CAMPS DIRECTORY SEE PAGE 24 washingtonFAMILY.com MARCH 2020 ART IS SMART creativity in the classroom 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 Online Webinar on Montessori and Child Development March through April. Register on our Fairfax campus website. Aldie 24328 Marrwood Drive Aldie, VA 20105 (703) 542-5522 Broadlands Herndon 42945 Waxpool Road Ashburn, VA 20148 (703) 723-3364 13251 Woodland Park Road Herndon, VA 20171 (571) 203-8686 Chantilly West Alex NEW CAMPUS! 4550 Walney Road Chantilly, VA 20151 (571) 321-0364 P021220 Fairfax 3909 Oak Street Fairfax, VA 22030 (703) 934-0920 Reston 11579 Cedar Chase Road Herndon, VA 20170 (703) 404-9733 Montclair NEW CAMPUS! 3551 Waterway Drive Montclair, VA 22025 (571) 402-1888 3475 N. Beauregard Street Suite 301 Alexandria, VA 22311 (571) 206-1687 Spanish and Mandarin Immersion programs available at selected campuses Infant • Toddler Preschool • Kindergarten Elementary JULIE KENT, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR April 9–19, 2020 The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts Enter into a world of true love and tragic romance in this classical masterpiece. With soaring sounds by The Washington Ballet Orchestra TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE AT THE KENNEDY CENTER BOX OFFICE 202.467.4600 | KENNEDY-CENTER.ORG Adelaide Clauss by Procopio Photo CONTENTS MARCH 2020 Learn how to display and store your children’s artwork.  Page 18 FEATURES DEPARTMENTS 14 TO IMMERSION OR NOT 8 CALENDAR T O IMMERSION? Now’s the time to enroll your child in a language immersion program. But should you? 16 ART IS SMART Students think visual art classes are fun, but they may not realize they’re learning important life skills, too. 18 SHOW & TELL: ARTISTIC ABILITY Kids are constantly creating. Here’s what to do with all of their drawings, paintings and macaroni necklaces (and some local art studios where they can make more). 23 AT A GLANCE 33 FAMILY FUN 36 HEALTHY FAMILY 40 YOUR SPECIAL CHILD Two new children’s plays, MCPS’s autism services and tips for a calm household. Welcome spring with a colorful DIY yarn wreath for your front door. Teaching kids how to wash their hands and supporting body positivity. Do you have a twice-exceptional child? Plus, dealing with depression and a disability. 44 BOOKMARKED Books featuring characters exploring art and creativity. Meet Suann Song, mom of two and founder of Appointed. READERS’ RESPONSES WE WANT YOUR FEEDBACK We welcome your feedback on specific articles, overall themes and anything else related to editorial content. Enter comments on the Feedback tab of our website, washingtonfamily.com, or email us at info@washingtonfamily.com. Please note we reserve the right to edit or refrain from publishing comments we deem inappropriate. 4  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2020 DIRECTORIES 24 SUMMER CAMPS 34 MONTESSORI SCHOOLS ARTWORK: COURTESY OF THE ARTIST AVERY; COVER: GETTY IMAGES/E+/TRILOKS 46 MOM LIFE 5,000 YEARS OF CIVILIZATION REBORN Authentic Chinese Made in America The traditional Chinese culture Shen Yun presents cannot be seen in China. There, the ruling communist regime has viewed China’s rich spiritual and artistic heritage as a threat to its ideology and for decades tried to erase it. In 2006, a group of Chinese artists came together in New York with a vision: to revive the best of China’s cultural heritage and share it with the world. After a decade of performing around the world to sold-out audiences everywhere, Shen Yun has brought a great civilization back from the brink of extinction. Shen Yun is now the world’s premier classical Chinese dance company. Some Chinese people fly to the U.S. to see it. Important: Shen Yun Is Not From China Shen Yun is based in New York, not China, and is in no way affected by the coronavirus situation. Mar. 10–11 Fairfax, VA GMU Center for the Arts Apr. 7–12 Washington, DC Kennedy Center Opera House Use code WFamily to waive all fees. Expires 3/15. Valid only at Shen Yun’s official website and hotline below or authorized booths. ENTIRELY NEW 2020 PRODUCTION ACCOMPANIED BY LIVE ORCHESTRA ShenYun.com/DC 888-974-3698 THE WORLD’S LARGEST PROVIDER OF CHILDREN’S SWIMMING INSTRUCTION OUR TEAM ® GIVE THE GIFT THAT WILL LAST A LIFETIME! Teach a child to swim at KIDS FIRST Swim Schools! Vi sit ou r face bo ok page fo r a lis t of ou r loc at ion s We Offer: • Group or Private instruction • Mommy & Me Classes • Developmental Swim Team • Homeschoolers Programs • Birthday Parties M A R Y L A N D $10 OFF NEW CUSTOMERS ONLY TO RECEIVE DISCOUNT PRESENT COUPON AT REGISTRATION. www.kidsfi rstswimschools.com facebook.com/kidsfi rstswimschools Bowie: 301-262-SWIM Columbia: 443-755-0111 Germantown: 301-540-SWIM Laurel: 301-725-SWIM North Bethesda: 301-984-SWIM Rockville: 301-217-5910 Waldorf: 301-638-SWIM V I R G I N I A Chantilly: 703-488-9800 Falls Church: 703-534-SWIM Manassas: 703-392-SWIM Midlothian: 804-744-6513 Springfi eld: 703-321-SWIM Sterling: 703-444-9673 MARCH 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, Amy L. Freeman, Courtney McGee, Ivey Noojin, Lindsay Ponta, Erica Rimlinger, Jennifer Rothschild, Jennifer Marino Walters CREATIVE Lonna Koblick, Art Director Rachel Levitan, Graphic Designer James Meskunas, Digital Media Manager David Stuck, Staff Photographer MID-ATLANTIC MEDIA 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 Tough, Director of Marketing & Custom Media • jmann@midatlanticmedia.com EXPLORE • WONDER • GROW Table of Contents Single Page Design Calendar of Events 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 6  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2020 © 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 FIRST WORD The Art of Creativity I PJ Feinstein Managing Editor pfeinstein@midatlanticmedia.com Facebook @WashingtonFamilyMagazine​ Twitter @FAMILYMagDC Pinterest @familymagazine Instagram @washingtonfamilymag Email us Let us know what’s on your mind. info@washingtonfamily.com t’s been a really, really long time since I was an elementary school student, but I can still remember two pieces of artwork I made in art class. One was a drawing of a city street using one-point perspective. The other was a vase of flowers done in pointillism. I may not have used perspective drawing or pointillism in any of my post-elementary school endeavors, but what I learned in art class has stuck with me all these years. And I’m not talking about technique; I basically have zero artistic ability. Instead, art helped me hone important skills like critical thinking, problem solving and perseverance that I needed in order to succeed in the classroom—and beyond. March is Youth Art Month, and we’re celebrat- ing the visual arts in a variety of ways throughout this issue. First, we’re exploring the benefits of arts education in school and sharing tips on how to store and display all of the masterpieces your kids bring home. We’re also excited to showcase your children’s artwork within our art story. Thanks to all of the parents who took the time to share with us their kid’s creativity. (Next month, we want to see photos of your young athletes, so get your cameras clicking!) Also in this issue: Teaching your children how to properly wash their hands (it’s still flu season, after all) and promoting positive body image in girls and boys. Amy L. Freeman writes about the challenges of having a twice- exceptional child and Jennifer Marino Walters weighs the pros and cons of language immer- sion programs. Plus, we meet Suann Song, a mother of two who founded the local stationery company Appointed. We’ll be sharing more children’s artwork on our social media channels throughout the month, so keep sending us photos of your kids’ colorful creations. I can’t wait to see what your little artists have dreamed up!  ■ WashingtonFAMILY.com  7 CALENDAR and figure out solutions to stressful 11 a.m. at Bellevue Library, Washington, DC. FREE. dclibrary.org logistics. Through March 27. 7 p.m. at Birth Club, Alexandria, VA. FAMILY $199. thebirthclub.com ‘Bandstand’ SUNDAY 1 Directed and choreographed KIDS KIDS by Andy Blankenbuehler of Early Literacy Play Date Fairy Tale Campfire “Hamilton” fame, this high-energy Babies and toddlers will play with Celebrate National Fairy Tale early literacy toys while caregivers musical tells the story of a World Week by making magic wands and learn how to inspire a love of War II veteran who forms a band listening to classic fairy tales while reading. Ages 3 and under. to enter a television competition. roasting marshmallows over a Recommended for ages 13 and up. 10 a.m. at Mt. Pleasant Library, campfire. Ages 3-10. Through Mar. 8. Washington, DC. FREE. dclibrary.org 1 p.m. at Locus Grove Nature Center, 7:30 p.m. at the National Theatre, TUESDAY 3 Bethesda, MD. $7. Washington, DC. $54-$114 montgomeryparks.org thenationaldc.com KIDS Bilingual Storytime FAMILY WEDNESDAY 4 Preschoolers will practice Hoppy Hour PARENTS language skills through stories, Meditate and snuggle with a fluffle songs and rhymes in English Baby Care 101 of bunnies! Post-practice cider and and French. Have a newborn or will soon? Get apple juice included. Bring your the scoop on baby communication, 6:30 p.m. at Silver Spring Library, own yoga mat. sleeping, skin care, bathing and Silver Spring, MD. FREE. 10:30 a.m. at Lost Boy Cider, common health issues. mcpl.libnet.info Alexandria, VA. $30. bethawolfe.com 5:30 p.m. at Fairfax Pediatric FAMILY Associates, Fairfax, VA. $25 per couple. MONDAY 2 Strong Start Playgroup fairfaxpediatrics.com MOMS Learn about developmental After Maternity Leave KIDS intervention programs as your Returning to work soon and not Girlology little one enjoys songs, sensory sure how to be a mother with a Get girls excited about puberty experiences, motor activities and career? This online seminar will stories. Registration is encouraged. by teaching them what to expect. help you get into the right mindset Ages 2 and under. Discussions include development, {  m a r c h } JOY AND MATH CAN BE USED IN THE SAME SENTENCE. Beauvoir offers an extraordinary education designed for early learners. COMING IN APRIL menstruation, mood, hygiene and internet safety. Adult must be present. Ages 8-11. 5:30 p.m. at Potomac Pediatrics, Rockville, MD. $30 for child; $40 for adult. girlology.com THURSDAY 5 PARENTS Basic First Aid This American Red Cross course will teach you how to perform first aid on your family, including CPR and using the AED device for cardiac arrest. 1 p.m. at Retnuh Health, Falls Church, VA. $118. retnuhhealth.com KIDS Beginner Chinese Class Children will practice basic vocabulary, sentence structure and conversation in Mandarin. Ages 5-10. 4 p.m. at Little Falls Library, Bethesda, MD. FREE. mcpl.libnet.info FRIDAY 6 FAMILY Safari Adventure Get ready for a wild night of fun at March Family Night! Kids will enjoy a jungle obstacle course, Sports Camps, Dentists & Orthodontists Accepting applications for pre-kindergarten to third grade for the 2020-2021 school year.  Print readership 147,000  Website page views 34,776  E-news subscribers 22,657  Social Media Followers 15,330 Call to advertise: 410-902-2309 or email advertising@baltimoreschild.com 8  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2020 CALENDAR animal-themed crafts and other activities. Children 10 and under must be accompanied by an adult. 6 p.m. at Fairlington Community Center & Park, Arlington, VA. FREE. parks.arlingtonva.us ‘MASTERCHEF JUNIOR LIVE’ March 22 | $29-65 | 6 p.m. MELISSA MILLER, MELISSA MILLER PHOTOGRAPHY FAMILY ‘The Three Musketeers’ Join D’Artagnan and his Musketeer friends as they roam 17th-century France in an effort to save the kingdom in this Encore Stage & Studio production. Ages 6 and up. Through March 8. 7:30 p.m. at Thomas Jefferson Community Theater, Arlington, VA. $12-$15. encorestageva.org SATURDAY 7 FAMILY 123 Andrés Latin Grammy Award-winning teaching artists Andres and Christina get families moving, singing and playing in Spanish and English. Musical instrument “petting zoo” opens one hour prior to show times. Ages 3-6. 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. at the Kennedy Center, Washington, DC. $20. kennedy-center.org Talented kids show off their culinary chops in this interactive competition, a stage version of the popular television show “MasterChef Junior.” Warner Theatre, Washington, DC. warnertheatredc.com Cody Garcia as Willy Wonka and company. Roald Dahl’s CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY. Photo by Jeremy Daniel. APRIL 7 - 12 TheNationalDC.com WashingtonFAMILY.com  9 CALENDAR KIDS Vanishing Vernal Pools Are your kids interested in frogs and salamanders? Learn about these creatures and look for their eggs in a pool. Registration required. Ages 6 and up. 2 p.m. at Long Branch Nature Center at Glencarlyn Park, Arlington, VA. $5. parks.arlingtonva.us WEDNESDAY 11 FAMILY Nature-Inspired Artwork Welcome spring by transforming everyday materials into something new at hands-on MAKER stations and enjoy a kid-led tour of the museum. 10 a.m. at Hirshhorn National Museum of Modern Art, Washington, DC. FREE. hirshhorn.si.edu FAMILY ‘Drumming with Dishes’ In this kid-friendly production, an energetic child and her shy imaginary friend cook up some music in a very special kitchen. Ages 2-5. Through Mar. 15. 10 a.m. at Atlas Performing Arts Center, Washington, DC. $15. atlasarts.org SUNDAY 8 FAMILY International Women’s Day Educate your kids on the global legacy of women with activities and museum tours. Noon at National Museum of Women in the Arts, Washington, DC. FREE. nmwa.org KIDS Tween Book Signing Middle grade author Ellen Oh talks to authors Hena Khan and Ron Smith about her new sci-fi book, “The Dragon Egg Princess,” and signs copies for readers. 3 p.m. at Connie Morella Library, Bethesda, MD. FREE. mcpl.libnet.info MONDAY 9 FAMILY Family Trivia Night Put your family’s knowledge to the test for the chance to win prizes. Registration is required. Ages 4 and up. 6:30 p.m. at Chantilly Regional Library, Chantilly, VA. FREE. librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov TUESDAY 10 Intensive Test-Prep FOR STUDENTS IN GRADE 11 & Pre-Prep FOR STUDENTS IN GRADES 8 - 10 WASHINGTON FAMILY READERS REGISTER BY APRIL 5 TO SAVE $ 100 OFF AN INTRODUCTORY PACKAGE! > Enjoy Learning > Increase Confidence > Master Problem Solving Skills > Relax by Preparing in Advance > Get Ahead of the Curve and Raise Test Scores! (240) 630-0-SAT | Jon@EmpoweredSAT.com 10  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2020 FAMILY Shen Yun Performance Through music, dance and vibrant colors, Shen Yun showcases over 5,000 years of Chinese heritage on its world tour. Also March 11. 7:30 p.m. at George Mason University Center for the Arts, Fairfax, VA. $80-180. shenyun.com FAMILY Spring Flower Arranging Cherry blossom season is upon us! Learn why these trees thrive in the area and create an arrangement to take home. Registration required. 1 p.m. at Little Falls Library, Bethesda, MD. FREE. mcpl.libnet.info PARENTS Children’s Anxiety Workshop Does your kid get overwhelmed by fear and perfectionism? Learn the best ways to address these issues, including flexible thinking, asking for help and calmness methods. 7 p.m. at Country Day School, McLean, VA. $30. countryday.org THURSDAY 12 KIDS St. Patrick’s Day DIY Calling all leprechauns! Get ready for St. Patty’s Day with a fun craft. Ages 5-9. 4 p.m. at Davis Library, Bethesda, MD. FREE. mcpl.libnet.info PARENTS Baby Basics Learn tips and tricks to survive your first nights at home with a newborn! Get advice on diaper changes, swaddling, car seat positioning and other basics. 7 p.m. at Einstein Pediatrics, Vienna, VA. FREE. einsteinpeds.com FRIDAY 13 FAMILY Birthday Bundles Many children can’t afford to celebrate their birthdays. Volunteer with your kids to box up cake mix, candles and handmade cards for children in need. 6:30 p.m. at Temple Rodef Shalom, Falls Church, VA. $8-$18. templerodefshalom.org SATURDAY 14 FAMILY Magi-Whirl Magic Show Multiple magicians take the stage at this award-winning annual magic show, presented by the International Brotherhood of Magicians. 6:30 p.m. at Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center, Alexandria, VA. $15-$20. imbring50.org/magi-whirl-home KIDS NoVA Teen Book Festival The 7th annual book event celebrates Young Adult literature with author panels, Q&A sessions and book signings. 9 a.m. at George C. Marshall High CALENDAR School, Falls Church, VA. FREE. novateenbookfestival.com SUNDAY 15 FAMILY Groovy Nate Experience an educational show described as “Sesame Street’” meets Parliament/Funkadelic with international instruments and puppet skits. 10:30 a.m. at Capitol Cider House, Washington, DC. $5. capitolciderhouse.com KIDS Tales with Tails Children can read aloud to a certified therapy dog, a fun way to practice their literay skills. Ages 4-12. 3 p.m. at Cleveland Park Library, Washington, DC. FREE. dclibrary.org KIDS YA Author Event Meet Sarah Watson, creator of the TV series “The Bold Type,” as she reads from her new novel, “Most Likely,” about a future female president’s senior year of high school. 6 p.m. at Solid State Books, Washington, DC. FREE. solidstatebooksdc.com MONDAY 16 MOMS Postpartum Core Work Learn how to maintain a strong core during pregnancy and how to rebuild it postpartum. 6:30 p.m. at The Well, Washington, DC. $45. bewelldc.com 7 p.m. at Lotus Point Wellness, Bethesda, MD. FREE. lotuspointwellness.com DIY Dreamcatchers It’s time for sweet dreams! Make your own decorative dreamcatcher using provided supplies. Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. 4 p.m. at Potomac Library, Rockville, MD. FREE. mcpl.libnet.info PARENTS Enhancing Emotional Intelligence Two psychologists share how you can support your child’s emotional development with tips on fostering their emotional awareness. 7:30 p.m. at Edlavitch DCJCC, Washington, DC. $18-24. edcjcc.org/calendar THURSDAY 19 CAMPS FOR AGES 4-14 1 & 2 Week Sessions Sibling & Multi-Session Discounts Full & Half Days THEATER ACTING MUSIC ART MAIN SUMMER STAGE Cast Placement Auditions May 29th & June 9th Rehearsals July 13-24th | Performances July 24th & 25th MUSIC LESSONS Year Flexible Round Summer Registration! Schedules! KIDS DIY Tissue Flowers Create a flower bouquet out of tissues to celebrate the beginning of spring. Ages 8-12. 4 p.m. at Wheaton Library, Silver Spring, MD. FREE. mcpl.libnet.info Private & Group Lessons | Nurturing & Experienced Teachers Traditional & Suzuki Methods | Recitals & Competitions 703.938.7301 | WWW.HARMONIASCHOOL.ORG | VIENNA, VA KIDS Watercolor Workshop A local artist will teach your child how to sketch and paint with watercolors. Registration is required. Ages 9-16. 4:30 p.m. at Pohick Regional Library, Burke, VA. FREE. librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov TUESDAY 17 KIDS Wobbly Walkers Sing, dance and clap to nursery rhymes and enjoy stories with your toddler. Ages 13-24 months. 10:30 a.m. at Westover Branch Library, Arlington, VA. FREE. arlingtonva.libcal.com KIDS Drawing Cartoon Comics “Star Wars” fans will learn how to draw the Mandalorian and Baby Yoda. All supplies included. 9 a.m. at Comic Logic Books & Artwork, Ashburn, VA. comiclogicva.com W IN ER FAMILY Career Panel for Teen Girls A diverse group of successful business women share how they landed their dream jobs. Registration is required. 10 a.m. at Capitol View Neighborhood Library, Washington, DC. FREE. obongbeltonfoundation.org 2 019 N PARENTS Positive Parenting Get advice on constructive communication, fostering a close relationship with your child and coping with your own anxiety. SPECIAL O WHE FFER MENTIO N N YOU ADVERTISE THIS MENT! KIDS FRIDAY 20 My Favorite Cookie Workshop Bring your little cookie monster to this trial class, where they will create their favorite dessert out of clay and paint. Ages 18 months–6 years. 9:30 a.m. at Kidcreate Studio, Alexandria, VA. FREE. kidcreatestudio.com SUMMER @ HARMONIA WEDNESDAY 18 FAMILY St. Patrick’s Day Theatrics Commemorate Irish writers through sketches, dance, music and a performance by Synetic Theater. 6 p.m. at Cherrydale Branch Library, Arlington, VA. FREE. arlingtonva.libcal.com KIDS 2 0 2 0 Washington FAMILY The Area’s Leader in STEM Education Winner for Best STEM Program for the 2nd consecutive year Open House: Sunday, March 8, 2020 2:00 - 4:00 PM Or Contact Us for a Private Tour: admissions@feynmanschool.org or 301.770.4370 Preschool-8th Grade www.feynmanschool.org WashingtonFAMILY.com  11 CALENDAR MONDAY 23 PARENTS KIDS Infant CPR Learn what to do if your baby is choking and how to give CPR in an emergency. 4 p.m. at NOVA Birth Partners, Silver Spring, MD. $35. novabirthpartners.as.me/CPR FAMILY Melodic Voyages The Maryland Classic Youth Orchestras will play several pieces that highlight the historical evolution of the symphony. 7 p.m. at the Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda, MD. $15-25. strathmore.org SUNDAY 22 FAMILY Baby Yoga & Play Learn ways to support your little one’s development and your own mental health through yoga. Baby must be pre-crawling and at least 6 weeks old. 11 a.m. at Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital, Washington, DC. $20. hillcenterdc.org Pokémon Club Spend time with likeminded Pokémon fans! Have fun coloring, answering trivia questions and watching a movie on the big screen. Bring trading cards or video games, if you’d like. 4 p.m. at Cleveland Park Library, Washington, DC. FREE. dclibrary.org BLOSSOM KITE FESTIVAL March 28 | FREE | 10 a.m. FAMILY College Readiness Workshop From choosing a school and major to paying for college, expert Valarie Austin offers advice to high schoolers and their parents. Registration is required. 7 p.m. at Wheaton Library, Silver Spring, MD. FREE. mcpl.libnet.info TUESDAY 24 KIDS Music Transformed Upcycle old vinyl records into a new work of art. All supplies included. Ages 8-12. 4 p.m. at Wheaton Library, Silver Spring, MD. FREE. mcpl.libnet.info The Center for Ballet Arts Watch colorful kites fly, make your own (while supplies last) or purchase one onsite at this annual festival. Washington Monument, Washington, DC. nationalcherryblossomfestival.org “Happy. That’s just how I roll.” –JOSH D M Summer Dance Camps Summer Intensive Programs V Ballet . Pointe . Modern . Jazz Tap . Pilates . Kinderballet Ages 3 thru Adults FUN 3955 Pender Drive, Suite 105 Fairfax, VA 22030 • 703.273.5344 • thecenterballetarts.com Child Cut $13 SHAMPOO INCLUDED WITH EVERY HAIRCUT Valid at Wintergreen Plaza only. One coupon per person. Not valid with any other offers. Valid 3/1/20-3/31/20. WF20-03KHC Adult Cut $18 SHAMPOO INCLUDED WITH EVERY HAIRCUT Find FAMILY fun in the DISTRICT, MARYLAND, and VIRGINIA. Valid at Wintergreen Plaza only. One coupon per person. Not valid with any other offers. Valid 3/1/20-3/31/20. WF20-03AHC Wintergreen Plaza 835H Rockville Pike, Rockville MD (301) 762-5554 Participating salons only. Valid through 03/31/20 Most salons independently owned and operated. ©2018 Fantastic Sams Franchise Corporation. FantasticSams.com 12  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2020 washingtonfamily.com/ fullcalendar ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS/EBMARKETA SATURDAY 21 CALENDAR Kids will enjoy art activities, storytelling, face painting and opportunities to meet authors and illustrators. 11 a.m. at Smithsonian National Museum of African Art, Washington, DC. FREE. cababooks.org WEDNESDAY 25 KIDS Me and You-kelele Sing along to favorite songs played on the ukulele to help kids build oral language. Bring your own ukulele, if available. 10:30 a.m. at Little Falls Library, Bethesda, MD. FREE. mcpl.libnet.info Your best friend is waiting... Montgomery County Humane Society is a private, non-profit, no-kill cat and dog rescue that does not receive any operational funding from the government or from national humane societies. It relies on the support of the community to keep its doors open. SUNDAY 29 FAMILY Rocknoceros Concert Start your Sunday with award- winning kid’s music from popular local band Rocknoceros. 10:30 a.m. at Capitol Cider House, Washington, DC. $7. capitolciderhouse.com KIDS M.A.D. Teens Your teenager will be making a difference (M.A.D.) by crafting blankets for the Animal Welfare League. Ages 12-18. 4 p.m at Richard Byrd Library, Springfield, VA. FREE. librarycalendar.fairfaxcounty.gov Cats and dogs available for adoption today. Come meet your new best friend. FAMILY Ides of Bark Festival Pooches deserve special events, THURSDAY 26 too! Bring your furry best friend KIDS for an afternoon of games, Crafting Tiny Books Teens can celebrate National Reading prizes and fun. Month by making key chains, jewelry 1 p.m. at Grist Mill Park, Alexandria, VA. FREE. and pins out of tiny books. fairfaxcounty.gov 5 p.m. at Twinbrook Library, Rockville, MD. FREE. mcpl.libnet.info MONDAY 30 ® 601 S. Stonestreet Ave. Rockville, MD 20850 240-252-2555 mchumane.org KIDS FRIDAY 27 FAMILY Yoga, Baby! Babies will enjoy yoga movements with music. Bring a towel or mat. Ages 6 weeks to 11 months. 11 a.m. at Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library, Alexandria, VA. FREE. alexlibraryva.org FAMILY Family Social Hour Enjoy unlimited tapas and happy hour drink specials, plus cake decorating and games for the kids. 4 p.m. at Mola, Washington, DC. $15-30. moladc.com SATURDAY 28 FAMILY Children’s Africana Book Awards Festival Children’s and YA books on Africa are honored at this annual festival. Marvelous Mars Young scientists are invited to learn about Mars while participating in STEM activities. Ages 5 and up. 4:30 p.m. at Petwork Library, Washington, DC. FREE. dclibrary.org TUESDAY 31 FAMILY Montgomery County National College Fair Is your child beginning the college search? Talk with representatives from hundreds of colleges and ask questions about campus life. Also on April 1. 9:45 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. at Montgomery County Agricultural Center, Gaithersburg, MD. FREE. nacacfairs.org ­ — BY IVEY NOOJIN 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 DATE a March 14 from 9-11 RSVP to director@kayschool.org www.kayschool.org • 703.264.9078 3005 Dower House Dr. Herndon, VA FIND US ON FACEBOOK: @WashingtonFamilyMagazine​ TWITTER: @FAMILYMagDC PINTEREST: @familymagazine INSTAGRAM: @washingtonfamilymag WashingtonFAMILY.com  13 TO IMMERSION OR NO T TO IMMERSION? That is the question on many area parents’ minds BY JENNIFER MARINO WALTERS ALL ABOUT IMMERSION Area schools offer two types of immersion programs: one-way and two-way programs. One-way immersion programs include mostly native English speakers who are learning the target language. Two-way programs combine native speakers and learners of the target language. In both types of programs, students spend at least half their day learning in the target language. In partial immersion programs, students learn math, science 14  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2020 and health in the target language and the rest of the subjects in English. In full immersion (less common), all instruction is in the target language. The benefits of language immer- sion are plenty. According to the Center for Applied Linguistics in Washington, D.C., learning a language at an early age enhances children’s brain development, expands their cultural awareness, helps them think more flexibly and increases job opportunities later in life. Bilingual children outperform monolingual kids in problem solving, pattern recognition and divergent thinking. Studies by the RAND Corporation and researchers at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia, have also found that immersion students score better on standardized reading and math tests than their non-immersion peers by late elementary school. Elisabeth Harrington, supervisor of the World Languages Office at Arlington Public Schools (APS), says that APS stu- dents enrolled in language immersion programs also eventually outperform their non-immersion peers in standardized tests. But she says that’s not usually the case in the earlier years. “The benefits of immersion are long- term,” Harrington says. “Test scores might be lower at first, so parents just have to trust the process.” VARIED EXPERIENCES When my husband and I were making our decision, our biggest concern was what actual immersion families thought of the program. And we found that while some families loved immersion, others felt it wasn’t right for their children. Melissa Chabot’s son is in the kinder- garten Spanish immersion program at Bailey’s Elementary School for the Arts and Sciences in Falls Church, Virginia. “We are having a wonderful experience,” she says. “My son is getting to know kids with diverse backgrounds and experiences and learning about other cultures. He loves it.” Sarah Clark’s sixth-grade daughter and second-grade son love being in German immersion at Orange Hunt Elementary School in Burke, Virginia. Clark’s daugh- ter is in advanced math and can hold conversations with her German relatives. GETTY IMGEAS/E+: SPEECH BUBBLES: MRPLISKIN; CHILDREN: SHAPECHARGE hree years ago, my husband and I agonized over a decision—whether or not to enroll our twin boys, then in kindergarten, in a Spanish immersion program the following year. Their school is one of 17 Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) that offer language immersion starting in kindergarten or first grade. And FCPS is not alone. Several school districts throughout the D.C. area offer their own language immersion programs (see sidebar). The enrollment lotter- ies for a lot of these programs are now open, which means many local parents are currently facing the same dilemma we did. “The kids have a great sense that differ- ent people have different perspectives,” says Clark. “They know that there is more than one way of looking at something.” But Mary Oborski pulled her son out of German immersion at Orange Hunt in second grade because she felt his teachers weren’t a good fit for him. Since there’s usually only one set of immersion teach- ers at a school, switching an immersion child to a different class typically means pulling him or her out of the program. “My child was much calmer and hap- pier after I switched him,” Oborski says. “He is currently in fourth grade and is doing great.” Another mother, who asked to remain anonymous, also pulled her second-grade daughter out of Spanish immersion at Ravensworth Elementary in Springfield, Virginia, in the early ‘90s because the child was getting stressed about not understanding her homework and projects. “Many of my friends also took their children out of immersion because they were developing upset stomachs and had lots of tears and frustration,” she recalls. Though Harrington acknowledges that not every parent and child will like immersion, she says parents shouldn’t automatically count children out based on their personality or learning disabilities. “I believe every child is capable of succeeding in language immersion,” says Harrington. Ultimately, we decided to enroll our boys in Spanish immersion, and we are thrilled with our decision. They are thriving in third grade, and they get through their math homework just fine (with a little help from Google Translate). And this year, we have already entered our kindergarten-age daughter into the lottery. “Our world is getting smaller because of connectivity,” says Harrington. “So if you want your children to be global thinkers who are more accepting and understand- ing of other cultures, then language immersion is a gift you can give them.”  ■ Jennifer Marino Walters is a freelance writer specializing in parenting and lifestyle topics. She is also the author of 12 books for children, with two more on the way. Jennifer lives in Burke, Virginia, with her husband and three children. When she’s not writing, she loves to explore the D.C. area with her family! Immersion students score better on standardized reading and math tests than their non-immersion peers by late elementary school. Considering Immersion? Here are some tips from parents who have been there, done that. 1 Figure out transportation. Some school districts (like APS) offer bus service for immersion kids, but many don’t. So if your kids will be going to a school that’s not their zone school, figure out how you’ll get them there. “It takes us an hour round-trip each day for drop-off and pickup, plus extra for any evening activities,” says Clark. 2 Consider friendships. Clark says most of her kids’ classmates live near the school, so she has to drive their children to friend’s houses. Therefore, they don’t know kids in their own neighborhood very well. 3 LOCAL IMMERSION PROGRAMS Below are four area school districts that offer language immersion programs. These programs are typically filled via lottery systems, and some of those lotteries are open now. If you don’t see your child’s school district on the list below, just ask the administrators if an immersion program exists. Arlington Public Schools apsva.us/world-languages/ immersion-program/ Grade at time of entry: K and middle school Language: Spanish Lottery deadline: Feb. 3–April 15 for K; middle school has a separate enrollment process District of Columbia Public Schools dcps.dc.gov/DL Grade at time of entry: K or 1 (except at Columbia Heights Education Campus, which has a structured late-entry program) Language: Spanish Lottery deadline: The deadline was Feb. 3 for high school and March 2 for grades K-8, but visit myschooldc.org to learn more. Fairfax County Public Schools fcps.edu/academics/world-languages- immersion-programs Grade at time of entry: K or 1, depending on the school Languages: Spanish, French, German, Japanese, Korean Lottery deadline: March 20 for grade K; late registration opens April 2. Registration for grade 1 closed Feb. 20; late registration opened March 5. Late applications will be added to the end of the waiting list in the order of date received. Meet the teachers. Oborski recommends meeting the immersion teachers at your child’s potential school ahead of time to determine whether they might be a good fit for your child. Montgomery County Public Schools 4 5 Grade at time of entry: K-5, middle school Talk to parents. Reach out to parents of immersion students at the potential school to hear about their experiences. Give it a shot. Still not sure about immersion? Just give it a try. You can always take your child out of the program. “If it doesn’t work for your child, don’t think twice—pull him or her out,” says Oborski.  ■ montgomeryschoolsmd.org/ curriculum/specialprograms/ admissions/immersion.aspx Languages: Spanish, French, Chinese Lottery deadline: April 24; middle school has a separate enrollment process   ■ WashingtonFAMILY.com  15 ART IS SMART The value of creativity in the classroom BY PJ FEINSTEIN AND ADRANISHA STEPHENS A t a time when school districts across the country are eliminating art programs due to budget cuts and the prioritization of standard- ized testing, Arlington Public Schools (APS) in Virginia stands out as an exception. “We are so fortunate in Arlington. I’ve been in central office for 19 years, and we have never had a cut to the arts,” says arts education supervisor Pam Farrell. “We are so strongly supported by our superintendent, our school board and our community so much so that three years ago when we were facing a big budget deficit, the number one thing the community voted to not cut was the arts.” The APS community understands the value of arts education, including visual art. When elementary school students are building with clay or mid- dle schoolers are learning how to do portraiture, they’re aren’t just having fun. They’re also learning skills that translate into all aspects of their lives, including literacy, planning and awareness, creativity and critical thinking, explains Farrell. “In visual art classes, the kids are basically solving problems as they’re mak- ing art. And so the amount of decisions they have to make – which way to go, which colors to select – really, really impact their critical thinking,” she says. TEACHING “HABITS OF MIND” Michelle Silberberg, a photography teacher at Northwood High School in Rockville, Maryland, says that visual art can teach learners about lay- out, perspective and balance, all techniques that are necessary for visual presentations of academic work. Right now, her students are creating a photography project surrounding mental illness. “It’s a tough topic and I am here to help them and support The arts can provide gains in literacy, planning and 16  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2020 them,” says Silberberg. “We are discussing how they can make that into a visual project and the importance behind it.” They have also tackled issues such as domestic violence. “There’s a lot of random violence in lyrics and shows, but we don’t freak out about it because we see it all the time,” she says. “We’re exposed to it so much that it becomes this normal thing. But it’s not normal how we normalize domestic violence in the U.S. And that’s what I investigated with my class.” Silberberg adds that arts education also teaches resilience. “A lot of time, especially in art, if somebody messes up, they are like, ‘Oh well, I need to start over.’ But that’s not necessarily the case,” she says. Instead, she challenges her students to figure out how to make it work, such as scratching up or melting negatives to come to an end result that makes them feel proud. “And that can go to any subject or any life experiences,” says Silberberg. “If something doesn’t work out the way that you wanted it to, how can you move past the initial negative emotions and move forward to something that you’re happy with?” This idea of resiliency or bouncing back actually relates to a concept called “Habits of Mind” that Farrell mentions when discussing the benefits of arts education. “It’s really that critical thinking and application to the task and carrying through, because you have to keep working through your visual problems when you’re creating a piece of art,” she says, adding that knowing when to stop can be just as important, too. “Because if you go too far then it’s going to be unrecognizable, right?” INTEGRATING ART IN THE CLASSROOM Allison, 11, Maryland When designing the APS curriculum, Farrell first looks at the Virginia Standards of Learning and the National Visual Arts Standards by grade level, incorporating a diverse group of artists that “relate to all of our stu- dent population and interests,” she says. Because every school has access to the other general educators’ plans for the year, visual art teachers will often co-plan with classroom teachers to do arts-integrated projects, such as Virginia history or tessellation for math. At Montgomery Blair High School in Silver Spring, Maryland, Sandra Jacobs-Ivey has been integrating art into her curriculum for more than 30 years. “I don’t know how you cannot use art in the classroom. It’s been a part of my pedagogy for a while,” says the AP Literature and Bridge English teacher. For Jacobs-Ivey, it started the first year she became a teacher. She dec- orated her classroom with art prints and motivational quotes, often referencing the prints in student assignments and requiring the kids to respond to them. Later, she had students create stories around a creative aspect of a piece of art. “It was a really good way for them to tap into critical thinking,” she says. Jacobs-Ivey also incorporates art into her lessons to make complicated concepts easier to understand. Take “Hamlet,” for example. “Act Three is imbued with soliloquies where the imagery is just overflow- ing, so I had the students create visual representations of the speeches,” she says. “And they later mentioned to me, ‘I’ve really loved doing this because it made me understand the speech more,’ and ‘It helped me to have another avenue to express my understanding of the written text.’”  ■ awareness, creativity and critical thinking. ART: COURTESY OF ALLISON; BOY: GETTY IMAGES/E+/ALINA555; DOTS: ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS/YURI PARMENOV SHOW TELL AN D ARTI STIC AB I LIT Y BY PJ FEINSTEIN IN HONOR OF YOUTH ART MONTH, we asked you to submit photos of your child’s artwork—a drawing, a painting, a sculpture, whatever—so we could celebrate their creativity and talent with our readers. Here are some of the masterpieces we received that were made by young artists from around the DMV. C E LE B R ATE YOU R C H I LD’ S C R E ATIV IT Y A N D TALE NT LUCY, AN 8TH GRADER AT LOWELL SCHOOL IN WASHINGTON, DC, TAUGHT HERSELF HOW TO USE THE APP PROCREATE SO SHE COULD DRAW COSTUMES INSPIRED BY PIECES OF FABRIC AND OCEAN LIFE. 18  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2020 ARTWORK: COURTESY OF THE ARTISTS; SWIRLS & CURLS: GETTY IMAGES/ DIGITALVISION/VECTORS/BEASTFROMEAST A STILL LIFE OF SPRING FLOWERS BY KEIRA, 12, OF SOUTH RIDING, VA. How to create a gallery wall like a pro Meredith Forte is a big fan of framing and displaying children’s art—and not just because coming up with creative solutions to empty walls is part of her job. “I witnessed kids coming home and seeing their artwork on the wall and it makes them feel almost famous,” says Forte, who offers mobile picture-framing and design services through her company, Frame Avenue Design. “That their mom or dad took the time to frame it and hang it and have something special for them. It gives them encouragement and promotes creativity.” Forte loves creating gallery walls for her clients of their children’s artwork to hang in the rooms where the kids hang out: basement rec rooms, playrooms and even their bedrooms. 10-YEAR-OLD AVERY USED COLORED PENCILS TO DRAW A BIRD IN HER BACKYARD LISTENING FOR HIS FRIENDS. GO BIG TO CREATE YOUR OWN GALLERY WALL OF KIDS’ ART, FOLLOW FORTE’S PROCESS 1 Choose a mix of personalized artwork such as painted handprints, artwork that’s special to your child and anything that can pass as abstract art. “Adult artists can sometimes make art that looks like a 5-year-old made it. So why not frame a 5-year- old’s art that looks like an adult did it,” says Forte. 2 3 4 5 Use picture frames that are either 8 1/2 inches by 11 inches or 11 inches by 17 inches, which fit the “two basic sizes of construction paper that schools have,” she says. Pick picture frames that can be easily opened, so you can swap out artwork when your child brings home something new. Stick with white frames and white mattes. “It’s simple, it looks pretty, it looks clean on the walls, and then the artwork sort of pops,” says Forte. Decide which style of gallery wall you prefer: grid or organic. “Gallery grids are great for people who are Type A,” she says. In a grid, all of the frames are the same size and hung in symmetrical rows and columns. Organic grids, on the other hand, come together like a puzzle. 6 CAMERA: ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS/DINKOOBRAZ: FRAMES: GETTY IMAGES/DIGITALVISION VECTORS/ HUDIEMM Arrange your picture frames on the floor below the wall where you plan to hang them in order to determine the size and placement of your gallery wall. “You sort of fit the pieces together,” she explains. Once you like how it looks, hang it up! If any of this sounds complicated, just remember: “One of the main things about gallery walls is don’t overthink it,” says Forte.  ■ GO D I G I TA L BE SELECTIVE LABEL , TOSS THE NOODLES LABEL , LABEL What to do with all that artwork? A PRO FE S S I ON AL ORGAN I Z E R W E I GHS I N GO BIG Kids often bring home artwork on paper that’s larger than 8 1/2 inches by 11 inches. Rather than folding their masterpieces to fit in letter- size file folders or binders, professional organizer Libby Kinkead of Potomac Concierge prefers storing artwork in portfolios—those big, black cases with handles that artists use to carry their work. Another option is to store both flat pieces and three-dimensional creations in clear plastic bins. “You can have bins per year, per child, per school,” says Kinkead. LABEL , LABEL , LABEL “You’re not gonna remember a watercolor when you have more than one child,” she says. As a favor to your future self, write your child’s name and the date on the back of every drawing or painting they bring home. And don’t forget to label the outside of the portfolio or bin, too. TOSS THE NOODLES Unfortunately, certain pieces just won’t store well. “Anything that’s made out of macaroni or rice or whatever ... those aren’t good WashingtonFAMILY.com  19 keepers because they attract bugs, they break, then you open it up and there’s all those pieces at the bottom,” says Kinkead. If you simply can’t part with a preschool noodle craft or feel emotionally attached to something fragile, wrap the piece in tissue paper before placing it in a bin. BE SELECTIVE At the end of the school year, sort through your child’s portfolio or bin and ask them to pick out their favorites. “So instead of keeping 75, keep 25,” she says. But don’t stop there! Continue the culling process regularly to keep their growing collection of artwork manageable. And remember: If they can’t remember what they drew, it might not be worth keeping. G O D I G I TA L Rather than saving physical pieces of art, preserve the memory of your child’s handiwork by snapping a photo. Display their artwork on a digital frame or print them in a coffee-table style book. “It’s kind of like the photo album of your trip to wherever, you also have a photo album of the art from grades three to five,” she says.  ■ JILL, 11, OF BURKE, VA, DREW A SUPERHERO AT A WORKSHOP FOR MILITARY FAMILIES AT THE WORKHOUSE ARTS CENTER. A SELF-PORTRAIT PAINTED BY 6-YEAR-OLD ANAYA. NEXT UP Kid athletes! Email us a photo of your sports superstar at editor@washingtonfamily.com and it just might be featured in our April issue! 20  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2020 “ I W ITN E S S E D K I D S COMING HOME AN D S E E I N G TH E I R ART WO R K O N TH E WALL AN D IT MAK E S TH E M F E E L ALM OS T FAM OU S . TH AT TH E I R M O M O R DAD TOO K TH E TI M E TO F R AM E IT AN D HAN G IT AN D H AV E SO M E TH I N G S P EC IAL FO R TH E M . IT G IV E S TH E M E N C OU R AG E M E NT AN D P RO M OTE S C R E ATIV IT Y.” ­— Meredith Forte A RT C LA SSES FOR K I D S ALL CHI L DRE N HAVE N ATU RA L C REATI VI TY , even if it manifests itself as coloring outside the lines. Those macaroni necklaces and glitter explosions and Crayola chaos that populate childhood happen because kids have such an extensive imagination. Art then becomes a great vehicle for learning, growing and having fun. With that in mind, we put together a list of 15 local art studios where your child can grow as an artist. For more inspiration, check out the listings under “Guides” at WashingtonFamily.com. - ABRAKA DOO DL E, M U LT IP L E LO C AT IO NS , VA Abrakadoodle offers art classes for kids ages 20 months to elementary-school-aged, allowing them to play with paints, wire, clay and more. They also provide art camp during the summer and holiday breaks and host Arty Parties, including an ARTrageous art teacher, activities, lessons and lots of materials. abrakadoodle.com - AN N A B AN A N A A RTS A ND C R A F TS , WASH I N GTON , DC Anna Banana offers classes for kids ages 2-8 and special half-day camps on federal holidays so your little artists can spend that time creating masterpieces. It also has a summer camps for 4-8 year olds. annabananaartsandcrafts.com - ART J A MZ DU P ON T ST U D IO, WA S H INGTO N, D.C . ArtJamz is truly a creative zone (even the walls are painted with artwork) and has classes and opportunities for the entire family. Paint parties and graffiti parties are a great way for kids to make their mark, and both children and adults can participate in a freestyle session or a guided class. artjamz.com - BLU E G I RAFFE A RT ST U D IO, WA S H INGTO N, D.C . Blue Giraffe offers art classes for kids ages 3 and older, including painting, drawing, collage making, stuffed animals and more. Half-day camps are offered on federal holidays to add some imagination to no-school days. bluegiraffedc.com - LIT T L E LOF T STU DIO S , TA KO M A PA R K , M D Children as young as 2 can begin their art journey in Art Exploration class. Older kids can dive into mathematical art, comic creation or painting and printmaking. Their next six-week spring session begins April 19 through May 31. Kids also can attend Little Loft Studios for summer camp, and evening and weekend workshops are available for all members of the family. littleloftstudios.com ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS/ZINKEVYCH - L I T TL E P IC A S S O, A N N A N DA L E , VA Little Picasso offers beginner and intermediate classes for kids ages 5 through third grade. Then, students can move on to the Junior Prep program where there is less step-by-step instruction and more independent work. High school artists can take Portfolio Prep, which helps teens build a strong and complete portfolio for college admissions at the top art schools around the world. littlepicassoart.com - R E N A IS SA N C E A RT C E N T E R , GA ITH E R S B U R G , M D The Renaissance Art Center believes that art is an important foundation for various pathways in life and offers classes for children ages 3 and up in painting, pottery, animation and sculptures, plus instruction for home schoolers. renaissanceartcenter.com Ot h e r g re a t lo ca t io n s : - MAS ON COMMUN IT Y ARTS AC ADE MY, VA masonacademy.gmu.edu - T HE ART L E AG UE , VA theartleague.org - ART S PAC E HE R N DON , VA artsherndon.org - C APITOL HIL L ARTS WOR KS HOP WAS HIN GTON , D.C . chaw.org - WAS HIN GTON ST UDIO S C HOOL WAS HIN GTON , D.C . washingtonstudioschool.org - ART WOR KS N OW, MD artworksnow.org - S TON E BR AN C H S C HOOL OF ART, MD stonebrancharts.com - V ISARTS , MD visartscenter.org —AD O R A B ROWN WashingtonFAMILY.com  21 — ADVERTORIAL — WHAT IS THE VALUE OF A CLASSICAL EDUCATION IN THE DIGITAL AGE? A in the greater world. Its building-block approach nurtures the child’s interest in learning, ability to concentrate and pay attention for extended periods of time, read for depth of understanding and express thoughts and opinions clearly and per- suasively. The child’s mind is actively and imaginatively engaged in comprehending rather than passively receiving a flow of digitized information. Ultimately, the goal of a classical educa- tion is to teach the student how to think critically and act creatively, how to tackle and solve unfamiliar problems and how to meet challenges with optimism and set- backs with resilience. These are the very skills that prepare children for a challenging and unpredictable future. Additionally, parents are beginning to push back against the overwhelm- ing amount of school-day screen time, according to the Washington Post. They are concerned that their computer-dependent children are losing merican children are growing up in the digital age, many of them spend- ing several hours a day looking at screens at school. On their own time, they dive into social media and devote countless hours to video games. A recent multi- year study by the American Psychological Association shows that high-school-aged teens spend more time texting and on social media than reading. As a result, parents, teachers and psychologists are finding increasing problems among chil- dren, including moody behavior, shorter attention spans, decreased ability to focus on academics and a lessening in empathy for others. Classical education provides the anti- dote to every one of these alarming trends. Classical education is a systematic, age-ap- propriate approach to teaching children how to think, how to build values and develop strength of character, how to dis- cover and improve on individual talents and how to present themselves successfully Extraordinary Environment for Learning School Extraordinary Environment for Learning Camp Now Enrolling for Fall 2020! • Discover Montessori: 12 mos - Grade 5 • Project-Based Learning: Grades 6-12 Call for a tour! admission@barrie.org • 301.576.2800 g Join us in 2020 for a summer of June 15 to Aug 14 Ages 4-14 Barrie Camp Open House Sunday, March 8 | 1 to 3 pm camp@barrie.org • 301.576.2818 13500 Layhill Rd. , Silver Spring, MD Minutes from ICC & Glenmont Metro Bus Transportation and Extended Day Available barrie.org 22  Washington WashingtonFAMILY  22 FAMILY MARCH MARCH 2020 2020 CHARLOTTE FOSTER, ENGLISH DEPARTMENT CHAIR & SUSAN GLAZIER, ASSISTANT HEAD OF SCHOOL WESTMINSTER SCHOOL ANNANDALE, VA 22003 ground in their academic understanding and skills as well as their personal devel- opment. They also resent that computer use in school interferes with their parent- ing decisions about their own children. While developments in technology have been empowering and exciting, parents and schools are learning that computers are not the automatic educational boost they once hoped. There is no magic bullet or digital course that produces a well-rounded, knowledge- able, courteous and confident person of good character. However, there is a proven way, and Westminster School stands by its 58-year history of delivering a classical education in a nurturing, forward-look- ing environment. The achievements of our graduates, both academic and per- sonal, testify to the effective and lasting influence of a rich, carefully designed and well-implemented classical education. ■ SEE OUR AD, PAGE 7 AT A GLANCE ARTS PARENTING Children’s Repertory Theater Imagination Stage in Bethesda, Maryland, presents two unique shows for kids in repertory this month: “Zomo the Rabbit: A Hip-Hop Creation Myth” and “Thumbelina.” Repertory theater features the same company of actors performing in different shows during a particular time period. “We love the rep format at Imagination Stage because in addition to two stories, our young audiences get a terrific lesson in theatricality,” says Janet Stanford, founding artistic director. “Not only does our versatile set transform from one world to another, our performers are seen playing wildly different characters.” Nominated for a Helen Hayes award during its original 2009 run, “Zomo the Rabbit” is a hip-hop adaptation of a Nigerian folktale. The story puts a local spin on the global tradition of trickster tales, taking place at various Washington, D.C., landmarks. It plays through March 22. Making its world premiere, “Thumbelina” reimagines Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairy tale as a multimedia play using live video projections, puppetry, dioramas and other theater magic. Inspired by Kamishibai, a form of Japanese street theater, it tells the story of a tiny girl on a mission to find her place in the world. “Thumbelina” runs through April 5. Both performances are best for ages 4 and up. Tickets cost $15-$35. For more information, visit imaginationstage.org.  T —PJ FEINSTEIN EDUCATION Special Needs Forum Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) will host its annual “Extraordinary Minds in MCPS” Forum on March 18 to inform parents of children with autism spectrum disorder about public school placements and services for students with special needs. The evening will begin with an introduction to MCPS’s ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS/THITAREESARMKASAT autism services, which provides support to approximately 2,300 autistic students. Then parents can participate in informational breakout sessions designed to help them play a meaningful role on their child’s Individual Education Program (IEP) team. The two hour-long sessions will cover a variety of topics, including organizational strategies for students, transition planning and resource and funding opportunities. The “Program for Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills” and “Unstuck and On Target” curriculums as well as the “Zones of Regulation” program will also be discussed. This free event will be held at Julius West Middle School, Rockville, Maryland, from 6-9 p.m. For more information, visit xminds.org/event-3739056.  T —PJ FEINSTEIN Quick tips for a calmer household OK, first, a bit of a disclaimer: There are no real quick tips to making your kid-filled household immediately calmer, says Maryland-based parenting coach Cindy Shuster. As much as we might want that magic wand, what we have instead are easy entry points to parent better and to change the energy dynamic in a room. Here’s how: First, Shuster says, keep in mind “where we are plugged into the negative behavior.” She uses her own family of three boys as an example. After dinner, she might have sent the boys downstairs to play, relieved for a moment to herself. And they might have played well together for a while, but “the second the mayhem broke out, they got my biggest energy,” she admits. The accusations of “why can’t you play nicely” flew. Sound familiar? Instead of losing our cool, parents in this situation could praise the good behavior — the cooperation, the inside voices and more — while it was happening. “The same excitement we show their bad behavior, we need to show them when they are doing things right,” she says. Tantrums? The same principle applies. Give those outbursts so little energy that they are no longer exciting for the child. “We need to be more mindful about how we are showing up,” says Shuster, who was a classroom teacher before she became a certified parenting coach. That included completing a graduate program with 100 hours of pro bono coaching. She now coaches parents across the country and holds community workshops for parents. Want more of her insights? Find her at parentcoachcindy.com.  T —JESSICA GREGG WashingtonFAMILY.com  23 CAMP DIRECTORY OVERNIGHT CAMPS BURGUNDY CENTER FOR WILDLIFE STUDIES Ages: 8-15 burgundycenter.org 703-842-0470 Capon Bridge, WV Categories: Swimming CAMP RIVER’S BEND Ages: 6-15 campriversbend.org 804-314-6656 Cowpasture River Hwy Millboro Springs, VA Categories: Residential, Teens, Horseback Riding, Boating, Arts and Crafts,Sports, Hiking, Overnight Camping, CIT Program DAY CAMPS WASHINGTON, D.C. 2020 Summer Camp Directory 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. BEAUVOIR SUMMER AT BEAUVOIR, THE NATIONAL CATHEDRAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Ages: 3-11 CIT program: 6th-12th grade beauvoirschool.org/summer beauvoirsummer@cathedral.org 202-537-6485 3500 Woodley Rd NW Washington, DC Categories: Day Camp, Boys & Girls, Extended Day, Arts and Crafts, CIT Program, Dance, Drama/Theatre, Educational Activities, Field Trips, Music, Swimming CAMP HALF-BLOOD, DC Ages: 7-14 camphalfbloodbklyn.com info@plato-learning.com Rock Creek Park, Picnic Area 13 Washington, DC Categories: Day Camp, Sports, Drama/Theater, Educational Activities Theatre, Music GERMAN IMMERSION SUMMER CAMPS AT GOETHE-INSTITUTE WASHINGTON Ages: 8-12 goethe.de/dc/germancourses germancourses-washington@ goethe.de 202-847-4730 1377 R St NW Ste 300 Washington, DC Categories: Day Camp, Boys & Girls, Sibling Discount, Extended Day, Educational Activities, Field Trips experience. Students build in-demand skills for futures in coding, game development, robotics, and creative arts. THE THEATRE LAB Ages: 1st-8th grade theatrelab.org/camp contact@theatrelab.org 202-824-0449 733 8th St NW Washington, DC Categories: Day Camp, Boys & Girls, Teens, Extended Day, Drama/Theatre DAY CAMPS MARYLAND BARRIE CAMP Ages: 4-14 barrie.org/camp camp@barrie.org 301-576-2818 13500 Layhill Rd Silver Spring, MD Categories: Day Camp, Boys & Girls, Sibling Discount, Extended Day, Transportation, Arts and Crafts, Boating, CIT Program, Computers Cooking, Dance, Drama/Theatre, Educational Activities, Field Trips, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Martial Arts, Swimming BASIS INDEPENDENT SUMMER Ages: 2-18 Affiliation: BASIS Independent McLean basisindependent.com/summer mclean-summer@ basisindependent.com 703-854-1253 8000 Jones Branch Dr McLean, VA Categories: Day Camp, Boys & Girls, Teens, Arts and Crafts, Dance, Drama/Theatre, Educational Activities, Field Trips, Music BETHESDA BIG TRAIN BASEBALL SUMMER CAMP Ages: 5-12 bigtrain.org/summercamp/ davids@bigtrain.org 301-365-1076 10600 Westlake Dr Bethesda, MD Categories: Day Camp, Boys & Girls, Extended Day, Sports BRETTON WOODS Ages: 4-17 BWRC.org camp@BWRC.org 301-948-3357 ID TECH 15700 River Rd Ages: 7-19 Potomac, MD iDTech.com Categories: Day Camp, Boys 888-709-8324 & Girls, Teens, Extended Day, 150 Prestigious Campus Locations Transportation, Arts and Crafts, iD Tech is the world leader in Boating, CIT Program, Hiking, STEM education, with 450,000 Special Needs, Sports, Extreme alumni and over 20 years of Sports, Swimming 24  WashingtonFAMILY  MARCH 2020 CAMP DIRECTORY CAMP ACCOMPLISH Ages: 5-18 melwood.org/recreation- programs/camp recreationcenter@melwood.org 301-870-3226 9035 Ironsides Rd Nanjemoy, MD Categories: Day Camp, Residential Camp, Boys & Girls, Teens, Sibling Discount, Transportation, Arts and Crafts, Cooking, Drama/Theatre, Educational Activities, Field Trips, Horseback Riding, Music, Overnight Camping, Special Needs, Sports, Swimming, Yoga CAMP ARISTOTLE AT THE AUBURN SCHOOL scott.swick@catapultlearning.com 201-588-8048 9115 Georgia Ave Silver Spring, MD larissa.vlassich@catapultlearning.com 703-793-9353 3800 Concorde Pkwy Chantilly, VA CHESTERBROOK ACADEMY SUMMER CAMP Ages: 5-12 chesterbrookacademy.com/camp 877-959-3746 Over 20 convenient locations Categories: Sibling Discount, Extended Day, Arts, Educational Activities, Field Trips, Sports COMMOTION DANCE DAY CAMPS Ages: 3-6, 5-14 commotiondance.com info@commotiondance.com 301-515-8908 13097 Wisteria Dr Germantown, MD Categories: Day Camp, Boys & Girls, Teens, Sibling Discount, Extended Day, Arts and Crafts, CIT Program, Dance, Drama/Theatre FLYING KICK SUMMER CAMP Ages: 4-16 flyingkicktkd.com mail@flyingkicktkd.com 301-951-0543 6050 Wisconsin Ave Chevy Chase, MD 4711 Chase Ave Bethesda, MD Our Summer Camp is a fun and safe way for children to learn Tae Kwon Do and spend their time in a productive atmosphere. Our campers will have a great time! We offer Tae Kwon Do every day! We will have fun tournaments, dodgeball, board games, swimming, team sports, playground time, arts & crafts, weekly field trip to Shadowland and other fun activities. 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 ID TECH Ages: 7-19 iDTech.com 888-709-8324 150 Prestigious Campus Locations iD Tech is the world leader in STEM education, with 450,000 alumni and over 20 years of experience. Students build in- demand skills for futures in coding, game development, robotics, and creative arts. INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF MUSIC Ages: 3-12 ismw.org info@ismw.org 301-365-5888 11325 Seven Locks Rd, Suite 255 Potomac, 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 Ages: 2-8 manormontessori.com/ summer-camp 301-299-7400 10500 Oaklyn Dr Potomac, MD 11200 Old Georgetown Rd Rockville, MD 5450 Massachusetts Ave Bethesda, MD Categories: Educational Activities, Arts, Music, Swimming, Sports Summer Camp at Chesterbrook Academy • • • • • • • • ® Day camp with extended hours Field trips and events Exciting STEAM activities Arts and crafts Sports and games Music, dance and drama Water activities Community outreach projects Over 20 convenient Washington, D.C. Metropolitan area locations 877-959-3746 For more information, visit ChesterbrookAcademy.com/Camp CBA_WashingtonFamily-Camp-Mar20_7x4.725.indd 1 1/29/20 11:41 AM WashingtonFAMILY.com  25 CAMP DIRECTORY MID-ATLANTIC SUMMER DANCE INTENSIVE/MASDI Ages: 9 and up commotiondance.com info@commotiondance.com 301-515-8908 13097 Wisteria Dr Germantown, MD Categories: Residential Camp, Boys & Girls, Teens, Sibling Discount, Dance 3514 Plyers Mill Rd Kensington, MD Categories: Sibling Discount, Extended Day, Arts, Educational Activities MONTGOMERY COUNTY RECREATION Ages: 3-16 mocorec.com/guide 4010 Randolph Rd Silver Spring, MD Categories: Day Camp, Boys & Girls, Teens, Arts & Crafts, CIT Program, Cooking, Dance, Drama/ Theatre, S.T.E.M., Field Trips, Horseback Riding, Special Needs, Leadership SPRING BILINGUAL MONTESSORI SUMMER CAMP Ages: 2.5-6 spring-bilingual.org info@spring-bilingual.org 301-962-7262 SUMMER AT SANDY SPRING Ages: 3-Grade 12 SASS.Camp@ssfs.org 301-774-7455 x167 16923 Norwood Rd Sandy Spring, MD Categories: Traditional Day, Day Camp, Coed, Swimming Daily, Custom Schedule TEENS TO GO SUMMER CAMP Ages: 8-16 TeensToGo.org manish@teenstogo.org 301-540-4356 14 Flints Grove Dr North Potomac, MD Director: Manish Shah Enjoy a fun, exciting, adventure, EVERY DAY! Multi-day excursions, Theme Parks, Water Parks, and many more great trips. Now in our 33rd year! Summer Program VALLEY MILL CAMP INC. Ages: 4-14 valleymill.com valleymill@valleymill.com 301-948-0220 15101 Seneca Rd Darnestown, MD Category: Day Camp WHITMAN SUMMER CAMP Ages: 5-14 whitmansummercamp.com whitmansummercamp@gmail.com 301-820-8008 14131 Seneca Rd Darnestown, MD Categories: Day Camp, Teens, Sibling Discount, Extended Day, Transportation, Arts and Crafts, CIT Program, Cooking, Dance, Drama/Theatre, Educational Activities, Field Trips, Sports, Travel, Yoga 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 Categories: Day Camp, Boys & Girls, Teens, Arts and Crafts, Boating, Educational Activities, Photography ASHBURN ICE HOUSE Ages: 3-10 Affiliation: William Day ashburnice.com info@ashburnice.com 703-858-0300 21595 Smith Switch Rd Ashburn, VA Categories: Day Camp, Boys & Girls, Extended Day BROOKSFIELD SUMMER CAMP Ages: 3-10 brooksfieldschool.org camp@brooksfieldschool.org 703-356-5437 ext. 2 1830 Kirby Rd McLean, VA Categories: Extended Day, Arts, CIT, Cooking, Dance, Educational Activities, Field Trips, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Music, Sports, Swimming, Yoga CAmp hAlf-Blood DC Calling all Demigods They’re baaackkk! Despite valiant efforts to contain the forces of chaos at Rock Creek Park last summer, monster sightings continue unabated. There’s only one cure for more monsters. MORE DEMIGODS! Brave children of the DMV, we need your help to battle these forces. We hope you join us this summer at Camp Half-Blood to train as heroes and quest for answers because we can’t do it without you. Question. Are you brAve enough? Children ages 3-12 years old ✦ 13-acre country campus ✦ Outdoor fun ✦ Weekly themes For additional information, 301-774-7468 email: office@materamoris.com Ashton, Maryland Serving Montgomery, Howard, & Prince George’s Counties 26  WashingtonFAMILY  MARCH 2020 Summer 2020 $450 per week* | You choose your weeks! Camp Hours 9:00am - 4:00pm WAshington DC: Rock Creek Park, Picnic Area 13 June 29th - July 24th For more information: www.camphalfbloodbklyn.com, info@plato-learning.com, (929) 397-9393 At Camp River’s Bend, campers spend the summer living in a community dedicated to character development and living by timeless values such as gratitude, humility, sportsmanship, resilience, and teamwork. These values are not only taught by our talented counselor staff but modeled at all times. Through developing relationships based on these core values, campers create strong bonds and grow immeasurably as they gain confidence in their ability to solve problems and overcome obstacles in many exciting activities. Ages: 6-15 years old Camper:Counselor Ratio: 4:1 Camp Sessions: 6 weeks • June 20th – August 1st • $6000 3 weeks • June 20th – July 11th • $3300 3 weeks • July 12th – August 1st • $3300 1 week • August 2nd – August 8th • $1300 PO Box 210 Manakin Sabot, VA 23103 804-314-6656 www.campriversbend.org JUNE 8 - AUGUST 28 F U L L - D AY & H A L F - D AY C A M P S AGES 3-15 E A R LY B I R D R E G I S T R AT I O N N OW O P E N 15% OFF ALL CAMPS THROUGH MARCH 31ST T R A N S P O R TAT I O N AVA I L A B L E F R O M D C / M D / VA Ages 4-14 Valley Mill Day Camp t hes t j a mes .com/s umme rca mps 68 0 5 Indus t r i al Road | Spr i ng f i el d, VA 2 2 15 1 | 70 3 .2 3 9.6870 Open House Dates @ www.valleymill.com Spring & Summer Transportation Provided GERMAN IMMERSION IDS SUMMER CAMPS FOR -1 K 2 CAMP 1: JUNE 26 - JULY 10, 2020 CAMP 2: JULY 13 - JULY 24, 2020 8 Phone 202.847.4730 germancourses-washington@goethe.de www.goethe.de/dc/germancourses WashingtonFAMILY.com  27 CAMP DIRECTORY BURGUNDY FARM SUMMER DAY CAMP Ages: 4–16 burgundyfarm.org/summer- programs summercamp@burgundyfarm.org 703-960-3431 3700 Burgundy Rd Alexandria, VA Categories: Extended Day, Transportation, Arts, CIT, Computers, Drama, Educational, Hiking, Music, Photography, Sports, Swimming CAMP ARISTOTLE AT THE AUBURN SCHOOL scott.swick@catapultlearning.com 201-588-8048 9115 Georgia Ave Silver Spring, MD larissa.vlassich@catapult learning.com 703-793-9353 3800 Concorde Pkwy Chantilly VA CAMP GRIFFIN AT WESTMINSTER SCHOOL Ages: 3-14 westminsterschool.com campgriffin@ westminsterschool.com 703-340-7268 Westminster School 3819 Gallows Rd Annandale, VA Categories: Day Camp, Boys & Girls, Sibling Discount, Extended Day, Arts and Crafts, Cooking, Dance, Field Trips, Music, Sports, Swimming, Travel CAMP KAY AT KAY SCHOOL Ages: 2.5-12 kayschool.org info@kayschool.org 703-264-9078 3005 Dower House Rd Herndon, VA Categories: Sibling Discount, Extended Day, Transportation, Arts, CIT Program, Cooking, Dance, Drama, Educational Activities, Field Trips, Hiking, Music, Sports, Extreme Sports, Swimming, Travel, Yoga CAPITAL KIDS CAMP Grades: 3-8 ckcampcapitalbaptist.org CapitalKids@capitalbaptist.org 703-560-3109 x118 Capital Baptist Church 3504 Gallows Rd Annandale, VA Categories: Basketball, Soccer, Arts & Crafts, Games Big Train Baseball Summer Camp Ages 5-12; All Skill Levels Welcome Free Admission to Big Train Home Games Weekly Camps: Weeks of June 15 - July 20 s Age 6 8-1 Ou Sum r 33rd mer What Kids Want To Do!! Join Teens To Go and enjoy a new adventure EVERYDAY! Before and After Care Available NEW MULTI-DAY EXCUSIONS!! Cedar Point, Kings Island, Carowinds, Dollywood, Busch Gardens, WCUSA, KD Discount code valid for any single summer 2020 Big Train Camp session. • Amusement Parks • Water Parks • Zip-Line Adventures • Rafting/Tubing • Overnight Trips • Beach Trips ...& Much More! Anybody can come up with a set of trips, but our EXPERIENCE cannot be matched! WWW.TeensToGo.ORG 301.540.4356 28  WashingtonFAMILY  MARCH 2020 N U R T U R I N G C U R I O S I T Y, CO N F I D E N C E, A N D A L O V E O F L E A R N I N G S I N C E 1957 • Preschool Age 3 - Grade 6 • Before-Care & After-Care • Summer, Winter & Spring Camps • Diff erentiated Instruction • Small Classes • Challenging Academics • Positive Social & Emotional Development Annandale, Virginia 703.354.3446 • pinecrestschool.org Learn from Collegiate All-Americans & Future Pros! USE CODE “FAMAD” TO GET 10% OFF! Pinecrest School FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK: @WashingtonFamilyMagazine TWITTER: @FAMILYMagDC PINTEREST: @familymagazine INSTAGRAM: @washingtonfamilymag CUPPETT PERFORMING ARTS CENTER SUMMER CAMPS PRINCESS CAMP Five weekly camps July 6 to Aug. 8, 2020 CELEBRATION OF THE ARTS CAMP Variety of camps for all ages July 6 to Aug. 8, 2020 INTENSIVE BALLET PROGRAM AND DAILY CLASSES IN BALLET Tap, Jazz, Contemporary, Acro and Musical Theatre All levels of dance, ages 3-93! July 6 to Aug. 8, 2020 REGISTRATION STARTS MARCH 18, 2020 OFF your registration fee! * Present this ad to receive $ 15 *NEW FAMILIES ONLY 135 Park St., S.E., Vienna, VA 22180 | (703) 938-9019 Flying Kick Summer Camp TM CuppettPAC.com June 29 – August 28, 2020 We provide a fun and safe environment where each camper can grow and achieve according to his or her ability Sign-up for our e-letter! Flying Kick Summer Camp TM June 29 – August 28, 2020 We provide a fun and safe environment where each camper can grow and achieve according to his or her ability Flying Kick Locations Concord Hill School 6050 Wisconsin Avenue Chevy Chase, MD 20815 Weeks of June 29 - August 7 Flying Kick Fitness SUMMER CAMP TM 4711 Chase Avenue BALLET, HIP-HOP, JAZZ/TAP CAMP & MORE! Bethesda, MD 20814 Weeks of August 10 - August 28 JUNE 29 – AUGUST 28, 2020 $50 OFF FOR NEW MEMBERS Ages 4-16, beginners through A black WE PROVIDE FUN belts AND SAFE 8:30-3:15 pm (Aftercare available till 5:30 Extra Fee) ENVIRONMENT WHERE EACH CAMPER CAN GROW AND ACHIEVE ACCORDING LOTS OF FUN!!! TO HIS OR HER ABILITY 301-515-8908 info@commotiondance.com commotiondance.com GERMANTOWN, MD Our Summer Camp is a fun and safe way for children to learn Tae Kwon Do and spend their time in a productive atmosphere. Ages Our 4-16, campers will have a great black time! belts We offer beginners through Tae Kwon Do every day! We will have fun tournaments, dodgeball, board games, 8:30-3:15 pm swimming, team sports, playground time, arts & crafts, weekly field trip to Shadowland (Aftercare available till 5:30 Extra Fee) and other fun activities. Locations The care and safety of each camper is our concern. staff to DAY! camper ratio is TAE utmost KWON DO Our EVERY typically 1:6. It is our goal and responsibility that your children have a safe, enjoyable, Hill School board Concord games, certified swimming, and productive camp experience!! Our Dodgeball, camp is County/State Summer Camp. www.flyingkicktkd.com 6050 Wisconsin team sports, playground time, arts Avenue & Chevy Chase, MD 20815 crafts, weekly fi eld Weeks trip to of Shadowland mail@flyingkicktkd.com June 301-951-0543 29 - August 7 and other fun activities Flying Kick Fitness 4711 Chase Avenue Bethesda, MD 20814 Weeks of August 10 - August 28 Ages 4-16, beginners through black belts LOCATIONS 8:30-3:15 pm (Aftercare available till 5:30 Extra Fee) CONCORD HILL SCHOOL washington family.com/ signup 6050 Wisconsin Ave., Chevy Chase, MD 20815 LOTS OF FUN!!! Weeks of June 29 - August 7 Our Summer Camp is a fun and safe way for children to learn Tae Kwon Do and spend Our campers will have a great time! We offer Tae Kwon Do every day! We will have fun tournaments, dodgeball, board games, 4711 swimming, Chase Ave., team Bethesda, MD playground 20814 sports, time, arts & crafts, weekly field trip to Shadowland Weeks August fun 10 activities. - August 28 and of other their KICK time FITNESS in a productive atmosphere. TM FLYING The care and safety of each camper is our utmost concern. Our staff to camper ratio is typically 1:6. It fl is yingkicktkd.com our goal and responsibility that your children have a safe, enjoyable, 301-951-0543 and productive mail@fl camp yingkicktkd.com experience!! Our camp is County/State certified Summer Camp. www.flyingkicktkd.com mail@flyingkicktkd.com 301-951-0543 WashingtonFAMILY.com  29 CAMP DIRECTORY CHESTERBROOK ACADEMY SUMMER CAMP Ages: 5-12 chesterbrookacademy.com/camp 877-959-3746 Over 20 convenient locations Categories: Sibling Discount, Extended Day, Arts, Educational Activities, Field Trips, Sports ENCORE STAGE & STUDIO – IT’S ELEMENTARY Ages: 4-9  encorestage.org  info@encorestage.org 703-548-1154 Swanson Middle School 5800 Washington Blvd Arlington, VA Categories: Day Camp, Boys & Girls, Extended Day, Drama/Theatre ENCORE STAGE & STUDIO – SCENES FOR TWEENS Ages: 8-12 encorestage.org info@encorestage.org 703-548-1154 Encore’s Main Campus 4000 Lorcom Ln Arlington, VA Categories: Day Camp, Extended Day, Dance, Drama/Theatre ENCORE STAGE & STUDIO – STAGE DOOR & TECH CAMP Ages: 11-15 encorestage.org info@encorestage.org 703-548-1154 Kenmore Middle School 200 S. Carlin Springs Rd Arlington, VA Categories: Day Camp, Teens, Extended Day, Dance, Drama/ Theatre HARMONIA SCHOOL OF MUSIC & ART Ages: 4-18 harmoniaschool.org harmonia@harmoniaschool.org 703-938-7301 204-F Mill St NE Vienna, VA Categories: Teens, Sibling Discount, Extended Day, Arts, Drama, Music B e u s mm t er S v er E “ If you come here, you are going to have a really fun time.” ID TECH Ages: 7-19 iDTech.com 888-709-8324 150 Prestigious Campus Locations iD Tech is the world leader in STEM education, with 450,000 alumni and over 20 years of experience. Students build in- demand skills for futures in coding, game development, robotics, and creative arts. 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 PINECREST PAVILION – PINECREST SCHOOL Ages: 4-12 pinecrestschool.org camp@pinecrestschool.org 703-354-3446 7209 Quiet Cove Annandale, VA Categories: Sibling Discount, Extended Day, Arts, Computers, Cooking, Drama, Educational Activities, Field Trips PRINCESS DANCE CAMP Ages 3-6 Affiliation: Cuppett Performing Arts Center CuppettPAC.com CuppettPACdance@gmail.com 703-938-9019 135 Park St SE Vienna, VA Categories: Day Camp, Girls only, Sibling Discount, Arts and Crafts, Dance, Drama/Theatre, Music. RESTON MONTESSORI SCHOOL Ages: 3-9 restonmontessori.com office@restonmontessori.com 703-481-2922 1928 Isaac Newton Sq W Reston, VA Categories: Extended Day, Arts, Field Trips summer June-August Grades 1-8 drama camps theatrelab.org · 202-824-0449 733 8 th St NW, Gallery Place Metro Matilda F i FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE DMV - Camper register today at whitmansummercamp.com 14131 Seneca Road, Darnestown, MD 20878 30  WashingtonFAMILY  MARCH 2020 n D washingtonfamily.com THE #1 TECH CAMP FOR AGES 7-19 Coding. Game dev. Robotics. Digital arts. This isn’t just a camp. It’s an experience unlike any other. Here, you push past the boundaries of school, finding your squad and bonding over the latest tech. Led by expert instructors, you will build the skills needed to forge a brilliant future. HELD AT 150+ ELITE CAMPUSES INCLUDING: Georgetown | American | Marymount University | UMD Johns Hopkins University - Rockville | Caltech | NYU | Carnegie Mellon Request your brochure today! iDTechCamps.com | 1-888-709-8324 CAPITAL KIDS CAMP 2020 IS DESIGNED TO PROVIDE EVERY DAY PACKED WITH VARIETY, ADVENTURE AND FUN. Camp #1 June 29 - July 3 Camp #2 July 27 - 31 Camp #3 August 17 - 21 Daily Schedule: Early Arrival - 7:15am - 8:45am Camp - 9:00 - 4:00 Late Arrival - 4:15 - 5:45pm Early Registration Discount through May 22, 2020 Sibling Discount: $25 Activities include basketball, soccer, arts & crafts, games and more for children rising to Grade 2-9. Our staff is highly trained, and vetted to make Capital Kids Camp a joyful place to spend the summer and make lasting memories. Please contact us for more details! Capital Baptist Church 3504 Gallows Road • Annandale, VA 22003 (703) 560-3109 x118 WashingtonFAMILY.com  31 THE ST. JAMES SUMMER SPORTS CAMPS Ages: 3-15 camps@thestjames.com 703-239-6870 6805 Industrial Rd Springfield, VA Categories: Day Camp, Boys & Girls, Teens, Sibling Discount, Extended Day, Transportation, Dance, Gymnastics, Sports, Swimming, Yoga 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 TINY DANCERS Ages: 3-8 tinydancers.com Alexandria: 703-729-0900 Fairfax: 703-385-5580 Mosaic: 703-280-5000 Categories: Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Wiggletoes  ■ FIND US ON FACEBOOK: @WashingtonFamilyMagazine​ TWITTER: @FAMILYMagDC PINTEREST: @familymagazine INSTAGRAM: @washingtonfamilymag ® 32  WashingtonFAMILY  MARCH 2020 How to Make FAMILY FUN A COLORFUL YARN WRE ATH H Usher in spring with décor for your front door ave you noticed that you see wreaths everywhere around Christmas, and then they’re suddenly just ... gone? A wreath is such a simple way to make a big décor impact, especially for the tricky-to-decorate front door area. They’re so versatile that it’s a shame to leave them for winter. So I’ve created a colorful, textural design that makes wreaths a very now trend to brighten up your March doorway. And don’t feel limited to the color palette I used. You can incorporate the colors you commonly use in your home décor, experiment with new combinations or let your kids choose their favorite colors. This project is a great opportunity for everyone in the family to express their creativity. Supplies Styrofoam wreath Flexible measuring tape Pen or permanent marker Yarn in a variety of colors, textures and weight Sharp scissors Pom-pom makers in different sizes Glue Crochet hook Wreath hook BY LINDSAY PONTA Instructions 1. Measure the circumference of your Styrofoam wreath. 2. Divide that measurement by the number of yarn colors you’re using to determine the size each section of yarn will be. For example, if your wreath measures 20 inches around and you’re using five different yarns, each yarn section will be four inches. 3. Note the size of each section by marking your wreath with a pen or marker. 4. Tie on your first yarn, and add a dot or thin line of glue to secure the knot and tail. Tip: Start with your thickest, heaviest-weight yarn. You can use that section to gauge how thick to wrap the other sections. 5. Wrap the yarn all the way around the first marked section. 6. When you finish the section, tuck the tail under the wrapped yarn on the back of the wreath, and secure it with glue. 7. Repeat steps 4-6 for each section on your Styrofoam wreath. Tip: If you’re using a thinner yarn, you may need to double or triple wrap it until it’s nearly as thick as the yarn in your first section. 8. Use your pom-pom makers, available at craft stores or Amazon, to create pom poms in a variety of sizes and colors. Tip: Use your larger pom pom makers for thick, heavy yarns and smaller makers for thin, lightweight yarns. 9. Trim pom poms so they’re fluffy and round, leaving the two long tails untouched. 10. Tie pom pom tails around the wreath as tightly as you can. Use the crochet hook to pull tails through the wrapped yarn on the back of the wreath, and secure them with a dot of glue. 11. Repeat step 10 to add a second layer of smaller pom poms. Tip: Don’t tie the second layer as tightly as the first or they’ll smush the larger pom poms. 12. Trim off any excess tails from the back of the wreath, and hang using a wreath hook.  ■ Be sure to share pictures of your wreaths on social media with #washingtonfamilymag so we can see your creativity. Happy crafting, friends! Lindsay Ponta created the DIY and lifestyle website Shrimp Salad Circus in 2009 to inspire busy women to live perfectly imperfect creative lives. Find easy DIYs and recipes at shrimpsaladcircus.com. WREATH PHOTOS: COURTESY OF LINDSAY PONTA; YARN: ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS/VAITEKUNE WashingtonFAMILY.com  33 MONTESSORI DIRECTORY Discovering Montessori MARYLAND THE BETHESDA MONTESSORI SCHOOL bethesdamontessori.com admissions@ bethesdamontessori.com 7611 Clarendon Rd Bethesda, MD Ages: 3-6 301-986-1260 VIRGINIA Montessori School Directory BROOKSFIELD SCHOOL brooksfieldschool.org brksfield@aol.com 1830 Kirby Rd 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 Rd 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 1700 Reston Parkway, Suite 1, Reston, VA 20194 703-478-3656 ♦ cmsreston.com Email bonnieredcms@gmail.com to schedule a tour. THE BETHESDA MONTESSORI SCHOOL 20 RUNNER-UP RUNNER-UP 1 8 For 37 years, teaching ages 3-6 YOUR FAMILY RESOURCE ENROLLING NOW Open House: December 6th from 6:30pm-7:30pm. Extended Day 8am – 6pm 7611 Clarendon Rd. Bethesda, MD 20814 301-986-1260 September 2019 admissions still available, email admissions@bethesdamontessori.com today for a personal tour. www.bethesdamontessori.com 34  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2020 washingtonfamily.com Montessori School of McLean HUNTER MILL MONTESSORI SCHOOL preschoolmontessori.com info@huntermillmontessori.com 2709 Hunter Mill Rd Oakton, VA. Ages: 2 years, 9 months-5 years 703-938-7755 MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF CEDAR LANE preschoolmontessori.com info@cedarlanemontessori. com 3035 Cedar Ln Fairfax, VA Ages: 3-6 703-560-4379 Exceptional Montessori Education for Toddlers through Upper Elementary: Ages 2-12 RESTON MONTESSORI SCHOOL restonmontessori.com office@restonmontessori.com 1928 Isaac Newton Sq Reston, VA Ages: 3 months-Grade 6 703-481-2922 SPRING BILINGUAL MONTESSORI ACADEMY spring-bilingual.org 3514 Plyers Mill Rd Kensington, MD Ages: 2-6 301-962-7262 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-6 years 571-417-3999 ALL THE RIGHT RESOURCES … AT YOUR FINGERTIPS! 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 Foundation for Future Education Sister Montessori preschools, providing Northern Virginia's preschool children with quality education for the past 45 years. 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WashingtonFAMILY.com  35 HEALTHY FAMILY Hand Hygiene 101 How to teach your kids to properly wash their hands The best way to prevent getting sick, whether with pink eye, a cold or even the flu? Wash your hands. f you ask my kindergartener about pink eye, he’ll tell you that it’s caused by touch- ing your butt and then touching your eye. It’s graphic, I know, but it turns out there’s some truth to his disgusting explanation. “Pink eye is caused by a virus same as viruses that cause runny nose and cough and ear infections,” says Dr. Linda Fu, a general pediatrician at Children’s National. It just so happens that the ade- novirus that causes pink eye can be spread through, well, poop. Viruses, including adenovirus, are transmitted when you touch any mucous membrane — eyes, nose or mouth — with germy hands. The best way to prevent get- ting sick, whether with pink eye, a cold or even the flu? Wash your hands. Proper Handwashing Technique One reason why little kids get sick so often is because they aren’t washing their hands properly … if at all. There’s almost always something they’d rather be doing than spending even one more second in the bathroom after using the toilet. So it’s our job as parents to help our kids understand why handwashing is critical, says Dr. Fu. She suggests explain- ing to them that germs make them sick, and if they don’t like being sick, then it’s important to wash their hands. However, successful handwashing requires a bit more time and effort than sim- ply squirting some soap into their palms and rinsing it off. Children (and grown-ups, too) need to rub their soapy hands together for at least 20 seconds — or the time it takes the sing the ABCs — because it’s the lathering that actually reduces the number of germs. Foaming hand washes make it easier for little kids to generate a lather; however, proper handwashing technique is more important than the type of soap. “As long as they’re generating lather and getting all parts of the hand and wash- ing for long enough, any type is fine,” says Dr. Fu. 36  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2020 After 20 seconds of handwashing, it’s time to rinse and dry hands with a towel— but it has to be clean “If you’re using a towel after somebody who hasn’t washed their hands so well then that’s just re-in- fecting the hand,” she says. If you’re unsure whether a towel is clean, you can use a paper towel or, as a last resort, air dry. And, of course, if someone at home is sick, make sure to change out your hand towels frequently. The Moldy Bread Experiment Still need help convincing your kids that proper handwashing can help keep them healthy? Conduct your own version of the hand hygiene experiment that went viral in a Facebook post at the end of last year. To test the cleanliness of their stu- dents’ hands, two elementary school teachers placed five slices of white bread in separate plastic bags and taped them to their classroom wall. The control slice went into a baggie untouched (use clean tongs or turn the bag inside out to pick it up). Three more slices were bagged after being touch by kids with dirty hands, kids who used hand sanitizer and kids who washed with soap and water. The last slice was wiped on a Chromebook before being sealed in a baggie. After a few days, the control slice and the slice handled by kids who had properly washed their hands looked about the same. The hand sanitizer slice had one large mold spot on it, and the slice touched with dirty hands was more than partially moldy. But the grossest slice was the one rubbed on the Chromebook. It was almost completely covered in dark green mold. Dr. Fu hasn’t seen the experiment online, but she isn’t surprised by the results. “Everybody is concerned when they see somebody sneezing near them. But don’t forget, germs can also survive for several hours on surfaces such as Chromebooks,” she says. “Even if you aren’t around some- body who is sick, you may be touching something that has germs on it.” ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS/HUGHSTONEIAN I BY PJ FEINSTEIN HEALTHY FAMILY Almost 10 years ago, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention wrote its own handwashing song to the tune of “Happy Birthday.” Sing it twice from beginning to end: BREAD: COURTESY OF JARALEE ANNICE METCALF /VIA FACEBOOK; ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS/LYSENKOALEXANDER Wash hands well each day To keep germs away Scrub your palms Between the fingers Wash the back Scrub with soap and water And be on your way More recently, two Canadian doctors rewrote the lyrics to “Frère Jacques” to reflect the World Health Organization’s handwashing method: Wash the back Twirl the tips around Scrub them upside down Thumb attack Thumb attack  ■ That’s why Dr. Fu stresses that kids wash their hands before eating in addition to washing them after using the bathroom. And then, the key to preventing illness is to “avoid touching the eyes, nose and mouth throughout the day, especially in the winter when there are so many viruses and germs going around,” she says.  ■ Your Needs. Our Strategy. WHETHER you’re looking to design a custom publication, refresh your website or find other innovative and affordable ways to engage your audience, make us your go-to marketing gurus. + ICE CREAM TRUCK Please contact Jeni Mann, Director of Custom Media, for more information. 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Healthy Child FACEBOOK: @WashingtonFamilyMagazine TWITTER: @FAMILYMagDC PINTEREST: @familymagazine INSTAGRAM: @washingtonfamilymag Dr. Han voted one of the Top Dentists in Northern VA Magazine & VA Living Magazine. • • • • • • • • • • • • Sedations Laughing Gas/Nitrous Oxide Emergency Care Digital X-ray & Technology Free Orthodontic Consultation Sealants White Fillings School Exams Kid PDC s C Fluoride Treatment Firs ome Early Orthodontics t Cleanings Check up exams * No Referrals Required Accepting all major insurances and Smiles for Children www.mypdcdentists.com Pediatric Dental Care Fairfax office: 9901 Fairfax Boulevard, Fairfax, VA 22030. Springfield office: 6120 Brandon Ave. Suite 114, Springfield, VA 22150 WashingtonFAMILY.com  37 HEALTHY FAMILY Distorted Lens Improving messages that shape a child’s body image BY COURTNEY MCGEE Together, all parents can fight back against the negative messages. Informed parents can promote healthy habits and lifestyles and cultivate positive body image for everyone in the family. Feed kids good sense “Kids see and hear everything, and that’s how they make sense of the world,” says Sadeh-Sharvit. They can internalize the statements and messages we make through our words and actions. “It is important to make sure what we ‘feed’ our kids, at dinner and through messages, is healthy.” And negativity inevitably trickles down to children. Parents should try to avoid speaking too harshly about calories and weight or making appearance-based comments, suggests Sadeh-Sharvit. “If parents talk negatively about bodies—even if only talking about their own body, their own silhouette and their own aesthetic goals—kids hear it all.” 38  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2020 Risks for girls and boys Criticism seems stronger related to females, so parents tend to focus more worry on girls, but boys can also be sub- jected to negative body image. In general, body standards for boys do cover a wider range in shape, weight and appearance than girls’ perceived ideals. But a 2016 study in the Journal of Pediatrics found that among children ages 9 to 14, more than half of girls and boys were dissatisfied with their body shape. And it begins even younger than that, according to Sadeh-Sharvit. She notes that studies have shown when children as young as 3 were given Barbie and Bratz or Ken and Hulk type dolls to play with, they quickly internalized the standards of beauty. Many preschool-aged girls and boys expressed negative body image after playing with dolls that exhibited an idealistic physique. But dolls are just one aspect among the barrage of ads, television programs, maga- zines and people around us every day that display the distorted views of our culture when it comes to body goals. There is an abundance of unrealistic standards and criticism for those who can’t meet them. The impact of social media For kids who are a bit older, does social media stir the pot? “Social comparisons have been always an immanent part of interpersonal interactions. The interest in what other people are experiencing and doing and com- paring ourselves to them is what makes us human,” notes Sadeh-Sharvit. Social media provides even more opportunities for weight stigma and body dissatisfaction. “Many of the girls, boys and adults I work with tell me that they feel worse after watching other people’s posts, espe- cially when they wear bathing suits, look tanned or are very muscular. I recommend my clients to reduce their social media consumption and to consider unfollowing ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS/ALTRENDO IMAGES A new year is well under way, and spring is looming on the horizon. How have you fared with your resolutions? Many of us used the turn of the decade to mark intent to change day-to-day routines and make self-care a priority. Overall, those motivations are very positive. A new year presents fresh opportunity to evaluate our lifestyle and set healthy goals. Often, those goals stem from our body image. Perception drives our mood when it comes to body image. We all know that bodies are different in size, shape and functionality. But the way we perceive our bodies in comparison with others can be complicated. When parents want to change the way they look and set unrealistic goals, or if they want to impose dramatic changes in diet or nutrition on a family, it’s import- ant to tread carefully. Shiri Sadeh-Sharvit, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist specializing in body image and eating behaviors. She is also co-author of the book, “Parents with Eating Disorders: An Intervention Guide,” an evidence-based, practical manual that aims to prevent dis- ordered eating from being passed down through generations. HEALTHY FAMILY The pediatrician can check BMI and devel- opmental growth curves to determine if there are any abnormalities, stunted growth, increased weight gain or other things going on. Puberty can be an especially tricky time for self-image, and the pediatrician can help reassure your child that the changes they are going through are normal phases. A pediatri- cian visit can also be a great opportunity for a non-parent authority figure to chat with kids and get a feel for whether their percep- tion of their own appearance is healthy. If it is not, they can help create a plan to guide Opportunity and intervention Sadeh-Sharvit reminds us that it’s abso- your child to a happier, healthier self-image. lutely natural for kids to notice body differences and feel inclined to point them Model healthy messages out. “When kids start to talk about appear- Girls as young as 5 sometimes talk about ance, it can present opportunity to address dieting or restricting foods, saying that if health and nutrition, and that is a good they eat sweets they should walk around thing.” But if the concerns seem driven by the block afterwards, etc. Those ideas are a child’s self-criticism or the criticism of most likely mirroring what they hear at others, if a child becomes less social, if hab- home. In examining your child’s views on its change dramatically or if a parent gets a body image, be prepared to hear that some gut feeling that self-consciousness is going of what is driving their self-criticism is too far, it is good to talk about it with your coming from you—from the things you say child’s pediatrician. and do, even unintentionally. or ‘muting’ accounts that make them feel negatively about their bodies and their rela- tionships,” Sadeh-Sharvit says. “This is a huge concern that I wish more parents would discuss with their kids.” It comes down to recognizing where the risks are, communicating and making the most of the positives. “Let’s not forget that social media could also be an avenue for activism and for connecting with people and groups that support body positivity,” she adds. “Parents certainly aren’t likely to try to sabotage a child’s self-esteem, but it’s always a good idea to take a personal inventory of the way you model health ideals,” Sadeh- Sharvit says. “Parents can reinforce positive health ideals—micronutrients, what it is to be healthy, diverse food consumption (kids need carbs), a focus on being strong and healthy and confident.” Help kids discover how capable and awe- some their bodies can be by finding outlets for activity that suit the child’s individual interests and personality—whether it is through organized sports, fitness classes or just running around and climbing at the park. Encourage them to realize that their body is designed to do amazing things when they make healthy choices to fuel it thoughtfully and move it regularly.  ■ Courtney McGee is a freelance writer, cancer warrior, runner/triathlete and compulsive Candy Crusher. She lives in Towson with her husband and their three children and high-maintenance rescued hound dog. March 15, 2020 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Bender Jewish Community Center of Greater Washington 6125 Montrose Road, Rockville, MD 20852 in the Wasserman Gymnasium Reserve your booth today! Contact your Washington Jewish Week sales consultant at 301-230-2222, ext. 4, or advertising@washingtonjewishweek.com RSVP for a chan ce to win 125! $ SimchaAnd Celebration sE Eventbrite.c xpo2020. om Presented by To be eligible to win the $125 prize you must RSVP and also register at the event. WashingtonFAMILY.com  39 YOUR SPECIAL CHILD Gifted With Learning Disabilities What it really means to be twice-exceptional N ow and then throughout my son’s childhood, I wondered whether something was amiss. For example, the way he wrote certain letters seemed odd, like starting at the bottom of a “p,” where I would start at the top. He often couldn’t follow what I thought was a clear a series of instructions, such as “Go upstairs, get your homework, put on socks.” He’d start a freehand drawing, scribble a few lines, then seem to lose interest. I knew he was smart; he started reading at age 2. So when it came to his penman- ship, I figured he’d work it out. When he couldn’t follow instructions, I assumed he just wasn’t paying attention. When he seemed disinclined to draw, I hoped he’d find other hobbies. Then in fifth grade his academics started to sputter—a sprinkling of Cs and Ds among the As. I reached out to his teachers, the school learning specialist and finally, a neuropsychological testing service. They diagnosed him with attention deficit dis- order (ADHD), executive functioning and motor-sensory integration challenges and also giftedness. That was the first time I heard the term “twice-exceptional” or 2E used to describe someone who is gifted and has learning dis- abilities. Once I realized I was raising a 2E, I knew had to change how I parented, so I reached out to Paul Rubenstein, a Maryland- certified therapist with degrees in special education and clinical social work. Although he’s my son’s therapist, he’s helped me, and my son, rebuild the way my son must approach tasks both at home and at school. “Children who are 2E are often mis- understood and often misunderstand themselves,” says Rubenstein, whose own son read at a college level in fourth grade but couldn’t tell time until he was 14. “Imagine what that feels like from the inside out: a brain that moves at supersonic 40  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2020 speed in one area but at a snail’s pace in another.” But 2Es are hard to spot. “Sometimes giftedness camouflages learning challenges, sometimes attentional problems mask superior cognitive ability,” says Rubenstein. He suggests parents faced with what they feel is an underachieving child shouldn’t just assume the child is slacking. Rather, they should ask themselves, “What’s going on with my kid?” “If parents are baffled by a child who has terrific ability but underperforms, it’s wise to consider why this happens rather than relying on the intangible and relatively use- less bromide of ‘just try harder,’” he says. In Rubenstein’s experience, a child who seems capable beyond her years but can’t write a coherent sentence, or who completes his homework but never turns it in, is prob- ably not lazy or unmotivated. The biggest clue that a child is twice-exceptional is if the child is bright but just can’t seem to perform as their intellect indicates they should. While parents should ask “why” a child is struggling, Rubenstein says schools must ask the “what” and “how” questions. Simply knowing that students can be both gifted and learning disabled goes a long way. Because 2Es can have such a broad range of gifts and disabilities, he urges schools with whom he works to look at the indi- vidual child’s strengths, learning styles and specific needs for accommodation. Unfortunately, 2Es are frequently under identified and their struggles often dismissed because their giftedness can make their roll- ercoaster grades or erratic performances look like laziness. This puts them at risk for depression, anxiety, underachievement and social withdrawal. “Parents and schools can mitigate much of the stress and anxiety by identifying kids who are 2E and naming the complexities of being both gifted and learning disabled,” says Rubenstein. ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS/GPOINTSTUDIO BY AMY L. FREEMAN YOUR SPECIAL CHILD Meanwhile, the newly diagnosed 2E child might have emotional issues to unpack, as they work to recalibrate their own self-worth. “2E kids have a lot of knowledge about themselves that’s often hard to express,” says Rubenstein. A 2E’s inability to easily do what they see their peers doing, or what they think they should do, can cause intense distress, as they struggle with heavy pressure to perform and as they try to dig out from having been labeled as “slacking off.” I remember the day I tiptoed into my son’s bedroom to share his diagnoses with him, worried the label would upset him. Instead, he punched a fist in the air and shouted, “I knew it wasn’t my fault!” With new supports in place, he’s improv- ing, albeit more slowly than he (or I) wants. But at least now, if someone tells him he needs to “try harder,” he can tell them he needs to “try differently.”  T Amy L. Freeman’s bylines include The Washington Post, Parents.com, HuffPost, GoodHousekeeping.com and many others, including the 2018 Writer’s Resist Anthology. She divides her time between freelance writing and serving as Development Director for The Writer’s Center in Bethesda, MD. “If parents are baffled by a child who has terrific ability but underperforms, it’s wise to consider why this happens rather than relying on the intangible and relatively useless bromide of ‘just try harder.’” See how far your heart can reach this year! —PAUL RUBENSTEIN ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS/VICHIENPETCHMAI 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 Volunteer with Meals on Wheels of Central Maryland. Call Emily Trotter at: 443 573-0925 Central Maryland. 0($/6 OF CENTRAL MARYLAND ™ More than a meal ^^^TLHSZVU^OLLSZTKVYN Call Emily Trotter at: 443-573-0925 WashingtonFAMILY.com  41 YOUR SPECIAL CHILD Depression and Disability What parents and caregivers need to know BY ERICA RIMLINGER According to the Journal of Pediatrics, 3.2 percent of children between the ages of 3 and 17 have been diagnosed with depression. Is having a disability a risk factor for depression? Not all disabilities are the same and we can’t generalize the risks of mental health comorbidities. There are not many studies specifically investigating the mental health of individuals with intellectual disabilities beyond prevalence reporting. We are see- ing more studies coming out on autism, but we lack the lifelong trajectory data on individuals with mental health problems. The National Institute of Mental Health estimated in 2017 that approximately 19 percent of all adults over 18 in the U.S. live with mental illness. They do not separate disability from that number. 42  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2020 Are children with autism at greater risk for depression? There have been conflicting studies on this. Yes, the results are conflicting because it depends on the population’s language and cognitive function. It reflects the difference between those who are able to communicate their depressive symptoms and the ones who are unable to do so. Research is less inclusive of the lower functioning individuals with regards to mental health. How can parents tell the difference between the expected mood changes of childhood/teenage years and a mood disorder? We need to keep a closer eye on our adoles- cents with disabilities as the symptomatology might be subtle. Parents are the best advocates for their children. They are the first to notice a difference in mood or behavior. When that happens, it is a priority to consult with their primary care doctor to rule out any condition that can be addressed that might affect behav- ior. We often see ear or urinary infections that present with behavioral changes. We should never assume a situation is behavioral or primary to the disability. If there is a concern that seems more severe or there is no identifiable physical cause, the time to take action is as soon as possible. We should not let the stigma of a psychiatric evaluation get in the way of seeking mental health support. What experience or qualifications should a parent seek in a mental health practitioner if their child has autism? It depends on what you are trying to address. It should be a psychologist who uses evidence-based treatments that have been studied in autism or in the specific difficulties that are the target for treatment ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS/NADEZHDA1906 D epression in all children, with or without a disability, remains preve- lant. According to a study published in the March 2019 issue of the Journal of Pediatrics, 3.2 percent of children between the ages of 3 and 17 have been diagnosed with depression. Adolescents with disabilities, particularly those with autism, have a higher risk for depression, multiple studies have found. However, those studies vary widely on how much higher this risk may be. Further complicating matters, developmental dis- abilities and autism spectrum disorders can mask the signs and symptoms of depres- sion—or at least the ability to report one’s symptoms. This makes making it more difficult to detect depression or anxiety in a child, not just for researchers, but for parents and families as well. Washington FAMILY spoke with Dr. Carmen López-Arvizu, medical director of the Kennedy Krieger Institute’s psychiatric mental health program, about this issue. López-Arvizu treats individuals with psychiatric illness in the context of developmental disabilities and is also a faculty member in the department of psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Hospital. YOUR SPECIAL CHILD such as anxiety, depression or poor social skills. If the patient is not verbal and the goal is to address challenging behaviors, you will need a behavioral psychologist. If you don’t know where to start, seeing a neurologist, a developmental pediatrician or a child psychiatrist who has experience in treating individuals with autism can be helpful, as they can guide you on the more specific treatment approaches indicated for the presenting problem. Is there a difference in the way depression is diagnosed in kids with disabilities? The criteria are the same. The difference is in how to ask the questions that represent the symptoms. It takes experience and tact to do a full review of symptoms. Diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions in per- sons with developmental disabilities can be challenging and has to be adapted to the indi- vidual. Limitations in their ability to self-report symptoms of mental distress may mean that healthcare needs can go unrecognized and unmet. Healthcare professionals report feeling unqualified and uncomfortable caring for patients with disabilities. Disability edu- examples are the lack of adequate social cation should be part of cultural competency interactions and feelings of exclusion and accessibility to the world in general. requirements in medical education. Literature has shown individuals with cere- Is there a difference in treatment? bral palsy and comorbid neurodevelopmental Psychopharmacological treatment is similar. disorders have a higher risk of mental health Much more difficult is to find clinicians who disorders. However, a diagnosis of CP or are educated or willing to learn about this another developmental disability alone brings population. We notice this more when psy- a higher risk for inadequate access to health chotherapy is indicated. Trained clinicians care and health screenings, trauma from abuse, who understand disabilities, either physical neglect or intrusive therapeutic procedures, —for example, spina bifida or cerebral poverty related to unemployment and under- palsy—or cognitive, like intellectual impair- employment and social isolation stemming ment or autism, are very rare. At Kennedy from communication difficulties, transporta- Krieger Institute, we are lucky to have them, tion barriers and limited social opportunities. but families report this is a barrier to obtain All these factors can be treatable and modi- fiable to avoid their contribution to primary treatment or even an initial evaluation. depression or anxiety. We still have much to do. We know that Are there preventative steps community support, standards of living parents of kids with disabilities and working conditions and opportunities, can take to forestall depression? Yes, to a degree. We know social environ- as well as political and economic factors, ments are increasingly being recognized affect access to care for identification and as contributors to poor mental and physi- treatment of mental illness. However, one determinant of positive out- cal health. Environmental contributors are highly relevant to the health of persons with come is family involvement and advocacy. developmental disabilities. Well-identified They can make all the difference.  ■ Parenting isn’t easy, but there are strategies that can help. Find support and resources at familytreemd.org/flip or our 24-hour Parenting HelpLine at 800-243-7337. WashingtonFAMILY.com  43 BOOK MARKED 12 Children’s Books About Art and Creativity Some people use their creativity to rebel against bullies, some use it to avoid bedtime. From smushing clay to trying stand-up, these recent releases feature characters exploring art and creativity in a wide-range of activities and situations, sparking plenty of imagination in readers of all ages. BY JENNIFER ROTHSCHILD, COLLECTION ENGAGEMENT LIBRARIAN, ARLINGTON PUBLIC LIBRARY YOUNG READERS ‘Rafi and Rosi Music’ By Lulu Delacre Even though they’re tree frogs, Rafi and Rosi still deal with normal sibling tensions. Luckily their shared love of Puerto Rico’s music and dances gives them common ground in their relationship. PICTURE BOOKS ‘Beautiful Shades of Brown: The Art of Laura Wheeler Waring’ By Nancy Churnin and Felicia Marshall Growing up, Laura didn’t see many paint- ings of people who looked like her. When By Jenny Pinkerton she became an artist, she spent hours mix- A blob of clay becomes a ball, a snake, a flower ing different shades of browns to use in and more as it gets smushed and coiled and her paintings. Pair this book with a trip played with in this fun board book. to the National Portrait Gallery to see her work in person. ‘Friday Night Wrestlefest’ ‘Vera Vance: Comics Star’ ‘Play with Clay’ By JF Fox, illustrated by Micah Player Bedtime has never been as much fun as this playful wrestling match between Dangerous Daddoo and his kids Peanut Brother and Jellyfish. Things really get going when Mama-Rama and Big Bald Baby enter the ring. Vera loves her after-school program about making comics, but her mother isn’t sure of its educational value. Although Vera has a hard time saying what she wants, she finds her voice in the comics she creates. ‘Pitter Pattern’ MIDDLE GRADE Lu notices patterns everywhere she goes — from the diamonds on the wallpaper to the notes in a song. Young readers will love looking through the illustrations to see all the patterns they can find, too. ‘The Mystwick School of Musicraft’ By Joyce Hesselberth 44  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2020 By Claudia Mills, illustrated by Grace Zong By Jessica Khoury All Amelia wants is to be a Maestro — the most powerful magical musicians — and the Mystwick School of Musicraft is the first step. Happy BOOK Birthday, MARKED Ezra Jack Keats! But when she finds out she was admit- ted by mistake, she has two months to prove she belongs. ‘The Boy Who Became a Dragon’ By Jim Di Bartolo This graphic novel biography is a great introduction to martial artist and movie star Bruce Lee. A child actor, he was known for getting into fights until he enrolled in martial arts school. He combined his talents for a successful career until his early death. ‘Me and Banksy’ By Tanya Lloyd Kyi Dominca’s school has a new state-of- the-art security system, but someone is leaking footage online to embar- rass students. When the teachers don’t seem overly concerned, Dominica and her friends launch a Banksy-inspired protest while searching out the bully. YOUNG ADULT ‘The Plain Janes’ By Cecil Castellucci, illustrated by Jim Rugg After moving to the suburbs, Jane befriends several other girls with the same name and they start a guerrilla art group to change their lives and town. This reissue combines the orig- inal 2007 release, 2008’s “Janes in Love” and a brand-new story. ‘Crying Laughing’ By Lance Rubin Winnie knows she’s funny, but after a disastrous stand-up set at her bat mitz- vah, she’s given up performing. She reconsiders her stance when asked to join the school improv team, finding a place to laugh when other aspects of her life start to spin out of control. ‘Playlist: The Rebels and Revolutionaries of Sound’ By James Rhodes, illustrated by Martin O’Neill A classical pianist, Rhodes introduces readers to composers and music that may initially seem dull, showing how they lived their lives like rock-stars and how their work laid the musi- cal foundations for everything that came after.  T Each month we celebrate a birthday of literary significance Ezra Jack Keats was born in Brooklyn, New York, on March 11, 1916. As a young child, Keats loved the arts and spent most of his time drawing and painting. At the age of 8, he entered the workforce, earning a living as a sign-painter. As time went by, Keats continued to perfect his craft and received several awards for excellence in art, which served as much needed motivation in an industrial world. Following graduation and the sudden death of his father, Keats committed himself to becoming an artist. He was hired to illustrate a number of children’s books, leading him to coauthor the children’s book “My Dog Is Lost!” with Patt Cherr in 1960. The first book he wrote and illustrated himself, “The Snowy Day,” was one of the only books of its time to feature a child of color as the protagonist. It won the Caldecott Medal in 1963. Keats’ books are renowned for their multiracial characters and inner-city sceneries. Born to a Jewish family during the Great Depression (his given name was Jacob Ezra Katz), Keats understood the hardships caused by poverty and cultural discrimination and wanted every child to feel included in his stories. His life work embodies his dedication to illustrating the lives of children who are often underrepresented in literature. Keats wrote 22 children’s book and illustrated 85 children’s books, including “Whistle for Willie,” “Peter’s Chair,” and “Pet Show.” In 1980, Keats was awarded The University of Southern Mississippi Medallion for outstanding contributions in the field of children’s literature. He died on May 6, 1983 at the age of 67.   T —MAYA HENRY WashingtonFAMILY.com  45 MOM LIFE Meet Suann Song BY PJ FEINSTEIN What do you love about the work you do? I’m so fortunate to have my dream job. I have loved paper, design and organization (yes, organization!) for as long as I can remember. And the fact that I get to create products and a brand that revolves around those three things is pretty great. OCCUPATION: Founder and Creative Director of Appointed LIVES: Chevy Chase, MD WORKS: Ivy City, D.C. HUSBAND: Eugene Hong CHILDREN: Ike, 13 and Novie, 2 We’re looking for local parents who are juggling multiple priorities, including work, passion projects or hobbies, to feature in our new Mom/Dad Life column. Send your nominations to editor@washingtonfamily.com. 46  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2020 What’s something your family loves to do together? We love to travel. Whether it’s an overnight trip within driving distance or flying to the beach, both of my kids love to travel and a good hotel! We usually squeeze in a trip every other month, and we take one inter- national trip a year—last year it was Japan. Close-by, we like to go to Philadelphia or New York by train. We also recently drove to Pittsburgh, which has a great children’s and science museum and great food. This spring break we’re looking forward to flying to Panama City, Florida, and visiting Rose- mary Beach, which is a very charming and quaint beach town. What do you love about being a mom? I have two kids—a 13-year-old boy and 2-year-old girl—so each day is very dif- ferent, busy and full. And sometimes it gets to be a lot while running a grow- ing company, but I do love having such a full life and being able to create a happy and healthy home life for my kids. How do you take care of your mental and physical health? Running and yoga are essentials for me. I What’s something that makes try to attend at least one yoga class a week. juggling motherhood and your Down Dog Yoga in Georgetown and Core career a little bit easier? Power Yoga in Tenleytown are my favorite; I try to have a flexible work schedule. I leave I consider Core Power’s Yoga Scupt class the office at 4 p.m. every day so that I’m able a perfect workout. And I run three times a to pick up my kids from school. I’ve come to week. It’s my favorite time to both unwind realize and accept that you can’t do it all and and think. I come up with some of my best you have to make concessions to make both ideas for work while running. My favorite work, and that it’s OK. place to run is through Rock Creek Park. What do you love about raising kids in the D.C. area? I think D.C. is one of the best areas to raise kids. I love the accessibility and the diver- sity in activities for both my toddler and teenager. For our toddler, we love Imagina- tion Stage, Nook (which just opened a new location closer to us in Bethesda) and the National Zoo. With our teenager, we explore D.C.’s great food scene and try to catch a good play or show at the Kennedy Center or Warner Theater. We also love the schools that our kids go to and feel very fortunate for the education they are able to have here. What are five things you can’t live without? iPhone, notebook, coffee, snacks (nuts, chocolate and Puree Juice for me, and gra- nola bars, goldfish crackers and trail mix for the kids) and a good book. I recently finished Bob Iger’s “The Ride of a Lifetime” and highly recommend it. What would you do if you had one hour without any responsibilities? A manicure! That’s a luxury that I usually get around to doing a couple of times a year.  ■ Read our extended interview with Suann Song at washingtonfamily.com. NOMINATIONS HAVE STARTED 20 2 0 Nominate your favorite people, places and things in the DMV! The winners are chosen by popular vote, so let your friends know it’s time to cast their ballot. As a business, share with your audience to help you win the title of “Best” in your category! Nominations close March 9 Voting for the winners starts 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 Tough for more information jmann@midatlanticmedia.com Mini Golf is for Everyone! 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