tions to access your family’s world makes it [my child] over for a drop-off play date.” Shepley says that while many “people “a lot less overwhelming” for the potential want to be inclusive, they don’t always know helper, she says. “Specific lists do matter.”  T GETTY IMAGES/E+/KTAYLORG Small gestures can add up to real stress relief, and sometimes, “you’ve just got to take help in aggregate.” ALL THE RIGHT RESOURCES … AT YOUR FINGERTIPS! WashingtonFamily.com/guides Back-to-School • Education • Theater & Arts Party Extravaganza • Private Schools • Special Kids Welcome to Washington • Baby & Maternity Camps • Dentist & Orthodontist • Entertainment Indoor Play • Preschool & Child Care Private School Open House Spring Break Camps/Holiday Camps Tutoring, Therapy & Special Needs Virtual Camp Fair A parent’s resource for Education, Special Needs, Party Planning, Arts, Music and Sports Programs … and more! 10730 Connecticut Ave Kensington, MD 301.933.5666 11 AM -6 PM EVERY DAY! Every Monday is Senior Discount Day! WINTER SAVINGS SALE JANUARY 16 TH -20 TH 50% OFF EVERYTHING! Great Style, Great Finds, Great Deals & A Great Cause! All profit benefits The Arc Montgomery County, connecting people of all ages and abilities to build inclusive lives. WashingtonFAMILY.com  43 BOOK MARKED New Year, New Books 12 Books To Inspire Your Kids To Develop A Reading Habit BY THERESA WANG, EARLY LITERACY COORDINATOR, D.C. PUBLIC LIBRARY PICTURE BOOKS ‘The Undefeated’ By Kwame Alexander, illustrated by Kadir Nelson A love letter to black life in the United States, this poem highlights the unspeak- able trauma of slavery, the faith and fire of the civil rights movement as well as the grit, passion and perseverance of some of the world’s greatest heroes. ‘A Stone Sat Still’ about friendship and taking care of pets. When Dragon finds a stray cat, he brings it home and learns to take care of it through many silly mishaps. ‘Harold & Hog Pretend for Real’ By Mo Willems and Dan Santat Can the friendship of Harold and Hog, a carefree elephant and a careful hog, survive a game of pretending to be Mo Willems’s Elephant and Piggie? By Brendan Wenzel In this brilliant companion to the Caldecott Honor-winning “They All Saw a Cat,” the author tells a moving story about how different perspectives and the passage of time can turn a seemingly ordinary rock into a site of infinite pos- sibility. Young children are introduced to concepts like color, size and time in easy-to-understand ways. ‘Ariba: An Old Tale About New Shoes’ By Masha Manapov Marcus’s joy over his new pair of shoes reminds his grandfather of an old story about a boy named Ariba who has the most unusual relationship with an extraordinary pair of shoes. YOUNG READERS ‘King & Kayla and the Case of the Found Fred’ By Dori Hillestad Butler, illustrated by Nancy Meyers Trying to communicate with his human owner (and detective partner) can be frus- trating for King, a golden retriever, as he uncovers clues in a missing dog case. ‘Dragon’s Fat Cat’ By Dav Pilkey The endearing blue Dragon is back in best- selling author Dav Pilkey’s humorous story 44  Washington FAMILY  JANUARY 2020 MIDDLE GRADE ‘Mighty Jack and Zita the Spacegirl’ By Ben Hatke Jack and Lilly have befriended dragons, battled giants and even earned the loyalty of a goblin army. So when they meet Zita the Spacegirl, fresh from her interplane- tary travels and seeking their help to face a new threat, they’re more than ready for another adventure. ‘Look Both Ways: A Tale Told in Ten Blocks’ By Jason Reynolds A National Book Award finalist, this wick- edly funny yet poignant novel weaves together 10 stories (one per block) about the different directions a walk home from school can take. ‘Twinchantment’ By Elise Allen In a kingdom where potentially-magi- cal beings are outlawed, princesses Flissa and Sara have had to pretend to be one person since they were born, trading off royal duties like attending balls and mak- ing friends with other nobles. But when a magical attack puts their mother’s life in danger, they must break the rules to save her with the help of a brave servant boy and his kitten. BOOK MARKED YOUNG ADULT ‘Thirteen Doorways, Wolves Behind Them All’ By Laura Ruby From the author of Printz Medal-winner “Bone Gap” comes the unforgettable story of two young women — one living, one dead — dealing with loss, desire and the fragility of the American dream during WWII. ‘Call Down the Hawk’ By Maggie Stiefvater The first book in a spin-off series from Stiefvater’s best-selling Raven Cycle quar- tet, this mesmerizing story follows a dreamer, a thief and a hunter with com- petiting priorities as the end of the world approaches. ‘I Am the Night Sky & Other Relections by Muslim American Youth’ By Next Wave Muslim Initiative Writers ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS/CHOREOGRAPH During an era characterized by both hijabi fashion models and enduring post-9/11 ste- reotypes, 10 Muslim American teenagers came together to explore what it means to be young and Muslim in America today. These teens represent the tremendous diversity within the American Muslim community, and their book, like them, contains multitudes.  T IF READING FOR PLEASURE ISN’T A HABIT IN YOUR HOUSE, HERE ARE SOME TRICKS TO MOTIVATING KIDS TO READ FOR FUN. • Let your children choose their next great read. Graphic novels, books about sports and fantasy are all great forms of reading. • Read together and to each other. Even big kids like being read to! Encourage older children to read to their younger siblings or the family pet. Reading together also gives parents an opportunity to talk with their kids about a book or its themes. • Focus on fun. A good story at any level can motivate kids to read more. • Make it easy for kids to find books. Put them in the rooms kids frequent. If they keep seeing books around the house, they just might pick one up! Not sure where to begin or what books will interest your children? Many libraries offer book lists by topic online. Or visit your local library, where librarians can help you find the right book.   T WashingtonFAMILY.com  45 MOM LIFE Meet Angie Goff BY PJ FEINSTEIN What are five things you can’t live without? Coffee! I start my day with coffee, and end my night with coffee. In my world of chaos, it’s the constant in my life. Hands down my favorite thing on this planet. Dolly Parton is a close second. She is my “Dolly Lama.” Her songwriting and quotes motivate me, especially when I’m worn slap out. I have an affinity for pencils. I love the grip and the sound of lead against paper. When it’s time to sharpen, it’s a reminder things are getting done. Whether it’s check- ing off a list, writing down ideas or working on a story. Velvet scrunchies. I can’t stand having my hair down. Never have liked it. I know scrunchies are in style now, but I’ve never stopped using them. My diary I’ve kept since childhood to protect my life secrets, including all my boy crushes starting in 3rd grade. OCCUPATION: C o-anchor of “5 at 4 p.m.” and co-host of “Like It Or Not” at 7 p.m. on FOX 5 DC. Creator and host of the weekly podcast, “The Oh My Goff Show.” LIVES: McLean, VA SPOUSE: Robert CHILDREN: Adora, 9; Bob, 6; and Wren, 2 What do you love about being a mom? The hugs, the kisses, the snuggles, the “I love you to infinity” declarations are feel- ings unmatched by anything I’ve ever felt before. I try so hard not to take those instant good feelings for granted. My favorite thing to do with the kids is just laugh with them. It is so good for the soul. I also love carrying on traditions from both sides of our family. It’s so important to teach our kids where they come from. It takes some planning usually, but it is always worth it. It’s amazing how much you learn from your child in a small amount of time when it’s just the two of you. What’s something your family loves to do together? In addition to carrying on family traditions, we are also fans of creating traditions. For example, every fall we host a family feast filled with sweets, treats and breads. We wear paper crowns and do crafts. With the start of the school year and the kiddos enter- ing a new season, we spend time mapping out their biggest goals. Since we started this, I’ve given each child a glass star with a their name, year and quote to guide them. We call it a “collection of stars,” and it’s so fun to see it get bigger every year. How do you take care of your mental and physical health? My trainer Christa at Breakaway Fitness is amazing. I honestly should pay her for the therapy session I get with her every time I work out. When I reach a point where I need to decompress, I’ll occasionally take a super long hot shower, too. I literally turn my brain off and won’t think about anything the entire time. What do you love about raising kids in the D.C. area? Location, location, location. We are never short of places to go, shows to see or muse- ums to visit in this town. We’re a train ride away from NYC and a plane ride away What do you find challenging from South Carolina. We’re in a perfect about raising kids? spot. Plus, nothing beats having your par- As the children get older, I find they really ents and sisters close by. I’m so thankful yearn for one-on-one time together. It’s easy for their support. They all live in Northern to get used to doing everything as a unit and Virginia, too.  T forget that each child is an individual who has individual needs. Robert and I do our Read our extended interview with Angie Goff at best to set aside special time for each child. washingtonfamily.com. We’re looking for local parents who are juggling mutlitple priorities to feature in our new Mom/Dad Life column. Send us your nominations by emailing us at editor@washingtonfamily.com. 46  Washington FAMILY  JANUARY 2020 Your best friend is waiting... 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