March 2015

Atlanta

PARENT

The city’s best Calendar of family-friendly events

March 2015 / atlantaparent.com

Party Time Our Annual Birthday Planner

Like Us on FACEBOOK

Toddlers Take Over the Museum

Great Birthday Party Planning Starts Here!

Children’s Party Enterainment www.copycatsforkids.com

GroovyLittleArtBus.com

inkfun.org

(770) 424-2287

678-468-6452

770-536-1900

jasonsmusicparty.com 678-708-2321

piccadillypuppets.org 404-636-0022

s! e i t r a P e c n Scie samspathpettingzoo.com

GXGAMING.COM

706-717-8837

770 - 482 - 1411

Interactive Science Parties For ages 3-12 Different themed parties

The Best Kids DJ

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WOWKIDSNATION.COM 1- 888 -W O W -2 10 0

FunopolisFamilyFunCenter.com 706-335-3866

PARTY RENTALS NOW AVAILABLE! Bounce houses, snow cone machines, cotton candy machines, popcorn machines.

haveabashery.com 404-832-5144

chamberlainschocolate.com 678-728-0100

Bubbling Potions Rockets Electricity Chemical Reactions Glow in the Dark Science Hovercrafts and more ASK ABOUT OUR

Afterschool Pr ograms, In-Class Field Trips Camps, Shows, , Corporate Even ts, Scout Programs and more.

We have FUN down to a science!

678-392-1500

monkeyjoes.com Cumming-770-887-5678 Roswell- 678-381-0400

jumptastic.com 404-537-1805

We come to YOU!

BigThinkersScience.com

monsterminigolf.com 770-423-2212

princessatlanta.com 678-701-8557

www.ryre.org 770-772-6622

gwinnettparks.com 770.822.8840

jumpforjoyparties.com 770-789-7675

Sandy Springs/ Lawrenceville-Suwanee

4 Atlanta Parent    March 2015

atlantaparent.com

Inside 31 March Vol. 32 / Number 3

YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT

Departments

Features 14

34

Let It Go!

The pressure we put on ourselves to be great parents can backfire. Drop these 10 things from your worry list.

Toddlers Take Over the Museum

Toddlers can have a lot of fun at a museum or other attraction, especially when they attend a program tailored just for them.

40

50

Easter Eggs and More

Put a new spin on Easter with these ideas and products, from Hide ‘em & Hatch ‘em Eggs to jelly beans that “sprout” into lollipops.

STEM-ing a Troubling Trend The United States has fallen behind when it comes to science, technology, engineering and math. Learn about STEM-certified schools and what parents can do.

16 Birthday Party Planner Simple birthday parties can be just as much fun as a big blowout – just ask our moms in the know. Plus, ideas for budget parties, top spots for tweens and our list of party resources.

8 Publisher’s Note 11 News You Can Use 74 Humor

You Might be the Mom of Boys if ...

Family Fun Guide

55 Not-to-Miss Events 56 Eating Out: Fresh to Order; Atlanta Science Festival

57

Exhibit: Super Kids Save the

World at the Children’s Museum of Atlanta

58 African Cosmos: Stellar Art 60 Review: Rainforest Adventures at Center for Puppetry Arts

62 Muddy

Adventure: Caving

63

Easter Egg Hunts

64

March Calendar

72

Consignment Sales

On the Cover: Cover Kid Kristina Oubre, 3 of Duluth.

Photo by Suspended Image Photography.

Don’t Miss Atlanta Parent’s Camp Expo, March 21 at Perimeter Mall.

Magazine Association of the Southeast

2013 Award Winner atlantaparent.com

Like us on Facebook; facebook.com/ AtlantaParentMagazine March 2015 Atlanta Parent 5

PUBLISHER Liz White

lwhite@atlantaparent.com ASSOCIATE Laura Powell

PUBLISHER lpowell@atlantaparent.com BUSINESS Amy Smith DEVELOPMENT MGR asmith@atlantaparent.com ACCOUNT Carolyn Haushalter EXECUTIVE chaushalter@atlantaparent.com

JR. ACCOUNT Diane Radloff

EXECUTIVE dradloff@atlantaparent.com

SPECIAL EVENTS & Jordan Lisvosky DIGITAL SALES jlisvosky@atlantaparent.com

CONTRIBUTING Amanda Miller Allen

EDITOR CALENDAR Hayley Markowitz

EDITOR calendar@atlantaparent.com

EDITORIAL Sheri Taylor-Emery ART DIRECTOR creative@atlantaparent.com

PRODUCTION Robin Mintz

OPERATIONS Caroline Ward

MANAGER cward@atlantaparent.com MARKETING MOM Felicia Barman

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Atlanta Parent magazine is published monthly by Atlanta Parent, Inc., 2346 Perimeter Park Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30341.

Telephone 770-454-7599, Fax 770-454-7699.

Atlanta Parent magazine is available free of charge at more than 1,000 locations throughout the metro Atlanta area. First class subscription only $30 per year. Subscription orders must include check or money order made out to Atlanta Parent magazine.

Atlanta Parent magazine welcomes letters, articles, artwork and photographs from its readers and the community. Atlanta Parent magazine is not responsible for the return of unsolicited materials.

All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part, is prohibited without written permission.

© Atlanta Parent, Inc. 2015

6 Atlanta Parent March 2015

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ItFigures

by Hayley Markowitz

Party On! Sept. 16

The most common birthday of the year.

$15-$20

The average cost of a kids’ birthday present nationwide.

73

Percent of people who send online invitations.

Spring Fun 300,000

Number of people who attend the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Savannah each year.

530

Calories in a 12-ounce McDonald’s limited-edition green Shamrock Shake.

5.5 Million

Average number of Peeps “born” each day.

16 Billion

Number of jellybeans consumed at Easter.

76

Percent of people who say chocolate bunnies should be eaten ears first.

Sources: huffingtonpost.com, marshmallowpeeps.com, savannah.com, infoplease.com, parentsconnect.com.

atlantaparent.com

March 2015 Atlanta Parent 7

Publisher’s Note Worry Is Not Your Friend The worries about our children – from the silly to the important – can overtake us if we let them.

Am I spending enough time with my child? Will he be forever scarred that I didn’t see his performance as a stately elm tree in the first-grade pageant?

Does pizza two nights in a row make me a bad parent? How can I save more to put her through college – what does Harvard cost, anyway?

If you’re a worrier, you’ll want to read “Let it Go – 10 Things to Stop Worrying About” in this month’s issue (Page 14). It may help you put your concerns in perspective.

When my daughter Laura was growing up, I was an involved parent, but also a small business owner. Sometimes the magazine was like having four more children, all demanding my attention. One of my silly worries then was whether Laura would ever learn how to cook anything besides macaroni from a box. Some adults love cooking, and others do not, even if their mother prepared gourmet meals every night when they were growing up. Teach a kid to measure, and they can make anything they want to – a meal from scratch or a chemical compound. Laura, by the way, does just fine.

Of course, I had more serious concerns, too – most of them revolving around safety. I was careful about who she could ride in a car with and I wanted to know where she would be going and when she’d be home.

I tried to let the other things go and concentrate on the basics: spending time with my daughter, teaching her values, letting her learn life lessons from her mistakes as well as her successes.

Life lessons was the hardest part, and the area where so many parents falter. As parents, it’s difficult not to hover over our children, afraid we won’t be there when they need our help. That’s not good for them or us, psychologists say. Kids need guidance but enough independence to grow into mature, happy adults.

Do you worry about whether you’re a good parent? If that’s one of your worries, then chances are you’re doing your job. Just keep doing the best that you can and trust that the rest will take care of itself.

How to Reach us: Telephone 770.454.7599

Email lwhite@atlantaparent.com

Fax 770.454.7699

Website www.atlantaparent.com

Snail Mail 2346 Perimeter Park Drive Atlanta, Georgia 30341

We welcome your views and comments. Letters that appear in the magazine may be edited for content and space.

8 Atlanta Parent March 2015

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News You Can Use

by Amanda Miller Allen

One-Day Seminar On Power Parenting

Kids do not come with an instruction manual and many parents struggle to find the right approach for a well-adjusted child. A Power Parenting seminar by Dr. Robert Melillo, a specialist in neurological disorders, the author of Disconnected Kids and other books exploring brain balance. The father of three children gives parents many techniques to help their children and families thrive.

The seminar is 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. March 7 at the Marriott Atlanta Northwest, 200 Interstate North Pkwy., Atlanta. Tickets start at $299. Register at drrobertmelillo.com.

Advice on Disney? It’s a Click Away

Spring Forward!

Daylight Saving Time begins at 2 a.m. March 8. Remember to set your clock an hour ahead.

Advice on how to get the most out of Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line or Disney Vacation Club may be as close as your neighbor – two Atlanta area parents have been selected for the 50-member Disney Parks Moms Panel.The panel is a resource for parents or grandparents as they plan a Disneyrelated vacation, offering answers to questions and insider tips. Autumn Bradshaw of Duluth, a social media consultant, web content writer and mother of a 5-year-old daughter, and Jason Kaplan of Dunwoody, an orthodontist and father of two sons, ages 7 and 11, are specialists on Walt Disney World. Other board members are experts on the cruise line, vacation club and Disneyland. To find out more, visit disneyparksmomspanel.disney.go.com.

Do you have a reptile loving kid?

Win a Scaly Slimy Spectacular Sleepover!

The long awaited Scaly Slimy Spectacular: The Amphibian and Reptile exhibit at Zoo Atlanta is opening next month.

The exhibits will be home to all of the zoo’s snakes, lizards and more than 60 animal species, many of them new to Zoo Atlanta, including rare Cuban crocodiles.

The building is 111,000 square-feet , with handcrafted rockwork; 60,000 gallons of water and a 45-foot glass dome.

Atlanta Parent is looking for a junior reporter to participate with their family in the very first sleepover at the new exhibit. Their assignment will be to file a story about the experience.

Children ages 9 and older are eligible to enter by telling us why they would be perfect for this project, in 150 words or less. atlantaparent.com

Enter Atlanta Parent’s contest and your family of four (minimum age 6) could win this special experience at the zoo March 27-28, 6 p.m.-10 a.m. Deadline is March 13, and the winner’s family will be notified by March 17. Entries can be submitted by emailing editor@atlantaparent. com or by mail at Atlanta Parent Magazine, 2346 Perimeter Park Dr., Atlanta, GA 30341.

Cont’d on page 12

March 2015 Atlanta Parent 11

MASSAGE & DOULA SERVICES

Giving birth can be hard work. You deserve a

Postpartum Massage Call or email to schedule your appointment.

404-465-3391 Touchga@aol.com

TarasMassageTherapy.com

Does your child have ASTHMA?

News You Can Use

Cover Kids Contest Gets Under Way Does your child enjoy having his photo taken? Does her personality sparkle when a camera points in her direction? Then enter your child in Atlanta Parent’s 2015 Cover Kids contest. Kids should be 12 years old or younger to enter.

Parents must submit a completed registration form and a photo of their child with a $25 entry fee.

Deadline to enter is June 19. A panel of judges will choose 50 finalists who will be invited to a meet and greet with judges and take part in an informal photo shoot in mid-July. Find out more at atlantaparent.com/coverkids.

Take part in a Clinical Research Study!

Consider joining a research study at Emory University / Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta to improve asthma treatments for African Americans/Blacks.

To participate in this study, you must:

It’s a Digital World

Be 5-21 years old Have at least one grandparent of African descent Qualified participants will receive: Asthma medications Pulmonary evaluation Compensation for time and travel

Jennifer Dodds | 404-727-5176 jcdodds@emory.edu Alice Bruce | 404-712-1773 alice.bruce@emory.edu Shanneka Douglas | 404-727-7687 sdougl5@emory.edu

Most parents – 74 percent – say the positive aspects of social media for children don’t outweigh the negative, but:

92 percent have posted photos of their kids online before age 2

40 percent have created online

accounts for their kids by their first birthday Source: KidsLink (mykidslink.com)

12 Atlanta Parent March 2015

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atlantaparent.com

March 2015    Atlanta Parent 13

Let It Go 10 Things to Stop Worrying About

by Lara Krupicka

Parenting is the toughest job you never trained for. The pressure we put on ourselves to get it right, whatever that means, can leave us anxious at every turn. But allowing our worries to intrude on our parenting can backfire. Kids of over-involved parents have poorer coping skills and a greater sense of entitlement, researchers say. Drop these from your worry list:

You’ll forget – a promise, a birthday, a playdate. Any time we fail to remember something can be an occasion for guilt. When you do forget, do your best to make it up to your child without going overboard. Ask them to help you come up with a new strategy for remembering.

You don’t spend enough time with your child. Most parents feel this from time to time, unless they’re home with their kids 24/7. When that guilt arises, it may be signaling a need for a change in your schedule. Pull out the calendar and plan a special date with your child.

14 Atlanta Parent March 2015

You’ll miss your child’s game/ recital/conference/performance.

Unless this is a habitual occurrence, join the ranks of parents everywhere.

But if you’re present for your child in the everyday moments, you’re doing well. If you know you’ll miss event, have someone record it. Replay it later with your child.

atlantaparent.com

Your child won’t thrive – at school, in friendships, in extracurricular activities. Each of us meets our match in one arena of life or another. Kids are no different. Any challenge that comes your child’s way provides an opportunity for growth. Do your best to support them and encourage your child to navigate on his own using the skills he has been taught.

Your child does not have the latest, greatest [fill-in-theblank]. It is easy to feel deficient as a parent when you can’t (or won’t) give your kids all they desire. But consider what you do provide for your child – food, clothing, security, love.

Your child’s diet. Is your child growing? Is he healthy? Then you’re probably feeding him well enough.

If you’re truly concerned, track your family’s diet. Most of us could use a tweaking of our food habits.

That mistake you made will scar them for life. You forgot to send treats on a birthday. You didn’t know the school gym uniform was mandatory. We all goof. And sure, your child may not forget but he’ll forgive. It could end up being the source of laughs for years to come, a “remember the time” moment.

The unthinkable will happen.

It’s hard to see headlines about the latest tragedy and not fear for your own family. Remind yourself to control what you can – provide a safe environment for your family and educate your child on how to stay safe.

You’re not doing a good enough job as a parent. The fact that you worry about this is a strong indicator you’re an invested parent. You are giving it your best.

Trust that in spite of any failings, your child knows you are trying.

Your love and concern counts for more than you realize.

You sometimes want to do your own thing, minus the kids. This doesn’t mean you are a bad parent. Rather, it is a reminder that you are a human being with your own interests and needs. Taking time away from the kids isn’t a sign that you don’t love them. It’s a sign that you love them enough to want to be your best self when you’re with them.

atlantaparent.com

March 2015 Atlanta Parent 15

Moms Who Know Fun

Share Their Partyplanning Advice

by Mary Beth Bishop

Lots of kids have special interests, things they talk about nonstop.

So why not plan a birthday around the things your child loves the most? A party can be as magically unique as your one-ofa-kind kid. We got advice from moms whose résumés include places that focus on kids and fun.

16 Atlanta Parent March 2015

Stacey Lucas, a mother of two, has combined Pokémon and the solar system into a single birthday bash tailored for her son. And while unicorns and mustaches aren’t a typical combo found in the aisles of party-supply goods, those were the themes when her daughter turned 8 on her last birthday.

“I just think everyone should be queen or king for a day and a birthday should be that time,” says Lucas, director of marketing at The Children’s Museum of Atlanta.

Tracy Lott advises parents not to “sweat the small stuff” like finding the perfect party favors. “Honestly, I think experiences are the best,” Lott says. Kids will long remember an afternoon watching planes at DeKalbPeachtree Airport, for instance.

For daughter Lela, the joyful experience turned out to be a simple thing. She had a blast running through a sprinkler that turned out to be her favorite gift for her 2nd birthday in June. “It didn’t even cross my mind how much she would love it,” Lott recalls.

And Lela might one day have her cake and ice cream at Zoo Atlanta where her mom works as vice president of marketing and Lucas membership. Lela is a big fan of having her mother work at the zoo. “She’ll be sorely disappointed when she realizes that I don’t wake the animals every morning and put them to bed in the evening,” Lott says.

Noreen Raines agrees that it’s more about the experience than the food or décor. The mom of four says that kids relish the chance “to hang out with their friends in a different environment.” Children love bringing school friends into their homes, for example, to show them their rooms and to interact in a way that’s less structured than the classrooms where they’re usually together. Raines, whose children range in age from 1 to 5, is the founder of Big Thinkers Science Exploration, which provides interactive science programs for parties, schools and more.

Party Planner

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Plan for a Snag-Free Party n One thing that the moms have learned is to be ready for surprises and to stay alert for the kinds of complications that can crop up whenever groups of kids are gathered in one place.

Murphy remembers a party when the most popular girl in the class beat the birthday child to the punch and blew out the candles first. Quickly redirect the kids’ attention to a new activity if trouble starts to brew. n Make sure you communicate clearly with the parents of your guests. Davis says that when guests are invited, the hosts should make it clear whether parents should stay and what time the party will end. n If your party is being held away from home, it’s important to confirm the date and time with someone at the site, Lucas says.

Pay attention to how much space you’ll need for the number of guests and activities, Raines says. If your party is outdoors, you should have a plan B in case the weather is bad. n If you have your eye on a popular facility or activity, plan in Raines advance. Raines’ business sometimes has parties booked six months in advance. And be aware of holidays, Murphy says. You don’t want friends away on spring break when your child’s party day arrives.

The moms also advise parents to think like a child in deciding what’s important in planning a birthday bash. You might find that your kid’s wish list is very different than your own.

“The parents worry about having enough snacks and about what’s in the goody bags, but the kids are happy just to run around and have something to take home,” says Nikki Murphy, a former community program coordinator at the Chattahoochee Nature Center in Roswell. Now she stays home in Marietta with son Jaxon, almost 2.

In the age of Pinterest and endless possibilities for elaborate food and decor, “I think that parents, myself included, worry way too much about how the party will look,” Lucas says. “But kids just want their friends in one room and a candle on some sort of cake or cupcake. They just want to play with their friends and be the center of attention for a few hours.”

n Limits are important when it comes to the number of guests and how long they will stay. “It can get crazy if you have twenty 4-year-olds,” says Murphy. She thinks that the old rule of thumb is good: add one to the age of your child and invite that many kids. n It’s a great idea to have a helper on hand, especially if the party is being held away from home. Davis notes that if someone else is there to focus on the details of the party, the parents are free to play host and deal with meltdowns or complications. Some facilities provide a host. Parents can assign a friend or family member to keep kids moving smoothly from one activity to the next. n Those on a budget have options. One idea, says Davis, is to limit bigger parties to every other year “so the kids understand that it’s not every single year that they’ll get a big bash.” With four children’s birthdays to plan each year, Raines says she includes some simpler celebrations in the schedule so the more elaborate events don’t come close together. Other money-saving tips include serving a home-baked cake or cupcakes and having the event at a time of day when kids can just eat snacks. n Their last bit of advice: Relax! Lucas is a self-described “diehard birthday fan” who likes to go all out. But one year she played it low key with store-bought snacks and simpler plans. “It was so much less stressful for me after attempting to be that Pinterest mom,” she says. Best of all, the birthday girl was still pleased. Lucas says she’s made party games that looked nothing like the Pinterest pictures. “But the kids don’t care,” she says, when they’re aiming beanbags at a monster’s mouth or pinning the heart on a tin man.

Photo Courtesy of James Reynolds Photography

“Honestly, I think experiences are the best.”

Tracy Lott, vice president for marketing at Zoo Atlanta

Cont’d on page 18

atlantaparent.com

Party Planner

March 2015 Atlanta Parent 17

“Think of it from a kid’s perspective.

Will the kids care if I don’t dust? No, they won’t.”

Moms Who Know Fun Most kids don’t care if the napkins are carefully coordinated with the plates, says Murphy who once held turtles, snakes and other creatures at nature center parties.

“Think of it from a kid’s perspective.

Will the kids care if I don’t dust? No, they won’t,” she says.

The best way to pick a theme or birthday activity is to involve the children themselves once they reach about the age of 4, says Amy Davis, a mother of two who is director of development at Atlanta’s Center for Puppetry Arts. Kids know best when it comes to knowing what their friends are likely to enjoy, she says.

And consider stretching the celebration throughout the entire day.

18 Atlanta Parent March 2015

Nikki Murphy, former community program coordinator at the Chattahoochee Nature Center

At the Raines home, birthday kids wake up surrounded by balloons. Other family traditions include blowing bubbles every birthday and letting the birthday child wear a crown or a tiara. “They can wear it the entire day,” Raines says. “I like to make it their day.” c

Party Planner

atlantaparent.com

PLANNING YOUR NEXT PARTY IS A PIECE OF CAKE

atlantaparent.com

Party Planner

March 2015 Atlanta Parent 19

Kid’s Party

Entertainment • Great Costumes • Cartoon Characters • Princesses • Superheroes • Face Painting • Balloon Tying • Clowns • Magic • Easter Bunny

NO Birthday Gifts Celebrate while assisting a favorite charity

by Lisa Nord Seplak

(770)

424-2287

WWW.COPYCATSFORKIDS.COM

Make SWEET Party Memories with a CHOCOLATE Making PARTY  Each child makes their own chocolate goodies  Party treat bag to take home  Kids learn all about chocolate while having fun creating yummy treats

chamberlainschocolate.com 678-728-0100 • 6365 Spalding Rd. Norcross 30092

W

hen the pile of presents a child gets for his birthday seems bigger than gifts at Christmas, it’s time for a lesson in giving.

Consider hosting a charitable birthday party this year. Your child will still enjoy celebrating the big day with friends and family, but instead of bringing a gift, ask your guests to bring a donation to a charity of your child’s choice. Limit gift giving to family members or one big present from mom and dad.

The giving can center around your child’s interests or the theme of the celebration. Here are some ideas to get the party started.

For your sporty child Consider an activity like swimming, soccer, indoor ice skating, miniature golf, bowling, a bounce house at home or an indoor inflatables destination. Ask your guests to bring new or used shoes and clothing for Soles4Souls (soles4souls.org). This organization distributes donations to the needy in the United States and countries in Central and South America and Africa. Or find a local charity that accepts used athletic equipment to help sports leagues for underprivileged youth. The website sportsgift.org donates new equipment to needy kids around the world. Ask your guests to round up their kids’ old sports gear to donate or ask them to purchase something new.

Host a Happy Doll party For a child that loves dolls, Happydoll.org provides dolls and all the materials needed so your guests can decorate a doll for a needy child. Each guest gets a cloth doll and nontoxic pens to design their own unique doll.

Each doll has a specific tracking code so you can track where each decorated doll has traveled. Dolls are shipped to needy children throughout the U.S. and the world, including Haiti, India and China.

20 Atlanta Parent March 2015

Party Planner

atlantaparent.com

For the animal lover Contact your local humane society to find out if they host birthday parties. If not, throw the party at home and have the kids bring toys, towels or blankets or anything else your humane society suggests for their homeless pets. Or take a trip to the zoo. Ask your guests to donate to the World Wildlife fund (worldwildlife.org) and they can adopt an animal they’d like to help. Adoptable animals include elephants, penguins, tigers and pandas. Or, if you’re brave enough, throw a party with the local lizard guy at your house. Encourage guests to make donations to Heifer International (heifer.org) and let kids pick from a gift of ducks, chickens, goats, pigs or any of the other animals Heifer International will provide to needy families in developing nations. The National Wildlife Federation (nwf.org) also maintains an adoptan-animal program. With a donation, you can adopt a gray wolf, harp seal or great horned owl to name a few.

Glow-In-The-Dark Play Area Features: minigolf football soccer basketball air cannons glow-in-the-dark inflatables lighted interactive game floor

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Open Play Times (See website for times)

For your little chef

PARTIES THAT REALLY

Try hosting a cooking party for your little food lover. Check to see if a local venue like a specialty grocery store or cooking school hosts parties for kids or if there is a business that will come to your home and conduct a class. Or, use your own kitchen and host a pizza making party. Provide chef hats and individual pizza crusts for each child and a variety of toppings and let them make their own pie. Or make homemade ice cream and provide a choice of toppings like fruit, chocolate or caramel sauce, candies, or crushed cookies. Ask your guests to bring food to donate to your local food pantry.

JUMP

Dodge Ball Courts Ninja Obstacle Course Dunk Ball • Foam Pits

For the generous child If your child just wants a simple but fun birthday party without a specific theme, host a cake and ice cream, pin-the-tail-on-the-donkey, musical chairs, and piñata kind of party that you may have enjoyed as a child. Consider donating to the children’s ward of a local hospital or to Ronald McDonald Children’s Charities. Or collect books and school supplies to donate to a church or other organization that helps local kids in need. c atlantaparent.com

Party Planner

2 HOUR PARTIES! PRIVATE AIR SPACE AVAILABLE TODDLER AREA 3975 Lakefield Ct., Suwanee 30024 • 404-260-1935

GetAirJohnsCreek.com

March 2015 Atlanta Parent 21

Parties that

WOW your kids and

not your wallet

by Jennifer V. Hutcheson

W

hile a Pinterest-worthy party may be a parent’s dream, most kids just want to have fun with their friends and eat cake.

Most parents are looking for ways to save, and these pareddown party ideas will keep costs low, stress manageable and a smile on everyone’s face.

Party at the Park Instead of the pricey party package at a bounce house facility, host your next birthday bash at a local park. The advantage of an indoor party is that weather can’t hamper your birthday plans, but if you can be flexible, a park can be just as much fun and save you a bundle.

Before selecting a party date, stop by the park you are considering and see if they have a reservation system. At the Airport Park at DeKalbPeachtree Airport, for instance, a bulletin board outside an airplane hanger lets you post your party date, time, and number of tables needed. At other parks, parents can come early on party day and post notices on the desired tables for the times they are reserved. If a formal reservation makes you more comfortable, contact your local parks department to see what pavilions you can rent for a nominal fee.

22 Atlanta Parent March 2015

Party Planner

Some great parks for parties: l DeKalb-Peachtree Airport’s Airport Park: Perfect for your plane-loving tot. You can reserve covered picnic tables in the hanger and enjoy take-offs and landings in the bleachers overlooking the runway. There is also a playground, designed for toddlers and the young elementary set, where the kids can burn off their excess sugar. pdkairport.org l Ashford Park: Train lovers will delight in this park that has a view of the train and MARTA tracks that run above it. Ashford Park offers two play structures, one catering to toddlers and the second to early elementary kids. Another perk is a paved sidewalk that weaves around the play structures and is ideal for trying out the numerous riding toys that are available. This park has a covered pavilion with several picnic tables as well as a large party room that can be rented. 2980 Redding Rd. NE, Atlanta. l Jones Bridge Park: Jones Bridge Park at Peachtree Corners is on the Chattahoochee River and would be a perfect spot for your nature lover’s party. The kids can have a nature scavenger hunt and everyone will enjoy being on the river. An added bonus is a state-of-the-art play structure (including a hydraulic elevator!) and large covered pavilions. gwinnettcounty.com

atlantaparent.com

l Invitations: In addition to providing the address for the park, remember to let your guests know what to do in case of inclement weather. If there is a pavilion at the park, you can proceed “rain or shine,” but if not, you might want to move the party to your home or reschedule … no one wants a soggy cake! l Set up: There is no need to go overboard with decorations when Mother Nature is providing the backdrop. A few plastic tablecloths, paper plates, napkins, drink boxes, a cake, and you are good to go. The simplicity of setup and clean up at a park makes this one of our favorite party locales, especially with the toddler crowd who can be messy eaters. l Food: Keep it simple and fun. Bring your kiddo’s favorite snacks and remember that you will be outside. Skip anything that needs to be served hot or very cold and think about more park-friendly treats like popcorn, chips and dip, or pre-made sandwiches.

Doll Tea Party Instead of a party at a lovely, but expensive tearoom, throw a fancy doll tea party at your home. l Invitations: Invite your guests to bring along their favorite doll to join them for the tea. Also, suggest dressy attire because sometimes it can just be so much more fun to have a tea party in fancy clothes. l Set Up: For younger kids, use paper plates and cups to make clean up a snap. For older kids, consider allowing them to use your glass plates and teacups (though maybe not your bone china) to make the party feel grown up. A white tablecloth and simple vase of flowers on the table would be an special touch. The kids will relish putting their pinkies up as they sip tea – or juice – with their dolls by their side. l Food: Fancy does not have to be synonymous with difficult.

Think elegant, yet easy, cucumber and cream cheese sandwiches, crudités and dip, and the dessert the birthday child chooses.

Cont’d on page 24

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Inflatables & Party Rentals • Face Painting Creative Balloon Art • Characters & Mascots Puppets, Magic & MORE!

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Be a Chocolatier for a Day!

Have Your PARTY at The Forum in Norcross CALL (770) 817-8118

678-708-2321

atlantaparent.com

5135 Peachtree Pkwy • Suite 930 • Norcross

Party Planner

March 2015 Atlanta Parent 23

The

POLO CLUB

of ATLANTA

atlpoloclub@yahoo.com 770-317-7546

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Day Care, Mother’s Morning Out, Church Groups & Day Camp outings available Coming Soon

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• Spa Parties • Fashion Show • Pastry decorating and more!

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O’Brien P roductions, Inc.

• Trackless Train & Fire Truck • Snow Cones • Popcorn • Cotton Candy • Rock Wall

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Parties that

WOW

Cooking Party Instead of taking your kid and his friends out to eat (where the bill will easily reach into triple digits), have a cooking party at home. The kids will love inventing their own culinary creations.

You can have them assemble tacos at taco stations, provide them with pizza dough and toppings, or even let them mix and decorate cookies. l Invitations: Be sure to tell your guests what’s on the menu – cooking! – so that they can dress appropriately. No one wants to be scrubbing marinara out of a favorite outfit post-party. l Set up: Have all necessary ingredients available and ready to go before the party starts. For instance, if it is a pizza cooking party, place the dough and a rolling pin at each child’s place. After the dough is rolled out, have cups of ingredients ready to place on the table so that each kid can individualize his pizza creation. Include some fun toppings, like marshmallows (the Ninja Turtle’s favorite!) or pineapple. l Food: After the kids finish assembling, have an adult do any necessary cooking/baking. Cooking time is a perfect opportunity for party games, free play or present opening. c

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24 Atlanta Parent March 2015

Party Planner

atlantaparent.com

Cost-Cutting Tips l Evites: Paper invitations are lovely, especially for extra special occasions like a first birthday or sweet 16, but for the non-milestone years, save by sending online invitations from services such as Evite or Mypunchbowl, or create an event on Facebook. Not only will you save on stationary and postage, but it will also be easier to track RSVPs. l Inventory: As soon as you make your shopping list, do an inventory of what you have at home. If you are having a train party, there is no need to go out and buy a train centerpiece – just raid the train table! Don’t hesitate to ask a friend to borrow her train cake pan. She’ll probably be delighted for it to get some use. l Shopping: After using as much as possible from your home and borrowing from friends, think about what is left on your list and your budget. Then, make an action plan to stay within that budget.

Shop at dollar and second-hand stores first and then – and only then – visit party stores. l Favors: While the dollar store is a good spot to pick up a few trinkets for a goodie bag, you can save even more by simplifying further. If you used dollar store trains to decorate your tables, forgo the goodie bags and let guest take home a train and a balloon. Or, skip toys all together and send home a simple craft or baked good with a thank you note from your child attached.

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March 2015 Atlanta Parent 25

1

2 3

Tweens Love to Party On! Whether bouncing off the walls or racing to the finish line here are some party venues that are sure to get the kids active.

1

26 Atlanta Parent March 2015

Kick it Up Try a few rounds of boxing, kickboxing, martial arts and more inside and outside the ring. n UFC facebook.com/ ufcgymperimeter

2

Tag your Hit Explore multi-level, multiplatform laser tag arenas, glow in the dark experiences and video arcades. n Laser Quest laserquest.com Glow Galaxy glowgalaxy.com

3

Get a Grip Belay on and challenge your inner climber. n Stone Summit Climbing Center ssclimbing.com Atlanta Rocks atlantarocks.com

Urban Jungle urbanjunglelasertag.com

Party Planner

atlantaparent.com

7

4

5

6

4

Pit Stops!

Get your motors running with an authentic racing experience.

Enjoy the thrill of high performance electric go-karts. n K1 Speed K1speed.com Andretti andrettikarting.com

atlantaparent.com

5

Fairway Fun Grab a club, work on your swing and make a hole in one. n Top Golf topgolf.com

6

Defying Gravity Bounce and flip around at an indoor trampoline park with wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits and more. n Sky Zone skyzone.com Get Air getairsports.com

Party Planner

7

Above the Trees Climb, jump and swing from tree to tree. Ropes courses, obstacle courses and zip lines. n Tree Top Quest treetopquest.com North Georgia Canopy Tours northgeorgiacanopytours.com Lake Lanier Canopy Tours lakelaniercanopytours.com – Hayley Markowitz March 2015 Atlanta Parent 27

Party Planner Whether you’re planning a birthday bash for 20 kids or a block party for 100, our Party Planner is your ultimate resource for finding entertainers, party places, supplies and everything you need to plan your event.

Listings provided by advertisers

Entertainers n A Zoo to You-Wildlife Wonders zootoyou.net A variety of animals: alligators, kangaroos, monkeys, lemurs and parrots. Petting zoo and pony rides available. $200 and up.

706-348-7279.

n Copy Cats For Kids copycatsforkids.com TV and movie look-a-likes, princesses, superheroes, cartoon characters and moonwalks. $95 and up. 770-424-2287. n Dream Friends Entertainment dreamfriends.net Princesses, Superheroes, Clowns, Cartoon Characters, Magicians, Firedancers, Stiltwalkers, DJs, Hula, Movie Heroes, Jugglers, Face-painter, Balloon-Twister, Seasonal Characters, Swimming Mermaids, Pirates, Carnival Acts and Tween Themes. Starts at $115.

404-319-0180. n DJ Willy Wow wowkidsnation.com Have Wow Kids DJs for your next party.

Nationally recognized and providing professional family entertainment for over 10 years. Perfect for toddlers to teens. Parties start at $400. Available for festivals, bar mitzvahs, church events, schools. 1-888-WOW-2100. n Fun-O-Rama Parties funoramaparties.com Theme décor, face painting, balloon art, costumed entertainers, inflatables and rental. $75-$250 per event. 770-5721737.

28 Atlanta Parent March 2015

n Red Hot Fire Truck Events redhotfiretruckevents.com Take a ride or sound the siren of a real, red fire truck. 5-Alarm Fun; package includes fire truck ride, squirting water from a real fire hose, decorations, kid-size firefighter gear and more. $175-$500 (5-Alarm Package). 404-925-1221. n Science Creations sciencecreations.com Science parties plus horseback riding, reptiles, face painting, ballooning, and more. $150 and up/10 children, ages 4-13. 678-531-2357.

n Big Thinkers Science Exploration BigThinkersScience.com Interactive, hands-on birthday parties.

Experiment with rockets, bubbling potions and more. We come to you!

Ages 3-12. $199 and up. 678-392-1500. n Club Scientific Atlanta clubscientificatlanta.com One-hour interactive science parties with demonstration and take-home projects.

Pick from different themes. Goodie bags included. Ages 4-13. $225 and up. 678493-5651.

n Queen Emeralda from Fairyland storytellerqueen.com Magical storytelling, funny tricks, draw and tell stories, puppets, audience participation and so much more. Frequently seen at the Atlanta Botanical Garden. $150 and up. 404-577-5336.

Mobile Party Services

Big Thinkers Science Exploration

n Have a Bashery haveabashery.com Helping busy parents give their children memorable celebrations! Activity based theme parties including all of the games, crafts and goodie bags. FluffN-Stuff Animal Workshop, Spa Retreat, Superheroes, Slumber Fun, Cooking, Tie Dye, Luau, Mystery Party, and more. We come to YOU! Ages 1-16, $250 and up.

404-832-5144. n Jason’s Music Party jasonsmusicparty.com A Birthday Concert for your Child!

Interactive, live musical entertainment. Ages 1-8. $175 and up. 678-708-2321. n Miss Pickles livingherdream.com Face painter and balloon artist (40+ creations, including bow & arrow that really shoots and angel wings kids wear!) $125/hr (ask about 2-hour special). 404-457-9929.

n Artzy Party artzyparty.com We bring the art studio to you. All supplies provided with hands on guidance, painting acrylic on canvas. Fun for all ages! $150 and up.

404-895-7069. n Big Thinkers Science Exploration BigThinkersScience.com Interactive, hands-on birthday parties.

Experiment with rockets, bubbling potions and more. We come to you! Ages 3-12. $199 and up.

678-392-1500. n Groovy Little Art Bus groovylittleartbus.com Our unique Groovy Art Bus comes to you for super fun birthday parties, school/church events, ladies nights! 2014 Marietta Art Award. Check us out! 678-468-6452. n Poshin Paint poshinpaint.com Parties for kids, adults and team building.

Serving all of Metro Atlanta. $12-$40/person.

404-729-5196. n Princess Atlanta princessatlanta.com Couture and Chic parties for girls. Specialize in making your princess feel fabulous, chic, and beautiful. Book the party, set the day and time, and we are there. $175 and up. 678-701-8557.

n Party Animals Entertainment Costumed characters, princesses and superheroes, clowns perform magic, face painting, balloon twisting and more. $125 and up. 770-645-0901.

n Sam’s Path Mobile Petting Zoo samspathpettingzoo.com We come to you! Monkey, Kangaroo, Zebra, Camel, Lemur & Farm Animals. Camel & Pony Rides. $300 and up. 706-717-8837.

n Piccadilly Puppets Company piccadillypuppets.org Shows with puppets, music, audience participation and stories. Make-a-puppet activity also available. $175 and up. 404-6360022.

n Tumblebus tumblebusatlanta.com A colorful Mobile Gym on Wheels that comes to you – Most of metro Atlanta. Ages 2-6. Rock climbing walls, trampoline, monkey bars and more. $250 & up. 770-529-5771.

Party Planner [special advertising section]

atlantaparent.com

Party Places n Art Station artstation.org Pottery parties including supplies and 3 hrs in party room. Dance Studio option. (Weekends preferred). $200 for 10 children, $15/additional child. 5384 Manor Dr., Stone Mountain Village.

770-469-1105. n Atlanta History Center atlantahistorycenter.com History is happening! Call to book your custom party today. Parties created for all ages and interests. $250 and up.130 W. Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4110. n Center for Puppetry Arts puppet.org For members only. Includes performance, birthday announcement before performance, crown and throne for birthday child. Packages starting at $205. 1404 Spring St., Atlanta.

404-881-5149. n Chamberlain’s Chocolate Factory chamberlainschocolate.com Chocolate-making parties include instruction, chocolate, goodie bag and more. $185/8 children. 6365 Spalding Dr., Norcross.

678-728-0100. n Chattahoochee Nature Center chattnaturecenter.org Includes a guided hike, nature activities, live animal encounter, refreshments, party favors and use of a party room. $250 and up for 12 kids and 4 adults. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell.

770-992-2055, ext. 237. n Circus Camp Birthday Parties circuscamp.org A unique Circus Arts party including trapeze, spanish web and aerial silks. Other circus arts available (Magic, Juggling, Hooping and more). Ages 5 and up. Decatur & Dunwoody Locations. $400 & up. 404-370-0001.

Get Air Trampoline Park

n Diamond Girlz Salon and Spa diamondgirlzsalonspa.com Several party packages to choose from, Diamond Diva facial party, glam party, fashion shows, spa treatment, music, mini mani-pedi, hair do’s and more.

Ages 3-15. $255-$500/8 girls. 11705 Jones Bridge Rd., Johns Creek. 678-240-9056.

n Get Air GetAirJohnsCreek.com Atlanta’s Newest Indoor Trampoline Park with Dodge Ball, Dunk Ball, Foam Pits & Ninja Course. Toddler Trampoline Space for the little jumpers. 2 Hour Parties. $125 and up. 3975 Lakefield Ct., Suwanee.

404-260-1935.

n Farmhouse in the City farmhouseinthecity.com Mixes art and animals for a unique party experience!

Art and Animal party (ages 3-6) and Canvas Party (ages 7-11). $325 and up for up to 12 guests. 1094 Green St., Roswell. 770-587-3001.

n Glow Galaxy glowgalaxy.com Private party with one of two glow-in-the-dark play arenas with sports court and mini-golf course. $190 and up. 6527-D Jimmy Carter Blvd., Norcross. 770368-3008.

n Fernbank Museum of Natural History fernbankmuseum.org Includes unlimited access to the museum for 10 kids and 10 adults; 2 hours in private room, dinosaur throne, T-shirt for the birthday child, favors. $275 (member price) and up; add-ons available. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6318.

n Gwinnett County Parks & Recreation gwinnettcounty.com Various facilities available to rent for birthday parties. $35/hour and up. 770-822-8840.

n Funopolis Family Fun Center funopolisfamilyfuncenter.com 11 Acres of indoor/outdoor FUN for all ages – Character visits available – Group Pricing.

Birthday parties starting at $15.50 per person. 40155 Hwy. 441 South, Commerce. 706-335-3866. n Gamers Xperience gxgaming.com Includes 3 hours of gaming, 10 kids, Parents play FREE, outside food and decoration OK. Basic party start at $150, Private party start at $200.

6981 Main St., Lithonia. 770-482-1411.

Farmhouse in the City

atlantaparent.com

n GAS-ART Gifts gas-art.com R. Gregory Christie’s GAS-ART GIFTS offers 2-hour art parties. Whether it’s a painting party or a Bookbinding bash, experience a festive atmosphere.

Painting parties entail 11x14 canvases which are dry and ready to take home. Bookbinding parties include illustration lessons. Starting at $25 per child.

404-801-4926.

Party Planner [special advertising section]

n Henri’s Bakery henrisbakery.com Kids decorate their own cupcakes or cookies. Party also includes custom cake, party sandwiches and drinks. Parties start at $180. 61 Irby Ave. NW, Atlanta.

Call Kim at 404-237-0202 to book your party today. n Interactive Neighborhood for Kids inkfun.org Parties include admission to the museum for 16 kids, 90 minutes in the party room and a T-shirt for the birthday child. $150 and up. 999 Chestnut St., Gainesville. 770-536-1900. n K1 Speed k1speed.com It’s A Go Kart Party! Indoor go karts that offer an authentic racing experience. Race head-to-head against your friends in their 20hp electric or junior karts. Parties starting from $440. 1625 Pleasant Hill Rd., Duluth. 678-367-2857. n Lollipop Dreams lollipopdreamsatl.com Posh spa birthday parties. Many packages available.

Ages 3-12. $225-875. 448 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd., Atlanta. 678-528-8981.

Continued on page 30

March 2015 Atlanta Parent 29

Party Planner Alligators, Monkeys, Farm Friends and more!

Live animals of all kinds!

Hands-on, Fun, Educational

www.azootoyou.com

n Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament medievaltimes.com 2-hour live show and four-course feast all inside an 11th century-style castle with pure Spanish horses, sword fighting, and jousting. Tickets as low as $29.95. Children 3 and younger are free. Birthday groups of 10 or more are eligible for group rate. 5900 Sugarloaf Pkwy, Lawrenceville, located at Sugarloaf Mills Mall. 888-935-6878. n Monkey Joe’s Party and Play monkeyjoes.com Inflatable playgrounds with moon bounces, slides, jumps and private party rooms with drinks and paper goods. $139 and up for 2 hours for 8 children. $10/additional child. 2 locations. Cumming-770-887-5678 Roswell- 678-381-0400. n Monster Mini Golf monsterminigolf.com An 18 hole Indoor Glow-in-the-Dark monster themed miniature golf course.

Great for all ages! $7-8 per person. Party packages available ranging from $175$350. 2505 Chastain Meadows Pkwy. NW, Marietta. 770-423-2212.

als nt Party Anim tertainme

En Best Costumes in Atlanta!

• Clowns • Superheroes • Princesses • Caricatures • Magicians • Face Painters • Look Alike Costumed Characters • Ballooning

Lollipop Dreams

n Out of the Box Art Studio outoftheboxartstudio.com Art parties. Potter's wheel, clay hand building, canvas painting, drawing, mixed media, many themes! $18 per person and up. 3 locations. Ages 4 and up. 11940 Alpharetta Hwy., Alpharetta. 678-867-7713. n Peterbrooke Chocolate peterbrooke.com Chocolate lovers get to hand dip Oreos, pretzels, potato chips and graham crackers. Plus make their own lollipop and decorate caramel apples to keep.

Starting at $22.50 per person. 5135 Peachtree Pkwy., Suite 930, Norcross.

770-817-8118. n Piece of Cake pieceofcakeinc.com Planning your next party is a Piece Of Cake! Frost & Decorate your own cake.

Tour the bakery. Birthday party, Tea party, Baby shower, Graduation. Parties begin at $300. Alpharetta, Buckhead, Camp Creek, Collier Rd, Decatur, Dunwoody, Johns Creek, Roswell, Vinings, Airport. 404-8460908. n Robotic Explorers roboticexplorers.com Celebrate your child’s birthday with a special day designed for your little engineer. We offer Master Builder and Robotics parties featuring LEGO® for ages 4 to 12. Parties start at $30 per child with a minimum of 10 children. 715 Hembree Place, Roswell. 770-772-6622. n Sky Zone skyzoneatlanta.com All-trampoline, walled playing courts. Includes one hour jump time and shoe rental, 40 min. in private party room, invitations, paper supplies, food and drinks. Add-ons available. Starting at $18/person, minimum 10 kids. 1650 Airport Rd. NW, Ste.104, Kennesaw, 678-426-4400; 1425 Market Blvd., Ste. 100-A, Roswell, 678-745-9900; 560 Old Peachtree Rd. NW, Suwanee, 678-745-9900.

Ages 3+

Will beat any competitor’s price!

1-888-670-5590

770-645-0901

www.partyanimalsga.com

SPA & GLAMOR PARTIES Guests are pampered from head to toe with music, spa treatments & fun.

Home of the $99 Weekday Moonwalk Rental!!

Free gift with party while supplies last. $

25 Off

Waterslide or Moonwalk

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Jump Ovation Parties 678-463-9243 www.jumpovation.com

30 Atlanta Parent March 2015

11705 Jones Bridge Rd., Johns Creek Party Planner [special advertising section]

atlantaparent.com

n Southeastern Railway Museum srmduluth.org Parties in restored rail cars or outdoor pavilion.

Includes admission for up to 20 guests.

Catering available. 2 hours, $150 and up. 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth. 770-476-2013. n Stars and Strikes starsandstrikes.com Bowling, Arcade, Laser Tag, Bumper Cars and Extreme Party Packages for kids & teens. Party Host, pizza/soda, invitations included. All birthday kids get entry into FUN MACHINE! Parties start at $189.90.

Cumming, Lawrenceville, Dallas, Stone Mountain, Sandy Springs, Woodstockcoming soon. 678-965-5707. n Superior Play Systems Superiorplay.com Looking for a unique way to celebrate your little one’s birthday? Our parties include two hours of playing on our award winning playsets, jumping on the safest trampolines, and shooting hoops at our huge indoor play areas in Norcross and Alpharetta. Parties start at $199 including private party room. 800-8757946. n The Children’s Museum of Atlanta childrensmuseumatlanta.org Celebrate with a full day of play! Packages include full-day admission with access to the Museum’s feature exhibit, daily programming, private party room, and more! Ages 2-8. Party packages for 25 guests start at $200. 275 Centennial Park Dr. Atlanta. 404-527-3693. n The Polo Club of Atlanta poloclubofatlanta.com Pony parties including petting zoo, pony rides, dressing up miniature horse and donkey, play and picnic area. $500 and up. 5890 Polo Dr., Cumming. 770-344-0274. n Tiny Towne tinytowne.com Indoor park for aspiring drivers, ages 3-15.

Learn the rules of the road, drive, ride, play, eat and party! Private Party Room and Packages. Parties start at $320. 2055 Beaver Ruin Rd., Norcross. 470-545-7227. n Treetop Quest treetopquest.com A family-friendly Treetop Obstacle Course and Zip-Lines! Ages 4 and up, bring your own food and party supplies! $22-32 per child. 2 locations: Buford and Dunwoody.

770-904-3547. n Tumbletots Preschool & Birthday Parties funttots.com Private parties with indoor playground, moonwalk, theme cake, crafts, tattoos, story time, balloons and gift bags. Ages 1-7. $200/12 children; $10/additional child. 6375 Spalding Dr., Suite D, Norcross. 770-729-9660.

atlantaparent.com

n UFC Gym Perimeter facebook.com/ufcgymperimeter Fitness & Fun, customized birthday parties for any age. Try a few rounds of boxing, learn some Jiu Jitsu, Play Tug of War and throw in a little of your favorite sport. Great Custom Party Packages beginning at $200. 4745 Ashford Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta. 404-4458324. n Zoo Atlanta zooatlanta.org Be a party animal! Celebrate your birthday party at Zoo Atlanta. $475 + tax. Contact at 404-624-5650 or specialevents@zooatlanta. org

Supplies & Rentals n Balloons for All Occasions balloonsforalloccasions.net Balloon Décor for Birthday Parties, Wedding Receptions, Baby Showers, and more. For a professional job that will leave a lasting impression Call Today! 770-908-3309. n Fun-Fare fun-fare.com Atlanta’s premier event company with over 50 inflatables, quad jump, 24 ft. rock wall and trackless train. $99 and up. 770-425-3033. n Jump For Joy jumpforjoyparties.com Bringing fun to you. Providing clean, sanitized inflatable equipment to make your event STRESS FREE & FUN. FREE DELIVERY Cherokee, Cobb, Paulding. $145-$310. 770789-7675. n Jump Ovation Parties jumpovation.com 20ft Dolphin waterslide with pool, 15×15ft.

Sports Arena/ Princess Moonwalks, Cartoon Mascots, Concessions, Decorations, Event Planning and more! $55 and up. 678-4639243. n Jumptastic jumptastic.com Atlanta’s leading supplier of Inflatable Moonwalks, Slides, Games & Rides. Over 300 inflatables. Insured. $150 and up. 404-5371805. n O’Brien Productions obrienproductions.com Whether you need table linens, inflatables, trackless train, rock walls or DJ’s they have it all. $250 and up. 770-422-7200. n Suburban Rental suburbanrental.net Those guys rent everything! 30+ years serving Atlanta, Marietta and Roswell. Check out their wide variety of equipment. $80 and up. 678-569-1271. c

Party Planner [special advertising section]

Atlanta Parent has teamed up with seven local party places to each give away a birthday party for eight.

Tiny Towne Drive Safely 470-545-7227 TinyTowne.com

UFC Gym Perimeter Facebook.com/ufcgymperimeter 404-445-8324

Piece of Cake 404-351-CAKE (2253) Pieceofcakeinc.com

Get Air Johns Creek 404-260-1935 getairjohnscreek.com

Center for Puppetry Arts 404-881-5149 Puppet.org

Stars and Strikes 678-965-5707 starsandstrikes.com SkyZone 678-426-4400 – Kennesaw 678-745-9900 – Roswell/Suwanee Skyzoneatlanta.com

Visit Facebook.com/ AtlantaParentMagazine to enter to win through March 31!

March 2015 Atlanta Parent 31

BaBY STePS

10 Ways to Help Your Infant Blossom Through Play

by Karyn Robinson-Renaud

The first 12 months with your baby are a time of rapid growth and learning – the perfect time to use simple play activities to lay a foundation for your baby’s future. These fun ideas will get you started.

First Months

6 Months and Older

n Simply You. You don’t need a lot of toys to support your child’s development. “You are your baby’s favorite toy,” says Sheila Bourgeois, program coordinator at a family resource center. Whether you are singing, reading or making funny faces, your baby will be delighted.

Occupational therapist Wanh Porter says that the key is to do all of these activities face to face.

Developmental Targets: Social/Language and Cognitive, 1 month and older.

n Discovery Box. Turn an empty tissue box into a sensory game, Bourgeois says.

Fill the box with clean fabrics that have different textures and prints. Encourage your baby to pull some fabric out of the box and then help baby explore it with his hands and mouth. Developmental Targets: Fine Motor, Cognitive and Social/ Language, 6 months and older.

n Singing Time. Babies love hearing the same songs sung to them many times.

Shelley Shaughnessy, a public health nurse, recommends doing simple action songs.

Be sure to bring your child’s hands in front of his face so that he can try out the actions too. Pat-a-cake is a fun favorite. Developmental Targets: Social/Language and Cognitive, 1 month and older.

n Mini Monet. Make your own paint with corn starch, water and food coloring, Bourgeois says (find recipes at craftychild.com). Encourage your little Monet to paint with her fingers, a brush or a sponge. Developmental Targets: Cognitive, Gross and Fine Motor and Social, 6 months and older. n Kitchen Band. Allow your baby to explore his musical side with your pots or a plastic container, Porter suggests. Babies can use their hands or a spoon to create their own rhythms. Your baby will start to learn basic math skills by playing around with simple rhythm activities.

Developmental Targets: Cognitive, Social/Language and Gross Motor, 8 months and older.

n Bubble Play. Did you know that bubbles are great for body awareness? Bourgeois explains that when bubbles pop on your baby’s body, it brings her attention to that area. Your baby will enjoy watching you blow and pop bubbles. You can also introduce simple words like “up” and “pop.” Developmental Targets: Cognitive, Gross Motor, Fine Motor and Social/Language, 1 month and older.

n Ball Play. Porter suggests using different-sized balls with different textures to teach the game of catch.

Your baby will develop hand-eye coordination. Developmental Targets: Fine and Gross Motor, Cognitive and Social, 8 months and older.

n Reading Time. You can bring books to life for your baby with an animated voice. With older babies, get books that they can hold, Shaughnessy says. Choose books with simple words and pictures that you point to as you read.

Developmental Targets: Social/Language, Cognitive and Fine Motor, 1 month and older.

32 Atlanta Parent March 2015

n Hiding Fun. Initiate simple hide-and-seek games with your baby by going under blankets or behind furniture, Porter says. Developmental Targets: Gross Motor, Cognitive, and Social, 6 months and older.

n Movement Fun. Put favorite toys around the room for your child to get to any way he likes. Feel free to get on the floor with your baby to model fun ways of moving. Developmental Targets: Gross Motor, Cognitive and Social, 9 months and older. c

atlanta baby

atlantaparent.com

TODDLERS Take Over the

MUSEUM

n Under the Sea Where to find it: The Georgia Aquarium Program: Toddler Time When to go: Check website for upcoming dates.

Why it’s special: Children will meet and learn about animals during an introduction to marine life; costumed characters, story time, craft activities and a small snack. Ages 0-3.

Cost: $16 for one adult/child pair, plus admission. Advance registration required. georgiaaquarium.org

and More

by Hayley Markowitz

Atlanta’s museums and major attractions are introducing both parents and kids to fun and an educational environment at a young age. n Stroll through the Garden Where to find it: Atlanta Botanical Garden Program: Stroller Struts When to go: Fridays in March-September at 10:30 a.m.

Why it’s special: Take a sensory exploration of the changing seasons, colors and textures of the Garden with an interactive walking tour. Ages 1-2.

Cost: Free with admission. Adults, $18.95; ages 3-12, $12.95; ages 2 and younger, free. Registration not required. atlantabotanicalgarden.org

34 Atlanta Parent March 2015

n Little Picassos Where to find it: The High Museum of Art Program: Toddler Thursday When to go: Every Thursday at 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Why it’s Special: Toddlers and parents can explore the permanent collection through letters, colors, numbers and shapes.

Each week there is a different theme to this education program.

Cost: Free with museum admission. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; ages 5 and younger, free. high.org

atlanta baby

atlantaparent.com

n A Quest for Nature Where to find it: Fernbank Museum of Natural History Program: Mommy & Me Mondays When to go: Every Monday through March 30.

Why it’s special: Explore the children’s exhibit, Fernbank NatureQuest, that turns kids into explorers.

They discover the many wonders of the natural world through hands-on activities, live animal displays and engaging encounters. Fernbank has downloadable activities to enhance the toddler experience during your visit. Ages 2-4.

Cost: One adult and up to two children ages 5 and younger, $20. Includes museum admission. fernbankmuseum.org

n Step in the Kitchen Where to find it: The Children’s Museum of Atlanta Program: Cooking with Colors When to go: Mondays at 10:30 a.m. through March 30.

Why it’s special: As a part of its Eat a Georgia Rainbow program, children and parents learn how to whip up colorful and healthy culinary creations. Open to all ages but geared toward toddlers.

Cost: Free with Admission. $12.75 per person, younger than 1, free. Reservations required. childrensmuseumatlanta.org

n All Aboard!

Where to find it: Southeastern Railroad Museum Program: Preschool Program When to go: Second Thursday of each month at 10:30 a.m.-noon.

Why it’s special: A vehicle-themed class with five components, 15 minutes each, including games, storys and songs, activity, crafts and when available, the actual “vehicle of the month” for children to see and experience.

Ages 2-4.

Cost: $7 per participating child. One adult is free per family. srmduluth.org

n Drama Kids Where to find it: Alliance Theatre Program: Theatre for the Very Young When to go: Each season has a new set of shows; check website Why it’s special: Offers an interactive and engaging theater experience. All children are encouraged to call out answers, explore, follow directions and pretend play. Ages 18 months to 5 years.

Cost: $10 per person. alliancetheatre.org

Cont’d on page 36

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March 2015 Atlanta Parent 35

TODDLERS

n Walk

History

Take Over the

through

Where to find it: Atlanta History Center Program: Magic Mondays When to go: Second Monday of each month at 10 a.m.

Why it’s special: A different theme each month lets parents and children explore history together, with hands-on activities including arts and crafts projects, music and storytime. Ages 18 months to 5 years.

Cost: $6.50 adults, $5.50 children plus AHC admission. atlantahistorycenter.com

MUSEUM and More

Other toddler programs to explore n Have a Wild Time Where to find it: Zoo Atlanta Program: Stroller Cubs When to go: The last Wednesday and Saturday of the month from 10-11 a.m.

Why it’s special: Each month features a different area of the zoo and a different animal ambassador. Ages 0-2.

Program: Adventure Cubs When to go: First Wednesday and Saturday of the month at 11 a.m.

Why it’s special: Hands-on education that allows kids to explore different age-appropriate concepts about animals. Ages 3-4.

Cost: $24 for one adult/child pair includes Zoo admission.

Advance registration is required. zooatlanta.org

n Mice Tours. Marietta Museum of History. marietta. com/museum-mice-tours n Turtle Tours. Heritage Sandy Springs Museum. heritagesandysprings.org n Mommy and Me Preschool Program.

Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History. southernmuseum.org n Toddler Fridays. The Hudgens Center for the Arts. thehudgens.org Turtle Tours

Read to your child today and inspire a lifelong love of reading.

www.read.gov

36 Atlanta Parent March 2015

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March 2015    Atlanta Parent 37

Photo courtesy of Ruth Mitchener

Say Yes to the Mess Say yes to the occasional mess and open the door to learning through sensory play. Recipes for Play: Creative Activities for Small Hands and Big Imaginations created by sisters, Rachel Sumner and Ruth Mitchener, is a book full of inexpensive activities for children ages 2 and older. These projects will engage all five senses and spark imagination. All ingredients and materials can be found around the house from the kitchen to the backyard. Each project has its own high to low ranking for the set-up time, clean-up time and the mess factor.

Here is a project for the entire family:

Fizz Droppers Something amazing happens when you mix baking soda with vinegar – something fizzy and volcanic! Add color to the vinegar, make the baking soda a canvas and watch the artwork bubble.

You will need: an ice tray, muffin tin, or similar receptacle white vinegar several colors of food coloring* ( Store-bought works best) baking soda a small shallow dish, such as a plastic takeout container a dish towel eye droppers

Fill the ice tray or muffin tin with vinegar. Add several drops of food coloring to each compartment and mix well.

Sprinkle out an even layer of baking soda in the dish – enough to cover the bottom. This will be the canvas. Use the dish towel as a placemat to stop anything from slipping around and to catch any drips.

Children can use the eye droppers as paint brushes, the vinegar as paint, and the baking soda as a canvas. Enjoy volcanic results!

Clean-up is easy, as your volcano can be simply washed down the sink. c

Source: Recipe from Recipes for Play: Creative Activities for Small Hands and Big Imaginations, copyright © Rachel Sumner and Ruth Mitchener, 2014. Reprinted by permission of the publisher, The Experiment.

Got Kids? Got Ideas?

Atlanta Parent Magazine is now accepting applications for our 2015 Atlanta Parent Advisory Board n

Who Should Apply?

Moms and dads who have opinions to share about parenting in Atlanta! As a member, you’ll offer input on articles, contribute your talents and ideas, and get involved with Atlanta Parent’s special events and projects. (It’s a volunteer position with perks!) n

How to apply?

Visit atlantaparent.com to fill out a brief application. n

Deadline: March 20

38 Atlanta Parent March 2015

atlantaparent.com

Make Your Own

at Home

With just a few simple materials, you can create your own play dough, silly putty and watercolor paints. Kids will love pouring, stirring, mashing and kneading their way to these homemade crafts.

Play Dough This recipe makes about 10 cups of play dough, which equals about 12 cups of storebought Play Doh® containers.

You’ll need: 7-8 cups all-purpose or bread flour 3 cups salt 3 tablespoons cream of tartar ¼ cup vegetable oil 4 cups hot water Food coloring Mix the flour with salt and cream of tartar in a standing mixer (or just use a bowl).

Add the oil and water and knead for 5-6 minutes with a mixer, or 8-10 minutes by hand.

Add more flour to get softer dough.

Store the dough in a sealed container.

Note: If you want several colors, divide the dough and knead in the food coloring after it’s made. If you want just one color, add the food coloring with the water.

Recipe from preparedpantry.com

Watercolor Paints

For parenting resources you can actually use.

Point.

Click.

Use berries to make natural paint.

You’ll need: ½ cup each blueberries, strawberries and raspberries ¾ cup water Potato masher Strainer Combine ½ cup of each fruit with ¼ cup of water in separate bowls.

Mash with potato masher until juicy.

Strain the mixture into a bowl to keep seeds out of your paint.

You’re There. atlantaparent.com Don’t forget to sign up for our weekly e-newsletter while you’re there.

Recipe from National Wildlife Federation, nwf.org

atlantaparent.com

March 2015 Atlanta Parent 39

Get Hoppin’!

by Pam Molnar Hunt for a Basket Show the kids evidence of the Easter Bunny’s visit by making a jelly bean trail from your child’s bedroom door to his Easter basket. Or let them hunt for Easter baskets by leaving clues. Start with a note on their bedroom door leading them to different clues around the house.

These ideas and crafts add a little something ‘eggs-tra’ to traditional Easter fun.

Make Confetti Eggs Make Cascarones or Confetti Eggs by hollowing out raw eggs. Make a small hole in one end and let the egg drain out into a bowl. When the eggs are empty, rinse the inside and let them dry overnight, then fill with glitter or confetti using a small funnel.

Place glue around the hole on the egg and decorate. Take the eggs to the yard and try to smash them on the heads of friends and family, which signifies good luck.

Go Natural, Easily Some parents dye Easter eggs by making “natural” shades using blueberries, beets, coffee or other fruits and vegetables.

Glob Colors’ Natural Easter Egg Coloring Kit keeps it natural without the added work. Three color packets use radish, cabbage and annatto extracts. Create other colors by dipping the egg a second time in another color. Buy the kit for $14 at globcolors.com or at select Whole Foods Markets.

Find a ‘Pet’ A new twist for Easter egg hunts is Hide ‘em & Hatch ‘em Eggs – put the eggs in water and in a few days they’ll begin to “hatch” a chick, duck or bunny rabbit or a frog, kitten or bird. Once the toy emerges, keep it in water and it will continue to grow, or take it out for your child to play with. A set of three eggs is $11.95 at hatchems.com.

Rock the Egg Hunt Add a bit of excitement to the traditional egg hunt by trying one of these ideas:

‘Grow’ an Egg Crack and remove the top part of an egg, leaving at least two-thirds of the shell in tack. Rinse the eggs and let dry. With markers, make silly faces on the egg shells. Fill the eggs almost to the top with soil and grass seed. Place the eggs in an egg carton and keep it in a sunny spot. Water as needed and watch the grass grow to look like green hair.

Give to Others Create mini Easter baskets to hand out at senior centers or assisted living facilities.

Use baskets from a dollar store and fill with hard candy, hand lotions, slipper socks or a deck of cards, or simply put small treats in a clear bag and tie it with colorful ribbons.

Raise a ‘Garden’ A magical activity for young kids is to plant jelly beans in a garden or flower bed. While the children sleep, the jelly beans sprout into lollipops with a little help from Mom and Dad.

l Use glow sticks or bracelets for a glow-in-the-dark hunt l Fill each egg with a number and have a corresponding

prize waiting to match up with the egg l Add a silly request to each egg for the person who

finds it, such as “Do the chicken dance.” l Choose one color egg for each person and they can

only find their color. This allows the eggs to be filled with age appropriate or allergy free items for each child.

40 Atlanta Parent March 2015

atlantaparent.com

We’re looking for our next Cover Kid. Cover Kids Contest All entries must be postmarked

by June 19, 2015.

To register and more info visit:

Atlantaparent.com/coverkids l l

Ages 0-12 years / $25 entry fee Group category / $45 entry fee

2015

cover kid search If you’ve always wanted to see your child on our cover, this is your chance!

More information at AtlantaParent.com/Coverkids

DAY CAMPS OVERNIGHT CAMPS SUMMER PROGRAMS

Mark Yours!

Calendar March 21

Saturda y, 11 am - 4 pm Perimeter Mall Atlanta

To exhibit or for info contact Jordan at 678-222-1911 or jlisvosky@atlantaparent.com atlantaparent.com/campexpo

42 Atlanta Parent March 2015

Camp 2015

atlantaparent.com

DISCOVER LEADERSHIP

A SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP EXPERIENCE AT EMORY UNIVERSITY When: June 15-19 or July 20-24 Who: Rising Juniors and Seniors in High School • Live together as a community in a residence hall on Emory’s campus • Interact with current Emory students and alumni who are successful social entrepreneurs • Attend a session with the Emory Office of Admission • Engage with Atlanta’s non-profit organizations in hands-on projects • Create your own project to implement

TO REGISTER OR FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT:

Discoverleadership.emory.edu

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK 44 Atlanta Parent March 2015

Camp 2015

atlantaparent.com

♥ All day Summer Camp starting May 26 ♥ Kindergarten through 5th grade ♥ 7:00am – 6:00pm, lunch included ♥ Weekly themed entertainment and Field Trips! ♥ $200.00 per week*

WEEKLY THEMES:

Sports Zone, Nature, Space, Pets are People Too, God Bless America, DIY (Do It Yourself) Projects and much more! *$100.00 registration fee ($50.00 before May 1)

404-843-8375 550 Mt. Paran Rd., Sandy Springs office@stjohnchildren.org www.stjohnchildren.org

Summer DANCE and SPORTS Camps Over 30 Years of Instructional Excellence!

Now Proudly Serving

2015 Camp Locations and Dates (ages 3-8):

• FORSYTH PARKS & REC Old Atlanta ............. June 15-19 ........... Princess Old Atlanta ............. July 13–17 ............ Little Champ Sports Fowler Park ............. June 22–26 ........... Princess Fowler Park .............. June 15-19 ........... Little Champ Sports • KINGSWOOD UMC.............June 8-12 .............. Princess • ST. JAMES UMC (ATL.) ... July 6-10................ Princess July 6–10 ............... Soccer Champs® • SECOND-PONCE DE LEON BAPTIST Aug. 17–21............ Princess • BROOKHAVEN-BRIARWOOD PARK June 1–5................. Ballet/Jazz/Hip-Hop June 8–12 .............. Princess July 13–17 ............ Princess July 20–25 ............ Ballet/Jazz/Hip-Hop

• ST. BENEDICT’S EPISCOPAL - SMYRNA June 15–19 ........... Princess June 22–26 ........... Ballet/Jazz/Hip-Hop Visit CreativeMovementAndDance.com for July 13–17 ............ Princess July 20–24 ............ Ballet/Jazz/Hip-Hop prices and registration or call (678) 482-2264

46 Atlanta Parent March 2015

Camp 2015

atlantaparent.com

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Camp 2015

March 2015    Atlanta Parent 47

SUMMER CAMP Summer Camp is a hands-on adventure in Georgia’s largest engineering lab for children.

EXPLORE DISCOVER CREATE

Programs for children ages 6 to 12.

Schedule a tour today

RoboticExplorers.com 770.772.6622 Visit the lab See our ad in Atlanta Parent’s Camp Guide 2015

48 Atlanta Parent March 2015

Camp 2015

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June 15 -26

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Camp 2015

March 2015    Atlanta Parent 49

The STEM Program

Emphasizing Science, T echnology, Engineering and Math Prepares Kids for a Challenging Future

by Elissa Hadley Conklin

I

f your child tries to invent computer software with Fruit Loops or prefers watching someone tinker with the car’s mechanics instead of playing with Barbie or toy cars, he may be a natural for STEM studies. The child who dreams of being a chef or plans to be a plumber also will benefit from STEM. The STEM program is a federal project launched in 2005 to encourage students to develop an interest in science, technology, engineering and math. At the college level these might include majors in biological sciences, computer science, engineering, environmental research, geosciences, social, behavioral and economic education, cyber infrastructures and more.

Only 15 percent of U.S. college graduates receive degrees in a STEM subject, compared to a world average of 23 percent. In China, 42 percent of graduates concentrate on STEM fields.

In December 2013, a survey ranked the United States 36th in the world in science, technology, engineering and math. Since then, the push to get STEM programs into schools has become a nationwide effort

to prepare kids for a world in which a technological product is often obsolete by the time it gets to the market.

STEM is everywhere now. It is introduced in kindergarten, and throughout elementary and high school levels. It is part of afterschool programs, camps,

competitions, festivals and more.

Both public and private schools in Georgia can now be STEM certified.

Schools, teachers and students must qualify together for this inventive style of learning that incorporates “hands-on” problemsolving techniques and teaches students

For more information, call Dept. of Special Education at 404.802.1699 or email crcallaway@atlanta.K12.ga.us

50 Atlanta Parent March 2015

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how to rise to the challenges of the real world. Even students who have no intention of pursuing a science or tech career will benefit from the increased emphasis on math and science.

Dr. Gilda Lyon, STEM coordinator at the Georgia Department of Education, is working with Georgia schools to meet the criteria for STEM schools certification and providing the professional learning for teachers and administrators, as well.

“There are currently 12 schools in Georgia that are certified to offer the program. Over 500 schools are actively working to complete the process,” Lyon says. “Our mission is to have 300 schools certified in three years.”

Schools must meet rigorous requirements, a process that can take three years to become certified to offer the program and produce STEM savvy students.

The STEM program not only involves the students, teachers and schools, but the parents and the community. Corporations and individuals in the business world provide the much needed practical application of skills. “Mentorship is a major factor in supporting a school to

STEM Schools in Georgia These 12 schools have been certified by the STEM program so far. n Brookwood Elementary School, Dalton; Dalton City School District. n Carrollton Elementary School, Carrollton; Carrollton City School District. n The Center for Advanced Studies in Math, Science and Technology at Wheeler High School, Marietta; Cobb County School District. n Dunwoody Elementary School, Dunwoody; DeKalb County School District. n Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science and Technology (GSMST), Lawrenceville; Gwinnett County School District.

n Henderson Mill Elementary School, Atlanta; DeKalb County School District. n High Tower Elementary School, Doraville; DeKalb County School District. n Kennesaw Mountain High School Academy of Mathematics, Science and Technology, Kennesaw; Cobb County School District. n Lanier High School Center for Design and Technology Program (CDAT), Gainesville; Gwinnett County School District. n Marietta Center for Advanced Academics, Marietta; Marietta School District. n Rockdale Magnet School for Science and Technology, Conyers; Rockdale County School District. n Tucker Middle School, Tucker; DeKalb County School District.

For more information, visit stemgeorgia.org

qualify,” Lyon says.

The STEM criteria for an elementary school are exacting. The students work with mobile, virtual reality and other technology that is integrated into the classwork.

Probes, tablets, and graphic calculators

are introduced to the class at a young age.

Students may engage in projects such as the study of designing a dance pad that lights up when you step on certain math coordinates.

Cont’d on page 52

imagine Your Child?

What do you want for

IMAGINE A SCHOOL WHERE YOUR CHILD LEARNS…

• By Individual Instruction An • A Love of Learning Authentic • To Think Outside the Box AMI Accredited Montessori • Independence School • Respect for Others • A Solid Foundation • Foreign Language, Music, Cooking, Gardening and More HALF OR FULL DAY, YEAR ROUND PROGRAMS

Montessori School at Emory 3021 N. Decatur Road Decatur, GA 30033 MontessoriSchoolatEmory.com 404-634-5777

Montessori School of Cumming 4601 Post Road Cumming, GA 30040 MontessoriSchoolofCumming.com 770-205-6773

Now enrolling children ages 15 months – 12 years atlantaparent.com

March 2015 Atlanta Parent 51

Porter Academy www.porteracademy.org 770-594-1313

Enabling children with learning differences to succeed th Pre-K–8

Small group inst ruction

Hands-o n Academ ics

eutic Therap t Suppor

CHOSEN GENERATION CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

The STEM Program In addition, the STEM requirements for an elementary school include collaborations to design real world projects, museum and university partnerships, and virtual collaborations with parents. The teachers must participate in job-related or practice-based approach to professional learning and train and strengthen their STEM content knowledge and skills. They are required to attend regional and national conferences and content area state conferences.

Much effort is being made to attract young girls to the STEM program. Million Women Mentors is a campaign and a national call to action that mobilizes corporations, government entities, nonprofits and higher education groups to support the importance of mentoring girls and young women in STEM fields. At millionwomenmentors.org, women and men can pledge to be a mentor and volunteer to help increase the interest and confidence of young women to succeed in STEM programs and careers. The website includes

a resource library and mentoring kit.

Lyons shared that one ninth-grade girl in a STEM program said she used to be looked at as “weird” when she told her friends that math was her favorite subject.

Now she is excited at the possibilities in the STEM program.

In fact, the next time you pick up your cell phone, know that the scientific basis of its function, called “spread spectrum” that revolutionized the way the world communicates today, was invented by a woman. She was Hedy Lamarr, a Hollywood movie star in the 1930s and ’40s, considered to be one of the most beautiful women of her time. When she patented her ingenious process on Aug. 11, 1942, the government told her to go home and sell war bonds with her pretty face. The basis for every wireless device – your phone, your fax machine, Wi-Fi – was patented by her.

It is important to bring STEM education to all students, and to do so, we need to make this kind of learning “cool” to our kids. c

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52 Atlanta Parent March 2015

New Montessori School Opening in April!

Ages 6 weeks to 6 years

Full time and part time care available

6:00 am – 6:00 pm Nutritional meals provided

Fostering independence Supporting individualized learning

Call or visit our website to schedule a tour!

www.tomorrowshopemontessori.com • 678-546-0704 305 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. • Suwanee 30024 atlantaparent.com

STEM-ulate Your Child Building an early STEM foundation is important so don’t assume that your child’s school is covering it all. Parents do not need to know all the answers to help encourage an interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math.

There are many ways to explore STEM outside the classroom. Kids are naturally curious and drawn to new things.

Parents can help prepare children for success in STEM-style thinking by encouraging curiosity, and most of all making sure they have fun. Here are some ideas to get you started: n Games: Choose games that incorporate the elements of STEM, from counting squares and money in Monopoly to learning the skills of a surgeon with Operation!, then play them with your kids. n Toys: For older kids, find toys that encourage curiosity about how things work, like a Classic Radiometer to learn about thermal transpiration or a Sun Print Kit to learn about the science of photography. Many kids have developed an interest in science after getting a microscope or telescope. n Building: Some engineers got started with LEGOs or by building model airplanes. LEGO even has a Princess Play Castle targeting girls.

n Gardening: Planting seeds and watching them germinate helps kids appreciate how the proper soil and the right amount of water make for stronger plants. n Field Trips: Visit the Tellus Science Museum, Fernbank Science Center, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, Zoo Atlanta, the Georgia Aquarium, The Children’s Museum of Atlanta and other venues with your children for hands-on activities that are educational and fun. n After-School Programs: Get your children involved in clubs that explore nature or science. n Tutoring: Some kids have trouble with science and math concepts and think they don’t like a subject just because it’s never been explained in a way they can understand. Tutoring might benefit your child if he’s struggling. n Summer Camps: Sign your kids up to learn something new during their summer school break – you’ll find specialty camps offering weird science, computer skills, cartooning and animation and robotics (and academics, for those who need to improve skills in one of the STEM fields).

CALL TO TOUR!

Atlanta Montessori International School’s unique Young Children’s Community (YCC) follows children’s needs beginning at 8 weeks to 36 months. Infant and Toddler programs are staffed

by AMI infant-toddler certified teachers and provide all-day, year-round, individualized care.

Nurturing the potential of the whole child ages 8 weeks 15 years in an authentic peaceful Montessori environment.

1970 Cliff Valley Way NE, Atlanta 30329 / 404-325-6777 / amischool.com atlantaparent.com

March 2015 Atlanta Parent 53

ABOVE + BEYOND

Family Fun Guide * Eating Out

n

Exhibits

n

Review

n

Calendar

Not-to-miss events for March

1

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Starts at the intersection of Peachtree and 16th streets and continues south on Peachtree to the intersection of 5th St. / March 14, noon

r Easte Egg Hunts

63 Page

The 133th annual St. Patty’s Day parade celebrates the city’s Irish culture and history. See more than 2,000 dancers, musicians, cheerleaders, clowns, Irish and local dignitaries.

Free. atlantastpats.com

2

Atlanta Parent Magazine’s Camp Expo Perimeter Mall / March 21, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

It’s your last chance in 2015 to visit Atlanta Parent Magazine’s Camp Expo! Talk with camp representatives and former campers from more than 50 day and overnight camps in the Southeast and beyond, and enjoy music and giveaways by Star 94. 4400 Ashford Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta.

Free 678-222-1911; atlantaparent.com.

3 atlantaparent.com

Conyers Cherry Blossom Festival Georgia International Horse Park March 21-22, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Celebrate Cherry Blossom season with Japanese cultural performances, more than 300 artists, live musical performances, festival foods, and an interactive children’s area filled with moonwalks, rock walls, obstacle courses and more. Learn about and purchase cherry trees from master gardeners.

1996 Centennial Olympic Pkwy., Conyers.

Free admission; one-day parking, $5; two-day parking, $8. 770-602-2606; conyerscherryblossomfest.com

Family Fun Guide

March 2015 Atlanta Parent 55

Family Fun Guide Fresh To Order

6125 Roswell Rd., Sandy Springs 404-567-8646; freshtoorder.com Mon.-Sun. 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

EATING OUT

On many car rides to and from activities, my family has passed by Fresh To Order, an inviting, modern-looking eatery in Sandy Springs that also has other metro Atlanta locations. After perusing the menu online, we finally decided to check out this fast casual restaurant that prides itself in healthy dishes in a laid back setting. n What’s on the menu: The menu is broken-down into panini sandwiches, salads, and long plates, which are entrees served on long rectangular plates, featuring a protein, a starch, and a vegetable or salad. We saw interesting options such as “Brown Sugar Roasted Pork Loin,” “Coconut Curry Salmon,” and “Fire-Grillled Chicken,” to name a few. Panini choices included “Asian Chicken Crunch” and “Grilled Prime Steak,” and familiar favorites like “Chicken Caesar” and “Grilled Salmon.” Finally, the salads are offered standalone or in soup and salad combos with choices like “Southwest,” “Mediterranean,” “Blue Cheese Fig” and more. The dinner menu options ranged from $7-$15. n Why kids will like it: My kids were intrigued by the flames on the grill of the open kitchen, and they enjoyed seeing the cooks bustling around to have our food out within 10 minutes of ordering. Two of my boys ordered the chicken finger platter with mac and cheese sides, and I was shocked at how quickly they polished off the lightly battered yet crisp tenders. (If your kids don’t like sauce, be sure to ask for it on the side, since it arrives on the same long plate as the chicken.) My other son ordered his typical grilled cheese sandwich, which arrived perfectly toasted with a “Garlic Jack Grit Cake” on

the side. Kids with more adventurous palates might enjoy “Coconut Chicken” or “Grilled Steak Medallions,” along with other appetizing choices off of the kids’ menu. At $4 a plate, the kids’ options are a great deal, and kids’ drinks are 99 cents. n Why parents will like it: Adults can order fancier entrees without having to take the whole family to a fine dining establishment. I thoroughly enjoyed my “Almond Crusted Trout” with sweet mashed potatoes and salad for $14.50, while my husband was pleased with his calamari entrée with wheat berry rice and Asian slaw for $11. I noticed many vegetarian and gluten-free options as well. Adult fountain drinks are $1.99.

We were so full from our entrees that we didn’t save room for dessert, but the ice box pies, brownies, cupcakes, and cookies were very tempting.

Of course, this means we’ll just have to come back for more of the fast-yetfine-dining options at Fresh To Order.

– Felicia Barman

Touch a human brain! See a mutant worm! Make slime!

Atlanta families have plenty of opportunities to have fun with science during the Atlanta Science Festival, March 21-28.

Check out atlantasciencefestival.org for more details.

Exploration Expo March 28. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. / Centennial Olympic Park The biggest interactive science event held in Atlanta featuring games, exhibits and science oriented performances. Free. n Encounter Zone: Meet real and unusual animals, plants and creatures. n Discover Zone: Experience science from chemistry demos to exploring the night sky.

Southside STEAM Expo

n Invent Zone: Make your own invention from 3-D images to robots.

March 21.

10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Coweta County Fair Grounds Visit with the Southern Crescent Storytellers and Kuumba Storytellers of Georgia and enjoy aviation-themed activities, hear stories of famous aviators and more.

678-857-9150.

275 Pine Rd., Newnan.

Cost $5.

56 Atlanta Parent March 2015

n Thrive Zone: Learn how to be healthy and live well. n Play Area: An open space designated for children age 5 and younger and their families. n Kids’ Science Pavilion: Under this pavilion kids will do “make and take” projects. n Science Café: Enjoy a full schedule of fun science demonstrations, talks and activities. n Live Entertainment: Roob & Noob from Alliance Theatre; chemistry demonstrations from ChEmory, a live animal presentation by Zoo Atlanta, Matter Matters! From Tellus Science Museum, The Circle of Life Performance from The Children’s School and Explosive Chemistry by Big Thinkers.

– Hayley Markowitz

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

If You Go

Super Kids Are Eco-Heroes

T

he Super Kids Save the World exhibit is as much fun as it is a great message for children and adults.

My kids bee-lined to the recycle center, and spent much of their time sorting recyclables and placing them on the conveyor belts that are kid-powered through rotating cranks.

Behind the recycle center is a farmers market full of faux fresh veggies; and due to its proximity to the recycle center, it just might lead to a little cross contamination.

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But that’s a good lesson for parents to share with their kiddies and a great opportunity to work on sorting skills.

The exhibit appeals to kids ages 2-12, and adults can benefit from the wealth of information posted around on plaques. Kids can enjoy “apple picking,” shopping in the re-use charity shop, and exploring in the research lab.

The exhibit is inspired by the book George Saves the World by Lunchtime, and the stage area behind the exhibit had fun and

Family Fun Guide

Super Kids Save the World Children’s Museum of Atlanta, 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta 404-659-5437; childrensmuseumatlanta.org n Hours: Through May 3.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat. and Sun.; closed Wed. n Cost: $12.75 adults and children; younger than age 1, free

interactive performances. Preschool age and older children readily volunteered to take part in the performances, contributing items to different recycle and compostable piles and identifying items that may be re-purposed.

Younger kids enjoyed musical excerpts and opportunities to get their wiggles out.

Tip: Allow at least an hour and half to two hours for the museum visit, and extend your visit by packing a snack or lunch (in re-usable containers, of course.)

– Meredith Snellings

March 2015 Atlanta Parent 57

African Cosmos: Stellar Arts

If You Go

M

ore than 70 works of art from the African continent are on display at the Michael C. Carlos Museum, a major exhibition from the National Museum of African Art at the Smithsonian. Lightning, rainbows, the sun, moon and stars serve as inspiration throughout the collection.

The Carlos museum is one of my family’s favorites and we visit often. My 7-year-old daughter, Micah refers to this museum as “the mummy museum” based on the rare opportunity to see mummies in Atlanta.

The new exhibit explores the historical legacy of African cultural astronomy and it’s infusion with traditional and contemporary arts. It marks the kickoff of The Creation Stories project hosted by Emory University in collaboration with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the Georgia Humanities

Council. This yearlong series will explore the questions of origin and creation that have inspired artistic expression since the beginning of time.

Upon entering the exhibit, I was a little concerned that it might be too mature for Micah, however the intricate details of the artwork and sculptures captivated her from start to finish. Smithsonian books in the gallery are available for use during the visit and to my surprise, I found Micah and a friend, Isabella, using a book to research specific pieces that they found interesting.

This museum experience literally became a scavenger hunt for ancient pieces that fascinated the girls and inspired their own artistic interpretation. Micah has already planned our next visit before the exhibit closes on June 21.

– Caren Davis Lightfoot

African Cosmos: Stellar Arts Michael C. Carlos Museum at Emory University, 571 S. Kilgo Circle, Atlanta.

404-727-4282; carlos.emory.edu n Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat., noon-5 p.m. Sun.; closed Mon. and university holidays.

Exhibit closes June 21. n Cost: Adults, $8; ages 6-17, $6; younger than 5, free. Free admission from 1-4 p.m. on March 5, April 30, May 7 and June 11. n Family Programing in March: The Coming of the Night. Enjoy a story time of Yoruba creation myth from West Africa that explains how the cool darkness of the night came to be.

March 7 at 10 a.m.

Tibetan Sand Painting with Children.

Observe the Tibetan Monks of Drepung Loseling Monastery at work on the sand mandala of Avalokiteshvara and children can create their own personal mandala.

March 27 from 5-7 p.m.

Have a Family Friendly Calendar Event?

Submit your event!

Send us the information and photos by the first of the month prior.

calendar@atlantaparent.com

58 Atlanta Parent March 2015

Family Fun Guide

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Don’t Miss the Last CAMP EXPO of 2015 Perimeter Mall March 21. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

It’s your last chance to visit with camps from Atlanta, the Southeast and beyond at Atlanta Parent Magazine’s Camp Expo!

Browse camp booths, chat with former campers, and meet with day and overnight camp representatives. Stop by the Star 94 booth and enter to win tickets to Taylor Swift.

4400 Ashford Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta. 678222-1911. atlantaparent.com/campexpo. Free.

citizens and soldiers:

J

THE AMERICAN CIVIL WAR J

Saturday, March 14, 2015 J 11:00 am – 4:00 pm Experience home front activities, encampments, reenactments, and demonstrations on our 1860s Smith Family Farm, and enjoy tours of our award-winning Civil War exhibition, Turning Point: The American Civil War. Major funding is provided by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners

AtlantaHistoryCenter.com/Family 404.814.4000

BATMAN Goes Backwards The Batman ride at Six Flags Over Georgia will offer a whole new experience starting opening day, March 14. For a limited time, the roller coaster will go backwards at 50 miles per hour for 2,700 feet of track. Later in the season, the park will open The Joker Chaos Coaster and the Harley Quinn Spinsanity ride. Admission: $61.99 adults; $41.99 children under 48 inches tall; children younger than 2, free. 275 Riverside Pkwy.

SW, Austell. sixflags.com/overgeorgia

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Family Fun Guide

March 2015 Atlanta Parent 59

Review:

Sloths, Snakes and Silliness, Rainforest Style

D

oes your Pre-K kid love to dig up bugs? Or maybe your elementary-aged child is enthralled by nature shows on TV? Then add Rainforest Adventures to your calendar.

Take your seat in the dark theater at the Center for Puppetry Arts, and the enchantment begins even before the show starts with glowing, lush scenery and mysterious chirpy sounds. All around, young animal-lovers try to imitate the noises and guess what creatures they are hearing.

This show is like seeing a rainforest documentary – with puppets! While there isn’t any dialogue, the acrobatic antics of the anteater and the peppy song of the cockIf You Go of-the-rock (a bird!) give young audience Rainforest Adventures members many reasons to giggle and gasp.

Center for Puppetry Arts, 1404 Spring St. Then the gentle three-toed sloth and her NW, Atlanta; 404-873-3391; puppet.org baby make everyone feel warm and cuddly. n When: Through March 15; show times But the howler monkey, and believe vary daily. it or not, a plant – a cannonball fruit to be n Cost: $16.50 ages 2 and older; tickets exact – steal the show. This goofy primate include museum admission as well as the reappears throughout, swinging in the trees Create-A-Puppet Workshop (or To-Go Kit), while making new friends. where kids can make an electric eel puppet My 5-year-old son had a hard time and watch it glow under a black light. choosing his favorite character. He first said the pink dolphin, and then changed his mind to the howler monkey. “I liked it when the monkey was smelling the stinky flower,” he told me. Then he decided that the caiman and the anaconda were best, “because they had a funny fight in the water.”

The show also has toucans and tapirs, piranhas and iguanas, butterflies and bats.

See how a caterpillar changes and how leaf-cutter ants do their work. A multitude of styles of puppetry blend together magically. The talented cast emerges at the end of the show to demonstrate some of the ways they bring the puppets to life. And make a day of your trip by crafting an electric eel puppet.

This beastly performance is an adventure not-to-be missed!

– Sherry V. Crawley

Child Models We’ve booked kids for $2,000 per day and more, others at $50 - $60 per hour.

Could your baby, toddler or kid be one?

Atlanta, New York, LA

404-636-1974

www.williamreynoldsagency.com 60 Atlanta Parent March 2015

Family Fun Guide

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New Exhibit FREE for Members

Out on the Trail

With the weather warming up, it’s a great time for a hike. Let the kids explore the wonders of the outdoors at one of these locations in metro Atlanta. Most are free but a few require a parking pass.

From fairy tales to modern medicine, discover the true story of poison in this kid-friendly exhibit.

W. H. Reynolds Memorial Nature Preserve Choose from four trails, each less than 1.5 miles, and 146 acres to explore. Mon.-Sun., 8 a.m.-dusk. 5665 Reynolds Rd., Morrow. 770-6034188. Free.

Elachee Nature Center Twelve miles of hiking with six trails that are color coded for difficulty. Mon.-Sun., 8 a.m.-dusk.

2125 Elachee Dr., Gainesville. 770-535-1976.

Free.

FernbankMuseum.org/Poison The Power of Poison is organized by the American Museum of Natural History, New York (www.amnh.org).

Insta

Cochran Shoals This park alongside the Chattahoochee River offers more than four miles of graveled trail. Mon.Sun., 7:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. 2080 Interstate North Pkwy SE, Marietta. 678-538-1280. $3 parking.

Sweetwater Creek State Park Nine miles of hiking cover four trails; the red trail is recommended for beginners. 1750 Mt. Vernon Rd., Lithia Springs. 770-732-5871. $5 parking.

DeepDene Park The largest segment of the Olmsted Linear Park has a wooded tract of 22 acres to explore.

1788 Ponce de Leon Ave., Atlanta. 404-377-5361.

Free.

Island Ford Park Three miles of hiking trails following the Chattahoochee River with terrain along the path that is perfect for climbing. Mon.-Sun., 7:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. 1978 Island Ford Pkwy., Sandy Springs. 678-538-1280. $3 parking.

– Hayley Markowitz

atlantaparent.com

240,000 parents are reading this ad.

Shouldn’t your message be here?

Call for advertising info: 770-454-7599 Family Fun Guide

March 2015 Atlanta Parent 61

Muddy Adventure –

That’s Caving, Georgia Style

D

id you know that Georgia has over 500 caves, and you can tour some of those? Recently, we took our 12-year-old twin girls on the Georgia Girl Guides’ One-Hour Wild Cave Tour at Cloudland Canyon State Park.

Our guides Christine and Amy, the co-founders of G3, guaranteed we would get wet and muddy during the tour.

“This is officially going to be the muddiest day of my life!” a 6-year old participant told his father. After getting fitted for knee pads, gloves and a helmet with a headlamp, we headed to Sitton’s Cave. The instructions were simple: maintain three points of contact to avoid falling, stay with the group and let the guides know if anyone gets scared so they can be taken out immediately. Being slightly claustrophobic, I felt relieved.

We hiked up a short, steep hill to get to the cave entrance.

After learning about solution caves – a cave that forms when acidic water dissolves limestone – our group of 14 people assumed a seated position and scooted down the rocky path inside. During the descent, temperatures fell to 56 degrees and we saw several salamanders and a cave cricket. Nothing could prepare us for beauty of the first cave room. The limestone ceiling glistened with what looked to be millions of tiny diamonds. We waded through a small stream where Amy had us touch the cave ceiling to discover these were mineralized water drops.

Before proceeding, Christine pointed out a gray bat sleeping in a ceiling crevice. It was tiny – no more than two

62 Atlanta Parent March 2015

inches long, and resembled a mouse. To protect the bats during If You Go hibernation, Sitton’s Cave is Georgia Girl Guides closed several months each year. n Tours: Cave tours We then hugged a muddy bank cost $30 per person for while wading sideways in kneea 1-hour tour, $40 for 2 high water through a small passage hours and $60 for 4 hours to enter another cave room which at Cloudland Canyon State was full of cave formations and an Park in Rising Fawn, Ga., or underground river. Pointing to the Crockford Pigeon Mountain cone-shaped structures hanging Wildlife Management Area above, Christine explained that the in Armuchee, Ga.; G3 also stalactites are formed by calcite offers guided hikes around Lookout Mountain. residue after water drips from the ceiling. Since they grow slowly n Information: (about one-half a centimeter 706-913-7170; georgiagirlguides.com per year), we were looking at formations that probably had begun more than 5,000 years ago!

My favorite part was when Amy asked us to turn off our headlamps for just a few moments and “listen to the cave.” Drip, drip, drip was all I heard – no traffic or no cell phones.

The next passage had such low ceilings that we had to get on hands and knees to slither through the smooth mud. It felt like playing in a giant blob of pottery clay. As we exited the cave through another opening, one of my daughters said, “Mom, it’s so fun to watch you enjoy getting dirty for a change. You’re releasing your inner child.” Not only had we gone on an exciting adventure, we each got out of our comfort zone and bonded as a family.

– Rebecca R. Leffler

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

The HUNT is on!

Mark your calendars for an egg-citing day this Easter season.

Hop on over to one of the many metro area’s egg hunts, some with a twist.

Underwater Hunt and Bunny Bonanza

North East Cobb Community Egg Drop

Bogan Park Community Aquatic Center March 28, 9 a.m.

Hunt for eggs underwater, visit with the Easter Bunny, and make crafts. Reservation required by March 21. 678-277-0853. $15, per person. gcvb.org

Sprayberry High School, Marietta April 4, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

About 90,000 Easter eggs will drop from the sky for egg hunts divided by ages; also, kid zone and photos with the Easter Bunny.

Times vary by age group. communityeggdrop.com

Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt Tolleson Park, Smyrna / March 28, 7:30 p.m.

Grab a flashlight and hunt for eggs at night with a movie under the moonlight afterward.

Groups are divided by age. 678-631-5541.

10, per family. smyrnacity.com

Eggstravaganza: Callanwolde’s Easter Egg Hunt Callanwolde Fine Arts Center March 28, 10 a.m.-noon.

Hunt for thousands of eggs; also, costumed Easter Bunny, cake walk and arts and crafts.

404-872-5338. Parking, $5; ages 12 and younger, $14. callanwolde.org/events

Taste of Forsyth

Laurel Park, Marietta March 27, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Egg hunt by ages with candy and prizes; visit with the Easter Bunny afterward for pictures.

770-794-5601. Free. mariettaga.gov

Cumming Fairgrounds April 4, 11a.m.-4 p.m.

More than 25,000 eggs will be spread across the lawn. Afterward, enjoy sample restaurant food, play in the kid’s zone, and touch-a-truck. Groups are divided by age. Free.

770-781-3491. cummingfair.net

Easter Eggstravaganza

Swimming Pool Egg Hunt

Easter Egg Scramble

Northside Hospital-Cherokee March 28, 1-3 p.m.

Egg hunts by ages and for children with special needs; also, petting zoo, moonwalks, carnival games, face painting, food and more.

770-720-5132. Free. northside.com

East Cobb YMCA March 21, 6-8 p.m.

Hunt for eggs in the YMCA pool. Groups are divided by age. Pre-registration required. $10, per child. 770-977-5991 ymcaatlanta.org/ mcyatlantaparent.com

For details on these and other egg hunts across metro Atlanta, please visit atlantaparent.com

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

March 2015 Atlanta Parent 63

Calendar

March S M T W TH F S

n

Visit our Calendar at atlantaparent.com for calendar updates and ongoing events and attractions in Atlanta.

n

Events may be canceled or changed after our deadline.

n

Submit your Family-Friendly Calendar Event at least 8 weeks prior to the event by visiting atlantaparent.com/event/submit.

n

Please call the event beforehand to confirm dates and times.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

TRUCKS, TRUCKS AND MORE!

classes Mommy and Me Preschool Program. Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History.

Different activities each week. March 5, 12, 19 and 26. 10 and 11:30 a.m. 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. 770-427-2117. Recommended for ages 3-5. Adults, $7.50; ages 4-12, $5.50; 3 and younger, free.

Magic Monday. Atlanta History Center. A different theme each month lets parents and children explore history together, with hands-on activities including arts and crafts projects, music and story time. Ages 18 mos. to 5 years. March 9. 10 a.m. 130 West Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Adults, $6.50; ages 5 and younger, $5.50.

Kids who are crazy about trucks can climb on and pretend to drive police motorcycles, fire trucks and dump trucks.

Touch-a-Truck City of Decatur Calloway Parking Lot MARCH 7, 10 A.M.-1 P.M. Rain date is April 18. 120 West Trinity Pl., Decatur. Free. Canned or non-perishable food donations requested. decaturga.com

Cooking with Colors. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. As a part of its Eat a Georgia Rainbow program children and parents learn how to whip up colorful and healthy culinary creations. Open to all ages but geared to toddlers. March 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30. 10:30 a.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr. NW, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. Reservation required. $12.75; younger than 1, free.

Touch-a-Truck / Kennesaw Downtown Kennesaw MARCH 14, 10 A.M.-2 P.M.

Toddler Time. Georgia Aquarium. Introduction to marine life, see costumed characters, story time, craft activities and a snack. Ages 0-3. Visit georgiaaquarium.org for dates and times. 225 Baker St. NW, Atlanta. 404-581-4000. Advance registration required. One adult/child pair, $16.

Does not include Aquarium admission.

Children’s activities include inflatables, trackless-train rides, and a giant slide. 2828 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. Free; train rides, $2; slide, $1 for two slides. kennesaw-ga.gov.

Home Depot Kids Workshop. All locations. Learn tool safety while building a craft and receive a kid-size orange apron. First Sat. of each month.

March. 7. 9 a.m.-noon. Homedepot.com. Ages 5-12. Free.

INK Craft Weeks. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids. Enjoy different themed crafts each week.

Check inkfun.org for schedule and times. $1 with museum admission. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun., 1-5 p.m. 999 Chestnut St., Gainesville. 770-536-1900. Mon.-Sat., $8; Sun., $6.

Mice Tours. Marietta Museum of History. Mascots Murray and Etta mouse introduce history through tours, story time and crafts geared towards ages 3-5. March 11, 10:30 a.m. 1 Depot St., Marietta. 770-794-5710. Reservations required. $5.

Second Thursday Program. Southeastern Railway Museum. Parents and tots program includes circle time, an activity and craft. Ages 1-4. March. 12. 10:30 a.m.-noon. 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth. 770-495-0253. $7 per child, one adult free, additional adult, $8.

Turtle Tours. Heritage Sandy Springs Museum.

Museum mascots Sandy the chipmunk and Spring the turtle introduce history through stories, hands-on exhibits and crafts. Mar. 14, 11 a.m. 6075 Sandy Springs Cir., Sandy Springs.

404-851-9111. Recommended for ages 2-5.

Donations encouraged.

64 Atlanta Parent March 2015

Toddler Thursdays. High Museum of Art. Create masterpieces to compliment the museum’s current exhibits. Ages 2-4.

March 5, 12, 19 and 26. 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-4400.

Free with admission. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; 5 and younger, free.

Saturday Morning Art Classes. Vinings School of Art. Drawing, painting or pottery classes. Supplies included. Ages 2-13. Every Sat. 10 and 11 a.m. 1675 Cumberland Pkwy., Smyrna. 678-2134278. Pre-register. $15, siblings $12.

Build and Grow Clinics. Lowes. Clinics teach kids to build wooden crafts. Free apron, goggles and merit patch. Visit lowesbuildandgrow.com for times and locations. 800-445-6937. Pre-register.

Free.

Crafts at Lakeshore Learning. Lakeshore Learning. Make a different craft each week.

Every Sat. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 4287 Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770-578-3100. Free.

Family Fun Guide

Drop-In and Draw. Gas-Art Gifts at North DeKalb Mall.

Make a different project each week. Sat. 1-8 p.m.

Sun. 1-5 p.m. 2050 Lawrenceville Hwy., Decatur.

404-801-4926. $5.

exhibits All About Trains. Tellus Museum. Exhibit featuring model trains on 100 feet of track running past scenes of an imaginary village, displays about the basics of model railroading, how to build railroad scenes and popular model scales. Through March 29. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. Adults, $14; ages 3-17, $10; ages 2 and younger, free.

Anne Frank in the World: 1929-1945. Parkside Shopping Center. Learn about the life of the Frank family in Amsterdam. Includes replica of Anne’s room.

Tues.-Thurs. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Fri. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sat.Sun. noon-4 p.m. 5920 Roswell Rd., Sandy Springs.

770-206-1558. holocaust.georgia.gov. Ages 10 and older, free.

atlantaparent.com

Calendar Cinderella’s Tightrope: Adapted Childhood Tales. Special Exhibit Gallery at Center for Puppetry Arts. See how characters from classic childhood tales like Cinderella and the Little Mermaid are adapted for the puppet stage.

Through April. Tues.-Fri., 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 1404 Spring St., Atlanta. 404-873-3391. Museum admission, $8.25. Free Thursdays from 1-3 p.m.

Aquanaut Adventure: A Discovery Zone.

Georgia Aquarium. A 45-minute experience that allows parents and children to learn about aquatic life as they complete a series of educational and fascinating challenges. Multiple shows per day, times vary. Reservations recommended. See georgiaaquarium.org for show times. 225 Baker St., Atlanta. 404-5814000. Admission price depends on date of visit. Adults, $38.95; ages 3-12, $32.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

The Civil War in Sandy Springs. Heritage Sandy Springs Museum. Exhibit detailing the Civil War in Sandy Springs featuring letters, diaries, family artifacts and cannon shells. Through April. Wed. and Sat., 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 6075 Sandy Springs Cir., Sandy Springs. 404-8519111. Adults, $3; ages 6-12, $1; ages 5 and younger, free.

Sea Monsters Revealed: Aquatic Bodies.

Georgia Aquarium. An exhibit of sea creatures includes an 18-foot 3,000 pound whale shark.

Sun.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sat., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 225 Baker St., Atlanta. 404-581-4000.

Admission price depends on date of visit.

Adults, $38.95; ages 3-12, $32.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

atlantaparent.com

SOUTHEASTERN COWBOY GATHERING Booth Western Art Museum MARCH 12-14, THURS., 10 A.M.-8 P.M. FRI., 9:30 A.M.-5 P.M. SAT., 8 A.M.-6:30 P.M. A family weekend celebrating cowboys includes visits with Buffalo Bill and Annie Oakley costumed characters, a chuck wagon cooking contest, fancy gun tricks, cowboy church, live cowboy music and a gallery walk with cowboy artist Clyde Aspevig. Check schedule online for event times. 501 Museum Dr., Cartersville. 770-387-1300. Adults, $10; ages 12 and younger, free; additional costs for chuck wagon meal tickets and concert. boothmuseum.org.

Super Kids Save the World. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Kids take the Super Kids pledge to take care of the world at this traveling exhibit designed with “green” materials.

Teaches the importance of practicing eco-friendly habits in the community. Through May. 3. Mon.- Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., closed Weds. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-6595437. $12.75; younger than 1, free.

Family Fun Guide

Brain Teasers 2. Tellus Museum. This hands-on science exhibit will sharpen problem-solving skills with 20 different challenges ranging from mathematical conundrums to mind boggling block puzzles. Through May 3. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. Adults, $14; ages 3-17, $10; ages 2 and younger, free.

The Power of Poison. Fernbank Museum of Natural History.

From the pages of fairy tales to the journals of modern medicine this exhibit uncovers the secrets of poison through the use of interactives, models, multimedia and live animals.

Through May 3. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300.

Adults $18; ages 3-12, $16; 2 and younger, free.

March 2015 Atlanta Parent 65

Calendar MODEL TRAIN SHOW Cobb Galleria Centre MARCH 14-15, SAT., 10 A.M.-5 P.M. AND SUN., 10 A.M.-4 P.M. Directed by Jon Ludwig

See six operating model railroads with a children’s operation area. More than 260 tables of model train dealers, plus door prizes, raffles and white elephant tables. Adults, $10; ages 12 and younger, free; Scouts in uniform get free admission. 2 Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta. themodeltrainshow.com.

Written by Jon Ludwig, Stephanie Kaskel Bogle, and Raylynn Hughes

NOW - MAR 15 Photos © Center for Puppetry Arts

GYRE: The Plastic Ocean. David J. Sencer CDC Museum. Through art and science this exhibition brings into perspective the problem of floating garbage in the five major ocean currents. Through June 19. Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 1600 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-639-0830.

Free.

Photo © The Joshua Show

By Joshua Holden of New York, NY

MAR 17- 22

African Cosmos: Stellar Arts. Michael C. Carlos Museum. The National Museum of African Art at the Smithsonian will display the first major exhibition exploring the historical legacy of African cultural astronomy and its intersection with traditional and contemporary African arts.

Through June 21. 571 South Kilgo Cir., NE, Atlanta. Adults, $8; ages 6-17, $6; ages 5 and younger, free. 404-727-4282.

By Tears of Joy Theatre of Portland, OR Based on the book by Janell Cannon (used by permission)

Photo © Tears of Joy Theatre

MAR 24 -APR 4

404.873.3391 puppet.org Limited FREE Parking • MARTA Accessible

movies Galapagos: Nature’s Wonderland. Travel deep into the heart of the Pacific Ocean to a volcanic setting filled with stunning biological marvels. Through Mar. 5. See fernbankmuseum. org for show times. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta.

404-929-6400. IMAX tickets: Adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; ages 2 and younger, free.

Humpback Whales. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Journey into the world of nature’s most fascinating ocean acrobat – the humpback. Take an up-close look at these gentle giants. Through June 18. See fernbankmuseum. org for show times. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta.

404-929-6400. IMAX tickets: Adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; ages 2 and younger, free.

1404 Spring Spring Street Street NW NW 1404 Atlanta, GA GA 30309 30309 Atlanta, Advance purchase is highly recommended as many shows sell out quickly.

Season supported in part by: Fulton County Board of Commissioners; the City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs; and Georgia Council for the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.

66 Atlanta Parent March 2015

nature Friday Night Hike. Dunwoody Nature Center.

Hike starts at 7:30 p.m. and returns to the meadow around 8:30 p.m. followed by cocoa, stargazing and sitting by the fire. 5343 Roberts Dr., Dunwoody. 770-394-3322. Free.

Family Fun Guide

Adventure Cubs. Zoo Atlanta. Explore the amazing animals of the African savanna. March 4 and 7.

10-11 a.m. 800 Cherokee Ave., Atlanta. 404-6245822. Recommended for ages 3-4. Reservations requested. $12 per person includes zoo admission.

Reptile Day. Panola Mountain State Park. Learn from specialists and meet fascinating reptiles from our own backyards and even around the world. 2600 Hwy. 155 Stockbridge. 770-3897801. Pre-register. Ages 10 and older, $3; ages 3 and younger, free. Parking, $5.

Trail Hike. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Journey through the CNC trails using biofacts and activities to spark your curiosity. Sat. and Sun. 1 p.m.

9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; ages 2 and younger, free.

Weekends in the Naturalist Center. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Activities include animal encounters, science explorations and more. Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m.

767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Activities included with admission. Adults, $18; ages 3-12, $16; ages 2 and younger, free.

Feeding Time. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Join a naturalist for an in-depth look at a resident animal as the Wildlife Dept. feeds them. Tues. and Sat., 4 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770992-2055. Ages 5 and older, $10 plus admission. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; ages 2 and younger, free.

Stroller Cubs. Zoo Atlanta. Programs for babies-2 years and parents/caregivers to learn about plant-eating animals. March 25 and 28. 10-11 a.m. 800 Cherokee Ave., Atlanta. 404-6245822. Reservations requested. $12 per person includes zoo admission.

special events Fulton County Free Saturday. High Museum of Art. Admission is free for Fulton County residents with I.D. on the first Saturday of each month until 1 p.m. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-5000. Free.

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Calendar Oh the Places We’ll Go! Powder Springs Library. Join us for a silly Seussical experience as we travel from McElligot’s Pool to Walla Walla and back for Dr. Seuss’ birthday. March 2. 3:30-4:30 p.m. 4181 Atlanta St., Powder Springs. 770-439-6664.

Free.

Read Across America with Dr. Seuss. East Marietta Library. Toddler time for stories and game celebrating Read Across America and Dr. Seuss. March 3. 11 a.m.

2051 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770-5092711. Free.

Family Fun Day: Imagination Celebration.

High Museum of Art. Participate in artmaking activities, listen to storyteller Mama Koku spin tales of Eshu and other African myths, and dance to the rhythms of Cuba with Latin music duo Havana Son. March 15. 1-4 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta.

404-733-5000. Adult, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; ages 5 and younger, free.

Dr. Seuss’ Birthday Party. Little Shop of Stories. Celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday with readings from his books, cupcakes, and a visit from the Cat in the Hat in costume.

March 1, 2 p.m. 133 A East Court Sq., Decatur. 404-373-6300. Free.

Victoria Kann Author Visit. Little Shop of Stories. Enjoy the co-author and illustrator of Pinkalicious, Purplicious and more.

Kids will get dressed up and participate in a fancy story time with a signing at the end. March 7, 3 p.m. 133 A East Court Sq., Decatur. 404-373-6300. Free.

Citizens and Soldier. Atlanta History Center. A family fun day honoring the Civil War includes home front activities, encampments, demonstrations on the Smith Family Farm, live Civil War music performances and tours of the Civil War exhibition. March 14. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 130 West Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-8144000. Adults, $16.50; ages 4-12, $11; ages 3 and younger, free. atlantahistorycenter.com.

Frozen: A Tale of the Ice Queen. The Arena at Gwinnett Center. The Ice Queen and her sister are best friends until one fateful day.

March 6-8. Fri., 7 p.m.; Sat., 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Sun. 2:30 p.m. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 770-626-2464. $11.50-$18.50.

Teen Arts Night. City Center. Teens can bring instruments, poetry, artwork, and short stories to share. Includes a slice of pizza and a soda. March 6. 6-8 p.m. 8534 Main St., Woodstock. 678-494-4251. Ages 12-15, $5.

Wild Poison Day. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Encounter plants, animals and fungi and learn about their connection to poison. March 14. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Adults, $18; ages 3-12, $16; ages 2 and younger, free.

Superhero Day. Georgia Aquarium. Become a superhero for the ocean with special activities including Make-Your-Own Superhero Mask, Superhero Academy, games, photo stations and Superhero appearances. March 7. 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

225 Baker St. NW, Atlanta. 404-581-4151.

Adults, $38.95; ages 3-12, $32.95; ages 2 and younger, free. Ages 12 and younger dressed in a superhero costume receive free admission with each paying adult.

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since 1988

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Family Fun Guide

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Includes #2 Special PLUS we deep clean by hand all baseboards, easy-off inside oven, inside fridge and up to 3 Ceiling Fans.

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March 2015 Atlanta Parent 67

Calendar American Craft Council Atlanta Show. Cobb Galleria Centre. Show features over 225 craft artists.

“Inspiration Stations” will be open to touch, feel and experience the hands-on process of creating artwork. March 13-15. Fri. 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 2 Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta. 612-206-3100. Adults, $13 one day, $29 three day; ages 12 and younger, free.

Harlem Globetrotters. Philips Arena and Gwinnett Arena. Enjoy trick shots, stunts and comedy all in one performance. March 7, 2 and 7 p.m. Philips Arena. 1 Philips Dr., Atlanta. 404-586-0723.

March 14, 2 and 7 p.m. The Arena at Gwinnett Center. 3400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 770-8137600. $22-$150.

Matzah Madness: Passover Family Fun Day. Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta. Enjoy craft stations, green screen, Passover songs and special performance in the Morris & Rae Frank Theatre. March 29. 10 a.m.-noon. 5342 Tilly Mill Rd., Atlanta. 678-812-4161. Free.

Purim Carnival. Congregation Ner Tamid. Start the day with the Megillah reading then enjoy a carnival with games and a bouncy house and a silent action. March 1. 11:30 a.m.- 2 p.m. 1349 Old 41 Hwy. NW. Marietta. 678-264-8575. Adults, free; $18, per child.

Atlanta International Car Show. Georgia World Congress Center. Domestic and import cars, events for car enthusiasts, and appearances by Captain America, Thor and SpongeBob. March 25-29. Wed.-Thur., noon-9 p.m.; Fri., noon-10 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-8 p.m. 235 Northside Dr., Atlanta. 770-916-1741.

Adults,$10; ages 6-12, $5; ages 6 and younger, free. Cash only.

68 Atlanta Parent March 2015

THE ATLANTA FAIR Turner Field Gray Lot THROUGH APRIL 5, MON.-THUR. 5-10 P.M. FRI. 5-11 P.M. SAT. 1-11 P.M. SUN. 1-10 P.M. Take a spin on the Ferris wheel or enjoy bumper cars, rides for young children, a fun house, games, corn dogs and funnel cakes. See live performances by local musical groups. Vendors and food trucks exhibit daily. 655 Central Ave., Atlanta. 404-913-3247. Over 36 inches, $3-$8; under 36 inches, $1. Unlimited ride wristbands available on weekdays. Rides and games cost extra. atlantafair.com.

Model Train Show. Cobb Galleria Centre. Show includes kid’s train operating area, vendors, door prizes, and a train resale table.

March 14-15. Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 2 Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta. Adults, $10; ages 12 and younger, free.

Family Fun Guide

Tibetan Sand Painting with Children. Michael C. Carlos Museum. Observe Tibetan monks working on a sand mandala. Children will then create own personal multicolored sand painting using traditional copper tools and brightly colored sand.

March 25. 5-7 p.m. 571 South Kilgo Cir., Atlanta.

404-727-0519. Included with admission. Adults, $8; ages 6-17, $6; ages 5 and younger, free.

atlantaparent.com

Calendar Lasershow Spectacular in Mountainvision.

Stone Mountain Laser Lawn. The show features 45 minutes of fireworks, lights and laser effects all choreographed to fun music. March 28. 8:30 p.m. 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain 800-401-2407.

Lasershow, free; parking $15.

Play Day! Boulevard Crossing Park – Atlanta Beltline. Kids can try different sporting activities. No experience required. March 22.

1-5 p.m. 500 Englewood Ave., Atlanta. 404446-4410. Free.

Junior Beekeeper Program. Webb Bridge Animal Hospital. Children ages 6-13 can enjoy exploring honey bees. Experienced beekeepers will conduct and supervise beethemed activities. March 29. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

3953 Webb Bridge Rd., Alpharetta. 404-7903908. $25 per child.

Purim Carnival. Congregation Beth Shalom.

Carnival games, Adam the Juggler and the Game Truck! Also enjoy “Knock Out Haman,” Queen Esther’s Karaoke Lounge and other traditional carnival games and prizes! March 1. noon-2 p.m. 5303 Winters Chapel Rd., Atlanta. 770-399-5300.

Wristbands, $15 for first child; $12, each additional child. Wristbands include lunch and unlimited games. Individual tickets, 50 cents.

Atlanta Parent Magazine’s Camp Expo.

Perimeter Mall. Last chance in 2015 to visit Atlanta Parent magazine’s Camp Expo! Talk with camp representatives and former campers from more than 50 day and overnight camps in the Southeast and beyond, and enjoy music and giveaways

by Star 94. March 21, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 4400 Ashford Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta. 678-2221911. Free.

Conyers Cherry Blossom Festival. Georgia International Horse Park. Japanese cultural performances, more than 300 artists, live musical performances, festival foods, and an interactive children’s area filled with moonwalks, rock walls, obstacle courses and more. March 21-22, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1996 Centennial Olympic Pkwy., Conyers. 770602-2606. Free admission; one-day parking, $5; two-day parking, $8 Tossed Out Treasures Sale. Marshalls Plaza.

Hosted by the Sandy Springs Society’s ultimate flea market has everything from baby cribs to children’s clothes, books and toys and much more. March 27-28, 10 a.m.

- 6 p.m., 6337 Roswell Rd., Sandy Springs, 404-983-7406.

Blue Grassroots Music and Arts Festival.

Stone Mountain Village. Live music, food for purchase, folk dancing, kids areas. March 28-29. Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 875 Main St., Stone Mountain. 770-4130607. Free.

The Atlanta Fair. Turner Field Gray Lot. Take a spin on the Ferris wheel or enjoy bumper cars, rides for young children, a fun house, games, corn dogs and funnel cakes. Live performances by local musical groups.

Through April 5, Mon.-Thur. 5-10 p.m.; Fri. 5-11 p.m.; Sat. noon-11 p.m.; Sun. 1-11 p.m.

655 Central Ave., Atlanta. 404-913-3247.

Over 36 inches, $3-$8; under 36 inches, $1. Unlimited ride wristbands available weekdays. Rides and games extra.

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Family Fun Guide

March 2015 Atlanta Parent 69

FAMILIES CENTERSTAGE

Presented by

Parent atlanta

Woodruff Arts Center Galleria MARCH 21. 2-4 P.M. An afternoon of fun, including music, dancing, acting workshops, and scavenger hunts with prizes for the whole family to enjoy. Also enjoy youth musical performances, interactive drama activities, an acting workshop and more. Ticket holders to the James and the Giant Peach performances on March 21 are invited. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-5000. Ages 5 and older, $20-$35. alliancetheatre.org/ FAMILIEScenterstage.

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Calendar March 21

Saturday, 11 am - 4 pm Perimeter Mall Atlanta

Atlanta Track Club Kilometer Kids. One Mile Fun Run and Dash. One mile course for ages 7-14 and a 50m dash for ages 6 and younger. Register online at atlantatrackclub.org. Race day registration available. March 17. 5 p.m. at Grant Park - Boulevard & Confederate Ave. and March 31. 5 p.m. at Tribble Mill Park, 2125 Tribble Mill Pkwy., Lawrenceville. 404-231-9064. Free.

storytelling Children’s Storytime. FoxTale Book Shoppe. Story times are followed by dance and songs. Mon. and Sat. 11 a.m. 105 E. Main St., Woodstock.

770-516-9989. Free.

Next Chapter JV Book Club. FoxTale Book Shoppe. Book club for ages 6-12. Includes a snack, discussion and an activity. Jan. 9. 4:30 p.m. 105 E. Main St., Woodstock. 770-516-9989. Free.

Storytime at Little Shop. Little Shop of Stories. Storytelling three times a week. Thurs. nights kids can come in pjs for milk and cookies. Tues. 11 a.m., Thurs. 7 p.m., and Sun. 3 p.m. 133 A East Court Sq., Decatur. 404-373-6300. Free.

Shamrock at the Station. Atlantic Station. Head over to Atlantic Station after the parade for Irish dancing, games, face painting, crafts, bag pipers and live music. March 14. Family activities, 2-6 p.m.; Concert, 7-10 p.m. 1380 Atlantic Dr., Atlanta. Free. atlanticstation.com.

Atlanta St. Patrick’s Day 5K. Piedmont Park.

A family-friendly 5k run with Irish costume contests, pot of gold drawings, Irish beads for all runners, Irish jig contest, and more.

March 15. 8:30 a.m. 400 Park Dr., Atlanta. $35. rungeorgia.com.

The Luck of Avalon. Enjoy Irish music, dancing and other special events by restaurants and retailers. March 17. 3-10 p.m. 2200 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta. 770-765-1000. Free. experienceavalon.com St. Patrick’s Day Family Bike Ride. Panola Mountain. Bring the whole gang out for this relaxed-paced, family-oriented bike ride.

Panola Mountain has adult bikes for rent!

Don’t forget to wear green for a chance to win a prize. March 15. 1-3 p.m. Pre-register. 2600 Highway 155 SW, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. $3 per rider, $5 parking. gastateparks.org/ PanolaMountain.

Wren’s Nest Storytelling. The Wren’s Nest.

Ramblers host storytelling each Sat. 1 p.m. 1050 Ralph D. Abernathy Blvd., Atlanta. 404-753-7735.

Adults, $8; ages 4-12, $5; ages 4 and younger, free. (Price includes storytelling).

Story Time by the River. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Come enjoy stories and take part in a craft. Ages 3-5. Mar. 4, 10:30-11:30 a.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free.

To exhibit or for info call Jordan Lisvosky at 678-222-1911 or jlisvosky@atlantaparent.com www.atlantaparent.com/campexpo

70 Atlanta Parent March 2015

st. patrick’s day Atlanta’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Midtown Atlanta. This year’s parade includes bag pipers, drum corps, Irish dancing, decorated floats and drill teams. The parade starts at Peachtree and 16th streets and continues south on Peachtree to 5th St. March 14. Noon-1:30 p.m. Free. atlantastpats.com

Family Fun Guide

Stellaluna

atlantaparent.com

Calendar theater James and the Giant Peach. Alliance Theatre.

A musical about a young English orphan who begins to imagine a bright future as he embarks on a journey in a larger-than-life enchanted peach. March 14-29. See alliancetheatre.org for times. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta.

404-733-5000. Ages 5 and older, $20-$35.

Roob and Noob. Alliance Theatre Black Box. Meet Roob & Noob: two overly curious scientists who love nothing more than discovering something new. March 9-14, 21, 28. 9:30 and 11 a.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-7335000. Ages 5 and older, $20-$35.

The Joshua Show. Center for Puppetry Arts.

When Mr. Nicholas the sock puppet makes an unnerving self-discovery, his soulmate Joshua teaches him to celebrate his differences.

March 17-22. Tues.-Fri. 10 and 11:30 a.m. Sat. and Sun. 1 and 3:30 p.m. 1404 Spring St., Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $16.50.

Stellaluna. Center for Puppetry Arts. Stellaluna gets lost and lands in a bird’s nest. Hanging by her feet, she struggles to adapt to her new home. March 24- Apr. 4. Tues.-Fri. 10 and 11:30 a.m. Sat. and Sun. 1 and 3:30 p.m. 1404 Spring St., Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $16.50.

Cinderella with live Orchestra! Gwinnett Performing Arts Center. The Northeast Atlanta Ballet performs the timeless fairy tale. March 13-15. Fri. 7:30 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m., 2 and 7:30 p.m.; Sun. 2 p.m. 3400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 770-626-2464. $15.50-$18.50.

Miss Gail and the Jumpin’ Jam Band. Aurora Theatre. Miss Gail, Gail Burnett, and her band are professional musicians who have crazy fun with their all-original music for young children.

March 28. 10 and 11:30 a.m. 128 East Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. $7.

beyond atlanta Macon Cherry Blossom Festival. Macon. Events and activities throughout Macon. March 19Apr. 4. cherryblossom.com. Prices vary.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Savannah. Irish pipe bands, floats, military units, Irish dancers and more. March 17. 10:15 a.m. Downtown Savannah. savannahsaintpatricksday.com. Free.

River Giants Exhibit. Tennessee Aquarium.

A collection of freshwater fish at legendary sizes, the “goliaths” of freshwater. Open daily 10 a.m.-6 p.m. One Broad St., Chattanooga, Tenn. 800 262-0695. Adults, $26.95; ages 3-12, $16.95; 2 and younger, free.

St. Patrick’s Day. BabyLand General Hospital.

Good luck comes your way on St. Patrick’s Day. Prize drawings, coloring pages, gold chocolate coins and costume character. Mar. 14. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 300 N.O.K. Dr., Cleveland.

706-865-2171. Free.

Dolly & Me Party. The Rock Ranch. Bring your favorite doll for a special outing featuring a magical ride on the carousel and a private VIP playtime. Also enjoy a Mommy & Me Fashion Show and sit down tea time. March 14, 1-4 p.m. 5020 Barnesville Hwy., The Rock. 706647-6374. $25, per ticket. c

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Family Fun Guide

March 2015 Atlanta Parent 71

consignment

SALES

Consignment sale season has arrived!

Don’t miss out on your chance for bargain prices on children’s toys, clothing, books, baby gear and more.

Call or check the website of the sale before you go.

For an up-to-date list, visit atlantaparent.com.

Cherokee FBC Kids Sale. First Baptist Church of Canton. Mar. 6-7. Fri. 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. 1 Mission Point, Canton. fbckidssale.com The Blessing Line Kids’ Consignment Sale. First Baptist Church Woodstock. March 6-7. Fri. 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-noon. 11905 Hwy. 92, Woodstock.

770-591-2509. fbcw.org/blessingline All 4 Kids. Former Office Depot Building. Mar. 12-14. Thurs. 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m. (No strollers before 11 a.m.), Fri. 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 299 Molly Ln., Woodstock. all4kids.com

Cobb The Divine Children’s Show Boutique Consignment & Overstock Sale. The Mansour Center. Mar. 4-5. Wed. 9:30 a.m.-9 p.m., Thurs. 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. 995 Roswell St., Marietta. 770-367-3152 or 678-984-5654. dcskids.com All 4 Kids Cobb Sale. Cobb County Fairgrounds.

Mar. 5-7. Thurs. 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m. (No strollers before 11 a.m.), Fri. 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 2245 Callaway Rd., Marietta. all4kids.com Twice Blessed Children’s Consignment Sale.

McEachern Memorial United Methodist Church.

Mar. 5-7. Thurs. 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m. (No strollers), Fri. 9:30 a.m.- 4 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. (No strollers).

4075 Macland Rd., Powder Springs. 770 943-3008, ext. 1212. twice-blessed.org CCC MOPS Children’s Consignment Sale, Cumberland Community Church. Mar. 6-7. Fri. 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 3110 Sports Ave., Smyrna. 404-496-8915. cccmopssale.com Lil’ Lambs Closet. First United Methodist Church of Marietta. Mar. 6-7. Fri. 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. No strollers. 56 Whitlock Ave., Marietta. 770429-7850, ext. 7858. lil-lambs.org Mt. Bethel UMC Spring/Summer Consignment Sale. Mt. Bethel UMC. Mar. 6-7. Fri. 9 a.m.- 7 p.m.

(No children before noon except slings), Sat. 9 a.m.-noon. 4385 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta. mtbethelccs.com Pass It On Children’s Consignment Sale. Acworth United Methodist Church. Mar. 6-7. Fri. 9 a.m.6:30 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 4340 Collins Circle, Acworth. 770-974-3312. acworthumc.org/passiton

Rhea Lana’s

Tots to Tweens Consignment Sale sponsored by Northwest Atlanta Moms of Multiples. Sandy Plains Baptist Church. Mar. 7. Sat. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. 2825 Sandy Plains Rd., Marietta. nowamom.org

The Glenn Sale. Glenn Memorial Youth & Activities Building. Mar. 13-14. Fri. 9:30 a.m.4:30 p.m. (No children before noon), Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 1669 North Decatur Rd. NE, Atlanta. glennsale.com

Due West Treasure Chest. Due West UMC. Mar. 12-14. Thurs. 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m., Fri. 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-noon. 3956 Due West Rd., Marietta. duewest.org/pages/community/ Consignment_Sale

Dunwoody United Methodist Church Kids Consignment Sale. Dunwoody UMC. Mar. 19-21. Thurs. 5-8 p.m. (No children), Fri. 9:30 a.m.1 p.m. (Strollers or carriers only), Sat. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Strollers or carriers only). 1548 Mt. Vernon Rd., Dunwoody. 770-394-0675. dunwoodyumc.org

Clothing Kids for the Kingdom Spring/Summer Consignment Sale. Summit Baptist Church.

Mar. 13-14. Fri. 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-noon.

4310 Moon Station Ln., Acworth. 678-409-2197. clothingkids.org Lil’ Blessings Consignment Sale. Kennesaw First Baptist Church. Mar. 13-14. Fri. 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 2958 N. Main St., Kennesaw.

770-427-3109. kfbc.org All 4 Kids. Mt. Paran North Church of God. Mar. 20-21. Fri. 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m. (No strollers before 11 a.m.), Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 1700 Allgood Rd., Marietta. all4kids.com KinderMart Childrens Consignment Spring/ Summer Sale. Smyrna First United Methodist Church. Mar. 20-21. Fri. 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m. (No strollers before 11 a.m.), Sat. 9 a.m.-noon. 1315 Concord Rd., Smyrna. kindermartsale.com

DeKalb Decatur Consignment Sale. Decatur First UMC. Mar. 6-7. Fri.-Sat. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Cash or local checks only. 300 E. Ponce de Leon Ave., Decatur. 770-4146099. decaturconsignment.com

Lil’ Lambs Closet

72 Atlanta Parent March 2015

Oak Grove Young Children’s School Spring/ Summer Consignment Sale. Oak Grove UMC. Mar. 13-14. Fri. 9:15 a.m.-1:30 p.m, Sat. 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

1722 Oak Grove Rd., Decatur. ogycsconsign.org

Family Fun Guide

Kid ReSales Consignment Sale. Cross and Crown Lutheran Church. Mar. 19-21. Thurs. 9 a.m.9 p.m. (No children before noon), Fri.-Sat. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 4276 Chamblee-Dunwoody Rd., Chamblee.

770-827-5644. kidresales.com Intown Atlanta Parents of Multiples Club Children’s Consignment Sale. Clairmont Presbyterian Church. Mar. 21. Sat. 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. (No strollers). Cash or checks only. 1994 Clairmont Rd., Decatur. atlantamultiples.com KidStuff Consignment Sale. Kingswood UMC. Mar. 26-28. Thurs. 5-9 p.m. (No children younger than 10), Fri. 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. 5015 Tilly Mill Rd., Dunwoody. kingswoodumc.org/ missions/kidstuff.htm

Fayette Peachtree Kids Market. Saville Studios and Crosspointe Church. Mar. 6-7. Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. 401 Dividend Dr., Peachtree City.

404-931-4243. peachtreekidsmarket.com

Forsyth Midway Children’s Consignment Sale. Mar. 19-21. Thurs. 3-8 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

5025 Atlanta Hwy., Alpharetta. midwayumc.org/ consignment-sale

atlantaparent.com

Classified Pages Marketplace Fulton

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

RUMCK Consignment Sale. Roswell United Methodist Church. Mar. 6-7. Fri. 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

(No strollers before noon), Sat. 8 a.m.-noon.

814 Mimosa Blvd., Roswell. 770-998-8699. rumc.com/rumck

C H I L D R E N ’ S S A LO N

The First Membership Salon for Children Ages 1-16

Children’s Consignment Sale. Johns Creek UMC. Mar. 13-14. Fri. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. and 5-8 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. 11180 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek. 770-497-8215. johnscreekumc.org

We welcome toddlers, special needs and tender-headed children.

RCOG Kid’s Consignment Sale. Restoration Church of God. Mar. 27-29. Fri. 9:30 a.m.5:30 p.m., Sat. 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Sun. 1-4 p.m. 410 Rucker Rd., Alpharetta, 404-931-0487. restorationchurchna.org

Open Every Holiday Enjoy the luxury of saving 21

St. James UMC Spring Consignment Sale. St. James UMC. Mar. 27-28. Fri.-Sat. 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

(Young children in strollers or carriers only). 4400 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta. 404-261-3121. stjamesatlanta.org

ir YPES of ha LL T A e x S p R h t i e A w r i ence YE

404-642-2041

www.braidsofnaturalart.com C H I L D C ARE

Ree Use It Kids’ Consignment Sale. Kids Kondo. Mar. 28-29. Sat. 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 1253 North Highland Ave. NE, Atlanta. kidskondo.com

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Babies, Kids and Teens plus Furniture and Home Décor. Pinckneyville Community Center.

Mar. 5-7, Thurs. Noon.-8 p.m., Fri. 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 4650 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Norcross. iConsignMine.com

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770-421-5130

McKendree Kids Clothes Closet. McKendree UMC. Mar. 6-7. Fri. 1-8 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

1570 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Rd., Lawrenceville.

770-339-9801. mckendreeumc.com/mckendreekids-clothes-closet MOPS Consignment Sale. North Metro First Baptist Church. Mar. 6-7. Fri. 9 a.m.7 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-noon. 1026 Old Peachtree Rd. NE, Lawrenceville. 770-995-9055. northmetro.net/mops Rhea Lana’s of Johns Creek Consignment Sale. River Exchange Shopping Center. Mar. 8-14. Sun. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Mon.-Wed. 10 a.m.8 p.m.; Thurs. 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Fri. 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. 2100 Riverside Pkwy., Lawrenceville. 404-539-0937 or johnscreek. rhealana.com

Henry Second Time Around Kids Consignment Sale. McDonough First United Methodist Church Gym. Mar. 13-14. Fri. 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat. 8:30 a.m.-noon. 151 Macon St., McDonough. secondtimearoundkids.com Twice is Nice Consignment Sale. Hampton First Baptist Church. Mar. 21-22. Fri. 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. 85 McDonough St., Hampton.

770-946-4804. twiceisnicehfb.com

Paulding Heavenly Hand-Me-Downs Children’s Consignment Sale. Dallas First United Methodist Church. Mar. 13-14. Fri. 8:30 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 141 E. Memorial Dr., Dallas. heavenlyhandmedowns.org My Kidz Closet Children’s Consignment Sale. Community Fellowship Church. Mar. 19-21. Thurs.-Fri. 8:30 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. 612 Cohran Store Rd., Douglasville. mykidzclosetgeorgia.com c

atlantaparent.com

E DU C AT I O N Wide Spectrum Of Exposure. Child Care Learning, ASP, Summer Camp, Tutoring, Dancing, Fitness, Theatre Arts, Workshops, Diplomacy Classes, CRCT. 678.398.7274. www.widespectrumofexposure.com

R E SALE

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Celebrating over 30 years! ity & Matern ens’ Childr s!

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SPRING & SUMMER Clothes Arriving Every Day 800 Miami Circle • Buckhead 404•261•7519 SE R V I C E S

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$12-$15 Per 1 Hour Class: Drawing, Painting, Clay, Sculpture-making, Spanish Language, Dramatic Arts/ Acting, Group Piano VININGS SCHOOL OF ART 678213-4278 www.viningsschoolofart.com

Family Fun Guide

Plumbing done right day or night CALL NOW: 770-439-1800 www.ampmplumbingnow.com March 2015 Atlanta Parent 73

Humor

by Sandi Haustein

Coming from a family of all girls, I never pictured myself a mom of boys. But one, two, three rambunctious boys later, I’m knee-deep in Legos, mud and potty words.

You Might Be the Mom of a Boy If …

Your kids scream and hide their eyes every time a Disney princess gets kissed.

You have PTSD from being sprayed in the face by a fountain of urine during diaper changes.

Your kids know all of the characters in Star Wars.

Pillow fights and wrestling with Daddy are the best part of your kids’ day.

Your couch cushions double as fort walls.

You have no trouble finding someone to kill a spider for you.

Your children wear their underwear backwards just so the big Buzz Lightyear can be on the front.

You are sadly familiar with the stabbing pain of stepping on a Lego.

You own multiple pairs of cleats, football pads, or hockey sticks.

Your kids not only know their ABCs, they can burp them.

You can tie a superhero cape around a neck in less than 10 seconds.

Your children take pride in bruises, Band-Aids and stitches.

One of your kids wants to be a ninja spy when he grows up.

74 Atlanta Parent March 2015

You’ve been asked to feel someone’s muscles today.

You’ve gotten your kids to eat spaghetti and meatballs by calling it “worms and eyeballs.”

Your kids treat you like the only queen around. c atlantaparent.com

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Who loves birthday parties?

The kids!

Who loves FREE birthday parties?

The parents!

Atlanta Parent has teamed up with seven local party places to each give away a birthday party for 8.

Did your child just celebrate their birthday?

No problem, you have until February 2016 to redeem.

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Get Air Johns Creek 404-260-1935 getairjohnscreek.com

UFC Gym Perimeter Facebook.com/ufcgymperimeter 404-445-8324

Center for Puppetry Arts 404-881-5149 Puppet.org

Stars and Strikes 678-965-5707 starsandstrikes.com

Piece of Cake 404-351-CAKE (2253) Pieceofcakeinc.com SkyZone 678-426-4400 – Kennesaw 678-745-9900 – Roswell/Suwanee Skyzoneatlanta.com

Visit Facebook.com/AtlantaParentMagazine to enter to win through March 31!