Hello June!

Washington Parent celebrates and supports all parents and kids year-round, including in this issue.

Don't miss our cover story, which asks, Could Your Daughter Be a Girl With Undiagnosed ADHD? The author, an internationally recognized authority on ADHD in girls and women, flags things to watch for, talks about the risks for girls who are undiagnosed and gives resources where you can find help and how to take the next steps.

Another article this month has practical tips for how you can help and support families with kids with differing abilities. The writer – mom and former teacher with a graduate degree in educational psychology – told me, "Five of my six siblings have special needs. Watching them grow up, I've seen my parents and them struggle through everything from emergency medical procedures to how to handle birthday party invites. One thing that is certain: they need support." We hope the article will give you deeper understanding and that you'll share this article as a resource with others.

The importance of dads is clear on Father's Day and every day, and a local writer and mom of three takes a timely and relevant look at the role fathers (and father figures) play in ensuring our sons don't get sucked into societal and particularly social media stereotypes, toxic masculinity and the "manosphere." She also looks at local organizations in the DC area that are dedicated to supporting dads. A must-read for all parents!

June is Pride Month. Times are uncertain for all of us right now but are especially challenging for parents of LGBTQ+ youth, and the youth themselves, so we're sharing Supporting Your LGBTQ+ Kids & Teens in the Current Political and Social Environment.

Summer is upon us! For a lot of families in the DMV an annual milestone is the Giant BBQ Battle, so Washington Parent tells you where and when and what's happening at this year's, including appearances and entertainment from members of some of our favorite local sports teams: the Washington Wizards, Capitals and Mystics; the Capital City Go-Go and DC United.

If your family loves ice cream and exploring other cultures through food, read our June feature on ice cream shops in the DMV with tasty global flavors. For a completely different DC outing with your kids, we've got an article on how the newly reopened Folger Shakespeare Library has made sure all ages, from tots to teens to adults, will appreciate exploring the bard and his works.

A doctor's reminder of the critical importance, safety and effectiveness of vaccinations; tips on STEAM play with your toddler; advice for parents navigating Disney World with an anxious child: insights on how playing with your child (from your inner child) builds connection and Niche.com's ratings of top local high schools for STEM round out this issue of Washington Parent magazine.

Have a playful summer!

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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Djinni Field
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