washingtonFAMILY.com NOVEMBER 2020 Make New Thanksgiving Traditions Getting Kids Excited About Giving Back Meet Corinne Cannon of the Greater DC Diaper Bank CONTENTS PHOTOS PROVIDED BY RANA ORIOLO; NOVEMBER 2020 Learning through play is a key component of preschool. Pg. 24 FEATURES 12 CELEBRATING THANKSGIVING IN A PANDEMIC How to ensure a safe and festive holiday this year. 16 VOLUNTEERING WITH KIDS Get your children excited about giving back, plus organizations that need your help right now. 24 PREPARING FOR KINDERGARTEN Here’s what your child really needs to learn in preschool. On the cover: Corinne Cannon Cover photo: David Stuck DEPARTMENTS 6 EDITOR’S PICKS This month’s must-haves and must-know-abouts 8 RECIPES Immume-boosting side dishes 10 DIY 30 32 Make a pear turkey for Thanksgiving. INCLUSIVE FAMILY Is stimming a behavior or sensory issue? HEALTHY FAMILY Children and migraines 34 BOOKMARKED 37 READERS’ RESPONSES WE WANT YOUR FEEDBACK We welcome your feedback—on specific articles, overall themes and anything else related to editorial content. Email your comments to info@washingtonfamily.com. Please note we reserve the right to edit or refrain from publishing comments we deem inappropriate. 2  Washington FAMILY  NOVEMBER 2020 Food-themed children’s books MOM LIFE Corinne Cannon, a mom of three, is the founder and executive director of the Greater DC Diaper Bank. DIRECTORIES 19 OPEN HOUSE 28 PRESCHOOL ADVERTORIAL OUR FUTURE LEADERS WILL COME FROM MONTESSORI If the COVID-19 crisis has taught us anything, it is that we are part of an interdependent, fragile world. It has also taught us the vital importance of scientific thinking. Finally, it has taught us that problems of this magnitude and complexity require adaptive leaders who can work with others to create effective strategies around which all segments of society can coalesce. Fostering an interdependent mindset, scientific thinking and adaptive leadership skills has been foundational to the Montessori approach to education since Maria Montessori launched her first school in 1907. These outcomes are natural by-products of the way Montessori classrooms function: teachers introduce concepts in a big-picture perspective, allowing students to move about freely and work in small groups, experimenting and engaging in self-directed projects. This structure provides many opportunities for students to practice leading teams and working together to accomplish a goal. Sometimes parents ask, “How will my child be prepared for the real world?” Our answer is that Montessori principles are the very things our children need to learn to not only be successful in the world, but to improve the world. Montessori principles such as self-motivation, initiative, creative thinking, scientific theory, emotional intelligence, ethics, communication and leadership will be integral if we want to see a world that can better address the next global crisis. At Oneness-Family Montessori High School, the only Montessori high school in the Washington area, we are building a 21st Century Leadership program founded upon Maria Montessori’s vision. We’ve gathered a team of exceptional thought leaders to create a program that incorporates essential leadership skill sets and will have students joining together for a real-world capstone project in their community each year. The program will launch in September 2020. 6701 Wisconsin Ave. / Chevy Chase, MD 20815 / 301.652.7751 onenessfamily.org / admissions@onenessfamily.org OFFERING the best in MONTESSORI EDUCATION for 30 years Join Us for a Virtual Tour 301-652-7751 admissions@onenessfamily.org admissions@onenessfamily.org VOTED “BEST MONTESSORI SCHOOL IN THE DC-AREA” — 2016, 2017, 2017, 2018, 2018, 2019, 2019 2020 — 2016, — — WashingtonFAMILY.com 3 OUR TEAM NOVEMBER 2020 WashingtonFAMILY.com • 301-230-2222 Craig Burke, Publisher EDITORIAL PJ Feinstein, Editor • 301-230-6696 • pfeinstein@midatlanticmedia.com Michael Vyskocil, Managing Editor • 410-902-2319 • mvyskocil@midatlanticmedia.com Katie Beecher, Staff Writer • 410-902-2328 • kbeecher@midatlanticmedia.com ADVERTISING Account Executives Mary Ramsdale, Kim Coates Schofield, Stacie Shapero, Sylvia Witaschek BUSINESS Kris Ries, Accounting Manager • 443-471-5355 • kries@midatlanticmedia.com CONTRIBUTORS Michelle Blanchard Ardillo, Elena Epstein, Dara Lyubinsky, Courtney McGee, Lindsay Ponta, Jacqueline Renfrow, Erica Rimlinger, Jennifer Rothschild, Jennifer Marino Walters INTERNS Michelle Aguirre, Ceoli Jacoby, Sharmilee Rahman COMING IN DECEMBER Holiday Happenings CREATIVE Jay Sevidal, Graphic Deisgner Rachel Frizzel, Intern James Meskunas, Digital Media Manager David Stuck, Staff Photographer MID-ATLANTIC MEDIA Craig Burke, CEO/Publisher • cburke@midatlanticmedia.com Jennifer Perkins-Frantz, Director of Production • jperkinsfrantz@midatlanticmedia.com Jeni Mann Tough, Director of Marketing & Custom Media • jmann@midatlanticmedia.com 2020 Gift Guide Family Health Special Series  Print readership 2020 Calendar of Events 2020 Family Matters Family Fun 2020 Table of Contents Single Page Design Interior Illustration 147,000  Website page views 34,776  E-news subscribers 22,657  Social media followers 15,330 Call to advertise: 301-230-2222, Ext. 4 or email advertising@washingtonfamily.com © Washington Family. Washington Family is published 12 times a year by Mid-Atlantic Media, and is distributed free of charge throughout Maryland, Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. Correspondence and editorial submissions from our readers are welcomed. We reserve the right to edit, reject or comment on all editorial and advertising material submitted. We are not responsible for the return of any unsolicited materials. The acceptance of advertising by Washington Family does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services or information. All rights reserved. Any reproduction of this publication, in whole or in part, is strictly forbidden without expressed written permission. 11900 Parklawn Drive, Suite 300 | Rockville, MD 20852 | 301-230-2222 or 703-318-1385 | washingtonfamily.com 4  Washington FAMILY  NOVEMBER 2020 2020 FIRST WORD Giving Back PJ Feinstein Editor pfeinstein@midatlanticmedia.com Facebook @WashingtonFamilyMagazine​ Twitter @FAMILYMagDC Pinterest @familymagazine Instagram @washingtonfamilymag Email us Let us know what’s on your mind. info@washingtonFAMILY.com A few winters ago, my friends and I met with our kids on a Saturday morning at our local supermarket. Each child received a $10 bill and a shopping list of non-perishables, such as cereal, beans, tuna, peanut butter and crackers. They spent the next hour pushing their pint-sized carts through the aisles, racing to grab assorted boxes and cans and seeing who could come closest to spending exactly $10. After paying for the groceries, we drove as a group to a nearby food bank, where our kids were able to hand off their just-purchased donations and watch as a volunteer logged them in. The experience was incredibly meaningful to them and one that I hoped we could repeat with some regularity. I’m embarrassed to admit we never did it again. Life just got too hectic. However, after reading Jennifer Marino Walters’ story in this issue about ways to get kids excited about giving back, I feel inspired to engage in community service as a family. There are so many ways to volunteer right now, even during COVID-19. Additionally, you’ll find tips on how to make this year’s Thanksgiving celebration not only festive and memorable, but also safe. While certain traditions may not be possible because of the coronavirus pandemic, now’s a great time to create new ones with your kids. There’s also a decorative turkey craft for your holiday table and recipes for tasty side dishes that might boost your immune system. Plus, we’re exploring the academic and social benefits of preschool and how to help a child with migraines. You’ll also meet Corinne Cannon, who founded the Greater DC Diaper Bank to help make raising a child easier for DMV parents lacking the support that she felt fortunate to have as a new mom. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I want to thank you for being a Washington FAMILY reader. I appreciate you! Specialized telehealth services for adoptive & foster families. 866-217-8534 adoptionsupport.org/thrive WashingtonFAMILY.com  5 EDITOR’S PICKS HERE’S WHAT WE’RE LOVING FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY THIS MONTH By Elena Epstein, Director of the National Parenting Product Awards HEALTHY ROOTS DOLLS Meet Zoe, who has learned to love her hair and wants all kids to love their curls, too. Hers is specially designed with curl power that allows it to be washed and styled with real products. $79.99, ages 6+ years, healthyrootsdolls.com REAL-ACTION FIRE ENGINE This toy vehicle features a ladder that extends to over 2 feet high and rotates a full 360 degrees, a retractable fire hose and more. The truck opens to reveal an exciting command center with all kinds of authentic details built right in—from a radio and a computer to tools and gear. $49.99, ages 3+ years, lakeshorelearning.com ELOISE THE ELEPHANT This adorable knit in a ruffled pink romper has the sweetest baby trunk and little tasseled tail. As part of the cuddle + kind family, each doll sold provides 10 meals to children in need. $68, ages birth+, cuddleandkind.com 6  Washington FAMILY  NOVEMBER 2020 TONIEBOX Full of stories and songs, this screenless and adorable audio entertainment system comes to life when paired with one of the Tonies characters, including Disney favorites. Or record your own original content with Creative-Tonies. $99.99/starter kit, additional Tonies available from $11.99-$14.99, ages 3-5 years, us.tonies.com SQUEAKEE THE BALLOON DOG An interactive pet that’s part dog, part balloon, Squeakee is full of personality—and more than 60 sounds and movements, such as barking, sitting and scooting. Includes multiple touch sensors and responds to voice commands. $59.99, ages 5+ years, squeakeepets.com ¡BUENOS DÍAS!—Spanish Learning Songs A musical celebration of language and culture, featuring salsa, merengue, flamenco, reggae and Andean rhythms. $14.99 (CD), $9.99 (download), all ages, whistlefritz.com SMASHERS DINO ICE AGE SURPRISE Smash, fizz, build and battle. The giant blue dino egg comes with over 25 different icy surprises inside. Follow the arctic scratch map through different ice age-themed compounds to uncover each piece of your Smash-O-Saur. $24.99, ages 4+, target.com WashingtonFAMILY.com  7 RECIPES Prepare Two Immune-Boost ing Side Dishes Dairy-Free Turmeric and Roasted Garlic Smashed Sweet Potatoes Serves 4 to 6 Turmeric is loaded with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds. The compounds in garlic enhance heart health and support a stronger immune system. Ingredients 1 small head of garlic 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided 4 sweet potatoes, washed well 2 teaspoons turmeric ½ cup unsweetened original almond milk ½ teaspoon sea salt Freshly ground black pepper, to taste Directions 1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Slice off the top ¼ inch from the head of garlic. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon of olive oil and wrap in foil. Bake the sweet potatoes and garlic on an aluminum foil-lined baking sheet for approximately 35 to 45 minutes or until the sweet potatoes give absolutely no resistance when poked with a toothpick. 2. Squeeze the garlic cloves from the garlic skins and scoop the soft flesh of the sweet potatoes into the bowl of a food processor fitted with a steel blade. Add the turmeric, remaining olive oil, almond milk, salt and pepper to the food processor. 3. Pulse mixture, breaking down sweet potatoes, until it reaches the desired consistency. Serve warm. Spinach Salad with Almonds and Ginger Apple Cider Vinaigrette Serves 4 to 6 This salad swaps lettuce for spinach to take advantage of the vitamin C and beta caro- tene it contains. Almonds are packed with healthy fats and vitamin E, and including a touch of ginger in this vinaigrette adds an anti-inflammatory element. Ingredients 12 ounces fresh baby spinach 1 large Granny Smith apple, thinly sliced ½ cup dried cranberries ½ cup sliced almonds, toasted 2 tablespoons granulated sugar ¼ cup apple-cider vinegar 1 shallot, minced ¼ teaspoon Dijon mustard ½ teaspoon grated fresh ginger Pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil Directions 1. Combine the spinach, apple, dried cranberries and almonds in a large salad bowl and set aside. 2. Combine the sugar, vinegar, shallot, Dijon mustard, ginger, salt and pepper in a bowl and whisk to combine. Slowly pour in the olive oil until the dressing begins to emulsify. 3. D rizzle dressing over the salad ingredients just before serving.  ■ 8  Washington FAMILY  NOVEMBER 2020 SPINACH: vkbha/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS; POTATO: pidjoe/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS T hanksgiving signals the beginning of the holidays and the celebratory foods associated with the season. This year, why not prepare and serve immune-boosting twists on some of your favorite standby side dishes? Nourish Culinary Co. in Washington, D.C., shares two easy and nutritious recipes to add to your Thanksgiving table. Follow them on Instagram at @nourishculinary or visit nourishculinary.com. WashingtonFAMILY.com  9 DIY How to Make Pear Turkeys for THANKSGIVING S ince we won’t be visiting loved ones this Thanksgiving, I’ve been trying to come up with ways to help my family feel close this month despite the physical distance between us. One fun way I’m planning to keep us connected is through virtual holiday craft gatherings. I’m sending our families little packages with identical craft supplies and some yummy treats. Then, we’ll gather together around our various tables—connected by Zoom, of course—to make the same project as we chat and catch up. This pear turkey is a perfect project for virtual crafting. Since foam pears weigh practically nothing, postage for this project won’t break the bank—meaning you can slip a few extra snacks in the package to fuel everybody’s creativity. These turkeys make excellent accent pieces for your Thanksgiving tablescape or mantel. You could also write names on the front of each turkey to turn them into keepsake place cards. SUPPLIES You can find all the supplies to make this project at your nearest craft store or Amazon. Artificial foam pears Sharp craft knife (optional) Hot glue gun and glue sticks, or craft glue and foam brush Artificial autumn leaves or handprints cut from cardstock By Lindsay Ponta Orange and red cardstock, felt or craft foam sheets Permanent marker “Googly” eyes (optional) 10  Washington FAMILY  NOVEMBER 2020 2 1 5 6 INSTRUCTIONS 1. Starting about two-thirds of the way down a foam pear, cut a small slice into the back of the pear at a 45-degree angle with your craft knife. Note: If you don’t want to use a sharp knife while crafting with kids, you can skip this step. PHOTOS COURTESY: LINDSAY PONTA 2. Apply a small amount of hot glue to the bottom of one of the leaves or handprints and quickly slide it into the slice at the back of the pear. You can use a craft stick to help tuck the leaf or handprint into the cut. Note: If you skipped step 1, use a foam brush to apply craft glue to a leaf or handprint and adhere it directly to the back of the pear. 3. Continue adding leaves or handprints in various autumn shades until your pear has a full turkey tail. We used three large leaves for the pear in the picture. 4. Wipe away any excess glue. Rotate the pear so that the tail “feathers” are in the back. 5. Use cardstock, felt or craft foam to make the turkey wattle and beak. Draw a long, thin teardrop shape on the red material for the wattle and a triangle on the orange material for the beak. Cut out the shapes. Glue the wattle on the front center of the pear and glue the beak over the top of the wattle. 6. Use a permanent marker to add a few tiny dots on the beak and larger dots directly onto the pear for eyes. To add more personality, glue “googly” eyes onto the pear instead of using the permanent marker. 7. If your pear is tail-heavy and is tipping over, cut off a small portion of the bottom of the pear, angling up very slightly from front to back to prevent the pear from leaning back too much. We’d love it if you’d take a screenshot of everyone in your family holding up their little turkeys on Zoom and then tag us on Instagram (@WashingtonFamilyMag) to show off your handiwork. n Lindsay Ponta created the DIY and lifestyle website Shrimp Salad Circus in 2009 to inspire busy women to live perfectly imperfect creative lives. She lives in Silver Spring. Find easy DIYs and recipes at shrimpsaladcircus.com. WashingtonFAMILY.com  11 l e C T i 12  Washington FAMILY  NOVEMBER 2020 g n g ti ra vin ic b sgi em T k n and P a J By a u cq e li n ow n e fr e R What can you do to ensure a safe and festive holiday? hanksgiving is traditionally the time when we give thanks for the opportunity to slow down and spend quality time with the people we love. We crowd around the dining room table with our extended family, often adding a folding table or two at the ends to seat as many people as possible. We share the sofa with cousins and grandparents, eating out of the same bowl of chips and dip while watching the football game. RAWF8 / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS WashingtonFAMILY.com  13 recommends thinking about the following questions: What are your expectations from a potential trip or having visitors? What are people’s COVID boundaries? What is considered acceptable risk for each family group that might be coming together? To help families start a discussion about COVID risks, Bindeman recommends the Quaranteam Calculator (absoluteehs.com/ calculator) online. “Since everyone’s risk tolerance and approach are different, it’s best to discuss these protocols and rules of engagement Create new holiday traditions Parents can still find many ways to ensure that a smaller-scale Thanksgiving is not only festive and memorable, but also safe. “There are so many fun activities you can do with children,” says Zozzie Golden, senior Communication is key How you choose to spend your Thanksgiving will be based on your family’s comfort levels, so communication is key. Bindeman FUN THANKSGIVING DAY ACTIVITIES Here are five more family-friendly Thanksgiving activities with the potential to become annual traditions, courtesy of Zozzie Golden of Innovative Party Planners: PUMPKIN TOSS It’s cornhole, with a twist. See who can get their pumpkin closest to the target. SWEET POTATO RACE Instead of egg on a spoon, create a relay race using Thanksgiving sweet potatoes. BASTER CHALLENGE See who can get a feather to dance across the floor and over the finish line first by using only a turkey baster. 14  Washington FAMILY  NOVEMBER 2020 TREASURE HUNT Purchase some inexpensive Thanksgiving-themed objects and hide them around your home. Or conduct an outdoor photo scavenger hunt for fall treasures, such as acorns, leaves, squirrels and birds. ARTS AND CRAFTS Draw or paint a turkey and decorate it with colorful feathers or other small items. BACKGROUND: BOGDAN KURYLO /ISTOCK /GETTY IMAGES PLUS; LEAVES: BOJANMIRKOVIC/DIGITALVISION VECTORS/ GETTY IMAGES; FAMILY OUTSIDE: ADENE SANCHEZ /E+ /GETTY IMAGES; BOYS COOKING: DGLIMAGES/ISTOCK /GETTY IMAGES PLUS This year, though, COVID-19 may preclude long-distance traveling and large gatherings under one roof. As the public health crisis continues, many families are left wondering how to celebrate Thanksgiving in a pandemic. With this difficult decision to make comes a great deal of stress, says Dr. Julie Bindeman, co-director of Integrative Therapy of Greater Washington in Rockville, Maryland. She notes that many adults are feeling the pressure to have a “normal” holiday in their currently abnormal lives. “Parents [are] trying to understand what the potential risks actually are, as information disseminated can be confusing and contradictory,” Bindeman says. “People are concerned that when flu season is in its peak, with COVID continuing to be a threat, that this might be one of their last opportunities to see older family members [before winter].” early on. Guests can decide for themselves whether they are OK with them or not,” says Vicky Choy, CEO of Event Accomplished, based in Arlington, Virginia. Perhaps everyone will agree to quarantine for two weeks prior to Thanksgiving or to take a COVID test before getting together. If you decide to celebrate with extended family, Choy recommends keeping the guest count small and hosting outdoors when possible. In addition, think about how you can serve food and beverages to minimize touching the same utensils. Pre-plated options is a better idea than a buffet; individual servings, such as miniature pies, are a good option, too. Choy also recommends seating guests from the same household together and keeping the event short. However, don’t be afraid to opt out of a family gathering all together. “That is a legitimate choice to make with the virus in the background,” says Bindeman. Turkey Trots LISEGAGNE / E+ / GETTY IMAGES; ALASHI/DIGITALVISION VECTORS/GETTY IMAGES Go Virtual for Thanksgiving 2020 designer at Innovative Party Planners in Owings Mills, Maryland. Over the summer, when camp was canceled, Golden created a Color War competition for her grandchildren. Similarly, parents and kids could compete in Thanksgiving challenges or activities for prizes, such as chocolate turkeys, lollipops and holiday candies—or even trophies. While parents are making Thanksgiving inventive, Heidi Hiller, owner of Innovative Party Planners, notes that the pandemic and travel bans could be especially stressful on older generations who are frustrated with their inability or inexperience to video chat. She recommends thinking about other ways to connect with these family members. “This might mean having your kids draw pictures, write their relatives letters or send them family photos and share what everyone has been up to,” says Hiller. You may also want to mail homemade decorations in advance of Thanksgiving that loved ones can use as centerpieces on their holiday table. Hiller and Golden are becoming experts in the art of celebrations in the time of COVID and are constantly seeking creative ways for cli- ents to come together. For example, you could plan a series of short video visits throughout the holiday weekend or decide to watch the Thanksgiving parades in your pajamas with everyone on Zoom. You may also want to con- sider meeting virtually for Saturday game night, Sunday brunch or to shop online deals for the upcoming holiday season. And remember: “Children like structure,” says Bindeman, “so letting them know in advance what the plan is can be very helpful.” Empower your kids by asking them what they find meaningful about Thanksgiving, and implementing some of their suggestions. The pandemic may be forcing us to reassess how we celebrate traditional holidays such as Thanksgiving, but perhaps this reassessment isn’t a bad thing. “Distill it down to the why and think about how to retain the why in a different way,” says Choy. “Is it really about the turkey and leftovers or is it about coming together as a family?” n By W F Staff Y ou may not be able to run alongside hundreds of people this Thanksgiving, but you and your family can still lace up your sneakers and participate in a local turkey trot. Because of COVID-19, many of these 5K, 10K and 1-mile fun runs and walks are happening virtually, with most taking place over the span of several days. Here are five virtual turkey trots you can join this month that benefit D.C.-area organizations. Arlington Turkey Trot 15th Annual 5K Fun Run Hit the pavement any time between Wednesday, Nov. 25, and Tuesday, Dec. 1, on the official Turkey Trot course or another certified 5K course of your choosing. The race might be virtual, but the official T-shirt and bib are available IRL with registration—$40 for adults, $20 for children ages 6-17. All net proceeds are donated to six local charities. arlingtonvaturkeytrot.org 19th Annual Thanksgiving Trot for Hunger 5K You don’t need to be in D.C. to take part in this community event benefiting SOME (So Others Might Eat) and its work to provide much-needed food, housing, health care and more to thousands of District neighbors in need. Register as an individual ($15-$45), create a virtual team or join an existing team. support.some.org Prince William Turkey Trot 5K and Mashed Potato Mile Download your racing bib and run this annual race on a treadmill, in a park or around your neighborhood anytime through Nov. 29. When the event is over, each participant will receive an official Prince William Turkey Trot medal. Registration is $28 for the 5K, 10K and half marathon, and $12.50 for the Mashed Potato Mile. A portion of each registration will be donated to one of several community nonprofits. princewilliamturkeytrot.com 18th Annual Vienna Turkey Trot Plot your own course for this year’s virtual Vienna Turkey Trot, benefiting the James Madison High School Band and the Vienna Volunteer Fire Department. The event is taking place Nov. 24-28, but if you sign up early, you’re guaranteed a special edition VTT knit beanie to wear on your walk or run. Registration for the 5K, 10K and 1-mile dog walk is $25 per person. viennaturkeytrot.org 38th Annual Turkey Chase Charity Race A Thanksgiving tradition since 1982, the Turkey Chase is the largest fundraiser for the YMCA Bethesda-Chevy Chase and the B-CC Rotary Club. Show your support for these community organizations by walking, running, biking or swimming any time between Nov. 16 and 30. Registration for each of the virtual events is $48. turkeychase.com WashingtonFAMILY.com  15 16  Washington FAMILY  NOVEMBER 2020 by Jennifer Marino Walters In a year that has seemed to drag on endlessly—thanks, coronavirus!—the holidays have managed to sneak up on us once again. In the midst of all the decorating, shopping, wrapping presents and other holiday activities, many families may be thinking about ways to give back. While the idea is to help others, research has shown that community service offers an array of benefits for the young volunteers themselves. “When kids start volunteering early, it can often lead to a lifelong passion for making the world a better place,” says Laura Plato, chief solutions officer of VolunteerMatch, an organization that connects people with volunteer opportunities. “It also instills a sense of empathy, interconnectedness and understanding that we are not alone out there.” In fact, AmeriCorps, the federal agency that connects individuals with service opportunities, has found that children who volunteer are three times more likely to volunteer as adults. And young people who volunteer are also half as likely to abuse drugs and alcohol, smoke cigarettes or engage in destructive behavior. Additionally, volunteering can help kids build critical skills that will benefit them later in the workforce. “It helps to increase communica- tion skills, teamwork and leadership skills,” says Genisha Metcalf, head of campaigns for Do Something, the largest nonprofit for youth look- ing to make a difference online and offline. Experts say that volunteerism is even more important for children during the pandemic. “Volunteering can give kids a real sense of control and responsibility and help them feel empowered,” says Plato. “It’s active, and it’s something they can feel in charge of.” If you’re worried about volunteering during COVID-19, you can find plenty of opportunities to do so safely. More and more nonprofits have developed virtual volunteering opportunities and have adapted their programs, such as offering drive-through donation drop-offs. “Many organizations have done a great job of adhering to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) health guidelines,” says Plato. “They’re following mask-wearing and handwashing guidelines. They’re safely distancing inside their facilities.” Be sure to ask an organization about their safety measures before volunteering. With so much taking kids’ attention—school, activities, friends and screens—how can parents get them excited and motivated to volunteer? ing with Kids Give back safely with your family this holiday season—and all year long! SDI PRODUCTIONS / E+ / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS WashingtonFAMILY.com  17 Make it age appropriate Although some organizations require children to be a specific age to volunteer—13 or older, for example—even the youngest of kids can give back. “Kids are never too young to start,” says Plato of VolunteerMatch. “The key is putting them into the right activity for their age.” Very young kids can make cards to mail to troops or to nursing home residents. Older kids can rake leaves or shovel snow for seniors in their neighborhood. Teens can mentor younger children or help them with homework. Safe Ways to Volunteer During COVID-19 Model benevolent behavior Kids love to copy their parents and older siblings. If they see you volunteering, they’ll be more likely to want to do so as well. According to AmeriCorps, a child whose family volunteers is nearly two times more likely to volunteer, so make volunteering a family affair. “Show your kids how excited you are to give back,” says Plato. Need more ideas on how your family can volunteer and stay safe during the pandemic? Try one of the following: MAKE MASKS Making cloth face masks is a great way to volunteer safely from home and help stop the spread of coronavirus. The CDC provides instructions for making both sewn and no-sew masks at cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov. You can either donate the masks or sell them and donate the proceeds to charity. Pick a cause they care about CREATE CARDS Kids can write letters or make cards for troops through A Million Thanks (amillionthanks.org), for the elderly through Love for Our Elders (loveforourelders.org) or for sick children through Cards for Hospitalized Kids (cardsforhospitalizedkids.com). You can also contact local hospitals and nursing homes to see if they’ll accept cards or have your kids send thank-you notes to firefighters, health-care workers or other community helpers. Talk to your kids about who or what they are most interested in helping. Then find opportunities that focus on these causes. Is your child concerned about the environment? Pick up trash at a local beach. Is your son or daughter an animal lover? Make dog biscuits or blankets for a local shelter. Kids will be more enthusiastic about giving back if they’re contributing to a cause they care about. HEAD OUTDOORS Search Keep America Beautiful (kab.org) to find a local community cleanup day, or you can head outside as a family to pick up trash. Start a garden to grow vegetables to donate to a local food pantry. Have your child write sidewalk chalk messages to offer encouragement to neighbors during the pandemic. Take part in a virtual walk or run—find one at roadracerunner.com—to raise money for charity. Incorporate giving back into your family’s routine Reinvent the playdate Volunteering together is a great way for kids to have fun with their friends while GO VIRTUAL On Volunteer Match (volunteermatch.org), you can search specifically for virtual opportunities and filter the ones that are great for kids or teens. You can also contact your local chamber of commerce to find nearby organizations that need volunteers. Or simply contact an organization you’d like to support and ask how your family can help. also keeping a safe distance. Meet up with a few other families at a local park to pick up trash, then let the kids run around afterward. Invite your kids’ friends over to help pack backpacks with school supply donations and order pizza as a reward. The kids will have so much fun that they’ll likely ask when they can do it again! Let them see their impact Activities that allow kids to see the difference they are making are always motivating. Through Dec. 7, you can sign up to adopt a military family for the 18  Washington FAMILY  NOVEMBER 2020 holidays at soldiersangels.org. Your child can help shop for and wrap presents for the family’s children and maybe meet them in person. Or, foster a pet at home for a few weeks or months. Contact your local animal shelter or pet rescue to see how you can sign up. Whatever you decide to do, Plato says, the key is to make it fun. “Just like with anything you want to teach your kids to do, instilling fun, joy and play into it is a way to get them excited,” she says. “Don’t make it feel like work—none of us needs any more work to do!” n INSPIRATIONGP / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS Figure out how much time your family can commit to volunteering, whether it’s once a week or every year on Thanksgiving. Then add it to your family’s calendar like you would other appointments. “Get your kids thinking about volunteerism as a part of their regular lives the same way they think about school, sports and other activities,” says Metcalf of Do Something. If it seems impossible to fit volunteering into your family’s already packed schedule, Plato suggests working it in around activi- ties that you’re already doing. If you and your child are at the grocery store, pick up some additional items for your local food pantry. If your child is using birthday money to buy a toy online, have your son or daughter pick an additional toy to donate to a needy child. OPEN HOUSE DIRECTORY 2020 OPEN HOUSE Directory Now more than ever, parents are thinking about where to send their children to school and the various possibilities. Our Open House Directory is filled with listings of educational opportunities for your children from classic to Montessori to a combination of Waldorf, Montessori and Reggio Emilia to STEM. SKYNESHER / E+ WashingtonFAMILY.com  19 THE BETHESDA MONTESSORI SCHOOL bethesdamontessori.com admissions@bethesdamontessori.com 301-986-1260 7611 Clarendon Road, Bethesda, Md. Ages: 3-6 Open House: Call to schedule a tour. BMS, established in 1983, is located in the heart of Bethesda, offering two years of preschool and a Kindergarten year. Open 8 a.m.-6 p.m., AMI trained teachers, art, French & computer offered, and after school activities. BROOKSFIELD SCHOOL brooksfieldschool.org sarah@brooksfieldschool.org 703-356-5437 1830 Kirby Road McLean, Va. Ages Served: 3-10 Open House: Call to schedule a tour. Mindfulness, nutrition, Spanish, dance, music & art, outdoor adventure program, extracurricular activities and summer camp. CONGRESSIONAL SCHOOL congressionalschool.org gherbst@congressionalschool.org 703-533-1064 3229 Sleepy Hollow Road, Falls Church, Va. Open House: Call to schedule a tour. A co-ed independent day school for infants to eighth graders in Falls Church, Va.. Congressional School prepares young learners for future success, inspiring them to question, collaborate, create, and lead. OPEN HOUSES GETTY IMAGES / GPOINTSTUDIO NOVEMBER 6 | NOVEMBER 18 | DECEMBER 4 DECEMBER 17 | JANUARY 8 AGE 18 MONTHS TO GRADE 6 Preparing children to learn confidently, think independently, and succeed wherever they go. SCHEDULE YOUR VISIT AT AIDANSCHOOL .ORG | 202.387.2700 | 2700 27TH STREET NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20  WashingtonFAMILY  NOVEMBER 2020 FEYNMAN SCHOOL feynmanschool.org admissions@feynmanschool.org 301-770-4211 11810 Falls Road, Potomac, Md. Grades: Preschool-Grade 8 Open House: Call to schedule a tour. The area’s leader in educating academically- gifted children, Feynman School features extraordinary programs in science, math, language arts, theater and music designed to maximize your child’s potential. GLENBROOK COOPERATIVE NURSERY SCHOOL glenbrookschool.org membership@glenbrookschool.org 301-365-3190; 10010 Fernwood Road Bethesda, Md. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Open House: Call to schedule a tour. At Glenbrook, we nurture our children in the early, formative years so they can define themselves as individuals. We strive for this through spontaneous play in a controlled and time structured environment. We believe that children can feel secure only when they understand and trust a set of limits. Their imagination, curiosity, and interests need time to wander, expand, and develop within these limits. Cooperative nursery schools are administered and maintained by the parents, allowing everyone to grow and learn together. The special nature of Glenbrook is the close working relationship between parents and teachers. Our approach builds a sense of community and togetherness for parents and children. HUNTER MILL MONTESSORI SCHOOL preschoolmontessori.com info@huntermillmontessori.com 703-938-7755 2709 Hunter Mill Road, Oakton, VA 22124 Tours available by appointment Hunter Mill Montessori School provides an SSHEPARD / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS PRIVATE SCHOOLS AIDAN MONTESSORI SCHOOL 2700 27th Street, NW, Washington, DC 202-387-2700 aidanschool.org admissions@aidanschool.org 8:00 AM-4:00 PM After School & Enrichment Activities Open House Dates: November 6, December 4 & 17, and January 8 - all 9:15-11:00 AM Aidan Montessori School is a co-ed, independent private school for children ages 18 months through grade 6 located in Woodley Park, DC. Founded in 1961, Aidan prepares children to learn confidently, think independently, and succeed wherever they go. intimate and nurturing environment for two years, nine months to six years old year olds to develop their independence through the Montessori experience. We offer a complete educational and social environment and utilize the discoveries and methods of Dr. Montessori to help the child develop more fully the potential within him. The school provides a program specially suited to the needs of the child and offers individual attention to his whole development. HOLLY BROOK MONTESSORI SCHOOL preschoolmontessori.com info@hollybrookmontessori.com 703-573-7800 2455 Gallows Road, Dunn Loring, Va. Tours available by appointment Children learn in an intimate and unpretentious atmosphere, where they respect themselves and others and care for the environment around them. We offer a complete educational and social environment and utilize the discoveries and methods of Dr. Montessori to help the child develop more fully the potential within him. The school provides a program specially suited to the needs of the child and offers individual attention to his whole development. GOOSE CREEK PRESERVE goosecreekmontessori.com info@goosecreekmontessori.com 571-417-3999 42470 Rosalind Street, Ashburn, Va Tours available by appointment A brand new Montessori School in the Broadlands area of Ashburn. All of the classrooms are spacious with an abundance of natural lighting. The classrooms open to the playground with patios allowing children to freely work inside and outside. Goose Creek offers a complete educational and social environment and utilizes the discoveries and methods of Dr. Montessori to help the child develop more fully the potential within him. MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF CEDAR LANE preschoolmontessori.com info@cedarlanemontessori.com 703-560-4379 3035 Cedar Lane, Fairfax, Va. Open House: Call to schedule a tour. Montessori School of Cedar Lane has been providing over 40 years of Montessori tradition to Northern Virginia. We offer a complete educational and social environment and utilize the discoveries and methods of Dr. Montessori to help the child develop more fully the potential within him. MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF MCLEAN mcleanmontessori.org 703-790-1049 1711 Kirby Road, McLean, Va. Ages: 2 ½-12 Open House: Call to schedule a tour. Preschool and elementary classes. Spanish, French, science, drama, music, P.E., computer, art, summer school, transportation available. NYSMITH SCHOOL FOR THE GIFTED nysmith.com; ebalberde@nysmith.com 703-713-3332 13625 EDS Drive, Herndon, Va. Ages Served: 3 yrs.-8th Grade Hours: 7 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Open House: Call to schedule a tour. The award winning Nysmith School for the Gifted is committed to making school fun. We nurture your student’s love of learning and help your child learn to their potential. Our 1:9 ratio allows us to differentiate the academic program up to 4 grade levels above grade. 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•thecenterforballetarts.com Dynamic sales professional needed to join our growing media company! Mid-Atlantic Media (MAM), publisher of Washington Family, Washington Jewish Week, Montgomery Magazine and Consumer’s Eye among others, is seeking a new business development advertising sales professional to join our team of revenue hunters. Responsibilities and Duties • Motivated to make money • Competitive • Excellent communication • High energy • Works well under pressure • Technical competencies including typing and familiarity with Outlook, Excel and CRM’s • Minimum two (2) years business-to-business outside sales • Strong understanding of digital media • Familiar with building customer relationships and cross selling techniques Please send cover letter and resume to hr@midatlanticmedia.com. No phone calls. W IN ER Qualifications and Skills 2 019 N Primary objective will be to acquire new advertising customers for our publication’s print and digital platforms. Secondarily, the advertising sales professional will be expected to manage an active book of advertising customers to reach established budgets. The advertising sales professional will have the opportunity to cross sell into MAM’s other publishing titles, including Baltimore Jewish Times, Frederick’s Child, Baltimore Style, Baltimore’s Child and Home Services Magazine. Washington FAMILY The Area’s Leader in STEM Education Winner for Best STEM Program for the 2nd consecutive year Please call 301-770-4370 to learn more! Preschool-8th Grade www.feynmanschool.org WashingtonFAMILY.com  21 Planting Seeds For Growth Early intervention is critical to treating autism. High-Quality ABA Therapy Serving Children In Maryland, Washington D.C., and Virginia. w w w. l i tt l e l e ave s.o rg LL_20009 ONENESS-FAMILY HIGH SCHOOL Andrew Kutt 9411 Connecticut Avenue, Kensington, Md 240-426-2614 onenessfamily.org/ admissions@onenessfamily.org 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM Serving students from 2 years through grade 12 Virtual Tours for Lower School on Tuesdays and Fridays at 9:30 AM, and for High School on Wednesdays at 11:00 AM For 30 years, Oneness-Family School’s award winning Montessori program has served families of students 2 years thru grade 12. OFS features highly trained, supportive teachers and a diverse, engaged parent community. We create a collaborative learning environment where everyone feels successful. We foster students who are prepared to lead and succeed in a changing, challenging world by balancing college prep academics with a focus on well-being and shared values such as empathy, inclusion and equity. This September 2020, Oneness-Family School will launch its new high school Results Leadership and Global Studies program. PINECREST SCHOOL pinecrestschool.org admissions@pinecrestschool.org 703-354-3446 Ages: 3-12 7209 Quiet Cove, Alexandria, Va. Hours: 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Please email for more information! Pinecrest School is a fully accredited progressive school offering small class sizes, hands on curriculum, individualized approach, and a focus on a balance of academics and social and emotional well being. Offers preschool-6th, summer camp and before/after care. SPRING BILINGUAL MONTESSORI ACADEMY spring-bilingual.org 301-962-7262 3514 Plyers Mill Road, Kensington, Md. Ages: 2-6; Hours: 7:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Open House: Call to schedule a tour. Montessori preschool with Foreign Language programs. WESTMINSTER SCHOOL westminsterschool.com admissions@westminsterschool.com 703-256-3620 Preschool (3 and 4-year-olds) - Grade 8 3819 Gallows Road, Annandale, Va. Schedule your virtual tour today. 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 field. ■ Montessori School of McLean Exceptional Montessori Education for Toddlers through Upper Elementary: Ages 2-12 In the heart of Historic Downtown Frederick, MD along the beautiful Carroll Creek Park Promenade Cultivating each child’s unique ability to flourish in mind, body and spirit Open Daily | FREE Admission ENRICHMENTS • Science • Technology • Spanish • Outdoor Classroom • Library • Music • Drama • Art • Physical Education Aftercare • Transportation • Summer Camp 1711 Kirby Road McLean, VA 22101 703-790-1049 Experience changing solo and group exhibitions in 7 galleries; monthly programs, classes, and workshops for all ages; and a Gift Gallery featuring artworks by regional artists and artisans Accredited by www.mcleanmontessori.org 22  WashingtonFAMILY  NOVEMBER 2020 40 S Carroll St | Frederick MD 301.698.0656 delaplaine.org THEY NEED US. You can help keep Maryland seniors nourished, safe, and connected. Volunteer to pack or deliver meals, grocery shop, or make wellness calls. WE NEED YOU. Learn more or sign up to volunteer at mealsonwheelsmd.org/volunteer-application AFTER AFTER BATHROOM REMODELING IN AS LITTLE AS ONE DAY! WASHINGTON $1,500 OFF AND 0% INTEREST FOR 12 MONTHS New bath or shower system. Offer valid until 11/1/2020. EXCLUSIVE TILE IMPRESSIONS • EASY TO CLEAN NEW BATHROOM TECHNOLOGY THE LEADER IN ANTIMICROBIAL TECHNOLOGY. KILLS GERMS, BACTERIA, AND MOLD. BEFORE BEFORE EXCLUSIVE TO LUXURY BATH TECHNOLOGIES TUB & SHOWER SYSTEMS CALL 410-877-6889 TODAY! Find us on Facebook CHECK OUT OUR BEFORE & AFTER PHOTOS! MADE IN THE USA. We work with the VA on behalf of Veterans. REMODELING Sold, furnished and installed by an independent Luxury Bath Technologies dealer. Not valid with any other offer. Luxury bath dealers are neither brokers or lenders. Different lending institutions have different programs and rates. Lifetime Warranty applies to manufacturing defects. Discount available during initial consultation. Offer available for a limited time as determined by the dealer. Ask your representative for details. Other restrictions may apply. Personal Hygiene Systems, Aging in Place, Mobility and Accessibility. MHIC136343, VA2705170348, WV058033 WashingtonFAMILY.com  23 24  Washington FAMILY  NOVEMBER 2020 friends, family and the outside world. After instituting new protocols to protect both staff and students, LCYC reopened in September, a move that Oriolo supports. “Mental health outweighs physical health now,” she says. “We all have to live with the virus.” Oriolo says her students are happy to be back, noting their resilience. She explains that they are adapting quickly to new protocols, including wearing masks indoors and being socially distant outdoors. IDED BY PHOTOS PROV By Michelle Blanchard Ardillo I n May, three-year-old Eva Oriolo saw her mother leaving for the grocery store and ran to her pleading, “Mommy, please I go with you? I wear my mask? I stay in the car, pppllleeaasseee?” Rana Oriolo, a mother of three, knows only too well what her preschooler was going through. As director of The Learning Center for Young Children (LCYC) in Kensington, Maryland, she has seen firsthand the effects of the pandemic on her students, including the longing to reconnect with RANA ORIOLO Preparing for During a Pandemic How to help your preschooler develop socially, cognitively, emotionally and physically WashingtonFAMILY.com  25 At snack time, for example, they remove their masks and put them inside their disposable snack bags until they are finished eating, putting them back on to continue playing. The benefits of play While some say preschool is the new kindergarten, most preschool programs have developed strong curricula to ensure kindergarten readiness, not to replace it. The main objective of the preschool curriculum at the Archdiocese of Washington, the largest non-public school system in the area, is to introduce the child to the joy of learning in a “learn through play” approach. Pre-reading, math, science, art, music and movement experiences are combined with meaningful tasks and activities that encourage motor skill development, interpersonal relationships and self-help skills. At the core of an outstanding preschool program is this idea of learning through play, explains Richard Peterson, chief academic officer of Kiddie Academy, which has over 30 locations in the Baltimore/D.C. metropolitan area. “This ‘play’ is intentional and is facilitated by skilled teachers,” he says. To the untrained eye, something as simple as sorting small objects and transferring them to containers using little tongs just looks like fun. However, this pincer grasp exercise is designed to develop the motor skills and muscles needed for pre-writing skills such as holding a pencil. “Children learn with their whole bodies, explore their surroundings freely, talk with peers and teachers about what they are learning, organize their thoughts through trial and error and discover how to relate to others,” says Peterson. He also notes that each child has their own optimal method of learning. “Learning through play meets the needs of all types of learners—visual, auditory and kinesthetic,” he says. “It allows children to develop socially, cognitively, emotionally and physically.” Getting kindergarten-ready at home Parents who have decided to keep their preschoolers home this year can work on the academic skills necessary for kindergarten, such as 26  Washington FAMILY  NOVEMBER 2020 name recognition and name writing, recognition of letters and numbers and counting from one to 30, says Oriolo. However, they should also be teaching basic life lessons, such as playing cooperatively, walking in a line and problem-solving. For example, parents can engage their preschoolers while preparing afternoon snack by having their child follow directions such as “first count the apple slices and grapes, and then put three of each in the bowl,” says former preschool teacher Sue Hayden of Rockville, Maryland, who is not teaching for the first time in 19 years due to concerns over the pandemic. This simple task accomplishes two things on the kindergarten-readiness checklist: sorting and classifying and following two-step directions. Whether through an accredited program outside the home or at home with a parent, grandparent or care provider, preschool children will benefit—primarily through play and hands-on experiences—from learning how to communicate with others. Most experts agree that engaging with your child while using positive vocabulary and positive reinforcement to teach about the world around them is as important as academics at this age. “Expressing feelings in words, taking turns, waiting and following group rules are just some of the many social and emotional skills that children need to learn [before kindergarten],” says Dr. Pat Scully, a member of Kiddie Academy’s curriculum advisory board. “While much concern is expressed about children learning to read and write, it is equally, if not more important, for young children to develop friendships,” Scully says. “This is a lifelong skill that is based on learning empathy, give and take and suppressing one’s own needs for the good of another.” n Michelle Blanchard Ardillo is a freelance writer and educational tutor, having taught middle school language arts for thirteen years. Read more of her work at www.michelleardillo.com or follow her @michardillo on Twitter. WashingtonFAMILY.com  27 PRESCHOOL/CHILD CARE DIRECTORY DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA AIDAN MONTESSORI SCHOOL Nicole Goodman 2700 27th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20008 202-387-2700 aidanschool.org admissions@aidanschool.org 8:00 AM-4:00 PM After School & Enrichment Activities Open House Dates: November 6, December 4 & 17, and January 8 - all 9:15-11:00 AM Aidan Montessori School is a co-ed, independent private school for children ages 18 months through grade 6 located in Woodley Park, DC. Founded in 1961, Aidan prepares children to learn confidently, think independently, and succeed wherever they go. MARYLAND THE BETHESDA MONTESSORI SCHOOL bethesdamontessori.com admissions@bethesdamontessori.com 301-986-1260 7611 Clarendon Road, Bethesda, Md. Ages: 3-6 BMS, established in 1983, is located in the heart of Bethesda, offering two years of preschool and a Kindergarten year. Open 8 a.m.-6 p.m., AMI trained teachers, art, French & computer offered, and after school activities. FEYNMAN SCHOOL feynmanschool.org info@feynmanschool.org 301-770-4370 11810 Falls Road, Potomac, Md. The area’s leader in educating academically gifted children, Feynman School features extraordinary programs in science, math, language arts, theater and music designed to maximize your young child’s potential while at the same time providing opportunities for unstructured play. We offer both half- and full-day preschool programs. GEORGETOWN HILL EARLY SCHOOL georgetownhill.com 14901 Dufief Mill Road, North Potomac, Md. With a “Play. Learning. Arts. Nurturing.” approach to teaching, we’ve found that children thrive in an educational environment at Georgetown Hill. LITTLELEAVES Littleleaves.org info@littleleaves.org 202-420-8359 Little Leaves is a center-based ABA program for young children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder run in a preschool-like setting. Little Leaves operates centers in the Washington D.C. area, Maryland, Virginia, and Florida. 571-982-3924 5140 Fillmore Ave., Alexandria, Va. CONGRESSIONAL SCHOOL congressionalschool.org gherbst@congressionalschool.org 703-533-1064 3229 Sleepy Hollow Road, Falls Church, Va. A co-ed independent day school for infants ONENESS-FAMILY SCHOOL to eighth graders in Falls Church, Va. onenessfamilymontessorischool.org Congressional School prepares young learners Ages 2-Grade 8; 301-652-7751 for future success, inspiring them to question, 6701 Wisconsin Ave., Chevy Chase, Md. collaborate, create, and lead. Oneness-Family School has been providing the THE GRIFFIN ACADEMY very best in Montessori education since 1988. Our unique program focuses on both character OF WESTMINSTER and curriculum, offering a diverse international SCHOOL westminsterschool.com community founded on values within an academically rich environment. This enables us klee@westminsterschool.com to prepare our students to be the global leaders 703-340-7268; Ages: 3-4 3819 Gallows Road, Annandale, Va. of tomorrow who can think in creative and The Griffin Academy of Westminster dynamic ways for an ever-changing world. School provides a safe, creative, and loving SPRING BILINGUAL environment in which children ages 3 and 4 MONTESSORI ACADEMY can thrive. The preschool day is structured to spring-bilingual.org have an equal balance of play and structure. sbmaoffice@yahoo.com 301-962-7262 HOLLY BROOK 3514 Plyers Mill Road, Kensington, Md. MONTESSORI SCHOOL preschoolmontessori.com Founded in 1967, Spring Bilingual Montessori info@hollybrookmontessori.com Academy has innovated and refined the concept of integrating a Montessori education 703-573-7800; Ages: 3-6 with the acquisition of proficiency in a second 2455 Gallows Road, Dunn Loring, Va. Children learn in an intimate and unpretentious language. We are open year-round for atmosphere, where they respect themselves academic programs and summer camps. and others and care for the environment around VIRGINIA them. We offer a complete educational and A CHILD’S PLACE social environment and utilize the discoveries achildsplaceinc.com and methods of Dr. Montessori. 703-698-8050 3100 Prosperity Ave., Fairfax, Va. HUNTER MILL MONTESSORI SCHOOL A Child’s Place in Fairfax was established in 1981. We take children 8 weeks to 5 years old. preschoolmontessori.com info@huntermillmontessori.com Please stop by for a visit. 703-938-7755; Ages: 2.9-6 2709 Hunter Mill Road, Oakton, Va. BROOKSFIELD SCHOOL brooksfieldschool.org Hunter Mill Montessori School provides an inti- info@brooksfieldschool.org; mate and nurturing environment for 2.9-6 year Ages: 2-6 olds to develop their independence through the 703-356-5437 Montessori experience. We offer a complete ed- 1830 Kirby Road, McLean, Va. ucational and social environment and utilize the Spanish, organic gardening, art, dance, music, discoveries and methods of Dr. Montessori. mindfulness and summer camp. LITTLELEAVES CAMPAGNA EARLY LEARNING Littleleaves.org info@littleleaves.org CENTER AT ST. JAMES campagnacenter.org/programs/early- 202-420-8359 childhood Little Leaves is a center-based ABA program pshannon@campagnacenter.org for young children with an Autism Spectrum 28  WashingtonFAMILY  NOVEMBER 2020 Disorder run in a preschool-like setting. Little Leaves operates centers in the Washington D.C. area, Maryland, Virginia, and Florida. MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF CEDAR LANE preschoolmontessori.com info@cedarlanemontessori.com Ages: 3-6; 703-560-4379 3035 Cedar Ln., Fairfax, Va. Montessori School of Cedar Lane has been providing over 45 years of Montessori tradition to Northern Virginia. We offer a complete ed- ucational and social environment and utilize the discoveries and methods of Dr. Montessori to help the child develop more fully the poten- tial within him. MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF MCLEAN mcleanmontessori.org 703-790-1049 1711 Kirby Road, McLean, Va. Ages 2 ½-12 Preschool and Elementary classes • Foreign Languages: Spanish and French • Science & Technology • Drama • Music • P.E. • Computer • Art • Transportation • Summer Program MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA msnv.org; info@msnv.org 703-992-0255 Valleybrook: 3433 Rose Ln., Falls Church, Va. At the Montessori School of Northern Virginia, we want the delight of discovery to last a lifetime. MSNV provides authentic Montessori education for children ages 2-12. From preprimary through elementary, our learning environment is designed to directly benefit social, emotional, physical and intellectual development. NYSMITH SCHOOL FOR THE GIFTED nysmith.com; ebalberde@nysmith.com 703-713-3332; Ages: 3 years-Grade 8. 12625 EDS Drive, Herndon, Va. Family owned and operated since 1983, 620+ children. 1:9 teacher-student ratio, award winning. Daily individualized reading & math, science, computers, logic & foreign language. Loving atmosphere with an exciting curriculum. PINECREST SCHOOL pinecrestschool.org; admissions@pinecrestschool.org Ages: 3-4; 703-354-3446 7209 Quiet Cove, Annandale, Va. Stimulating preschool program that includes Spanish, music and P.E. enrichment classes. Special presentations and field trips, too. Before- & after-care until 6 p.m. Nurturing curiosity, confidence and a love of learning since 1957. SUNSET HILLS MONTESSORI SCHOOL sunsethillsmontessori.com office@sunsethillsmontessori.com 703-476-7477; Ages: 18 months-13 years 11180 Ridge Heights Road, Reston, Va. At SHMS we are committed to recognizing and cultivating the uniqueness of each individual child. We have a community of educators, and wonderful families, that have chosen SHMS because of a shared vision for early childhood and elementary education.  ■ THE BETHESDA MONTESSORI SCHOOL 20 RUNNER-UP RUNNER-UP 1 8 For 38 years, teaching ages 3-6 ENROLL NOW FOR 2021 8am – 6pm 7611 Clarendon Rd. Bethesda, MD 20814 301-986-1260 Exceeds MD Covid-19 safety guidelines Email us to learn more and tour the school admissions@bethesdamontessori.com www.bethesdamontessori.com Haircuts 10% Off SHAMPOO INCLUDED WITH EVERY HAIRCUT Valid at Wintergreen Plaza only. One coupon per person. Not valid with any other offers. Valid 11/1/20 - 11/30/20. Code WF20-11 Full Color Service 15% Off SHAMPOO INCLUDED WITH EVERY HAIRCUT Valid at Wintergreen Plaza only. One coupon per person. Not valid with any other offers. Valid 11/1/20 - 11/30/20. Code WF20-11 Wintergreen Plaza 835H Rockville Pike, Rockville MD (301) 762-5554 Participating salons only. Valid 10/1-10/31 Most salons independently owned and operated. ©2018 Fantastic Sams Franchise Corporation. FantasticSams.com Little Leaves Little Leaves is a center-based ABA program for young children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder run in a preschool-like setting. It is designed for children up to age 6 who have been recommended for intensive ABA services. Each client works one-on-one with a trained behavior technician on individualized goals with a focus on social communication, social interactions, and school readiness skills. Our therapeutic approach incorporates strategies that have been proven effective for helping children. We create a treatment program that is individualized to your child and tailored to the needs of your family. We also help families coordinate the logistics of therapy so that they can focus their time on what really matters — caring for their children. Little Leaves operates centers in the Washington D.C. area, Maryland, Virginia, and Florida. Little Leaves info@littleleaves.org 202-420-8359 Littleleaves.org EXPANDING PRIMARY PROGRAM EXPLORE • WONDER • GROW Now Enrolling Ages 2 to 6 Toddler Program • Before & After Care Montessori Kindergarten & Preschool Advanced Academic Curriculum McLean, VA • 703-356-5437 • www.brooksfieldschool.org WashingtonFAMILY.com  29 INCLUSIVE FAMILY Ain’t Misbehavin’ Is stimming a behavior or sensory issue? eople with autism spectrum disorder, as defined by the National Institute of Mental Health, can have “difficulty with social communication and interaction, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors.” While repetitive, self-stimulatory behavior, or “stimming,” is a common trait in people with autism, it’s not commonly accepted. Oftentimes, parents, therapists and educators view stimming, such as flapping or rocking, as a behavior that needs resolving. Educator and advocate Joy Johnson wants parents and others to rethink their stance on stimming because stimming is not always a behavior issue. Johnson, who is currently writing her dissertation on the social validity of stimming, says stimming plays an important role in emotional regulation for people with autism, helping those who are overwhelmed by sensory input to relieve stress and anxiety. Since stimming can serve a neurological purpose in regulating or managing sensory input, should it be treated as a sensory issue? Should kids with autism be allowed to stim? A sensory issue Johnson says yes, provided the stimming is not harming anyone. Johnson has spent years working in clinical settings, nonprofits and schools with families impacted by autism. In her own work, Johnson uses therapies such as applied behavior analysis to help reduce problem behaviors. But if non-harmful stimming activities like flapping or rocking help people with neurological differences cope, she says, maybe the “problem” is not a problem at all but rather a bias toward neurotypical behavior. Johnson recognizes the bias that rewards neurotypical behavior because she has had firsthand experience with stimming. 30  WashingtonFAMILY  NOVEMBER 2020 Johnson has autism and stims. Her oldest son, who has autism, stims. And her oldest grandson, who also has autism, stims. In the past, therapies “focused on making a person with autism appear to be neurotypical,” she says. “What does that say to someone who is not neurotypical? You can’t be yourself and be acceptable.” Working with parents whose kids have autism, Johnson sees pushback against stimming that stems from how it appears to people who are neurotypical. Sometimes she asks parents, “Is this behavior really impacting their quality of life? Does it interfere with their function of daily living?” And parents will say, “A normal child doesn’t do this, so I don’t want my child doing it.” Johnson teaches parents that sometimes stimming provides necessary sensory input, telling them, “If it’s not harming anybody, or it just bothers you because it looks odd to you, maybe we don’t target that.” A behavior issue But not all stimming is harmless, and not all stimming resolves a sensory issue. Some stimming, such as head banging or scratching, is harmful and requires appropriate intervention, Johnson says. And some stimming is attention-seeking behavior that needs to be redirected. How can parents determine whether the behaviors they are observing provide beneficial sensory input or whether there are other purposes involved? Johnson conducts formal functional behavior assessments but says parents can conduct their own behavior analysis at home. She advises clients to track “antecedent behavior consequence data,” which means recording stimming behavior, then examining what preceded it and what the consequences were. “Look for patterns,” Johnson says. If the stimming isn’t happening to get attention or receive a VEJAA; RIDOFRANZ / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS P BY ERICA RIMLINGER benefit, it’s serving a sensory purpose, she explains. However, if a parent has determined the function of stimming is behavioral and not sensory, Johnson advises they find a replacement behavior that will give the child a more direct and effective path to the results they seek. Some of her nonverbal clients hold up cards to indicate when they need a parent’s attention. If the stimming is sensory-seeking but dangerous, find a replacement behavior that provides similar vestibular input. Trying to stop sensory-seeking behavior, Johnson says, won’t work. But bouncing on a ball or swinging can replace harmful behaviors like head-banging to provide the needed stimulus. A neuro-diverse lens Looking at stimming through a neuro- diverse lens can help parents identify when stimming is a behavior that “The less we target stimming, or hide it, the more people will see it and the more it becomes normal, which promotes neurodiversity.” needs to be corrected and when it is appropriate to advocate and promote acceptance for stimming. To reduce social stigma around stimming, Johnson has written a children’s book, “Happy Flappy and Me,” which is about a little girl who flaps when she’s happy. It’s based on her own experience with stimming. Johnson says she self-advocates and encourages her clients to do the same by learning about their autism and teaching neurotypicals about what it’s like to experience the world with autism. “The less we target stimming, or hide it, the more people will see it and the more it becomes normal, which promotes neurodiversity,” Johnson says. “Stimming is emotional regulation. This is something that we need. It’s something that I use when I’m studying or reading. It helps to regulate me. It’s not harmful or hurting anyone. It’s not interfering with anyone.” Johnson says the more people who own and understand their autism, the more social validity behaviors like stimming will get. “I’m very open,” Johnson says. “Some people aren’t as comfortable. But I think the more you disseminate that knowledge, the more people will understand. If somebody sees me stimming, I want them to think, ‘That’s just Joy. She likes to flap when she’s happy. It’s no big deal.’” n WashingtonFAMILY.com  31 HEALTHY FAMILY No Ordinary Headache Migraines in children are more common than you think BY COURTNEY MCGEE s adults, we can recognize and understand the pains and triggers of our headaches and know how to distinguish and address them. Children who suffer from headaches, and migraines in particular, are more challenged in conveying the feelings and fears that severe headaches can stir up. Migraines in children are more common than you might think. “Ten percent of school-age children suffer from them, and up to 28 percent of adolescents have them,” says Dr. Sommer Ebdlahad, a neurologist at the Virginia Spine Institute. Half of migraine patients will have their first attack by age 12, although they can occur as early as 18 months, he explains. Childhood interrupted Headache or migraine? It took about five years for Duke to get a handle on her migraines, which her doctors said were being caused by a combination of genetic, hormonal, environmental and lifestyle factors. Ebdlahad says the most common triggers of migraines in children are “stress, hormones in girls, skipping meals, being dehydrated, too much caffeine or withdrawal from it, an irregular sleep schedule and changes in weather.” A child’s odds of getting migraines is greater if an immediate family member has them, but today’s lifestyle can also increase their occurrence. High stress leads to more migraines, explains Ebdlahad—“Seventy percent of migraine patients note stress as a trigger,” he says— as well as blue light from screens, artificial sweeteners, caffeine and other substances. How can kids (or their parents) tell a migraine from a regular headache? Ebdlahad says that migraine pain will feel more severe, throbbing and longer- lasting. Additional neurological symptoms include sensitivity to light, sound, odors and touch; blurred vision; nausea and vomiting; fatigue; and dizziness. Physical activity can exacerbate these symptoms. Parents can also be on the lookout for complaints of abdominal pain and behavioral or mood changes. “Kids may complain of not being able to concentrate, not wanting to do homework or school activities, not feeling like they want to hang out with friends or do other fun activities,” says Ebdlahad. Fear and anxiety from anticipating repeated migraines is also very distressing. At what point should doctors intervene? “Patients should see a doctor once the migraine becomes something that affects their quality of life,” says Ebdlahad. Even if it’s just one migraine a month—if it’s severe enough to cause limitation, it’s time to seek medical treatment. 32  WashingtonFAMILY  NOVEMBER 2020 At her worst, 15-year-old Maddie Duke of Springfield, Virginia, was having almost 20 migraines a month. They began when she was 10 and intensified between the ages of 12 and 14. “I was having to leave school, dance class and events with my friends because of them,” she recalls. “They would make me vomit, get nauseous and really dizzy. My mom says she could tell when it was happening because my skin also turned from pink to greenish grey.” Duke’s migraines also made her so exhausted that she often had to sleep them away. Migraine triggers Management options The best way to handle migraines in children, explains Ebdlahad, is trigger avoidance. Keep a migraine diary and identify the circumstances around the them—a poor night’s sleep, a stressful day, VEJAA; RIDOFRANZ / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS A a particular meal—and then work to avoid those triggers as much as possible. Another option is medication. However, while some prescriptions can safely treat migraine pain and nausea in children older than 6, “lots of adult migraine medications are not FDA-approved for children and may have side effects,” says Ebdlahad. He recommends less harmful supplements like riboflavin and melatonin when medications are needed. Duke says she’s had the most success with holistic measures, which often prove the best way to manage migraines in children, according to Ebdlahad. Per doctor’s orders, Duke now does 30 minutes of cardio three to five times a week, eats three full meals every day and follows a strict sleep schedule, getting eight to ten hours of shuteye every night. “I try very hard not to deviate more than two hours on that—even on weekends,” she says. Staying hydrated has also been helpful. Duke drinks 60 ounces of water and 40 ounces of a liquid with electrolytes every day. “I’m also doing cognitive behavioral therapy and that’s helping me understand and figure out the mind-body connection with my migraines,” she says. Duke, who doesn’t take any specific migraine medicine, now gets them fewer than two to three times per month. Although they are around the same severity as before, she says she is more confident in knowing how to deal with them. Working together with her parents and doctors helped Duke get on the road to relief. “It’s been amazing to see how some pretty simple lifestyle changes can make such a big difference in how I feel,” she says. “I really do have my life back now.” n The best way to handle migraines in children is trigger avoidance, explains Dr. Sommer Ebdlahad of the Virginia Spine Institute. WashingtonFAMILY.com  33 BOOK MARKED 12 Food-Themed Children’s Books Let your kids sink their teeth into some delicious and satisfying stories. These books might make them hungry, but that’s OK—most include recipes. BY JENNIFER ROTHSCHILD, COLLECTION ENGAGEMENT LIBRARIAN, ARLINGTON PUBLIC LIBRARY PICTURE BOOKS ‘Our Little Kitchen’ Written and illustrated by Jillian Tamaki Every week, neighbors get together to cook a meal for the neighborhood, making sure everyone’s body is warm and their belly is full. They gather the food they’ve grown, food they have on hand and food from the food bank to create the meal. Bright, bold illustrations filled with speech balloons and sound effects (chop! splash! sizzzzzzzzle!) capture the energy of a crowded and busy kitchen in this delicious read. ‘Amy Wu and the Perfect Bao’ Written by Kat Zhang, illustrated by Charlene Chua Amy loves eating the bao (stuffed steamed buns) her family makes, but she struggles to make them herself. Her bao are always too big or too small, have too much or not enough filling or just plain fall apart. After a frazzled day full of unsuccessful attempts, Amy finally discovers a trick to help her finally make the perfect bao. EARLY ELEMENTARY ‘Bread Lab!’ Written by Kim Binczewski and Bethany Econopouly, illustrated by Hayelin Choi When Iris’s plant-scientist Aunt Mary comes to visit, she brings a sourdough starter, and the two do hands-on science that results in a delicious loaf of bread. Written in partnership with The Bread Lab at the University of Washington and the Bread Bakers Guild of America, this book explains the science behind sourdough. Families who were unsuccessful in their sourdough attempts this spring may be inspired to try again. ‘Magic Ramen: The Story of Momofuku Ando’ Written by Andrea Wang, illustrated by Kana Urbanowicz Inventor Momofuku Ando believed “the world is peaceful only when everyone has enough to eat.” Observing the long lines of hungry people waiting for food in Osaka immediately after World War II, Ando set to work to invent a food that was easy to make, ‘Fry Bread: A Native American filling and nutritious. For months, Ando Family Story’ experimented to make a bowl of soup to help these hungry people until finally his hard Written by Kevin Noble Maillard, work and persistence paid off: the now ubiq- illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal In short verses, Maillard pays tribute to uitous instant ramen. fry bread—a culinary staple across many Native American tribes. Through words and ‘Pies from Nowhere: How illustrations fry bread is passed through Georgia Gilmore Sustained the generations and adapted to different Montgomery Bus Boycott’ times and places. The book touches on Written by Dee Romito, historical topics like colonization and the illustrated by Laura Freeman Trail of Tears, showcases modern Native Angry at how she was treated by bus drivers, life and highlights the diversity of tribes Georgia Gilmore had been personally boy- and tribal members. cotting Montgomery buses for two months 34  Washington FAMILY  NOVEMBER 2020 BOOK MARKED before Rosa Parks was arrested. When the orga- nized city-wide boycott began, she helped the best way she knew how—food. Gilmore was a cook with the National Lunch Company and organized other women to cook, bake and sell their food to help fund and sustain the boycott. An excellent look at an unsung hero and at how even small actions can make a huge difference. MIDDLE GRADE ‘Lights, Camera, Cook’ This graphic novel takes readers through eight baking projects, explaining the science behind each step and why ingredients and certain baking tips work the way they do. Using the skills learned, readers can use their own magic to bake cookies, cheddar biscuits and more. YOUNG ADULT ‘A Banquet for Hungry Ghosts: A Collection of Deliciously Frightening Tales’ Written by Charise Mericle Harper, illustrated Written by Ying Chang Compestine, by Aurelie Blard-Quintard illustrated by Coleman Polhemus The first book in the Next Best Junior Chef trilogy introduces four competitors in a children’s cooking competition reality show. The first week of competition has the kids designing food trucks, cooking with surprise ingredients and navigating the dreaded partner challenge. At the end of the week, one will be sent home, but which one? Following the action on and off screen, each book in the series covers another week of the competition until the final winner is declared. ‘Pie in the Sky’ Written and illustrated by Remy Lai The plan had been for Jingwen’s family to immigrate to Australia and open a bakery, but after his father dies, the plan changes. Jingwen struggles in his new country and school and is annoyed at his brother, who seems to be learning English and finding his place more quickly. Jingwen’s only solace is making all the cakes his father planned to sell at the bakery, even though his moth- er has forbidden him to use the oven when she’s not home. A beautiful and touching graphic novel/chapter book hybrid. ‘Maker Comics: Bake Like a Pro’ Written and illustrated by Falynn Koch ‘Sweet Revenge: Passive-Aggressive Desserts for Your Exes and Enemies’ Written by Heather Kim In the vein of turning lemons into lemonade, Kim urges teens to take their bittersweet feelings, mix in some flour and sugar and turn them into something incredibly tasty. Desserts such as “I Don’t Give a Fig About You” and “You’re a Devil Cake” are also sprinkled with advice and wisdom for when life isn’t nearly as sweet as a batch of “Donut Call me Again.” ‘Tweet Cute’ Written by Emma Lord Classmates Pepper and Jack are unknowlingly engaged in an all-out Twitter war as they run the social media accounts of their families’ dueling restaurants. At the same time, they’re also starting to fall for each other on anonymous chat app. Told in alternating chapters that switch between Pepper and Jack’s points of view, readers will be unable to wait for the delicious moment when the two realize they’ve been talking to each other the entire time. n NATALIE / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS Wizard-in-training Sage is disappointed to find her magical internship is in a bakery, but as she learns the (very real) science behind baking, she becomes convinced it might be its own form of magic. With each gruesome story standing in for a dish, cookbook author Compestine offers up a traditional Chinese banquet of fright. Each spooky tale centers around the spirit of someone who died prematurely or unfairly (usually murder victims exacting their revenge) and spans much of Chinese history from the building of the Great Wall to modern day. Food plays a prominent role in each tale and historical notes are included. WashingtonFAMILY.com  35 e t d c e Every Day n n o C y a St with Washington Family washingtonFAMILY.com OCTOBER 2020 was hin gto nFA MIL Y.co m SEPTEMBER Y.co m was hin gto nFA MIL 2020 Meet Erica Scherz er 0 AUGUST 202 Mom, Volunteer, Ba seball Wife Dominique 3 o N r e e w s S’m Recipes Dawes 20 2 0 Inspiring a new generation of gymnasts (and ninjas!) PAGES 21-33 HALLOWEEN E mbracing - N a - ew Normal is Still Happening! Receive our weekly letter at: Post to our free online calendar at: washingtonfamily.com/enewsletter washingtonfamily.com/submit-event Reach our editor PJ Feinstein at 301-230-6696, pfeinstein@midatlanticmedia.com Join the Conversation Washingtonfamily.com WashingtonFamilyMagazine @FamilyMagDC washingtonfamilymag To advertise, please call 301-230-2222, ext. 4 or email advertising@washingtonfamily.com MOM LIFE Corinne Cannon DAVID STUCK Founder and executive director of the Greater DC Diaper Bank, a nonprofit organization that provides a reliable source for basic baby needs and personal hygiene products to economically vulnerable families OCCUPATION: LIVES: Washington, DC WORKS : Washington, DC & Silver Spring, MD—and across the DMV Husband, Jay Williams; children, Jack (10), Callie (7) and Finn (4) FAMILY: You founded the Greater DC Diaper Bank (GDCDB) in 2010, the day before your son Jack’s birthday. What was your motivation for starting a nonprofit, and how were you able to make it happen? The Diaper Bank started one night when Jack was about five or six month old and had been crying for hours. After trying all the things I knew to do to make him stop, I suddenly had an overwhelming urge to hit him—and it startled me. I remember putting him down very gently in his crib and going to get my husband. As I lay in bed and cried, I started to think about other women and other mothers. If I was struggling and had everything going for me ... what was happening to the mom who had no one to go wake up or no idea how she was going to feed her baby next week? After that night I started doing a lot of research and making calls—I must have sounded crazy to people. I had a baby fussing in the background and I’m asking how I can help other moms! In terms of making it happen, it was a lot of incredibly hard work and long hours. I called the Diaper Bank my “8 p.m. to midnight” job for years. The GDCDB just celebrated its 10 year anniversary in October. How has your role at GDCDB changed over the years, and what do you love most about your job? For the first five years I was the sole employee and worked pro-bono for four of them. I was running the diaper drive, the fundraising and the programs. Today I’m a lot more focused on creat- ing the policies and the structure for this work to expand and help even more folks— doesn’t sound sexy, but putting real time and energy into HR policy and budgets is where I can have the most impact now. What I love is that people understand the need right away. I love that it opens up empathy windows in people’s hearts to think about the reality of parenting in pov- erty. I love our team and the volunteers and ambassadors we attract. We have an army of amazing people who are working diaper by diaper and period product by period product to build the community we all want to live in. How have you been able to juggle virtual schooling with your work at the GDCDB? Oh, there is no juggle! There is a lot of scrambling, falling, getting up again, crying, laughing because you want to cry and letting go. It’s hard in a way that reminds me very much of the newborn phase of parenting: too many people want too many things you cannot give at the same time, and you’re always tired and hungry. There’s an added layer of difficulty in being alone in all of this. I derive so much of my energy from being with others—socially distancing takes a different kind of toll on extreme extroverts like me. My husband and I are surviving, I think (!!), by doubling down on communications, dividing and conquering and being OK with things being not OK. Every night we triage the next day—who has what meeting, who needs to be where, who needs an hour of uninterrupted think time or the consequences will be dire—and we figure it out. At the end of each day we’re always amazed we did it! Many families are thinking about gratitude and generosity this time of year. What are some ways parents can get their kids excited about giving back to the community? Kids are far more excited by the idea of giving back and helping if they are the instigators. Ask your kids what they think needs to change in the world. What problems do they see that they want to fix? What change do they want to create and how do you best go about it? Do your research into these issues together. So many organizations are being chal- lenged with coming up with creative ways to volunteer or give back—so find an organi- zation and have your children get involved, virtually. There are lots of needs right now and whatever skill or ideas or dollars you have to give are going to be appreciated. n This interview has been lightly edited for clarity and length. Read our extended Q&A with Corinne Cannon on washingtonfamily.com. WashingtonFAMILY.com  37 Your best friend is waiting... Montgomery County Humane Society is a private, non-profit, no-kill cat and dog rescue that does not receive any operational funding from the government or from national humane societies. It relies on the support of the community to keep its doors open. Cats and dogs available for adoption today. Come meet your new best friend. ® 601 S. Stonestreet Ave. Rockville, MD 20850 240-252-2555 mchumane.org