Hello February!
As you are no doubt becoming laser-focused on planning your kids' summer camps, Washington Parent has our annual Camps & Summer Programs Guide plus two articles in this issue to help. The ACA (American Camping Association) has a guide to how to afford camp, and we also remind you the many reasons your teen should go to summer camp, both for the fun and the many growth opportunities it provides.
Back to the present, are you looking for fun things to do for your kids – or with your kids – this winter and the entire year? We take a look at indoor climbing: the different types, how to gauge if and when your child is ready and a few of the many local gyms and rec centers you can head to for this challenging and exciting individual or family activity.
February is Black History Month, and we asked expert local oral historian Kelly Elaine Navies to share oral history projects she's worked on that shine a light on D.C. history and inspiring social justice activists you and your kids might not be familiar with. For your budding scientists, we've also got a list of Black scientific innovators, with hands-on projects your kids can do with their inspiration.
Valentine's Day is a sweet observance but can be a challenging one for introverted kids, so in this issue learn about respecting their challenges and how you can help them celebrate. There's also an article on 10 ideas for a creative party for your Valen-tween that will make their day! And of course we haven't forgotten you, the parents, so we've got a list of romantic movies couples will enjoy.
A less sweet but very important observance in February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. No parent wants to think their tween or teen could be a victim of dating abuse, but you should still read the article in this issue about the warning signs, what to know and how to talk to your child about it.
We have an article from a mom in the thick of a health crisis herself on helping your family navigate when a parent is seriously ill and building resilience for these and other crises. And if you're worried about your child's coping when you or your partner are traveling for work, a mom writer with a "road-warrior" husband gives her tips for managing your kiddo's separation anxiety.
Washington Parent is proud to share another valuable, thoughtful offering from our longtime partner PEP (Parent Encouragement Program). This month's Parenting Insights With PEP department is the first in a valuable two-part series on how to talk with your child about their neurodiversity diagnosis.
Finally, we've got two articles of interest to pregnant and new moms, one on trending ideas for stylish baby showers, and one on the reasons for and risks of cesarean sections.
What's your plan for staying warm, staying informed and staying inspired in February? Stay inside and read this month's engaging Washington Parent magazine!
Karen
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EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER
Deborah W. Benke
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Ronel Hentschel
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Karen Kullgren
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Liam McCrickard
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Karen Washburn
Djinni Field
COVER, ADVERTISING AND EDITORIAL DESIGN
Meredith Hancock
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