Atlanta Parent May 2017 by Atlanta Parent

AtlantaParent May 2017 / atlantaparent.com

Ways to Entertain Your Kids Without a Screen

Playgrounds We Love (and you will, too!)

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It’s PlaYTiMe. AgaIn. Every day is playtime when you visit Ya Lun and Xi Lun, Atlanta’s new set of giant panda twins.

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Inside 33 May Vol. 34 / Number 5

YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT

Features 12

Departments 8 Publisher’s Note 10 Good Stuff

Hey Mom, Keep Looking Your Best

Don’t forget the basics, plus more options you may not have considered.

50 Ways to Play

Rollerblade, jump rope or play a board game – try one of these 50 ideas for fun with the kids that don’t involve a screen.

Atlanta’s Top Playgrounds

Metro Atlanta has many top-notch playgrounds. Use our guide to find the ones worth a drive.

Make Learning Fun

Summers are made for playing, but fun can go hand-in-hand with learning. Help your child retain reading and math skills with these tips.

Special Needs Conquering a new challenge is a way of life for most special needs families. Meet three families who take it to a whole new level. Plus, sensoryfriendly activities, special needs apps and more.

Magazine Association of the Southeast

2013 Award Winner atlantaparent.com

Things we like

66 For the Fridge

Words of humor & wisdom

Family Fun Guide

47 Not-to-Miss Events 48 Eating Out:

The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill

49 Flutter to Fairy Land 50 Have a Ball at SunTrust Park

Visit a Farm

Flight Plan for Fun

56 Dinosaurs at Stone Mountain Park 57 May Festivals 58 May Calendar 59 Mother’s Day Events On the Cover: Cover Kid Valentino Onate, 6, of Smyrna. Photo by Silly Goose Photography. Shot on location at Piedmont Park.

Like us on Facebook; facebook.com/ AtlantaParentMagazine May 2017 Atlanta Parent 5

Breathe Easy Early

An ORBEX Study of Asthma & Wheezing Your child may be eligible to participate in a clinical trial at Emory University / Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta to help prevent asthma in children PARTICIPANTS MUST: • Be 5 - 17 months old • Have eczema (atopic dermatitis), OR • Have 1 biological parent who has been diagnosed with asthma

Qualified participants will receive: • Compensation for time and travel

PUBLISHER Liz White

lwhite@atlantaparent.com ASSOCIATE Laura Powell

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

ACCOUNT Sarah Bergeron

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

CONTRIBUTING Amanda Miller Allen

For more information, contact:

Alice Bruce 404.712.1773 alice.bruce@emory.edu

EDITOR STAFF Teresa Farkas

WRITER tfarkas@atlantaparent.com

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

PRODUCTION Robin Mintz

OPERATIONS Caroline Ward MANAGER cward@atlantaparent.com ADMINISTRATIVE Amelia Ramirez

ASSISTANT 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 2017

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Publisher’s Note The Family that Plays Together … Kids need active outdoor play. They need to run, climb and explore. It helps promote fitness and a connection to nature. It also encourages family time and play time with friends. So how do you get your kids outdoors? It’s always good to have a reason. And May is the perfect month to get out and do. The weather is great and there are so many outdoor festivals. There is something for every interest: crafts fairs, food festivals, a Greek festival, a jazz festival, even a Fairy House Festival and the Georgia Renaissance Festival. Look at Atlanta Parent’s list (page 57) and make plans! A visit to a playground whether in your neighborhood or across town gets everyone moving. Atlanta’s playgrounds are so amazing and provide the opportunity to do a whole lot more than just swing and go down the slide. They offer spaces for creative play and you can even make music at some playgrounds. Most playgrounds these days have a toddler area along with a play space for the big kids. To find playgrounds worth a drive check out our list of Top Playgrounds! (page 23). Watch the kids as they race around, explore and make new friends. You could probably spend every day at a playground but that’s not always possible. So you need to find other activities outdoors and indoors that the family will enjoy together. Make a craft, go on a scavenger hunt or play a board game. Find 50 suggestions on page 18. Unexpected benefit: When kids are having fun, they don’t notice they’ve spent less time texting or playing a video game or maybe even missed a favorite TV show. It is all about finding the balance between screen time and play time. When you see the messages about Screen Free Week this month you don’t need to fret. You have already helped your kids have plenty of time away from the screen doing what kids do best – play.

How to Reach us: Telephone 770.454.7599

Email lwhite@atlantaparent.com

Fax 770.454.7699

Website www.atlantaparent.com

Snail Mail 2346 Perimeter Park Drive Atlanta, Georgia 30341

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

8 Atlanta Parent May 2017

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BEST OF THE

WEB

n FitnessBlender No more excuses for skipping exercise – FitnessBlender offers more than 500 free videos on YouTube of workouts you can do at home, with little or no equipment. A husband-and-wife team produces the videos without sponsorship, so their nutritional and health information isn’t biased. youtube.com/user/FitnessBlender

n Stridepost app Organize and motivate your family with this app, which lets you keep up with everyone’s schedule all on one calendar, assign daily chores and rewards to each family member, block out homework time, send reminders and more. Parents and kids get separate apps, so Stridepost works best with kids who are old enough to have their own devices. Do a test run with a 90-day free trial before subscribing (about $50 a year). stridepost.com

n AtlantaParent.com More than 30 restaurants made Atlanta Parent’s list of Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Atlanta. Find one in your neighborhood and also see restaurant reviews of new eateries that welcome families. atlantaparent.com/eating_out

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May 2017 Atlanta Parent 9

by Teresa Farkas

Good StUff

THINGS WE LIKE

A Gift for Mom That Gives Back Mom will appreciate Alex and Ani bracelets on Mother’s Day because the purchase helps some of her favorite charities. The Charity by Design collection includes charm bracelets that benefit March of Dimes ($28), ASPCA ($28) or the Breast Cancer Research Foundation ($38) among others. alexandani.com

Children’s Gardening Kits These fun gardening kits are an easy way to begin a children’s garden complete with seeds, soil, stakes and growing instructions as well as an egg carton planter. Choose from “Little Fresh Veggie Garden” or “Little Bunny Garden” among others. backyardsafarico.com; $11.95.

Playground Baby Swing The HoneyBee Child SwingEase converts any playground swing into a baby swing for ages 6 months to 18 months. Attach the clips to the regular swing and Velcro your baby inside the seat – now when the baby swings are in use or too hot to sit in, your baby will have a place to swing. slackersline.com; $29.99.

Sweet Treats for Animal Rescue One-hundred percent of the proceeds from Rescue Chocolate go toward animal rescue efforts around the country. The bars come in flavors such as “The Fix,” “Peanut Butter Pit Bull” and “Foster-iffic Peppermint.” rescuechocolate.com; $6 and up.

10 Atlanta Parent May 2017

LEGO Play Tape Nimuno Loops can be cut, stuck or moved around in creative ways and the top allows for LEGO blocks to be attached. Kids can build a 3D sidewalk, run the tape around their bedroom walls for added play space or attach the tape on top of plastic toys. nimuno.com; $29 and up.

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STOP THE CLOCK HOW TO KEEP LOOKING YOUR BEST

by Kyla Steinkraus

ike it or not, the first signs of aging hit us in our 30s. Obviously, we’re all going to age – it’s a part of life – but we also want to feel and look vibrant as we get older. Here’s how to keep looking great: 12 Atlanta Parent May 2017

l An

Ounce of Prevention

The first line of defense is prevention and it starts on the inside. Take care of your body by eating healthier, nourishing foods. Think about swapping soft drinks for water and choosing a type of exercise you love to do a few times a week. “Eating well and minimizing processed or junk foods will decrease the incidence of breakouts and result in clearer and younger-looking skin,” says Dr. Aisha McKnight-Baron, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Atlanta. She also recommends exercising regularly with muscle strengthening weights and drinking lots of water to flush out toxins.

l Pick

“A woman in her 30s needs a good cleanser, sunscreen and antioxidant,” says Dr. Lisa DiFrancesco, a board-certified plastic surgeon at DiFrancesco Plastic Surgery in Atlanta. Pick a cleanser that is gentle and nourishing – you no longer need harsh toners that dry out the skin. Aveeno Ultra Calming Foaming Cleanser is a great drugstore option, and REN Evercalm Gentle Cleansing Gel is

the Right Products

When we start to age, our skin reflects the times we forgot to take off our makeup before bed. It is so important to begin cleaning the skin and then layering wholesome, natural products and moisturizers on top.

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l Sunscreen

is Essential

It’s not too late to protect your skin. Every dermatologist and plastic surgeon agrees: The number one factor of aging skin is sun exposure. Wear a high-quality sunscreen every day, even in winter. Look for sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are strong barriers against the sun’s harmful rays. McKnight-Baron suggests Nyraju DayTime Solar Defense or Neova DNA Damage Control Everyday.

MORE OPTIONS TO CONSIDER l Ra-Ra

for Retinoids

“Women in their 30s are in somewhat of a transition zone,” McKnight-Baron says. Some of us still need anti-acne products due to hormones, but we’ll also benefit from anti-aging interventions. That’s where retinoids come in – they effectively battle acne and wrinkles simultaneously. A dermatologist can prescribe tretinoin, most commonly known as Retin-A, which is derived from skin-renewing vitamin A. Once you establish a skincare routine, McKnight-Baron recommends a skin analysis from a board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist. This can help determine when it’s time for another step. great for sensitive skin. Another pick is Fresh Soy Face Cleanser, an extra-gentle product for all skin types. Both REN and Fresh brands are available at Sephora. When picking a moisturizer make sure to choose a product with natural oils. McKnightBaron suggests DermHAHyalutonic moisture serum. We like Olay Complete All Day Moisturizer with SPF for the less-expensive pick and the ultra-light Boscia Green Tea Oil-Free Moisturizer for a step above. Boscia skincare can be purchased at Sephora. Look for “natural, nourishing oils like jojoba oil,” says Eliza Bacat, a registered nurse and wellness expert in Atlanta. She suggests Leven Rose organic, 100 percent pure natural jojoba oil and keeping a travel size to reapply throughout the day. “The best antioxidant for prevention is Vitamin C,” DiFrancesco says. She recommends you eat plenty of fruits and vegetables high in antioxidants and add a product like Environ’s Vita-Peptide C-Quence Serum to your routine.

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DERMATOLOGISTS AND PLASTIC SURGEONS AGREE: THE NUMBER ONE FACTOR OF AGING SKIN IS SUN EXPOSURE. l Injectables Injectables like Juvederm help prevent wrinkles by filling out parts of the face beginning to hollow. DiFrancesco says Botox is the most common nonsurgical procedure, with over six million procedures performed annually. She says the injections weaken the muscles in which repetitive contractions cause lines and wrinkles.

l Chemical

Peels

Light chemical peels are a great non-invasive first step in anti-aging procedures, as they’re “helpful in restoring skin tone, minimizing pores and effacing fine wrinkles,” McKnight-Baron says. DiFrancesco also recommends chemical peels. “Working them into your annual or monthly beauty regimen will remove layers of dull, dead skin and allow for your youthful beauty to shine through.” Lactic acid peels in particular are great for busy moms, as they’re both effective and avoid the negatives of other peels – there’s little to no lasting redness or actual peeling. Skin slowly sloughs off over several days, ensuring you can still leave the house looking great.

Cont’d on page 14

May 2017 Atlanta Parent 13

STOP THE CLOCK l Lasers

for Smoother, Tighter Skin Dr. Stanley Okoro, a board certified plastic surgeon in Marietta, recommends ThermiSmooth to tighten the skin and stimulate collagen. It’s a handheld device that gently heats patients’ skin. The laser treats cellulite and wrinkles, and is used for fat reduction and skin tightening. It is non-invasive, with minimal discomfort and requires zero downtime. “We recommend a package of five treatments, performed once weekly, to maximize aesthetic outcomes,” he says.

WHAT ABOUT THE GUYS? Here are some easy steps men can take to look their best: l Use sunscreen and

moisturizers every day. It’s the number one reason men and women have aging skin. Two favorites are: Cetaphil Dermacontrol Moisturizer SPF30 and Neutrogena Men Triple Protect Face Lotion and Sunscreen. l Don’t get hairy in

l Body

Rejuvenation

Body tightening and non-invasive fat reduction procedures are for those who already have a minimal amount of excess skin or fat, McKnightBaron says. For those of us with sagging skin issues, ThermiSmooth can also tighten the belly and thighs without going under the knife. “Cool Sculpting is very popular right now and a great alternative to liposuction for those who are opposed to surgery,” adds Dr. Alan Larsen, a board certified plastic surgeon in Buckhead. It is excellent for those within ten pounds of their target weight who want to get rid of a few stubborn areas.

the wrong spots. Trim unwanted body hair (ears, nose, eyebrows etc.) Keep hair on chest, head and beard short. You’ll see less gray and you’ll look younger. l Use hair gel sparingly.

The best products make your hair look great, but don’t make it look greasy. Two favorites are: Gel Pomade by Imperial and Uppercut Deluxe Pomade. l If you have hair loss, Okoro suggests having a laser hair growth treatment or hair follicle

transplant. Transplant procedures involve the harvesting of hair follicles to re-implant. These are popular and minimally-invasive procedures.

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CREATIVITY BOOSTS

MOMS CAN USE by Lara Krupicka hether you consider yourself creative or not, everyone benefits from adding creativity to their life. Creativity promotes success in the workplace, aids in problemsolving in relationships and improves physical and mental well being. Try adding one or more of these boosters to your day and see how it positively affects your life.

Engage in a creativity “warmup” exercise. Researchers in China asked subjects to imagine alternative uses for a common object such as a paper clip. This resulted in increased brain connectivity that enhanced the subjects’ creative abilities. You can perform the same exercise yourself before participating in creative work.

Go for a walk. A Stanford Graduate School of Education study found that “walking opens up the free flow of ideas, and it is a simple and robust solution to the goals of increasing creativity and increasing physical activity.” Not only that, but they found that the boost in creativity continues even once the walk is over.

Put pen to paper. Shifting from working

A few weeks of instruction can change learning for life.

on a screen to the slower pace of pen on paper has been shown to enable greater focus, which can yield more productivity and in turn, enhanced creativity. If nothing else, knowing that the brain functions differently depending on the mode of communication is a good reason to integrate writing longhand into your daily rhythm.

Atlanta

Stray from your routine. Or don’t. Some creatives rely heavily on routine because it frees their mind from excessive decision making. Others make a point of shaking up their routines for the stimulus that novelty affords them. If you have few routines, try adding one or two to see how they impact your creativity. Or if you are a creature of habit, try changing things up when your inventiveness ebbs. c

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Johns Creek

(404) 846-2050 (770) 476-7066 LindamoodBell.com

READING

•

SPELLING

•

COMPREHENSION

•

MATH

May 2017 Atlanta Parent 15

15 REMEDIES FOR MOMS WITH

by Laura Lyles Reagan

FOR BUSY MOMS, TIME ALONE IS A RARE AND PRECIOUS COMMODITY. TRY THESE SUGGESTIONS TO RECHARGE PHYSICALLY AND EMOTIONALLY.

1. Music transports us, so buy a new CD or download one and listen as you run errands. The drive to new music can rejuvenate you and will give you a fresh perspective.

2. Buy flowers, just for you, just because. 3. Write down your bucket list. Many of us have a mental list we’ve never committed to paper. The magic of writing it: We are more likely to actually do it.

4. Enjoy some silence. We may not realize how the constant bombardment noise can stress us.

5. Volunteer at your charity of choice for an afternoon to appreciate your own life and circumstances.

6. Read a book or take a nap. 7. Sit on a park bench, close your eyes and just listen. 8. Create! Write a poem or song, compose and take a photo or paint a canvas.

9. Take a long hot bath with candles lit instead of electric lighting.

10.

Buy a magazine you enjoy, sit down to read it with your favorite beverage in your favorite spot in your house.

11. Write a gratitude list. 12. Take a walk in one of your favorite spots. 13. Call a friend you haven’t seen in awhile.

Chat about everything and anything, just because.

14. Go to a grown-up movie all by yourself, or watch one at home with no interruptions.

15. Exercise in a new way. Take a swim or try a Pilates class.

16 Atlanta Parent May 2017

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Ways to Entertain the Kids

by Pam Molnar

Screen-Free Week, May 1-7, is a perfect reason for a digital detox. Try putting some limits on the electronics with these fun activities.

Use Your Imagination Make paper airplanes out of colored paper. Cut out paper dolls and accessories from newspapers. Create doll houses and furniture out of felt pieces. Build skyscrapers out of LEGOs or Tinker Toys. Use large cardboard boxes to create kidsized houses that the kids can decorate.

Get Outside Take a walk around the neighborhood with the dogs or a friend. Roller blade around cones in a parking lot on a sunny day. Head to the park for a trip across the monkey bars. Jump rope in the driveway. Go on an outdoor scavenger hunt.

Think Spring Plant a garden. Have an indoor picnic. Use watercolors to paint a summer sky. Make a kite out of sticks and a kitchen garbage bag (directions at instructables.com). Buy a caterpillar to butterfly kit and watch it grow.

Spend Time with the Family

Make a Game of It

Look through photo albums or school memorabilia.

Pick card games like Uno, Hearts or Rummy.

Use your talents to create a family variety show.

Bring out the board games – classics like Sorry! or Monopoly.

Cook dinner together or bake cookies. Sing karaoke or have a dance party. Listen to a book on CD together every night.

18 Atlanta Parent May 2017

Try a dice game like Tenzi or LCR.

Create a Battleship game out of two pizza boxes. Tape a tic-tac-toe board on the floor and use colored bean bags for the X and O.

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without Electronics Expand Your Mind Play Sudoku or complete a word search. Browse the library for a good book. Set up a home laboratory and create some science experiments. Put together a model car. Work a puzzle.

Do Something for Animals Teach your dog a new trick. String popcorn on a string or make homemade suet for the birds.

Get Crafty Make homemade play dough from Kool-Aid

Collect towels and blankets for the animal shelter. Create a maze for your hamster. Make a no-sew pet bed for your cat.

Build structures with marshmallows and toothpicks. Create pasta people with glue and a variety of pasta shapes. Use duct tape and cardboard to make swords and shields. Design Popsicle stick snowflakes, paint white and hang in the windows.

Kool-Aid Play Dough Recipe 1 cup flour 1/2 cup salt 1 envelope (0.13 oz. to 0.23 oz.) KOOL-AID Unsweetened Drink Mix, any flavor 2 teaspoons cream of tartar 1 cup water 1 tablespoon oil

Mix first 4 ingredients in medium saucepan until blended. Stir in water and oil. Cook on medium heat five minutes or until mixture forms ball, stirring frequently. Transfer to plate; cool slightly. Source: kraftrecipes.com

Play Roadtrip Games at Home Name that Tune – Turn on the radio and see how quickly you can identify the songs.

Get Out and Go Go bowling. Play indoor laser tag. Head to the pool for a game of Marco Polo. Get messy with a game of paintball. Try rock climbing.

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I Spy – Describe something in the house so the other players can guess what it is. Alphabet Game – Name animals, foods or athletes starting with the letter A, then B and so on. Mad Libs – Fill in the blanks to a short story with nouns, verbs and adjectives. Bingo – You will find free printable bingo sheets online.

May 2017 Atlanta Parent 19

Screen Time by the Numbers

1-2

The maximum number of hours of daily TV time that many medical professionals suggest for kids and teens.

The average number of hours daily that kids ages 8-18 view a screen, including TV, computers and phones.

Percentage of kids watching TV for two hours per day by age 2.

Percentage of babies younger than age 1 who see about 90 minutes of TV or videos per day.

Percentage of all kids who have TVs in their bedroom.

167

The number of extra calories consumed by kids for each hour of television they view. Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Campaign for a Commercial Free Childhood.

Parents’ Resource: Cricket Media, publisher of magazines for children, has launched a Keeping Tech in Check campaign with tips and activities to help parents balance screen time and active time for their kids. Find out more at keepingtechincheck.com.

20 Atlanta Parent May 2017

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We’re Growing! 2

Announcing our newest location in Brookhaven

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Schedule an office visit today with one of our friendly neighborhood pediatricians. Call 404-446-4726 to schedule your appointment today.

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Spring into Summer with Goldfish! Preparing your little fish for a swim-safe summer is a stroke of genius! Warm weather is right around the corner, so now is the perfect time to dive into lessons. At Goldfish, we use our proven, confidence-building curriculum to teach children ages 4 months to 12 years old to be safer in and around the water!

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Goldfish Swim School — Johns Creek 6000 Medlock Bridge Rd, Suite C-200 Johns Creek, GA 30022 770.744.0250 • www.goldfishswimschool.com May 2017 Atlanta Parent 21

Morgan Falls Overlook Park Playground

Top Atlanta Playgrounds

Wills Park Playground

Abernathy Greenway Playable Art Park

GET READY TO PLAY!

Playgrounds have evolved.

Newton Park Playground

Our top metro playgrounds include everything from generational swings for both parent and child and large shaded areas to cushioned rubber matting and sculpturelike playscapes. You voted on your favorites and we rounded up the top places for every type of play.

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May 2017â&#x20AC;&#x192; â&#x20AC;&#x192; Atlanta Parent 23

Our Top

Playgrounds Ocee Park Playground 10900 Buice Rd., Johns Creek You’ll find two structures for play – one for children ages 2-5 and another for older kids. On the “Ten Spin” Merry-Go-Round kids can sit or stand and spin around. The generational swing allows a younger kid and an older kid or parent to swing together at opposite ends. The Avalanche slide is another cool feature that lets kids use their upper body strength to climb up and then slide down.

Historic Fourth Ward Park Playground 680 Dallas St., Atlanta It’s packed with climbing elements, slides, swings, rock walls and even a trampoline kids can jump on. The spider-like ropes course and large swings shaped like bowls are two favorites. Don’t miss the splash pad close by on hot days.

Swift-Cantrell Park Playground 3140 Old US Hwy. 41, Kennesaw The park features two large playscapes: one for both older and younger kids and one just for younger kids. Children can enjoy swings, climbers, bridges and other playthings. “New patterns of play” are encouraged in a contemporary play system that includes circuits, walls, rings and more.

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Chastain Park Playground 135 W. Wieuca Rd. NW, Atlanta Kids can climb and explore in the treehouse, slide down one of the three large roller slides or play on the natural playscapes. Adults can go down the slides, too! Three giant “oodle” disc swings allow two children to recline and swing together and there is a spider web for climbing. The music area includes drums and chimes. Therapeutic elements are featured and the area is wheelchair accessible.

Ashford Park Playground 2980 Redding Rd. NE, Brookhaven The recently renovated park includes two new play structures, tall slides, tons of swings, a seesaw, a huge sand box and toy park area. Watching the MARTA trains speed by is an added bonus for kids.

Brook Run Park Playground 4770 N. Peachtree Rd., Dunwoody The Children’s Adventure Garden has clusters of bright play structures with shades above to hide from the sun. The play structures are separated for toddlers and older kids. There is so much to get into: slides and swings of varying sizes, several sets of monkey bars, a multicolored tunnel, and a “log roll” for balancing. The cushioned rubber matting will help protect from scrapes and bruises.

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Wills Park Playground 11925 Wills Rd., Alpharetta The playground offers many chances for imaginative play with three play areas. A wooden kingdom has towers, bridges and passages, with sections for older and younger kids. Children can navigate the rope bridge, climb to a tower lookout post, or take a spin in the tire swing. The yellow playground offers equipment for younger kids, and the covered purple playground has climbing structures and swings for big kids.

May 2017 Atlanta Parent 25

Our Top 15 Playgrounds Morgan Falls Overlook Park Playground 200 Morgan Falls Rd., Sandy Springs This modern playground with unusual climbing elements has plenty of green spaces and overlooks the Chattahoochee River. 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 the spider web, a tall rope structure that provides a climbing challenge. Shades give cover from the sun and the AstroTurf helps with falls.

Piedmont Park 400 Park Dr. NE, Atlanta Two great play areas are hidden under the large trees in Piedmont Park to provide natural shade. n The Mayor’s Grove Playground is designed for kids with and without special needs with fun play structures. The area is next to the pool house for easy bathroom access. n The Noguchi Playscape is next to the park’s 12th Street gate and looks more like a modern sculpture garden than a playground. A giant, winding slide and other features help familiarize children with shapes, colors and textures.

Abernathy Greenway Playable Art Park 70 Abernathy Rd. NE, Sandy Springs Climb, swing and jump from real art structures including the yellow, spider-like structure, the mosaic climbing wall, the large, red swings and the many other jungle gym climbing areas. Kids will essentially enter a sculpture garden they can play on.

Cauble Park Playground 4425 Beach St., Acworth The playground is adjacent to the white, sandy beach on Lake Acworth and is nature-themed to fit right in with the surroundings. Younger kids can swing or bounce on different play elements and older kids will love the large jungle gym structure or the “spider net” climbing area. All kids will love the giant, towering climbing areas and slides.

26 Atlanta Parent May 2017

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Centennial Olympic Park Playground 265 Park Ave. West, Atlanta This playground sits in the heart of downtown and is for all ages and all abilities. The surface is made of soft rubber and the play area includes many multisensory play elements as well as a great climbing structure. The roller slide, the Sway Fun glider swing and the spinning “flower” seats spin when kids get on them. Children will love the long distance talk-through tubes and colorful drums. Much of this kidfriendly oasis sits beneath an awning that allows cover from the sun.

Sweet Apple Elementary Community Park Playground 11850 Crabapple Rd., Roswell The newly-renovated playground offers fun for young and older kids who want to climb, slide, swing and zip line. Anne WainscottSargent’s kids love the cool “gravity rail” – a circular zip line, the generational swing and the rope-climbing spider web. This hidden gem features colorful slides as well as a small children’s play area with a large sandbox. The playground is open to the community outside of school hours.

Kidscape Village at Cobb Park 2776 Sanford Rd., Smyrna This park has several play structures for all ages, most with giant umbrellas for shade. The colorful playscapes allow for climbing, swinging or sliding. There are shorter climbing walls for going up and over, a telescope, tall boulders to climb and a spider web structure. The toddler play area has smaller swings and slides.

Thrasher Park Playground 93 Park Dr., Norcross If your kids love trains, this playground is the right pick. Climb all over the bright, red train play structure and watch real trains chug by on the tracks. Spinning elements and a net climbing structure add to the fun.

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May 2017 Atlanta Parent 27

Bessie Branham Park Playground

Duncan Creek Park Playground

More Playgrounds We Love There are so many great playscapes in our area, here are a few more that are top picks! Alexander Park Playground. 800 Old Snellville Hwy, Lawrenceville All Play Playground at East Cobb Park. 3322 Roswell Rd., Marietta Bessie Branham Park Playground. 2051 Delano Dr. NE, Atlanta

Kidzstock Playground. 11905 Hwy. 92, Woodstock Kidsville Heritage Park Playground. 101 Lake Dow Rd., McDonough Little Nancy Creek Playground. 4012 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta Mason Mill Park Playground. 1340 McConnell Dr., Decatur Memorial Park Playground. 384 Woodward Way NW, Atlanta

Bunten Road Park Playground. 3180 Bunten Rd., Duluth

Newtown Park Playground. 3150 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek

Candler Park Playground. 1500 McLendon Ave. NE, Atlanta

Oakdale Park Playground. 4126 Atlanta Rd. SE, Smyrna

Coan Park Playground. 1530 Woodbine Ave. SE, Atlanta D.H. Stanton Park Playground. 1052 Martin St. SE, Atlanta Duncan Creek Park Playground. 3700 Braselton Hwy., Dacula

Orme Park Playground. 795 Brookridge Dr. NE, Atlanta Roswell Area Park Playground. 10495 Woodstock Rd., Roswell Rabbit Hill Playground. 400 Rabbit Hill Rd., Dacula Riverside Park Playground. 575 Riverside Rd., Roswell

Dunwoody Nature Center Playground. 5343 Roberts Dr., Dunwoody

Taylor-Brawner Park Playground. 3180 Atlanta Rd. SE, Smyrna

Garrard Landing Park Playground. 8000 Holcomb Bridge Rd., Roswell

Windwood Hollow Park Playground. 4865 Lakeside Dr., Dunwoody

Georgetown Park Playground. 4400 Dunwoody Park, Dunwoody

Webb Bridge Park Playground. 4780 Webb Bridge Rd., Alpharetta

Garrard Landing Park Playground

28 Atlanta Parent May 2017

Newtown Park Playground

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Playgrounds with a Little Something

Special

These are not your typical swings and slide sets. From artistic structures to dinosaur dig areas, we found the playgrounds that stand above the norm.

Woodruff Park Playground

Caney Creek Preserve Playground

/ 2755 Caney Rd., Cumming The dinosaur dig area will delight any dino fan and the spider web climbing net is fun for adventurous kids. Kids can play around the nature trails or climb aboard the logs or boulder play structures.

DeKalb-Peachtree Airport Park Playground / 2000 Airport Rd., Atlanta Kids will go crazy over this playground with a sky-high view. They can watch planes take off while swinging, scaling the monkey bars or sliding down the curvy slide. Play in the pretend cockpit or host an airplane-themed birthday party while planes fly above.

Caney Creek Preserve

Decatur Toy Park

/ First Christian Church: 133 Nelson Ferry Rd., Decatur Scooters, tricycles, small slides, push cars galore – this toy park is filled with toys families decided to donate, and is a great place for toddlers to play. The sidewalk “track,” which runs along the edges is great for riding all types of plastic toys, which are readily available all over the grass and mulch area. If your older kids want to slide, swing or hang from monkey bars, they have that, too.

Gary Pirkle Park Playground

/ 6195 Austin Garner Rd., Sugar Hill This playground wins for hot summer days or the unexpected rainstorm because it is completely covered by a large pavilion to keep the weather out. No more having to leave the playground because of a storm.

Haw Creek Park Playground

Decatur Toy Park Shinn Shots Photography

/ 2205 Echols Rd., Cumming This playground is similar to the soft play areas at malls, but in the middle of the woods. When arriving, take a short walk through the wooded area and the playground will appear. Three “pods” are connected by walking paths and kids are challenged to let their imaginations take over. Play on giant acorns, logs, big bugs, super-sized mushrooms, a mama bear and two cubs and a bigger log with a climbing net attached.

PlayTown Suwanee

/ 425 Main St, Suwanee Young and old visitors will enjoy seeing the colorful, fiberglass cow sculptures throughout the pavilion. The playscape is in a natural setting with lots of shading so you will stay cool on a hot day. The play area is built for both school-age children and toddlers. Kids can climb on the bridge, slides or climbing walls and the playground features a castle, log cabin and rocket to promote creativity and imagination. The sand activity area is a fun place to dig and play.

Woodruff Park Playground

/ 91 Peachtree St. NW, Atlanta Anyone with “ATL” pride will love this playground shaped like the famous letters. An international design competition sparked the building of this playground by a Canadian designer. Kids can climb all over the walls, monkey bars, slides or play with the springs and spinners. Street parking is limited so we recommend visiting by public transportation.

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Gary Pirkle Park

Did we miss your favorite? Let us know by emailing editor@atlantaparent.com May 2017 Atlanta Parent 29

SPONSORED CONTENT

1-12 Coed - Small Classes Competitive Athletic Programs College Preparatory Laptop Program Athletic Programs Extended Day Program Art, Band, Chorus, Drama Summer Programs SACS/SAIS Accredited

2017 Open House - May 10 at 9:00 a.m. 770.360.1336 www.millsprings.org/visitus “I’ve always believed that if a student can’t learn the way we teach ... we should teach the way a student can learn.” Tweetie L. Moore, Founder

Center Academy Center Academy’s students appreciate the individualized attention and support they receive from teachers who understand them. Parents appreciate their children’s opportunities for success. Founded in 1968, Center Academy is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools/AdvancED, accepts Georgia Special Needs Scholarships and provides a college-prep environment for students with different learning styles. The mission is to develop self-confidence, motivation and academic skills, and give students the opportunity to achieve success in life. Center Academy serves grades 4-12 and offers summer programs in a small, safe setting. centeracademy.com; 770-333-1616.

The George Center for Music Therapy At The George Center, music is used to address clinical, educational and therapeutic goals for individuals and groups throughout metro Atlanta. From one-on-one therapy to full service music therapy programs for healthcare and educational facilities, The George Center has Atlanta covered. With three convenient locations in Roswell, Cumming and Decatur the center passionately purses the mission to improve access to music therapy. Music therapists use music-based interventions to address individualized goals for their clients. Each person has unique abilities and needs and the center creates individual treatment plans that will best fit these needs. thegeorgecenter.com; 678-701-1203.

32 Atlanta Parent May 2017

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MakeSummerLearningFun by Christa Melnyk Hines

ondering how to help your child retain reading, writing and math skills this summer without making it feel like work? Weave learning into daily errands and interactive activities found in your own backyard. According to the National Summer Learning Association, students who don’t participate in any summer enrichment or educational activities lose about 22 percent of knowledge and skills gained during the school year. When your kids make the connection between what they’ve learned in school and how the material relates to the real world, they’ll retain more of their skills and become more engaged, enthusiastic learners. n Calculate

tips

Next time you and your family eat at a restaurant, help your child determine the tip when the bill arrives.

n Grow

a garden

Your child can learn more about his environment by cultivating fruits and vegetables. No room in your yard? Grow a container garden together. Your child can take pictures or make notes in a daily gardening notebook detailing any problems he encountered and how he worked to solve those issues.

n Grocery

shop

Have your child keep track of the grocery list. As you shop, talk about prices, sales and healthy choices.

n Visit

a farmers market

Peruse seasonal produce, and ask about fruits and veggies that are unfamiliar. Practice math skills by giving your child a list, a budget and some money to shop at the market. Atlanta State Farmers Market in Forest Park has over 150 acres of produce, and is considered one of the largest farmers markets in the United States. Also visit atlantaparent.com to find a local farmers market near your home.

n Read

together

Summer is the perfect time to help your child find books and magazines that match his interests. Read together or start an informal book club with your child and a few friends. Schedule an afternoon to discuss the selection over milk and cookies.

n Cook

together

Involve your child in meal planning and preparation. Depending on your child’s age, put him in charge of a meal once a week. You might have cereal or mac ‘n cheese, but he has to prepare it. Following a recipe helps your child practice fractions and reading.

n Tune

If your child is passionate about music, attend concert series in the parks, which are often free. (Check with your local parks and recreation department for a schedule.) Encourage him to learn about the history of the music he’s interested in and read biographies of favorite musicians.

n Explore

nature

Apply what your child has learned in life science to your backyard – the birds, bugs, flowers and trees. Nature centers such as the Chattahoochee Nature Center and Dunwoody Nature Center also offer classes and camps. The new Fernbank WildWoods has play structures as well as interactive exhibits and a creek meadow that attracts birds, butterflies and other pollinators. Cont’d on page 34 atlantaparent.com

May 2017 Atlanta Parent 33

SummerLearning n Go

digital

Got a bug or plant enthusiast? Have him grab the camera and go on a scavenger hunt for different species. When he’s done he can make a digital presentation of his discoveries.

n Nurture

creativity

Art education enhances creative thinking, motor skills and social and emotional development. Have a splatter paint party on canvas in your backyard. Water color on textured paper. Make collages out of old magazines. Further explore the visual arts at pottery cafes and art museums.

n Journal Purchase an inexpensive journal or notebook that your child can personalize. Write a prompt or a question at the top of the page. Take turns writing messages and stories back and forth.

n Play

travel agent

Thanks to the internet, your child can easily research your family’s vacation or a hometown field trip. Give him a list of questions to answer about the location, cost and hours of a specific site he wants to visit. Continue the learning when you arrive at your destination. At the beach, for instance, observe and talk about the tides, climate and sea life.

n Practice

time management

Assign a weekly project for your children with a deadline to help them practice time management skills. Base it on their interests so it doesn’t feel like work. They can select and research a specific topic, create a digital slide show land then present it to your family. c

Virtual Help Download a creative app or head to the web for educational sites and resources for kids: n Create comic strips: pixton.com or download the free app makebeliefscomix.com n Nature and art projects: artfulparent.com or artprojectsforkids.org n Home science experiments: sciencebob.com/experiments/ n Writing prompts: scholastic.com/teachers/story-starters/

a school where your child learns

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3021 N. Decatur Road • Decatur, GA 30033 MontessoriSchoolatEmory.com • 404-634-5777

Accredited Toddler Through Middle School Programs 34 Atlanta Parent May 2017

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2017

cover kid search To register and for more info visit:

Atlantaparent.com/ coverkids

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May 2017â&#x20AC;&#x192; â&#x20AC;&#x192; Atlanta Parent 35

A Summer Camp for Learning

Session 1: June 12 – June 23 Session 2: June 26 – July 7

Since 1981 Squirrel Hollow Camp, located on the beautiful 45-acre campus of The Bedford School in Fairburn, GA., serves children with academic needs, ADD, or learning differences. ▶ Squirrel Hollow accepts students aged 5-15 ▶ 4:1 student/staff ratio ▶ Afternoon Rec. Program ▶ Academics: Reading, Math and Writing Skills

5665 Milam Road ▶ Fairburn, GA 30123 Phone 770-774-8001 ▶ Fax 770-774-8005 www.thebedfordschool.org Contact Dr. Betsy Box

Summer Coding Camps for ages 8-18. Make games, apps, and create with technology! Camps include Java coding with Minecraft, Game Design, and Coding with Python and Java.

Summer Camps and Classes Offered

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36 Atlanta Parent May 2017

Camp 2017

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Camp 2017

May 2017â&#x20AC;&#x192; â&#x20AC;&#x192; Atlanta Parent 37

June 5-July 21

Agnes Scott

Summer Sports Camps Ages 7-14

Sports Specific Camps Instructed by Experienced Counselors Camp Dates: Week 1: May 30th - June 2nd

Week 2: June 5th - June 9th Week 3: June 12th - June 16th Week 4: June 19th - June 23rd Week 5: June 26th - June 30th Week 6: July 10th - July 15th Week 7: July 17th - July 21st Week 8: July 24th - July 28th Week 9: July 31st - August 4th

141 E. College Ave. • Decatur, GA 30030 For more information or to register, please visit www.agnesscottsummersportscamps.com or email akern@agnesscott.edu

38 Atlanta Parent May 2017

LAST CHANCE Registration ends soon! Up & Comers Class Offerings: Intro Guitar fun, participatory and practical

Intro Vocals/Songwriting Exciting and loud

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Coming to the Stage

Foundations for comfortable performing

Start Now! 770-878-4339 www.victoryspot.org

Camp 2017

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Special Advertising Section

Atlanta Parent’s Camp Preview Gwinnett County Parks & Recreation

Riverview Camp

winnett County Parks & Recreation offers a multitude of adventures this summer for ages 5-13. Top-notch facilities, super staff, and low counselor to camper ratio provide safe, enriching environments. Adventure camps start at an affordable $125* per week. Summerfest – Create, discover and explore the great outdoors. To the sky and Beyond – Planes, UFOs, rockets and Infinite fun! On Your Mark – Get set, go! Gear up for a week of friendly competition and challenge yourself to be the best you can be. Sail Away – Come sail away with us. Grab your passport as we travel around the world! Splashtacular – Beat the heat with a week full of water themed activities. Holidaze – Every day is a holiday at camp, come celebrate with us. Old School Summer – Go back in time and learn some retro camp games. For more information call 770.822.8840 or visit gwinnettparks.com. *Higher Non-Gwinnett resident fees apply.

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!

Circus Camp

Safari Day Camps at Zoo Atlanta

hildren jump for joy when they learn you signed them up for Circus Summer Camp, and you’ll do a flip or two when you see just how much fun they’re having! Circus Camp is where children create wonderful memories, make new friends, and experience a wide variety of circus skills. Camper age 5 thru teens. Children at any skill levels are welcome! Throughout the day highly trained counselors describe which circus skill they will be teaching for that “act”, and kids pick the one they would like to learn! • INTERACTIVE: Children get to participate in real circus activities - Trapeze, tightrope, juggling, magic, even throw a pie in a clowns face! • ENTERTAINING: Everyday there is a live show presented by circus professionals to entertain and inspire your children. • PERFORMANCE: Campers choose what they want to perform and work together to present a grand finale Circus Show! Camp sessions June 5-July 28. Call 404-370-0001 or visit www.CircusCamp.ORG

t Safari Day Camp, campers experience Zoo Atlanta in a whole new way. From free-flighted bird presentations to animal encounters to hands-on science explorations, each child embarks on a journey of the natural world. Children can explore animals and habitats and form a personal connection to animals and the Zoo that can last a lifetime. Campers ages 4 to 14 are welcome. Try Safari Day Camp for spring, summer and winter breaks, or check out one of the Zoo’s many School’s Out! Safari Day Camp options for one-day holidays or teacher workdays. Activities are age and grade-appropriate. Themes change regularly for an always fresh and exciting experience. To learn more and register for Safari Day Camp today visit zooatlanta.org/camps, or call 404-624-5822.

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Camp 2014 2017

May 2017 Atlanta Parent 39

just kids A focus on Special Needs

THREE FAMILIES MAKING A DIFFERENCE by Amanda Miller Allen

Nothing comes easy for the families of kids with special needs – treatments, therapists, schools, it’s all a challenge. Parents quickly learn the art of advocating. Meet three metro Atlanta families who went even further and became part of the solution. Changing the Face of Modeling Asher Nash loves the camera. Bring one out, and he “grins ear to ear,” his mom Meagan Nash says. He’s incredibly photogenic, so Nash and her husband David thought he’d be a perfect model. But when they tried to submit his photo, they became aware of a disconnect between advertising and people with disabilities. They set out to change that.

40 Atlanta Parent May 2017

“People with disabilities want to be included amongst their peers in life in general and being seen in an advertisement is a part of that,” Meagan Nash says. “Without truly accepting my son and others with special needs, there can be no inclusion for them in the future.” Nash says the agency doing casting for Carter’s clothing ads at first declined to submit Asher’s photo, saying Carter’s criteria didn’t ask for kids with special needs. “That puzzled me and so I asked if they

did not want a baby with special needs,” Nash says. The criteria didn’t exclude Asher, who was born with Down syndrome, or other kids with special needs. The agency agreed to send his photo to Carter’s, but Asher wasn’t selected. That’s when Nash discovered an organization called Changing the Face of Beauty, which encourages families to share photos of their kids on social media and tag brands that are not yet using kids with special needs in advertising. Nash selected

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Oshkosh B’Gosh, a Carter’s brand with corporate headquarters in Atlanta, only a short drive from their home in Buford. Her post was shared more than 100,000 times. Oshkosh then contacted the Nashes and asked to meet Asher. His adorable photos were part of Oshkosh’s holiday ads, and he’ll appear in spring and summer ads, too. “Not many people realize this, but Asher was the first person ever with a disability to appear in an Oshkosh ad,” Nash says. Since then, he’s modeled for Babies ‘R Us, Toys ‘R Us, Safety First, Happy Family Brand, The Moodsters and Num Num. He also filmed a public service announcement for World Down Syndrome Day with the cast of “Born This Way.” (See the video by searching “Shining a Light on World Down Syndrome Day” on YouTube). And he’ll be part of an early intervention campaign for Babies Can’t Wait and Easterseals. “We feel so honored for him to be a part of this so that others can see how amazing the Babies Can’t Wait program and the Easterseals are,” Nash says. “We have been working with them to ensure that all kids, with all abilities get the services they need to thrive in their communities.” The whole Nash family is involved in changing perceptions about kids with special needs, and Asher’s sister Addison, 9, is one of his biggest supporters. She’s done a short video on Down syndrome to show at her school and is working on starting her own nonprofit.

“Not many people realize this, but Asher was the first person ever with a disability to appear in an Oshkosh ad.”

Connections for a New School When Gabriel Stettner-Auerbach turned 12, his parents Ted Stettner and Alison Auerbach were in a quandary: Where would their autistic son go to school after he aged out of The Hirsch Academy in Decatur? The K-8 school is near their home and had been wonderful for Gabriel for six years. They wanted a high school with a similar philosophy and teaching methods. They found just one school that might meet his needs, but its location would put them in heavy traffic on I-285 every day. “Traffic is his meltdown issue,” Auerbach says. “I knew I would be dropping off a disregulated child every morning.” A conversation with Hirsch’s principal gave Auerbach another idea, and she and Stettner started to talk to other parents facing the same dilemma. Six weeks later plans for Connections School of Atlanta started to take shape. “We are not With the support of a group of dedicated parents here to ‘fix’ our and countless hours of planning, the school opened with six students on Aug. 9, 2016, in space leased from students – we the Inman Park United Methodist Church. Twelve don’t believe they students are enrolled for the coming year, and the school expects to educate 18 the following year. are broken.” “Our kids are learning at or above their grade – Alison Auerbach level,” says Auerbach, volunteer associate director of the school. “They’re flying as high as they can get.” Gabriel, now 14, is a typical teenager, his mom says. They constantly battle over how much time he spends with electronics, especially his iPad, and he’ll produce a put-upon sigh when asked to unload the dishwasher or clean his room. He clowns with his father, donning a mustache for a photo. He’s sometimes the sweetest kid ever, and sometimes a moody teenager. And like a typical teen, his future is still a question mark. The school supports career paths that involve college or vocational training and plans to offer a transition program to help kids achieve either goal, from preparing for SAT tests to virtual career training. “We are not here to ‘fix’ our students – we don’t believe they are broken,” Auerbach says. “We view our job as to help kids understand what needs they have and to be able to ask for them. Our goal for our students is that they will go on to live the fulfilling lives they choose.” Find out more at connectionsschoolofatlanta.wordpress.com or call 404-602-9404. Cont’d on page 42

– Meagan Nash

Nash says she never intended to portray a clothing company in a negative light, just raise awareness and change perceptions. “I want people to be able to see my son or others like him in an ad and not instantly say, ‘Oh, he has Down syndrome,’” she says. “I want them to say, ‘Oh, I love that shirt that baby is wearing; I want that for my child!’” To get updates on Asher, visit his Facebook page, facebook.com/ Ashersdownrightperfect. atlantaparent.com

May 2017 Atlanta Parent 41

just kids A focus on Special Needs

Comfort. Hope. Fun. Equip for Every Day Life.

Rest and Hope for Exhausted Parents

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

Last chance to nominate your favorite pediatrician. Deadline: May 8 Go to atlantaparent.com/nominate 42 Atlanta Parent May 2017

The families of kids with special needs sometimes feel overwhelmed, and Brian and Suzanne Cairns know that all too well. That’s why they started Restore Place, to provide a much-needed break for caregivers. The Cairns are parents to two spirited teens, Paige, 15, and Romann, 13. Romann was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy at age 3. Through Brian Cairns’ work in Christian counseling and their friendships with other parents, the family became aware of some parents of special needs children who are unable to take even a weekend getaway when they’re just overwhelmed. “Our heart is to journey with them, to give them rest, encouragement and hope,” Suzanne Cairns says. Restore Place helped more than 50 families in 2016, and hopes to double that number this year. Parents who contact the organization may be eligible for a twonight, most-expenses-paid getaway to one of three resorts. Parents hear about Restore Place through word-of-mouth, therapists, and support organizations for families with special needs, such as FOCUS (focus-ga.org).

“We want them to be able to get away from the daily grind, to enjoy each other’s company, to do things together they never get to do, to just relax,” she says. After a visit, one couple told her it was so special to be able to hold hands on a date – the first time in years – because someone always had to push their child’s wheelchair. The Cairns make themselves available to the parents if they feel the need to talk during their getaway, and they stay in touch afterward. Brian has regular coffee and lunch meetings with other fathers, and Suzanne hosts a weekly women’s meeting. The getaways are funded through partnerships with the resorts, individual and corporate donations and fundraising through an annual golf tournament (this year’s event is May 8 at BridgeMill Athletic Club in Canton). The Cairns recently bought a house on two acres in Canton, with plans to build a respite cottage on the property and open it to parents needing rest. “We can personally relate to needing a break,” Suzanne Cairns says. “We want to give hope and encouragement to parents so they won’t feel isolated.” Find out more about Restore Place at restoreplace.org. c

After a visit, one couple told her it was so special to be able to hold hands on a date – the first time in years – because someone always had to push their child’s wheelchair. atlantaparent.com

Special Needs Resource Guide From therapists to schools, parents can find lots of great resources for their families in our Special Needs listings.

n C2 Education c2educate.com C2 Education provides an effective approach to conquering learning challenges while aligning each student’s lessons for great success in college admissions. Atlanta. 888-339-5205. n Center Academy centeracademy.com College prep environment for different learning styles. Serving grades 4-12. Happy. Secure. Inspired. Founded in 1968. Fully accredited. Smyrna. 770 333-1616.

n The George Center for Music Therapy thegeorgecenter.com Providing music therapy services to address various goals such as sensory and motor skills, behavior modification, memory enhancement and promotion of wellness. 12060 Etris Rd. Ste. 200, Roswell. 678-701-1203. n GRACEPOINT School gracepointschool.org A private Christian school dedicated to equipping dyslexic students with the skills needed to become independent, confident learners. 570 Piedmont Rd., Marietta. 678-709-6634. n Institute for Behavioral Medicine ifbm.us Facilitates comprehensive mental health care to families in the metro Atlanta region. Smyrna. 770-319-8013.

n Children’s Special Services childrens-services.com Children’s Special Services, LLC offers multiple services inclusive of but not limited to evaluations, screenings, individual and group therapy, summer camps, handwriting and social skills. Atlanta. 770-394-9791.

n The Joseph Sams School josephsamsschool.org Serving students birth through age 22, and offering special education and therapies to those with intellectual, physical and developmental disabilities. Fayetteville. 770-461-5894.

n The Cottage School cottageschool.org Serves students in grades 4-12 with learning differences and Attention Deficit Disorders. College prep curriculum, experiential classes, business acumen model, social skills and career planning. 700 Grimes Bridge Rd., Roswell. 770-641-8688.

n Lindamood-Bell lindamoodbell.com Programs focus on the sensory-cognitive processing necessary for reading and comprehension. Metro Atlanta. 800-541-3836.

n Cumberland Academy of Georgia cumberlandacademy.org College prep academics for special needs students in grades 4-12 with Asperger’s, ADD, ADHD and other learning differences. Fully accredited with small classes. Cumberland Academy is an exceptional school for exceptional students. 650-A Mt. Vernon Hwy. NE, Atlanta. 404-835-9000. n Fulton County Schools fultonSchools.org Diagnostic and Evaluation Services for children 3 and older. Serving children with developmental delays, autism spectrum disorders, hearing, speech, vision and orthopedic impairments for children ages 3-5, and residents of the Fulton County School District. 470-254-0404.

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n The Bedford School/Camp Squirrel Hollow thebedfordschool.org For children in grades 1-9 with learning differences. Students receive proper academic remediation in a small class setting. Fairburn. 770-774-8001.

Children’s Special Services, LLC

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

• Pre-K–8th • Small group instruction • Therapeutic Support • Hands-on Academics • Core Knowledge Curriculum • Social-Emotional Learning Curriculum

Enabling children with learning differences to succeed

n Mill Springs Academy millsprings.org Small private school for children grades 1-12 with LD, ADD/ADHD. 13660 New Providence Rd., Alpharetta. 770-360-1336. n Porter Academy porteracademy.org Provides a learning environment for speech language processing issues, dyslexia and attention difficulties serving students pre-K-8. 200 Cox Rd., Roswell. 678-894-8284. n The Vanguard School vanguardschool.org Independent, co-educational, boarding and day school for students who learn differently. Vanguard strives to ensure each student aspires to higher educational opportunities and independent life. 22000 US Hwy. 27, Lake Wales, Fla. 863-676-6091.

May 2017 Atlanta Parent 43

just kids f.y.i Sensory Friendly Activities? Yes!

Autistic Character Joins Sesame Street

Find sensory friendly shows and activities at these metro Atlanta venues:

Julia, a Muppet with autism, is now part of the “Sesame Street” cast, the first new character in 10 years. Episodes of the show will touch on Julia’s special skills (a talent for drawing) and some of her differences (it’s hard to get her attention). She debuted in “Sesame Street’s” April 10 show and will appear in some episodes next season. (See a video on youtube.com.) “Sesame Street” hopes the character will help children better understand and accept differences in children with special needs. The character will be voiced by Stacey Gordon, who has done therapeutic work with kids with special needs and whose son is on the autism spectrum.

n LEGOLAND Discovery Center alternates showings in its 4D Cinema to accommodate sensory sensitive children. A quiet space will also be set up and equipped with beanbag seating, fuzzy carpets, dimmed lighting, soft LEGO brick and no music. Find out more at atlanta. legolanddiscoverycenter.com. n The Children’s Museum of Atlanta opens at 9 a.m. on the first Saturday of each month for families with children with sensory processing problems. Lighting and sounds are muted and admission is limited. Information at childrensmuseumatlanta.org. n AMC Theatres shows familyfriendly movies with lights up and sounds down on the second and fourth Tuesdays and Saturdays of the month. Atlanta locations are AMC Parkway Pointe 15 and AMC Sugarloaf Mills 18. n The Center for Puppetry Arts schedules special performances with a dimmed theater, consistent sound levels and lower volumes, and kids are free to move around during the show. The next sensory performances are Cinderella Della Circus July 9 and Mother Goose Aug. 27. Visit puppet. org for information.

Two Apps For Families n An Emoji for That!: A free emoji keyboard app helps families discuss via text what happened during the day using symbols that aren’t available on other keyboards, such as physical therapy or equipment emojis, and emojis that mark milestones. It was developed by Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare in Minnesota and the mobile messaging platform Snaps. Find the app at gillettechildrens.org. n Hopster App: Preschool kids who have sensory processing problems might benefit from the Hopster app and its new digital playroom, Sense. With nine screens of educational and fun content, Sense aims to develop fine motor skills through play and help kids explore lights, textures, sounds and movement in a calm way. After a free trial, the app costs $4.99 per month. Read more about it at hopster.tv.

Financial Plan For Special Needs One of the biggest concerns of parents of children with special needs is making sure they have a financial plan if the kids need support as they grow older. One place to start is by reading “The Good Harvest Plan, a Complete Financial Planning Guide for Parents with Special Needs Children.” The book was written by Rick Knight, a financial planner in metro Atlanta. It covers useful planning strategies for all families, but particularly for those with kids with special needs. Some topics include how to establish a special needs trust, life insurance planning and strategies and choosing a guardian. The book will be available this month at Barnes & Noble and soon at thegoodharvest.com.

Fulton County Schools

Is Here To Help…

The school system can evaluate any child age 3 or older for a suspected disability, at no cost.

➢ Diagnostic and Evaluation Services ➢ Speech/Language Therapy ➢ Specialized Community and School-Based Education We serve students with disabilities such as developmental delays, speech/language delays, autism spectrum disorders, hearing and vision impairments, orthopedic impairments who are three to five years of age and reside within the Fulton County School District.

Call or visit for more information: 470-254-0404 fultonschools.org 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.

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Spotlight on Special Needs Resources The Bedford School/Squirrel Hollow Camp

quirrel Hollow Camp is a 2-4 week summer program, (Session 1: June 12-June 23; Session 2: June 26-July 7) 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.

Children’s Special Services, LLC

G of!!

roup summer camps 2:1 ratios!! Unheard

But yes, it is true, sensory, motor and social skills groups with 4 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 3 exciting camps: Weekend Outdoor Sensory Experience with Learning on the Log™, WIN™ handwriting and POP™ social skills. Social Skills POP™ Personal Options and Preferences™ is a sensory integrative social play group using pediatric yoga, Music Therapy ART and Occupational Therapy. The playful environment helps the child learn necessary sensory motor perceptual skills while learning to make friends not only with others but themselves as well. To learn more please visit www.childrens-services.com to read more and register directly for the camps of your choice or contact us directly at susanorloff@childrens-services.com 770-394-9791.

FOCUS + Fragile Kids

Porter Academy

OCUS was founded in 1983 when two children who were medically fragile shared a hospital room. Started as a ‘living room support system,’ FOCUS grew through the years to reach over 4,000 families with 11 weeks of summer day camp; monthly respite care; support groups, hospital visits, and family camps and activities. Fragile Kids Foundation was founded by a group of professionals to help parents get the medically-prescribed equipment that insurance and Medicaid did not cover. After officially merging in 2017, FOCUS + Fragile Kids now offers parent support and information, fun programs for children and families, and equipment that makes life a little easier. Summer is particularly difficult for children with disabilities – and for their parents. FOCUS + Fragile Kids offers a week of day camp fun, with a nurse and trained counselors onsite to assist. Community volunteers add extra energy and youth! FOCUS + Fragile Kids also hosts family activities and camps – a great way to have fun and meet families in similar circumstances. Find out more about FOCUS + Fragile Kids at www.focusga.org. Comfort. Hope. Fun. Equip for Every Day Life.

e are so pleased with the progress he has made so far this year. He is beaming when he reads aloud and his confidence is soaring. He is no longer too timid to take chances and try something new. We couldn’t be happier!” - Porter Academy Parent When parents first come tour Porter Academy, many of them feel heavy with frustration, anxiety, and sadness because they have fought hard for their children, but with little success to show for their efforts. These same families, within a few months of enrollment, are able to relax and feel hopeful, knowing that their children are finally happy and learning. The school’s founder, Claudia Porter, didn’t teach a curriculum, she taught a child. She knew each child’s passions, strengths, and stumbling blocks. She knew that their past struggles had made them feel less...less capable, less important... and that these feelings had led many of them to resist trying. They had learned to slip through the cracks or to distract from the real problems by acting out behaviorally. Mrs. Porter knew that the first step to getting children to learn was to rebuild their self confidence and self respect. The school has grown, but the child-centered care and teaching persists, enabling each child to find joy and success in learning. For more information, visit www.porteracademy.org or call 770-594-1313.

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“W

Special Advertising Section

May 2017 Atlanta Parent 45

Family Fun Guide * Eating Out

Free Fun

Exhibits

Playground

Calendar

Sky High Fun54 age

Not-to-miss events for May

Decatur Lantern Parade

Parade begins at Color Wheel Studio May 12. 9 p.m. The Decatur night sky lights up with a parade of colorful and whimsical battery-powered lanterns. Bring your lantern and welcome summer. Parade route begins at 508 E. Howard Ave., Decatur and ends at the Decatur Square. 404-371-9583. Free. decaturartsfestival.com Decatur Lantern Parade

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Dinosaur Explore Stone Mountain Park / Daily. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Meet over 20 life-size dinosaurs that act like the real thing! Kids can see them roar and move, play in the dino dig area, learn about dinosaur habitats and more. 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain. 800-401-2407. Admission included with daily Adventure Pass ($26.95) or yearly membership. Daily parking, $15. stonemountainpark.com. Learn more on page 56.

Georgia Renaissance Festival Fairburn Sat. and Sun. Through June 4 and Memorial Day. 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m.

Travel back in time to see a fire whip show, jousting, a hypnotist, belly dancing, aerial trapeze acts, knife throwing and more. 6905 Virlyn B. Smith Rd., Fairburn. 770-964-8575. Adults, $22; ages 6-12, $10; ages 5 and younger, free. garenfest.com

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Family Fun Guide

EATING OUT

The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill

1105 Canton St., Roswell, 770-993-5749; a second location at 3279 Roswell Rd., Atlanta, 404-474-9508; thebigketch.com 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun.-Thu.; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Fri. and Sat. If you are looking for a relaxed, yet elegantly inspired destination to enjoy great seafood classics, The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill in Roswell is the spot. You’ll find a casual and inviting dining experience for families. Our waitress, and the entire staff, greeted our family warmly and the kids received a pre-snack (Goldfish crackers), crayons and colorable menus in adorable galvanized metal tins. The restaurant also provides each table with boiled peanuts – they’re hot, delicious and slightly spicy. n What’s on the menu: You’ll find lots of fresh seafood dishes and classics, including Creole Shrimp and Grits ($18.95); Bourbon-Orange Glazed Salmon ($21.95) and Spicy Cioppino Bowl (grilled fish, shrimp, mussels and clams in a wine tomato broth, $19.95), but also lots of other choices if you crave something besides seafood. My 16-year-old adventure-seeking foodie devoured the gator bites (a generous appetizer serving and a limited time offer). A must-try non-seafood entree is the marinated chicken breast ($15.95). I had it blackened with a side of grilled broccoli and white cheddar grits, and key lime honey mustard sauce for dipping. Delicious!

n Why parents will like it: The restaurant is kid-friendly without being all about the kids. It has a nice hip and elegant vibe to it without the white table cloths and manners. They have happy hour and dinners specials, and parking is a cinch with the complimentary valet.

n Why kids will like it: Kid-friendly menu items for everyone’s palate. The fish and chips kids’ menu serving was just right for my 8-year-old son, and my 5-year-old daughter enjoyed her chicken skewers and fries. Crayons and coloring, and of course, Goldfish! – Melissa Williams

SplishSplashAdventure Time to dive in and cool off – no need to wait until Memorial Day Weekend!

LanierWorld

Six Flags White Water

Callaway Gardens Beach

Open Weekends Beginning April 29 Open Daily Starting May 20

Open Weekends Beginning May 13 Open Daily Starting May 25 More than 50 water attractions, including the Atlanta Ocean wave pool, thrill rides (Wahoo Racer and Dive Bomber) and Little Squirts Island draw families year after year. sixflags.com/whitewater

Opens May 26 Robin Lake’s sandy beach and children’s playground is a draw, but kids and teens love Aqua Island’s floating obstacle course, minigolf and more. Each week during the summer also features movies on the beach and musical entertainment plus the FSU Flying Circus performs June 2-July 21. callawaygardens.com

Families come for Georgia’s largest wave pool, giant water slides and Kiddie Lagoon. Families also love the white, sandy beaches, dive-in movies and other entertainment all summer long. lanierislands.com 48 Atlanta Parent May 2017

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Flutter to

Fairy Land Fans of Tinkerbell or other small, magic creatures will love visiting fairy house villages, making crafts and listening to mythical stories.

Fairy House Festival Chimney Park / May 6, 2-5 p.m. Build your own natural fairy house and visit the fairy house village. Live entertainment along with crafts, archery, storytelling, refreshments and costumes. 8201 Hazelbrand Rd., Covington. 678-925-3594. $5; ages 2 and younger, free. chimney-park.com

Forest Fairy House Trail Chattahoochee Nature Center Through May 31 Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. noon-5 p.m. Spot more than a dozen whimsical fairy homes and create your own fairy house in the free play area. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Fairy House Trail included with admission. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; ages 2 and younger, free. chattnaturecenter.org

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Atlanta Braves

HAVE A BALL AT SUNTRUST PARK!

SunTrust Park is a must-see, even if you aren’t a baseball fan! From the impressive, carnivallike children’s area to an enormous Atlanta Braves symbol made out of LEGOs, there is so much to see and do before the first pitch. n The Amenities The ballpark is designed to offer optimal viewing of the field from just about any location throughout the concourse areas so that you don’t have to miss the action during a food run or restroom break. We couldn’t believe how easy it was to view the game while checking out all of the attractions. Parents with young children know how hard it can be to find family-specific restrooms at large venues. Not to worry –

50 Atlanta Parent May 2017

SunTrust Park has 11 of them. Forgot your glove? No problem! The oneof-a-kind Mizuno Glove Experience allows fans of all ages to check out a baseball glove (free of charge) to catch foul balls and home runs. Fans have the option to purchase the glove at the end of the game. n Best Bets for Kids SunTrust Park is the first professional sporting venue to have a zip line and climbing tower. Hope & Will’s Sandlot is an area designed specifically for younger Braves fans, with fun carnival games, running to first base, and video simulators. Attractions range from $2-$5, and tokens need to be purchased to play games. To avoid long lines on game day, parents should download the MLB.com Ballpark app to reserve a timeslot for the zip line or climbing tower. This should be done 24 hours before the game because spots go quickly! My boys also enjoyed spotting the Hope and Will costumed characters as they greeted young Braves fans throughout the kid-friendly area. It’s a great photo opportunity. Parents will appreciate the kid-fare options at the Sandlot Snacks concession stand within Hope & Will’s Sandlot. The affordable menu

Family Fun Guide

The Details SunTrust Park 755 Battery Ave., Atlanta; braves.com n Home games in May: May 1-4: New York Mets May 5-7: St. Louis Cardinals May 17-18: Toronto Blue Jays May 19-21: Washington Nationals May 22-25: Pittsburgh Pirates n Tickets: Prices vary from $5-$143 depending on the game. Six game plan: maximum of three Friday and Saturdays per plan with prices from $6. http://m.mlb. com/braves/tickets/plans/six-game-plan

features meals and snacks like hot dogs, mini pizzas, fruit or veggie cups, and more from $4$7. The concession stand also offers healthier drink options, including fruit juices and milk. n The Food There are so many new food options at SunTrust Park that it’s hard to make a decision! The concessions are provided by traditional Atlanta favorites like Fox Bros. BBQ, Chickfil-A and Waffle House, along with more upscale offerings from celebrity chefs. Look for the “Farm to Fan” logo at concession stands for locally sourced dishes. Centerfield Market, a convenience store within the ballpark, features healthy graband-go meals and snacks, including fruits, juices and gluten-free offerings. Each ticket-holder is allowed to bring in one bottle of unopened water plus snacks in a clear, gallon-sized plastic bag. atlantaparent.com

Why Families Will Love SunTrust Park

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Families can arrive early and let their children run around the sprawling green space within the Plaza just outside the ballpark entrance. The Plaza has water features, live entertainment and many restaurant options. Monument Garden is a historical presentation of the Atlanta Braves with interesting artifacts, memorabilia, statues and sculptures. Children will especially love the interactive displays and audio features. Fans of all ages will marvel at the unique, giant Atlanta Braves tomahawk symbol made of 17,000 LEGO bricks. Wow! Families will enjoy the attention to details, especially the kid-friendly food presentation. The kids’ meal featuring a hot dog served in a large souvenir Atlanta Braves helmet was a hit! My 5-year-old was also obsessed with the giant pretzels in the shape of an “A” like the Atlanta Braves script logo.

n Parking SunTrust Park has 8,000 fewer seats than Turner Field, yet it boasts over 14,000 parking spaces surrounding the stadium. Be sure to purchase your parking pass online prior to the game, and the Waze app will direct you to your specific lot, since each lot has its own address. Several lots are pedestrianfriendly and within a half-mile from the ballpark entrance. Kids will love traversing the massive pedestrian bridge to safely reach the ballpark. Uber is also an option, and there are easily accessible designated drop-off and pick-up zones right in front. – Felicia Barman atlantaparent.com

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Run or Jump for Fun:

Fun at the

Peachtree Junior

Shrine Circus

Lace up the running shoes and run through Piedmont Park, in this annual fun run for ages 14 and younger. The event hosted by the Atlanta Track Club is designed to provide kids the chance to experience the thrill of the AJC Peachtree Road Race. In the decathlon, kids can try 10 different activities including high and long jump, shot put, javelin and more or take a clinic with an Olympic athlete. Race options include a 3K run for ages 7-14, a 1/2K for ages 5-9 and a 50m dash for ages 6 and younger. May 13, 8:30 a.m. (register by May 10). Active Oval Loop Piedmont Park, 400 Park Dr. NE, Atlanta. atlantatrackclub.org; 404-231-9064. Registration, $10-$25.

Watch high-flying trapeze acts, aerials and acrobats or hop on carnival rides and play midway games! This event has more than 40 carnival rides and attractions, as well as carnival food such as fried Oreos and snow cones. Don’t miss:

The Details

n Sea Lion Splash Show

May 20-29 404-872-5818; yaarabshrine.net/ yaarab-shrine-circus n Location: Jim R. Miller Park, 2245 Callaway Rd., Marietta n Cost: Adults, $7; ages 10 and younger, free. Ride tickets are extra. Mon.-Thurs. unlimited rides, $18; Fri.-Sun. and Memorial Day, $20.

n Kachunga’s Alligator Show n The Real Steel Riders dirt bike show n The Flying Trapeze Cortez family from South America n Zerbini Animals, from tigers to elephants n Shrine clowns

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Go Visit a Farm!

Mayfield Dairy Farm

Most kids in metro Atlanta don’t know how a glass of milk arrives at the breakfast table. Families can take a fun and educational tour at several working farms near Atlanta, and visit Mayfield Dairy to see how milk is processed. Mountain Fresh Creamery and Glo-Crest Dairy

Working Cows Dairy Farm 5539 N State Hwy. 103, Slocomb, Ala. 334-886-3839; workingcowsdairy.com Families are allowed to drive on the de Jong family farm’s property at any time of the day and learn about organic dairy farming. The family invites visitors to watch the daily 5 p.m. milking and to see the barns, fields and calves. Make sure to grab samples from the fridge of organic milk, chocolate milk and cream (on the honor system).

Marview Farms 627 Buford Rd., Arabi, Ga. 229-401-8722; marviewfarms.com Marview Farms does not have cows that can be milked, but families can see baby goats and lambs being bottle-fed. Families also can see other working parts of the farm, which include cattle, goats, sheep, chickens and more on 900 acres. Call ahead for a tour. The family asks visitors who receive a tour to purchase one of the farm’s products.

Decimal Place Farm 4314 Almach Ave., Conley, Ga. 404-363-0356; decimalplacefarm.com Learn about goats and cheese-making in a 90-minute visit to this goat dairy farm, plus take a tour of the woods, pasture and barn. The farm hosts school classes, Scouts and other groups, for $7 per person. Families who wish to visit can call ahead to see if a time is available.

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6615 Cleveland Hwy., Clermont, Ga. 770-983-1666; mountainfreshcreamery.com Meet dairy cows and see how milk gets processed, then taste a sample of milk and ice cream. Tours are $7 per person (ages 2 and younger free), at 9 and 11 a.m. Mon.Sat; make a reservation at least 24 hours in advance.

Mayfield Dairy, Braselton 1160 Broadway Ave, Braselton, Ga. 1-888-298-0396; mayfielddairy.com See how Mayfield products are made, from the dairy to your fridge, then sit in rocking chairs on the porch and enjoy a scoop of ice cream. You’ll see how milk is processed and learn fun facts, such as: Cows can produce 10 gallons of milk a day, or 160 glasses. Tours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Mon., Tue., Thurs. and Fri., and 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sat. Admission is $4.50 ages 13 and older, $3.50 ages 3-12, free for ages 2 and younger; admission includes a scoop of ice cream. – Amanda Miller Allen

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FLIGHT PLAN FOR FUN

Fly in an Airplane The EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association) Young Eagles Aviation Program gives kids the opportunity to fly in a small airplane and have a taste of aviation. The flights are free to the public thanks to donations. Certified FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) pilots

If your child loves all things airplanes, plan a trip to an air show or museum and take a test ride with one of these flight programs by Teresa Farkas

conduct the flights and kids can learn what it takes to become a pilot in the process. Flights last around 20 minutes, and can be a good way to test your child’s interest in aviation. n The Details: Visit eaa.org to find your closet Georgia location. Flights are for ages 8-17.

Explore Delta’s History Our city might have one of the busiest airports in the world, but we have one hometown airline – Delta Air Lines. The Delta Flight Museum allows visitors to experience the rich history of Delta Air Lines and get up-close and personal with some massive airplanes. The first-built 747 has recently been added to the already impressive collection of planes. n The Details: 1060 Delta Blvd., off Airport Loop Road. (I-85 exit 74), north of the Airport. 404-715-7886; deltamuseum.org n Hours: Mon., Tues., Thurs.-Sat. 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sun. noon-4:30 p.m. n Cost: Adults, $15; ages 5-17, $10; ages 4 and younger, free. 54 Atlanta Parent May 2017

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Watch the Experts

Children’s activities include inflatables, face painting, concessions and more. n The Details: June 10. Noon-5 p.m. 2000 Airport Rd., Atlanta. pdkairshow.com n Cost: Admission, free; parking, $10.

Photo by Stephen Rahn

See planes soar above and perform mesmerizing tricks at the Good Neighbor Day Open House Air Show at the DeKalb-Peachtree Airport on June 10. View antique airplanes, military aircraft and helicopters. Take a biplane ride or helicopter ride for a fee.

Visit an Air Force Museum The Museum of Aviation has grown to become the second largest museum in the United States Air Force. See planes and jets of all types in this indoor and outdoor aircraft gallery.

Other experiences n Camps Space Camp, Huntsville, Ala. and Cape Canaveral, Fla.; LockheedMartin Aviation Day Camp: Fernbank Science Center.

n Worth the Drive Southern Museum of Flight, Birmingham, Ala.; U.S. Space and Rocket Center, Huntsville, Ala.; National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Airforce, Pooler, Ga; Wright Brothers National Memorial, Kitty Hawk, NC; National Naval Aviation Museum, Pensacola, Fla.

n The Details: 1942 Heritage Blvd., Robins Air Force Base, Warner Robins. 478-926-6870; museumofaviation.org n Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. n Cost: Free admission and parking.

Hop Inside an Army Helicopter

n Places to

Inside the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation Museum you can explore Cobras, Hueys and Bird Dog helicopters as well as meet Army veterans for a tour of the facility. They offer rides by appointment in the UH-1H Huey and AH-1F Cobra helicopters select Saturdays (next one is May 13, 10 a.m.). Prices vary by type of helicopter and length of ride. The UH-1H Huey ride is the most familyfriendly option of the two for ages 5 and older for $70 per person.

Watch Planes DeKalb-Peachtree Airport; Cobb County International at McCollum Field; Briscoe Field Airport.

n Civil Air Patrol

n The Details: 506 Speedway Blvd., Hampton. (next to the Atlanta Motor Speedway) 770-897-0444; armyav.org

Civil Air Patrol is for 12 to 18 year old boys and girls who are interested in learning more about aviation and aerospace. To find a Civil Air Patrol squadron near you go to: https://gawg.cap. gov/wp/

n Hours: Tues.-Sat. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. By appointment only. n Cost: Free to tour the museum; helicopter flights vary. atlantaparent.com

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Play with the

Dinosaurs at Stone Mountain Park

“M

ommy, check out the giant dinosaur!” and “Ooh, look the dinosaur moves!” are just some of the excited comments I heard from my children as we approached Stone Mountain’s new Dinosaur Explore exhibit. A “park ranger” holding an animatronic baby dinosaur in a blanket greeted us. My sons, ages 4 and 7, were so excited to be able to pet the dinosaur, which moved and made sounds. Make sure to have a camera ready for this great photo op! The exhibit features a walking path that winds past 14 scientifically accurate species of dinosaurs, including two 20-foot-tall brachiosaurus and a winged pteranodon. My sons were captivated by the life-sized models, which roared and looked very The Details much like real dinosaurs! Dinosaur Explore A giant sand pit is part of the at Stone Mountain Park exhibit. Here my sons were able to 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain search for dinosaur bones and dig to 800-401-2407; stonemountainpark.com their heart’s delight. It is a good thing n Admission: Adventure Pass, $26.95, that plenty of seating is available for includes admission to the Dinosaur Explore parents because kids will want to hang exhibit. Parking pass, $15 per vehicle. out here for a while. I had a great time n Exhibit: Through Dec. 31. because for once I did not have to say “stop playing in the dirt!” A change of clothes for this experience is highly recommended. Children not interested in the sand pit can skip right to the “Meet and Greet” with the Tyrannosaurus Rex. The T-Rex comes out every 30 minutes to perform tricks and give the kids a good show. Round out your visit with a stop to the Dinotorium, four levels of fun for all ages – giant slides, climbing mazes, Nerf ball cannons (my husband’s favorite) and other games. My boys and husband loved it. Our experience at Dinosaur Explore was a great combination of learning and fun for all! More to do at Stone Mountain: Spend the day and ride the Scenic Railroad, play at Geyser Tower, take the Ride the Ducks tour, climb the mountain and stay until closing for the Laser Show. – Katrina Lind Rucker

More than 50 family-friendly activities October 14th, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Mercer University Atlanta Campus

Back for our 14th year, it’s Atlanta’s

Join the FUN!

favorite family

Exhibit Volunteer Donate

festival!

770-454-7599 Images By N’Neka and Butler Family Photography

56 Atlanta Parent May 2017

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Family Fun Guide

LPowell@ atlantaparent.com

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* * spring festival fun Georgia Renaissance Festival. Fairburn. Artist market, fire whip show, jousting, a hypnotist, belly dancing, aerial trapeze acts, knife throwing and more. Grab a turkey leg and travel back in time. Sat. and Sun. Through June 4 and Memorial Day. 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m. 6905 Virlyn B. Smith Rd., Fairburn. 770-964-8575. Adults, $22; ages 6-12, $10; ages 5 and younger, free. Taste of Alpharetta. Historic Downtown Alpharetta. Sample food from over 60 local restaurants and hear live music from local bands. Children’s area and culinary demonstrations. May 4. 5-10 p.m. 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta. 678-2976048. Admission, free; food samples, $1-$3. Fairy House Festival. Chimney Park. Enjoy live entertainment along with crafts, archery, storytelling, refreshments and costumes. Build your own fairy house and visit the fairy house village. May 6. 2-5 p.m. 8201 Hazelbrand Rd., Covington. 678925-3594. $5; ages 2 and younger, free. Strawberry Festival. Jaemor Farms. Strawberry picking, farm tours, pony rides, craft and food vendors and a petting zoo. May 6. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 5340 Cornelia Hwy., Alto. 770-869-3999. Strawberry picking, $14/gallon; farm slide, hayrides, pony rides, petting zoo and other farm activities, $5/person; ages 2 and younger, free. Taste of East Point. East Point Commons. Sample food from South metro-area restaurants and food trucks. Artist market and live music. May 6. 3-9 p.m. 2757 East Point St., East Point. 404452-0985. Admission, free; taste tickets, $1 each.

Alpharetta Arts Streetfest

Chastain Park Arts Festival. Chastain Park. Arts and crafts vendors, children’s area, live music and food. May 6-7. Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 4469 Stella Dr., Atlanta. info@affps.com. chastainparkartsfestival.com. Admission, free. WoofStock. Suwanee Town Center Park. Live music, pet vendors, pet adoption, pet contest, children’s area, food trucks and more. May 6-7. Sat. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sun. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 330 Town Center Ave., Suwanee. woofstockatl.com Admission, free.

May-retta Daze. Glover Park. Art festival with children’s activities and live entertainment. May 6-7. Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 50 Park Square, Marietta. 770-794-5601. Free.

May Day Festival. Serenbe. Celebrate spring with a day of live music, pony rides, face painting, plus a traditional May Pole. May 7. Noon-4 p.m. 9055 Selborne Lane, Chattahoochee Hills. 770463-2610. $5/person.

Snellville Days. Briscoe Park. Handmade arts and crafts, food vendors, live entertainment and children’s activities. May 6-7. Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sun. noon-5 p.m. 2500 Sawyer Pkwy., Snellville. 770-985-3535. Free.

Mableton Day. Mable House Complex. 5K race and fun run, car show, children’s play area, arts and crafts, food and live entertainment. May 13. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. 5239 Floyd Rd., Mableton. 678-5902803. Free. Arts in the Park. Suwanee Town Center Park. More than 100 artists, performers and food vendors. May 13. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 300 Town Center Ave., Suwanee. 678-878-2818. Admission, free. Atlanta Caribbean Children’s Carnival. Historic Fourth Ward Park. Children’s activities with music and games. May 13. noon-8 p.m.700 Ralph McGill Blvd. NE, Atlanta. 404-519-6120. Free. Barefoot in the Park Festival. Buford Town Park. Artist market, a learning village, live entertainment and food. May 13-14. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 2200 Buford Dr., Buford. 678677-0172. Admission, free. Dunwoody Art Festival. Dunwoody Village Parkway. Live music, artists, children’s area, arts and crafts, rides, games and more. May 13-14. Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1442 Dunwoody Village Pkwy., Atlanta. 678-427-6450. Admission, free.

Kirkwood Spring Fling

atlantaparent.com

Sweet Auburn Springfest. Sweet Auburn Historic District. Live entertainment, children’s area, international food court and more. May 13-14. Sat.11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun. 1-8 p.m. 230 John Wesley Dobbs Ave., Atlanta. 404-594-3939. Admission, free.

Family Fun Guide

Cherokee County Indian Festival and Mother’s Day Pow Wow. Boling Park. Indian village and displays, traditional dance competition and drumming. Native Americans from around the country gather for this event. May 14-15. Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 1098 Marietta Hwy., Canton. 770-735-6275. Adults, $15; ages 6-12, $5; ages 5 and younger, free. Marietta Greek Festival. Holy Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church. Greek Hellenic dancing, Greek food and pastries, traditional gifts and jewelry and children’s activities. May 19-21. Fri. 2-11 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 3431 Trickum Rd., Marietta. 770-924-8080. Adults, $5; ages 12 and younger, free. Canton Festival of the Arts. Historic Downtown Canton. Artists market, live entertainment, food concessions, serenity garden, hands-on activities for kids and more. May 20-21. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 94 North St., Canton. 770-704-6244. Admission, free. Kirkwood Spring Fling. Bessie Branham Park. Artists market, children’s area, live music, barbeque cook off, a 5K race and tour of homes. Festival, May 20. 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Tour of Homes, May 20-21. noon-5 p.m.; 5K race, May 20, 8:30 a.m. 2051 Delano Dr. NE, Atlanta. 678-637-9835. Festival, free; home tour, $20; 5K race, $30-35. Atlanta Jazz Festival. Piedmont Park. A weekend of jazz performances, children’s activity area, face painting, children’s concerts and games. May 26-28. Fri. 7-9 p.m. Sat.-Sun. 12:30-9 p.m. 400 Park Dr. NE, Atlanta. 404-546-7246. Admission, free. Decatur Arts Festival. Downtown Decatur. Artist market, musical performances, dance and literary arts, Children’s Art Festival on Saturday with jugglers, a gaming truck and more. May 27-28. Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; children’s activities: Sat. 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Decatur Recreation Center: 231 Sycamore St., Decatur. 404-371-9583. Admission, free. Alpharetta Arts Streetfest. Historic Downtown Alpharetta. Artist market, children’s arts and crafts area, live music and more. May 27-29. Sat.Mon. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 2 North Main St., Alpharetta. 770-337-4049. Admission, free.

May 2017 Atlanta Parent 57

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.

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

Please call the event beforehand to confirm dates and times.

LEARN ABOUT THE CIVIL WAR

classes

Civil War Living History Weekend Barrington Hall MAY 6-7. SAT. AND SUN. 10 A.M.-4 P.M.

Little Acorns. The Plaza at Avalon. Face painting, storytime, crafts, character visits and more for preschoolers. Every Tues. 10 a.m.-noon. 2200 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta. 770-765-1000. Free. Mommy and Me Preschool Program. Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History. Fun lessons and hands-on activities recommended for ages 3-5. Every Thurs. 10 and 11:30 a.m. 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. 770-427-2117. Free with admission. Adults, $7.50; ages 4-12, $5.50; 3 and younger, free. Toddler Thursdays. High Museum of Art. Create masterpieces to complement the museum’s current exhibits. Recommended for ages 2-4. Every Thurs. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404733-4400. Free with admission. Ages 6 and older, $14.50; 5 and younger, free. Drop-In Art Classes. Treehouse Kid & Craft. Enjoy weekly activities including painting, drawing and sculpting. Every Sat. 10 a.m. (ages 2-4) and 11 a.m. (ages 5-10). 533 W. Howard Ave. Ste. A, Decatur. 470-3558305. $12. Beginner/Intermediate Skateboarding. The BeltLine. One-hour skateboarding class led by expert instructors. Every Sat. Beginner: 10-11 a.m.; Intermediate: 11:10 a.m.-12:10 p.m. and 12:30-1:30 p.m. 1614 Arthur Langford Jr. Pl. SW, Atlanta. 404477-3003. Free. Crafts at Lakeshore Learning. Lakeshore Learning. Make a different craft each week. Every Sat. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Ages 3 and older. 4287 Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770578-3100. Free. Drop-In and Draw. GAS-ART Gifts at North DeKalb Mall. Create a different project each week. Every Sat. and Sun. Between noon-3 p.m. 2050 Lawrenceville Hwy., Decatur. 404-801-4926. $5. INK Craft Weeks. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids. Create different themed crafts each week. Check inkfun.org for schedule and times. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. 1-5 p.m. 999 Chestnut St. SE, Gainesville. 770-536-1900. $1 with museum admission. Mon.-Sat., $8; Sun., $6. Toddler Time. Georgia Aquarium. Meet and learn about a marine animal, enjoy a costumed character appearance, storytime, crafts and a small snack. Ages infant-3 years. Reservations required. May 1. 1011:30 a.m. 225 Baker St. NW, Atlanta. 404581-4000. $10/person. Does not include aquarium admission. Adults, $39.95; ages 3-12, $33.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

58 Atlanta Parent May 2017

Visit soldier encampments, Civil War weapon and uniform demonstrations and dances. Children’s area and period food. 535 Barrington Dr., Roswell. 770-640-3855. Free. barrington-hall.org Artillery Demonstrations Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park MAY 28-29. 11 A.M.-3 P.M. Visitors can see the steps taken to fire cannons during the American Civil War. Each program includes an explanation of the role of artillery during the Atlanta Campaign and at the Battle of Kennesaw Mountain. 900 Kennesaw Mountain Dr., Kennesaw. 770-427-4686. Free. nps.gov/kemo Magic Monday: Mother Nature. Atlanta History Center. A different theme each month lets parents and children explore history together, with hands-on activities including art projects, music and storytime. Ages 18 mos.-5 years. May 8. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 130 West Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Adults, $6.50; ages 5 and younger, $5.50. Mice Tours. Marietta Museum of History. Mascots Murray and Etta mouse introduce history through tours, storytime and crafts for ages 3-5. Reservations required. May 10. 10:30 a.m. 1 Depot St., Marietta. 770-794-5710. $5 per family (one adult and up to three children). Second Thursday Program. Southeastern Railway Museum. Parents and preschool program includes circle time, an activity and craft. Ages 2-4. May 11. 10:30 a.m.-12:05 p.m. Check-in before 10:20 a.m. 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth. 770-495-0253. $10 per child, one adult free, additional adult, $12. Toddler Fridays. The Hudgens Center for the Arts. Hands-on activities and storytime for ages 1-4. May 26. 10:30 a.m.-noon. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Bldg. 300, Duluth. 770-623-6002. $7 per child; $5 each additional child.

Family Fun Guide

exhibits Wild Weather. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Investigate some of nature’s powerful and destructive forces as you put yourself directly in the path of a tornado, inside the eye of a hurricane and in the midst of a raging winter storm. Through May 7. Mon.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-9296300. Adults, $18; ages 3-12, $16; ages 2 and younger, free. Cross Country: The Power of Place in American Art. High Museum of Art. Over 200 works by artists who took inspiration from their surroundings outside of the city. The kids’ audio guide takes young visitors on a road trip across America, guided by two characters who encounter interesting personalities along the way. Through May 7. Tues.-Thurs. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Fri. 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. noon-5 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4400. Ages 6 and older, $14.50; ages 5 and younger, free.

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Celebrate Mom! Mother’s Day Events

n Mother’s Day at the Zoo. Zoo Atlanta. Visit on Mother’s Day and moms get in free with the purchase of one full price admission (adult or child). May 14. 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. 800 Cherokee Ave., Atlanta. 404-6249453. Adults, $25.99; ages 3-12, $17.99; ages 2 and younger, free. n Free Mother’s Day Admission. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Moms get in free on Mother’s Day. May 14. noon-5 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; moms and ages 2 and younger, free. n Gardens for Connoisseurs Tour. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Take mom to view ten spectacular private gardens. Tickets valid both days of the tour. May 13-14. Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404876-5859. Adults, $28 before May 11; $35 at the door; ages 11 and younger, free. n Mother’s Day. Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Enjoy Mother’s Day storytime, a photo booth, music and movement, build a ring organizer and decorate a picture frame. May 13-14. Sat.-Sun. 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-659-5437. $14.95; younger than 1, free. Mothers get free admission. n Pops in the Park. East Cobb Park. Enjoy a Mother’s Day concert with mom from Symphony on the Square. Sat., May 13. 7-9 p.m. 3322 Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770-874-8525. Free. n Dunwoody Art Festival. Dunwoody Village Parkway. Live music, artists, children’s area, arts and crafts, rides, games and more. May 13-14. Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1449 Dunwoody Village Pkwy., Atlanta. 678-427-6450. Admission, free.

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n Celebrating Moms. North Georgia Zoo. Moms get in free with paid child’s admission on Mother’s Day. Special “Zoo Mom” tours to learn about being a mom in the animal kingdom. May 14. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 2912 Paradise Valley Rd., Cleveland. 706-348-7279. Moms, free; adults, $23; ages 2-11, $21; younger than 2, free. n Cherokee County Indian Festival and Mother’s Day Pow Wow. Boling Park. Indian village and displays, traditional dance competition and drumming. Native Americans from around the country gather for this event. May 13-14. Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 1098 Marietta Hwy., Canton. 770-735-6275. Adults, $15; ages 6-12, $5; ages 5 and younger, free.

Family Fun Guide

May 2017 Atlanta Parent 59

Calendar Food by Design: Sustaining the Future. Museum of Design Atlanta. Discover the process of feeding and how the farm of the future might operate. Through May 7. Tues., Wed., Fri. and Sun. noon-6 p.m., Thurs. noon-8 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 1315 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-979-6455. Adults, $10; ages 6-17, $5; ages 5 and younger, free.

ENDANGERED SPECIES DAY Zoo Atlanta MAY 13. 10 A.M.-4 P.M. Discover some of the world’s rarest animals that live at the zoo. Keeper talks, meet and greets and craft and activity stations. 800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-624-9453. Included with admission: Ages 12 and older, $25.99; ages 3-11, $17.99; ages 2 and younger, free. zooatlanta.org

From Here to There. Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Explore different methods of movement. From using simple machines to seeing how air pressure moves a hovercraft. See what it takes to power cars, airplanes and snow blowers. Through May 29. Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed Wed. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr. NW, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. $14.95; younger than 1, free. Ribbit the Exhibit. Atlanta Botanical Garden Gainesville. Over 20 whimsical, copper frog sculptures taking part in a variety of everyday activities, from painting pictures to bird watching, will be displayed in the garden. There will be frog-themed activities for kids including scavenger hunts and discovery stations. Through July 15. Tues.-Sun. 9 a.m-6 p.m. 1911 Sweetbay Dr., Gainesville. 404-888-4760. Adults, $8; ages 3-12, $5; 2 and younger, free. Sonic Sensation. Tellus Science Museum. Explore sound through various interactive stations. See how ears work, experiment with pitch, measure the frequency of sounds, and your own decibels in the Scream Chamber. Through Sept. 4. Mon.Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. Adults, $14; ages 3-17, $10; 2 and younger, free. From Clay to Copper. Tellus Science Museum. Learn about the mineral exploration, craftsmanship and extensive trade networks of the Etowah Valley Indians. Through Oct. 1. Mon.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-6065700. Adults, $14; ages 3-17, $10; ages 2 and younger, free. The Curious Garden. Atlanta Botanical Garden. 11 site-specific installations created to share a story about plant collection and conservation. Dozens of multi-colored trees, sparkly chandeliers dripping with plants and more. May 6-Oct. 29. Tues.-Sun. 9 a.m.-7 p.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. Adults, $21.95; ages 3-12, $15.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

Space Mission. LEGOLAND Discovery Center. Intergalactic building experience where guests can explore alien worlds built out of LEGO bricks. Build and launch your own space rocket and take over the controls of a mission. Through Dec. 31. Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Phipps Plaza, 3500 Peachtree Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404848-9252. $12.50-27.95; ages 2 and younger, free. Painter and Poet: The Wonderful World of Ashley Bryan. High Museum of Art. See the 50-year career of children’s book author and illustrator Ashley Bryan displayed with styles that reflect a wide variety of influences, from African folktales to jazz and poetry. Through Jan. 21, 2018. Tues.Thurs. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Fri. 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. noon-5 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404733-4400. Ages 6 and older, $14.50; ages 5 and younger, free.

movies Planetarium Shows. Fernbank Science Center. Various shows per month about the solar system in the newly-renovated planetarium. See fernbank.edu for schedule. Thurs. 7 and 8 p.m.; Fri. 3, 7 and 8 p.m.; Sat. 11 a.m., noon, 2 and 3 p.m. 156 Heaton Park Dr., Atlanta. 678-874-7102. Adults, $7; ages 3-18, $5; 2 and younger, free. Flick-Nic. Candler Park. Picnic festivities and music in front of the pool house an hour before dusk, movie at dark. May 6, “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.” 1500 McLendon Ave. NE, Atlanta. friendsofcandlerpark.org. Free. Extreme Weather 3D. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Follow researchers and everyday heroes to the front lines where few have gone. Travel to the edge of 300-ft.-tall glaciers collapsing, to the front lines of massive wildfires, directly in the path of tornadoes. Through May 19. See fernbankmuseum.org for showtimes. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Giant Screen Theater: Adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; ages 2 and younger, free.

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

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Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

Movies in the Park. Atlantic Station’s Central Park. Grab the kids and a blanket and enjoy a familyfriendly movie under the stars. “Beauty and the Beast,” May 25. 6-10 p.m. 1380 Atlantic Drive, Atlanta. 404-733-1221. Free. Dream Big 2D. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Take a journey from the world’s tallest building to a bridge higher than the clouds. Displays the human ingenuity behind engineering marvels, and shows how engineers push the limits of innovation. Through June 16. See fernbankmuseum.org for showtimes. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Giant Screen Theater: Adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; ages 2 and younger, free.

music Riverside Sounds. Riverside Park. Outdoor concerts feature a variety of musical styles; food trucks are on site. Bring blankets or chairs. May 6. 7-9 p.m. 575 Riverside Rd., Roswell. 770-6413705. Free. Concerts in the Park. Dunwoody Nature Center. Different bands perform concerts on the meadow. May 6 and 20. 7-9 p.m. 5343 Roberts Dr., Dunwoody. 770-394-3322. Adults, $5; ages 3 and younger, free. Concerts on the Square. Decatur Square. Enjoy live music by different bands on Decatur Square. Every Sat. May 6, 13, 20 and 27. 7 p.m. Downtown Decatur. 404-371-8386. Free. KIDZ Bop “Best Time Ever” Tour. Verizon Amphitheatre. A show packed full of KIDZ Bop covers of today’s biggest hits. May 7. 5 p.m. 2200 Encore Pkwy., Alpharetta. 404-733-5010. $20 and up. Music for the Very Young: Ensemble Performances. Atlanta Symphony Hall. Your family will learn about the Woodwind, Brass, String and Percussion families during this series performed by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. May 20 and 21. Sat. 9:30, 10:30 and 11:30 a.m.; Sun. 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-5000. Adults, $15; ages 6-17, $8; ages 3-5, free.

nature Wildlife Feeding Time. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Join a naturalist for an in-depth look at one of the resident animals as the Wildlife Department feeds them. Every Tues. and Sat. 4 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Included with admission. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; ages 2 and younger, free. Adventure Cubs. Zoo Atlanta. Stroll through the zoo, visit animal habitats and learning stations. In May, learn about animal moms. Ages 3 and 4. May 3 and 6. 10-11 a.m. 800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-624-9453. $9-12 per person. Planting Festival. McDaniel Farm. Plant corn and cotton, watch blacksmith demonstrations and make an herb sachet. May 6. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 3251 McDaniel Rd., Duluth. 770-904-3500. $8; ages 2 and younger, free. First Saturdays. Dunwoody Nature Center. Different nature theme the first Sat. of each month. May’s theme is gardening. May 6. 11 a.m.-noon. 5343 Roberts Dr., Dunwoody. 770-394-3322. Free.

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You’ll

Our all new Summer Fun Guide on one side AND Atlanta Parent’s June issue on the other.

FLIP

for our June issue! Don’t miss our first ever Ultimate Summer Fun Guide

Plan your best summer ever. Call 770-454-7599 to find out about our great advertising specials.

Family Fun Guide

May 2017 Atlanta Parent 61

Calendar Moonlight Mountain Hike. Panola Mountain State Park. Hike Panola Mountain to enjoy the sunset over Atlanta then stop by a campfire to enjoy s’mores. Bring bug spray, hiking boots and water. Ages 10 and older. Registration required. May 6. 7:30-9:30 p.m. 2620 Hwy. 115 SW, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. $15; parking, $5. Intro to Tree Climbing. Panola Mountain State Park. Introductory program to tree climbing. Learn how to climb, swing and scramble using a rope. Ages 8 and older. Close-toed shoes and long pants required. All equipment provided. Registration required. May 6 and 7. Climbs begin 1 and 3 p.m. 2620 Hwy. 115 SW, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. $15; parking, $5. Family Canoe Day. Chattahoochee Nature Center. An hour and a half introduction to canoeing to learn paddling techniques and play games. Ages 5 and older. Pre-registration required before the Thurs. of each class. May 6 and 27. 10:30 a.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. $15 per person. Toddler Trek/Forest Friends. Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Experience nature while learning the names of local animals and plants and singing songs. May 9, 12, 23 and 26. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Registration required. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770904-3500. $10. ECOExplorers. Dunwoody Nature Center. Nature-based themed class with a craft, activity stations and hike. Ages 2-5 with an adult. May 13. 10-11:30 a.m. 5343 Roberts Dr., Dunwoody. 770-394-3322. $12/child.

Classified Pages Camp

FINDING NEVERLAND Fox Theatre MAY 16-21. SEE FOXTHEATRE.ORG FOR SHOWTIMES. The story behind one of the world’s most beloved characters, Peter Pan, shows the power of imagination. It is full of great songs and laughs and the kid cast members add to the fun. 660 Peachtree St. NE. Atlanta. 404881-2100. $30-125.

Forest Fairy House Trail. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Spot more than a dozen whimsical fairy homes and create your own fairy house in the free play area. Through May 31. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. noon-5 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Included with admission. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; ages 2 and younger, free.

special events Family Fun. Woodruff Arts Center. As a part of CREATE ATL, activities include art making, interactive musical story times, composers-in-training sessions, instrument making, drop-in acting classes and more. Every Sun. 1-4 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4200. Free.

summer camps! JULY 10-28

Choose from ONE of TWO THREE-WEEK THEATRE CAMPS

A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Jr.

Musical Theatre Camp

Girls Ages 11-17 Call for more info

Drama Theatre Camp

For kids ages 10-16

For kids ages 7-16

Into the Woods, Jr.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Jr.

Oaktheatre.com • 954-257-5022 In Samford Studio at The First Baptist Church Avondale Estates

SPORTS FACILITY SUMMER CAMPS Boys & Girls ages 6–12 Basketball, Wifﬂe Ball, Broom Ball, Volleyball, Dodgeball, Batting Cages, Ping Pong, Soccer and more! Camp Weeks start June 12th & 26th, July 10th, 24th & 31st 9AM to 3:30PM | Call to register 770-998-7700 1400 Woodstock Road in Roswell, GA

62 Atlanta Parent May 2017

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

Calendar JCC Food Truck Thursday. Brook Run Park. Bring lawn chairs and blankets and celebrate Israel Independence Day at Food Truck Thursday. Performances by school choirs, teen bands and dance companies. Games, activities, and crafts for kids, Israeli dancing and more. May 4. 5-8:30 p.m. 4770 N. Peachtree Rd., Dunwoody. 678-812-4161. Free; food for purchase. Science Night Out. Fernbank Science Center. LINKS Robotics members will lead students in a variety of hands-on activities, including programming “Sphero” and building circuits with “Little Bits.” Recommended for grades 3-6. Registration required. May 5. 6-9 p.m. 156 Heaton Park Dr. NE, Atlanta. 678-874-7102. $20.

Classified Pages

Camp

summer camps!

Fridays -N- Duluth. Downtown Duluth. Outdoor movies, musicians and children’s activities each Friday night. May 5, 12, 19 and 26. 6-9 p.m. Downtown Duluth. 770-476-3434. Admission, free; food for purchase.

– June 5 8 2 y l Ju

2017 Summer Camps!

Star Wars & Character Creation Camps: Ages 4-7.

Summer Kick-Off Picnic. Newtown Park. Families who have an individual with a disability are invited to enjoy activities, music and more on the Park Place event lawn. Free food. Registration required. May 6. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 3150 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek. 678-512-3200. Free.

Use the Force & Favorite Characters from Children’s movies come to life! Buzz Lightyear from Toy Story, Elsa from Frozen, Mowgli from Jungle Book, Judy from Zootopia and more!

Improv, Film & Sketch Comedy Camps: Ages 8-17. Explore the art or act of creating and performing

spontaneously, The Art of Making a Film, or learn how to mix creativity and unpredictability to create hilarious sketch comedy.

4484 Commerce Dr, Ste A Buford 30518 770-904-6646 www.TheActorsScene.com

YMCA Healthy Kids Day. 17 Atlanta YMCA locations. Games, activities, inflatables, food and more to celebrate healthy kids and their families. May 6. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. See ymcakidsday.com for locations. Free.

Sewing Camps

Meet the Holidays: Cinco de Mayo. Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Traditional Mexican dance performance by Alma Mexicana, storytime, Mexican hat dance, make musical instruments and more. May 6-7. 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-6595437. $14.95; younger than 1, free.

for kids ages 8 and up!

7 weeks to choose from | $325/week

Sewing from 9am-4pm

Princess Brunch: Tangled. Venkman’s. Showings of Disney’s “Tangled,” a special brunch menu which includes pink princess flapjacks and other themed specials. May 6, 20 and 27. 10:30 a.m. Advance reservations encouraged. 740 Ralph McGill Blvd. NE, Atlanta. 470-2256162. Free show, food for purchase.

Drop off starts at 8am

Aftercare available until 6pm Midtown North East TWO GREAT Baptist LOCATIONS! International School Church 404-914-0618 • EasyGoingSewing.com easygoingsewing.info@gmail.com

Adam Rubin Author Event. Little Shop of Stories. The author of “Dragons Love Tacos” has a new book, “Dragons Love Tacos 2.” Meet him and enjoy a 15-minute salsa and guacamole demonstration by Chipotle Mexican Grill. May 12. 5 p.m. 133 E Court Sq., Ste. A, Decatur. 404373-6300. Free. Peachtree Junior. Active Oval Loop Piedmont Park. Lace up the running shoes and run through the park, try 10 different decathlon activities including high and long jump, shot put, javelin and more or take a clinic with an Olympic athlete. Race options include a 3K run for ages 7-14, a 1/2K for ages 5-9 and a 50m dash for ages 6 and younger. May 13. 8:30 a.m. Register by May 10. 400 Park Dr. NE, Atlanta. 404-231-9064. Registration, $10-25.

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Explore the country and culture of Brazil!!

Your child will experience interactive lessons about Brazil and solidify those lessons with quality art projects. Lessons in English & Spanish. For Ages 7-13 Register online. www.aprendiendoacolor.com 404-740-8900

online at CAMPS atlantaparent.com More

Family Fun Guide

ICE SKATING SUMMER CAMPS

at The COOLER

in Alpharetta. More information and online registration

at www.cooler.com May 2017 Atlanta Parent 63

Calendar

MUSIC FOR THE VERY YOUNG: ENSEMBLE PERFORMANCES Atlanta Symphony Hall MAY 20 AND 21. SAT. 9:30, 10:30 AND 11:30 A.M.; SUN. 1:30, 2:30 AND 3:30 P.M.

Spark Saturday: Family Ties. The Center for Civil and Human Rights. Celebrate diversity in family structures. Kids can create their own family tree, design a family collage or build a house. May 13. noon-3 p.m. 100 Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd., Atlanta. 678-999-8990. Adults, $16; 17 and younger, free admission for the day.

Your family will learn about the Woodwind, Brass, String and Percussion families during this series performed by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-5000. Adults, $15; ages 6-17, $8; ages 3-5, free. atlantasymphony.org

Archaeology Day. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Visitors will dig in for a day of family fun and discover how archaeology works through hands-on activities, displays and demonstrations. May 20. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Included with admission. Adults, $18; ages 3-12, $16; ages 2 and younger, free. Gluten-Free and Allergen-Friendly Expo. Cobb Galleria Centre. Biggest gluten-free expo in the U.S. Sample gluten-free products, attend seminars and cooking classes. May 20-21. Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Two Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta. 770-955-8000. Adults, $15 (one-day) $25 (both days); ages 3-12, $5 (one-day) $7 (both days). Little Golden Books Bus. Little Shop of Stories. Interactive “75 Years of Little Golden Books” exhibit, costumed character visits, children’s activities and more. May 21. Noon. 133 E Court Sq., Ste. A, Decatur. 404-373-6300. Free.

Storytime at Little Shop. Little Shop of Stories. Tues., Thurs. and Fri. 11 a.m. and Sun. 3 p.m. 133A E Court Sq., Ste. A, Decatur. 404-373-6300. Free.

Dunwoody Pool Day at the J. MJCCA at Zaban Park. The entire family can enjoy the outdoor pool and splash park. Children’s activities, music, dancing, games and free ice pops. May 21. noon2 p.m. 5342 Tilly Mill Rd., Dunwoody. 678-8124161. Free; food for purchase.

Storybook Time. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Listen to stories about bees, butterflies, frogs and flowers in the Children’s Garden Amphitheater. Every Wed. 10:30-11 a.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-8765859. Included with admission. Adults, $21.95; ages 3-12, $15.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

American Girl Club: Kit Solves the Mystery. Heritage Sandy Springs Museum. Bring your favorite doll and travel through time with the characters of the American Girl series. Includes an activity, craft and snack. Registration required. For ages 5-12. May 27. 10:30 a.m.-noon. 6075 Sandy Springs Cir., Sandy Springs. 404-851-9111. $10 in advance; $15 at the door.

Wren’s Nest Storytelling. The Wren’s Nest. Ramblers host storytelling each Sat. 1 p.m. 1050 Ralph D. Abernathy Blvd. SW, Atlanta. 404-753-7735. Adults, $9; ages 5-12, $6; ages 4 and younger, free.

storytelling Grandma Snazzy’s Storytime. Crabapple Kroger. Grandma Snazzy reads every Mon., Thurs. and Fri. 10 a.m. 12460 Crabapple Rd., Alpharetta. 770-740-2050. Free.

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64 Atlanta Parent May 2017

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 3. 10:30 a.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free. Tadpole Tales/Tree Top Tales. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Preschoolers will enjoy a story with a Fernbank educator along with an activity or song. May 13, 11:30 a.m.; May 27, 11:45 a.m. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Free with admission. Adults $18; ages 3-12, $16; 2 and younger, free.

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Garden Stories. Smith-Gilbert Gardens. Story, crafts and more on a gardenrelated topic. Ages 3-6. May 17 and 31. 10:30 a.m.-noon. 2382 Pine Mountain Rd., Kennesaw. 770-919-0248. Adults, $7; ages 2 and older, $7.

theater & dance The Ugly Duckling. Roswell Cultural Arts Center. The Lightwire Theater presents glow-in-the-dark puppets and other visual effects to tell the story of the Ugly Duckling. May 6. 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. 950 Forrest St., Roswell. 770-594-6232. Ages 2 and older, $12. Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Kids. The Morris and Rae Frank Theater. Watch Belle and the Beast on stage and enjoy listening to the classic songs such as “Be Our Guest” and more. May 9 and 10. 6-7 p.m. 5342 Tilly Mill Rd., Dunwoody. 678-812-4002. Free.

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Calendar Knotted: A Tale of Three. Infinite Energy Theater. Knotted is what happens when Ella Enchanted, Giselle from Enchanted and Rapunzel get together on a comedic quest to find Ella’s fairy godmother. Performed by All Stars Performing Arts Academy. May 13. 1 and 7 p.m. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 770-626-2464. $20-24.

Classified Pages Party

Kid’s Party

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

Cinderella. Aurora Theatre. See the classic tale performed by Wendy Bennett, children’s performer. May 13. 10 and 11:30 a.m. 28 East Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. $7. Aladdin. Infinite Energy Center. Northeast Atlanta Ballet performs the classic Disney story complete with genie, princess and magic lamp. May 19 and 21. Fri. 7:30 p.m.; Sun. 3 p.m. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 770-6262464. $16.60-22. The New Adventures of Brer Rabbit. Aurora Theatre. “That Puppet Guy” performs the tale about one trickster rabbit. May 20. 10 and 11:30 a.m. 28 East Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. $7. Pete the Cat. Center for Puppetry Arts. A new puppet show based on the best-selling book series about a groovy adventure of one cool, skateboarding, surfing, rocking blue cat and his friends. Through May 28. See puppet.org for showtimes. Ages 4 and older. 1404 Spring St. NW, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $20.50.

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Alligators, Monkeys, Farm Friends and more!

Live animals of all kinds! Hands-on, Fun, Educational

beyond atlanta Historic Trolley Tour. Downtown Augusta. Take the Lady Liberty trolley for a kid-friendly ride to see some of Augusta’s most famous homes and the Augusta Canal. Hear a historical story and head to the Augusta History Museum. Sat. 1:30-3:30 p.m. 560 Reynolds St., Augusta. 706-724-4067. Registration required. $15, includes admission to the museum.

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Day Out with Thomas. Tennessee Valley Railroad. Spend the day with Thomas and Friends. Take a ride, see authentic engines and more. May 6 and 7. Visit tvrail.com for departure times. 4119 Cromwell Rd., Chattanooga, Tenn. 423-894-8028. $20-24.

C O UN SEL ING Forward Steps Counseling. Provides counseling for couples, families, and individuals. We specialize in helping couples rebuild and restore their relationships. Call 678-552-2689 today to begin moving forward. Forwardstepscounseling.com. 2011 Commerce Drive. Peachtree City, GA 30269

MATH HE LP Your source for simplified learning methods for all facets of elementary math K-12, Algebra 101 including multiplication tables, decimals, percent, fractions, squares, square roots and more. For a small monthly fee we will guarantee to raise your child’s grades in math K-8th grade. 770-619-2588.

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Open Play Times (See website for times)

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Full-Moon Suspension Bridge Hikes. Tallulah Gorge State Park. A 1-mile hike down the gorge steps, across the suspension bridge to the gorge. May 10. 8:20-9:50 p.m. 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr., Tallulah Falls. 706-754-7981. Registration required. $5; parking, $5. c

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Family Fun Guide

May 2017 Atlanta Parent 65

e h t r o f fridge

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66 Atlanta Parent May 2017

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