WNC Parent June 2012 by Stacey

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

contents This month’s features 5 10 12

Little athletes Free play is key when preschoolers start sports.

Martial arts Kids learn self-discipline as well as self-defense.

Hit the water Kayaking and canoeing are great for older kids.

16 19

Summer lessons Prevent “brain drain” with everyday learning.

Avoid overtraining Brian Lawler explains how recovery is key for young athletes.

In every issue

Kids’ Voices .....................14

Home-School Happenings.20 Growing Together............38 Puzzles............................40 F.E.A.S.T...........................42 Librarian’s Picks...............44

Family Choice Awards Find out the winners in our annual awards.

Kids Page ........................48 Calendar .........................53

Madelyn Jones by Colby Rabon. Correction: The child and photographer for the May cover were misidentified. Zoey Marshall was in the photo, shot by Jesseca Bellemare Photography, www.jessecabellemare.com.

.com Are you a member? Join the conversation, post photos and connect with other parents at WNCParent.com. Look for WNC Parent on Facebook and Twitter.

Katie Wadington, editor My son has played organized baseball since he was about 3½. And I mean “organized” in that there were teams with coaches. Because at that age, there is nothing organized about kids and a ball on a field. But even when his games amounted to no more than a half-dozen boys collapsing into a pile while chasing a ball that had been hit off a tee, it was a good lesson for him in how to get along with teammates. These days, children start playing team sports at a much younger age than when I was little. In our story on Page 5, we look at sports for the littlest kids. A popular option to get kids moving is martial arts. But as our story on Page 10 points out, karate and tae kwon do and other disciplines are about more than just kicks and punches. They can teach children respect and control, among other valuable lessons. I’m always looking for new ways to keep my son and daughter active. One thing we may try this summer is kayaking. In the story on Page 12, area experts talk about how to get your child started in kayaking or canoeing. With summer and its activities comes the likelihood that your children will start forgetting all that they worked so hard to learn in the school year just completed. Read our story on Page 16 to get ideas on preventing “brain drain.” Finally, a big thank-you to all of those who cast ballots in our Family Choice Awards. We list the winners in this issue, starting on Page 22.

On the cover

Story Times .....................45 Nature Center Notes ........47

Sports for little ones

P.O. Box 2090, Asheville, NC 28802 828-232-5845 | www.wncparent.com PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER Randy Hammer WNC PARENT EDITOR Katie Wadington — 232-5829 kwadington@citizen-times.com

FEATURES EDITOR Bruce Steele bsteele@citizen-times.com

ADVERTISING/CIRCULATION Tim (Bo) Head — 232-5860, thead@gannett.com CALENDAR CONTENT Due by June 11. E-mail calendar@wncparent.com ADVERTISING DEADLINE Advertising deadline for the July issue is June 15.

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

KIDS & SPORTS

Madelyn Jones, 3, practices with her team Koalas 3 at the Buncombe County Sports Complex in Enka on a recent Saturday. COLBY RABON/WNC PARENT PHOTO

SPORTS

FOR F

TOTS

or the Jones family of Weaverville, a Saturday spent at the Buncombe County Sports Complex is a fun family event. After pulling on her shin guards and tying her small cleats, Madelyn, 4, plays soccer with her team, the Koalas 3, while Mom, Dad and big sister, Mackenzie, cheer her on from the sidelines. Sports keep both of the Jones girls very active. “They don’t spend too much time in front

Organized teams and programs teach little ones coordination while having fun By Susanna Barbee, WNC Parent contributor

of the TV,” mom Jennifer Jones says. “Madelyn has really come out of her shell since playing sports; she can be very shy at times.” While playing sports has been nothing but a positive experience for the Jones family, some argue that the toddler years are too young for competitive sports. “When kids are 3, 4 and 5, it’s important for them to develop the fundamental elements of how we move and coordination.

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

That’s why free play is great, because kids move in all different ways and learn balance and stability. When you slot them into training specific motions at such a young age, they might not be getting as much variety in their play,” Dr. Ed Laskowski, co-director of the Mayo Clinic Sports Medicine Center, told ABC News. Jones said Madelyn’s games last about an Continues on Page 6

KIDS & SPORTS

Anne Callihan, of Asheville, started a sports co-op with friends. Some of their young athletes include, from left, Hyde Schuelke, Jack Callihan, Walker Godfrey and Tommy Lackey. SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT/

SPORTS FOR TOTS Continued from Page 5

hour. Although Madelyn plays a sport, the vast majority of her time is still spent in free play. Furthermore, Jones and her husband emphasize the fun part of sports as opposed to the competitive side. “The biggest lesson that we teach our girls is that it’s not about winning, it’s about having fun. If they are not having fun, then it would not be worth it.” Kim Turner, assistant athletic director with Asheville Parks and Recreation, said there is a lot of interest in sports for ages 3 and 4. The city partners with Asheville Buncombe Youth Soccer Association to offer soccer, with five youth baseball organizations to offer T-ball, and it runs a youth basketball program in conjunction with the YMCA. According to Turner, soccer and T-ball are the most popular sports for the youngest athletes. “The benefits include having fun, developing motor skills, making friends, learning new things and developing self-esteem,” Turner said. Anne Callihan, of Asheville, also views sports favorably. Her two older children,

Grace Ellen, 7, and Jack, 5, are very involved in athletics. Along with playing sports through Asheville Parks and Recreation, the Callihans and a group of friends started a sports co-op system. Through co-oping, the parents coach the children in a number of sports such as soccer and baseball. According to Callihan, there is no set schedule, and the atmosphere is very relaxed. “The co-op system is really fun because you’re with your friends, and you can plan it at fields and times that are convenient for everyone,” Callihan said. The Callihan kids also learned to ski at a young age through a program at Cataloochee Ski Area in Maggie Valley. The lessons included two hours of instruction and a free night pass for the night of the lesson. “The kids really learned to ski well, and skiing became something fun we did as a family,” Callahan said. Another option for young children is martial arts such as karate, tae kwon do, kung fu and jiu-jitsu. Christine Basulto, owner of Basulto Academy of Defense in Waynesville and a mom of 7-year-old twin boys, teaches jiujitsu with her husband, Armando. She says martial arts brings increased self-confidence, discipline, socialization and group exercise.

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

The Basultos’ students, including their two sons, enjoy the skills-based games, learning fun techniques to help keep them safe and the opportunity to compete in a safe and supportive environment. The respect students learn from martial arts often translates into other areas of their lives such as the classroom. One element of marital arts is bowing. “It’s not simply to show respect to the instructor but also to focus the mind and ‘greet’ your fellow students,” Christine Basulto said. She added that children as young as 5 compete in their own division, but some moves are prohibited for that age. “They grapple safely and are awarded points for superior positioning and controlling their opponent. These are all great skills that will help children deal with physical bullying in a nonviolent way.” Many parents choose to hold off on organized sports until their children are a bit older. They instead opt for parent-child classes or programs in gymnastics or other sports skills. No matter the sport, parents like Jones and Callihan want their children to have fun and place little importance on winning. “I don’t even think score is kept,” said Jones. “If it is, we are not aware of it. Madelyn just gets excited if she gets to kick the ball.”

KIDS & SPORTS

Aidan Hauser, 10, of Burnsville plays on ABYSA Top Soccer special needs team. Aidan has cerebral palsy and suffers from epileptic seizures and other ongoing health issues that sometimes prevent him from playing. SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

ADAPTIVE SPORTS

cater to kids with special needs By Pam J. Hecht. WNC Parent contributor

eing able to play on a team is not something Aidan Hauser, 10, takes for granted. He and his family drive all the way from Burnsville to East Asheville every Saturday morning during soccer season so he can play on Asheville Buncombe Youth Soccer Association’s special needs team. For Aidan, who has cerebral palsy and suffers from epileptic seizures and other ongoing health issues, the soccer field is a place where can play without worrying about being different or less athletic than anyone else. “Playing soccer has improved his self-confidence and it puts a smile on his face,” says his dad, Tom Hauser. Not every child can play on a typical recreational sports team, particularly those with disabilities. Several organizations have stepped up to the plate to provide kids with special needs the opportunity to participate in different sports. Continues on Page 8

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

KIDS & SPORTS

Madison Boling pushes her twin brother Kane, 11, around the bases during a game at Martin Luther King Jr. Park through the city of Asheville’s adaptive baseball league. ERIN BRETHAUER/EBRETHAU@CITIZEN-TIMES.COM

Adaptive sports Continued from Page 7

develop physical fitness, technical skills, “and most importantly, courage and selfesteem, through the joy and excitement of soccer,” he says.

ABYSA TOPSoccer

Viper Cheer/Strikers

TOPSoccer gives Aidan a chance to play in an environment that’s less structured than a typical soccer team and learn about “teamwork, camaraderie and following instructions,” says Hauser. The emphasis of the program is on development, training and meaningful participation rather than on competition, says Shane Weems, ABYSA director of coaching. Instead of teams, kids are separated into age/developmentally appropriate groups in “a safe and welcoming environment,” with a low coach to player ratio, he adds. After practicing individual skills, each player is paired with a volunteer “buddy” to play a game, Weems says. The goal is to

Alice Zink, Viper Cheer’s special needs coach, wanted to provide kids with disabilities the same cheerleading opportunities as other kids, she says. So she and her daughter Sammie, 16, a member of the Viper senior team, started the Strikers, Viper Cheer’s All-Star cheerleading team for kids with special needs. Sammie choreographs the team’s cheer routines, which are designed to accommodate each child along with what works best for them as a team, Zink says. “Our special needs team allows kids with disabilities a chance to feel like they fit in along with other kids,” she says. “They get on stage and do exactly what other kids are doing — it’s a huge boost of confidence to them and they see their

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

dreams come true by hearing applause, winning trophies, and making friends.” Laura Snyder’s daughter Tsz-yan, 11, has Down syndrome and cardiac-related medical issues, and she tires easily. But after nearly two years on the Strikers team, she’s never grown tired of cheerleading. “She loves it, has become more social, and it’s given her a lot of self-esteem,” Snyder says. “All of the girls on the team have come out of their shells and are more willing to exert themselves.” “Everyone treats the team like their equals and the older cheerleaders volunteer to help teach them and cheer them on,” Snyder adds.

Osega Special Needs All-Star Team

For the kids on Osega’s special needs team, gymnastics offers many opportunities to feel proud and successful, with lots of easy ways to learn and improve, says

PROGRAM INFORMATION » ABYSA TOPSoccer: Sundays, fall and spring sessions for ages 5-18. At Reynolds High School, 1 Rocket Drive, Asheville. $20 for uniforms. Contact Shane Weems, 299-7277, ext. 304, shane@abysa.org, www.abysa.org. » Osega Gymnastics: All ages. 1-2 p.m. Saturdays at 34 Old Brevard Road. Contact Katie Jo Merritt, special needs director, 949439-0193, katyjom@aol.com, osegagym.com. » Viper Cheer: Ages 5-11. 9-10 a.m. Saturdays at Asheville Gymnastics, 50 Coxe Ave., Asheville. Free. Contact Alice Zink, 231-7279, vipercheermom@hotmail.com, vipercheerleading.com. » Special Olympics/Buncombe County: Practice and tournament schedule varies. Annual Spring Games event is in May. Free. Contact Greg Mace, Buncombe County Special Olympics, 250-4260, gregory.mace@buncounty.org, www.sonc.net/

Katie Jo Merritt, special needs director for Osega Gymnastics. Gymnastics also teaches the basic fundamentals of coordination, flexibility, strength, agility, body awareness and balance for benefits both inside and out of the gym, says Merritt. Gymnastics can be adapted to any type of disability and provides life lessons like discipline, perseverance and self-confidence, Merritt adds.

Therapeutic Recreation, Asheville City Parks & Recreation With a focus on noncompetitive fun, the

buncombe. Visit www.sonc.net for programs in other counties. » Therapeutic Recreation Program, Asheville Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts: Ted E. Tourist Baseball, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays through June 2. Jr. Bobcats Adapted Basketball, January-February. Adapted Bowling League, October. $25 - $40; Contact Lori Long, recreation specialist, Asheville Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts, Therapeutic Recreation Program, 259-5483, LLong@ashevillenc.gov, www.ashevillenc.gov. » Kiwanis Special Needs Baseball League: All ages. 10:30 a. m. and noon, Saturdays, April-June and in the fall. At Jackson Park, 801 Glover Street, Hendersonville. Free. Contact Donnie Jones, 606-5691, jonesdtl@yahoo.com or Henderson County Parks and Recreation Department, 697-4884, www.snbaseball.org.

city of Asheville’s Therapeutic Recreation program offers adapted baseball, basketball and bowling. It is open to kids with or without disabilities, so siblings can play, too. Additional athletic programs may be offered in the future. “The sports programs are all about being with peers, participating with a team, and learning the basics about the sport,” says Lori Long, Recreation Specialist, Asheville Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts. “Players learn life lessons, cultivate feelings of value and self-worth and can have the same experiences any other child can have.”

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

Rules are modified to make the games accessible for all players and each child receives instruction, a uniform, and a trophy.

Special Olympics

Known for its annual Spring Games, with hundreds of athletes competing in track and field events, the Special Olympics also offers ongoing practice sessions and periodic tournaments for disabled kids (and adults) of all ages throughout the year. Sports programs include bowling, aquatics, skiing, softball, basketball, power lifting, volleyball, track, bocce, soccer, golf and tennis.

Kiwanis Special Needs Baseball League

Founded last year by Donnie Jones, longtime Little League and school baseball coach, this league through Kiwanis in Hendersonville was formed to give players the opportunity to belong on a team regardless of need or ability. The league, which was originally for kids only but now includes adults, has 82 players on eight teams. All players receive a uniform, trophies and medals. “Every player gets to play and score,” says Chad Jones, who handles the league’s finances. “We have a large number in wheelchairs and walkers and everyone has a great time.” Pam J. Hecht is a freelance writer, editor and instructor based in Asheville. Email her at pamjh8@gmail. com.

KIDS & SPORTS

MARTIAL ARTS for children emphasize mind-body coordination

Logan Sink, 9, and David Romagnuolo, 11, practice during class at Dojoku Martial Arts. ERIN BRETHAUER/EBRETHAU @CITIZEN-TIMES.COM

By Paul Clark, WNC Parent contributor

“He’s stayed with karate all this time because he really wanted that junior black belt,” Passero said. “Karate has given him an understanding of the role in persistence in meeting a goal.” Martial arts is a means to an end, local teachers said. The self-discipline that a child learns is often more valuable than

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

aden Passero, 11, has learned so much more than karate from his martial arts classes, his mother said. Chandra Passero has noticed an improvement in Jaden’s confidence, coordination and physical strength. His willingness to try new things and take risks has also gotten better, she said.

the self-defense the martial art teaches them, they said. “Confidence, coordination, focus and balance,” Lorna Hollifield said, citing some of the benefits. She is program director of The Little Gym near Biltmore Square Mall, where Jaden takes karate. “Children learn to defend them-

MARTIAL ARTS INSTRUCTION » The Little Gym, www.tlgasheville.com, » Dojoku, www.dojoku.com, » Ninja Kid’s Club, www.ashevilleninjakidsclub.com, » White Oak Martial Arts Center, www.whiteoakmartialarts.com

Gracie Dilliard, 7, practices a kick at The Little Gym’s karate class. MARGARET HESTER/WNC PARENT PHOTO

selves, but they also get a good idea of when not to use karate. It’s all about thinking and problem-solving, but mainly it’s about focus. Stepping back and evaluating a situation teaches them self-control. And when they do that, they can use their skills better.” The Little Gym is a children’s gymnastics facility that uses an energetic musicbased atmosphere to motivate students through curriculum-based, noncompetitive athletics. It’s serious fun for the kids, Hollifield said, that results in some serious skills. Jaden started there in gymnastics and is thriving in its karate program, his mother said. Raymond Cagle has taken what he knows of nine martial arts and 36 years of studying them and combined them into the program he teaches children and adults at Dojoku Martial Arts in South Asheville. Advancement depends not only on tech-

nique but also on life skills such as courtesy, commitment, respect, accountability and leadership — qualities that benefit everyone, especially children, Cagle said. “Those are just as important as punching and kicking,” he said. “We’re looking for children to be good human beings, well-rounded adults who can accomplish anything and not be afraid of making mistakes. “It’s all about respect and accountability,” he said. “Even the 5-year-olds, we’re big on them being accountable for their sparring gear. We don’t accept that it didn’t get put away because Mommy didn’t do it.” Ninja Kid’s Club at Kasumi Yama Bujinkan Dojo in downtown Asheville teaches a style of martial arts from the ninja and samuri schools. Classes are small, taught in “a family style,” said instructor Nesta Ainspan.

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

Children learn how to leap, roll and fall safely, alone and in the company of others. As they advance in rank, they learn to move with and around tools, Ainspan said. Lessons are based upon monthly themes such as honesty and respect that are pegged to nature and the children’s relationship with nature. Ninja Kid’s Club accepts children as young as 4 and has programs “that work at any age,” Ainspan said. White Oak Martial Arts Center in downtown Asheville accepts children who are 4, sometimes a little younger “if they can pay attention for a 45-minute class,” master instructor Derek Croley said. “The first thing we do is teach them how to take a class — raise your hand, sit still in line,” he said. “The next thing is positive character traits — being a good citizen, being honest, responsible, having integrity.” Self-defense these days means dealing with bullies, poor nutrition, negative self-image and a lazy lifestyle, Croley said. To combat those things, White Oak teaches children kung fu, guiding children through punches, kicks, locks, throws and padded weapons. The idea is to teach children mind-body coordination, he said. “The thing that helps you in a real self-defense situation, like someone punching you, is your ability to pay attention and stay focused,” Croley said. “All the techniques we teach students give them concepts for strategies. We teach body awareness. It helps them focus better in school. To me, that’s the real value.” “Traditionally, in martial arts, out of all the technique in any system, 80 percent is character-building,” Cagle said. “It’s the virtues you learn. Especially at the higher levels, we’re looking more for character than who’s got the perfect kick.”

FUN ON THE

KIDS & SPORTS

WATER Kids may enjoy kayaking and canoeing, but easing them into boating is key

By Paul Clark WNC Parent contributor

hildren take to the water naturally, so naturally, they’re interested in boating around on top. Starting them gradually is the best way to make sure they keep themselves out of trouble, area water skills teachers said. With a little common sense, a healthy respect for the water and the right equipment, children can learn to pilot their own kayaks or canoes as easily as they can a bicycle. And as with bikes, once they know how, they’ll never forget, longtime paddlers said. “Kids love being out on the water,” said Eli Helbert, an Asheville-based, three-time open canoe world champion who teaches canoeing skills around the world. “They can drag their paddles and look for bugs. Whitewater is the least exciting part for kids. They’d rather see the bald eagles on the French Broad River, or the blue herons and wild turkeys.” The first rule of thumb is that children know how to swim, he said. Nothing protects a child more than her ability to keep her head above water and her body moving toward a safe place in the water. And it’s imperative for children (and adults) to wear personal floatation devices when they’re in a boat, Helbert said. He makes his children wear helmets not only for the rocks in the river but also because of the oars in the boat. “You never know what might hit you,” he said. “If

Eli Helbert, rear, says his daughter Sage Fish, foreground, has taken naturally to being in boats because he taught her water safety early on. GREAT SMOKIES PHOTOGRAPHY/SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

you’re jumping onto the bank, you might hit your head on a (low-lying) limb.” Under adult supervision, children as young as 5 or 6 can easily pilot “sit-on-top” kayaks in standing water, such as in a lake, said Grant Bullard, owner and director of Gwynn Valley Camp in Brevard. These kayaks don’t have the confining skirts that more advanced kayaks have to keep water out of the boat. Make sure the kayak and the paddle fit the child, Bullard said (ask a boating professional for help). It’s important that the child be comfortable in the floatation device, so Helbert suggests letting them wear it while playing in the water. Have them swim or dogpaddle in it between adults, he said. He advises starting children in a canoe or kayak on flat water, such as a pond or a lake like Lake Julian or Lake Powatan. Don’t let them get too far from shore, and don’t let them get cold and shivery, because then they won’t like boating, Helbert said. “About 9 or 10 is the age when we can really work with them,” said Sid Cullipher, program director of Headwaters Outfitters Outdoor Adventures in Rosman. “That’s when kids understand the importance of getting in the right swim position (feet-first) if they go overboard in a river, he said. They understand why it’s crucial,

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

if they fall out, to get behind the boat (so it won’t slam them into a rock). And why it’s important to stay away from trees that lean into the water (the current flowing through the submerged branches can entangle a boat). Kayaks, which can be paddled from both sides, might be easier for kids to start out in than canoes, which are propelled from one side, Cullipher said. One of Helbert’s favorite canoe trips with children is on the French Broad River between Bent Creek and Hominy Creek. It’s a flat, two-hour float with little action other than the current. The French Broad between Brevard and Asheville has lots of flat sections, he said. In Sylva, the Tuckaseegee River is great for kids. The lower Green River toward Hendersonville is also good, he said. “The kids that learn about boats early are better off than the ones that start later,” Helbert said. “They’re more comfortable with being on the water. It’s not such a scary place for them.” “There’s almost a fearlessness with the kids. They have a sense that this is just plain fun,” Cullipher said. “For kids, it’s all about play. So (being on the water) becomes a natural progression of learning skills to have even more fun.”

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

kids’ voices

Father’s Day love

Father’s Day is June 17, so we asked students at Woodfin Elementary School what they would get their dads, if money were no object. Here is what kids in Mrs. Hensley-King’s first grade class and Ms. Haney’s fourth-grade class told us. “I would give my dad a hound dog. He’s always wished for one.” Cheyenne

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

“I would give my dad ME. He loves me, and I am not kidding.” Bayleigh

“I would give him a robot cleaner. He likes a clean house, and I can do my homework.” Cole “I would give him a basketball court and a card that says I LOVE YOU, DAD.” Devyn

“He only needs my love so I wouldn’t buy him anything!” Jessi

“I would build him a basketball court.” Braeden

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

“I would get him video games.” Miles

“I would get him tickets to see the Falcons play.” Brendan

The Summer Book, which is available for preschool through eighth grade, presents a thorough, multi-subject review in one workbook. Kids complete one page per day which typically takes less than an hour. These books are available at www.summerbookcompany.com. SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Staying sharp

over the summer By Betty Lynne Leary, WNC Parent contributor Ahh, these opening days of summer vacation feel like the first bite of a triple scoop chocolate sundae with whipped cream, fudge sauce and a cherry on top. The early days of June are full of promise — blue skies, sunny beaches, and fun family memories waiting to be made. So what’s on your to-do list this summer?

Prevent ‘brain drain’ while kids are out of school

A trip to the N.C. Arboretum? Leisurely afternoons in the hammock with a good book? Cooking with the kids? How about the summer reading program at the library? Or a hike on the Blue Ridge Parkway? Don’t tell the kids but all of the above help prevent what teachers call “summer brain drain” — that malady that seems to

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

affect school-age kids during the 10-12 weeks of summer break. “Summer brain drain causes children to forget concepts and strategies taught during the previous school year,” says Kellie Webb, fourth-grade teacher at Weaverville Elementary. “Students who have not kept their brain engaged do not remember material,

creating a huge gap in starting points between these students and the ones who actually kept their brain engaged over the summer.” By providing your child with educational opportunities throughout the break, you can give him a head start on the new school year and set a pattern of behavior that will benefit him for a lifetime. “Children who come to school academically fresh in the fall often have higher self-esteem, which leads to higher confidence levels and subsequently higher performances,” Webb notes. “The transition to a new school year becomes a less traumatic situation.” Research bears out what Webb asserts. A study conducted in 1996 showed that most students lose about two months of gradelevel equivalency in mathematical computation skills over the summer. Students with learning disabilities suffer even greater academic losses.

Everyday learning

Susan Blackmon, seventh-grade science teacher at Valley Springs Middle School, suggests ways to find science in the everyday routines of summer. “Let your kids help you cook, talk about measurements and discuss the chemical or physical change that happens as you turn ingredients into something edible,” she says. “Or have them identify plants in the garden and talk about how they grow from a seed to a flower then to a fruit or vegetable.” Blackmon also advises kids to “read, read, read” and that reading together as a family, whether it’s a science fiction novel or a book about the constellations in the Western North Carolina sky is a great way to while away summer afternoons. “Brain drain comes mainly from students playing video games and watching TV all summer,” Blackmon states. “Rest, relaxation and time outdoors are very important for students to refresh and prepare for the coming year.”

Book work

Linda Richardson, a teacher with the Programs for Academic Support and Success at Asheville Christian Academy recommends The Summer Book, an enrichment tool written by Angela Ankers of The Summer Book Co. “I was a classroom teacher that got tired of reteaching the same things during the first six weeks of school each year,” Ankers says. “I started writing these books to help kids review concepts and stay fresh Continues on Page 18

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

Staying sharp Continued from Page 17

throughout the summer. We question teachers from each grade level and also the next grade level up to see what kids need to know.” The Summer Book is designed for kids to complete one page each day, which can be accomplished in half an hour or so. As a parent, Richardson spent part of each spring planning the family’s summer break, and The Summer Book was definitely part of their routine. “We would plan one or two trips each summer — one local trip for hiking or camping in a state park,” she explains, “then we would plan a second trip outside our area to the beach, to Disney World, to a lighthouse, or to the Mall of America.” The planning for these trips became a learning exercise in research for her children, and The Summer Book was always packed alongside the Tshirts and sunscreen. “I felt it was very important to have the kids start their day learning a new concept or practicing skills to keep them strong even on vacation,” she says. “It was only half an hour, and learning was part of living.”

Summertime should be filled with a variety of activities many of which can be educational. Sports, gardening, cooking, hiking, star gazing, and yes, even a little math review can all keep kids academically engaged and help prevent summer brain drain. SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Learning on the sly While your kids may groan over the thought of “school” in the summer, learning opportunities don’t have to be boring. Hands-on activities are key, and kids can have so much fun they won’t even realize they’re learning. Try eating around the world this summer by studying different countries and preparing a meal from each one. Throw a birthday party with a theme like “pioneer days,” where kids dress up and

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

create an art project from that era. They’ll have to do a little research but it will be fun especially with friends! Read required summer books with your kids and talk about the characters, plots and main events . Don’t be afraid to rely on organizations to help keep kids engaged. Enroll your child in a music camp, science camp or sports camp. For older kids, volunteers are always needed during the summer, which can be a terrific learning opportunity whether at a camp, church, animal shelter or nursing home. Colleges also offer camps that may pique your teen’s interest in a particular area of study and give them a very controlled look at life on a college campus. “The key is to plan your summer,” Richardson says. “But don’t plan for your kids, plan with your kids.” Summer learning experiences that take place within the family will strengthen your child’s understanding that learning is a family value. If learning is approached as fun and the child participates in the planning, they will learn to look for learning experiences in everyday life. “There is so much to learn and explore,” Richardson says. “What better time and place to do it than in the summer with your family?”

kids’ fitness

Is your young athlete over-trained? By Brian Lawler

WNC Parent contributor

Today there are ample opportunities for children to be involved in sport competitions year round. Sometimes young athletes will participate on several different sport teams at once and will have to juggle practices and games among their school, club and travel teams. In order for children to fully succeed as athletes, a proper balance should be maintained between their training program and the recovery process. After a training session, your child will become weaker for a period of time until physiological adaptations can occur. If your child does not fully recover before the next training session, then eventually he or she will perform at a level far below his or her potential.

Sometimes the issue is not being overtrained as much as it is being under-recovered. Two children can undergo the same training program, and one child will excel and the other the other will have a lackluster or disappointing performance. This is usually because of differences in the athlete’s ability to recover. Highly motivated athletes are at greatest risk for overtraining as these athletes push themselves hard during practice even when they are fatigued. If your child is training hard and is not performing as well as you would expect, then suspicion should be raised that he or she is over-training. An increase in resting heart rate, a decrease in body weight, sleep disturbances, loss of appetite, increased irritability, mood changes, muscle soreness, increased illnesses and injuries, or a lack of desire to train or compete can all be indications that your child may be recovering inadequately. All kinds of life stress will have an impact on your child’s ability to recover. Also if your child is sleep deprived or has a poor

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

diet, then he or she will likely have a delayed recovery. Recovery can be improved by encouraging your child to get more sleep and to eat as soon as possible after every training session. A combination of carbohydrate and protein (such as skim milk) is best to help replenish glycogen stores and rebuild muscle. Also make sure that your child’s total caloric intake for the day is enough to meet his or her energy needs for training. Many athletes fail to eat enough calories to cover the demands of training and competition. If you suspect that your child is overtrained, then reducing the training load or taking a short break from training altogether is usually all that is needed to allow your child to come back refreshed and stronger.

Brian Lawler is a physical therapist and sports performance trainer at Asheville Physical Therapy. He offers a summer speed camp to help young athletes reach their potential. Visit www.Ashe villePhysicalTherapy.com or call 277-7547.

home-school happenings

Useful books for home-schooling By Nicole McKeon WNC Parent columnist

After you’ve been home-schooling a while, you realize that certain books, materials and websites are “old standbys” — like reliable friends, you can always count on them to help you out when you need help. In our store, I find myself recommending the same things over and over to new home-schoolers, as well as experienced but overwhelmed home-schoolers who need a “reboot.” I’d like to share them with you, and I hope you will find them helpful. I also hope that you will learn through these resources that it is not necessary to spend tons of money on expensive box curriculums. I am dismayed at how often I receive emails or meet folks who believe

they cannot home-school because they can’t afford it. I am a firm believer that with an Internet connection and a library card, you can successfully home-school your child through high school. And, from the amount of used curriculum I buy in my store that is unused, and started out as part of a “box” curriculum, I am pretty sure that the fancy boxed curriculums are not the solution for every family. The best $20 I spend all year is for my membership to the website Enchanted Learning (www.enchantedlearning.com). This website is fabulous. Not only does it offer the basic reading, writing and arithmetic stuff that we all need to supplement our kids’ learning, but it has tons of other help, as well. From coloring pages of George Washinton to make-it-yourself books, from maps of ancient Egypt to easy crafts and recipes, it’s a one-stop shop for all your supplemental needs. It’s especially helpful for

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

unit studies. And at $20 a year, it’s a bargain. All you need is a working printer. (I recommend getting a cheap black and white printer to use for this kind of stuff.) If you are just starting out on your home-schooling journey — before you buy anything — purchase John Holt’s book “Learning All the Time.” While you’re at it, pick up “How Children Learn, How Children Fail and Teach Your Own” — inspirational, informative and reinforcing the belief that, yes, home is the best place for your child to learn. When you are done reading these, take a trip to www.fun-books.com, and check out the Living is Learning guides. Thanks to a dear friend, we discovered these last year, and now use them as a way to track our learning in a useable and relatively easy manner. My copy of “Home Learning Year by Year” by Rebecca Rupp is worn out, underlined, highlighted and indispensable. This book is a jewel, as it gives you a com-

plete overview of how you can design a home-school curriculum for your child from preschool through high school. It gives specific ideas for each year of learning, along with great recommendations for many different books, websites and manipulatives to use each year. Don’t let yourself get overwhelmed by the amount of stuff the author includes for each year; pick and choose what will work for your family, and don’t feel locked into the grade suggestion. I especially like this book because it is one of the few that is written from a secular point of view, which is helpful for those of us who are not homeschooling from a religious world view. To go along with this book, get a copy of “Homeschool Your Child for Free” by Laura Maery Gold and Joan M. Zielinski. I sell at least one of these a week, and I use mine all the time. Tons of free stuff online, well-researched, subject by subject. You will never regret having this book on your shelves. Along with Jim Trelease’s book “The Read Aloud Handbook,” pick up “Books Children Love” by Elizabeth Wilson. This is especially helpful for picking out great

read alouds and designing literature-based curriculum for kids who love to read, as well as for those kids who are simply not interested in reading. (For those kids, I recommend a trip to the library for every Roald Dahl book you can find, and watch their eyes light up! ) For encouragement along the way —

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

something we all need, especially on those days when you are considering running down the school bus and throwing your children aboard — I recommend David Alberts’ “And the Skylark Sings with Me,” as well as “Whole Child/Whole Parent” by Polly Berrien Berendt. Both have spiritual meat and drink to offer the hungry and thirsty home-schooling parent who is at the end of her or his rope! These books have been like dear friends to me. I go back to them over and over again, to encourage myself, and oftentimes to just remind myself for the millionth time that our choice to home-school is the right one. Don’t let anyone tell you you can’t do it. You can. Surround yourself with friends and tools that encourage you along the way. Nicole McKeon is a home-schooling mom and owner of Homeschool Station in Fairview. Email her at homeschoolstation@hotmail.com.

TOPS

IN WNC

hich are the most family-friendly businesses in town? Hundreds of you let us know your preferences in our fifthannual Family Choice Awards. See how you voted on pages 22-37. Katie Wadington, editor

activities Best parent/child program

1. YMCA programs ymcawnc.org 2. Kindermusik Area licensed educators: Allyson MacCauley, 318-3100, allsoulscathedral.org/musicchoirs/kindermusik (Biltmore Village); Yvette Odell, 242-1548, kindermusickwithyvette.com (Asheville, Weaverville). 3. The Little Gym 1000 Brevard Road, Suite 168, Asheville, 667-9588; tlgashevillenc.com

Best gymnastics program

1. The Little Gym 1000 Brevard Road, Suite 168, Asheville, 667-9588; tlgashevillenc.com 2. Hahnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gymnastics 18 Legend Drive, Arden; 684-8832; hahnsgymnastics.com. 3. Asheville Gymnastics 50 Coxe Ave., Asheville; 252-8746; ashevillegymnastics.com

Best music program

1. Kindermusik Area licensed educators: Allyson MacCauley, 318-3100, allsoulscathedral.org/musicchoirs/kindermusik (Biltmore Village); Yvette Odell, 242-1548, kindermusick-

Kaia Errickson, 3, of Asheville, learns to swim at the Reuter Family YMCA in Biltmore Park with 18-year-old Reynolds High senior Emily Montes. The YMCA of WNC received the Family Choice Award for best swim lessons. JOHN COUTLAKIS/JCOUTLAKIS@ CITIZEN-TIMES.COM

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

withyvette.com (Asheville, Weaverville). 2. Asheville Area Music Together Contact Kari Richmond at karirichmond@charter.net or 545-0990. AshevilleAreaMT.com or musictogether.com. 3. Asheville Music School 101 S. Lexington Ave., Asheville; 252-6244; ashevillemusicschool.org.

Best dance program for children

1. Center Stage Dance Studio 38L Rosscraggon Road, Asheville; 654-7010; centerstage1.com. 2. Asheville Dance Theatre 802 Fairview Road, Asheville; 298-0258; ashevilledancetheatre.com. 3. Patâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s School of Dance 1256 N. Main St., Hendersonville; 692-2905; patsschoolofdance.com.

Best art lessons for children

1. Roots + Wings School of Art 545-4827; rootsandwingsarts.com 2. Canvas Paint & Mingle 735C Haywood Road, Asheville; 254-4486; paintandmingle.com. 3. Art in the Afternoon Carver Center, 101 Carver Ave., Black Mountain; 669-5213; sulzman.net/artinthepm/

Best sports club/league

1. Asheville Buncombe Youth Soccer Association/Highland Football Club 299-7277, abysa.org 2. YMCA of WNC ymcawnc.org 3. Upward upward.org

Best place for swim lessons

1. YMCA of WNC ymcawnc.org 2. YWCA of Asheville 185 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, 254-7206, ywcaofasheville.org. 3. Asheville Racquet Club 200 Racquet Club Road, Asheville, 274-3361; at the Crowne Plaza Resort, 1 Resort Drive,, Asheville, 253-5874; ashevilleracquetclub.com.

Best place for horseback riding lessons

1. Biltmore Equestrian Center 225-1454, biltmore.com/equestrian. 2. Hickory Nut Gap Farm 57 Sugar Hollow Road, Fairview, 628-1027; hickorynutgapfarm.com. 3. Winding Creek Stables Bent Creek Ranch Road, Asheville; 337-2250; windingcreekstablesnc.com.

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

2012 family choice awards

destination fun Best park

1. Fletcher Community Park 85 Howard Gap Road, Fletcher, fletcherparks.org. 2. Carrier Park 220 Amboy Road, Asheville, ashevillenc.gov. 3. Jake Rusher Park (Royal Pines Park) 132 Peachtree St., Asheville, ashevillenc.gov.

Best museum

2. Claying Around 1378 Hendersonville Road, Asheville; 277-0042; clayingaround.com 3. Claymates Pottery 31 Front St., Dillsboro; 6313133; claymates.weebly.com

Best miniature golf

1. The Health Adventure 800 Brevard Road, Suite 620, Asheville; 665-2217; thehealthadventure.org. 2. Hands On! A Child’s Gallery 318 N. Main St., Hendersonville; 697-8333; handsonwnc.org. 3. Asheville Art Museum 2 S. Pack Square, Asheville; 253-3227; ashevilleart.org.

1. Asheville’s Fun Depot 7 Roberts Road, Asheville, 277-2386; ashevillesfundepot.com 2. Tropical Gardens 956 Patton Ave., Asheville, 252-2207 3. Shadowbrook 701 N.C. 9, Black Mountain, 669-5499

Best paint-your-own pottery studio

Most family-friendly fair, festival or special event

1. Fired Up! Creative Lounge 26 Wall St., Asheville, 253-8181; and 321 N. Main St., Hendersonville, 698-9960; fireduplounge.com.

1. Mountain State Fair Sept. 7-16 at WNC Agricultural Center, Fletcher; mountainfair.org. 2. North Carolina Apple Festival

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

Aug. 31-Sept. 3 on Main Street in downtown Hendersonville; ncapplefestival.org. 3. Bele Chere July 27-29 in downtown Asheville; belecherefestival.com.

Best family-friendly hiking trail

1. DuPont State Forest Between Hendersonville and Brevard. For trails, visit dfr.state.nc.us/contacts/ dsf.htm. 2. N.C. Arboretum trails 100 Frederick Law Olmstead Way, Asheville, 665-2492, ncarboreum.org. 3. Bent Creek For trails in Pisgah National Forest, visit cs.unca.edu/nfsnc.

Best rainy day activity

1. Mountain Play Lodge 3389 Sweeten Creek Road, Arden; 676-2120; mountainplaylodge.com. 2. Asheville’s Fun Depot 7 Roberts Road, Asheville; 277-2386; ashevillesfundepot.com. 3. Movies

Best place to take child for the morning or afternoon

1. WNC Nature Center 75 Gashes Creek Road, Asheville; 298-5600; wncnaturecenter.com. 2. Mountain Play Lodge 3389 Sweeten Creek Road, Arden; 676-2120; mountainplaylodge.com. 3. Ashevilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fun Depot 7 Roberts Road, Asheville; 277-2386; ashevillesfundepot.com.

Best summer day camp

1. Camp Tekoa Hendersonville; 692-6516; camptekoa.org 2. YMCA of WNC For camp information, visit ymcawnc.org. 3. Camp Cedar Cliff At the Billy Graham Training Center in East Asheville; 450-3331; campcedarcliff.org

Best summer overnight camp

1. Camp Tekoa In Hendersonville, 692-6516; camptekoa.org 2. Camp Pisgah (Girl Scouts) In Brevard; camppisgah.org. 3. Camp Cedar Cliff At the Billy Graham Training Center in East Asheville; 450-3331; campcedarcliff.org

Camp Tekoa wins the Family Choice Award for best day camp and best overnight camp. JOHN FLETCHER/JFLETCHER@CITIZEN-TIMES.COM

Most family-friendly day-trip destination

1. Dollywood In Pigeon Forge, Tenn.; dollywood.com. 2. Biltmore Estate 1 Lodge St., Asheville; 800-411-3812 or 225-1333; biltmore.com. 3. The Greenville Zoo 150 Cleveland Park Drive, Greenville, SC; 864-467-4300;

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

greenvillezoo.com.

Best holiday event

1. Gingerbread houses at Grove Park Inn groveparkinn.com. 2. Asheville Holiday Parade Parade is Nov. 17. ashevilleparade.org 3. Biltmore Estate Christmas at Biltmore is Nov. 3-Jan. 1. biltmore.com.

2012 family choice awards

food & dining Most family-friendly restaurant for breakfast

1. IHOP Several area locations; ihop.com. 2. Cracker Barrel Several area locations; crackerbarrel.com. 3. Sunny Point Cafe 626 Haywood Road, Asheville, 252-0055; sunnypointcafe.com

Most family-friendly restaurant for lunch

1. Chick-fil-A Several area locations; chickfila.com. 2. (tie) Apollo Flame 485 Hendersonville Road, Asheville, 274-3582; 1025 Brevard Road, Asheville, 665-0080; apolloflamebistro.net. Blue Sky Cafe 3987 Hendersonville Road, Fletcher, 684-1247; iloveblueskycafe.com.

Most family-friendly restaurant for dinner

1. Papa’s & Beer

1996 Hendersonville Road, Asheville, 6844882; 17 Tunnel Road, Asheville, 255-2204; 1000 Brevard Road, Asheville, 665-9070; 1821 Asheville Highway, Hendersonville, 692-9915. 2. Asheville Pizza and Brewing Co. 675 Merrimon Ave., Asheville; 254-1281; ashevillepizza.com. 3. Blue Sky Cafe 3987 Hendersonville Road, Fletcher, 684-1247; iloveblueskycafe.com.

Best date night restaurant

1. Carrabba’s Italian Grill 10 Buckstone Place, Asheville, 281-2300; 332 Rockwood Road, Arden, 654-8411; carrabbas.com. 2. (tie) 131 Main Biltmore Park Town Square, 308 Thetford St., Asheville, 651-0131; 131-main.com.

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

Frankie Bones Restaurant & Lounge 2 Gerber Road #101, Asheville; 274-7111; fbdining.com.

Best ice cream/custard shop

1. The Hop Ice Cream Cafe 640 Merrimon Ave., Asheville, 2542224; 721 Haywood Road, Asheville, 252-5155; thehopicecreamcafe.com. 2. TCBY 1800 Hendersonville Road, Asehville, 274-1100; 5 Westgate Parkway, Asheville, 225-5111; tcby.com. 3. YaYa’s Yogurt Biltmore Park Town Square, 29 Schenck Parkway, Asheville, 676-2336; yayasyogurt.com.

Best bakery

1. Carolina Mountain Bakery 1950 Hendersonville Road, Suite 11, Asheville, 681-5066. 2. City Bakery 88 Charlotte St., Asheville, 254-4289, and 60 Biltmore Ave., Asheville, 252-4426; citybakery.net. 3. West End Bakery

757 Haywood Road, Asheville, 252-9378; westendbakery.com.

Best hot dog

1. Hot Dog World 226 Kanuga Road, Hendersonville, 697-0374. 2. Celebrity’s Hot Dogs 1409 Brevard Road, Asheville, 670-5954; celebrityhotdogs.net. 3. Hot Dog King 2299 Smoky Park Highway, Candler, 670-1199; 4 S. Tunnel Road, Asheville, 298-8686; 1487 Charlotte Highway, Fairview, 628-1036.

Best pizza

1. Asheville Pizza and Brewing Co. 675 Merrimon Ave., Asheville; 254-1281; 1854 Hendersonville Road, Asheville, 277-0004; ashevillepizza.com. 2. Marco’s Pizzeria 946 Merrimon Ave., Asheville, 285-0709; 1854 Hendersonville Road, Asheville, 277-0004; marcos-pizzeria.com. 2. Brixx Biltmore Park Town Square, 30 Town Square Blvd., Asheville, 654-0046; brixxpizza.com.

Best kids’ menu

1. Applebee’s Several area locations. applebees.com. 2. Chick-fil-A Several area locations. chickfila.com. 3. IHOP Several area locations. ihop.com.

Vickie Camp, of Mills River, enjoys dinner with her husband Dennis, and son Jacob, 6, at Papa’s & Beer on Hendersonville Road. Papa’s and Beer won the award for most family-friendly dinner restaurant. JOHN COUTLAKIS/JCOUTLAKIS@CITIZEN-TIMES.COM

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

2012 family choice awards

Lucas Barbarito, 16 months, of Greenville, S.C., explores O.P. Taylor’s toy store on a trip with his mother, Amanda. The Biltmore Park Town Square store won the Family Choice Award for best toy store. JOHN COUTLAKIS/JCOUTLAKIS@CITIZEN-TIMES.COM

shopping Most family-friendly grocery store

1. Ingles Multiple locations, ingles-markets.com. 2. Earth Fare 1856 Hendersonville Road, Asheville, 210-0100; 66 Westgate Parkway, Asheville, 253-7656, earthfare.com. 3. Harris Teeter 1378 Hendersonville Road, Asheville, 274-5304; 637 Spartanburg Highway, Hendersonville, 697-8988; harristeeter.com

Best consignment store

1. LuLu’s Consignment Boutique

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

3461 Hendersonville Road, Fletcher; 687-7565; ilovelulus.net. 2. Goodwill Several area locations, locator.goodwill.org. 3. Children’s Trading Post 633 Merrimon Ave., Asheville, 254-5432; 140 Airport Road, Arden, 684-5438.

Best consignment sale

1. Wee Trade Best Made Sales in February and August at WNC Agricultural Center, Fletcher; wee-trade.net 2. LuLu’s Consignment Boutique 3461 Hendersonville Road, Fletcher; 687-7565; ilovelulus.net. 3. Munchkin Market

Sales in February and August. munchkinmarket.com.

Best pet store

1. PetSmart 150 Bleachery Blvd., Asheville, 298-5670; and 3 McKenna Road, Arden, 6815343; petsmart.com. 2. Petco 825 Brevard Road, Asheville; 665-7977; petco.com. 3. Pet Supplies Plus 1856 Hendersonville Road, Asheville; 277-8020; petsuppliesplus.com.

Best children’s clothing store

1. Old Navy 2 McKenna Road, Arden, 687-1042; Asheville Mall, 3 S. Tunnel Road, Asheville, 298-3150; oldnavy.com. 2. The Children’s Place Asheville Mall, 3 S. Tunnel Road, Asheville; 296-8351; childrensplace.com 3. Gap Asheville Mall, 3 S. Tunnel Road, Asheville; 298-8200; gap.com.

Best children’s shoe store

1. Tops For Shoes 27 N. Lexington Ave., Asheville, 254-6721, topsforshoes.com. 2. Discount Shoes 1266 Brevard Road, Asheville, 667-0085. 3. Stride Rite striderite.com.

Best toy store

1. O.P. Taylor’s 1 Biltmore Park Town Square, Asheville, 681-1865; 2 S. Broad St., Brevard, 883-2309; optaylors.com. 2. Dancing Bear Toys 144 Tunnel Road, Asheville, 255-8697; 418 N. Main St., Hendersonville, 693-4500; dancingbeartoys.com. 3. Toys R Us 877 Brevard Road, Asheville, 665-8697, toysrus.com.

Most family-friendly bookstore

1. Barnes & Noble Asheville Mall, 3 S. Tunnel Road, Asheville, 296-7335; 33 Town Square Blvd., Asheville, 687-0681; barnesandnoble.com. 2. Malaprop’s 55 Haywood St., Asheville, 254-6734, malaprops.com. 3. Mr. K’s 800 Fairview Road, Asheville, 299-1145; mrksonline.com.

Continues on Page 30

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

shopping Continued from Page 29

Best place to find organics

1. Earth Fare 65 Westgate Parkway, Asheville, 253-7656; 1856 Hendersonville Road, Asheville, 210-0100; earthfare.com. 2. Greenlife Grocery 70 Merrimon Ave., Asheville, 254-5440, greenlifegrocery.com. 3. Farmers markets Visit fromhere.org to find a list of area tailgate markets.

Most family-friendly car dealer

1. Jim Barkley Toyota 777 Brevard Road, Asheville, 667-8888, jimbarkleytoyota.com. 2. Prestige Subaru 585 Tunnel Road, Asheville, 298-9600; prestigesubaru.com. 3. Skyland Automotive 255 Smoky Park Highway, Asheville, 447-0190; skylandautomotive.com.

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

2012 family choice awards

education

The YMCAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Child Care Services, offered at several Buncombe County Schools and at the YMCA Beaverdam, was voted best after-school program.

Best preschool

1. Around the Son Preschool 1984 Hendersonville Road, Asheville; 684-2645; aroundthesonpreschool.com. 2. Grace Lutheran Church Preschool 1245 Sixth Ave. West, Hendersonville; 693-4890; gracelutherannc.com 3. Montessori Country Day 158 Bradley Branch Road, Arden; 6549933; montessoricountryday.org.

CITIZEN-TIMES.COM FILE PHOTO

Best after-school program

1. YMCA Child Care Services At various Buncombe County Schools sites and YMCA Beaverdam, 210-2273; ymcawnc.org. 2. Boys and Girls Club 750 Haywood Road, Asheville, 258-2283. 3. YWCA of Asheville 185 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, 254-7206; ywcaofasheville.org.

Best child care

1. Montessori Country Day 158 Bradley Branch Road, Arden, 654-9933, montessoricountryday.org. 2. (tie) Biltmore Academy 1594 Hendersonville Road, Asheville, 2749092.

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

Mountain Area Child & Family Center 2586 Riceville Road, Asheville, 298-0808, and at Montmorenci UMC, 89 Old Candler Town Road, Candler, 670-7300; macfc.org.

Best home-school program

Biltmore Baptist Church biltmorebaptist.org/homeschool

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

2012 family choice awards

services Best pediatric practice

1. Blue Sky Pediatrics 5 Walden Ridge Drive, Asheville, 687-8709, blueskypediatrics.com 2. ABC Pediatrics 64 Peachtree Road #100, Asheville, 277-3000, abcasheville.com. 3. Asheville Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Medical Center 7 Vanderbilt Park Drive, Asheville, 258-0969, ashevillechildrens.com.

Best family dentist

1. Great Beginnings Pediatric Dentistry (Drs. Chambers, Baechtold, Pratt and Haldeman) 10B Yorkshire St., Asheville, 274-9220; 50 Bowman Drive, Waynesville, 454-9156; greatbeginningspedo.com. 2. Dr. Josh Paynich 11 Yorkshire St., Asheville, 274-4744, drjoshdentistry.com 3. Asheville Pediatric Dentistry (Dr. Jenny Jackson) 76 Peachtree Road, Suite 100, Asheville, 277-6788, ashevillepedo.com

Best orthodontist

1. Blue Ridge Orthodontics (Dr. Luke Roberts) 2 Walden Ridge Drive, Asheville, 687-0872, blueridgeorthodontics.com. 2. Haldeman Orthodontics (Dr. Ryan Haldeman) 10B Yorkshire St., Asheville, 274-8822; 50 Bowman Drive, Waynesville, 454-9156; drhaldeman.com. 3. Black Orthodontics (Dr. Keith Black) 5A Yorkshire St., Asheville, 277-7103, kblacksmiles.com.

Best family eye doctor

1. Asheville Eye Associates 8 Medical Park Drive B, Asheville, 258-1586; 2001 Hendersonville Road, Asheville, 684-2867; ashevilleeye.com.

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

2. Champion Eye Center 825 Merrimon Ave. #B, Asheville, 236-0099; 300 Julian Lane, Asheville, 650-2727; championeyecenter.com. 3. Looking Glass Eye Center 215 Thompson St., Hendersonville, 693-4161, lookingglasseye.com.

Best veterinarian

1. Animal Hospital of North Asheville 1 Beaverdam Road, Asheville, 253-3393; ahna.net. 2. Asheville Veterinary Associates 1275 Sweeten Creek Road, Asheville, 274-0646; ashevillevet.com. 3. Banfield 150 Bleachery Blvd., Asheville, 298-1800; 3 McKenna Road, Arden, 681-0519; banfield.com.

Best family/child specialty photographer

1. Kaelee Denise Photography Kaeleedenise.com; 508-0928. 2. Ruby Peoples Photography rubypeoplesphotography.com; 226-1600.

3. (tie) Kristi Hedberg Photography kristihedbergphotography.com; 768-8634. Picture People 3 S. Tunnel Road, Asheville, 296-0300; picturepeople.com.

Best place for birthday parties

1. Asheville’s Fun Depot 7 Roberts Road, Asheville, 277-2386; ashevillesfundepot.com. 2. Mountain Play Lodge 3389 Sweeten Creek Road, Arden; 676-2120; mountainplaylodge.com. 3. Chuck E. Cheese’s 104 River Hills Road #H, Asheville, 299-3750; chuckecheese.com.

The Balloon Fairy (Marcie McGrath) is the best birthday party entertainer.

Best birthday party entertainer

1. The Balloon Fairy 423-2030, balloonfairymagic.com 2. Chuck E. Cheese’s 104 River Hills Road, Asheville, 299-3750; chuckecheese.com. 3. Bill Grimsley 777-9143; magicprod1@bellsouth.net; billgrimsley.com.

CITIZEN-TIMES FILE PHOTO

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

2012 family choice awards

Just for you Best place to relax without your children

1. Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa 290 Macon Ave., Asheville, 252-2711, ext. 2772, groveparkinn.com. 2. Home 3. Suraj Spa and Salon 520 Hendersonville Road, Asheville, 2777705; surajspasalon.com.

Best place to get back into shape

Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa is the top place to relax without your children. CITIZEN-TIMES FILE PHOTO

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

1. YMCA of WNC 30 Woodfin St., Asheville, 210-9622; 3 Town Square Blvd., Asheville, 651-9622; 40 N. Merrimon Ave., Suite 101, Asheville, 5053990; 810 W. Sixth Ave., Hendersonville, 692-5774; 348 Grace Corpening Drive, Marion, 659-9622; ymcawnc.org 2. The Rush Fitness Complex 1818 Hendersonville Road, 274-7874; 1056 Patton Avenue, 274-7874, therush247.com. 3. (tie) Asheville Racquet Club

1 Crowne Plaza Drive, Asheville, 253-5874; 200 Racquet Club Road, Asheville, 2743361; ashevilleracquetclub.com. YWCA of Asheville 185 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, 2547206; ywcaofasheville.org.

Best place for a momsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; night out

1. French Broad Chocolate Lounge 10 S. Lexington Ave., Asheville, 252-4181; frenchbroadchocolatelounge.com. 2. Regal Biltmore Grande Theater Biltmore Park Town Square, 229 Thetford St., Asheville, 684-4380; regmovies.com 3. Downtown Asheville

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

growing together

All of your ideas, in one virtual place By Chris Worthy

WNC Parent columnist

I hate clutter. Visitors to my home probably think I have embraced the concept of minimalist design or I am too cheap to buy accessories. Really, I am just trying to maintain a tenuous hold on my sanity. Papers strewn across the kitchen counter will cause my brain to shut down — and then, I ask you, how would my children find their shoes or a sharp pencil? My home office has become a different story, unfortunately. I want a paperless office. I crave a digital workspace, but people keep sending me stuff. And then that stuff breeds overnight, creating new piles of unopened mail and a stack of sticky notes covered with random phone numbers. Every office supply I own multiplies,

except pens. They sneak out under the cover of darkness. Adding to my paper chaos is our evergrowing list of home design projects. Enter Pinterest, the website that is both filing away every recipe, paint color, craft project and home-school help I’ve ever seen on the thankfully endless Internet, and offering up a constant distraction in the form of home decor eye candy. It is both a time suck and a lifesaver. Using the site, I can pin (as if on a corkboard) ideas and whatnot from the digital world. I don’t have to remember the name of that perfect shade of green paint when a simple online pin will do. On the other hand, my “want to do” list is now so long, I figure it will take approximately 93.8 years to complete, working at my current pace — longer, if I admit that my current pace on craft projects is actually taking place in retrograde motion. Want to find an open source balloon mapping kit so you take aerial photos and map your yard? Yep, I found that on Pin-

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

terest. How about DIY patio furniture or a recipe for no-bake Nutella cookies or homemade toilet bowl cleaner or a porch swing/coffee table/garden planter made out of used wooden pallets? It’s all there. Just like the real corkboard (full of paper!) in her room, my daughter now uses a digital pinboard. Hers is filled with hair styles and nail art. Once my son discovers that Minecraft maps and Lego designs are fair game, he, too, will want an account. (At least I can’t step on virtual Legos.) All this online organizing isn’t helping me make much progress on cleaning my desk, but just looking at my neatly categorized digital notes is a breath of fresh air and maybe a bit of decluttering inspiration. If only I could click my mouse and make Mount Laundry disappear. Worthy is an attorney who took down her shingle to be a stay-at-home mom. Contact her at chris@worthyplace.com.

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

puzzles for parents Across 1. Gain access to, 2 words 6. 1965’s “Get ___ My Cloud” 9. Benedict XVI, e.g. 13. African antelope 14. Equal to 10 liters 15. Was furious 16. “Happy Endings” actor Adam _____ 17. CSI evidence 18. Stand on end 19. Chews out 21. Famous for her “Umbrella” 23. Likewise 24. “...partridge in a ____ tree...” 25. Madonna’s controversial garment 28. Viking writing symbol 30. Interstellar cloud 35. “A River ____ Through It”

37. Cause of Titanic’s demise 39. Like a mad dog 40. “Do ____ others as you would do...” 41. Tennessee footballer 43. Aguilera and Carey can hit a high one 44. Yuletides 46. Winter Olympic event 47. “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” author 48. Army’s offensive, pl. 50. Remote Automated Weather Station 52. Used at start of new hole 53. Unstressedstressed pattern in poetry

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

55. Pig’s home 57. If she “were a boy...” 61. Road less traveled 64. In the midst 65. ___ and feather 67. EU money, pl. 69. American poet James Whitcomb _____ 70. Geological period 71. Narrow mountain ridge 72. Benevolent and Protective Order of ____ 73. The ___ Hot Chili Peppers 74. She wakes up “in the morning feeling like P. Diddy”

Down 1. As opposed to Gross Domestic Product 2. Unfledged hawk 3. Bath powder 4. Administer 5. “You belong with” her? 6. Betting probability 7. Belieber, e.g. 8. Bell-bottoms bottom 9. Between larva and adult 10. Sign of something to come 11. Philadelphia’s Ivy League member 12. Cocoyam 15. Hitler, e.g. 20. “No ____

about it” 22. 007 creator 24. Throw out of kilter 25. He’d “catch a grenade for ya” 26. A sentence that goes too long 27. Poker stakes 29. First man on the moon 31. E Street ____ 32. Lusitania’s destroyer 33. Gracefully slender 34. She “could have had it all rolling in the deep” 36. Worn from walking 38. She “was born this way” 42. Gossipy

45. Scrooge-like 49. Cul de ___ 51. Mean characteristic 54. Approximately 1.094 yards 56. James Blunt: “_____ Beautiful” 57. ____naked Ladies, band 58. Short for Emilia 59. Nutrition of an embryo 60. Dollar bills 61. Half of Brangelina 62. Greek god of war 63. Shakespearean “does” 66. “We ___ Marshall” 68. “Under the boardwalk, down by the ___”

Solutions on Page 61

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

When

the garden By Kate Justen

overflows

WNC Parent columnist

Spring in Western North Carolina is a beautiful thing. We get our gardens ready and plant them full of amazing seeds. Then something wonderful happens: The seeds sprout and begin to grow. We tend to our gardens and take care of the growing plants, anticipating the many amazing meals we can make. It begins slowly, a few cucumbers or beans are ready. Then you go outside one morning to check the plants, and you find that they took growth

hormones overnight and they are loaded with plump juicy vegetables. Jackpot! Finally, I do not have to go to the grocery store. I can make a meal from the garden! The next day the same thing happens, and the following day, and on it goes. Soon veggies are piling up on the counter and you are no longer excited to go check the garden to see what is there. You skip a few days only to go out and find your cucumbers and zucchini are the size of footballs and your green beans

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

Pasta salad 1 or 2 cloves crushed garlic 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs; thyme, parsley, basil, rosemary and/or dill 3 ounces Greek yogurt 1/4 cup olive oil 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 1 pound cooked pasta 3 cups chopped veggies (cucumber, carrot, onion, peppers, broccoli, zucchini, spinach, tomato, kale, broccoli, squash, use what is in season)

Combine first six ingredients for dressing in a small bowl or jar. Set aside while chopping vegetables. Combine chopped veggies, dressing or kale pesto and cooled pasta in a large bowl.

are overgrown and tough. It has become too much work to keep up with the garden production, and you mourn the loss of amazing food. The consolation is it goes in your compost to make nice rich soil for next yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s garden.

Use kale to make pesto for a pasta salad or a sesame kale side dish. KATE JUSTEN/SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Before you get to that point, though with the weather we have had you may already be there, make a plan. What can you do with all of that excess produce? » Give it away. Give excess produce to friends and neighbors or find a local organization that helps feed people who do not have the resources to grow amazing food. If you do not know of an organization call

United Way’s 211 or visit www.211wnc.org for help. » Be creative in your cooking. Use the resources around you. Friends and family often have new and fun recipes. Or try to re-create something you once had in a restaurant or at a dinner party. Look for new recipes on the Internet or in your cookbooks, or just experiment. » Send it to your child’s school for tastings or science experiments. Contact your child’s teacher to see if he or she can use the produce for snack or in an educational lesson. Food is a great way to teach math and science skills, produce art, use it as inspiration for a story or song. » Freeze or can. There are a ton of great resources on the Internet, as well as classes being taught locally, on canning and freezing excess produce. The most important thing to remember is to follow food safety guidelines found at www.foodsafety.gov. » Save seeds for next year. Large, overgrown vegetables still have seeds in them that can be removed, dried and stored for next year’s garden. Before you compost those overgrown veggies, remove the seeds. For tips, visit http://growingminds.org/seed-saving-tips.php

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

Sesame kale 5 cups chopped kale 2 cloves crushed garlic 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari 2 tablespoons sesame oil 2 tablespoons sesame seeds

Stir fry kale, garlic, soy sauce and oil on high heat for 3 to 5 minutes or until kale is bright green and not yet wilted. Remove from pan and top with sesame seeds.

Kale pesto 1/2 cup tasted pine nuts or walnuts 3 cups chopped kale 1 or 2 cloves garlic 1/4 cup parmesan cheese 1/2 to 1 cup extra virgin olive oil Salt and fresh ground pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients except the oil in a food processor or blender. Slowly add the oil until it is the consistency you want.

librarian’s picks

Bad Kitty’s fun political adventure Jennifer Prince Buncombe County Public Library

rnery, bossy and determined as ever to have her own way, Bad Kitty is back. This time she is running for president — not of the United States, though she is brash enough to believe she could. Bad Kitty is running for president of the Neighborhood Cat Club. A novice to politics, Bad Kitty doesn’t know a thing about elections. That is where the well-informed narrator comes in handy in Nick Bruel’s “Bad Kitty Runs for President.” In a breezy, conversational style, the narrator educates Bad Kitty on primaries, endorsements, campaigning, debating and voting. The tutorial is easy to follow and accurate. It is a fun way to introduce kids to the election process. All of the election words are welldefined in the text and also in the glossary. The thing about Bad Kitty is this: While kids are learning about the election process, they will be laughing out loud the entire time. Bad Kitty’s thoughts and behavior appear only in the illustrations. Bruel’s black-and-white drawings are expressive and hilarious. Also, Bruel interrupts the story occasionally with notes to his editor, Neal. At the beginning of one pivotal scene, Bruel leaves a note on top of the real text: “Neal, this is a very dramatic moment. Could we put some dramatic music here?” The editor leaves a note in reply: “Nick (Bruel), This is a book. It doesn’t play music. Your editor, Neal.” Bruel leaves Neal more notes with in-

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

area story times Buncombe County Libraries

Visit buncombecounty.org for summer reading program schedule. Black Mountain, 250-4756: Preschool: 10:30 a.m. Wednesday; Mother Goose: 11:30 a.m. Tuesday; Toddler: 10:30 a.m. Thursday East Asheville, 250-4738: Preschool: 11 a.m. Wednesday and Saturday Enka-Candler, 250-4758: Preschool: 10:30 a.m. Wednesday; Toddler: 10:30 a.m. Thursday Fairview, 250-6484: Preschool: 10:30 a.m. Thursday Leicester, 250-6480: Mother Goose: 11:30 a.m. Tuesday; Preschool: 10:30 a.m. Wednesday North Asheville, 250-4752: School age: 3:15 p.m. Thursday; Preschool: 11 a.m. Wednesday; Toddler: 10 a.m. Wednesday Oakley/South Asheville, 250-4754: Mother Goose: 11 a.m. Thursday; Toddler: 11 a.m. Wednesday; Preschool: 10 a.m. Wednesday Pack Memorial Library, 250-4700: Preschool: 10:30 a.m. Mondays; Mother Goose: 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays; Toddler: 10:30 a.m. Thursdays; School age: 3:30 p.m. Wednesdays Skyland/South Buncombe, 250-6488: Preschool: 10:30 a.m. Thursday; Toddler: 10:30 a.m. Wednesday Swannanoa, 250-6486: Preschool: 11 a.m. Thursday; Toddler: 10 a.m. Thursday Weaverville, 250-6482: Mother Goose: 11 a.m. Wednesday; Toddler: 11 a.m. Thursday; Preschool: 11 a.m. Tuesday West Asheville, 250-4750: Mother Goose: 11 a.m. Monday; Toddler: 11 a.m. Wednesday; Preschool: 11 a.m. Thursday

Haywood County Library

Visit www.haywood library.org for story times and summer reading program schedule.

Henderson County Library

Visit www.henderson. lib.nc.us for summer reading program schedule. Main, 697-4725: Bouncing Babies: 11 a.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays; Toddler Time: 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays; Preschool-2nd grade: 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays; 4 O’Clock Craft Club: 4 p.m. Thursdays Edneyville, 685-0110: Family: 10 a.m. Mondays Etowah, 891-6577: Family: 11 a.m. Tuesdays Fletcher, 687-1218: Toddler Time: 10 a.m. Wednesdays; Preschool-2nd grade: 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays Green River, 697-4969: Family: 10 a.m. Thursdays Mills River, 890-1850: Familiy: 10 a.m. Mondays

Barnes & Noble

Asheville Mall, 296-7335: 11 a.m. Mondays and 2

p.m. Saturdays

Biltmore Park Town Square, Asheville, 687-0681:

11 a.m. Saturdays

Blue Ridge Books

152 S. Main St., Waynesville, 456-6000: 10:30 a.m.

Mondays for ages 3 and younger.

nocent but impossible requests. Neal gets a little frustrated and goes to Siberia. All considered, “Bad Kitty for President” is first-rate fun. This book and other Bad Kitty books are at the Buncombe County Public Libraries. To learn more, visit www.buncombecounty.org/library.

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

nature center notes

Play keeps wild animals healthy, happy By Jill Sharp WNC Nature Center

Animals love to play! If you have pets at home, you have probably given them toys to chase and chew. Wild animals love new toys, too. The instincts that domestic pets have to play and hunt are magnified in their wild cousins, which means zoos like the WNC Nature Center need to work hard every day to make sure these natural drives are fulfilled. At the Nature Center, have you noticed cardboard boxes, feathers or brightly colored balls? These aren’t trash left behind; they’re what zoos call enrichment. In the wild, a cougar would climb into treetops to wait for prey to walk beneath. In the cougar habitat at the Nature Center, Pisgah and Mitchell have climbing towers to allow them to get high over the heads of visitors. Boxes filled with pine straw and treats give them something to tear into. Like all the animals living at the Nature

Cody the grey wolf hunts for hidden treats in his habitat. SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT Center, the cougars could not survive on their own in the wild, either due to injury or imprinting to humans. Climbing and capturing are two instincts that, if left unsatisfied, would make the big cats anxious or bored.

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

It’s important for every animal, from wolves to reptiles, to receive enrichment. For some, like the timber rattlesnake, a morning misting like natural dew collection mimics life in the wild. For others, like the intelligent and playful otters, three different types of enrichment are given daily, from puzzle toys to brand new scents sprayed in the habitat. For animals, play is not only for fun. Young animals learn to hunt, forage and defend themselves through play. At the Nature Center, play allows these nonreleasable animals to experience the everchanging stimuli of life in the wild. So the next time you visit, see if you can find evidence of animal play! The Western North Carolina Nature Center connects people with the animals and plants of the Southern Appalachian Mountain region by inspiring appreciation, nurturing understanding, and advancing conservation of the region’s rich biodiversity. Visit www.wncnaturecenter.com.

kids’ page

BY JEFF RUMINSKI/STAFF

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

calendar of events

Things to do

Deadline for the July calendar is June 10. Please submit items to calendar@wncparent.com.

May 29

INFANT CARE CLASS: Pardee Hospital offers quarterly class, 6:30-8 p.m. at Hospital in Orientation Classroom, 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville. $10. Registration is required. Call 866-790-WELL or visit www.pardeehospital.org to register. TRANSITION TO KINDERGARTEN: Free workshop to help prepare your child for kindergarten by learning hands-on home activities and expectations of rising kindergartners. 5:30-7 p.m. at Hall Fletcher Elementary School. To register,

contact Leslie Hales at 407-2056 or leslieh@smartstart-buncombe.net.

May 30

CRAZY CHEMISTRY: Sidewalk chalk with crazy chemists at Hands On! A Child’s Gallery. At 10:30 a.m. for ages 3 and older. Call to register, 697-8333. At 318 N. Main St., Hendersonville. Visit www.handsonwnc.org.

May 31

SPANISH 4 KIDS: Pre-K children can learn Spanish through games, singing, dancing, story telling and more. At 3:30 p.m. Thursdays, May 31-July 5, at French Broad Co-Op Movement Center. For more information email risitasavl@gmail.com or call 3352120.

June 1

WEST ASHEVILLE WAVES: It’s not too late to register for a summer swim team. Practice is 4-6 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays at The Asheville School. Cost is $200 per swimmer for the season. Contact Coach Frank Kriegler at krieglerf@ashevilleschool.org or call 232-1644 for more information.

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

June 1-2

‘LA FILLE’: Ballet Conservatory of Asheville performs the full-length ballet, “La Fille mal gardée,” perfect for children and families. Starring North Carolina Dance Theatre guest soloist Addul Manzano, and BCA’s Sarah London. 7:30 p.m. June 1-2 and 2 p.m. June 2 at Diana Wortham Theatre. Tickets $10 and $20. For tickets, visit www.dwtheatre.org or call 257-4530. For information, visit www.BalletConservatoryofAsheville.com or call 255-5777.

June 1-10

DAY OUT WITH THOMAS: Tweetsie Railroad in Blowing Rock. Take a 25-minute ride with a full-size Thomas the Tank Engine. With storytelling, music, activities, more. Adults (13 and older) $35; ages 3-12, $22; children 2 and younger are free. Visit www.tweetsie.com or www.thomasandfriends.com/ dowt.

June 2

BOOK SIGNING: “A Love Story, How God Pursued Me and Found Me,” by Samantha Ryan Chandler,

Continues on Page 54

calendar of events Continued from Page 53 book signing event, 5-6:30 p.m. at Grateful Steps Publishing House and Bookshop, 159 S. Lexington Ave., Asheville. Visit www.gratefulsteps.org. HAND IN HAND GOSPEL SING FUNDRAISER: 6:30 p.m. at Grove Stone Baptist Church, 1568 Grove Stone Road. With Bud Lewis Family, Adrienne Pertiller Weir and more. Proceeds benefit students in Swannanoa Valley. Call 686-5501. HENDERSON COUNTY CURB MARKET OLD TIMEY DAY: Biscuits cooked on a wood stove, music, antiques, demonstrations and more, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. in Hendersonville. 692-8012. MUD FUN: Muddy games for all ages and a 1-mile mud run for ages 8+. A family event tied to Mad Mountain Mud Run on June 3. $15 per person for ages 2 and older, which includes Chick-fil-A meal. From 5-7 p.m. at Berkeley Park, Balfour Road, Hendersonville. Visit www.handsonwnc.org. FAMILY WELLNESS DAY: Chimney Rock State Park hosts a family wellness day, in conjunction with National Trails Day. Learn how to establish a healthier exercise routine and diet. With guided hikes, health screenings and more. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free with park admission. Visit www.chimneyrockpark.com. OPEN HOUSE: Grow with Me Preschool Learning Cooperative hosts an open house for interested families, 10:30–11:30 a.m. in the school’s classroom at Groce United Methodist Church, 954 Tunnel Road. Entrance to the classroom is via Governor’s View Road off Tunnel Road. The play-based, teacher-led program draws inspiration from Rudolph Steiner’s philosophy on education, following the values of reverence, repetition and rhythm. The program meets 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays and is open to ages 3-5. RSVP to Janis Craft at growwithmecoop@gmail.com or Katy Estrada at 337-4710. ‘PUZZLED BY PINK’: Have a tea party with author Sarah Frances Hardy at The Fountainhead Bookstore, 408 N. Main St., Hendersonville. For ages 4-7. Call 697-1870 or visit www.fountainheadbookstore.com. REUTER FAMILY YMCA SWIM LESSONS: Classes for ages 6 months-12 years on Saturdays, June 2-23. Registration deadline is May 29. Starts at $20. Call 651-9622 or visit www.ymcawnc.org.

June 2-3

WNC AIR MUSEUM AIR FAIR AND FLY-IN: Open house, antique aircraft, memorabilia, artifacts, car show, concessions, rides available. Free. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. each day. Visit www.wncairmuseum.com.

June 4

ASHEVILLE YMCA SWIM LESSONS: Classes for ages 6 months and older, Monday-Thursday evenings, June 4-14. Registration deadline is June 1. Starts at $40. Call 210-9605 or visit www.ymcawnc.org. ASHEVILLE YMCA PORPOISE CLUB: Swim group made to feel like a swim team for those who are considering a team, are familiar with all four strokes and can swim laps. 6-7 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday, June 4-29. Registration deadline is June 1. Starts at $65. Call 210-9605 or visit www.ym-

Take guided hikes and learn to keep your family healthy at Chimney Rock State Park’s family wellness day, June 2. STEVEN MCBRIDE/SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT cawnc.org. REUTER FAMILY YMCA SWIM LESSONS: Classes for ages 3 to adults, mornings and afternoons Monday-Thursday, June 4-14. Registration deadline is May 31. Starts at $40. Call 651-9622 or visit www.ymcawnc.org.

June 5

ASHEVILLE YMCA SWIM LESSONS: Classes for ages 6 months and older, Tuesdays and Thursdays, June 5-28. Registration deadline is June 1. Starts at $40. Call 210-9605 or visit www.ymcawnc.org. FARM & GARDEN TO KITCHEN: Program for ages 3 and older, 1-2 p.m. at Hands On! A Child’s Gallery in conjunction with Children and Family Resource Center’s Early Learning Center. Call 697-8333 to register. Free with admission. At 318 N. Main St., Hendersonville. Visit www.handsonwnc.org. TRANSITION TO KINDERGARTEN: Free workshop to help prepare your child for kindergarten by learning hands-on home activities and expectations of rising kindergartners. 10:30 a.m.-noon at Neighborhood YMCA at Woodfin. To register, contact Leslie Hales at 407-2056 or leslieh@smartstartbuncombe.net.

Starts June 7

WOODSY OWL’S CURIOSITY CLUB: Cradle of Forestry offers a summer nature series for ages 4-7. With outdoor-oriented activities. 10:30 a.m.-noon, Thursdays through Aug. 2. $4 per child per program, $2.50 for adults. Make a reservation at 877-3130. On U.S. 276 in Pisgah National Forest. Visit www.cradleofforestry.com

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

June 7 and 14

CHILDBIRTH CLASSES: A free two-session class, on June 7 and 14, for expectant parents covering the labor and delivery process, relaxation, breathing patterns, birth options, positioning and comfort measures. 6:30–9 p.m. Registration required. At Pardee Hospital, 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville. Call 866-790-WELL or visit www.pardeehospital.org to register.

June 8

ART BAG CAMP: Get crafty and make an art bag to take home, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Hands On! A Child’s Gallery. Donna Ramsey, will teach about design and color. Ages 7-12. $15 nonmembers/$9 members. At 318 N. Main St., Hendersonville. Visit www.handsonwnc.org or call 697-8333. ASHEVILLE AEROMODELERS: Come fly with Asheville Aeromodelers, 11 a.m. at Swannanoa Library. All ages. Pick up free ticket after May 15. Visit www.buncombecounty.org.

June 9

ASHEVILLE YMCA SWIM LESSONS: Classes for ages 6 months and older, Saturday mornings, June 9-30. Registration deadline is June 8. Starts at $40. Call 210-9605 or visit www.ymcawnc.org. KIDS’ NIGHT OUT: Biltmore United Methodist Church hosts night out, 5-8 p.m., for infants to fifth-graders. With educational activities and snacks. $5 per child. Email leslee@biltmoreumc.org or call 274-2379 to RSVP. NATIONAL GET OUTDOORS DAY: Cradle of Forestry offers skill demonstrations and guided nature walks. Free admission. On U.S. 276 in Pisgah Nation-

calendar of events al Forest. Visit www.cradleofforestry.com. SATURDAYS AT ACT: Bright Star Touring Theatre presents “American Dreams” at 10 a.m. and Sleepy Hollow at 11:30 a.m. Both shows are family-friendly and each contains opportunities for audience participation. All tickets $5 at the door. Visit www.ashevilletheatre.org.

June 11

CELEBRATE CHILDBIRTH CLASS: Park Ridge Health’s The Baby Place offers a one-day session, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Course covers dealing with pregnancy ailments, labor process and support techniques, breast-feeding, newborn care. Visit www.parkridgebabies.com or call 681-BABY to register. $65. Held at The Health Adventure, 800 Brevard Road, Asheville. SNAKES ALIVE: Ages 5 and older. 11 a.m. at Fairview Library. Visit www.buncombecounty.org.

June 11-14

PEACE, ARTS, EARTH SUMMER CAMP: Ages 9-13. Nature awareness, interconnection and ecology, with Earth skills and crafts. At Montessori Coop School in Mills River. Hosted by The Children’s Global Peace Project, www.cgpp.org. Register at www.bit.ly/peacecamp2012.

June 11-15

KID SAFE SUMMER: Buncombe County Pools will highlight child safety with a program at each pool. Addresses safety in and around vehicles, bike and pedestrian safety and answer questions about car seats. The fire department answers questions about fire safety at home and outdoors. With arts and crafts for kids. Call 250-4260 or visit www.buncombecounty.org. From noon-2:30 p.m. at these locations: » June 11: Cane Creek Pool » June 12: Erwin Pool » June 13: Hominy Valley Pool » June 14: North Buncombe Pool » June 15: Owen Pool ‘SWAN LAKE’ BALLET WORKSHOP: Ballet Conservatory of Asheville offers “Swan Lake” ballet and modern dance week. 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. MondayFriday for ages 5-7 and 7-10. Daily dance classes, creative art projects and final dance presentation. Other dance and theater workshops available. $155, with discount for siblings or multiple workshops. At Five Points Studios, 6 E. Chestnut St., (corner of Broadway and Chestnut). Visit www.BalletConservatoryofAsheville.com or call 255-5777.

June 13

BALLET CLASSES: Ballet Conservatory of Asheville offers classes each Wednesday through Aug. 1. Ages 3-5 at 1:15-2 p.m. and ages 5-7 at 12:30-1:15 p.m. $80, with discount for siblings. At Five Points Studios, 6 E. Chestnut St., (corner of Broadway & Chestnut). Visit www.BalletConservatoryofAsheville.com or call 255-5777. GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN ANIMAL BIRTHDAY PARTIES: With games, contests, crafts and surprises from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. and free cake from 1-4 p.m. Behind the scenes tour at 10:30 a.m. for $20. Make tour reservation by calling 733-8715. Visit www.grandfather.com. ‘LINCOLN’: The Carl Sandburg Home and The Vagabond School of the Drama presents ‘Lincoln,’ 10:15-10:45 a.m. Wednesdays and Fridays through Aug. 17. All ages. At Carl Sandburg Home amphitheater in Flat Rock. Visit www.nps.gov/carl. SNAKES ALIVE: Kick off Henderson County Public Library’s summer reading program with this popular snake program. All ages. Visit www.henderson.lib.nc.us. » 10 a.m. at Main Library, 301 N. Washington St., Hendersonville » 3 p.m. at Fletcher branch library

June 14

DREAM BIG: Sing with Sonia Brooks, 11 a.m. at West Asheville Library. For ages 2-6. Visit www.buncombecouny.org. FLOW CIRCUS: For all ages. 2 p.m. at Henderson County Main Library, 301 N. Washington St., Hendersonville. Visit www.henderson.lib.nc.us. LET’S GO FLY CAMP: Create four different paper airplanes and test their flying skills, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Hands On! A Child’s Gallery, 318 N. Main St., Hendersonville. Ages 8-12. $15 nonmembers/$9 members. Limited space. Call 697-8333 to register. Visit www.handsonwnc.org. ORIGAMI FOLDING FRENZY: The Health Adventure hosts origami club for all levels, 4-5 p.m. second Thursday of the month. Learn new folds, share favorites and meet fellow origami enthusiasts. Paper available at museum store or bring your own. Free with admission. At Biltmore Square Mall, off Brevard Road. Call 665-2217 or visit www.thehealthadventure.org. SNAKES ALIVE: Kick off Henderson County Public

Library’s summer reading program with this popular snake program. All ages. 3 p.m. at Mills River branch library. Visit www.henderson.lib.nc.us. PAJAMA JAM: Kick off Buncombe County Public Library’s summer reading program with an all-ages pajama jam, 10 a.m.-noon, at Pack Memorial Library, downtown Asheville. Visit www.buncombecounty.org. ‘THE ROOTABAGA STORIES’: The Carl Sandburg Home and The Vagabond School of the Drama presents ‘The Rootabaga Stories,’ 10:15-10:45 a.m. Thursdays and Saturdays through Aug. 18. All ages. At Carl Sandburg Home amphitheater in Flat Rock. Visit www.nps.gov/carl. YWCA CLUB W OPEN HOUSE: stop by for free exercise classes including Zumba, yoga, Pilates, aerobics and cycle classes. There will also be free lap swim, open swim and water aerobics. 5:30-9 p.m. at 185 S. French Broad Ave. Visit www.ywcaofasheville.org or call 254-7206, ext. 213.

June 15

ALL ABOUT ME! CAMP: Learn what makes you unique through crafts, music and movement at camp for ages 3-5, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Hands On! A Child’s Gallery, 318 N. Main St., Hendersonville. $15 nonmembers/$9 members. Limited space. Call 697-8333 to register. Visit www.handsonwnc.org. DREAM BIG: Juggle with the Flow Circus, 11 a.m. at West Asheville Library. All ages. Pick up free ticket at the library starting June 1. Visit www.buncombecounty.org.

June 16

AVL FATHER’S FEST: Interactive festival honoring the relationship between dad and the kids, noon-6 p.m. at Highland Brewery, 12 Old Charlotte Highway, Asheville. With wood projects, science experiments, fly-fishing demos, chili cook-off ($5), chair massages, games with prizes, live entertainment and more. $20 per family and $25 at the gate. Portion of proceeds benefit Mission Hospital Foundation. Visit www.ashevillefathersday.com. MOVIE ON THE MEADOW: Watch “The Last of the Mohicans” at outdoors at Chimney Rock State Park, where parts of the epic romantic adventure film

Continues on Page 56

June 12

PEREGRINE FALCONRY PROGRAM: Ages 5 and older. 1 p.m. at Henderson County Main Library, 301 N. Washington St., Hendersonville. Visit www.henderson.lib.nc.us. WIGGLE WITH THE WORMS: Learn about worms and make a mini worm farm to take home, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Hands On! A Child’s Gallery. Ages 7-12. $15 nonmembers/$9 members. At 318 N. Main St., Hendersonville. Visit www.handsonwnc.org or call 697-8333.

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

calendar of events Continued from Page 55 were filmed. Pre-show entertainment will be provided; movie starts at dusk around 8:55 p.m. $5 parking per car. Visit www.chimneyrockstatepark.com. TWILIGHT FIREFLY TOUR: Enjoy the magical evening forest and learn about the natural history of fireflies on guided walk at Cradle of Forestry. Bring flashlight. $6 adults, $3 children and seniors. 7:309:30 p.m. Park and meet at Pink Beds Picnic Area on U.S. 276 in Pisgah National Forest. Visit www.cradleofforestry.com.

Starts June 18

ASHEVILLE YMCA SWIM LESSONS: Classes for ages 3 and older, Monday-Thursday evenings, June 18-28. Registration deadline is June 15. Starts at $40. Call 210-9605 or visit www.ymcawnc.org. BUNCOMBE COUNTY POOLS SWIM LESSONS: For ages 3 and older. Lessons are divided into five levels of swim experience, including a preschool level. June 18-28, with lessons 11-11:45 a.m. MondayThursday. Evening lessons are offered for some levels, 6-6:45 p.m. Registration starts at noon June 11. Sign up at the pool you plan to attend. $30. REUTER FAMILY YMCA SWIM LESSONS: Classes for ages 3 to adults, mornings and afternoons Monday-Thursday, June 4-14. Registration deadline is June 14. Starts at $40. Call 651-9622 or visit www.ymcawnc.org.

June 18-21

PEACE, ARTS, EARTH SUMMER CAMP: Ages 9-13. Rhythm of the drum, heartbeat of the Earth. With song, intention and celebration. At Montessori Coop School in Mills River. Hosted by The Children’s Global Peace Project, www.cgpp.org. Register at www.bit.ly/peacecamp2012.

June 18-22

BROADWAY DANCE WORKSHOP: Ballet Conservatory of Asheville offers dance workshop with ballet, modern, jazz and tap for ages 5-7 and 7-10, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Theater workshop with acting, voice and choreography for ages 7-9 and 10-12, 1-4 p.m. $155 each, $290 for both sessions. At Five Points Studios, 6 E. Chestnut St., (corner of Broadway & Chestnut). Visit www.balletconservatoryofasheville.com or call 255-5777.

June 19

DREAM UP T-SHIRT FUN: Bring your own T-shirt to deocrate. No groups, please. All ages. 2 p.m. at Enka-Candler Library. Visit www.buncombecounty.org. FAMILY NIGHT STORY TIME: All ages, 7 p.m. at Fairview Library. Visit www.buncombecounty.org. PAJAMA PARTY STORY TIME: Wear your PJs at this all-ages story time. 7 p.m. at Weaverville Library. Visit www.buncombecounty.org. SLEEP SOLUTIONS: In-depth workshop by sleep expert Meggan Hartman will help parents understand how to establish good sleep habits and a

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

healthy schedule for their babies and themselves.Topics covered include sleep needs from 0-12 months, establishing good sleep habits/patterns, developmental milestones that impact infant sleep development, SIDS guidelines and research, no- and low-cry sleep methods, more. $25 per couple. 6-7 p.m. at The Health Adventure, 800 Brevard Road, Asheville. Visit www.parkridgebabies.com. WORM RANCHING: Program for all ages. Visit www.henderson.lib.nc.us. » 10:30 a.m. at Edneyville branch library » 2 p.m. at Main Library in Hendersonville

June 19-20

DINO DIG! CAMP: Become a paleontologist. Participants will dig for fossils and dinosaur bones, assemble a dinosaur and learn about the worldwide range of these ancient creatures. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. both days, at at Hands On! A Child’s Gallery, 318 N. Main St., Hendersonville. $25 nonmembers/ $16 members. Limited space. Call 697-8333 to register. Visit www.handsonwnc.org.

June 20

BABY SITTER TRAINING CLASS: For ages 11-15. Learn how to care for a child. Basic first aid included. Dress comfortably and bring lunch. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at Asheville-Mountain Area Chapter, American Red Cross, 100 Edgewood Road, Asheville. $45. For details and to register, visit www.redcrosswnc.org and click on “Take a Class” or call 258-3888. MOUNTAIN STORY MAGIC: All ages. 11 a.m. at East Asheville Library. Visit www.buncombecounty.org.

NIGHT ANIMALS: Program for ages 5 and older, presented by Henderson County Cooperative Extension. 10:30 a.m. at Mills River branch library; 2 p.m. at Etowah branch library. Visit www.henderson.lib.nc.us. NIGHT SKY: Explore the SkyLab Planetarium, 3 p.m. at North Asheville Library. Ages 5 and older. Limited to 40 participants. Pick up free ticket at the library starting June 6. Visit www.buncombecounty.org.

June 21

ART OF BREAST-FEEDING: Pardee Hospital offers free class for new moms, 6:30-8 p.m. at hospital, 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville. Registration is required. Call 866-790-WELL or visit www.pardeehospital.org to register. CHESS FESTIVAL AND TOURNAMENT: Smoky Mountain Chess Club hosts celebration of chess. Practice games and registration start at 10 a.m. Registration ends at noon. First rounds start at 12:15 p.m. Entry fee for USCF rated players 18 and older is $10, for unrated players and those younger than 18, $5. Entry fees returned as prizes. At Blue Ridge Books, 152 S. Main St., Waynesville. Email chesscat772@yahoo.com or call 648-5739. DARE TO DREAM: With Steve Somers, at 2:30 p.m. at South Buncombe/Skyland Library. All ages. Visit www.buncombecounty.org. GOLDEN ROD PUPPETS: Hobey Fordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Golden Rod Puppets perform two shows for all ages, 2:30 and 4 p.m. at Weaverville Library. Pick up free tickets at the library beginning June 7. Visit www.buncombe-

Continues on Page 58

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

calendar of events

MOMS’ GROUPS

Continued from Page 57 county.org. LAKOTA TRADITION DREAM CATCHERS: Build a dream catcher and hear stories of Lakota traditions. Supplies provided but feel free to bring beads, feathers and more for your dream catcher. Ages 5 and older. At 10:30 a.m. at Black Mountain Library. Visit www.buncombecounty.org. MOVING & GROOVING CAMP: Learn to move and groove to stay fit and healthy, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Hands On! A Child’s Gallery, 318 N. Main St., Hendersonville. Ages 3-6 (must be potty-trained). $15 nonmembers/$9 members. Limited space. Call 697-8333 to register. Visit www.handsonwnc.org. NIGHT ANIMALS: Program for ages 5 and older, presented by Henderson County Cooperative Extension. 2 p.m. at Green River branch library. Visit www.henderson.lib.nc.us. TAP AND SHAKE: With the Moozic Lady. Ages 3 and older. At 10:30 a.m. at Pack Memorial Library, downtown Asheville. Visit www.buncombecounty.org. T-SHIRT PAINTING: Bring a plain, dark T-shirt to decorate. All ages. (Groups should call before attending.) 11 a.m. at Leicester Library. Visit www.buncombecounty.org.

June 22

FAIRY MAKING CAMP: Make fairies from wire and beads and learn about fairy lore and legends, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Hands On! A Child’s Gallery, 318 N. Main St., Hendersonville Ages 8-12 (younger if accompanied by an adult). $15 nonmembers/$9 members. Limited space. Call 697-8333 to register. Visit www.handsonwnc.org.

June 22-24

DORA AND DIEGO AT TWEETSIE: Nickelodeon’s hit animated preschool series “Dora the Explorer” and “Go, Diego, Go!”, at Tweetsie Railroad. Dora the Explorer and her cousin Diego will meet, greet and pose for pictures with fellow adventurers from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. throughout the weekend. Free with admission. Visit www.tweetsie.com.

June 23

BUG DAY: Cradle of Forestry hosts an all-ages program on insects and other arthropods. With guided bug hunts, pond exploration, buggy games and a craft. $5 adults, free for children younger than 16. On U.S. 276 in Pisgah National Forest. Call 877-3130 or visit www.cradleofforestry.com. GREAT AMERICAN BACKYARD CAMPOUT: Camp overnight at Chimney Rock State Park. Try rock climbing, a night walk with a naturalist and more. 4 p.m. June 23, 8 a.m. June 24. $32 for adults, $15 for ages 6-15 ($10 for passholders, $5 for Grady’s Kids), includes park admission for both days. Call 800-277-9611 to register. Visit www.chimneyrockpark.com.

June 24

CELEBRATE CHILDBIRTH CLASS: Park Ridge Health’s The Baby Place offers a one-day session, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Course covers dealing with pregnancy ailments, labor process and support techniques, breast-feeding, newborn care, tour of The Baby Place. Visit www.parkridgebabies.com or call 681-BABY to register. $65. At 100 Hospital Drive, Hendersonville.

A sampling of support groups for moms in WNC. Asheville Stay-At-Home Moms Playgroup: Visit www.meetup.com/ Asheville-Stay-At-Home-Moms-Playgroup/ Arden Moms Meetup Group: Visit www.meetup.com/arden-moms or contact Susan Toole at ArdenMoms@gmail.com. AshevilleMommies.com: Meet and greets for moms while kids play. Two sessions, 11 a.m.-noon and 3-4 p.m. Wednesdays at The Hop Ice Cream and Coffee Shop, 640 Merrimon Ave. Asheville Moms with Multiples: Group for moms with multiples meets 7 p.m. the first Thursday of each month at the Women’s Resource Center on Doctors Drive, behind Mission Hospital. Meetings are an opportunity to share experiences and offer support in a social setting. Call 444-AMOM or visit www.ashevillemom.com. Biltmore Baptist MOPS: Group for all mothers of children from infancy through kindergarten. Meets 9:3011:30 a.m. on the first and third Wednesday of each month, September-May at Biltmore Baptist Church, 35 Clayton Road, Arden. Call 687-1111, email mopsofbbc@yahoo.com or visit www.biltmorebaptist.org/mops/. Hiking with Preschoolers: Visit www.meetup.com/hiking-with-Preschoolers/ La Leche League of Asheville/Buncombe: For all those interested in breast-feeding. Nursing babies, toddlers and pregnant women welcome. Meetings are second Monday of every month, 10-11 a.m., at First Congregational Church, Oak Street, and third Monday of every month, 7-8 p.m., Awakening Heart Chiropractic, Ravenscroft Drive. Please call a leader for more information or directions: Susan 303-6352 or Adrienne 603-505-0855. Visit www.lalecheleagueofnc.org 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. For more information, Contact a leader: Andrea 676-

Continues on Page 60

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

6047, Katie 808-1490, or MC 693-9899. Mom2mom: Christian moms group meets at St. Paul’s Church, 32 Rosscraggon Road, Rosscraggon Business Park Building B, Asheville. Moms with any age children are welcome. Call 3883598. Mommy and Me: Park Ridge Hospital offers a support group for moms at 10 a.m. the fourth Monday of the month. Contact Amy Mast at 216-7244. The hospital offers a luncheon for moms and babies, noon-1 p.m. the third Monday of the month, at the hospital’s private dining room. Call 681-2229. Moms Club of Hendersonville: A support group open to mothers of all ages in the Henderson County area, including mothers who have homebased businesses and those who work part-time but are home with their children during the day. The group meets for speeches and topics for discussion, park days, playgroups, nights out, holiday activities and service projects benefiting needy children in the community. Meets 9:30 a.m. the first Thursday of the month at Hendersonville Church of Christ, 1975 Haywood Road, Hendersonville. Children welcome. Call Toni McDonald at 702-0433 or visit http://hendersonvillemomsclub.wordpress.com MOPS at Mud Creek: Mothers of Preschoolers provides an open, faithbased atmosphere for moms of infants through kindergartners. Meets second and fourth Wednesdays, 9:15-11:15 a.m., September-May, at Mud Creek Baptist Church, 403 Rutledge Drive, Hendersonville. Email Melissa Thorsland, melthor@tds.net, or MOPS.MudCreek@gmail.com or visit http://mopsatmudcreek.webs.com/links.htm. North Asheville MOPS: Meets 9:3011:30 a.m. the first Tuesday of each month at Maranatha Baptist Church, 1040 Lower Flat Creek Road, Weaverville. Contact Amy at 658-0739 or Liban at lmorris_cid@hotmail.com. WNC Mountain Mamas: Moms and kids can meet up and play at 11 a.m. Wednesdays the Hop Ice Cream Shop, 640 Merrimon Ave. Enjoy half-priced coffees and ice cream. Encompassing, supporting and uniting WNC families. Visit www.wncmountainmamas.proboards.com

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

calendar of events

LIVING HISTORY DAY CAMP: Historic Johnson Farm hosts camp with focus on history of food, clothing, education, fiber arts and entertainment that sustained a much earlier generation of North Carolinians. Spend time in the one-room schoolhouse, play old-timey games, more. Recommended for fourth- and fifth-graders. $75. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at 3346 Haywood Road, Hendersonville. Call 891-6585 or email jfarm@henderson.k12.nc.us.

shop, 159 S. Lexington Ave., Asheville. “An Apple a Day” is written by Sherrie Leslie and illustrated by Les Leslie. “Butterflies Don’t Crawl” is written by Angela and Suzie Tipton and illustrated by Wil Irvine. Listen to Suzie’s story of living with severe spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy and her metomorphosis. Sherrie Leslie will discuss having a balanced diet. With face painting, balloons, coloring pages, refreshments. MEET LADYBUG GIRL: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at Hands On! A Child’s Gallery, 318 N. Main St., Hendersonville. Call 697-8333 or visit www.handsonwnc.org. VBS KICKOFF: Malvern Hills Presbyterian Church will host Vacation Bible School, July 8-12. Register at Malvern Hills Park, 2-4 p.m. June 30. With face painting and refreshments. Call 258-8624.

June 26

July 28-29

Continued from Page 58

June 25-28

BEST OF CRAZY CHEMISTRY: Make the best Crazy Chemistry concoctions, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. at Hands On! A Child’s Gallery, 318 N. Main St., Hendersonville. Ages 4-7. $15 nonmembers/$9 members. Limited space. Call 697-8333 to register. Visit www.handsonwnc.org. FAMILY MOVIE: A movie the whole family will enjoy. All ages. At 2 p.m. at Fairview Library. Visit www.buncombecounty.org. FUN WITH WEATHER: Learn about weather and climates with Greg Hammer. Ages 6-12. Visit www.henderson.lib.nc.us. » 10:30 a.m. at Fletcher branch library » 2 p.m. at Mills River branch library

June 27

FUN WITH WEATHER: Learn about weather and climates with Greg Hammer. Ages 6-12. Visit www.henderson.lib.nc.us. » 10:30 a.m. at Edneyville branch library; » 2 p.m. at Green River branch library. NANO SCIENCE CAMP: Participants will explore the science of the very, very small. Wacky science fun with DNA necklaces, mysterious gels and gummy worms. 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. at Hands On! A Child’s Gallery, 318 N. Main St., Hendersonville. Ages 7-12 $15 nonmembers/$9 members. Limited space. Call 697-8333 to register. Visit www.handsonwnc.org. SAM BARTLETT’S STUNTOLOGY: Ages 6 and older. Visit www.buncombecounty.org. » 10:30 a.m. at Black Mountain Library. » 3 p.m. at North Asheville Library (limited to 50people. Pick up free ticket beginning June 13). EXPLORE THE NIGHT SKY: Check out the Start Lab Planetarium, 11 a.m. at East Asheville Library. All ages. Visit www.buncombecounty.org.

June 28

INFANT CARE CLASS: Pardee Hospital offers quarterly class, 6:30-8 p.m. at Hospital in Orientation Classroom, 800 N. Justice St., Hendersonville. $10. Registration is required. Call 866-790-WELL or visit www.pardeehospital.org to register. PAPER MAGIC CAMP: Learn to make marble paper with common household items and create gorgeous jewelry with paper beads, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. at Hands On! A Child’s Gallery, 318 N. Main St., Hendersonville. Ages 7-12 $15 nonmembers/$9 members.

HAPPY MAMA CONFERENCE: For stressed-out, overwhelmed, overworked and under-nurtured mothers of children with ADHD, OCD, SPD, PBD, FASD, autism, PDD or any other brain-based differences. Weekend getaway at Rock Barn Golf and Spa in Conover to help mothers gain community with other parents who share their questions, concerns, worries and fears and to teach mothers to advocate for their children and themselves. Visit www.if-mama-aint-happy.com or email happymamaretreat@gmail.com.

Asheville’s Red Herring Puppets perform June 28 at South Buncombe/Skyland Library. /WNC PARENT PHOTO Limited space. Call 697-8333 to register. Visit www.handsonwnc.org. RED HERRING PUPPETS: Presenting “The Big Dipper,” for all ages. 2:30 p.m. at South Buncombe/ Skyland Library. Visit www.buncombecounty.org. RONALD MCDONALD VISITS: All ages. 2 p.m. at Fairview Library. Visit www.buncombecounty.org. SAM BARTLETT’S STUNTOLOGY: Ages 6 and older. Visit www.buncombecounty.org. » 11 a.m. at Leicester Library. Groups, call before attending. » 3 p.m. at Weaverville Library. Pick up free ticket at library starting June 14.

June 29

AFRICAN DRUMMING CAMP: Join instructor Maria Freeman, to learn drum rhythms and explore African masks and instruments. 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. at Hands On! A Child’s Gallery, 318 N. Main St., Hendersonville. Ages 4 and older. $15 nonmembers/$9 members. Limited space. Call 697-8333 to register. Visit www.handsonwnc.org. AWESOME MAGIC: With Eric Schweitzer, 11 a.m.at Weaverville Library. All ages. Pick up free ticket at the library starting June 15.

June 30

ARABIAN NIGHTS CRAFT BAZAAR: All ages. At 11 a.m. at East Asheville Library. Visit www.buncombecounty.org. BOOK SIGNING: “An Apple a Day” and “Butterflies Don’t Crawl” book signing event, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Grateful Steps Publishing House and Book-

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

Ongoing

T-BONE’S RADIO ACTIVE KIDS: Stories, music, contests, interviews and all things for families in the Asheville area. 8-10 a.m. Saturdays on www.ashevillefm.org. TAP-N-SHAKE: Sonia Brooks, The Moozic Lady, presents her music program for preschoolers in a special summer workshop, 10:30-11 a.m. Saturdays in June and July at Spellbound Children’s Bookshop. Registration (by phone, email or in person) is required, as space is limited. You may register for June or July session or both. Suggested for children 6 and under. Free. At 21 Battery Park Ave., Asheville. Visit www.spellboundbookshop.com. SPANISH 4 KIDS: An enjoyable and effective way to learn Spanish by exposing children ages 3-5 to the language sounds. Taught by Monica Bastin, a native of Peru. With games, singing, dancing, storytelling and lots of fun. 3:30-4:15 p.m. Thursdays at Movement Center, French Broad Food Co-op. Email risitasavl@gmail.com or call 335-2120. ASHEVILLE AREA MUSIC TOGETHER: Try a free class before the summer session. No strings attached. Each class is a rich, playful, relaxed family experience full of new and traditional songs and chants. Activities include singing, finger play, large movement, instrument play and parent education. Fired by the belief (supported by a wealth of good research) that ALL children are musical, Music Together has been a curriculum pioneer, offering classes to the public since 1987. Summer session begins in June in West Asheville, downtown, and South Asheville. Learn more at www.AshevilleAreaMT.com or www.MusicTogether.com. CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS, HANDS ON!: Hands On! A Child’s Gallery, the educational children’s museum in downtown Hendersonville, is looking for volunteers in customer greeting and reception assistance.

Hands On! is open Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and volunteer opportunities include customer greeting and reception assistance, recycling, maintenance, light cleaning and program facilitating. At 318 N. Main Street. Interested volunteers should fill out an application at the museum or call 697-8333. Visit www.handsonwnc.org. CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS, ON EAGLES WINGS MINISTRIES: A local nonprofit that operates a safe home for domestic victims of sex trafficking ages 12-17, Hope House, needs daytime volunteers to assist with transportation and help with its home school program. Visit www.oewm.net. ELIADA CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER: Accepting applications for NC Pre-K, a kindergarten readiness initiative to help 4-year-olds gain basic skills. Contact Tonia Reed at 259-5374 or treed@eliada.org. SINGLE AND PARENTING RECOVERY AND SUPPORT GROUP: Features experts in grief and recovery topics. Seminar sessions include “Tired & Overwhelmed,” “Your Children & Your Fears,” “Money & Career” and “Conflict & Resolution.” At 4 p.m. Sundays at Living Hope Community Church, 697 Haywood Road, Asheville. Free. All are welcome. Call 450-7575 or email livinghopeasheville@gmail.com.

Puzzle solutions

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2

W N C PA R E N T. C O M

W N C PA R E N T | J U N E 2 0 1 2