May 2014 by Atlanta Parent

Parent Atlanta’s No. 1 Parenting Magazine

atlanta

atlantaparent.com / May 2014

Outdoor Play

Makes Smarter Kids

It’s All About Mom

Balancing Fame and Family n Playdates Just For You n Put Your Best Foot Forward n

Like Us on FACEBOOK

FUN &RIDESFOr everyone! See youat 72

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thecircus!

NT U O C DISicketasy 26 T 6 – M tlanta

REGULARRide Tickets ATTHE GATE

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1 ticket $1.25 21 tickets $20 55 tickets $50 120 tickets $100

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Unlimited rides

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Monday-Thursday May 19-22 $18 per person

Walgreens Discount TicketPrices

does not include admission

Mega Pass : $21.95

*mega pass includes gate admission, circus admission and unlimited carnival rides any one day open to close *10 and under are free [no rides]

Admission Tickets : $3.50 21 Ride Tickets Strip : $11.00 *Rides require more than one ticket

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REGULAR ADMISSION ATTHEGATE

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Admission $7.00 10 & under FREE

*includes circus admission

Parking $5.00

, 2014 May 16 − 26 Jim R Miller Park Marietta, GA th

2014WORLD’S LARGEST

YAARABSHRINE CIRCUS &FAIR

The biggest and best Shrine Circus and Fair in North America is back for its 72nd year! Boasting more trills and outstanding performers than ever, this year’s Tarzan Zerbini circus features world-renowned Rick Wallenda of the most famous circus family in history, as well as stunt motorcyclist Shawn Ives, a Big Cat Extravaganza, and Patty Zerbini with her incredible Elephants. Wade Shows will provide affordable entertainment with 35 rides for all ages. Come be entertained and amazed, laugh at the Shriner Clowns, then fill up on all your favorite fair foods-corn dogs, funnel cakes, and cotton candy just to name a few.

Midwayopens

Weekdays 5pm Saturday 10am Sunday Noon Memorial Day 10am

Circustimes

Weekdays 7pm Saturday 11am, 1, 4, 7pm Sunday 1, 4, 7pm Memorial Day 11am, 1, 4pm

www.circus2014.com

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for moreinformationcall404.419.6755

YA2014_ATLParent_FP_7.5x9.75.indd 1

Jim R. Miller Park, 2245 Callaway Road, Marietta, GA 30008 Take I-75 to Windy Hill Road (exit #260). Go west approximately five miles on Windy Hill Road and turn left on Austell Road. Turn right on Callaway Road. Jim R. Miller Park will be on your right.

4/16/2014 10:13:16 PM

Inside 3 O May Vol. 31 / Number 5

YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT

Features

42 46

It’s All About Mom

We’ve got your “me” time here! Use our grown-up playdate planner to make your next moms’ night out rock, find out how local celeb moms connect with their kids, and get tips to make your feet look sweet this season.

Smart Kids Play Outdoors

Natural environments stimulate the senses and rev up imagination. Learn why your kids should make playing outside a priority.

Teens Make Their Own Summer Jobs

Summer jobs for teens, especially younger ones are fairly scarce. Use our ideas to help your teen become a young entrepreneur.

Departments 8 Publisher’s Note 10 News You Can Use 12 The Frugal Family 74 Humor

Swimsuit Shopping? Please, No!

Family Fun Guide 49 Not-to-Miss Events 50 Water Parks 51 Free Fun: Concerts 53 Sonic Sensation:

The Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Just Kids Advice on comments to avoid and how you can help parents of children with special needs. Plus, learn how common household items can provide a rich sensory experience for all kids.

Magazine Association of the Southeast

2013 Award Winner atlantaparent.com

Sandy Springs

55 Home of the Braves: Turner Field Tour

Inn Step

Above Amicalola Falls sits a unique eco-lodge you can only get to on foot! Tag along on an AP family’s exploration of the green and gracious Len Foote Hike Inn.

Playground: Morgan Falls,

Eating Out:

57 60 62 64

High Museum: Guided Family Tours

Plane Fun

Spring Festivals May Calendar Mother’s Day Events

On the Cover: Cover Kid Lucy Thomas, 5, and Katherine Thomas of Alpharetta. Photo by Suspended Image. Shot on location at the Alpharetta Community Garden.

Like us on Facebook; facebook.com/ AtlantaParentMagazine May 2014 Atlanta Parent 5

Does your child have ASTHMA? Take part in a Clinical Research Study!

PUBLISHER Liz White

lwhite@atlantaparent.com

PUBLISHER lpowell@atlantaparent.com BUSINESS Amy Smith DEVELOPMENT asmith@atlantaparent.com MANAGER ACCOUNT Laura Powell

To participate in this study, you must:

EXECUTIVE lpowell@atlantaparent.com

Be 5-21 years old

Qualified participants will receive: Asthma medications Pulmonary evaluation Compensation for time and travel

ASSOCIATE Laura Powell

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

Have at least one grandparent of African descent

Atlanta’s Award-Winning Parenting Publication

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

SPECIAL EVENTS & Jordan Lisvosky

DIGITAL SALES jlisvosky@atlantaparent.com

COORDINATOR

ASSOCIATE Dalia Faupel

EDITOR

CONTRIBUTING Amanda Miller Allen EDITOR

CALENDAR Jennifer Haslam EDITOR EDITORIAL Sheri Taylor-Emery ART DIRECTOR creative@atlantaparent.com

PRODUCTION Robin Mintz ARTIST rmintz@atlantaparent.com

OPERATIONS Caroline Ward

MANAGER cward@atlantaparent.com MARKETING MOM Felicia Barman

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.

6 Atlanta Parent May 2014

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Publisher’s Note Gwyneth is Right. It’s Difficult to Be a Mom.

Photo by Rod Reilly

Directed by Jon Ludwig In E.B. White’s classic tale of unlikely friendship, Charlotte the spider has a plan to save Wilbur the pig. She will make him famous using her wits, words, and webs!

NOW May 25

We’ve all had days where if we hear one more word from the back seat, we’re stopping the car. We’ve also had days when our children do or say something so dear, we ache with love. Being a mother is amazingly rewarding and confoundingly difficult, whether you’re a full-time mom, or a work-outside-the-home mom. It’s hard to walk that narrow path between being too caught up in your children’s lives – helicoptering – and not being involved enough to know when they need guidance and a warm hug. It’s sometimes hard to find the energy for this 24/7 job. And it’s hard to tune out the “experts” who are so quick to tell us what we’re doing right and wrong with our kids. When your kids are launched into adulthood, you’ll remember the dearest moments and the stressful days seem so worth it. My daughter Laura used to handcraft a card for me every Mother’s Day (like the one at right) and write a touching message. One year when she was a freshman in college, she prepared a breakfast and took me to the Chattahoochee River. We perched on rocks and enjoyed the beautiful morning together. Was I a perfect mother? Of course not. But I hope that I got more things right than wrong – and if not, Laura doesn’t seem to be scarred by her upbringing. She makes me very proud. A few weeks ago, actress Gwyneth Paltrow created a firestorm when she complained about how difficult it is to be a film star working 14-hour days compared with a mom who has a “regular job.” It’s easy to see how other moms would have a hard time feeling sympathy for a superstar who can hand off responsibilities to a nanny when she’s working. But I can relate. All moms are juggling priorities and time and trying to be a good parent, whether they have few – or abundant – resources. Really, what Paltrow was saying, that other moms don’t know what a difficult life she has, is so true. As mothers, we all overcome challenges every day, and none of us knows what’s really happening in the day-to-day lives of other moms as they raise their families. So as Mother’s Day approaches, let’s nod in understanding and extend a little grace to moms everywhere – we may not be perfect, but all of us are trying to do our best.

404.873.3391 www.puppet.org Limited FREE Parking • MARTA Accessible Advance purchase is highly recommended as many shows sell out quickly. Season supported in part by: Fulton County Arts Council and City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs Produced by special arrangement with Dramatic Publishing, Woodstock, Illinois.

8 Atlanta Parent May 2014

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.

atlantaparent.com

ItFigures by Cynthia Washam

Teachers, Give Your Body

Extra Credit This Summer

Mother’s Nature 5

Approximate number of miles per day a mother would have to run to burn as many calories as she would breastfeeding

4,000

Number of subscribers to the nutrition Facebook group Produce for Kids

640,000

COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION

SPECIAL:

Number of subscribers to the Facebook group Moms Who Need Wine Percent of mothers who would choose to celebrate Mother’s Day eating out with a loved one

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Percent who prefer breakfast in bed

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Patient - Before

Era when England established “Mothering Sunday” to honor mothers, three decades before the first American Mother’s Day

$1,900

Cost for a 16.5-ounce jar of Creme de la Mer to keep Mom’s wrinkles at bay

Percent of mothers of children younger than 6 who, given an extra hour a day, would spend it sleeping

Patient - After

Percent who would use it for more romance

Mark F. Deutsch, MD, FACS

Percent of mothers who admit to lying to family and friends about her parenting practices

Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery

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Percent who admit to judging other mothers Sources: Essortment.com, TIME, Progressive Grocer, Good Housekeeping, The Statesman, WHSV.com, NeimanMarcus.com, PRNewswire.com, HuffingtonPost.com

atlantaparent.com

(770) 461-4824

Atlanta & Fayetteville

Big or Small Save Them All May 2014 Atlanta Parent 9

News You Can Use

by Amanda Miller Allen

More Stay-atHome Moms 29 percent of moms were

at home raising children in 2012, compared to 23 percent in 2000.

60 percent of parents says kids fare better if one parent is at home, while 35 percent say kids do just as well with both parents working.

33 percent of immigrant moms

stay home, accounting for some of the rise in stay-at-home moms. Source: Pew Research Center study

Stream the TV Your Kids See

You never know what you’ll see on TV, and that may not be ideal. With a new online streaming service, Kidoodle.TV, kids will see cartoons, sitcoms, nature shows and wildlife shows appropriate for ages 12 and under. The service operates in a similar way to Netflix and costs $4.99 a month, but families can sample programming at no charge during a 14-day free trial. Parents can create up to five profiles for their children, so each child can view age-appropriate shows. The service works across multiple electronic devices. Find more information at Kidoodle.TV.

‘Stuff’ Won’t Lead To Happiness

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Adults have a hard time tuning out overt and subliminal messages to buy the next great thing, whether they can afford it or not. Imagine how much harder that might be for kids. Atlanta author Christy Ziglar, through Shine Bright Kid Company (shinebrightkids.com), is working to help kids learn that making good choices is one of the keys to a satisfying life. Her latest book, Must-Have Marvin! (Ideals Childrens Books, 2014; $14.99) is aimed at ages 4-8. The title character gets caught up in the pursuit of new T-shirts, shoes, toys and more, and nearly loses his friends. The book is the second in a series – the first is Can’t Wait Willow!, whose title character spends her money unwisely on her way to the circus. Both books are good discussion starters with young children.

More than 1,200 metro Atlanta parents use this free site to keep track of chores they’ve assigned to their kids and to reward them for completing their tasks. Parents can set goals such as points toward a family trip or money toward a purchase, to teach children about money management, organization and motivation. The site allows parents to set up free savings accounts at the bank of their choice or to donate to charities. The most frequently assigned tasks in Atlanta include brushing teeth, putting clothes away, clearing the table, taking out the trash, doing homework, making the bed, saying prayers, getting dressed, taking a bath and cleaning the bedroom.

10 Atlanta Parent May 2014

atlantaparent.com

Dance, Sing, Perform For Talent Showdown

2014 Family Block Party Beneficiaries

Can your child sing like Rihanna? Maybe she’s a talented comedian or he’s a first-rate magician or dancer. Atlanta Parent’s “Talent Showdown” will showcase performers in three categories – singing, dancing and variety. To enter, read the contest rules and download an entry at www.atlantaparent.com/talent_showdown. Then submit the application by July 18 along with a photo, a demo (CD, DVD, website link) and a nonrefundable fee ($25 for 1-4 performers, $50 for 4-6 performers, $75 for 6-15 performers). Semi-finalists will perform for a panel of judges. Winners will be featured at the Family Block Party Oct. 11 at Mercer University’s Atlanta campus.

Atlanta Parent is proud to announce this year’s beneficiaries for Family Block Party – an annual familyfocused festival at Mercer University in Atlanta. Don’t miss this year’s festival on Oct. 11 from 10 a.m. -4 p.m. The organizations that will benefit from this year’s event are: n Page Turners Make Great Learners, believes that books can be life changing. They help students in metro Atlanta Title I elementary schools discover the joy of reading with books that inform and inspire. Program and book club events include: Annual Pajama Day, Dr. Seuss and Pass the Book Celebrity read-a-thons.

Volunteer for Family Block Party Atlanta Parent’s Family Block Party, our giant kids’ festival that attracts thousands of families, needs volunteers. This year’s party is Oct. 11. Ask about a special group opportunity we have this year. If you or your organization want to learn more, please contact our special events coordinator Jordan Lisvosky at jlisvosky@atlantaparent.com or call 678-222-1911.

n Georgia Center for Child Advocacy, champions the needs of sexually and severely physically abused children through prevention, intervention, therapy and collaboration. They provide services such as forensics and therapy and family advocacy services, at no cost to children who reside in or were abused in DeKalb or Fulton County. The Georgia Center for Child Advocacy’s role throughout the criminal investigation is to focus on the child’s needs, rather than focusing on the crime itself.

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VISIT SwimAtlanta.com

FOR FULL SCHEDULES AND PROGRAM DETAILS. May 2014 Atlanta Parent 11

the

frugalfamily by Dalia Faupel

Upcycle your Reuse old baby gate Reuse with a fresh coat of it! paint and mount it or It!

lean it on a wall, or take it outside for a new use!

How to Save on…

Make it a: n Laundry drying rack n Hair ribbon display n Pot and pan ceiling rack

Fruits and Vegetables

Families go through produce quickly! Make sure you get your money’s worth on fruit and veggie purchases with these tips: Buy in season.

Make them last.

In-season fruits and vegetables cost less because they’re in abundance. In Georgia, May is peak harvest for strawberries, peaches and Vidalia onions. June brings blueberries, cantaloupe, sweet corn, cucumbers, squash and tomatoes.

n Berries: Add one part white vinegar to five times the amount of water in a bowl, and soak your strawberries, raspberries, or any berry. Drain the mixture, rinse (or don’t, it won’t impact taste!) and return the berries to your container; refrigerate. The vinegar kills mold spores and makes berries last much longer.

Weigh Pre-packaged items. That 5-pound bag of potatoes or oranges might actually have more than 5 pounds inside, but the price will still be the same! Weigh prepackaged produce and buy the heaviest one to get the most for what you spend.

Bulk buy and freeze/preserve. For less than grocery store prices, purchase in-season fruits or veggies at farmers markets (find a list here: agr.georgia.gov/communityfarmers-markets.aspx) or pick your own (pickyourown.org) and freeze or preserve excess to enjoy all year.

n Magazine or book rack n Garden trellis Sources: Hometalk.com, hometoheather.com, Pinterest

Kids Eat FREE n Steverino’s. Duluth. Every Tuesday, get one free kids meal with an adult meal purchase. steverinosrealpizza.com

n Bananas: Separate each from the bunch and wrap each tightly in plastic wrap, or just wrap the stem, to slow overripening and spotting. n Lettuce: Put it in an airtight container or bag with a paper towel. It’ll absorb the moisture and keep lettuce crisp.

Sources: lifehacker.com, Georgiagrown.com

n Fishook Grille. Roswell location only. Each Wednesday, kids get a free meal with each adult meal purchase. fishookgrille.com n South City Kitchen. Vinings. Between 5 and 6 p.m. Sun-Thurs. kids 12 and younger can get a free kids’ menu meal with every full-priced adult entrée purchase. vinings.southcitykitchen.com

Free Comic Book Day.

DEALS

Around Town 12 Atlanta Parent May 2014

On Saturday, May 3, comic book stores around the metro area give away select comic books for free. Check with participating stores for titles offered and rules. freecomicbookday.com

Malibu Grand Prix.

To celebrate the Grand Opening of Buccaneer Cove water play area, pay $17.99 per person for tickets (a $6 discount) at malibugrandprix.com. Buccaneer Cove is open weekends until May 23, then daily hours begin.

atlantaparent.com

Cover Kids Contest All entries must be postmarked by June 20, 2014. To register and more info visit:

Atlantaparent.com/coverkids Ages 0-12 years $25 entry fee lâ&#x20AC;&#x201A; NEW group category $45 entry fee lâ&#x20AC;&#x201A;

2014

model search

MOMS Just Like the Rest of Us by Mary Beth Bishop

How do well-known local moms like to mark Mother’s Day? With fancy teas, thrift-store visits and cherished handmade gifts. But all year long, they have ways to celebrate family life like hitting the highways for a road trip and even hunting bugs. Atlanta Parent asked some of them about their lives as moms. Keisha Lance Bottoms Atlanta City Council Mom to Lance, Langston, Lincoln and Lennox, ages 3-12 n What’s your favorite activity for mother-child bonding? We are a pretty busy family so just being able to spend a day at home with nothing scheduled for anyone is a real treat. It’s especially fun when we make a giant bowl of popcorn and sit together under blankets and watch movies. It sounds simple but it’s these kinds of moments that allow us to really bond as a family. n What are three words to describe your life right now? Bustling, busy, blessed. n What do you do to nurture yourself? Running helps keep me balanced. It is often the only activity that I do that is all about me. Running gives me a chance to relax, pray, plan birthday parties and troubleshoot some of the city’s challenges, sometimes all in just a three-mile run.

Emily Saliers One Half of the Grammy Award-winning Indigo Girls Mom to Cleo, age 1 n What are three words to describe your life right now? Full, tiring, happy. n What’s your favorite activity for mother-child bonding? I love to read Cleo books any time of day or night. I also love to give her a bath with all of her bath animals. Our favorite songs to sing are “Happy Birthday,” “ABC’s” and “The Wheels on the Bus.”

14 Atlanta Parent May 2014

n What’s your best advice for other moms? My best advice is to remember that “this too shall pass,” to take care of yourself as best you can, and the most important thing for a child is love.

atlantaparent.com

Egypt Sherrod Host of Property Virgins on HGTV / Mom to Kendall, 2 n What’s your favorite activity for mother-child bonding? I like to take Kendall to the baby gym. She tumbles and turns into a wild child, but her favorite activity is to read books together. I turn on the TV and she could care less. So I love the gym and she loves her mommy-and-Kendall book time. n What are three words to describe your life right now? Love, transition and fulfilled. n What do you do to nurture yourself? One word: Sleep. If you ask any parent of a toddler, they’ll probably tell you the same thing. Since she’s turned 2, she makes her own schedule. At 6:30 she pops up and the whole house is up. Sleep is my best friend. I also love my Bikram Yoga.

Nancy Grace TV Host and Legal Analyst Mom to 6-year-old twins Lucy and John David n What’s your favorite activity for mother-child bonding? I read to them every single day. Last Saturday we read the whole day, then Sunday I read to them in the car while my husband drove to church. Then we sat in the car in the rain and finished the book. And this sounds crazy but we like to get our bug paraphernalia out and look for bugs. We also like to look for trolls and fairies. n What’s your best advice for other moms? Follow your instinct. I think it’s because of my background, having had my fiancé murdered long ago, but every day to me is do or die. I try to make every day the best day I can for the twins. I know there are mundane things you’ve got to do. You’ve got to go to school. You’ve got to brush your teeth. But I try not to let a single moment slip away. I don’t do everything right but I have a lot of love. n How do you like to spend Mother’s Day? I like to spend Mother’s Day with my children and husband. I don’t care where we are or what we’re doing. I don’t care if I get a fancy present. I just want to be with them. And of course Mother’s Day is on Sunday so we will be at church. My favorite gifts have been the crafts they make. One year they made me a cross. I wear it on my left arm as a bracelet and I’ve never taken it off since they gave it to me.

Asha Gomez Chef at Cardamom Hill which has been featured in Southern Living and Bon Appétit / Mom to Ethan, 9 n How do you like to spend Mother’s Day? My son and I love high tea at the St. Regis Hotel. Ethan loves the pastries and the tea. I love the bonding time with him in the sumptuous and relaxing surroundings. n What do you do to nurture yourself? I’m a firm believer that in order to nurture in ways mothers inevitably do, I first need to rejuvenate, recharge and replenish by spending time with myself. Sometimes that’s meandering away hours at my favorite café or watering hole, a solo trip to the mountains to a sweat lodge or finding bliss at Jejune Sauna. n What is your best advice for other moms? I experience the push and pull and tugs at the heartstrings of every working mother oscillating between the reality of having to work for a living, actually enjoying what I do, and always feeling that there is never enough time to spend with my kid. I realize, though, that the best gift I can give him is being the example that having a passion for something and an avocation is one of the most fulfilling things in life.

atlantaparent.com

Cont’d on page 16

May 2014 Atlanta Parent 15

MOMS

Just Like the Rest of Us Cynthia Bailey The Real Housewives of Atlanta on Bravo Mom to Noelle, 14 n What are three words to describe your life right now? Blessed, busy and busy! n What’s your favorite activity for motherchild bonding? I know this sounds really simple, but my favorite mother-daughter bonding time with Noelle is taking her to school and picking her up. I always want to make sure that she starts her mornings off with my love, support and well wishes. This is our private time to talk about any issues that she may be having, to laugh together and listen to music and just be in the same space together. I love picking her up even more so I can find out how her day went. When Noelle has a good day, I have a good day! n What do you to nurture yourself? I’m a homebody, so once a month I take the day off to just stay in bed and sleep and watch movies all day. I also love a spa day!

Portia Bruner Reporter, Fox 5 News Mom to Solomon, 7, and Asa, 5 n How do you like to spend Mother’s Day? Half-day of thrift store shopping, half day with the boys, preferably somewhere outdoors in the sun followed by an evening with no laundry to fold. n What do you do to nurture yourself? I’m trying to take longer, relaxing showers after everyone has gone to bed. No lights, no TV, no music. Just scented candles that help me unwind. I’m also getting out more with the girls. Those are the nights I wear cute shoes and carry impractically small purses and try to remember that my sons really don’t need to see me every waking moment of my days off. The guys-only time with Dad is priceless to them and that’s when I get to practice more of that whole “me time” thing I hear folks talk about.

n What’s your favorite activity for mother-child bonding? I love praying with my sons before they go to bed and when they first wake up in the morning. Since our prayers aren’t really scripted, they just speak from the heart and that gives me a sense of what’s on their mind, what they’re worried about and what their concerns are. I also get a chance to hear what they’re thankful for on any given day. The second fave – road trips! We try to make them memorable. Rosa Parks Museum in Montgomery. The Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C. The Lorraine Motel in Memphis. Gibson Factory Tours in Memphis. All of these trips helped the boys make practical connections with the historic events they hear about in school. Plus the time on the road leaves the door wide open for a lot of great conversations. It helps that the boys are still young enough to love stopping at truck stops at gawking at 18-wheelers.

Do This With Your Kids! Bound for the beach this summer? Take a cue from Nancy Grace whose twins find buried treasure whenever they visit the shore. “We go hunting for pirate treasure and, miraculously, we find pirate maps,” says Grace, whose kids follow the directions to find “pirate watches,” coins and more buried lightly in the sand or hidden in the bushes. Think ahead when you plan your next beach trip, and maybe your kids can also outwit a pirate or two.

This Cooking Hint gets a Thumbs Up from Kids “I’m not that gifted in the culinary department,” says Portia Bruner, “but my sons love my spaghetti sauce because I add just a touch of maple syrup. My babysitter back in Denver used to do it when I was a kid and I used to love it, too.” Bruner says the syrup masks the taste of the chopped spinach she also likes to add to her sauce.

16 Atlanta Parent May 2014

On the Family Bookshelf Here are some books that the moms say have become favorites with their kids. n Emily Saliers: God’s Dream by Desmond Tutu, Douglas Carlton Abrams and LeUyen Pham; Richard Scarry’s Best Storybook Ever, Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown and Clement Hurd n Egypt Sherrod: Whose Toes are Those? by Jabari Asim and LeUyen Pham, I Love You, Stinky Face by Lisa McCourt and Cyd Moore, Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak n Portia Bruner: You Can Do It by Tony Dungy and Amy June Bates n Nancy Grace: Danny the Champion of the World by Roald Dahl and Quentin Blake, James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl and Quentin Blake, Magic Tree House series by Mary Pope Osborne and Sal Murdocca

atlantaparent.com

Calling All

WOMEN

20off

n Find

Information, Product and Fun at Women’s Expo Make plans to attend the Southeastern Women’s Expo when it comes to Atlanta for the first time June 7-8. The expo offers shopping, information, free manicures and neck massages, free health screenings, nutrition and exercise tips, makeovers, fashion shows, jewelry, life coaching, vacation planning, financial advice and more. The two-day event, at AmericasMart, 230 Spring St. NW, Atanta, is from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. June 7 and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. June 8. Speakers include LaShawn McCrary, author and life coach; Reese Christian, psychic medium and author; Jennifer RiisPoulsen, CEO of Powerhouse Self Defense; Healthy Chef Partyologist Nancy Waldeck, and Lindsay Blankenship of Bright Pink, an organization that educates women on breast and ovarian cancer. You’ll also find products and services, from yoga instruction to interior design. Expect plenty of free samples and items for sale. Visit WomensExpoAtlanta.com for a VIP Pass; admission at the door is $7, with children 12 and younger admitted free. For more information, check the website.

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Staff School & start your new career today! What sets us apart from other schools? With Dental Staff School, you begin right away. We’re leading the way with online, interactive classrooms. This means you can study to become a dental assistant at your own convenience. Combined with a hands-on class that meets for 10 Saturdays from 8 am -5 pm, you will find yourself moving into your future faster than imagined. Scared of the price tag that comes with top quality education? You don’t need to be! The program costs $3,000.00 – $4,692.00 (depending on state requirements) and includes an online classroom, three certifications, tuition, supplies, and RDA license in TN. Want more? We also offer front office administration, orthodontic assisting, dental instructor training as well as continuing education classes for sealant, nitrous, and coronal polishing. Take control of your education and start your career right away.

Dental Staff School – Make it Happen. May 2014 Atlanta Parent 17

Just for Moms Playdates Connecting with Friends Chases Away Stress by Christa Melnyk Hines

Though we’re rarely alone, motherhood can sometimes feel a little lonely. Spending time with a few understanding friends to vent, laugh and reenergize in a kid-free zone is a great way to shake off the blues! “We tend to be able to schedule nap time for toddlers, bath time for babies to help them relax and even make it easy for our partners to hit the basketball court with buddies. But when it comes to us, we forget that we need the same recharging,” says Maria Bailey, host of Mom Talk Radio, author, talk show host and founder of National Mom’s Nite Out. Whether you have a gaggle of friends or just a few you’d like to know better, here are 14 ideas to fire up some fun. 18 Atlanta Parent May 2014

Pamper and primp.

Kick off sandal season looking and feeling refreshed. Schedule manicures and pedicures for you and your friends. Depending on the size of your group, some spas will book an evening just for your party.

Make like Matisse.

Studies suggest that artistic engagement can reduce stress and anxiety. Many art studios offer instructor-led, one-time classes created specifically for ladies’ nights out. Feel a pleasant drop in your blood pressure while painting and sipping wine in the company of friends. No clean-up required! A number of businesses in metro Atlanta offer classes, canvas and paint – you supply the beverages. atlantaparent.com

Try Sips n Strokes (sipsnstrokes.com) with locations in Sandy Springs, Toco Hills and Woodstock; Creative Art Connection (creative-art-connection.us) at North DeKalb Mall, or Cork & Canvas (corkcanvas.com) in Roswell.

Channel Annie Oakley.

One group of moms tested their marksmanship skills during their monthly night out. After some initial training at a gun range, each practiced firing her weapon at a target. “By the end of the night we were feeling like a mix of ‘Charlie’s Angels’ and ‘Full Metal Jacket.’ It was a high and we were a bit amped up by our success,” writes Jen Mann, who blogged about her mom’s night out. Gun ranges are scattered across the metro area, including Quick Shot Shooting Range (quickshotshootingrange.com) in Atlanta. and Norcross Gun Club and Range and Sandy Springs Gun Club and Range (myshootingrange.com).

Swap books.

Invite your friends to bring gently used books, cookbooks and magazines they no longer want. Guests can choose as many books to take as they brought to give away. Stephanie Perry, ReadersLane.com, suggests providing post-it notes so your friends can share their thoughts about a particular book. “As they peruse, guests can write in their own responses, and some interesting ‘conversations’ can result,” Perry says.

Sip and score.

Head to a wine tasting at an Atlanta restaurant or bar or host your own. For a home tasting, choose a group of wines from a specific region, ranging from dry to sweet and hide the labels. Place a placard with a number in front of each bottle. Give each guest a glass with her own wine charm. Provide scoring sheets for each wine they taste. Serve light appetizers including cheese and crackers, chocolates and palette-cleansing fruits. Some suggestions for wine tastings: Vine and Tap (vineandtapatl.com), Atlanta; Marietta Wine Market, (mariettawinemarket.com), Marietta; or find listings for wine tastings at entertainment.accessatlanta.com. Another idea: Consider an overnight friends’ getaway to sample North Georgia’s wineries (georgiawine.com). Cont’d on page 20

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atlantaparent.com

• 678-681-9115 •

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May 2014 Atlanta Parent 19

Playdates Carve out craft night. We provide customized solutions that fit your family’s individual needs. Every Nanny is put through a rigorous background check and all are CPR trained. And we’re always there when you need us, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. At Nanny Poppinz we understand, because we’re moms too.

Stadium Childcare Providers for the Atlanta Braves and the Atlanta Hawks

Morning Massage Special Mondays & Thursdays 8:30 AM - 2:00 PM All ONE HOUR pregnancy & postpartum massages are just $55 Gift Certificates available.

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1300 Upper Hembree Rd., Roswell Tara@natlantapregnancy.com 20 Atlanta Parent May 2014

Invite your friends to join you for an evening of delving into your favorite crafts or finishing up lingering projects. Turn on some background tunes, include buckets of supplies, share techniques and inspire each other. Someone in your group has a passion for scrapbooking, jewelry making, knitting and more, and can teach others the basics.

A favorite things party. Share your favorite kitchen gadget, makeup product or go-to recipe with your friends! Invite guests to bring five of the items to the party to exchange. Each participant explains why she loves a particular product and then gifts her items by pulling the names of five friends from a basket. Provide each guest with a notepad and pen to keep track of ideas or clever tips.

Stock the freezer.

Prepare for those lazy days of summer, when you’d rather be playing than cooking, with a frozen meal exchange. Each friend should arrive with enough four-person servings for the number of attendees. If five of you participate, each should arrive with five meals. For a simpler exchange, agree on a budget in advance and choose guests who have similar dietary requirements. Casseroles, lasagnas, marinated meats and soups/stews work well.

A covered dish party.

“I love this idea because it allows you to have meaningful conversation with other moms and deepen those relationships,” Bailey says. Keep the event simple for your friends by requesting that each dish include five ingredients or less. “If you can’t find a house without kids in it then take your covered dishes to a public park or watch the sunset from a picnic table where you can enjoy the outdoors with other moms.”

Get Away for a Night. Plan a getaway with friends to a nearby resort, such as Barnsley Resort (barnsleyresort.com) or Callaway Gardens (callawaygardens.com), or rent a cabin in North Georgia – some come with hot tubs!

Catch the latest flick.

Head to the theater to watch a movie with friends. After the film, review together over dinner or dessert. Budget tight? Take turns hosting movie-watching parties at your homes, or consider one of the dine-in movie theaters in Atlanta, such as Movie Tavern in Roswell, Suwanee and Tucker (movietavern. com), Studio Movie Grill in Alpharetta and Duluth or AMC Fork & Screen in Buckhead (amctheatres.com), where entrees can run as low as $10.

Explore local cuisine.

Gather your foodie friends to sample area eateries while enjoying great conversation. Take turns choosing one restaurant per month. To build continuity, schedule the event on the same night at the same time each month. Your group could set some goals – maybe agree to sample Atlanta Magazine’s 50 Best Restaurants (atlantamagazine.com), concentrate on visiting every local restaurant in your area, or dine at the newest restaurants.

Form a culture club.

Experience the fine arts with other friends who share a similar zest for integrating more local culture into their lives. Attend different events every four to six weeks, like jazz concerts, live theater, the symphony, or the museum’s latest art exhibit.

Be a free spirit.

Invite a few friends over for a last-minute glass of wine or lemonade and snacks. By simply creating time for you and your friends to chat, you will deepen your friendships and nurture your spirit, too. c Melnyk Hines is the author of Confidently Connected: A Mom’s Guide to a Satisfying Social Life. atlantaparent.com

Websites to Make You

Smile, Think and Read More

Busy moms often spend their Internet time looking at sites for others – their kids or their husbands – so Atlanta Parent has found some sites that are just for you. Visit these three websites for commentary, trends and tips that will inform or inspire.

Nousdecor.com: Get going on

home décor projects during naptime with design tools, expert input, and community feedback. Pick a room, create a mood board, and even shop for items you love through the “same look different price” feature that finds budget-friendly alternatives to over-the-top designer pieces. Kevin R. Jackson, DDS

Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

Cafemom.com: Read about current events or entertainment, plus get advice on most any topic, play games, join a discussion group, read “true confessions” and more.

Popsugar.com/moms: Find

keeping-it-real advice for expectant and already-moms, including party pointers, fashion updates, craft and activity ideas, and photography tips. Get your celeb family photo fix here, too, alongside parenting trend news and recipes. c atlantaparent.com

“Every Child Deserves a Healthy Smile!”

www.youngsmilesdentistry.com (770) 222-1344 Se Habla Español ~ State-of-the-Art Facilities Most insurance plans accepted Two Locations:

4150 Macland Road, Ste. 205, Powder Springs, GA 30127 10365 Tara Blvd., Jonesboro, GA 30236 May 2014 Atlanta Parent 21

Sandal

Season

As we head outdoors in the warmer months, take care of the body parts that take you everywhere. by Dalia Baseman Faupel

Sole Mates Do you and your shoes get along? If they’re rubbing you the wrong way, it may be time to find out about your feet. “A podiatrist can examine your foot structure and how you walk to recommend footwear that will offer support and prevent callouses, blisters, or worse, says Dr. Suzette Clements of Flat Shoals Foot & Ankle Center. “Feet are the foundation of your body. If your foundation isn’t balanced, it throws off your whole structure.”

Walking outside barefoot isn’t wise,

Clements says. “Pores in the skin of your feet could absorb toxins and chemicals, or you could catch a wart virus around a pool deck. Prevent this by wearing appropriate shoes.”

22 Atlanta Parent May 2014

Pedi Pointers Lexi Wint, nail technician at Natural Body Day Spa, notes that when getting a professional pedi, you should look for salons with non-porous, non-jetted soaking tubs to minimize the risk of bacterial infections and fungus. All materials should be sanitized, and in some places, like Natural Body, foot files and buffers are only used for one customer. Clients can take them home and bring them on return visits, or the spa disposes of them post-pedi. Wint recommends a pedicure every two to three weeks during sandal season. Runners and walkers especially need frequent maintenance to address callous build-up and keep nails short enough to avoid damage from athletic shoes. According to Clements, to do foot maintenance at home, (not for those with diabetes or poor circulation) use a toenail clipper to cut straight across each nail and exfoliate and moisturize feet to keep skin from cracking. A natural antiperspirant can be used to reduce moisture and the chance of developing a fungal infection.

To keep toes fresh-looking

between pedicures, Wint suggests adding a layer of clear topcoat to revive the sheen of nail polish.

atlantaparent.com

Trendy Toes

Abbadabba’s

What to Wear Drugstore flip-flops won’t cut it. Cheap foam soles compress as you walk, leaving an imbalance where the sole has worn down. But, Janice Abernethy, founder and president of Abbadabba’s comfort shoe stores, says, “There are supportive, stylish choices for every variation of foot.” “For busy parents, I’d recommend an all-weather shoe with a supportive, slip-on design, maybe with anti-microbial lining and moisture-wicking properties to keep feet healthy,” Abernethy says. Abbadabba’s spring/summer sandal styles include metallic and jeweled embellishments alongside bright colors like aqua, orange, green, and the Pantone color of the year, royal orchid. Textured or stamped leather and animal prints are popular as well, said Abernethy. Most important, though, is comfort. Sandals made by Buford-based Oka-B also merge comfort and style. Page Timmerman, Oka-B’s director of sales, said that the line began as a spa shoe, but the orthopedic, ergonomicfootbed sandals became so popular that a boutique line is now sold in specialty shops, like Natural Body Day Spas and The Chandlery in Roswell. This year’s designs include a bright color palette, including royal orchid and pastels, hammered metal accessorizes and crystal embellishments. “Our shoes are made to stay flexible but unlike foam, they’ll hold their shape,” Timmerman said. “The elements keep the foot in its proper position.”

Blogger and mom Dionne Klein of Covington started Glittery Fingers and Sparkly Toes (glitteryfingers.blogspot.com) in 2012 to share her vivid nail art. While she creates fingernail designs almost daily, she thinks toes are where people really express themselves. “I love to check out people’s pedicures because that’s where their true personality shows,” Klein says. “While wild fingernails aren’t acceptable everywhere, toenails can be hidden unless you want to show them off. Trust me, anything dynamic you can do on fingers, you can do on toes!” For spring and summer, Klein says bold,

The goal is to find a shoe l

that allows your foot to function how it’s supposed to, with no restrictions or imbalances.

Glittery Fingers and Sparkly Toes

hyper-pigmented colors are in, like yellows, oranges, and especially purple shades. Many topcoats now contain glitter in a variety of shapes and finishes, and embellishments that shine (think rhinestones and metal studs) are taking off. “A daisy pedicure design can take less than a minute to do,” she says. “It’s a high impact look with a low investment of time.” She says nail embellishments and tools are easy to find at stores like Sally’s Beauty Supply, CVS, Wal-Mart and high-end beauty shops. At Natural Body Day Spa, Wint expects to do many neon pedicures with jewels, pearls and multi-colored faux gems as big toe accents. Clements says nail polish is fine, but recommends not wearing it for more than seven to 14 days consecutively. “Dyes can seep into the nail plate, so look for natural polishes and give nails a breather in between periods of polish wearing,” she says.

Glitteryfingers.blogspot. com offers tutorials For a list of flip-flops and sandals that hold the American Podiatric Medical Association’s Seal of Acceptance, visit apma.org/learn/CompanyProductsList.cfm.

atlantaparent.com

for many nail looks. Klein says it’s not as timeconsuming as it looks. May 2014 Atlanta Parent 23

10 Fun Ways to Say ‘I’m Pregnant!’ by Mary Abreu

he urge to shout “I’m pregnant!” seems to strike many women practically from the moment the pregnancy test turns positive. Sure, you could always just blurt out the news to your husband, family and friends, or even e-mail them a photo of that plastic stick. Why not consider some more creative ways for sharing your happy news? Here are a few ideas for telling the world you’ve got a new family member on the way.

Bake a dozen cupcakes, then ice half with blue frosting and the other six with pink. Use icing to mark a big plus sign on top of each.

Invite everyone over for Chinese food. Before the guests arrive, replace the paper slip inside the fortune cookies with one of your own, announcing your big news.

3 4

Create a scavenger hunt around the house. The last item to find is a basket or bag filled with baby basics.

Take advantage of holiday gift-giving by picking a baby-themed item to share with someone special: a baby stocking for grandparents-to-be at Christmas.

If your family is expanding from three to four, consider enlisting your child’s help. Buy or make a T-shirt with the phrase “I’m going to be a big brother” or “I’m going to be a big sister.” Let your son or daughter wear it to the next family gathering (and take bets with your spouse on who will be the first to notice).

Everyone knows there’s a surprise inside every box of Cracker Jacks. Personalize it by cutting open the box and replacing the prize with a baby item like a pacifier, teething toy or rattle. Reseal it and wait for it to be discovered.

Surprise your husband by filling his car with pink and blue balloons.

Use pink and blue yarn to lay a path starting at the front door and wandering all through the house. End the yarn at the positive pregnancy test.

Host a movie night at your house and rent movies that share a baby theme: Junior, Nine Months, Father of the Bride II, Look Who’s Talking, She’s Having a Baby.

Borrow a page from your wedding planner and send a “Save the Date” card with your baby’s due date. If you had an ultrasound early in your pregnancy, consider including baby’s first photo with the card. 24 Atlanta Parent May 2014

When to Tell Now that you’re pregnant, when’s the best time to start spreading the news? It’s probably a given that your husband will be the first to know. Beyond that, you’ll likely want to tell your parents, siblings, friends and coworkers – and possibly total strangers. There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to deciding when to tell everyone you’re pregnant. Waiting until the end of the first trimester lets you get past a major milestone: The chance of miscarriage decreases after 12 weeks. Others decide to tell earlier, eager to share the excitement. Most experts agree that it’s best to tell your boss after the first trimester, unless you have pregnancy complications that interfere with work or you have a physically strenuous job. It’s also a must to tell your boss before telling other coworkers – you don’t want the grapevine to share the news before you have.

atlantaparent.com

Psst!Here’s the Skinny on Camps by Kimberly Carlson

Seasoned Campers Give Kids Advice on Homesickness, Making Friends, Learning a New Skill and Just Having Fun

hen we were kids, summer camp meant something different to us than it does to our children. For us, camp meant camp: cabins or tents, canoeing, hiking, singing songs around a campfire, and general camaraderie. Children today are much more schedule-oriented, with more activities. Consequently, the very dynamics of summer camp have changed. Many camps are much more specialized. There’s soccer camp, art camp, violin camp, space camp, leadership camp, paleontology camp, etc. But some things about camp truly haven’t changed, like the general apprehension your son or daughter might feel the first time they attend. Here’s advice from seasoned camp veterans to children going off to camp for the first time.

Cont’d on page 28

2014

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May 2014 Atlanta Parent 27

Psst!

Here’s the Skinny on Camps n Everyone Gets Homesick

Some kids handle being away from home better than others. In a dorm room with nine other campers, Dakota Lopez, age 9, recalls two or three kids that got homesick. “We felt bad for them, but we all tried to make them feel better. We brought them junk food and soda.” It’s a great opportunity for the kids that don’t get homesick to step up and show their sympathy, and their new friendship skills. And the ones that do get homesick learn just how much they can rely on their peers to get them through difficulties. It’s a great learning experience for all campers. “I didn’t like missing my mom,” 10-year-old Michael says. “But when the kids cheered me up instead of teasing me, I felt better.” n Learn Something New

Elise Finlinson, 12, has been attending summer camps since she was in first grade. “Camp is great because you get to explore things you wouldn’t get to do in school or learn about,” she says with a smile. Elise has found a new love of art that wasn’t cultivated during the school year, but has stuck with her since last summer’s camp. She has since expanded her knowledge and delved into different artistic mediums with the help of an art teacher she sees outside of school. Dakota reminisced about the sketches she and her roommates were tasked with writing and performing at Soccer Camp last summer. “It was SO COOL!” she says. “We got to perform it in front of all the other campers and the coaches. That was the best part of camp.” It was also unexpected. She was expecting all things soccer. But her favorite memory from Soccer Camp had nothing to do with soccer. n Have Fun

This sounds like a pretty straightforward bit of advice, but sometimes children need to be reminded to have fun, lest they get caught up in the stress of the “new.” A new environment, new rules, new daily activities and routines. “I love camp!” says 5-year-old Anna Finlinson. “I don’t ever miss my mom because I’m too busy having fun.” Anna attended Princess Dance camp last summer, and is looking forward to “more and more and more camp” this summer. 28 Atlanta Parent May 2014

Camp 2014

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“Camp only lasts a week, and if you wait until the last few days of camp to make friends, you’ve missed out on half the fun.” – Elise Finlinson, 12

n Don’t Be Shy

One of the best parts about summer camp is the ability to “make new friends,” Dakota says. “Some of them I’m still friends with from last summer’s soccer camp.” Every child I asked had the same bit of advice: don’t be shy. “Camp only lasts a week, and if you wait until the last few days of camp to make friends, you’ve missed out on half the fun” Elise says. Regardless of the type of camp you and your children have chosen, make sure they make the most of it. It will go by faster than either one of you expect. If your child can embrace the opportunities presented, he will have a much more enriched experience. Elise says that “summer camp is much cooler than regular school because although we’re still learning stuff, we’re not stuck behind a desk all day.” Even Michael, who was the most apprehensive about attending summer camp, says he would “do it again” this summer. He found confidence and security in knowing he can rely upon himself, and trust in his peers to help him if he feels homesick. “Riding horses was pretty cool too,” he says. While summer camp may only last a week or so, the memories really do last a lifetime. Ask any child you know about their summer camp experiences and you’ll see their faces light up with the memories. Have your first-time camper talk to experienced campers – they are more than willing to share what camp is like. And their energy and excitement can be quite contagious! c atlantaparent.com

800.399.8309

2014

Fishing • Painting

www.millsprings.org/SummerPrograms

Camp 2014

May 2014 Atlanta Parent 29

Fun begins with Fencing

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30 Atlanta Parent May 2014

Camp 2014

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Special Advertising Section

Atlanta Parent’s Camp Preview Deer Run Camps & Retreats

Fruition Farm Summer Camp

eeper Faith. Greater Adventures.” Each camp week is an exciting, well-planned, outdoor summer experience that creates positive lifetime memories in a Christcentered environment with mature, well-trained counselors. Located near Franklin, Tennessee on 100 wooded acres of beautiful rolling hills, campers enjoy new facilities and numerous outdoor recreation options: horseback riding, waterfront fun (swimming, zip line, waterslide, aqua park, kayaks, canoes), climbing tower, low and high ropes courses, archery, BB guns, paintball and more. Each day includes ageappropriate small group Bible study; a dynamic, challenging speaker; and a time of praise each night that is focused on developing confidence, character, and integrity in your child. Sessions: preteens (completed grades 3-5), middle school (completed grades 6-8), and high school (completed grades 9-12). Each camper receives a camp themed t-shirt and DVD of their camp week. Discounts: early registration, multiple siblings, or multiple sessions. For out-of-town campers arriving by plane, choose supervised shuttle service to and from camp during your online camper registration. Come tour our facilities and meet camp directors and staff at our Open House on May 4. Information and registration: Camps.DeerRunRetreat.org or call 888-794-2918.

oin Fruition Farm for a summer your child will remember all year long! Fruition Farm offers Mother & Daughter Horse Camp, Girls Leadership Horse Camp and Reading & Riding Horse Camp at locations in Vinings and Fairburn. These camps teach life skills as well as horsemanship skills. In 3 and 5 day camp sessions campers will learn the basics of horse care, grooming, nutrition, health care, equine behavior and more while also increasing their self-confidence, problem-solving, communication and assertiveness skills. Mother & Daughter horse camps build memories and strengthen family bonds through the shared fun of riding together with interactive activities that strengthen communication, compassion and trust between mothers and their daughters. Girls Leadership Camp incorporates horses to help girls identify their strengths and become empowered in their relationships with others, learning how to ask for and get what they need at home, in school and with friends in ways that are healthy and assertive. Reading & Riding Horse Camp combines the fun of riding and horsemanship with reading enrichment. To learn more about these unique and unforgettable summer programs, visit Fruition Farm online at www.FruitionFarm.com

Gwinnett County Parks & Recreation

iD Tech Camps & iD Tech Academies

winnett County Parks & Recreation offers a multitude of adventures this summer for ages 4-13. Full day camps from $125 per week, teach new skills and “play with a purpose”. Low counselor-to-camper ratio with highly skilled counselors and instructors all certified in first aid and CPR. Camp themes: RECLAIM IT ROUND UP: Reclaim and repurpose stuff and turn it into cool crafts and games, and protect the environment! GAME SHOW WEEK: We Double Dare you to Come On Down and spin the Wheel of Fortune! LET’S GO CAMP-IN: Discover the fun of camping - put up a tent, sing and write camp songs and make traditional camp crafts. GET A CLUE: Puzzles, scavenger hunts, riddles and brainteasers. SPLASH: Dive in to fun! Cool off and chill out with a week of fun water activities! MOVIN’ AND GROVIN’: Get up, get movin’ and get grovin’ to keep your body, mind and spirit fit. GAME ON: A jam-packed week of sports, games and fun challenges! MYSTERY MIX IT UP: Mix of art, games, science and a mystery topic each day, with photo scavenger hunt, disappearing ink, secret coded message and more. RE-MIX IT UP: Backyard games, natural arts using wood, metal and rocks, fun cardboard crafts challenge your outdoor skills and more. Higher fees for non-Gwinnett. For more information, call 770.822.8840 or visit www.gwinnettparks.com.

ake interests further and gain a competitive advantage for school, college, and future careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). Weeklong, day and overnight summer programs where ages 7-17 develop iPhone and Android apps, program in C++ and Java, design video games, produce films, build robots, create websites, and more. Programs are held at over 80 prestigious universities nationwide including Emory, Vanderbilt, Stanford, Yale, Princeton, and others. Small classes (8:1 student to instructor ratios, guaranteed) are hands-on, high energy, and led by tech-savvy staff. Also 2-week, pre-college, intensive summer programs for ages 13-18 at iD Programming Academy (held at Emory), iD Game Design & Development Academy (also at Emory), and iD Film Academy. Visit iDTech.com for more information and to register online. Or call 1-888-709-TECH (8324) to speak to a Program Advisor who can recommend a customized summer schedule to develop a student’s interests. Enroll now and make changes up until 3 weeks before camp without change fees.

“D

atlantaparent.com

Camp 2014

May 2014 Atlanta Parent 31

SCIENCE AMP! SUMMER C

K-5th grade

We have FUN down to a science!

 LEGO Robotics!  Rockets!  Forensics!  Bugs!  Mousetrap Cars!  Owl Pellets!  Much More!

678-392-1500

Big-Thinkers.com

32 Atlanta Parent May 2014

Camp 2014

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Special Advertising Section

Atlanta Parent’s Camp Preview Sheltering Arms Family Centers

Riverview Camp

top breathtaking Lookout Mountain, only 2 hours from Atlanta, find a paradise of fun, friends and adventure for girls ages 6 to 16. With over 15 activity choices and recreational opportunities, campers and parents alike will be pleased with the choices and quality of the programs. Enjoy Riverview’s exceptional riding program for no additional fees, directed by equestrians experienced Riding Staff. There is something for everyone including: swimming, heated pool, ropes course, tennis, canoeing, golf, archery, rifle range, sports, basketball, climbing tower, CIT program, Chorus, Drama, Flag Twirling, Voice and Music. Riverview offers both one and two-week sessions, or longer stays are available. Each cabin includes its own bathrooms and showers. The Staff of Riverview is comprised of many college-age counselors who have camped with Riverview and who understand the importance of nurturing and caring for each camper! Owners, Susan and Dr. Larry Hooks have been Camp Directors since 1983. Assistant Director Donna Bares has been on staff with the Hooks since 1987. The full-summer staff is certified in Red Cross First Aid and CPR, with two or more nurses and a physician on staff. Riverview is a member of Christian Camping International & is accredited by American Camping Assoc. 1-800-882-0722 for a free DVD or visit www.riverviewcamp.com to view DVD’s on line!

ummer vacation can have a chilling affect on a child’s learning. That’s why John Hopkins University Center for Summer Learning recommends academics be integrated into summer fun. Sheltering Arms Early Education & Family Centers do just that at day camps in 15 metro Atlanta locations. Sheltering Arms’ learnthrough-play curriculum helps children ages 5-8 keep math and reading skills sharp over the summer, and helps younger children prepare for school. Children explore their interests under the guidance of experienced professional staff in small groups with low staff-to-child ratios. Children enjoy field trips to educational and cultural attractions, community service projects, creative arts, sports, and academic enrichment. “Each summer special enrichment programs are offered, including foreign language, art and dance,” says Shirleta Lawrence, director of Sheltering Arms in Norcross. “Our kids have so much fun, they forget they’re learning. But parents notice the difference when school starts.” Sheltering Arms is nationally-acclaimed, having surpassed the country’s highest standards for childcare and early education for more than a century. For more information call 404-523-ARMS (2767) or visit www.shelteringarmsforkids.com.

Stepping Stone Montessori

William Pu Music Academy

tepping Stone MontessoriCumming is proud to provide year round enrollment for children ages 6 weeks - 6 years and, in addition, an aftercare program for elementary children. The Montessori program offers a purposeful, peaceful atmosphere with hands-on materials guided by trained Montessori teachers throughout the year. Stepping Stone is excited to invite children ages 5-12 years of age to a summer camp filled with imagination and creation. Fun themes anchored with projects and in house field trips will make each week extra special. SSM has developed a tailored tutoring program, “Summer Connections,” which will be a small but important part of the camper’s day. The special “summer connections” program will help prevent summer learning loss through reading and short, fun lessons that review your child’s previous school year. Stepping Stone Montessori wants their campers to have that advantage as well as a magical and fun camp! Spanish, Music, Creative Movement, and Sports will continue to be offered on a weekly basis. To learn more call 770-205-0317 or visit www.steppingstonemontessori.com!

illiam Pu Music Academy founded by former associate concertmaster of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra William Pu, will offer FIVE one-week music camps for string instruments at its Alpharetta location in June and July, 2014. Students from elementary to high school ages who are looking for professional guidance on their instruments from some of the best musicians and teachers in Atlanta should seriously consider these camps. Each camp will only enroll up to 20 students with teacher/ student ratio of 1:5! Students will focus on learning how to improve techniques on mastery their instrument, ensemble communication and performance skill from the programs designed by William Pu and his distinguish faculties at Academy. One-week program is gem-packed with group coaching, ensemble rehearsal, master classes and performance on the last day. To check out which camp will fit you the best, please visit www.wpmusicacademy.com for more detail information. Camp dates are: June 9-13, June 23-27, July 7-11, July 14-18 and July 21-25. Don’t miss out on this one-of-kind music camp in Atlanta! Please contact wpmusicacademy@gmail.com or call 404-518-8891.

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Camp 2014

May 2014 Atlanta Parent 33

WHITE WATER LEARNING CENTER OF GEORGIA

Atlanta Parent online is the go-to resource for finding that perfect

Kids Kayaking Day Camp June 26-30 July 9-13 July 15-19 July 22-26

summer camp! Visit atlantaparent.com

Ages 9-14 • 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Campers will spend 2 fun-filled days learning basic skills, then paddle 3 days on scenic rivers in North Georgia. Bonus: Introduction to Paddle Boarding

Also …

Guided river trips, rafting reservations, kayak and canoe classes and private instruction for teens and adults

678-314-1514 • 404-323-6136 www.whitewatergeorgia.com

34 Atlanta Parent May 2014

Advertise in our

Kids Activity Guide in July and August.

Listings start at

$100

Call 770-454-7599

Camp 2014

atlantaparent.com

c=0 m = 80 y = 95 k=0

A Summer With Horses, A Lifetime of Memories… c = 40 m = 70 This y= 100summer join us for an unforgettable camp k= to50discover what horses can teach you about

yourself and make memories that last a lifetime. • Mother Daughter Horse Camp • Reading & Riding Reading Enrichment Camp • HorsePower for Girls Leadership Camp • Trottin’ Tots Horse Camp for Young Riders

Music Academy

basketball camps TEAM CAMP $

200

ELITE CAMP $ 50/DAY or $85 for both days

INDIVIDUAL CAMP $

280

INDIVIDUAL CAMP $

July 7-10, 2014 280

Register online at http://www.machellejosephbasketallcamp.com MaChelle Joseph Basketball Camp 150 Bobby Dodd Way NW | Atlanta, GA | 30332 Camps and clinics are open to any and all individuals (may only be limited by number, age, grade level or gender).

Johns Creek Montessori School Of Georgia

www.FruitionFarm.com

font copperplate regular

William Pu Summer Camp!

Music Academy June 9-13, June 23-27 July 7-11, July 14-18 July 21-25

Music Academy

Coaching, Ensemble, Master class, Performance

www.wpmusicacademy.com 404-518-8891

Science Camp

by High Touch-High Tech Since 1994 HANDS ON EXPERIMENTS CONDUCTED BY DEGREED PROFESSIONALS

From CSI Discoveries, Robotics, Chemistry & Rockets To Fossils, Bugs, Space & Gemstones Also: STEM Camp! (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math)

• Lawrenceville • Marietta • Cumming • Roswell • Vinings • Dunwoody

770-667-9443 | ScienceMadeFunAtl.org

“Empowering the Youth of Today to Become the Masterminds of Tomorrow.”™

Excellence in Montessori Education

A unique experience that infuses entrepreneurship, ﬁnancial literacy & brain training, while providing a balanced blend between summer work & play.

● Vibrant, multi-age learning communities ● Montessori certiﬁed teachers in every classroom ● School leadership team with advanced education degrees ● Regular parent involvement activities ● Flexible academic program schedules 6450 East Johns Crossing │ Johns Creek, GA 30097 (770) 814-8001 │ www.johnscreekmontessorisog.org

atlantaparent.com

▪ Field trips and games ▪ Create a small business ▪ Learn to earn, save & budget money ▪ Leadership & self conﬁdence ▪ Team building ▪ CRCT Enrichment ▪ Build social skills & more Sandy Springs ▪ June 2-July 25, 2014 Morrow ▪ June 2-July 11, 2014

(800) 616-3887

www.ymatlanta.org

Camp 2014

May 2014 Atlanta Parent 35

just kids

A quarterly focus on Special Needs

Ways You Can Help a Special Needs Parent

by Maria Lin

istockphoto

hen I set out to write 7 Things You Don’t Know About a Special Needs Parent, I was hesitant. I thought, who am I to speak for all parents with special needs kids? But my desire to be heard and understood, on a matter so personal and challenging to articulate, outweighed my fears. The response to this article has been overwhelming. Parents from around the world, of both typical and special needs children, contacted me with stories and feelings of their own. Their response has made me realize that I am not alone on this journey. I’ve wanted to write this follow-up article for a while now. The first article expressed some of the emotions related to parenting a child with special needs, and was written with the hope of building understanding. This article offers practical tips on how to help out a parent of a special needs child – chances are, you know one. 36 Atlanta Parent May 2014

3 4

Talk about your kids’ personalities, not their accomplishments. It can be hard to be around typical moms, especially when they’re bragging about their kids’ accomplishments. I want to share with you how funny and weird my son is, how mischievous he is, how he is affectionate, silly, and determined to get his way. I want to know about your kid’s personality, too. Let’s start talking about who our kids are rather than what they can do. Insist on helping. No matter how together I appear on the outside, I can always use help. You’ll notice I didn’t write “offer to help.” If you insist on helping, it’s fabulous because I feel like you will not take no for an answer – it takes a weight off me. You may have to be a detective and find out what would be most helpful. “I’ll drive your kids to practice this weekend.” “I got you a housekeeper for a few hours.” One offer that never fails – watching the child so the parent can have a break. Stop with the maxims. I understand that people just want to offer hope and encouragement and don’t know what to say sometimes. Examples of things I’ve heard that are pretty frustrating: “He’ll be fine.” “Everything happens for a reason.” Please lose the maxims. Just be there for me. Listen to me, cry with me, laugh with me. Extend me some grace. While in some ways my parenting experience is the same as a regular mom’s, in many ways it’s not. I can’t begin to explain how hard it can be sometimes. If I am grumpy, snap, forget your birthday, cancel plans, or am otherwise less than saintly, I hope you will give me the benefit of the doubt. atlantaparent.com

Stop complaining about your kids. Please be sensitive to what you complain about to a special needs parent. Don’t complain to a mom of a nonambulatory child that your kid ran around and knocked over your favorite vase. Or to the parent of a non-speaking child that yours won’t stop talking. Save those complaints for your other friends, or don’t make them at all. Because your complaint about your child might be our deepest wish for what our child could do. Ask me how I’m doing. Often the focus is so much on our children, that the parents are overlooked. The parents need tending to as much as the kids do. A sincere “How are you doing handling everything?” once in a while, and readiness to hear an honest answer is all I need to feel like someone cares.

If I am grumpy, snap, forget your birthday, cancel plans,

or am otherwise less than saintly, I hope you will give me the benefit of the doubt.

Coercively pamper me. I don’t know any mom, of special needs child or typical child, who will say no to a beautiful bouquet of flowers or a massage. I learned the hard way as a single parent that no one was going to pamper myself but me, so I got good at treating myself. And my son is much better for it – he has a happy and energized mom who feels grateful that blue cheese tastes so good, or that her nails look nice. See my child. Don’t stare, but don’t look away or avoid. My deepest wish is for you to see my child the way I see him. Observe him with love. Get to know him. Include him, hang out with him, get your kids to do the same. Truly see him.

Support my cause. It meant so much to me when colleagues donated or ran to support my fundraising efforts for my son’s school or medical condition. You can speak up when other people say things like “retarded,” “short bus” and explain why it’s insensitive. You can stop bullying or teasing if you see it. You can stop making fun of disabled people – or pitying them. You can cast kids with special needs in advertising campaigns, TV shows, movies. You can make an active effort to have kids with special needs be a part of your typical kids’ lives. You can get to know us.

Moreover, you can stop seeing people’s worth in their abilities – their intelligence, talents, looks, achievements. You can start doing what’s actually the harder but better thing: knowing and loving them just where they are. c Lin is the mother of Jacob, who has a disorder of the 18th Chromosome.

A Summer Camp for Learning

Since 1981 June 16 - July 11

Two sessions of 2 weeks each available

Embracing Strengthening

Metro Atlanta Families since 1983

Contact Betsy Box for more information Located on the beautiful 45-acre campus of The Bedford School in Fairburn, GA. Serves children with academic needs, ADD or learning differences.  Students aged 5-15  4:1 student/staff ratio  Academics: Reading, Math, & Writing Skills  Afternoon Recreational Program

770-234-9111 www.focus-ga.org atlantaparent.com

May 2014 Atlanta Parent 37

just kids

A quarterly focus on Special Needs

BABY OIL

Sensory Activities

Fill a strong Ziplock bag about halfway with baby oil plus a few drops of food coloring and a bit of water. Get as much air out of the bag as possible before sealing it. Use clear shipping tape over the whole bag for extra security. The food coloring will create colorful blobs and bubbles as kids squish, shake, and touch the bag.

AT HOME

CORNSTARCH

Use Common Items in Uncommon Ways to Encourage Exploration and Sooth Anxiety

Mix two cups of cornstarch and one cup of water in a large bowl. Add a few drops of food coloring if desired. Let kids dig in. This stuff, known as ooblick, feels solid when inside the bowl, but turns to liquid when you bring a handful out of the bowl. It feels solid when you give it a quick smack, but liquid when you move your hands through it slowly. There is a lot of science at work here, but most of all, it is just really cool!

by Rachael Moshman

Sensory activities engage children’s senses through play. Such activities encourage exploration, creativity and investigation. They introduce math and scientific theories and strengthen language. Sensory play is also great for soothing anxious, agitated, overtired or hyperactive children. Here are some ideas for activities using household items.

SHAVING CREAM Shaving cream is soft, cool, wet and fluffy. Spray it on your kitchen table and let kids spread it all over the surface with their hands. Give them wet rags to wipe it up at the end of the play session. As a bonus, your table will be sparkling clean. For color, add Kool-Aid. Besides engaging the sense of smell, it will also temporarily dye your children’s hands rainbow colors.

Integrating academics • friendships • life skills

Our curriculum cultivates language, social emotional development and adaptive life skills for children with autism.

OPEN HOUSE:

Saturday, May 3 • 1-2:30 pm Saturday, May 10 • 1-2:30 pm ONT

38 Atlanta Parent May 2014

Grades K-6 • Rolling Admission 404-382-8200 • WWW.THEPIEDMONTSCHOOLOFATLANTA.ORG

THE P I

RSVP to Catherine.Trapani@tpsoa.org

ATLANT

The

PIEDMONT SCHOOL ATLANTA

http://slpai.com

atlantaparent.com

Children’s Special Services, LLC SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATIONS Now Open! nts Early Bird Discou

Call About Social Skills Handwriting Programs

The Adaptive Learning Center Building Communities Through The Inclusion of Children With Special Needs & Their Families

ADD, ADHD, ASD, Autism, Sensory Integration, Dyslexia, Dyspraphia, LD ...and more

Individual & Group therapy sessions available

Comprehensive Evaluations Addressing

SENSORY BINS Create sensory bins for children to touch with everyday household items. Provide measuring cups, sifters, and other tools to encourage exploration. Good choices include: Dry beans, rice, dry pasta, cotton balls and shredded pieces of paper.

Sensory Motor • Visual Motor • Coordination Visual Processing • Handwriting • Autism Organizational Skills • ADD • ADHD • PDD OCD • Behavior Disorders • Sensory Integration

Susan N. Schriber Orloff, OTR/L Director, Occupational Therapy

• Over 35 years experience • 2006 Georgia OT of the Year

770-394-9791

www.childrens-services.com

Inclusive Preschool

ALC offers an inclusive preschool program in partnership with Peachtree Presbyterian Preschool, The Preschool at Peachtree Road, United Methodist Church, First Presbyterian of Atlanta Preschool, and the 2 preschools of the Marcus Jewish Community Centers of Atlanta (MJCCA).

Atlanta • Buckhead • Dunwoody • Marietta

www.adaptivelearningcenter.org

770.509.3909

IVORY SOAP Take the wrapper off a bar of Ivory soap (must be this brand). Put the soap on a microwave safe plate. Gather the kids around the microwave (bring in some stools so they can see the action). Microwave the soap for two minutes. It will expand up to 10 times its original size. After the soap cools, give the kids bowls of water, and plastic butter knives. They can chip off pieces of the soap and float it in the water.

PUDDING This is a bit messy, but a great sensory activity for babies and toddlers. First, make an assortment of colored ice cubes by adding food coloring to the water in an ice cube tray before freezing. Once the cubes are frozen, spread tapioca pudding on a rimmed cookie sheet. Put the cubes on top of the pudding and allow little ones to dig in. The ice cubes will melt and release their colors, dying the pudding.

PAPER Save different types of paper in a clear plastic storage bin. Let children crinkle, fold and rip to their heart’s content. Throw in wrapping paper, tissue paper, magazine pages and anything else you have on hand. Don’t just sit back and watch. Get in there and explore with your child, even if you get messy. You’ll enjoy these sensory activities, too! c atlantaparent.com

“An Exceptional School for Exceptional Students”

College prep and vocational school designed for grades 4-12 and postgraduate students with special needs.

R SUMME P M A C June16

begins

PRESCHOOL SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES DIAGNOSTIC AND EVALUATION SERVICES SPEECH/LANGUAGE THERAPY SPECIALIZED COMMUNITY AND

SCHOOL-BASED SPECIAL EDUCATION

Serves all eligible students ages 3-5 with disabilities. Parents must live within the Fulton County School district.

404-763-5600

Exceptional

650 A Mt. Vernon Hwy, NE • Atlanta, GA 30328

www.cumberlandacademy.org 404-835-9000

It is the policy of the Fulton County School System not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, or disability in any employment practice, educational program, or any other program, activity, or service.

May 2014 Atlanta Parent 39

just kids f.y.i GPS Keeps Track Of Kids’ Location Kids with special needs sometimes wander, and parents often panic before they’re able to find them. Kidsport GPS bands will solve that problem. The bands allow parents to find children using a cell phone, iPad or computer. The bands, expected to be in production by September, sell for $129 and may be pre-ordered. For more information, visit kidsportGPS.com.

Special Needs Kids Can Learn to Bike Mastering a two-wheel bicycle takes coordination and skill, and usually more than a few attempts for a beginner. For kids with special needs, biking is even more challenging. Three summer iCan Bike Camps in metro Atlanta aim to help special needs kids learn this skill and improve their confidence. Volunteers and organizations in Alpharetta, Duluth and Rockdale County are coordinating the camps, in cooperation with the nonprofit, iCan Shine. Duluth’s camp, sponsored by the Down Syndrome Association of Atlanta, is June 23-27 at Northview High School, 10625 Parsons Road (email vanessa@ dsaatl.org or find more information at dsaatl.org under “calendar”); cost is $275. Alpharetta’s camp, sponsored by The Fischer Foundation, is July 7-11 at Cooler Family Skate Center, 10800 Davis Drive (email icanbikeatlanta@gmail.com); cost is $200. Rockdale’s camp, sponsored by Rockdale County Autism Support Group, is July 14-18 at Rockdale County High School, 1174 Bulldog Circle, Conyers (email icanbikerockdale@gmail.com); cost is $150. Riders must be ages 8 or older, have a disability, be able to walk without an assistive device, be able to wear a bike helmet and be able to sidestep to both sides. Find more information and registration forms at icanshine.org, click on “programs.”

Gluten/Allergen Expo Opens The Atlanta Gluten and Allergen Free Expo on May 17-18 will provide classes related to a gluten and allergen-free lifestyle and connect consumers with product vendors. You’ll also find product samples, coupons, discounted products for purchase and be able to meet authors and bloggers. The expo is 9 a.m.-3 p.m. both days at the Cobb Galleria Centre, 2 Cobb Pkwy., Atlanta. Buy tickets online for $15 adults and $3 ages 10 and younger; tickets at the door are $20 adults and $5 ages 10 and younger. For more information, visit gfafexpo.com or call 847-284-9999.

Lace Those Walking Shoes For Autism Research Atlanta families are making plans to participate in the annual 2-mile walk and educational fair on May 18 to benefit Autism Speaks and the Marcus Autism Center. The event starts with late registration at 8 a.m.; the walk will start at 9:30 a.m. at the Pinnacle Lot of Atlantic Station, 240 20th St., and thousands of walkers will show up to raise money for autism research. Registration for the walk is free, but walkers are asked to raise as much money as they can. A resource fair for autism is held in conjunction with the walk. Autism spectrum disorder affects 1 in 68 children in the United States. For more information, visit walknowforautismspeaks.org. – Amanda Miller Allen

40 Atlanta Parent May 2014

atlantaparent.com

Spotlight on Special Needs Resources Children’s Special Services, LLC

Porter Academy

roup summer camps 2:1 ratios!! Unheard of!! But yes, it is true, sensory, motor and social skills groups with 5 trained therapists and a limit of 10 children per group! With that ratio your child will be receiving 1-1 therapy in a group setting!! Getting the best of both worlds – private OT and peer interactions! Children’s Special Services, LLC offers these 3 exciting camps: Children’s Special Services, LLC is the ONLY occupational therapy provider using the US trademarked WIN™ Write Incredibly Now™ handwriting program that takes children from labored to legible in just 12 hours! POP™ Personal Options and Preferences™, a social skills group that teaches not just to make friends with others but how to like yourself as well! Using concepts from speech and music therapies children learn to get in rhythm with themselves and the world around them. PLAYYourWay to Sensory-Motor Success is a sensory integrative playgroup using experiential activities to increase environmental and personal awareness. To learn more – contact Susan @ info@childrensservices.com 770-394-9791 or go to www.childrensservices.com Discounts for multiple camps enrollment and/or sibling / friend sign ups.

orter Academy is dedicated to educating children Pre-K through 8th grade by utilizing individualized programs that are appropriate to each student’s developmental level and learning style. If one technique is not proving effective for a particular child, then the teachers will try alternative techniques until they find one that works. The team of teachers, therapists, and administrators work together to develop academic abilities, foundational abilities (e.g, processing skills, attention, motor skills), and self-esteem. Porter Academy utilizes 1) small homerooms grouped by social-developmental level, 2) assessments to determine academic and developmental level, 3) individualized academic programs, 4) small group instruction of core academics to ensure comprehension, 5) use of physical movement and multi-sensory techniques to enhance learning efficiency, 6) social guidance and intentional character development, and 7) therapeutic support (speech/language therapy, occupational therapy, and music therapy) within a group setting. “This is the first environment which has enabled my daughter to be successful in so many ways. She knows herself that she is learning and improving academically.” – Porter Academy Parent For more information, visit www.porteracademy.org or call 770-594-1313.

Families Of Children Under Stress (FOCUS)

hen a baby is diagnosed with a lifelong disability or serious medical condition, parents just want to kiss and make it better. This can be a scary and emotional time, and some parents may be so overwhelmed by the medical terms and by their emotions that they really do not understand; they might not even know the questions to ask! Parents often feel relieved to know that they are not alone. Families Of Children Under Stress (FOCUS) offer comfort and encouragement and is there to help – to listen and cry, to inform and educate, and to offer programs for the families and the baby with special needs through our support groups and programs. Seek support so you can have the information and tools to help your baby and to help meet your emotional needs. FOCUS offers support groups all over metro Atlanta; a newsletter with stories by families about their experiences and information about equipment and resources; an education conference; community respite programs; and several annual activities for the entire family. FOCUS believes that if your baby has special needs, then your family has special needs – FOCUS cares. If your child has a physical, cognitive or developmental disability, please call FOCUS at 770-234-9111 or go to our website at www.focus-ga.org.

atlantaparent.com

The Bedford School/Squirrel Hollow Camp

quirrel Hollow Camp is a 4-week summer program, June 16-July 10, for children who need an academic boost. The program is held on the wooded 45 acre campus of The Bedford School in Fairburn, approximately 15 miles south of the Atlanta Airport. Students receive academic tutoring in small groups in the areas of math, reading and written expression. Multisensory materials and techniques are used and individualized for each student. Parents receive a detailed report and recommendations at the end of camp. Students also participate in recreational activities on the Challenge Course, the soccer field, the gym and the outdoor pool. Students gain academic skills as well as gains in selfesteem, confidence and social skills. The program is open to students currently in K-8th grade. Some partial scholarships are available. Contact Dr. Betsy Box, Director, 770-774-8001. Visit the website www.thebedfordschool.org for more information.

Special Advertising Section

May 2014 Atlanta Parent 41

Outdoor Play Makes Children Smarter Count the Ways That Nature Stimulates Learning, Creativity, Attention Span and More

by Stacey Loscalzo

“Children need the freedom and time to play. Play is not a luxury. Play is a necessity,” according to author and clinical psychologist Kay Redfield Jamison. Unstructured, open-ended creative play teaches children the ways of the world. While playing outside, children explore with all their senses, they witness new life, they create imaginary worlds and they negotiate with each other to form a playful environment. Here are 20 reasons to play outside:

1 2 3

Outdoor play is a multi-sensory activity. Children will see, hear, smell and touch things unavailable to them when they play inside. They use their brains in unique ways as they come to understand these new stimuli.

It brings together informal play and formal learning. Children can incorporate concepts that they have

learned at school in a hands-on way while outdoors. For example, seeing and touching the roots of a tree will bring to life the lesson their teacher has taught about how plants get their nutrients. It stimulates creativity. Robin Moore, an expert in the design of play and learning environments, says, “Natural spaces and materials stimulate children’s limitless imagination and serve as the medium of inventiveness and creativity.” Rocks, stones and dirt present limitless opportunities for play that can be expressed differently every time a child steps outside.

42 Atlanta Parent May 2014

4 5 6 7 8 9

It is open ended. There is no instruction manual for outdoor play. Children make the rules and in doing so use their imagination, creativity, intelligence and negotiation skills. It reduces anxiety. Time spent outside physiologically reduces anxiety. Children bring an open mind and a more relaxed outlook back inside when they are in more traditional learning environments. It increases attention span. Time spent in unstructured play outdoors is a natural attention builder. Often children who have difficulty with pen and paper tasks or sitting still for longer periods of times are significantly more successful after time spent outside. It is imaginative. Because there are no labels, no pre-conceived ideas and no rules, children must create the world around them. In this type of play children use their imagination in ways they don’t when playing inside.

Being in nature develops respect for other living things. Children develop empathy, the

ability to consider other people’s feeling, by interacting with creatures in nature. Watching a tiny bug, a blue bird or a squirrel scurrying up a tree gives children the ability to learn and grow from others. It promotes problem solving. As children navigate a world in which they make the rules, they must learn to understand what works and what doesn’t, what line of thinking brings success and failure, how to know when to keep trying and when to stop.

atlantaparent.com

10 11 12 13 14

It promotes leadership skills. In an environment where children create the fun, natural leaders will arise. One child may excel at explaining how to play the game while another may enjoy setting up the physical challenge of an outdoor obstacle course. All types of leadership skills are needed and encouraged. It widens vocabulary. While playing outdoors, children may see an acorn, a chipmunk and cumulous clouds. As they encounter new things, their vocabulary will expand. It improves listening skills. As children negotiate the rules of an invented game, they must listen closely to one another, ask questions for clarification and attend to the details of explanations in ways they don’t have to when playing familiar games.

It improves communication skills.

Unclear about the rules in an invented game? Not sure how to climb the tree or create the fairy house? Children must learn to question and clarify for understanding while simultaneously making themselves understood. It encourages cooperative play. In a setting where there aren’t clear winners and losers, children work together to meet a goal. Perhaps they complete a self-made obstacle course or create a house for a chipmunk. Together they compromise and work together to meet a desired outcome.

15 16 17 18 19 20

It helps children to notice patterns. The natural world is full of patterns. The petals on flowers, the veins of a leaf, the bark on a tree are all patterns. Pattern building is a crucial early math skill.

It helps children to notice similarities and differences. The ability to sort items and notice the similarities and differences in them is yet another skill crucial to mathematical success. Time outdoors affords many opportunities for sorting.

It improves children’s immune systems. Healthy children are stronger learners. As children spend more time outdoors, their immune systems improve, decreasing time out of school for illness.

It increases children’s physical activity level. Children who play outdoors are less likely to be obese and more likely to be active learners. Children who move and play when out of school are ready for the attention often needed for classroom learning. It increases persistence. Outdoor games often require persistence. Children must try and try again if their experiment fails. If the branch doesn’t reach all the way across the stream or the bark doesn’t cover their fairy house, they must keep trying until they are successful. It is fun. Children who are happy are successful learners. Children are naturally happy when they are moving, playing and creating outside. This joy opens them up for experimenting, learning and growing. c

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

Montessori School of Cumming

404-634-5777

770-205-6773

3021 N. Decatur Road Decatur, GA 30033

4601 Post Road Cumming, GA 30040

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

May 2014 Atlanta Parent 43

School Bits Explore Colleges On Day Trips Students who hope to attend college can get a head start figuring out where they’d like to go by attending two tours offered by DeKalb County Extension Service. Each tour is limited to 20 students, so tours fill up quickly. Students board two 12-passenger vans for day trips to several college campuses, where they learn about the admissions process and financial aid, tour the campus and eat in a college dining hall. The Southeastern College Tour, June 10-12, visits the University of Tennessee, University of Georgia and Clemson University. The tour is open to kids in grades 8 through 11. The DeKalb 4-H College Tour, July 15-17, is open to students in grades 7 through 10. The tour visits Berry College, Clark Atlanta University, Columbus State University, Kennesaw State University and Shorter University. Both tours cost $100 and registration requires a non-refundable deposit of $25; registration is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Registration for the Southeastern College Tour closes May 1; registration for the 4-H tour closes May 15. The tours leave from the DeKalb Extension Service office, 4380 Memorial Drive, Suite 200, Decatur. For more information, visit ugaextension.com/DeKalb and click on “news and events” or call 404-298-4080.

44 Atlanta Parent May 2014

Clothing Deals To Help Your School The online store that’s a marketplace for gently used kids’ clothing, Schoola, has a new app for mobile devices to help parents donate and shop from anywhere. Here’s how Schoola works: Parents ask to have a Schoola postagepaid bag sent to them. When they use it to donate clothing their child has outgrown, 40 percent of the resale price on the items goes to the child’s school. Parents also can shop for used clothing on the site. For more information, visit schoola.com.

Scholastic Books On Sale Now! Teachers love May for two reasons: summer vacation begins, of course, and Scholastic opens its warehouses for a huge book sale. The leading publisher of children’s book titles discounts books from 25 percent to 80 percent. In metro Atlanta, warehouses will be open in Covington, Cumming, Duluth and Kennesaw. For warehouse locations and sales hours, visit scholastic.com/bookfairs/warehouse.

atlantaparent.com

5 Tips to Get Ready For Kindergarten Fifty percent of parents with kids ages 2-6 worry that their child won’t be prepared for kindergarten, a new study commissioned by PBS Kids finds. Parents are most concerned about basic math, reading and social skills, the study found. Most parents, 75 percent, are using computer games and activities, websites and apps, to help prepare their children, and 89 percent says they understand the educational benefits of exposing their children to media and technology.

PBS Kids offers these five tips to help kids get ready: n Support your kids academically and make learning fun. n Talk and read with your child – language rich environments build word skills. n Help your child explore and get excited about learning. n Let your child experiment with new things to build confidence, including household tasks, art projects or musical games. n Encourage your child’s natural curiosity by investigating everyday objects.

Toddler — Middle School (18 months - 14 years) AMI, SAIS & SACS accredited • Est. 1970

FRENCH CLASSES FOR CHILDREN Saturday program ages 18 mo-12 yrs • Buckhead location at Atlanta International School New Class: Bébé et Moi (Baby and Me) for children ages 18-36 months

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/ May 2014

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May 2014 Atlanta Parent 45

The Teen Entrepreneur When Summer Jobs Are Scarce, It’s Time to Create One

by Pam Molnar

Teens are having a hard time finding work. Only 60 percent of teens were employed last summer compared to 75 percent in 1983, according the Bureau of Labor and Statistics. Jobs that traditionally have been filled by teenage workers in our society are now being filled by under-employed adults and recent college graduates. If a teenager is without a job during his high school years, where will he save for college or even have a little spending money for the movies? Entrepreneurship is the answer. As a third generation entrepreneur, I can tell you that starting and maintaining your own business is not easy, nor for everyone. It takes hard work, self-motivation and perseverance. The majority of teen businesses are service oriented and many of the families in your neighborhood can benefit from those services. Take a look at some of these ideas and see if they would be a good fit for your teen. Pet Sitting: Pet sitting involves caring for someone’s pets while they are on vacation or away for the day. A pet sitter is responsible for giving fresh food and water, walking dogs and cleaning out cat litter boxes. Pet sitters need to be early risers and have the ability to get back and forth to the pet’s home three to four times each day. A pet sitter usually brings in the mail, waters plants or takes the garbage to the curb.

Tutor: Teens can use their skills to tutor younger kids in a

variety of areas. If your teen plays an instrument, he can work with younger students to keep up their skills over the summer and improve their technique throughout the school year. Teens who play sports can share their talents with younger athletes who need to improve their throwing, hitting or dribbling techniques. And of course, academic tutors are needed to help with math, reading, or test prep.

Memory Preserver: Busy families tend to collect

hard drives full of digital photos, but have no plan or time to preserve them. Teens can back up files, send out pics for printed photos and put them in albums. Families may also enjoy a video montage of special events like baptisms or their daughter’s basketball tournament. Memory preserver services may also include scanning non-digital photos or converting VHS tapes to DVD. 46 Atlanta Parent May 2014

Online Jobs for Teens Consider increasing your bank account with these online jobs. n Fiverr: Teens can sell their product or service for $5 ($4 after Fiverr takes their fees). Use your skills to proofread papers, design a logo or provide SEO analysis. Check out what others are doing and set up your own shop easily. n Slice the Pie: Get paid to rate music. The starting pay is terribly low (2 cents per review), but your rank and pay increases with the quality of your reviews, bringing you up to 20 cents per review. Payout to PayPal when your account reaches $10. n My Survey: Give your opinion and receive points that can be converted to PayPal or gift cards. After filling out the application, emails will be sent to you containing a survey. Answer only the surveys you want to and points will be added to your account. n Swagbucks: Receive points for using this search engine. As teens are researching for their homework, they can earn points. Convert points for payout in the form of gift cards like Amazon, Starbucks or a variety of gas cards. (Parents: Read several reviews and search for scams before allowing your teen to sign up for an online job. Never pay for membership to start working for an online business.)

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Summer Nanny: Babysitters are needed for both working

and stay-at-home parents during the summer months. For parents that work from home, they need a Mother’s Helper to entertain the children. Working parents that leave the house during the day may need someone to walk or drive their child to the local pool or summer activity. Babysitting is not only for teenage girls. Mothers of boys often look for an older boy who can relate to their sons’ interests.

Power Washer: After a long

Set up a Student PayPal Account If you are a PayPal member, you can set up an account for your child who is 13 or older. Simply log into your account and click “Get a Student Account” under the Products and Services tab. Your child can receive money for their services through PayPal and access it from a PayPal debit card. Your child would not be able to spend more than the account balance. As the parent, you can add money, make transfers, set spending limits and monitor all transactions. No PayPal account? It’s easy to sign up for free at paypal.com.

winter, the wooden structures in the neighborhood could use a cleanup. Power washers are simple to use after proper instruction. Rent one at your local hardware center and offer to wash a neighbor’s deck for free. While he gets a clean deck, you will get a chance to perfect your skills and get a reference on your work. Pass out flyers to homes with wooden decks, fences and play sets.

Yard Work: Yard work goes beyond just mowing the

Online Retailer: An eBay

Odd Jobs: Odd jobs can mean a variety of things to

retailer is an awesome job for teens as you can post, pack and ship at any time during the day. Teens can start by selling their own items like books and gently used clothes, and then replenish their inventory with good deals found at thrift shops and garage sales. Craftier teens may enjoy selling their creations on Etsy. Some seller categories include jewelry, photography, art and personalized items.

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lawn. Teens can extend their seasonal business to offer their services year round. Spring is the time to cleanup flower beds and fertilize. Fall is the time for raking leaves, cutting back flowers and planting bulbs for spring. Customers with dogs may also need pet waste removed. different customers so it is best to be prepared and know your limitations. Make a list of the things you can do and hand it out to friends and neighbors. Odd jobs may include washing the dog, weeding the garden, painting, sweeping out the garage or helping to serve dinner at a party. Doing odd jobs can be a good match for someone with a busy schedule as many of the jobs can be done in a few hours. c

May 2014 Atlanta Parent 47

A FREE RESOURCE EXPO

Family Fun Guide * Free Fun

Exhibits

Playground

Eating Out

Not-to-miss events for May

Calendar

, Splisshh. Spla Parks Waterpen. O 50 Page

Yaarab Shrine Circus and Fair Jim R. Miller Park May 16-26 Midway opens Mon.-Fri., 5 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.; Sun., noon; and May 26, 10 a.m. Highlights of the 72nd annual performance includes the Red Devil Clowns, Rick Walenda on the tight rope, motorcycle tricks, Asian and African elephants, tigers, and aerial stunts. The fair features 35 rides including some for small children, carnival food and games. 2245 Callaway Rd., Marietta. 404-872-5818. Adults, $7; ages 10 and younger, free; ride tickets, $1.25 (each ride requires more than one ticket); parking, $5. Yaarabshrine.net.

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Toddler Takeover

Good Neighbor Day Air Show DeKalb Peachtree Airport / May 17 / Noon-5 p.m. A day of aerial activities showcases nine airshow performances including the world’s largest airshow group Team Aerodynamix. Helicopter rides and bi-plane rides are available. Children’s activities include inflatables, airplane tours, face painting, whacky hair creations, funnel cakes, and sand castles. 2000 Airport Rd., Atlanta. 770-936-5440. Admission, free; parking, $10; helicopter and airplane rides, $30-$40; inflatables, $1-$2 per slide/jump. pdkairshow. com.

Family Fun Guide

Toddler Takeover Woodruff Arts Center May 31-June 1, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. A two-day festival designed for young children includes six productions from the Alliance Theatre for the Very Young and performances by the Atlanta Symphony’s Music for the Very Young. The High Museum of Art hosts a sideby-side art station with an artist creating an art piece and then a child/parent pair creating a piece to take home. Take a 30-minute, guided stroller tour of the High Museum of Art’s Dream Cars: Innovative Design, Visionary Ideas with touchable objects and engine revving. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4702. $25 per person includes theater performances; $15 per person without performances. Alliancetheatre.org.

May 2014 Atlanta Parent 49

Family Fun Guide

SPLISH SPLASH! Dive in and cool off at the water parks opening this month

White Water Preview weekend: May 17-18 Opens for season: May 24 This full-scale water park boasts some 50 attractions, including the Typhoon Twister featuring a five-story drop down an enclosed slide , the “Atlanta Ocean” wave pool, and for the younger kids, “Little Squirts Island.” Mon.-Sun., 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m. White Water is located at 250 Cobb Pkwy N., Marietta; 770-948-9290. Adults, $39.99; kids under 48 inches $29.99; 2 and younger, free. Parking, $15. sixflags. com/whitewater.

Buccaneer Cove Preview weekends: Through May 18 Opens for season: May 24 The new water play area at Malibu Grand Prix in Norcross features a 20,000 square foot water structure with four levels, six slides, tunnels, aqua domes, spray cannons and private cabanas rentals. Mon.-Thur., noon-9 p.m. Fri., noon10 p.m. Sat., 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun., noon-9 p.m. 5400 Brook Hollow Pkwy., Norcross.770-416-7630 $19.99; chaperone pass, $5. malibugrandprix.com.

Hurricane Harbor Opens for season: May 23 New to Six Flags over Georgia, this full-size water park features a wave pool with four-foot waves, dual slides that send riders down a five-story drop and through a zero-gravity chute, and a multi-slide complex with dark, winding tunnels and water bowls. Paradise Island features miniature slides, drench towers, and water elements for small children. Admission is included with theme park admission. Hurricane Harbor, Mon.-Sun., 11 a.m. -6 p.m. (closing hours extended during summer.) Theme Park hours vary. 275 Riverside Pkwy., Austell. 770-739-3400. $59.99; ages 2 and younger, free; parking $20. sixflags.com/overgeorgia.

50 Atlanta Parent May 2014

LanierWorld Opens for season: May 17 Have a blast splashing around in Georgia’s largest wave pool, zip down the giant water slides or hang in the “Kiddie Lagoon.” Hours vary. 7000 Holiday Rd., Lake Lanier Islands. 800-840-5253. Adults, $36.99; kids under 42 inches, $26.99; 2 and younger, free. Parking, $10. lakelanierislands.com/lanierworld.

Family Fun Guide

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Free Concerts Spring brings plenty of free music to metro Atlanta. We’ve rounded up some spots to hear tunes this month, and check our calendar in the coming months for future series dates.

Wednesday WindDown Centennial Olympic Park Amphitheater 265 Park Ave. West NW, Atlanta Each Wed. through September, 5:30 p.m. centennialpark.com Atlanta’s longest-running outdoor free concert series offers jazz and contemporary music performed by local and national touring acts. Bring blankets or chairs.

Music at Noon Centennial Olympic Park Amphitheater 265 Park Ave. West NW, Atlanta Each Tues. & Thurs. through October, noon centennialpark.com A mid-day outdoor concert series features a variety of acts including pop, R&B and jazz. Bring blankets or chairs.

Riverside Sounds Riverside Park. 575 Riverside Rd., Roswell Sat., May 3, 6 p.m. roswellriversidesounds.com Free outdoor concerts feature a variety of musical styles; food trucks are on site. Bring blankets or chairs.

Jazz in the Alley Skin Alley Downtown Historic Norcross (behind the shops facing South Peachtree St.) Sat., May 3, 7 p.m. aplacetoimagine.com/2014-concert-schedule/ An alley where farriers and saddle makers once worked serves as the setting for Historic Norcross’ free outdoor concert series. Tables are available on a first-come, first-serve basis; bring chairs.

Symphony in Your Neighborhood Stonecrest Library. 123 Klondike Rd., Lithonia Tues., May 6, 7 p.m. atlantasymphony.org/community Casual, hour-long indoor chamber music concerts by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra allow audiences to learn about the pieces performed and interact with ASO musicians. – Dalia Faupel

Family Fun Guide

May 2014 Atlanta Parent 51

You’re Gonna Hear Us

ROAR!

ur family took a leap back in time to meet a variety of dinosaurs at Atlantic Station’s new “Extreme Dinosaurs” exhibit. We saw 17 of them, to be exact, in animatronic form. The creatures roar, snarl, blink, move their limbs and even open their jaws as if they’re ready to take a bite of something (or someone!). “Whoa!” said both our boys, ages 3 and 8, as we encountered a giant T-Rex, staring right at us. All of the dinosaurs are realistically recreated, but this one, facing guests as they enter an exhibit room, looked like it was about to move toward us. The exhibit lighting is dim, with spotlights on the dinosaurs, standing grouped in several small (but tall!) rooms. A huge skeleton replica of an Omeisaurus, a longnecked herbivore, runs 57 feet long and dominates one section of the exhibit. Our two boys were most fascinated by the fossil digging areas where children pretend to be paleontologists, digging up dinosaur bones. For younger kids, it’s similar to an upscale sandbox with discoveries to find once they brush the sand away. Older children can use their detective skills to uncover bones, part by part, and use their newfound dinosaur knowledge to determine which species roamed that spot.

52 Atlanta Parent May 2014

The “Make Me Move” stations, located at a handful of the dinosaur models, allow visitors to press buttons to control specific dinosaur body parts. We made a dino roar, blink its eyes, thrash its tail and turn to look around. We thought there was a good mix of familiar dinosaurs most kids would recognize, as well as some that we learned about for the first time. We spent about 45 minutes touring the exhibit, with much of that time spent on the interactive elements. Older children who are big dino fans would likely take an hour or more to explore. The exit is through the gift shop, where you’ll find plenty of dinosaur-themed merchandise. – Sharie and Lou Bassett

Family Fun Guide

If You Go Extreme Dinosaurs Exhibit Atlantic Station Premier Exhibition Center 265 18th St., Atlanta 404-496-4274; dinosaursatlanta.com n Cost: $18; ages 3-11, $13; 2 and younger, free; save $2 per person by ordering tickets online in advance. n Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 10 a.m.5 p.m., Fri.-Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

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Exhibit: Sounding Off

hough our visit to The Children’s Museum’s Sonic Sensation exhibit was all about sound, it was an eye-opener for my kids. They learned firsthand that sound can make movement, and that they can measure sound in ways they can see. At the Seeing Sound station, a clear capsule housed small rubber pellets. My 7-year-old son Andrew slid a knob back and forth to change the frequency of sound to create vibrations that made the pellets dance. “I didn’t know sound could make things move,” he said. In the Measuring Sound station, we tapped notes on a xylophone and heard the variations in sounds and note tones. When my 3-year-old son Brycen and his big brother played the keys, we could see the power of the sound measured in peaks and valleys on a monitor. The Invisible Orchestra play area lets visitors step on a piano that looks like a floor rug to make sound. Waving hands in the air triggers motion sensors that also make sounds. Most exciting for the kids was being able to watch themselves perform on a video screen. Brycen enjoyed just making noise, while Andrew was able to play some simple

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If You Go Sonic Sensation Exhibit The Children’s Museum of Atlanta 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-659-5437; childrensmuseumatlanta.org n Hours: Through June 1. Mon.-Tues. and Thurs.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. n Cost: $12.75, younger than 1, free.

songs. I danced on the floor piano as well, feeling a bit like Tom Hanks in the movie Big. In the Critters in a Cupboard section, one person can hide a wooden picture of an animal, like a cat or a grasshopper, for another person to find just by tracking the creatures’ sounds. The biggest hit with my boys, however, was the soundproof Scream Chamber. It looks like a tall closet, with a door that shuts. We had a scream contest! I went in alone and let

Family Fun Guide

it all out. When I came out, Andrew told me the decibel level I hit, displayed on a monitor outside the chamber. Then he went in and did his best. We compared our scores to see who could provide the biggest sound. My boys were thrilled to have permission to scream (without bothering anyone else). Learning the variety of ways we can interact with sound made for an educational and (happily) noisy visit. – LaKeisha Fleming

May 2014 Atlanta Parent 53

Playground: Morgan Falls Overlook Park We first visited this park last year when a friend pronounced it the prettiest one she’d seen OTP. We were wowed by the modern playground and green spaces overlooking the Chattahoochee River, and have returned many times since then. Built in 2010, this is one park that adults enjoy as much as kids, with plenty of shaded areas for sitting and enjoying the views while children explore some of the most up-to-date play equipment around.

n Features: Two play structures serve both younger and older kids with places to climb, slide and explore, but the spot where they all come together is known as the spiderweb, a tall rope structure that provides a climbing challenge. The playground structures are mostly covered by large sun shades to keep slides and bars cool, and astroturf underneath means mud puddles are never an issue. Also in the play area are rock climbing elements, a tilted spinner, rocking animals, and swings. Paved sidewalks winding through the park make for easy bike riding or scootering. Near the river sits a stone chimney from the 1800s,

54 Atlanta Parent May 2014

Family Fun Guide

a remnant of a settler family who lived in the area way back when. n Amenities: A huge covered pavilion (that can be reserved in sections) with grills and an outdoor fireplace, walking trails, fire pit and nearly 20 bench swings, horseshoe pit, and restrooms. A dock provides river access for fishing, canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding. n Location: 200 Morgan Falls Rd., Sandy Springs. The park is at the very end of Morgan Falls Road. – Dalia Faupel

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Home of the Braves We saw where Hank Aaron stood when he hit his record-breaking home run and felt like true Atlanta Braves when we sat in the dugout on our official tour of Turner Field and the Braves Museum. Now we’re primed for baseball season! My two boys (ages 5 and 2) had a great time getting “special access” to places within Turner Field that are normally off limits. Among our stops on the guided tour: the press box, sky field, clubhouse/ locker room, a luxury suite, and most excitingly, the dugout. While I most loved being on the field and in the dugout, my 5-year-old seemed to enjoy the press box the most. When I told him that’s where the sportswriters and on-air reporters sit to get the best view of the games, he seemed to be in awe of how special it was to see the field how they see it! At Sky Field, the uppermost section of the stadium dedicated to family

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If You Go Atlanta Braves/Turner Field Interactive Tour 755 Hank Aaron Drive, Atlanta 404-614-2311 atlanta.braves.mlb.com/atl/ballpark n Cost: Adults $17; ages 10-13, $13; ages 3-9, $9; 2 and younger, free. n Hours: Through-Sept. Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., noon, 1:30 p.m., 3 p.m. Sun., 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. (no tours on afternoon home games.) Oct.March. Mon.-Sat. 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m.

entertainment, my kids enjoyed the “home to base run” area, as well as seeing a replica dugout. This is also where the giant CocaCola bottle resides (it shoots off fireworks when runs are scored by the Braves) as well as the Chick-fil-A cow, who does the Tomahawk chop. You can pack a picnic lunch and eat at the picnic tables there. A highlight of the Braves Museum was viewing the historic baseball train that would take players from town to town. The boys were able to sit in the old-fashioned train seats. The museum holds more than 600 items of Braves memorabilia including the 1995 World Series Trophy and Hank Aaron’s famous home run bat and ball. After being amazed by what he learned here, my 5-yearold asked to get his picture taken with the statue of Hank Aaron. Our tour guide handed out tablets and headphones to provide background on each spot we would visit. My older son was excited to have a screen to play with, but I preferred to listen to our guide share stories and interesting facts about the stadium, such as its original use as the central venue for the 1996 Summer Olympic Games, and the many movies that have been shot at Turner Field, including Change Up, Trouble with the Curve and Flight. – Kim Curnutt

Family Fun Guide

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

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www.williamreynoldsagency.com May 2014 Atlanta Parent 55

Plane Fun Dining

EATING OUT

Kids love watching airplanes fly. With the world’s busiest airport, the seventh busiest general aviation airport (DeKalb-Peachtree), and several other general aviation airports in the metro area, there’s ample opportunity to marvel at the miracle of flight. Why not combine airplane watching and fun dining? Here are some restaurants where you can do just that.

Downwind Restaurant

2000 Airport Rd., Suite 200, Chamblee 770-452-0973; downwindrestaurant.com Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat. noon-10 p.m.; closed Sun. (“Date Night” after 7 p.m. Fridays with live music, kids 12 and younger not allowed) An Atlanta institution for 25 years, the Downwind overlooks the intersection of runways at DeKalb Airport-Peachtree. The open deck and glass-enclosed dining room afford prime views of the constant action created by an eclectic mix of helicopters, business jets, small personal planes and even the occasional blimp. In the cozy lounge area model airplanes hang from the ceiling and airplane pictures cover the wall. Don’t miss the adjacent airport playground. n What’s on the menu: You’ll always find Greek dishes here, and many claim the half-pound Classic Downwind Burger is the best in town. Other menu choices range from casual American fare like chicken wings and sandwiches to more upscale entrees such as wild salmon and blackened shrimp. Entrée prices range from $7-$14 (specials may be more). Kids’ menu choices include a hot dog, chicken fingers or grilled cheese for $5.50-$6 (tax and a drink included). n Why parents will like it: Very reasonable prices in a fun and festive atmosphere. The Greek and upscale menu items even add a little touch of romance. There’s plenty of room for little ones to get a good view of the airplanes or burn off energy in the playground. n Why kids will like it: Lots of different kinds of aircraft. The playground is great fun, too. Note: The restaurant is on the second floor with no elevator and there are steps to navigate within the restaurant (there is a wheelchair lift to the second floor). High chairs are available. Being in an old airport building, bathrooms are “down the hall and around the corner.” – Dan Ward

More Kid-Friendly Airport View Restaurants in Atlanta

Concorde Grill

One Hartsfield Centre Pkwy., Atlanta 404-209-9999; marriott.com Daily 6 a.m.-midnight Surely there must be a way to dine and watch the airplanes at the worlds’ busiest airport without going through security? There is at the Concorde Grill inside the Renaissance Hotel at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Grab a seat along the window bar and to get a full view of the airport action, where at peak times a plane takes off or lands every 24 seconds. You might even see a 747 or an A380 – the world’s largest airliner. n What’s on the menu: Breakfast features Southern style dishes ranging from $8-$14 or an expansive buffet for $18. Lunch offers more upscale Southern inspired starters like soup, crab cakes and fried green tomatoes ($7-$12), burgers, salads and sandwiches ($8-$16), and entrees like smoked pork tenderloin ($17-$25). Dinner is similar to lunch and adds steak and fish filets to the menu (up to $30). A kids’ menu is available with choices including chicken fingers, burger sliders and pizza ($5-$7). n Why parents will like it: Fine airport dining without having to go through security! A lot of menu choices at different price points can make an upscale meal pretty reasonable. The bar area is both intimate and elegant. n Why kids will like it: Airplanes, airplanes and more airplanes! A birds-eye view of the world’s busiest airport provide unusual entertainment. The kids’ menu can satisfy even picky eaters. Note: Have your parking ticket validated for three free hours. High chairs are available. The restaurant is easily accessible via the hotel elevators. – Caroline Ward

56 Atlanta Parent May 2014

n 57th Fighter Group 3829 Clairmont Rd., Atlanta (at DeKalb-Peachtree Airport) 770-234-0057 Go back in time to World War II in a recreated 1940s French farmhouse and outdoor patio Kids’ menu features: Grilled cheese, patty melt, pasta, chicken tenders ($5-$7). the57threstaurant.com n Elevation Chophouse 1723 McCollum Pkwy., Kennesaw (at McCollum-Cobb County Airport) 770-485-7469 Two-story wrap-around glass dining room with sweeping views Kids’ menu features: Chicken tenders, burgers, mac n’cheese, grilled cheese ($7). elevationatlanta.com n The Flying Machine 510 Briscoe Blvd. NE, Lawrenceville (at Briscoe Field, Gwinnett County’s airport) 770-962-2262 Wrap-around glass dining room with an outdoor patio Kids’ menu features: Burgers, hot dogs, chicken tenders ($3-$5). theflyingmachine.com

Family Fun Guide

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HIGH TIME for a

Family Tour

ho knew my 5-year-old son was a fan of modern art? I had no idea until he spent time exploring the modern works on the upper floors of The High with our family tour docent. They played peekaboo through 11 layers of glass in Gerhard Richter’s installment 11-Scheiben. Our interactive visit gave birth to a new art fan! The family tour, given every weekend free with admission, is suitable for all ages and keeps a quick pace to ensure interest stays high. During the hour, our docent had us viewing and learning about old masterpieces, modern installments and everything in between. We explored American, African, and European art of different eras, along with folk and contemporary art. I was surprised at how engaged my son stayed, and proud that he stuck to the “hands off” policy the entire visit. We felt like VIPs as our guide pointed out for us a few pieces on every floor, especially works we would most likely have overlooked. Be ready for other patrons to lean in and listen at your stops, as the docents offer background information on works only a true art enthusiast would know. For example, The High’s collection includes a painting by Samuel Morse (who developed Morse code.) He was New York’s top portrait painter of his time; a trained artist in addition to being a famous inventor.

The guide frequently asked my son questions, prompting him to notice and point out certain things within specific works. She would ask him “What is the angel carrying?” or “What do you notice about the woman in this sculpture?” Based on his responses she would lead him to explore what the artist intended by how a subject was positioned or what props surrounded her. This not only

If You Go

Guided Family Weekend Tour High Museum 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta 404-733-4400; high.org n Hours: Sat.-Sun., 2 p.m. n Cost: Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; 5 and younger, free.

made learning seem like a game, but also held his attention while we sampled art from different time periods and mediums, and glimpsed different civilizations throughout history. As the docent concluded the tour at Anish Kapoor’s multi-sensory and dimensional large mirrored acoustic bowllike structure, she asked my son to whisper something “secret style” that she would be able to hear clearly from across the room far from the art. Not surprisingly, he whispered, “Can we play some more?” – Valerie Shepherd

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Family Fun Guide

May 2014 Atlanta Parent 57

The Hike’s the Way Inn

by Dalia Faupel

uring our visit to the Len Foote Hike Inn at Amicalola Falls, my family was as full of surprises as the inn itself. 1. My kids, ages 11 and 7, didn’t complain. Not once. They had no complaints about the length of hike (5 miles coming and going), lack of access to electronics, making their own beds, or sharing meals with other guests. 2. While hiking, the entire family focused on the environment and stayed in the “now” instead of just getting somewhere quickly. My son was so inspired by the nature around us that he pulled out his harmonica and composed a little song! 3. Over our two meals at the inn, we left behind zero food waste (the inn’s goal.) This is shocking considering what my kids leave on their plates at home. 4. For a family not considered “outdoorsy,” we’re already planning our next visit. 58 Atlanta Parent May 2014

The Hike There’s just one way to get Georgia’s first eco-lodge: by taking a five-mile hike from the top of Amicalola Falls. The facility operates with a “pack in, pack out” policy, meaning everything you bring with you has to leave with you. Each of us took along a backpack with our toiletries, change of clothes and shoes, pajamas and water bottles. At the Visitor’s Center at Amicalola Falls, we checked in and got our trail map. Everyone must arrive by 2 p.m. to ensure nobody’s left on the trails after dark. The trail was challenging, but for every hill there was also a valley, and some flat areas. We crossed through small streams, moved jungle-like foliage, and navigated narrow paths on moderate uphill segments. Mile markers let us know how far we’d gone, and we spent our hike talking and playing word games. During several stops, we perched on natural tree trunk benches to drop our packs and have some water, and to admire the view over the trees. Our daughter noted that “hikers are so friendly.” Day hikers all said “hello” and people coming back down from a stay at the Hike Inn promised we would love it. (They were right!) It took 2½ hours to get to there. Although we were tired near the end, we got a last burst of energy when we realized we were close.

Family Fun Guide

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Photo by Sandy Straw

The Inn At check-in, we learned about the evening’s programming and the four sustainably-designed buildings on the property, and picked up supply bags containing bed linens, towels and washcloths. Pillows and blankets are in the rooms, along with a cushioned mat for having an extra child sleep on the floor. Some rooms are adjoining, so a group of four can keep doors open and create a suite. Rooms are small but clean, with all wood floors, walls, and bunk beds. The bathhouse holds individual bathroom stalls and a men’s and women’s shower room with two showers each and multiple sinks and hair dryers. But the main attraction here for the kids was the toilets. They don’t use water! The inn’s odorless composting toilets feel cool when you use them as the waste is moved into a composting tank by cold air. Dinner and breakfast are served in the dining hall, family style at long wooden tables. Every guest can take a cup and mug for their stay, labeling them with nametags and reusing at each meal to minimize dishwashing. Water and coffee are always available, and during the day, tea, lemonade and other drinks. The rule here is to eat what you take since the goal is no trash. Food waste goals are calculated for each meal based on how many people are eating. For example, 40 people should produce no more than 4 ounces of food waste. We were proud to earn a smiley face on the food waste board for zero waste, and we repeated that feat again at breakfast the next day. The Sunrise room is the community gathering place, with plenty of books, puzzles, board games and tables for playing, comfortable seating inside and around the porch for taking in views, including, of course, sunrise. Right below the Sunrise room is a horseshoe area, where our family played a few games with other guests, and a group of Adirondack chairs facing spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

If You Go

The Tour Each day at 5 p.m., the inn’s education director leads a tour of the eco-friendly facilities. It includes a visit to the worm farm, where thousands of red wigglers munch on paper shreds, food waste and natural fabrics, then create nutrient rich worm castings (“poop!,”as my son pointed out) which help organically fertilize plants and trees on property. The waste from the composting toilets also becomes organic fertilizer, with an extra step. Every few years, all the inn’s human waste gets processed by an external atlantaparent.com

company and turned into Humanure. Outside is Star Base, a huge granite block sculpture designed by Fernbank Science Center that marks the position of the sun to show north, south, east and west. On the spring and fall equinoxes, the rising sun shines through a hole in Star Base and projects light onto a cave behind it. “This is the most interesting place we’ve ever stayed,” my son said. “I want to stay for a week.” c

Family Fun Guide

Len Foote Hike Inn 280 Amicalola Falls State Park Rd., Dawsonville 800-581-8032; hike-inn.com n Cost: From $150 per night, double occupancy. Rates are discounted for children. n When to go: Reservations for most Saturdays are booked at least 6 months in advance, and fall is most popular. Summer weekdays are the slowest, and the best times to make last-minute reservations. n Special Notes: Educational programs are held most evenings. Pets are not allowed.

May 2014 Atlanta Parent 59

The Merry Month of May...

* festivals

Atlanta Caribbean Children’s Carnival. Morris Brown Herndon Stadium. Children’s activities with music and games. May 17. Noon8 p.m. 643 Martin Luther King Jr Dr., Atlanta. 404-519-6120. Free.

Fairy House Festival. Chimney Park. Enjoy live Irish music, crafts, storytelling, refreshments and costumes. Build your own natural fairy house and visit the fairy house village. May 3. 2-5 p.m. 7116 Floyd St., Covington. 678-625-1235. $5; ages 2 and younger, free.

Snellville Days. Briscoe Park. Handmade crafts and food vendors, live entertainment and kids activities. May 3-4. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., noon.-5 p.m. 2500 Sawyer Pkwy., Snellville. 770-985-3535. Free. May Day Celebration. Serenbe. Celebrate Spring with a day of live music, artisian demos, hot air balloons, pony rides, tastings, plus a traditional May Pole. May 4. 1 p.m.-5 p.m. 9055 Selborne Lane, Chattahoochee Hills. 770-463-9997. $5. Fiesta Atlanta. Centennial Olympic Park. A day-long celebration of Latino culture, live music and food. May 5. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. 265 Park Avenue West, Atlanta. 404-350-0200. Free. Taste of Alpharetta. Alpharetta City Hall. Sample food from 60 local restaurants, live music featuring rock, folk and R&B bands. Kids fun zone and culinary demonstrations. May 8. 5-10 p.m. 2 South Main St., Alpharetta. 678-297-6000. Admission, free; food samples, $1-$3. Sweet Auburn Springfest. Sweet Auburn Historic District. Live entertainment, Fun Zone for kids with face painting, pony rides, slides and crafts; a car and bike show and more. May 9-11. Fri., 5-10 p.m., Sat., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., 2-8 p.m. 236 Auburn Ave., Atlanta. 678683-5647. Free. Dog Days of McDonough. Heritage Park and Veterans Wall of Honor. Pet parade, pet costume contest, pet adoptions, bounce houses, face painting and horseback rides. May 10. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 101 Lake Dow Rd., McDonough. 770-957-9998. Admission, free; selected activities, $5 each.

60 Atlanta Parent May 2014

Marietta Greek Festival. Holy Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church. Greek Hellenic dancing, Greek food and pastries, traditional gifts and jewelry, and kids’ activities. May 16-18. Fri., 3-11 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m. 3431 Trickum Rd., Marietta. 770924-8080. $4; ages 12 and younger, free. Mableton Day. Mable House Arts Center. Meet and greet artists at work, 5K race, car show, children’s play area with rock wall and bounce houses. May 17. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. 5239 Floyd Rd., Mableton. 678-509-2803. Free.

Georgia Renaissance Festival. Fairburn. Watch the Royal Jousting Tournament, see a hypnotist and belly dancer, plus jousting, aerial trapeze acts, turkey legs and live music. Saturdays and Sundays through June 8 (plus Memorial Day). 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Exit 61 on I-85 (south). 6905 Virlyn B. Smith Rd., Fairburn. 770-964-8575. Adults, $22; ages 6-12, $10; 5 and younger, free.

May-Retta Daze. Glover Park. Art festival with children’s activities and live entertainment. May 3-4. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 50 Park Square, Marietta. 770-794-5601. Free.

Dunwoody Arts Festival. Dunwoody Village Shopping Center. Live music, artists, children’s arts and crafts, rides, games and more. May 10-11. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 12:30-5 p.m. 5506 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta. 678427-6450. Free.

Kirkwood Spring Fling. Bessie Branham Park. Artists market, children’s area, live music, food, a 5K race and tour of homes. Festival, May 17. 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Tour of Homes, May 17-18, noon-6 p.m.; 5K race, May 17, 8 a.m. 2051 Delano Ave., Atlanta. 678-637-9835. Festival, free; home tour, $20; 5K race, $30. Fairy House Festival

Flavors of Forsyth. Forsyth Conference Center. Tasty fare from dozens of local restaurants, main stage performances by local musicians, artists market and Kids Zone activities. May 10. 4-8 p.m. 3410 Ronald Reagan Blvd., Cumming. 770781-4110. 770-781-4110. Admission, free. Food samples, $.50-$3. Barefoot in the Park Festival. Duluth Town Green. Artist market, an adult learning village, and Children’s Art Park with Big Thinkers Science Exploration, Gwinnett School of Music, face painting and craft projects. Live entertainment and food. May 10-11. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 3142 Hill St., Duluth. 678-677-0172. Free. Cherokee County Indian Festival and Mother’s Day Pow Wow. Boling Park. Primitive skills demonstrations, traditional dances, food, drumming, and Native Americans from around the country gather for this Pow Wow. May 10-11. Sat., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 1200 Marietta Hwy., Canton. 770-7356275. Adults, $15; ages 6-12, $5; 5 and younger, free. Buckhead Spring Arts and Crafts Festival. Chastain Park. Arts and crafts vendors, children’s play area, live music and food. May 10-11. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 4469 Stella Dr., Atlanta. 404-845-0793. Free. Colors Festival of the Arts. Roswell Historic Town Square. Live music, children’s activities, artwork, performances and more. May 10-11. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 617 Atlanta St., Roswell. 770640-3253. Free.

Family Fun Guide

Strawberry Festival. Jaemor Farms. Strawberry picking, farm tours, pony rides, craft and food vendors, and a petting zoo. May 17. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 5340 Cornelia Hwy., Alto. 770-8693999. Strawberry Picking, $13/bucket; farm tours, $5; pony rides and petting zoo, $5. Canton Festival of the Arts. Brown Park. Artists market, live entertainment, literary panel, wine and beer garden, hands-on activities for kids and more. May 17-18. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 151 Elizabeth St., Canton. 770-704-6244. Free. Arts in the Park. Suwanee Town Center Park. More than 100 artists, performers and food vendors, and performances by Peach State Opera. May 17. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 340 Town Center Park. Suwanee. 678-948-6422. Free. Atlanta Caribbean Carnival and Parade. Morris Brown Herndon Stadium. The parade travels from the Civic Center Marta station on West Peachtree to Morris Brown Herndon Stadium. Costumes, live music and food. May 24. 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Parade, noon. 643 Martin Luther King Jr Dr., Atlanta. 404-519-6120. Admission, $15; parade, free. Atlanta Jazz Festival. Piedmont Park. A weekend of jazz performances, two kids activity areas with a puppet factory from the Center for Puppetry Arts, face painting, kids’ concerts, and games. May 23-25. Festival, Fri., 4-11 p.m. Sat.Sun., 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Publix Activity Zone, Fri., 4-8 p.m. Sat.-Sun., 1-5 p.m. Art Zone, Sat.-Sun., 11 a.m.-6:30 p.m. 400 Park Dr. NE, Atlanta. 404546-6820. Free. Decatur Arts Festival. Scott Park. Artists market, music performances, dance, literary arts, Children’s Art Festival on Saturday, community parade, jugglers, pony rides and more. May 24-25. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Children’s Parade, Sat., 9:45 a.m.; kids and teen activities, Sat. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the First Baptist Church. 308 Clairemont Ave., Decatur. 404-371-9583. Free.

atlantaparent.com

Joust for Fun

The biggest Renaissance festival in the Southeast celebrates its 29th year in 2014, and several new family-friendly shows and themed weekends are planned. Here’s a peek at what to expect:

CAN YOUR KID DANCE? SING? PERFORM? Enter your child (or group) for a chance to perform at Atlanta Parent’s Family Block Party on October 11.

Entertainment n Adam Crack Fire Whip Show: A 12-time Guinness World Record holder for whip cracking performs routines including double-handed multi-crack demos, stunts and tricks – balloon popping, candle snuffing, paper cutting, flower snipping, whip dancing and fire whips.

n Cirque du Todd: Todd Key, former member of the popular act the Zucchini Brothers, presents a one-man show of juggling, ladder balancing and rope-spinning.

n Sirena: Mermaid-like costumed sirens perform a theatrical show that includes drumming, dancing and original music sung in three-part harmony.

a Atlantt’s Paren

T N E L TA OWN D

SHOW

Guest judges will be on hand at the August auditions to select the winners.

ENTRIES:

- up to 6 kids - 4 to 6 kids l $75/Dance studios 6 to 15 kids per group. l $25/Act

l $50/Group

Up to eight Family Block Party passes are included with each entry.

Upcoming Themed Weekends n May 3-4. Kids Free Weekend. One child (12 and younger) gets in free with each paid adult! Kid-friendly activities include a royal petting farm, Maypole dancing, games, rides and the Amazing Maze. n May 10-11. Mother’s Day Weekend. The first 100 moms through the gate receive a free flower. n May 31-June 1. Pirates Plunder Weekend. Pirates of all ages can compete in a costume contest, sea legs relay, and walk-theplank trivia contest. A grand Parade of Pirates takes place each day at noon.

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AGE GROUPS: 5-9, 10-13 and 14-18

If You Go Georgia Renaissance Festival 6905 Virlyn B. Smith Rd., Fairburn 770-964-8575; garenfest.com n Hours: April 19-June 8. Sat. and Sun.,10:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Also open Memorial Day. n Cost: Adults: $22; ages 6-12, $10; 5 and younger, free.

Family Fun Guide

TALENT CATEGORIES:

Singing, Dancing and Miscellaneous (includes jump roping, instruments, monologue, etc.)

DON’T MISS OUT!

Download an entry form today at atlantaparent.com/ talent_showdown Deadline July 18!

May 2014 Atlanta Parent 61

Calendar

May S M T W TH F S

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

Events may be canceled or changed after our deadline.

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

Please call the event beforehand to confirm dates and times.

KIDVILLE

classes Toddler Thursdays. High Museum of Art. Create masterpieces to complement the museum’s current exhibits. Ages 2-4. Thurs. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-5000. Free with museum admission. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; 5 and younger, free. Isabelle’s Funky Fashion Headpiece Craft. American Girl. Create a decorative headpiece for Isabelle, the Girl of the Year. May 1, 8, 15 22, and 29. 3:30-5:30 p.m. 1202 North Point Cir., Alpharetta. 877-247-5223. Ages 8 and older, free. Mommy and Me Preschool Program. Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History. Different activities each week. May 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29. 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; ages 3 and younger, free. Teen Open Studio. High Museum of Art. Drawing in the galleries. May 2. 4-7 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-5000. Ages 14-18, free with high school identification. Kid’s Yoga. Cross of Life Christian Montessori School. Parent and me yoga class open to the public. May 2. 9:30 a.m. 1000 Hembree Rd., Roswell. 770-475-3812. Reservations required. Ages 2-6 with parent, free. Yoga for Kids. Johns Creek Yoga. Preschool and children’s yoga classes each Sat. Ages 3-6, 9:3010:30 a.m.; ages 7-9, 11 a.m.-noon. 11705 Jones Bridge Rd., Johns Creek. 678-951-8841. $12. Indoor Basic Archery. Panola Mountain State Park. Learn archery basics. Equipment provided. May 3-4. Sat., 10 a.m.-noon. and 2-4 p.m. Sun., 2-4 p.m. May 10-11. Sat., 3-5 p.m. Sun., 10 a.m.-noon. May 17-18. Sat., 2-4 p.m. Sun., 10 a.m.-noon and 2-4 p.m. 2600 Highway 155 SW, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. Pre-register. $10; parking, $5. Saturday Morning Art Classes. Vinings School of Art. Take a drawing, painting or pottery class. Supplies included. Ages 2-13. Sat. 10 and 11 a.m. 1675 Cumberland Pkwy., Smyrna. 678-2134278. Pre-register. $15, siblings $12. Crafts at Lakeshore Learning. Lakeshore Learning. Make a different craft each week. Sat. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 4287 Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770-578-3100. Free. Home Depot Kid’s Workshop. All locations. Learn tool safety while building a craft and receive a kid-size orange apron. First Sat. of each month. May 3. 9 a.m.-noon. Homedepot.com. Ages 5-12, free. Indian Miniature Workshop. Michael C. Carlos Museum. See the newly installed Indian miniature paintings and then create one to take home. May 4. 2-4 p.m. 571 Kilgo Cir., Atlanta. 404-727-0519. Registration required. Ages 8-12, $15.

62 Atlanta Parent May 2014

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Northlake Mall MAY 3. 11 A.M.-4 P.M. Atlanta Parent transforms Northlake Mall into a neighborhood of activities, resources for families, interactive stations, and demonstrations. Stroll along Kidville streets’ including Activity Avenue, Healthy Highway, Party Place and Main Street. Enter to win prizes and enjoy giveaways. 4800 Briarcliff Rd., Atlanta. 770-4547599. Free. atlantaparent.com. Lil’ Bean Head Crafts. Bean Head Toys. Create an art project. May 7 and 21. 3-4 p.m. 220 Johnson Ferry Rd., Sandy Springs. 404-851-2980. All ages, younger children may need assistance. Free. Second Thursday Program. Southeastern Railway Museum. Parents and tots program including circle time, songs, activities, and a craft. May 8. 10:30 a.m.-noon. 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth. 770-476-2013. Ages 2-12, $7 per child, 1 adult free; additional adult, $8. Turtle Tours. Heritage Sandy Springs Museum. Introduce history through stories, hands-on exhibits and crafts, museum mascots Sandy the chipmunk and Spring the turtle. May 10. 11 a.m. 6075 Sandy Springs Cir., Sandy Springs. 404-851-9111. Recommended for ages 2-5. Donations encouraged. How to Ride a Bike for Kids. Washington Park Beltline. Introduction to riding a bike. May 11. 2-4 p.m. 1125 Lena St., Atlanta. 404446-4410. Registration requested. Free. Magic Mondays. Atlanta History Center. Storytime, sing-a-longs and crafts. May 12. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 130 West Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Adults, $16.50; ages 4-11, $11; ages 3 and younger, free. Mice Tours. Marietta Museum of History. Museum mascots Murray and Etta mouse introduce history through tours, storytime and craft. May 14. 10:30 a.m. 1 Depot St., Marietta. 770-794-5710. Reservations required. Ages 3-5, $5. Marie-Grace & Cecile’s Embroidered Card Craft. American Girl. Stitch a dancer’s silhouette on a card. May 25. 1-3 p.m. 1202 North Point Cir., Alpharetta. 877-247-5223. Ages 8 and older, free.

Family Fun Guide

Summer Reading Bookmark Craft. American Girl. Create a bookmark for summer reading. May 27. Noon-2 p.m. 1202 North Point Cir., Alpharetta. 877247-5223. Ages 8 and older, free. Kids: Grill and Chill Cookout Salud! Cooking School in Harry’s Farmers Market. Grill safety, cooking skills, and math. Kids create chicken burgers, corn, potato salad and dessert. Registration required. May 31. 3-6 p.m. 1180 Upper Hembree Rd., Roswell. 770-4423354. Ages 10-12, $35.

exhibits Hidden Heroes. Museum of Design. See the design history of common objects like the paper clip, zipper and light bulb. Through May 11. Tues.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wed. until 8 p.m. Sun. noon-5 p.m. 1315 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-979-6455. Adults, $10; ages 6-17, $5; ages 5 and younger, free. Sonic Sensation. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Explore the science of sound with a soundproof scream chamber, a movie soundtrack production exhibit, and an invisible orchestra play area. Through June 1. Mon.-Fri. (closed Wed.) 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free admission after 1 p.m. every second Tuesday of the month made possible through the support of Target. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-659-5437. $12.75; younger than 1, free. The Kinsey Collection. Atlanta History Center. A collection of historical art includes a first edition of Solomon Northrup’s 12 Years a Slave and other rare books in addition to paintings, early photographs, and sculptures. Through July 13. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Sun., noon-5:30 p.m. 130 West Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Adults, $16.50; ages 4-12, $11; ages 3 and younger, free.

atlantaparent.com

Calendar

CHEROKEE COUNTY INDIAN FESTIVAL AND MOTHER’S DAY POWWOW

Whales: Giants of the Deep. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. The exhibit features life-sized whale skeletons, a walk-through replica whale heart, and a design-a-dolphin experience. Through Aug. 24. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. noon-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6400. Adults, $18; ages 3-12, $16; ages 2 and younger, free.

Boling Park MAY 10-11. SAT., 11 A.M.-7 P.M. SUN., 11 A.M.-6 P.M. This American-Indian heritage festival features a traditional powwow with dancers in regalia, more than 40 native arts and craft vendors and American Indian storytellers. Learn flint knapping, fire by friction, hide tanning and archery in the primitive skills demonstrations. The American Indian Dance Games invites the audience to participate. 1200 Marietta Hwy., Canton. 770-735-6275. Adults, $15; ages 6-12, $5; ages 5 and younger, free. rthunder.com.

Dream Cars: Innovative Design, Visionary Ideas. High Museum of Art. Exhibit featuring cars by Ferrari, Bugatti, General Motors and Porsche from the early 1930s to the 21st century. May 21-Sept. 7. Tues.-Sat. 10 a.m.5 p.m. Fri. until 8 p.m. Sun. noon-5 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-5000. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; ages 5 and younger, free. Imaginary Worlds: A New Kingdom of Plant Giants. The Atlanta Botanical Garden. An exhibit featuring twenty-eight topiary-like sculptures includes three life-sized gorillas, an earth goddess, a shaggy dog, and a unicorn. The sculptures range in sizes with the tallest standing twenty-five feet. May 3-Oct. 31. Tues.-Sun. 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Thur., until 10 p.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. Adults, $18.95; ages 3-12, $12.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

Centennial Olympic Games Exhibit. Atlanta History Center. Learn about the 1996 Olympic Games held in Atlanta. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Sun. noon-5:30 p.m. 130 West Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Adults, $16.50; ages 4-12, $11; 3 and younger, free.

Out Fishin. World of Coca-Cola. Exhibit spotlighting Norman Rockwell’s creations for Coca-Cola’s advertising from 1928 to 1935. Daily through May. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wed. and Thurs. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 121 Baker St., Atlanta. 404-676-5151. Adults, $16; ages 3-12, $12; 2 and younger, free.

Dolphin Tales. Georgia Aquarium. The live show incorporates dolphins, actors and special effects. Multiple shows per day, times vary. Reservations recommended. Sun.-Fri. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 225 Baker St., Atlanta. 404-581-4000. Adults, $35.95; ages 3-12, $29.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

Sea Monsters Revealed: Aquatic Bodies. Georgia Aquarium. An exhibit of sea creatures includes an 18-foot-long, 3,000 pound whale shark. Sun.-Fri. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 225 Baker St., Atlanta. 404-581-4000. Adults, $35.95; ages 3-12, $29.95; ages 2 and younger, free. Bodies: The Exhibition. Atlantic Station. An informative view into the human body. Mon.Thurs. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fri.-Sun. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Last ticket sold an hour before closing. 265 18th St., Atlanta. 404-496-4274. Adults, $24; ages 3-11, $16; 2 and younger, free.

May 2014 Atlanta Parent 63

Celebrate

Brunch with Mom on Sunday, May 11

MOM!

Zocalo. The Mexican restaurant, known for the authentic comfort food, serves special brunch plates for mothers. Each mother receives a free flower. Reservations recommended. 187 10th St. NE, Atlanta. 404-249-7576. Bottomless Brunch, $35; a la carte, $6-$9.95.

❦

Show Mom some love with activities and brunch spots dedicated to her.

Imperial Fez. Serving a Mother’s Day Moroccan lunch and dinner. Children 12 and younger eat free. Reservations recommended. 2285 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-351-0870. $45-$55.

Events Mother’s Day Card Craft. Buckhead Branch Library. Drop-in parent and child craft to create a card for mom. May 3. Noon4 p.m. 269 Buckhead Ave., Atlanta. Ages 4-12, free. Mother’s Day Craft. Stonecrest Library. Create a gift for mom. May 5 and 10. 3-4 p.m. 3123 Klondike Rd., Lithonia. 770-4823828. Free. Mother’s Day Card Craft. American Girl. Create a Mother’s Day card. May 9. 3:30-5:30 p.m. May 10. 3-5 p.m. May 11. 1-3 p.m. 1202 North Point Cir., Alpharetta. 877247-5223. Ages 8 and older, free.

Meet the Holidays: Mother’s Day. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. The Imaginators celebrate Mother’s Day, read What NOT to Give Your Mom on Mother’s Day by Martha Simpson and create a birdhouse to take home. May 10-11. Sat., noon. Sun., 3 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-659-5437. Ages 1 and older, $12.75. Kids: Mother’s Day Tea. Salud! Cooking School in Harry’s Farmers Market. Kids create an afternoon tea with snacks and hot tea. Moms come for tea only at 4 p.m. Registration required. May 11. 1:30-4:30 p.m. 1180 Upper Hembree Rd., Roswell. 770-442-3354. Ages 6-10. Mother-child pair, $39.

Villa Cristina. Gourmet brunch for moms and their families. Reservations recommended. 4000 Summit Blvd., Atlanta. 404-303-0133. Adults, $40; ages 6-12, $20; ages and younger, free. American Girl Bistro. Mother’s Day brunch for moms and daughters. Reservations recommended. 9:30 a.m. 1202 North Point Pkwy., Alpharetta. 877247-5223. $14.50 per person. Chequers. Mother’s Day brunch with a carving station, seafood, prime rib, and omelet station. Reservations recommended. 236 Perimeter Center Pkwy., Atlanta. 770-391-9383. Adults, $32; ages 4-12, $15; ages 3 and younger, free.

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64 Atlanta Parent May 2014

Family Fun Guide

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Calendar 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. Ages 10 and older, free.

movies Journey to the South Pacific. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Travel to the lush tropical islands of remote West Papua, where life flourishes above and below the sea. Through June 5. See fernbankmuseum.org for show times. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. IMAX tickets: Adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; 2 and younger, free. Island of Lemurs: Madagascar. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Filmmakers travel to Madagascar to document the lives of the Lemurs. Through Aug. 14. See fernbankmuseum.org for show times. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. IMAX tickets: Adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; 2 and younger, free.

music Jazz in the Alley: the Phil West Project. Skin Alley, Downtown Norcross. Phil West performs his original Jazz funk and fusion pieces. May 3. 7 p.m. South Peachtree St., Norcross. 404514-1656. Free. Symphony in your Neighborhood. Stonecrest Library. The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra performs chamber music in a casual setting. May 6. 7-8 p.m. 3123 Klondike Rd., Lithonia. 770-482-3828. All ages. Free. Lady Gaga. Philips Arena. Lady Gaga sings her pop hits during artRAVE: The ARTPOP concert. May 6. 7:30 p.m. 1 Philips Dr., Atlanta. $39-$204. Drum Circle. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Chuck Cogliandro leads a drum circle for all levels and spectators. May 9. 8-10 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. All ages, $5 donation requested. Johns Creek Symphony presents “Classic Hollywood.” Johns Creek High School. Music performance from “Star Wars,” “Gone With the Wind”, and “James Bond.” May 10. 8 p.m. 5575 State Bridge Rd., Johns Creek. 678-7485802. Adults, $30; ages 18 and younger, $15.

No Time To Clean?

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Friday Jazz. High Museum of Art. Jazz musician Louis Heriveaux performs. May 16. 5-10 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-5000. $10. diPA Center Spring Production My Prayer Closet. Lassiter Concert Hall. Annual Spring Production of dance, ministry, and excellence in the arts. May 24. 6 p.m. 2601 Shallowford Rd., Marietta. 678-914-7557. $15. Third Day and Friends. The Arena at Gwinnett Center. The Christian-rock band plays their hit songs including ones from their latest album. May 31. 7 p.m. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Lawrenceville. 770-813-7600. $20-$75.

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May 2014 Atlanta Parent 65

Reach Atlanta’s Families Now!

DISNEY ON ICE CELEBRATES 100 YEARS OF MAGIC The Arena at Gwinnett Center MAY 14-18. WED.-THUR., 7:30 P.M. FRI., 10:40 A.M. AND 7:30 P.M. SAT., 11 A.M., 3 AND 7 P.M. SUN., 1 AND 5 P.M.

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Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy and Donald Duck celebrate 100 years with sixty-five Disney characters in a musical show on ice. Show highlights include pieces from Aladdin, Finding Nemo, Beauty and the Beast, Toy Story, Pinocchio, and the Lion King. The 95-minute show incorporates floats, costumed characters, music and actors. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Lawrenceville. 770-813-7600. $28-$98. Disneyonice.com.

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MORE THAN 50 FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES!

Boogie Woogie Bullfrog. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Musical performances about nature and environmental responsibilities. May 31. 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. Free with admission. Adults, $18.95; ages 3-12, $12.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

nature Garden Stroller Strut. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Meet in the Hardin Visitor Center to explore the garden. Each Fri. 10:30-11 a.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-8765859. Recommended for ages 1-2. Adults, $18.95; ages 3-12, $12.95; ages 2 and younger, free. Candlelight Hike to the Mill. Sweetwater Creek Park. A one-mile night hike treks to the Civil War era textile ruins. Candle lanterns are provided. May 3. 8-10 p.m. 1750 Mt. Vernon Rd., Lithia Springs. 770-732-5871. Ages 6 and older, $5; parking, $5.

Entertainment Toddler-only Play Area Storytelling Craft Activities Trick-or-Treat Street Exhibitors brought to you by Atlanta Parent Magazine

www.atlantaparent.com 66 Atlanta Parent May 2014

Adventure Cubs. Zoo Atlanta. Learn about animals on the African savanna, tour the zoo and meet an animal ambassador. May 7 and 10. 10-11 a.m. 800 Cherokee Ave., Atlanta. 404-624-9453. Recommended for ages 3 and 4. Reservations are requested. $12 per person includes zoo admission. National Astronomy Day. Tellus Museum. The Observatory opens early to view the sun, sunspots, and solar prominences. At dusk see the Moon, Jupiter, Mars, and Saturn. Children’s activities include crafts and temporary cosmic tattoos. Museum astronomers offer guided star walks. May 10. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Star Walks, 9 and 9:30 p.m. Observatory, 10 a.m.-11 p.m. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. Adults, $14; ages 3-17, $10; ages 2 and younger, free. Tellusmuseum.org.

Family Fun Guide

River Canoe Adventures. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Guided canoe journey exploring the Chattahoochee River. May 10-11, 17-18, 24-25. 6 p.m.-dusk. Registration required. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-9922055. Ages 6 and older, $30. Artifact ID and Celebrate Archaeology. Etoway Indian Mounds Historic Site. Bring treasures for an archaeologist to identify and explain how we learn from artifacts. Park staff offers games and activities throughout the day. May 17. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 813 Indian Mounds Rd., Cartersville. 770-387-3747. Ages, $2-$6. Stand Up Paddle Boarding 101. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Learn how to paddle board, enter and exit the water safely, and paddling techniques. Registration required. May 17 and 25. 12:30-2 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Ages 10 and older, $20. Canoe 101. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Learn the basics of canoeing in one of the Chattahoochee Nature Center’s ponds. Registration required. May 17 and 25. 12:302 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-9922055. Ages 5 and older, $15. Tree Top Excursions: Introduction Climb. Panola Mountain State Park. Explore the tree canopy using ropes and harnesses. Registration required. May 17. 1 and 3 p.m. 2600 Highway 155 SW, Stockbridge. 770389-7801. Ages 8 and older, $15; $5 parking. Stroller Cubs. Zoo Atlanta. Programs for babies to 2 years and parents/caregivers. May 21 and 31. 10-11 a.m. 800 Cherokee Ave., Atlanta. 404-624-9453. Reservations are requested. $12 per person includes zoo admission. Night Treks at the GEHC Meteor Madness. Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Night hike to see the Comet 209P/ Linear meteor shower. Registration required. May 24. 7:30-9 p.m. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-904-3500. Adults, $8; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free.

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Calendar

special events Teen Arts Night. City Center. Teens can bring instruments, poetry, artwork, and short stories to share. Includes a slice of pizza and a soda. May 2. 6-8 p.m. 8534 Main St., Woodstock. 678-494-4251. Ages 12-15, $5. Fridays -N- Duluth. City of Duluth. Activities include movies, musicians, and children’s activities each Friday night. May 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30. 6-9 p.m. Food for purchase from vendors or bring a picnic. 3167 Main St., Duluth. 770-476-3434. Free.

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Pirate Day May. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Swashbuckling fun day with costumed pirates, recycled craft activity, walk the plank game, temporary tattoos and scavenger hunt. May 3. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Adults, $18; ages 3-12, $16; ages 2 and younger, free. Atlanta ZooMobile: Super Senses. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. The Atlanta Zoo explains how animals hear, see and smell to survive in the wilderness. May 3 and 17. Noon. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404659-5437. Ages 1 and older, $12.75.

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Helicopter Rides. Aviation Wing of the Marietta Museum of History. 5-10 minute flight around Kennesaw Mountain. Weather permitting. Spectators are welcome. May 3. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 550 Perrin Rd., Marietta. 770-794-5710. $40 per person.

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Summer Intensive

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Peter Rabbit Tea. Decatur Library. Peter Rabbit storytime by Tracy Sue Walker, rabbit craft and snacks. May 3. 11 a.m.-12:30 a.m. 215 Sycamore St., Decatur. 404-370-3070. Free.

Ballet, Modern, African, Hip Hop, Jazz, Voice, Drama, Etiquette and More... Time: 9:00 am-5:00 pm Session I: June 9-June13 • AGES 6-8 Session II: June 16-27 • AGES 8-12 June 23-July 3 • AGES: 12-15 Session III: July 7-25 • AGES 15-professional ~BEST PRICES IN TOWN!~ 3201 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Atlanta, GA 30311 Phone: (404)752-0980 www.dancicalproductions.com

Outdoor Movie. Swift-Cantrell Park. “Despicable Me 2” and children’s activities with inflatables. May 3. 6 p.m. 3140 Old 41 Hwy., Kennesaw. 770-424-8274. Movie, free; children’s activities, free-$3. Meet the Holidays: Cinco de Mayo. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Celebrate Mexican Independence Day with a storytime and Maraca craft. May 5. 1 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-659-5437. Ages 1 and older, $12.75. Toddler Tuesdays. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta. Guided play and storytimes each Tues. through May 20. Tues. noon, 2 and 4 p.m. 3500 Peachtree Rd., Atlanta. 404-848-9252. Ages 3 and older, $12; ages 2 and younger, free.

One & two-week camps available!

Summer Kick-Off Picnic. Newtown Park. Picnic, activities, music for families with disabled members. Meal included. Registration required. May 10. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 3150 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek. 678-512-3200. Free. Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour. The Arena at Gwinnett Center. Cirque du Soleil performs dance and acrobatics to the music of Michael Jackson. May 10-11. Sat., 8 p.m. Sun., 5 p.m. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Lawrenceville. 770-813-7600. $53-$153. Safety Circus. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Learn about water safety, poison prevention, helmet safety, and proper car seat and booster installation. DeKalb County police create child identifications with fingerprints. Safety activities with the Imaginators. May 12. 3-6 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-6595437. Ages 1 and older, $12.75.

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Join us for a whimsical Challenge Island summer camp where campers will create and test thematic inventions in tribes! Register online at www.challenge-island.com/24 Call 404-964-7501 for more information.

Summer Theme Camps in Roswell, GA Ages 4+

May 2014 Atlanta Parent 67

Calendar

PLAY DAY AND JAZZ FESTIVAL NEIGHBORHOOD SERIES

Clifford the Big Red Dog. Area Libraries. Sing songs, create a craft, and listen to storytime with Clifford the Big Dog. Remember your camera. May 13. 1:30-2:30 p.m. Powder Springs Library. 4181 Atlanta St., Powder Springs. 770-439-3600; 3:30-4:30 p.m. Chamblee Library. 4115 Clairmont Rd., Chamblee. 770-936-1380. Free.

Washington Park Beltline MAY 17. 1-5 P.M. A day of games organized by area coaches and sports organizations includes kick-ball, yoga, softball, lacrosse, dance, hockey, and dodge-ball. Activities are open to all ages and skill levels; advance registration is requested. Jazz concert follows the activities. Vendors provide sports education, nutrition, and activity ideas. 102 Ollie St., Atlanta. 404-446-4410. Registration requested. Free. Beltline.org.

Atlanta Chinese Dance Company. Decatur Library. See traditional Chinese dances, kung-fu and ribbon dance demonstrations. May 13. 7-7:50 p.m. 215 Sycamore St., Decatur. 404-370-3070. Free. Fancy Nancy Mobile Tour. Little Shop of Stories. Fancy Nancy author Jane O’Connor and illustrator Robin Preiss Glasser arrive on the Fancy Nancy bus with their latest books, “Fancy Nancy and the Wedding of the Century” and “Nancy Clancy: Secret of the Silver Key,” a chapter book. May 7. 4:30 p.m. 133A East Court Sq., Decatur. 404-373-6300. Free. The Atlanta Gluten and Allergen Free Expo. Cobb Galleria Centre. Vendor, lectures, classes, and products for gluten and allergy living. May 17-18. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 2 Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta. 847-284-9999. Adults, $15; ages 10 and younger, $3. Archaeology Festival. Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Learn about protecting the past through archaeology and tour the ArchaeoBus. Registration required. May 17. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770904-3500. Adults, $5; ages 3-12, $3.

68 Atlanta Parent May 2014

The Great Geocaching Battle of Marietta. Laurel Park. A geocaching adventure with prizes celebrating the 150th Anniversary of the American Civil War in Georgia. Lunch, T-shirt, and prizes included. Registration required by May 4. May 17. 10 a.m. 151 Manning Rd., Marietta. 770-794-5601. $10 per person. North Georgia Live Steamers. Georgia International Horse Park. Ride on the miniature trains. May 17. 1-4:30 p.m. 1632 Centennial Olympic Pkwy., Conyers. 770-602-2606. All ages, $2 per ride.

Family Fun Guide

Backyard Campout. Swift-Cantrell Park. Camp in the park with a hot dog dinner, field activities, campfire, skits and pancake breakfast. May 1718. Sat., 5 p.m.-Sun., 9 a.m. 3140 Old 41 Hwy., Kennesaw. 770-424-8274. $15 per campsite. Reader’s Theatre: The Library Comes Alive. Roswell Branch Library. The Georgia Ensemble Theatre performs “Aesop’s Fables.” Actor meet and greet follows. Snacks provided. May 21. 4 p.m. 115 Norcross St., Roswell. 770-640-3075. Registration opens May 7. Free.

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Calendar Read to Rover. Stone Mountain-Sue Kellogg Library. Practice reading skills with trained therapy dogs. Open to the first 10 participants. May 24. noon-1 p.m. 952 Leon St., Stone Mountain. 770-413-2020. Free. Wendy Higgins signs Sweet Reckoning. FoxTale Book Shoppe. Teen author signs the latest in her Sweet trilogy. May 24. 2 p.m. 105 East Main St., Woodstock. 770-516-9989. Free. Legomania! Acworth Library. Create a Lego masterpiece during this drop-in event. May 27. 3:30-4:30 p.m. 4569 Dallas St., Acworth. 770917-5165. Ages 5-11, free. ComicCon Atlanta. Georgia World Congress Center. Festival for pop culture, comic books, and science fiction fans. May 30-June 1. Fri., 3-8 p.m. Sat., 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Sun., 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 285 Andrew Young International Blvd., Atlanta. wizardworld.com. Fri., $35; Sat., $45; Sun., $40; three-day ticket, $75. Full Radius Dance. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Full Radius Dance, professional dancers with and without disabilities, shows kids the laws of gravity, momentum and energy through their interactive dance performance. May 31. Noon. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-659-5437. Ages 1 and older, $12.75.

storytelling Storytime at Bean Head Toys. Bean Head Toys. Listen to stories in the indoor tree house and make a craft to take home. Thurs. 10:30 a.m. 220 Johnson Ferry Rd., Sandy Springs. 404851-2980. Free. Storytime at Little Shop. Little Shop of Stories. Storytelling three times a week. Thurs. nights kids can come in pjs. Milk and cookies provided. Tues. 11 a.m., Thurs. 7 p.m., and Sun. 3 p.m. 133 A East Court Sq., Decatur. 404373-6300. Free. Storytime: Do You Hear What I Hear? The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. An Imaginator reads The Worst Day of My Life Ever! by Julia Cook and Kelsey DeWeerd. May 1-31. Sun.Tue. and Thur.-Fri., 3 p.m. Sat., 4 p.m. April 8 is Target Free Tuesday with free admission after 1 p.m. 275 Centennial Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-6595437. Ages 1 and older, $12.75. Artful Stories. Michael C. Carlos Museum. Storytime reading about Achilles, create a mosaic craft, and explore the Greek and Roman galleries. May 3. 10 a.m. 571 Kilgo Cir., Atlanta. 404-727-0519. Registration required. Ages 3-5, free. Children’s Storytime. FoxTale Book Shoppe. Storytimes are followed by dance and songs. Mon. and Sat. 11 a.m. 105 East Main St., Woodstock. 770-516-9989. Free. Wren’s Nest Storytelling. The Wren’s Nest. Ramblers host storytelling each Sat. 1 p.m. 1050 Ralph D. Abernathy Blvd., Atlanta. 404753-7735. Adults, $8; ages 5-18, $5; 4 and younger, free. Storytime by the River. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Join the volunteer librarian as she uses books, puppets and songs to share stories about nature. Ages 3-5. May 7. 10:30-11:30 a.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free.

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Family Fun Guide

May 2014 Atlanta Parent 69

Calendar

MEMORIAL DAY EVENTS

Over the Garden Wall. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Holly Stevenson tells Beatrix Potter tales with puppets, songs, and garden facts. May 10. 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404876-5859. Free with admission. Adults, $18.95; ages 3-12, $12.95; ages 2 and younger, free. Storytime at Fernbank. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Storytelling by Rob Cleveland. May 10. Noon. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Free with museum admission. Adults, $18; ages 3-12, $16; 2 and younger, free. Magical Garden Stories. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Costumed Queen Emeralda tells stories about animals and nature with puppets and songs. May 17. 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. Free with admission. Adults, $18.95; ages 3-12, $12.95; ages 2 and younger, free. Imagine If. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Storytelling by Betty Ann Wylie. May 31. 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. Free with admission. Adults, $18.95; ages 3-12, $12.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

MILITARY TIMELINE Atlanta History Center MAY 24, 11 A.M.-4 P.M. Spend Memorial Day honoring soldiers with military exhibits displaying uniforms, vehicles, wartime memorabilia and a Civil War encampment. Special activities for kids and living history interpreters will teach about authentic equipment and vehicles. Veterans are on hand to share their stories with the visitors.130 West Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Adults, $16.50; ages 4-12, $11; 3 and younger, free. MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND DISPLAY Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park MAY 24-26, 9:30 A.M.-4 P.M.

theater Charlotte’s Web. Center for Puppetry Arts. E.B. White’s classic tale of friendship between Charlotte and Wilbur the pig is adapted into a puppet show with barnyard animals and Templeton the rat. Through May 25. Tues.-Fri., 10 and 11:30 a.m. Sat., noon and 2 p.m. Sun., 1 and 3 p.m. 1404 Spring St., Atlanta. 404-873-3391. Ages 2 and older, $16.50.

Atlanta History Center

Memorial Day activities include live firing demonstrations and exhibits of veterans’ uniforms and memorabilia. Artillery demonstrations are May 25-26, at 11 a.m., noon, 2 and 3 p.m.. 900 Kennesaw Mountain Dr., Kennesaw. 770-427-4686. Nps.gov/kemo. Free.

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Calendar A Musical Tour through Latin America. Aurora Theatre. Musical journey through Cuba, Mexico, Columbia, Panama, and Puerto Rico featuring salsa dancing, merengue, and Macarena. May 3. 10 a.m. 128 East Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. $7. The New Adventures of Brer Rabbit. Aurora Theatre. Musical puppet show by All Hands Productions based on Joel Chandler Harris’ folktale series. May 10. 10 a.m. 128 East Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. $7. Cowgirls. Horizon Theatre. A classicallytrained music trio is mistakenly scheduled as a cowgirl band to headline at a country roadhouse. Desperate for money the girls agree to the gig and adventures ensue. May 16-June 29. Wed.-Fri., 8 p.m. Sat., 3 and 8:30 p.m. Sun., 5 p.m. 1083 Austin Ave., Atlanta. 404-523-1477. Ages 10 and older, $25-$45. Squirrel Stole My Underpants: A Poignantly Silly Adventure Tale for Families. Center for Puppetry Arts. Follow the backyard adventures of Sylvie and a mischievous underwear-stealing squirrel. The two dives into the depths of the laundry basket and a chase ensues. This one-hour puppet show includes puppets and actors. May 27-June 8, Tue.-Fri. 10 a.m. and noon; Sat. 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m.; Sun. 1 and 3 p.m. 1404 Spring St., Atlanta. 404-873-3391. Ages 3 and older, $16.50. Puppet.org.

beyond atlanta Nantahala Gorge Excursion. The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. Roundtrip train excursion to the Nantahala Gorge. Bluegrass music and storytelling during the journey. The 4½ hour trip includes a one hour layover at the Nantahala Gorge. May 1-3, 6-10, 13-17, 20-31. Departure 10:30 a.m. 226 Everett St., Bryson City, NC. 800-872-4681. Adults, $51; ages 2-12, $29; ages 1 and younger, free.

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The Bush Centre for Ballet: Classical Ballet Program (Ages 3-adult). Contemporary lyric jazz, pointe, pre-pointe. Annual recital. Summer Camp. Sandy Springs. www.bushballetcentre.com. 404-256-5542. European School of Music & Chess. Guitar and Educational Enrichment Camp; Drummer’s Brain Class. Special instruction in piano, voilin, saxophone, guitar, drums, voice, chess, math—improves critical thinking, focus, attention. 404-255-8382. www.euroschoolmusic.org.

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SE R V I C E S

Thomas the Train. Tennessee Valley Railroad. Thomas the Tank Engine chugs its way into Chattanooga to give young engineers rides along the Tennessee Valley Railroad. A costumed Sir Toppham Hat is on hand to prevent delay and take pictures. Reservations are recommended for the 25 minute ride. May 3, 4 and 10. Departures hourly. 4119 Cromwell Rd., Chattanooga. 423-894-8028. $18-$22. Tvrail.com. Searching for Dragons and Damsels. Hard Labor Creek State Park. Bring a camera and binoculars to hunt for dragonflies and damselflies in streams, lakes and ponds. May 3. 2-3:30 p.m. 5 Hard Labor Creek Rd., Rutledge. 706-557-3006. Ages 10 and older, $5; parking, $5. Memorial Day Weekend Festival. Callaway Gardens. Masters Water Ski and Wakeboard Tournament, live music, kids’ zone, beach activities, Pyrotechnic Night Jump by U.S. Army Silver Wings Parachute Team, and Callaway Gardens Farmers Market. May 23-26. Tournament: Fri.-Sat., 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun., 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Music: Fri., 7-9 p.m. Sat., 5-9 p.m. Night Jump: Sun., 8:45-9:15 p.m. Farmers market, 4-7 p.m. daily. 17800 US Hwy. 27, Pine Mountain. 800-225-5292. Adults, $25; ages 6-12, $12.50; ages 5 and younger, free. c

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Humor

by Pam Molnar

Swimsuit Shopping? Please, No!

dread shopping for swimsuits. Normally, I am the kind of shopper that can find something quickly. I picked out all the items for my remodeled kitchen in an afternoon. Sales people love me because I don’t waffle back and forth when choosing new furniture. But swimwear? I probably spent less time looking for my wedding dress than I did looking for last year’s swimsuit.

While I criticize every wrinkle, stretch mark and pound, I make a silent promise to stop at the gym on the way home.

74 Atlanta Parent May 2014

Like most women, I guess I fear being judged. Let’s be honest. We have all seen those women who clearly did not use the mirror in the dressing room. They are the highlight of people-watching on the beach. While it’s true that people may judge your choice of kitchen granite or living room sofa, it’s just not the same. You are not wearing your granite on your way-over25-check-out-all-my-flaws-post-children body. There is something to be said for those bathing suits from the early 1900s. I normally shop for a swimsuit alone, but I wonder if it would be better taking a friend for moral support. A friend would understand why you need to order margaritas at lunch and she would not remind you about them when you complained about your muffin top in the dressing room. No, I brave the dressing room sans friends (and margaritas). I wander around the swimwear department grabbing swimsuits that look good only on the hanger. I undress in a tiny room with bad lighting and scare myself with the glare coming off my very white legs. While I criticize every wrinkle, stretch mark and pound, I make a silent promise to stop at the gym on the way home. After hitting three or four stores at the mall, I either give up and go home or settle on something that doesn’t look “too bad”. Online shopping is no better. Sure, you save yourself the embarrassment of running in and out of the dressing room looking for bigger sizes, but you open yourself up to another frustration. Although you are in the comfort of your own home, you have to guess how these suits will fit on you. The swimsuits look adorable on these slim models with big boobs and flat stomachs, but that wasn’t my body pre-children, let alone now.

The online stores offer size charts and body type suggestions, but honestly, they are no help. The size charts are from size 2 to size 16. Wouldn’t it be nice if they could show the suit on models that fit in that size? That way, if you were a size 12, you would be able to see what your size 12 butt was going to look like versus the size 2 butt. Instead, you see the suit on the Barbie doll shaped model and you have to guess. I shopped online this year. I picked what I thought looked nice and I hit the “purchase” button. The good news is that it is back-ordered, so I can put off the agony of trying it on. However, swimsuit season may arrive first, and if the suit doesn’t fit ... I guess I have to head out to the stores after all. Wish me luck! c atlantaparent.com

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