CONTENTS
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Your votes have been counted. Here’s who you named the Best for Families. Pg. 12
DEPARTMENTS 10
07 12
20
22
SUMMER ESSENTIALS
Pack the basics, and you won’t have to cut
your adventures short. Here’s all your kids
need for a day at the beach or at a park.
BEST FOR FAMILIES WINNERS
Discover the people, places and activities you
voted as the best in the DMV.
INVISIBLE DISABILITIES
Parents of children who don’t display
outward signs of a disability face challenges.
Learn ways moms and dads can find the tools
that will work for their needs.
CALMING ANXIETIES IN KIDS
Neurodiverse children may struggle with
anxiety more than their neurotypical peers.
Learn how to help them ease their fears
and thrive.
DIRECTORY 28
SPECIALIZED NEEDS
READERS’ RESPONSES
YOUR FEEDBACK
Cover: Claudia Skinner with daughters
Grace Skinner and Brittany Nemzek
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JULY 2022
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4 Washington FAMILY JULY 2022
08
24
DIY
Celebrate Fourth of July with a spectacular
craft idea.
TOP 10 EVENTS FOR JULY
Mark your calendar for summer activities.
FAMILY FUN
Discover the area’s best sensory-friendly
venues for kids.
25 PARENT YOU SHOULD KNOW
Meet PosAbilities Academy founder
Claudia Skinner.
26
30
INCLUSIVE FAMILY
Discover how to help children process the
reality of a physical impairment.
HEALTHY FAMILY
Learn what signs to recognize if you suspect
your teen is vaping.
32 BOOK MARKED
Learn about neurodiversity through books.
34
MY TURN
Attorney Frances Shefter encourages
parents of neurodiverse kids to celebrate
their children’s abilities and strengths.
OUR TEAM
JULY 2022
VOL. 30, NO. 7
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