Atlanta Parent

AtlantaParent May 2020 / atlantaparent.com

Backyard Fun Celebrate Mother’s Day

Stuck at Home

Atlanta Moms Share Their Stories

Have a Virtual Playdate!

FITNESS CHALLENGE | FAMILY FUN CHALLENGE TEAM CHALLENGE | PRIZES | MEDALS Lauren’s Run and the CURE Family Picnic has gone virtual!

Join us for a fun-filled weekend, complete with a fitness challenge with medals for 5K top finishers, a family friendly challenge (including a surprise scavenger hunt, sidewalk chalk competition, and more), and the chance to win exciting prizes, all while supporting CURE Childhood Cancer!

PLEASE JOIN US (VIRTUALLY): LAURENSRUN.COM

50 FLOOR ALLIANT KELLER KNAPP PwC THE DAKER TEAM

Take A World Music Tour This Summer!

With everything going on in the world today, we know parents

need support now more than ever. We’re excited to invite you to join Big Blue Marble Academy for a World Music Tour this summer!

Our summer camp is a safe, high-energy program offering handson learning and loads of fun. Children will learn about countries from around the world and each country’s unique musical culture through exciting, engaging activities. We’ll dance, sing, play, and keep the children safe and engaged all summer long.

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Big Blue Marble Academy practices the highest standards of health and safety at our facilities.

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The Matthews Family Mableton, Georgia

MATTHEWSCARE You might say the Matthews family’s relationship with Wellstar began at birth. First their labor and delivery nurse helped Deidra learn how to feed new daughter Chase. The same superstar caregiver taught Bow to change diapers, which came in handy when son Canon came along. And the Wellstar care and support hasn’t stopped. There was Deidra’s broken toe. And Bow’s middle-of-the-night heart scare. With medical expertise and personal attention, Wellstar cares for the whole Matthews family like — well, family. No two families of four are exactly alike, and at Wellstar, we would never treat them that way. wellstar.org/peoplecare

More than healthcare. PEOPLE CARE PRIMARY CARE | URGENT CARE | HEALTH PARKS | HOSPITALS

Inside 36 May

YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT

Publisher’s Note / 8 Good Stuff / 10 For the Fridge / 64

12

Celebrate Mother’s Day

16

5 Things We’ve Learned

18

Moms at Home

41

It’s Time for Camp

Now’s the time to tell Mom why she’s special – one daughter counts the ways. Plus, ideas for making your at-home Mother’s Day special.

The challenges of life during the coronavirus pandemic are teaching us important life lessons.

We asked notable Atlanta moms to share their perspective on appreciating time with family, tips for keeping the kids busy and staying connected.

Learn about what camps may look like this summer. Plus, use our directory to start planning.

Fun Things to Do / Page 27 Mix up your at-home routine with these family-friendly ideas. n Online

Events n Virtual Playdates n Scavenger Hunts n Backyard Fun and Games n Book Characters Come Alive Travel: Destination Florida / Page 14 Learning Differences Sponsored Content / Page 22

Like us on Facebook; facebook.com/ AtlantaParentMagazine atlantaparent.com

May 2020 Atlanta Parent 5

Saturday en

Français?

French Classes For Children & Adults

PUBLISHER Liz White

lwhite@atlantaparent.com ASSOCIATE Laura Powell

PUBLISHER lpowell@atlantaparent.com ACCOUNT Carolyn Haushalter EXECUTIVE chaushalter@atlantaparent.com

VIRTUAL OPEN HOUSE: MAY 2—ALL DAY Register online starting May 2

REGISTER for Classes Online Now!

ACCOUNT Melinda McGuire

EXECUTIVE mmcguire@atlantaparent.com STAFF Emily Webb

WRITER ewebb@atlantaparent.com

COPY Mary Williams

www.frenchschoolatlanta.org or call

770-634-6228 Early bird discount until 6/30

EDITOR

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

TIRED OF ASTHMA? Consider joining a clinical research study to prevent future asthma attacks.

Eligible children age 1-17 years will receive, at no cost:

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© Atlanta Parent, Inc. 2020

6 Atlanta Parent May 2020

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VIRTUAL PROGRAMS Looking for some fresh virtual activities for your kids? These online resources will entertain, educate and inspire.

ADC’s Virtual Classroom: The perfect place for your child to receive love and inspiration. Students enjoy two live dance classes per week and a “Connect”/Storytime session to share with friends. Continue the fun with Facebook Live dance parties and a costumed Princess Party every Friday.

770-992-0170 / atlantadancecentral.com

678-871-7625 / fineartsmatter.com/online-classes

Guitar Club, KidzKeys Piano, Beat Making, and Hip-Hop Dance: LIVE Online Group Classes will inspire your child and help them stay Creative and Connected. No Experience Necessary. Beginners Welcome! Six-Week sessions offered on various days and times for just $79. Learn More and Register Today at fineartsmatter.com/online-classes. 678-871-7625.

678-913-3094 / funweirdscience.com

Fun Weird Science Online Academy: K-8 students join virtually to explore Coding, LED Rings, Slime, Geodes, Marshmallow Launchers, Engineering Design, Owl Pellets, Hydroponics, Rockets, Circuit Folders and more. Supplies will be shipped to you. Text SCIENCE to 21000 for more details. funweirdscience.com.

678-913-3094.

metromusicmakers.com / 678-637-7293

Metro Music Makers: Bringing the joy of music into homes across Atlanta for over two decades with private music lessons. Each teacher on their team of passionate and dedicated instructors has been certified to teach online with a program that promotes engagement and growth for their students.

missgailmusic.com

Virtual Miss Gail Music and Movement Classes: Ages 0-5. Jumpin’ Dancing Fun! Making Brain Connections for Rhythm and Pitch!! Get your class link on Tuesday morning with unlimited views all week for the whole family! $35 for FOUR WEEKS. missgailmusic.com.

Atlanta

PARENT atlantaparent.com

Parents: VISIT AtlantaParent.com and SUBSCRIBE to our e-newsletter to get updates on more virtual programs.

May 2020 Atlanta Parent 7

Celebrating over 35 years! ity & Matern ns’ re d il h C s!

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Dear Reader: The New Normal Welcome to the first-ever all-digital issue of Atlanta Parent. Our May issue is a little different, but our goal hasn’t changed – to bring you up-to-date parenting ideas, inspiration and fun things to do with your family. Read Brookhaven mom Julie Hinton’s essay on what she and her family have learned during the challenges of COVID-19. She reminds us of the value of being strong, living on less and the positive side of being at home.

We also asked notable moms around Atlanta how they’re dealing with COVID-19 restrictions. They told us about their favorite go-to meals, staying connected with family and solutions for keeping kids busy when stuck at home.

They’ve also got some great suggestions on how they’ve been giving back to local businesses and charities.

Atlanta Parent is working hard to be here for you and keep you “in the know” with everything from tips on working from home to backyard games and the best virtual activities for kids. It’s important to help local businesses in our community. Atlanta Parent relies upon our readers to support our advertisers.

They are the reason we are able to bring Atlanta Parent to you, and it’s a great way to help Atlanta Parent and the work we do.

Speaking from personal experience, I know that parents are in a challenging situation. We’re juggling work, helping kids with school, running a household and trying to stay positive. I remind myself when I get frustrated that my kids will only be nine and seven for so long, and that I want to make the most out of this time together. Our family is having fun with simple pleasures like playing tennis against the side of the garage and kicking a ball around in an empty field. We’ve been writing letters to family and friends and setting up regular video calls with cousins. We even did a family scavenger hunt; read our tips and ideas on doing your own in this issue.

The world is changing, but your family and the memories you make together will always be there.

A Birthday Concert for Your Child

Associate Publisher •Live kids music for all occasions •Parties •Schools Festivals •Camps •Affordable •Best for ages 1-7 D New aCble Avail

678-708-2321

www.jasonsmusicparty.com 8 Atlanta Parent May 2020

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.

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FACEBOOK

PHOTOS

The IT department is currently working on a solution.

FROM OUR READERS

Working from home is an adventure!

Kim Nguyen

Piranha Eflactem

Finding the right assistant is crucial.

You want it when?

Kristin Cash Fuller

Ingrid Hebron

R&D Department

Jimease Sanders

I think your “in” box is full.

Erin Kersey Watkins

This new trainee has potential. atlantaparent.com

Danielle Williams Doughtie

May 2020 Atlanta Parent 9

ER’S H T O M DAY ON EDITI

by Emily Webb

Good StUff

Beauty Boost

THINGS WE LIKE

Get the gift of pampering with Anthropologie’s Mother’s Day Beauty Blooms Gift Set. The set comes with 10 premium samples, including Sunday Riley, Philosophy and Living Proof, a wildflower seed packet and is beautifully illustrated by Emily Taylor. The set is separated into 10 boxes and is intended to be reused as a lovely keepsake box. Available at anthropologie.com for $68.

Sweet Smells Created by Zoe Tang, these adorable candles are hand-poured for a gorgeous and detailed display. The miniature soy Terrarium Candles are almost too beautiful to light, as they are crafted to look like a poppy and a cactus. The cactus smells of pine and vanilla, while the poppy smells of jasmine and white tea. Available for $25 each at uncommongoods.com.

Polished Nails Olive & June has a waste-free manicure system, so you can recreate the luxury of a manicure at home. The kit comes with a Poppy polish bottle handle, The Top Coat, Cuticle Serum with Cactus Flower, Clean-Up Brush, Polish Remover Pot, Flat-Edge Clippers, Dual-Grit File, Nail Buffer Bar, a placemat and a five-step guide. The kit also has a built-in cell phone shelf for watching tutorials or taking manicure photos. Get The Studio Box, and choose your own nail polish color for $50 at olivejune.com.

Feeling Good for a Good Cause

Treat yourself with Thistle Farms’ body products for a soothing night in. Their products include a Bath Soak, Exfoliating Body Scrub, Nourishing Body Butter, Self Care Spa Kit and more for natural skin care. The company offers natural products for bath, body and home, and employs women survivors of trafficking, prostitution and addiction to help them find healing, hope and freedom.

Body products range from $4-$75 at thistlefarms.org.

10 Atlanta Parent May 2020

Bathing Break Soak in a luxurious bubble bath with bath bombs from LifeAround2Angels. Offering gift sets with 8 or 12 bath bombs, this is the perfect present for you and will leave your skin feeling soft and smooth. Scents consist of: Black Raspberry Vanilla, Kiwi & Strawberry, Lavender, Cucumber & Melon, Eucalyptus & Spearmint, Sweet Honeysuckle and more. From $35.99-$39.99 at lifearound2angels.myshopify.com.

atlantaparent.com

JOIN THE FUN!

Lauren’s Run commemorates the life of two beautiful girls, Lauren Zagoria and Lauren Kochman, who both died after courageous battles with neuroblastoma.

Since its inception, the event has raised more than $4.3 million for childhood cancer research.

Lauren’s Run and CURE Picnic Weekend Challenge Goes Virtual

F

or 25 years, Lauren’s Run and the CURE Childhood Cancer Annual Picnic has been Atlanta’s ultimate day of family fun. This year, the fun is expanding to an entire weekend that can be celebrated absolutely anywhere! Rather than dwell on the fact that people can’t gather together because of the pandemic, The Virtual Lauren’s Run and CURE Picnic Weekend Challenge was created. It will run Friday, June 12 to Sunday, June 14.

The challenge is broken down into three exciting categories: Fitness, Family Fun, and Fundraising. For the fitness aspect, participants are invited to lace up their shoes and run, walk or jog. Lauren’s Run is a run, after all! Those who want to register will receive a T-shirt by mail after the race.

To inspire togetherness, exclusive

atlantaparent.com

family fun challenges will be released to participants on Friday, June 12 at 6 p.m.

Do all of them or just a few – it’s totally up to each participant. There will be plenty of chances to win great prizes!

While COVID-19 brought the world to a halt, it didn’t stop kids from getting cancer.

It has made it more difficult for Lauren’s Run and CURE Childhood Cancer to raise

funds to help them. So the third part of the weekend challenge is where participants join in to make a difference. It’s easy to participate – and there are great incentive prizes for those who raise $250, $500, $1000 and $2500 or more.

Make plans to join the excitement of The Virtual Lauren’s Run and CURE Picnic Weekend Challenge! laurensrun.com

May 2020 Atlanta Parent 11

Top 10 Reasons I Love My Mom

5

by Cheryl Maguire

4

It’s May which means flowers are blooming, birds are singing and it’s time to celebrate your mother, grandmother or another “mom” figure in your life. I never fully appreciated my mother until I became a mother myself. Here is a list of some of the things I love about my mom:

10 9

8

She loves to bake. As a child when I came home from school there was always a yummy treat to eat. Now my kids look forward to her delicious desserts.

She’s organized. As a child, I could easily find everything due to her organization. I’m an organized person thanks to her which has helped in school, at work and with figuring out my children’s busy schedules. It also helps with paying bills on time and other household-related tasks.

She laughs at all my jokes. Whenever I tell a joke or make a humorous comment, she always laughs. It is nice to be able to make someone else happy, and it allows me to feel like the comedian for a moment.

12 Atlanta Parent May 2020

7 6

She loves reading. Some of my first memories are going to the library with my mom. Thanks to my mom’s love of reading, I’m a voracious reader and a regular at our local library. My kids also go to the library every week, and they love reading too.

She did my laundry. Until I moved out, my clean clothes just magically appeared in my room. Now that I’m a mom of three children with a minimum of one wash per day, I can fully appreciate how difficult it was to clean and put away all my clothes for 18 years.

3 2

She greeted me when I got home from school. I didn’t think this was significant until my mom got a temporary job for a few months during the holiday season. Even though I was old enough to drive a car, I didn’t like coming home to an empty house and missed seeing my mom.

She loves playing board games. As a child, I loved playing board games like Clue and my mom’s favorite Scrabble. Now my kids love to play board games with her. This is a great way to build social skills.

She is good at spelling and grammar. Before there was spell check, my mom corrected my school papers because I’m horrible at spelling and often make grammar errors. To this day she will sometimes read my writing first and make corrections.

She’s my No. 1 fan. Whenever I’m successful she is there to congratulate me. Even when I fail at something, she encourages me to try again or helps me figure out how to succeed at my next attempt. She supports me when I’m trying new things or experiencing difficulty.

1

And the No. 1 attribute I appreciate about my mom is ...

She loves being my mom.

Originally published on “Signature Moms.”

atlantaparent.com

Celebrate Mother’s Day

by Mary Williams

Photo by Jarrod B Cecil Photography

This year, Mother’s Day might feel a little different under stay-at-home guidelines.

If you can’t go out for your usual brunch or shopping trip, get creative with these ideas.

You may want to leave a few hints around the house for your family!

Treat Yourself Mother’s Day is all about you – indulge in something that brings you joy. l Get out of the kitchen: Enjoy

a stress-free brunch or dinner ordered from your favorite restaurant. South City Kitchen is featuring options like French toast casserole, smoked beef brisket and mimosas.

Family brunch kits from Local Three include fresh-baked cinnamon rolls, eggs, pancakes and bacon. l Enjoy a few blooms: Support a

local florist by ordering a fresh bouquet.

Share one with someone special through bouqs.com or 1-800-Flowers. The Birth Month Flower Grow Kit from Uncommon Goods ($34) comes with seeds, growing medium and a container. l Sweets for the sweet: Try a

freshly baked pie or cake from Southern Sweets Bakery. Jeni’s Mother’s Day ice cream flavors include Gooey Buttercake and Raspberry Rose Jelly Donut. Tiff’s Treats will deliver warm cookies straight to your door. atlantaparent.com

Schedule a “Porch”trait It’s a new coronavirus trend: photographers capturing images of families at home, usually on their front porch. Whether the mood is serious or humorous, it’s a unique and memorable way to capture life under quarantine.

Jarrod B. Cecil, one of several professional photographers taking porch photos in Atlanta, charges $50 for a session. His studio has already raised $1,500 for MUST Ministries. Photos are taken from a distance and payments are contactless as well.

l Pamper yourself: Buy nail

polish in a fresh spring color and revive your pedicure. Get cozy in your robe and slippers and try a Bliss Mint Chip Mania Mask from Ulta Beauty.

Take Time For Yourself Give yourself permission to relax and let go of being in charge. l Play in the dirt: Order annuals

or perennials from Pike Nursery and use their curbside pickup service. Spend some time outdoors in gardening bliss. l Take a break from the kids:

Ask your spouse to manage the kids and do something for yourself, whether it’s a crossword puzzle, baking project or journaling.

l Escape from reality: Download

those podcasts you’ve been meaning to listen to. Load a good book on your tablet or phone and relax in your favorite comfy chair.

l Find inner peace: Go for a walk – no

kids allowed – and take in the spring greenery.

Meditate or find an online yoga instructional course.

Connect Keeping in touch can bring you joy – and it can brighten the day of someone you love. l Play a game: Challenge a far-away

friend to an online word game of Scrabble or Boggle. l Make a video appearance:

Schedule a FaceTime, Skype or Zoom call with your sisters, mom or other female relatives. l Stay in touch: Call a special person in your life – maybe she’s a mom, or she’s been like a mother to you – and wish her a happy Mother’s Day. l Share a great memory: Email

a photo from the past to a friend or family member and remind them of a special time you had together.

May 2020 Atlanta Parent 13

SPONSORED CONTENT

Destination FLORIDA Florida is a popular vacation spot for Atlanta families.

Start planning your getaway with these exciting destinations.

An uncrowded paradise is just around the corner Craving an uncrowded escape? We don’t blame you. Tucked away along the Atlantic Coast of South Florida, Martin County is a true hidden haven for families to relax and recharge. Boasting over 22 miles of secluded beaches and 100,000 acres of pristine parks and conservation lands, there’s plenty of space to sprawl out and unwind. Embrace a slower pace of life, surrounded by natural landscapes, vibrant downtown districts, and countless activities for everyone in the family to enjoy. With a picturesque combination of Old Florida character and coastal charm, Martin County is the perfect road trip destination for a quintessential summer getaway.

Start planning your next escape today! discovermartin.com

Stuart, the county seat of Martin County, is known as the sailfish capital of the world.

Unplug in Clay County “It was so much fun hearing him talk about the adventures of treehouse camping, the spring-fed swimming pool and discovering wildlife on the hikes we took.” Clay County offers something for everyone and is a haven for those who love nature and the outdoors whether you hike, ride, row, sail or swing a golf club! Explore numerous parks, walking and bicycling trails, waterways, historic sites, two military museums, golf courses and more. Unplug from life’s hectic pace in Clay County, Florida. Small Towns.

Big Passions. Clay County is a short commute from the City of Jacksonville and the nation’s oldest city of St. Augustine. For visitor information, visit exploreclay.com

Explore 93,000 acres of parks, 35 miles of trails and 46 square miles of waterways.

14 Atlanta Parent May 2020

atlantaparent.com

This year, take time to create memories.

You remember it, don't you? The family beach vacation: miles of blue water, sand castles at your feet, a sea breeze blowing your hair back, and not a cell phone or a skyscraper in sight. This summer, plan a family trip to a place where memories come naturally, and time isn't the only thing that's preserved.

Plan your trip at discovermartin.com

atlantaparent.com

May 2020    Atlanta Parent 15

ESSAY / Social Distancing During COVID-19

Five Things We’ve Learned

by Julie Hilton

One valuable way to process a difficult time of life is to ask the question what did we learn?

What did we learn about ourselves? How did we adapt to our circumstances, allowing us to arrive at other side of it? What worked?

What didn’t?

For our world, our nation, our communities and our families, the spread of COVID-19 presents new challenges and new routines. As parents, we had schedules, carpool, meetings, appointments, rehearsals. Then one day,

1

2

We can live on a lot less.

With four hungry, active, growing children, our grocery bill is a significant portion of our budget. We use a lot of supplies, and we eat quite a bit. Yet, as we saw empty shelves at stores during the first week of the pandemic, we had to change our mindset about how much we actually need. Being practical and mindful have become references for every buying decision. We use cloth napkins instead of using an embarrassing amount of paper towels and paper products. We freeze meat, and then actually use it instead of forgetting about it for months. We eat all of the Greek yogurt we purchase instead of forgetting about it in the back of the fridge and then throwing it away. We buy responsibly, not hoarding out of panic.

We use what we buy. We share. We do without a few things. And we’re surviving.

We can do hard things.

Our healthcare professionals are the real heroes.

Their dedication and self-sacrifice is incomparable to anything our household is called or asked to do during social distancing. Truly. One meme floating around the internet stated, “Your grandparents were called to war. You are called to sit on your couch. You can do this.” With school age children continuing their studies at home, keeping up with news updates and new quarantine guidelines, as well as office conference calls, makes it hard to adjust to the new world around us. Do we like what is happening around us? No. But are we doing our part? Yes. We know that doctors and nurses are doing their part, and we need to do ours.

Growth and change are often the fruit of sacrifice and hard work.

16 Atlanta Parent May 2020

poof! Within a week, schools closed, activities were canceled, even the office closed, and we were asked to stay at home to prevent the spread of the virus. Terms such as social distancing and virtual learning and Zoom calls have become frequent vocabulary in our homes and communities. We’re rising to the challenge, and we’re most definitely learning about ourselves, each other and our lives. Here are five things our family has learned during COVID-19 social distancing.

3

4

Teachers are amazing.

I’ll admit that the term virtual learning did not excite me.

I had preconceived notions and plenty of cynicism about how this would all work at home. As parents, we had more questions than answers: How long? How much? Are we doing this right?

My children love school. They thrive in routine and rhythms.

They thrive with social interaction and nurturing teachers.

School works well for us, so being thrown at the forefront of continuing our children’s education was quite intimidating.

However, the support we receive from our schools and teachers has been essential to our success. My son’s teacher emails a topic prompt each morning. During Tell Me Tuesday one morning, her prompt was “Tell me how you feel today.” My son looked at me and enthusiastically said “silly!” and then waited for my answer. I looked at him and said “tired” and he nodded.

It’s OK to feel and to talk about it, and teachers give us the space to do so. Teachers, we are reminded, are a gift.

Community is important.

So is laughter and the outdoors.

Social distancing has cleared our calendar of many activities such as soccer season, church services, birthday parties, work events and the annual science fair. After the initial shock and disappointment of losing those events, we realized how often we take for granted our safe community, strong neighborhoods, and friends and neighbors we see regularly. We are a social species, regardless of personality temperaments; we need one another. The opportunity to go to school, work out at the gym, enjoy a soccer game at the field, shop and dine at local restaurants, connects us and gives us purpose. Our family has learned the value of a brisk walk outside to help clear the mind, and, of course, laughter, which is always at our fingertips thanks to board games, scavenger hunts and Netflix. atlantaparent.com

Our family has learned the value of a brisk walk outside to help clear the mind, and, of course, laughter, which is always at our fingertips thanks to board games, scavenger hunts and Netflix.

5

Social media can be positive.

Social media has earned, and many times rightly so, a bad rap with families. From cyber bullying to too much screen time at the dinner table, social media can divide more than it can unify. However, during COVID-19 social distancing, social media is the great unifier. With apps like Instagram, Marco Polo, FaceTime, Google Hangout (and the list goes on and on), extended family members and friends separated by social distancing can check on one another. We can “see” one another to bring somewhat of a normalcy and a sense of community as we are apart. Without social media, my son’s 10th birthday would not have been nearly as special as it became. He received dozens of birthday wishes through various apps from family scattered across the country, as well as neighbors living just one street over. Are we ready to celebrate events in person and sit at a crowded table with friends we love? Absolutely!

But for now, apps actually bring us together.

atlantaparent.com

May 2020 Atlanta Parent 17

MOMS

AT HOME Living With Creativity and Grace in a New Normal

n Erica

Key

“Eating with Erica” food blog Mom to Sydney, 12

I’m keeping meals fun by not being repetitive and using it as a project. I have the time and opportunity for Pinterest fails.

Can I make egg rolls?

by Emily Webb

The days and weeks may be beginning to blur together with staying at home with the kids 24/7, trying to balance parenting and working remotely. These 11 notable Atlanta moms share their perspectives on how to appreciate this time with your family.

n Jennifer

Boettcher

Director of Communications for the City of Dunwoody Mom to Blake, 14, and Bo, 12 I’m a big scrapbooker, so I’ve been taking a lot of photos to document this time in our lives, taking pictures of a card game, a game of Wiffle ball or family tennis, so we can look back and go ‘that’s what we did/that’s what that was all about.’ This has been stressful and difficult, but there are some really nice family moments we will want to remember.

You’re allowed to make mistakes

and have bad days or hours, but you just have to keep trying, keep a positive attitude and keep up hope for what comes out of this.

18 Atlanta Parent May 2020

atlantaparent.com

n Astrid

Martinez

Reporter and host of “Astrid in ATL” on CBS46 Mom to Jolie, 15 During school, Jolie would typically have something quick – cereal or toast, then rush out the door. Now, we get to wake up, have a nice breakfast, take a walk and then start school.

We get to really curate our day every single day.

n Amanda

n Alice

Park

Alice Park Photography Mom to Lyon, 9, and Elise, 5

We have a card system for when our kids say, “I’m bored.”

If they pick the pink card, we’ll turn on a GoNoodle video from YouTube, and they exercise for 20 minutes. Or they can go outdoors and create an obstacle course. If they pick the purple card, they practice playing the piano for 20 minutes. If they pick the yellow card, they choose whatever book they want and read for 20 minutes. Our go-to activities usually involve a creative bin filled with an assortment of crafting essentials, like paint, construction paper, cardboard boxes and maybe even a special glue gun.

Blank

Media & Promotions Manager for Fox Theatre Mom to Caleb, 10, and Evan, 6 Last week, we made huge bubbles and planted some seeds. This week, we are tie dyeing old things from around the house and making banana peanut butter muffins. I am trying to do a few different things every week that don’t require a ton of prep work.

atlantaparent.com

Cont’d on next page

May 2020 Atlanta Parent 19

MOMS

AT HOME

Tips for Living With Creativity and Grace in a New Normal

n Allison

Fillmore

Executive Director of the TOUR Championship Mom to Taylor, 11, and Alexa, 8 We live right across the street from East Lake Golf Club, and there are a lot of tree stumps outside of the course, so we’ve been painting inspirational messages on stumps to try and bring a smile to people’s faces.

Let the schedule go.

We are never going to get time like this with our families again.

n Jennifer

Valdez

Chief Meteorologist at CBS46 Mom to Annelise, 8, and Lucas, 7 We got a trampoline just as the pandemic was starting, and it’s the best purchase we ever made. We’ve also done a lot of firepits to make s’mores.

It’s the ultimate test, but we’re proving working moms can juggle everything, and we’re stronger than we thought.

n Sarah

Crossman Sullivan

Attorney and author of “Beautifully Broken & Astoundingly Whole” Mom to Jack, 19, Henry, 16, Cecily, 14, and Gabrielle, 12

The kids are setting up lunch hours with grandma, and talking about what they’re serving for lunch, asking her about the things she’s conquered, and they’re also sharing music across generations. When we’re trying to learn a new recipe, we’ll call grandma to bake with her.

There are significant life skills children can learn right now in this journey: why they should make their bed, why they should be able to scrub a bathroom, do their own laundry.

20 Atlanta Parent May 2020

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n Haley

Kilpatrick

Founder of Girl Talk Mom to Grace, 5, and Kate, 2 We play Rescue Your Toys. They go and collect a bunch of small toys, and then you put them in a Pyrex or plastic container, cover them with water and freeze it. They have to rescue their toys, chipping away at it, and it entertains for hours. We’ve done themed ones, where they’ll collect all the toys shaped like a heart or their Disney princesses. We’ve also made homemade play dough.

n Erin

Gray Morton

Erin Gray Design Mom to Celia, 14, and Alex, 12

I’m always trying to think of something new, and I keep encouraging my kids to think about things they want to do. We’ve tried to keep the TV off, unless we’re going to watch a family movie.

I wasn’t able to find meat or beef for a week, but now we’re grilling out and sitting outside on our porch. My daughter will bake a cake. I’ve been requiring kids to make their own lunches, which is a good way for them to learn and take care of themselves.

In the beginning, I bought this $3 watercolor kit and a notepad of Crayola watercolor paper.

It inspired a really sweet project that our oldest wanted to do. She worked on nine paintings, and we posted them online to friends and family, and any donation of $3 or more went to the Transitional Living Cottage in Baxley, Georgia.

n Whitney

Kemmerick

Marketing Manager for LEGOLAND Discovery Center Mom to Harper, 3 1/2 Week one, I ordered a cardboard playhouse on Zulily that you can color and paint, and that thing has gotten so much life. It’s become a quiet time house for her. I got a splash pad on Amazon, and we put that in the backyard. We’ve also created a Candy Land game with sidewalk chalk, and we use the Candy Land cards to see who can get to the porch first.

Every Friday night, my husband and I order food, relax a little bit and have a date night. We set up music in the backyard, sit outside and play cornhole.

Click here for more on these 11 Atlanta moms. atlantaparent.com

May 2020 Atlanta Parent 21

SPONSORED CONTENT

Empowering Students with

Swift School

The Walker School

These schools provide learning strategies to put non-traditional learners on the path to success.

The Walker School

Wardlaw School

The Walker School New Avenues Dyslexia Program serves children in grades 1-5 with dyslexia who have above average academic aptitude and a strong desire to fulfill their educational goals. Specialized classroom spaces and Orton-Gillingham certified teachers focus on each student’s unique gifts to close the gap between cognitive potential and academic achievement. Walker’s intimate setting provides opportunities for remediation and repetition with an emphasis on connected learning. New Avenues students are immersed in Walker’s college-preparatory environment, participating in cocurricular classes, lunch, recess and after-school activities with their grade-level peers. At Walker, students are supported, engaged and known, making it a perfect school for families with varied learning needs. thewalkerschool.org; 770-427-2689.

Wardlaw School serves bright children K-6th grade with dyslexia by building the complex language, literacy and social skills necessary to master future academic settings and succeed in life beyond school. Wardlaw professionals create an educational environment designed to help each child reach his or her full potential in school and in life. Informed by the latest research, the Wardlaw School provides a full-day learning environment rooted deeply in language and literacy. Master’s-level professionals use multi-sensory approaches, data-driven instruction, and a unique Integrated Intervention Model© to provide a comprehensive program that fully addresses each child’s learning needs. atlantaspeechschool.org/schools/wardlaw; 404-233-5332.

Swift School Swift School is an independent school serving students in grades 1-8 with dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia and other language-based learning differences and language disorders. Swift’s programming is designed to remediate the language learning challenges faced by these students while capitalizing on the cognitive strengths of neurodiverse learners. Orton-Gillingham, WoodinMath and other approaches are used to remediate, and a strong focus is placed on supporting students to develop executive function and self-advocacy skills. Swift’s mission is to prepare children with dyslexia and related language-based learning differences to be successful in life. theswiftschool.org; 678-205-4988.

22 Atlanta Parent May 2020

Mount Paran Christian School Since the inception in 1976, the Directed Studies program at MPCS has made it a priority to support non-traditional learners grades PK3-12 in developing a clear and confident understanding of their God-given gifts. From mild-learning differences to dyslexia, the core of this well-established program has consistently supported the School’s mission in the preparation of confident learners and servant-leaders. By applying customized learning strategies, each child’s journey to success can be attained. Specific student accommodation plans guide the provision of a secure space where students receive course-specific tutoring, advocacy, refinement of social, emotional, and cognitive self-management skills, and focused preparation for the future. mtparanschool.com; 770-578-0182.

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Learning Differences

Mount Paran Christian School

Wardlaw School

GRACEPOINT School GRACEPOINT School is a private Christian school in Marietta serving dyslexic students in grades 1-8. The school began in 2012 with a mission to equip dyslexic students with the skills needed to develop into independent and confident learners. Students receive a comprehensive, high-quality education that combines remediation with enrichment and acceleration. GRACEPOINT is one of only 17 schools in the nation to be accredited by the Academy of Orton-Gillingham Practitioners and Educators.

The Orton-Gillingham method is used in all subject areas. Students receive 75 minutes of explicit reading instruction daily and the student-teacher ratio is 5-1 in reading and 8-1 in all other core subjects. The goal is to prepare students to transition back into public or private education. gracepointschool.org; 678-709-6634.

GRACEPOINT School

Cumberland Academy of Georgia Specializing in the needs of children with high-functioning autism, Asperger’s, ADD, ADHD and other learning differences, Cumberland Academy of Georgia is a fully accredited school, providing a safe and supportive academic environment for students both on campus and virtually. Students experience college prep academics in small classes, while integrating social and life skills into the school day. By embracing the uniqueness and individual needs of each child, the academy challenges students to reach their full potential, whether it be college or career.

Students thrive through cooperative learning and active hands-on techniques integrated into all subject areas along with co-curricular activities. Tour Cumberland to learn how the curriculum challenges and prepares students for future independence and success. cumberlandacademy.org; 404-835-9000.

Cumberland Academy of Georgia

Cont’d on next page

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May 2020 Atlanta Parent 23

LEARNING DIFFERENCES

The Howard School The Howard School’s story began in 1950, when an amazing woman named Marian Howard changed the landscape of education in Atlanta by creating an educational world with no boundaries, labels or diminished expectations. Howard worked with Dr. Hermon Martin, Georgia’s first child psychologist, to plan a school specifically for children with learning differences. The Howard School grew into the transformational program it is today – a full and robust academic program for grades K-12, in which an interdisciplinary team of experts come together to make learning meaningful for children with language-based learning differences. howardschool.org; 404-377-7436.

The Howard School

The Cottage School The Cottage School combines small class sizes, a workplace model, and the implementation of study skills to provide students grades 4-12 with mild to moderate learning differences an opportunity to achieve success. TCS focuses on the three pillars of success – Academics, Socialization and Emotional Wellness – and strives to meet the needs of every child who may find success in a non-traditional learning environment. Team sports, including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and swim team, teach students the fundamental life skills of teamwork and respect. The Cottage School believes that teaching the whole child encourages each student to recognize their own strengths and use them to foster success. cottageschool.org; 770-641-8688.

The Cottage School

Brookwood Christian School Brookwood Christian School provides a language-based education for students in grades 1-12 with learning differences such as dyslexia, auditory and visual processing and dyscalculia. Among the many programs used are Wilson Reading and Fast ForWord techniques. These programs use systematic phonemics and multi-sensory practices to improve comprehension and auditory processing. The research-based curriculum follows Georgia Department of Education guidelines. Small class sizes of seven students or less allow for truly individualized instruction with dedicated, certified teachers. A multitude of resources are provided to students including tutoring services to ensure success in all subject areas. brookwoodchristian.com; 678-401-5855.

Brookwood Christian School

Stepping Stones Preschool at Atlanta Speech School Through an intentional, systematic, and multi-sensory approach to learning, Stepping Stones Preschool creates pathways to success for students experiencing speech and/or language delays. This multi-disciplinary program is focused entirely on maximizing the brain development of students from 3 to 5 years of age. Speech-language pathologists, education specialists, occupational therapists and assistant teachers work together to ensure that each child becomes an active, engaged learner prepared for elementary school. Researchbased practices focus on language and pre-literacy, math, science, and physical development. Enrichment classes include art, music, media, PE and OT-PE. Extended-day and early-care programs are available. atlantaspeechschool.org/ schools/stepping-stones; 404-233-5332.

24 Atlanta Parent May 2020

Stepping Stones Preschool at Atlanta Speech School

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LEARNING DIFFERENCES

The Kairos Learning Center at St. Martin’s Episcopal School

The Kairos Learning Center (KLC) at St. Martin’s Episcopal School serves elementary students with language-based learning difficulties such as dyslexia, dysgraphia and dyscalculia. St. Martin’s uses a ‘school within a school’ approach allowing identified students to receive the additional Orton-Gillinghambased support they need to succeed balanced with immersion in the educational experience, extracurricular opportunities and overall culture offered at St. Martin’s Episcopal School. In addition, KLC Middle School students receive executive functioning support. The Kairos Learning Center offers expert instructional support for students in grades 1-8 including small student-to-teacher ratios and specially-tailored programs to best meet students’ needs. stmartinschool.org; 404-237-4260.

Woodward Academy

The Kairos Learning Center at St. Martin’s Episcopal School

Woodward Academy’s Transition Learning Support Program levels the playing field for students grades 2-8 with mild to moderate learning challenges so they can flourish in a demanding college preparatory environment. With smaller class sizes, a faculty comprised of specialized experts, and proven pedagogical approaches for every academic area, the program provides a comprehensive environment designed exclusively for students in the Transition Program. Students learn from the same demanding college-preparatory curriculum as their Woodward peers in the mainstream track, but do so while cultivating the tools and strategies needed to convert different learning styles into confidence, social and emotional stability and tremendous academic success. woodward.edu; 404-765-4000.

Sage School Learning how to learn is one of the greatest gifts a child can receive. At Sage School, students grades K-6 are presented with tools and strategies to unlock the code of English language.

Language instruction and Orton-Gillingham remediation form the core of the education of a Sage School student. While the approach is structured, sequential, and cumulative, it is also individualized to meet the needs of the learner. Rather than rote learning, instructors address the language cognitively, teaching students how language works. A Sage School classroom provides individualized instruction to meet the students’ needs in the areas of encoding, spelling, handwriting, written expression, vocabulary and reading comprehension. sageschool.net; 678-318-3588.

Woodward Academy

Sage School

Mill Springs Academy Since 1981, Mill Springs has been supporting students in grades K-12 by raising expectations and cultivating self-advocacy while providing skills and values for life. The Mill Springs community is dedicated to the academic, physical and social growth of students who have not realized their full potential in traditional classroom settings. A stimulating and challenging learning environment maximizes individual potential and ensures that students of all levels are well-equipped for success in school and in life. Nestled in the rolling hills of Alpharetta, Mill Springs offers a broad range of college preparatory, fine arts and athletic options, along with college placement support, in a warm, supportive atmosphere. millsprings.org; 770-360-1336.

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Mill Springs Academy

May 2020 Atlanta Parent 25

Nominate your pediatrician today!

ATL ANTA PARENT’S

MOM-APPROVED Have you found the perfect pediatrician for your family?

Nominate them today.

Tell us about your favorite pediatrician.

Go to atlantaparent.com/nominate 26 Atlanta Parent May 2020

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Things to do

AT HOME

this month

Scavenger Hunts l Backyard Fun l Virtual Playdates Storybook Characters l and more atlantaparent.com atlantaparent.com

May May 2020 2020    Atlanta Atlanta Parent Parent 27 27

Things to do AT HOME this month

The HUNT is on!

Surprise your kids with a scavenger hunt that you could do indoors or outdoors for an entertaining way to pass the time.

by Emily Webb

HELPFUL TIPS Here are some of our tips to make scavenger hunts exciting for your kids and easy to coordinate. n Choose a theme. n Depending on the theme of your hunt, choose the location. Will it be inside, in the backyard or around the neighborhood? You can hide items around the house or backyard. n You can create your own worksheet, search for a free printable online or on Pinterest, or buy an illustrated one on Etsy. n Schedule out your scavenger hunts to do one a day, or spend the whole day doing them. Coordinate them with your child’s friends, so they can do a virtual hunt together. n If you have older kids who aren’t interested in participating, they can help you set up the hunt for the younger kids in your family. n Coordinate with your neighborhood to hide items in the windows of different houses for a neighborhood-wide scavenger hunt for the kids. Hide teddy bears, dolls or dinosaurs. n Consider prizes for your kids to win if they complete the hunt.

28 Atlanta Parent May 2020

FUN THEMES Nature

Head out to the backyard or around the neighborhood to challenge your kids to find outdoorsy items, like flowers, birds, bugs, leaves and more. Atlanta Botanical Garden has a Spring Flower Hunt. See more at Kids Gardening, PBS Kids or Doing Good Together.

Fitness

Your kids will get their exercise with this scavenger hunt. When your child finds certain objects, attach exercise activities, such as jumping jacks, planks, yoga poses and more. Or do this activity reusing your plastic Easter eggs and putting activity sheets inside the egg.

Nighttime

Set up a scavenger hunt to play in the dark. Have kids find the items using flashlights, or place glow-in-the-dark items around the yard. This activity would be best on a moonless or cloudy night.

Color

Use crayons, markers or colored pencils to create swatches of colors, and your kids must find items that match the color. For younger kids, use the colors of the rainbow, and for older kids, you can use more difficult colors, like red-orange or periwinkle. See more at I Heart Crafty Things.

Art

Create a page with blank boxes and words or phrases that your kid must find the item and sketch their findings in the boxes. See more at Buggy and Buddy.

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Neighborhood

Write down items that your kids can find around the neighborhood as you go for a walk, such as a fire hydrant, an American flag, a certain color house or door and more. If you don’t want to create one yourself, you can buy a digital printable at CatBoneKids.

Movies

Turn a movie night into a scavenger hunt. Make a list of things that the kids must find as they’re watching the movie, like a certain piece or color of clothing, a lamp, a toy or other items relevant to the movie.

Photography

Have your kids search for certain items, and take pictures of the finds using cell phones. Or have them perform activities, and record themselves doing the activity, like a cartwheel.

ABC

Create a checklist with the ABCs, so your kids must find items around the house that start with each letter of the alphabet.

Reading

If your child loves reading or if you are trying to encourage your child to read more, create a book scavenger hunt. Make a list of different books, such as a picture book, a book with a main character your kid’s age and more. For younger kids, create a list of certain words you want your child to find as she reads a book, such as a word with four vowels or a word she has to look up in the dictionary. Print out a Reading Scavenger Hunt from Modern Parents Messy Kids.

Shapes

Practice geometry with a shape scavenger hunt to have your kids find items made of shapes, like circles, squares and triangles. See more at Buggy and Buddy.

Music

Your young musician can practice their skills using a song to find different instruments played throughout the song. Find a worksheet on Education World.

Five Senses

Have your kids use their five senses – taste, touch, sight, smell and feel – to find and categorize items. Use this activity sheet from Twinkl.

Numbers

Search around the house to find items that contain a certain amount, such as four bananas, five eggs, twelve picture frames and so on. Games for Young Minds suggests using the numbers 1-20. Or try to find certain numbers on items, rather than an amount.

Treasure Hunt

Create a map and have your kids go on a treasure hunt to find a prize. The Spruce has riddling clues that you can use to find certain items before the treasure.

atlantaparent.com

May 2020 Atlanta Parent 29

Things to do AT HOME this month

Kids Stay Connected with Technology

by Monica Croom

Kids have been home for six weeks or more. They miss interacting with their classmates, friends and extended family members. Thanks to technology, there are many ways for parents to host a virtual playdate and help their kids continue to connect with their peers, so they don’t feel so isolated. So take a look at our Atlanta Parent list … choose a technology, choose a playdate idea, then have some virtual fun!

30 Atlanta Parent May 2020

Top Technology Apps for Virtual Playdates n The word Zoom is a “new normal” for many adults these days.

Primarily used as a videoconferencing communication tool for working professionals. Zoom can now easily be utilized for virtual playdates!

Zoom’s basic plan can be downloaded on a computer, cell phone or table all for free! This plan allows parents to host up to 100 participants in a virtual video meeting. Participants can join the meeting for free from their electronic devices … even if they don’t have a Zoom account! Zoom’s basic plan has a 40-minute limit on meetings with 3 or more participants, but if you don’t want any limits on time or number of participants, you can upgrade to the Pro account for $14.99 a month. For an educational step by step on how to join a Zoom meeting click the following link: youtu.be/Rzk4vdTIi0c. n Google Hangouts is another good option for virtual playdates

when it comes to free group video calls. Parents will need a Google account to start a call, but can join one without it. Only up to 25 people can join a video call at once. Also, in response to the coronavirus pandemic, Google is now offering features of its business version (Google Hangouts Meet) for free until September 30. n Remember the game Marco Polo? Well now kids can use this

video chat app to easily call out the popular phrase and connect with their friends and family as well. Marco Polo allows kids to chat and play live in a group, and if the person they are attempting to reach isn’t available, the app will record a message for them to view later.

From a playdate perspective, kids can use this app to channel their “inner thespian” by acting out a play or even putting on a small-scale production. The Marco Polo app is free; however, there is a premium version available for a monthly or annual subscription price. Also, parents should remember that when allowing access to communication apps like Marco Polo, it is wise to make sure children understand how they work, who can see their activity, as well as what is appropriate to interact with and share online. atlantaparent.com

Top 10 Virtual Playdate Ideas

1

2 3 4 5 n Facebook’s Messenger Kids is another free and popular app that

allows young kids (ages 6 to 12) to video chat and send messages to their family and friends. This may be a great option for many parents who already have a Facebook page, and may be looking for a safe and familiar social networking option for their children. Parents are completely in control with this app and will simply need to download it on their phone or tablet, and then login/set up their child’s account by using their own Facebook login information. Parents can also control who their child “adds” and connects with by searching their contacts, as well as monitor when their child is using Messenger Kids and how they’re using it.

6

n The app Caribu is getting a lot of attention these days and is

8

actually being called the “Zoom” for kids! Caribu is a family friendly video calling app. Most importantly, during this unprecedented time of social distancing, Caribu is making its service free with unlimited access which means kids can have virtual playdates with their friends and loved ones at any time! On a Caribu video call kids can play games, share stories, and even color together. For more information visit Caribu to download the app or check out their Facebook page to learn more. n Finally, older kids can still connect and have some “Netflix and

Chill” time with their friends. Anyone with a Netflix account can host a watch party by adding the free “Netflix Party” Google Chrome extension. This allows kids to watch Netflix remotely with their friends, and even synchronize video playback so that anyone in the group can pause, play, fast forward or rewind the movie. The “group chat” feature can also be added so that kids can actually communicate during the movie. Kids can choose to actually “talk” to each other during the movie, or if they prefer a quieter experience, they can decide to use the “text chat” option only. Additionally, parents don’t have to worry about any strangers crashing this movie party because only an official invite gets their buddies in. So, kids can feel free to grab some popcorn or their favorite snacks and let the good times … and film roll! atlantaparent.com

7

9 10

Host a themed playdate – which can include kids dressing up as everything from superheroes to their favorite TV and book characters. Children can also talk about general things they’ve been up to, as well as play games like “Simon Says” or “I Spy.” Do a Puppet Show – kids can perform this with their favorite toys, or have playdate participants make their own in advance. This activity could also be concluded with a “Dance Party,” where playdates and their puppets take turns showing off their favorite moves to tunes from a pre-determined playlist.

Have “show and tell” – where kids can see and talk to each other while showing off their latest projects, crafts and yes … even their current favorite toys!

Read a book together – which is sometimes more fun and motivating when done in a group. Parents should pick a book that’s on the same reading level of everyone in the group in advance. Have the kids take turn reading the pages, then perhaps have a brief, light discussion at the end.

Have a “Lunch Chat & Snack” – with this option, send out invitations for everyone to meet at a certain time and have their lunch or snacks together. Kids share what they are eating, their favorite foods and any snacks they like to make themselves.

Have a Race! – Kids can meet up and then race to make something on camera. This can include things like a paper airplane or a play dough pet or character. Supplies needed should be decided in advance and sent in the invite.

Play “Personal Picasso” – Break out some art supplies and have children draw or paint each other’s portraits and then share them! Parents can even arrange for kids to have copies of their creations by scanning and emailing them out, or even sending original photos out via “snail mail” with a friendly letter attached.

Virtual Top Junior Chef – is a great option to bond virtually with both friends and family members. Participants could decide on a simple key list of food items and ingredients in advance. Once the virtual meeting begins, participants could have a “set amount of time” to create something yummy and appetizing and present it on camera. Make this idea even more creative and competitive by appointing virtual judges in advance.

Virtual Scavenger Hunts – are another idea that works well for family get-togethers. Perhaps even grandparents could get involved with this activity by calling out certain household items that kids have to race around the house and find before others. The first child or team back on camera with the item wins the point … and parents win because youthful energy is being burned at the same time!

Watch a Movie together – as an ideal “laid back” virtual activity in the afternoon. Just decide on a movie in advance, as well as set timings to start the film at the same time for all playdate participants. Remember “Netflix Party” is available on Google Chrome.

May 2020 Atlanta Parent 31

Things to do AT HOME this month

Get Outdoors: Have Fun in the Backyard

Enjoy fresh air and family time with these creative games and activities. n Art Walk Make sure everyone is dressed for messy fun! Spread craft paper or posterboard on a flat area. Pour non-toxic paint into disposable pans, large enough to stand in. Play their favorite upbeat tunes and let them create a masterpiece as they dance, jump or walk across the paper with paintdipped feet. They can even use their hands and crawl or crab walk across the canvas. Use a garden hose for cleanup.

n Frisbee Tic-Tac-Toe Take a classic game to the next level by drawing a giant tic-tac-toe board on the driveway with chalk, or in the grass with spray paint. Each player gets four Frisbees of the same color. Alternate tossing them onto the board to get three in a row up, down or diagonally.

n Pool Noodle Racetrack Use a serrated knife to cut a large-diameter pool noodle in half lengthwise. Place the halves side by side and insert toothpicks where the sides of the noodles meet to hold them tightly together. Make “Start” and “Finish” banners with cardstock and wooden skewers, inserting the skewers into the foam at the beginning and end of the track. Prop one end of the track up on a chair or table, grab the Matchbox cars and let the races begin! Source: ramblingsfromutopia.wordpress.com

n Clothesline Designs Release your child’s inner artist in a big way! Hang an old sheet over a clothesline or fence; secure the bottom corners with stakes or weights. Kids can apply tempera paints to their canvas with sponges, paintbrushes or even fingers to create a masterpiece.

n Natural Paint Brushes Kids will have fun gathering the materials for these DIY paintbrushes and experimenting with the effects each type of brush makes. Gather a variety of pine needles and small evergreen branches for the bristles. Bundle them at the end of a twig and tightly wrap with raffia, string or twine. Dip the paintbrushes into your favorite paints and create some nature-inspired outdoor art. Source: applegreencottage.com

n Enchanted Fairy Garden To make a DIY fairy garden, start with any shallow container, like a flowerpot, birdbath, wood box or an old rimmed baking sheet. Fill it with a layer of soil and add moss, pebbles, small plants, shells and other natural items.

Furnish the garden with more miniature pieces – a bench, tiny flowerpots, fencing made with sticks, small figurines, animals or dolls. The only limit is your child’s imagination!

32 Atlanta Parent May 2020

atlantaparent.com

n Do-it-Yourself Tent Perfect for a backyard camp out, cozy reading spot or just chilling out – drape a large sheet or tarp over a clothesline and secure the corners with weights or stakes. Be as elaborate or simple as you like – add a rug, comfy cushions, a lantern or even some stuffed friends.

n Chalk Dress-Up Dolls You’ll need sidewalk chalk and a variety of children’s clothes for this entertaining activity. Have your child lie on the sidewalk or driveway and draw an outline around her body. Let your child add a face and hair to the outline, then let her “dress” her creation like a paper doll. Try a dress, a leotard, shorts and tops and even shoes.

Clean-up is easy – just toss the clothes in the laundry.

Source: theiowafarmerswife.com

n Blow Bubbles

n Archaeologist Dig Using a sand table, sandbox or designated area of your yard, bury shark teeth, fossils and other relics in the sand. Make this as elaborate as you’d like, giving your kids a back story for where they’re digging or giving them impressive names and archaeology credentials on name tags or lanyards. Each kid gets a small plastic shovel or rake and a bag for their “finds.” Customize this game for your kids’ interests – they could be pirates searching for buried treasure or princesses looking for missing crown jewels.

Get ready for some good, clean fun! For basic bubbles, mix two tablespoons of liquid dish soap with one cup of water. Ultra Dawn detergent seems to work best. For larger “magic” bubbles, mix one tablespoon of glycerin with two tablespoons of dish soap and nine ounces of water. Create colored bubbles by mixing one cup of liquid tempera paint with two tablespoons of dish soap and one tablespoon of liquid starch.

– Contributors: Dalia Faupel and Mary Williams

It Starts NOW! Every year of a child’s life is precious.

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May 2020 Atlanta Parent 33

Things to do AT HOME this month

Favorite Book Characters Come Alive They’ve read the books – now visit the websites!

Our list includes sites with engaging interactive games, videos and activities that will inspire kids to read.

Photo by Marty Umans

by Mary Williams

Where’s Waldo waldo.candlewick.com Kids who love searching for Waldo, the stripeshirted traveler created by Martin Handford, will have fun looking for him online, too. The publisher’s website has printable coloring and activity pages, videos and social media challenges. n At-Home Activity: Hide your own “Waldo” – a small stuffed animal or toy – somewhere in the house and challenge kids to find it. If they need a hint, tell them when they’re getting “warmer” or “colder” as they search.

Pigeon Presents pigeonpresents.com

Pigeon, Elephant and Piggie, Knuffle Bunny, and many more of Mo Willems’ whimsical characters are featured in this interactive site. Kids can play games, watch videos, and download activity sheets and other printables. “Mo’s Lunch Doodles,” a series of videos featuring Willems drawing and talking about his books, is fun for kids of all ages. n At-Home Activity: After reading “The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog,” have a lunchtime hot dog party! (Don’t forget the mustard!) Make pigeon hats for everyone to wear using craft foam and glue. Find the instructions by Angela at “Teaching Mama,” along with more fun craft ideas. teachingmama.org/pigeon-activities-inspired-by-mo-willems-books

Roald Dahl roalddahl.com/home/kids Matilda, Charlie, James and the Twits are just a few of the classic characters created

by Roald Dahl. This highly entertaining website has some extra-special offerings during the COVID-19 pandemic. Enjoy a celebrity video story reading, or learn how to draw Willy Wonka with illustrator Quentin Blake. Trivia quizzes, puzzles, word games, crafts and science experiments will keep kids entertained.

34 Atlanta Parent May 2020

n At-Home Activity: Willy Wonka’s Inventing Room was full of wild creations. After reading “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” print the “Invent Your Own Sweet” page from the website.

Have your child invent a sweet treat, describe what it tastes like, and explain why people will love it!

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Seussville seussville.com Dr. Seuss’s unforgettable characters have gone digital in Seussville! The site is loaded with fun video clips, craft ideas, recipes, printables and activities themed to kids’ favorite characters, from The Cat in the Hat to Horton. Many of the activity ideas are designed to get kids off the computer and outside playing. There’s a great resource section for parents, too.

n At-Home Activity: Dr. Seuss drew so many fantastic creatures! Gather a notebook, pencils and markers so kids can start an art journal with their own unique animal creations. Use “If I Ran the Zoo,” “One Fish Two Fish” – or any Dr. Seuss book – for inspiration. Kids could even write a Seuss-style poem to go with their drawings.

Harry Potter wizardingworld.com/collections/harry-potter-at-home J. K. Rowling’s best-selling series, set in the wizarding-world of Hogwarts, comes to life online! Harry and his friends are featured in dozens of activities, craft videos, articles, puzzles, quizzes and more.

The site is fun for first-time readers of the books, as well as kids who’ve read them again and again. n At-Home Activity: Make a batch of broomstick cookies, basilisk dogs or half-blood oranges and have a Harry Potter-themed snack break. Jamie at “Totally the Bomb” has a collection of fun recipes. totallythebomb.com/snack-treats-leaky-cauldron

Pete the Cat petethecatbooks.com Nothing gets Pete the Cat down! This groovy feline always keeps his cool. Preschool and early-elementary age kids will love the animated videos and sing-along songs created by James Dean and Eric Litwin. There are lots of printable activity pages: word searches, puzzles, games, crafts, spot-the-difference and more, all starring Pete and his friends. n At-Home Activity: Pete’s magic sunglasses help him see the world in a new way. Create a pair of wearable “magic” sunglasses with construction paper, pipe cleaners and markers. Adelien at “Sight and Sound Reading” has a template and instructions. Have fun wearing the blue sunglasses and talk with your kids about how a different outlook can transform a grumpy day into an awesome one! sightandsoundreading.com/pete-the-cat-magicalsunglasses-craft

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May 2020 Atlanta Parent 35

Things to do AT HOME this month

Virtual Visits to Local Museums, Theaters, Attractions and More

Despite being stuck at home, you can still visit all of your favorite Atlanta attractions to participate in live events, art activities, storytimes, performances and more.

Zoo Atlanta

Visit 11 Atlanta attractions with ATL Museums at Home: Atlanta Botanical Garden, Atlanta History Center, William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum, Children’s Museum of Atlanta, College Football Hall of Fame, Fernbank Museum, Georgia Aquarium, High Museum of Art, Michael C. Carlos Museum, National Center for Civil and Human Rights and Zoo Atlanta with free programming, special content and a “Field Trip Friday” at 10 a.m. n Zoo Atlanta posts animal facts and videos on their Facebook. Their “At Home” lessons feature storytimes, animals, nature, conservation and science. Watch how the pandas spend their time with Panda Cam. n Check out Children Museum of Atlanta’s blog featuring an at-home activity, a vocabulary list and a YouTube playlist or book recommendation to support learning through play with themed days. n Take a virtual tour of the High Museum of Art, and get creative with the activities on their blog, including books and movie recommendations, at-home art projects and more.

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36 Atlanta Parent May 2020

n The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra’s Virtual Stage has on-demand performances and videos. ASO hosts live watch parties on Facebook, and you can watch behindthe-scenes videos or past performances on YouTube.

n The Alliance Theatre is streaming their performance of “In My Granny’s Garden,” along with an at-home activity guide. Participate in virtual coaching or classes for $60, and infants and toddlers can enjoy sensory storytimes with “Babies: Off Book.”

n The Center for Puppetry Arts @ Home is livestreaming shows, like “Pete the Cat,” “Aesop’s Fantastical Fables,” “Rise & Shine with King Raisin” and more. Each day includes puppet-making activities, and they also offer museum tours and workshops.

n Atlanta Botanical Garden posts panoramic and 3D photos on their Facebook to share spring blooms. Find at-home activities on their website, such as a spring plant hunt and lavender playdough.

n The National Center for Civil and Human Rights has launched a “Power to Inspire: Virtual Series” with live events, videos, resources and more. They also have a podcast, where they discuss activism, history and human rights concerns with leaders in civil and human rights.

n Fernbank Museum of Natural History has a Museum At Home program, and their social media feeds feature “guess the animal” quizzes, facts, science articles, videos and more.

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n See what the jellyfish, sea otters, puffins, penguins, sea lions, beluga whales and more are up to live at the Georgia Aquarium. Watch videos about the team and how they care for the animals, and learn more about STEAM initiatives.

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Photo by Holly Sasnett Photography

Atlanta Parent’s Most-Read Online Stories

Michael C. Carlos Museum

Center for Puppetry Arts

Bringing our readers the resources and information they need during the coronavirus pandemic.

n The Museum of Aviation has STEM videos, at-home activities, this day in history facts and more on Facebook.

n The Spruill Center for the Arts offers new materials daily, including tours, demonstrations, kids’ art projects and more each day at 10 a.m.

 Best Grocery Delivery Services

n Tellus Science Museum offers past lectures and live streams on their YouTube, and they’re sharing at-home learning activities and photos of their “Spanning the World of Minerals: The Gail & Jim Spann Collection” on Facebook.

n Watch live lessons on nature with Blue Heron Nature Preserve’s Backyard Naturalists on Facebook on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

 Top 10 Restaurants for Family Meals

n Dunwoody Nature Center posts photos of flowers and at-home activities on Facebook.

They also have at-home activity guides, including an activity featuring worms and a night hike guide.

 Great Resources for Online Learning

n Take a virtual tour of The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum, where you’ll start in the Oval Office. On Facebook, they’ve posted an accompanying scavenger hunt for the tour. n LEGOLAND Discovery Center shares daily build challenges, behind-the-scenes videos, trivia nights and more on Facebook. n Museum of Design Atlanta has online workshops and meetups for ages 8-18 for a nominal fee for app design, character design, graphic design and more; scholarships are available. n Aurora Theatre’s Digital Series offers crafting, storytimes and activities three days a week. On Tuesdays, join “Cody’s Crafting Corner,” on Thursdays, listen to a children’s book with “Aurora Storytime” and on Fridays, play theatre games with “Friday Funday.” n With The Dad’s Garage Social Distancing Spectacular, see streamed live shows, storytimes, podcasts, improv and more. Each day has specific programming from noon to 1 p.m. for kids, improviser shows from 1-4 p.m. and late night watching from 8-10 p.m. n Each day, watch storytimes, interviews, howtos and more with community members, actors and Lantern Series artists from Elm Street Cultural Arts Village’s Elm Stream. The schedule is released weekly on Monday, as well as the recommended ages for the live videos. n On Facebook, Booth Western Art Museum shares art lessons and a drawing activity starting at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesdays.

Their website also has fun and educational activities focused on current and past exhibitions, art, presidents and more.

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n Check out Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites’ eRanger program with educational videos, virtual field trips, activity sheets and more.

 Virtual Field Trips for Kids and Families  Pregnancy and Covid: What You Need to Know

n On Facebook, Interactive Neighborhood for Kids shares at-home play challenges using household items.

 Atlanta’s Best KidFriendly Takeout

n Marietta Cobb Museum of Art hosts “Arty Party” on YouTube, where you can follow along in drawing and creating a masterpiece.

 Tips for Working at Home with Kids

n Take part in Camp Southern Ground’s Virtual Camp with themed activities Tuesday through Friday, with physical activity, crafts, songs, campfires and storytimes.

 Best Family Movies and Shows to Stream This Month

n In the City has a free daily virtual camp each afternoon at 3:30 p.m. with themed activities, and you can access previous recordings on their site.

 How to Support Small Businesses From Home

n MJCCA has daily camps for exercise, trivia, art, cooking and more. They also host Acoustic Shabbat Live on Fridays, Boker Tov on Mondays, Shabbat Sing Fridays and Camp Shabbat on Fridays. The Shalom Baby team also has activities for babies and toddlers. They’re hosting a Book Festival on Zoom on May 7 and 12. n PJ Library Atlanta is sharing live concerts, storytimes, virtual scavenger hunts, cooking demos, magic shows and more on Facebook. n The Battery Atlanta hosts virtual yoga on Monday nights presented by Kaiser Permanente, and participate in boxing classes and bodyweight exercises with Pepper Boxing. The Escape Game has virtual and at-home activities.

 Have a Backyard Campout  Host a Virtual Playdate  Plan an At-Home Birthday Party  Workouts and Exercises to do From Home

May 2020 Atlanta Parent 37

Why Moms of Kids with Special Needs

ROCK n Because we never thought that “doing it all” would mean doing this much. But we do do it all – and then some.

n Because we inspire one another in this crazy blogosphere every single day.

n Because we’ve discovered patience we never knew we had.

n Because we aren’t just moms, wives, cooks, cleaners, chauffeurs and women who work. We are moms, wives, cooks, cleaners, chauffeurs, women who work, physical therapists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, teachers, researchers, nurses, coaches and cheerleaders. Whew!

n Because we are willing to do something 10 times, 100 times or 1,000 times if that’s what it takes for our kids to learn something new. n Because we have heard doctors tell us the worst, and we’ve refused to believe them. Take that, naysaying doctors of the world! n Because we have bad days and breakdowns and bawl-fests, and then we pick ourselves up and keep right on going. n Because we gracefully handle the stares, the comments, the rude remarks. (Well, mostly gracefully.) n Because we give our kids with special needs endless love, and then we still have so much love left for our other kids, our husbands, our families. And our hairstylists, of course. n Because we are strong. Man, are we strong. Who knew we could be this strong?

n Because we are more selfless than other moms.

Our kids need us more. n Because we work overtime every single day. n Because we also worry overtime, but we work it through. Or we eat chocolate or gourmet cheese (which aren’t reimbursable by insurance as mental-health necessities, but should be). n Because we understand our kids better than anyone else – even if they can’t talk; even if they can’t gesture; even if they can’t look us in the eye. We know. We just know.

This originally appeared in Love That Max blog from momlogic.com

Porter Academy Enabling Children with Learning Differences to Succeed • Pre-K–8th • Small Groups • Individualized programs • Hands-on learning activities

770-594-1313 | www.porteracademy.org | 200 Cox Rd., Roswell 38 Atlanta Parent May 2020

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ATL Inclusive: A Special Needs Resource Guide Atlanta Public Schools Special Education Programs

Katherine Hamm Center at Atlanta Speech School

The Atlanta Public Schools’ special education programs are founded on the belief that students with disabilities will receive a quality education, leading them to meaningful academic, social, emotional and behavioral outcomes. They offer a broad continuum of services for students ages 3 through 21 who have learning, speech, vision or hearing disabilities and/or physical, cognitive or health impairments. Comprehensive assessments are done at no cost to the family. The Child Find program helps ensure that a free, appropriate public education with a full continuum of services is available to all eligible children, opening a window of hope for a brighter future. atlantapublicschools.us.

404-802-1690 (ages 3-5), 404-802-2665 (ages 6-21)

The Hamm Center partners with families of children who are deaf or hard of hearing to develop strong foundations for communication, literacy and confidence using Listening and Spoken Language. Hamm students learn alongside peers with typical hearing, where relationships grow and conversation abounds. Educational audiologists support children who utilize hearing technology (cochlear implants and/or hearing aids). Additional team members include Master’s-level teachers, assistant teachers, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists and a preschool counselor. The Hamm Center offers Individual Auditory-Verbal Therapy sessions for infants to age 3, as well as school programming for children 18 months through 4 years, including music, PE and OT-PE, art and media enrichment classes. atlantaspeechschool.org/schools/hamm. 404-233-5332.

Down Syndrome Association of Atlanta

Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities

DSAA’s vision is to equip and ready individuals with Down syndrome for a world that is ready for them. They connect Atlanta’s Down syndrome community to the resources they need to thrive. Join this wonderful network of parents, families, professionals and friends. dsaatl.org. 404-320-3233.

The mission of the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities is to advance social change, public policy, and innovative practices that increase opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families to thrive where they live, learn, work, play and worship in Georgia’s communities. gcdd.org. 404-657-2126.

EDgevising

Porter Academy

EDgevising has virtual programs that will cater to students with all academic needs, specifically targeting those with learning differences. Working together with EDgevising to address these needs can help struggling learners become more motivated with the right amount of confidence needed to gain an EDge on their EDucation. edgevising.com. 404-301-9190.

Porter Academy’s believes that each and every child has the potential to have a bright, successful future. Rather than creating a one size fits all education model, the faculty focuses on creating a program that is tailored to each student’s specific academic, developmental, and social-emotional needs. Pre-K-8th grade.

Roswell. porteracademy.org. 770-594-1313.

Frazer Center

Telic Empowerment

The Frazer Center’s Child Development Program serves children from birth to 5 years.

At Frazer, children with and without disabilities learn side by side through the play-based Creative Curriculum®. Inclusion Specialists coordinate a team of support for each child, with parents, teachers and therapists working together to foster each child’s development. frazercenter.org. 404-337-3836.

Telic Empowerment is a 501(c)(3) organization, founded by four PTA moms, each with a child that has a disability. They provide free, personalized disability resources to families through monthly parent empowerment support groups and free inclusive community events in Dekalb, Rockdale and Newton counties for ages 3-30. telicempowerment.org. 678-487-7654.

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Camp 2020

May 2020 Atlanta Parent 41

42 Atlanta Parent    May 2020

Camp 2020

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What Will

SUMMER CAMP Look Like This Year?

by Emily Webb

ith the COVID-19 W pandemic, plans for summer camps in metro Atlanta are uncertain.

The American Camp Association is working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to develop suggested guidelines for day and overnight camps. Most camps are maintaining a “wait-and-see” policy, and others have started working on an alternative plan to create new ways to hold summer camps. Camps on college campuses have been canceled, and a few camps have already made the decision to close, or only hold virtual programming.

High Museum of Art

Atlanta Parent spoke with several camps to learn more about how they are approaching camp this summer to share with our readers.

The High Museum of Art has not yet made a final decision for their summer camp, but they are staying up-to-date on government and CDC guidelines. At this time, they are exploring virtual options.

“The High is doing a lot of planning,” says Virginia Shearer, Director of Education. “We love our summer camps.

It’s a really important part of how we serve our communities and families. We’re doing a lot of scenario planning. We are looking at virtual summer camps, which we are really excited about and sinking our teeth into now.”

“We have a treasure trove of digital photography we can use in our virtual camps. We’re also really excited about the amazing art educators who have joined us to teach camps,” Shearer adds. “If we migrate from live camps to a virtual camp, what will be cool is that we can still visit the galleries and look at works of art using iPads and the other tools we have, and using Zoom to atlantaparent.com

interact with the campers.”

They’re also finalizing details on creating a box of art supplies for each camper to have for connecting and taking classes with the art educators at camp.

North Cobb Christian School has several different plans for their upcoming summer camp, depending on the state of the coronavirus and social distancing guidelines.

“Plan A, of course, would be to hold camps as usual, which always include lots of field trips, large- and small-group interactions and themed camps like normal,” says Patrick McDonald, NCCS Camps Director. “If running camps as usual isn’t possible, though, we have another layer of plans, which would involve still holding camps on our campus, but with social-distancing measures in place. These measures would hinge on whatever protocols are necessary at the time. The third layer of our plans is where we really have to get creative. If no camps are able to happen on our campus, even socially distanced, we have a layer of virtual plans we’re working on. You know, we’re always encouraging kids to use the summer months to think

Camp 2020

outside the box, and fittingly, this situation is challenging us, as adults, to rethink summer camps, taking our plans ‘out of the box,’ too.”

“I think there are a lot of opportunities to get creative with camps,” he adds. “If we’re limited physically, we can still provide so many creative ideas, supplies and opportunities for children to explore and expand their horizons. Summer is a time to break the mold, so why not use this season to break the mold on summer camps, too?”

It’s time for camp at Phase Family Learning Center in Alpharetta. “Our goal is to create an incredible camp experience in the midst of very unique circumstances,” says Frank Bealer, CEO. Their summer camps will start in groups of 10, with a total attendance of 100 per week, and they’re applying practices as laid out by the CDC and Bright from the Start.

Camp operations will differ, including drop off and pickup at the curb, children will be checked for an elevated temperature and more frequent hand washing for children, as well as adding sinks to outdoor play spaces Cont’d on next page

May 2020 Atlanta Parent 43

What Will SUMMER CAMP Look Like This Year? and gyms. Toys will also be sanitized.

Club SciKidz is still planning to run an in-person camp, but they’ve enacted a new plan with “Summer Camp in a Box” for grades Pre-K through eighth. Campers can choose from more than 10 options, and each camp theme comes with two boxes with science experiments, technology and engineering build projects, nature craft activities, lab equipment, science quotes and riddles, famous scientists and more.

Founder Bob Hagan says registration for camp usually happens from March through May, but as registration wasn’t happening, they began to think of a new solution.

Atlanta Shakespeare Company’s Shakespeare Superheroes Camp is going digital this summer. Using technology, they will be sharing video content, oneon-one instruction, collaborative work and activities.

“The camp provides the structure and outline of the day and lesson plans,” says Kati Grace Brown, Associate Director of Education Sales and Camp Manager. “We don’t want to contribute to screen time, so

44 Atlanta Parent May 2020

we have created a variety of activities, including small group instruction, self-guided activities, physical activities and crafts. As part of the Shakespeare Theatre Association, there is digital content exclusively available to us we can share with our campers. We’ve been able to create eight weeks’ worth of content using Shakespeare enrichment activities from all over the country.”

Atlanta Shakespeare Company surveyed parents to see if they would feel comfortable sending their children to camp, and if not, would they be interested in an online camp.

“We asked our families how we can best serve you,” Brown says. “The online option makes the most sense for this summer.”

North Cobb Christian School

Registration is still in progress for most camps.

Go ahead and make summer camp plans now.

Have flexibility and stay up to date by checking websites.

Camp 2020

atlantaparent.com

Spotlight on SUMMER CAMP DAY CAMPS CAMP ADVENTURE AT ADVENTURE AIR SPORTS 678-203-1152 | kennesaw.adventureairsports.com

CAMP ADVENTURE is calling all kids from 5-12 years to explore the fun-fitness program. It’s designed to offer amazing attractions throughout the park for high energy play. The fun doesn’t stop there! Each day offers a new theme and different activities that will keep kids begging to come back. On the final day, come watch as the kids showcase their new found physical skills, introduce new friends and bring home some awesome artwork.

Spotlight on DAY CAMPS

THE BEDFORD SCHOOL/SQUIRREL HOLLOW CAMP 770-774-8001 | thebedfordschool.org

Get an academic boost this summer, while also gaining self-esteem, confidence and social skills. Receive academic tutoring in small groups in the areas of math, reading and written expression. Multisensory techniques are individualized for each student’s needs. Campers will explore the wooded campus of The Bedford School, and participate in recreational activities on the Challenge Course, the soccer field, the gym and the outdoor pool. Two-to-four week sessions for grades 1-9.

June 15-26 and June 29-July 12.

Atlanta Parent’s CAMP PREVIEW CAMP ARROWHEAD

678-992-2119 | camparrowhead.camp Camp Arrowhead is an adventure-fueled, Jesus-centered, fun-packed day camp in the heart of Milton, GA. It is filled with low rope elements, team competitions, theme days, and highly trained counselors to make every day at camp awesome. Camp Arrowhead teaches kids to adventure bravely, grow their faith, and help them learn how to follow Jesus. Weeks of camp are scheduled to begin in June and continue through July. Check us out on YouTube for weekly video content at youtube.com/c/camparrowhead.

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CIRCUS CAMP

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CircusCamp.org | Six Locations All skill levels are welcome! Ages 5 to teens.

INTERACTIVE: Your children participate in real circus activities – Trapeze, tightrope, juggling, magic, even throw a pie in a clowns face!

ENTERTAINING: Everyday there’s a live show by circus professionals to entertain and inspire your children.

PERFORMANCE: Campers choose what they want to perform and work together to create their own live circus show… and you’re invited! June 1-July 31.

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Camp 2020

Atlanta Parent 45 May 2020 atlantaparent.com

Large canvas painting Drawing Techniques CLay @Mosaic ScuLptures ART CAMPS 165 -$280/ Week

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Three Age Groups 7-10 10-14 5-7

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ART Camp includes 1 hour daily PE class in the Gym

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Open 7:25 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Optional early drop off ($25/wk. before 9 a.m.)

Later pick-up ($50/wk. to 6 p.m.)

Vinings School of Art

WESLEYAN

SUMMER CAMPS

O

ARTNE-Ho C ur $1 lass 5

678-213-4278 viningsschoolofart.com

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN WWW.WESLEYANSCHOOL.ORG/SUMMERCAMPS

SUMMER AT GALLOWAY!

May 26–July 31

46 Atlanta Parent May 2020

Register online at gallowayschool.org/summer

Camp 2020

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DAY CAMPS Spotlight on SUMMER CAMP CLUB SCIKIDZ SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY CAMPS 678-294-9504 | clubscikidz.com | 7 metro Atlanta locations

Club SciKidz offers exciting camps in science and technology children and teen’s ages 4-15. For 18 years, Club SciKidz has been providing an opportunity for young people to see how science works in the real world. Every child is a scientist at Club SciKidz. Children create a multitude of take-away projects in each camp. The goal is for kids to have fun and get excited about science. Camp days are Monday-Friday from 9am-4pm. Pre and Post camp hours are available.

Atlanta Parent’s CAMP PREVIEW COMMUNITY MUSIC CENTERS OF ATLANTA 404-614-0466 | CMCAtlanta.com | Four Locations

Themed camps for grades K-5 in Decatur, Dunwoody, Little 5 Points and Brookhaven. Camps focus on musical styles, genres or instruments to ensure the camper’s genuine interests will be met.

Summer Performance Workshops for grades 6-8 and 9-12 include classical, jazz, rock, country, folk, and/or hip hop music played with peers and professional faculty. Workshops include private lessons, group classes and rehearsals, which culminate in Student Showcase performances at Atlanta Music High School.

Spotlight on DAY CAMPS ECLECTIC MUSIC

404-537-1382 | eclecticmusicatlanta.com/summer Led by some of Atlanta’s finest musicians and teaching artists, Eclectic Music camps are routinely a top pick for Atlanta Parent families. Kids, from pre-k to rising grade six, get creative playing new instruments, singing, dancing, and diving into the world of music with activities like producing their own music festival or creating their own variety show. One of Atlanta’s most creative, fun, and nurturing camp programs, Eclectic Music camps are top-notch, year after year.

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FOREFRONT ARTS

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770-864-3316 | forefrontarts.com Boost confi creativity this summer at Drama Unlock yourdence child’sand talent this summer at Drama Camp!Camp Ages – onlinewill orsing, in person! can each sing, day dance, act and 4-18 dance,Ages act, 3-18 & create -- while alsocreate each day confi fromdence the comfort of theirskill-building home, or at in our 12 metro-Atlanta boosting & creativity, problem solving, locations. Choose from a ton themes forfor Musical collaboration, & empathy, andofrehearsing the bigTheatre: show! Learn Frozen, Trolls, Liontheatre King, Peter Pan, Annie, Oz, Matilda, from professional instructors!

CampWizard showsofinclude Musical Spongebob, Descendants, OR Acting/Comedy: Harry Potter, Star Theatre Camps with “Annie,” “Frozen” and “Descendants” themes, Wars, DC vs Marvel, Improv.

Teensand will “Star love our series of workshops Acting Camps with “Harry Potter” Wars” themes, Improv, with aBroadway professionals! and 2-week “Godspell” summer stock production for teens!

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Camp 2020

Atlanta Parent 47 May 2020 atlantaparent.com

X-Treme Science/STEM Camps

by High Touch High Tech

• Since 1994 • More than 2,000,000 served • 7 metro locations • Degreed Professionals • Rockets, Robotics, Chemistry, Bugs, Circuits, VR, Physics, Guts, Gems & Tech Lab

ScienceMadeFunAtl.net 770-667-9443

48 Atlanta Parent May 2020

Summer Coding Camps for ages 8-18. Make games, apps, and create with technology! Classes and camps include coding with Minecraft, Unity3D Summer dCamps Game Design, Python, an JavaScript, and Roblox.

Classes Offered At Start Cod the creativity e, we focus on an technology w d wonder of hile giving students th direction to cr e skills and eate tomorro w.

Brookhaven, Decatur, and Roswell locations

START CODING! | WWW.STARTCODE.NET Brookhaven / Decatur / Roswell | geek@startcode.net | (404) 507-2772

Camp 2020

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Spotlight on DAY CAMPS HIGH MEADOWS CAMP

770-993-7975 | highmeadowscamp.org A relaxed and caring atmosphere set on 40 acres of farm and woodland in Roswell. Children ages 4 -13 have opportunities for self-discovery through age-appropriate activities directed at personal improvement, environmental awareness, and noncompetitive achievement. Activities include archery, animal encounters, woodworking, canoeing, crafts, swimming, drama, nature and sports.

Providing outstanding traditional outdoor experiences enriching lives in a caring, nurturing, child-centered setting, since 1973.

Spotlight on DAY CAMPS

HIGH MUSEUM SUMMER ART CAMP

404-800-0547 | high.org/camp

Young artists will explore the Museum’s galleries, create original artworks, and showcase their masterpieces in a special exhibition each week. Campers will learn about the Museum’s collection and special exhibitions while honing their skills in drawing, painting, and design. Professional teaching artists will inspire your child to look closely, experiment with materials, and try new techniques. The weeklong camps are designed to serve rising first through eighth graders. Spots fill quickly, so register today!

Spotlight on DAY CAMPS

INTOWN STARS GYMNASTICS

404-330-8988 | intownstarsgymnastics.com ISG Camps are a great opportunity to flip, tumble, play and learn with USAG certified coaches. Each session is a themed, non- stop adventure. Campers will experience gymnastics and parkour instruction, crafts, performances, water play, Growth Mindset activities, science experiments and lots of FUN! This summer there are new themes and past favorites, additional camp offerings, more flexible drop off and pick up time and NO MORE BEFORE/ AFTERCARE FEES. Camps are offered in Grant Park and Decatur.

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LOCKHEED MARTIN AVIATION CAMP

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678-874-7102 | fsc.fernbank.edu

A week-long STEM based aviation camp for students in rising 4th through 6th grades. Students will be exposed to careers in aviation through several field trips, component testing and assembly. The camp concludes with a team build-off, in which students will be challenged to build and fly an aircraft of their own design. Engineers from Lockheed Martin Aviation will mentor the teams. Activities will be held in the state-of the-art facilities at Fernbank Science Center and taught by expert instructors. Registration Deadline - May 29 atlantaparent.com 2 Atlanta Parent

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Camp 2020

May 2020 atlantaparent.com Atlanta Parent 49

HI G H M U S EUM O F A R T A T L ANT A

Color your summer with fun!

Registration is now open!

Visit high.org/camp for details.

Register your young artist for week-long art camps at the High! Camp sessions for rising first through eighth graders. Campers will explore the museum collections, experiment with a multitude of artistic media, create art projects in our themed workshops, and make new friends!

Montessori Summer Camp 2020 Summertime at Endeavor Montessori!

Full-Day and Half-Day Summer Camp for Ages 3-12 Years Fun Educational Themed Camps from 6/1 - 7/24 STEM Camps and Spanish Immersion Camps For more information, call or visit us today!

48 Perimeter Center East, Atlanta, GA 30346

770-637-1242 endeavormontessori.com

50 Atlanta Parentâ&#x20AC;&#x192; â&#x20AC;&#x192; May 2020

Camp 2020

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Spotlight on DAY CAMPS MOVING IN THE SPIRIT

404-624-5295 | movinginthespirit.org Moving in the Spirit’s Summer Dance Camp, for ages 8-13, combines dance instruction with creative youth development and adventurous field trips. The two-week program provides a warm environment where campers can study dance technique, develop life skills and increase confidence. Committed to personalized attention, our teachers nurture creativity within each camper and serve as role models. At the end of camp, students perform a special show for the community. July 13 - 24, 2020.

Spotlight on DAY CAMPS

PROJECT SLIDE DANCE STUDIO 404-228-2974 | projectslide.com

PROJECT S.L.I.D.E. (Saving Lives in Dance Education) is Atlanta and Decatur’s premier dance studio for Kids and Teens ages 4-18! Summer Camps run from June 8th-26th and every week is a different fun-filled themed camp! Genres include Hip hop, Jazz, Modern, Musical Theatre and more! All dance levels welcome!

Register TODAY online as space is limited. PROJECT S.L.I.D.E Dance Studio is located at 122 New Street, Decatur.

Spotlight on DAY CAMPS

SAFARI CAMP AT ZOO ATLANTA 404-624-5822 | zooatlanta.org/camp

Want something wild for your young explorer? Try the camp experience that invites 1,000 of your closest animal friends! Campers ages 4 to 17 engage in the wild world around them with opportunities to be surrounded by our planet’s amazing biodiversity, from the majestic African elephant to the tiniest of neotropical frogs. Each session, campers engage in STEAM-based projects, learn from the experts who know the animals best, visit favorite destinations around the Zoo, and gain a firsthand appreciation for the natural world.

2 Atlanta Parent

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ZONE OF LIGHT STUDIO

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678-948-8059 | zoneoflightstudio.com The studio offers the most unique and memorable art programs in the southeast! Their eleven weeks of Summer Programs are for those who love to be creative, make friends and have fun! This year, they’ve added something new: every Friday they’ll have special guests: Chinese jugglers, stilt walkers, live animals, puppet shows, guest artists and more! Programs are for ages 5-15, from 8am-5pm daily, with Extended Care available. Conveniently located near Emory/Morningside. atlantaparent.com 2 Atlanta Parent

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Camp 2020

May 2020 atlantaparent.com Atlanta Parent 51

SUMMER DANCE CAMP

July 13 - 24, 2020 Ages 8-13

Hip Hop & Modern Games & Field Trips Performances REGISTER TODAY!

www.movinginthespirit.org Financial aid available.

Porter Academy

Enabling Children with Learning Differences to Succeed

Academic Camp in a Fun, Relaxed Environment June 15-19 • June 22-26 • June 29-July 3 July 6-10 • July 13-17

770-594-1313 | www.porteracademy.org | 200 Cox Rd., Roswell

Drama

Atlanta’s Best Summer Camps

Club

SciKidz Where Sc ience & Te chnology Co nnect!

for ages 3-18

$25 OFF

Early Bird Registration

Code: CLUB20. See our website for details!

Multiple Camps To Choose From!

Including: NEW

• Minecraft • American Girl • Video Gaming • Kerbal Space • F/X - Zombie

• LEGO Robotics • Veterinary Medicine • Coding • Harry Potter

2020 CAMPS! Virtual Reality

Complete registration online!

www.ClubSciKidz.com

Enroll Online! support@clubscikidz.com 678-493-5651

52 Atlanta Parent May 2020

Boost confidence and creativity ~ online or in person!

Robotic Car

Camp 2020

May Play ~ a series of virtual theatre workshops & productions Open to ages 3-18 everywhere!

Pay-what-you-can (any amount) and come be creative with us in May!

23

V

Virtual Drama Camps ~ June through August Frozen, Annie, Lion King, Harry Potter, Star Wars, Peter Pan, DC vs Marvel, and more ~~ all online! Work with Broadway pros from the comfort of your home!

In-Person Drama Camps ~ June through August ~ 12 metro Atlanta locations Collaborate and perform with other kids! Extended care 8 am-6 pm available.

Small camp sizes with rolling drop-offs and no large group gatherings.

Safety precautions & social distancing guidelines will be followed!

www.ForefrontArts.com atlantaparent.com

On the look out for the perfect day camp? Your search starts here with Atlanta Parent’s advertising partners.

Summer Day Camps

2O2O

Local day camps are still finalizing what camps will look like this summer. They know parents depend on them and they are working hard to make camp happen. For some, it may be different this year. Most plans will be in place in the next few weeks.

Check camp websites for the most current information.

Many camps offer extended hours for an additional fee.

Academic Camps Eaton Academy High School Summer Camp. Eaton Academy. 1000 Old Roswell Lakes Pkwy., Roswell. Ages 13-21. June 8-July 24. Three-week sessions. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Enhance social skills and maintain academic performance. $1,800/session. 770-645-2673.

Girls Inc. University. 461 Manget St., Marietta. Ages 6-14. June 1-July 17. Two-week sessions. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. STEM, business and entrepreneurship and fitness camps for girls. $300/session. 770-422-0999.

Art Camps Art Camp at the High. High Museum of Art. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. Ages 6-14.

June 8-July 31. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.4 p.m. Young artists will explore the Museum’s galleries and showcase art. $300-400/week.

404-800-0547.

ART Station Performance and Arts Camps.

5384 Manor Dr., Stone Mountain. Ages 5-13.

June 15-July 17. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.5 p.m. Explore creativity through performing, literary and visual arts. $150-175/session.

770-469-1105.

Museum of Design Atlanta Summer Camp.

Multiple locations. Ages 7-14. June 1-July 31.

One-week sessions. Full-day. STEAM-based design thinking camps. $495/session.

404-979-6455.

Spruill Arts Summer Camp. 5339 ChambleeDunwoody Rd., Dunwoody. Ages 5-14. May 26-July 31. One-week sessions. 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Visual arts, performing arts, creative and studio arts. $245-335/session. 770-394-3447.

Vinings School of Art. 1675 Cumberland Pkwy., Smyrna. Ages 5-14. May 26-Aug. 14.

One-week sessions. 7:25 a.m.-6 p.m. Draw, sculpt, clay, canvas, mosaic, one hour daily fitness. $280-355/week. 678-213-4278.

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Camp Kingfisher at Chattahoochee Nature Center

Zone of Light Studios. 1202 Zonolite Rd., Atlanta. Ages 5-15. May 26-Aug. 9.

One-day to one-week sessions. Full- and half-day. Focus on holistic learning through enrichment in the arts. $288-385/session.

678-948-8059.

Computer Camps Start Code Summer Coding Camps.

Multiple locations. Ages 8-18. June 1-July 24. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Make games, apps and create with technology. $445-475/week. 404-507-2772.

Dance/Music Camps Atlanta Ballet’s Summer Programs.

Buckhead and Virginia-Highland. Ages 2-17. June 8-July 17. One-week sessions.

Times vary. A variety of dance classes for beginner and intermediate levels. $150-475/ week. 404-873-5811, ext. 1316.

Camp 2020

Atlanta Dance & Music Academy Summer Camps. Atlanta Dance & Music Academy. 524 Plasters Ave., Atlanta.

Ages 2.5-17. June 1-July 17. One- and two-week sessions. 9 a.m.-noon or 3 p.m.

Preschool Camps, Beginner Ballet, Dance & Music Camp, Young Dancer’s Intensive. $245-350/week. 404-877-0005.

Ballethnic Academy of Dance.

2587 Cheney St., East Point. Ages 6-21.

June 22-July 17. Sessions vary. Times vary. Pre-professional intensive, precamp, dance diversity. $250-900/session.

404-762-1416.

Community Music Centers of Atlanta.

Multiple locations. Ages 5-18. May 26Aug. 7. One-week sessions. Full- and half-day. Themed camps for grades K-5; performance workshops. $225-380/week.

404-614-0466.

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May 2020 Atlanta Parent 53

Summer Day Camps 2O2O Eclectic Music Summer Camp. Inman Park. 1015 Edgewood Ave. NE, Atlanta.

Ages 3-12. May 26-July 31. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. or 3 p.m.

Specialty camps feature instruments, singing, musical theatre and more. $55-315/session. 404-537-1382.

Alliance Theatre Summer Day Drama Camps.

Multiple locations. Ages 3-18. May 26-Aug. 7.

One- and two-week sessions. Times vary. Work as an ensemble to create, rehearse and present short productions. $200-799/session. 404-733-4700.

Moving in the Spirit. 1458 LaFrance St. NE, Atlanta. Ages 8-13. July 1324. Two-week session. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Modern dance and hip-hop, field trips and performances. 404-624-5295.

Forefront Arts Children’s Theatre. Multiple locations. Ages 4-18. June 1-Aug. 7. One- and two-week sessions. Times vary. Perform in Godspell, Descendants, Frozen, Annie, Hogwarts, Jedi, or Improv. $199-315/week. 770-864-3316.

Project Slide Dance Studio. 122 New St., Decatur. Ages 4-18. June 8-26.

One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Genres include hip hop, jazz, modern, musical theatre and more. $350/ session. 404-228-2974.

Shakespeare Superheroes Day Camp.

Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse. Virtual. Ages 7-13. June 1-July 24. One-week sessions.

9 a.m.-3 p.m. Pre-recorded videos, one-on-one instruction, online experiences and self-guided activities. $195-225/session. 404-874-5299.

Summer Dance Program. Academy of Ballet. 6470 Spalding Dr., Atlanta.

Ages 3-18. June 8-Aug. 5. Four-day or three-, four-, or six-week sessions.

Times vary. Programs ages 3-teens (no dance experience); 12-adult (dance experience required). $35-255/session.

404-754-4412.

Drama Camps

General Camps Atlanta Montessori International School.

1970 Cliff Valley Way NE, Atlanta. Ages 3-12.

June 1-July 24. One-week sessions. 8:15 a.m.3 p.m. Offerings include art, Spanish immersion, Irish dancing and more. $310-380/session.

404-325-6777.

2

CAMPUSES

Forefront Arts Children’s Theatre

Big Blue Marble Academy. Multiple locations. Ages 4-12. June-Aug. Sessions vary. Times vary. Hands-on learning, field trips, projects, foreign language camps and more. Price varies. 334-802-BBMA. Camp Adventure. Adventure Air Sports.

425 Ernest W. Barrett Pkwy. NW, Kennesaw.

June 1-Aug. 7. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.1 p.m. Early morning access, challenging group initiatives, ninja training and more. $160/week. 678-203-1152.

MAIN CAMPUS • College Park WOODWARD NORTH • Johns Creek

Register Today!

WOODWARD.EDU/CAMPS 54 Atlanta Parent May 2020

Camp 2020

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Camp Arrowhead. 13540 Hwy. 9 N, Milton.

Ages 5-12. June 1-July 31. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Over 15 different adventure elements. $199/session.

678-992-2119.

Camp Explorations at Bright Horizons.

Multiple locations. Ages 3-12. June 1-Aug. 7. One-week sessions. Times vary.

Program features sessions offering flexible scheduling and convenient hours. Cost varies. brighthorizons.com.

Endeavor Montessori. Dunwoody. Ages 3-12. June 1-July 24. One-week sessions.

Full- and half-day. Fun educational themes, STEM and Spanish immersion camps. $288355/session. endeavormontessori.com.

Galloway Summer Programs. The Galloway School. 215 Chastain Park Ave. NW, Atlanta. Ages 3-16. June 1-July 31. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Academic, athletic, and artistic camps open to Atlanta community. $325-425/session.

678-923-1418.

Girl Scouts Day Camps. Camp Timber Ridge. 5540 N. Allen Rd. SE, Mableton.

Ages 5-15. May 31-July 31. One-week sessions. 8:45 a.m.-5:15 p.m. Coding, engineering, kayaking, swimming, hiking and more. $155-450/session. 770-702-9070.

High Meadows Summer Day Camp.

1055 Willeo Rd., Roswell. Ages 4-14. June 1-July 31. Three-week sessions. 9:15 a.m.-4 p.m. Outdoor activities directed at selfimprovement, environmental awareness and non-competitive achievement. $975-1290/session. 770-993-7975.

In The City Jewish Day Camp. Multiple locations. Ages 5-14. June 1-July 6. Oneweek sessions. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sports, water play, art, ropes course, music, weekly field trips, cooking and more. $250-435/week.

404-698-1134.

Kidcam Camps. Kennesaw State University. 3220 Busbee Dr. NW, Kennesaw.

Ages 5-13. June 1-July 31. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Summer camp experience with a mix of sports, arts, movement and swimming. $225/session.

877-4KIDCAM. KinderCare Summer. Multiple locations.

Ages 5-12. May-Aug. One-week sessions.

Full- and half-day. Weekly themes, sports, drama, art and more. $150 and up/week. kindercare.com.

Landmark Christian School Summer Camp. 50 SE Broad St., Fairburn. Ages 5-12. June 1-July 30. One-day and oneweek sessions. Full- and half-day. Athletics, STEM, academics, art, drama and more. $50-250/session. 770-441-4238.

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Summer Day Camps 2O2O

McGinnis Woods Country Day School.

5380 Faircroft Dr., Alpharetta. Ages 4-13.

May 26-Aug. 7. One-week sessions.

9 a.m.-5 p.m. Weekly themes, STEM, arts and crafts, weekly field trips. $225/week.

770-664-7764.

MJCCA Day Camp. Multiple locations.

Ages 4-15. May 26-Aug. 14. One- and multiweek sessions. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Performing arts, sports, theme, travel, teen, traditional camp. $225-500/week. 678-812-4004.

Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs.

2830 Old Atlanta Rd., Cumming. Ages 3-12.

June 1-July 31. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.3 p.m. Weekly themes, including nature, building, cooking and more. $225-275/ week. 770-205-6277.

Montessori at Vickery. 6285 Post Rd., Cumming. Ages 3-12. June 1-July 31. Oneweek sessions. Times vary. Weekly themes, STEM, arts, games, cooking and more. $300 and up/session. 770-777-9131.

Steve and Kate’s Camp. The Galloway School. 215 W. Wieuca Rd., Atlanta. Ages 5-13. June 1-Aug. 7. Days to one-week sessions. 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Weekly themes from water play to coding. $95 and up/ session. 404-220-7211.

Summer Remix Adventure Camp. The Sunshine House. Multiple locations. Ages 4-12. Starts May 19. One-week sessions.

Times vary. Weekly themes, movies, podcasts, art, inventions, sports, coding and more. Cost varies. sunshinehouse.com.

Trinity School Summer Camp. 4301 Northside Pkwy., Atlanta. Ages 4-12. June 1-26; July 27-31. One-week sessions.

Times vary. From LEGOS to lacrosse, pool activities, coding, STEAM challenges and more. $300-360/week. 404-231-8117.

Sunsational Summer May 26 - August 7

Tumbletots. 6375 Spalding Dr., Norcross.

Ages 1-7. Starts May 26. One-day to oneweek sessions. 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; 2-5:30 p.m. Indoor playground, themes, art, music, storytelling and more. $45-135/session.

770-729-9660.

4 YEAR OLDS -13 YEAR OLDS

A Spectacular Time

Have your camper join the fun and be part of something special.

An amazing summer filled with great learning opportunities and fun.

Campers’ imaginations will be sparked by the caring counselors, engaging themes, field trips, water activities, and surprises!

SAC, GAC and NAEYC Accredited

5380 Faircroft Drive, Alpharetta, GA 30005

770-664-7764 www.mcginniswoods.org

56 Atlanta Parent May 2020

Camp 2020

In The City Jewish Day Camp

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The Spanish Academy

The Walker School. 700 Cobb Pkwy. N., Marietta. Ages 3-18. May 26-July 24. Oneweek sessions. Full- and half-day. Wide variety of camps for ages 3-12. $175-425/ week. 770-427-2689, ext. 8502.

Wesleyan Summer Camp. 5405 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners. Ages 4-14. June 1-July 17. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Camps are offered in sports, arts, enrichment and academics. $175-300/week.

678-223-2178.

Westminster Summer Camps. 1424 West Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta. Ages 3-18.

June 1-July 24. One-, two- and three-week sessions. Times vary. Day, specialty and sports camps for all ages. $230-$850/ session. 404-367-7868.

Woodward Academy. College Park and Johns Creek. Ages 5-18. May 26-July 24.

One-week sessions. Full- and half-day.

Technology, arts and crafts, sports, outdoor activities and more. $200-400/week.

404-765-4401.

Language Camps Tabula Rasa. The Language Academy.

Sandy Springs and Lawrenceville. Ages 3-12. June 1-July 31. Two- and four-week sessions. Full- and half-day. Learn the culture and language of different countries. $7501400/session. 404-847-0829.

The Spanish Academy. Multiple locations.

Ages 2-9. June 1-Aug. 7. Two-day, three-day and one-week sessions. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Total immersion Spanish camp. $85-200/session.

770-751-3646.

Nature Camps Camp Kingfisher. Chattahoochee Nature Center. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. Ages 4-15.

May 26-Aug. 7. One- and two-week sessions.

9 a.m.-4 p.m. Swimming, canoeing, hiking, animal encounters and more. $220 and up/ session. 770-992-2055.

Summer Safari Camp. Zoo Atlanta.

800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta. Ages 4-17.

May 26-July 31. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.noon or 4 p.m. Different zoo expeditions, exploring wildlife and wild places. $175-420/ week. 404-624-5822.

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Summer Day Camps 2O2O Parks and Recreation Camps City of Sandy Springs Recreation and Parks. Multiple locations. Ages 6-14.

June 1-July 24. One-week sessions.

Times vary. Themed camps, sports, STEAM, Broadway, jazz and more. $35350/week. 770-730-5600.

Science / STEM Camps Camp Invention. Multiple locations. Ages 5-12. June 1-July 3. One-week sessions.

Times vary. Hands-on STEM activities. $235-260/session. 800-968-4332.

Club SciKidz Summer Camps. Multiple locations. Ages 4-15. June 1-Aug. 2.

One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Computer, Lego, robotics, science, space camps and more. $295-322/week.

678-493-5651.

Science/STEM Camp. High Touch High Tech, Inc. Multiple locations. Ages 5-11.

June 1-July 31. One-week sessions.

9 a.m.-3 p.m. Week-long, hands-on science/stem camp taught by degreed professionals. $265/week. 770-667-9443.

The Science of Fun STEM Camp.

North Decatur Presbyterian Church and Academe of the Oaks. Ages 5-9.

June 1-July 31. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Weekly themes including construction, STEAM, reactions and food. $349/week. 404-969-2161.

SMART Girls Summer Camp. Atlanta Girls’ School. 3254 Northside Pkwy., Atlanta. Ages 6-12. June 1-July 17.

One-week sessions. 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

All-girls classes in science, technology, performing arts and entrepreneurship. $425/week. 404-845-0900.

Special Needs Camps Since 1981 Squirrel Hollow Camp, located on the beautiful 47-acre campus of The Bedford School in Fairburn serves children with academic needs, ADD or learning differences.

 Squirrel Hollow accepts students in grades 1-9  There is a 3:1 student/staff ratio  Academics: Reading & Decoding, Math, Auditory Discrimination, Writing Skills and Reading Comprehension  Recreational: swimming, Challenge Course elements and various games and activities Contact Dr. Betsy Box

770-774-8001 5665 Milam Road, Fairburn 30123 thebedfordschool.org

58 Atlanta Parent May 2020

Camp 2020

Porter Academy. 200 Cox Rd., Roswell.

Ages 4-10. June 8-July 10. One-week sessions. Full- and half-day. A camp for children with learning differences that integrates academics into a fun relaxed atmosphere. $250-375/week.

770-594-1313.

Sensory Affective Play Camp. 2877 Cressington Bend NW, Kennesaw.

Ages 5-10. July 13-30. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-noon. Themed social skills and sensory enriched program.

Sensory-motor gym, social skills games, handwriting, drama and crafts. $285/ week. 770-499-1950.

atlantaparent.com

CAM

SUMMER CAMPS

City of Sandy Springs Recreation and Parks

Social Skills Today. Multiple locations.

Ages 4 and up. June 1-July 24. Oneweek sessions. 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Social skills instruction, summer fun activities, friendships and more. $325-375/week.

678-640-2489.

Squirrel Hollow Camp. The Bedford School. 5665 Milam Rd., Fairburn.

Ages 6-14. June 15-July 10. Two-week sessions. 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Academic instruction and recreational activities. $1,200-2,500/session. 770-774-8001.

Summer Camp. Cumberland Academy of Georgia. 650 Mount Vernon Hwy. NE, Atlanta. Ages 9-19. May 31-July 31.

One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Enjoy a blend of fun adventurous and academic camps. $380/week.

404-835-9000.

PS

• • • • • • • • • •

STARTI NG

PER WEE

K

CAMPS THAT ENGAGE, ENTERTAIN AND EDUCATE YOUR CHILD We offer a variety of quality summer day camps in Sandy Springs that encourage positive character development! Our staff are committed to providing a safe environment where campers can be challenged and achieve success.

Learn more at registration.sandyspringsga.gov sandyspringstennis.com • sandyspringsgymnastics.org

For more Summer Camp resources visit atlantaparent.com For camp advertising call 770-454-7599

Sports Camps Baseball All Skills Camp. D-BAT. Multiple locations. Ages 5-14.

May 26-Aug. 1. One-day to one-week sessions. Times vary. Baseball camp focusing on all skill levels. $75-250/ session. 678-496-7777.

Concourse Athletic Club Sports Camp. 8 Concourse Pkwy., Sandy Springs. Ages 3-14. May 27-Aug. 7.

One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. or 3 p.m. Tennis, soccer, baseball, basketball, squash, swimming, fencing, rock climbing and more. $140-195/week.

770-698-2017.

Intown Stars Gymnastics. Grant Park and Decatur. Ages 4 and older. May 26Aug. 7. One-day to one-week sessions.

Full- and half-day. Gymnastics, creative free play, weekly themes and outdoor fun. $60-299/session. 404-330-8988.

Sports Gymnastics Science Technology Engineering Nature Tennis Arts & Crafts Music & Theater Teen Hang Out Camp

Young Black Filmmakers Summer Program is focused on individual themes centered around filmmaking that provides kids the freedom to explore and learn.

Ages: 8-14 • 7:30am-1:30pm • $215/week June 15-19: Public Service Announcement June 22-26: Commercial Branding and Ad July 13-17: Film Production South Fulton location For more information contact: Antonia Washington at youngblackfilmmakers@gmail.com Katherine Lois Merritt School of the Arts Inc. mission is inspiring young girls to dream, write and create while also engaging in art education while closing the word gap through art literacy.

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Summer Day Camps 2O2O

Circus Camp

Learn-to-Row Camps. Atlanta Junior Rowing Association. 245 Azalea Dr., Roswell. Ages 12-18. June 1-July 31.

One-week sessions. 7:30-9:30 a.m.; 10 a.m.-noon. Weekly camps teaching the fundamentals of rowing. No experience necessary. $150-165/week. 770-835-5769.

Theme Camps Circus Camp. Multiple locations. Ages 5-18. June 1-July 31. One- and two-week sessions. Times vary. Trapeze, juggling, clowning, magic, unicycling and miming.

Performance each Friday. $275-625/week.

404-370-0001.

Easy Going Sewing Camp. Easy Going Sewing Studio. 4046 Chamblee Tucker Rd., Atlanta. Ages 8-17. June 1-July 31. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Students will make items to use and wear. $389/week. 404-914-0618.

Lockheed Martin Aviation Camp.

Fernbank Science Center. 156 Heaton Park Dr., Atlanta. Ages 9-12. June 15-26.

One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Practice and history of flight. $200/week.

678-874-7113.

Young Black Filmmakers. South Fulton.

Ages 8-14. June 15-July 13. One-week sessions. 7:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Weekly themes, public service announcement, commercial branding and film production. $215/session. 404-692-4165.

Young Chefs Academy Culinary Camps.

Multiple locations. Ages 5-17. May 26July 27. Three- to four-day sessions.

9 a.m.-noon. Fully-immersive culinary camp experience. $150-200/session. youngchefsacademy.com/georgia.

60 Atlanta Parentâ&#x20AC;&#x192; â&#x20AC;&#x192; May 2020

Camp 2020

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SUMMER CAMPS

for ages 2.5 -16 years

FALL SEASON begins August 10

SUMMER DAY CAMP

404-877-0005

524 Plasters Avenue NE, Atlanta 30324

atlantadanceandmusic.com

Sharing the Joys of Dance & Music since 1998

Thank You For Your Support

4

School Break Programs

for Children with Special Needs • Ages 4-Young Adult

LET KIDS BE KIDS

A summer camp that trusts kids, so that they learn to trust themselves.

June 1–July 17, Gwinnett County June 1–July 24, Roswell Weeks of June 8 & 15, July 6 & 13, Cumming

More information available at www.socialskillstoday.com

TUMBLETOTS

Preschool & Parties

SUMMER CAMP

Ages 1-7

Art

Music

Stories

PRIVATE BIRTHDAY PARTIES Corner of Spalding Dr. & Holcomb Bridge Rd., Peachtree Corners/Norcross Call 770-242-6379 RRRRRRRR OOOOOO

atlantaparent.com

Spalding@Holcomb Bridge

The Galloway School | Atlanta

Norcross • www.funttots.com

Jun 1-Jul 31 | M-F | 7:30am-6pm | Ages 5-12 steveandkate.com

FUN INDOOR PLAYGROUND

Camp 2020

770-729-9660

May 2020 Atlanta Parent 61

J u n e 8 _ 26

Every week is a different fun-filled themed camp!

STARS CAMP (Ages 4-5) MINIS CAMP (Ages 6-8) JUNIORS AND TEENS (Ages 9-18) Hip hop, Jazz, Modern, Musical Theatre and more!

All dance levels welcome!

Register TODAY online – space is limited. www.projectslide.com

122 New Street, Decatur │404-228-2974

Linking Sensory to Behavior

SESSION 1: July 13-16 (non-verbal) SESSION 2: July 20-23 SESSION 3: July 27-30 Half Day

Dr. Jule Kagan Outstanding Occupational Therapy Practitioner 2019 Kennesaw 770-499-1950 See you on FB

SUMMER S UM ME R S SU UM MM ME ER R

2020 2 02 0 2 20 02 20 0

J U N E 1 - J U LY 3 1 $199 PER WEEK RISING KINDERGARTENERS THROUGH RISING SIXTH GRADERS

R E G I S T E R AT C A M PA R R O W H E A D. C A M P

62 Atlanta Parent May 2020

Camp 2020

atlantaparent.com

HighMeadowsCamp.org 770-993-7975

WESLEYANSCHOOL.ORG /SUMMERCAMPS

InTheCityCamps.com multiple locations

AtlantaDanceandMusic.com 404-877-0005

ZOOATLANTA.ORG 404-624-5822

TrinityATL.org 404-231-8117

ATLANTAJUNIORS.COM

TheSpanishAcademy.com

770-835-5769

770-751-3646

STEVEANDKATESCAMP.COM

EasyGoingSewing.com 404-914-0618

404-220-7211

circuscamp.org

EATONACADEMY.ORG 770-645-2673

MovingintheSpirit.org 404-624-5295

atlantaparent.com

404-370-0001

KinderCare.com

McGinnisWoods.org 770-664-7764

Camp 2020

mtparanschool.com/

SummerPrograms / mtparanschool.com SummerPrograms

Ballethnic.org 404-762-1416

May 2020 Atlanta Parent 63

for thee fridg

MOTHERHOOD: A story about coffee getting cold.

64 Atlanta Parent May 2020

atlantaparent.com

The Matthews Family Mableton, Georgia

MATTHEWSCARE You might say the Matthews family’s relationship with Wellstar began at birth. First their labor and delivery nurse helped Deidra learn how to feed new daughter Chase. The same superstar caregiver taught Bow to change diapers, which came in handy when son Canon came along. And the Wellstar care and support hasn’t stopped. There was Deidra’s broken toe. And Bow’s middle-of-the-night heart scare. With medical expertise and personal attention, Wellstar cares for the whole Matthews family like — well, family. No two families of four are exactly alike, and at Wellstar, we would never treat them that way. wellstar.org/peoplecare

More than healthcare. PEOPLECARE PRIMARY CARE | URGENT CARE | HEALTH PARKS | HOSPITALS

To all metro Atlanta healthcare workers,

Thank you.

AtlantaPARENT