ML Interest Tag: enrichment-programs

This School Offers Classes for Future Leaders of the World

by Jamie Aderski
Partner Content

Have a brainiac in your life? Keeping them challenged can be, well, a challenge. Dedimus Potestatem provides fun, academically challenging programs for students in elementary, middle and high school. Dedimus Potestatem‘s student-focused programs aim to create the next generation of well-informed, well-spoken leaders, advocates and diplomats. Their programs include Debate, Model UN, Model Congress, Mock Trial, Etiquette, STEM, Leadership, speech writing and more. They’re currently offering both virtual and in-person private and semi-private classes, group sessions and after-school programs. Read on to learn more about this cool school that will send your kid straight to the head of the class in no time!

To register for Dedimus Potestatem classes or private sessions, click here or email info@potestatem.co.

Leadership Skills for a Lifetime of Success

All of Dedimus Potestatem's programs strive to empower students and integrate essential leadership skills sought after by top universities and employers. Through action-packed and exciting programs, Dedimus Potestatem teaches students to communicate, delegate, negotiate, resolve conflict, take initiative, adapt to new situations, empathize, effectively plan, manage time and more. (Do they offer these classes for adults?!)

Fun fact: Studies have shown that students who are highly engaged in their learning process learn more and retain information longer. Dedimus Potestatem has it covered, by emphasizing student proactivity and practical application of skills taught (because use it or lose AND practice makes perfect!).

Innovative Classes for the 21st Century

Dedimus Potestatem's curriculum is packed with classes to develop your kiddo's leadership skills, critical thinking abilities, and their creativity!

Many of Dedimus Potestatem's programs help learners become engaged citizens. Through Speech and Debate, students will build their literacy and multi-media research skills, work on public speaking and learn about civil engagement. With Fairy Tale Mock Trial, kids will get to experience a hands-on simulation of the American judicial system done through the role-playing of characters in children's favorite stories. Model Congress and Model UN let students take on their own worldly challenges, debate international policy and understand how to create compromises with other delegates.

Dedimus Potestatem's also has classes like STEM Bioethics to challenge kids' ethical thinking (while learning all about DNA) and programs to encourage creative thinking, including a new Visual Storytelling class that teaches kids how digital platforms are changing the arts and activism (What kid wouldn't get excited about a TikTok class?) and Finding Your Voice; Understanding and Writing Poetry—a course on understanding and building a love for poetry.

Too advanced? They've got Little Leaders covered with a Pre-K and Kindergarten class that gives students the skills they need to succeed in life. The play-based syllabus centered around character traits most sought and admired in leaders: initiative, honesty, self-control, adaptability, empathy, persuasiveness, resourcefulness, diligence, tolerance, determination, generosity, punctuality, courage, reliability, endurance, deference, creativity and integrity.

To register for Dedimus Potestatem classes or private sessions, click here or email info@potestatem.co.

Classes That Get Results

Read what top schools and parents have to say:

“The benefit of Dedimus Potestatem’s enrichment programs for the students went beyond raising one’s self-confidence and debate skills. The programs teach leadership and critical thinking, empowering students to stand up for what is right, fight for the truth, learn to value teamwork, develop goals, become engaged in civic discourse, and feel empowered to become beacons of peace for a better world. Just a fantastic leadership organization!”
— Dr. Lidana Jalilvand, Director of After-School Programs, The United Nations International School

“Having a debate team at our school has boosted the confidence and curiosity of our participating middle-schoolers. I’ve seen huge growth in critical thinking skills and a more polished approach to expressing thoughtful opinions,”
— Monica Masterson, Director of auxiliary programs, BASIS Independent Manhattan

"As a mother to a tween who first met Ms. Elizabeth at age 8 and grew up with her leadership, mock trial & debate classes, I'm simply astounded by her at 3 levels. First is her ability to connect with children. My son simply adores her, as does my 6-year-old daughter. All of her other students love her, to the extent that the parents are all fighting to have her teach their children’s classes! Second is the passion she has for her mission: to create a young generation of intellectuals with morals and integrity who critically appraise what they are presented with. When faced with an unfounded accusation of academic misconduct, instead of fear or defense, my son cautioned me against the use of ad hominem in my email response to the teacher. I was simply dumbstruck. And humbled. No price for guessing whom he’s learned that from! Last but not least is Ms. Elizabeth's ability to connect with her parents. Her smile, her enthusiasm, and the intellectually stimulating conversations are simply the best!
 — Vicki Tse, parent

"One of the best things to happen to my son, Sasha, was starting after-school debate and court trial classes with Elizabeth. At that time he was a nine-year-old 5th-grade student. Fast forward almost four years and he is a confident 8th grader, ready to argue what he believes in and open enough to engage adults and kids alike. Working with Elizabeth and participating in these classes has taught him teamwork, public speaking and the importance of fact-checking. Elizabeth knows how to work with kids, how to motivate them and always encourages them to do their best. She's fun, warm and always there for them—we're truly fortunate to have her be an influence in Sasha's life."  
— Ivana Krizanic, parent

Assemblies with special guest speakers are offered throughout the year. Click here for more info or to join their upcoming

assembly, The Frontlines of Peace, with special guest Dr. Severine Autesserre.

 

To register for Dedimus Potestatem classes or private sessions, click here or email info@potestatem.co.

 

—Jamie Aderski

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23 Influential SoCal Moms Who Inspire Us

by Leah R. Singer

In honor of Mother’s Day, we’re putting the spotlight on 23 influential women/working moms in SoCal who inspire us with their vision, missions, products, service to the community, work ethic, imagination, strength, fortitude and more. From Vanessa Bryant to the mother at the helm of Dr. Seuss Enterprises, and the founder of Baby Tula to the founder of The Honest Kitchen, read on to be wowed by local moms who are changing the world for the better.

Vanessa Bryant

Mamba & Mambacita Sports Foundation

Vanessa Bryant recently experienced an unimaginable tragedy––yet she’s continuing a legacy to help others. Her husband, Lakers basketball legend Kobe Bryant, and daughter Gianna, died in a helicopter crash in January 2020. In the wake of their death, she has renamed Kobe Bryant's charity organization the Mamba & Mambacita Sports Foundation, honoring 13 year-old Gianna, whose nickname was Mambacita. The Foundation is focused on creating a positive impact through sports and aims to help kids in underprivileged communities develop learning skills, enhance character traits and expand personal values that empower and inspire self-confidence. 

Susan Brandt, President of Dr. Seuss Enterprises, L.P.

Susan Brandt

Working alongside the visions of Dr. Seuss is something that would inspire any parent. For Susan Brandt, it’s all about sharing the wonder of Dr. Seuss’ world and making kids and their families happy. She loves bringing joy to kids, whether by introducing a new generation to Ted Geisel’s (Dr. Seuss's) wonderful stories and characters with books or by bringing families together to enjoy his films and television shows. Brandt is also the mother of two sons: Liam James, 19, and Aidan Patrick, 17. She enjoys spending time with her kids playing games and exercising together. She’s proud of having raised two boys as wonderful, caring and compassionate young adults.

Kathryn Cloward, Founder and CEO of Kandon Unlimited, Inc. 

Kathryn Cloward

Kathryn Cloward, also known as “Kathryn the Grape," wears many hats. Cloward is an award-winning book series author, performing songwriter, media publisher and producer, director, entrepreneur and mother. She founded her award-winning media company, Kandon Unlimited, Inc., in 2010 to independently publish the series of children’s books she wrote featuring “Kathryn the Grape®.” Since then, Kandon Unlimited has expanded to become a full spectrum media publishing and production company. Cloward admits that she is inspired daily by her 13 year-old son, Landon, as well as ordinary, everyday moments. As a parent, she tries to be mindful about not over-scheduling, and enjoying spending time simply being together. Aside from Landon being her greatest pride and joy, Cloward is extremely proud of the positive impact she has made through her books and songs. 

Shanna Nelson, President, Jazzercise, Inc.

Shanna Nelson

Shanna Nelson is inspired that the work Jazzercise does helps people lead healthier and happier lives, and she witnesses this in every class they teach. As president of the company, Nelson loves that Jazzercise has provided thousands of opportunities for women business owners through their franchises. “I feel really lucky that I get to not only oversee the business and programming side, but also teach the program myself as I’ve been an instructor since I was 18!” said Nelson. She is also a mother of two daughters: Skyla, 17 and Sienna, 14. Now that her daughters are older, she can see how they value education, being kind to people, their strong values and morals, and she takes a deep breath and thinks all the hard work, sitting through homework, conversations and “being there” for them has paid off.

Ula Tuszewicka, Founder and President, Baby Tula

Baby Tula

Baby Tula was born out of a practical need. After Ula Tuszewicka’s daughter, Amelia, was born, she and her husband, Mike, wore her predominantly in a sling and loved how convenient babywearing was for both parents. When their son was born a few years later, they discovered the ease of ergonomic carriers. After trying several that didn’t quite work, they asked a family member to sew one for their specifications and it was perfect. Ula and Mike continued to make baby carriers for family and friends. They eventually turned the passion project into a business and created Baby Tula in order to fulfill their mission to promote babywearing worldwide. Ula oversees the company, while also being a mom to three kids!

Lucy Postins, Founder and President of The Honest Kitchen

Lucy Postins

Although she's the founder and president of The Honest Kitchen, Lucy Postins didn’t start with the goal of creating a pet food company. In 2002, in an effort to help her Rhodesian Ridgeback, Mosi, with ear infections and skin problems, Postins started mixing up fresh ingredients in her kitchen to create a raw food diet. When she saw how much Mosi’s health improved on the new recipes, Postins realized she could help other pets as well, and The Honest Kitchen was born. All the ingredients are human grade, minimally processed, organic when possible, sustainable and the end product is a labor of love. She oversees company operations while still making time to be a mother to her children.

Lynne Banach, Founder and Creative Director, Sakura Bloom

Sakura Bloom

Lynne Banach is proud of being a small business owner that makes her products right in their San Diego studio. The mission of Sakura Bloom is to simplify and beautify modern parenting through the use of baby carriers made out of exquisite natural fibers, including organic Irish linens, Indian dupioni silks and southeast Asian wild silks. The hand-crafted artisan baby slings are designed for infants all the way up to 45-pound toddlers. Banach partners with local artisans and family run businesses like hers that share the same values and goals. When she’s not brainstorming new ideas and implementing them, she spends her time as mom to her two children, Teja and Jai.

Judy Forrester, CEO of The New Children's Museum

Judy Forrester

Judy Forrester joined The New Children’s Museum in 2015 to lead one of San Diego’s most unique educational and artistic institutions, while establishing a sustainable business model for the museum. She will be leaving her position this summer after significant accomplishments to the downtown mainstay. Museum attendance has grown more than 40 percent on her watch. They’ve also grown their program and exhibition space, increased the budget, and because of a community outreach expansion program, 25 percent of attendees visit the museum for free or significantly reduced cost. Forrester achieved all this while also being a mother to three children.

Juliana Flores, Owner of Pachis Art Studio

Juliana Flores

Juliana Flores started Pachis Art Studio as a brick-and-mortar store with a single mission: to support the healthy development of art in kids. Unlike other art programs, Pachis is focused on teaching kids life skills through art making and exploration, with curriculum designed with important elements for a little one’s personal development. Recently, she transitioned to an online forum and sells art kits to foster creativity. Juliana and her husband, Cesar, moved to San Diego from Tijuana, Baja California in 2009. They now live in Linda Vista with their 3 year-old and newborn daughters. Juliana believes having a business geared towards kids has helped her tremendously to create a balance between being a business owner and mom. When she’s not working, she enjoys going to the beach and picnics, doing art and having deep conversations with her little one.

Christy Heiskala, Victim Advocate

Christy Heiskala

Christy Heiskala gave up a long and lucrative career to start anew, teaching child sexual abuse prevention and advocating for victims. As a victim advocate, this La Mesa mom helps parents navigate the very complicated process if their child has been a victim of negligence or abuse. She is also a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for kids whose parents are going through dependency court. Her passion grew out of advocating for the conviction of a local teacher who was molesting his second and third grade students for seven years. Christy worked tirelessly to assure the instructor had his teaching credential revoked, ensuring countless kids be spared. Christy lives in La Mesa with her husband, biological daughter (Jaiden); step-daughter (Kaya); and step-son (Lee).

Shannon Higgins, Founder of Studio Barre

Shannon Higgins

Shannon Higgins, a South Carlsbad mom of three, is a true warrior. She merged her passion of fitness and business to create Studio Barre, a national ballet barre-based workout studio and franchise. She’s also extremely proud to be a breast cancer survivor after undergoing chemotherapy and two surgeries. While Shannon credits the doctors for treating her, she is happy she never let the disease get her down and that she was able to keep her family life as normal as possible. She also started a blog to educate and share her journey. Shannon opened her first Studio Barre studio when her youngest son, Joey, started kindergarten with the vision of creating a “happy place” for women to not only workout, but also hang out.

Carly Garrett, Teacher and Girl Scout Troop Leader

Carly Garrett

Carly Garrett wears many hats. This Western La Mesa/Rolando mom of two (Ethan and Maddie) is a teacher of a continuation high school. She spends her days helping students in danger of being high school dropouts, a job in which she was named District Teacher of the Year. She also started the Palomar Scholarship Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides financial assistance to kids from her high school who are often the first in their families to go to college. However, her proudest “hat” is serving as the leader of Girl Scout Troop 6190 of La Mesa for nine years and counting. Carly admits being a part of the 17 Girl Scouts’ lives is one of the greatest honors of her life. They do thousands of hours of community service and five of her troop members earned the Presidential Volunteer Service Medal from President Obama in the past two years. Carly likes to remind people to buy cookies from the older girls (other than the younger girls) because “big girls” have big dreams and goals too.

Cathy Nguyen, Health Educator at California State University, San Marcos

Cathy Nguyen

For more than 20 years, Cathy Nguyen has been educating, advocating and empowering college students to lead healthy lifestyles and make responsible choices through various health promotion programs. She also volunteers as a sexual assault response team (SART) advocate for Center for Community Solutions, a non-profit that operates the only rape crisis center in the city of San Diego along with a countywide 24-hour bilingual crisis helpline. This San Marcos mom has two kids: Tristan and Kaitlyn, both of whom are budding entrepreneurs. In addition to working full time, volunteering and being a mom and wife, Cathy is the co-founder of several online businesses that distribute to Amazon. She and her family are big Disney fans and are working on their goal of visiting all the Disneyland parks in the world. So far, they’ve visited four out of six parks, and are already planning their trips to the Shanghai and Hong Kong parks.

Michelle Lomelin, Founder of Sweet Petite Confections

Michelle Lomelin

Michelle Lomelin launched Sweet Petite Confections after leaving a two-decade career in fashion design. In her role as chocolatier and shop owner, Michelle creates and sells bonbons, meltaways, barks, salted caramels, custom chocolate business cards and ice cream, and teaches candy-making classes to families. Michelle lives in Bay Park with her two sons, Santiago and Kaleo, and started Sweet Petite Confections so she could make her own schedule, while being a mom and business owner at the same time. After overcoming the fear of “What if …” she’s launched a successful business, and at the same time, can attend field trips and teach art in her kids’ classrooms.

Jennifer Tandy, Owner/Founder of Nightingale Music Studios

Jennifer Tandy

Nightingale Music School was born out of Jennifer Tandy’s strengths in music and a love of kids. This former professional musical theater actress started with a small "mommy and me" music class out of her home, which turned into a successful business in the Bird Rock community that has served thousands of families in San Diego over the last 14 years. Jennifer also successfully launched satellite locations in South Park and La Mesa. Aside from her love of music, Jennifer is a strong advocate for public education and has advocated for her cluster of local schools. As a result of her advocacy, many schools have the strongest academic and enrichment programs in San Diego County. In turn, her work reshaping public schools has changed the community as well, and was recognized by being named the Honorary Mayor of Pacific Beach for the year 2014. When she’s not teaching music and running Nightingale, Jennifer enjoys camping trips or a National Park visits with her husband and three children. She credits her three children as her creative, musical inspiration.

Music Watson, Chief Communications Officer, San Diego County Office of Education

Music Watson

This Del Cerro mom is responsible for bringing classrooms into living rooms. As the Chief Communications Officer for San Diego County Office of Education, Music Watson is passionate about the power of public education to change the lives of individuals and whole families. She describes her job as using different media vehicles to help connect two audiences. The first is the 70 percent of California's voters who don't have kids in K-12 public schools, and the second are parents like Music whose daughter, Michaela, is in public school. Music credits her parents for helping her be successful in her career. “Until they retired, my dad was a blue collar worker and my mom was a school secretary,” said Music. “Neither of them earned a four-year college degree. I'm really proud of the hard work I put in––with their encouragement and support––that saw me through college and graduate school, and now to a successful career. I owe them a debt of gratitude for the decisions they made that led me to have access to high-quality education, and I'm proud of the fact that I pay that forward through my job.”

Salina Yoon, Author and Illustrator

Salina Yoon

Salina Yoon is an award-winning and bestselling author and illustrator of more than 160 books for kids. She travels to book festivals, conferences, bookstores, and schools all around the country to share her books and inspire the love of reading and writing and literacy. While her “Penguin” picture book series has been the most popular, she is most proud of the book “Be A Friend,” which celebrates individuality, encourages self-acceptance and promotes kindness and friendship. One of Salina’s proudest accomplishments is something that many moms can relate to. As a work-at-home mom, Salina was always sharing her creative space with family. So one day, she claimed a room and made it her own personal reading and writing space. She encourages all moms to claim a space of their own in their home. Salina lives in the San Elijo Hills community of San Marcos with her husband Chris Polentz (also an artist), and their two sons, Max and Mason. She has yet to outgrow her love of reading to her sons before bedtime.

Leng Caloh, Former Technology and Innovation Manager at KPBS

Leng Caloh

Aside from spending time with PBS characters like Daniel Tiger, Leng Caloh’s career can be described as bringing technology and people together in ways that educate and inspire — whether it’s technology for public use, or technology to help KPBS public broadcast staff better serve the public. Leng made an unexpected name for herself in 2007 when she led the KPBS web team in covering the October 2007 wildfires online, using Twitter (back when hardly anyone knew what it was) and Google MyMaps (which was just a few months old at the time). While that was a challenging week for everyone in San Diego, both professionally and personally (Leng hardly saw her toddler daughter), it changed the course of her career, and started KPBS on the path towards converging its radio, television and web news coverage. Personally, this Bonita mom is proud of her decision to have a home birth VBAC with her second daughter, after her first was born breech in a planned caesarian. Leng and her wife are proud parents of three kids: Siddha, Ananda and Treonte.

Amy Cullinan, Scientist, STEM Advocate and Communications Professional

Amy Cullinan

Originally from the Midwest, Amy Cullinan describes herself as a scientist, turned communications professional, work-at-home mechanical engineer, who has been married ten years to a San Diego native. This Rancho San Diego mom has one daughter, Samantha, who is in the first grade. She currently manages social media for Illumina, a global biotechnology company headquartered in San Diego, and was previously a science and technical writer. Before that, she was a research scientist investigating viruses and the human immune system. Amy is moved by helping the next generation discover what they want to do, and is proud that she built the social media program from the ground up, for one of the smartest companies in the world. She loves spending time with her daughter, inspiring her to learn about science through “Science Sundays,” which Amy team-teaches through a group of like-minded friends.

Kristen Elgo, National Events Manager for PIRCH

Kristen Elgo

Kristen Elgo’s mom hat touches every aspect of her life. She’s a full-time working mom, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts mom, soccer mom, running mom, and volunteers at her kids’ elementary school. This Mira Mesa mom is coming up on 14 years of marriage to her college sweetheart, Mike, and has two kiddos: Branden and Kaileigh, and two mini daschunds, Sumo and Geisha. She has what many consider a dream job: creating fun executive events in PIRCH showrooms designed to show off all the amazing products and features at the company. One of her proudest personal accomplishments has been running over the last four years, and competing in 12 half marathons and the full Rock and Roll Marathon. While waking up at 5 a.m. for a regular running group meet-up is early, she always feels fulfilled after the hour.

Amanda Bonds, Senior Program Manager at Words Alive

Amanda Bonds

Amanda Bond’s mission is simple: to bring reading and books to all kids. She is the Program Manager for Words Alive, a literacy non-profit leading a movement to make reading matter in San Diego. This Hillcrest mom to 2 year-old Starling is most proud of starting the organization’s Family Literacy Program that empowers parents from under-served communities with confidence, techniques and materials to feel confident reading with their kiddos. On a personal level, Amanda and her husband, Tony (both transplants from Austin, TX), have had Sunday dinner with the same group of friends nearly every week for more than five years. She has worked hard to establish her “framily” (friend-family) and truly believes in the importance of connection and developing a support-system for each other as parents. And they love coming up with new recipes and eating delicious dinners once a week for five years.

Amanda Allen, Attorney

Amanda Allen

Amanda Allen is a business and real estate attorney (with a specialty in working with breweries and wineries), and she launched Enrich, a co-working space for lawyers. This mom to 3 year-old Jasmine Jane has been practicing law for eight years and started her solo practice when Jas was only one. Amanda is extremely proud of launching Enrich. While it felt outside of her comfort zone to do, she’s happier about that professional accomplishment than any award she’s received. While Amanda is a successful attorney, business owner and mom, she’s committed to living a healthy lifestyle. She loves doing crossfit, and says working out has been her therapy and her rock. Amanda’s favorite thing to do with Jasmine is dance, and they can be seen busting moves in the car, bagel shop, gym and in the living room.

Maggie Unzueta, Chef and Writer, Mama Maggie's Kitchen

Maggie Unzueta

Maggie Unzeta is passionate about authentic Mexican food, and about preserving and promoting the richness of her culture through cuisine. She shares the true flavors of Mexico to the United States and the world through her blog, Mama Maggie’s Kitchen. Throughout her life, she’s lived in different parts of Mexico and has traveled to 22 of the 31 states in Mexico and sampled the unique foods of each region. She’s also mom to a 12 year-old son. With Mama Maggie's Kitchen turning 10 this year, she has been a work-from-home mother since he was a small kiddo. She’s extremely proud of her blog and how its grown and flourished over the years, and believes her son and family are her biggest accomplishments.

—Leah R. Singer

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Seattle’s Best Podcasts for Parents (& One for Kids)

by Allison Sutcliffe

Are you really even a parent if you haven’t questioned your abilities multiple times a day during the pandemic? Whether you’re looking for answers to tough parenting questions, amusing stories that are totally relatable or you simply need a new listen for your daily walks, these Seattle podcasters can help. Listen up!

Amy Lang’s Just Say This!

courtesy Amy Lang

For over 25 years, Seattle mom Amy Lang has been walking parents through The Talk (birds, bees and all) and the awkward questions that come with it. Now this sexual health counselor and educator is taking her knowledge to the airwaves with Just Say This!. Each Q&A style episode features parents sharing funny stories and asking tough questions, followed by Lang walking them through the answers with sincerity, humor and a focus on building healthy relationships. Tune in to find out how to deal with those unavoidable parenting moments that make you go “hmmm.”

Good to know: Parents can submit question or share funny stories that may be featured on the show by leaving a message at 206-926-1522.

Can’t-miss episode: Because terminology can be tricky, check out this episode that makes things clear.

Listen on Apple, Spotify or wherever you find your podcasts.

The 3D Parent Podcast

Danielle Barnum

The 3D Parent Podcast host, Beaven Walters, is passionate about supporting parents, and her focus on the three D’s—dignity, direction and deep connection—is key to her approach. Podcast episodes deal with the stuff of everyday parenting, like managing morning mayhem and figuring out how to have kids apologize and truly mean it. You’ll also find a few Q&A episodes that feel like a sit down sesh with a good friend. Throughout, Walters approaches each topic with the eye of an expert (she’s a certified parenting coach, mom of four and spent a decade teaching), doling out tools that are easily understood and implemented. And at around 30 minutes an episode, finding the time to tune in is a totally doable.

Can’t-miss episode: It’s hard to pick just one, so here are three. "Making Sense of Childhood Aggression" is the popular parent choice. But Walters’ fave, "Cultivating a Deep Connection with Our Children", and her producer’s fave, "How to Handle Your Child’s Lies" should also be on your listening list.

Find more engaging episodes on Apple, Spotify and Google Play.

APPropriate

courtesy Jo Langford

If you think “Badoo” and “Lipsi” are nonsense words, and monkeys are only found in the zoo, we’ve got the podcast you need. Because finding time to learn about the social media apps and platforms kids use is a full time job, there’s Seattle dad, Jo Langford’s APPropriate. In each episode, Langford, a master’s level therapist and sex educator, distills the need-to-know details surrounding nebulous social media apps, so parents can keep kids safe and responsible in the digital age. You’ll find the information you’ve been looking for in each brief (think 10-20 minute) show.

Can’t-miss episode: Because your kid are on it 24/7 during the pandemic, give the TikTok episode a listen. Add to your list, the two part series about YouTube (Part 1 & Part 2) Langford is especially proud of.

Find episodes on Apple, Spotify or Stitcher.

Thrilling Tales

courtesy Seattle Public Library

When was the last time someone read you a story? Now you can sit back and let someone else do the storytelling for a change, thanks to the Seattle Public Library’s new podcast, Thrilling Tales. Because hosting this (usually live at the library) story time for grown-ups isn’t possible right now, David Wright, Reader Services Librarian at the Central Branch, will sit down weekly to read short stories that will thrill, excite and move listeners each time they tune in. Kick off the season with This World is Taboo, an eight-part Sci-Fi pulp serial by Murray Leinster. 

Can’t-miss episode: The World is Taboo, Chapter 1 will get you hooked.

Listen online at SPL.

Parent Talks Podcast

If you’re looking for expert advice on screen time, chores or enticing picky eaters, Encompass’s Parent Talks Podcast can give you insight and peace of mind too. This non-profit helps families across the Snoqualmie Valley and the Eastside thrive by providing early learning, pediatric therapy and family enrichment programs. To date, Encompass has recorded 15 episodes that often pair parents, who share experiences and parenting questions, with experts, who work to answer them. The short, supportive episodes make this resource a treasure trove of helpful tips for local parents.

Can’t-miss episode: Because the world is changing quickly and family routines are out the door, "Understanding Childhood Anxiety," Parts 1 & 2 tops the listen list.

Listen to Parent Talks online.

The Adventuring Sisters

courtesy The Adventuring Sisters

If you like “fun interviews to help you learn and discover new things and inspire you to follow your dreams,” the Adventuring Sisters Podcast is made for you. What started out as a father/daughter project in 2014 (inspired by the Maker Dad book), has grown into a local phenom. On each episode the Adventuring Sisters, Ellie (10), Carly (7) and Jo (4) interview people they’d like to meet, like Mayor Durkin, Jaycie Johnson of OL Reign fame and Chef John Armstrong, a creator of the amazing gingerbread houses featured at JDRF’s Gingerbread Village. The girls also take listeners on engaging tours to local hot spots like the Space Needle, MoPOP and the zoo. The thoughtful questions the girls craft (yep, they come up with them on their own, with a little help from dad), and the time they take to prepare, make this an inspiring podcast kids of all ages will enjoy.

Can’t-miss episode: The episode featuring Lindsey Stirling is something to look forward to (it should drop soon). While you wait, check out the interview with Seattle Storm’s Jordin Canada, recorded in honor of National Girls and Women in Sports Day.

Tune in on Apple, Google Play, Stitcher and wherever you get your podcasts.

—Allison Sutcliffe

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7 Family Cruises That Depart from San Francisco

by Kate Loweth

Did you know that you don’t have to fly to Florida or even Southern California to set sail on your next family cruise? These seven cruises leave right from San Francisco and will take you to other states like Hawaii and Washington, as well as other countries like Tahiti, Mexico and Australia. Pack your bags, the adventure awaits!

Alaska and Vancouver—Regent Seven Seas

Regent Seven Seas

Spend your summer touring the Pacific Northwest aboard the Seven Seas Mariner. This 13-day cruise takes you north from San Francisco to Astoria, OR and then on to Alaska for stops in Juneau, Ketchikan and along the Hubbard Glacier. Canoe excursions, dog sledding trips and whale watching are kids favorites. Finish your journey along the inside passage with stops at Victoria and Vancouver. 

Online: rssc.com

Hawaii—Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises

Start your Hawaiian vacation aboard Princess Cruises' Grand Princess where you can enjoy a MedallionClass Vacation. Read all about how the quarter-sized Medallion will transform your cruise vacation here. While on your way to the Hawaiian Islands you can enjoy onboard activities like Discovery at SEA enrichment programs, destination-themed activities to get you in the spirit and freshwater pools for when you need to cool off. Then spend four days touring various Hawaiian Islands where you can snorkel, shop and enjoy the aloha spirit before heading back to the ship. This trip stops for a day in Ensenada, Mexica before heading home to San Francisco.

Online: princess.com

Pacific Coast—Princess Cruises

Kristina Moy

This four-day MedallionClass cruise kicks off in San Francisco and heads north to Astoria, OR before reaching its final destination of Vancouver, Canada. Kids will love exploring the history of Astoria including Fort Stevens State Park, Fort Astoria, Heritage Center Museum and the Columbia River Maritime Museum, home to one of the nation's finest displays of model ships and nautical artifacts. The ship makes a stop in Nanaimo, Canada where you can take a tour of the Horne Lakes Caves or discover the area's waterfalls. 

Online: princess.com

Tahiti—Regent Seven Seas

Regent Seven Seas

If you've always wanted to explore Tahiti and French Polynesia, this is the cruise for you. This 18-day voyage starts in San Francisco and docks in Honolulu, Kahului and Hilo, Hawaii before continuing on to Tahiti. Immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of these islands with opportunities to snorkel, hike and go dolphin watching along the way. Kids will love on-board amenities like bocce ball courts, large heated pool and ping pong tables. 

Online: rssc.com

Mexico—Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises

Explore the beauty of Mexico with Princess Cruises' 10-day (or longer) cruises from San Francisco to the Mexican Riviera. With ports including Mazatlan, Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta, your family can explore these Mexican cities on foot, on hop-on-hop-off bus, on Segway or even on an ATV! Take a mini speed boat to a private island for the day or spend some time on a foodie adventure in town. Parents will love that kids 12 and under get special pricing of up to 50% off the adult rate.

Online: princess.com

Alaska—Carnival Cruises

skeeze via pixabay

All aboard the Carnival Miracle for a 10- or 11-day cruise from San Francisco to Alaska! While on your way to Alaska you can dine at Guy's Burger Bar, head down the waterslide at WaterWorks and send the kids to Camp Ocean where they can meet some new friends and play games together. Shore excursion in Alaska include dog sledding on the Mendenhall Glacier, whale watching and ziplining at Grizzly Falls. Before heading back to San Francisco, stop in Victoria, Canada where you can explore this gorgeous and historic seaside town. 

Online: carnival.com

Sydney—Cunard Cruises

pattyjansen via pixabay

This 21-day cruise will take you from San Francisco to Sydney, Australia with stops in Hawaii, Samoa, Fiji and New Zealand. Visit these gorgeous island countries on shore excursions including a tour of the kiwi fruit capital of the world. End the trip with a climb on the Sydney Harbor Bridge. While on board, kids can make friends with other children at The Play Zone, for two- to seven-year-olds, and The Zone which is ideal for eight- to 17-year-olds. Youth staff will supervise your kids, organize events, activities and competitions, and even arrange “excursions” to the theater or cinema on board.

Online: cunard.com

—Kate Loweth

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7 California Wellness Vacations for the Whole Family

by Kerry Cushman

Sometimes a family getaway feels so hectic that you need a vacation from your vacation. But not anymore! New healthy habits for the new year means a family vacation that will get the whole crew into a wellness state-of-mind. Whether your family goals are to reconnect, renew patience, get into nature or go on a digital detox, check out these wellness vacations for families that will get you all on track for a truly happy 2020. Read on for the feel good details.

Tech-Free Getaway

Getaway

When electronic time is on overload, it’s time to book a tech-free vacay, and Getaway wants you to do just that. Their Big Bear escape offers guests secluded cabins throughout a 60-acre wooded outpost. Adding to the adventure, the exact name and location of your cabin is emailed to you once you book your stay. Each cabin has a cellphone lockbox (just in case you’re tempted), a two-burner stove and other basic amenities. The Cabin for Four is perfect for families, with queen bunks and back-to-nature vibes. Whether you spend your days taking wilderness walks or hunkering in for a board game marathon, quality face-to-face time will make you wish you could stay powered down just a bit longer. And to top it off, Getaway has partnered with One Tree Planted, which means they plant a tree for every Getaway booked, assuring the next generation can also wake up amongst the trees.

Online: getaway.house

Five-Star Relaxation

The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara/ Courtesy of Visit Santa Barbara

Finding your inner zen and peaceful family vibes is easy amongst the tranquil 78-acre grounds of The Ritz-Carlton Bacara in Santa Barbara. With two beaches, three infinity pools and a 42,000 square-foot spa, this wellness journey comes with five-star luxury amenities. While you’ll want to schedule in some me-time to enjoy the resort’s top-notch spa, exploring the beauty and serenity of the area is a must for families. The Ritz-Carlton Bacara offers activities such as Migrating with the Monarchs and a Bike & Hike trek to explore the breathtaking scenic vistas of Santa Barbara. Make sure to check out the Ambassadors of the Environment program, which offers families guided hiking, beach walks and thoughtful insight into the natural surroundings and rich cultural history. When you’re ready to refuel, the hotel has six restaurants to choose from, which feature locally sourced produce, sustainable seafood and breathtaking ocean vistas.

Online: ritzcarlton.com

Equine Therapy in the Redwoods

Joel O. via Yelp

The healing effect of animals has been much documented and animal lovers young and young-at-heart will love a memorable 6-night Redwood Coast Riding Vacation. Find your family's peace-of-mind with daily equine therapy on exceptional horses. Trail rides are fully guided by Ricochet Ridge Ranch’s expert staff and vary from beach rides and ocean view bluffs to mossy trails through a redwood forest. Lodging is provided at a local hotel and a continental breakfast is included daily and lunch on full trail ride days. Well-trained horses match riders experience levels and soon become a trusted companion during the trip. 

Online: horse-vacation.com

Ranch Serenity

Carmel Valley Ranch

The stunning grounds and all-suite accommodations at Carmel Valley Ranch are a welcome respite from city living. Peaceful days on the ranch help calm the mind and allow for exploration into programs such as A Bee's Life, in which guests get up close with 250,000 Italian honeybees and learn about the bee’s life from hive to honey. The 500-acre property includes many other ways to focus on wellness, including an organic garden, yoga, hiking trails, family pool and the luxurious Spa Aiyana.

When it’s time to return to your suite, optional enhancements include Bath Butler, with lavender bubble bath and champagne, or kid’s Teepee Time, which includes an in-room teepee, milk and cookies and a stuffed animal for each child. Make sure to check their daily activity schedule for guided hikes, Ranch Hands Kids Camp and opportunities to meet the ranch animals.

Online: carmelvalleyranch.com

Desert Retreat

Kerry Cushman

The healing properties of the desert have long been lauded and folks have been flocking to the greater Palm Springs area for decades to rejuvenate body and mind. For a family getaway that mixes resort fun and mega-relaxation, head to Palm Desert's JW Marriott Desert Springs. This full-service resort has dining, resort pools, a full-service spa and multiple workout options. Start your wellness goals with a family walk amongst the lush 450-acre property or opt for the fitness center with full gym and daily classes like yoga and pilates. If getting to the gym solo seems like an impossible task, check out the resort's in-room Behind the Barre on-demand workout program, so you can work on your fitness while little ones play or nap.

For ultimate relaxation, check out the Spa at Desert Springs. Whether you indulge in a treatment or just get a day pass to enjoy the lavender and eucalyptus steam rooms, sauna and private pool, it's the fast-track to complete bliss. Book a suite for ample family space and deep-soaking tub that you and the kids will never want to leave. When you're ready to nosh, healthy options await at Rockwood Grill. Not only will you find excellent service, but you’ll want just a nibble of the delicious kids-menu salmon. Or, stay in your plush robes and order room service, which gets a healthy upgrade with Tastefully Nourished, an in-room nutrition guide that lists health benefits of menu items. 

Online: marriott.com

Terranea Tranquility

Terreana

Nestled on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, Terranea is a 102-acre luxury haven overlooking the beautiful Pacific. Daily wellness activities await guests through their full-service spa and fitness center, kids’ club, ecological enrichment programs and tranquil grounds. Which means you can squeeze in a patience-renewing spa treatment or coastal cycling class while the kids learn and play at the Tide Pool Kids Club. Here, leaders engage kids with science experiments, activities and locally-inspired art projects.

A daily events calendar also provide opportunities to rejuvenate body and mind, with activities such as daily coastal walks, yoga and an ancient sunset ritual known for healing and relaxation through sound and vibration. After a day well spent, retreat to guest rooms with spa-style stone baths, luxury linens and private balconies. 

Online: terranea.com

Coastal Re-Connection

Kerry Cushman

You want serenity and they want LEGOLAND. Thankfully, Carlsbad can provide a staycation the whole family will love. Before you unleash your inner child at nearby LEGOLAND, find your inner bliss at the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort & Spa. A stay here includes 200-acres of lush property grounds, a pampering spa, hiking trails and meditation gardens.

While it'll be hard to pull yourself away from the five-star luxury and LEGO fun, Carlsbad is also home to a saltwater lagoon, Agua Hedionda. Here, families can get back-to-nature with hiking trails, kayaking, birdwatching and the Discovery Center. And a trip to Carlsbad isn't complete without taking in those gorgeous panoramic ocean views. Catch some vitamin sea and an epic sunset at Carlsbad State Beach, where you'll relax and reconnect SoCal style––with your toes in the sand. 

Online: hyatt.com

––Kerry Cushman

RELATED STORIES:

Treat Your Family to a Luxe Vacation at Four Seasons The Biltmore Santa Barbara

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5 Reasons to Pick an Immersion School

by Jennifer Massoni Pardini
Partner Content

So much goes into selecting a school. As parents, we weigh class size, diversity, public vs. private—all aspects motivated by the same aim: to give our children the very best education we can. In our increasingly global world, immersion education, where content such as math, science and language arts are taught in two languages, is an important type of education to consider. Because it is a relatively new and growing trend popping up in public and independent education, it’s vital to know what to look for in a program.

Founded by a mom in 2005, HudsonWay Immersion School is the oldest and and most established immersion school in the Northeast, educating children from preschool to middle school in full-immersion Mandarin or Spanish environments on two campuses: in Stirling, NJ and the brand new expanded facility in Midtown West, New York, NY. Read on and learn about the proven benefits of mastering dual-fluency from a young age—when brains are most receptive to language learning.

1. Improved Cognitive Skills
The data is in! Nationwide, HudsonWay Immersion School (HWIS) students are outscoring monolinguals on related standardized tests, conducted in English. In tests of cognitive ability, a whopping 97% of students who experience full immersion for four years or more test as gifted or of above-average intelligence. HWIS students also surpass proficiency benchmarks set for immersion schools as a whole. While test performance certainly isn’t the only measure of note, the benefits expand to critical thinking as a whole: bilinguals in general have a proven edge with pattern recognition and problem solving.

2. Higher Second Language Proficiency
There’s immersion, and then there’s immersion. While more schools are offering 50:50 immersion, HWIS students learn with full-immersion, meaning 90-60% of core curriculum is conducted in either Mandarin or Spanish—beginning in preschool and on through elementary years (and HWIS now goes through eighth grade). This additional exposure results in a faster path to fluency, which correlates to strong reading, writing and math skills in the target language for HWIS students, the majority of whom don’t actually speak their target language at home. In standardized language assessments measuring listening, reading, writing and speaking, HWIS students surpass the national norms as compared to other immersion students.

3. Off-the-Charts Creativity
While it sounds simplified, you might say monolingual learning translates to one way of thinking. Bilinguals have been shown to excel at divergent thinking, the idea that various solutions might be explored…leading to creative thinking! With thought processes honed in both native and target languages, that divergent thinking is baked into each and every subject each and every school day.

4. Cultural Understanding and E.Q.
In 2019, cultural knowledge cannot be underestimated. At HWIS, students as young as five even have the opportunity to travel abroad (with their families!) to learn with local children. And in the classroom, benefits of a bilingual education reach well beyond academic performance. Immersion students can exhibit advanced emotional intelligence as well, including mature social skills and an increased awareness of and sensitivity to diverse cultures. After all, today’s classrooms are educating tomorrow’s workers, volunteers and parents, who will pursue careers and opportunities that are ever more global and connected. It’s critical that we expose children early and often to the beautiful gifts of diversity.

5. Plus, Everything Else You Expect from a Strong School
With 200 students and 40 faculty across its two campuses, HWIS benefits from small class sizes and a 6:1 student-to-teacher ratio, meaning students have plenty of opportunities to participate in class, practice their target language and work together with their peers. After-school enrichment programs, summer camps and an active parent association are also all available for an integrated immersion experience all designed to help students thrive on a global stage.

Learn more about immersion education and HudsonWay Immersion School by attending an upcoming information session or scheduling a private tour at HWIS.ORG.

— Jennifer Massoni Pardini 

all photos courtesy of HudsonWay Immersion School

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She’s the Boss: 10 Local Mompreneurs You’ll Want to be Friends With

by Katie Brown

We may aspire to buy seasonal fruits and vegetables, dress our babes in responsibly-sourced organic cotton, and skip that Florida vacay in favor of, say, a local production of King Lear.  But when it’s the dead of winter and your toddler is threatening to peel the paint from the walls if he doesn’t get a bowl of summery strawberries yesterday…you do what you gotta do (thanks for the free coffee, Trader Joe’s).  Here, we profile several D.C.-area business owners who also happen to be parents—so you can reduce your carbon footprint in solidarity with entrepreneurs who, bless their hearts, haven’t slept through the night since 2010.

Kathleen Donahue – Labyrinth Games and Puzzles

Owner Kathleen Donahue has an unpaid expert test most of her store’s new games: her son! Labyrinth sells a wide selection of non-electronic specialty games, puzzles, brainteasers, and mazes. The space boasts hands-on activities and games to be played in-store, hosts game tournaments (think: Chess Club, Friday Night Magic, Pokemon Club) and parties, and partners with local schools and organizations to provide after-school enrichment programs. They train teachers on how to use games in the classroom, and help plan and run fundraisers, family game nights, and childcare during local PTA meetings. If you’re looking for a way to wedge yourself between your kid and the Wii console, this might be it.

Online: labyrinthgameshop.com

Who did we miss? In the comments section below, tell us about your favorite local mompreneur.

—Katie Brown and Hilary Riedemann

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