WASHINGTON washingtonFAMILY.com November 2018 How to Parent a Perfectionist Child CLASSIC LITERATURE IN THE DIGITAL AGE Why is it so Important? PRIVATE SCHOOL OPEN HOUSES PICTURED: STUDENTS AT WESTMINISTER SCHOOL KIDS AND GRATITUDE The Science of Giving 12 LOCAL TURKEY TROTS Nov. 12, 2018 Oct. 14, 2018 9:30 – 11:30 am 1 - 3 pm THERE’S A POWER WITHIN YOU. Developing curious students into critical thinkers and creative leaders through innovative teaching methods, concrete leadership experience, the latest technology, and an engaging college-prep curriculum--that’s how we prepare our students for life. INSPIRE THE RISE WITHIN. OPEN HOUSES: NOV 12 & DEC 2 WWW.RMA.EDU Grades 6-12, Co-ed Boarding & Day | College Prep & Air Force JROTC washingtonFAMILY.com November 2018 3 TABLE OF contents NOVEMBER 2018 ON THE COVER: Students at Westminster School in Annandale, VA 10 14 RECOGNIZING AND REDUCING THE RISK OF POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION “Women with PPD often feel overwhelmed by motherhood and the arduous task of parenting.” 16 P. 10-12 COLUMNS: Jenna Hatfield PARENTING A PERFECTIONIST CHILD P. 14-15 “Perfectionists engage in frequent hypercritical self-talk, bringing themselves down and creating a whole lot of stress within the family. ” Ann Dolin The First Word p. 7 The Last Word p. 41 RESOURCES: Montessori p. 28 CHANGE THE WAY YOU THINK ABOUT HOLIDAY EATING P. 16-17 “Having a healthy holiday season goes beyond swapping in cauliflower mashed potatoes or running a turkey trot.” Birthday/Parties p. 42 Family Calendar p. 43 Marissa Donovan Classifieds p. 46 GUIDES: QUICK READS Science of Giving Classic Literature in the Digital Age Best Baby-Tracking Apps Technology: Bounty And Boundaries Local Turkey Trots Thanksgiving Pie-Inspired Treats 4 November 2018 washingtonFAMILY.com p. 24 p. 26 p. 30 p. 34 p. 36 p. 38 Private School Open Houses p. 20-22 Baby & Maternity p. 32-33 Holiday & Spring Break Camps p. 40 of “There is a massive power in this that can embrace the world. It brings great hope… It is truly A TOUCH HEAVEN .” —Daniel Herman, former Minister of Culture of the Czech Republic “I felt like I was in heaven. If people watch this production, their inner souls will be purified. This really is a performance for the very fortunate.” —Choi Yun Xi, Korean President’s Award-winning artist “Shen Yun brings out the most heavenly experience. I feel like my troubles just walked away, it's a spiritual, peaceful and absorbing experience.” —Steve R. Kates, TV host “A must-see!” —Broadway World Where Art Connects Heaven & Earth Early Bird code: Early19 Get best seats & waive fees by Nov. 15 DEC 21–23, 2018 JAN 15–20 & MAR 12–14 Hippodrome Theatre GMU Concert Hall BALTIMORE, MD FAIRFAX, VA APR 17–21 WASHINGTON, DC Kennedy Center Opera House Tickets: ShenYun.com / DC 888-907-4697 CELEBRATE 15 YEARS OF SEPTIME WEBRE’S ICONIC & CHARMINGLY DC NOVEMBER 29– DECEMBER 28, 2018 WARNER THEATRE SIGNATURE EVENTS Family Day SUNDAY, DECEMBER 2 Military Appreciation Night Jonathan Jordan and Venus Villa by media4artists Theo Kossenas WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5 Breakfast with the Sugar Plum Fairy (NEW!) SUNDAY, DECEMBER 9, 10AM The Nutcracker Tea Party SUNDAY, DECEMBER 9, 3PM HOLIDAY PARTY PACKAGES AVAILABLE Get Tickets to DC’s Favorite Holiday Tradition Now! WASHINGTONBALLET.ORG | 202.362.3606 X605 Funded in part by the D.C. Commission on the Arts & Humanities, an agency supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts. TWB_Nutcracker_WashParent.indd 1 10/22/18 8:03 PM THE FIRST WORD Turkey, Trots & Traditions Every family has different Thanksgiving traditions. My family’s tradition? Turkey Trotting. Not the dance, but organized long-distance runs/walks/trots, which usually raise money for a good cause. Every Thanksgiving, we head down to the Tidewater area to visit extended family and run in a local Turkey Trot. It’s a great way for us to spend more quality time together, help a good cause, get some exercise and have fun! And the kids enjoy it because there are usually games and prizes. Plus, who doesn’t welcome the chance to burn off some extra calories before diving guilt-free into an extra slice (or two) of Grandma’s decadent pumpkin pie? You don’t need to trek down to Tidewater for a great Turkey Trot. There are so many in the DMV. Check out our list of top runs and 1-mile walks on pg. 36. The events support a variety of causes and organizations like local ﬁ re departments, research for Autism and providing clothes, food and shelter for the homeless. Giving back and giving thanks is what this holiday is about. Sandi Schwartz’s article, “The Science of Giving and How it Can Help Your Kids” on pg. 24 explains how giving not only boosts our happiness, but improves our health and other areas of our life. Our November issue also has a special focus for new parents and parents-to-be. Please refer to our annual Baby & Maternity Guide on pg. 32, which includes health care providers, child care centers, parenting classes and more. On pg. 30, we have a list of the best and FREE baby-tracking apps so new parents will never miss a single special moment of their baby’s ﬁ rst developmental year. Our feature this issue, “Recognizing and Reducing the Risk of Postpartum Depression” on pg. 10, sheds light on this — more-common-than-you- think — topic and offers insight worth reading. There are tons of more helpful resources inside. And, as always, check WashingtonFAMILY.com for even more parenting-related coverage and fun local things to do this fall. I hope your November is a special month full of giving thanks, tasty meals, old (and new) traditions, lasting, memorable time spent with your loved ones and most of all — Turkey Trotting! Happy Thanksgiving! Britni Petersen Managing Editor Washington FAMILY Magazine bpetersen@midatlanticmedia.com washingtonFAMILY.com November 2018 7  h  hristma “One of those rare events that delight people of all ages.” –THE WASHINGTON POST  eves SYLVIA WITASCHEK | Associate Publisher 301-230-6698 | switaschek@midatlanticmedia.com ® n lizaetan Celeration o te inter olstice in usic, ance  ram  eaturin Mark Jaster Sabrina Mandell JULIE TURCO | Account Executive 917-647-8755 | jturco@midatlanticmedia.com 8  erormances 301-230-6664 | mary@midatlanticmedia.com atinees  venings EDITORIAL December 8-16 wit ADVERTISING MARY RAMSDALE | Account Executive BRITNI PETERSEN | Managing Editor Katrina Van Duyn as ueen lizabet   301-230-6696 | bpetersen@midatlanticmedia.com Piﬀaro  amiy  rida Te enaissance Band Contributors: December 14 Ann Dolin, Marissa Donovan, Victoria Harvey, Jenna Hatfield, Sandi Schwartz, Kathryn Streeter tickets CREATIVE 25 % off youth CHEYENNE BASS | Graphic Designer Celebrating 35 Years JAMES MESKUNAS | Digital Media Manager DAVID STUCK | Staff Photographer BUSINESS PATTIE-ANN LAMP | Accounting Coordinator “A bona fide treat” - The New York Post 410-902-2311 | plamp@midatlanticmedia.com Mid-Atlantic Media CRAIG BURKE | CEO/Publisher cburke@midatlanticmedia.com JOSHUA RUNYAN | Senior Editorial Director jrunyan@midatlanticmedia.com LIZ SPIKOL | Editorial Director lspikol@midatlanticmedia.com JENI MANN | Director of Marketing & Custom Media jmann@midatlanticmedia.com BASED ON THE HIT MOVIE NOW THRU JANUARY 6 olneytheatre.org 301.924.3400 WE’RE CLOSE BY! Just 10 min from the ICC, 30 min from DC, 15 min from Rockville and Columbia, and 40 min from Baltimore! 8 November 2018 washingtonFAMILY.com JENNIFER PERKINS-FRANTZ | Director of Production jperkinsfrantz@midatlanticmedia.com BILL SIMS | Director of Circulation & Audience Development bsims@midatlanticmedia.com © Washington Family. Washington Family is published 12 times a year by Mid-Atlantic Media, and is distributed free of charge throughout Maryland, Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. Correspondence and editorial submissions from our readers are welcomed. We reserve the right to edit, reject or comment on all editorial and advertising material submitted. We are not responsible for the return of any unsolicited materials. The acceptance of advertising by Washington Family does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services or information. All rights reserved. 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Bowie: 301-262-SWIM Sterling, VA: 703-444-9673 Manassas: 703-392-SWIM Laurel, MD: 301-725-SWIM North Bethesda: 301-984-SWIM 9/14/18 2:56 PM S UPER SECRET Elf Workshop Sat, DEC 1st • 3-5 pm Kids create craft projects to give as holiday gifts! $10 per elf | Gift wrapping is included Details at delaplaine.org 40 S Carroll St | Frederick, MD Along Carroll Creek Park Convenient parking in the deck next door Open daily | FREE ADMISSION washingtonFAMILY.com November 2018 9 Recognizing and Reducing the Risk of Postpartum Depression T perinatal mood and anxiety disorders can start after that initial hormonal shift, PPD can start any time during the baby’s ﬁ rst year. PPD is a mood disorder that aﬀ ects mothers in the weeks and months after the birth of a baby. Normal baby blues — the hormonal shift after birth that results in crying, uneasiness and mood swings — should dissipate within two weeks. After that point, any lingering, worsening or drastic changes in mood may indicate that a woman is experiencing postpartum depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or another perinatal mood or anxiety disorder. Additionally, while Approximately 10 to 15 percent of women suﬀ er from postpartum mood disorders, though the numbers may actually be higher due to underreporting, misdiagnosis and lack of awareness. While there’s no single test used to diagnose PPD, doctors sometimes ask mothers to complete a depression-screening questionnaire. Some places are making this screening mandatory both before the baby is born and at the six-week checkup. Other doctors may not be as proactive, and some women may need to request a screening. Blood tests are typical as well to rule out thyroid problems or other medical issues that can have symptoms similar hanks to the honesty of celebrity stars such as Brooke Shields, Hayden Panett iere and Drew Barrymore, postpartum depression (PPD) now shows up more in the news. While increased discussion is great, many moms still may not understand what the disorder is and how it can aﬀ ect them. 10 November 2018 washingtonFAMILY.com SOLSTOCK/E+/ ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS BY JENNA HATFIELD to those of PPD. Read on for common symptoms and how you can prepare yourself or someone you know for the disorder. SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION PPD can present itself in many diﬀ erent ways. Not all moms experience every symptom associated with the disorder, and a mother who was diagnosed with PPD after a previous birth may experience completely diﬀ erent symptoms after a subsequent birth — or no symptoms at all. These are some of the symptoms moms with PPD may experience. IRRITATION, ANGER OR RAGE When a baby cries, women with PPD often feel more irritated than moms without PPD. They can get angry at the such as depression, bipolar disorder or anxiety, a stressful delivery, family history of mental illness, a poor relationship with the baby’s other parent, money problems and a poor support system. KAMELEON007/ ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS If you check any of these risk factor boxes, let your doctor know while you’re still pregnant so everyone is on the same page. You can also connect with a therapist during pregnancy to set up a plan for after birth. Planning ahead allows time to research the effect of certain medications on breastfeeding, set up steps to seek help and lessen some of the chaos that can ensue when PPD hasn’t been discussed and becomes an emergency. baby when it’s time to change another diaper or feel unadulterated rage when the baby won’t go to sleep. Anger can extend outward to a woman’s partner, friends, family and even strangers. OVERWHELM Women with PPD often feel overwhelmed by motherhood and the arduous task of parenting. Instead of recognizing this as a time of change and transition, they may view it as a personal failure. They can feel like an unfit mother because they struggle to stay on top of cooking, cleaning and new parenting duties. SLEEP PROBLEMS SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP The old adage, “Sleep when the baby sleeps” isn’t always feasible for women with PPD. They struggle to sleep at night or nap during the day. Or, on the flip side, all they want to do is sleep, but it feels like no amount of sleep will help get them caught up. Postpartum depression will not just go away on its own. It is not a “Pull yourself up by your bootstraps and power through” type of illness. But with proper help and guidance, you can get better. Perinatal mood disorders are temporary and treatable with professional help. Speak with an OB/ GYN, a primary care physician or a therapist. If you don’t have a therapist, ask your doctor or trusted friends for a referral or recommendation. Not every mom needs antidepressants or anti-anxiety medication, though some do. Therapists trained in postpartum mood and anxiety disorders help many mothers get through this difficult time. LACK OF CONCENTRATION Women with PPD have difficulty focusing on tasks at work or at home. Completing a simple to-do list can feel insurmountable. ANXIETY LACK OF CONNECTION Women with PPD often feel withdrawn or like they are not bonding with their baby. They don’t feel like doing things with other people and may cancel plans or avoid phone calls or texts. PPD sufferers may feel nothing at all or a total apathy about absolutely everything. PPD and anxiety often go hand- in-hand. PPD sufferers may find themselves afraid to walk down stairs with their baby or may contrive worst- case outcomes for every scenario. They may feel paralyzed by fear. HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE POSSIBILITY OF POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION SADNESS Sadness is a more recognizable sign of depression, but this type feels bone deep. It feels like it may never end, and women with PPD fear they will never feel happy again. While not every new mom experiences PPD, mothers (and their babies) are best off when they consider whether they have a predisposition for it. Risk factors include young age, unplanned pregnancy, previous mental illness PRACTICE SELF-CARE Initially, it may seem impossible, but taking time for self-care is of the utmost importance. It looks different for each mom, but in time you’ll find something that works for you. Ideas include taking a nap when you can, showering regularly, reading or journaling, art therapy, exercise and eating well. Nutritious meals and snacks help keep energy levels up and provide the proper nutrients to get through the day. This is especially applicable to women who are breastfeeding. A quick tip is to always have a snack on hand, such as a washingtonFAMILY.com November 2018 11 protein bar, a piece of fruit or some nuts. Additionally, carry a bott le of water with you to make sure you stay hydrated. ASK FOR HELP AT HOME This is diﬀ erent than seeking medical help: it means asking for help at home and with the baby. If you need a break to take a shower and practice some self-care, ask your partner or a friend to care for the baby for an hour. If you need some meals delivered, ask. If you could use a ride to a therapy appointment, ask. People want to help, but they don’t know how to help if you don’t ask. There is no shame in asking for help. SLOW DOWN Don’t view your maternity leave as a time to tackle house projects or other big items on your to-do list. You just birthed a baby, and you’re dealing with a mood disorder. Slow down. Turn oﬀ the ringer on your phone, relax and rest when you can and stop putt ing pressure on yourself to get all the chores done. Focus on gett ing to know your baby and gett ing well. Postpartum mood disorders such as PPD are temporary and treatable. Just know that you will get through this hard time. Jenna Hatﬁ eld is a writer, wife and mother of two boys. DID YOU KNOW? PPD FACTS AND FIGURES • Postpartum depression (PPD) is the most common complication of childbirth. • Up to one in seven women experience PPD. • Approximately 600,000 women get PPD each year in the U.S. alone. • For half of women diagnosed with PPD, this is their ﬁ rst episode of depression. • About half of women who are diagnosed with PPD experienced symptoms during pregnancy. • Only 15 percent of women with postpartum depression ever receive professional treatment. • It has been recorded that approximately 10 percent of new fathers experience depression symptoms as well during the postpartum period. • Half of men who have partners with postpartum depressio n will go on to develop depression themselves. Her extended “pet” family includes a dog and backyard chickens! She has a passion for writing, with a particular ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS/KITZCORNER interest in the topics of mental health and parenting. 12 November 2018 washingtonFAMILY.com Ages 3+ Text and illustrations copyright © Oliver Jeffers 2004, 2015 Young Audiences World premiere Kennedy Center commission Adapted and directed by Jared Mezzocchi Music by Zak Engle Choreography by Orange Grove Dance From the book by Oliver Jeffers Best-selling author and illustrator Oliver Jeffers’s beloved children’s book about chasing your dreams comes to vivid life, featuring colorful projections and choreographed movement. November 21–December 16 | Family Theater Kennedy-Center.org Funding for Access and Accommodation Programs at the Kennedy Center is provided by the U.S. Department of Education. (202) 467-4600 Bank of America is the Presenting Sponsor of Performances for Young Audiences. Groups call (202) 416-8400 Additional support for How to Catch a Star is provided by A. James & Alice B. Clark Foundation; The Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation; Paul M. Angell Family Foundation; Anne and Chris Reyes; and the U.S. Department of Education. For all other ticket-related customer service inquiries, call the Advance Sales Box Office at (202) 416-8540 Major support for education programs at the Kennedy Center is provided by David M. Rubenstein through the Rubenstein Arts Access Program. Kennedy Center education and related artistic programming is made possible through the generosity of the National Committee for the Performing Arts. Let’s Build Robots! After-School Robotics: Join us at our in-house classes, get your school to start a program, or use our Flexible Robotics Package to build your perfect personalized robotics program. LEGO EV3, Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and more... Unique Homeshool Classes in robotics, electronics, simple machine, and more... www.robotworksacademy.net 8992 Fern Park Drive, Burke, VA 22015 The Center for Ballet Arts Register Now for Fall Ballet . Pointe . Modern . Jazz Tap . Pilates . Kinderballet Ages 3 thru Adults 3955 Pender Drive, Suite 105 Fairfax, VA 22030 • 703.273.5344 • thecenterballetarts.com washingtonFAMILY.com November 2018 13 PARENTING A Perfectionist CHILD BY ANN DOLIN With the heightened pressure on kids to perform well academically in the D.C. area, it is no surprise that this behavior is becoming increasingly common. To provide more insight about perfectionism and what parents can do about it, we interviewed Dr. Sarah Berger, a perfectionist psychology associate from the Center for Cognitive Therapy and Assessment in Falls Church, VA. Read on to get her advice. 14 November 2018 washingtonFAMILY.com Q&A WITH DR. SARAH BERGER Q. LET’S SAY A PARENT HAS A SEVENTH-GRADER WHO Q. WHAT CAUSES CONSTANTLY REWRITES AN ESSAY PERFECTIONISM? SHE’S BEEN ASSIGNED. HOW ARE KIDS BORN WITH IT OR IS IT SHOULD THE PARENT HANDLE A PRODUCT OF PARENTING? THIS TYPE OF BEHAVIOR WHEN A. It’s a mix of both. We don’t know for certain exactly what causes it, but research does show that it can be genetic as well as the environment. But the environment isn’t just the home; it can be the school as well. THE CHILD NEVER THINKS HER WRITING IS GOOD ENOUGH? A. The main thing a parent can do is to be empathic, but also provide limits. For example, the parent may say, “I know this is hard for you. Instead of six drafts like last time, how about getting it done in four drafts?” Cutting down on the behavior, even just slightly at first, is helpful. Later on, you can cut down to maybe two or three drafts, but take it slow. It’s also OK to put a time limit on work in the evening so that your child isn’t working into all hours of the night. BRAIN: ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS/RAWPIXEL; GIRL: ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS/KWANCHAICHAIUDOM D oes your child erase and redo homework over and over again until it’s just right? Is anything less than 100 percent not good enough? Welcome to the world of perfectionism, where unrealistic expectations are daily and unrelenting. Perfectionists engage in frequent hypercritical self-talk, bringing themselves down and creating a whole lot of stress within the family. If your child is pushing back and is insisting on perfecting the homework, ask questions like, “What have you done in the past that has helped you get it done? How can you move forward?” Students don’t realize that they are hearing a “worry brain” talking, not a “smart brain.” Q. WHAT IS A “WORRY BRAIN” VERSUS A “SMART BRAIN?” A. The worry brain is the brain that focuses on the “what ifs” and constantly thinks of the worst-case scenario, such as getting an F or the teacher not liking the project or homework. It becomes a negative cycle. The smart brain asks, “What can we do about this?” The smart brain is the problem solver and doesn’t get wrapped up in the cycle of negativity. AN ASSIGNMENT THAT’S NOT PERFECTLY DONE?” A. Absolutely! Some of that is learning to live with uncertainty, which is part of life. We also want them to see what it feels like to not get an A. It’s called exposure therapy. We have them do it for homework, but we also practice it in session. Although we can’t practice it exactly how it will be in the classroom, we can model it to some degree. For example, I might say, “I know reading perfectly aloud is important to you. This time, I want you to read aloud and make mistakes and then let’s sit for a moment and see how that feels.” This type of exposure is something that we encourage parents to practice with their child as well. Q. CAN PERFECTIONISM EVER BE FIXED OR IS IT TYPICALLY A 15 minutes, and then I’ll answer any questions you might have.” Set a very reasonable and realistic goal that the child can obtain. Q. HOW DOES A PARENT KNOW IF THIS BEHAVIOR IS JUST GARDEN- VARIETY OR A REAL ISSUE THAT REQUIRES OUTSIDE ASSISTANCE? A. There are two key indicators. One is whether the behavior is interfering with day-to-day functioning. Is the stress level so high that daily tasks are impacted? If so, that’s a sign. And this stress doesn’t have to be just with the child, it can be the family, too. If families are on the fence, they have to ask themselves whether this is a priority, because it will not get better without intervention. Sometimes, parents will say, “This isn’t a priority now, but we’ll keep an eye on it.” And that’s OK, too. LIFE-LONG PROBLEM, TO SOME Q. HOW CAN THERAPY HELP? A. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy stems from the idea that thoughts, behaviors and feelings all interact and feed on each other. So, in the case of a child with perfectionism, the student is thinking, “I can’t do this” or “I’m going to fail.” Those kinds of thoughts perpetuate the anxiety and make the behaviors worse. In therapy, we meet the student at the level of those thoughts and we challenge the thoughts. So the language becomes “I’m going to work on this for 30 minutes and see where I’m at,” which is far different than “I can’t do this well enough.” Kids need parents to help them set those limits. At the 30-minute point, a parent can check in to see how it is going. DEGREE? Q. WHAT RESOURCES DO YOU A. People have tendencies towards RECOMMEND FOR PARENTS? perfectionism. However, it can absolutely be modified. The issue is how much it affects day-to-day life. Sometimes the student doesn’t see the impact, but the parents do. When a child is doing hours upon hours of homework, it is a problem. The parent has a right to say, “This is interfering with our lives and we’re going to do something about it as a family.” Parents have the right and responsibility to help their child learn differently. A. One of my favorite websites is Q. ONE ISSUE THAT IS OFTEN SEEN IN TUTORING IS AVOIDANCE. SOMETIMES, KIDS ARE SO AFRAID OF MESSING UP THAT THEY WON’T EVEN START IN THE FIRST Q. IT SEEMS LIKE KIDS ARE OFTEN SO SCARED OF THE “WHAT IFS” THAT THEY WORK THEIR FINGERS TO THE BONE IN ORDER TO MAKE THE ASSIGNMENT PERFECT. IS THERE EVER A TIME WHEN YOU, AS A THERAPIST, SAY, “LET’S SEE WHAT IT FEELS LIKE TO TURN IN PLACE. CAN YOU TALK ABOUT THIS AVOIDANCE MECHANISM? A. Avoidance looks like laziness, but it is not laziness. Kids are afraid to get started and just try the work. When they’re feeling very anxious, they won’t even begin the task. Here, the parent can say, “I want you to work for worrywisekids.org. It’s not specific to perfectionism, but is a great resource for dealing with anxiety. Dr. Tamar Chansky and her group run the site, and she is also the one who uses the term “worry brain.” With perfectionist children, the goal is to change their mindset. As Dr. Berger suggested, there are many helpful strategies and practices you can use to help your child with perfectionism. But if your child’s symptoms are severely interfering with homework completion on a regular basis, don’t be afraid to consider seeking therapy. A good therapist can tackle the “all-or-nothing” thinking that hampers your child. Ann Dolin is the founder and president of Educational Connections Tutoring, serving Northern VA, D.C., and MD. She and her tutors travel to students’ homes to help them improve their confidence and grades through 1-to-1 tutoring and organization/time management coaching. washingtonFAMILY.com November 2018 15 Holiday Eating By Marissa Donovan 16 November 2018 washingtonFAMILY.com ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS/ALEXRATHS CHANGE THE WAY YOU THINK ABOUT T he holiday season is an exciting time — from catching up with family and friends to delicious eats and giving thanks. But it can also be a stressful time. Staying healthy during the holidays (and throughout the year) goes beyond tracking numbers on a scale. Checking in with your body and mind — focusing on self-care — is the best thing you can do for yourself. GRACE IS MORE THAN SOMETHING YOU SAY BEFORE EATING are available anytime you feel like making them. Thwart the fear of not having a holiday dish by making plans to make it the next month. BUILD A BALANCED TABLESCAPE If plates need to have a balance of fruit, veggies, whole grains, lean protein and healthy fat, then tables do too. Hosts should include dishes that feature each of these groups. If you’re bringing something to a party, bring a vegetable dish. They are often left off or limited in table planning. And when making your plate, start with the vegetables to keep from running out of room on the plate and skipping the veggies entirely. well, snacking. Instead of mindlessly munching, put your food on a plate and walk away. Use the smallest plate available and never “save up calories” by fasting all day. Instead, try to slow your eating pace. If you can, pace yourself with the slowest eater at the table or put your fork down between bites. Buying this extra time makes you conscious of your body and more likely to know exactly when you’ve had enough. KEEP SNACKS ON HAND Offer grace to someone new this holiday Hunger can strike at any moment, season: yourself. Your eating will not especially when traveling, shopping or be perfect. It’s OK to indulge in holiday working. Packing a snack in favorites and spend the day your bag before you’re hungry curled up in front of the makes it easy to choose fire. Lingering in guilt over “THE PEOPLE WHO HAVE THE BEST SUCCESS something that will actually every cookie you eat is not REACHING THEIR HEALTH GOALS HAVE A do the job. Planning and being healthy and can actually BALANCED, REALISTIC APPROACH.” prepared is half the battle lead to worse behaviors like when it comes to balanced overeating. Be fair to yourself! snacking. Simple snacks like nuts, seeds, whole fruit or EMBRACE THE FLAVORS OF DROP THE “ALL OR granola bars are easy to stash in your THE SEASON NOTHING” MENTALITY bag or your car. It’s easy to add fresh fruits and You can go for a run, drink a green vegetables to meals when there’s fresh, Having a healthy holiday season goes smoothie and eat apple pie all in one beyond swapping in cauliflower mashed seasonal produce to inspire you. Roast day! Healthy eating doesn’t mean a potatoes or running a turkey trot. It is some sliced delicata squash with olive week of abstinence followed by a week- about recognizing what you need to be oil, salt and pepper for a hearty side long binge. The people who have the your best self. Some days, that might dish that bridges fall and winter. For best success reaching their health goals mean prepping your lunches to save you a tasty dessert, combine sliced apples, have a balanced, realistic approach. time and stress. Other days, it may mean lemon juice and cinnamon in a slow Extending the holiday season into carving out some alone time before the cooker to make homemade applesauce multiple days of poor eating will leave holiday festivities begin. Many of us, (add water for moisture!). Spruce up you feeling drained. especially parents, focus so much on your holiday beverage or morning tending to others that we often forget to PICK THE DISHES YOU yogurt with care for ourselves. Show yourself some TRULY ENJOY colorful pomegranate seeds. love this holiday season by taking care Is Grandma’s sweet potato pie of your body and your mind. Buying in-season produce can lead something you look forward to every to trying new foods at their very best Marissa Donovan, MS, RD, LDN is a year? Have a slice. Is there another dish — when they’re freshest and most D.C. area resident, registered dietitian and on the table you could take or leave? flavorful. You’ll also save money! in-store nutritionist for Giant Food. Giant’s Then leave it. Have the foods you truly in-store nutritionists offer one-on-one enjoy, and only those. Not only will DON’T BE FOOLED INTO counseling, store tours and community you have a better experience, but it can OVEREATING classes aimed at improving the health of save you from overeating. As you look customers and the community. For more At any party, standing around the at those dishes you’re skipping, just information, visit giantfood.com/nutrition. appetizer or snack table just leads to, remember that those “holiday” dishes JOY AND MATH CAN BE USED IN THE SAME SENTENCE. Laying the Foundation for Success from Day One The Twos Program at BASIS Independent McLean is now welcoming ages 2–3: Develop early physical, social, emotional, and language skills Participate in exploratory STEM activities that encourage inquiry and discovery Experience the joy of being creative in art, music, dance, and dramatic play Establish trusting relationships with peers and teachers Learn more at mclean.basisindependent.com Accepting applications for Fall 2019 18 November 2018 washingtonFAMILY.com Beauvoir Fall Open House Sunday, November 11 at 1:00 p.m. Register today: www.beauvoirschool.org/visit Discover the World at WIS. Our multicultural, multilingual environment educates global citizens beginning in Preschool and culminating in the world-renowned IB Diploma program in Grades 11 and 12. SMALL-GROUP TOURS AVAILABLE THROUGH MID-DECEMBER. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. We welcome applicants from varied language backgrounds and skill levels, including beginners. Learn more at www.wis.edu 20 18 Register now for 2018/2019 School Year Classes, don’t miss out! formerly HeartBeats Music & Dance washingtonFAMILY.com November 2018 19 GUIDES & RESOURCES OPEN HOUSE DIRECTORY District of Columbia AIDAN MONTESSORI SCHOOL aidanschool.org aidan@aidanschool.org 202-387-2700 2700 27th St., NW, Washington, D.C. Grades: 18 months-Grade 6 Open House: 2018: Nov. 2, Dec. 7 2019: Jan. 11 BEAUVOIR, THE NATIONAL CATHEDRAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL beauvoirschool.org margaret.hartigan@cathedral.org 202-537-6493 3500 Woodley Rd., NW, Washington, D.C. Grades: PreK-3rd Open House: 2018: Nov. 11, 1 p.m. BRITISH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF WASHINGTON biswashington.org admissions@bigwashington.org 202-829-3700 2001 Wisconsin Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. Grades: PK2-12 Open House: Individualized visits available Monday - Friday WASHINGTON INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL – PRIMARY SCHOOL wis.edu 202-243-1700 1690 36th St. N.W., Washington, D.C. Grades: Preschool to Grade 5 Open House: Small-group tours available through mid-December. Reservations required. WASHINGTON INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL – TREGARON CAMPUS wis.edu 202-243-1800 3100 Macomb St. N.W., Washington, D.C. Grades: 6-12 Open House: Small-group tours available through mid-December. Reservations required. 20 November 2018 washingtonFAMILY.com Maryland THE AUBURN SCHOOL theauburnschool.org info@theauburnschool.org 410-321-4799 1710 Dulaney Valley Rd., Lutherville, MD 301-588-8048 9545 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring, MD Grades: K-8th Open House: Call to schedule a tour. BARRIE SCHOOL barrie.org admission@barrie.org 301-576-2800 13500 Layhill Rd. , Silver Spring, MD Ages: 18 months-Grade 12 Open House: Nov. 2, 9 a.m., Discover Barrie Montessori (18 months-Grade 5) Nov. 12, 9 a.m., Drop-In Tours (18 months-Grade 12) BETHESDA MONTESSORI SCHOOL bethesdamontessori.com admissions@bethesdamontessori.com 301-966-1260 7611 Clarendon Rd., Bethesda, MD Ages: 3-6 Open House: Call to schedule a tour. FEYNMAN SCHOOL feynmanschool.org admissions@feynmanschool.org 301-770-4370 11810 Falls Rd., Potomac, MD Grades: PS-8th 2018: Nov. 7, 7-8:30 p.m., Dec. 9, 3-5 p.m. 2019: Jan. 10, 7-8:30 p.m. FRIENDS COMMUNITY SCHOOL friendscommunityschool.org connie@friendscommunityschool.org 301-441-2100 5901 Westchester Park Dr., College Park, MD Grades: K-8 Open House, all 9-11 am: 2018: Nov. 3, Nov. 16, Dec. 4 2019: Jan. 8, Jan. 12 HOLY TRINITY EPISCOPAL DAY SCHOOL htrinity.org admissions@htrinity.org 301-464-3215 11902 Daisy Ln., Glenn Dale, MD Grades: Preschool-Grade 8 Open House: 2018: Nov. 12 (9:30-11:30 a.m.) 2019: Jan. 11 (9:30-11:30 a.m.), Feb. 10 (1-3 p.m.), Apr. 26 (9:30- 11:30 a.m.) THE SIENA SCHOOL thesienaschool.org info@thesienaschool.org 301-244-3600 1300 Forest Glen Rd., Silver Spring, MD Grades 4-12 Open House: Wednesday Tours 9:30-11:00 a.m. SPRING BILINGUAL MONTESSORI ACADEMY spring-bilingual.org; info@spring-bilingual.org 301-962-7262 3514 Plyers Mill Rd., Kensington, MD Ages: 2-6 Hours: 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Open House: 2018: Nov. 3, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. 2019: Jan. 5, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Virginia ACADEMY OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION myschoolace.com 703-471-2132 10800 Parkridge Blvd., Suite 150, Reston, VA Grades: Toddler-Grade 6 Open House: 2018: Nov. 9, Dec. 14 2019: Jan. 11, Feb. 8, Mar. 8, Apr. 12, May 10 THE AUBURN SCHOOL – FAIRFAX CAMPUS theauburnschool.org info@theauburnschool.org 703-793-9353 3800 Concorde Pkwy., Chantilly, VA Grades: K-8 Open House: Call to schedule a tour. BEANTREE ASHBURN CAMPUS beantreelearning.com 571-223-3110 43629 Greenway Corporate Dr., Ashburn, VA Grades: Infant-K Open House: Call to schedule a tour. BEANTREE WESTFIELDS CAMPUS beantreelearning.com 703-961-8222 5003 Westone Plaza., Chantilly, VA Grades: Infant-K Open House: Call to schedule a tour. BROOKSFIELD SCHOOL brooksﬁ eldschool.org brksﬁ eld@aol.com 703-356-5437 1830 Kirby Rd., McLean, VA Grades: Toddler-Kindergarten Open House: Daily, 9:30 or 10:30 a.m. CONGRESSIONAL SCHOOL congressionalschool.org admission@congressionalschool.org 703-533-1064 3229 Sleepy Hollow Rd., Falls Church, VA Grades: Infants-Grade 8 Open House: 2018: Nov. 8, 9 a.m. 2019: Jan. 15 EDLIN SCHOOL edlinschool.com 703-438-3990 10742 Sunset Hills Rd., Reston, VA Grades: K4, K5-8 Open House: Nov. 10, Dec. 15 FAIRFAX CHRISTIAN SCHOOL fairfaxchristianschool.com admissions@studyfcs.com 703-759-5100 22870 Paciﬁ c Blvd., Dulles, VA Grades: K-12 Open House: Call to schedule a tour. KENWOOD SCHOOL kenwoodschool.com alison@kenwoodschool.com 703-256-4711 4955 Sunset Ln., Annandale, VA Grades: K-6th Open House: Call to schedule a tour. MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF CEDAR LANE preschoolmontessori.com info@cedarlanemontessori.com 703-560-4379 3035 Cedar Ln., Fairfax, VA ﬀ f CONTINUED ON PG. 22 washingtonFAMILY.com November 2018 21 open house dates CONTINUED FROM PG. 21 Grades: PreK-K Open House: Call to schedule a tour. MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF MCLEAN mcleanmontessori.org 703-790-1049 1711 Kirby Rd., McLean, VA Ages 2 ½-12 Open House: Call to schedule a tour. MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA msnv.org info@msnv.org 703-256-9577 Hillbrook Campus: 6820 Pacific Ln., Annandale, VA Valleybrook Campus: 3433 Rose Ln., Falls Church, VA Ages: 2-12; Hours: 7:30 a.m.- 6 p.m. Open House: Call to schedule a tour. NYSMITH SCHOOL FOR THE GIFTED nysmith.com ebalberde@nysmith.com 703-713-3332 13625 EDS Dr., Herndon, VA Grades: 3-years-old -Grade 8 Open House: 2018: Nov. 15, 9 a.m. & 1 p.m.; Dec. 13, 9 a.m. & 1 p.m. THE PAVILION AT BEANTREE beantreelearning.com 571-223-3113 43635 Greenway Corporate Dr., Ashburn, VA Ages: 5-14 Open House: Call to schedule a tour. PINECREST SCHOOL pinecrestschool.org admissions@pinecrestschool.org 703-354-3446 7209 Quiet Cove, Annandale, VA Ages: 3-12 Open House: 2018: Nov. 12, 12:30–2:30 p.m.; Dec. 9, 1–4 p.m. 2019: Jan. 13, 1–4 p.m.; Feb. 10, 1–4 p.m. Special School & Summer Camp Open House, March 10, 1–4 p.m. RANDOLPH-MACON ACADEMY rma.edu admission@rma.edu 540-636-5484 200 Academy Dr., Front Royal, VA Grades: 6-12, Postgraduate Open House: Nov. 12, Dec. 2 RESTON MONTESSORI SCHOOL Family Matt ers Fourth Thursday of the month Family Matters is devoted to each stage of Jewish family life. Topics will include parenting advice, education, family health, Jewish identity, household fi nances and much more. Place your ad today! 301-230-0819 rleinson@midatlanticmedia.com restonmontessori.com office@restonmontessori.com 703-481-2922 1928 Isaac Newton Sq. West, Reston, VA Grades: Infant-6th Open House: Dec. 6, 7:30-8:30 p.m. SAINT ANN CATHOLIC SCHOOL stann.org stann@stann.org 703-525-7599 980 North Frederick St., Arlington, VA Grades: Preschool-Grade 8 Open House: 2018: Nov. 13, 9:30-11:30 a.m., Kindergarten Night 7-8 p.m. 2019: Jan. 27, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Jan. 29, 9:30-11:30 a.m. WESTMINSTER SCHOOL westminsterschool.com admissions@westminsterschool.com 703-256-3620 3819 Gallows Rd., Annandale, VA Grades: Pre-K-8 Open House: 2018: Preschool- Grade 8 – Nov. 12, 9-10:30 a.m. 2019: Preschool- Grade 8 – Jan. 15, 9-10:30 a.m.; Preschool only – Apr. 12, 9:30-11 a.m. 22 November 2018 washingtonFAMILY.com Classes • Birthday Parties • Open Gym • Competitive Team • Camps Celebrate HAPPINESS// CHALLENGE// Unique Minds Encourage CURIOSITY// Now Enrolling! Campuses in Fairfax VA, Silver Spring MD and Baltimore MD ▪ www.theauburnschool.org ▪ A school for academic and social success! It’s Not Just Gymnastics, It’s Gymtastic! REGISTER NOW! NO SCHOOL! DAY CAMP • CLASSES FOR ALL AGES ONLINE AT WWW.GOSILVERSTARS.COM Two Great Locations! OPEN HOUSE 2701 Pittman Drive Silver Spring, MD 301-589-0938 Tuesday, November 13 9:30-11:30 am Kindergarten Night 7:00pm-8:00pm Sunday, January 27 Tuesday, January 29 10:00 am - 1:00pm 9100 Gaither Rd. Gaithersburg, MD 240-224-7766 9:30am - 11:30am 980 North Frederick Street, Arlington, Va 703-525-7599 • www.StAnn.org Saint Ann Catholic School Saint Ann School @school_ann 14201 Woodcliff Court Bowie, MD 301-352-5777 friendsofstann ag.com www.castlelasert Arca Rope de & s at Ga Course ithers Locati burg on! Check out our other location! 14201 Woodcliff Ct, Bowie, MD 301-352-8413 Serving students ages 18 months to grade 12 School School Admission Drop-In Tours Monday 20 18 November 12 9:00 am RSVP today! WINNER 301-576-2800 admission@barrie.org barrie.org The Area’s Leader in STEM Education Thank you for voting Feynman School as a Best for Families Winner for "Best STEM Program" in the Education Category. • Beautifully renovated Montessori building and new K-5 Maker Space • New STEAM courses for Middle & High School including planetary and marine science Visit us at our new location! 11810 Falls Road Potomac, MD Preschool-8th Grade 13500 Layhill Road, Silver Spring, MD Minutes from the ICC and Glenmont Metro Bus Transportation & Extended Day Available Open Houses 2018: Nov. 7, 7-8:30 p.m.; Dec. 9, 3-5 p.m. 2019: Jan. 10, 7-8:30 p.m. 3 0 1 . 7 7 0 . 4 3 7 0 ww w . f e y n m a n s c h o o l . o r g washingtonFAMILY.com November 2018 23 The Science of Giving and How It Can Help Your Kids By Sandi Schwartz CHILDREN WERE BORN TO GIVE Believe it or not, children enter this world with a natural instinct to be compassionate to others. Scientists at the Max Planck Institute discovered that infants help others even though they are too young to have learned about being kind and polite. The children take action because of their own motivation, and not because they expect a reward. Actually, humans have evolved over time to be compassionate, and our brains are now wired to respond to those who are suffering. Kindness has become a “survival of the fittest” trait, as Charles Darwin even advised 24 November 2018 washingtonFAMILY.com that “communities which included the greatest number of the most sympathetic members would flourish best, and rear the greatest number of offspring.” In other words, the better we get along and help each other out, the more successful our society will be. Do children continue to show compassion as they grow? A breakthrough study by psychologists, posted online by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), determined that young children are happier to give than to receive. Toddlers who were asked to give away their own treats expressed greater happiness when they shared with others. The researchers interpreted the results of this study to mean that anytime people participate in pro- social behavior, such as volunteering and giving charitable donations, we experience an increase in happiness. Children have the foundation to be kind, but it’s our job as parents to continue to nurture this part of them as they grow. If we neglect to do so, negative life experiences can unfortunately tear down this beautiful instinct. 5 WAYS GIVING TRANSFORMS OUR KIDS 1. BOOSTS HAPPINESS When we make others happy by giving a gift or our support, we experience a physiological change called a helper’s high. It is a euphoric physical sensation resulting from our brain releasing chemicals called endorphins. According to Psychology Today, the helper’s high is a literal “high,” similar to a drug-induced sensation. It makes us feel good naturally, giving us a rush that leaves us elated and excited. This positive energy is similar to how we feel after exercising. 2. IMPROVES HEALTH In his book, “Why Good Things Happen to Good People,” Stephen Post, a professor of preventative medicine explains that giving to others has been ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS/MYKOLA SOSIUKIN W ant to really make your kids happy? Teach them the importance of giving to others. Contrary to common belief that kids need and want more “stuff” to be happy, science tells us that it is the act of giving to others that actually boosts happiness and can even improve health and other areas of their lives. HOW TO TEACH CHILDREN ABOUT GIVING Teaching our children how to pay it forward is easier than you may think. There are endless opportunities to volunteer as a family and to give our children meaningful experiences that will enhance both their lives and the individuals they help. Here are some tips on how to incorporate giving into your children’s lives. shown to increase health benefits in people with chronic illness. In addition, a 2006 joint study by Johns Hopkins University and the University of Tennessee indicated that people who helped others had lower blood pressure and less feelings of stress than participants who did not. Discuss how they can help. Find a few minutes during your day to ask your children who they would like to help. Provide some options like babies, animals, people without homes, children who do not have families, students who need books or the elderly. Talk about the different types of projects you can do to help those in need. For some inspiration, read books about giving and kindness to your children. 3. PROMOTES SOCIAL CONNECTION When we give, our generosity is ultimately rewarded by others. These positive actions promote a sense of trust and cooperation that strengthens our relationships. Moreover, we feel a bond towards those who we help. All of this is important because having positive social interactions is central to good mental and physical health. 4. ENCOURAGES AN ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE When we give to those in need, we feel a sense of gratitude because it puts things in perspective. Volunteer work is a great opportunity for our children to appreciate what they have and gives them a glimpse of the broader world. Meanwhile, gratitude is another very important ingredient for happiness and good health. 5. GIVES CHILDREN THE OPPORTUNITY TO INSPIRE OTHERS Those who are on the receiving end of a good deed typically want to pass along that positive feeling and help others. Researcher James Fowler found that just one act of kindness can inspire several more acts of kindness by others. In this case, children have the opportunity to be a mentor to others, inspiring a chain of kindness and compassion. Talk about the importance of charitable giving. If you choose to start a monetary collection for charity, consider creating or buying giving boxes for each child. Ask them to set goals about how much they would like to give throughout the year and which organizations they would like to donate to. Check in weekly or monthly throughout the year to see how close they are to reaching their goal. Help your children discover their passion. Our passion should drive how we give because when we are excited about a project, we can put all of our heart and soul into it. Also, when we care about what we are working on, we will get more out of it and feel happier. Help your children identify their talents, skills and interests that they can put to good use. Give as a group. Volunteering during a community service event with others accentuates the happiness boost because you are also building social connections. Choose projects close to home. Giving to a place locally where you can actually see and experience the results is most effective. Studies have also found that we are happiest when we give to a charity through a friend, relative or social connection rather than simply making an anonymous donation to a cause halfway around the world. Find ways to volunteer as a family. By volunteering as a family, you make giving a priority and build it into your children’s daily routine. There are so many ways that you can give together, and if you don’t find something out there that you love, create it yourself. Here are some wonderful resources to identify family-friendly volunteer opportunities. • Doing Good Together’s Start Your Kindness Practice Worksheets (doinggoodtogether.org): They offer printable worksheets to guide your family in identifying your interests, priorities and talents so you can choose the best volunteer projects. • PBSkids.org’s Family Guide to Volunteering: Check out their comprehensive printable booklet online that explains how to choose a project, provides important reminders while on-site at a project, and offers ways to reflect and share your experience. • Idealist (idealist.org): This is one of the best sites for searching volunteer opportunities all over the world. The best part is they have an option to locate projects that are appropriate for families to do together. There is certainly no shortage of ways to help others. The next time you feel like your child’s playroom or bedroom closet is going to explode, ask them to fill a bag with items to give to kids who could really use them. By providing our children with opportunities to give, they will be happier and healthier and have the power to pass along that goodness to so many people. washingtonFAMILY.com November 2018 25 SPONSORED CONTENT READING THE CLASSICS IN THE DIGITAL AGE HOW CLASSIC LITERATURE COMBATS NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF SCREEN OVERLOAD BY WESTMINSTER SCHOOL nce upon a time in a land far, far away, a tired young girl climbs into her bed with her favorite, dog-eared copy of “Little Women,” excitedly turning to the chapter where Jo wishes she were a boy and could go ﬁ ght in the war with her father. This young girl barely gets to chapter three, but she falls asleep with the beloved book beside her. Tomorrow, she will carry the book around with her like an old friend. This does sound much like an old fairy tale, doesn’t it? With today’s video games, iPads, smartphones, social media, computers and Netﬂ ix, the days of voracious reading seem to be long gone. In fact, a recent multi-year study by the American Psychological Association shows that high school- aged teens spend more time texting and on social media than reading. Many of the teens polled reported that they are spending four hours a day or more texting, on the Internet or on social media. Conversely, teens say that they are only reading for about 19 minutes a day, which is signiﬁ cantly less time than teens spent reading in the previous generation. More time on screens means that children are growing up with a number of signiﬁ cant challenges, like moody behavior, less focus on academics and — perhaps especially disturbing — an overall lack of empathy for others. It’s not realistic to think that the distractions of screen devices are going to disappear, so parents and teachers are searching for ways to combat the ill effects of too much 26 November 2018 washingtonFAMILY.com time in front of screens. One answer? Reading — especially classic works of literature — is the perfect antidote to many of the negative effects of screens, and it is an activity that can have immediate beneﬁ ts. In reading classic literature, rich in stories of compelling characters facing and surmounting difﬁ cult challenges, children will discover and explore their own humanity, and the empathy they have been lacking will be reignited. Other beneﬁ ts include an expanded vocabulary, a better understanding of historical and cultural references and improved social skills. In addition, a regular diet of high-quality literature such as classic books can improve students’ writing in all subjects. Reading is also a very inexpensive pleasure, and it is something families can do together. Contemporary authors have much to offer students today. However, reading classic literature can provide lifelong advantages. What sets classic books apart from current picks? • A classic book is one that has endured the passage of time and continues to speak to modern readers. • It has a historical impact and furthers knowledge of a particular time, people or place. • It has a moral/emotional message that is often provocative, even transformative. • It has questions that may never be ﬁ nally answered, but challenge the reader to ponder deeply. • Often, the complexities and subtleties of a classic work mean that a reader has a different response or understanding every time it is read, and it begs to be reread. Of course, contemporary literature may contain some of these elements, but true classics are books that involve the reader in a great literary conversation among curious and thoughtful minds down through the years. This is a deeply meaningful relationship that today’s children deserve and need to be a part of. Literature today has only been informed by and made great because of the classics. The words and stories found in classics are challenging, and this is why they should be savored. They have the power to expand horizons and awaken the child to the reality of worlds very different from his own, far away or long ago. Children feel both enriched and accomplished after tackling such compelling works, which stimulate understanding and empathy that cannot be gleaned from any video game. Perhaps carrying around well-loved books written long ago won’t be as common as it once was, but then again, old things often become new again … just like the classics. Westminster School provides a unique preschool-middle school education based on a classical curriculum, accelerated academics enhanced by the arts and an emphasis on personal responsibility and good character. Students enjoy small classes taught by teachers who specialize in their ﬁ eld. ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS/ ARCHV O • Preschool – Grade 6 • Before-Care & After-Care • Pinecrest Pavilion Summer Camp for Ages 4-12 • • • • Differentiated Instruction Small Classes Challenging Academics Positive Social & Emotional Development New Lower School Building Now Open! 703.354.3446 Annandale, Virginia pinecrestschool.org Th e Winchester School Established 1970 Pre-K • Kindergarten • First & Second Grades Summer Programs Challenging Academics, Stimulating Art and Music Classes Daily Spanish, Experienced Teachers Warm and Encouraging Environment Call for an Appointment 301-598-2266 Open 7:30 am - 6:00 pm 3223 Bel Pre Road Silver Spring, MD 20906 Healthy Smile... Healthy Child pediatric dental care John Han, DDS Pediatric Dentist Fernanda Fontes, DDS Pediatric Dentist Jenny Ha, DDS Pediatric Dentist Harold Fleming, DDS Orthodontist Dr. Han voted one of the Top Dentists in Northern VA Magazine & VA Living Magazine. • • • • • • • • • • • • Sedations Laughing Gas/Nitrous Oxide Emergency Care Digital X-ray & Technology Free Orthodontic Consultation Sealants White Fillings School Exams Kid PDC s C Fluoride Treatment Firs ome Early Orthodontics t Cleanings Check up exams * No Referrals Required Accepting all major insurances and Smiles for Children “See The Look Of Surprise And Wonder In Your Child’s Eyes!” Mister Barry's Magic Show www.mypdcdentists.com Pediatric Dental Care Fairfax office: 9901 Fairfax Boulevard, Fairfax, VA 22030. Springfield office: 6120 Brandon Ave. Suite 114, Springfield, VA 22150 “My 7 year old is still talking about her best birthday ever. She and her friends have been practicing the magic tricks they learned.” M.S. Reston, VA washingtonFAMILY.com November 2018 27 DISCOVERING montessori Montessori Children • Discover learning is a joy that can last a lifetime. • Learn spontaneously and creatively. • Learn at their own pace. • Develop to their greatest potential. • Are encouraged to choose work and make decisions. DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA AIDAN MONTESSORI SCHOOL aidanschool.org admissions@aidanschool.org 2700 27th St., N.W., Washington, D.C. Ages: 18 months-12 202-387-2700 THE CHILDREN'S HOUSE OF WASHINGTON thechildrenshouseofwashington.com chowdirector@gmail.com 3133 Dumbarton St., N.W. Washington, D.C. Toddler: Nearly 2-3; Primary: 3-6 202-342-2551 WATERFRONT ACADEMY waterfrontacademy.org info@waterfrontacademy.org 60 I St. S.W., Washington, D.C. Ages: Toddler-Early Adolescent 202-484-0044 MARYLAND THE BETHESDA MONTESSORI SCHOOL bethesdamontessori.com admissions@bethesdamontessori.com 7611 Clarendon Rd., Bethesda, MD Ages: 3-6 301-986-1260 CRESTVIEW MONTESSORI SCHOOL CHILDREN'S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL THE JULIA BROWN SCHOOLS THE CURIOUS MINDS MONTESSORI SCHOOL crestviewmontessori.com info@crestviewmontessori.com 4728 Western Ave., Bethesda, MD Ages: 3-6 301-910-4728 juliabrownschools.com 9760 Owen Brown Rd., Columbia, MD 9450 Madison Ave., Laurel, MD 3400 Queen Mary Dr., Olney, MD 1300 Milestone Dr., Silver Spring, MD Ages: 18 months-Grade 3 301-447-5700; 301-622-7808 MONTGOMERY MONTESSORI INSTITUTE montessori-mmi.com pamela.montessori@hers.com 10500 Darnestown Rd., Rockville, MD Montessori Teacher Education (Adult) 301-279-2799 TOP HAT MONTESSORI tophatmontessori.com info@tophatmontessori.com 18243-A Flower Hill Way Gaithersburg, MD Ages: 2 months-K THE WOODS ACADEMY woodsacademy.org admissions@woodsacademy.org 6801 Greentree Rd., Bethesda, MD Ages: 3-6 301-365-3080 BUTLER SCHOOL butlerschool.org; amy@butlerschool.org 15951 Germantown Rd. Darnestown, MD Ages: 18 months-14 301-977-6600 CHILDREN'S HOUSE AT HOLLY HILL MONTESSORI hollyhillmontessori.com hollyhillmontessori@gmail.com 19137 Mateny Hill Rd. Germantown, MD Ages: 2-5 202-246-0547 VIRGINIA BROOKSFIELD SCHOOL brooksfieldschool.org brksfield@aol.com 1830 Kirby Rd., McLean, VA Ages: 2-6 703-356-KIDS CARDINAL MONTESSORI cardinalmontessori.com cardinalmontessori@gmail.com 1424 G St., Woodbridge, VA Ages: 3-12 703-491-3810 28 November 2018 washingtonFAMILY.com montessoriofarlington.com office@chms-arlington.com 2425-A North Glebe Rd., Arlington, VA Ages: 2-6 703-276-1360 curiousminds.org info@curiousminds.org 24963 Ashgarten Dr., Chantilly, VA Ages: 3 months-6 703-722-2400 GREEN HEDGES greenhedges.org kvazquez@greenhedges.org 415 Windover Ave., N.W., Vienna, VA Ages: 3-Grade 8 703-938-8323 HA'PENNY MONTESSORI SCHOOL hapennyschool.com director@hapennyschool.com 20854 Stubble Rd., Ashburn, VA Ages: 10 weeks-6 703-729-5755 HOLLY BROOK MONTESSORI SCHOOL preschoolmontessori.com info@hollybrookmontessori.com 2455 Gallows Rd., Dunn Loring, VA Ages: 3-5 703-573-7800 HUNTER MILL MONTESSORI SCHOOL preschoolmontessori.com info@huntermillmontessori.com 2709 Hunter Mill Rd., Oakton, VA Ages: 2 years 9 months-5 703-938-7755 LITTLE OAKS MONTESSORI ACADEMY lomamontessori.com info@lomamontessori.com 13525 Dulles Technology Dr. Ste. 103, Herndon, VA Ages: 8 months-6 571-336-2559 MONARCH CHRISTIAN MONTESSORI kidslovemonarch.com kidslovemonarch@gmail.com 15120 Enterprise Ct., Ste. 100, Chantilly, VA Ages: 18 months-6 703-961-8281 MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF ALEXANDRIA montessorischoolofalexandria.com montschoolalex@vacotmail.com 6300 Florence Ln., Alexandria, VA Ages: 3-12 703-960-3498 MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF CEDAR LANE preschoolmontessori.com info@cedarlanemontessori.com 3035 Cedar Ln., Fairfax, VA Ages: 3-6 703-560-4379 MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF FAIRFAX montessori-fairfax.com msofx@aol.com 3411 Lees Corner Rd., Chantilly, VA Ages: 18 months-12 571-323-0222 RESTON MONTESSORI SCHOOL restonmontessori.com office@restonmontessori.com 1928 Isaac Newton Sq., Reston, VA Ages: 3 months-Grade 6 703-481-2922 THE RIDGEMONT MONTESSORI SCHOOL ridgemontmontessori.com office@ridgemontmontessori.com 6519 Georgetown Pike, McLean, VA Ages: 18 months-6 703-356-1970 SUNSET HILLS MONTESSORI sunsethillsmontessori.com office@sunsethillsmontessori.com 703-476-7477 11180 Ridge Heights Rd. Reston, VA Camp MSNV 2018 Valleybrook June 25-August 10| Ages 3-6 Hillbrook June 25-August 17| Ages 3-12 Falls Church & Annandale, VA. 703-256-9577 • www.msnv.org Open House: December 6th from 6:30pm-7:30pm. washingtonFAMILY.com November 2018 29 6 Best Apps to Track Your Baby’s First Year By Britni Petersen T ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS/PEOPLEIMAGES he ﬁ rst year of your baby’s life is an exciting time! And it’s also a crucial period of remarkable development. So capture your litt le ones precious milestones and special moments with a litt le help from one of these free baby- tracking apps below. BABY TRACKER FIRSTYEAR BABY BUNDLE Baby Tracker is designed by busy parents, for busy parents. It oﬀ ers a simple, no-fuss way to track your baby’s daily habits, health and memorable “ﬁ rsts.” Record feedings, diaper changes and sleep patt erns with a quick one-handed tap, then feel free to go back later and add details and even photos. Baby Tracker also makes it easy to share all of your baby’s exciting milestones with friends and FirstYear is one of the easiest ways to track your baby’s daily activities. All events can be logged with two simple taps on your iPhone or iPad. View trends daily, weekly or monthly. Keep medical information and health questions handy at doctor visits, and use the powerful note taking feature to make sure you don’t miss any important details. And for added protection, the app allows you to back up your baby’s records to online storage. Baby Bundle is a mobile toolkit for new parents to collect and record information on a child’s development and growth, while providing extensive parenting resources in one comprehensive app. Some of the helpful features include a baby monitor, parenting guide, vaccination check-up schedule and growth tracker. SPROUT BABY EATSLEEP TINYBEANS Sprout Baby is the ultimate baby- tracking app. Its powerful, all-in- one program allows you to track all of your baby’s daily activities and care including feedings, sleep, diapers, developmental milestones, growth, health, medications, illnesses and more. As an added bonus, the app creates a PDF summary of your baby’s data, so you can easily print it out for doctor visits! EatSleep focuses exclusively on tracking your baby’s eating, sleeping and diaper habits. It’s designed so you don’t have to mess with timers, alarms or typing. And you don’t have to worry about sifting through other tracking elements that you don’t necessarily need. After submitt ing a certain amount of entries, you can then view trends daily, weekly or monthly. Tinybeans lets parents track their litt le one’s milestones and share pregnancy and baby pictures with family and friends. Users can get creative with fun stickers, text and photo ﬁ lters, and can enjoy unlimited storage for all photos, videos milestones and notes. You can also easily turn your baby’s milestones into a beautiful printed photo book! 30 November 2018 washingtonFAMILY.com s a m t s i r h C g n i th y r Eve inary P d r o a r t x E n One I lace Tickets and Overnight Packages on Sale Now! ChristmasOnThePotomac.com The Fun Begins November 16 PEPSI, PEPSI-COLA and the Pepsi Globe are registered trademarks of PepsiCo, Inc. 18-GN-2766_GN COTP Washington Family_7.75x10.75_GLO_FINAL.indd 1 10/10/18 2:02 PM GUIDES & RESOURCES BABY & MATERNITY Child Care AIDAN MONTESSORI SCHOOL aidanschool.org 202-387-2700 2700 27th St. N.W., Washington, D.C. Washington, D.C.'s oldest AMI-accredited Montessori school serving ages 18 months to Grade 6. BeanTree oﬀ ers stimulating academic learning, experiential play and specialty programs in art, music, foreign language and technology taught by degreed, experienced educators. All programs are oﬀ ered in small classroom environments to promote learning. Year-round open enrollment available. Call for a personal tour today. SMITHSONIAN EARLY ENRICHMENT CENTER BEANTREE LEARNING WESTFIELDS CAMPUS seecstories.com 202-633-0121 10th and Constitution Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. Founded in 1988, the Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center (SEEC) is a school for infants – kindergartners that uses museums and the community at-large as part of its curriculum. We believe that young children are capable learners who beneﬁ t from inquiry-based instruction, child- directed experiences, and play. SEEC is especially committ ed to supporting a child’s social emotional development as well as positive sense of self. In addition to our school, we oﬀ er single family workshops, part-time family programs, and classes for educators and caregivers. beantreelearning.com 703-961-8222 5003 Westone Plaza, Chantilly, VA BeanTree Learning is fully accredited through the prestigious AdvancED/SACS CASI organization oﬀ ering full-day private Kindergarten and a robust after school program. With a team of degreed, experienced educators, BeanTree oﬀ ers an advanced curriculum taught in small classroom sett ings, providing students with one-to-one att ention and homework help after school to reinforce subject matt er. Year-round open enrollment available. Classes & Instruction BASIS INDEPENDENT MCLEAN mclean.basisindependent.com mclean-admissions@basisindependent.com 703-854-1253 8000 Jones Branch Dr., McLean, VA The Twos Program at BASIS Independent McLean provides children between the ages of 2 and 3 years old with a supportive environment that nurtures growing minds and inspires a love of learning. Led by caring, thoughtful teachers who are experts in early childhood development, our program lays the necessary building blocks for physical, social, emotional, and language development. BROOKSFIELD SCHOOL brooksﬁ eldschool.org 1830 Kirby Rd., McLean, VA 703-356-5437 Toddler program. Now enrolling! CAPITAL GYMNASTICS NATIONAL TRAINING CENTER capitalgymnasticsntc.com capitalgymnasticsntc@gmail.com 703-239-0044 10400 Premier Ct., Burke, VA Capital Gymnastics National Training Center oﬀ ers recreational and competitive classes in Gymnastics, Cheer, Xcel, TOPs, and Tumbling. Our programs start as young as 18 months for the parent and tot classes and go up to adult training. BEANTREE LEARNING ASHBURN CAMPUS ENCORE STAGE & STUDIO beantreelearning.com 43629 Greenway Corporate Dr., Ashburn, VA BeanTree Learning oﬀ ers private early childhood education and care through Pre-K. With a robust learning curriculum, encorestageva.org info@encorestage.org 703-548-1154 4000 Lorcom Ln., Arlington, VA 32 November 2018 washingtonFAMILY.com Encore Stage & Studio oﬀ ers classes for ages 6 months through 2 years old on Tuesday mornings. Share, grow and learn with your child during this special time in their life! Encore’s parent/caregiver classes will promote your child’s development and provide exciting enrichment. Through creative play, movement and music your child will sharpen critical social and physical skills in a fun and imaginative environment. Classes for ages 3-5 are available Saturday mornings and Wednesday afternoons. Center (SEEC) is a school for infants – kindergartners that uses museums and the community at-large as part of its curriculum. We believe that young children are capable learners who beneﬁ t from inquiry-based instruction, child- directed experiences, and play. SEEC is especially committ ed to supporting a child’s social emotional development as well as positive sense of self. In addition to our school, we oﬀ er single family workshops, part-time family programs, and classes for educators and caregivers. INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF MUSIC Doctors, Dentists & ismw.org info@ismw.org 301-365-5888 10450 Auto Park Ave., Bethesda, MD Location: Next to Montgomery Mall Ages: 6 months+ Music lessons in all instruments and voice. All levels and ages accepted. Nurturing and experienced faculty. Optional recitals and certiﬁ cate programs. Early childhood music oﬀ ered (6 months - 5 years). Can schedule family members at the same time. KIDS FIRST SWIM SCHOOLS kidsﬁ rstswimschools.com Check website for locations. The KIDS FIRST® Swim Schools are the world’s largest provider of year-round warm water swimming instruction, operating over 30 locations across seven states, teaching over 150,000 students annually. MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF CEDAR LANE info@cedarlanemontessori.com 703-560-4379 3035 Cedar Ln., Fairfax, VA MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA msnv.org info@msnv.org 703-256-9577 Hillbrook Campus: 6820 Paciﬁ c Ln., Annandale, VA Valleybrook Campus: 3433 Rose Ln., Falls Church, VA RESTON MONTESSORI SCHOOL restonmontessori.com; oﬃ ce@restonmontessori.com 703-481-2922 1928 Isaac Newton Sq. West, Reston, VA Infant Program — starting at 3 months SMITHSONIAN EARLY ENRICHMENT CENTER seecstories.com 202-633-0121 10th and Constitution Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. Founded in 1988, the Smithsonian Early Enrichment Orthodontists MCLEAN-RESTON PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY, CRIS ANN TERNISKY, DDS, MICHAEL J. TERNISKY, DDS 703-356-1875 McLean Doctors Building, 6711 Whitt ier Ave., McLean, VA Pediatric dental growth and development. Preventative dentistry including school exams, ﬂ uoride treatments, pediatric oral surgery, early orthodontics, habit appliances, sealants, cleaning and general consultations. PEDIATRIC DENTAL CARE mypdcdentists.com 703-383-3434 9901 Fairfax Blvd., Fairfax, VA 703-992-7100 6120 Brandon Ave., Ste. 114, Springﬁ eld, VA PDC - Kids come ﬁ rst. We oﬀ er comprehensive dental treatment for all ages. We are pediatric dental specialists treating children starting from 12 months. Healthy smile... healthy child. PM PEDIATRICS – SPECIALIZED URGENT CARE pmpediatrics.com 703-644-5437 6358 Springﬁ eld Plaza, Springﬁ eld, VA 301-982-5437 7401 Greenbelt Rd., Greenbelt, MD 301-230-2767 12254 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 410-266-6767 2301A Forest Dr., Festival at Riva Shopping Center, Annapolis, MD 301-528-5437 19820 Century Blvd., Germantown, MD PM Pediatrics believes that there is a bett er way to deliver urgent care to kids and young adults. Our mission is to ensure patients receive superior after-hours care, without a long wait. We specialize in treating patients from cradle to college oﬀ ering a full spectrum of care and we understand life happens. We pride ourselves on providing a clean, child- friendly environment for families. Our courteous, professional staﬀ is extensively trained to make each visit as stress-free as possible. PM Pediatrics is distinctly designed with fun themes and a TV in every exam room. washingtonFAMILY.com November 2018 33 SPONSORED CONTENT Technology: Bounty and Boundaries By Oakcrest School A re smartphones a godsend or a danger? How can schools incorporate technology into their curricula without letting it dominate students’ lives? Schools everywhere are scrambling to ﬁ gure out the answers to these questions. At Oakcrest, our technology policies are informed by the basic premise that we want students to focus on learning, academics, growing in virtue and forming healthy relationships with those around them. In practice, this means giving students the practical resources they need while drawing healthy boundaries around technology use. Since smartphones have become such a huge part of our teens’ lives, the most burning question is what students should be allowed to do with them during the school day. Oakcrest’s general rule is that cell phones should be out of sight and out of mind during school hours. Students are always encouraged to use the time before and after school to socialize with each other rather than be on their phones. While a cell phone free environment may seem counterintuitive in today’s online social media milieu, we believe we are ahead of the curve. By teaching constructive use of time with others, organizational skills for a full day of classes, study techniques for homework designed to develop thoughtful critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities, it keeps our students and faculty partnering in not just hard work, but deep work. Beyond phones, our students are encouraged to learn how to use technology in a manner that encourages purposeful learning. Oakcrest students take a technology class where they learn how to explore and use technology effectively and responsibly. The course covers topics such as best practices for 34 November 2018 washingtonFAMILY.com research, privacy issues and concerns, social media and impacts on digital footprint, women’s role in technology and computer science and light coding. For those students who want to delve deeper, the Upper School curriculum offers classes in computer programming and AP computer science principles. Students frequently use the Microsoft Ofﬁ ce Suite in their homework and learn how it can be a tool for productivity and data processing and presentation. Technology instructor Sanaz Noorbakhsh (Oakcrest Class of ‘00) describes the Oakcrest vision of good technology practices in the classroom: “Technology in the classroom is a privilege. Used appropriately, it can increase engagement and enhance teaching and learning.” “In our classroom, we focus on the concept of digital citizenship, which helps to learn how to use technology appropriately,” says Noorbaksh. This moderate approach makes sense in light of what we know about the effects of smartphone use on teenagers and the concerns that have been raised about technology’s effects on children in general. An article published in The Atlantic last year reported on a number of studies on these effects. Of particular note was a striking survey conducted amongst teens by the National Institute on Drug Abuse that found, without exception, that all screen activities are linked to less happiness, while non- screen activities are linked to more. In Northern Virginia, where many public schools use iPads, laptops and other forms of technology as a matter of course in their curricula, parents are expressing concerns about their children being on screens all day and spending little to no time in creative play outside or with friends. And an April 2018 Gallup poll of U.S. teachers revealed that 69 percent of educators believe digital devices actually hurt students’ mental and physical well-being. As smartphones’ effects have become clearer, other schools are following the same general route that Oakcrest has taken. Across the Atlantic, the French government recently passed a national law banning students ages 3-15 from using smartphones in school at all. The hope is that this practice will encourage students to engage more with their studies and the world outside the screen. Here at Oakcrest we encourage our students to take advantage of the goods that technology has to offer, while also recognizing that technology is simply a means to an end — the end being the discovery of truth and a greater engagement with reality. While we want our students to be technologically savvy, our ﬁ rst and foremost priority is to help them participate more fully in the truth, beauty and goodness of the world around us and the happiness found in face-to-face relationships. Ultimately, we’ve found that establishing boundaries around technology unlocks a bounty of riches in the social, intellectual and moral life of the entire community. About Oakcrest: Oakcrest School is an independent school for girls in grades 6-12 guided by the teachings of the Catholic Church. For over 40 years, the school has provided an exceptional liberal arts education to girls of all faiths while fulﬁ lling its mission to grow, challenge and inspire its students to thrive in college and throughout their lives. You are invited to learn more at an Admissions Information Session on Nov. 27 at 8:15 a.m. Visit Oakcrest.org. PAST MEETS CHRISTMAS PRESENT Celebrate at Mount Vernon Nov 23–Dec 31 SAVE 20% use code: FAMILY18 Good for up to 4 adult or youth daytime admissions. Offer expires 12/31/18. Not valid with any other offer. mountvernon.org/Christmas Providing personalized vision care based on your unique needs! • Comprehensive Eye Exams • Diabetic Eye Exams • Computer/Binocular Vision Exams • Contact Lens Fittings • Dry Eyes • LASIK Consult • Quality Eyewear 50%OFF Complete Second Pair of Glasses Not to be used with insurances. Must Present Coupon at time of visit. Expires 11/30/18. Digitally Equipped Exam Rooms We Accept Most Insurances (Vision & Medical) CareCredit – FSA & HSA accounts 5576B Norbeck Rd • Rockville • 301-637-7142 • eonvisioncare.com Register Now for Summer Classes, Camps, and 2018/2019 School Year! CAPITAL GYMNASTICS NATIONAL TRAINING CENTER STRONG BODY STRONG MIND STRONG SELF www.capitalgymnasticsntc.com 10400 Premier Ct, Burke, VA 22015 (703) 239-0044 washingtonFAMILY.com November 2018 35 Run, Turkey, Run! 12 Local Turkey Trots By Victoria Harvey B efore you sit down to gobble up a decadent Thanksgiving feast, lace up your shoes, get moving and help support a good cause! These community races offer a variety of distance runs, plus walks and kids’ events to get the family outside burning off that extra slice of pumpkin pie. 36 November 2018 washingtonFAMILY.com D.C. CRANBERRY CRAWL 10K AND 5K Nov. 17, 2018, 7:50 a.m. | $10; PVTC members, $5 Come out to the Cranberry Crawl! Run or walk in either a 10K or 5K race, and enjoy refreshments after you cross the fi nish line. Plus, the top three racers will receive delicious cranberry bread. East Potomac Park, 972 Ohio Dr., S.W. Washington, D.C. 2018 TURKEY TUMBLE FOR AUTISM Nov. 18, 2018, 8 a.m. | 5K, $25; 10K, $40; 10-Miler, $50 Support the Organization for Autism Research by racing in this year’s Turkey Tumble for Autism. Bring your family, friends and even (leashed) pets for some exercise and festive fun. Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Path, 3700 Water St., Washington, D.C. TROT FOR HUNGER Nov. 22, 2018, 8:30 a.m. | Kids, $15; Adults, $40 (Timed), $45 (Untimed) Give back this season by joining the Trot for Hunger Thanksgiving Day Race to help provide food, healthcare and clothes to over 10,000 people in need. Freedom Plaza, Washington, D.C. CROWD: FLICKR.COM/PHOTOS/MARINECORPSMARATHON; BACKGROUND: ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS/CATLANE MARYLAND CLOVERLY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TURKEY TROT 1 MILER AND 5K Nov. 10, 2018, 4:30 p.m. | $10 Walk, run and join the fun at Cloverly Elementary School! Come on out and participate in this year’s Turkey Trot 5K. Not up to the lengthy race? Run the mile race instead. Bring the whole family for a fun-fi lled evening. 800 Briggs Chaney Rd., Silver Spring, MD. GOLDS GYM TURKEY TROT Nov. 17 2018, 7 a.m. | $20 Take part in Golds Gym Ritchie Station’s fi rst ever Turkey Trot! Not only will you enjoy running the 5K, but you’ll also be able to enjoy a turkey basket giveaway and a free concert following the race. Golds Gym Ritchie Station, 1723 A Ritchie Station Court Capitol Heights, MD. THANKSGIVING DAY 5K TURKEY TROT Nov. 22 2018, 7 a.m. | Adults, $30; 12 and Under, $25 Come out to Project ECHO’s annual Turkey Trot! Start your Thanksgiving day off right by running or walking this 5K in support of their organization’s mission: “Hope for the Homeless.” 355 West Dares Beach Rd., Frederick, MD. TURKEY CHASE Nov. 22, 2018, 8:30 a.m. | 10K, $46; 2-Miler, $22; 1K, $20; Kids 50-Meter, $10 Join the Bethesda-Chevy Chase YMCA in a Thanksgiving Day celebration. With plenty of race options, there’s fun for everyone! 9401 Old Georgetown Rd., Bethesda, MD. TURKEY BURNOFF 2018 Nov. 24, 2018, 8:15 a.m. | Under 18, $5; Adults, $10 Racers come on out for the Turkey Burnoff race! Choose from either a 5 or 10 mile race. Enjoy the lovely views of Seneca Creek State Park, and keep your eye out for deer during your run! Seneca Creek State Park, 11950 Clopper Rd., Gaithersburg, MD. VIRGINIA MARINE CORP GOBBLE UP TURKEY TROT Nov. 17, 8:30 a.m. | 10K, $40; 1-Miler, $16 Runners of all ages are invited to gobble up the Turkey Trot 10K or Mile Run alongside the creek aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico. The festive fi nish includes a petting zoo and award presentations of frozen turkeys and pumpkin pies. Marine Corps Base Quantico, 3250 Catlin Ave., Quantico, VA. ARLINGTON TURKEY TROT - 5K FUN RUN/WALK Nov. 22, 8 a.m. | Adults, $45; Ages 6-17, $25 This run goes through Lyon Park and Ashton Heights and raises money for local Arlington charities, including Arlington Food Assistance Center, Arlington Street People’s Assistance Network, Arlington Thrive, Bridges to Independence and Doorways for Women and Families. Christ Church of Arlington, 3020 North Pershing Dr., Arlington, VA. 43RD ANNUAL ALEXANDRIA TURKEY TROT Nov. 22, 9 a.m. | 12 and Under, $5; 13- 21, $15; 22 and Over, $20 Started in 1975 with 244 runners, this popular event now has thousands of participants and offers generous cash and gift prizes to top fi nishers! Mt. Vernon and E. Spring St., Alexandria, VA. FAIRFAX TURKEY TROT Nov. 22, 9 a.m. | $40 Join Pacers Running for the most fun you can have on turkey day. Held in the heart of Old Town Fairfax, the fourth annual Fairfax Turkey Trot will benefi t the City of Fairfax Fire Department Benevolent Fund. Next to Fairfax Fire Station #3, 4081 University Dr., Fairfax VA. POPPED! W hen it’s time for a sweet treat, look for seasonal goodies that complement the essence of fall. For example, reach for an option like whole- grain, ﬂ uﬀ y and crisp popcorn which can be an easy, DIY snack. Combine sweet and salty ﬂ avors to create something delicious and festive to devour like Coconut-Popcorn Crunch Pie, Peanut Butt er Pie Popcorn Squares, Key Lime Popcorn Clusters or delightful Down Home Apple Pie Popcorn — all inspired by your Thanksgiving favorites. DOWN HOME APPLE PIE POPCORN Yield: 10 cups 3 tablespoons melted butter 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg 8 cups popped popcorn 1 cup dried apple chips, broken into large pieces 1/4 cup toffee bits DIY THANKSGIVING PIE-INSPIRED TREATS KEY LIME POPCORN CLUSTERS Yield: about 32 clusters 8 cups popped popcorn 4 whole graham crackers, ﬁ nely chopped, divided 1 jar (7 1/2 ounces) marshmallow creme 1/4 cup butter or margarine 2 tablespoons grated lime peel 1 tablespoon key lime juice Line 9-inch square pan with foil. In large bowl, combine popcorn and all but 2 tablespoons graham cracker pieces. In large glass bowl, microwave marshmallow creme and butt er on high 1 minute. Stir until butt er is melted. Stir in lime peel and lime juice. Pour marshmallow mixture over popcorn, mixing thoroughly. Using damp hand, ﬁ rmly press mixture into prepared pan. Sprinkle with reserved graham cracker pieces. Refrigerate 2 hours until ﬁ rm. Lift foil from pan. Break popcorn mixture into clusters. PEANUT BUTTER PIE POPCORN SQUARES Heat oven to 300 F. Whisk melted butt er with vanilla. Toss brown sugar with cinnamon, allspice and nutmeg. Yield: 12 squares 1 cup light corn syrup Toss popcorn with butt er mixture. Sprinkle evenly with brown sugar mixture. Stir. 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 cup brown sugar 1 cup reduced-fat peanut butter 3/4 cup raisins 8 cups air-popped popcorn nonstick Sprinkle apple chips and toﬀ ee bits over top. Bake 15 minutes, or until toﬀ ee bits start to melt. Cool before serving. Tip: Add chopped pecans for extra crunch. 38 November 2018 washingtonFAMILY.com cooking spray In large saucepan, combine corn syrup, sugar, brown sugar and peanut butt er. Photos provided Transfer to baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bring to boil over low heat, stirring constantly; boil 2-3 minutes. Remove saucepan from heat. In large bowl, combine raisins and popcorn; pour hot mixture over popcorn and toss carefully with wooden spoons until well-coated. Spray 9-by-13-inch baking dish with cooking spray; press popcorn mixture into pan and cool completely. Cut into squares and serve. COCONUT-POPCORN CRUNCH PIE Yield: 12 servings 2 quarts popped popcorn, unsalted 1 can (4 ounces) ﬂ aked coconut, toasted 1 cup sugar 1 cup light corn syrup ½ cup butter or margarine 1/4 cup water 2 teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 quart vanilla, spumoni or butter pecan ice cream fresh fruit, for topping (optional) chocolate sauce, for topping (optional) In large, butt ered bowl, mix popcorn and coconut. In saucepan, combine sugar, syrup, butt er, water and salt. Bring to boil over low heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Continue cooking until syrup reaches hard crack stage (290-295 F). Stir in vanilla. Pour syrup in ﬁ ne stream over popcorn mixture; stir until particles are evenly coated with syrup. On butt ered, 12-inch pizza pan, spread half of popcorn mixture in thin layer, covering bott om of pan. Mark oﬀ into wedge-shaped servings; set aside. Repeat using remaining popcorn mixture; cool. Cover one layer with ice cream; top with second popcorn layer. Store in freezer. To serve, cut in wedges. Serve with fruit or chocolate sauce, if desired. For more creative, DIY popcorn recipe ideas, visit popcorn.org. Source: Family Features washingtonFAMILY.com November 2018 39 GUIDES & RESOURCES HOLIDAY/SPRING BREAK CAMPS GLEN ECHO PARK AQUARIUM: A CHESAPEAKE BAY DISCOVERY CENTER GEPAquarium.org; Info@GEPAquarium.org 301-955-6256 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, MD Enjoy an exciting day of exploration and learning as we discover the amazing life of our rivers and oceans while meeting live animals. KIDS FIRST SWIM SCHOOLS BEANTREE beantreelearning.com 703-961-8222 5003 Westone Plaza, Chantilly, VA 571-223-3110 Ashburn Campus: 43629 Greenway Corporate Dr., Ashburn, VA 571-223-3113 The Pavilion at BeanTree: 43635 Greenway Corporate Dr. Ashburn, VA BeanTree oﬀ ers Holiday Camp for students in kindergarten through ﬁ fth grade on days when elementary schools are closed for holidays or teacher workdays. Inclement weather days, when public schools may be closed, are another opportunity for us to serve both parents and children through fun ‘last minute’ activities, movies and fun! Parents are so grateful for this convenience that allows their workdays to remain productive and students are always happy to reconnect with “old” friends! CAMP GRIFFIN AT WESTMINSTER SCHOOL westminsterschool.com campgriﬃ n@westminsterschool.com 703-340-7268 3819 Gallows Rd., Annandale, VA Ages: 3-14 Winter Camp: December 26-28 and 31, January 2-4 Spring Camp: April 2-6 Full-day Winter Break Camp with ﬂ exible early and extended care options: Pay for a day or a week. Field trips to the Botanical Gardens, Maryland Science Center, Cub Run indoor pool and much more! Beautiful campus with gym, art studio and playground. Camp-certiﬁ ed staﬀ . ENCORE STAGE & STUDIO SPRING BREAK CAMPS encorestageva.org/camps/ info@encorestage.org 703-548-1154 4000 Lorcom Ln., Arlington, VA Hours: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. When school’s out, Encore’s on … onstage, that is! Discover the world of theatre through popular stories from the page and screen. Students in grade Kindergarten – 2nd grade will enjoy a day of theatre games, crafts, creative activities, and storytelling in a safe and supportive environment. Students in 3rd – 5th grade will work together to create a brand new play in just one camp day! Using their imaginations, students will develop the script and story, create the sett ing, and star in the show. 40 Novemebr 2018 washingtonFAMILY.com kidsﬁ rstswimschools.com 301-540-SWIM 18066 Mateny Rd., Germantown, MD 301-638-SWIM 3307 Crain Hwy., Waldorf, MD 703-444-9673 21800 Town Center Plaza, Ste. 215, Sterling, VA 703-488-9800 Sully Plaza Shopping Center, 13985 Metrotech Dr., Chantilly, VA The Kids First® Swim Schools are America’s largest provider of year-round, warm-water swimming instruction, operating 30 locations across 7 states, teaching over 150,000 students annually. We are dedicated to teaching kids to be safe and proﬁ cient in the water. We have built America’s ﬁ nest specialty-designed training pools. Maintained at 90° with depths ranging from 2 to 5 feet, both our instructors and our students ﬁ nd this the perfect environment to learn in. PINECREST PAVILION pinecrestschool.org camp@pinecrestschool.org 703-356-3446 7209 Quiet Cove, Annandale, VA Creative and enriching: an exciting mix of STEM, arts and crafts, physical activity and games for preschoolers through 6th graders. Scavenger hunts, science experiments, engineering challenges and much more will be part of each day's fun! Before- care beginning 7 a.m. and after-care until 6 p.m. available. REVELS AFTER-SCHOOL WORKSHOPS revelsdc.org/revels-kids/education/ info@revelsdc.org 301-587-3835 531 Dale Dr., Silver Spring, MD Hours: 3:45-6:00 p.m. Washington Revels’ Workshops connect children with each other, their communities, and the natural world through traditional games, songs, stories, and dances. These timeless activities instill in children the conﬁ dence to lead, the respect to listen, and the empathy to care for others and the world around them. ROBOT WORKS, LLC robotworksacademy.net 703-364-5418 8992 Fern Park Dr., Burke, VA When school is out, we are building cool robots and participating in fun competitions. Learn robot design, construction and programming using Mindstorms EV3 including mechanical structure, motors, gears, power, sensors, and much more. Our robotics workshops are always hands-on and lots of fun. THE LAST WORD What To Say To Our Daughters About Makeup And Beauty By Kathryn Streeter M y friend’s daughter is perched on my barstool, a beautiful 12-year-old going on 17. She is attending a dance soon. Would I do a trial makeover? With her mom’s consent, I apply loose powder, neutral tones on her lids and mascara. To complete her look, she chooses pale pink for her lips. She is thrilled because she normally isn’t allowed to wear makeup. Though I have a 17-year-old daughter, this experience is new for me. Usually, my girl doesn’t wear any makeup, except once to attend her senior prom, where her girlfriends did makeup with her. Time together with the young lady in front of me confirms she’s wired differently than my daughter. My friend’s daughter is pining to grow up and feels this magical powdery, gooey stuff called makeup will help her get there. We chat about makeup as I pull out items from my little bag. In response, she presents — ta-da! — her makeup bag, laying out across the kitchen bar with unfamiliar bottles, powders, liners, mascaras and a gorgeous line of brushes. These products, some unused, are in pristine condition because they comprise a hope chest of sorts. She is amassing her arsenal for when her parents let her wear makeup, a date I’m betting is marked on her calendar. The packaging itself oozes pink and girly, a picture of playful, if edgy, femininity. I feel age encircling me as this candid girl unleashes every ounce of her youth. as ever. Whether with tattoos or toe rings, piercings or makeup, we like to establish: This is who I am, and I’m a little happier for having discovered it. At 12, this girl on my barstool hearts makeup and is barreling along at a fast clip. For some, the process of discovery is slower. My daughter is taking her time, and I’m thankful she feels no compulsion to be like me. “I’m finding my look,” she says as she sets aside unopened red lipstick to pack for college, just in case. Neither approach is wrong. Both are figuring out who they are and how they wish to project themselves as women. Cosmetics may or may not be part of my daughter’s adult feminine world, and that’s her business, not mine. My friend and I talk about our daughters blooming before our eyes, in their own way, in their own time. As I personally learned, makeup is not an end in itself, but a means to an end. It’s optional, an available addition to the complicated whole called you. Confidence is strength and strength is beauty. Makeup is merely one way to get there. Kathryn Streeter is a D.C.-based mom and blogger. ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS/WEKWEK She speaks effusively of her treasures, many of them bought over time with holiday and birthday money. Her designer products sparkle, reflecting the excitement on her face. It isn’t that makeup makes you happy; it makes you happier. It establishes a bit of a personal signature, announcing to the world: This is me. My friend’s young daughter doesn’t need makeup to bring her happiness, but sitting in front of me, her eyes aglow, she could feel her elegance and womanhood stirred, emboldened. I could tell. Since the beginning of time, women have been beautifying themselves, a fact as true today washingtonFAMILY.com November 2018 41 BIRTHDAY / parties Bethesda Montessori School Ages 3 - 6 ENROLLING NOW Extended Day 8am – 6pm 7611 Clarendon Rd. Bethesda, MD 20814 301-986-1260 2 0 2 1 0 8 17 2 RUNNER-UP RUNNER-UP www.bethesdamontessori.com + ICE CREAM TRUCK BOOK NOW FOR YOUR Summer Programs School Fairs Corporate Venues Birthdays 571-283-2408 ❤  Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center SEEC Family Workshops Preschool & Kindergarten Family Workshops Birthday Parties Summe 2018 r Camp SEECstories.com Exciting Weekly Experiences for Ages 6-13 www.beantreelearning.com 42 November 2018 washingtonFAMILY.com SEEC_WashParent_EighthPage_Ad_F2 NOVEMBER Family Calendar THURSDAY 1 SATURDAY 3 MONDAY 5 FREE FREE Farm & Forest Explorers 10 a.m. Calling all young explorers! Join Butler Montessori’s Farm & Forest Explorers program and experience farm life and nature through fun, hands-on activities. From harvesting carrots to collecting chicken eggs, each class introduces children to key environmental concepts. Learn and grow while you explore their organic, student-run farm and 22- acre nature-filled campus. Ages 2-5. Butler Montessori Campus, 15951 Germantown Rd., Germantown, MD. Pumpkin Chucking Weekend 10 a.m. | $6. Clark's Elioak Farm has a special catapult that will launch your pumpkin across the farm. Bring your own pumpkin and see how far it will go! Then, experience one last visit with your favorite animals, take one more pony ride and enjoy the fall scenery on a hayride. Clark's Elioak Farm, 10500 Clarksville Pike, Ellicott City, MD. Billy Elliot the Musical 7:30 p.m. | $40-$106. All 11-year-old Billy wants to do is dance. While the 1984 miners strike squeezes his family and splits his town, Billy’s passion for ballet first divides, then ultimately unites the community and changes his life in extraordinary ways. Based on the powerful and acclaimed film, Billy Elliot swept the Tony, Drama Desk and Olivier awards for “Best Musical,” by combining a dynamic score by the legendary Elton John with sensational dance to create a heartwarming, inspirational and triumphant experience for the entire family. Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington, VA. FRIDAY 2 Hairspray 8 p.m. | $24-$28. The Reston Community Players presents Hairspray! The winner of eight Tony Awards, including “Best Musical,” Hairspray is a dancing, romancing musical-comedy treat piled bouffant-high with enough toe-tapping, show-stopping songs to fill a nonstop platter-party! Reston Community Center Stage, 2310 Colts Neck Rd., Reston, VA. SUNDAY 4 Green Meadows Petting Farm 10 a.m. | $14. The goal at Green Meadows Petting Farm is to educate children of all ages about farm animals while providing a day of fun for everyone. Come out to the farm and get up close with approximately 200 farm animals, as well as the opportunity to milk a cow and feed sheep and goats for free. Also enjoy slides, duck races and more! A pumpkin is also included with each paid admission in October. Green Meadows Farm, 10102 Fingerboard Rd., Ijamsville, MD. TUESDAY 6 FREE FREE Story Time with DC Public Library 10:30 a.m. Explore books and the built world in everyday life with a D.C. public librarian. Storytimes for children are packed full of reading, songs and activities designed to promote language and literacy skills washingtonFAMILY.com November 2018 43 and a lifelong love of reading and learning. National Building Museum, 401 F St. N.W., Washington, D.C. THURSDAY 8 FREE FREE Breathing, Meditation, Connection for New Parents 10:30 a.m. Being a first-time parent can be a joyful, but daunting and isolating time. Join in for a short 15-minute program on breathing and meditation followed by a time to meet other new parents. First come, first served. Montclair Community Library, 5049 Waterway Dr., Montclair, VA. TUESDAY 13 FREE Creative Kidz FREE 6:30 p.m. Have fun and learn through building, playing and getting creative! If your child likes to work with others and make creative projects, he or she will love this open-ended program. Ages 7-10. Haymarket Gainesville Community Library, 14870 Lightner Rd., Haymarket, VA. SATURDAY 10 FREE FREE American Girl Tea Party 2:30 p.m. Have tea and snacks with the library's American Girls (bring your own special dolls, too!). There will be a big surprise at the end! Central Community Library, 8601 Mathis Ave., Manassas, VA. Yulia_Malinovskaya/ iStock / Getty Images Plus MONDAY 12 FREE FREE Baby Storytime 10:30 a.m. Storytimes are more than just books! They’re interactive experiences that engage children with short stories, action rhymes, songs and finger plays. This storytime event focuses on pre-reading skills that all children need to become good readers. Central Community Library, 8601 Mathis Ave., Manassas, VA. 44 November 2018 washingtonFAMILY.com FREE Lego Club FREE 5 p.m. Do your kids like Legos? Then have them come to the library to build their own creations! Legos will be provided, but all materials must stay at the library. So bring a camera to capture your adventures. Grades K-5. Central Community Library, 8601 Mathis Ave., Manassas, VA. FRIDAY 16 The 2018 Maryland Folk Festival 7:30 p.m. | $30-$40. FRIDAY 9 Parent Night Out 6 p.m. | $45. Need a night away? Do your children love Zava Zone? Leave them with us for a safe, fun-filled evening of play while you paint the town red. Drop off your adventurers for a few hours of Zava Zone madness! They will enjoy 1 ½ hours of supervised play, followed by dinner, a movie and then more play! Ages 5-14. Zava Zone, 45685 Oakbrook Ct. Ste. 110, Sterling, VA. THURSDAY 15 Frederick is proud to host the 2018 Maryland Folk Festival featuring Folk Music legend Tom Paxton. Tom will be performing with the Grammy Award winning duo The Don Juans as well! Come out for a musical night of classic folk tunes. Weinberg Center for the Arts 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick, MD. SATURDAY 17 Friday, Nov. 23 | 11 a.m. | Free Reston Holiday Parade On the day after Thanksgiving, a full day of cheer and charity at Reston Town Center is highlighted with the 28th Annual Reston Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s- style balloons, marching bands, dancers, characters, antique cars, community groups, dignitaries and the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus in a horse-drawn carriage. The Grand Marshal for 2018 is actress Sissy Sheridan, and the MC’s at two grandstand locations are Angie Goff and Doug Kammerer of NBC News4. 10,000 commemorative jingle bells will be distributed to children along the route, and Santa and Mrs. Claus will stay after the parade for visits and photos. Reston Town Center, 11900 Market St., Reston, VA. Turkeypalooza 10:30 a.m. | $15. Back by popular demand, VF Dance Theater takes children on an exciting adventure that explores Thanksgiving. This interactive show encourages children to count, read, move and solve problems. Known for their athleticism and comedy, VF Dance Theater engages young audiences with this unique holiday performance. Performance is followed by a craft. The Arts Barn, 311 Kent Sq. Rd., Gaithersburg, MD. SUNDAY 18 Sip and Shop Sundays 11 a.m. | $110. Local fashionistas are invited to unwind with Leesburg Corner Premium Outlets Sip and Shop Sundays. With transportation provided by Cork and Keg Tours from the center, shoppers can spend the afternoon in Loudoun Wine Country and return to shop sought- after brands, such as Lululemon Athletica, Kate Spade and Vineyard Vines. Tours include a free Leesburg Corner Premium Outlets Savings Passport to receive additional deals on top of everyday savings of up to 65 percent. Leesburg Corner Premium Outlets 241 Fort Evans Rd., N.E., Leesburg, VA. Friday, Nov. 30 | 5 p.m. | $17-$25 TUESDAY 20 Mount Vernon by Candlelight Join the Washington family for a festive evening at Mount Vernon. The experience begins in the Ford Orientation Center, where you can enjoy the sounds of the holiday season and view spectacular Christmas trees highlighting the lives of the Washingtons and their home. Inside the Mansion, Martha Washington and other Mount Vernon residents will welcome you into their home and share stories of past Christmases. Continue the experience by visiting the Greenhouse and participating in 18th-century dancing, enjoy cookies while sipping warm cider by the fireplace and pay a visit to Aladdin the Christmas camel. George Washington’s Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy., Mount Vernon, VA. FREE Baby Storytime FREE 10:30 a.m. Storytimes are more than just books! They’re interactive experiences that engage children with short stories, action rhymes, songs and finger plays. This storytime event focuses on pre-reading skills that all children need to become good readers. Central Community Library, 8601 Mathis Ave., Manassas, VA. THURSDAY 22 17th Annual Trot for Hunger 8:30 a.m. | $40 SOME's Thanksgiving Day Trot for Hunger is now in its 17th year! It brings thousands of people together on Thanksgiving Day to run or walk to help SOME end homelessness and hunger in our nations capital. By registering, you are helping to provide much-needed food, clothing, healthcare and more to the over 10,000 people in need that SOME serves each year. Freedom Plaza. Pennsylvania Ave., N.W. between 13th and 14th Streets, Washington, D.C. SATURDAY 24 Family Day at Bobby McKey’s Noon | $20. Looking for a place that is fun for the entire family? A place where kids are actually encouraged to wiggle in their seats and get up and move? Introduce your child to an appreciation for live music and the arts at Bobby McKey’s! Come out for an afternoon of musical fun with singing, clapping and dancing along to your all-request musical selections. Bobby McKey's, 172 Fleet St., National Harbor, MD. SUNDAY 25 Symphony of Lights 6 p.m. | $25. Howard County General Hospital Symphony of Lights, a drive- through spectacle of more than 100 larger-than-life holiday light displays, opens in Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods. Presented by M&T Bank, Symphony of Lights benefits Howard County General Hospital. Light displays, both animated and stationary, glow with a total of 300,000 LED lights on a 1-mile scenic drive through downtown Columbia. Visitors can listen to seasonal music on the HCGH Symphony of Lights FM radio station while driving through the lights. Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods Park, 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia, MD. TUESDAY 27 FREE FREE Story Time with DC Public Library 10:30 a.m. Explore books and the built world in everyday life with a D.C. public librarian. 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