June Media Mix

Is summertime high flying or low-riding for you and your kids? Check out these resources for hot weather help.

The Kids’ Summer Fun Book by Sam Martin, Claire Gillman (Barron’s Educational Series). Start a new family tradition this summer by perusing this book. Ideas for summertime activities abound, with sections on Out of Doors, On the Water, Summer Games, Crafts and Activities and Feasting. Inspirational for family reunions, vacations or even a “do nothing” kind of day.

The Unforgettable Season by Phil Bildner, illus. by S.D. Schindler (Putnam). This is the story of Joe DiMaggio, Ted Williams and the record-setting summer of 1941. These heroes and their stories have been passed down from generation to generation, part of the legend that gives baseball its unique place in American culture. The comparison to modern-day players provides perspective. (Ages 5 and up)

Jack and the Beanstalk Children’s Interactive Storybook by Ayars Animation Inc. The famous outdoor adventurer/vine climber known as Jack goes interactive in this highly rated iPad application. Although considered an ebook, this app truly packs the extras in loads of interactive surprises and “Easter eggs.” It will become quite an adventure for your child – definitely worth the price. $3.99.

Blindsight (DVD) An amazing documentary about six blind Tibetan teenagers as they climb the 23,000-foot Lhakpa Ri on the north side of Mount Everest. Blind children are considered pariahs in Tibetan culture. This gripping adventure is not simply the climbing of a mountain. It plunges into the hearts of these children as well—and the conflicts among the adults, which is a lesson for the parents.

Free Range Kids by Leonore Skenazy (Wiley, John & Sons). Following the trend of anti-helicopter parenting, this book will touch off a firestorm of debate similar to that spawned by “Tiger Moms.” Skenazy’s premise is that preventing danger to your children also inhibits their ability to grow up. Putting a 9-year-old on the subway alone is fine. The discussion is important, as both extreme ends of the spectrum seem harmful.

MomsTeam.com is an information gateway for youth sports. Currently in its 10th year, this website is dedicated to one mission: to make sure that youth sports are safe, affordable, stress free and more fun! With a long list of experts including psychologists, nutritionists, sports administration officials, conditioning experts and pediatricians, the site addresses topics that affect all parents of young athletes. Articles like “Should Poor Grades Mean No Sports?” and “Struggling with Body Image” can be found, along with an impressive reading list. Great for parent coaches as well.

In the summer, Julie Hubble spends her time on the water or in the car around Leawood, KS.