Playdate Magazine

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CALeNDArHIGHLIGHTS

February | March 2012 • VOL. 6, ISSue 1

pLaydateMagazIne.cOM

a SpecIaL IntereSt pubLIcatIOn OF the yakIMa heraLd–repubLIc

parent educatIOn • MOMMy cOnnectIOnItty bItty art • pLaydate FaMILy expO!

a MagazIne FOr yakIMa VaLLey parentSpLaydateMagazIne.cOM

playdate

Our

cover contest

winner

Aspen Austin,

10 months

BaBy Issue!

Perfecting the swaddle

the premature baby

Valentine’s* crafts * recipes * books

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a note from Scott

The baby issue…A sign in our daughter’s bedroom

reads: “A baby fills a place in your heart you never knew was empty.”

Before becoming a father, I would have thought this expression too saccharine.

Wow, people can change — dramati-cally. I’m now a walking billboard of that expression.

When I married at 22, it wasn’t because I wanted to hurry up and start making babies. I gave myself a five-year minimum rule. My wife, Kimberly, scoffed.

But a friend and former boss once said that if you always tell yourself you have to wait until you have everything lined up properly, have your finances just right, then you will keep putting it off.

On our second wedding anniversary, Kimberly’s pregnancy test was positive. We kept our dinner plans at The Bar-rel House, but dinner that evening was clearly a different experience than the one we expected.

I didn’t freak out. I didn’t cry. I wasn’t overcome with overwhelming joy or eu-phoria. But …

I did feel something. It was like a slow, inaudible click oc-

curred inside me, and a strange calm took over. I felt relaxed. I liked this new idea and the pleasant feeling that came along with it.

I remember I gave a slight, genuine smile that widened as I hugged Kim-

becoMe a Fan: facebook.com/playdateyakima

Lacy Heinz is a Mom with a capital

M who loves to read, root for the Oregon Ducks and do a little legal work when time and preschoolers permit.

An editor by day, Scott Mayes is also dad to Matthew, Micah and Nathan. He’s a high school parent, a youth basketball dad and changes diapers. You can read his Dadventures blog at playdatemagazine.com.C

ON

TR

IBU

TO

RS

Visit our website playdatemagazine.com

berly. She had more jitters, with the realization that a little life was in-side, soon to grow and bloom.

I loved the time when my wife was pregnant. I immersed myself in each stage, devouring as much information with her as I could along the way. I loved my new role.

Yet, while we knew what to expect when she was expecting, we were mind-ful that we didn’t really know much of anything at all.

And then, as the famous expression suggests, my heart grew when I suddenly had my daughter — and several years later, a son — to love and care for more than anyone else.

With that I welcome you to the annual baby issue of Playdate magazine. While we strive to give you parenting resources throughout the year, this is the time we focus on those little ones. You’ll find baby resources, a story on one local family’s experience with a premature birth and a wealth of baby-related events and activi-ties. Though this issue’s theme is babies, parents of older kids will find plenty of

useful information in the following pages, too. We haven’t forgotten about Valen-tine’s Day either, with plenty of crafts, recipes and special stories from contribu-tors, Lacy Heinz, Scott Mayes and Dr. David Pommer, M.D.

We also want to congratulate that ador-able baby on our cover, Aspen Austin, who won our Cover Baby Photo Contest with one adorable smile.

As always, please send questions, comments, or suggestions to [email protected], and be sure to friend us on Facebook!

Scott

FPO

David Pommer, MD, is a family physician with Selah Family Medicine and a graduate of Whitworth University and the University of Washington. He is happily married with three children.

contents

Volume 6, Issue 1

Niche Products Manager Playdate Coordinator

Design and Layout

Illustration

Publisher VP of Sales

February / March 2012 Robin Salts BeckettScott Klepach Jr.Sarah J. Button, Stephanie Jewett, David OldenSarah Button

Sharon J. Prill James E. Stickel

Playdate114 N. Fourth St.

Yakima, WA 98901-2707509-577-7731

www.playdatemagazine.com

For advertising opportunities,contact Lisa Kime at (509) 577-7736

or e-mail [email protected]

February / March 2012Published every other month by

Yakima Herald-Republic.114 N. Fourth St., Yakima WA 98901-2707

www.playdatemagazine.com

© 2012 Yakima Herald-Republic. All rights reserved.The magazine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited

manuscripts or artwork; they will not be returned.

Aspen Austin, 10 months, wears her heart on her happy, adorable face! PHoToGRaPHY bY TJ Mullinax.

on thecover

Free!Please take one

CALeNDArHIGHLIGHTS

February | March 2012 • VOL. 6, ISSue 1pLaydateMagaz Ine.cOM

a Spec IaL IntereSt pubLIcat IOn OF the yak IMa heraLd–repubLIc parent educatIOn • MOMMy cOnnectIOnItty bItty art • pLaydate FaMILy expO!

a MagazIne FOr yakIMa VaLLey parentSpLaydateMagazIne.cOM

playdate

Our

cover contest

winner

Aspen Austin,

10 months

BaBy Issue!

Perfecting the swaddle the premature baby

Valentine’s* crafts * recipes * books

toP

5 baby

must-haves

february | march2012

Baby Resources 8The scoop on “must-haves” for you and your baby • Cloth diaper parties • Perfecting the swaddle

Classes 10Local directory of parenting support and education programs • Swimming • Yoga (prenatal and just for kids!)

Valentines for everyone 14Local mom Lacy Heinz talks about lessons we can learn from her daughter’s first heart break.

COVeR BaBy Aspen’s mom keeps her distracted and happy while we get the perfect shot. See page 18 for more ideas for your sweet Valentines.

Second Opinion 16Dr. David Pommer’s explains the pitfalls of co-sleeping with your new baby.

My Sweet Valentine 18‘Tis the season for hearts, hearts and… chocolate! Check out our fun Valentine’s Day craft and recipe ideas: from cake pops to homemade cards.

Love: Through Kids’ eyes 22Local dad Scott Mayes rounds up children’s perspectives on what love is and how we as parents model that love.

Blessedly Beating the Odds 25Read about the Miller family’s harrowing and miraculous experience with their “preemie” baby, Gracie.

[IN eVeRy ISSUe ]note from Scott 5odds & ends 12minute for mom 29family fare 30story times 32calendar 33gotcha! 426 February | March 2012 • PlaydateMagazine.com


Make sure your baby stays healthy

Get your baby’s teeth screened by age one Talk to your dentist or physician

For tips on taking care of your baby’s teeth, visit KidsOralHealth.org04.48559.PD/N

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We offerclasses for ages 3, 4 &

Pre-K

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Come Join The Fun!

Rocking Chair. Last but not least, the good ol’ rocking chair. I still remember the hours I

spent rocking my son during his naps, watching reruns of Magnum P.I. The rocking chair we used is not pretty, but I didn’t care. It glided away precious hours, my son sweetly sleeping the afternoon away. It’s not a cheap item, unless you can find one second-hand, but if you’ve got a fussy on your hands, then it might be worth the expenditure.

Air purifier. Our son was colicky, so there was no end to the products we’d try to sooth his baby woes. One

night, while my husband and I were at dinner trying to regain some semblance of composure while our son cried for his grandparents, we ran into friends who had also gone through the stages of colic. They recommended putting an air purifier in baby’s room, so that the white noise could help induce sleep. I believe we got one that night — and we still use it.

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Boppy. Part pillow, part arm rest, part baby prop, the Boppy is multi-functional

and is available with a multitude of cute fabrics. For the small amount of space it takes up, we think it’s well worth the small investment. Available at Boppy.com or Target.

baby resources

top 5 baby “must-haves”

interested in using cloth diapers? How about a cloth diaper party?One Yakima mom, Colby Rasmussen, knows all about cloth diapers. Rasmussen works for Everything Birth, which connects parents with natural parenting items and baby gear.

Rasmussen’s real specialty, though, is holding cloth diaper parties.

“I have an entire stash of all the different cloth diapering options parents have, and I bring them to the customer,” she says. “They get to hold, get familiar with and then make a decision as to which type of diapering best suits their family.”

She adds that ecofriendly parenting techniques are on the rise, and cloth diapers are becoming more popular.

“It’s not your grandmother’s pins and prefolds anymore,” she continues. “There is truly a diapering system that can work for every family, even a baby who goes to daycare.”For more info, email Rasmussen at

[email protected].

Swing. If your baby only sleeps when rocked, this item will be a sanity-saver, since it means

mommy and daddy might get a nap in too. (Whoa!) Swings these days have so many bells and whistles, they’re practically space aged. Swings, like the one pictured to the right, are available at most major retailers, like Target, Shopko and WalMart.

The "Miracle blanket"

Miracle Blanket. Sounds ridiculous, yes, but it’s not. If you have a fussy

baby — and fussy babies abound on our staff — this might just do the trick for nap and bedtime. It’s like an “extreme” swaddling blanket. Pretty easy to use, it’s also completely washable. Available at miracleblanket.com.

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Graco's Sweet Snuggle Swing

TexT bY Robin beckeTT

* Boppy pillow, baby gloves! —J.C.-R.* …infant swaddlers, ring sling! —M.I.O* Boppy, breast pump, activity mat. —A.D.* Help! …husband or grandma. —A.L.

We asked our Facebook Fans: What are your "new baby" equipment "Must-Haves?"


Perfecting the SwaddleTexT bY ScoTT klePacH, JR.How DO they get those newborn babies so perfectly swaddled in the hospital? The nurses make them look so nice and burrito-like … and then it’s time to take them home, and you’re on your own.

Is it three steps of four? Or 10? Or just one “wraparound” step?

Or will you even need it? My son was notorious for being able to break free of even the snuggest swaddle, and protested profusely. This came as a surprise to us since our daughter really enjoyed being tightly bundled.

Most infants benefit from being swaddled for the first few weeks or even months after birth. If you find your newborn loves the swaddle, here are a couple of steps to help you along:

1. Grab a clean, square baby blanket and spread it on the floor in a diamond shape.

2. Fold down the top corner to make a flat line at the top.

3. Gently place your baby on the blanket. Your baby’s head and neck should be above the flat line at the top of the diamond shape (that way you don’t wrap the baby’s face inside).

4. Left to right: With baby’s right arm tucked against her body (oh, those arms will be flailing!), take the left point of the “diamond” and wrap the blanket across baby’s chest. Baby’s left arm will be free as you tuck the blanket snugly underneath.

5. Bring the bottom of the blanket up over baby’s left shoulder. This will cover baby’s feet!

6. You will then tuck in baby’s left arm. You’ll need to take the remaining blanket and cross it over the baby’s chest, and then tuck in the loose material. Or, you can always use Velcro swaddlers.

For more baby calming techinques to combine with this practice, check out what Dr. Harvey Karp has to say (especially for colicky babies) at happiestbaby.com.

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Parenting classes beginning in February at First PresAn 8-week parenting class will kick off at 11 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 5, at First Presbyterian Church, 9 S. Eighth Ave., Yakima. The theme of the series is How to get your kids to behave without Spanking or Spoiling.

Certified Family Life Educator and author Laurie Kanyer will teach the classes. Instruction will cover some of the following areas: Why kids misbehave, understanding temperament, acknowledging feelings and gaining trust, accountability, gaining trust and cooperation, ways to reduce stress, offering healthy alternatives, setting reasonable limits and teaching life skills.

The 11 a.m. classes are free, and no registration is required. Child care is available. For more info, call 509-248-7940 or email Shan at [email protected].

classes

Memorial Hospital offers parenting support and education programsMOM & BaBy meets each Monday from 10 a.m. to noon. This group is for moms and their babies up to 12 months of age. No registration is needed and the group is free to attend. This group allows other moms to meet and receive helpful suggestions when it comes to raising a baby. Located at Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital’s Education Center in Nob Hill Plaza, 2506 W. Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima. 509-248-7322.

Online Childbirth education classeseLearning offers childbirth education via your computer. Preregistration is required, just call 509-248-7322 or visit yakimamemorial.org/mybaby. While you’re at that site, you can also get glimpse into what the Family Birthplace looks like by taking a virtual tour.

More parenting support:

Children’s VillageInfant and Toddler Early Intervention Developmental screening, birth to 3 years 509-574-3260 800-745-1077 yakimachildrensvillage.org

Family Help LineConfidential parenting support Parent Trust: 800-932-4673

Maternal Health ServicesNutrition counseling, breast feeding education, counseling and help accessing community resources 509-575-8160

Intensive Parent Training & Support Home visitation program Parent Trust: 509-454-4000

Personal Parenting & assessment Services 509-575-1760 800-513-5437 personalparenting.com


Swimming Parents and infants as young as 6 months can start gaining those swimming skills at several Yakima locations:

yakima athletic Club Pre- and postnatal water aerobics. 2501 Racquet Lane, Yakima 509-453-6521 yakimaathletic.com

Lions Pool Lessons for ages 6 months and older. 509 W. Pine St., Yakima 509-575-6046 www.ci.yakima.wa.us/services/parks

yakima Family yMCa Lessons for ages 6 months and older. 5 N. Naches Ave., Yakima 509-248-1202 yakimaymca.org

(Prenatal) YogaFeather yoga Studio Heather Powell: 509-469-2559featheryogastudio.com

yakima Valley Memorial Hospital’s education CenterMondays 6-7 p.m.2506 W. Nob Hill Blvd., YakimaLori Gibbons: [email protected]

yakima yoga509-910-1151yakimayoga.com

Survya yogaKids 4-8910 Summitview Ave., 6A509-965-2346

KIDS!


CPR Blitz Feb. 4 When two local hospitals join together, everyone benefits from a life-saving educational event. That’s exactly the design of this year’s “Save a Life: The Great CPR Blitz 2012,” a joint effort between Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital and Yakima

Regional Medical and Cardiac Center. The CPR Blitz will take place in three sessions Feb. 4 at the Yakima Convention Center, located at 10 N. Eighth St., Yakima. The first two English-language sessions are set for 9 and 10 a.m., and a Spanish session will begin at 11 a.m.

The goal is to teach CPR and other life-saving skills to more than 1,000 community members.

Contact: Nicole Donegan, 509-654-4320. You can also visit savealifeyakima.org or call 509-574-5990.

odds + ends

Yakima Valley Little League Softball for girls 5-10 years A girls’ Little League softball program is being assembled for a 2012 season. Yakima Valley Little League Softball is designed for girls ages 5-10 from the following school

districts: Yakima, West Valley, Union Gap, Wapato, Zillah, Toppenish, Parker

and White Swan. The program will include T-Ball, coach pitch, and player pitch divisions. League President Ryan Yates notes that most girls in the area have to wait until age 10 to start playing softball, and the YVLLS will introduce younger girls to the sport so they can make a smooth transition. Yates is hoping to get the community involved with the league, and a board is being formed. Registration starts 4-7 p.m. Feb. 7-8, and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 11 at Kimmel Athletic, 2105 W. Lincoln Ave., Yakima. Girls must be 10 before April 30 to register. Registration: $50 for ages 5-6 (T-Ball), $75 for ages 7-8 (coach pitch), and $75 for ages 8-10 (player pitch). For volunteer interest, email [email protected] or visit www.eteamz.com/yakimavalleylittleleague

Shanghai Acrobats at The Capitol Theatre Athletes, acrobats, jugglers and extortionists show off stunts and feats as the Shanghai Acrobats perform at 3 p.m. Feb. 12 at The Capitol Theatre.

The Chinese circus traditions from 2,000 years ago are brought to life with music, lighting, choreography and scenery. The company’s American division is based at the New Shanghai Theatre in Branson, Mo.

Tickets: $7.50 for youth 18 and younger, $7.50-$35 for adults. The Capitol Theatre, 19 S. Third St. Yakima; 509-853-ARTS (2787). capitoltheatre.org

Engineering Day for Kids To celebrate Engineers Week, the Yakima branch of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and the Engineering Department at Yakima Valley Community College are teaming up once again to host Engineering Day for Kids, which runs 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 25. The event will take place at YVCC’s Hopf Union Building (HUB).

Any elementary school-aged child is invited to attend this free event and get experience with hands-on activities that will help the child explore the connections between math, science and engineering.

No registration is required, but if you have any questions, contact Ben Annen at 509-966-7000 or [email protected].

Mickey Mouse + Music = Free Concert! Mickey Goes to the Movies! is the theme for the next KinderKoncert

scheduled for 3 p.m. Feb. 26. This event, which is free and open to children of all ages, is touted as an “instrumental petting zoo,” which allows kids to

have a hands-on introduction to musical instruments. The Yakima Youth Symphony Orchestra and Yakima

Ensemble for Strings are putting together the show, which will be held at

Crohn’s workshop slated for Mar. 6The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation is holding a patient education program called Nutrition & Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Choices for Adults and Kids from 6:30-8 p.m. March 6 in Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital’s auditorium.

A gastroenterologist and a dietician will be guest speakers for the day’s program, which is free to attend. This is the first time the foundation is holding an educational event in Yakima.

For more info, contact Kathleen Newbould at 425-451-8455 or [email protected].

Junie B. Jones next up for Capitol KidsJunie B. Jones transcends the book format to grace the stage for the next Capitol Kids event. Four times are scheduled over two days, at 10 a.m. and noon March 15-16. The program is for students in grades K-5. Tickets are $5 each. The Capitol Theatre is located at 19 S. Third St., Yakima. Call 509-853-ARTS (2787) or visit capitoltheatre.org for more info.



FEBRUARY IS

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mMY DAUgHTEr is 2 1/2 years old and just recently decided to grace us with the sweet sound of her tiny voice. This is the first time in our years together that I have been able to participate in what is happening in her toddler brain. It is, of course, bittersweet, as all parents know.

A good portion of the jibber jabber is fun, like “silly mama!” and “snowman poop! Snowman pee!” followed by fits of giggles. There’s also the brow-furrowing dialogue while she stretches her wings and tests her limits, like “NO” and “MINE.” And, every once in a while, there is a golden nugget that comes from all of this chatter and zings my motherly heart for weeks. One such zinger happened recently.

While visiting Seattle, we made it to the never-before-seen play structure at

TexT by Lacy Heinz

the rEI flagship store. It is tall, soft, probably crawling with germs, and preschoolers can climb high with all kinds of protective netting. My daughter was thrilled, as evidenced by her nonstop chatter.

She went on and on about “A boy! In the net! So high!” as she climbed and climbed. Her smile was huge, and I watched her with a dumb grin as large as the structure. It was the first time I heard her express major excitement with words.

Unfortunately, “The boy! In the net!” at the top of the structure did not share her enthusiasm for the experience and yelled, “STOP. You can’t come up here! NO! This is MY PLACE!”

He was big, about 5, and he broke my 2-year-old’s heart for the first time. Oh, yes, and he broke my motherly heart, too. Her rosebud mouth turned down, her eyes squinched, and she ran about 10 feet before bursting into tears.

“Boy in net, not nice Mama. Not nice,” she said through her tears. It was not a big deal in the grand scope of things — not at

all. But it was the first time my daughter learned that not everyone is caring and kind all of the time.

Later in the day, a boy at the Woodland Park Zoo was carrying a giant leaf in his hand. (“Oooh Mama, boy has big leaf.” repeat seven times.) He dropped it on the ground by accident, and my daughter was quick to approach in the hopes of touching it. The boy, no more than 3, was a gem, and with a quiet smile, gave her his prize leaf.

She talked about the “Nice-boy, leaf-boy” all afternoon while petting and cherishing the quickly deteriorating leaf.

But she talked about the boy who wouldn’t share for weeks. At breakfast. randomly in the car. During storytime. She was excluded, and it took some time to process.

So, you might be asking, “What does this have to do with Valentine’s Day?”

On Valentine’s Day there is an opportunity to share and be inclusive. That little paper card may soon be forgotten, but the failure to give one could be remembered for weeks, or for sensitive folks and 2-year-olds, a lifetime.

We all have bad moods, special friends and a million other reasons to curtail the way we give and to whom, but I would submit that it is better in everyday life to practice giving valentines to everyone.

It is an easy opportunity to be loving and kind to people who might not get much. Better yet, make it your family mantra for the year: Give, share, love. As much as you can, when you can. Happy Valentine’s Day.

“Boy in net, not nice

Mama. Not nice,” she said through her

tears.

give valentines to everyone



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second opinion

by Dr. DaviD PoMMer

sleeping is in a motel room with family — usually because there is little sleep.)

What are some of the potential ben-efits of co-sleeping? Moms may not need to get out of bed to breastfeed. It may deepen the relationship between mother and child. And some may sleep better in this arrangement.

But studies indicate there are pitfalls to co-sleeping as well. The most impor-tant potential danger is SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). Co-sleeping becomes more dangerous when parents use tobacco or alcohol or when a parent

is overly tired or sleeps on a couch. The United Kingdom Department of Health advises that the safest place for an infant to sleep is in a crib in the parents’ room for the first six months of life. Similarly, the American Academy of Pediatrics, in a November 2011 report, recommends that baby can sleep in the same room as parents, but not in the same bed. Sharing a room is OK, but sharing a bed is not.

Let’s re-examine some of those pur-ported benefits. If co-sleeping works while baby is small, fast-forward a year to when that toddler needs to graduate to his or her own bed — that could be a more difficult task. There are other ways to bond, as well: taking a walk, reading a book or playing games.

And on a related note, please place your baby on his or her back to sleep, and avoid blankets and toys in the crib (please see healthychildren.org for more information). The above AAP report also notes that immunizations and breastfeeding are associated with a lower incidence of SIDS.

Many mothers go the extra mile in pregnancy, avoiding over-the-counter medications, caffeine, soft cheeses and fish. Parents fill their homes with safety latches, gates and CO2 detectors. I would challenge parents to think of co-sleeping as a similar safety issue, where good choices can potentially save lives.

II rEMEMBEr the tidal wave of emo-tions I felt after the birth of our first child. The fear and sense of responsibil-ity driving home from the hospital. The sense of wonder watching him gaze at his surroundings. The joy in my heart seeing him coo or smile. Except for the times he had projectile vomiting, I wanted to be around this little guy all the time, awake or asleep. And so I was first confronted with the issue of co-sleeping.

Co-sleeping is when a parent sleeps next to his/her infant in the same bed. (Incidentally, my least favorite form of co-

the pitfalls of co-sleeping



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Let your child have a positivedental experience in a fun

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Fun recipes and crafts for your little valentines.TexT by ScoTT KlePach, Jr.

My sweet Valentine

elliana Solis Vaughn, 1 month

Kendal corday Sainsbury

Thomas Smith, 2-1/2 months


Main photo: Our cover baby, Aspen

Austin, poses for the camera

amidst some sweet valentines

from our readers.Photo by tJ

Mullinax

Dre and Tajbutler

Nicole lillian hirtle,11 months

Jayce alexander Williamson, 9 months


Cake Pops! We can’t get enough of them … rich and delicious and so easy to make! For Valentine’s Day, try making cake pops from Red Velvet cake. Just make any yellow cake from a mix, adding red food coloring to the batter before you bake in a regular cake pan. Then crumble the cake, mix with a scoop or two of whipped cream cheese and roll into balls. Place a lollipop stick in each ball and dip in melted white chocolate, placing them on a tray lined with parchment or wax paper. Chill for at least 30 minutes. Then decorate with tiny red hearts or other frou-frou. Enjoy!

A Heart and a Kiss Reader Jennifer Wolman, arts and crafts expert and mother of two, gives us the scoop on how to make Valentine’s Day extra choco-licious. (Note: You might want to make sure your kids have a meal before playing this game, in case they stock up on too many chocolates!)

Cut out paper hearts. You choose the quantity and variety 1. of colors!Hide the paper hearts around the house. It might work 2. best to hide them in places the kids would naturally go to search for them.Once your kids find a paper heart, they can trade one in 3. for a kiss. Here, they have two choices: they can either get a real kiss from Mom or Dad, or they can select a Her-shey’s Chocolate Kiss.There’s no limit, until the kids run out of paper hearts! 4. (Of course, you can modify the game so they don’t have so much sugar.)

The activity “can involve the entire family if the spouse wants to get in … but in mine it’s just fun with the kiddos,” Wolman notes. “I’m a big heart lover, so oftentimes I’ll have my kiddos decorate paper hearts and hang them from the chandelier in our dining room. When I’m done, I use the hearts as part of my scrapbooking the holiday.”Another idea is to decorate paper hearts and deliver them to

friends and family in place of store-bought valentines.It’s a great way to satisfy the sweet tooth and capture memories

at the same time.

21

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PlaydateMagazine.com • February | March 2012

Create Your Own Valentineshere are some crafty ideas from one of my favorite valentines, my mom, Ruth.

Giving someone a handmade card can be a very special expression that can create a lifetime bond between the giver and receiver. Making cards with your child will do the same, while creating lasting memories and teaching the value of giving to others.

Cards that are personalized are especially nice. Be creative and use your imagination. The possibilities are endless. Cards can be as simple or complex as you want them to be.

Things you may need: scissors, glue, paper, paper heart doilies, pens, pencils, markers, stickers, adhesive letters, adhesive gems, ribbon, card stock, computer to type verse/clipart, and scrap wrapping paper.

Be Mine Valentine CardGet a 4” white heart doily. Cut a 3” heart out of white paper. Paste it on the doily. • Cut out a bear with heart from wrapping paper. Paste it on heart. • Use computer to type the sentiments. Paste on heart.

Happy Hearts Day CardCut card stock to 6 1⁄4” x 9”. Fold in half (you can also get pre-folded cards). • Cut decorative paper to 6 1⁄4” x 4 1⁄2”. Paste. • Cut ribbon to 6 1⁄4”. Paste. • Place decorative adhesive sticker on ribbon. • Write or type a sentiment. Paste. • Write a poem inside!

Heart-Shaped Card Cut an 8” heart out of card stock. Paste two 4” paper heart doilies onto the big heart. Apply adhesive stickers. Cut out clipart and paste on the hearts. Write/type sentiments and paste on heart.

Princess Card Cut a piece of sparkling card stock to measure 6” x 6”. Cut corners so card will become octagon in shape. Get clipart/stickers and place on center of card. Write/type sentiments. Paste above and below pictures. Cut two, 4 1⁄4” of sparkly, velvety ribbon to the top and bottom of the card.

Lacey French Lace Doily Card Get a 6” red heart paper doily. Paste on a 4-inch white doily. Paste photograph/picture and frame it if desired. Apply adhesive ribbon with sentiment. Apply adhesive letters and gems.


by ScoTT MayeS

How is love seen through the eyes of kids?

HHOW Is lOVe seeN through the eyes of kids?

I recently asked some friends of mine to ask their young sons a simple question: “How do you know that your daddy loves your mommy?”

One response, from a 6-year-old, was this: “Well, you got married!” … but then he said, “when he makes your dinner for you and when he kisses you.”

Another young tot said: “it’s because Daddy bought mommy a Nerf gun.”

And my own 11-year-old says: “You take her on dates … and you kiss her a lot. That’s obviously a sign.”

While this is just a small sampling, the message is clear to me.

If you’re a parent, you’re a model.Whether you realize this or not, you set

an example every day for your kids.Think about all the things we want to

show our kids:We want to show them not to lie. We

want to show them not to steal. We want to show them to be kind to others.

But, what about Valentine’s Day?This is a perfect day to show our kids

about loving someone.In our house — we have sons who are

16, 11 and 1 — I have come to realize that it’s not long before “serious dating” begins.

Their future relationships may well be defined by what they see in our household.

Yes, depending on their ages, your kids want to go to that Valentine’s Day party at school. They want the SpongeBob cards, the Harry Potter cards and the sweetheart candies.

But, don’t be naive. Just like every other day, they’re watching you for their lead.

Julie and I have been married 18 years.In that time, I have learned that being

married 18 years doesn’t happen by accident. like any relationship, there are great days, tough days and all points in between. You have to make that relationship a priority to make it last.

I don’t know much about being a woman on Valentine’s Day — well, because I’ve never been one. But, I know how to be a husband and I know what makes Julie smile.

sure, you can go to the store and buy a box of chocolate or go online and order flowers. But, you’ll be missing two opportunities if it ends there.

First, every married woman on the planet will have one of these things on Valentine’s Day. Do something more — something that takes more than your credit card.

How about breakfast in bed? Maybe you get the little ones ready for a change? What about a note of thanks (handwritten, of course) thanking her for all that she does to make the house run smoothly each day.

And, don’t forget the parenting piece.Involve your kids in the morning. let

them help you with breakfast. Have them write handwritten notes, too.

If you want your kids to have an 18th anniversary, 25th or 50th, teach them how to love and how to be successful in a relationship.

It’s one lesson they’ll never forget. little eyes are watching. Only you decide what they get to see.


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A Preemie Story: Blessedly Beating the Odds

AMBeR MIlleR HAD NO IDeA she and her unborn baby were about to be thrust into a life-threatening situation. Amber had been sick her entire pregnancy, but, 28 weeks in, there was no real sign of what was about to happen.

On the morning of June 6, 2003, Amber discovered she was spotting, and within an hour she was bleeding heavily.

Her father rushed her to the hospital, where it was determined she was hemorrhaging. later Amber learned she had endured placenta previa, a condition that caused her placenta to detach from the wall of the uterus.

The bleeding subsided that afternoon, but it started again when Amber took a walk around the maternity ward.

“They told me even if I did get it stopped, I couldn’t leave the hospital until birth,” Amber says.

Her husband, Mike, came to the hospital as soon as he could get off work. He and Amber’s family were greeted with a grim reality.

by ScoTT KlePach Jr. PhoToS courTeSy oF aMber Miller PhoTograPhy

More stories online!To learn about Lacey Kwak-Simon’s experi-ence with her preemie baby, visit our website playdatemagazine.com


“Blood clots were the size of grapefruits, and they were coming out like crazy.”

The doctor informed them an emergency C-section would be needed.

Mike was presented with what he viewed to be a terrible choice: at 28 weeks, life for a baby outside the womb is precarious at best. But without the C-section, both Amber and the baby were in danger.

The medical team moved quickly to perform the C-section.

GRACIe MARIe MIlleR was born that evening, a full 12 weeks early. she weighed 2 pounds, 14.6 ounces, and was 15 inches long.

Because Amber received a blood transfusion and couldn’t walk on her own, she couldn’t see her daughter until the next day.

“It was the hardest thing I can imagine,” she says. “Machines were keeping her alive for some time, and not feeling or not knowing day to day if she’d be OK was the scariest thing you can imagine.” even Gracie’s survival was in question.

Gracie remained in the hospital for 56 days, and arrived home a month before her actual due date. she had a 40 percent chance that she would develop normally.

But unlike so many “preemie” babies, Gracie, now 8, has perfect vision and none of the respiratory problems that so often plague children who were born well before they were fully developed.

THe MIlleRs attribute at least some of their daughter’s solid development to a shot of surfactant Amber was given hours before her C-section. The drug, paid for by the March of Dimes, helped develop Gracie’s lungs, but it takes 24 hours to work and requires two doses. Amber received only the first shot just a few hours before her C-section.

“either [Gracie’s] lungs were already developed, or it helped develop them,” says Mike. “she was so little. she wasn’t supposed to come out then.”

Complications arose in those early days. In addition to living in the neonatal

intensive care unit (NICU), Gracie couldn’t have regular formula, nor could she breastfeed. Amber pumped, but she had to feed her daughter through the gavage tube that was inserted into Gracie’s nose and down to her throat. During her stay in the hospital, Gracie also developed two staph infections.

Mike and Amber rotated shifts at the hospital so they could take naps and to allow Mike to get to work.

DesPITe GRACIe’s steady progress, Amber and Mike had to be cautious.

“It was really awful. We couldn’t go in public, couldn’t be around people for the first two years, had to keep her away,” Amber says, noting that respiratory syncytial virus (RsV) was one of her main concerns, which could be fatal especially for preemie babies.

“We didn’t go anywhere, really. Anyone who did come around her had to sanitize their hands,” she continues. “It was mentally exhausting.”

“We felt like kids trying to deal with a bunch of adults,” says Mike, who, along with Amber, was in his early 20s during this time.

Now, both 30, Mike and Amber view their trial in a new light.

THeY WeRe March of Dimes Ambassadors in 2006 and continue to walk each year. Gracie has made strides in growth and began fitting into age-appropriate clothes when she was 5. Now in second grade, she reads at a fifth-grade level.

“she’s a genius. I know parents say that, but her test scores are unbelievable,” Mike says.

The Millers didn’t plan on having another child, but a second pregnancy went much more smoothly. Four-year-old Madalynn Mykal Miller was born 10 days early on a scheduled C-section and weighed nine pounds.

“Having this experience, is like we’re just together more, a closer family,” Mike says.

Adds Amber, “she’s a miracle.”

resources for parents with “preemie” babiesChildren’s Village3801 Kern Way, Yakima • 509-574-3220

Yakima Valley Memorial HospitalFamily birthplace: yakimamemorial.org/mybabyMaternal Health Services: 509-575-8160

March of DimesMid-Columbia/Central Washington Division:6515 Clearwater, Suite 224Kennewick, WA 99336 • 509-783-1099

General website: marchofdimes.comWashington state chapter: marchofdimes.com/washington

Information on March for Babies: marchforbabies.comYakima walk: 9 a.m. Apr. 21, 2012 at the Yakima Greenway, 111 S. 18th St., Yakima. Registration time: 8 a.m. Apr. 21. Walk distance: 5.75 miles.

Book recommendation:The Preemie Primer: A Complete Guide for Parents of Premature Babies — from Birth through the Toddler Years and Beyondby Jennifer Gunter, M.D.List price: $16.95 (Da Capo Lifelong Books, 2010) More information and resources on Gunter’s website: preemieprimer.com


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28 December | January 2012 • PlaydateMagazine.com

The Child & Adult Care Food Program is administered by the Office of Superintendant of Public Instruction (OSPI) with funding from the Food & Nutrition Service (FNS), US Department of Agriculture (USDA). Reimbursement is provided to licensed in-home childcare providers who follow the simple guidelines. The CACFP plays an important role in the development of healthy eating habits among children birth through 11 years of age enrolled in the program. We provide service to licensed family childcare homes in 15 different counties. Many Child Care Centers are also a part of the CACFP to provide nutritious meals & snacks to the children in their care. If you are interested in hearing more about this beneficial program, please feel free to contact our office.

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29PlaydateMagazine.com • December | January 2012

Give me a break!

A minute for

If you ever get a minute for yourself, this is what we think you should do with it!

1) Eats — Copper Pot Caramels Right now I’m slowly (OK, not so slowly) working my way through box after box of Copper Pot Caramels. I’m so crazy over these caramels that my friends are starting to tune out my constant blathering about them. But friends are also bringing the little sugary gems to my house for hostess gifts, too (mission accomplished!).

The caramels are made by two local gals, Colleda and Adrienne, and they’re available at Johnson Orchards, Inklings Bookshop, Tasting Room Yakima, Deep Sea Deli, Gilbert Cellars and Pet Pantry. So far I’ve tried three flavors: sea salt, chai and a new concoction that shall remain nameless (but they say it will be announced soon). They’re chewy, rich and sweet. And if you’re a packaging freak like me, you’ll love the brown boxes with their decorative bands. Check them out on Facebook or at copperpotcaramelsllc.com.

2) Reads — The Forgotten Garden This is one of those rare books that pulls you inside its pages and doesn’t let you out until the last page is turned — sadly at that. Written by Kate Morton, The Forgotten Garden is a grown-up fairy tale, complete with mysterious, endearing characters that teeter on the edge of realistic and a setting that includes foggy mazes, creaky mansions and walled gardens. Yet it isn’t a fairy tale at all, but the story of a woman trying to trace her grandmother’s origins — a grandmother whom was abandoned on a wharf in a foreign country at the age of 4. The story is a lovely — and often mesmerizing — escape. Available as a “staff favorite” at Inklings Bookshop, 509-965-5830.

3) Watches — Downton AbbeyI’m completely wrapped up in Masterpiece Theatre’s Downton Abbey mini-series on PBS. Before you roll your eyes, this isn’t your grandma’s Masterpiece Theatre. Gone is Alistair Cooke, the show’s iconic host for 21 years, who’s been replaced by the relatively fresh-faced Laura Linney. Downton Abbey is not your grandma’s stuffy mini-series either. Set in 1912, the show, which revolves around the Crawley family and its dynasty, grapples with the issue of primogeniture, the English law that only allowed an estate to be passed on to a male heir. The problem is that the Crawleys’ closest male heir — and the fiance of their stubborn eldest daughter Mary — died on the Titanic. The story of how the Crawleys will maintain their residence, and their family, is told from both their point of view and that of the household servants. This, and the critical changes happening at that time in history, make it a gripping and sometimes hilarious tale to watch. Although the second season is in progress now, you can get DVDs on Amazon or on PBS.org. It’s also available on Netflix.

TexT by Robin beckeTT

30 December | January 2012 • PlaydateMagazine.com

I REVIEWED Ballesteri’s Toasted Pesto Chicken Sandwich last year for On magazine, describing the sandwich as “one of the best things I have ever tasted.”

I wasn’t lying.Since then I’ve found excuse after

excuse to eat there, always ordering that sandwich. I’ve never been disappointed. My husband and I heard Ballesteri’s had a tasty — and pretty inexpensive — menu in the morning, so we checked it out with our very hungry 4-year-old a few Sundays ago.

Ballesteri’s has a cheery atmosphere, with bright yellow walls, red-and-white-checked tablecloths and always-friendly service. The restaurant is usually very busy, with chatter all around, and this

particular Sunday was no different. We got the last seat in the house.

Nonetheless, we ordered and were served quickly, saving us from the tension that a preschooler can create when he’s really hungry. My son had four silver dollar pancakes ($3.99) — his current obsession — my husband had the biscuits and gravy ($5.99) and I had — what else? — the Toasted Pesto Chicken sandwich. Everybody loved his or her meal (my husband didn’t talk for 10 minutes — his mouth was too full), and all three of us had syrup on our hands and jackets to prove it.

But let’s get to that sandwich. It starts with the bread: grilled

sourdough. With lots of butter. Thick

enough to add some substance, but not so thick that you lose the filling from the mix and you end up chewing something that tastes like wet paper. In fact, the bread and filling ratio is spot on — for me, that’s about a 50-50 split. Too much meat on my sandwich makes me cranky.

Next is the filling. Warm chicken is cut into bite-sized pieces, then mixed into a sauce of unbelievably rich and herbaceous pesto, crunchy chopped almonds, bright celery, zesty scallions and

parmesan cheese. And then, just for kicks, they put a couple slices of salty bacon on top. It’s almost indescribable. Except I just used 113 words to describe it.

Ballesteri’s menu also includes burgers, soups, salads and cold sandwiches. Prices for breakfast and lunch range from $6.99 to $8.99, with breakfast averaging a little less expensive. Perfect for families on a budget.

Ballesteri’s Cafe Open for breakfast and lunchWestpark Shopping Center, 4001 Summitview Ave., Suite 3, YakimaPhone: 509-965-8592

Ballesteri’s Cafe for breakfast

or lunchTexT & PhoTo by Robin beckeTT

31PlaydateMagazine.com • December | January 2012

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LET’S READ! — CHILDREN’S STORY TIMESIMAGINATION LIBRARY STORY

HOUR. Meets at Yakima Valley Museum, 2105 Tieton Drive, Yakima. Presented by Ready by Five and Catholic Family Child & Service. 509-853-2052. Second and fourth Wednesday of each month: Feb. 8, 22, Mar. 14, 28. 10 a.m., English hour. Noon, Spanish hour.

INKLINGS BOOKSHOP. Chalet Place, 5629 Summitview Ave., Yakima; 509-965-5830. Toddler story time at 10 a.m. Tuesdays.

MOXEE LIBRARY. 255 W. Seattle, Moxee; 509-575-8854. Preschool story hour, 11 a.m. Mondays, Feb. 6-13 & Feb. 27-Mar.-26. Creative Gaming Club, hangout and games for teens at 4 p.m. Tuesdays, Jan. 31-Mar. 20. Forever Friends, with stories, games and crafts for kids, 4 p.m. Feb. 15.

NACHES LIBRARY. 303 Naches Ave., Naches; 509-653-2005. Preschool story hour, 11 a.m. Mondays, Feb. 6-13 & Feb. 27-Mar.-26. Creative Gaming Club, hangout and games for teens at 4 p.m. Tuesdays, Jan. 31-Mar. 20. Forever Friends, with stories, games and crafts for kids, 4 p.m. Feb. 15.

SELAH LIBRARY. 106 S. Second St., Selah; 509-698-7345. Preschool story time with craft Mondays at 10 a.m., Feb. 6-13 & Feb. 27-Mar. 26; Wednesdays at 1:30 p.m., Feb. 1-Mar. 28; Thursdays at 10 a.m., Feb. 2 & 16; Teen Tuesday at 3:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Jan. 31-Mar. 27. Forever Friends, with stories, games and crafts for kids, 10 a.m. Feb. 9.

SUMMITVIEW LIBRARY. 5709 Summitview Ave., Yakima; 509-966-7070. Preschool story time, 11 a.m. Wednesdays, Feb. 1-8 & Feb. 22-Mar. 28. Walkaround Saturday drop-in Valentine’s Day craft, 10 a.m. Feb. 11. Forever Friends, with stories, games and crafts for kids, 11 a.m. Feb. 15.

TERRACE HEIGHTS LIBRARY.

4011 Commonwealth Drive, Yakima; 509-457-5319. Preschool story time Thursdays at 10:30 a.m., Feb. 2-9.

UNION GAP LIBRARY. 3104 S. First St., Union Gap. 509-452-4252. Preschool story time, 1 p.m. Tuesdays, Jan. 31-Mar. 13.

YAKIMA LIBRARY. 102 N. Third St., Yakima; 509-452-8541. Call for details, or visit yvl.org for more info.

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 31KALEIDOSCOPE PLAY AND

LEARN. 8-9:30 a.m. Ready by Five’s Kaleidoscope Play & Learn groups emphasize thematic, structured and interactive play, and are open to everyone. Meets every Tuesday at 8-9:30 a.m., and every Friday from 1:30-3 p.m. Ready By Five, 414 N. Third St., Yakima. 454-2493. readybyfive.org.

KIDS’ CLAY STUDIO. 3:30-5:30 p.m. Tuesdays. For ages 6 and older. Red Art Studio & Sunflower Studio, 2522 W. Nob Hill Blvd.; 509-469-2766.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1MOMMY CONNECTION. 9:30-11:30 a.m. First hour is Mommy & Me, second hour is just for moms; all ages welcome. Free. Westminster Presbyterian Church, 6015 Summitview Ave. For child care reservations and more information, e-mail Kate: [email protected].

BABY AND ME. 10-11 a.m. For tots 6 months-3 years. Pool time for parents and kids. Lions Pool, 509 W. Pine Street; 509-575-6046.

KIDS’ CASTLE 2-FOR-1 DAY. Open at 10 a.m.; call for closing. Two kids play for the price of one. Cost: $2.50 up to age 2; ages 3 and older are $5.25 for one hour or $8 unlimited; weekend rates are higher. Clean socks required. Located inside Gymnastics Plus, 2121 W. Lincoln Ave.; 509-453-8126.

ITTY BITTY ART. 1:30-3:30 p.m. Wednesdays. For ages 0-5; drop-in classes. Red Art Studio & Sunflower Studio, 2522 W. Nob Hill Blvd.; 509-469-2766.

KIDS’ OPEN ART STUDIO. 4-5:30 p.m. Wednesdays. All ages drop-in classes. Red Art Studio & Sunflower Studio, 2522 W. Nob Hill Blvd.; 509-469-2766.

DIVORCECARE FOR KIDS. 6:30-8 p.m. Support group for children, ages 5-12, whose parents are divorced, separated or reconciling. Adult group meets at the same time. Roosevelt Elementary School, 120 N. 16th Ave., Yakima. Contact Dan, 509-930-1420, or Jenni, 509-654-2124. yakimadivorcecare.net

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3MOPS – FIRST PRESBYTERIAN. 9-11:15 a.m. Meets the first and third Fridays each month. Meeting dues: $5. Child care, food, fellowship, speakers. First Presbyterian Church, 9 S. Eighth Ave.; 509-248-7940.

FUNKY FRIDAY NIGHTS. 7-8:30 p.m. ’80s-themed music and swim. Reduced price: $1 adults, $0.50 youth, $0.75 honored citizen, or $3.25 for the family. Lions Pool, 509 W. Pine St.; 509-575-6046.

KALEIDOSCOPE PLAY AND

LEARN. 1:30-3 p.m. Ready by Five’s Kaleidoscope Play & Learn groups emphasize thematic, structured and interactive play, and are open to everyone. Meets every Tuesday at 8-9:30 a.m., and every Friday from 1:30-3 p.m. Ready By Five, 414 N. Third St., Yakima. 454-2493. readybyfive.org.

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Anderson Sullivan


• Quality Preschool & School Age Programs

• State Licensed 12 Months to 12 Years

• USDA Approved Nutrition Program

• Family Style Meals• State Pay Accepted

OPEN 24 HOURSYAKIMA CENTER:1 W. Yakima Ave. #39 ...................................................249-1992GLEED CENTER:3431 Mapleway Rd. .......................................................972-1992NACHES YOUTH PROGRAM:2700 Old Naches Hwy. ...................................................910-7665

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SATURDAY, FEB. 4SAVE A LIFE CPR BLITZ 2012. 9 a.m. start time. Three sessions: 9 and 10 a.m. English session; 11 a.m. Spanish session. CPR and other life-saving skills taught. Open to the public. Yakima Convention Center, 10 N. 8th St., Yakima. Contact: Nicole Donegan, 509-654-4320. savealifeyakima.org

HOME DEPOT KIDS WORKSHOP. 9 a.m.-noon. Free drop-in projects for kids 5-12. The Home Depot, 2115 S. First St.; 509-452-3016.

OFFICIAL YU-GI-OH! DUELIST KING TOURNAMENT. Starts at 12:30 p.m. See Feb. 4.

SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE. 7-9:30 p.m. Free drop-in program open to youth ages 7-15, in partnership with Yakima Valley Young Life. Swimming, sports, games, and Christian message. Yakima Family YMCA, 5 N. Naches Ave. 248-1202 or 961-9898.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 5

PARENTING CLASS. 11 a.m. An 8-week parenting class kicks off today, instructed by Certified Family Life Educator and author Laurie Kanyer. Some topics include: Why kids misbehave, understanding temperament, acknowledging feelings and gaining trust, accountability, gaining trust and cooperation, ways to reduce stress, offering healthy alternatives, setting reasonable limits and teaching life skills. Free. First Presbyterian Church, 9 S. 8th Ave., Yakima; 509-248-7940. Contact: [email protected].

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 6

MOM & BABY. 10 a.m.-noon. This group is for moms and their babies up to 12 months of age. No registration is needed and the group is free to attend. This group allows other moms to meet and receive helpful suggestions when it comes to raising a baby. Located at Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital’s Education Center in Nob Hill Plaza, 2506 W. Nob Hill Blvd.; 509-248-7322.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 7KALEIDOSCOPE PLAY AND LEARN. 8-9:30 a.m. See Jan. 31.

KIDS’ CLAY STUDIO. 3:30-5:30 p.m. See Jan. 31.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 8MOMMY CONNECTION. 9:30-11:30 a.m. See Feb 1.

BABY AND ME. 10-11 a.m. See Feb 1.

KIDS’ CASTLE 2-FOR-1 DAY. Open at 10 a.m.; call for closing. See Feb 1.

ITTY BITTY ART. 1:30-3:30 p.m. See Feb 1.

KIDS’ OPEN ART STUDIO. 4-5:30 p.m. See Feb 1.

MOPS – MOUNTAINVIEW CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP. 6-7:30 p.m. Meetings are free; child care provided, through grade 5. Food, fellowship, speakers. Meets the second and fourth Wednesdays each month. Mountainview Christian Fellowship, 7105 Alpine Way. Contact: Danielle, 509-833-2228.

DIVORCECARE FOR KIDS. 6:30-8 p.m. See Feb. 1.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10KALEIDOSCOPE PLAY AND LEARN. 8-9:30 a.m. See Jan. 31.

Cooper Elliot McDaniel, 6 months

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A CLEAN & FUNFAMILY Dining Experience

VOTEDBEST Breakfast, best lunch,

best desserts, ONE OF THE bestFOR STEAKS & DINNERS in yakima

Yakima Valley Business Times & Yakima Business Journal

Full kid’s menu with lots of healthy

choices

Reservations available (509) 469-99003807 River Road • Yakima, WA

Sun-Thurs 6am-10pm, Fri & Sat 6am-11pm

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breakfast • Lunch • dinner

FUN FRIDAY. 6-9 p.m. Drop off kids ages 3-10 for a supervised open gym and playtime. Cost: $18 first child, $16 siblings; includes pizza dinner. Reservations not necessary. Selah GymKids, 709 North Park Centre, Selah; 509-698-5437.

FUNKY FRIDAY NIGHTS. 7-8:30 p.m. See Feb. 3.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11BUILD AND GROW KIDS CLINIC.10 a.m. Free building workshop for children and parents. Preregistration suggested. Lowe’s, 2500 Rudkin Road, Union Gap; 509-248-3032. lowesbuildandgrow.com

GYMKIDS SATURDAY PLAYDATE. 10–11:30 a.m. Open gym and playtime for children ages 1-5 years, accompanied by a parent. Zip line, popcorn, other activities. Cost: $10. Selah GymKids, 709 North Park Centre, Selah; 509-698-5437.


SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE. 7-9:30 p.m. See Feb. 4.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 12

PARENTING CLASS. 11 a.m. See Feb 5.

SHANGHAI ACROBATS. 3 p.m. Athletes, acrobats, jugglers and extortionists perform. Tickets: $7.50 youth 18 and under, $7.50-$35 adults. The Capitol Theatre, 19 S. Third St., Yakima; 509-853-ARTS (2787). capitoltheatre.org

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13

MOM & BABY. 10 a.m.-noon. See Feb. 6.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 14HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!KALEIDOSCOPE PLAY AND LEARN. 8-9:30 a.m. See Jan. 31.


LA LECHE LEAGUE. 6 p.m. Support group for pregnant and breast-feeding mothers; children welcome. Free. Meets at Cascade Women’s Health, 1601 Creekside Loop. For nursing help or questions, call Katy, 509-248-2610, or Denita, 509-388-6866.


MOMS CLUB OF YAKIMA. 9:30-11 a.m. Daytime activities for stay-at-home mothers and their children. Child care opens at 9:15. Meets at Central Lutheran Church, 1603 W. Yakima Ave., $30 annual dues. Nonmembers are allowed to attend two park days/business meetings before joining. Meets the third Wednesday each month. Contact Tara or Debbie at 509-494-8177. [email protected].






FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17KALEIDOSCOPE PLAY AND LEARN. 1:30-3 p.m. See Feb. 3.

MOPS – NILE VALLEY. 8:45-11:15 a.m. Meets third Fridays each month. Child care, food, fellowship and speakers. Nile Valley Community Church, 60 Bedrock Lane, Naches; 509-658-2904.

LOWER NACHES MOPS. 9-11:30 a.m. Meets third Fridays each month. Memorial Bible Church, 111 Old Stage Way, Gleed. Contact: Angie, 509-945-0617.


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MOPS – FIRST PRESBYTERIAN. 9-11:15 a.m. Meets the first and third Fridays each month. Meeting dues: $5. Child care, food, fellowship, speakers. First Presbyterian Church, 9 S. Eighth Ave.; 509-248-7940.


SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18OFFICIAL YU-GI-OH! DUELIST KING TOURNAMENT. Starts at 12:30 p.m. See Feb. 4.


SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19


MONDAY, FEBRUARY 20HAPPY PRESIDENTS’ DAY!

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21THE VISION AND LEARNING LINK. 7 p.m. Workshop for parents or teachers who deal with young people who are behind in reading or have trouble with comprehension. The free workshop covers vision problems and what can be done to resolve them. Presented by Dr. Benjamin C. Winters. Washington Vision Therapy Center, 3909 Creekside Loop, Suite 150, Yakima; call 509-654-9256 to RSVP.

KALEIDOSCOPE PLAY AND LEARN. 8-9:30 a.m. See Jan. 31.









FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24KALEIDOSCOPE PLAY AND LEARN. 8-9:30 a.m. See Feb. 3.


SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25BUILD AND GROW KIDS CLINIC. 10 a.m. Free building workshop for children and parents. Preregistration suggested. Lowe’s, 2500 Rudkin Road, Union Gap; 509-248-3032. lowesbuildandgrow.com

ENGINEERING DAY FOR KIDS. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Kids get connected to math, science, and engineering with hands-on activities. Free, open to elementary school-aged kids. Yakima Valley Community College Hopf Union Building (HUB). Contact: Ben Annen, 509-966-7000, or [email protected].



SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 26


EARLY LEARNING CENTERSTATE LICENSED

CHILD CARE & PRESCHOOLSTATE PAY ACCEPTEDSTATE NUTRITION

PROGRAM

QUALITY EDUCATIONAL CARE IN A SMALLER

ATMOSPHERE (CAPACITY OF 24)

312 N WENAS RDSELAH, WA 98942509-698-4006

LEAP N LEARN

FULL TIME - PART-TIME - DROP-INSAGES 12 MONTHS THRU 5 YEARS

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• Licensed for Ages 1-12

• Strong Structured Curriculum

• Loving Environment• Nurturing and Caring is our specialty• State Pay Accepted

(509)452-86481216 S. 24th Ave.(So. off Nob Hill)

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Focused on getting kidergarten ready through play and a strong curriculum beginning at age 1

Don’t miss the 3rd annual...

familyexpo

Games & Activities!

Fun stageshows

Food!Snacks & Lattes!

Call 577-7743

for vendor information!

!

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March 31!10 am - 4 pm

Yakima Convention Center

$6 adults$2 children (3-17)

at the door

ice cream!

Sponsored by:


10 flavors and52 toppings

to choose from.No sugar added, lactose free (sorbet) and non-fat varieties always available.

Westpark - 40th & Summitview • (509)426-2829Hours: Sun.-Thur.:11-9, • Fri & Sat.: 11-10

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Come in today and receive

any flavor

10% Off

TSS is simply scrumptious

yogurt! Top it off with

fresh fruit, candy or cookies.

Offer expires March 31, 2012

for information & registration forms log onto:www.wesleyofyakima.org

Programs Available For Your Child:•Pre-K/Barely 5 Years Old• 4-Years Old • 3-Years Old

Nurturing the development of your child’s mind, body and spirit by providing an

education based in academic preparation and Christian Values.

Wesley United Methodist Churchand Preschool

N. 48th Ave. & Chestnut • (509)966-2370Serving the community for over 30 yearS

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KINDERKONCERT. 3 p.m. Concert and hands-on introduction to musical instruments. Free, open to all ages. Performed by Yakima Youth Symphony Orchestra and Yakima Ensemble for Strings. The Capitol Theatre, 19 S. Third St., Yakima; 509-248-1414. yyso.org

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 27


TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 28KALEIDOSCOPE PLAY AND LEARN. 8-9:30 a.m. See Jan. 31








FRIDAY, MARCH 2KALEIDOSCOPE PLAY AND LEARN. 8-9:30 a.m. See Feb. 3



SATURDAY, MARCH 3HOME DEPOT KIDS WORKSHOP. 9 a.m.-noon. Free drop-in projects for kids 5-12. The Home Depot, 2115 S. First St.; 509-452-3016.



SUNDAY, MARCH 4


MONDAY, MARCH 5


TUESDAY, MARCH 6KALEIDOSCOPE PLAY AND LEARN. 8-9:30 a.m. See Jan. 31.


CROHN’S & COLITIS WORKSHOP. 6:30-8 p.m. Patient education program: Nutrition & Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Choices for Kids and Adults. Presented by the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. Free. Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital Auditorium. Contact: Kathleen Newbould, 425-451-8455, or [email protected].

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7MOMMY CONNECTION. 9:30-11:30 a.m. See Feb 1.






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FRIDAY, MARCH 9KALEIDOSCOPE PLAY AND LEARN. 8-9:30 a.m. See Feb. 3.

FUN FRIDAY. 6-9 p.m. Drop off kids ages 3-10 for a supervised open gym and playtime. Cost: $18 first child, $16 siblings; includes pizza dinner. Reservations not necessary. Selah GymKids, 709 North Park Centre, Selah; 509-698-5437.


SATURDAY, MARCH 10BUILD AND GROW KIDS CLINIC. 10 a.m. Free building workshop for children and parents. Preregistration suggested. Lowe’s, 2500 Rudkin Road, Union Gap; 509-248-3032. lowesbuildandgrow.com

GYMKIDS SATURDAY PLAYDATE. 10–11:30 a.m. Open gym and playtime for children ages 1-5 years, accompanied by a parent. Zip line, popcorn, other activities. Cost: $10. Selah GymKids, 709 North Park Centre, Selah; 509-698-5437.



SUNDAY, MARCH 11


MONDAY, MARCH 12











THURSDAY, MARCH 15JUNIE B. JONES. 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. For students grades K-5. Cost: $5 each. Capitol Kids series. The Capitol Theatre, 19 S. Third St., Yakima; 509-853-ARTS (2787). capitoltheatre.org

VISION AND POOR PERFORMANCE IN SCHOOL. 7 p.m. Workshop for parents or teachers who deal with young people who are behind in reading or have trouble with comprehension. The free workshop covers vision problems and what can be done to resolve them. Presented by Dr. Benjamin C. Winters. Washington Vision Therapy Center, 3909 Creekside Loop, Suite 150, Yakima; call 509-654-9256 to RSVP.

FRIDAY, MARCH 16JUNIE B. JONES. 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. See Mar. 15.


✔✔

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“Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.” Proverbs 22:5-7

Find out more about our:✔

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Remember paperdolls?We’re bringing them back in cookies!!!

Located in the chaLet PLace5609 Summitview ave., YakimathecakedecoratorShoPPe.com

Ask about our Cake Pop parties

and cup cake parties

Visit us Feb. 11, 10-Noon for FREE Valentine boxes & cookie

decorating

Don’t forget to visit us at

Playdate ExpoMarch 31!

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KALEIDOSCOPE PLAY AND LEARN. 1:30-3 p.m. See Feb. 3.

MOPS – NILE VALLEY. 8:45-11:15 a.m. Meets third Fridays each month. Child care, food, fellowship and speakers. Nile Valley Community Church, 60 Bedrock Lane, Naches; 509-658-2904.

LOWER NACHES MOPS. 9-11:30 a.m. Meets third Fridays each month. Memorial Bible Church, 111 Old Stage Way, Gleed. Contact: Angie, 509-945-0617.



SATURDAY, MARCH 17HAPPY ST. PATRICK’S DAY!OFFICIAL YU-GI-OH! DUELIST KING TOURNAMENT. Starts at 12:30 p.m. See Feb. 4.


SUNDAY, MARCH 18


MONDAY, MARCH 19


TUESDAY, MARCH 20


KALEIDOSCOPE PLAY AND LEARN. 8-9:30 a.m.See Jan. 31


MOMS CLUB OF YAKIMA. 9:30-11 a.m. Daytime activities for stay-at-home mothers and their children. Child care opens at 9:15. Meets at Central Lutheran Church, 1603 W. Yakima Ave., $30 annual dues. Nonmembers are allowed to attend two park days/business meetings before joining. Meets the third Wednesday each month. Contact Tara or Debbie at 509-494-8177. [email protected].






FRIDAY, MARCH 23KALEIDOSCOPE PLAY AND LEARN. 1:30-3 p.m. See Feb. 3.


SATURDAY, MARCH 24BUILD AND GROW KIDS CLINIC.10 a.m. Free building workshop for children and parents. Preregistration suggested. Lowe’s, 2500 Rudkin Road, Union Gap; 509-248-3032. lowesbuildandgrow.com



SUNDAY, MARCH 25

PARENTING CLASS.


05.166242.PD.N

Quality Licensed Child Care Excellent Staff, great facility, terrific early

learning environment.YMCA child care

has openings for children8 weeks-12 years.

Call 972-5251

Oakridge MOntessOrioffers a unique opportunity for children as young as

18 months – in their bilingual toddler room – through 8th grade on two sites: the pre-school/

toddler/kinders are on 2-1⁄2 acres on summitview and the elementary site on 50 acres.

We have OppOrtunities available.

6403 Summitview Ave. • Yakima(509) 966-1080 • Fax (509) 969-6577

[email protected]

Forming the Future

05.168394.PD/N

11 a.m. See Feb 5.

MONDAY, MARCH 26












FRIDAY, MARCH 30KALEIDOSCOPE PLAY AND LEARN. 1:30-3 p.m. See Feb. 3.


SATURDAY, MARCH 31

PLAYDATE FAMILY EXPO. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dozens of businesses and organizations will come together under one roof to offer information, activities, games, giveaways, and lots of fun. Yakima Convention Center, 10 N. Eighth St., Yakima; call 509-577-7731 for more info.



Jace Smith, 4 months

Ian Erlandson, 10 months


gotcha!

KYLER MARTIN MAXWELL, 8 MONTHS

“ A smile cures the wounding of a frown.” — William Shakespeare

Send us your best!The deadline for the next Gotcha! photo contest is 11:59 p.m. Mar. 2, 2012. Send photos to [email protected].

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Documents

Playdate Magazine