CAMPS GUIDE PAGE 18 washingtonFAMILY.com MARCH 2022 Sm a r t. Loca l. Pa re nt ing for t he DMV. Integrating the Arts in Education Camps Airy & Louise 100th Anniversary Encourage Your Child’s Love for Reading CONTENTS CAMPS AIRY AND LOUISE LIUKOV/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS MARCH 2022 Two camps. One legacy. Camps Airy and Louise celebrate 100 years. Pg. 12 FEATURES DEPARTMENTS 12 06 CAMPS AIRY AND LOUISE Two well-loved summer camps prepare to celebrate their 100th anniversary. 16 S UMMER CAMP FAMILY STYLE Learning and leisure shape dynamic recreation experiences for parents and kids. 26 I NTEGRATING THE ARTS INTO YOUR CHILD’S EDUCATION Incorporating the arts into academic studies benefits student learning. 30 CELEBRATE READING Learn how to foster the value of literacy and reading in your family. DIRECTORIES 18 24 SUMMER CAMPS FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT READERS’ RESPONSES WE WANT YOUR FEEDBACK We welcome your feedback — on specific articles, overall themes and anything else related to editorial content. Enter your comments on the Feedback tab of our website: info@washingtonfamily.com. TOP 10 MARCH CALENDAR Plan your family’s fun this month. 08 EDITOR’S PICKS Discover what products we’re loving for families. 10 DIY Create cute leprechaun handprints. 11 PARENT YOU SHOULD KNOW Meet U.S. Marine Officer Olaolu Ogunyemi. 34 INCLUSIVE FAMILY Sensory-friendly arts experiences abound in the DMV. 35 HEALTHY FAMILY Learn ways to foster friendships between siblings in the family. 36 BOOK MARKED Good books inspire readers to unleash their creativity. 38 MY TURN A Washington chocolate shop co-owner shares tales of her family’s history and heritage in a new historical children’s novel. Please note we reserve the right to edit or refrain from publishing comments we deem inappropriate. WashingtonFAMILY.com  3 OUR TEAM EDITORIAL Michael Vyskocil, Editor mvyskocil@midatlanticmedia.com MARCH 2022 VOL. 30, NO. 3 WashingtonFamily.com/ 301-230-2222 Craig Burke, Publisher Jeni Mann Tough, Associate Publisher ©2022 Washington FAMILY. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of information, products or services. The publisher reserves the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with this publication’s standards. All rights reserved. 11459 Cronhill Drive, Suite A, Owings Mills, MD 21117. 2021 2021 Overall Writing 2021 Overall Design Publisher’s/ Editor’s Note Sales Consultants Lisa Gaglia Alan Gurwitz Pam Kuperschmidt Leenika Belfield-Martin, Staff Writer Jodi Lipson lbelfield-martin@midatlanticmedia.com David Pintzow Alex Krutchik, Staff Writer Sara Priebe akrutchik@midatlanticmedia.com Mary Ramsdale Kim Coates Schofield Lindsay VanAsdalan, Staff Writer Stacie Shapero lvanasdalan@midatlanticmedia.com Sylvia Witaschek Contributors MARKETING Megan Conway, Elena Epstein Julia Olaguer Rudy Malcom, Mimi Markopoulos Audience Development Coordinator Jeanette McCune, Ginger Park BUSINESS Jacqueline Renfrow Pattie-Ann Lamp Maranda L. Schoppert Accounting Manager ADVERTISING 410-902-2300 Craig Burke, CEO/Publisher plamp@midatlanticmedia.com CIRCULATION 301-230-2222, ext. 1 CREATIVE Jay Sevidal, Art Director Rachel Levitan, Art Director Paul McGuigan, Graphic Designer James Meskunas, Digital Media Manager Carl Weigel, Graphic Designer MID-ATLANTIC MEDIA Craig Burke, CEO/Publisher cburke@midatlanticmedia.com Jeni Mann Tough, Associate Publisher jmann@midatlanticmedia.com cburke@midatlanticmedia.com 2021 2021 2021 Briefs/ Short Stuff News Feature Feature Layout 2021 2021 Single-Page Design Profile 2021 Column: Family Fun 2021 2021 Personal Essay Q & A Interview 2021 Feature Layout EXPANDING PRIMARY PROGRAM CAMP GUIDE INSIDE washing tonFAMI LY.com FEBRUARY 2022 Smart. Local. Parenting for the DMV. a EXPLORE • WONDER • GROW Super Summer at Camp Camp Fairs February 5 & 19 Page 16 Heart-Healthy Habits to Teach Your Child Now DIY Your Valentine’s Day Advertise in our April Issue! HEALTH & FITNESS/SPORTS Now Enrolling Ages 2 to 6 Toddler Program • Before & After Care Montessori Kindergarten & Preschool Advanced Academic Curriculum McLean, VA • 703-356-5437 • www.brooksfieldschool.org 4  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2022 Easter & Passover Events, Sports, Camp and more news that parents need. EMAIL us at advertising@ washingtonfamily.com OR CALL us at 301-230-2222, EXT. 2 LOCAL. PARENTING PARENTING FOR FOR THE DMV. SMART. SMART. LOCAL. THE DMV. Print | Digital | FIRST WORD Awakening Arts in Education T Michael Vyskocil Editor mvyskocil@midatlanticmedia.com Facebook @WashingtonFamilyMagazine​ Twitter @FAMILYMagDC Pinterest @familymagazine Instagram @washingtonfamilymag Email us Let us know what’s on your mind. info@thefamilymagazine.com hinking back to your childhood days, you may remember dedicated classes for art in school. You created art projects and took them home for mom and dad to admire, but then what? Did your teachers ever try bringing art concepts into math, science or social studies? Arts integration into academics may seem like a stretch to make happen, but research about its positive effects on student learning is promising. Thanks to initiatives such as Changing Education Through the Arts (CETA) through The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, educators can benefit from arts-based learning tools to enhance their curriculum. Our feature story by contributor Jacqueline Renfrow (see “Integrating the Arts Into Your Child’s Education,” page 26) examines the impact of arts-integrated learning on children’s educational development. In celebration of March as National Reading Month, contributing writer Megan Conway explores ways Live Virtual Tour & Info Session Thursdays at 10 a.m. you can nurture your child’s love for reading (page 30). We’re also thrilled to share the story of another significant celebration. Camps Airy and Louise kick off their 100th anniversary celebrations this summer (page 12). Learn about the enduring legacy of these Jewish camps that cultivate camp relationships among children from across the DMV and beyond. As we prepare to welcome spring later this month, our Top 10 calendar (page 6) and a cool leprechaun handprint craft you can make with your kids (page 10) offer plenty of inspiration for family fun. Don’t forget to sign up for our newsletters at washingtonfamily.com. We have many more stories like these in this issue to share with you. Happy reading!  P “my growth as an actor was immediately evident” ********** On-site Tours Available Why have families moved across the country specifically for their children to attend Nysmith? We provide PreK -8th graders with a life-altering educational experience taught by teachers whose passion inspires students. Our unique program makes it possible for children to work four grade levels ahead in both Math and Reading. Our 1:9 teacher-to-student ratio with classes of 18 or less allow our exceptional teachers to devote the time to those children who need to fill in any academic gaps caused by Covid. Accepting Applications for Enrollment We Make A World-Class Education A Joy-Filled Experience Grades 3-6 Greek myth plays this March! Acting Camps in Tysons Summer & Spring Break SMALL BY DESIGN • AWARDED FOR EXCELLENCE Sleep Away Acting Camps 1 hour from DC; grades 3-12 Preschool-8th Grade 13625 EDS Drive Herndon, VA Nysmith.com 703-713-3332 travelingplayers.org • 703-987-1712 • Visit Our Tysons Corner Studio WashingtonFAMILY.com  5 CALENDAR BY LINDSAY C. VANASDALAN Youth arts, entertainment and more are in store for your family this month. 1 2 THROUGHOUT THE MONTH THOMAS AND FRIENDS: EXPLORE THE RAILS Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends from the Island of Sodor are at Visiting Exhibit Hall this month at the National Children’s Museum. Children ages 2-7 will learn how to lend a helping hand, from sorting and shape identification to more complex engineering activities. This exhibit runs through May 15. Free with $15.95 museum admission nationalchildrensmuseum.org THROUGHOUT THE MONTH CAKE TIME: DIY CAKE DECORATING Let your child experiment with fondant, buttercream, sprinkles and candy at all-ages open studio sessions for cake or cupcake decorating Wednesday through Sunday at Cake Time in Chantilly, Virginia. Choose flavors and decorations in advance or build as you go. Tickets start at $25. caketimediy.com MARCH 4-6 DINOSAUR ADVENTURE D.C. Explore life-sized dinosaurs—and even ride your favorite—along with fossil crafting, Jurassic jeeps and themed obstacle courses in this all-ages event at the DC Armory. Families will discover more than 80 dinos to meet and greet. Dino-mite! Tickets start at $25. dinosauradventure.com 4 5 3 THROUGHOUT THE MONTH ABOVE & BEYOND HUNT Shh! Let me tell you a secret. The Mansion on O Street Museum in Washington has 70 secret doors. Can you find them? Join your family on the hunt for special items and win prizes while learning some history. Children 17 and younger must be supervised. Tickets are $40. omansion.com MARCH 5 WAX AND WICKS It’s family crafting time at Guy Mason Recreation Center in Washington. Learn the candle-making process from an expert and make a custom soy-wax scented candle to take home. Reserve your spot in this DC Department of Parks & Recreation creative workshop. Tickets start at $10. dpr.dc.gov 6  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2022 1: FLICKR; 2. HOBO_018/E+; 3. DML5050/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS; 4. DINOSAURADVENTURE.COM; 5. TARZHANOVA/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS TOP 10 Family Events for March 6. GMU.EDU; 7. IMAGINATIONSTAGE.ORG; 8. CAT: SURA NUALPRADID/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS; GIRL, NEVODKA/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS; 9. JURE/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS; 10. STEPHANIEFREY/ ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS 6 7 MARCH 4-13 RILEY O’BRIEN AND THE LOST LEPRECHAUN Hold on to your lucky charms! The Encore Stage & Studio children’s theatre presents a brand-new show in the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day at the Gunston Arts Center Theatre in Arlington. Pre-order snack options are available for $5 each. Tickets start at $12 encorestageva.org 8 MARCH 11-31 “MOTHER GOOSE” Experience the magic of nursery rhymes with puppets and props in this new music-filled show at Imagination Stage in Bethesda from the creators of “Wake Up,” “Brother Bear” and “Mouse on the Move.” Children ages 1-5 will learn the value of doing things together as they join in each rhyme’s story. Tickets are $12. imaginationstage.org MARCH 20 FAMILIES OUTSIDE: SIGNS OF SPRING HIKE MARCH 12 KIDS CAT YOGA You’ve heard about downward dog for yoga? How about some feline stretches? Children ages 10-18 can find their zen with the kitties of Patriot Pawsabilities Cat Lounge in Fairfax, Virginia. The special event by Warrior Kids Yoga offers an hour of yoga and 30 minutes to visit new furry companions afterward. Tickets are $25. warriorkidsyoga.com Spring is in the air, and what better way to start exploring what the season will bring than with a hike through the John G. Hayes Forest Preserve in Rockville? Children ages 3 and older will enjoy this excursion led by a Croydon Creek Nature Center naturalist. Registration is required. Tickets start at $5. rockvillemd.gov MARCH 26 9 KIDS & FAMILY TEA PARTY WITH CAROLINE HELM It’s tea time! Learn about tea herbs in the Fox Haven Organic Farm, Ecological Retreat and Learning Center garden in Jefferson, Maryland. A tea tasting and recipe swap will follow. This event is suitable for ages 6 and older. Tickets start at $7; $2 from each ticket sale supports indigenous land restoration. foxhavenfarm.org 10 PayYourNanny.com We’re here to help families Payyournanny.com provides payroll and tax compliance services to household employers (703) 819-9796 byudd@payyournanny.com payyournanny.com (703) WashingtonFAMILY.com  819-9796 (703) 819-9796 7 EDITOR’S PICKS HERE’S WHAT WE’RE LOVING FOR KIDS THIS MONTH PJ Library Presents Podcasts: “Afternoons with Mimi” and “Beyond the Bookcase” Discover two new podcasts from the beloved organization that has shared free children’s books with Jewish values throughout the world. Well- known tales come to life in a fun new way that connects kids to Jewish traditions, culture, holidays and values. “Afternoons with Mimi” is designed for younger kids, and “Beyond the Bookcase” is suited for kids ages 6 to 12. Free, pjlibrary.org/podcast SENSVECTOR/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS BY ELENA EPSTEIN, DIRECTOR OF THE NATIONAL PARENTING PRODUCT AWARDS For more product reviews, visit nappaawards.com Come see why we won Best Restaurant! WINNE R Come see why we won 1 BEST O 02 2 WINNE R F Best Restaurant WINNE R 2 years in a row! A neighborhood Italian restaurant using the freshest ingredients, serving our guests with “out of this world” hospitality www.gregoriostrattoria.com POTOMAC 7745 Tuckerman Lane 301-296-6168 BETHESDA 4611-A Sangamore Rd 301-347-6830 RESTON 1428 N. Point | Village Ctr 703-689-4894 Jump Into Summer Fun! At Early Learning Academies, we’re turning up the heat on learning, laughing, exploring and connecting! REGISTER TODAY: elacommunity.com 8  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2022 Early Learning Academies Sign-up for our e-letter! washingtonfamily.com/enewsletter/ “The Lively Forest” written by Ginalina; illustrated by Kelley Wills What do you see? What do you see? It’s “The Lively Forest” — wild and free. This book by award-winning children’s writer Ginalina presents a story on second nature rooted in the diversity of the West Coast forest biome and the joy of outdoor community. $15, ages birth-8, beautifulworldbooks.com “Little Hero’s Journal” Children are guided through a 13-week journey of self-discovery. From daily challenges that promote developing new skills to the weekly habit tracker that helps them create routines, kids can use the “Little Hero’s Journal” to develop a growth mindset and self-esteem. $25, ages 7+, bestself.co “You Are Magic” Through the 15 songs on their debut album, “You Are Magic,” July Mees and her dad Jared explore the silly and sensitive sides of childhood. Dig deeper into emotions and explore concerns for modern kids through music. $10, ages 3-9, tenderlovingempire.com Preschool Genius This set of dry-erase activities and games offers a genius twist. The set has questions that give kids a deeper engagement with learning. $27.95, ages 3-6, amazon.com WashingtonFAMILY.com  9 DIY Make a L eprechaun Handprint BY MIMI MARKOPOULOS G ive me all the rainbows, pots of gold and green. It’s OK to craft up a fun St. Patrick’s Day decoration even if you aren’t Irish. St. Patrick’s Day observes the death of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. St. Patrick’s Day marks a celebration of Irish culture with parades, special foods, music, dancing and a lot of green, and I encourage sharing all of these parts with your children. This year, my kids wanted to craft some lucky leprechaun magic together. We used our hands and a few pieces of cardstock to make these adorable leprechaun handprints. DIRECTIONS Cut a smaller square from the black 1. Place your child’s hand on the manilla cardstock and glue the square to the cardstock. Make a hand tracing on the middle of the gold glitter cardstock square cardstock with a pencil. to make the perfect leprechaun hat buckle. 2. Let your child cut out the tracing 6. Use the black marker to make two with scissors. dots under the brim of the hat for the 3. Use the orange marker to color the top leprechaun’s eyes. part of the hand and fingers only; leave the 7. Glue the orange pompom underneath the palm uncolored. brim of the hat and between the eyes to 4. Make the leprechaun’s hat by cutting out make the cutest leprechaun nose. a hat shape from the green cardstock. Cut out a strip from the black cardstock. Glue Enjoy this creative way to craft with your kids! n the black strip onto the hat cutout. 5. To make the buckle, cut a square shape from the gold glitter cardstock. Glue the XO, square over the black strip on the hat. Mimi E AT RIAL S Man cardsto illa Black ck card stock Pencil Glue Scissors Gold Orange cards glitter tock marker Black m arker Green Ora cardsto ck pom nge pom 10  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2022 ART: SKOMOROKH/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS; KIDS PHOTO: MIMI MARKOPOULOS M PARENT YOU SHOULD KNOW Olaolu Ogunyemi U.S. Marine officer teaches children about bullying and self-worth in new children’s book laolu Ogunyemi was not always the strong and confident leader he is today. This first-generation American of Nigerian heritage had to learn how to be comfortable in his skin when other children did not understand his culture or how to pronounce his name. He drew strength from his parents, especially his father—who arrived in Alabama during the 1970s—and later moved with his family to Louisiana. “Some of the big things that my dad always tried to stress to (my siblings and me) was we need to always work hard,” he says. “There’s a time for work, and a there’s time for play.” Education and family were also important— “knowing that no matter what happens, you always should be there for your family.” These three tenets would shape Ogunyemi as an author, Marine and teen mentor. His newest book, “Billy Dipper’s Time to Shine,” which addresses bullying and self- worth, published last month. Look for his other books at parent-child-connect.com . we have to get to understand what (kids) are going through before we can lead them anywhere. Understand it and be empathetic How do you balance parenthood toward them. Understand that they’re all with your career? I think one thing I like to say is I view time different and we have to lead them accordingly. as one of our most precious nonrenewable resources. I have to make every minute What can you share about your count. When I’m at work, I make those new book? minutes count. When I’m at home, I make My new book is all about self-worth and those minutes count. (It’s) making sure that understanding the value that you bring to the we’re able to—when we’re spending time people around you. In the book, you have a together—I’m actually present and I’m not character who is faced with bullying, and he bringing work issues into the home. has to learn how to overcome that adversity to truly understand the value that he provides— not only to his family but to everybody. That How have your experiences as a included the bully. Marine, an author and a mentor influenced you as a parent? I believe that some of the things that we learned in the Marine Corps such as investing time with people—we always talk about being a “people-first” organization and ensuring that you have the loyalty and ability to understand what your Marines are going through—helped me as a teen mentor and with raising children. Just a simple fact that TITLE Communications Officer for the U.S. Marine Corps, Quantico, Virginia; active duty; rank: captain FAMILY Brea (wife), Brilee (12), Jacob (8) and Eniola (3) FAMILY MEAL Tacooooo Tuesday! INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE “Only one can determine my future. That one is me!” | “Crow From the Shadow” by Olaolu Ogunyemi PIECE OF ADVICE Show kindness and respect to everyone you meet. BOOK TO READ TOGETHER Other than my own books, we love reading the “Dog Man” novel series. the back—specifically for the older (children). They’re called Continue the Conversation courses that allow parents to continue the narrative and continue the topics in both books, and they can get to understand the child’s perspective and what the child is comprehending from the book. They can tailor that and make it a teachable moment between them and the child. What’s the one thing you hope your children learn from you and your career? You can do whatever you put your mind to, and you have the power to choose your destiny. My career has been nothing short of phenomenal because I’ve been blessed with great opportunities by people who actually looked Your books are about fostering family connections. In what ways out for me. It’s been a wonderful chance to can parents and children connect both lead Marines professionally in the Marine Corps, and when I decided to finally publish through these narratives? The first thing is sitting down with the child. my first book, it’s a great experience to grow in Reading is the most important thing that we that aspect and continue to push forward with can do—just to have that conversation with providing other parents the resources they them. In all three books, I put resources in need to connect with their children.  n WashingtonFAMILY.com  11 PHOTO COURTESY OLAOLU OGUNYEMI O BY LINDSDAY C. VANASDALAN Two Camps. One Legacy. Camps Airy and Louise kick off their 100th anniversary celebration this summer BY LINDSAY C. VANASDALAN M ark Fine recalls the most memorable moments of his experience at Camp Airy with humor. During his first summer as a counselor in 1996, he got caught in a huge downpour at a Hagerstown Suns minor league baseball game as he and another counselor huddled around 10 campers to keep them safe. “Those 8-year-olds were in this small circle, where Erin (a counselor) and I were holding hands and shoulders just to keep them in place while it was truly downpouring for a good 15 minutes when we finally got them into the bus,” he says. Despite a less than ideal situation, this experience drove home the greatest strength of the camp: its relationships. Bonding experiences bring everyone together, and they are the memories that last a lifetime. Of course, many delightful stories—more recently, trendy obsessions with Sheetz and Royal Farms or camp songs created by kitchen staff—remain among the bonds of the campers who share them. Longtime camp alumni Mark and Kim (Hyatt) Fine share their memories along with leaders at Camps Airy and Louise—Jewish overnight brother-sister camps marking the beginning of their centennial celebrations this summer. They all shed light on why these camps have endured for so many years. Traditions The camps started with a vision from founders Aaron and Lillie Straus. During the 1920s, the couple discovered a need for an outdoor respite from Baltimore’s cramped working conditions for young Jewish women. Camp Louise for girls was founded in Cascade, Maryland, in 1922. Camp Airy 12  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2022 for boys followed in 1924 in Thurmont, Maryland. The camps provided an opportunity for Jewish immigrants to bond with their peers. Located 8 or 9 miles apart in the Catoctin Mountains of western Maryland, these camps were also affordable. “Our camps were founded on a basis that no Jewish child who wanted a camp experience shouldn’t be able to come due to economic reasons,” says Lauren Perlin, the camps’ director of development. That commitment has endured today. The Awesome Fund campaign awards more than $400,000 to families annually and continues to receive its support from the Straus Foundation. These efforts support enduring traditions that have been a significant part of the camp appeal since the beginning, including Friday night folk dances and Shabbat. “These kids are counting down the days from the moment they leave camp until the following summer. It’s pretty remarkable the impact that we could have.” —Alicia Berlin, director, Camp Louise Sometimes, these experiences were campers’ primary connection to their culture. “The songs, the prayers and the values—a lot of that I learned at camp more so than Hebrew school,” says Mark’s wife, Kim, whose association with the camp began as a camper in 1989. With few Jewish peers where he grew up in Salisbury, Mark—whose Camp Airy bonds started as a camper in 1987—formed his Jewish identity at camp. Although they didn’t realize how important these connections were at the time, relationships are one of the reasons the Fines send their children to camp today. Connections Camp activities now include more diverse options, but the essence of camp remains the same. “Camp is still, I think, at its core—then and now—about walking around, goofing around and laughing with your bunkmates and your friends,” says PHOTOS: PROVIDED BY CAMPS AIRY AND LOUISE; MARK AND KIM FINE WOOD BACKGROUND: NUIIKO/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS PHOTO FRAME: AS CREATIVE ATELIER/DIGITALVISION VECTORS WashingtonFAMILY.com  13 Mark a nd Kim Fine a ppear Mallor with their y dur daug hter in at Ca g her first y mp Lo uise in ear 2016. Camp Airy Director Marty Rochlin. Starting as a camper in 1984, Rochlin has served many roles at Camp Airy, including counselor, unit leader and assistant director. Camp friendships like the ones formed at Airy and Louise are unique. The individuals one meets at camp were the friends who became partners, lifelong friends and wedding guests. “I think you come back (to camp each year) because you meet these awesome kinds of best friends that are different than the friends you make at home,” he says. These friendships ground Kim’s family. Camp is a tie to her Pikesville roots every summer, despite her family’s frequent moves to support Mark’s career. “It just makes us feel like we’re never going to lose our connection to where we came from,” she says. Why connections blossom at camp have much to do with the camp environment: summer the extended stay, screen-free zone and safe space with no judgments. Single- gender camps also reduce social pressure. “We’re teaching the boys how to have healthy relationships, how to be mensches and how to be kind and gentlemen,” Perlin says. “We’re teaching the girls how to be strong.” Generations Campers often return year after year. They now represent third-, fourth- and fifth- generation campers—a heritage which also makes for a dynamic experience. “They’re swimming in the same swimming pool, they’re eating in the same dining hall or they’re singing the same songs that we sang at Shabbat in the ’30s that we’re singing (now),” Perlin says. Families enjoy returning for the nostalgia. With little turnover in leadership, parents trust sending their children there, says Camp Louise Director @ chesterbrook academy 2022 For campers ages 5-12 years REGISTER TODAY OR VISIT US ONLINE TO LEARN MORE! • • • • • Sports & games Exciting STEM activities Arts, crafts, music, dance & drama Field trips & events Kindergarten enrichment program Locations throughout the Washington metro area ChesterbrookAcademy.com/Camp 877-959-3746 CBA_WashingtonFamily_Camp_Mar22_7x4.725.indd 1 14  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2022 1/31/22 1:10 PM Alicia Berlin. She began in 1980 as a camper and has served as CIT, counselor, unit leader and assistant director during her 30 plus years at Camp Louise. She adds that the camp experience is even more meaningful to come back as staff. “These kids are counting down the days from the moment they leave camp until the following summer. It’s pretty remarkable the impact that we could have,” Berlin says. Celebrations The footprint of Camps Airy and Louise has extended throughout the country and overseas, and the 100th anniversary celebrations will reflect these connections as well. Along with in-house celebrations for Louise and Airy in 2022 and 2024, respectively, a virtual “toast from coast to coast” will take place in 2023. A joint camp gala is also planned for October 2023. Being able to celebrate the longevity of a camp in the wake of isolation from a global pandemic is significant. This anniversary draws to the forefront the importance of camp connections. Berlin agrees. “We always say camp is needed more than ever—especially right now.”  T https://codewizardshq.com/summer/ WashingtonFAMILY.com  15 Summer Camp Family Style Learning and leisure shape dynamic recreation experiences for parents and kids W hile winter weather may still linger in the mid-Atlantic region, now is a perfect time to look ahead to summer. Warmer temperatures and sunny skies will soon welcome children as they flock to summer camps for fun and relaxation. But while we may often think of summer camps as something exclusively for kids, many experiences exist for families. BY ALEX KRUTCHIK Camp Alleghany Elizabeth Shreckhise, director of Camp Alleghany in Caldwell, West Virginia, says its family camp provides a similar experience. Families can enjoy activities together while immersed in nature. The camp, which costs $85 per night for an adult and $42.50 per night for children, has evening activities every night that range from a movie night to a scavenger hunt or a similar activity. Shreckhise says that these family camps allow families to opt out of any activities they want and try a plethora of different offerings. Attendees can enjoy leisure time in the camp’s river all afternoon if they want, or they can pick up a new skill by trying archery or arts and crafts. “The family camp is really designed to be a family experience,” Shreckhise says, “like a vacation with your family.” Families at Camp Alleghany sleep in Schedule a Spring visit today! WELCOME TO CAMPS AIRY & LOUISE We are the only brother-sister Jewish overnight camps in the country, and we’re celebrating 100 years of non-stop summer fun! Spaces are filling up fast! airylouise.org airlou@airylouise.org 16  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2022 Located in the Catoctin Mountains, we provide activities ranging from the anticipated (Swimming, Sports, Arts & Crafts) to the out-of-this world (Parkour, Extreme Sports, Outdoor Adventure)! First year camper incentives available. Group Tour Dates: March 13 at 1pm & 3pm April 24 at 1pm & 3pm May 22 at 1pm & 3pm airylouise.org/request-a-tour tents accommodating up to five people. “There’s a combination of getting this beautiful outdoor experience of tent living, but your meals are provided for you, and there are activities around to do,” she says. Camp Blue Ridge Camp Blue Ridge calls Montebello, Virginia, home. Associate director Julie Minnick says their camp, organized by the Seventh Day Adventist Church, consists of four individual weeks, from check-in on Sunday to checkout Friday morning. During this week, campers can participate in family worship in the mornings. The camp provides a pastor who leads the worship services and a themed worship book. Afterward, families are welcome to participate in several hours of open activities, including canoeing, swimming, and paddleboarding. Evenings at Camp Blue Ridge typically consist of a group family activity, such as water Olympics. Minnick says that Camp Blue Ridge is suited for a family experience and staff are very passionate about providing families opportunities to play and worship together “in a beautiful environment” while trying to promote family unity, playing together and enjoying the outdoors. The family camp option offers families a large amount of flexibility, she says. Parents can spend time with their children at camp, but they can still choose to do their desired activities from time to time. “Maybe mom and dad want to go on a hike, but the kids want to go swimming,” Minnick says. “That’s totally fine. It’s great because the families don’t have to feel pressured to be with their kids the entire time.” What makes Camp Blue Ridge unique, Minnick says, is the setting in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. The camp, priced at $168 for those 13 years or older and $142 for ages 5 through 12, doesn’t have cell service, which Minnick said helps to hone in on the camp’s “be still and know” theme. “We are very passionate about immersing our guests in creation,” Minnick says, “and that’s what we have to offer here. It’s just absolutely gorgeous property. We’re surrounded by the beauty of creation.” Family Camps at Chincoteague Bay Field Station The family camps at Chincoteague Bay Field Station on the eastern shore of Virginia offer families the opportunity to explore aquatic wildlife. Education director Anne Self says that the unique part of CBFS is its location. “Barrier islands are a super unique ecosystem that offer anything from a bayside to an oceanside to a forest environment,” she says. “We have a diverse group of programs that we’re able to offer because of the environment that we’re in.” Self says that CBFS is home to many species of fish and crabs, including blue crab and spider crab. Campers can also see many diamondback terrapins turtles and the occasional shark. Campers can participate in different aquatic activities such as otter trawling, which involves pulling a big net behind a boat, and seine netting, which consists of dragging a long net through the water. Self says her favorite part of the camp is seeing families find their love for nature. “They might know that they like nature,” she says, “but I really love seeing that moment as soon as they find their first organism or as soon as they touch the mud for the first time. I feel like we get so many of those lightbulb moments of this genuine wonder and excitement about the natural world. It is so fulfilling to see.” P PHOTOS COURTESY CAMP ALLEGHANY, CAMP BLUE RIDGE AND CHINCOTEAGUE BAY FIELD STATION WashingtonFAMILY.com  17 SUMMER CAMPS DIRECTORY W ith each new milestone that our children reach comes the need for information to guide them (and us) through this stage. This point 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, parents can find many options. Use our summer camp listings presented here to learn more about the camps, what they offer and the ages they serve. Visit WashingtonFAMILY.com for even more listings to help you in your search. Be sure to check our website and our digital issues for more stories about camps for your children. Good luck! Here’s to a great summer. SUMMER SPORTS CAMPS DEDICATED TO THE BEST SUMMER EVER U LT I MAT E S PO R T S C AM PS ADVE N T U R E & G AM I N G C AM PS S P O R T S PEC IALT Y C AM PS JUNE 6–AUGUST 26 FULL & HALF-DAY CAMPS | AGES 6-15 THESTJAMES.COM/CAMPS 680 5 I N D U STRI AL ROAD | S PRINGF IELD, VA 22151 | 703.239.6870 18  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2022 SCAN TO REGISTER DAY CAMPS MARYLAND JUPITERIMAGES/CREATAS/GETTY IMAGES PLUS ATMTC ACADEMY SUMMER CAMPS Ages: Grades 1-12 adventuretheatre-mtc.org registrar@adventuretheatre-mtc.org 301-251-5766 837 D Rockville Pike Rockville, MD 20852 Traditional day, day camps, coed camps, musical theater, fine arts CAMP ACCOMPLISH Ages: 5-18 melwood.org/recreation-programs/camp recreationcenter@melwood.org 301-870-3226 9035 Ironsides Road Nanjemoy, MD 20662 Day camp, residential camp, boys and girls, teens, sibling discount, transportation, arts and crafts, cooking, drama and theater, educational activities, field trips, horseback riding, music, overnight camping, spe cial needs, sports, swimming and yoga CAMP SHEEO – SHEEO ACADEMY Ages: 7-16 beasheeo.com/camp contact@beasheo.com Check website for locations in Maryland 866-697-4336 Girls only; educational activities CHESTERBROOK ACADEMY SUMMER CAMP Ages: 5-12 chesterbrookacademy.com/camp 877-959-3746 More than 20 convenient locations Sibling discount, extended day, arts, educational activities, field trips and sports IMAGINATION STAGE SUMMER CAMPS Ages: 3 ½-18 imaginationstage.org/camps/ summer-camps registration@imaginationstage.org 301-280-1660 4908 Auburn Ave. Bethesda, MD 20814 Drama, theater INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF MUSIC Ages: 3-12 ismw.org; info@ismw.org 301-365-5888 10450 Auto Park Ave. Bethesda, MD 20817 Drama, music MANOR MONTESSORI SUMMER CAMP manormontessori.com/summer-camp 10500 Oaklyn Drive Potomac, MD 20854 11200 Old Georgetown Road Rockville, MD 20852 5450 Massachusetts Ave. Bethesda, MD 20816 Educational activities, arts, music, swimming and sports SILVER STARS GYMNASTICS Ages: 3 ½-15 gosilverstars.com classregistration@gosilverstars.com 301-589-0938 2701 Pittman Drive Silver Spring, MD 20910 301-352-5777 14201 Woodcliff Court Bowie, MD 20720 Gymnastics SPRING BILINGUAL MONTESSORI SUMMER CAMP Ages: 2 1/2-6 spring-bilingual.org info@spring-bilingual.org 301-962-7262 3514 Plyers Mill Road Kensington, MD 20895 Sibling discount, extended day, arts and educational activities 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 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 WashingtonFAMILY.com  19 BROOKSFIELD SUMMER CAMP Ages: 3-10 brooksfieldschool.org camp@brooksfieldschool.org 703-356-5437, ext. 2 1830 Kirby Road McLean, VA 22101 Melwood’s CAMP ACCOMPLISH! An inclusive summer camp for kids with and without disabilities in Southern Maryland. Activities include: CAMP GRIFFIN AT WESTMINSTER SCHOOL  Swimming Ages: 3-14 westminsterschool.com/campgriffin campgriffin@westminsterschool.com 703-340-7268 Westminster School 3819 Gallows Road, Annandale, VA 22003  Sports  Crafts  Horseback riding  Ropes courses  Performing arts Day camp, boys and girls, sibling discount, extended day, arts and crafts, cooking, dance, field trips, music, sports, swimming and travel  Paddle boats and canoeing Transportation is offered from multiple jurisdictions for no additional fee. Programs run from June 19, 2022 - August 26, 2022. LEARN MORE AT WWW.MELWOOD.ORG/CAMP 2 0 2 2 Extended day, arts, CIT, cooking, dance, educational activities, field trips, hiking, horseback riding, music, sports, swimming, yoga CAMP MSNV - MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA msnv.org/page/programs/summer-camp 703-256-9577 6820 Pacific Lane Annandale, VA 22003 Extended day camp 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! CAMP SHEEO – SHEEO ACADEMY Ages: 7-16 beasheeo.com/camp contact@BEaSheEO.com Check website for various locations in Virginia 866-697-4336 Girls only, teens, educational activities CHESTERBROOK ACADEMY SUMMER CAMP Ages: 5-12 chesterbrookacademy.com/camp 877-959-3746 More than 20 convenient locations Sibling discount, extended day, arts, educational activities, field trips and sports CONGRESSIONAL CAMP Ages: 4-14 congocamp.org info@congocamp.org 703-533-0931 School Affiliation: Congressional School 3229 Sleepy Hollow Road Falls Church, VA 22042 Day camp, boys and girls, extended day, transportation, arts and crafts, CIT program, computers, cooking, field trips, horseback riding and swimming N OMIN A HAVE S TIONS TARTE D Nominations close March 6 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 online and tell us what you think! washingtonfamily.com/bestforfamilies Print | Digital | 20  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2022 Contact Jeni Mann Tough for more information jmann@midatlanticmedia.com HARMONIA SCHOOL OF MUSIC & ART Ages: 4-18 harmoniaschool.org harmonia@harmoniaschool.org 703-938-7301 204-F Mill St., NE, Vienna, VA 22180 Teens, sibling discount, extended day, arts, drama, music MASON GAME & TECHNOLOGY ACADEMY – GEORGE MASON UNIVERSITY Ages: 9-18 mgta.gmu.edu mgta@gmu.edu 703-993-7101 10900 University Blvd., Bull Run Hall 147, MS 1J2 Manassas, VA 20110-2203 Teens, computers, cooking and other educational activities. MEDSTAR CAPITALS ICEPLEX Ages: 4-14 medstarcapitalsiceplex.com info@MedStarCapitalsIceplex.com 571-224-0555 627 N. Glebe Road, Suite 800 Arlington, VA 22203 Coed, sports programs MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF MCLEAN Ages: 3–6 years (must be potty trained) mcleanmontessori.org 703-790-1049 1711 Kirby Road McLean, VA 22101 Day camp, boys & girls, educational activities PINECREST PAVILION AT PINECREST SCHOOL Ages: 4-12 pinecrestschool.org camp@pinecrestschool.org 703-354-3446 7209 Quiet Cove Annandale, VA 22030 Sibling discount, extended day, arts, computers, cooking, drama, educational activities and field trips RESTON MONTESSORI SCHOOL Ages: 3-9 restonmontessori.com office@restonmontessori.com 703-481-2922 1928 Isaac Newton Square West Reston, VA 20190 Extended day, arts and field trips It's Camp Time ROER’S ZOOFARI – JUNIOR SAFARI SUMMER CAMP roerszoofari.com 703-757-6222 1228 Hunter Mill Road Vienna, VA 22182 Educational activities Register now for spring and summer! The whole Lab is reserved for campers Single-day spring break camps and week-long summer camps SUMMER DANCE CAMP AND INTENSIVE AT THE CENTER FOR BALLET ARTS Ages: 3-adult thecenterforballetarts.com ctrbalarts@aol.com 703-273-5344 3955 Pender Drive, Suite 105 Fairfax, VA 22030 Teens, sibling discount, arts and crafts, dance and drama Choose from five fun themes per season, including Slimey Science, STEM Detective, & more! childsci.org/camps TRAVELING PLAYERS 1961 Chain Bridge Road Tysons, VA 22102 703-987-1712 info@travelingplayers.org Traveling Players brings out the best in every performer. Acting day camps are taught in our Tysons Studio; sleepaway camps are one hour outside Washington. VIRGINIA BALLET COMPANY & SCHOOL Ages: 3-adults vaballet.org vbcinfo@vaballet.org 703-249-8227 5595 Guinea Road Fairfax, VA 22032 Fantasy Ballet Camps, classes and Summer Intensives, ballet, modern, contemporary, jazz, character, tap, conditioning and more. VBC has many exciting opportunities for dancers of all ages this summer to condition, create and explore. The Summer Intensive program is an exciting opportunity for advanced, junior and elementary-level dancers. The program, available daily or weekly with new Saturday and evening options, trains dancers in various disciplines, with an emphasis on classical ballet technique. VBC’s Fantasy Ballet Camps are designed to capture the creative spirit of our youngest dancers, with morning, afternoon and full-day options. These ballet-themed camps for the youngest dancers allow students to explore movement in ballet and creativity with themed craft projects and exposure to the music of classical composers. Adult classes and Master Class workshops for advanced and junior levels with VBC faculty and guest artists offer a range of opportunities for individuals to continue their passion or discover a new one. Are You ready for the best summer ever? REgister now for a summer of discovery, friendship & outdoor Fun! Camp Horizons is a sleep-away camp for kids, ages 6-16 Less than 3 hours away in Virginia’s beautiful Shenandoah Valley 540.896.7600 • www.cAmphorizonsva.com SPORTS BROADCASTING CAMP BALTI MORE · JUNE 20-24, 2022 WASHINGTON D.C. · JULY 25-29, 2022 HOST YOUR OWN SPORTS SHOWS, LEARN FROM TOP PROFESSIONALS, HAVE FUN WITH FRIENDS, AND SO MUCH MORE! ages 10-18 (800) 319-0884 | INFO@PLAYBYPLAYCAMPS.COM WWW.PLAYBYPLAYCAMPS.COM WashingtonFAMILY.com  21 WASHINGTON, D.C. CAMP EDCJCC June 27–August 12, 2022 WE'RE HIRING! Seeking school-year and summer camp staff APPLY TODAY 1529 SIXTEENTH STREET, NW WASHINGTON, DC 22  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2022 CAMP ARENA STAGE Ages: 8-16 arenastage.org/camp camp@arenastage.org 202-600-4064 Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School 1524 34th St. NW Washington, DC 20024 Camp Arena Stage is where community and art make magic. Campers ages 8-16 choose activities in theater, dance, music, visual art, filmmaking, writing and more, taught by professional artists and educators. Two- and three-week in-person sessions begin in July at Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School. Day camp, boys and girls, teens, sibling discount, extended day, arts and ONENESS-FAMILY SCHOOL SUMMER PROGRAMS Ages: 2-8th Grade onenessfamily.org/summer summer@onenessfamily.org 301.652.7751 6701 Wisconsin Avenue Chevy Chase, MD 20815 Day camp for preschool-middle school students, hiking, swimming, arts & crafts, water play, field trips, & theater program crafts, dance, drama and theater, music SMITHSONIAN ASSOCIATES summercamp@si.edu 202-633-CAMP 1100 Jefferson Drive SW Washington, DC 20560 Smithsonian Summer Camp is back. With both in-person and online options, Smithsonian Associates brings the Smithsonian’s ever- expanding world to life. Camps are offered for kids in first through 11th grades. THE THEATRE LAB Grades 1-8 theatrelab.org/camp contact@theatrelab.org 202-842-0449 900 Massachusetts Ave. NW Washington, DC 20001 Boys and girls, teens, extended day, drama and theatre experiences OVERNIGHT CAMPS BURGUNDY CENTER FOR WILDLIFE STUDIES Ages: 8-15 burgundycenter.org bcwsdirector@burgundyfarm.org 703-842-0470 3700 Burgundy Road, Alexandria, VA 22303 Summer Location: Capon Bridge, WV 26711 Hands-on workshops with art and nature themes CAMP HORIZONS Ages: 6-16 camphorizonsva.com camp@horizonsva.com 540-896-7600 3586 Horizons Way Harrisonburg, VA 22802 Residential camp, boys and girls, teens, sibling discount, arts and crafts, cooking, dance, drama and theater, hiking, horseback riding, music, overnight camping, photography and swimming CAMP KIRCHENWALD Grades: K-12 kirchenwald@lutherancamping.org 717-964-3121 1 Cut Off Road Lebanon, PA 17402 Summer location: Lebanon County, PA Residential camp, outdoor adventures RAWPIXEL/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS DAY CAMPS drama, educational activities, hiking, horseback riding, riflery, ropes course, swimming, tennis, tubing, zip line CAPITAL CAMPS Second-12th grades capitalcamps.org 301-468-2267 12750 Buchanan Trail East Waynesboro, PA 17268 Join us for the Jewish overnight camping experience of a lifetime! We empower campers of all abilities to lead while cultivating their boundless curiosity. From splashing in the lake to the glowing warmth of the campfire and throughout the entire spirited summer, Capital Camps is a wondrous playground for the mind, body and soul. CAMP TALL TIMBERS Ages: 7-16 camptalltimbers.com info@camptalltimbers.com 301-874-0111 1115 Reflection Lane High View, WV 26808 Residential camp, sibling discount, transportation, aerial adventure park, archery, arts, canoeing, CIT program, dance, TRAVELING PLAYERS 1961 Chain Bridge Road Tysons, VA 22102 703-987-1712 info@travelingplayers.org Traveling Players brings out the best in every performer. Acting day camps are taught in our Tysons Studio; sleepaway camps are one hour from Washington. n SUMMER NATURE CAMP Explore West Virginia mountains with a dynamic, knowledgeable staff. Active days full of variety and laughter. Hike, swim, and hunt for birds, butterfl ies and salamanders. Small groups and independent projects. Non competitive approach. American Camping Association accredited. for more information: bcwsdirector@burgundyfarm.org Capon Bridge, WV b u r g u n d yc e n t e r. o r g BASIS INDEPENDENT McLEAN Our camps offer many exciting options for your child to explore fun activities, master new skills, make new friends, and bring out their best. This is their time to shine! EXPLORE OUR SUMMER OFFERINGS TODAY ‡ mclean.basisindependent.com WashingtonFAMILY.com  23 FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT DIRECTORY Whether you’re planning an after-school activity or a Saturday morning outing with your family, the DMV provides plenty of resources to make the time you spend with your little ones educational, engaging and enjoyable. Discover some of the best family-friendly attractions and experiences offering dynamic family entertainment to suit you and your child’s interests. LURAY CAVERNS 101 Cave Hill Road Luray, VA 22835 540-743-6551 luraycaverns.com Specialty: Tours of largest caverns in the eastern United States, museum exhibits and family-friendly rope adventure park TALK OF THE TOWN EVENTS 14650 Southlawn Lane, Suite 23 Rockville, MD 20850 301-738-9500 tottevents.com Specialty: Interactive entertainment, inflatable activities, moon bounces, inflatable obstacle courses for events and parties ENTERTAINMENT COMPANIES MAD SCIENCE WASHINGTON, D.C. 12065 Tech Road Silver Spring, MD 20904 301-593-4777 dc.madscience.org Specialty: In-person science-themed workshops correlated to Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C. curriculum standards; in-person stage shows; in-person birthday parties PRINCESS PARTIES OF DC 301-848-9935 princesspartiesdc.com Specialty: Offers professional singing princess and superhero characters for events serving Northern Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C. THE GREAT ZUCCHINI! 202-271-3108 thegreatzucchini.com Specialty: Preschool and kindergarten entertainer with more than 20 years of experience making kids laugh DAY TRIP DESTINATIONS BUTLER’S ORCHARD 22222 Davis Mill Road Germantown, MD 20876 301-428-0444 butlersorchard.com Specialty: On-site family farm park, seasonal festivals, seasonal pick-your-own opportunities and seasonal farm market 24  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2022 FUN LAND 5111 Westfields Blvd. Centreville, VA 20120 1351 Central Park Blvd. Fredericksburg, VA 22401 540-785-6700 funlandfairfax.com funlandfredericksburg.com Specialty: Indoor amusement facility featuring mini-rides, go-karts, arcade games and rock wall climbing OUTDOOR ATTRACTIONS LEESBURG ANIMAL PARK 19246 James Monroe Highway Leesburg, VA 20175 703-433-0002 leesburganimalpark.com Specialty: Birthday party venue, family-friendly zoo activities and programs, live animal zones, play zones for kids, exotic animal exhibits ROER’S ZOOFARI 1228 Hunter Mill Road Vienna, VA 22182 703-757-6222 roerszoofari.com Specialty: Field trips, birthday parties and experiences for groups, private zoo tours RECREATION CENTERS BIG BLUE SWIM SCHOOL Locations in Chantilly, Dulles and Falls Church 703-433-2020 bigblueswimschool.com Specialty: Big Blue Swim School offers swim lessons for kids ages 3 months to 12 years to teach the skills needed to feel confident in the water. BRITISH SWIM SCHOOL Multiple locations in the DMV britishswimschool.com Specialty: British Swim School provides survival and learn-to-swim lessons for ages 3 months to adults. Highly trained swim instructors, award- winning curriculum and fun, gentle methods to learn to swim. CABIN JOHN ICE RINK 10610 Westlake Drive Rockville, MD 20852 301-765-8620 montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/ cabin-john-regional-park/cabin-john- ice-rink Specialty: Ice skating and ice hockey classes DANCER: PROXYMINDER/E+; SKATER: NATA_SNOW/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS; CHILD: LEN4FOTO/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS INDOOR PLAY FACILITIES and camps, special events and skating exhibitions, public skating sessions DOMINIQUE DAWES GYMNASTICS & NINJA ACADEMY 22530 Gateway Center Drive Clarksburg, MD 20871 240-690-4138 dominiquedawesgymnasticsacademy .com Specialty: Homeschool, preschool, ninja and recreational classes, children’s parties MEDSTAR CAPITALS ICEPLEX 627 N. Glebe Road, Suite 800 Arlington, VA 22203 571-224-0555 medstarcapitalsiceplex.com Specialty: Figure skating, hockey and skating lessons and instruction, public skate, pick-up hockey, stick-n-shoot THE ST. JAMES 6805 Industrial Road Springfield, VA 22151 703-239-6870 thestjames.com Specialty: Sports programming for kids, group fitness, personal training, health and wellness THEATER EXPERIENCES ADVENTURE THEATRE & ATMTC ACADEMY Box Office: 7300 MacArthur Blvd. Glen Echo, MD 20812 301-634-2270 Academy: 837 D Rockville Pike Rockville, MD 20852 301-251-5766 adventuretheatre-mtc.org Specialty: Children’s theater classes and programs, student-led productions, youth theater performances ENCORE STAGE & STUDIO Spring productions performed at Gunston Arts Center 2700 S. Lang St. Arlington, VA 222060 703-548-1154 encorestageva.org Specialty: In-person camps and classes, theatrical performances for families THE NATIONAL THEATRE 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW Washington, DC 20004 202-783-3370 thenationaldc.com Specialty: Community Stage Connections program, Saturday Morning Live! activities and events for youth, Teens Behind the Scenes educational experience Youth & Teen Art Camps THE PUPPET CO. Glen Echo Park 7300 MacArthur Blvd. Glen Echo, MD 20812 301-634-5380 thepuppetco.org Specialty: Professionally produced puppet theater, puppetry education through classes, workshops, demonstrations and exhibitions TOY STORES CHILD’S PLAY 4510 Lee Highway Arlington, VA 22207 703-522-1022 LANGLEY SHOPPING CENTER 1382 Chain Bridge Road McLean, VA 22101 703-448-3444 CHILD’S PLAY 5536 Connecticut Ave. NW Washington, DC 20015 202-244-3602 childsplaytoysandbooks.com Specialty: Educational and entertainment games and toys from well-respected toy brands such as Haba, Ravensburger and Thames & Kosmos. Additional locations in Arlington and McLean, Virginia. DOODLEHOPPER 4 KIDS 234 W. Broad St. Falls Church, VA 22046 703-241-2262 and 703-538-9890 doodlehopper.com Specialty: Children’s toy store offering books, baby gifts and toys; monthly events include children’s musicians, live animal shows, magicians and more n IMAGINATION STAGE 4908 Auburn Ave. Bethesda, MD 20814 301-961-6060 imaginationstage.org Specialty: Youth theatrical performances; acting, musical theater, filmmaking and dance classes; theater camps for kids WashingtonFAMILY.com  25 INTEGRATING THE Arts INTO YOUR CHILD’S EDUCATION y our friend puts you in charge of party decorations because she claims she’s “not artistic.” When we categorize ourselves as creative or not creative — left-brained or right- brained — we simplify the processes in the brain that are really quite complex and often not isolated to one area of the brain. Despite what we high school algebra- phobes would like to believe, many opportunities exist where art can seamlessly work its way into math curricula, for example. Plus, research proves the benefit of arts integration through a child’s ability to retain new information for longer periods. 26  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2022 BY JACQUELINE RENFROW A PASSION FOR ARTS INTEGRATION Integrating arts into education is a career- long passion for Mariale Hardiman, professor, co-founder and director of the Johns Hopkins Neuro-Education Initiative (NEI), designed to bring educators knowledge from the science of learning to inform teaching and learning. Part of this initiative included the creation of the Mind, Brain and Teaching (MBT) certificate and doctoral specialization at Johns Hopkins University (JHU) School of Education. Before joining JHU in 2006, Hardiman worked in the Baltimore City Public Schools for more than 30 years, serving in various leadership and administration- related roles. As the principal of Roland Park Elementary and Middle School, she led the school to its designation as a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence and recognition for innovative arts programming. “During the time of high-stakes testing, our school focus was to meet and exceed state targets for proficiency in reading and math,” Hardiman says. “Our faculty became laser- focused on achieving those goals. But I felt that something was missing. The joy of learning seemed to dissipate the more we focused on raising and maintaining standardized test scores. Adding arts programming and integrating the arts into our content instruction seemed to be the antidote to the kind of regimented teaching that we were required to be engaged in by the school district.” Hardiman reports that once art integration began, administrators could see students learning via visual and performing arts. Plus, teachers reported that students appeared to learn and retain information better when the arts were infused into instruction. Similarly, Alexandra Murtaugh, now a research and development coordinator for the education nonprofit NeuroLogic by Lakeside, spent nine years as a high school biology teacher in the Philadelphia area. “My interest in arts education actually came because I saw students interact with the material differently when it was project-based. I had the opportunity to collaborate with someone from our local mural arts program, who helped design relevant science and art projects that propelled my students’ learning,” Murtaugh says. Murtaugh has found arts integration particularly helpful for students with backgrounds of trauma because it gives them an opportunity to create an emotional release—it allows for a voice in the classroom, along with being naturally meditative. THE EDUCATOR’S CHALLENGE Hardiman believes that students who have the most to gain from an arts-integrated education are often the least likely to have access to them, such as students who attend under-resourced schools, those with learning differences and bilingual English language learners. She cautions that arts integration does not replace general arts education. BACKGROUND: ALEKSANDARVELASEVIC/DIGITALVISION VECTORS; GIRL: ANDRESR/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS; AIRPLANE: SVETAZI/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS WashingtonFAMILY.com  27 CETA Spotlight on Perspectives from The Kennedy Center’s Changing Education Through the Arts (CETA) “Arts educators who are schooled in arts standards and know how to implement arts curriculum are essential in schools (including vocal and instrumental music, visual arts and theater teachers and dance educators),” Hardiman says. “Some districts have terminated arts educators because they believe that arts integration will be all students need.” The prevalence of arts integration in the classroom has grown over the past several years, which Hardiman attributes to greater awareness of the research, popular media and arts-based organizations providing training and funding. Many schools embracing arts integration are private or charter schools, or those with a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) focus. Even with research to back its positive effects, several challenges stand in the way of integration. • Schools prioritize high-stakes testing, which focuses resources on teaching to the tests. • Arts integration requires skilled teacher training and instruction. • Teachers must focus on reaching benchmarks and fear taking time away from the required curriculum. Murtaugh says that resources were always a challenge to integrating arts into her classroom and she typically paid for art supplies out of her own pocket. Yet another challenge, according to Tricia THE BETHESDA MONTESSORI SCHOOL 20 RUNNER-UP RUNNER-UP 1 8 Join us for our 40th year ENROLL NOW FOR 2022 IN-PERSON ACADEMICS & AFTER CARE 8am – 6pm 7611 Clarendon Rd. Bethesda, MD 20814 301-986-1260 Email us to learn more and tour the school admissions@bethesdamontessori.com www.bethesdamontessori.com 28  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2022 “Numerous studies point to the value of arts education in improving student outcomes, yet teachers may not have the resources, access or experience to implement arts integration across the curriculum. “Partnering with educators is fundamental to arts-based learning. The Kennedy Center’s Changing Education Through the Arts (CETA) program empowers teachers within the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area with skills and confidence to use these tools in the classroom, giving both teachers and students an added level to connect academically and kinetically. In a wider lens, we aim to create school cultures that support intensive, sustained teacher learning and collaboration. Through our wider education work, we also place an importance on sharing knowledge with other organizations interested in developing similar programs. “The CETA program has grown out of decades of successful experience providing professional learning for teachers in arts integration with beginnings in 1976. The official CETA program was established in 1999 as the Center began to focus some of its efforts on reaching all teachers within a school with intensive learning. Over the years, the CETA program has gradually expanded. In 2021, 52 teachers across six partnership schools in the Washington metropolitan area engaged in 91 sessions: planning, workshops and coaching sessions.” P — Jeanette McCune, director of school and community programs at The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts Beck, director of teaching and learning for the Great Valley School District in southeastern Pennsylvania, is the lack of collaboration among departments. Plus, innovators are working against traditional models of measuring academic success such as “rigor,” “assessment” and “compliance” rather than “engagement” and “sustained learning,” she notes. SMALL STEPS TOWARD ACHIEVING ARTS INTEGRATION Beck — whose background includes serving as the adjunct professor at JHU and working as an interventionalist for special populations within her school district — believes arts integration can, and should, start small. While Beck’s school system began a STEAM initiative five years ago, the COVID pandemic slowed its projection. Much of the arts integration she sees at the elementary school level happens organically through project- based learning. One example of successful arts integration happening at the high school level is within special student populations. The teachers of these students look for ways to create project- based learning and life skills throughout their curriculum. Recently, the students worked in family and consumer science classes to develop a recipe for dog biscuits. Collaborating with the art department, the students designed logos and marketing collateral and eventually developed a business plan to sell the product. “It was a true life experience that integrated the arts and made it more meaningful for students,” Beck says. Hardiman agrees that educators can implement activities using visual and performing arts without a total curriculum overhaul. For example, when reading narrative literature, students can show how a character in a story might feel by taking a body pose, known as tableau, to depict the understanding of a character’s role in the story. Similarly, the same exercise could be used to demonstrate cell structures in a biology class. “Many teachers use tableau and a variety of techniques such as role playing, improvisation, visual note taking, storyboarding, skits and more to add interest and depth to the curriculum,” Hardiman says. “Researchers and practitioners show how this type of instruction can engage students more than traditional instruction that relies heavily on verbal and written work.” Murtaugh recommends integrating an art activity into the first five minutes of a class as a reset for students as they transition from another subject. WAND_PRAPAN/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS Parents can integrate art into learning at home, whether it’s incorporating drawings, photos or cartoons into a homework unit or working on memory skills via repeated songs (see “Studying Strategies with Art” at right). “Most people are artistic and creative in some way. If we communicate this to our kids, we can support them in figuring out how they express their own creativity,” Murtaugh says. Beck hopes to see greater opportunities in K-12 education for department collaboration by challenging the current way schools are structured. This action requires administrators to support teachers working together and cultivating professional development while balancing other demands of instruction. Looking at the positive effects of arts integration, Beck sees “true engagement, not just compliance,” she says. Arts integration permits a deeper understanding of the academic content, which ultimately leads to deeper or sustained learning. T Learn more about the design of arts-integrated learning units that can be used in preschool, higher education or professional training programs with The Brain-Targeted Teaching Model. Visit braintargetedteaching.org Studying Strategies With ART Parents can help their children study for a test or memorize content — or make another day of virtual learning a bit more interactive. Mariale Hardiman, professor and director of the Neuro-Education Initiative at Johns Hopkins University School of Education, offers the following tips: Make learning visible. Encourage children to draw or doodle. A simple word can imply the action is less focused on the product and more focused on the process of visualizing an idea or a concept. Create a graphic organizer. Also known as a concept map, this graphic uses images or words to make content more visual. Be careful about judging the visual product the child produces. Focus on the process by asking questions about what the drawing means to them. What’s the feeling they get when they look at what they drew? Make up simple rhyming phrases. A tried- and-true way to recall info — for children and adults — is to make it rhyme. Use a familiar tune. Take academic material and weave it into the phrasing of a well-loved song. P Montessori School of McLean Sessions from June 21 to August 26 summer drama camps Where Authentic Montessori Meets the 21st Century: Ages 2-12 for kids entering grades 1-8 theatrelab.org · 202-824-0449 900 Mass Ave NW, Washington, DC Check out our teen programs too! 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 Extended Day • Transportation • Summer Camp 1711 Kirby Road McLean, VA 22101 703-790-1049 Accredited by www.mcleanmontessori.org WashingtonFAMILY.com  29 Celebrate Reading NATIONAL MONTH Everything you need to know to encourage your child’s love for reading BY MEGAN CONWAY 30  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2022 Read to Kids at an Early Age According to Conni L. Strittmatter, youth and family engagement manager at Baltimore County Public Library in Maryland, “Literacy skills begin on day one for children.” While children don’t need to be reading or sounding out letters at birth, “it does mean that kids start their lives ready to absorb all the information around them, including a love of reading and learning,” she says. When parents read to their children (even infants), they plant the seeds for a love of reading and learning. They are also “exposing them to fundamental components of language and reasoning that will form a base for their overall education,” she adds. Childhood reading holds great importance, explains Tora Burns, reading programs manager at the DC Public Library. Reading builds confidence and vocabulary, and it helps young brains develop. “It teaches (children) how they interact with the world,” she notes. In addition, “Reading with a trusted adult as children age helps create positive memories that build resiliency and combat adverse childhood experiences.” Jenny Bogoni, executive director of Read by 4th, oversees a Philadelphia coalition of family, community and systems leaders aiming to protect every child’s right to read. She emphasizes the vital nature of childhood literacy. WashingtonFAMILY.com  31 PHOTO: PROSTOCK-STUDIO; BOOK &HEART: BILJANA CVETANOVIC/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS M ARCH IS NATIONAL READING MONTH. When you were a child, did you have a love for books and the array of universes that reading opens? Promoting literacy is important, especially in a society that may not always inspire the enthusiastic consumption of books. According to 2020 results from a National Assessment of Educational Progress report, “The percentages of 9-year-olds and 13-year-olds who report that they ‘never or hardly ever’ read for fun have increased significantly since the question was first included in the questionnaire in 1984.” This sobering reality of the modern age underlies the importance of nurturing early readers and introducing future generations to the sense of wonder found in the pages of a book. In recognition of National Reading Month, we spoke with experts on the importance of diverse, enthusiastic childhood reading and how parents can raise children with healthy appetites for books. “ Diversity in children’s books helps young leaders develop pride in themselves as well as empathy and appreciation for people who may have different lived experiences.” —Tora Burns, program coordinator for reading programs at the DC Public Library READING RESOURCES From Your Community Libraries Tora Burns, program coordinator for reading programs at the DC Public Library, says that all parents can get more information pertaining to reading and book recommendations by visiting their public library in person or online. For the DC Public Library webpage, visit dclibrary.org. For age-appropriate readings lists, visit dclibrary.org/kids/booklists. Find information about library card registration and children’s reading resources for Montgomery County Public Libraries at montgomerycountymd.gov/library/for-you/kids.html. Arlington Public Library offers reading recommendations and information about registering for library cards on its website library.arlingtonva.us. n 32  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2022 Bogoni adds that reading opens children to a world of ideas, concepts and knowledge that will allow them to perform better on standardized tests. Read Diverse Books Reading as a standalone concept is vital for children, but so is what children read. “Ideally, every child should be able to find a book that resonates with them,” says Burns. “Diversity in children’s books helps young leaders develop pride in themselves as well as empathy and appreciation for people who may have different lived experiences.” Strittmatter agrees. “Media of all types, including books, should provide opportunities for people to see themselves reflected in some way.” Unfortunately, she notes, while books are “a primary way children learn about and connect to the world,” more children’s books featuring animals as main characters exist compared to children’s books published that feature non-white main characters, according to statistics compiled by the Cooperative Children’s Book Center, School of Education, University of Wisconsin-Madison. “When (children) can’t find themselves in those books, they’re hearing a message JNEMCHINOVA/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS “The research shows that children who are not reading on grade level by the time they complete third grade are significantly less likely to graduate high school on time and therefore less likely to move on to college and get a postsecondary credential of some kind.” Schools, she adds, are set up to teach children how to read up through third grade. After third grade, instruction shifts from teaching the “skill” of reading to practicing reading and using reading to access content. “When children are not on grade level with their reading, it doesn’t just hinder their English participation in class. It hinders their math, science, history and everything else,” explains Bogoni. Reading is an important “gateway skill,” and reading often strengthens a child’s reading ability, much like practicing is key to becoming a good pianist. that they don’t matter in that world,” Strittmatter says. “For white children only seeing characters that look like themselves, the message may be that ‘only they matter.’” This point underscores the importance of encouraging children to read diverse books. “Diverse books provide an opportunity for children to see value in themselves and value in others who may not look like them,” she adds. Read Together What can parents do to help raise strong readers among their children? “The first thing a parent can do is actually model a reading household,” explains Bogoni. Parents should “have books of their own, show enjoyment around reading, make reading something that kids want to do,” she says. When reading with children, parents should stop to ask questions. “What does this remind you of in our life?” “Have you experienced anything like this?” “What do you see on this page?” These questions engage children and build language alongside connection and joy. “Reading can become linked to schoolwork and homework when our children go to school,” Burns notes. Therefore, she emphasizes, parents need to help their children remember that reading is also a pleasure. “When reading is seen as fun and continues as a leisure activity, children have more confidence in learning new information from the written word,” Burns explains. To help build a love of reading outside the classroom, Burns encourages parents to embrace all forms of reading — reading online, reading picture books and reading graphic novels — to allow children to discuss their reading, explain what they’ve learned from a story and read what they love to read. Like Bogoni, Burns echoes the point about modeling good reading habits. “Children have a knack for repeating and emulating the behavior they see adults do,” she says. “Let your child choose the books they want to read. Choice will empower them to take ownership of their reading journey.” Reading, adds Strittmatter, doesn’t have to be limited to books. She encourages parents to read the news to their children, watch subtitled movies together and play video games with text and logic problems or board games with instructions. “To raise an avid reader, read!” she declares.  T Sister Montessori preschools, providing Northern Virginia’s preschool children with quality education for the past 50 years. The SEED School of Maryland is a college-preparatory, tuition-free boarding school serving boys and girls in grades 6-12 OPEN HOUSE Saturday, March 12, 2022 10:00 am - 1:00 pm Inspire Your Child’s Jewish Journey Free books delivered each month from PJ Library! The Jewish Federation proudly brings PJ Library (ages 0–8) and PJ Our Way (ages 9–12) to families across Greater Washington. Snuggle up with a great book each month to encourage family discussions around Jewish culture and values. Please call to RSVP. APPLICATION DEADLINE IS APRIL 1, 2022 From SEED’s dorm rooms to college campuses around the country. SEED students and graduates are blazing the trail to college completion. Apply to Join Us Today. SEED MD is now accepting applications for 6th graders for the 2022-2023 year. Join us at one of our open houses! WWW.SEEDSCHOOLMD.ORG | 410.843.9482 Sign up for free, award-winning books today! shalomdc.org/pjlibrary PJ Library in Greater Washington is a gift from The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington, the Harold Grinspoon Foundation, and generous local donors. WashingtonFAMILY.com  33 INCLUSIVE FAMILY The Arts for EVERY CHILD B right lights and colorful costumes can be an engaging way to let children’s imaginations run wild as they watch theatrical performances. But these elements can also overwhelm children with sensory- processing disorders. Attractions throughout the DMV have created ways to ensure every child can enjoy the creative freedom and expression that come from the arts. Sensory-friendly performing arts Imagination Stage in Bethesda offers sensory- friendly theater classes and performances for children in preschool through 12th grade. The inclusion team emphasizes that success looks different for every student. Whether it’s delivering a line or watching their peers, the team ensures that children enjoy themselves in an environment that’s comfortable for them. “Children who are working on social skills or interacting with their peers have a space where the environment is fun,” says Scott Turner, access and inclusion manager for Imagination Stage. “It’s not like school where things are very intense or there’s a specific goal.” Turner’s team also sends children and their 34  WashingtonFAMILY  MARCH 2022 parents a pre-visit “social story” packet that reads like a storybook. The material provides step-by-step illustrations that detail the process of going to the venue, purchasing the ticket and watching the performance, plus all the important details in between. The packet also includes the plot points of the performance so that children can follow along easier. Turner adds that having neurodiverse students participate helps them to teach other kids important social skills. “Empathy is perhaps the biggest thing,” he says. “For some of our students, this might be their first time getting a chance to interact or learn alongside others with a disability. They kind of see a different perspective. This is true for students with disabilities as well,” he says. At Strathmore, another performing arts venue in Bethesda, families of children with sensory-processing disorders also receive a pre-visit packet to help them explore sensory- friendly events with their children. All of its family shows operate in a “no-shush” environment where attendees are encouraged to laugh out loud, move throughout the venue and perform other nontypical actions. “We’re not expecting a typical ‘sit down and be quiet’ concert behavior from these family shows,” says Lauren Campbell, vice president of education and community engagement. Strathmore holds an hour-long training to ensure its performers and staff are properly equipped for sensory-friendly specific performances. The hosts and artists also make sure that their performances don’t include any overwhelming noises or lights. “Many public spaces are extremely unwelcoming for children and adults,” Campbell says. “It’s critically important that we take this overwhelming encouragement and turn it into opening up as many of these spaces that we possibly can.” Arts experiences for all ages and abilities The nonprofit VisArts in Rockville offers visual arts classes, camps and other programs for all age groups and experience levels. Students can learn from various media styles such as ceramics, photography and glass art. “One of our main goals is to make sure that every class here is accessible to everyone,” says Emily Fucello, assistant educational director for VisArts. VisArts has a “no right or wrong way to create or learn” philosophy. Staff members are trained to work with differences in abilities and learning styles, and they’re equipped with materials to complete various projects with their students. “Every child learns a different way and will create art a different way. Our instructors have been working with children for a long time and understand that each one has a different set of needs,” Fucello says. Small class sizes allow VisArts instructors to give one-on-one personalized assistance. “On all of our class offerings, we give people a way to request accommodations for students as needed,” Fucello says. “That kind of open communication that we have with the parents is really important and helps us give the children the best experience possible.” n PHOTOS COURTESY IMAGINATION STAGE / JEREMY RUSNOCK, LLC BY LEENIKA BELFIELD-MARTIN HEALTHY FAMILY How to Foster Friendship Between Siblings BY RUDY MALCOM All children will develop at different paces SKYNESHER/E+/GETTY IMAGES “T here is a crack, a crack in everything. That’s how the light gets in.” Licensed psychologist Harriette Wimms uses this lyric from Leonard Cohen’s song “Anthem” to think about family conflict. She’s the co-founder and clinical director of The Village Family Support Center of Baltimore. “Even when parents feel like they’re pulling their hair out because their kids are bickering so very much,” she says, “that can be a pathway toward growth and healing.” The COVID-19 pandemic has had a somewhat polarizing effect on families, says Daniel Bauer, a licensed marriage and family therapist at Bala Child & Family Associates in Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania. Increased quality time has made some families stronger. Yet “too much cooped-up, anxious time” has put a strain on other families. In particular, the quality of sibling relationships is one of the main predictors of mental health in old age, according to a report in The American Journal of Psychiatry. Healthy sibling relationships promote empathy and academic achievement. Less positively, sibling bullying is linked to anxiety and depression. How can parents and caregivers help their children forge friendships with one another? “The first way would be eliminating competition or perceptions of it,” says Emily Simonian, head of learning and a licensed marriage and family therapist at Thriveworks in Washington, D.C. “It’s natural to compare ourselves to the people next to us, especially in childhood, but sibling rivalry can divide siblings in childhood—and even into adulthood.” Children develop at different paces socially and emotionally, which disabilities can impact. “Create a household where individual differences are celebrated to reduce that sibling rivalry,” she says. Conflict between siblings doesn’t always have to do with issues that kids have with each other. “Maybe something else is bothering them and they’re taking it out on the person close to them,” Simonian says. When kids act out, parents shouldn’t dismiss it as sibling rivalry, Bauer says. Instead, they should consider what’s going on for them internally, even if the kids themselves are too young to have the words. Research suggests that siblings whose mothers didn’t show much favoritism when they were growing up had better relationships than siblings who reported favoritism. Bauer notes that “no child is born into the same household.” For example, his older sister was an only child, but he was born with a built-in sibling. Each child has different experiences that can depend on various circumstances, such as parents’ finances. Parents can also help their kids resolve conflict by teaching them how to communicate their feelings without blame or provocation. While kids should be empowered to sometimes figure things out themselves, effective modeling is key. You may have heard the saying that a parent is only as happy as their least happy child. Wimms says to flip this notion on its head: Sometimes children are only as happy as their parents are. “There has to be a focus on loving ourselves and paying attention to our relationships in order to support our children in doing the same in the present and in the future when they’re out on their own,” she says. Similarly, “if we want our kids to spend time with each other, we have to learn to spend time with our kids as well,” Bauer says. Young kids won’t appreciate that their parents are working long hours to put food on the table if their emotional needs aren’t met. “The more seen and heard they feel from their parents,” he says, “the better everything in life goes, and they’re able to be better siblings with each other.” Encouraging more quality time As children age, Simonian says, they will naturally want more time apart—not only from their parents, but from their siblings. That’s OK, but encourage quality time, “even if it seems they’re growing out of it.” What works for one family might not work for another, depending on a myriad of contexts. “It’s asking more of already strained and stressed-out parents, but the one thing that Resolving sibling conflicts we do know is that the more quality time kids To encourage friendship, Simonian says that parents can complement siblings when spend with their parents, the better off they they’re playing with each other and get them are,” Bauer says. “For parents to be infinitely talking about how they view their relation- curious about their kids and unconditionally ship. “Ask them, ‘I know sometimes you loving to their ability—that’s what grows good don’t get along, but can you think of times homes where kids are able to thrive and be you don’t get along and is it fun?’” she says. good siblings.”  T WashingtonFAMILY.com  35 BOOK MARKED Art Is Powerful Books Inspire Readers To Unleash Their Creativity BY MARANDA L. SCHOPPERT, HEAD OF CHILDREN & TEEN SERVICES GERMANTOWN BRANCH OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARIES The power of art is undeniable. Through art, children and teens can express emotions big and small. They can soar through creation and find connection through expression. March is Youth Art Month. Explore the power of art through literature. PICTURE BOOKS “Anna at the Art Museum” by Hazel Hutchins and Gail Herbert, illustrated by Lil Crump Going to the art museum with her mom is anything but exciting. Everything is old, dusty, boring and full of rules. When Anna gets a behind-the-scenes look at one special painting, she makes a big discovery that helps her find the joy in art. This book is perfect to read with children before a first visit to an art museum. “Hey, Wall: A Story of Art and Community” by Susan Verde, illustrated by John Parra In the middle of a neighborhood full of life and love is a big, ugly wall. One day, a young boy decides to bring the wall to life, but he’ll need help to get the job done. This picture book celebrates community and the power of art in bringing people together. “Milo Imagines the World” by Matt de la Peña, illustrated by Christian Robinson On a long subway ride with his sister, Milo observes the people around him and draws pictures of what he imagines their lives are like. When Milo makes assumptions about a boy his age, he realizes that everyone has a story. You can’t really know someone by looking at them. Any book by this award-winning author-illustrator duo is sure to inspire. “My Favorite Color” written and illustrated by Aaron Becker How can you choose only one favorite color when the world around us is home to so many? 36  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2022 Young children will love exploring this visually stunning approach to color. With cutout squares, translucent inserts and layering, this board book is a work of art itself. “Parker Looks Up: An Extraordinary Moment” by Parker and Jessica Curry, illustrated by Brittany Jackson When 6-year-old Parker Curry visits the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, she is captivated by a portrait of First Lady Michelle Obama. In Amy Sherald’s painting of the first lady, Parker sees hope and the promise of a better tomorrow. She sees a “queen.” Inspired by one candid photograph that swept the internet, this book is the perfect example of how art can evoke feeling. EARLY-ELEMENTARY BOOKS “Anya’s Secret Society” written and illustrated by Yevgenia Nayberg Using her left hand, Anya makes beautiful art but only in secret. In Russia, being left-handed is frowned upon, and Anya must hide her talent. While hiding her art, Anya learns about famous left-handed artists and decides to imagine her own secret society of lefties. This little book has a big heart and relates the lesson about being true to yourself and overcoming societal expectations. “The Crayon Man: The True Story of the Invention of Crayola Crayons” by Natascha Biebow, illustrated by Steven Salerno Who doesn’t love opening a new box of crayons? Today, colors like Purple Mountains’ Majesty, Sunset Orange and Lemon Yellow are widely known and used, but this selection wasn’t always the case. In this fun, illustrated biography, readers follow inventor Edwin Binney on his journey to create the much beloved Crayola crayon. “We Are Artists: Women Who Made Their Mark on the World” by Kari Herbert Offering stunning illustrations, “We Are Artists” provides a snapshot into the life of 15 female artists around the world. These bite-sized summaries are perfect for children interested in art and looking for a little inspiration. Through a blend of portraits and text, this book is sure to catch the eye. MIDDLE-GRADE BOOKS “Art and How It Works: An Introduction to Art for Children” by Ann Kay, foreword by Tomie dePaola From cave paintings to graffiti art and all that lies between, this book will take readers on a ride through history. With eye-catching text and simple prompts, “Art and How It Works” is perfect for children who are dipping their toes into the art world and encourages kids to think about and appreciate the art around them. “Doodleville” written and illustrated by Chad Sell When Drew’s art literally jumps off the pages of her sketchbook, it will take all her art club friends to save Doodleville. This graphic novel looks at the therapeutic power of art as an outlet for dealing with big emotions. This emotional, action-packed read originates from the author of “The Cardboard Kingdom.” “Many Points of Me” by Caroline Gertler Georgia’s father was a famous artist, known for the asterisms, or the patterns of stars that filled his paintings. Since his death, Georgia has lost her way and is determined to find it again before she misses her chance to participate in a prestigious art competition. This coming-of-age novel blends art history and self-expression in a way that is part exploration and part treasure hunt. “Truly Tyler” written and illustrated by Terri Libenson Tyler has always been a sports guy. When he starts hanging out with Emmie and her art friends, his teammates give him a hard time. When pressured to make a choice, Tyler must decide between playing it cool or being true to himself. Part of the “Emmie & Friends” series, this graphic novel is perfect for fans of Raina Telgemeier. YOUNG ADULT BOOKS “Blue Period 1” by Tsubasa Yamaguchi Everyone knows the expression a “starving artist,” which is why Yatora can’t understand why anyone would want to choose art as a career—that is, until he is captivated by a single painting that changes his world forever. This manga is all about the ups and downs of the art world from the perspective of a teenager. “Slay” by Brittney Morris Seventeen-year-old Kiera Johnson isn’t only one of the few Black kids at her school. She’s also the secret creator of the massively popular online role-playing card game, Slay. When the lines between virtual and real life blur, Kiera must fight to save her game, all while keeping her identity a secret. This book packs a punch with themes such as gaming, cyberbullying, inclusivity and activism. “Starfish” by Akemi Dawn Bowman With her freedom on the line, Kiko is crushed when her dream of getting into the art school, Prism, is denied. Longing to escape a rocky homelife, Kiko jumps at the chance to tour art schools on the West Coast with a childhood friend. Starfish is a story about identity, overcoming anxiety and learning to express oneself. “Vincent and Theo: The Van Gogh Brothers” by Deborah Heiligman Would Vincent van Gogh have achieved the acclaim he has today without the support of his younger brother, Theo? Drawing from 658 letters Vincent wrote to Theo throughout his life, this book examines the extraordinary bond between two brothers. This nonfiction book would be great for any teen interested in art and art history. P WashingtonFAMILY.com  37 WF MY TURN A Tale of My Sweet Life My Turn gives readers a voice. To submit a piece for consideration, email us at mvyskocil@ midatlanticmedia.com. My Turn opinion pieces do not reflect the views of Washington FAMILY. 38  Washington FAMILY  MARCH 2022   live in two worlds: one as a co-owner of a chocolate shop in downtown Washington, D.C., and one in a world I create. My customers always remark, “You own a chocolate shop and write children’s books— what a sweet life!” But life wasn’t always so sweet. Growing up, my father was a senior economist for the World Bank and often traveled to faraway places for his work— Thailand, Ethiopia and Peru. When he was away, I kept his photo under my pillow as a way of keeping him close to my heart. I was always missing my father, my rock, my hero. Tragically, my father died on a business trip enroute to Malaysia, two days before my 17th birthday. It’s no surprise that birthdays have never been the same. My father’s untimely death put panic in my heart, and I clung to my mother, afraid if I so much as looked away, she might die too. During those dark days, I was full of anxiety as well as questions about my parents’ lives in old world Korea, questions I never thought to ask when my father was alive. My mother was a luminous storyteller, sharing memories of my parents’ childhoods― stories so compelling I couldn’t help but pick up the pen and begin to write, document and preserve. She told stories of my father and his impoverished boyhood on the outskirts of Seoul and how he believed a college education was his passport out of poverty. My father would eventually cross the seas to attend Harvard. My mother told me about her missionary parents who trekked over mountains and valleys, spreading the word of God in a land ruled by Buddha. Most heartbreaking was the story of a 19-year-old brother and his doomed fate when he was forced to fight against his will on behalf of Japan in World War II, during the Japanese occupation of Korea, and was never heard from again. Another story told of the mother who futilely waited for her son to come home, missing her opportunity to escape across the border into the south before the outbreak of the Korean War. That’s when a lightbulb went off in my head. These stories should be in books. Little did I know that crafting my art was healing my anxious heart, too. I went on to write many award-winning picture books inspired by my heritage. But as a chocolate shop owner, I was most intrigued by the story of my mother’s family, proprietors of a department store in their hometown of Sinuiju from 1930 to 1945. The department store would eventually crumble to the ground during the Russian invasion of Korea following World War II. But it would be years, decades even, before the idea of a book would come to me. “The Hundred Choices Department Store” (Regal House Publishing, 2022) a historical children’s novel, came to fruition eight months after my mother’s passing. In honor of my mother, the book’s release date is March 25 of this year— her birthday. Writing is my happy place. Perched in front of a manuscript and falling into a world of words brings me joy and comfort. But the most rewarding aspects of writing children’s books are the letters I receive and the visits to my chocolate shop. Families from all over the country have walked through my shop doors to meet the author. I’m always deeply humbled. Honored. It’s a reminder of why I write books for kids. It’s not only to give youngsters a glimpse of a world so far removed from their own, but perhaps, in my small way, to inspire them to explore their roots and discover what’s there. n Ginger Park is the co-owner of Chocolate Chocolate in Washington. Her newest children’s historical novel, “The Hundred Choices Department Store,” is available at regalhousepublishing.com or through Amazon.com. GINGER PARK: PHOTO PROVIDED; BOOK COVER: REGAL HOUSE PUBLISHING I BY GINGER PARK WashingtonFAMILY.com  39 OFFERING the best in MONTESSORI EDUCATION for 30 years Enrollment: 130 Student/Faculty: 12:1 Special Programs: French, Spanish, Italian, Model United Nations, Yoga, Outdoor Education, Theater, Leadership Program DISCOVER YOURSELF • FIND COMMUNITY • TRANSCEND YOUR LIMITS Montessori Programs For Students Age 2 — Grade 12 in Chevy Chase-Bethesda Admissions: 301.652.7751 admission@onenessfamily.org | www.onenessfamily.org Lower School (Age 2–Grade 8): 6701 Wisconsin Ave., Chevy Chase, MD Upper School (Grades 9–12): 9411 Connecticut Ave., Kensington, MD