Atlanta Parent_January 2023

SO MUCH MORE

THAN BOOKS

See what all the library has to offer at gwinnettpl.org

TO EDUCATION SINCE INCEPTION $25.7 BILLION MORE THAN

Thank you, Georgia!

Every time you play the Lottery, you’re helping our students get one step closer to their dreams. Over 29 years, the Georgia Lottery has contributed more than $25.7 billion to education. More than 2.1 million HOPE scholars have gone to college, and more than 1.7 million four-year-olds have attended a Lottery-funded Pre-K program. That's a lot of students. Thank you, Georgia!

YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT

2023: Year of the Better Family

Start the new year off right with these strategies to keep your family healthy and happy.

Let the Worry Go

Parenting is hard. Try to let go of the little stresses in order to enjoy your family more.

A Heart for the Arts

The arts are all around us! Help your child to appreciate them with these tips.

Beyond Labels

Children with special needs are more than their differences. Here’s what moms want you to know about pre-judging labels.

Family Fun Guide: Have a month full of excitement with top events, shows, ice skating, last chance for holiday lights and ways to celebrate MLK Day. Page 91

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There’s so many ways to school in Atlanta! Learn about play-based education for preschoolers, language immersion and more. Plus, a look at public and private schools across the metro area.

Like us on Facebook; facebook.com/ AtlantaParentMagazine

Publisher’s Note

It’s hard to believe that 2023 has arrived. January is a great time for looking ahead and taking a few minutes to assess the highlights and challenges to consider in the coming year.

This year, I’m striving to plan ahead and working on creating more special moments together in the busy day to day of our family’s lives. Our story, “23 Ways to be a Better Family” (page 12) provides some fun ideas like planning movie nights for the year, trying to put down those screens and enjoy more outdoor time.

Art is awesome and my kids, Elliot and Corinne, love any opportunity to craft and create. Every time we are at Target, we somehow end up with art supplies in our cart. We recently visited the new Sloomoo Institute in Buckhead where the slime is art. My daughter loved interacting with slime and even making her own slime creation. Plus, don’t miss our fine arts section. It’s so important to encourage creativity in dance, music, the arts and more.

January is also a good time for a fresh start the school year. Are you looking for advice on choosing a school? Our Best Guide to Education has plenty of information to help you set a path for academic success. Discover the importance of play-based early education. Explore more about online learning options in our story “Online Schools: A Virtual Reality” (page 70). Learn more about schools offering language immersion. Plus, is cursive relevant or outdated? Cursive is a work in progress for my kids, but the ability to sign your name is a good goal.

The wintry days of January offer a last chance to enjoy holiday lights all around town. Displays including Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta Botanical Garden and the State Botanical Garden are on display through the second weekend of January. Fernbank Museum of Natural History has a new nighttime experience WildWoods: AGLOW that runs until March. No matter what your plans for 2023 include, all of us at Atlanta Parent wish you a happy new year!

Associate

StUff G oo d

by Emily Webb

THINGS WE LIKE SNOW MUCH FUN!

Sleddin’ Down the Mountain

Slide on the snow with the Snowboogie Child Inflatable Pull Sled from Wham-O. This single rider inflatable snow tube resembles a penguin, wolf or fox for a cute companion for your young child to play with in the snow. The Snowboogie Animal Snow Tube comes as a polar bear or a penguin and is for ages 4+. $24.99-$27.99 at wham-o.com.

Snow-plosion!

It’s rare to see snow in Georgia, but you can solve that with Be Amazing! Toys’ Amazing Super Snow Powder. Add water to this snow polymer to watch it erupt before your eyes, and the instruction sheet explains the science behind the faux snow for STEM education. $9.99 at amazon.com.

Winter Waffles

Serve up something delicious with the Mini Waffle Maker from Dash. Festive winter waffle patterns include a snowflake or a snowman. This little machine is perfect for creating a sweet and warm winter brunch, and the recipe guide includes both sweet and savory ideas. $12.99-$14.99 at bydash.com.

Snowball Fight

Test your aim with an indoor snowball fight using the 30 Pack Indoor Snowballs for Kids from AliKids. These safe snowballs feel like soft snow, but they create no mess for tons of indoor games and fun. $17.99 at amazon.com.

Arctic Experiments

Winter science is made easy with the Arctic Color Chemistry Set from Crayola. With 50 experiments, curious kids can set up an arctic lab to unlock the secrets of colors, including creating snow globes, crystal effects and magic water beads. $22.99 at shop.crayola.com.

Cool Construction

The magic of snow lasts all year with Fat Brain Toys’ BuildMaster Snow Activity Kit. Build castles of snow using the snow-like compound that’s easy to mold and holds its shape. Six molds make it simple to create enchanting and detailed castles. $31.95 at fatbraintoys.com.

EMBRACING THE VALUES OF MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.

In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., “One of life’s most persistent and urgent questions is: What are you doing for others?” As we celebrate his legacy on January 16, we can embody his compassion for those less fortunate, including the poor, the unemployed and the homeless. He believed that everyone should have the opportunity to realize their dreams. This year, embrace Dr. King’s philosophies by getting involved with these ideas.

Participate in a day of service, giving your family’s time to help someone less fortunate. Hands On Atlanta offers virtual and in-person volunteer opportunities, as well as events for social good, during the month of January. Visit handsonatlanta.org for details.

Read or listen to Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech, delivered Aug. 28, 1963, in front of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., and discuss its significance, simplifying his message for younger children and going more in depth with tweens. Talk about discrimination and the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Visit the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site. This national park is Atlanta’s top tourist destination. Start at the Visitor Center for an orientation, then visit the Reflecting Pool and the tombs of Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King. You’ll also see historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, where King served as pastor. King’s boyhood home is located one block from the Visitor Center; interpretive park rangers are glad to answer questions and tell stories of King’s childhood. This educational and inspiring experience tells the story of a dreamer who became an instrument for social change. Find more information at nps.gov/malu.

Help your children gather up gently used toys or books they no longer use and donate them. Consider donating to Ronald McDonald House, which supports children undergoing medical treatment; The Georgia Center for Child Advocacy, which supports abused children; CHRIS 180, which focuses on foster care children; or church daycare facilities and women’s shelters. Call ahead to find out the needs of each organization.

Help your child make a new friend, someone who seems “different” from him: A child of another race, a child who grew up in a foreign country, a child with a learning or physical disability, a child in foster care. Teaching your child that other children may look different but are children just like him is a priceless lesson.

For young children, make a paper doll chain, then color the “people” all colors of the rainbow to teach the value that skin color does not define who you are or whether you’ll realize your dreams.

Set up a video camera or use your phone recorder and ask your children to talk about their hopes and dreams. Do it every year, and you’ll have a keepsake to treasure when they’re thoughtful, caring, compassionate adults.

Find events in metro Atlanta commemorating Dr. King on page 97.

Read about Dr. King with your children:

n Martin Luther King Jr. by Carrie Hollister: Part of the Inspired Inner Genius series, inspire courage, honor and imagination in young readers with the story of King.

n Martin Luther King Jr. Day by Melissa Ferguson: From volunteering to peace-inspired crafts, young readers will learn how MLK Day is celebrated in a variety of ways.

n The Story of Martin Luther King Jr. by Johnny Ray Moore: This board book takes readers through King’s life, from childhood to his adult life.

n Trailblazers: Martin Luther King, Jr.: Fighting for Civil Rights by Christine Platt: The true story of the civil rights leader whose peaceful fight for justice still motivates people today.

Atlanta Parent Wins Big!

Our Work Was Honored Once Again for Top-Notch Content and Creativity

Atlanta Parent brought 19 awards home from the annual Parenting Media Association (PMA) awards this year! On hand at the 2022 Conference in Denver were industry publishers and editors from across the country.

The awards are judged by University of Missouri’s prestigious School of Journalism faculty members. The judges look for the best in local and regional parenting publications, special issues, websites and social media. They recognize and reward editorial, design and general excellence in local and regional parenting publications like Atlanta Parent.

Locally owned since 1983, parents have relied on our monthly magazine for nearly 40 years. We are proud to have adapted through the years, and now also provide a lively and fast-growing website and social media outlets. “I am proud to lead such an amazing team and to have been such an integral part of the Atlanta community for so long,” said owner and publisher Liz White. “As we continue to adapt our offerings online and via social media, it’s amazing to know that our monthly print publication is still very relevant and treasured by our readers. We are especially proud to have been recognized by the PMA more than any other singular publication.”

n Overall Writing n News Feature n Special Section Within a Publication n Table of Contents n Single Page Design n Department Design n Front Cover: Illustration

n Overall Design n Ancillary Overall Design n Front Cover: Illustration n Feature Layout n Single Page Design n Department Design n Special Section Design (2 awards)

n Non-Traditional Story Form n Front Cover: Stock Photo n Calendar of Events n Ancillary Cover

2023: Year of the Better Family

by Tali Benjamin

Unplug. We know it’s hard! Between cell phones, schoolissued devices, video games, e-books, social media and good old-fashioned TV, getting away from a screen can be difficult. We aren’t suggesting you cut your family off, but try for less technology time each day. Maybe this means no phones at dinner or having a weekly limit on screen time. When you set these parameters with your family, also use this opportunity to discuss online safety with your children. If you don’t already, be sure you have the proper parental controls set on devices, and be sure you have the passwords to your children’s online accounts.

Commit to one family dinner per week (at least). Schedules are busy, but sitting around the table at least once a week gives your family time to reconnect. Accomplishing this during the week might not be possible, so try for Sunday evenings; set goals for the week and talk about any upcoming plans or challenges. Family dinners are also a great excuse to try new foods. Whether it’s a different type of cuisine or a vegetable your kids have been resisting, get creative and have fun!

Eat healthy. Be sure your kids know what a balanced diet is and provide them with fresh fruits and vegetables each day. Use toothpicks to make mini fruit kabobs for lunchboxes. Low-fat yogurt is great for breakfast or snacks. Try a new recipe once a week to keep healthy dinners exciting. Sheet pan suppers are easy, quick to clean up, and offer tons of variety while being good for you.

January is always a good time to evaluate the year to come and focus on what’s important to you and your family. In the spirit of the new year –2023 – here are 23 things you can do to be the best family you can be.

Words and feelings matter.

Concentrate on how your family speaks to one another. If you react too quickly, be honest with yourself and your children and model ways to say, “I’m sorry.” We all have bad days. Make your home a safe space to talk about how you’re feeling. Let your kids see you cry if something sad is happening. When something great happens, celebrate it. If you notice a change in your child’s behavior or demeanor, talk to them about it. Life has its ups and downs; let mental health be a topic you confront head on.

Create open communication. If you’re a child of the ‘80s or ‘90s, it’s hard to fathom how much more our kids are exposed to at an earlier age now. Let your children know that they can ask you anything and then be prepared on how to have age-appropriate discussions on whatever topic they bring up.

Get outside. Walk around your neighborhood, go to a park, play in the backyard. The fresh air and sunshine will do you good, even on a cold day! If you haven’t checked out the BeltLine, Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park or Sweetwater Creek State Park, use this year to make it happen.

Stay healthy. Remember yearly doctor and dental visits for everyone. Preventative care is so important and covered by most insurance plans.

Embrace curiosity. We know, the fourth time your toddler asks “Why?” you are ready to scream, but letting kids ask questions and explore the world around them is so important. Resist the urge to shut them down this year.

Read together. When you read to young kids, you are helping them develop language skills and expanding their imaginations. It’s also great for some quiet cuddle time before bed. If you have older kids, make time for parallel reading. You’ll have an excuse to join a book club and you can still sneak in a few couch cuddles.

Make a family movie night list. Sit down as a family and create a list of 12 movies you want to watch this year. Then, each month, you can have family movie night complete with popcorn and candy.

Make chores a family affair. Mom and dad shouldn’t be the only people in the household accountable for keeping things running. Young kids can help make beds, put away toys and laundry, and clear the table after meals. Older kids can set the table, fold laundry and vacuum. When you divide the work, it gets done more quickly so there’s more time for fun. Plus, chores help kids appreciate everything you do for them more and teach them responsibility.

Sharing is caring. Teach your kids to share toys with each other and friends. Donate clothes and items you aren’t using anymore.

Research your family tree. This is a great way for your children to speak with their grandparents and hear stories from their childhood. You can also use it as a jumping off point to discuss historical events and how they may have impacted your ancestors.

Have a family meeting. These weekly or monthly check-ins can be productive and fun. They can help you learn about one another, practice communication skills, overcome challenges together, reflect on feelings, set and achieve shared goals and better understand your loved ones’ perspectives and values.

Help in the community. Volunteer for local park clean-up, collect coats for those in need, donate food for the hungry. Hands On Atlanta, Little Helpers of Atlanta, Project Open Hand and Solidarity Sandy Springs all have opportunities for families to volunteer together. Show your kids what being a good citizen means when you give back.

Express gratitude. It’s easy to focus on the negative. Take time each night before bed to say one thing you’re thankful for. It will reframe your thinking and improve your mental health.

Embrace diversity. We live in interconnected world. It’s so important to teach your children about acceptance and inclusion. Use this year to learn about other cultures and adopt some of their traditions. Spend a Saturday exploring the international markets and restaurants up and down Buford Highway. The Buford Highway Farmer’s Market is home to unique produce, spices from around the world and has aisles dedicated to different countries. Let each child choose something unique for everyone to try.

Go on an adventure. This could be a big trip or just camping in the backyard. The point is to enjoy time together doing something different! If you want to stay close, try Callaway Gardens or rent a house in north Georgia for mountain views and cute downtown areas. All-inclusive resorts are a great option for staying on budget and the Caribbean has plenty of options just a short flight away.

Exercise together. It’s fun and keeps you active. Let each family member take turns choosing the activity. Silver Comet, Piedmont Park, Roswell Area Park and Swift-Cantrell Park all have free, outdoor exercise equipment you can try out.

Play hooky from school and work and do something cool! Every once and while, it’s OK . Opt for a matinee movie, visit a museum, or head out of town early for an extra day of vacation.

Spend more time with extended family. This is especially important post-pandemic when travel and large celebrations were put on hold.

Be eco-friendly. Recycle, compost, borrow instead of buy, limit energy consumption.

Create a safe space for making mistakes and learning from them. Childhood is the time to fail. When kids learn from an early age that it’s OK to make mistakes, they are more likely to try new things. Making mistakes also helps children problem solve and understand natural consequences. This year, use mistakes as teachable moments.

HELP IN THE COMMUNITY

BE ECO-FRIENDLY

GO ON AN ADVENTURE

l PERSONAL EXPECTATIONS

Before I became a parent, I had high expectations for myself as a mother. I had things I wanted to do and things I declared I would never do. After my first child was born, I quickly realized that I would change my perspective on most pre-child declarations. “Let go of the idea that you will be the perfect parent because it won’t happen,” said twin mother Aly Ridgeley. When parents accept that they are doing the best they can, at that moment, for their kids, they will be able to cross this worry off their list.

l GUILT

Do you worry that you don’t spend enough time with your child? Do you feel guilty you were not able to breastfeed your child or that you missed a soccer game? The guilt of these things and more can weigh heavily on a parent, but you have permission to let it go. It is okay if you miss a game or a school party. We all have to make choices and sometimes those choices cause unnecessary guilt. Once a decision is made, move forward and let go of the feelings of guilt. They will only rob you of enjoying the present.

l MISTAKES

Every parent makes mistakes, and it is easy to spend time worrying about what should have been done differently. The past cannot be changed and although not easy to do, we must let go of things we cannot change. We can learn from our mistakes and continue to do our best in the future. Give yourself permission to let go of past mistakes and teach your children to do the same.

l WHAT IFS

Parents often worry about things that haven’t even happened yet. What if he gets sick? What if she falls and gets hurt? What if I forget something important? What ifs are not worth the energy they use. Decide not to waste time on them. Face the problems in front of you rather than worrying about issues that do not yet exist.

LET IT GO Seven Things to Stop Worrying About

by Sarah Lyons

Parenthood is hard. There is always something to be done, someone who needs assistance, and multiple things to worry about. The list is endless but may include everything from feeding your kids healthy foods, to your child’s friendships, to what others think about your choices. Some worries are valid, but many are not worth the time and effort. What if we could learn to let them go?

l OUTWARD APPEARANCES

A tidy house, a perfectly decorated home, an amazing wardrobe, all organic home-cooked meals, the perfect marriage, smart, athletic, creative children, and a partridge in a pear tree. We want it all or at least for it to appear that way. It is easy to get caught up in what we look like to others. Social media puts so much pressure on us to keep up with what we believe others are doing. I have a secret for you: Pinterest is not real life and what is posted on Facebook is typically the best of what is going on, not everyday reality. Embrace the fact that no one is perfect and nobody’s expecting you to be.

l COMPARISONS

“Don’t compare yourself to other parents. Your family is unique. Your circumstances are unique. It would be like comparing apples and oranges,” said Lacey Rodriguez. “Do the best you can for your family and forget the rest.” Comparing yourself to other parents is never a good idea. Another pitfall is comparing your children to their siblings or other children their age. Children have their own unique personalities and develop at their own rates. If you feel your concerns are valid, consult your child’s doctor for peace of mind.

l CONTROL

I am a recovering control freak. With each child we added to our family, I was worn down a little more. When our triplets arrived, it finally dawned on me that I am not in control. Once I realized (and accepted) this fact, a weight was lifted off my shoulders. Yes, my husband and I are still in charge of the household, but I cannot control what happens in life. It’s a roller coaster, instead of trying to steer, throw your arms up in the air and enjoy the ride.

Learning to let go of these worries usually leads to feelings of relief. Remember that each family is unique and each parent handles situations differently. It is easier to enjoy your family more when you worry less.

EASY WAYS TO INCORPORATE THE ARTS INTO YOUR CHILD’S LIFE

by Rebecca Hastings

I watched my daughter more than the display. We were there to look at the art installation, to see the famous paintings of van Gogh come to life in new ways. But I was captivated by her. She looked at the colors, the shapes, the images, pointing out details I hadn’t seen before. She was connecting with art painted more than 100 years ago.

In our busy world with increasing academic and athletic standards for our children, the arts tend to get pushed aside. But research shows that the arts help kids with everything from reasoning and development to self-expression and confidence. This includes more than just visual arts. Exposure to music and the performing arts like dance and drama produces the same benefits and provides opportunities for your child to grow and learn.

Knowing the benefits and understanding how to incorporate the arts into our already busy lives are two different things. Here are easy ways you can make art part of your child’s experience.

LET THEM SEE

Perhaps the most obvious way to encounter art is by seeing it. This can look like going to a museum or performance, but it’s also about being observant of the world around you and interacting with it.

n Visit museums: Even at young ages, children can learn to appreciate art in a museum. Try keeping visits shorter for little ones. You can even keep them in a stroller in many museums. This allows you to expose them to art as well as teach them how to behave in a museum. For older kids, try to find museums that spark their interest. Maybe modern art or a photography exhibit provides more connection. We are lucky to have the High Museum of Art in Midtown that features a family-friendly learning gallery, free access to the museum the second Sunday of each month, and special programming for toddlers on Thursdays.

n See performances: Go to live concerts and shows. Casual outdoor venues are great with little kids, so they have space to move around and even dance if appropriate. For inexpensive options, try local high school theater productions and library events. If you want to splurge, don’t forget about the Broadway Series at the Fox Theatre, the Alliance Theatre productions or shows at Cobb Energy Center.

n Listen to music: Music provides entertainment, learning and connection for kids as young as babies. Exposing them to different types of music helps them with language skills, provides comfort, gives a physical outlet and more. From lullabies to rock music, and classical to pop hits, listening to different types of music is a great way to teach kids to appreciate the arts.

Fine Arts Spotlight

Spotlight on the Arts

ATLANTA BALLET CENTRE FOR DANCE EDUCATION

404-873-5811 | centre.atlantaballet.com

Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education provides an opportunity for students of all ages to discover the joys of dance. Introduce your child to ballet in a fun and safe setting with classes focused on developing rhythm, flexibility, coordination and confidence. Classes all year long at three convenient locations.

Fine Arts Spotlight

COMMUNITY MUSIC CENTERS OF ATLANTA

404-614-0466 | CMCAtlanta.com | Four Locations CMC Atlanta’s professional faculty offers music education programs in classical, jazz, rock, folk and roots music, from beginner to pre-professional, ages 4 and older. With four convenient locations, the comprehensive program catalogue includes private lessons, after-school programs, day camps, workshops, gap programs, an accredited high school conservatory, apprenticeship and artist residency programs. Register online today at your neighborhood music school.

Fine Arts Spotlight

ECLECTIC MUSIC

404-537-1382 | eclecticmusicatlanta.com | Intown ATL

With over 20 years of experience teaching music, Eclectic Music has become Atlanta’s most trusted and loved music school. Specializing in students in their first five years of study (at any age), Eclectic Music hosts private lessons, camps, classes and performance opportunities from three intown studios (VaHi, Morningside + Inman Park) as well as offering in-home lessons! If you have a musically inclined student, Eclectic Music is the place to be; from piano to guitar, voice to bass, ukulele to violin… and way more, Eclectic Music has been turning regular kids into musicians since 2002!

atlantaparent.com

FOREFRONT ARTS CHILDREN’S THEATRE

770-864-3316 | ForefrontArts.com | Multiple Locations

Ages 3-18 can channel their talents with Forefront Arts Children’s Theatre – while boosting confidence and developing life skills! School-year classes in Preschool Drama, Film Acting, Improv, Musical Theatre, Show Choir, Dance Technique and more. Fullscale productions – perform in “Annie” and “Mary Poppins!” Summer Camp signups open Feb 1st! Private Vocal, Dance, & Acting Lessons.

Atlanta Parent

EASY WAYS TO INCORPORATE THE ARTS INTO YOUR CHILD’S LIFE

LET THEM EXPERIENCE

Sometimes there are opportunities for art to be more interactive. This is great for children as they are given the freedom to explore art in new ways. Having the chance to touch a sculpture, taste a beautiful cupcake, or sing along to a song invites your child to become part of the art, looking at it from a different perspective.

n Visit an interactive exhibit: Atlanta provides opportunities to interact with art in ways we never have before. For example, Claude Monet: The Immersive Experience is now open. Classical art comes to life, putting your child in the middle of the art as they see it projected all around them. This encourages people to explore a type of art they may not have explored before.

n Go outside: Look for outdoor art exhibits that allow you to see the art and even touch it in many cases. Taking a tour of famous murals painted outside or tiny decorated doors invite a less restrictive experience for kids. Throughout the year, Atlanta Botanical Garden offers various art installations  which invite you to walk around and under largescale sculptures, often made of plants and flowers. Experiences like this inspire kids and foster creativity.

LET THEM CREATE

Creating art comes in so many forms, but often we limit our ideas to things like painting and playing music. Give your child the chance to explore creating all types of art. Drawing, Play-Doh, nail art, puppet shows, fashion, singing, knitting, dancing, acting, sidewalk chalk and color mixing. All of these are ways to create art. And the possibilities are endless.

n Make supplies available: Have a variety of art supplies available for your children to explore. As they do, give them times that are purposeful and structured to make something specific as well as other times that give them the freedom to imagine and create.

n Sign up for lessons: Whether it’s a painting class, music lessons, cooking class, dance class or a local play, there are a variety of options for kids to try. Giving them a chance to explore and try new things allows them to learn what they enjoy.

n Encourage creative expression: Perhaps the most important part is your encouragement. When you talk about the arts as well as encourage your child’s creative endeavors, you show them that art is an important part of life and who they are.

LESSONS – MORE THAN JUST FOR FUN

Did you know that arts learning increases creativity and openmindedness? In fact, exposing your child to the arts has many lifelong benefits you may not know about. So, when your child asks to take ballet, audition for a play or learn the guitar, sign them up!

Strong Relationships. Being in the band, part of a dance team or a member of the cast in a play bonds people through a shared passion and experience. In today’s world when making real connections with people can be a challenge, creating a community for your child through arts lessons can be priceless.

Self-Confidence. Performing in front of others and being able to express yourself gives children a strong sense of who they are. When you encourage this from a young age, your child will be more confident and proud.

Life Skills. According to a report by The Kennedy Center, creativity is cited by business leaders as the top leadership competency for the future. Arts lessons are sure to enhance a child’s natural creativity. Exposure to the arts also boosts other skills, such as problem solving, lateral thinking, complex analysis and critical thinking, which are important no matter your age.

Academic Development. Visual arts boost fine motor skills, while performing arts help with gross motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Children who learn an instrument often have an easier time learning math, as the skills are complementary. Drama supports literacy since children have to learn lines, as well as understand the plot of a play.

Spotlight on the Arts

Spotlight on the Arts

THE MUSIC CLASS

770-645-5578 | 8 Locations in Metro Atlanta themusicclass.com/atlanta

Fun-filled, developmental, interactive music classes. Featuring award-winning music and led by inspiring music teachers, you and your child will be swept into playful singing, dancing, and instrument play in a joyful and nurturing environment. For infants, toddlers and preschoolers. Call for class times or visit our website.

Spotlight on the Arts

SMALL STEPS MUSIC

770-703-4577 | smallstepsmusicllc.com

Give your child the gift of music! Small Steps Music supports and encourages a love of music and the development of new skills through music therapy sessions, private lessons, group classes, workshops, camps, homeschool programs, and birthday parties. Small Steps Music programs use innovative teaching strategies and creative music activities within a therapeutic environment. Programs available for ages 6-weeks to adult. Schedule in-home, in-clinic, or virtually. Welcoming and supporting students with special needs!

Fine Arts Spotlight

THE SPRUILL CENTER FOR THE ARTS

770-394-3447 | SpruillArts.org | Dunwoody

The Spruill Center for the Arts offers hands-on art classes and camps for children and teens in a range of age and skill levels. Instructors guide students through early art explorations in different mediums to portfolio development in teen studio intensives. Classes are offered several weeks each quarter, while camps are held during school holiday breaks, as well as summer break. To discover the full array of opportunities, go to spruillarts.org.

TERMINUS BALLET SCHOOL

470-733-8274 | terminusmbt.com

atlantaparent.com

At Terminus Ballet School, students learn the art of dance while making friends and developing their confidence. The curriculum includes ballet, pointe or boys’ technique, and contemporary dance with opportunities to perform throughout the year. Student creativity is encouraged whilst strengthening their technical foundation. Led by a team of professional dancers, the faculty brings an elite understanding to the classroom and creates a safe and nurturing environment. For boys and girls ages 8+. For questions please contact c.welker@terminusmbt.com.

Atlanta Parent

ARTFUL ACTIVITIES

by Christina Katz

When you’re looking for after-school options for your child, don’t only consider sports. Dance, music, singing and playing instruments, drama and visual arts inspire creativity and build self-confidence. Group and individual lessons can help children hone a craft and develop a passion.

n Sign Them up for Theater

As children grow, they may lose their joy of playing imagination games. One way to help children continue valuing their imaginations, despite emerging self-consciousness, is to introduce them to theater at a young age. Take them to children’s theater productions, encourage participation in age-appropriate theater at school, and sign them up for children’s acting workshops in your community. Workshops may be offered through studios, at professional theaters or through your school district.

n Enroll Them in Dance

When we think of dance, we may picture diva ballerinas or overly meddlesome mothers, but dancers learn many helpful, practical skills that carry over naturally into everyday life. And dance performed regularly and intensively is both a sport and a multi-sensory art form that may raise your child’s self-esteem. Ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, acrobatics and hip hop are the most common forms of dance you will find offered at your local dance studio.

n Let Them Sing

Encourage your music-loving child to try using her own voice. Singing is healthy physically, psychologically and socially whether your child’s singing is pitchperfect or not. Elementary school choir is a good place to gauge a student’s interest in group singing. Take your child to concerts, whether her interest is in classical, jazz or rock music. Encourage her to audition for musicals at school, look for community youth choral groups or investigate the possibility of voice lessons.

n Hand Them a Paintbrush

If the arts and crafts table at school is your child’s favorite place, now is the perfect time to further his love for visual arts. Painting, drawing, collaging, sculpting and a multitude of other art forms teach perseverance, relieve stress, boost selfesteem and give kids a new way to see the world around them. Visit local art museums, take in special exhibits and provide him with quality art supplies. Look into lessons at a local studio, community center or school.

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BIRTHDAY PARTY PLANNER

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Ms. Jennifer’s Music Birthday Party

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Altitude Trampoline Park

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KB Fun Zone

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Jason’s Music Party jasonsmusicparty.com

A Birthday Concert for Your Child. Interactive live kids music for all occasions. Performing classics and new favorites, percussion jams, singing, dancing and more. Options for every budget. Easy set-up, best for ages 1-8.

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FOLLOW THE LEADER:

9 Ways to Instill Leadership Qualities in Kids

by Sarah Lyons

As children get older, it’s important that they have the confidence to make their own decisions. Strong leadership skills help kids develop better and more creative coping abilities when it comes to problem solving and project management.

For some children, leadership comes naturally and for others, it must be developed and encouraged over time.

Either way, parents can help, so that as children grow, leading others and knowing when it is appropriate to follow someone else’s lead are already second nature.

Set an example

Parents can help their kids develop good leadership by showing them what a good leader looks like on a daily basis. When you lead others, including your own children, try to be optimistic, a good listener, treat people fairly, and do the right thing. Your kids will learn these skills simply by modeling your good example.

Set them up for success

Kids who are successful at the things they try are more confident and more willing to get out of their comfort zone. You can achieve this by encouraging them to try activities where they have natural strengths and talent or assist them in projects just enough to help them succeed while still allowing them the majority of the decision and work the project entails.

Build communication skills

Listening and good communication are keys to making a leader successful and well-liked by peers. Encourage your child to put their communication skills into practice by developing listening skills, public speaking, and expressing their frustrations in a healthy way. Parents can do this by asking children to order their own food at a restaurant, encouraging them to approach coaches or teachers themselves when there is a problem, and teaching them to ask questions after listening to a friend talking.

Be a team player

School projects, team sports, clubs, or being a part of a band, orchestra or choir helps kids understand how to work towards a goal as a group. These experiences help your child understand how to be a good leader and when to listen to others and why both are equally important.

Extracurricular Activities that Build Leadership Skills

n Team sports: Being part of a team helps kids learn to work as a group and understand the art of leading and following others.

n Student government: Being part of student council or government helps kids learn to lead and build speaking and negotiating skills.

n Start your own club: If your child is interested in something specific, chances are others their age are as well. Starting his own club is a great way to learn how to lead others and share common interests.

n Volunteer work: Giving of your time helps kids put others first, work on a project for the greater good, develop a good work ethic, and build leadership skills.

n Academic teams or clubs: Being part of an academic team or clubs such as robotics, mathletes, speech and debate, National Honors Society and science club are great ways to build skills in areas that interest them and give them leadership skills they can use in college and the workforce.

n Music and arts: Not everyone is drawn to team sports but being part of a choir, orchestra, band, theater or working on a creative project as a group can have the same benefits as team sports do when it comes to leadership skills.

n Scouts: Groups like Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts give kids the opportunity to work as a team and individually while helping others and being exposed to diversity, volunteer work, team building and life skills.

Sarah Cornell University

Encourage lifelong skills

Integrity, empathy, work ethic, respect, negotiation and compromise are great skills for any leader, as well as any student, employee or friend. You can encourage these skills by setting a good example and talking through situations where they were or were not utilized well. Ask your child how she would have handled this differently and why. Praise him when he has done a good job using these skills and encourage them when needed.

Show them the value of diversity

There is great value in diversity. Everyone has different backgrounds, experiences and gifts. Encourage your kids to learn about other cultures and experiences and that differences are what make us a stronger team. They can learn to stand up to those who are singled out or viewed as different from others. This is what makes a great leader.

Ask for help

Kids who know when to problem solve and when to ask for guidance are better teammates and stronger leaders. It’s also important to offer help to others in the group who may be struggling. Lead by example and be encouraging and helpful when needed.

Develop good work habits

Kids who have responsibilities at a young age are better prepared to lead others. Encourage your child to get a part time job at a young age or pick up jobs like yard work, babysitting or volunteer work so she can build her leadership skills, develop her work ethic and get experience in a variety of areas.

Time management

When your child has a large project to complete, encourage him to map out a plan for getting it done on time. Create steps and set goals to accomplish to meet the deadline. Good project management skills will serve kids well as leaders and employees in the future.

As your child develops strong leadership skills, it’s important to understand that she will not always be the person in charge. Having good leadership skills doesn’t mean you are always the one who is leading. Being respectful and willing to listen and compromise while not officially being the person who is “in charge” of the group is still a way to lead others.

GET SCHOOLED: Understanding the Educational Choices

by Emily Webb

Navigating the education world isn’t as easy as it used to be. There are so many types of schools available, each with their own philosophy and structure. Private schools in metro Atlanta can be very specialized and each set their own tuition and admissions processes. Even within public school systems, schools can offer different classes and distinct opportunities. You should speak with other parents who have similar values, visit schools to see if you think your child would be happy, and consider practical things like location and costs. To help make your journey to the right school shorter, here’s a guide to demystify school choice.

Charter Schools

Charter schools are public schools that operate with freedom from many of the local and state regulations that apply to traditional public schools. Functioning as a public school, they are tuition-free and do not have admissions criteria beyond residency. Charter schools are autonomous and allowed to make their own decisions, operating under the terms of a charter, or contract. There are 100 charter schools in Georgia, according to the Georgia Department of Education, and during the 2021-2022 school year, 60,039 students were enrolled in Georgia public charter schools, according to the Georgia Charter Schools Association.

Faith-Based Schools

A faith-based or religious school is a school that identifies with a specific religious group, such as Catholic, Jewish, Protestant or Episcopal. These schools are always private institutions, although not all private schools are religious. You will usually see a school’s religious affiliation listed within its description, and these schools have curricula that include teachings of faith along with the traditional curriculum.

Homeschool

Homeschool programs allow children to be educated at home. Georgia’s home study law requires homeschool parents/guardians to provide a basic academic educational program which includes mathematics, English/language

arts, science, social studies and reading. Parents/guardians decide which curriculum is best for their child, and you must submit a Declaration of Intent by Sept. 1 or within 30 days after a home study program. You may employ a tutor. Parents must have a high school diploma or GED. Some families group together to form homeschool pods or learning pods.

Hybrid Schools

Hybrid learning environments combine virtual learning and face-to-face classes. Students come into school at least one day a week with a schedule that includes days of remote learning.

International Baccalaureate (IB) Schools

This educational program allows children to take risks, collaborate with others and acquire deep knowledge through a Program of Inquiry or Unit of Inquiry that focuses on trans-disciplinary models. The four stages of IB learning: Primary Years Programme: Ages 3-11; Middle Years Programme: Ages 11-16; Diploma Programme: Ages 16-19; Careerrelated Programme: Ages 16-19 with a focus on career-specific learning. It is offered in 98 schools across the state, both public and private.

Language Immersion Schools

In Georgia’s dual language programs, students spend at least half of their school day in the target language and the other half in English in order to help students achieve higher proficiency in the second language. Programs across Georgia include immersion in Chinese, French, German, Spanish, Korean and Japanese. These schools can be public or private.

Magnet Schools/ Programs

With magnet education, learning is centered around one big theme. Magnet schools are free public schools operated by school districts allowing kids to focus on a specific learning track. For example, Fulton County high school students have the option to enroll in one of their four magnet programs, if they are interested in mathematics and science, visual or performing arts, international studies, business or STEM.

Montessori Schools

Developed and named for Dr. Maria Montessori, Montessori education is a child-focused approach that is student-led and self-paced but guided, assessed and enriched by teachers. Students are taught in a multi-age classroom, and individual students follow their own curiosity at their own pace.

Nature-Based Schools

Nature-based schools have the same academic standards of a traditional school, but nature is at the core of the school’s philosophy, curriculum and classroom design. These schools can be public or private, and are typically focused on the early education years, starting at the preschool level. The natural world is infused into the teaching of every subject, outdoor time is extensive, and activities are based on seasonal happenings.

Private Schools

Private or independent schools are, by nature, schools of choice. Families can choose their child’s learning environment based on matching their family’s world view, religious values or education philosophy. Private schools can set their own admissions standards. There are 720 private schools in Georgia. Cont’d on next page

What to look for in choosing a school:

Qualified teachers and administration. n

Curriculum and learning environment that suits your child. n School culture and values that your family can embrace. n Transportation accessibility and travel time. n

Helpful extracurricular options like clubs and after care. n

Safety and security. n

Engaging opportunities for parent involvement. n

Open and informative parent-teacher communication. n

Happy, vibrant students. n

Class sizes and student-teacher ratios.

Public Schools

Public schools are generally primary or secondary schools that educate all students without charge. They are funded in whole or in part by taxation. There are currently 181 school districts across the state of Georgia containing more than 2,200 schools and employing more than 114,800 teachers who educate approximately 1.6 million students every day.

Reggio Emilia Schools

The Reggio Emilia Approach has its first traces in the mid-19th century and is based on a poem written by Loris Malaguzzi entitled “No way. The Hundred is There,” which depicts children as having multiple ways of thinking and doing that needs to be nurtured rather than corrected. The approach values children as active protagonists in their growing processes with progettazione/ designing, the hundred languages, organization, environment and spaces, participation, learning as a process of construction, formation/professional growth, educational research, evaluation and educational documentation.

Special Education Schools

Special education schools are private and public schools that serve students with special needs. Some focus on multiple needs; others on specific learning differences. These can include communicative, physical and social learning differences like ADHD, autism and hearing impairment. Teachers are educated to meet the specialized learning needs of students. They often have an extensive support staff of guidance counselors, psychologists and social workers.

Virtual Schools

Virtual or online schools are educational programs that are attended remotely. Schools or academies may be public or private. For example, the Georgia Virtual School is an internet-based public school housed in the Georgia Department of Education that serves public, private and homeschooled students throughout the state.

Waldorf Schools

Waldorf schools offer a developmentally appropriate, experiential and academically rigorous approach to education by integrating the arts in all academic disciplines. Waldorf education aims to inspire life-long learning in all students and to enable them to fully develop their unique capacities. Founded in the early 20th century, Waldorf education is based on the insights, teachings and principles of education outlined by world-renowned artist and scientist Rudolf Steiner.

For more information, visit schoolchoiceweek.com, gadoe.org, gacharters.org, ibo.org, reggiochildren.it, waldorfeducation.org and amshq.org.

Trinity School serves children age three through Sixth Grade and cherishes childhood while preparing students for the future.

Small class sizes, early childhood and elementary education experts, and innovative programming are just some of the reasons your child will thrive at Atlanta’s only elementary-only independent school!

Cursive: Outdated or Relevant?

by Rebecca Hastings

Iwatched my daughter try to sign her name just above the signature line. She looked at me a little lost. I felt sorry for her and frustrated that she had not been prepared for something so simple. Cursive hasn’t been taught in my kids’ district in years. They had become whizzes on computers, but what about something as simple as signing your name? It made me wonder if cursive was a thing of the past or something worth reviving.

It’s certainly a heated argument regarding the current state of education. The role of cursive is ambiguous at best, and there are no clear answers.

However, there is one thing we can all agree on: the role of cursive in modern education has changed.

Incorporating cursive in the curriculum had been on the decline for years, but in 2010, there was a drastic drop. With the broader implementation of technology, there was a shift to more typing, and the Common Core standards created more rigorous classroom standards, making things particularly challenging. Something in the school day had to go, and cursive was already questionable. It seemed like the obvious choice.

Education Week addressed this specifically referring to an interview with Sue Pimentel, a lead writer for the Common

Core Language Arts standards. In the interview, she “explained that the decision was about priorities – and that learning to use technology took precedence.”

Not having enough room in the curriculum doesn’t outweigh the benefits of teaching cursive for many. While some argue to let cursive go (like the way the abacus and the slide rule were abandoned for more modern instruments), the benefits of cursive cannot be ignored.

The word that comes to the forefront of many cursive debates is signature. People need to sign their names on documents. The truth is many kids are growing up without the skills to do so. If education is preparing kids for life, is eliminating cursive doing them a disservice? Something as simple as voter registration will be an issue for those who have never been taught how to sign their names.

Signatures also lead directly to the second most common argument in favor of cursive. The inability to read historical documents because one cannot read cursive can put people at a disadvantage. This argument is much more of a personal conviction than an official one, but it should not be ignored.

Some argue, however, that the ability to read cursive is a skill independent of the ability to write in cursive.

“If you don’t know how to write it, you won’t know how to read it,” said Tina Baker, the Assistant Head of Lower School at Mount Paran Christian School. “People should be able to recognize it. As our kids learn how to write in cursive, they write stories or Bible verses in cursive, and we post them in the hallway with our writing samples. They’re able to read each other’s stories.”

Teaching kids the skill of simply reading cursive could be taught in as little as a 30- to 60-minute lesson. The arguments are not as simple as cursive semantics.

The most surprising and perhaps convincing arguments for cursive in the classroom have little to do with such specifics. They address more general benefits that would be easily overlooked.

Cursive can teach fine motor skills, increase the speed of writing and aid in the creative process. While this may seem like a lofty argument, it goes beyond generalizations to specify the benefits to those struggling with dyslexia or brain injury.

“People may say, ‘Well, you can type everything now,’ and yes, society is going toward that,” Baker said. “But there are all different learning styles, and the research shows the importance of how their memory and recall is forming. You recall information better because you’ve written it down in cursive. It’s more important than just learning signatures. If you only read the word signature, you’re not able to read the whole document you’re about to sign. You don’t want to be limited to just what you can sign.”

The Georgia Department of Education has recommendations for cursive writing instruction in grades 3 and 4, but it is left to local districts how writing will be taught, since the skill is not assessed at the state level.

At MPCS, cursive education starts in second grade. “It’s almost like a lost art,” Baker said. “It’s very beneficial for students to learn. It’s multisensory, and studies concerning notetaking show students retention of information is better in cursive vs. print. Kids don’t know how to sign their names, and that’s very valuable as a life skill.”

Sometimes, kids have learned their signature at home, and they have to unlearn this. “They’re not learning the starting points

of each letter which is critical in learning the proper formation of the letters,” Baker said. “You have to realize the starting point, do the motor practice and the correct strokes.”

But maybe this is not an either/or argument. Virginia Berringer, a professor of educational psychology claims that “printing, cursive and keyboarding activate different brain patterns, and that in some cases, students with certain disabilities may struggle with print but do well with cursive.” Education is like a toolbox, with teachers putting all available tools in and showing students how to use them. As they mature, students can pick the tools that work best for them.

There is likely no right or wrong answer here. The school day is filled with demands,

and cursive is a casualty of more than just the digital age. A six-hour school day likely only has four hours for traditional academics, so time for cursive simply doesn’t exist.

“Kids think it’s a great skill to be able to write in cursive. They realize it’s a skill that not everybody knows,” Baker said. “It’s unfortunate that schools aren’t continuing to teach cursive, as it’s a multisensory approach. It’s an important piece of the puzzle that should be added.”

My son just started learning cursive (thanks to a rogue teacher who still sees the value) and I was shocked to see that his typically messy, uneven printing was countered by smooth, thoughtful loops and curves of cursive. It made me wonder.

Maybe it’s time we ask ourselves and our schools questions:

n Is cursive a good homework assignment?

n Is it just a filler activity?

n What is the role of typing?

n How can you implement a modern take on cursive within the full demands of a school day?

n Can I teach cursive at home?

After all, the best learning always starts with questions.

Cursive can teach fine motor skills, increase the speed of writing, and aid in the creative process.

Galloway students confidently embrace challenges while developing the knowledge, skills, and cultural competence to thrive as enlightened contributors in their chosen pathways.

ALL PLAY AND NO WORK: PLAY-BASED LEARNING FOR PRESCHOOLERS

by Emily Webb

Preschoolers gather to decorate and build a train from cardboard pieces. But the learning activity isn’t over once construction is complete. Next, they’ll read stories about trains and the jobs trains provide before spending time dressed up and playing as a conductor or a passenger. Meanwhile, their teacher asks open-ended questions, such as, “Where would you like to travel to on this train?”

This is what a week of work might look like at a play-based preschool. Many metro Atlanta schools are embracing the idea of play-based learning to help children learn in a natural, fun way.

l The Baby Brain

“The 2-year-old brain is developing so rapidly, and that continues to a significant effect up to 3-5 years,” said Tuba Rashid Khan, MD, MPH, Medical Director and Neurodevelopmental Disabilities Specialist at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. “A 2-year-old’s brain is 80% of the adult brain’s weight; by 5 years old, it’s 90%. Imagine how much is going on in that beautiful tiny brain.”

This means that early childhood years are crucial for making new connections. It’s estimated at least 1 million new neural connections are made every second. Neuroplasticity, the ability of neural networks in the brain to change, is at its highest in early ages, said Khan. “The early childhood brain is like a sponge. They are absorbing everything in their environment, and subconsciously and consciously taking in verbal cues, what others are doing, and they’re organizing it in their brains.”

l A Time to Play

Play creates learning opportunities with intellectual, social, emotional and physical development, as well as expressing imagination and creativity. Research has shown that play-based learning makes a difference. A study published in January 2022 for the Society for Research in Child Development reviewed 39 studies to find that guided play had a greater positive effect than direct instruction on early math skills, shape knowledge and task switching.

The study defined guided play as a middle-ground between free play and direct instruction, combining the motivation and exploration children have during playtime with extended learning guided by a teacher or caregiver.

“There are so many steps that go into playing: the intention of the type of game or activity I’m going to do, planning to execute it. I need cognitive flexibility, because I can’t predict how the other child is going to reciprocate, and then I have to react to that,” Khan said. “It’s adaptive learning, and it trains executive function skills, emotional skills regulation, teamwork, collaboration. When you’re an adult, this becomes more complex in a personal and professional setting. You’re building these skills which are key to living a life that is fruitful and thriving.”

Cont’d on next page

PLAY-BASED LEARNING FOR PRESCHOOLERS

Elena Jaime is the Lower School Director for The Children’s School, a Midtown school dedicated to play for ages 3 to grade 8. She is also the mother of a first grader and twins who are in the ages 4-5 classroom. “One thing that is really important for me as an educator is that play aligns with children and how they learn and experience the world,” she said. “They bring a natural curiosity to their experiences. They make sense of the world through play, how to problem solve, develop resilience and frustration tolerance. All of those skills that support human beings in their everyday lives, children begin to understand that through play.”

Beth Anderson is the Program Director at Little Sunshine’s Playhouse & Preschool, a Reggio Emilia school with a focus on a child’s work as play. Her own children have learned in both settings, as her 8-year-old went to a traditional school, and her 2-yearold is in a play-based environment. “Ages 0-5 are the magic years,” she said. “They

should be full of fun and wonder. They are so special. Once they go into kindergarten and onward, it is pretty much strictly business.”

Jasmine Muhammad teaches the Bumblebees Class at Morningside Day Out Preschool, an independent school for 6 months to Pre-K. She’s been a teacher for six years, two of which have been in a playbased environment. “Play-based is better in a sense of kids experience the world through playing. Sometimes, as adults, we forget that kids are kids,” she said. “With playing, we have their attention span longer.”

l How Play-Based Learning Is Different

“If you’re looking at the two different types of classrooms, play-based looks more like controlled chaos,” Anderson said. “But you’ll hear more dialogue, more laughter. You’ll see more experiential hands-on

learning and physical activity. Through the application, they can actually recognize what they’re learning and can grasp onto it. In a traditional setting, it’s more repetition of writing or teacher speaking.”

At The Children’s School, children are given materials and time for exploration and play. “How to develop a plan and execute it, those skills happen when we don’t structure everything for kids,” Jaime said. “We embed challenging academics through play and for our older kids. They’re motivated to learn, and they take risks when they experience joy.”

Jaime has taught at more traditional settings. “Children are asked to memorize facts or focus on the teacher at the front of the room as the person who owns the knowledge. That model is not aligned with how the world works now. Facts are things you can look up on your phone or computer. In all the ways in which the world has changed so much and so recently, education

“WHAT I LOVE ABOUT PLAY-BASED LEARNING IS IT’S ENDLESS. YOU CAN’T SHUT IT OFF. IT’S A LITTLE BIT MORE CREATIVE.”

Beth Anderson, Program Director at Little Sunshine’s Playhouse & Preschool

is understanding that a 21st century student needs to be a flexible thinker. You need to be able to ask the right questions, follow research and communicate with other people.”

“What I love about play-based learning is it’s endless. You can’t shut it off. It’s a little bit more creative,” said Anderson. “It tires them out, but it’s a good tired; they’re not still and stagnant.”

Muhammad appreciates the connection she has with her students. “It’s more of an emotional approach, so they have a bond with their teachers. You’re doing the activities with them, and you’re making a mess with them. In a traditional setting, you’re just showing them what do and you’re leading by example, but this puts you on their level, and so they’re not afraid to approach you.”

Anderson worked in a traditional setting for about 12 years, and she has been at Little Sunshine’s for three years. “I starkly notice, between traditional and play-based, there are less behavioral issues,” she said. “A 2- or 3-year-old doesn’t have the capacity for some of the things that happen in a traditional setting, and they get frustrated and have an emotional outburst.”

l Learning About Learning

Khan has heard the misconception that because they’re just a child, they’re not going to understand or learn something. “When you’re climbing stairs, you can jump and skip to the third step, but it’s harder. It’s easier to reach when you step on the first step and then the second and then the third. If the child is missing key learning points, it will directly and indirectly affect their future development.”

Brain chemicals can be influenced and affected in the classroom, which Jaime has noticed. “When the brain is engaged, you have the ability to retain information,” she

said. “When students are engaged and thinking about a meaningful experience, those experiences stick with learners.”

You can encourage your child’s learning at home by providing everyday activities that arouse your child’s curiosity, with materials for hands-on interaction and open-ended questions. “Even 15 minutes of active engagement where there’s reciprocity increases childhood development, increases IQ levels and reduces mental health disorders in later years,” Khan said. “While you’re waiting with your child for the bus to come, ask, ‘What do the shapes of clouds remind you of?’ There are so many areas where there are opportune moments to engage your child and improve relationships. Be aware that a few minutes can be an opportunity for learning and bonding with your child that shouldn’t be missed.”

You may have some heard pushback against this kind of approach to learning – school is for learning; kids can play at home. But children aren’t miniature adults, and research and experience clearly show children benefit from a learning experience that caters to them and their needs in a playful manner.

YOU CAN ENCOURAGE YOUR CHILD’S LEARNING AT HOME BY PROVIDING EVERYDAY ACTIVITIES THAT AROUSE YOUR CHILD’S CURIOSITY.

Language Immersion Learning: GO GLOBAL!

by Tali Benjamin

Metro Atlanta boasts plenty of options –public and private – for dual language schools and specialized programs. Many parents, even those who do not speak another language, want to give the gift of language to their children and seek out these schools that can support their learning. Exposing children to language from an early age can be key to their abilities to master a second language. “The daily exposure from a very young age to the meaning and culture of languages begins to shape their student identities, as language learners,” said Helen Munõz, Early Learning Centre Principal at Atlanta International School, Atlanta’s first language school, which opened in 1985.

What is language immersion?

Immersion programs do more than teach a subject, they surround students with learning through authentic experiences. With language immersions, students hear, speak and learn language in natural everyday contexts in their familiar surroundings.

Making the choice

In today’s globally connected world, it’s more important than ever for our children to be able to communicate with and understand people from other countries. “Having our kids in a language immersion school is a goal we’ve had for a while,” said Ali Thompson of Smyrna. “I believe in it to break down barriers, understand others, be immersed in other cultures and be global citizens.” Thompson has worked in the travel industry and saw first-hand how important it is to be accepting and knowledgeable of the world around us.

Language immersion programs appeal to those looking for something different than a traditional school model. “My daughter was starting Kindergarten and GLOBE Academy was starting,” said Robyn Brandman.

Atlanta International School

“We are big travelers, so global education is an important family value, and we prioritize it. Being a charter school in DeKalb County, we thought we’d try GLOBE out and 10 years later, we’re still happy with our decision.”

For the Shahab family of Buckhead, the academic benefits of language learning were the driving force behind choosing Atlanta International School (AIS). “I knew that the benefits of the language learning environment at AIS would directly affect my daughter’s future achievements,” said mom Mojy. After 15 years at AIS, the family knows their intuition was right. “I can see the results of the language immersion program, including excellent critical thinking, enhanced problem-solving skills, improved verbal communication in all languages, enhanced creative thinking and flexibility, better memory and enormous social benefits.”

Real results

“Research shows that learning a second language boosts problem-solving, criticalthinking and listening skills, in addition to improving memory, concentration

and the ability to multitask,” said Christine Wimberly, a lead teacher at The Quadrilingual Academy, which immerses students in four languages all day every day. “Children who are proficient in other languages also show signs of enhanced creativity and mental flexibility,” she said.

Thompson whose daughters attend The Quad, as it is nicknamed, sees these benefits on a daily basis. “My girls think creatively and engage with the world around them differently than my son who attends a traditional public school,” she said.

Language proficiency is obviously another goal of language immersion programs. “What is central to our language learning is students are also learning about that language – its meaning, nuance,

constructs and purpose, and they learn about every other subject and topic through the language,” said Leonie LeyMitchell, International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program Coordinator at AIS. Wimberly notes that students’ skills in English are enhanced by their knowledge of other languages.

Seventeen-year-old Neiku Shahab speaks four languages – French, English, Farsi and Spanish. But, said her mother, her proficiency goes way beyond being fluent in languages. “She is proficient in the way she is equipped to approach life beyond high school. She has a special confidence in her approach to the world.”

“I can see the results of the language immersion program, including excellent critical thinking, enhanced problem-solving skills, improved verbal communication in all languages, enhanced creative thinking and flexibility, better memory and enormous social benefits.”

– Mojy Shahab, mother of student at Atlanta International School

Language Immersion Learning

Brandman said her daughter, now a freshman at Lakeside High School views her fluency in French as a sort of superpower. “We went to France for family trip when my daughter finished 5th grade, and she did all the ordering, making reservations, talking with people.” Her daughter also sees the real-world applications of how knowing a second language sets her apart. “She babysits and tutors kids from GLOBE who are in the French track, so she’s earning money using her language skills.”

Being immersed in a language also teaches students an appreciation for the country, culture and people the language belongs to. “My daughters are experiencing learning from a worldly perspective and are becoming true global citizens,” said Thompson.

Global citizenship can be felt each and every day at AIS where more than 90 nationalities and 60 languages are represented. “Language and diversity are all around,“ said Ley-Mitchell. “Whether in the classroom or in the friendships they make with other students from around the world. That is a unique setting in which to learn.”

Student appreciation

Shahab noted that her daughter loves being able to switch to another language in a crowd when the conversation needs to be private! Even young students feel special using their language skills. Thompson’s daughter has two years of language immersion under her belt and can communicate with people in light conversation in four languages. “She speaks Spanish with the servers at our local Mexican restaurant. She can watch shows in other languages and understands the plot. She can translate for us. It’s really cool!”

The Quadrilingual Academy

Language Immersion Schools Around Atlanta

Being immersed in a second language helps children acquire knowledge more easily. At language immersion schools, students are spending the majority of their day learning, hearing and speaking a language other than their native tongue. Here are some schools in the metro area that offer language immersion learning.

Preschools:

n Atlanta Trilingual Academy – Children ages 12 months to kindergarten will learn English, Spanish and Chinese. Atlanta. atlantatrilingualacademy.com

n Little Linguists International Preschool – An innovative language learning program designed to foster a love of Chinese language and culture. East Point and Decatur. littlelinguistspreschool.com

n The Language Garden – A nature-based English/Spanish preschool serving children ages 2-5 years. Atlanta. thelanguagegarden.com

n The Spanish Academy – A total immersion program for Spanish serving ages 12 months to kindergarten. Buckhead, Marietta, Atlanta and Suwanee. thespanishacademy.com

Private Schools:

n Atlanta International School – Full and partial immersion learning in Chinese, French, German and Spanish. Atlanta. aischool.org

n Da Vinci International School – Offers French and Spanish immersion programs for ages 18 months to 5th grade. Buckhead. dvischool.com

n OMNI International School – A PK2-6th grade immersion program of the Japanese or Chinese language, with Spanish as a third language beginning in kindergarten. Atlanta. omnischoolatl.com

n Tabula Rasa Language Academy – A bilingual Spanish/English elementary school program; Sandy Springs location also offers French. Sandy Springs, Lawrenceville and Johns Creek. trlanguages.com

n The Quadrilingual Academy – Children instructed in Spanish, French, Chinese and English with the school planning to expand through 3rd grade. Smyrna. thequadacademy.com

Charter Schools:

n International Charter Academy of Georgia – Uses the Dual Language Model for Japanese and English instruction. Peachtree Corners. internationalcharteracademy.org

n International Charter School of Atlanta – Students experience duallanguage immersion education in French, German, Mandarin or Spanish. Roswell and Alpharetta. icsatlanta.org

n The GLOBE Academy – A dual language school serving kindergarten to 8th grade in Spanish, French or Mandarin. Atlanta. theglobeacademy.org

WE INVITE YOU TO BE PART OF OUR STORY

Building a sense of self for students with special learning needs through academic and experiential programming, The Cottage School (TCS) prepares individuals for fulfillment of their true potential as confident, productive, and independent adults. Now serving grades 3–12. Learn more at www.cottageschool.org

Guide to Private Schools

Finding a private school that fits your child’s learning style and personality can be a challenge. Academic approach, environment, size and location are all factors to consider. Our guide can help you decide on the best fit for your family.

e Academy of Scholars

A t The Academy of Scholars, scholars are developed to their fullest intellectual, moral, spiritual, emotional, physical, and social potential in a safe, supportive, interactive, and nurturing environment.

AOS is an independent, Christian school that guides scholars from Age 4 through 6th grade to make connections through relevant life experiences while loving each and every child as if they are their very own.

Founded in 2013, AOS provides scholars an exceptional, Christian, affordable education through an innovative learning environment that emphasizes problem solving, critical thinking, and character development that will stretch the limits of the high achievers who walk through their doors. By integrating technology into the curricula, scholars are prepared to contribute, compete, and excel in an ever-changing world. With commitment to the vision of affording scholars the opportunity to thrive in an academically enriched Christian environment, AOS has attracted students from over 40 different zip codes in metropolitan Atlanta.

To schedule a tour and find out more about how your future scholar can benefit from the AOS way, visit academyofscholars.com or call 678-632-6001.

Atlanta Academy

Atlanta Academy, located in Roswell, serves 385 private preschool-8th grade students in North Fulton. Small classes allow teachers to understand students’ individual strengths and help them discover their unique talents. The nurturing culture fosters good character in students alongside academic success, well-being, and happiness – their belief in educating the whole child results in students experiencing excitement and joy in the classroom.

The forward-thinking curriculum focuses on building confidence and skills while providing students with various opportunities to succeed at prestigious private high schools and top-ranking public schools.

High-performing student achievement is nurtured in a nondenominational, family-engaged atmosphere. Teachers model and instill values such as empathy, integrity, resiliency, and honesty, and they are fully invested in helping children grow into welleducated, independent problem-solvers prepared to excel in high school and beyond. Learn more at atlantaacademy.com.

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Alpharetta International Academy

Alpharetta International Academy (AIA) offers a distinctive Montessori education with uniquely designed programs in Spanish, Engineering, Art and Yoga. Established in 1981, AIA is a private, non-profit Montessori school for children 18 months old through 8th grade. The school strives for excellence and their goal is to nurture each child’s innate desire to learn in a kind and supportive way. They embrace DIVERSITY, welcome new IDEAS, and encourage CREATIVITY.

AIA’s beautiful campus sits on a 6-acre wooded lot certified as a ‘Schoolyard Habitat Site’ by the National Wildlife Federation. Their Montessori program focuses on the individual needs and aptitudes of each child. Children progress at their own rate, as they are encouraged by certified teachers to choose appropriate lessons during uninterrupted blocks of work time.

AIA se enorgullece de tener 40 años de experiencia en EDUCACIÓN MONTESSORI. El objetivo de AIA es fomentar en el niño la curiosidad y pasión por aprender. El programa proporciona la oportunidad de enriquecer el desarrollo individual del estudiante dentro de su grupo de clases.

For information, please visit aiamontessori.com or call 790-475-0558.

Atlanta Girls’ School

Every girl is a leader at Atlanta Girls’ School, metro Atlanta’s only non-sectarian all-girls independent school for girls in grades 6–12.

AGS specializes in giving girls the opportunities and confidence to try new things. Leadership Labs provide hands-on leadership practice throughout the school year. Each student explores special topics during the annual Winterim. AGS’s arts and athletics programs are designed so students can participate and grow regardless of prior experience level, taking on more leadership as they progress.

AGS’s student body reflects the city of Atlanta in many ways—their 200 students come to campus every day from more than 60 zip codes in the metro area. While all have their own story, all are welcome and celebrated for who they are in AGS”s close-knit community commonly described by students and alumnae as “sisterhood.”

What happens when high school is over? Graduates attend colleges across the country and internationally, including prestigious liberal arts colleges, state universities, and Ivy League schools. While AGS graduates take many paths, each leaves with the confidence to boldly lead a life of purpose.

Visit atlantagirlsschool.org to learn more or to schedule a visit.

Atlanta Private Schools

Atlanta International School

Atlanta International School (AIS) offers the esteemed International Baccalaureate (IB) program to all of their 1,300+ students, from threeyear-old Kindergarten through Grade 12. AIS families come from the Atlanta area, the wider US and countries all over the world. Rigorous academics are enriched by a world-class language acquisition program, which begins with full immersion in French, German, Chinese and Spanish at Preschool and continues with dual (French, German and Spanish) and partial (Chinese) immersion from 5K to Grade 5. The Middle Years Program offers choice and agency for students and in High School, AIS offers STEM and STEAM-endorsed and bilingual diplomas, in addition to the prestigious IB diploma.

Beyond the classroom, AIS students participate in awardwinning performing and arts opportunities, competitive athletics, and global experiential learning. Along with the authorization to offer IB education, AIS is also accredited by: AdvanceED, Agency of French Teaching Abroad (aefe), Council for International Schools (CIS), Educational Collaborative for International Schools (ECIS), and the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS). For more information, visit aischool.org.

Capstone Academy

Capstone Academy

is a private school serving grades 5-12 with an innovative, successful model changing young lives since 2008. At Capstone Academy, teachers encourage all of their students to become lifelong learners by instilling academic curiosity, respect for others, and accountability to core values. College-prep academics are at the honors level and above in high school and advanced levels in the middle grades. Using superior content and proven methods, students cultivate subject mastery, critical thinking skills and ownership of knowledge. Capstone is a school whose structure works best for students who desire the camaraderie of a classroom setting but require a flexible schedule to pursue outside interests and quality family time. Courses exceed standards while meeting three days a week. This is accomplished without sacrificing learning and eliminates the wasted time and stress of a traditional school schedule. The core belief at Capstone Academy is that students who are balanced and understand their own power, can explore their education and pursue their passions with authenticity.

To schedule a tour please visit capstoneacademy.com or call 404-458-5160.

Atlanta Music High School

Atlanta Music High School empowers classical, jazz, rock and folk music students (grades 6-8, 9-12) with an education that is not only accredited, but that is also sensitive and responsive to the time and resources it takes for a passionate young performer or composer to become a great musician.

Founded in 2016, AMHS brought the professional faculty of two independent and established schools, Community Music Centers of Atlanta and Capstone Academy, into collaboration for the purpose of offering rigorous academics and deep immersion in pre-professional musical training locally.

AMHS works with parents and students to arrange dual enrollment at AMHS and Capstone or another public or private school of their choice. Homeschool academics are also an option. Academic schedules are condensed and tailored to provide ample time for passionate musicians to develop musical artistry and a capstone portfolio by graduation. The AMHS experience balances and harmonizes the demands of traditional academics with immersion in intensive training, which is crucial for student happiness and success.

AMHS believe students who strive to develop an elite level of skills and their own authentic artistic perspective are prepared for life, whether they choose to continue in music or to go in another direction for college. Visit AtlantaMusicHigh.com for more information or call 404-614-0466 to schedule a tour, interview or scholarship audition.

e Children’s School

The Children’s School’s age 3 –grade 8 students experience nurture and challenge, independence and community – all at the same time.

Their nationally recognized, innovative curriculum delivered by expert teachers uses immersive play- and projectbased learning to engage students and connect them to the world around them so they can see the relevance and impact of their learning. At TCS, learning is hands-on, minds-on, and all heart.

The TCS preschool - grade 8 structure recognizes that the transition from elementary to middle school can be difficult for young adolescents and offers students the gift of time to be known and to feel safe, without interrupting a critical developmental period with a school change.

Combining the preschool, kindergarten, elementary and middle school years gives students time to mature, tapping their growing abilities while preserving their childlike sense of joy, wonder and curiosity.

By the time their students graduate, they are highly skilled, confident, compassionate, community-minded global citizens who are well equipped to lead successful lives and make a positive difference in the world.

e Cottage School

The Cottage School (TCS) is a 501c3 non-profit school with small class sizes, and work-based model for students grades 3-12 with mild to moderate learning differences. For 38 years, The Cottage School has focused on the three pillars of success; academic achievement, social skills and emotional wellness. The unique work-based model guides the students to advocate for themselves, build self-confidence, and develop leadership skills while learning to appreciate their own strengths.

By encouraging a variety of team sports such as soccer, volleyball, basketball and track, students are introduced to the fundamental life skills of teamwork and respect. The beautiful 23-acre campus with outdoor learning spaces and trails, inspires students to spend time outside in discovery.

The Cottage School – developing confident, independent and productive adults. For more information or campus tour please visit: cottageschool.org.

Endeavor International School at Dunwoody

Endeavor International School offers an advanced middle school program that prepares students for the future. As one of the only International Baccalaureateapproved middle schools in the Atlanta area, Endeavor International School students receive a highlevel education that prepares them for the prestigious IB diploma.

Led by its esteemed faculty, Endeavor International School offers an innovative curriculum that strengthens students in all areas, including STEM, languages, and the arts. In addition, the school’s modern classrooms are designed to enhance the educational experience and encourage collaboration and social development.

Endeavor International School is committed to providing students with a rigorous and well-rounded education that inspires them to realize their potential and improve the world.

Now enrolling for grades 6 to 8. For more information, go to www.endeavorinternationalschool.com.

Best Guide to

Davis Academy

Be amazed by the Davis Experience. From Kindergarten Prep - Eighth Grade, The Davis Academy teaches to the whole child, creating compassionate leaders and equipping them with skills they will use for the entirety of their academic careers and beyond. They teach life skills, instill Jewish values, and provide diverse experiences so that their students become wellrounded and self-confident individuals. Students learn amongst a warm and supportive community that shares common values and visions. They celebrate both the ways their diversity makes the school vibrant and the individual differences that make the school community so unique.

With a retention rate of 97%, The Davis Academy community is comprised of families from across the globe, nation, and 31 metro Atlanta zip codes. Davis graduates attend the most prestigious public and private high schools in Atlanta, they know who they are and continuously make a difference in their communities and the world.

Learn more today at davisacademy.org!

Endeavor Montessori School at Dunwoody

Atlanta’s newest and most innovative school offers a modernized and holistic education that combines Montessori principles with an age-appropriate, technology-focused curriculum.

Endeavor Montessori at Dunwoody serves children from 6 weeks to 12 years and approaches learning with a focus on developing the whole child through critical thinking, cultural awareness, and entrepreneurship. The school also eases children into STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, The Arts, and Math) so that they understand the technology that surrounds them every day.

The curriculum at Endeavor Montessori at Dunwoody is distilled from the experiences and knowledge of more than 200 esteemed Montessori teachers from across the country to provide students in the Atlanta area with a world-class education that prepares them for their future as they discover their interests and cultivate their talents.

For more information, visit www.endeavormontessori.com or call 770-637-1242.

Atlanta Private Schools

Galloway School

Located in beautiful Chastain Park, The Galloway School is an independent day school that serves a diverse student body of around 750 students in Pre-K3 through 12th grade. At Galloway, learning is joyful, individuals are valued, and self-discovery is encouraged. Galloway students confidently embrace challenges while developing the knowledge, skills, and cultural competence to thrive as enlightened contributors in their chosen pathways.

Galloway offers an environment of high expectations and low anxiety that encourages students to grow by teaching them to challenge themselves today and for the rest of their lives. Throughout their time at Galloway, students not only develop an abiding love of learning but learn to embrace it as a life-long endeavor.

Graduates attest that Galloway’s focus on the journey of learning and personal development is what makes the school truly different, and the results speak for themselves. Galloway graduates are mature, independent, and confident individuals who are well prepared for college and for a life lived as enlightened citizens who think independently, care deeply, and engage responsibly. For more information, call 404-252-8389 or visit gallowayschool.org.

High Meadows School

For 50 years, High Meadows has been a school where learning is an adventure. Each day, High Meadows students age three through 8th grade learn through experiential, immersive educational opportunities that foster a love of learning, critical thinking, and social responsibility. Children are given voice and choice in their school experience, while being challenged to stretch, grow, and realize their true potential.

Located on 42 acres of historic farm property in Roswell, GA, High Meadows School’s campus provides the perfect landscape for connection to nature and hands-on learning. Students enjoy learning and playing in the school’s forests, meadows, cabin classrooms, and barnyard in addition to beautiful child-centered classroom spaces.

A nationally recognized and award-winning leader in progressive education, High Meadows School is an authorized International Baccalaureate (IB) World School offering its renowned Primary Years Programme for students in pre-k and kindergarten through fifth grade and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).

For more information, please visit highmeadows.org or call 770-993-2940. 1055 Willeo Rd., Roswell, GA 30075

GRACEPOINT School

GRACEPOINT , a private, Christian school, proudly celebrates ten years of equipping dyslexic students in grades 1-8 with the skills needed to become independent, confident learners. Since opening its doors in 2012 with four students, GRACEPOINT has restored hope to more than 230 dyslexic learners by identifying its students’ strengths while remediating their academic weaknesses.

GRACEPOINT understands that dyslexia is not a disability but a learning difference viewing dyslexia as a gift to embrace and celebrate. The teaching style meets academic and spiritual needs while bringing out their students’ God-glorifying brilliance.

As an accredited program through the Academy of Orton Gillingham Practitioners and Educators, GRACEPOINT provides an explicit, systematic, and multisensory approach to learning woven into all subject areas. Their mission is to equip students with the skills needed to develop into independent and confident learners. Once remediated, students transition to traditional public and private schools.

To further meet the immense need for specialized education for dyslexic learners in the community, GRACEPOINT will relocate to a larger facility located at 1407 Cobb Parkway in January 2024.

Learn more at gracepointschool.org or call 678-709-6634 to schedule a tour.

Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School

HIES is one of the nation’s largest Episcopal schools, enrolling 1,360 students in grades PK3-12. Here, in a uniquely vibrant learning community, filled with encouragement and every imaginable opportunity, students are able to pursue their passions and are challenged to reach their full potential.

Located just north of Chastain Park and inside the perimeter, HIES reaches across 43 beautiful acres and boasts a state-of-theart STEM Building, stand-alone Primary, Lower, Middle and Upper School facilities, a Fine Arts Building, two modern gymnasiums and four expansive athletic fields.

Their college-prep curriculum challenges students, encourages collaboration and inspires creative thinking. Course offerings include acclaimed reading and writing programs, foreign language classes for all ages, hands-on science programs, robotics, engineering, film and TV production classes and the Program for Global Citizenship. HIES has one of the region’s leading Fine Arts programs and an impressive athletic tradition, with many regional and state championships. For more information, visit hies.org.

Holy Spirit Preparatory School

Holy Spirit Preparatory School is a family-oriented Catholic school joyfully providing both spiritual and intellectual formation for children 6 months old through the 12th grade.

Holy Spirit Prep utilizes a classical approach which provides academic excellence with a moral framework. The classical curriculum enables students to develop critical thinking skills, reason, and sound judgment.

There are several unique offerings at Holy Spirit Prep. Students take a music class five days per week in the Lower School. In Middle School, students become members of a House System, which focuses on building community, developing leadership skills, and providing service to others. The High School offers multiple levels of a college preparatory curriculum, including AP courses.

Students may also choose an elective path of courses in humanities, computer science, or fine arts.

Extensive offerings in the fine arts, athletics, and clubs provide a plethora of opportunities for students to be actively involved after school, thus providing a complete education that prepares them for college and for life.

Call 678-761-7992 or visit holyspiritprep.org.

e Lovett School

The Lovett School is a community of belonging that develops students of honor, faith, and wisdom with the character and intellect to thrive in learning and in life. Founded in 1926 by Eva Edwards Lovett, Lovett continues today as an Atlanta independent school serving children from Kindergarten through Grade 12.

The School’s emphasis on the whole child is nationally recognized and provides integrated experiences in academics, arts, athletics, and service through an education grounded in learning, character, and community. Lovett’s rigorous academic offerings are complemented by dynamic arts classes taught by working artists, a competitive athletics program fielding 69 teams in 16 sports, and purposeful civic engagement opportunities to foster responsible global citizens.

With a student body composed of 1,640 students from 78 different zip codes, Lovett fosters inquisitive minds as well as joyful spirits, strong bodies, good characters, and empathetic hearts. Nurturing relationships are at the heart of a Lovett education, whether it be in the classroom, on the stage, or on the field, so the School maintains a student-teacher ratio of 7:1.

Learn more about Lovett and the admission process at lovett.org.

Best Guide to

Landmark Christian School

Ranked as one of the best schools in the state and nation, serving PK3-12th with campuses in Fairburn and Peachtree City. Landmark invests in the spiritual, academic and overall development of children with engaging academics, Christian values, and immense opportunities. 100% of graduates have college acceptances, most with scholarships and college credits.

With intentionally small class sizes and a teacher-to-student ratio of 1:8, world-class faculty offer dynamic learning environments helping students discover their passions and develop their talents to impact the world for Jesus Christ. Students are immersed in hands-on learning stimulating imagination and invention. Innovative offerings include the Academies: Aviation, Music, Film, Leadership, Visual Arts, Engineering/STEM, Leadership, and Fashion. Dual enrollment taught uniquely on campus, AP, honors and online courses paired with numerous sporting and arts opportunities create an exceptional student experience. TED, Spotlight Theatre, and Imagination Stations stir the minds of the youngest. A new state-of-the-art high school opened in 2021. Call 770-692-6742 to learn more, tour, or apply now at landmarkchristianschool.org.

McGinnis Woods School

McGinnis

Woods School located in Forsyth County offers a rich Preschool through Middle School education. McGinnis Woods is Cognia, GAC, and NAEYC certified and a member of the Georgia Independent School Association. Instruction at McGinnis Woods is taught by nurturing, certified teachers and is hands-on with a focus on STEM learning. The Innovation Lab and Nature Explore certified outdoor classroom are exceptional areas which encourage curiosity and creativity. The school is a 1:1 iPad environment that features small class-sizes with teacher assistants and superior academics that inspire a lifelong love of learning. Classes are engaging and provide for differentiation and personalized attention. Guest speakers, field trips, character education, leadership opportunities and community service round out the curriculum. Competitive Sports, Robotics, Science Olympiad and Drama teams train year-round. After school and Discovery Clubs are also available. Visit www.mcginniswoods.org to set up a tour to visit today!

Atlanta Private Schools

Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs and Montessori at Vickery

With campuses at Sharon Springs and Vickery, we provide students with a Montessori education that opens minds and sharpens intellectual skills, while nurturing confidence and independence.

These schools offer ageappropriate Montessori programs for children from 13 months to 12 years. Working in a supportive environment with experienced educators, students receive the tools and resources to gain a world-class education. The format includes mixed-age classrooms, allowing students to learn social, academic, and leadership skills. Teachers guide students as they discover their interests and develop their abilities. Montessori is effective in helping children develop a lifelong love of learning. Recognized by Montessori educators worldwide and accredited by the American Montessori Society, these schools meet the highest standards of excellence. For more information, go to MontessoriAcademySharonSprings.com or MontessoriVickery.com

Mount Paran Christian School

Mount Paran Christian School exists to provide a stellar academic experience in a Christian environment. It’s crucial to guarantee a moral and faith foundation through everything your child learns at school. Through curricular Bible classes, weekly chapel, discipleship groups, and service, faith becomes integrated into who they are. Within small class sizes, MPCS offers 56 AP/honors courses, instructional support, robotics, Spanish and STEAM starting in PK3, and a 1:1 device program. MPCS’s job is to prepare servant-leaders – in the classroom, on the ball field, on the stage, and ultimately in the community.

Mount Paran Christian School is a PreK3-12th grade private Christian, non-denominational, college-preparatory school. MPCS is committed to excellence in academics, award-winning arts, and championship athletics. Founded in 1976, MPCS is fully accredited (SAIS/Cognia) and located in the shadow of Kennesaw Mountain on a 68-acre collegiate-like campus. MPCS unites with home and church to prepare servant-leaders to honor God, love others, and walk in Truth. Experience the difference an MPCS education can make for your family at an Open House or Tuesday Tour. Sign up at mtparanschool.com/experience.

Mt. Bethel Christian Academy

Mt. Bethel Christian Academy is the school of choice for Cobb families and beyond desiring a JK12th Christ-centered education. Through a relationship-centered approach to teaching, MBCA students are equipped to succeed as they learn, lead, and serve. At MBCA, students are known and loved, and individual strengths are celebrated.

Mt. Bethel’s curriculum challenges students with a STEM program, honors/AP classes, robotics, world languages, domestic and international mission trips, plus digital/fine arts opportunities. The Academy is also home to the new Film Academy, providing students with hands-on learning and exploration tools to teach them how to articulately tell stories through a Biblical worldview. New for 2022-2023, the Academy broke ground on a turf multipurpose field and launched tackle football for grades 4-8, expanding to JV next year. The two campuses include performing arts, visual arts and video production studios, learning commons with student collaboration space, a fitness center, and athletic facilities. Beyond the classroom, championship athletics and robotics programs provide opportunities for growth.

Bus service is available to the Lower & Middle Campus (JK-8) at 4385 Lower Roswell Road and Upper Campus (9-12) at 2509 Post Oak Tritt Rd. Email admissions@mtbethelchristian.org to learn more.

Mount Pisgah Christian School

Mount Pisgah Christian School is a top-rated independent Preschool-12th grade school located in north Atlanta. Known for providing an outstanding college preparatory education grounded in Christian faith and values, 100% of students are accepted into a four-year college or university.

MPCS is educating with intention through personalized, student-centered learning with small class sizes brought to life in academics, athletics and spiritual life. A purposeful education prepares students to be critical thinkers, ready to succeed in an increasingly competitive world.

Recognized for academic achievement, Mount Pisgah is an AP Challenge, AP Merit, AP STEM, AP STEM Achievement and AP Humanities School.

This school is a place where students encounter foundational truth in the Word of God and experience God’s love and grace in the classroom, on the field, and beyond.

Extracurricular offerings include 46 competitive athletic programs, fine arts programs and more.

Visit mountpisgahschool.org to learn more.

The Mount Vernon School

Inspiring innovation in Preschool through Grade 12, The Mount Vernon School empowers students to discover, explore, learn, design, create, and effect change. Providing a platform for limitless possibilities where learning is amplified through real-world problem-solving, the School encourages constant impact. Students have big ideas and when their teachers really know each individual’s curiosities and passions, incredible things can happen. As a co-educational day school for more than 1,250 students, Mount Vernon is a destination for students who will design a better world. Preparing students to be globally competitive, college-ready, and engaged citizen leaders, the College Counselors cultivate strong relationships with each family in order to find the optimal college fit. Alumni have been accepted to Harvard University, Stanford University, United States Military Academy, Barnard College, American University, University of California- Santa Barbara, Georgetown College, Swarthmore College, University of Colorado, and all 14 universities in the Southeastern Conference. “We don’t have to wait and see what the future holds. We can design a better world together, today.”

Visit mountvernonschool.org/admissions to learn more.

Pace Academy

In 1958, an interfaith group of community leaders envisioned a learning environment open to fresh ideas and debate. Pace Academy today is exactly what its founders had in mind.

With 1,150 students in Pre-First through 12th grade, Pace strives to create prepared, confident citizens of the world. Studentteacher relationships are at the heart of the Pace experience, so the school maintains a student-teacher ratio of 9:1 and an average class size of 12.

Pace develops children’s passions and strengths through academics, athletics and the arts, while providing global perspectives in the classroom and an integrated experience after the bell rings.

Through the Isdell Center for Global Leadership (ICGL), Pace students come to view the world through a global lens. The ICGL builds on an innovative academic curriculum and explores an annual, school-wide theme. Curricular and co-curricular activities, scholars in residence, fellowships, internships and international study tours support education around these themes.

Through the ICGL, Pace students, guided by an outstanding faculty, develop a deep understanding of the world and the people around them. Pace graduates realize that true success means making a difference.

For more information, visit paceacademy.org.

Best Guide to

North Cobb Christian School

North Cobb Christian School partners with parents of over 1,150 students in preschool K3 - 12th grade to inspire the pursuit of wonder, safeguard innocence, and discover the truth of God. This is school ... the way it should be. Since its founding in 1983, NCCS remains true to the calling of providing an authentically Christian, academically excellent education that honors each student’s unique genius. Students thrive amidst a strong family culture with a 10:1 student-to-teacher average ratio.

L imitless opportunities to shine include 54 championshipcaliber athletic teams, 17 award-winning arts ensembles, 5 Academies (magnet programs), and a robust array of clubs and enrichment programs. Proactive college counseling results in top scholarships and a 100% college acceptance rate. Plus, weekly chapel, discipleship groups, fall retreat, and Spring Term trips encourage solid biblical foundations. In fact, an independent school consulting firm recently reported, “The strength of NCCS is their Christian mission. Of all the schools we have worked with nationally and globally, NCCS’s Christian mission is the strongest we have seen.” To tour: 770-975-0252, ncchristian.org/admissions, admissions@ncchristian.org

Pinecrest Academy

Pinecrest

Academy is a PreK3-12 Catholic school providing an atmosphere of academic rigor and critical thinking. Rooted in Catholic tradition and inspired by the beauty, goodness, and truth of the Christian worldview, their whole-person educational approach helps children discover and develop their God-given gifts. The students, faculty, and staff strive to live by the core values of charity, humility, excellence, and mission. Pinecrest was ranked #1 Catholic High School in Georgia for the third consecutive year by Niche.com. Graduates gain acceptance into top colleges across the globe.

The average class size at Pinecrest Academy is 15 students, each known and loved by their teachers. STEMScopes encourages learning and discovery through hands-on labs. Athletics and Fine Arts are an important part of a student’s experience. Students participate in service projects, supporting their mission to form Christian leaders who will transform society. Pinecrest serves Cumming, Johns Creek, Alpharetta, Suwanee and other North Atlanta areas. Visit pinecrestacademy.org or call 770-888-4477.

Atlanta Private Schools

Sage School

Learning how to learn is one of the greatest gifts a child can receive. At Sage School, students are presented with tools and strategies to unlock the code of English language. Language instruction and Orton-Gillingham remediation form the core of the education of a Sage School student. The instruction is multisensory, direct and explicit.

Orton-Gillingham remediation, the best education a student with dyslexia can receive, is a multi-sensory approach to teaching children to read and write. While the approach at Sage School is structured, sequential, and cumulative, it is also individualized to meet the needs of the learner. Rather than rote learning, instructors address the language cognitively, teaching students how language works.

A Sage School classroom provides individualized instruction to meet the students’ needs in the areas of encoding, spelling, handwriting, written expression, vocabulary and reading comprehension. Learn more about Sage and schedule a tour today at sageschool.com.

e Schenck School

The Schenck School’s mission is to build a solid educational foundation for students with dyslexia and to develop their rich potential. Founded by David Schenck in 1959, The Schenck School is widely regarded as one of the top elementary schools in the U.S. for dyslexic students. The Schenck School focuses on an accelerated remediation of dyslexia using The Schenck School’s reading model, a highly diagnostic and prescriptive application of the Orton-Gillingham Approach with small group instruction across all subjects. Critical to student’s success is a specialized, intensive yet nurturing learning environment for students to take risks, read and succeed. While at the School, students learn to advocate for themselves and to celebrate their dyslexia.

ReadSource is a non-profit launched by The Schenck School to share the expertise of the School with others in the community who work with struggling readers. Its mission is to empower educators, and transform student lives through evidence-based reading instruction.

For more information about the school, visit schenck.org.

For more information about reading instruction and teacher training, visit readsource.com

Saint Francis School

Saint Francis School is an independent, not for profit, college preparatory program, without any religious affiliation, serving the Atlanta Metro area since 1976. The mission of Saint Francis School is to provide a college preparatory program to students with diverse academic ability in a structured environment that is challenging and supportive. Kindergarten – 8th grades are located on the 24-acre Roswell Campus while the High School is located on the 47-acre Milton campus. The school’s commitment to small class sizes, low pupil-to-teacher ratio, and a strong emphasis on structure and organization allows students to enjoy success in academic areas and develop the self-confidence necessary to be successful in college. Curriculum offerings include AP, Honors, Traditional, Support classes and Academic Enhancement courses

Specialized reading programs offered include Fundations ® , Wilson Reading System ®, Just Words ® and supplemental support from Cars ® and Stars ® Reading Comprehension. Sports are offered at Grades 5 - 8 and high school (GHSA) including football, soccer, baseball, track, swimming, wrestling, softball, volleyball and equestrian.

Visit saintfrancisschools.com to learn more.

Springmont School

As

the oldest Montessori school in the Southeast, Springmont offers students 18 months through Middle school an authentic Montessori education. Individualized, hands-on learning is balanced with social/emotional well-being, inspiring the diverse and inclusive community of learners to become creative, independent, and globally minded.

Multi-aged classes and specially designed materials are complemented by highly experienced and caring teachers who guide students’ curiosity towards meaningful, collaborative discoveries. Large, light-filled classrooms and a beautiful campus with natural areas, class gardens, and farm animals afford rich outdoor experiences.

Springmont’s Middle School prepares students for success in Atlanta’s premier high schools and life beyond academics. Opportunities to hone time-management skills, experience active leadership roles, and work both independently and in diverse groups allow students to become engaged learners. Springmont School –Extraordinary by Design. Learn more at springmont.com.

St. Martin’s Episcopal School

St. Martin’s Episcopal School is Atlanta’s preschool through 8th-grade experience dedicated to graduating well-rounded individuals ready to wholeheartedly embrace life. St. Martin’s serves 660 students and offers a challenging curriculum, outstanding facilities and many opportunities for students to learn about the world and themselves through intellectual adventures, extracurricular opportunities and spiritual formation.

St. Martin’s Early Childhood Learning Center features state-ofthe-art classrooms, a STEAM village and an outdoor learning space all geared to foster engagement and collaborative learning among young children.

Elementary School at St. Martin’s is a vibrant community with a focus on a loving structure balanced with high academic expectations grounded in a STEAM-based education. The Middle School has a traditional structure designed to prepare students for academically rigorous high schools while also meeting the unique developmental needs of early adolescents.

As an Episcopal School, students’ spiritual growth is an important part of St. Martin’s mission. Students are inspired to be good citizens, to serve the community and to love and respect oneself and others.

To learn more, please contact the Admission Office at 404-228-0709 and visit stmartinschool.org.

Trinity Christian School

Celebrating over 30 years in South Atlanta, Trinity Christian School continues to grow and has exciting plans for expansion to meet the needs of their growing student body. TCS partners with parents, churches and local organizations to equip students with the tools necessary to influence communities for the cause of Christ. TCS is fully accredited and non-denominational, with campuses in Sharpsburg and Griffin, making it one of the largest private Christian schools with a current enrollment of 1,923 students in PreK through 12th grade.

In addition to their strong academics, including honors and college prep courses, students experience a variety of extracurricular activities, and a full range of boys’ and girls’ competitive athletic programs. At Trinity, they are focused on making a difference in the lives of their diverse student population. They achieve this through their commitment to maintaining a Christ-like culture of excellence that honors God; developing meaningful partnerships with parents and the community; and building diversity that mirrors heaven. The mission at TCS is to prepare today’s student to impact tomorrow’s world. #WeAreTCS. Learn more at tcslions.org!

Best Guide to

Swift School

Swift School is an independent private school serving students in grades 1–8 with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. Swift School’s world-class faculty remediate the language learning challenges faced by the students while capitalizing on the strengths of intelligent dyslexic learners. At Swift School, dyslexia is viewed through the lens of leading-edge brain science and seen as a brain type with tremendous academic and professional advantages.

Swift uses the Orton-Gillingham Approach to teach students how to decode and understand language while also helping them develop executive functioning, social-emotional, and self-advocacy skills that will allow them to thrive. With small class sizes, Swift provides students with a high degree of individualized attention. The Middle Division offers a challenging program that prepares students for success in high school. Outside of the classroom, Swift School offers after-school clubs for Lower Division students and interscholastic sports for Middle Division students.

Swift School is located in Roswell off GA-400 at exit 7. Contact admissions by emailing admissionassociate@theswiftschool.org or visit theswiftschool.org to learn more.

Trinity School

Established in 1951, Trinity School is Atlanta’s only elementary-only independent school and serves children age three through Sixth Grade. Students enjoy small class sizes, low student-to-teacher ratios, state-of-the-art technology, and flexible indoor and outdoor learning spaces on a beautiful 43-acre campus. Offering highquality, multi-sensory differentiated learning in a nurturing environment, Trinity is known for its challenging academics, amazing arts program, and community that cares like no other.

Trinity cherishes the magic of childhood, encouraging students to try things they never imagined and cheering mightily when they succeed. Students have ample opportunity to follow their interests and find their passions. In addition to strong foundations in math, language arts, science, and social studies, they are given an abundance of choice — in art, community service, engineering and design, technology, World Languages, music, and physical education. With the support of teachers who are experts in elementary education, Trinity students gain a lifelong love of learning, confidence in their abilities, and strategies to adapt to new situations and an ever-changing world.

Discover more at trinityatl.org

Atlanta Private Schools

e Walker School

At The Walker School, the infinite worth and dignity of each student defines the approach to learning. Walker is the top PK3-12th grade school open to all faiths in metro Atlanta. With an average class size of 16 students, each child is challenged, supported and encouraged to explore all opportunities on the campus. Upper School students are able to customize their high school experience, choosing from a wide range of academic offerings, including 26 of the 31 College Board AP courses.

Most of all, your child is known. One hundred percent of graduates are accepted to four-year colleges and universities. Walker students are excited and confident about college and beyond. Walker is located two miles from the Marietta Square, and offers more than 20 bus routes in the metro area. At The Walker School, tuition assistance is available to bridge the gap between the cost of tuition and a family’s ability to pay. For more information about the wonder of Walker visit thewalkerschool.org/admission.

Wesleyan School

Wesleyan School believes faith and intellect are great partners with each other. At Wesleyan, it’s not a matter of choosing faith or intellect, but rather using both to create the best possible education for your child. The leadership and faculty work to provide students with an atmosphere that is challenging, reinforces the value of hard work, and emphasizes character and integrity above accomplishment. Wesleyan School has made a commitment, in the midst of a rapidly changing culture, to never waiver on the core principle of dedication to Jesus Christ. This is at the heart of everyday life at Wesleyan as students learn and faculty strive to model the school J.O.Y. motto – Jesus, others, and then yourself.

Enrolling grades K-12, Wesleyan School prepares students for each stage of life and provides them the opportunity to see all the possibilities that lie before them. Located just outside of I-285 in Peachtree Corners, Wesleyan offers bus routes throughout the metro Atlanta area. Application deadlines along with information about admissions events and campus tours can be found online at wesleyanschool.org.

Westminster Westminster is a coeducational Christian, independent school serving bright and motivated students, who are curious by nature and nurtured by challenge. The School was founded in 1951 to develop leaders of conscience who will be a positive force in the world. With an enrollment of 1,880 students in grades Pre-first through 12, Westminster fulfills its mission through a curriculum that engages children across the key dimensions of their growth – academic, physical, and spiritual.

The School’s dynamic curricular offerings are complemented by extracurricular opportunities including unique service learning projects that partner the students with nonprofit organizations locally and abroad; a dynamic arts program that includes music, visual arts, and drama; a nationally recognized athletic program with more than 84 teams across 17 sports; and interdisciplinary global programs spanning five continents. Westminster students are encouraged to deeply investigate and explore their passions under the guidance of gifted faculty members.

Learn more about Westminster’s academics, faculty, extracurricular activities, and admissions process at westminster.net.

Whitefield Academy

At Whitefield Academy, students receive an academic education that is founded on intellectual rigor and Christ-centered principles. Serving more than 950 students in grades PreK through 12, Whitefield Academy offers a challenging and meaningful curriculum that encourages curiosity and a passion for learning through its solid academic reputation with its numerous AP and honors courses.

The college preparatory education is built on Christ-centered values and beliefs, enabling students to succeed in both college and life. Whitefield teachers engage deeply with their students in the pursuit of knowledge and Truth with shared experiences, grace, and accountability.

With more than 50 sports teams, including 20 varsity teams, Whitefield provides multiple opportunities for both participation and success. Whitefield’s acclaimed fine arts program and topnotch Innovation Lab empower students to pursue their interests in theater, music, and visual arts, as well as STEM subjects such as engineering and robotics. To find out more, please visit whitefieldacademy.com.

e Wood Acres School

The Wood Acres School, located in the heart of East Cobb, is an affordable option for families looking for an exceptional private school experience for Preschool (2s-4s), Grammar School (K-5) and Upper School (6-8). Wood Acres is well known in the community for its accelerated curriculum, integration of STEM and STEAM activities, and teaching Spanish as a second language.

The Wood Acres School believes in high expectations for all students while recognizing that like the school’s ginkgo leaf logo, each child is unique. Situated on nine spacious acres, students enjoy daily recess and outside exploration along with academic rigor. Small class sizes of 13-15 students enable the dedicated and experienced faculty to challenge their students and provide an outstanding education.

In today’s uncertain world, Wood Acres continues to be relevant by staying true to the ideals that have brought success for many while evolving to meet the changing needs of today’s students. Visit woodacresschool.org to schedule a personal tour.

Come see why #woodacresistheplacetobe!

Best Guide to Atlanta Private Schools

Woodward Academy

With renowned college-preparatory academics and a community defined by its geographic, racial, spiritual, economic, and cognitive diversity, Woodward Academy is Atlanta at its best. From pre-K through 12th grade, Woodward is a place where your child can study Gauguin and golf, Copernicus and coding, rhetoric and robotics – all in one day. Woodward challenges its students to explore new academic frontiers and reach their fullest potential. What does success look like? Look no further than the 24 AP classes, renowned Transition Program for students with mild learning differences, more than 100 clubs and cocurriculars, 75 yearly arts performances, and 18 varsity sports. Woodward’s Global Connections Program offers extensive international study abroad programs, and its innovative STEAM programs are woven into the curriculum—from coding for kindergarteners to the Independent Scientific Research program, which pairs juniors and seniors with university professors to work on real-world problems. For more information, visit woodward.edu.

School Tours and Open Houses

If you’re considering a private school, connecting with the school’s students and professionals by attending a school tour or an open house are great ways to see if the school is the right fit for your child.

n Start by doing your research. Narrow down the options until you have a short list of schools that seem the best for your child by looking at websites, FAQs, pre-recorded videos and social media pages.

n Schools may have different options that you can register to attend, with each session being important for different reasons. Pay attention to the options offered, so you can decide what makes the most sense for you to attend. Signing up for a phone conference may be a better fit before registering for a campus tour, if you decide your family is still interested in the school.

n After the school session, look at SAT scores, attendance records and grade-point averages. Follow up with phone calls and emails if you have questions.

n If it’s not part of the tour, schedule a time to observe a class in session. This will give you a good idea of the teaching style and classroom setting. Are the desks arranged in groups or in rows facing the teacher? What materials does the classroom have for the students? Are the students enthusiastic about learning?

n Talk to other parents about the school. Most parents are happy to share their thoughts.

n

Look at the big picture. You may be hoping to stay with the school through high school, so research graduation and college placement rates. This information is usually found on the school’s website.

– Emily Webb and Alexi Wilbourn

Top Reasons Parents Choose Private Schools

n Individualized Attention: With smaller teacher-to-student ratios than most public schools, many private school parents believe their children get a better education at an independent school.

n Religious Principles: Many parents want an education that offers religious teachings and tenets along with the ABCs. They seek an emphasis on spiritual values, morals and faith development throughout the whole curriculum.

n Personalized Learning: Every child has his or her own academic timetable, as well as talents. Parents may find that a private school can better address the child’s needs – whether he or she is a late-bloomer, gifted in math, a budding artist or proficient in foreign languages.

n Innovative Teaching: Some parents may have strong feelings about teaching methods or the curriculum and textbooks used by a public school system. Private schools often offer more options and flexibility. One parent may request a more innovative approach for their child, while another might demand more traditional teaching techniques.

n Nontraditional Groupings: Many private schools offer alternatives to the usual grade groupings. These frequently cater more to individual abilities in different areas, or they may allow students more fluid movement between grades, regardless of age.

n More Responsive to Parents: Private schools answer to the parents funding them. As a result, parents feel more confident that the issues and concerns that are important to them will be addressed.

n Special Needs: A child with a learning disability or a behavioral problem may not do well in a traditional public school classroom. Private schools, especially those designed for a specific learning disability or special need, employ teachers and other professionals with the necessary credentials to teach and care for children with special needs.

– Elizabeth Baggett

EATON ACADEMY

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1000 Old Roswell Lakes Pkwy. Roswell 30076 770-645-2673 EatonAcademy.org

Is Your Child Disorganized? Stressed?

Maybe an Executive Function Coach Can Help

by Sherry V. Crawley

If this scenario repeatedly plays out on evenings in your home, it likely leads to frustration – of chores not being done, of free time lost, of a lack of trust over what is actually happening during the minutes and hours that have elapsed.

As it turns out, accurately estimating the amount of time a task will require is part of executive functioning. And there is a growing recognition that executive function (EF) coaching can help children evaluate and change behaviors, habits and routines to better manage daily life.

“Executive function is the control center of how we deal with planning,

emotions, and in general, interact with the world,” according to Lori DeLange, a parent, educator and trained EF coach who works at Healthy Minds Psychology Associates in Tucker. “The related skills affect our school and work responsibilities, help us pick up social cues, and respond to stress.”

Coaching can help children gain awareness of their strengths and weaknesses and improve how they manage time, tasks and relationships. While it can be helpful at any point, moments of transition from elementary to middle, or middle to high school, can be a natural time to focus on new habits.

What Are Executive Functions?

Executive functions are skills that support success and are generally grouped into basic categories:

n Working Memory n Self-Monitoring n Organization n Planning and Prioritizing n Impulse Control n Task Initiation/Completion n Mental Flexibility n Time Management

do

How Does Executive Function Coaching Work?

While every coach will have their own style, the process usually includes an initial session to get to know each other and to discuss your and your child’s goals. The coach will identify what areas of executive function to focus on first. Sessions can happen in-person or virtually, and parents and caregivers might be invited to participate in portions of sessions, depending on each child’s situation. Kids might be asked to bring school notebooks or laptops to sessions.

Coaches will work with kids to understand the challenges they are facing and then work on solutions. Are they having trouble keeping up with all of their schoolwork? Getting hyper-focused on things they enjoy like reading and neglecting must-do assignments or chores at home? That kind of insight can lead to tools that support progress and accountability – such as logs to monitor how much time it takes to complete activities, and family agreements to establish expectations, rewards and consequences.

Executive function coaching differs from other kinds of support such as mental health therapy or academic tutoring and is typically not covered by insurance. DeLange said coaches do sometimes suggest that parents investigate testing or therapy for needs that are outside of their expertise. And unlike tutoring, it is generally not specific to a subject, but instead overall academic success and related interpersonal skills.

What are some of the indicators that your child might benefit from executive function coaching?

According to DeLange, anyone can probably check one or two of these boxes from time-to-time. Executive function challenges are at play when many of these items are a part of a person’s reality on an ongoing basis, or if one or two of the items are debilitating.

n Academic or professional underachievement

n Struggles with pushing through undesirable things to reach outcomes

n Impulse control – blurting out comments or acting out

n Having a hard time remembering more than one thing at a time, such as forgetting items in a series of tasks

n Meltdowns over accomplishing things that require subtasks n Procrastinates often

n Difficulty focusing on tasks that are not immediately of interest, or hyper-focus – time seems to stand still when doing something enjoyable

n A lack of ability to look at a long-range goal and know what to address first

n Chronically disorganized spaces

n Trouble adjusting when things change or don’t go according to plan

How Do We Know It’s Working?

This kind of help is all about increasing independence. “You get to be more parent and less personal assistant to your child,” said DeLange.

For one Decatur mom of three, a year of executive function support for her middle school daughter has given her new perspective. “EF coaching has helped me support my daughter from a bigger-picture stance.” She reports that one of the most significant benefits for her has been the ability to focus on being a parent as opposed to trying to manage aspects of life that should have transitioned to her daughter. “I’ve had to come to terms with the fact that I have to pull my scaffolding out so she can stand on her own feet. Our coach has been incredibly helpful with that.”

Changing habits and internalizing new awareness and routines takes time. According to the Decatur mom who is investing in coaching, “The results can be abstract, but focusing on outlining goals and keeping track of progress has helped us see what a big difference this is making.”

For DeLange, staying focused on the individual’s goals is the key. “Success means you are doing better than last week, not perfect. I have watched young people get organized, find ways to keep themselves on track, and go on to successful high school years, college and careers.”

Resources for More Information

n The Smart but Scattered Guide to Success: How to Use Your Brain’s Executive Skills to Keep Up, Stay Calm, and Get Organized at Work and at Home by Peg Dawson, Ed.D and Richard Guare, Ph.D

A great introduction into EF, including a questionnaire to understand strengths and areas for development.

n cliffvalleyinstitute.org

This respected local education resource offers executive function resources including virtual sessions for parents.

n Workshops and info sessions

Some coaches, including DeLange, offer workshops on specific topics – those can offer a good way to consider if coaching is right for your child. Find upcoming dates or learn more at thecenterforef.com.

n If you are looking for an EF coach, school counselors or child psychologists can sometimes offer recommendations.

n understood.org

Resources on learning differences with helpful perspectives.

PUBLIC SCHOOLS A Snapshot of School Districts in Metro Atlanta

Atlanta Public Schools

404-802-3500

www.atlantapublicschools.us

Atlanta Public Schools is the seventh largest school system in Georgia with 50,325 students across 87 learning sites.

n Number of Schools: 58 traditional schools; 5 partner schools; 19 charter schools; 2 citywide single-gender academies and 3 alternative programs.

n Pupil to teacher ratios: 13 to 1

n Per pupil expenditure: $16,524

Bartow County School System 770-606-5800

www.bartow.k12.ga.us

There are approximately 13,750 students attending Bartow County’s 20 schools (K-12), with 1,134 certified employees, 62% holding advanced degrees.

n Number of Schools: 12 elementary; 4 middle; 3 high schools; 1 college and career academy

n Pupil to teacher ratio: 18 to 1 (average)

n Per pupil expenditure: $11,200

Buford City Schools

770-945-5035

www.bufordcityschools.org

There are 5,762 students enrolled in Buford City Schools. 79.94% percent of the 349 teachers have advanced degrees.

n Number of Schools: 3 elementary; 1 middle; 1 high school

n Pupil to teacher ratio: 14.8 to 1

n Per pupil expenditure: $11,717.09

Cherokee County School District

770-479-1871

www.cherokeek12.net

CCSD has 42,000 students attending 40 schools and centers. There are 2,980 teachers in CCSD, of which 73% have advanced degrees.

n Number of Schools: 23 elementary; 7 middle; 6 high schools; 1 virtual school (grades 4-12); 2 alternative centers; 2 preschool centers

n Pupil to teacher ratio: 15 to 1

n Per pupil expenditure: $11,223

Clayton County Public Schools

770-473-2700 www.clayton.k12.ga.us

Clayton County has the fifth largest school system in Georgia with more than 52,000 students. Of the district’s 3,284 teachers, 63% have advanced degrees.

n Number of Schools: 39 primary/elementary; 15 middle; 12 high schools; 1 Virtual Learning Program; 2 Districtapproved charter schools; 1 psychological education center; 1 multi-purpose education center; included are: 19 Special Programs/Magnet Opportunities

n Pupil to teacher ratio: 15.80 to 1

n Per pupil expenditure: $10,147.88

Cobb County School District 770-426-3300 www.cobbk12.org

Cobb County has 112 schools supporting approximately 108,000 students. There are 10,160 certified employees; 65% have advanced degrees.

n Number of Schools: 66 elementary; 26 middle; 17 high schools; 1 special education center; 1 adult education center; 1 performance learning center; 7 Magnet programs

n Pupil to teacher ratio: Varies by school. Meets or is lower than state mandated numbers

n Per pupil expenditure: $9,643 (3-year average)

Bartow County School System

Coweta County School System 770-254-2800 www.cowetaschools.org

Coweta County has 22,241 students and about 3,150 employees, 55% of whom are certified teaching employees. 60% of Coweta’s teachers hold advanced degrees.

n Number of Schools: 19 elementary; 8 middle schools; an 8th grade Charter College and Career Academy; 3 high schools; and the school system’s Donald W. Nixon Centre for the Performing and Visual Arts

n Pupil to teacher ratios: 15 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $10,821

City Schools of Decatur 404-371-3601 www.csdecatur.net

City Schools of Decatur have 5,760 Pre-K-12 students attending 10 schools. Of the district’s 547 certified staff, more than 83.5% hold advanced degrees.

n Number of Schools: 10 total; 1 early childhood learning center; 5 kindergarten-second; 2 third-fifth; 1 middle; 1 high school

n Pupil to teacher ratio: Meets or is lower than state mandated standards n Per pupil expenditure: $15,865.92

DeKalb County School District 678-676-1200 www.dekalbschoolsga.org

DeKalb County School District is the third largest school system in Georgia with more than 92,000 students, 138+ schools and centers and 14,000 employees, including 6,600 teachers.

n Number of Schools: 139 schools. School choice options are available in nearly 50 schools to include theme, magnet, IB, charter and Montessori options.

n Pupil to teacher ratios: Kindergarten: 26 to 1; Grades 1-3: 29 to 1; Grades 4-5: 30 to 1; Grades 6-8: 30 to 1; Grades 9-12: 34 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $13,088

Douglas County School System 770-651-2000 www.dcssga.org

There are approximately 26,075 students enrolled in Douglas County School System’s 36 schools. 69% of the 1,898 certified teaching staff have advanced degrees. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, students have the option to attend school digitally from home or face-to-face in schools. The One-to-One technology initiative provides an individual learning device (Chromebook or laptop) for each student and teacher.

n Number of Schools: 20 elementary; 8 middle; 5 high schools; 1 Success Center; 1 College & Career Institute; 1 FLEX Academy

n Pupil to teacher ratio: Meets or is below state mandates

n Per pupil expenditure: $9,517

Fayette County Public Schools

770-460-3535 www.fcboe.org

Fayette County Public Schools has 20,080 students. 74% of the 1,525 teachers have advanced degrees.

n Number of Schools: 14 elementary; 5 middle; 5 high schools; Fayette LIFE Academy (specialty school)

n Pupil to teacher ratio: 13.52 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $11,117.53 (2021)

Forsyth County Schools

770-887-2461 www.forsyth.k12.ga.us

More than 53,500 students attend Forsyth County’s 42 schools. There are over 4,006 certified employees in the system.

n Number of Schools: 23 elementary; 11 middle; 7 high schools and one 9-12 college and career academy n Pupil to teacher ratio: 20 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $9,803

Fulton County Schools

470-254-3600 www.fultonschools.org

Fulton County has more than 89,450 students and 6,900 certified staff members at 106 schools.

n Number of Schools: 59 elementary (many with Pre-K programs); 19 middle; 18 high schools (2 with open campuses); 9 charter schools; 1 virtual school

n Pupil to teacher ratios: Kindergarten: 22 to 1 with paraprofessional; Grades 1-3: 23 to 1; Grades 4-5: 30 to 1; Middle: 30 to 1; High: 32 to 1

n Per pupil expenditure: $12,880 (estimated)

Gainesville City School System 770-536-5275 www.gcssk12.net

8,025 students attend Gainesville City’s eight schools. 520 teachers are employed by the system, and 55% of them have advanced degrees.

n Number of Schools: 6 elementary; 2 middle schools; 1 high school

n Pupil to teacher ratios: Pre-K: 21 to 1; Grades K-5: 13 to 1; Grades 6-8: 15 to 1; Grades 9-12: 18 to 1

n Per pupil expenditure: $9,814.76

Gwinnett County Public Schools

678-301-6000 www.gcpsk12.org

With close to 180,000 students attending 142 educational facilities, Gwinnett County is the largest school system in Georgia. The average GCPS teacher holds a Master’s degree or higher advanced degree and has 14 years of experience.

n Number of Schools: 81 elementary; 29 middle; 24 high schools; 8 other educational facilities

n Pupil to teacher ratio: Varies by classroom, per Strategic Waivers School System contract

n Per pupil expenditure: $10,182

Douglas County School System

Cherokee County School District

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

A Snapshot of School Districts in Metro Atlanta

Hall County Schools

770-534-1080 www.hallco.org

There are 27,180 students enrolled in Hall County’s 37 schools. There are 2,271 certified staff, and 1,576 of those have advanced degrees.

n Number of Schools: 20 elementary; 8 middle; 7 high schools; 1 college & career academy; 1 alternative learning center

n Pupil to teacher ratio: 14 to 1

n Per pupil expenditure: $9,937.77

Henry County Schools

770-957-6601 www.henry.k12.ga.us

There are 43,000 students served by 6,000+ employees, with 2,174 combined advanced degrees.

n Number of Schools: 50 schools over 10 clusters, 3 academies and 9 Pre-K programs

n Pupil to teacher ratios: Kindergarten: 24 to 1; Grades 1-3, 25 to 1; Grades 4-8, 32 to 1; Grades 9-12, 34 to 1

n Per pupil expenditure: $10,413

Marietta City Schools

770-422-3500 www.marietta-city.org

Some 8,967 students attend Marietta City’s 12 schools. There are 1,400 employees with 75% of certified staff holding a Master’s degree or higher.

n Number of Schools: 1 preschool; 8 elementary (one is grades 3-5 Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math [STEAM] Magnet school); 1 sixth grade academy; 1 middle; 1 high school

n Pupil to teacher ratio: 15 to 1

n Per pupil expenditure: $14,473

Paulding County School District

770-443-8000

www.paulding.k12.ga.us

The Paulding County School District has 34 schools, 31,302 students and 2,618 teachers. 70% of the teachers hold advanced degrees.

n Number of Schools: 19 elementary; 9 middle; 5 high schools; 1 alternative learning center

n Pupil to teacher ratio: Kindergarten: 21 to 1; Grades 1-3: 22 to 1; Grades 4-5: 28 to 1; Grades 6-8: 28 to 1; Grades 9-12: 22 to 1

n Per pupil expenditure: $11,008

Rockdale County Public Schools

770-483-4713

www.rockdaleschools.org

There are 15,174 students attending Rockdale County Public Schools. Approximately 71% of the 1,458 certified personnel hold advanced degrees.

n Number of Schools: 11 elementary; 4 middle; 3 high schools; 1 college and career academy; 1 alpha school; 1 open campus; 1 magnet school; 11 school choice programs; elementary, middle and high school virtual programs n Pupil to teacher ratio: 11.3 to 1 n Per pupil expenditure: $11,517.18

Gainesville City School System

Online Schools: A Virtual

by Emily Webb

Now, more than ever before, families have options for schooling. The newest option (made familiar thanks to COVID) is virtual education and is most simply defined as the practice of teaching students remotely using computers.

Parents and students may choose virtual learning for a myriad of reasons. Some families want the scheduling flexibility that virtual options can provide, or parents may want to be more involved in their child’s education. Some children have been bullied at school, while others may have health needs or social anxiety.

To be successful with virtual education, students should have strong abilities in independence, responsibility, organization, self-discipline, communication, technology and handling challenges.

n What does virtual education look like in Georgia?

Virtual learning has a history in Georgia. Georgia Cyber Academy (GCA) serves more than 11,000 students across the state. “We have been around since 2007 and have been serving kids in grades K through 12 for all that time,” said Michael D. Kooi, the interim superintendent. “We’ve had a lot of opportunity to improve and make our product interactive and interesting for our kids.”

As a public school, GCA is tuition-free, and provides a computer to every student, as well as hot spots for low-income students. Enrollment opens in February. GCA’s teachers are Georgia Certified and specially trained in online learning. Georgia Connections Academy is another online public-school option that has been serving Georgia families for a decade.

Since the pandemic, many metro Atlanta school districts have embraced virtual learning. Atlanta Public Schools and Cobb County School District now offer virtual programs.

“Cobb Virtual Academy and Cobb Online Learning Academy give Cobb County parents flexibility for their children. Parents wanted options, and the superintendent took the initiative to develop those options,” said Ehsan Kattoula, the assistant superintendent for Cobb County School District. “We don’t want students to have a different experience based on where they’re learning. The students choose virtual, and the parents make the ultimate choice.”

Private schools are also starting to offer virtual options. For instance, The Mount Vernon School, a private school in Sandy Springs, will start allowing students to learn virtually with their upcoming Mount Vernon School Online program, which will open in August 2023 with a ninthgrade cohort. “The pandemic reinforced the need that all learners and families have for flexibility,” said Head of School Kristy Lundstrom. “Our program appeals to families that need more flexibility, but don’t want to sacrifice a quality educational experience. Flexibility of coursework being fully asynchronous affords students the ability to pursue passions. MVOnline curriculum is very similar to The Mount Vernon School, but in a digital format that students can take anywhere. We are able to adjust path, place and pace for the ultimate flexibility to meet students where they are.”

When the program starts, students will be able to take an MVOnline course in the summer before or during high school, and they can also take non-degree courses as a supplement. Applications are open for 202324 with a rolling admission process.

Cobb County Schools

Realityn How do teachers connect with students?

In a virtual classroom, teachers need different skills, particularly regarding technology. GCA has an onboarding program for staff, with an orientation to meet experienced teachers and the IT team to be trained in the learning tools and platforms for curriculum.

GCA also has supports and services available for families. “We want to make sure struggling students have what they need to succeed,” Kooi said. “We have family engagement liaisons who are dedicated to families and walk them through how the program works.”

Creating a connection is important for teachers and staff. “All of us believed in having a good hands-on learning experience for the students in the way they wanted to learn,” Kattoula said. “We want to have the students complete courses and be able to earn a grade and to be successful. Our

teachers have high skills in delivering virtual learning, and they’re expected to be able to present information in a way for students to learn and be successful.”

To launch their new program, Mount Vernon researched and looked at different

programs. “Our main question was, ‘How might we develop a program that is asynchronous but also highly relational?’ We wanted to bring elements of what we know learners need – flexibility and meaningful connections,” Lundstrom said. “Our faculty participates in world-class professional development, in addition to ongoing, embedded training with Instructional Coaches and are also supported by an Edtech team.”

Carey Bayer’s 16-year-old daughter attends Cobb Online Learning Academy. Bayer has found her connection with teachers to be even more meaningful than it was in an in-person setting. “She gets the opportunity to learn with teachers who teach in a different way. They run things like a collegiate-style school with set time in class and set office hours. These teachers really care about her. She was inducted into Beta Club recently, and it was her first time meeting the teachers in-person, but they were very connected. She’s a scholar-athlete, as an equestrian, and they asked her about her horses, about her service activities. They are connected and supportive of not just her academics.”

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Carey Bayer’s daughter, Emma

Online Schools: A Virtual Reality

Why do families choose virtual learning?

Originally, the Bayer family was interested in virtual education due to the pandemic, but now, they plan to attend the school until graduation. Bayer loves the confidence her daughter has cultivated at COLA. “I like that she is in an environment where she is thriving. She loves the flexibility, and she’s learning a lot more, as she’s not having to deal with some of the social distractions present in in-person learning. With COLA, she’s been able to be in leadership positions and build clubs in the school. She helped co-found the student newsletter, and she’s part of the student advisory council.”

Shannon Tankesley is a former elementary school teacher, and when her first child was born, she didn’t want to send her to public school, so she decided to homeschool. “When piecing together curriculum by myself for five different ages, it became a challenge and I looked at other options. A good friend used virtual education, and I was relieved instantly that the children could still stay at home but

also have individualized instruction from teachers in live classes.”

She chose GCA, as it’s what her friend recommended, and they’ve been with the school for around 10 years. “I feel to be here that long, that it must work! Clubs and field trips are a bonus, too,” she said. “I love that virtual education gives us as parents the awesome opportunity to be a full-time part of our child’s education. We can see them read that first word to working problems in advanced math to everything in between. We have the freedom to take field trips, vacations and celebrate birthdays all on school days. Where there’s internet, we can do school, whether it’s home, the car or on the beach.”

n What type of student would succeed with virtual learning?

Online education isn’t for everyone. “You need to know your child and how they learn best,” Bayer said. “It works well for us. We have a farm, and our daughter manages horse care and animals, and she’s very organized. She’s learned over time with the support of faculty how to speak up for herself. It’s definitely good for self-starters, independent learners and students who can be their own advocate.”

A misconception about virtual education is that there are no opportunities for socialization between students. Most programs offer clubs, activities, field trips and more to give students the opportunity to connect with each other.

Bayer has witnessed her daughter making wonderful connections with other students. “There’s a uniqueness to the students because they pull from the county. She gets to interact with kids she wouldn’t normally interact with and learn from different cultures or experiences. There are also commonalities. It’s a cool experience to find your people.”

n

A misconception about virtual education is that there are no opportunities for socialization. Programs offer clubs, activities, field trips and more.

K-8th & Preschool OPEN HOUSE

Established in 1981, Alpharetta International Academy is a private, non-profit Montessori school for children ages 18 months old through 8th grade. Our mission is to strive for excellence and we are committed to providing a quality Montessori Education for each child.

Our goal is to nurture each child’s innate desire to learn in a kind and supportive way. We embrace DIVERSITY, welcome new IDEAS, and encourage CREATIVITY.

AIA se enorgullece de tener 40 AÑOS de experiencia en EDUCACIÓN MONTESSORI

Nuestro objetivo es fomentar en el niño la curiosidad y pasión por aprender. Esto lo hacemos creando oportunidades donde el estudiante pueda practicar ser independiente y responsable de sus deberes como estudiante. Esta independencia y confianza despierta en cada niño un interés natural por las matemáticas, el lenguaje, las ciencias, la geografía y el aprendizaje en general.

THE LIST: Atlanta’s Private Schools

Start your search for the right private school for your child with our listings.

Schools are divided into four categories: non-sectarian, religiousaffiliated, Montessori and learning differences. Tuition prices are approximate.

Non-Sectarian

Schools listed below offer classes at least through the third grade. They include the largest in the metro area as well as Atlanta Parent Magazine advertisers.

Atlanta Girls’ School. 3254 Northside Pkwy. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-845-0900. 6th-12th. 184 students. $27,890/yr. atlantagirlsschool.org

Atlanta International School. 2890 N. Fulton Dr., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-841-3840. K3-12th. 1,325 students. $26,725-$30,510/yr. aischool.org

Brandon Hall School. 1701 Brandon Hall Dr., Atlanta (Fulton). 770-394-8177. 6th-12th. 100 students. $29,200-$30,250/yr. (day) $57,150$59,150/yr. (boarding) brandonhall.org

Capstone Academy. 1934 Cliff Valley Way, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-458-5160. 5th-12th. 150 students. $14,850/yr. capstoneacademy.com

The Children’s School. 345 Tenth St. NE, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-873-6985. 3yrs.-8th. 375 students. $15,057-$24,512/yr. tcsatl.org

Cliff Valley School. 2426 Clairmont Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 678-302-1302. 3yrs.-8th. 430 students. $7,740-$19,360/yr. cliffvalley.org

Foundations for the Future School. 1500 Stanley Rd., Kennesaw (Cobb). 770-429-4799. 6wks.-5th. 207 students. $17,472 -$25,941/yr. foundationsschool.com

Fulton Science Academy. 3035 Fanfare Way, Alpharetta (Fulton). 678-366-2555. PreK12th. 878 students. $15,000-$18,000/yr. fultonscienceacademy.org

The Galloway School. 215 W. Wieuca Rd. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-252-8389. PreK3-12th. 750 students. $18,200-$31,150/yr. gallowayschool.org

The Heritage School. 2093 Hwy. 29 N, Newnan (Coweta). 770-253-9898. PreK3-12th. 450 students. $5,725-$20,277/yr. heritageschool.com

High Meadows School. 1055 Willeo Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-993-2940. 3yrs.-8th. 350 students. $7,320-$22,332/yr. highmeadows.org

Lakeview Academy. 796 Lakeview Dr., Gainesville (Hall). 770-532-4383. PreK312th. 578 students. $7,740-$19,640/yr. lakeviewacademy.com

Lovett School. 4075 Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-262-3032. K-12th. 1,640 students. $28,870-$33,500/yr. lovett.org

McGinnis Woods Country Day School. 5380 Faircroft Dr., Alpharetta (Forsyth). 770-664-7764. Infant-8th. 300 students. $11,025-$15,575/yr. mcginniswoods.org

Midtown International School. 1575 Sheridan Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-542-7003. K-12th. 200 students. $24,000-$25,200/yr. midtowninternationalschool.com

The Children’s School

THE LIST: Atlanta’s Private Schools

Pace Academy. 966 W. Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-262-1345. Pre1st12th. 1,150 students. $30,160-$34,720/yr. paceacademy.org

The Paideia School. 1509 Ponce de Leon Ave. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-377-3491. 3yrs.-12th. 1,020 students. $13,143$29,151/yr. paideiaschool.org

Peachtree Academy. 1801 Ellington Rd. and 1760 Ebenezer Rd., Conyers (Rockdale); 10125 Hwy. 142 and 14101 Hwy. 278, Covington (Newton). 770-860-8900. PreK12th. 484 students. $5,900-$11,000/yr. peachtreeacademy.com

Rivers Academy. 38 North Main St., Alpharetta (Fulton). 770-475-0081. 5th-12th. 261 students. $11,240/yr. riversacademy.com

The SAE School. 6688 Mableton Pkwy., Mableton (Cobb). 678-239-3200. Preschool8th. 340 students. $11,400-$13,200/yr. saeschool.org

Saint Francis Schools. 13440 Cogburn Rd., Alpharetta and 9375 Willeo Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-641-8257. K-12th. 850 students. $15,500-$25,000/yr. saintfrancisschools.com

The Stonehaven School. 1480 Joyner Ave. and 1650 Old Concord Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-874-8885. K5-12th. 262 students. $2,500-$12,300/yr. stonehavenschool.org

Tabula Rasa – The Language Academy. 5855 Riverside Dr., Atlanta and 11035 Jones Bridge Rd., Alpharetta (Fulton); 1430 Riverside Pkwy., Lawrenceville (Gwinnett). 404-409-0827. 2mos.-5th. 450 students. $14,400-$19,200/yr. trlanguages.com

Trinity School. 4301 Northside Pkwy. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-231-8100. 3yrs.-6th. 600 students. $19,500-$30,000/yr. trinityatl.org

The Waldorf School of Atlanta. 827 Kirk Rd., Decatur (DeKalb). 404-377-1315. PreK-8th. 230 students. $13,250-$19,760/yr. waldorfatlanta.org

The Walker School. 700 Cobb Pkwy., Marietta (Cobb). 770-427-2689. PreK312th. 920 students. $14,820-$27,170/yr. thewalkerschool.org

The Wood Acres School. 1772 Johnson Ferry Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-971-1880. PreK2-8th. 350 students. $7,700-$13,900/yr. woodacresschool.org

Woodward Academy. 1662 Rugby Ave., College Park, and 6565 Boles Rd., Johns Creek (Fulton). 404-765-4001. PreK12th. 2,568 students. $19,800-$31,150/yr. woodward.edu

Religious-Affiliated

Schools listed below offer classes at least through the third grade. These listings include the largest religious-affiliated schools in the metro area plus Atlanta Parent Magazine advertisers.

Annunciation Day School. 2500 Clairmont Rd. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-565-2850. PreK-8th. 160 students. $4,000-$11,000/yr. annunciationdayschool.org

Atlanta Academy. 2000 Holcomb Woods Pkwy., Roswell (Fulton). 678-461-6102. PreK-8th. 385 students. $12,200-$18,210/yr. atlantaacademy.com

Atlanta Jewish Academy. 5200 Northland Dr., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-843-9900. 3mos.12th. 490 students. $17,665-$27,565/yr. atljewishacademy.org

Blessed Trinity Catholic High School. 11320 Woodstock Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 678-277-9083. 9th-12th. 1,000 students. $13,600/yr. btcatholic.org

Cherokee Christian Schools. 3075 Trickum Rd., Woodstock (Cherokee) 678-494-5464. K5-12th. 376 students. $11,700-$14,900/yr. cherokeechristian.org

Christ the King School. 46 Peachtree Way, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-233-0383. K-8th. 570 students. $10,094-$13,681/yr. christking.org

Community Christian School. 2001 Jodeco Rd., Stockbridge (Henry). 678-432-0191. 6wks.-12th. 800 students. $10,848-$12,888/yr. communitychristianschool.net

Cornerstone Christian Academy. 5295 Triangle Pkwy. NW, Peachtree Corners (Gwinnett). 770441-9222. K-8th. 462 students. $12,967-$16,872/yr. cornerstonecougars.org

Covenant Christian Academy. 6905 Post Rd., Cumming (Forsyth). 770-674-2990. K4-12th. 254 students. $8,200-$8,700/yr. covenantrams.org

Creekside Christian Academy. 2455 Mt. Carmel, Hampton and 175 Foster Dr., McDonough (Henry). 770-961-9300. K3-12th. 825 students. $8,525-$9,225/yr. creeksideacademy.org

Cumberland Christian Academy. 2356 Clay Rd., Austell (Cobb). 678-426-1600. K3-12th. 230 students. $6,550-$9,495/yr. cumberlandchristian.org

The Davis Academy. 8105 Roberts Dr., Atlanta (Fulton). 770-671-0085. PreK-8th. 500 students. $19,870-$29,378/yr. davisacademy.org

Atlanta Academy

Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy. 2400 Hwy. 42 North, McDonough (Henry). 770-957-2927. K3-12th. 952 students. $5,724-$14,905/yr. elcaonline.org

Eastside Christian School. 2450 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-971-2332. K-9th. 252 students. $10,870-$14,500/yr. eastsidechristianschool.com

The Epstein School. 335 Colewood Way NW, Sandy Springs (Fulton). 404-250-5600. 3mos.-8th. 460 students. $8,600-$27,500/yr. epsteinatlanta.org

Fellowship Christian School. 10965 Woodstock Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-9931650. PreK-12th. 1041 students. $4,613$20,522/yr. fellowshipchristianschool.org

George Walton Academy. 1 Bulldog Dr., Monroe (Walton). 678-635-3800. K3-12th. 750 students. $5,000-$13,900/yr. gwa.com

Grace Christian Academy. 355 McDonough Rd., Fayetteville (Fayette). 770-461-0137. K3-12th. 200 students. $5,400-$7,446/yr. gracechristian.info

Greater Atlanta Christian School. 1575 Indian Trail Rd., Norcross (Gwinnett). 770-243-2000. K3-12th. 1,807 students. $17,300-$26,820/yr. gac.org

Harvester Christian Academy. 4241 Central Church Rd., Douglasville (Douglas). 770-9421583. K4-12th. 347 students. $4,750-$10,075/yr. harvesteracademy.com

Hebron Christian Academy. 775 Dacula Rd., Dacula (Gwinnett). 770-963-9250. PreK12th. 1,271 students. $8,990-$14,990/yr. hebronlions.org

Heritage Preparatory School. 1700 and 1824 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-815-7711. PreK-10th. 256 students. $9,300-$19,900/yr. heritageprep.org

Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School. 805 Mt. Vernon Hwy. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-255-4026. PreK3-12th. 1,380 students. $12,620-$30,530/yr. hies.org

Holy Redeemer Catholic School. 3380 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek (Fulton). 770-410-4056. K-8th. 475 students. $9,570-11,170/yr. hrcatholicschool.org

Holy Spirit Preparatory School. 4465 and 4449 Northside Dr., and 4820 Long Island Dr., Atlanta (Fulton). 678-904-2811. 6mos.-12th. 400 students. $6,310-$24,780/yr. holyspiritprep.org

Horizon Christian Academy. 1270 Sawnee Dr., Cumming (Forsyth). 678-947-0711. K-12th. 310 students. $8,500-$13,250/yr. hcaga.org

Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic School. 2855 Briarcliff Rd. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-636-4488. PreK4-8th. 508 students. $8,755-$11,170/yr. ihmschool.org

Intown Community School. 2059 Lavista Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-633-8081. K-8th. 204 students. $8,500-$12,400/yr. intownschool.org

Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School

THE LIST: Atlanta’s Private Schools

Killian Hill Christian School. 151 Arcado Rd., Lilburn (Gwinnett). 770-921-3224. K4-12th. 415 students. $6,000-$13,100/yr. khcs.org

King’s Ridge Christian School. 2765 Bethany Bend, Alpharetta (Fulton). 770-754-5738. PreK-12th. 838 students. $6,500-$23,480/yr. kingsridgecs.org

Landmark Christian School. 400 Windgate Rd., Peachtree City (Fayette) and 50 SE Broad St. Fairburn (Fulton). 770-306-0647. PreK312th. 1,040 students. $9,000-$20,700/yr. landmarkchristianschool.org

Loganville Christian Academy. 2575 Hwy. 81, Loganville (Walton). 770-554-9888. PreK3-12th. 626 students. $6,100-$11,950/yr. lcalions.com

Marist School. 3790 Ashford Dunwoody Rd. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 770-457-7201. 7th.-12th. 1,100 students. $21,830/yr. marist.com

Midway Covenant Christian School. 4635 Dallas Hwy., Powder Springs (Cobb). 770-590-1866. PreK4-8th. 300 students. $3,438-$8,052/yr. midwayschool.org

Mount Paran Christian School. 1275 Stanley Rd. NW, Kennesaw (Cobb). 770-578-0182. PreK3-12th. 1,280 students. $4,378-$22,184/yr. mtparanschool.com

Mount Pisgah Christian School. 9820 Nesbit Ferry Rd., Johns Creek (Fulton). 678-336-3400. Infant-12th. 955 students. $15,800-$22,750/yr. mountpisgahschool.org

The Mount Vernon School. 471 and 510 Mt. Vernon Hwy. NE, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-2523448. PreK2-12th. 1,230 students. $26,160$29,975/yr. mountvernonschool.org

Mt. Bethel Christian Academy. 4385 Lower Roswell Rd. and 2509 Post Oak Tritt Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-971-0245. PreK-12th. 692 students. $12,500-$18,350/yr. mtbethelchristian.org

North Cobb Christian School. 4500 Eagle Dr., Kennesaw (Cobb). 770-975-0252. PreK3-12th. 1,150 students. $7,160-$17,720/yr. ncchristian.org

Mount Paran Christian School

Bringing Learning to Life

Notre Dame Academy. 4635 River Green Pkwy., Duluth (Gwinnett). 678-387-9385. K-12th. 300 students. $14,600-$18,175/yr. ndacademy.org

Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic School. 1320 Hearst Dr., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-364-1902. PreK4-8th. 566 students. $10,170-$11,670/yr. olaschool.org

Perimeter School. 9500 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek (Fulton). 678-405-2300. K-8th. 504 students. $7,296-$15,634/yr. perimeterschool.org

Pinecrest Academy. 955 Peachtree Pkwy., Cumming (Forsyth). 770-888-4477. PreK12th. 475 students. $10,130-$20,180/yr. pinecrestacademy.org

Providence Christian Academy. 4575 Lawrenceville Hwy., Lilburn (Gwinnett). 770-279-7200. PreK-12th. 740 students. $7,200$20,200/yr. providencechristianacademy.org

Queen of Angels Catholic School 11340 Woodstock Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-518-1804. K-8th. 490 students. $9,570-$11,170/yr. qaschool.org

Restoration Community Academy. 410 Rucker Rd., Alpharetta (Fulton). 470-496-5689. K-6th. 22 students. $7,900/yr. restorationcommunityacademy.com

Saint Jude the Apostle Catholic School. 7171 Glenridge Dr. NE, Atlanta (Fulton). 770-394-2880. PreK4-8th. 500 students. $9,920-$12,060/yr. saintjude.net

Saint Thomas More Catholic School. 630 W. Ponce de Leon Ave., Decatur (DeKalb). 404-373-8456. K-8th. 475 students. $9,065$12,485/yr. stmga.org

Pinecrest Academy

THE LIST: Atlanta’s Private Schools

Shallowford Presbyterian School. 2375 Shallowford Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-321-3061. 2yrs.-8th. 250 students. $2,025-$10,000/yr. shallowfordschool.com

St. Benedict’s Episcopal School. 2160 Cooper Lake Rd., Smyrna (Cobb). 678-279-4300. Infant8th. 610 students. $8,728-$14,990/yr. stbs.org

St. Catherine of Siena Catholic School. 1618 Ben King Rd., Kennesaw (Cobb). 770-419-8601. K-8th. 314 students. $8,558-$9,500/yr. scsiena.org

St. John Neumann Catholic School. 791 Tom Smith Rd., Lilburn (Gwinnett). 770-381-0557. PreK-8th. 335 students. $9,100-$11,788/yr. sjnrcs.org

St. John the Evangelist Catholic School. 240 Arnold St., Hapeville (Fulton). 404-767-4312. PreK-8th. 280 students. $8,833-$10,538/yr. sjecs.org

St. Joseph Catholic School. 81 Lacy St., Marietta (Cobb). 770-428-3328. PreK4-8th. 425 students. $7,946-$10,322/yr. stjosephschool.org

St. Martin’s Episcopal School. 3110-A AshfordDunwoody Rd., Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-237-4260. 8wks.-8th. 660 students. $14,060-$31,500/yr. stmartinchool.org

St. Mary’s Academy. 861 Hwy. 279, Fayetteville (Fayette). 770-461-2202. PreK-12th. 260 students. $9,900-$14,300/yr. smaschool.org

St. Paul Lutheran School. 700 Ardenlee Pkwy., Peachtree City (Fayette). 770-486-3545. 18mos.-8th. 240 students. $3,380-$8,000/yr. stpaulptc.org

St. Pius X Catholic High School. 2674 Johnson Rd. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-636-3023. 9th.-12th. 1,069 students. $15,700-$17,200/yr. spx.org

Strong Rock Christian School. 4200 Strong Rock Pkwy., Locust Grove (Henry). 678-833-1200. PreK3-12th. 953 students. $11,586-$15,995/yr. strongrockchristianschool.com

North Cobb Christian School

Sugar Hill Christian Academy. 4600 Nelson Brogdon Blvd., Sugar Hill (Gwinnett). 678-745-4121. PreK-12th. 510 students. $2,383-$10,751/yr. sugarhillchristian.org

Torah Day School of Atlanta. 1985 Lavista Rd. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-982-0800. K-8th. 350 students. $13,650-$15,750/yr. torahday.org

Trinity Christian School. 8817 Highway 54 West, Sharpsburg (Coweta). 770-251-6770. PreK-12th. 1,923 students. $2,495-10,855/yr. tcslions.org

The Weber School. 6751 Roswell Rd. NE, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-917-2500. 9th-12th. 587 students. $32,900/yr. weberschool.org

Wesleyan School. 5405 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners (Gwinnett). 770-448-7640. K-12th. 1,207 students. $19,560-$27,930/yr. wesleyanschool.org

Westminster. 1424 W. Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-355-8673. Pre1st-12th. 1,900 students. $28,520-$32,700/yr. westminster.net

Whitefield Academy. 1 Whitefield Dr., Smyrna (Cobb). 678-305-3000. PreK12th. 960 students. $10,000-$24,000/yr. whitefieldacademy.com

Montessori

Montessori schools use the teaching technique developed by Dr. Maria Montessori. Schools listed below have elementary classes through at least the third grade.

Alpharetta International Academy. 4773 Webb Bridge Rd., Alpharetta (Fulton). 770-475-0558. 18mos.-8th. 142 students. $4,585-$10,660/yr. aiamontessori.com

Arbor Montessori School. 2998 Lavista Rd., and 1434 Scott Blvd., Decatur (DeKalb). 404-321-9304. 18mos.-8th. 255 students. $11,285-$21,790/yr. arbormontessori.org

Atlanta Montessori International School. 1970 Cliff Valley Way NE and 1215 S. Ponce de Leon Ave. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-325-6777. 8wks.-12yrs. 180 students. $16,000-$22,000/yr. amischool.com

Cont’d on next page

Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs

THE LIST: Atlanta’s Private Schools

Crabapple Montessori School. 12387 Crabapple Rd., Alpharetta (Fulton). 770-569-5200. 15mos.-12yrs. 220 students. $8,740-$14,000/yr. crabapplemontessori.com

Endeavor Montessori. 48 Perimeter Center E., Atlanta (DeKalb). 770-637-4644. 6wks.-8th. 200 students. $1,500-$2,000/month. endeavormontessori.com

International Montessori Academy. 1240 Euclid Ave. NE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-474-6375. 8wks.-6th. 115 students. $14,500-$22,200/yr. imontessoriacademy.com

Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs. 2830 Old Atlanta Rd., Cumming (Forsyth). 770-205-6277. 18mos.-13yrs. 230 students. $14,750-$15,0572/yr. montessoriacademygeorgia.com

Montessori Academy at Vickery. 6285 Post Rd., Cumming (Forsyth). 770-777-9131. 13mos.- 9yrs. 170 students. $9,800-$15,000/yr. montessorivickery.com

Montessori In Town. 1192 Arkwright Place SE, Atlanta (DeKalb). 404-784-1038. 14mos.-6th. 135 students. $12,100-$17,400/yr. montessoriintown.com

Riverstone Montessori. 455 Casteel Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 770-422-9194. 2.5yrs.-9th. 120 students. $10,980-$18,300/yr. riverstonemontessori.com

Springmont School. 5750 Long Island Dr. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-252-3910. 18mos.-8th. 275 students. $11,550-$25,000/ yr. springmont.com

Village Montessori. 1610 Woodstock Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-552-0834. 18mos.-8th. 200 students. $6,450-$16,450/yr. vmschool.com

Special Needs

The Bedford School. 5665 Milam Rd., Fairburn (Fulton). 770-774-800. 1st-9th. 148 students. $20,650-$21,050/yr. thebedfordschool.org

Brookwood Christian School for Dyslexia. 4728 Wood St., Acworth (Cobb). 678-401-5855. 1st-12th. 80 students. $21,000/yr. brookwoodchristian.com

Mill Springs Academy

The Cottage School. 700 Grimes Bridge Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-641-8688. 3rd-12th. 260 students. $27,000-$29,000/yr. cottageschool.org

Cumberland Academy of Georgia. 650-A Mt. Vernon Hwy. NE, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-835-9000. 4th-12th plus college. 100 students. $26,800/yr. cumberlandacademy.org

GRACEPOINT. 570 Piedmont Rd., Marietta (Cobb). 678-709-6634. 1st-8th. 134 students. $25,000/yr. gracepointschool.org

The Howard School. 1192 Foster St., Atlanta (Fulton). 404-377-7436. K-12th. 358 students. $35,990-$37,990/yr. howardschool.org

Mill Springs Academy. 13660 New Providence Rd., Alpharetta (Fulton). 770-360-1336. K-12th. 278 students. $23,620-$28,120/yr. millsprings.org

Porter Academy. 200 Cox Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 770-594-1313. 4yrs.-14yrs. 70 students. $20,476/yr. porteracademy.org

Sage School. 800 Satellite Blvd. NE, Suwanee (Gwinnett). 678-318-3588. K-6th. 80 students. $26,500-$27,000/yr. sageschool.net

The Schenck School. 282 Mt. Paran Rd. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-252-2591. K-6th. 250 students. $39,800/yr. schenck.org

Swift School. 300 Grimes Bridge Rd., Roswell (Fulton). 678-205-4988. 1st-8th. 180 students. $34,000-$35,000/yr. theswiftschool.org

The Wardlaw School of the Atlanta Speech School. 3160 Northside Pkwy. NW, Atlanta (Fulton). 404-824-7622. K-6th. 189 students. $39,890/yr. atlantaspeechschool.org

Porter Academy

Enabling Children with Learning Differences to Succeed

• Pre-K–8th • Small Groups

• Individualized programs

• Hands-on learning activities

• Speech, occupational and music therapy for all

Caring for Parents and Students. Do you know a child who resides within the city of Atlanta in need of special education services? APS Department of Special Education services can open a window of hope for a brighter future for children and young adults identified with a disability or developmental delay.

For more information, call the Dept. of Special Education. Ages 6-21: 404-802-2636

BEYOND THE LABEL

What parents raising children with neurodevelopmental disorders want you

by Tali Benjamin

We are very brand conscious. What labels should we pay attention to? Is the name brand of cereal that much better than the store brand? The trends of carrying a Bogg bag to the neighborhood pool, wearing Lululemon leggings to Target, or being sure you have the latest and greatest smartphone are around us day in and day out. We buy these things because we want to fit in or feel like we do.

to know

We’ve all fallen into the trap once or twice, but when it comes to using labels to pre-judge people – especially children – it can be a slippery slope. It is also very isolating and difficult for the parents raising these kids whose challenges are invisible to the naked eye.

So, what do parents of these children with special needs want you to know? In short, that a diagnosis does not define a child.

Rhett Bostedo, 6 Brookhaven Diagnosis: Disfluency (Stuttering)

Mom Katie noticed that, as a preschooler, Rhett stuttered. She asked the pediatrician who responded that he’d grow out of it – his mouth can’t keep up with his brain – they said. “It was a pretty significant stutter, but we gave it some time,” she said. When Rhett started PreK, the stutter was still there.

“That’s when we were referred to speech therapy,” said Bostedo. Rhett was 5 years old when they began the very parent-driven process. “We’d have ‘smooth talk time’ every day. This involved us playing games designed to help him concentrate on talking without stuttering. He caught on quickly and would stop stuttering during that time, but other times during the day, he would still stutter.”

Not knowing the cause of the stuttering or really how to help him was stressful for Bostedo. “I didn’t want him to be made fun of,” she said. After three months of speech therapy, Bostedo realized it was hurting her mother-son relationship with Rhett. “He would say to me, ‘Mommy, I don’t have to be perfect all the time.’ But, other therapy is very hard to get covered by insurance as it’s not considered medically necessary.”

After doing some research, Bostedo came across the Arthur Blank Center for Stuttering and Research. “I called them and started with the spring semester in February of 2022. Rhett has transformed,” she said. “His confidence has gone through the roof. His teacher has noticed he raises his hand in class now and isn’t afraid to speak in front of his peers.”

Bostedo said that what she has learned has also been life changing as a parent. “I attended Zoom sessions that helped me understand how to communicate with Rhett about his stuttering. Before we were told never to use the word stuttering or address it, but now I have tools to help him communicate and know that it’s OK if he stutters.”

Anxiety doesn’t cause stuttering but when kids are stressed, it can make the stuttering worse. Being open about things is key when your child has disfluency. Ignoring it doesn’t make it go away and not discussing it can make a child feel insecure when they speak. “If we just talk to them about it, they will feel comfortable,” said Bostedo. “Say, ‘Hey – did you hear that? You stuttered… it’s a normal thing that happens, but can you think about what you want to say? What you say is important to me and I’ll wait as long as it takes for you to say it.’”

Bostedo said she’s learned to listen to her gut and advocate for Rhett through this experience. She wants Rhett to always know that his voice matters. “He’s the most empathetic person I’ve ever met,” she said.

“He thinks about others before himself. If he sees there’s only one cinnamon roll left, he’ll said ‘I should share it with my sister,’ even if he hasn’t had one yet.”

Harrison Matthes, 10, Roswell

Diagnoses: Autism and ADHD

Diagnosed just before his 4th birthday, it did not come as a surprise to mom Stephanie. She has since sprung into action has Harrison’s No. 1 advocate fueled by passion and love. Autism is a spectrum, so each child is truly unique with their own strengths and challenges. Some people with autism are non-verbal while others, like Harrison are high functioning.

“Kids with autism are different, not less,” said Matthes. “I can only tell you about life with Harrison.”

Harrison is an energetic and hilarious boy who loves talking about his obsession with Minecraft, Transformers and LEGOs. Many people with autism tend to have specific areas of interest in which they are incredibly knowledgeable. “Harrison is able to create Transformers out of random LEGOs which also have the ability to transform,” said Matthes. “He dreams of visiting Egypt one day to explore the pyramids. He also has an incredible memory of specific experiences from his past and knowing the dates they happened.”

While his interests keep him busy, team sports, which are very popular for boys his age, are not something he wants to take part in and can make him feel lonely. “We struggle to find other organized activities that interest him,” shared Matthes. “Nearly two-thirds of children with autism between the ages of 6 and 15 have been bullied for being different. I advocate for awareness and acceptance because Harrison and other kids with autism have feelings just like anyone and should be treated with respect, understanding and acceptance.”

Cont’d on next page

Leading

way to...

Harrison is in a public, general education classroom with support. As with many other conditions, early intervention is key for children with autism. Therapies can help with communication and social skills, as well as address co-morbid challenges like ADD/ADHD and Sensory Processing Disorders, which are extremely common for people with autism. His Individual Education Program (IEP) helps him receive special accommodations and services like Speech and Occupational Therapies. “Every special needs student who meets eligibility should have an IEP,” said Matthes. “Since I’m not an educator, I hire a special needs advocate to attend meetings along with me to ensure I’m getting my son the best public education possible and understand all of my options and rights.”

There are a myriad of autism organizations, as well as social media and parent support groups on the local, state, national, and global level that can provide guidance to those navigating life after their child’s diagnosis. “You are not alone in navigating autism. No parent ever wants a harder life for their child. It’s OK to grieve the life you envisioned,” said Matthes. “To see your child frustrated and struggling with a task that another child easily accomplishes is extremely difficult and unfair.”

People are familiar with autism, so advocacy has morphed from awareness to acceptance and understanding. Even adults can sometimes be unaware of how to react or what to say. “If I say my son has autism, please don’t say you are sorry. Don’t say someone doesn’t look or act autistic. Don’t say, ‘he seems so normal,’” said Matthes. “Instead, ask what you can do to be more inclusive, or how to learn about autism. People with autism are aware of more than what they communicate. They may be different, but they are not ‘less,’ so please try not to judge and instead educate yourself and teach your children understanding and acceptance.”

Harrison is in a public, general education classroom with support. As with many other conditions, early intervention is key for children with autism.

Amari Jones, 15, Roswell Diagnosis: ADHD

Being part of the professional community at Mill Springs Academy, mom Taniah was very familiar with the signs and symptoms of ADD and ADHD, so when her daughter was having a hard time concentrating on homework, she suspected that something might be going on. At the same time, her daughter’s third grade teacher brought up concerns about Amari being easily distracted at school and having challenges with reading comprehension.

Jones realized the next step was to get a full psych eval for Amari to understand her needs. The test results came back with an ADHD diagnosis, and soon after an IEP was implemented for Amari. Even with the diagnosis, Jones knew it was important to treat her daughter like any “typical” child. “Sometimes, there are issues with impulse control,” said Jones. “I always try to use it as a teachable moment. I ask, ‘What was the impact of your actions?’ Why did you make this choice?' Helping her, and other children with ADHD, understand what the driver of the behavior is helps.”

The most important thing Jones has instilled in her daughter over the years is that

just because she learns differently, it doesn’t make her any less as a student or person. “I always tell her, ADHD won’t stop you from accomplishing your goals. She sometimes felt she wasn’t smart enough to go to college, but now that she has the right tools and medications, she sees a bright future for herself,” she said.

Amari excels in math and science and is a star of her volleyball team. “She can come off being shy, but is really a fun young lady,” said Jones. “She is very genuine with a big heart and wants to do what’s best for her and her community. Amari is a God-fearing young lady and is great with kids.”

Jones also notes that having a strong community around Amari has been important. “As they say, it takes a village,” she said. Among Amari’s village are her teachers, friends, teammates and therapist. “Having someone to talk to in a safe space with time to self-reflect has really helped Amari, especially in times when she’s feeling frustrated.” n

Next time you encounter a friend, neighbor or co-worker who shares news of a diagnosis or an update on their child with special needs, show kindness and empathy. Ask how you can be supportive. And look beyond the label to appreciate each child for who they are.

Supporting the Social, Emotional, and Educational Growth of Neurodivergent Individuals and their Families

A unique therapeutic program for adolescence to adulthood to strengthen autonomy, emotional regulation, social communication, and the ability to build relationships.

Working with struggling learners and emerging adults in a deliberate way that addresses processing challenges and supports logical problem-solving and critical thinking. 3516 Covington Highway | Decatur | (404) 308-8548 info@thresholdcommunity.org

Winter Fun at Margaritaville Lanier Islands

Enjoy the winter season with a visit to License to Chill Snow Island and the Lakeside Lights Spectacular at Margaritaville Lanier Islands for a time of wintry fun! Create special memories for the whole family with snow tubing, amusement rides, ice skating, and playing in the snow.

Sloomoo Institute

Braves Fest

JANUARY TOP EVENTS

Events may be cancelled or changed after our deadline. Please check before visiting to confirm. Full calendar online at atlantaparent.com

Repticon

Gwinnett County Fairground / Jan. 7, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and Jan. 8, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. View animals from all around the world at these exhibits. 2405 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Lawrenceville. $12; ages 5-12, $6; ages 4 and younger, free. repticon.com

UPS Second Sunday

High Museum of Art / Jan. 8, noon-5 p.m.

Special family-friendly programming includes art-making activities, performances and access to the permanent and special exhibitions. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4400. Free admission. high.org

Shen Yun

Atlanta Symphony Hall / Through Jan. 8. See website for showtimes. Travel back to the magical world of ancient China with this performance featuring classical Chinese dance, stunning costumes, high-tech back drops and a live orchestra. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-5000. $90+. shenyun.com

PAW Patrol: Adventure Play

Children’s Museum of Atlanta / Through Jan. 8 The heroic pups need your help as you explore your unique abilities, overcome challenges and help friends. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr. NW, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. $13.95-$19.95; ages 11 months and younger, free. childrensmuseumatlanta.org

Discover Boating Atlanta Boat Show

Georgia World Congress Center

Jan. 12-13, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Jan. 14, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and Jan. 15, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Discover the joy of boating with new boats and marine products for sale, boating activities, education and more. 285 Andrew Young International Blvd. NW, Atlanta. $17; ages 12 and younger, free. atlantaboatshow.com

Pirates Day

Fernbank Museum of Natural History

Jan. 21, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Yo-ho, yo-ho! Enjoy a day full of pirate-themed fun with crafts, activities and time with the Atlanta Pirates & Wenches Guild. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. $24.95; ages 3-12, $22.95; ages 2 and younger, free. fernbankmuseum.org

Discover Boating Atlanta Boat Show

Shen Yun

Pirates Day

Braves Fest

Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta

Jan. 21, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Celebrate the five-time National League East Champion Atlanta Braves with player autographs, Q&A panels, on-field activities, family games, live entertainment and more. 755 Battery Ave., Atlanta. 404-577-9100. Free admission. mlb.com/braves

Professional Bull Riders: Unleash the Beast Tour

Gas South Arena

Jan. 21, 6:45 p.m. and Jan. 22, 1:45 p.m.

The top 35 bull riders in the world compete against the fiercest bulls, along with pyrotechnics, explosions and flames for edge-of-your-seat excitement. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 770-813-7500. $26-$379. gassouthdistrict.com

Family Series Concert

Carlos Museum

Jan. 22, 4-5 p.m.

Celebrate the Year of the Rabbit with classical music performed by the Vega Quartet, Chinese traditional music and a bamboo flute performer. 571 S. Kilgo Cir., Atlanta. 404-727-4282. $8; ages 6-17, $6; ages 5 and younger, free. carlos.emory.edu

Braves Fest

Photo courtesy of the Atlanta Braves

Photo courtesy of Andy Watson

Professional Bull Riders: Unleash the Beast Tour

MORE TOP EVENTS

Museum After Dark

Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center

Jan. 27, 6-9 p.m.

Discover the museum after hours with an immersive experience featuring exhibits, artifacts, science specimens, crafts, games and more. Register by Jan. 26. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-904-3500. $6-$11. events. exploregwinnett.org

NEW EXHIBITS:

Trains, Trains, Trains

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

How People Make Things

Tellus Science Museum / Jan. 21-Sept. 4

Inspired by the factory tour segments from the Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood T.V. show, this exhibit offers hands-on activities using real factory tools and machines to show how items are made. On Opening Day, make a variety of paper crafts. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. $17; ages 3-17, $13; ages 2 and younger, free. tellusmuseum.org

Splash and Bubbles: Dive In, Lend a Fin!

Children’s Museum of Atlanta / Jan. 21-April 30

Dive into the incredible world of ocean exploration with STEM-based activities. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr. NW, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. $13.95-$19.95; ages 11 months and younger, free. childrensmuseumatlanta.org

Splash and Bubbles: Dive In, Lend a Fin!

Trains, Trains, Trains

Southern Museum

Jan. 28-29, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Model train layout and groups from throughout the region will display their wares. 2829 Cherokee St. NW, Kennesaw. 770-427-2117. $10; ages 3-17, $5; ages 2 and younger, free. southernmuseum.org

WildWoods: AGLOW

GET OUTDOORS

WildWoods: AGLOW

Fernbank Museum of Natural

Through March 5

History

This exhibit explores the hidden worlds of nature with a nighttime, glowing experience featuring an immersive blend of the real environment and light displays. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. $24.95; ages 3-12, $22.95; ages 2 and younger, free. fernbankmuseum.org

Enchanted Woodland Trail

Chattahoochee Nature Center / Through Feb. 28

See if you can spot all the whimsical winter homes built by fairies and gnomes on this trail. Reservation required. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. $15; ages 13-18, $11; ages 3-12, $9; ages 2 and younger, free. chattnaturecenter.org

WINTER WONDERLAND

The winter season isn’t over! Get your fill of the chills with these activities.

LAST-CHANCE LIGHTS

If you haven’t had your fill of the holiday spirit, these light displays are still open in January.

Winter WonderLights

State Botanical Garden of Georgia. Through Jan. 8. 2450 S. Milledge Ave., Athens. 706-542-1244. $15; ages 3 and younger, free. botgarden.uga.edu

Garden Lights, Holiday Nights

Atlanta Botanical Garden. Through Jan. 14. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. $27.95-$47.95; ages 3-12, $24.95-$44.95; ages 2 and younger, free. atlantabg.org

IllumiNights at the Zoo:

A Chinese Lantern Festival Zoo Atlanta. Through Jan. 15, 5:30-9:30 p.m. 800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-624-9453. $20.99-$24.99; ages 3-11, $17.99-$19.99; ages 2 and younger, free. zooatlanta.org

Lakeside Lights Spectacular

Margaritaville at Lanier Islands . Through Jan. 16. 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford. 470-323-3440. $19.99; ages 7 and younger, free. margaritavilleresorts.com/margaritaville-atlanier-islands

FIGURE 8S

Take a spin at these seasonal ice skating rinks.

n Skate the Sky. The Roof at Ponce City Market. Through Jan. 8. 675 Ponce De Leon Ave. NE, Atlanta. 770-999-1530. $22-$30. poncecityroof.com

n Skate the Station. Atlantic Station. Through Jan. 16. 1380 Atlantic Dr. NW, Atlanta. 404-410-4010. $16. atlanticstation.com

n The Rink. Park Tavern. Through Jan. 16. 500 10th St. NE, Atlanta. 404-249-0001. $15-$20. parktavern.com

n Avalon On Ice. Avalon. Through Jan. 16. 400 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta. 770-765-2000. $18; ages 9 and younger, $14. experienceavalon.com

n Olde Town on Ice. Olde Town Conyers Pavilion. Through Feb. 12. 949 S. Main St., Conyers. 678-374-7655. $12; skate rental, $3. icedays.com/conyers

n Sweetland On Ice. Sweetland Amphitheatre. Through Feb. 14. 110 Smith St., LaGrange. 706-298-5434. $15; ages 12 and younger, $10. sweetlandamp.com

n Skate Nights. Pullman Yards. Through Feb. 15. 225 Rogers St. NE, Atlanta. $15; ages 5 and younger, $12. pullmanyards.com

n The Ice Rink. Sugar Hill. Through Feb. 19. 5039 W. Broad St., Sugar Hill. 770-554-7506. $12; ages 8 and younger, $10; skate rental, $3. haidrink.com

LICENSE TO CHILL SNOW ISLAND

Margaritaville

at Lanier Islands

Through Feb. 26. See website for showtimes. Take your crew snow tubing, get your skates to practice on the ice rink, go on carnival rides, make snow angels and more at this winter wonderland. 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford. 470323-3440. $54.99; ages 3-7, $39.99; ages 2 and younger, free. margaritavilleresorts.com

n Ice Days Ice Skating Rink. Legion Field Fair Grounds. Through Feb. 19. 3173 Mill St. NE, Covington. 678-374-7655. $12; skate rental, $3. icedays.com/covington

n Athens on Ice. The Classic Center. Through Feb. 26. 300 N. Thomas St., Athens. 706-357-4444. $15. visitathensga.com

Winter WonderLights

IllumiNights at the Zoo: A Chinese Lantern Festival

Atlantic Station

NOW SHOWING

The show must go on! These plays and performances are sure to entertain your family.

The Dragon King Center for Puppetry Arts

Jan. 5-29. See website for showtimes. A terrible drought has overtaken the land, and while the Dragon King could bring back the life-giving rains, he hasn’t. A brave Grandmother is determined to find out why, even if she has to travel to the bottom of the sea. 1404 Spring St. NW at 18th, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $22; ages 1 and younger, free. puppet.org

ALICATS Present

Princess & the Frog

Gas South District / Jan. 7, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Watch the magical journey Tiana goes on after wishing on a star. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 770-813-7500. $20-$25. gassouthdistrict.com

Stiles & Drewe’s Goldilocks and the Three Bears

Aurora Theatre / Jan. 14, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. This classic fairy tale is turned into a modern musical to teach audiences to keep their hands off others’ belongings, or there will be consequences to bear! 128 E. Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. $12-$15. auroratheatre.com

The Lightning Thief Woodstock Arts

Jan. 20-29. See website for showtimes. Based on the best-selling book series by Rick Riordan, watch the adventures of Percy Jackson as he discovers he’s the half-blood son of a Greek god. 113 Elm St., Woodstock. 678-494-4251. $18-$23. woodstockarts.org

All Smiles

Alliance

Theatre

Jan. 26-March 5. See website for showtimes. This delightful show explores how smiles are different and how people show their emotions in different ways. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4600. $10; ages 6-17, $5; ages 5 and younger, free. alliancetheatre.org

Riverdance

Fox Theatre

Jan. 27, 8 p.m.; Jan. 28, 2 and 8 p.m. and Jan. 29, 1 and 6:30 p.m.

This is the 25th anniversary of Riverdance, a celebration of energetic Irish dancing, complete with spectacular lighting, project, stage and costume designs. 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 855-285-8499. $34-$89. foxtheatre.org

Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters: An African Tale

Synchronicity Theatre

Jan. 27-Feb. 19. Fri. 7 p.m.; Sat. 1 and 4 p.m. and Sun. 2 and 5 p.m. Written in the style of African folktales, this musical is a retelling of the beloved book set in Zimbabwe. 1545 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-484-8636. $25+; ages 3-18, $15; ages 2 and younger, free. synchrotheatre.com

Squeeze the Clown

Aurora Theatre / Jan. 28, 11:30 a.m. Enjoy a wonderful performance of clown music and magic inspired by Motown era soul music, Buster Keaton and the circus. 128 E. Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. $7. auroratheatre.com

Riverdance

Stiles & Drewe’s Goldilocks and the Three Bears

The Dragon King

MARTIN LUTHER KING DAY

In 2023, MLK’s birthday will be observed on Jan. 16. The day became a federal holiday in 1983, although all 50 states didn’t honor the day until 2000. Commemorate his legacy at these events.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2023

Atlanta History Center / Jan. 16, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Commemorate the legacy of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with civil rights-themed trivia, crafts, choir performances, a Freedom Rider simulation on an authentic 1952 Greyhound bus and more. Reservation recommended. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Free admission. atlantahistorycenter.com

The HBCU Culture Homecoming Fest and Battle of The Bands MLK Weekend Edition

State Farm Arena / Jan. 15, 5 p.m.

Enjoy drumlines, high energy routines, marching bands and more from six historically black colleges and universities from across America. 1 State Farm Dr., Atlanta. 404-878-3000. $24.65-$79+. statefarmarena.com

MLK Day 5K: Let Freedom Run

First Baptist Church of Doraville / Jan. 16, 9 a.m.

This 5K walk/run features a 3.1-mile drumline all along the race course. 5935 New Peachtree Rd., Doraville. $30. mlkday5k.com

Annual MLK Day Parade and Program Celebration

Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center

Jan. 16, noon-6 p.m.

The theme for this parade is “Why We Can’t Wait” and is hosted by the United Ebony Society of Gwinnett County. 75 Langley Dr., Lawrenceville. 706-389-4065. Free admission. unitedebonysociety.org

Acworth MLK Celebration and Day of Service

Acworth Community Center / Jan. 16, 8:30 a.m.

This celebration features a breakfast, Unity Walk, a program honoring Dr. King and a service project. 4361 Cherokee St., Acworth. 770-917-1234. Free admission. acworth.org

MLK Day 5K: Let Freedom Run

ART IS ALL AROUND US!

OUTDOOR ART

IN ATLANTA

Take a drive and spend time with your family looking for these intriguing and beautiful sculptures and artworks in areas around metro Atlanta.

The Circle of Life Sandy Springs

The ArtSS in the Open sculpture exhibition at City Green features nine pieces, including the whimsical, larger-than-life “Moon Man News.” The simple yet elegant geometric shapes of “Nucleus” represent curves found in life and nature, while “Square Dance” seems to defy gravity. artsandysprings.org

Bright Art to Inspire Decatur

Current sculptures include the bright welded steel “Coral Stardust,” the colorful “Keyhole Flutter Gateway” and the red pillars of “The Being Before Becoming,” depicting the transition of history, art, architecture, nature and human beings. The outdoor Decatur Artway Sculpture Gallery displays new phases of artwork each year; download free Otocast app to get narration about the works from the artists. decaturartsalliance.org

Playable Art Roswell

Stop by the Roswell Area Park playground where kids can play and enjoy nature and art with the “Oak Leaf Triptych.” The colorful oculus of “Steady” at the corner of Canton and Norcross is balanced between two straight lines like a giant tripod. In Old Mill Park, see “The Uniting of Work and Spirit” to see an Olympic-style runner with a torch at the top of a pyramid. Visit other sculptures throughout the city with ArtAround Roswell, and the app Otocast has a guided tour to listen to stories from the artists. roswellartsfund.org

Artfully Done Suwanee

Pose with the huge “Love, Suwanee” for a sweet photo to send to your family. See if you can spot the “Kinetic Flower Sculpture,” which moves with the wind and is made from recycled materials. The bright red “Metaphysica” is made of fabricated steel and weighs 4,000 pounds. The Suwanee SculpTour features a variety of sculptures on a rotating basis. suwanee.com/engage/public-art

Who Let the Dawgs Out?

Athens

Find all 38 of the decorative, four-feet-tall bulldog statues around Athens with the “We Let the Dawgs Out” sculptures. Each dawg is painted differently to represent the town’s creative energy, artistic flair and commitment to the University of Georgia. visitathensga.com

Sit with Rosa Parks

Georgia Tech

Designed by Atlanta artist Martin Dawe, “Continuing the Conversation” represents Rosa Parks in two different stages of the civil rights icon’s life: when she was 42 and inspired the bus boycott and when she died at 92. gatech.edu

Hungry for Knowledge Milton

In front of Milton Library, spot “Milty’s Realm” and “Door of Knowledge.” Milty is a four-and-a-half foot tall bronze statue of a pony being a fed an apple by a young boy as a happy young girl sits on the pony’s back. The companion work honors Milton’s history and the importance of books and knowledge. fultoncountyga.gov

Beary Good Time

Macon

Find the five decorative bears: “Mississippian Bear” was created using gems, stones, glass, mirrors and more to create a mosaic; “Ocmulgee Bear” features a vibrant night sky; “Stamp Bear” is covered in painted stamps; “Symphony Bear” celebrates The Macon Symphony Orchestra and The Grand Opera House; and “Tattnall Park Bear” was inspired by the skyline of Mercer University. maconartsalliance.org

Strong Arm Toccoa

In 1955, amateur weightlifter Paul Anderson set a world record of 436 points in the clean and jerk. He later gained international acclaim by becoming the first man in history to press more than 400 pounds in Moscow. Created in his memory, the Paul Anderson Memorial Park features a fountain and a life-sized statue of the 1956 Olympics Gold Medalist and World Record holder. stephenscountyga.com

Using Your Senses

Alpharetta

Medley is a collection of five temporary outdoor sculptures designed to engage viewers through sight, sound and touch. The striking “Ribbon Arch” can’t be missed as it provides a unique entry into Wills Park. Kids will marvel at the fluid nature of “Liquid Sunshine” in Brooke Street Park. Other sensory-stimulating works in the open-air gallery on view through fall 2024, include “Tree,” “Allura,” and “Hill Climb.” artsalpharetta.org

5 SLIMAZING WAYS TO HAVE A BLAST AT SLOOMOO INSTITUTE

Let’s face it. Kids (and some adults) love slime. Now’s your chance to embrace the goo without getting your house dirty. The new Sloomoo Institute in Buckhead is a sensory experience where the whole family will have fun playing with and making slime. As a parent who hates making slime at home, I’ll admit I really enjoyed the experience. My 9-year-old gave it 5 million stars. Here are the 5 main reasons you should check it out:

1. Explore with Slime

Begin the experience by learning what your Slime name will be for the day and add your ball of slime to the ever-growing slime wall. The first room is full of containers of different textures, scents and colors of slime to explore. It’s fun to guess the scents and learn about the many different textures of slime. Make slime bubbles and stretch out the slime. After making your slime, walk on a lake of slime, explore an obstacle course and a pit of squishies.

2. Sling Slime

If you’ve never slung slime with a slingshot (I’m guessing not many of us have), now’s your chance. It’s fun to rocket a slime ball at your kids behind plexiglass and vice versa.

3. Soothing Slime

Playing with slime is good for your mental health and you can see the results by trying on a heart rate monitor and playing with slime. There are slime containers all over to explore, plus a kinetic sand room, sensory sounds and videos to enjoy.

4. Get Slimed

Remember watching families and kids get slimed on Nickelodeon? Now it’s your turn to make it happen or at least your kids can partake. Poncho up and relive your childhood for an additional fee.

5. Make Your Own Slime

Butter, cloud, icee, glossy and jelly – these are just a few of the textures you can choose from when creating your own slime. Pick from 18 colors and 56 scents ranging from watermelon to peanut butter. Then, top your creation with up to three charms. You can enjoy it at home for weeks to come!

n Good to know: The staff were really helpful and made the experience so much fun. Slime will come off your clothes, but don’t wear your favorite shirt and dress casually. This experience it meant to be messy!

– Laura Powell

The Details

Sloomoo Institute

3637 Peachtree Rd. NE, Suite D, Lower Level, Atlanta; sloomooinstitute.com

n Hours: Check website for hours, as well as holidays and additional hours. Also, look for new sensory hours on certain days at 9-10 a.m., with reduced capacity and a quieter atmosphere. Slingshot and Slime Falls are not available prior to 10 a.m. on these days.

n Tickets: Prices vary and are time/ date specific. General Admission starts at $29 and includes take-home slime valued at $18. The Enhanced Experience includes General Admission benefits, plus extras like being slimed at Sloomoo Falls. Every person older than 12 months needs a ticket.

Weird

Jan. 2 National Science Fiction Day

Jan. 3

National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day

Jan. 4

National Trivia Day

Jan. 6

National Take Down the Christmas Tree Day

Jan. 8

Day

Jan. 14

National Dress Up Your Pet Day

Jan. 15

National Bagel Day

for the fridge

Somehow I’ve lucked out and have an eight year old who thinks secretly reading under the covers past her bedtime is an act of rebellion, and it hasn’t yet occurred to her that her flashlight never seems to run out of batteries .

Robert McNees @mcnees