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Family Southwest Washington FREE FREE SPRING SHOWERS Play in puddles Learn to compost EARTHLY LOVE Coloring Contest Inside! DON'T GET SCHOOLED 26 local preschool options April 2011 April 2011

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Learning to compost, Spring Showers, 26 Local Preschool Options

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Page 1: Southwest Washington Family, April

FamilySouthwest Washington FREEFREE

SPRINGSHOWERS

Play in puddles

Learn to compost

EARTHLYLOVE

Coloring Contest Inside!

DON'T GET SCHOOLED

26 local preschool options

April 2011April 2011

Page 2: Southwest Washington Family, April
Page 3: Southwest Washington Family, April

2100 N. National Avenue Chehaliswww.yardbirdsmall.com

Open 6 AM - 10 PM

Readers of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthReaders of thE MonthAll winners receive a $20 gift certificate, and a cake from our bakery.

Helena HigginsJefferson Lincoln

Ezra EmeryEdison

Daniella BarreraSt. Joseph

Tommy DoyleFords Prairie

Kyndall StiltnerR.E. Bennett

Maria Reyes TolentinoEdison

Emma SchofieldEdison

Perla Flores Jefferson Lincoln

Serena LawrenceR.E. Bennett

Brenna WitcheySt. Joseph

America LuqueJefferson Lincoln

Lucy Nowicki Edison

Estefano Arceo-Hansen

St. Joseph

Joseph GutierrezFords Prairie

St. JosephSt. JosephSt. JosephSt. JosephSt. JosephSt. JosephSt. JosephSt. Joseph

Kayden KellyR.E. Bennett

Page 4: Southwest Washington Family, April

10am – 11am Delbert Richardson, Second Generation

Storyteller: “The Unspoken Truths:

American History Traveling Museum”

11:15am – 12:15pm

James & Loretta Dimond: “Reasons for Secession

North/South”

12:15pm – 1:30pm A Taste of Delightful Dishes from America

in the 1860’s**Lunch is limited to 100 guests.

Tickets are available before the event at the

Veterans Memorial Museum. Tickets are $12.00 per person.

1:30pm- 2:30pm Rob Sande, MA:

“Fort Sumter”

2:45pm – 3:45pm Round Table Questions

9am to 5pmMuseum will also have

interactive displays throughout the Museum

so that visitors will be able to touch, see,

hear and taste the Sesquicentennial of the American

Civil War.

Admission for this special day to the Museum will be

$3.00 per person.100 SW VeteranS Way • ChehaliS, Wa 98532 (off exit 77 on i-5)

360-740-8875 • WWW.WWW.WWW VeteranSmuSeum.org

SeSquicentennial celebration of the

April 16th, 2011VeterAn’s MeMoriAl MuseuM

AmericAn ★★★★ AmericAn ★★★★

20111861

FamilySouthwest Washington

Southwest Washington Family is a publication of Lafromboise Communications Inc. Southwest Washington Family, 321 N. Pearl Street Centralia, WA 98531 (360) 736-3311

Gracie Schofield, age 5. Proud parents are Jeff and Amy Schofield of Centralia. Featured on the contents page, proud sister Emma, age 7, with Gracie. Photo taken by Alison Clinton of Horizon Photo & Design. Please see ad on page 13.

Advertising Sales:Brian Watson Chrystal ZelaznyShelleen Lundeen

Creative Director, Editor:Chantel [email protected]

Editorial Assistant:Amanda Curry

Graphic Designers: Kelli Erb, Lead Graphic Designer Devon Bergeron Cindy Gundo

Director: Christine [email protected]

On the Cover

Page 5: Southwest Washington Family, April

April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family • 3

Events in April Pg. 4Did You Know: The Human Body Pg. 5Local Preschool Feature Pg. 6Spring Fling Coloring Contest Pg. 1030 Days of Fun in April Pg. 11Love Our Earth Pg. 12A Call to Compost Pg. 13Real Party - Candyland Pg. 14Messy Room Makeover Pg. 16It’s So Taxing! Pg. 17Understanding Disaster: Japan Pg. 18Cupcakes and Candles Pg. 19Singing in the Rain Pg. 22Signing and Speech Pg. 24Scrapbook Pg. 27Inspiring Instructor Pg. 28Learn to Draw Pg. 29

Photo by Alison Clinton of Horizon Photo and Design.

CONTENTSApril 2011

Check out our website for online exclusives! www.swwfamily.com

GOOD FOODpure & simple

505 S. Tower Ave.Centralia • 736-9328

GOOD FOODGOOD FOODGOOD FOODGOOD FOODGOOD FOODGOOD FOODGOOD FOODGOOD FOODGOOD FOODGOOD FOODGOOD FOODGOOD FOODGOOD FOODGOOD FOODGOOD FOOD

The Evergreen Academy of Arts & Sciences

Pre-school through sixth includes a full academic curriculum, along with

enrichment activities dedicated to educating the whole child.

Pre-school through sixth includes a full academic curriculum, along with

enrichment activities dedicated to

For More Information Call:360-330-1833 or 360-269-4048

506 S. Washington Ave., Centralia

OPEN HOUSE!!Wed, April 27th & Wed., May 18th

5:00 - 8:00 pm

Page 6: Southwest Washington Family, April

4 • April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family

April Events

April 23rdEaster Eggstravaganza10 a.m. - noon, Bethel ChurchThis event features 40,000 plastic eggs full of candy and prizes! Egg hunts are offered for kids ages birth through 12. Pony rides, inflatables, face painting and a petting zoo will also be available for kids to enjoy throughout the morning. This event is free to the community. For more information call the Bethel Church office at 360-748-0119.

Easter Train Ride and Hunt10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. & 2:30 p.m., Chehalis-Centralia RailroadClimb aboard for a leisurely Saturday train ride while the “Easter Bunny” and “Chicken Little” hide the eggs. Upon the return of the train, children (12 years and under) may go into the “egg field” for the hunt! Many eggs will have prize tickets inside to be redeemed in the depot. Activities will vary for age groups 3 and under, 4 through 7, and 8 through 12. In addition, pictures with the Easter Bunny and Chicken Little will be available for purchase. Space is available on a first come, first served basis, so you are encouraged to come early. All tickets are $8. For more information contact 360-748-9593 or visit www.steamtrainride.com.

Annual Easter Egg Hunt!1 p.m., Lattin’s Country Cider Mill and Farm, OlympiaBring your family to enjoy all the farm babies! Bunnies, chicks, lambs, goats, calves, ducklings and more! The first tender shoots of asparagus, too. Limited parking - come early! For more information call 360-491-7328 or visit www.lattincider.com.

Annual Egg Hunt11 a.m., Rochester Bailey’s IGA 2 age groups; 5 & under and 6-10 years of age. Serving free hot dogs and drinks for the kids too! For more information please contact Pam at 360-273-7330.

Spring Fling10 a.m. - 4 p.m., downtown ChehalisMake ‘n’ Take crafts, eggs in retail businesses for adults and children, story time every hour on the hour, pictures with the Easter Bunny, and participant entries from the SWW Family magazine coloring contest (see page 10!) on display. For more information call 360-748-6221.

April 24Easter Egg Hunt2 p.m., Riverside Nursing & Rehab, CentraliaThis annual event is for kids, relatives, and families. Come and join the fun on Easter day! For more information contact Bethany 360-736-2823.

April 2ndSpring Community Garage Sale8 a.m. - 4 p.m., Southwest Washington Fair & Expo CenterThe majority of the sale is indoors. Adults: $1, Kids Age 12 & under are free. Free parking. For more information please call 360-740-2655.

April 5thArmy Band The Volunteers Concert7 p.m. - 8 p.m., Centralia High SchoolDoors open for ticket holders at 6:15 p.m. Non-ticket holders can access any available seats at 6:45. The concert will be a performance of the best popular music blended in a show that appeals to all ages. No admission charge. For more information contact Kathy at 736-3311, [email protected] or visit www.chronline.com.

April 10thSpring DinnerNoon- 3 p.m., Lincoln Creek GrangeA full ham dinner with all the sides & lots of desserts! All are invited! Come & support the Grange. $10.00 per person, $5.00 kids 5 & under. For more information call 360-273-0385.

April 14thPuyallup Spring Fair FREE THURSDAYBaby animals, the Garden Show, 4-H and FFA students showing animals,

KidZone, Fiesta Mexicana, and more. Parking is free. Thursday from 2 – 10 p.m. ages 0-18 are free with a recommended food bank donation. For more information about the Spring Fair in Puyallup visit www.thefair.com.

April 22ndFamily Fun Fest10 a.m.-1 p.m., Centralia College, Health & Wellness CenterFeaturing Astro Jump, Obstacle Course, Pets from the Animal Shelter, science projects, healthy snacks, free toothbrushes, fire department vehicles, physical activities and games! For more information contact Nancy Keaton at 360-736-939, ext 465 or [email protected]

April 23rdBig Brothers, Big Sisters of SWW BOWL For Kids’ Sake12 p.m., Fairway Lanes, CentraliaBowl a strike, make an impact. Start something for a child in your community. Bowl for Kids’ Sake is about having fun to help kids continue on a positive path. No admission charge for the event. For more information visithttp://swwabigs.org

April 30thSpring in Bloom Sale9 a.m. - 3 p.m., St. Timothy Episcopal ChurchItems being offered for sale include woodcrafts, glass bird feeders, spring plants, pet luxuries, embroidery, doll clothes, jewelry, stepping stones, stained glass, cards, pottery, handmade soaps & more! No admission charge for the event. For more information contact Margi Long at 360-269-7004 or [email protected].

Easter ‘Hop’penings

Page 7: Southwest Washington Family, April

April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family • 5

Did YOU Know?Did YOU Know?Did YOU Know?Did YOU Know?THE HUMAN BODYTHE HUMAN BODYTHE HUMAN BODYTHE HUMAN BODY

Every time you step forward, you use 54 muscles.

Every time you Every time you

you use 54 you use 54 muscles.muscles.muscles.

Every time you Every time you Every time you

you use 54 you use 54 you use 54 muscles.muscles.muscles.

Your nose and ears continue growing throughout your entire life.

The air released from a sneeze can exceed 100 mph.

You are taller in the morning. Throughout the day, the cartilage between your bones is compressed, making you about 1 cm shorter by day’s end.

Like a fingerprint, every person has a unique tongue print.

THE HUMAN BODY

a unique

THE HUMAN BODY

Like a Like a fingerprint, fingerprint, fingerprint, every every person has person has person has a unique

Like a Like a fingerprint, fingerprint, every every person has person has a unique a unique

you about 1 cm shorter you about 1 cm shorter by day’s end.by day’s end.by day’s end.by day’s end.by day’s end.

You are taller in the You are taller in the You are taller in the You are taller in the You are taller in the You are taller in the You are taller in the You are taller in the You are taller in the

the day, the cartilage the day, the cartilage the day, the cartilage between your bones is between your bones is between your bones is compressed, making compressed, making you about 1 cm shorter you about 1 cm shorter

You are taller in the You are taller in the

the day, the cartilage the day, the cartilage between your bones is between your bones is compressed, making compressed, making you about 1 cm shorter you about 1 cm shorter by day’s end.by day’s end.

throughout your throughout your throughout your throughout your throughout your throughout your What Was

that??

Your heart beats around 100,000 times a day, 36,500,000 times a year and over a billion times if you live beyond 30.

It takes 17 muscles to smile and 43 to frown

SWWF

Page 8: Southwest Washington Family, April

6 • April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family

I f you have a three – or four-year-old child, now is the time to register for preschool. Many school centers are nearly full, so read up and register now!

ADNA CHILD CARE CENTER179 Dieckman Rd, Adna, 748-4631Age: 2 ½ - 5, Mon-Fri 9:00-11:30 amTwo, three and five day options available Cost: $8.50/day

Adna Child Care Center provides a mixed-age preschool, with parents able to choose a two-, three-, or five-day-a-week schedule. The program is unit-based, with topics changing every few weeks. The teacher-child ratio is 1 to 10.

BOISTFORT PRESCHOOL983 Boistfort Rd, Curtis, 245-3343Age: 4 and up (3 with special needs), Mon-Fri 8:15-11:30 amCost: $100/month full time; sliding scale for families qualifying for free and reduced lunch.

Boistfort Preschool provides a well-rounded program, featuring activity stations. The teacher-student ratio is 1 to 8. There is usually a waiting list. Screening will be done in May. Please contact the school for registration information.

CENTRALIA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL1315 South Tower Avenue, Centralia 736-7657Age: 3½ - 4½, Tues/Wed/Thurs 8:30-11:00 am, $1454/year.Age: 4½ - 5, Mon-Fri 12:15 – 2:45 pm, $1823/year.One time materials fee: $140, call for information, new student discount.

Centralia Christian School began as a preschool in 1979. Two separate programs meet the needs of both younger and older preschoolers, with the five-day-a-week program focusing on pre-K skills. There are no more than 12 students per adult, and parent volunteers are welcome in the classroom with a background check. The programs run in conjunction with the regular school year, September through June. The yearly fee can be paid on a 10- or 12-month schedule.

CENTRALIA COLLEGE ECEAP217 S. Iron Street, Centralia, 736-9391 extension 460Age: 3 or 4 by August 31stMon/Wed/Fri from 8:15 – 11:45 a.m.Two afternoon programs Tues/Thurs/Fri from 12:00 – 3:30 p.m.Cost: None (see below).

The Early Childhood Educational Assistance Program at Centralia College is designed to help low-income children and families prepare for school. It is a state-funded program that provides comprehensive, family-focused assistance. All participants must meet federal income guidelines, with rare exceptions – they are able to accept a few students above income levels who have special needs or are considered at-risk. Classes follow the college schedule. The program, which is similar to other ECEAP programs in Washington State, focuses on four interactive components: Education, Health and Nutrition, Parent Involvement, and Family Support. Meals and limited transportation are included. Applications through Centralia College website at www.centralia.edu.

DELL’S CHILDREN’S CENTER CHILD CARE AND PRESCHOOL1212 N. Pearl St., Centralia, 736-9964Age: 18 months—5 years. Mon-Fri 9:00-11:00 am.Cost: Included in daycare; $222/month for three days a week of preschool (up to five hours of care, including preschool)

Daycare kids at Dell’s Children’s Center over the age of 18 months enjoy a preschool program that focuses around monthly themes. Teacher-student ratio for the younger students (18 months—2 1/2) is one to seven, and one to ten for the older students. Non-daycare students are able to participate in the preschool program on a space-available basis. Meals are included.

EVERGREEN ACADEMY OF ARTS AND SCIENCES506 S. Washington Avenue, Centralia 330-1833Age: 3-5 years, Mon-Fri 9:00-11:30 am. Two days per week for younger students, three days per week for older students. Cost: 2 day program $65/month; 3 day program $85/month. $50 materials fee.

The Evergreen Academy, a private elementary school, focuses on the social, emotional, and educational needs of its students. Individualized programs help students achieve their potential at their own pace. Children do not need to wait until September to begin preschool – once they turn three, they may start at anytime during the school year (Sept. 1- May 30). Although the preschool is in the parking lot behind the Methodist church, the school is not religiously affiliated. Children must be potty-trained.

Page 9: Southwest Washington Family, April

April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family • 7

FIDDLESTICKS COOPERATIVE PRESCHOOL1209 N. Scheuber Road (Immanuel Christian Center) Centralia, 736-30404-5 year old: Mon/Wed/Fri 8:30-11:00 a.m.3-4 year old class: Tues/Thurs 8:30-11:00 a.m.Four-five-year old class: Tues/Wed/Thurs Cost: $65/month for two days a week; $75/ month for three days a week; registration fee $75

Fiddlesticks Cooperative Preschool, affiliated with Centralia College, is a family experience. Parents work in the classroom twice a month, and there is a parent meeting one night a month. The teacher is trained in early childhood education. The learning environment is center-based, with areas for art, science, manipulatives, dramatic play, and more.

HAPPY DAY CHRISTIAN CENTER3320 Borst Avenue (Centralia Community Church of God, across from Centralia High School), Centralia, 736-0151Age: 2 ½ - 5, Tues-Thurs, 9:00-11:30 am Cost: $125/month

Happy Day preschool is a faith-based program, but not aligned with a specific doctrine. Traditional stories and music are included in the curriculum, as well as some themes. There are two classes – the younger students work on social skills and early learning, while the older students focus on a pre-K program. There are 20 students per class, with a teacher-child ratio of 10 to 1. Children in the daycare program are placed first, and remaining spots are available to non-daycare students.

LITTLE SEEDS PRESCHOOL15000 Old Hwy 99 (First Baptist Church), Tenino, 264-2255Age: 3 by August 31stMon/Wed/Fri 8:30-11:00 a.m., 12:00-2:30 pm (Four year olds)Tues/Thurs 8:30-11:00 a.m. (Three year olds)Cost: $35 registration fee, $68/month (2 days/week) $98/month (3 days/week) Little Seeds Preschool is a Christian school that balances freedom of choice with structure. The three-year-old class focuses on colors, shapes, numbers, and learning to get along with peers. The four-year-old class is a Kindergarten prep, with additional math, science, and the alphabet. Both include large muscle activities. All students must be potty-trained.

MORTON COOPERATIVE PRESCHOOLMorton Methodist Church Annex, Morton WA, (360) 498-5517Ages: 3-5 Days, Mon, Wed, Time: 9:00-12:00 a.m. Cost: $90 registration fee, $75/monthContact Person: Laurie Hanson

LEWIS COUNTY HEAD STARTLocations throughout Lewis County, 736-1696Age: 3-4 by Sept. 1st of current school year, Cost: None (must meet federal poverty guidelines)

The Lewis County Head Start preschool serves 197 children and families throughout Lewis County. Part-year classrooms in Randle, Salkum, Toledo, and Centralia/Chehalis operate 3.5 hours per day, typically Monday – Thursday, morning or afternoon sessions from September-May. The focus of the program is on providing a quality early learning environment for children and support to families. Transportation and meals are provided. Classroom staff members have BAs or AAs in Early Childhood Education. For additional information please contact [email protected].

KIDS N ME1309 Bishop Rd., Chehalis, 748-8931Age: 2 ½-5, Mon-Thurs 9:00-11:30 a.m.Cost: included in daycare; $10/day otherwise

Most participants in the Kids N Me program are daycare participants as well. Activities include circle time, calendar, letters, art, and writing names. Preschool takes place during the school year. The teacher-child ratio is 1 to 10.

NAPAVINE COMMUNITY CO-OP PRESCHOOL104 2nd Ave. (in the Baptist Church) Napavine, 304-08843-4 year old class, Tues/Thurs4-5 year old class, Tues/Wed/Thurs Cost: $100/month for three days a week; $80/month for two days a week. There is a $50 non-refundable registration fee. Ages 3-5, a.m. and p.m. classes available

Napavine Community Co-op Preschool is not affiliated with the Napavine School District, however, it is supported by them, and the yearly schedule is based on the Napavine School calendar. Although located in a church, they are not affiliated with the denomination. The school does require some parent or family member participation, as they are a co-op, program available for parents who cannot participate, and parents take turns providing snacks. Student-teacher ratio is 1 to 7, with a small classroom environment. Days consist of a both academic and social skills. Children are preferably potty-trained.

ONALASKA COMMUNITY CO-OP PRESCHOOL220 W. 6TH St., Onalaska, 978-45053-year-old and 4-year-old classes; limited to 12 students per class. Mon/Wed/Fri from 8:30-11:30

Tuition and Fees: Tuition is $100/month for parents choosing to participate in the classroom 3 days/month or $130 for parents opting not to volunteer their time; registration fee is $50/student.

Onalaska Community Co-Op Preschool is a fun environment to have your child learn and grow in a caring preschool setting. The preschool’s 3- and 4-year-old classes are currently enrolling for the 2011-2012 school year. Our school offers: OPEN HOUSE PLAY DAY on May 27th from 10 AM-12 PM. Plan to visit the preschool, enjoy fun activities, and meet your child’s preschool teacher for next year! For more information call 360-978-4505.

ONE LITTLE TREE PRESCHOOL1215 W. Main Street, Centralia, 360-304-0994Ages 3-5 year, Tue/Thurs 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. (3 year olds)Mon/Wed/Fri 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. (Pre-K)Cost: $70 for 2 days, $90 for 3 daysOne Little Tree Preschool is a arm community oriented learning environment with curriculum geared toward the growth of the whole child. Here at One Little Tree Preschool we care about our environment and teaching children how to help make the world a better place.

PACKWOOD COOPERATIVE PRESCHOOLPackwood Community Center, Packwood, WA, 494-5210 Ages: 2-5 Tues, Thurs Time: 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.Cost: $50/month assisting, $100/month non-assistingContact Person: Teacher: Stephanie Jacobson

MOTHER HUBBARD’S 856 NW Folsom , Chehalis 748-6352Age: 2 ½ - 5 , Mon-Fri, 9:00-12:30 (Children may attend 2, 3 or 5 days a week) Cost: 2 days $100/month, 3 days $150/month includes lunch

All children in the Christian-based Mother Hubbard daycare take part in the preschool program, but non-daycare students may attend as well. There is a 1 to 7 teacher/child ratio. Instruction is based around a theme for the day, with songs, fingerplays, and activities. Eight supervised centers offer activities such as creative art, eye/hand coordination, small motor skills, and more. Science, music, and outside time are also included.

MOUNTAIN VIEW BAPTIST CHURCH PRESCHOOL1201 Belmont Avenue, Centralia, Teacher Beverly Woods, 736-1139Ages: 4 by August 31st, Mon-Fri 8:30-11:00 a.m.Cost $95/month, $50 non-refundable registration fee. Mountain View preschool is a bible-based ministry with a strong curricular focus. The Alphatime Letter People, introduced each Monday, anchor the weekly alphabet themes. There are two adults in the classroom, with a maximum student enrollment of 24.

Page 10: Southwest Washington Family, April

8 • April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family

ROCHESTER PRAIRIE PRESCHOOL8044 191st Ave SW, Rochester, 273-7753Contact Jaci Cochran, Registrar for more information.

Visit their website http:/sites.google.com/site/rochestercooppreschoolfamily or you can email the preschool at [email protected].

PRESCHOOL PLAYTIME25 SW Circle, Chehalis (360) 748-0271Must be 4 by August, Mon/Wed/Fri 9:30-11:30Must be 3 by August, Tues/Thurs 9:30-11:30

This is a great opportunity for your child to meet new friends and gain self-confidence while getting into routine of participating in structured play, learning activities, and still have fun. There is a non-refundable registration fee to purchase class supplies and secure your child’s fall enrollment.

ROCHESTER HEAD START7710 James Rd. SW, Rochester 273-6835Age: 4 by August 31st, some slots for 3 year olds Tues-Fri, 8:30-12:00 10:00-1:30 or 12:00-3:30.Cost: None (must meet income guidelines)

Rochester Head Start, part of the Sound to Harbor Head Start program, offers a developmentally appropriate, pre-kindergarten program with a creative curriculum. Transportation is provided, as are two meals a day (breakfast and lunch in morning program, lunch and snack in afternoon program).

TIGER CUBS813 Eshom Rd (Centralia High School)Centralia, 330-7617Age: 3-5, Mon/Tues/Thurs/Fri 8:00-10:30 a.m., 11:45-2:15 p.m.Cost: $75/month

Tiger Cubs is a special education preschool, providing instruction in fine and gross motor skills, language skills, and social skills. Most students are developmentally delayed and identified through early childhood screenings offered by Centralia School District. Approximately 6-10 additional participants are not special needs children. The preschool works with the vocational department at the high school, which gives high school students an opportunity to earn early childhood education credits through Centralia College by working in the class. In addition, a special education teacher and a team of parapros lead the class, with four adults in each session. The children also receive Occupational, Speech, and Physical Therapy as needed.

ST. JOSEPH’S123 SW 6th Street, Chehalis, 748-09613 Years olds Tues & Thurs. 8:15-11:15Pre-K 4-5 year olds, Mon-Wed-Fri 8:15-11:15Cost: 2 days/week $80/month, 3 days/week $105/month, 5 days/week $165/month. Registration fee $55.00, class project fee: $50.00

In St. Joseph’s preschool program, small class sizes and varied curriculum are highlighted. Some areas of focus include social skills, math, physical education, language arts, computer lab, science, music, arts and crafts, and religion. Parents are welcome to volunteer in the classroom, but it is not mandatory. All students must be potty-trained.

PEACE LUTHERAN2071 Bishop Rd. (corner of Jackson and Bishop), Chehalis 748-4108Age: 3-5 years, Tues/Wed/Thurs 9:00-11:30 a.m. Cost: $80/month

Peace Lutheran preschool is a religious-based preschool, with chapel on Thursdays. There is a maximum enrollment of 20 students, with a teacher and two aides leading the class. All participants must be potty-trained.

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Page 11: Southwest Washington Family, April

April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family • 9

WESTMINSTER PRESBYTERIAN349 N Market Blvd., Chehalis, 748-0091Tues/Thurs 8:45-11:15 a.m.Mon/Wed/Fri 8:45-11:15 a.m. Pre-K program Mon-Thurs 11:45-2:00 p.m.Cost: $75/month for two day program; $105/month for three day program; $125/month for four day program

Westminster Presbyterian preschool is led by a certified teacher and is licensed by the state. Activities in the program include story time, songs, and field trips. Though parents are not required to assist in the classroom, they are welcome to help out after a required background check. New for the 09-10 school year is an afternoon pre-K program. Now accepting applications. This preschool follows the Chehalis School District calendar for holidays and breaks.

SWWF

ADDITIONAL LEWIS COUNTY PRESCHOOLSWe tried to get updated and complete information on the

schools we have listed, but were not able to reach some of them, please contact them with any questions.

WINLOCK PRESCHOOLOff King Road behind the school soccer field, Winlock, 785-3372Ages 4 & 5Mon/Wed 8:30-11:00 a.m., Mon/Wed 11:45-2:15 p.m.Tues/Thurs 8:30-11:00 a.m., Tues/Thurs 11:45-2:15 p.m.Cost: $45/month

The Winlock Preschool features a full-time Spanish speaking teacher and serves a wide range of students. The preschool features a bi-lingual, migrant and developmental delayed programs, if you qualify for a grant there is no charge. The teacher-child ratio is 7 to 1.

Preschoolers Brock B., Spencer C., Jesse G., Karder H., Aspen P. and Ethan O. are best buddies!

Member FDIC

ssbwa.com800-242-2036

Saturday Banking HoursChehalis Airport Branch – 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Rochester Branch in Bailey’s IGA – 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.Winlock Branch in Cedar Village IGA – 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Open Until 7 p.m. Monday-Friday at our Chehalis Airport Branch

12 Local BranchesCentralia, Chehalis, Grayland, Morton, Pe Ell, Raymond, Rochester, South Bend, Winlock

Get More From Your Bank

Page 12: Southwest Washington Family, April

10 • April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family

Spring Fling Coloring Contest

Name: _____________________________________ Age: ____ City of Residence: ________________________

Phone: ______________________________________________________ Email: _______________________

Guardian’s Name: ____________________________________________________________________________

Entry deadline: 5 p.m. on Monday, April 18th. (SWW Family, Attn: Coloring Contest, 321 N. Pearl, Centralia, WA 98531)Age Categories: 5 & under; 6-8 and 9-12, one winner will be selected in each category. One entry per participant please. Prizes provided by: M&K Town Store, Book n’ Brush &

Kaija’s. Winning entries will be featured online at swwfamily.com. All entries will be displayed at M&K Town Store on April 23rd.For more information on the Spring Fling event downtown Chehalis please see ad on pg. 21.

SWWF

Sponsored by

Art Supplies & MoreWin Family

Family

Southwest Washington

Page 13: Southwest Washington Family, April

April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family • 11

Find a younger child and one of

your favorite picture books and enjoy the

story together.

It’s Family Movie Night! Pop some

popcorn and enjoy a movie at home

tonight.

Friday Night Dance Party! Invite some friends over and crank up the

music as you dance like crazy.

Ask if you can help make dinner tonight.

Promise to help clean up, too!

Bring of pair of old gloves and a paper bag to school. Pick

up trash on the playground during

recess.

Go for a walk with a parent today and see how many different signs of

spring you can spot.

Plant a tree, name it, and take a photo of yourself next to it. Visit arborday.org

for more ideas.

Make your own trail mix. Stir together nuts, dried fruit,

pretzels, raisins and chocolate chips

together.

Try walking instead of taking the car on your next short trip.

Ask a parent for a day off from chores.

Write a letter to a family member who lives far away and

drop it in the mailbox. Will they

write back?

Be an energy cop! Patrol your house and turn off lights or appliances that aren’t being used.

Birds are returning from a long winter away. How many can you count in

five minutes? Have a friend try. Who

found more?

Is there something you could volunteer

to help with at your school?

Read a favorite story out loud, to your

class, to a friend or even to a pet.

Write a line in a poem and then

exchange it with a friend and have them write the next line. Keep exchanging

poems until you have 10 lines.

Pick up litter in a park or sidewalk. Find a local map

and mark your house, your school,

your library and other places you visit regularly.

Draw a picture of a frog on a lily pad.

Have you eaten five servings of fruits and

vegetables today?

Play a card game with your family

tonight. Winner gets to choose what’s for

dinner tomorrow!

Using a black marker, draw a picture for a younger child

to color.

Write a letter to a friend today recalling

a memory of a fun time together.

Choose your favorite cartoon

character and describe five

character traits that make this cartoon

your favorite.

Do something special for a brother

or sister today. Maybe they’ll do something special for you as well!

Plant some seeds or flowers and make

sure they are watered regularly.

Cool Trick: Write on an egg

with a white crayon before dipping

it in dye.

Draw a rainbow today. Remember the order of the

colors—ROYGBIV.

Hold this upto a mirror to read:How many

chocolate bunnies can you find on this page in 60 seconds?

The first public library opened this day in 1833. Visit your local library

and check out a book.

SWWF

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Page 14: Southwest Washington Family, April

12 • April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family

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Cottages & Apartments Available NOW!

Originally the brainchild of United States Senator Gaylord Nelson, Earth Day began as an environmental teach-in but has since grown into a global day meant to inspire awareness and appreciation of the environment.

Get Involved!* Take a walk. Or a jog or a bike ride. Men and women

can help reduce air pollution by walking, jogging or riding a bike to get from place to place. While this might not be doable across the board, particularly for men and women with long commutes, when running errands around town on the weekends dust off your bicycle instead of gassing up the car. If you're taking kids to the park on the weekend, walk or bike to the park. It's a great way to spend time outdoors and benefit the environment at the same time.

* Plant a tree. Spring is a time of year when many homeowners get back to working on their yards. When cultivating your green thumb this spring, plant a tree or several trees around the yard. Also, when working outdoors, lessen your reliance on pesticides. It might be difficult to eliminate pesticide use entirely, but whenever possible look for more natural, eco-friendly alternatives to keep your lawn looking lush.

* Turn off the lights! Daylight Savings Time now starts earlier than it did in years past. The reason for that is to reduce energy use, which only works when people actually reduce their daily energy usage. If it's still light outside, turn the lights off inside and enjoy a warm spring evening outdoors.

* Go paperless. Many banks and credit card companies now encourage consumers to go paperless with their statements as a means to becoming more eco-friendly. Some banks even offer incentives to choose online statements over traditional paper statements. When possible, reduce waste by going paperless with bank and credit card statements.

* Use eco-friendly cleaning products. Many household cleaning products pose a threat to the environment by leaking harmful toxins into the air. When spring cleaning this year, choose non-toxic eco-friendly cleaning products that help reduce both air and water pollution.

Make a Difference This Earth Day - April 22nd

SWWFNow, there is no reason to missyour annual mammogram

Many women avoid their annual mammogram because they are afraid of feeling pain during the exam. Now, there is a way

to minimize the discomfort. We offer every woman MammoPad, a breast foam pad that serves as a cushion

between you and the mammography system. So you can relax, knowing your mammogram will be warm, soft and comfortable.

521 West AdamsMorton 360-496-3523www.mortongeneral.org

Page 15: Southwest Washington Family, April

April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family • 13

Garden compost can be a gardeners best friend. Compost promotes soil health and enables plants to grow their best ability.

Many home gardeners prefer to make their own compost. It is easily achieved with items that normally would be discarded, including many items that ardent gardeners may be unaware of.

Common Compost Materials:Items like eggshells, banana peels, apple cores, paper, leaves, and coffee

grounds are often included in a home compost pile. These items break down by natural bacteria and produce a rich fertilizer for plants.

Lesser-Known Compost Materials:Avoid the landfill - toss these items in your compost.

Things You Didn’t Think to Compost

1. Pet hair2. Paper napkins3. Lint4. Pine needles5. Matches6. Chicken manure7. Old herbs8. Sawdust9. Weeds10. Hair clippings11. Tea bags12. Paper towels13. Bird cage cleanings14. Stale bread15. Leather16. Old pasta17. Pea vines18. Grapefruit rinds19. Newspaper20. Tissues21. Cotton swabs with paper sticks22. Dried out bouquets23. Potato chips24. Yogurt25. Shrimp shells26. Toenail clippings27. Pie crust28. Toothpicks (wood)29. Tossed salad30. Feathers31. Fish bones32. Envelopes33. Cardboard34. Pencil shavings35. Grocery receipts

36. Dead insects37. Wool socks38. Pickles39. Dust bunnies40. Toast41. Chocolate cookies42. Oatmeal43. Tofu44. Straw45. Nut shells

45

SWWF

Look it up!

Page 16: Southwest Washington Family, April

14 • April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family • 15

Real PartiesEllie’s

Candyland

Photos by: Alison Clinton of Horizon Photo & Design

Sweet Party!

What a

SWWF

Page 17: Southwest Washington Family, April

16 • April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family

I know a mother who used to stand in the middle of her nine-year-old son's room every Saturday and yell until she was hoarse. The more she yelled, the slower her son moved to pick up his horrendous room. It vaguely resembled a site where a clothing store and a toy store had exploded at the same time.

Unfortunately, the dumpster-like appearance of the room bothered Mom beyond measure, but it didn't seem to faze her mess-loving son. Mom needed a way to help the problem become her son's, rather than hers.

Love and Logic to the rescue! First, she offered some choices: "Would

you like to have your room cleaned by 10:00 a.m. Saturday, or do you need an extra hour?" Then, when her son picked the later time, she used an enforceable statement and said cheerfully, "Feel free to keep the things you pick up. I'll be back at 11."

Mom made sure she was back at exactly 11:00 a.m. Thankfully, she only had to bag up a few stray toys the first time. Things really started to improve when her son realized that she would actually follow through on her limits.

Now, Mom has the energy for more gratifying things instead of acting like a motherly megaphone.

~Charles Fay, Love & Logic

SWWF

Unfortunately, the dumpster-like appearance of the room bothered Mom Unfortunately, the dumpster-like appearance of the room bothered Mom beyond measure, but it didn't seem to faze her mess-loving son. Mom needed a beyond measure, but it didn't seem to faze her mess-loving son. Mom needed a way to help the problem become her son's, rather than hers.beyond measure, but it didn't seem to faze her mess-loving son. Mom needed a way to help the problem become her son's, rather than hers.way to help the problem become her son's, rather than hers.way to help the problem become her son's, rather than hers.

Clean Up, Calm Down!

Blitz HobbiesSomething for

every hobbyEnthusiast!

www.blitzhobbies.com620 South Tower Ave. • 360-464-2352

Page 18: Southwest Washington Family, April

April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family • 17

A tax is money that is collected by the government to pay for such services as public schools, roads, fire and police departments, courts, parks, libraries and more. The government collects taxes in several ways.

Everyone who earns money by working pays a percentage of his earnings to the government in what is called an income tax.

Most of this tax is taken out of a person’s paycheck a little at a time throughout the year. But, once a year, people have to list both the money they have earned and their expenses to see if they paid the right amount of taxes. Income taxes for 2010 are due by April 15, 2011.

If, when preparing your taxes, you find out you have not paid enough taxes, you need to pay the government what you owe for the previous year. If you discover that you have paid too much in taxes, the government will send you a refund.

When you buy certain things, the store adds a percentage of money called a sales tax. Sales tax money goes to the state and sometimes to the city or county in which the store is located.

The next time you want to buy something, do the following: 1. Add the tax to the price. 2. Check to see if you still have enough money.

NOTE: Not every state collects sales tax, for example, the state to the south, Oregon.

You’ve probably seen a penny many times. Only one of these images of a penny is correct. Which one do you think is it? Compare to a real penny to see if you are right.

Each county collects taxes on the land, buildings and homes people own.

$ $$

$ $$

The taxes collected from property owners pays for government services.

How many ways can you make a dollar with these coins? Complete the chart to show the number of coins you will need for each group.

1

2

3

4

5

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GOVERNMENTPROPERTYPOLICEEARNINGSPRICEPARKSDOLLARSENSECOURTSSTORECOLLECTSROADSSNOWOWEENOUGH

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Find the words by looking up, down, backwards, forwards, sideways and diagonally.

SWWF

Page 19: Southwest Washington Family, April

18 • April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family

hard-boiled egg, the plates of the earth’s crust move.When these plates move and collide, one of the plates canslide beneath the other On March 11, 2011the Pacific plateslid beneath the North American plate causing theearthquake and tsunami in Japan.

When you crack the shell of a hard-boiled egg, you get a lot of separate pieces or shell. plates of The crust of the earth is like the shell of a hard-boiled

egg. It is broken up into plates, too. But, unlike the pieces of a

North American Plate

1. An earthquakestrikes deep belowthe Pacific Oceanas two plates pushagainst each other.

2. The ocean floorcracks and part ofit rises, liftinghuge amounts ofwater above it.

3. Tons of waterswells high abovenormal sea level,forced upwardsas the plate belowrises.

4. The massive swellspreads out in alldirections in theform of largewaves.

5. The tsunami hitsthe shore in wavesas high as 30 feet,flooding lowerland areas anddestroying somebuildings.

A tsunami (soo NAM eee) is a series of large oceanwaves created by an underwater earthquake or volcano.The waves can cause destruction when they reach land.

On March 11, 2011 a major earthquake off the coast of Japan damaged buildings throughout the nation and caused a tsunami that brought about even more destruction and loss of life. How do earthquakes and tsunamis happen? How can you help victims of the disaster in Japan?

The Japan Earthquake

How are earthquakes measured? Read more

online at swwfamily.com

SWWF

Lewis County Adventist School has been serving Christian families from all faiths for over 55 years.

For more information call

Principal Baker at 360-748-3213

or 360-269-4016.www.lcas.org

Small Class SizeFamily Environment

Lewis County Adventist School

Page 20: Southwest Washington Family, April

April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family • 19

Colette C. turns 2 onApril 29th!

Elianna N. turns 8 onApril 7th!

Jake J. turns 3 onApril 29th!

Jasper C. turns 1 onApril 21st!

Josh T. turns 7 onApril 11th!

Joshua C. turns 3 onApril 14th!

Karlee D. turns 1 onApril 9th!

Kali S. turned 11 onMarch 16th!

Konnor C. turns 5 onApril 14th!

Lexi M. turns 4 onApril 20th!

Lilly V. turned 1 onMarch 18th!

Maribel V. turned 7 onMarch 19th!

BELATE

D

BELATE

DBEL

ATED

Blitz HobbiesBirth

day Page Sponsor

April

See your picture? Get a gift!*

Page 21: Southwest Washington Family, April

20 • April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family

Parker G. turns 1 onApril 22nd!

Karlee V. turns 6 onApril 1st!

Megan F. turned 10 onMarch 27th!

Natalia H. turns 4 onApril 17th!

Miley I. turns 8 onApril 15th!

Natalya M. turns 7 onApril 8th!

Ava O. turned 1 onMarch 10th!

Sophia M. turns 6 on April 26th!

Mia C. turns 8 onApril 3rd!

Samuel M. turns 4 onApril 26th!

Ethan R. turns 3 on April 16th!

Ka’imi H. turns 11 onApril 4th!

Brody S. and Braden S. turn 3 on April 1st!

Name of those in photo (please print): _____________________________________________________________

Signature (Parent or Guardian): __________________________________________________________________

Phone: ______________________________________________________________________________________

Email: _______________________________________________________________________________________

Please have May birthday pictures to us no later than April 14th. Photos can be sent via email to [email protected], or if you wish to send photos address mail to 321 N. Pearl, Centralia, WA 98531, they can be returned if sent with a SASE. If you email us and we don’t reply we haven’t received your message. Please give us a call at 807-8213.

SEND US YOUR PICTURES!

_______________________________turns _________ on __________________________________________

BELATE

D

BELATE

D

Page 22: Southwest Washington Family, April

April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family • 21

Travis H. turns 5 onApril 18th!

Lillian B. turns 4 onApril 11th!

Isabella M. turns 3 onApril 12th!

Blitz HobbiesBirth

day Page Sponsor

*Is your birthday featured here? Show us your photo at Blitz Hobbies in Centralia and pick up your gift. Choose from one of our many Snap

Tite models, (approximate value of $15). Happy Birthday!

April 23rd 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.Downtown Chehalis

• LC Children’s Museum @ Book ‘n’ Brush with Mommy and Me Make ‘n’ Take Crafts

• Eggs in retail businesses for adults and children

• Easter Bunny pictures with kids/pets @ Lewis County Historical Museum 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

• Story time at Book ‘n’ Brush on the hour (10 a.m. - 3 p.m.)

• SWW Family magazine coloring contest entries displayed at M&K Town Store

Page 23: Southwest Washington Family, April

22 • April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family

It’s Raining, It’s Pouring,Staying Inside Is Boring!

Don’t let wet Washington weather leave you cooped up indoors. Try some of these great rainy day activities … just be

prepared to do some laundry when the good times are over for the

day.

No matter what your stage in life or your ability level,No matter what your stage in life or your ability level,No matter what your stage in life or your ability level,No matter what your stage in life or your ability level,we have the best bath system for you!we have the best bath system for you!we have the best bath system for you!we have the best bath system for you!we have the best bath system for you!we have the best bath system for you!we have the best bath system for you!we have the best bath system for you!we have the best bath system for you!we have the best bath system for you!

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Page 24: Southwest Washington Family, April

April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family • 23

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Puddle Jumper

Don't resist the childlike urge to go jumping in

puddles on a rainy day. Join in, and whatever you do, don't let anyone miss do, don't let anyone miss

a puddle!

Bubbles, Bubbles

EverywhereWho said bubble blowing

is just for sunny days? It

can be a lot of fun in the can be a lot of fun in the

rain too.

Water BalloonsSimon says, "Fill water balloons with warm water and have a water fight." You are already wet

You are already wet anyway!

Where's Wormy?Rainy days bring worms to the surface and soon enough to the sidewalk. Take a little walk and

help the worms back to grassy areas. (They don't

grassy areas. (They don't generally survive when

generally survive when the sidewalks dry up.)

the sidewalks dry up.)

grassy areas. (They don't generally survive when the sidewalks dry up.)

Fall or Float?Set out a bucket or large

bowl filled with rainwater

and discover which items

sink and which items float.

Beauty bark, flower petals,

sidewalk chalk, twigs - sidewalk chalk, twigs -

gather things up from your gather things up from your

yard and test away.yard and test away.

Slip-n-Slide

When it rains, let it pour.

If you are in the rain

already, you might as

well take it one step

further and really have

some fun. Get out the

slip-n-slide! Who said

slippery fun was just for

summertime?!?

SWWF

Page 25: Southwest Washington Family, April

24 • April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family

By Tiffany D. Venters, of CentraliaAs a first time stay at home mom, I had been looking to

make some new friends that were at a similar place in life as me and my daughter. My wonderful midwives at Around the Circle Midwifery, in Olympia, suggested I join a local moms’ group (the Centralia/Chehalis Moms’ Group on meetup.com) because they knew a few moms who were also members. On a whim, and a tip-off, I dropped by a local coffee shop, and made friends with two moms from the group.

Our daughter was 3 months old when I joined the group and that is when I first heard of teaching sign language to babies. Immersed in my own adventure of cloth diapering, breast feeding and co-sleeping, my new mom friends were talking about finding a baby sign language class to take. I’d like to say that I was purely interested in it because it sounded like something educational my husband and I could do with our daughter during such an observant stage in her development. In reality I was searching for things for us to do outside the realms of diapering, bathing and nursing. “Count me in,” I said enthusiastically.

With a quick online search we found that an instructor of the ASL based My Smart Hands series taught locally. Coincidentally a new member of the moms’ group, the instructor, Mikay Bundy-Trana, agreed to teach eight classes for us.

Our babies were between 7 and 8 months old when we started taking classes with Mikay, somewhere between sitting up, introducing solid foods and crawling. The classes seemed to be more for us parents, as our infants drooled, got some tummy time in and watched the big people with wide eyes. I like to think that they enjoyed watching mom and dad learn at any rate.

We started by learning signs for the family: mom, dad, grandma, grandpa, brother and sister. Soon, being the perseverant parents that we were, we had learned how to sign our ABC’s, animals, numbers, some new and old songs, nursery rhymes and foods. Each time we got together we would have more questions for Mikay and more signs we wanted to learn. Our babies would sometimes watch and other times didn’t, but the important thing was that we parents were becoming more comfortable with our knowledge of ASL and were adjusting to using it as part of our daily communication with our babies.

Even before we took the formal classes I found myself creating my own gestures to ‘talk’ with our daughter. Once I learned the proper ASL signs, however, I quickly adopted them. I figured I might as well teach her an actual language, one that she can use to communicate with others, instead of my

made up one. You can always look up the proper ASL sign, but might not remember what made-up one you used to sign the last time.

I asked Mikay how she got started teaching ASL and this is what she had to say:

“After having my son, Kep, I became very interested in ASL. I started getting ASL books, taking online courses and watching Signing Time DVD's. When Kep was 8 months old, I began to teach him ASL. Now, at 4 years old, not only can he communicate verbally but also quietly with ASL, which makes it great when you are in the library, or anywhere you need to be quiet. One of my favorite memories of Kep using ASL was when he and his cousin Orren, who has Down Syndrome, were signing back and forth with each other while playing. His cousin has limited verbal skills and because they both use ASL they were able to have an enjoyable day communicating and playing together.”

You don’t need to take a class to teach your baby sign language, but I recommend it. It is a good reinforcement to have peers using sign language around your child, but it’s not crucial. There are many free resources available. Through the Timberland Library you can check out DVD’s, such as Signing Time, to watch with your child and learn together. There are some great websites online with videos available to ‘see’ how the word is signed. I find myself looking online for words to songs and books so I can sign while I sing with and read to my daughter. Our moms group likes to get together monthly to practice and teach one another new signs.

It’s important that you say the word as you make the sign. You are giving

SIGNME!

WITH

MOTHER

Page 26: Southwest Washington Family, April

April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family • 25

your non-speakers an additional way to communicate with you, not you with them. Try to be as consistent as possible. The more you use the sign, the quicker your baby will pick it up. Make up fun games by showing your child an object and asking “What is this?” then give them the sign and repeat it over again. Start small with a few signs before trying to expand on your ‘vocabulary’ so you don’t overwhelm yourself and throw in the towel.

Remember, it will take time for your child to learn the signs. My daughter was 11 months old before she signed her first sign; puppy. Though she gave us other cues before then that she understood what we were signing to her, it took some time for her to develop enough coordination to produce those first crude signs, so don’t give up! The babies who took the class with us are now over 2 years old. They all do some signs spot-on and others in a way that only their parents can interpret. Your child will create their own sign ‘approximations’ and it is perfectly fine. Remember, sign language is a tool for your child to communicate with you. You will understand them just as you will understand their early attempts at verbal communication. As they gain dexterity they will learn the proper signs.

Some believe that teaching your child sign language will hurt or stunt their speech development because you are giving them a way to communicate without talking. When you use ASL you are saying the word more often than you would without sign. Just by reading a book you will sign and say the words over and over again, whereas if you are just reading the book you will say the words only once. You will actually, without trying, speak to your child more and they will learn the words and signs faster.

I believe that ASL has helped in our daughter’s speech development. In February, at her two year well-visit, her new nurse confirmed what I already secretly suspected. She is fairly advanced for her age, at a three year-olds level of skill and understanding. I attribute it not only to her genius parents (ok, maybe that’s an over statement) but also to her self confidence; confidence that comes partially from knowing that she is understood.

Before our daughter could speak, her grandparents were impressed to see just how much she understood about the

world around her through her use of sign language. That’s not

FAMILY PT. 1 FAMILY PT. 2 MAGAZINE PT. 1 MAGAZINE PT. 2

• Although the United Kingdom and the United States share English as a common language, British Sign Language (BSL) is quite unlike ASL, and the two languages are mutually unintelligible.

• ASL is instead related to French Sign Language.

• ASL has many regional and subcultural dialects and accents. For example, people in the south sign lower than those in the North.

www.mysmarthands.com – Info on baby sign & instructors. And yes, they have an iPhone App!

www.signingtime.com – dvds, music and books for infants, toddler and young children

http://www.aslpro.com/cgi-bin/aslpro/aslpro.cgi - online video dictionary

http://www.lifeprint.com/ - ASL resource

SITES I LIkE:

http://www.lifeprint.com/ - ASL resource

OWL

http://www.lifeprint.com/ - ASL resource

AGAIN

FUN FACTS

Page 27: Southwest Washington Family, April

26 • April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family

an uncommon reaction. Most people assume that because a child cannot yet speak that they must not understand the world around them. We’ve come across many people that seem pretty shocked that our 2 year old knows sign language. It’s really not surprising when you remember that from birth to four years old these little sponges are capable of learning anything that you dedicate the time to teaching them. Anyone know a good Quantum Physics instructor?

Today our daughter has a vocabulary of 180+ ASL signs now and can speak very well. I think that one of the reasons she has never shown much frustration with communicating with us is that she has multiple channels of communication that she uses everyday to learn and communicate through. If a baby has no way of communicating then it will take longer for the parents to figure out what the baby needs, and that can frustrate the parents and the baby.

Our little signer loves to be quizzed with signs and to learn new ones. When we drive anywhere, she’ll sit in the backseat and start practicing signs without any prompting, often correcting herself if she makes a mistake; “No, this is turtle.” Trips to the super market are enjoyable because we get so involved with recognizing fruits and foods

that she rarely gets bored or misbehaves. Zoos, coffee shops and parks are all great places to practice signs, but I’ve found it is most useful while waiting at the doctor’s office and while on airplanes. Focusing on finding signs they know in your surroundings will often keep your little ones occupied when nothing else works.

On a scientific note, research claims that exposing a hearing child to ASL has a positive impact on the socialization of the child. A child that learns sign language can communicate with their parents even before they are capable of verbal speech – it effectively gives the child another way to express themselves. I found our ASL journey to be fascinating and I’m excited to see how quickly our second daughter, due soon, will pick up sign language with mom, dad and big sister signing to her daily.

While we’re nowhere good enough to sign with non-hearing speakers, we are happy that it has helped our daughter communicate with us, our family and our friends. It just goes to show you that we’re never too old, or young, to learn! SWWFquizzed with signs and to learn

new ones. When we drive anywhere, she’ll sit in the backseat and start practicing signs without any prompting, often correcting herself if she makes a mistake; “No, this is turtle.” Trips to the super market are enjoyable because we get so involved with recognizing fruits and foods SNAIL

Tiffany Venters is a mother, wife, photographer, outdoor enthusiast and a little of everything in between. She lives in Centralia with her husband, James, and daughter, Amelia. They are expecting their second child in April 2011 and plan to raise her as a little signer as well.

1211 Harrison, Centralia

736-6603

Mark Witham, Manager

Rory Cox, Manager

36 N. Market, Chehalis

748-0295

Page 28: Southwest Washington Family, April

April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family • 27

Name of those in photo (please print):___________________________________________________________Signature (Parent or Guardian):___________________________________________________________Phone: ____________________________________________________Email: _____________________________________________________

SEND US YOUR PICTURES!

Photos can be sent via email to [email protected], or if you wish to send photos by mail to 321 N. Pearl, Centralia, WA 98531, they can be returned if sent with a SASE. If you email us and we don’t reply we haven’t received your message. Please give us a call at 807-8213.

SWWF

April

Bailee V., Emma B., and Hannah B. cute as can be, enjoying swimming at a birthday party!

Travy B., 8 months, smiles with delight playing in snow for the first time!

ScrapbookCatholic Community Services

is looking for dedicated adultsto provide temporary foster care for youth from age 10-17. Must pass a background check, be 25 or older, and have an

extra bedroom. Monthly reimbursement of $1500.For more info call 360-878-8248.

Is There Room in Your Nest?

For more info & tickets:360-748-9593

www.steamtrainride.com

· Easter Egg Hunt After Ride · Some Eggs Contain Prizes · Pictures with Easter Bunny & Chicken Little

Join us on Facebook

360-748-9593www.steamtrainride.comwww.steamtrainride.comwww.steamtrainride.com

Join us on Facebook

SaturdayApril 23, 2011 Easter Train

ChehaliS-Centralia

railroad &MuSeuM

Child Find will be conducting screenings of children from birth to age five in local schools during April and early May. Professionals screen the children for vision, hearing, speech/language, motor coordination, learning skills and social and emotional behaviors. All results of the screening are reviewed with parents alongside the average expectations for the appropriate age group.

To schedule an appointment for your newborn to five-year-old please call your school.

This service is conducted by Lewis County Special Education Co-op 360-748-3384.

Make Sure Your Child Is On Track

Page 29: Southwest Washington Family, April

28 • April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family

Send in your nominations for your favorite teacher!!Mail to 321 N. Pearl, Centralia, WA 98531. Or you email to [email protected]. If you email us and we don’t reply we haven’t received your message. Please give us a call at 807-8213.

Name of Teacher nominated/school: ______________________________________________

Name of child nominating teacher: _______________________________________________

Name of parent & phone #: _______________________________________________________

Email: __________________________________________________________________________

Please include a few sentences on why you think your teacher should be featured.

If you have a picture of your teacher, please send it in too! We may contact you to learn more about your favorite teacher.

SWWF

ooorr

SSWWaammmmmm

Feeaa

“I have been teaching 6th grade at Napavine Elementary for 10 years. My best memories over the years have been the fun activities I get to do with my students.

I have two beautiful little girls, Avery, 5, and Alexis, 2, that keep me busy at home. Napavine is such a wonderful place to live and work. The kids here at Napavine are amazing and make my job so enjoyable.”

Mrs. SchutzNapavine Elementary,

6th grade

“In my opinion, Mrs. Schutz is fun, sweet, kind and very helpful! When she reads to us she uses accents and makes everyone laugh! I wish everyone was lucky enough to have her for a teacher.”~Ashlie O., nominator

Thank you Mrs. Schutz!

The 6th Grade BBQ

Spring Concert

A.R. Overnighter 6th Grade Olympics

Page 30: Southwest Washington Family, April

April 2011 • Southwest Washington Family • 29

1-2-3 Draw Princessesby Freddie LevinPeel Productions Inc.Recommend for beginning readers & buddingartists who are familiar with their shapes (age 8 and older)

This book is great for helping children understand the concept of building a picture with shapes. It shows simple step-by-step examples how to complete a drawing of a princess, castle, horse, carriage and more. It also introduces the simple concept of shading to add dimension to their drawing.

My daughter, age 8, enjoyed the challenge of drawing princesses from different angles, but did get a little frustrated that her picture did not look exactly like the one in the book. At this point I simply reminded her that it would take practice and not to expect it to be perfect the first time. It is also good to point out that the child's drawing does not need to be exact and to encourage them to add their own personal touches to the drawing so that the drawing becomes uniquely their own. Younger children may be discouraged at times but I found that my daughter still enjoys the book and continues to create mdifferent princesses that are just right for her. I give this book 5 bookworms because I know that it is something my daughter will continue to enjoy for a few more years to come.

SWWF

Reviewed by “Fairy

Queen Mother” in Centralia

Reader Review

SeeSANDRA LEE

Saturday, 4/16 at Spring’s

BIGGESTLocal Food Drive!

Visit thefair.comfor event details.

In partnership with

Dancing HorsesTraditional

EntertainmentMexican Artisans

Authentic Food

Dancing

EntertainmentMexican Artisans

Authentic Food

Axe throwing, log rolling,

cross-cut sawing

and more!

Free with admission!

Presented by

Tickets at thefair.com!Tickets at thefair.com!

SLAMFEST DEMOLITION DERBYSat, April 16 - 7:30 pm Sun, April 17 - 2 pm

MONSTER TRUCK SHOWFri, April 15 - 8 pm

SHOWCASE CONCERT

FRidAy, 4/15 | 7 pm

Featuring country music sensation,

RANdy mONTANA with featured guest,

Bradley Gaskin. FREE with admission!

NorthwestJr. Rodeo

Photo by Terri Williams ofHoof Print Photography©

Young contestants bring big hearts and

the cowboy spirit.

Free with admission!

FREE with admission!

Classic cars, auto memorabilia, a wine and microbrew garden and more!

Ciscoe Morris

LIVE Radio BroadcastSat., 4/16, 10 am– noon

Enjoy inspirationand education

Workshops with local experts, artistic garden displays, and more!

2011Spring Fair Hours

Thursday • 2 pm - 10 pm

Friday • 10 am - 10 pm

Saturday • 10 am - 10 pm

Sunday • 10 am - 8 pm

The 4 Days Go By Fast,

HOP TO IT!

24-Hr. Info: 253-841-5045Get tickets at:

HUGE Fireworks Spectacular Saturday night, choreographed to music! Show begins at approx. 9:00 pm. Buy Tickets in Advance and SAVE!

Discount tickets includeRIDE* & GAME SAVER PACK

coupon, 7 rides or games for $16.(Excludes Extreme Scream and Roller Coaster.)

Discount tickets available at:(in Pierce and S. King county)

$9.00$7.00

$7.50$5.50

Now you can purchase and print tickets from home at thefair.com.

FREE Kids Admission

on Thursday!

(4/14, 2–10 pm ONLY) Kids 18 and under get

in free with non-perishable food donation for

Puyallup Food Bank.

Plus, rides cost less on Thursday!

FREE Kids Admission

Kids 18 and under get

non-perishable food donation for

on Thursday!

SF11_Chronicle _Ad.indd 1 3/21/2011 2:06:29 PM

Page 31: Southwest Washington Family, April

Compassionate care with advanced technology:

• Board-certified medical oncologists• Breast cancer nurse navigator• Chemotherapy• Integrative medicine

• Radiation therapy provided by RadiantCare Radiation oncologists• Cancer survivorship program

PANTONE 110

PANTONE 201

PANTONE 2622

PANTONE 668

PANTONE 2945

PANTONE 315

PANTONE 364

PANTONE 383

PANTONE 116

PANTONE 1797

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PANTONE 3135

PANTONE 361

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PANTONE Cool Gray 10

PANTONE Black

PANTONE 144

PANTONE 288

Compassionate care with advanced technology:

2015 Cooks Hill Rd., Ste. 200Centralia, WA 98531 www.provcancer.org • 360.330.8939

Getting quality cancer treatment

close to home was such a relief

for me and my family.

Ken Common, Rochester

Providence Regional Cancer SystemProviding high-quality care in Lewis County.

Regional Cancer System