WNCParent October 2009 by Stacey

contents This month’s features 2 Keeping kids safe

As teens and tweens get more independent, it’s important they know how to protect themselves.

3 Snack time

Get kids involved in picking out healthy snacks and they may be more interested in eating them.

6 Dress code do’s

It is possible to look good and follow school dress code rules.

On the big screen

Finding age-appropriate films can be tough for parents. Learn what film ratings mean and where to find family-friendly reviews.

12 Cell phone debate

When is the right time to get your tween or teen a cell phone? We have some tips.

14 Baby-sitting 101

The key to finding (and being) a good sitter? Communication. Make expectations known from the start.

24 After-school dilemma

The child care choices for 12- and 13-year-olds are limited. We go over the options.

In every issue

Kids Voices...........................10 Divorced Families...................18 Growing Together ...................21 Librarian’s Picks....................34 Home-school Scene ...............36 Show & Tell ..........................38 Story times ..........................39 Puzzles............................40-41 Kitchen Kids.............................43 Calendar .........................44-56

Handling tweens, teens presents challenges It wasn’t until my daughters were 10 that they saw their first PG movie. My thinking was that spending time watching movies wasn’t all that great a way to use their time and that pushing them to more mature themes wasn’t helpful either. Often times it’s hard to tell when it’s OK for your child to start watching PG or PG-13 movies. Check out our story on Page 8 about movie ratings for a little advice. As children get older and begin to have the urge to be more independent, it falls to us as parents to find acceptable ways of letting go. Giving my children the tools to keep themselves safe gave me some confidence in allowing them to do more things on their own. Find some safety tips on Page 2 to share with your children and hopefully ease your mind as their hand slips out of yours. The tween and teen years are full of changes for both parents and their children, but the rewards of watching our children grow and branch out can be amazing. Nancy Sluder, editor

30 What to do?

Keeping a teen entertained can be tricky. Here’s a rundown of activities, from skate boarding to climbing to library clubs.

42 Halloween events

Find plenty of spooky thrills and family fun around WNC.

On the cover

Photo special to WNC Parent.

Join WNCmom.com Are you a member of WNCmom.com? Join the conversation with other parents, share photos and more.

P.O. Box 2090, Asheville, NC 28802 828-232-5845 I www.wncmom.com PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER Randy Hammer WNC PARENT EDITOR Nancy Sluder nsluder@citizen-times.com

ADVERTISING Miranda Weerheim - 232-5980 mweerheim@gannett.com

FEATURES EDITOR Bruce Steele bsteele@citizen-times.com

Lisa Field - 252-5907 lmfield@gannett.com

STAFF WRITER Barbara Blake bblake@citizen-times.com

WNC PARENT DESIGNER Katie Wadington kwadington@citizen-times.com

CALENDAR CONTENT Submit in writing via P.O. Box 2090, Asheville, NC 28802-2090 or e-mail calendar@wncparent.com SUBMISSION DEADLINES Advertising deadline for the issue is Oct. 20 Calendar items are due by Oct. 14

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Arm kids to be safe Make sure teens are protected when they’re out

Instill confidence Give kids opportunities to build self-confidence — it will prevent them from following friends who stray into dangerous areas or make unsafe decisions, Dunlap says. Increase the level of independence gradually, he adds. When Loree Olsson’s 16year-old daughter was younger, she could go places like the mall with friends, but Olsson, of Asheville, would stay nearby and they would meet up at designated times, she says. “Teach kids to follow their instincts and to recognize the warning signs of unsafe situations,” Sharratt says.

By Pam J. Hecht WNC Parent contributor Like a bird ready to fly, your increasingly responsible tween or teen is up for some independence. But how can you make sure he or she stays safe while out on the town without you? Here are some tips.

Stay connected

“The most important thing is to encourage open communication between parents and kids from an early age,” says Consider self-defense Sgt. Steve Oxner, crime prevention director, Buncombe CounWhile being stalked by an ty Sheriff’s Office. unwanted admirer, Dunlap’s Know their friends, he says, 18-year-old daughter felt less and when they’re ready to venfearful and more in control ture out without you, talk about after enrolling in a martial arts whom they’ll be with, where class, says Dunlap. they’ll be and what they’ll be A good self-defense class is doing, says Oxner. one that teaches safety without Express your concerns about scaring or causing excessive their safety and remind them to worrying, advises the National always be aware of their surCrime Prevention Council. SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT roundings, says crime prevenBut while learning selftion officer Allen Dunlap of the A good self-defense class is one that teaches safety without scaring defense techniques can build kids or causing excessive worrying. Asheville Police Department. confidence, Dunlap adds, the “Help them understand pobest thing is to know how to Set boundaries tential risks, but don’t just tell them what avoid conflict and seek help. to do — listen and allow them to make Since her daughter started driving Provide a cell phone and establish suggestions, too,” says Anna Sharratt, and going places on her own, Olsson mandatory check-in times, says Oxner. community educator for Our VOICE, a enrolled the two of them in a women’s Kline requires her daughter to call her sexual assault prevention and intervenself defense course at the Reuter YMCA as soon as she arrives at her destination. tion organization in Asheville. in South Asheville. They discuss the plans beforehand and if Kirsty Kline, of Asheville, says she The class emphasizes personal emthere are any changes, she must “notify and her 15-year-old daughter regularly powerment and safety for ages 8 and me immediately,” she says. discuss “what-would-you-do-if scenaolder, teaching how to avoid bad situTell them to stick with their friends at rios,” she says. “And if she ever feels ations as well as escape and self-defense all times — a group of three or more is she’s in a bad spot, she knows she can techniques, says Kris Kaufman, YMCA best, Oxner says. call me and I will get her.” wellness director. And enforce a reasonable curfew, Dunlap adds. Continues on Page 5

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Snack food for thought By Carol Motsinger WNC Parent writer Unless you’re a bunny rabbit, there are only so many carrot sticks a body can take. Especially if that body you are trying to feed is that of a finicky 6-year-old. Planning family meals can be hard, but the after-school snack introduces a new set of concerns. What’s easy, available, healthy and won’t spoil appetites for dinner? As the Growing Minds program coordinator and mother of a 3-year-old, Molly Nicholie has developed a successful menu for afternoon snacks. Growing Minds, a project of the Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project, helps introduce local food into schools and organizes farm field trips, as well as orchestrates a variety of other positive experiences for children to have with healthy food. “One thing that I would recommend is just having fresh

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Avi Kornfeld selects a fresh melon at a tailgate market. Children involved in picking out healthy snacks may be more likely to eat them. fruits and vegetables available for your kids,” Nicholie said. “One of my son’s favorites is cherry tomatoes. The easier it is, the more likely they will eat it. Continues on Page 4

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Fresh ideas for tasty, healthy snacks Continued from Page 3

“They are like us,” she added. “They are looking for something convenient, so having that access to fresh, healthy food is really important.” Children also are more likely to eat healthy foods if “they have some ownership” in it, Nicholie said. Get your children to help you pick tomatoes in the garden or ask them to help you make a snack. It can be as easy as making a homemade dip and cutting up peppers together, she said. Another favorite snack of her son Walker is raw sweet potato sticks, a nutrition-packed alternative to the healthy carrot stick staple. She also takes Walker to the farmers market or grocery store and lets him pick out things. “Keeping your shopping seasonal allows you to provide stuff that is fresh, healthy and less expensive,” she said. Of course, she’s not letting him grab every sweet treat on the cookie aisle. She will take him directly to the produce section in a grocery store before asking him to start shopping. “At the farmers markets, its definitely fun to pick out things,” Nicholie said. “We’ll make it into a fun game or scavenger hunt.” She asks Walker to do things like pick out something yellow or round for a snack. Nicholie also suggests that you don’t let your kids get away with refusing food after trying it only once. Challenge a child to try a food five different ways before writing it off, she said. For instance, Walker hates cooked peas, but he loves to snack on frozen peas. At Young Chefs Academy in Arden, the whole program is rooted in the belief that children will make healthier food choices if they are involved in its preparation. In addition to cooking techniques, the students are taught how to shop and how to read nutritional information, said Pati Roesler, owner of the academy. “We teach them to experiment, to use different things and to use their imagination,” Roesler said. Here are some of the snack recipes she teaches at the Young Chefs Academy.

Apple berry salsa and cinnamon chips

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Walker Sanders enjoys fresh raspberries from the Asheville City Market. His mother takes him to the farmers markets and grocery stores to let him pick out his snack.

First down dip

1 8-ounce package of fat-free cream cheese, softened 1/2 teaspoon chopped garlic 1/4 cup chopped green onions 1/4 cup diced tomatoes 1/2 grilled chicken breast, diced 1/2 cup black beans, drained 4 teaspoons fresh chopped basil 4 teaspoons fat-free sour cream 1/2 cup mixed grated cheese Seasoned salt, to taste Blue corn or flour tortilla chips (for dippers) Prep for adult helper only: Set out cream cheese to soften or beat with a mixer. Prep tomatoes and chicken with safety scissors. Wash onions and basil and pat dry. Prepare the garlic, onions, tomatoes, chicken and basil as directed above. Drain beans using a colander. Add all the ingredients except the cheese, and mix by hand until combined. Add the seasonings as needed or desired. Grate cheese with salad shooter and sprinkle on top. This dip can be served cold or hot. (For hot dip, pour the mix into an oven-safe bowl and bake at 350 degrees for about 12 minutes). Serve with chips. Makes 2 1/2 cups.

Cinnamon chips: 4 (7-inch) flour tortillas 1 tablespoon sugar 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon Salsa: 2 medium apples (cored, peeled, sliced) 1 cup strawberries 1 kiwi (peeled and sliced) 1 small orange 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar 2 tablespoons apple jelly For chips: Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Brush tortillas with water. Combine sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle over tortillas. Using a pizza cutter cut each tortilla into 8 wedges; place in single layer on a cookie sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned and crisp. Cool completely. For salsa: Remove strawberry stems using a drinking straw, then slice using an egg slicer. Core, peel, and slice apples. (Kiwi should already be peeled and sliced.) With adult supervision, chop strawberries, apples, and kiwi with food chopper. Put fruit into a medium mixing bowl. Squeeze the juice from the orange; zest the peel. Add orange juice, orange zest, brown sugar and apple jelly to the fruit mixture and mix gently. Chill and serve with cinnamon chips.

Black bean quesadilla

2 low-fat whole wheat flour tortillas 1/4 cup canned black beans 1-2 tablespoons chunky salsa 1/3 cup mozzarella or low-fat cheese 1 tablespoon bell peppers, chopped Fat-free sour cream as garnish Open a can of black beans. Pour into colander and rinse under running water. Shake dry. Place 1 whole wheat tortilla on a microwave safe plate. Sprinkle half of the cheese onto whole wheat tortilla. Spread black beans, salsa, and chopped bell peppers on top of cheese layer. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top. Stack 1 whole wheat tortilla on top. Place in microwave for 1 1/2 minutes or until cheese is melted. Slice into 8 slices (like a pizza). Serve with guacamole. Garnish with sour cream (optional).

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Safety tips Continued from Page 2

Staying safe Here are some safety tips from Sgt. Steve Oxner, crime prevention director, Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office: ◆ Never take anything from or go anywhere with strangers. ◆ If you see suspicious activity, find a security guard or store manager. ◆ If isolated and in danger, scream to draw attention. ◆ Never allow yourself to be put into a car — scream “fire” or “rape” and run. ◆ Park car in well-lit areas. ◆ Don’t walk to/from your car alone if uncomfortable, especially at night. ◆ Walk to your car purposefully — scan the horizon and have keys in hand. ◆ Drive away immediately upon entering your car. Pam J. Hecht is a freelance writer and editor based in Asheville. E-mail her at pamjh8@gmail.com.

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Be fashionable but follow code By Rick McDaniel WNC Parent contributor For kids in middle school, the only thing more important than making good grades is getting the right “look” put together. Tweens are beginning to develop their own fashion sense, although it can sometimes run afoul of school dress codes. Here are fashion trends that will make a statement and still keep your tween “street legal.”

Layers “Layers are really in,” said Danielle Moser, whose daughter Madison is a seventh-grader. “There’s a TV show targeted at tweens called ‘Wizards of Waverly Place,’ and the star wears tank tops with layered T’s under them. That’s a really popular look.” Although nearly all area schools ban tank tops and tops with spaghetti straps, wearing them over a T-shirt is usually allowed. Check with your tween’s school to make sure.

Jeans “This year, it’s all about the jeans,” said Tamela Wells, whose oldest daughter, Rachel, is an eighth-grader. “Skinny jeans, what we used to call pencil-leg jeans, are the hot thing.” Vintage jeans (which come from the factory with frayed cuffs and holes in them) are another hot item for both boys and girls.

Shorts Shorts are always in, especially in plaid this year. Just make sure they’re not too short — almost all schools require that shorts be no shorter than the tip of the student’s middle finger with the arms at their side; some schools have a sideways hand, four-finger rule.

Tops Tops in pastels are in demand, but make sure they are long enough so that no tummy shows, a universal no-no on dress codes. Straps on shirts must be at least 2 inches wide. Tube tops, halter tops, backless tops and strapless tops are not permitted.

Retro Many tweens choose to scour thrift stores for vintage clothing like bell bottoms, vests and T-shirts from the ’70s and ’80s. There are also online merchants that specialize in reproductions of classic rock T’s. Just be sure they don’t promote drug or alcohol use or contain offensive language.

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Tops have to have at least 2-inch straps; layering tanks is one way to increase the width and meet the rule.

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Hoodies Hooded sweatshirts are popular with both girls and guys. Materials range from traditional sweatshirt cotton to fleece to light-weight nylon in a rainbow of colors. But tweens must doff the hood before coming inside the building.

Cargo pants Cargo pants for boys are comfortable and look cool in addition to providing lots of storage space. Check your school’s dress code before you buy, but they’re usually a safe bet, as long as they fit. Some

schools’ policies indicate that pants must be worn around the waist and not sag below the top of the hip bone. Pants that are excessively baggy are not permitted, and trying to cover up the low-lying pants with excessively long shirts isn’t allowed either.

Shoes Converse, especially Chuck Taylors and the classic high tops, are smoking hot for both boys and girls this year. “High tops worn with skirts for girls are really in,” Wells said. Uggs are Australian suede boots with sheepskin lining that will be seen on many a middle school girl’s feet as soon as it gets cold enough, Moser said. “Madison can’t wait for it to get cold enough to wear hers.” And shoes with

built-in roller wheels are out, and almost universally banned by area school dress codes.

Team wear Professional sports team jerseys are always a hit with boys. Although football and basketball lead the pack, jerseys from other countries and alternative sports are easily obtainable online and are great for anyone going for a unique or sporty look. Rugby, anyone?

Hats and scarves Hats and scarves are really popular for girls. For boys, baseball caps, especially ones with pre-frayed brims and knit caps, are a hit. Also “in” this year: fedoras. But, as with the hood on the hoodies none of these items is permitted indoors. Rick McDaniel is a freelance writer. E-mail him at southerncooking@charter.net.

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Making sense of movies Ratings, resources help parents find appropriate films By Katie Wadington WNC Parent writer The film “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen” has an “above average level of strong language” for its rating, according to CommonSenseMedia.org. “17 Again” has 14 instances of expletives or objectionable language and “heavy” sexual content, according to ScreenIt.com. “Twilight” has a scene where three vampires rip another vampire’s head off and toss it into a fire, part of why it received a grade of “C+” for violence on ParentPreviews.com, but it is considered a relatively tame movie on other sites. All are rated PG-13. But for parents trying to judge whether a film is acceptable for their pre-teen and teenage children, the ratings system “is not always a great indicator,” says Molly Wirtz, a mom of kids ages 15, 13 and 10. She said she recently saw “17 Again” and found some parts of it questionable for its rating. “If we’re going to see a movie as a family, we stick with PG,” she said.

The ratings system The system of movie ratings is operated by the Motion Picture Association of America and the National Association of Theater Owners. According to the MPAA, “a board of parents” rates films to provide parents “with advance information so they can decide for themselves which films are appropriate for viewing by their own children.” “It’s a reasonably good indicator,” said Bill Banowsky, owner of the Carolina Asheville movie theater and a nationally

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Clockwise from top left: Zac Efron in “17 Again,” Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart in “Twilight” and Megan Fox and Shia LaBeouf in “Transformers Revenge of the Fallen.” All three are PG-13 movies.

DEFINITION OF MOVIE RATINGS The Motion Picture Association of America rates films on this scale. For more, visit MPAA.org. G: Depictions of violence are minimal. No nudity, sex scenes, or drug use. “The G rating is not a ‘certificate of approval,’ nor does it signify a ‘children’s’ motion picture.” PG: Parents may consider some material unsuitable for children. Mature themes, some profanity and/or depictions of violence or brief nudity may call for parental guidance. PG-13: May go beyond the PG rating in theme, violence, nudity, sensuality, language, adult activities or other elements. “More than brief nudity in a PG-13 rated motion picture generally will not be sexually oriented. A single use of one of the harsher, sexually-derived words, though only as an expletive, requires at least a PG-13 rating. More than one such expletive requires an R rating, as must even one of those words used in a sexual context.” R: May contain adult material, including themes, adult activity, hard language, intense or persistent violence, nudity, sex, drug abuse or other elements. Children younger than 17 are not allowed to attend unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.

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HELPFUL WEB SITES CommonSenseMedia.org reaches beyond movies to give parents guidance on all things media: films, TV, books, video games. Movies reviews include an age-appropriateness scale, a star rating (on a five-star scale), a section called “What Parents Need to Know” and discussion topics. Kids-in-mind.com rates movies on three 10-point scales: sex and nudity, violence and gore, and profanity. Reviews begin with a rating in each of those categories then go on to detail such scenes. At the end, parents will find synopses of discussion topics that can proceed from a movie and a summary of the film’s message. ParentPreviews.com stemmed from syndicated newspaper reviews. The site critiques films with G, PG and PG-13 ratings only, giving movies letter grades in these categories: violence, sexual content, language, and drugs and alcohol. Reviews relay how characters are portrayed from a stance of influencing children. Discussion topics and home viewing alternatives are offered. ScreenIt.com visitors can read movie reviews that include ratings in 15 categories. Each category is given one of six ratings: none, minor, mild, moderate, heavy or extreme. Reviews include detailed descriptions of every instance of offense for each category (including expletive counts), and the quick hit “Will kids want to see it?” (Use the Web address ScreenIt.com/index1.html for easiest access.)

respected cinema operator. But he added, “different parents have different sensibilities, so it’s not necessarily an indicator that’s going to work in every situation. “I would not rely entirely on the ratings system,” Banowsky said. Betsy Cypcar, an Arden mom of kids ages 18, 16 and 13, says that while ratings help, so does word of mouth from other parents. She also applies the same logic to movies as they did to TV. “Cartoons are cartoons to them,” she said, “But why should I let them watch something stupid?” Wirtz, of Arden, pointed out that she and her husband “take into account our kids’ maturity level” when choosing films. Noting her 15-year-old son is pretty mature for his age, she said, “We will let him watch most movies, but it really depends on the content.”

Wirtz said her children have to pay for their own movies, so they often decide whether to see a film based on whether they want to spend the money. And Cypcar said the kids’ preferences have made the decision easier. “Now that they’re getting older it’s not as difficult, but they’re not into the horror stuff that I wouldn’t want them to see anyway.”

Online resources Several Web sites help parents navigate Hollywood’s offerings. Cypcar says she uses a film review Web site recommended by the Christian radio station her family listens to. Banowsky suggested Rotten Tomatoes.com. “From there, you can see what all the major critics have written about a film,” he said. And while a child’s desire to see a particular movie can set up a discussion over what’s appropriate, sometimes other factors keep arguments at bay.

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kids voices

When I’m a teenager …

Becoming a teenager is one of the great milestones of life, as children begin accelerating their journey toward adulthood while navigating hormonal meltdowns, moral dilemmas and newfound freedoms and responsibilities. We asked seventh- and eighth-graders at Rainbow Mountain Children’s School in West Asheville what they think will be the best and worst parts of being a teenager. Here’s what they told staff writer Barbara Blake. “I think the best part of being a teenager will be that I’ll likely have more friends than I did as a child. What won’t be so great? I would think that I’ll probably be much less respectful to others.” Keith James, eighth grade

“The best part of being a teenager is that I’ll be treated more seriously. But I think it won’t be good. I know it will be bad because of what I have to deal with already.” Mars Sigler, seventh grade

“The best part will be being able to learn more advanced and cooler stuff in school. What won’t be so great is the peer pressure; it’s a drive for thoughtlessness.” Conor Stuart-Roe, seventh grade

“I think it will be very cool to be a teenager, but it will have its downs, also, such as me leaving the school I’ve been at for 10 years. Overall I also really want to be in high school. For now I’ll just go with the flow.” Ben Waldman, seventh grade

“I think the best part will be enjoying the adventures and the new privileges that come with age. I’m looking forward to the privileges because it’s exciting and fun. What won’t be so great is the responsibility to ‘grow up.’ That’s not quite as exciting because you’re held under the pressure to give up the childish things that keep me happy.” Johanna Owen, eighth grade

“The best part about being a teenager will be that my parents will let me have more freedom, and going to high school, and because I’ll be able to do more stuff and play more sports. The worst part will probably be the increase in schoolwork and homework, which adds more pressure to things.” Ian Bowling, eighth grade

“When I become a teenager I look forward to the challenge of more homework. I am not excited about being in a constant bad mood. I think this because it is what I’ve observed from teenagers.” Duncan Britton, seventh grade “One of the best parts of being a teenager is going into adulthood and being able to take on more responsibility. What won’t be so great is being in high school and having to handle a bunch of homework.” Adriana McCassim, seventh grade

“I look at becoming a teenager as I would a fresh piece of paper just waiting to be written on, or a new adventure I just can’t wait to get started on. The worst thing, I think, will be other people stereotyping me. I don’t want to be thought of as the ‘average’ teen. I want to be my own person.” Sabrina Utz, seventh grade

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The cell phone debate Tips on how to tackle the issue with your teenager By James Harrison WNC Parent writer

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Figuring out when to get your tween or teen their much longed for cell phone brings different answers from parents.

It’s inevitable — sooner or later your kid is going to wind up with a cell phone. The question is, when? Twenty-first century parents have to mull over a slew of rationales when determining whether or not their pre-teens are ready to face the freedom that comes with having a phone in their pocket. They’re not just for talking anymore — today’s cell phones offer a wide-open gate for information sharing with the world, which requires an increased level of responsibility. No parent could deny the peace of mind that comes with knowing that their kids can punch in a few numbers from anywhere, at any time, and instantly have mom, dad or an emergency contact on the line.

But with the potential for peer-topeer calling, texting, uploading, gaming and file sharing, many parents believe the risks of kids losing privacy through a phone may outweigh the benefits. More than anything, parents and teens ought to be talking to each other. “Ideally, we would want to encourage the parent and the child to communicate about the issue,” said Laura Jeffords, executive director of The Mediation Center in Asheville. “Getting together, thinking out loud and talking about it are good things.” Many parents look to the practical when deciding if the time is right. “For my children, the rule is that they’re 16 when they get a phone because they’re driving,” said Swannanoa resident (and mother of four boys) Liz JohnContinues on Page 13

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Cell phone tips from parents Continued from Page 12

son, who understands the challenges that phones can bring. “It used to be that when the phone rang on the wall, the parents knew when someone was calling, and they knew when their kids were off the phone. It’s not that way anymore — texting has brought a whole different dimension to it,” she said. Gloria Calloway, of Asheville, knows the role that texting can play in the life of a teenager. But to her, though, it’s no big deal. Fifteen year-old Ashley Carroll, to whom Calloway is guardian, estimates that she texts at least 300 times a day. “It’s never really been an issue before,” said Calloway. “I get most upset when I’m on the parkway or somewhere where there’s no cell service. Ashley gets unlimited texting, and I get all the minutes. I’m most definitely glad we have it set up like that.” After talking to their children, many parents may wonder if the cell phone debate is even one worth having anymore. “All my friends have cell phones,” said Carroll, who was 13 when she got a phone. Many cell phone retailers are aware of both the conveniences parents crave when it comes to their child having a phone, as well as the sensitivities that many may have toward protecting their kids’ privacy. Some phones allow parents to program them for easy one-touch calling to the numbers of their choosing. When the time comes for a cell phone, gradually embracing the real responsibilities of usage for both parents and teenagers is worthwhile. Things like texting and Internet access may concern parents for good reasons, but they can be assured that as long as their child is a part of their cellular plan, they reserve the right to control the phone’s purpose with the plan they choose and the rules they setup within their own home.

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Baby-sitting basics As tweens start providing child care, make expectations clear By Barbara Blake WNC Parent writer Baby-sitting is serious business. Parents who entrust their children to sitters need to feel confident that the caregiver is equipped to keep their children safe, first of all, as well as engaging with them, following the child’s routine and keeping the house rules. While some parents prefer older teens or adults as baby sitters and nannies, there are plenty of tweens and younger teens who are looking for babysitting gigs to build their own small businesses taking care of kids. Mary Barnett, director of health and safety services for the American Red Cross chapter in Asheville, said the agency’s baby-sitting class is directed at children ages 11-15, and many 11-year-olds are fully equipped to care for children after completing the course. “It definitely depends on the child’s ability to show that they can be in selfcare — knowing what to say on the phone, using the microwave, knowing how to answer the door, etc.,” said Sue Estridge, extension agent with the Cooperative Extension in Madison County, which offers a “4-H Super Sitters” program for children ages 11-16. Regardless of age, there are common rules of thumb that parents and sitters should expect from each other. Here are some issues that should be considered.

Communication is key Eve Kindley, 4-H and youth development extension agent at the Madison County Center, who co-teaches the Super Sitters course with Estridge, said parents should tell the sitter where they will be, provide cell phone numbers, doctor, poison control and other emergency phone numbers, and show the sitter the location of emergency supplies like syrup of ipecac and bandages.

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The Asheville-Mountain Area Chapter of the Red Cross offers baby-sitter training, aimed at children ages 11-15. The Red Cross’ Mary Barnett says many 11-year-olds are fully equipped to care for children after completing the course.

BABY-SITTING CLASSES The Asheville-Mountain Area Chapter of the American Red Cross will hold baby sitter training from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Oct. 31, Nov. 21 and Dec. 19. Cost is $45, which includes the student book, first aid kit and a bag. Register by calling 258-3888, ext. 207. “Don’t expect that (a sitter) knows what you want or what will make you happy,” said Jennifer Losch, a marketing executive and mother of a 2- and 3-yearold. “Make a list of what you want and be specific.” Laura Backe, who began baby-sitting when she was in middle school and recently earned her bachelor’s degree in

elementary education, said sitters appreciate those details. “I like to know things like if a kid gets a pacifier before bed, the things they are and aren’t allowed to do, like no candy after dinner,” Backe said. “And it’s definitely good to understand the rules of discipline – what’s the consequence of breaking the rules, and what are those rules. Some parents just don’t think about that.” Barnett said students in the Red Cross baby-sitting class practice interviewing skills and learn how to conduct a family interview to determine if the job is right for them — and for the parents to decide if the child is the right baby-sitter for their children.

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The going rate Sue Sparboe-Derry, an industrial engineer with CarePartners and mother of 5and 7-year-old daughters, said she normally pays around $8 an hour, which she considers “probably in the ‘low’ range.” Kindley said the average baby-sitting rate is between $8-$12, but wages can vary depending on factors like location, experience, number of children and any additional requirements from parents. Backe said she generally doesn’t take less than $10 an hour for one or two kids, and $12 for three or more. The rate for infants should be $11 because they require more care, she said. Younger sitters, including tweens, tend to command less money, often as little as $5 per hour.

What should parents expect? “I have to be able to contact them — if I leave a message, they need to call back,” Sparboe-Derry said. “My one expectation is that TV is not on the sitter’s agenda; they have to be able to en-

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Students in the Madison County Extension/4-H “Super Sitter” baby-sitting program put together an “ages and stages” puzzle showing what young children do at different developmental stages. tertain the kids and not just slip in a movie.” Losch said she expects sitters to put

the kids’ toys away, make their beds and Continues on Page 16

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The basics of baby-sitting Continued from Page 15

clean up their dishes after a meal. “And since the kids still nap, I expect that while they are sleeping, the sitter should be doing something extra to help out, like folding the kids’ laundry and putting it away, or sweeping up a bit.” Lissa Calloway, who owns the Asheville Area Nanny Network, looks for “someone who shows responsibility, is prompt in arriving and answering my phone calls, someone who doesn’t talk on their phone a lot and someone “Don’t expect that who seems to (a sitter) knows want to be around what you want or children.” what will make Estridge said you happy. Make parents should a list of what you look for sitters who enjoy enwant and be spegaging with chilcific.” dren, who know JENNIFER LOSCH, A and respect house MARKETING EXECUTIVE rules, know how AND MOTHER OF A 2to act in an emerAND 3-YEAR-OLD gency and are creative thinkers, “able to think of activities on the fly, such as a quick song to redirect attention.”

What should sitters expect? Baby-sitters should expect parents will be clear about the rates they will pay — such as a reduced rate while the children are sleeping — and about their expectations for cleanup and chores, how children should be disciplined and the standard expectations for behavior. Claire Roth, 12, of Asheville, who took the Red Cross baby-sitting course when she was 11, said it’s helpful when parents discuss some activities with the kids before the baby-sitter arrives “so they might be excited about what they’re doing to do, and you don’t have to come up with as many activities on your own.”

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Backe said sitters who are new to a family appreciate it when the parents take a few minutes “to walk through the house and show the sitter around and be relaxed around the kids before you leave.” And what about kids who behave badly? Should the sitter tell the parents? “Ask the parents how they want a specific situation handled,” Calloway said. “Such as, ‘Last week Tommy kept hitting the cat and would not listen to me when I asked him to stop. How do you all deal with him when he does that?’ If they are good parents, they will give you some clues. If not, they will say to ignore it.” Calloway said sitters can risk losing a job if they defy parents’ rules about discipline, even if the child’s behavior is intolerable. “You have to follow the parents’ wishes, because the kids will tell their parents and you might not be asked back,” she said. “Although I’ve used time-outs, and the parents were so pleased to see the kid listen to someone that I got a fulltime job out of it in college.”

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divorced families

Real advice for dealing with teens By Trip Woodard WNC Parent columnist Whether you are divorced or not, take some comfort in the fact that many parents struggle with this period of time in their child’s life called adolescence. Sometimes I see a self-blaming client in my practice who objects to this notion and says, “But, I see a lot of other parents that work out their problems with their teenagers on television, and I watch reality TV.” Boy, that really stumps me. Now, I am not trying to offend anyone who really loves TV, but my response is often to have clients chant, “TV is not reality, TV is not reality.” To understand what may be real solutions, let’s start with some of the “real” possible problems concerning adolescents, along with suggestions: ◆ Their brains (yes, they have brains) are still developing. The judgment and “thinking” part of the brain continues to develop until around age 21. The emotional part of the brain, unfortunately, is developed enough to be a major influence on their decision making and relational choices. This means that parents need to watch their own emotional reactions to their teens and try to respond from a “thinking” position. The ideal is to train them to think before they act. ◆ Teens engage in power struggles as a part of finding out who they are apart from you. And, they are very good at this, so don’t go there. Always remember that you have more experience, more judgment and more ability to “think.” If you get hit with a question or request

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that takes you by surprise, say “I don’t know” or “I’ll have to think about it.” There are no federal rules that state that you must be the expert on all subjects at all times with your teen. ◆ Teens may try to blame you for their lot in life because you are divorced. As a joke, I tell some of my clients, “Good job. The second rule of mental health is to always know who to blame.” They get the point. ◆ Teens have distractions and pressures that we didn’t in our time. IPods, video games, computers and cell phones are a few examples. Many parents feel outgunned by these realities because they didn’t grow up with them. Don’t be intimidated; learn about these devices. Ask other parents about their house rules concerning electronics. ◆ Teens do not necessarily receive advice in life, and we as a society have bought into supporting this. They have been trained to look to one another for support and information as to what to do in life situations instead of asking an adult who has dealt with the same problem. It can, then, become the “blind leading the blind.” Try, instead, to carefully share your experiences in life and what you learned from them. ◆ Our sense of community life has become impaired. For various reasons, some parents have been talked into not getting to know their teen’s friends or parents, as if it was an invasion of privacy. Get to know their friends and the parents. This is about caring, not nosiness. Finally, I should mention that your own issues may influence parenting of your teenager. If you had a bad experience as a teen with your parents, you may need to lean on others around you that have a constructive memory bank. If you are stressed out and depressed by your divorce experience, then get whatever help and support you need to separate this from your parenting. But, remember: Don’t rely on reality TV. You’ll get better parenting advice from The Weather Channel. Trip Woodard is a licensed family and marriage therapist and a clinical member of the N.C. Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. Contact him at 6068607.

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growing together

Need a mammogram? Be sure to read this first By Chris Worthy WNC Parent columnist Let’s talk about breasts. Do I have your attention? Good. Readers of this column have become my friends over the years. You e-mail and encourage and share in the same way we would if we were having a cup of coffee together. This is my chance for girlfriend talk, so go pour yourself a cup. I’ll wait. I turned 40 recently. (OK, it was almost a year ago. Whatever.) That means I am now in the annual mammogram club, which is about as exciting as it sounds. I had a baseline mammogram

five years ago, so my doctor would have radiological evidence of what my young, healthy breasts looked like before they, um, went south. It was normal. I was happy. In retrospect, I had zero preparation for that first appointment. I knew where to go and what time to be there, but little else. When I had my second mammogram recently, I was better prepared and I am ready to share with you my vast mammogram knowledge. (I’ve been twice, so maybe it’s not so vast.) My list of things you need to know before you go? ◆ Bring a book or some knitting or a Continues on Page 22

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Time for a mammogram? Continued from Page 21

handheld video game. ◆ Don’t wear deodorant. Did you know this? I didn’t. ◆ Wear a button-up blouse. You will have less of a “my hair tells you I just had a mammogram” look as you leave. ◆ Try to schedule your appointment for a time when you won’t already have breast tenderness. There is great misinformation out there about the X-ray process. I’ve heard the jokes, but really, it isn’t that bad. Let’s face it, if you have kids, you have no modesty (and precious little pride) left anyway. If you have given birth, endured piano practice, served on a PTA committee or taken your child out of a toy store without buying anything, this is a piece of cake by comparison. And it could save your life. I have no family history of breast cancer. But the two greatest risk factors are barreling down on me like a freight train. I am a woman (hear me roar), and I am getting older. Even if you aren’t old enough for a mammogram, you should still do monthly breast self-exams. Breast cancer can and does strike young women. According to Susan G. Komen for the Cure, one in eight women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer. In this country, a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every three minutes — one dies from this disease every 13 minutes. Want some good news? The Komen Foundation also reports that the fiveyear survival rate for breast cancer that is detected early is now 98 percent. Make the appointment. Go. Now. You can thank me later, over coffee. (If finances are keeping you from getting a mammogram, tell your doctor or visit komen.org for information about free and low cost mammography.) Chris Worthy is an attorney who took down her shingle to be a stay-at-home mom. Contact her at chris@worthyplace.com.

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Programs keep kids busy after school By Barbara Blake WNC Parent writer Your child is 12, maybe 13, and has aged out of traditional after-school child care programs after graduating from elementary school. But you’re not sure he’s quite ready to come home to an empty house at the end of the school day. What do you do? There are a few programs in Buncombe County that offer a safe haven for younger teens, such as the YWCA, Eliada Home and the Salvation Army. But many parents are challenged with piecing together a plan from various sources to be sure their children are cared for until they’re ready to go home alone. “There’s very little care available for kids that age, and a lot of parents simply can’t afford it,” said Denise West, head of school-age programs at Eliada Home, which offers care for 12- and 13-year-olds from the Erwin school district. “A lot of kids are not mature enough to be home alone, but there just aren’t many options for them.” Some families are fortunate to have grandparents or other relatives who can pitch in with after-school care. Parents within smaller neighborhoods sometimes swap off child care duties, having teens or tweens come to one house one day and another the next. And for those with greater resources, there are the traditional baby sitters who can be waiting when the child gets off the bus. Alison Goodman, a guidance counselor at Reynolds and Owen middle schools, said she tries to help parents piece together after-school activities such as the Girls on the Run track program, the drama club or some sports

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activities — although sixth-graders are not allowed to participate in team sports beyond serving as helpers. And those activities are not offered every day. “I know we have some kids who ride the school bus back to their neighborhood, particularly in Shiloh, and go to the community center there,” Goodman said. “It really is a problem in this age group, particularly in those areas where the kids are not on the city bus line.”

Other programs

The Delta House operated by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority across the street from Asheville Middle School provides afterschool tutoring and mentoring for students who are referred by AMS teachers and administrators. There are other pockets of activities for teens, such as a writing project at the Flood Gallery in the PHOTO BY JOHN COUTLAKIS River Arts DisCity programs From left, Gabrielle Westmoreland helps Lauren West, 12, of Erwin Middle School, and Hannah trict. There are Meadows, of Leicester Elementary School, make friendship beads during the after school program after-school sports Amy Rickman, at Eliada Home. There are few programs for 12- and 13-year-olds who have aged out of traditional leagues and activiprogram supervisor afterschool programs but aren’t ready to stay home alone. ties like martial for Asheville Parks, arts, gymnastics Recreation and Culand dance, but those come with fees and tural Arts, said all of the city’s recreation with homework if it’s needed.” most do not provide transportation. centers are open to teens after school, Even though the programs are just The YMCA offers care and transalthough there are no structured prodrop-in, with no planned activities, the portation to sixth-grade students who grams for children beyond age 12. centers at least provide a safe place for were already in the Y program, and of“We probably have the most kids at tweens and teens to be, she said. fers the Project RISE program for stuthe Shiloh, Burton Street and Reid cen“If these centers weren’t there … these dents who are referred from Asheville ters, and a number come to the Montford kids might find too many opportunities and Oakley centers,” Rickman said. for things that are not constructive, and “There are different activities available we try to offer more positive activities Continues on Page 26 to them, and staff members can help and alternatives for them,” Rickman said.

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Programs keep kids busy after school Continued from Page 25

and Valley Springs middle schools. The YWCA’s free FutureVision program targets students at risk for drop-

ping out of school, and the Salvation Army’s Teen Club — only $10 per year including transportation — serves populations in the Asheville, Enka and Erwin districts. But there are many other 12- and 13-year-olds who are not a fit for those programs for financial, geographic, transportation or other reasons.

Staying home alone Recognizing that there is a gap of care in that age group, the Buncombe PHOTO BY JOHN COUTLAKIS County Child Protection Counselor William Drake partipates in and watches over a touch Team and Child Fatality football game with Matthew Goldsmith 10, of Emma Elementary, Task Force developed a left and Zack Profitt, 12, of Erwin Middle during the after school detailed resource guide to program at Eliada Home. help parents determine if their children are ready to fly solo after school, along with tips to they don’t want to put their kids in jeophelp keep their kids safe if they do deardy.” cide to let them stay home alone. The resource guide, called “Is Your “We have so many parents calling us Child Ready to Stay Home Alone?” asin desperation, not knowing if it’s OK for sesses a child’s readiness for self care, them to let their kids be alone after followed by a guide to all the things kids school,” said Pat Creighton, training should know to stay safe at home alone. specialist with Buncombe County Child Get a copy of the guidelines by calling Care Services. “Especially in this econo250-6700 or at Buncombe County Child my, a lot of parents can’t afford care, but Care Services, 59 Woodfin Place.

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AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS Salvation Army Teen Club The Teen Club on Haywood Road in West Asheville serves ages 13-18 for $10 per year. Transportation is provided from Asheville, Enka and Erwin high and middle schools. The club offers homework assistance, a drug prevention program, a Keystone Club to develop leadership skills, a course for financial education, sports and recreation. Contact Kim Miller at 255-0266 or kim.miller@uss.salvationarmy.org. Eliada Home Eliada Home at 2 Compton Drive, just off Leicester Highway, offers care for 12- and 13-year-olds and provides transportation from Erwin Middle. The program includes swimming, horseback riding, gardening, field trips, tutoring and exercises in selfesteem, social and self-help skills. Servicelearning projects are included. Contact Denise West at 254-5356, ext. 224, or dwest@eliada.org, or register at eliada.org. FutureVision The YWCA of Asheville on South French Broad Avenue operates a free program, FutureVision, from 3-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday for students ages 12-18. The program is made possible through a Dropout Prevention Grant from the state. FutureVision offers tutoring, computer skills, research assistance, project completion assistance and general homework help, along with cultural, physical, social and intellectual activities designed to meet the needs of youth.The program also offers a mentor to each willing participant. Visit ywcaofasheville.org, or call 254-7206, ext. 205. Project RISE The YMCA offers RISE (Reaching Individual Success through Empowerment), a free program for youths ages 7-15 who are referred by school officials, social workers and/or juvenile justice officers. The program offers tutoring, academic remediation, homework support and enrichment projects focusing on conflict resolution, service learning, character development, arts and the environment. It serves Asheville and Valley Springs middle schools. Asheville recreation centers To learn more about neighborhood recreation centers, visit ashevillenc.gov, or call 259-5800.

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Find some fun for the big kids By Barbara Blake WNC Parent writer Remember when all you had to do to make the kids happy was take them to the park to run and play? That’s not so easy once they become tweens and teens, with energy to burn and a need to see and be seen. Here are some ideas for your almostgrown-up kids, whether they’re into extreme sports or enjoy exploring the written word.

Climbing walls The Montford Recreation Center, at 34 Pearson Drive, has an indoor climbing wall with 12 top roped routes including a crack climb, as well as bouldering for beginners to advanced climbers. The center is open 6-9 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday. Call 253-3714 or e-mail montfordr@ashevillenc.gov. ClimbMax, at 43 Wall St. in downtown Asheville, offers club and team climbing for tweens and teens. Hours are 4-5:30 p.m. Wednesdays for fifth to seventh grades, and 5-7 p.m. Thursdays for grades six-11. Call 252-9996 or visit climbmaxnc.com.

Teen groups at public libraries Buncombe County Public Libraries offer a number of activities for teens, particularly at the East Asheville and Weaverville branches, which have monthly meetings and are open to teens throughout Buncombe County. Some activities are based around books or writing projects. Others are just for fun. Coming up in October: ◆ Teen Open Mic Night for teens ages 12-18, 4 p.m. Oct. 9, and School Age Book Club’s Haunted Library Costume Party for kids ages 6-11, 4 p.m. Oct. 28. Both at Weaverville Library, 41 N. Main St. Call

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PHOTO BY ERIN BRETHAUER

Kaya Hallelujah, 13, looks at librarian Jesse Figuera for instructions on how to make an origami crane at the East Asheville Library during Domo Day last month. 250-6482. â&#x2014;&#x2020; Teen Halloween for ages 11-18, 3-4:30 p.m. Oct. 31 at the East Asheville Library, 902 Tunnel Road. Call 250-4738. For more information about teen groups and events at the library branches, visit buncombecounty.org/library and click on news and events.

BMX tracks The Hendersonville BMX is in Jackson Park, open to all ages. The track is open for practice from 5-7 p.m. Wednesdays for a $2 practice fee. Call 674-4857 or visit hendersonvillebmx.org. The Weaverville BMX is on Herron Cove Road off Stony Knob Road. The track is open for practice 5 p.m. until dusk Tuesday and Thursday. Call 4232276 or visit weavervillebmx.org.

Skate parks The Food Lion Skatepark, at 50 Cherry St. in downtown Asheville, has 17,000 square feet of skating space with a beginner bowl, intermediate street course and an advanced vertical bowl. Open 2 p.m.dark Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-dark SatContinues on Page 33

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Fun activities for tweens and teens Continued from Page 31

urday and 1 p.m.-dark Sunday. Call 2257184 or visit foodlionskatepark.com. The Zero Gravity Skatepark in Brevard has 12,000 square feet of indoor skate space for skateboards and inline skates, including a spine mini-ramp, fun boxes, mini three-quarter bowl, bank ramps, ledges and a pyramid. Call 862-6700 or visit zerogravityskatepark.com.

Rock U at the Asheville Arts Center Kids age 7-12 and 13-18 learn to play in a real band, using theory lessons, rock ensemble classes, private lessons, performances and recording sessions, as well as seminars throughout the year on topics such as songwriting, stage lighting, recording and stage presence. Students receive 30-minute private lessons on the instrument of their choice and two-hour weekly group rehearsals, from 4:30-6:30 p.m. or 6:30-8:30 p.m. Rock U is at the Asheville Arts Center,

308 Merrimon Ave. Call 253-4000 or visit ashevilleartscenter.com.

Bowling There are three bowling alleys in the area, offering a chance for teens to show off their athletic prowess while doing some social mingling. ◆ Star Lanes is at 491 Kenilworth Road in East Asheville. Call 254-6161 or visit amf.com. ◆ Sky Lanes is at 1477 Patton Ave. in West Asheville. Call 252-2269. ◆ Tarheel Lanes is at 3275 Asheville Highway, Hendersonville. Call 253-2695 or visit tarheellanes.com.

Go skating Tarwheels Skateway on U.S. 70 in Swannanoa is Asheville’s only indoor roller-skating rink, with public skating for all ages and a video arcade and snack bar. Cost and hours vary according to day and season. Call 298-6606 or visit tarwheelsskateway.com.

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librarian’s picks

Exploring adventures in science By Jennifer Prince Buncombe County Public Libraries The new book “Extreme Scientists: Exploring Nature’s Mysteries from Perilous Places” is an example of perfect children’s nonfiction. It captivates young readers with its promise of adventure, all the while providing substantive information about different areas of science. The author, Donna M. Jackson, picked three scientists to introduce. The first, Paul Flaherty, is a hurricane hunter. He is not the sort of hurricane hunter who follows these deadly storms just for the sake of a thrill. Using specially equipped aircrafts, Flaherty flies into the center of hurricanes gathering data about the storms’ strength, direction and air pressure. The data are used to determine the storms’ tracks, speed and the time and location of landfall. The second scientist Jackson introduces is Hazel Barton, a microbiologist at Northern Kentucky University. A large part of Barton’s job is exploring caves all over the world. Rappelling down narrow, steep cave walls and diving in vast bodies of water inside caves provides Barton with the environments she needs to gather all kinds of microbes. Once in her lab, Barton studies the microbes with the hope that her data will one day help scientists create more powerful diseasefighting drugs. Also, Barton’s data might help NASA determine if there is life on other planets. Jackson’s third scientist is Steve Sillett, a botanist who skywalks. That is to say, he explores a tree’s crown while

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dangling midair, his only point of fixed contact with the tree being where his rope wraps around a branch. Sillett and his colleagues sometimes spend days at a time aloft. While Sillett has studied many kinds of trees, he has a particular interest in the California redwoods. Sillett’s study of how these trees grow provides data to help scientists find solutions to prevent the death and stress that the trees have faced in recent years. Sillett’s data will help scientists determine if the trees are versatile enough to adapt to global warming. For each scientist, Jackson includes an anecdote about a particularly challenging or dangerous project in his or her career. The hurricane tracker relates a time when his plane lost the use of one of its engines while flying through Hur-

ricane Isabel in 2003. The microbiologist recalls a time when she was perched on a ledge in a cave and the ledge gave way under her. The botanist describes a time when he nearly died after a branch broke under his weight. The photographs Jackson uses as the main source of illustrations in the book are outstanding. With her camera, Jackson conveys the enormity, grandeur and mystery of the scientists’ work environments. Jackson also incorporates photographs of the scientists as kids, showing off their developing scientific interests. This book is available through the Buncombe County Public Libraries. Visit buncombecounty.org for more information.

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home-schooling scene

Tweens are free to be themselves Nicole McKeon WNC Parent contributor As far as tweens and home schooling go — it’s a perfect match. The reason I think so is that most home-schooling tweens that I know are free to be themselves. If they still like to play with dolls, they can without fear of persecution. If they like to write short stories, they have the time and support to write to their heart’s content. If they love all things related to science, they will not be alone, and they will not be relegated to the geek brigade — they will be cool in their own way. Our area offers many wonderful opportunities for home learning tweens. There are creative writing, drama and art classes and many volunteer opportunities geared toward this age group. Check out the online groups WNChomeschoolers (http://groups. yahoo.com/group/WNC-Homeschoolers/), which is a Christian-based group, and HOME Asheville (http://groups. yahoo.com/group/home-asheville/), a secular group. There are also many musical activities, such as home school choir and Asheville Symphony’s Children’s Choir. Parents in this area have been creative in adapting co-operative learning groups into one-room schoolhouse style learning environments, where all ages learn to work together to meet an educational goal. One of my very favorite things about home-schooled children is if you observe a group of differently aged home schooled children, what you are most likely to find is an older child helping a younger child to do what the group is doing. There is no ageism in home-

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HOME-SCHOOLERS IN OCTOBER ◆ East Indian Dance session for girls. The classes will be Friday afternoons, Oct. 2Dec. 11. Grand performance will be on Dec. 12. Times: 2:30-3:30 p.m. or 3:45-4:45 p.m. Cost is $24 for four sessions. At Laurel Creek clubhouse in East Asheville. E-mail indiandancer657@gmail.com. ◆ Of interest to Waldorf home-schoolers: Todd Crowe, the local Waldorf teacher (school opens next fall), will be on “Virato Live” on Oct. 3 talking about Waldorf education. It will air online at http://viratolive.com or over the air at 880 AM. The interview will be 10-11 a.m. schooling. These kids are used to being around people of all different ages, and are “socialized” to work with each other regardless of their year number. In my opinion, just another good reason to home school. Toddler, tween or teen — home-schooling works. Nicole McKeon is a home-schooling mom who lives in Asheville. Contact her with your ideas at nmckeon@msn.com.

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SEND US YOUR PHOTOS We welcome photos of your children. Send highresolution images, along with a brief description of the event, and names, ages and hometowns of everyone pictured. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget your name, address and phone number. Send to Katie Wadington by e-mail at kwadington@citizen-times.com or to WNC Parent Photos, P.O. Box 2090, Asheville, NC 28802.

Cameron Pierce, 6, reads with the help of some swimming goggles. Submitted by his dad, Jason, of Weaverville.

Charlie, 2, and Webb Hughes, 7, of Asheville, help out at their parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; store. Submitted by mom Louise Hughes.

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AREA STORY TIMES Buncombe County Public Libraries

Mother Goose Time (ages 4-18 months) 11 a.m. Mondays: West Asheville 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays: Fairview 11 a.m. Wednesdays: Swannanoa, Weaverville 11 a.m. Thursdays: Oakley 11:30 a.m. Thursdays: Enka-Candler Toddler Time (ages 18-36 months) 10 a.m. Wednesdays: North Asheville 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays: Fairview, Skyland/South Buncombe 11 a.m. Wednesdays: West Asheville 10 a.m. Thursdays: Swannanoa 10:30 a.m. Thursdays: Black Mountain, Enka-Candler 11 a.m. Thursdays: Weaverville (first Thursday only) Story time (ages 3-5) 11:15 a.m. Tuesdays: Weaverville 10 a.m. Wednesdays: Oakley 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays: Black Mountain, EnkaCandler, Leicester 11 a.m. Wednesdays: East Asheville, North Asheville 10:30 a.m. Thursdays: Fairview, Skyland/South Buncombe 11 a.m. Thursdays: Swannanoa, West Asheville 11 a.m. Saturdays: East Asheville School-age story time (ages 5-7) 3:15 p.m. Thursdays: North Asheville Family story time 11:15 a.m. Tuesdays: Weaverville Storyline Call 251-5437 for a story anytime.

Henderson County Public Library

Bouncing Babies (ages 0-18 months) 11:15 a.m. Tuesdays: Etowah 11 a.m. Wednesdays: Main Library 11:15 a.m. Wednesdays: Fletcher Toddler time (ages 18 months-3 years) 10 a.m. Tuesdays: Etowah 10 a.m. Wednesdays: Fletcher 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays: Main Library Preschool story time (ages 3-5) 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays: Main Library, Etowah 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays: Fletcher 10:30 a.m. Thursdays: Main Library Family story time (all ages) 10 a.m. Mondays: Edneyville

10 a.m. Thursdays: Green River 10:30 a.m. Saturdays: Main Library Stories Alive 10:30 a.m. Saturdays: Main Library 4 o’clock Craft Club 4 p.m. Thursdays: Main Library

Barnes & Noble

◆ Asheville Mall, 3 S. Tunnel Road, 296-7335 Story time: 11 a.m. Mondays (toddlers) and 2 p.m. Saturdays (young readers). American Girl Club: 4 p.m. third Saturday. Magic Tree House Club: 4 p.m. fourth Sunday. ◆ Biltmore Park, 33 Town Square Blvd., 687-0681 Story time: 2 p.m. Sundays.

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Kids page

Maze

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Word search: Trees APPLE BIRCH CEDAR CHERRY ELM FIR MAPLE NECTARINE OAK PALM PEACH PEAR PLUM PINE POPLAR RUBBER SPRUCE WALNUT WILLOW

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puzzles for parents Across

1. Surface magmas 6. French lake 9. Lover’s strike 13. Defendant’s excuse 14. “Four score and seven years ___” 15. Shade of purple 16. Between Rive Droite and Rive Gauche 17. Navigational tool in geography class 18. Caused from worry? 19. Chemistry or biology, e.g. 21. Roll call list 23. DNA transmitter 24. Creator of Willy Wonka 25. Health resort 28. Storm in “Fantastic Four” movie 30. ______ school or junior high 35. Skiers’ ride 37. What libraries do 39. Whimpers 40. Prefix for air 41. Type of wood resistant to rot 43. Assigned spot 44. Sol-fa-sol-fa-sol-fa, e.g. 46. Unwelcome visitors that can spread quickly in classroom 47. Lottery-like gambling game 48. Regard or respect 50. Not friends 52. Bobby sox dance 53. Equal parts white and black 55. Victory sign 57. A welcome break 60. Head of class 64. Outlaw 65. One little piggie 67. Loot 68. Alleviated 69. I have 70. Satisfy 71. Hemorrhaged 72. St. Louis football player 73. High schoolers, e.g.

25. “Wipe the _____ clean” 26. Docks 27. Spirits below level of angels and devils in Islamic mythology 29. It means start or end of class 31. Work area 32. Nerd 33. Treeless plain 34. Bar by estoppel 36. Enameled metalware popular in 18th century 38. Art ____ style, popular in the 1920s 42. “Superman” Christopher 45. Beowulf, e.g. 49. Robinson to “The Graduate” 51. Same as sea moss 54. On the move

56. School to Madeline, French 57. Genuine 58. Other than what’s implied 59. Includes girls and boys 60. Move in large numbers, as in bees 61. Golfer’s destination 62. Distinctive elegance 63. Sun beams 64. Valentine’s Day mo. 66. Female reproductive cells

Solutions on Page 55

Down

1. Lad’s counterpart 2. Jack on “30 Rock” 3. 8 to Caesar 4. Comic strip “Li’l _____” 5. Earth-tone pigment 6. Feeble 7. Turkish military leader 8. Dried coconut meat 9. “He’s not worth his ____” 10. Playwright Clare Booth ____ 11. Affirm with confidence 12. ___ capita 15. Islam follower 20. Type of lily 22. Unit of electrical resistance 24. Make one resemble a dandy

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HALLOWEEN EVENTS Oct. 16-31 Howl-O-Scream: 7:30-11:30 p.m., Old Mill Center, Fourth and Grove streets, Hendersonville. For ages 9 and older. Tickets are $10. Call 693-3840 or 6924744. Oct. 24 Haunted Lagoon: Noon-3 p.m., Zeugner Center (behind Roberson High School). Face painting, crafts and more. Costume contest at 12:30 p.m., pool open 1-3 p.m. Admission is a canned food donation and $2 for swimmers. Call 684-5072. Howl-O-Ween: 1-8 p.m., WNC Nature Center, 75 Gashes Creek Road, Asheville. Family fun with the Creepy Crawler Cabin, warm cider and snacks, arts and crafts, Howl-O-Ween Family Feud, Mountain Marionettes, games and face painting. Costume Contest at 6:30 p.m. Bring a goodie bag. $6 per person. Call 298-5600 or visit wildwnc.org. Oct. 25 Halloween story time: 1 p.m., Spellbound Children’s Bookshop, 19 Wall St., Asheville. For ages 3 and older. Call 232-2228 or visit spellboundchildrensbookshop.com. Oct. 31 Fall Harvest Fair: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Cummings Memorial United Methodist Church, 3 Banner Farm Road, Horse Shoe. Enjoy games, crafts, entertainment and more for the family. Call 891-2753. Family Fun Fest: 4-6 p.m. at Covenant Community Church in Reynolds. Hot dog dinner, toddler train, inflatables, Velcro wall and face painting, trunk-ortreat. Watch “Monsters Inc.” and enjoy popcorn at 6:30 p.m. Everyone welcome. Free. Call 298-8955. Fletcher Halloween Carnival: 3-5 p.m. for age 11 and younger. Features games, candy, face painting, costume contest and more. Carved pumpkin contest. Bring a nonperishable food item. Call 687-0751. Great Candy Caper: Asheville’s Fun Depot, Sweeten Creek Road at Interstate 40. Wear a costume and track down a candy stash. (Must wear costume to participate.) Halloween Carnival: 3-5 p.m. at Kate’s Park in Fletcher. For children 11 and younger with games, prizes, and costume contest. Call 687-0751. Teen Halloween: 3-4:30 p.m., East Asheville Library, 902 Tunnel Road. Games, ghost stories and spooky fun. Dress up as your favorite book or movie character. Free. For ages 11-18. Call 250-4738 or e-mail eastasheville.library@buncombecounty.org. Trick-or-Treat Street: 4:30-7:30 p.m., downtown Hendersonville. Costume contest and entertainment at the gazebo on Main Street. Call 697-2022. Trick or Trunk: 2-4 p.m., Mills River United Methodist Church. Hayride, face painting, candy, carnival games and more. Bring a canned food item. At 131 Old Turnpike Road, Mills River. Call 891-7788. Trunk or Treat: 3-5 p.m., Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church, 789 Merrimon Ave. Games, cake walks and more. Free. Open to all. Call 254-3274. Nov. 2 Candy buy-back: Dr. Steve Edney Orthodontics will buy back Halloween candy at $1 per pound from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. At 689 Blythe St. Court, Hendersonville. Call 696-1662.

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kitchen kids

Get your children cooking Special to WNC Parent What does it take to be a Kitchen Kid? The recipe is quite simple. Think safety first. Then, add an interest in learning. Sprinkle a few simple kitchen skills. Find recipes each month in WNC Parent especially designed for kids to make.

Get-stuffed French toast

1 16-ounce challah or French bread loaf, cubed 1 8-ounce package Havarti cheese, cut into thin slices 6 large eggs 4 cups milk 1/2 cup sugar 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided 2 tablespoons butter, melted 1/4 cup maple syrup 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries 1 12-ounce jar blueberry preserves Preheat oven to 350째F. Arrange half of bread cubes in lightly buttered 13x9x2-inch baking pan. Top evenly with Havarti; top with remaining bread cubes. Whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, butter, and maple syrup in large mixing bowl; pour over bread mixture, pressing bread cubes to absorb egg mixture. Sprinkle SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT/WISCONSIN CHEESE remaining cinnamon over the top. Cover baking Get-stuffed French toast is an easy recipe pan with foil. for kids to try. Bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake 30 more minutes or until lightly browned and set. Let stand 5 minutes before serving. Stir together blueberries and blueberry preserves in a small saucepan over low heat until warm. Serve blueberry sauce over French toast. Serves 8-10

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calendar of events

Things to do The deadline to submit items for November’s calendar is Oct. 14. Send items to calendar@wncparent.com.

Starts Sept. 28

Leicester Library Knitters

A knitting and crocheting group for all skill levels at 6:30 p.m. at Leicester Library, 1561 Alexander Road. Call 250-6480.

Sept. 30

YWCA swim lessons

The next session of Red Cross certified swim lessons at the YWCA begins Sept. 28. Join at any point in the session. Classes for all levels. Call 254-7206, ext. 110, or sign up at the YWCA, 185 S. French Broad Ave. Visit ywcaofasheville.org.

Breast-feeding class

Learn the basics of breast-feeding through Park Ridge Hospital’s Baby Place. Class is at 7 p.m. in the Duke Room, 100 Hospital Drive, Hendersonville. Cost is $25. Call Sheri Gregg at 681-2229.

Sept. 29

Starts in October

If you have headaches, hot ears, high stress or low energy, your cell phone and computer could be the culprit. Learn about the growing problem of electropollution. At 7 p.m. at Earth Fare in West Asheville. Contact Beth Hockman at 299-9844 or bioprobeth@gmail.com.

Whole Horse Journeys offers a seminar for the parents of horse-loving children to give you information about horseback riding lessons, horse ownership, costs and safety issues. Classes are one day a week for four weeks, morning and evening classes available. Registration required. Call 280-5682 or visit wholehorsejourneys.com.

Electro-pollution presentation

Horses 101

PHOTO BY STEPHEN MILLER

The Scarecrow Festival and Craft Show is Oct. 3 at Lake Julian Park.

Runs through October ‘Forever Free’

“Forever Free” is an exhibit at Pack Memorial Library that examines President Abraham Lincoln’s efforts to abolish slavery during the Civil War. Call 250-4700 or e-mail library@buncombecounty.org.

Starts Oct. 1

Juvenile Bookfest

The Friends of the Oakley Library is having a used book sale on children’s books. All books will be half off the regular sale price for October. Hard covers are 50 cents each; paperbacks for 25 cents. Donate books to your child’s classroom but let the teacher to do the choosing with gift certificates. Call 250-4754 or e-mail oakley.library@buncombecounty.org.

Oct. 1

Health Adventure Girl Scout program

Junior Girl Scouts can earn the Marine Animals badge after learning about different animals and their habitats. Runs 3:15-5:15. At 2 S. Pack Square. Cost is $6 per scout. Call 254-6373, ext. 327, or visit thehealthadventure.org.

YWCA Black & White Gala

The YWCA of Asheville’s fifth annual Black & White Gala will be at 7 p.m. at The Orange Peel, 101 Biltmore Ave. Silent and live auctions, food and dance music by Westsound. Tickets are $40 each or two for $75. Festive black and white attire is encouraged. Call Tami Ruckman 254-7206, ext. 206, or visit ywcaofasheville.org.

W N C PA R E N T | O C TO B E R 2 0 0 9

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calendar of events Continued from Page 45 night out for children ages 2-12. Register online or in person (at least 24 hours before scheduled program). Offered 6-10 p.m. the first Saturday of each month. Cost is $15 for members ($30 for nonmembers), with $2 sibling discounts for everyone. Call 210-5622 or visit ymcawnc.org.

Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 Kids’ events at Kmart

Area Kmarts will offer entertainment, music and food for kids from noon-4 p.m. each Saturday in October. Visit kmart.com to find the store nearest you.

Oct. 3-4

Autumn at Oz

Walk the Yellow Brick Road and meet your favorite “Wizard of Oz” characters at Beech Mountain’s annual celebration. Cost is $15 (2 and younger are free). Strollers not recommended. Tours through Oz are 10 a.m.-noon, noon-2 p.m. and 2-4 p.m. Visit beechmountainchamber.com.

Oct. 4

Halloween costume workshop

All-ages workshop at Waechter’s Fine Fabrics teaches costume making for boys and girls. Cost is $30 per person. Bring a sewing machine, or rent one for $10. Girls should bring a T-shirt to decorate; boys should bring black pants for pirate costume. Runs 1-4 p.m. Store is at 9 Reed St., Biltmore Village. Call 2743146 or e-mail info@waechters.com.

Meet the author

Edith Hemingway, author of “Road to Tater Hill,” will be at Spellbound Children’s Bookshop at 2 p.m. At 19 Wall St. Call 232-2228 or visit spellboundchildrensbookshop.com.

Oct. 5

Food allergy group

COCOA — Caring for Children with food Allergies — is a free group for parents of food-allergic children. Meets at 6:45 p.m. the first Monday of the month in the deli seating area of the South Asheville Earth Fare on Hendersonville Road. E-mail Kristie at cocoa_in_asheville@yahoo.com.

Oct. 6 and 13 Childbirth 101

A two-session class for expectant parents covering the labor and delivery process, relaxation, breathing patterns, birth options, positioning and comfort measures. Bring two pillows and a blanket. Two Tuesdays, Oct. 6 and 13, 6:30-9 p.m. Cost is $90, or free with Medicaid. Registration required. At Pardee Health Education Center in Blue Ridge Mall, Four Seasons Boulevard, Hendersonville. Call 692-4600.

W N C PA R E N T | O C TO B E R 2 0 0 9

calendar of events

Oct. 6-10

Cherokee Indian Fair

Fair offers an opening parade, midway, fireworks, traditional Cherokee food and competitions that bring out the best of the Eastern Band’s basket makers, carvers, quilters, gardeners and more. At Cherokee Indian Fair Grounds, 475 Tsali Blvd., Cherokee. Cost is $10 per day. Visit cherokee-nc.com.

Oct. 7

Breast-feeding and Calming a Fussy Baby class

Class that teaches tips and tricks to feed, calm and soothe a baby meets 6-9 p.m. at The Women’s Wellness and Education Center, 24 Arlington St., Asheville. Cost is $25. For information, call Holly at 250-0226 or visit AshevilleWomensWellness.com.

Skyland Library Knitters

A casual knitting group for knitters of all skill levels at 6 p.m. at the Skyland/South Buncombe Library, 260 Overlook Road. Call 250-6488.

pizza and play games. Cost is $25 for first child and $20 for each additional child. Reservations required. Call 253-8181.

activities, best-dressed pet show and special entertainment for kids. Visit mtngloryfestival.com.

Teen Open Mic Night

Open house at Living Points Community Acupuncture Clinic, noon-4 p.m. Free treatments, raffles, food and beverages. Living Points is an affordable acupuncture clinic with sliding scale payments.

The Weaverville Library Teen Advisory Group will host a Teen Open Mic Night to showcase the talents of teens. Kids 12-18 may perform anything from poetry and spoken word to music pieces, short skits and more. Sign up at the front desk or at the library’s MySpace page at myspace.com/weavervillelibrary, or call 250-6482. Group meets the first Friday of each month at 4 p.m. At 41 N. Main St.

‘Cinderella, Kids!’

Asheville Arts Center presents an adaption of classic Disney film “Cinderella.” At 308 Merrimon Ave., Asheville. Call 253-4000 for information.

Family Fun Festival

Hendersonville Christian School hosts a festival, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Enjoy all-day bounce and miniature golf, plus games, cake walk, horse rides, silent auction, crafts, food and Muscle in the Mountains Car Show. Call 692-0556 or visit hcsmustangs.org.

Hey Day

Oct. 8

Horrid Henry Great Underpants Challenge

Knitty Gritty Knitting Night

A casual knitting group for knitters of all skill levels meets at 6:30 p.m. at the East Asheville Library, 902 Tunnel Road. Call 250-4738.

Oct. 9

Parents Night Out

Drop the kids off at Fired Up! Creative Lounge, 26 Wall St., downtown, and have some grown up time. Children ages 5-12 will paint a bisque piece, have

Continues on Page 49

Oct. 10

Swannanoa Library Knitters

A casual knitting group for knitters of all skill levels meets at 5 p.m. at the Swannanoa Library, 101 W. Charleston St. Call 250-6486.

Open house

A day of fun at WNC Nature Center, with music, clogging, balloon sculpting, storytelling, pumpkin painting, face painting, exhibits and more. Runs 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at 75 Gashes Creek Road. $9 for adults, $6 for children. Visit wildwnc.org.

Meet the star of the “Horrid Henry” early reader series and see if you can create a pair of underpants worse than Henry’s. All materials provided. Free. Suggested for ages 6-10. At 2 p.m. at Spellbound Children’s Bookshop, 19 Wall Street. Call 232-2228.

Mountain Glory Festival

Celebrates fall in the mountains, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. on Main Street in Marion. Features crafts, entertainment, food and a children’s area with hands-on

WNCMOM.COM, THE PLACE WHERE LOCAL MOMS CONNECT

W N C PA R E N T | O C TO B E R 2 0 0 9

calendar of events Continued from Page 47 Visit livingpoints.net or call 687-8747. At 5 Allen Ave., Suite B, Asheville.

Starts Oct. 10

UNCA Super Saturday program

Six-week courses for gifted, creative and motivated third- through eighth-graders at UNC Asheville. Registration is due Oct. 7. Cost is $65 for each course. Visit unca.edu/oaci/supersaturday or call 251-6558.

Oct. 10-17

CANstruction exhibit

Teams of architects, engineers and students from Buncombe County schools compete to design and build giant structures made entirely from full cans of food. Food will be donated to MANNA FoodBank. Structures will be on display at Pack Place (2 S. Pack Square), the BB&T Building lobby (1 W. Pack Square), Biltmore Building lobby (1 N. Pack Square) and Asheville Design Center (8 College St.). Visit construction.org.

Oct. 11

Pumpkin Patch Family Fun Night

Pumpkins, music, a hayride, face painting, food and more is offered 4-7 p.m. at Fletcher United Methodist Church, on Hendersonville Road about two miles south of Airport Road.

Oct. 12

Chimney Rock Park home-school program

Chimney Rock Park program teaches what is true and what is false about bats. Runs 10:30 a.m.-noon. Cost is $12 per student, $11.50 for parents ($7 for students and free for Annual Passholder parents). For information, visit chimneyrockpark.com. Call 800277-9611 to register.

Starts Oct. 12

YMCA Swim Lessons

â&#x2014;&#x2020; The Reuter Family YMCA in South Asheville offers swim lessons for children ages 3-13, as well as parent-child and adult classes. Cost starts at $20 for a four-week Saturday session and $40 for weekday sessions for members, and $35 and $70, respectively, for nonmembers. Call 651-9622. â&#x2014;&#x2020; The Asheville YMCA offers a four-week session with weekday classes for children ages 3-12, parent-child classes, adult classes, and a swim club for children ages 7-14. Cost starts at $40 for members and $70 for nonmembers. Call 210-9605.

Continues on Page 50

WNCMOM.COM, THE PLACE WHERE LOCAL MOMS CONNECT

calendar of events Continued from Page 49

Oct. 13

Art Museum home-school program

Program for students in first-fifth grades meets 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month. Tour the museum and participate in an activity. Cost is $4. To register, call 253-3227, ext. 121 or 122, or e-mail eshope@ashevilleart.org. Visit ashevilleart.org.

Bilingual Bedtime Story Time

Weaverville Library offers Bilingual Bedtime Story Time, in English and Spanish, for all ages. At 6:30 p.m. at 41 N. Main St. Call 250-6482.

Storytelling Evening

Bring the family for an hour of storytelling with Gwenda Ledbetter at 7 p.m. at Leicester Library. Ledbetter is the former “Story Lady” of Pack Memorial Library. Free. At 1561 Alexander Road. Call 250-6480.

Oct. 14

Holistic Parenting Forum

The Holistic Parenting Forum is a free group to provide an opportunity for a diverse community of parents committed to natural living to gather. Meets 6-8 p.m. the second Wednesday of each month at Earth Fare, West Asheville. Children welcome. Call 230-4850 or e-mail shantisunshine@gmail.com

Origami Folding Frenzy

Learn new folds, share favorites and meet fellow origami enthusiasts. Paper is available at the museum store or bring your own. Cost is museum admission. From 4-5 p.m. the second Wednesday of the month at The Health Adventure, 2 S. Pack Square. Call 254-6373 or visit thehealthadventure.org.

Beading class

Historic Johnson Farm offers a beading class for teens and adults. Cost is $25 and includes all tools and beads. At 7 p.m. Register by Oct. 7. The farm is at 3346 Haywood Road, Hendersonville. Call 891-6585 or visit historicjohnsonfarm.org.

Starts Oct. 14

Empowered Birthing classes

Four interactive classes focus on natural childbirth, positions for comfort and massage techniques for labor. VBACs welcome. Tips for breast-feeding and soothing a fussy baby are incorporated. Classes run 6-9 p.m. Wednesdays at Women’s Wellness and Education Center, 24 Arlington St. Cost is $175. Call 231-9227 or visit ashevillewomenswellness.com.

W N C PA R E N T | O C TO B E R 2 0 0 9

calendar of events

Through Oct. 15

KidPower ENERGIZE!

Park Ridge Hospital offers a free, multidisciplinary community outreach program that is designed for the prevention and treatment of childhood obesity and Type 2 diabetes. A 12-week, 36-session program. Physician referrals required. Call Ellen Seagle at 650-6960.

Oct. 15-18

Lake Eden Arts Festival

Music festival with crafts, dancing, kids village, performances from international to local acts, and more at Camp Rockmont in Black Mountain. Children 9 and younger are free. For tickets, call 68-MUSIC. Visit theleaf.com.

Oct. 16

YMCA parents’ night out

The YMCA in downtown Asheville offers a parents night out for children ages 2-12. Register online or in person (at least 24 hours before scheduled program). Runs 6:30-9:30 p.m. Cost is $12 for members ($24 nonmembers), with $2 sibling discounts for everyone. Call 210-5622 or visit ymcawnc.org.

Oct. 16-18 ‘Grease’

Asheville Arts Center presents the school version of “Grease,” performed by 8- to 18-year-olds. Performances at 7 p.m. Oct. 16, 3 and 7 p.m. Oct. 17 and 3 p.m. Oct. 18. For information, call 253-4000.

Oct. 17

Asheville Arts Center preschool

Asheville Arts Center is opening the doors to its preschool for an open house, 2:30-4:30 p.m. at 308 Merrimon Ave. Call 253-4000 for information.

Auditory Integration Training

Learn about Berard Auditory Integration Training, a 10-day, 10-hour intensive intervention helpful for undiagnosed persons, those with autism, ADD and related conditions. At 11 a.m. at Enka-Candler Library, 1404 Sand Hill Road. Call 667-0912 or 7071364 or visit AITtoday.com.

Rummage sale

Asheville Catholic School, 12 Culvern St., hosts a rummage sale, 7 a.m.-1 p.m. More than 100 families offering children’s clothes, toys, household items, books, DVDs, sporting goods and more. Cash only. Call 252-7896.

Spare Me bowling tournament

Support Special Olympics Buncombe County athletes at the Spare Me Bowling Tournament. Entry fee includes two games, shoe rental and a T-shirt. Silent auction. Entry fee is $20 per person. Two game times: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. for family games and 6-9 p.m. adults only. Visit buncombecounty.org/governing/ depts/parks/SpecialOlympics.htm. Continues on Page 52

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calendar of events

Oct. 18 HardLox

Ashevilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jewish food and heritage festival runs 11 a.m.-4 p.m. around the Grove Arcade in downtown Asheville. For more information, visit hardlox.com.

Tao of Parenting workshop

An innovative workshop to deepen and refine skills on how to parent a highly intelligent, creative and sensitive child. Led by Maureen Healy and offered at Horse Farm, Equinection in Green Mountain. Visit growinghappykids.com or call 505-0383.

Registration starts Oct. 19 Play and Learn

Parents/caregivers and children ages 3-5 in Buncombe County who are not in regulated child care are invited to attend a series of six free 45-minute Play and Learn group sessions. Offered at 10 or 11 a.m. Tuesdays, Nov. 3-Dec. 15; 10 or 11 a.m. Wednesdays, Nov. 4-Dec. 16; and 10 a.m. Thursdays, Nov. 5-Dec. 17. At the Family Resource Center at Asheville City Schools Preschool, 441 Haywood Road in West Asheville. Registration required. E-mail marna.holland@asheville.k12.nc.us or call 2555423. New participants may register starting at 8 a.m. Oct. 19; returning participants starting 8 a.m. Oct. 26.

Oct. 20

Breast-feeding class

Learn the art of breast-feeding. From 6:30-7:30 p.m. at Pardee Health Education Center in Blue Ridge Mall, Four Seasons Boulevard, Hendersonville. Call 692-4600. Class is free; registration is not required.

Oct. 20-24

All Things Children consignment sale

Sign up to consign by Oct. 19. Drop off is 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Oct. 20-21. Consignors shop early, 1-8 p.m. Oct. 22. Sale is open to public 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Oct. 23-24. Half-price shopping begins at 1 p.m. Oct. 24.

PHOTO BY STEVE DIXON

Ben Lax and his mom Amber enjoy the HardLox festival in downtown Asheville. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event is Oct. 18. Sale is at Calvary Freewill Baptist Church, U.S. 70, Swannanoa. (Church is not affiliated with the sale.) Visit ccx.bravehost.com, e-mail allthingschildren828@yahoo.com or call 337-4294.

Oct. 21

Montessori open house

Swannanoa Valley Montessori School is hosting an open house, 5:30-6:30 p.m. For ages 18 months-6 years at 130 Center Ave, Black Mountain. Grades one through six meet at Carver Community Center, Fortune Street and Cragmont Road, Black Mountain. Call LuAnn Wilks at 669-8571, or visit swanmont.org.

Oct. 22-24

Arts For Life arts and crafts market Arts For Life Asheville will host its first arts and crafts market at 30 Cedarcliff Road, Biltmore Forest, to benefit children facing medical challenges. Proceeds will be used to provide hundreds of hours of art

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calendar of events lessons to young patients and their siblings. Runs 4-8 p.m. Oct. 22 and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Oct. 23-24. Free. Visit aflnc.org.

Oct. 23

Family Movie Night

Enjoy a family movie, popcorn and drinks for free at 7 p.m. at Cummings Memorial United Methodist Church, 3 Banner Farm Road, Horse Shoe. Call ahead for movie being shown, 891-9413.

Kids’ Night Out

Drop the kids off for pottery painting, a craft project, pizza and more at a Halloween-themed kids’ night out at Claying Around, 1378 Hendersonville Road, South Asheville. Runs 6-8 p.m. For ages 6-12. Wear your costume and receive a prize. Reservations are required. Cost is $25 per child. Call 277.0042 or e-mail clayingaround@bellsouth.net.

Oct. 24

Band Aid for DANN Fundraiser

Differently abled musicians will share the stage with some of Asheville’s most popular performers. Runs from noon-4 p.m. at The Grey Eagle Tavern in Asheville. Children’s activities, raffle, food, dancing and more. Tickets $10 in advance by calling 681-5110 or 243-9972 or $12 at the door. Benefits local nonprofit Differently Abled News Network Inc.

Oktoberfest

Emmanuel Lutheran Church and School will host a Fall Festival and Oktoberfest from 3-7:30 p.m., with games, food, live music and a German meal (at 6 p.m.). Free. Call for meal ticket price. Call 252-1795 or 281-8182, or visit emmanuellutheran.info.

Oct. 25

Pumpkin Patch Family Fun Night

Pumpkins, music, a hayride, face painting, food and more, 4-7 p.m. at Fletcher United Methodist Church, on Hendersonville Road about two miles south of Airport Road.

Oct. 25-26

Rummage sale

Beth Israel hosts a rummage sale from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. at 229 Murdock Ave., North Asheville, across from Weaver Park. Includes clothes, books, toys, household items and furniture. Visit bethisraelnc.org.

Oct. 27

BirthNetwork of WNC

Preview the film “Birthing Under an Illusion,” a humorous look at media myths of birth, with BirthNetwork of WNC at the Pardee Education Center at Blue Ridge Mall in Hendersonville. Runs 7-8 p.m. E-mail birthnetworkofwnc@gmail.com.

Black Mountain Library Knitters

A casual knitting group for knitters of all skill levels that meets monthly at the Black Mountain Library. At

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calendar of events Continued from Page 53 7 p.m. at 105 Dougherty St. Call 250-4756.

Pardee parenting classes

Classes at Pardee Health Education Center in Blue Ridge Mall, Four Seasons Boulevard, Hendersonville. Call 692-4600 for information. Classes are free. Registration is not required. ◆ Infant care class: Learn the basics of infant care, 6:30-8 p.m. ◆ Prime-time with a pediatrician: Learn from a local pediatrician what to expect with a newborn in your home, 8-9 p.m.

Oct. 28

School Age Book Club

The Weaverville School Age Book Club will begin meeting bi-monthly through the school year. Dress up for a Haunted Library Costume Party at 4 p.m. At 41 N. Main St. Call 250-6482.

Oct. 29 and 30 Camp Sew Wow!

Children’s sewing classes offer a choice of several projects depending on skill level. Bring basic sewing supplies including your sewing machine. Class runs 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Oct. 29 and Oct. 30. Cost is $45

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calendar of events per day, plus cost of supplies from Waechter’s, at 9 Reed St., Biltmore Village. Call 274-3146 or e-mail info@waechters.com.

Oct. 31

For Halloween event listings, see Page 42.

Finnegan’s Fabulous Flea Market

Saint Joan of Arc Church, at 768 Asbury Road in Candler, hosts a flea market with crafts, household items, and more, from 8 a.m.-noon. Children in costume will receive candy.

Ongoing

Grove Park Inn programs

The Sports Complex at the Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa offers two programs for children. For reservations, call 252-2711, ext. 1046, or e-mail mmiller@groveparkinnresort.com. ◆ Kids Night Out: 6-10 p.m. each Friday and Saturday, for children ages 3-12. Cost is $45 per child. Advance registration required. ◆ Cub’s Adventure Camp: A full-day (9 a.m.-4 p.m.) or half-day (9 a.m.-1 p.m. or 1-4 p.m.) program on

Saturdays. Lunch included. Cost is $65 for full day; $45 for half-day morning with lunch; $30 for half-day afternoon.

Latin classes

Latin classes for ages 10-14 are in 12-class sessions at Kenilworth Presbyterian Church. Classes run 4:30-5:30 p.m. Sundays or 5-6 p.m. Tuesdays. Cost is $120 plus books. Contact karen.boekschoten @hotmail.com or jeffreykinzel@gmail.com.

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Nov. 2-8

Asheville International Children’s Film Festival

Enjoy films from around the world with adventure, surprises, laughs and stories that will make kids see the world in a new way. At Asheville Pizza & Brewing, 675 Merrimon Ave. Visit aicff.org. Tickets are $4 for children, $5 for adults.

Solutions to puzzles on Page 41

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calendar of events Continued from Page 55

Joyful Noise classes

Joyful Noise Community Music and Arts Center is enrolling for private music lessons, drama classes, visual arts, and clogging and flatfooting dance classes. Classes in Weaverville, Marshall and Mars Hill. Call 649-2828 or visit joyfulnoisecenter.org.

Moms groups

Biltmore Baptist MOPS: MOPS is a place designed for mothers of children from infancy to kindergarten. All moms welcome. Meetings are 9:30-11:30 a.m. the first, third and fifth Wednesday the month at Biltmore Baptist Church, 35 Clayton Road, Arden. Call 687-1111, e-mail mopsofbbc@yahoo.com or visit mopsofbbc.com. La Leche League of Asheville: Pregnant moms, babies and toddlers welcome at all meetings. Monday morning group meets at 10 a.m. the second Monday of the month at First Congregational Church on Oak Street. Contact Susan at 628-4438, Falan at 683-1999 or Tamara at 505-1379. Monday evening group meets at 7 p.m. the third Monday of the month at Awakening Heart on Merrimon Avenue. Contact Jen at 713-3707 or Yvette at 254-5591. La Leche League of Hendersonville: Offers information and support for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Meets at 10 a.m. the second Wednesday of the month at Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Hendersonville, 2021 Kanuga Road. Babies and toddlers are welcome. Contact Andrea at 676-6047, Katie at 808-1490 or MC at 693-9899. Mom2mom: Christian moms group meets at 6:30 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month at St. Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Church, 32 Rosscraggon Road, Rosscraggon Business Park Building B, Asheville. Moms with any age children are welcome. For information, call 388-3598. Mommy and Me: Park Ridge Hospital offers a support group for moms at 10 a.m. the second Wednesday of the month. At Lelia Patterson Center, Fletcher. Contact Amy Roach at 2532804 or Angie Collins at (231) 838-4853. Moms with Multiples: Group for moms with multiples to share experiences and offer support. Meets 7 p.m. the first Thursday of the month at the Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Resource Center on Doctors Drive, behind Mission Hospital. Call 444-AMOM or visit ashevillemom.com. Montreat/Black Mountain MOPS: Join other moms for fun, laughter and friendship. Group meets 9-11 a.m. the second Tuesday of each month at Black Mountain United Methodist Church, 101 Church St. Free child care. Call Michelle at 669-8012, ext. 4001, to reserve a spot. North Asheville MOPS: Meets 9:30-11:30 a.m. the first Monday of the month at Maranatha Baptist Church, 1040 Lower Flat Creek Road, Weaverville. Contact Jennifer Warner at 4236180 or Liban Morris at lmorris_cid@hotmail.com.

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