November 2018 by Atlanta Parent

AtlantaParent November 2018

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TOY Guide Holiday

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Feeding Help for Parents. Powered by Experts. Strong4Life.com By the age of 3, your baby will develop eating habits that can last a lifetime, so you’re smart to get a jump on your baby’s nutrition. It’s easy with Strong4Life.com—a unique parenting website from the experts you trust at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. At Strong4Life.com, you can:

Browse for tips by age

Ask an expert who is a parent too

THANK YOU!

For another successful Atlanta Parent Family Festival

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Atlanta Parent Magazine would like to thank our special friends: Sam’s Path Mobile Petting Zoo, Good2Grow, Busy Bee’s Play Patch, Home Depot of Tilly Mill, Little Red Barn Mobile Petting Farm, Chick-fil-A Northlake, DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office and Police Department, GoGo SqueeZ, Keep the Beat DJ’s, Atlanta Hawks, Laser Sports/The Bounce House, Atlanta United, Fun-Fare, Two Men and a Truck, Yule Forest, Mercer University-Atlanta Campus, and all our volunteers and entertainers.

See you next October! For sponsorship information for 2019 call 770-454-7599.

The Doctor’s Office to your Doorstep Moms-to-be: We Come to You!

Are you tired of ... fighting Atlanta traffic to get to the doctor’s office? having to take time off from work or finding childcare? l extended, unpredictable waiting room times? l minimal face to face time with your provider? l inconvenient appointment times?

l l

OB2me alleviates all of these and provides the luxury and convenience of bringing quality prenatal care to your doorstep while still delivering your baby at the hospital!

OB2me.com OB2me is a Division of 2me Healthcare, LLC

4 Atlanta Parent November 2018

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Inside 35 November YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT

Features 14

Departments 8 Publisher’s Note

G is for Gratitude

Teach your kids about the benefits of Vitamin G – Gratitude – and they’ll grow up to be happy, grateful adults.

Good Stuff

Things we like

58 For the Fridge

Words of humor & wisdom

HOLIDAY TOY GUIDE

Go West to Ski

Family Fun Guide

Atlanta Parent’s annual kid-tested guide will help you find the perfect gift for every child on your list, from infants to tweens.

42 Four Things to Do

Park City, Utah is perfect for families learning to ski – great instruction on not-too-challenging courses and many opportunities for fun off the slopes.

Not-to-Miss Events Thanksgiving Weekend

43 Review: Daniel Tiger at

Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Managing Sensory Processing Issues

Help children who struggle with Sensory Processing Disorder learn strategies to cope and thrive.

46 Great Wolf Lodge 48

November Calendar

Holiday Calendar On the Cover: Juan Pablo Mesa, 2 of Norcross. Photography by Images by N’Neka.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTIONS

10 Festive Holidays Make your list and check it twice – be ready for holiday fun, from special events in metro Atlanta to nearby getaways.

Magazine Association of the Southeast

2013 Award Winner atlantaparent.com

Why We Love Our School Choosing the right school is so important. Learn about some private schools from a parent’s perspective.

Like us on Facebook; facebook.com/ AtlantaParentMagazine November 2018 Atlanta Parent 5

PUBLISHER Liz White

lwhite@atlantaparent.com ASSOCIATE Laura Powell PUBLISHER lpowell@atlantaparent.com

ACCOUNT Carolyn Haushalter EXECUTIVE chaushalter@atlantaparent.com

ACCOUNT Cindy Ford EXECUTIVE cford@atlantaparent.com

ACCOUNT Emily Satterfield EXECUTIVE Esatterfield@atlantaparent.com

When it hurts to go... Our digestive experts can help relieve constipation and other tummy troubles.

SPECIAL EVENTS Hannah Sykes COORDINATOR/ hsykes@atlantaparent.com SALES ASSOCIATE

AGApediatrics.com | 404.843.6320

CONTRIBUTING Amanda Miller Allen EDITOR

AGA, LLC and its affiliates are participating providers for Medicare, Medicaid, and most healthcare plans offered in Georgia. STAFF Teresa Farkas WRITER tfarkas@atlantaparent.com

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

PRODUCTION Robin Mintz

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

MARKETING MOM Felicia Barman

Atlanta Parent magazine is published monthly by Atlanta Parent, Inc., 2346 Perimeter Park Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30341. Telephone 770-454-7599, Fax 770-454-7699. Atlanta Parent magazine is available free of charge at more than 1,000 locations throughout the metro Atlanta area. First class subscription only $30 per year. Subscription orders must include check or money order made out to Atlanta Parent magazine. Atlanta Parent magazine welcomes letters, articles, artwork and photographs from its readers and the community. Atlanta Parent magazine is not responsible for the return of unsolicited materials. All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part, is prohibited without written permission.

6 Atlanta Parent November 2018

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Atlanta

PARENT

MOST-READ STORIES 250 Fun Things to Do in Atlanta with Kids 15 Things You Really Need for Baby 30+ Atlanta Date Night Ideas

CONTESTS

KID-FRIENDLY GUIDES

Keep an eye out for #AtlantaParentContest every week on Facebook and our enewsletter. This month will be giving away toys featured in our Holiday Toy Guide on page 16. Get your holiday shopping done early!

Beauty Everywhere: Enjoying Paris with Kids Tips for Storing Stuffed Animals 8 Baby and Kid Products to Show Your Pride for Atlanta

Facebook Feedback Fun My 5-year-old often interrupts me, especially when I’m on the phone with the boss. What can I do about it?

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“I hook pinky fingers with my daughter. She waits until it’s her turn to speak to me because she knows I’ve acknowledged her.” – Courtney Walsh “Ask him to give you a minute and thank him in advance for his patience.” – Erica Torres “When our kiddos were little, we had them put their hand on our shoulder or wherever they could reach. We would put our hand over theirs to acknowledge they had something to say but would need to wait.” – Wendy Stone

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ATLANTA PARENT’S PARTY GUIDE Whether you’re planning a birthday bash for 10 or 100, our Party Planner is your ultimate resource. November 2018 Atlanta Parent 7

Publisher’s Note Counting the Days ‘Til Thanksgiving Weekend

Pregnant & looking for ways to relax? MASSAGE SPECIALTIES

• Pregnancy • Postpartum • Fertility • Neuromuscular 60, 75 or 90 minute massage sessions!

Free time, football, family and shopping. What’s not to love about Thanksgiving weekend? I stock up on staples for the kids on Black Friday – in my slippers in the comfort of my own home with a strong Wi-Fi signal. The kids may have to wait until November to throw out their “high water pants,” but you just can’t beat those $8 Old Navy jeans. Thanksgiving weekend is always reserved for getting outdoors with the kids. The weather is usually perfect for a bike ride or a hike. Flip to page 42 for things to do Thanksgiving weekend. With a little downtime, Thanksgiving weekend is the perfect time to start planning a fun winter trip for your family. Keep an eye on cheaper fares for February and March to plan something special. Read about our recent trip to Park City, Utah (page 26) and find more travel ideas at atlantaparent.com/travel. Our list of what to do for holiday fun will grow, as it always does, when we check Atlanta Parent’s thorough holiday events calendars (page 52) and the kids weigh in with their choices. We can’t wait to see Frog and Toad at Synchronicity Theatre and the new Nutcracker at the Fox Theatre. Another list that will grow – Santa’s – is under way, too. My family along with several others had lots of fun kid-testing some of our Best Toys of 2018. You’ll find a great gift for every child, from infant to tween. My 7-year-old loves the Maxflex RC 300 Combo Race Track, a definite on his list; a co-worker’s daughters were equally enthusiastic about K’nex Thrill Rides: Twisted Lizard Roller Coaster Building Set. Both made our Top Toys list (page 18). One of our favorites is the Chow Crown; it’s a game that combines skill and snacks, what’s not to like? With toys hanging in the balance, the kids staying busy, and Santa watching, our kids will be on their best behavior for the next two months – just another reason we love the holidays! What’s on your holiday wish list? Share it with us at Facebook.com/ AtlantaParentMagazine. Associate Publisher

How to Reach us: Two locations: Atlanta & Roswell

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8 Atlanta Parent November 2018

Telephone 770.454.7599

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

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by Teresa Farkas

Good StUff

THINGS WE LIKE

Fundraising for Kids With Kids Boost, kids can choose causes important to them and help fundraise. Once a child picks a charity, the child receives money and coaching from Kids Boost to host an event. 80 percent of the funds go to the charity while 20 percent goes back to Kids Boost to support another kid’s idea. View local kids’ events by visiting the event tab, or sign up to participate. kidsboost.org

Home Depot Delivery

Coloring Rolls Playpa by Olli Ella are coloring mats that roll out on the wall or floor for hours of coloring. Color in the fill-in designs with markers, pencils or crayons, or add stickers to decorate. The rolls come in multiple designs including Ocean, Space, Jungle and Road. Available at us.olliella.com for $17.95.

Pocket-Sized Diaper Kit If you are a parent who is on the go, carrying around a diaper bag may not always be the best option. The Dwypers complete diaper kit is small enough to grab and stick in a pocket. Each kit includes a diaper, pack of wipes, changing pad and a distraction card for a quick change, and is also completely disposable. Available at dwypers.com, $15 for a five-pack.

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Following Amazon Prime, and many grocery store delivery services, Home Depot will now offer express same-day and next-day local delivery across major cities including Atlanta. Busy parents can avoid running to the store, and get home improvement items delivered quickly. Learn more at homedepot.com/c/Delivery_Services

Monitor Teeth Brushing Kids don’t always love brushing teeth, but with the Colgate Smart Electric Toothbrush, parents can reward kids for thorough brushing. The toothbrush records brushing data on the app for parents to see, and includes a game called “Go Pirate,” which turns the brush into a game control for kids to collect coins while brushing. Available at shop. colgate.com for $99.95.

November 2018 Atlanta Parent 9

SPONSORED CONT ENT

Follow a Trail of Lights Chattanooga’s Holiday Trail of Lights features 11 major points of interest, including three new locations, showcasing millions of twinkling lights at the city’s top holiday attractions. Winter experiences Nov. 16-Feb. 21 include festivals, holiday events, delicious holiday meals, Santa sightings, shopping, and live music and entertainment throughout the city. Check out special hotel packages and stay overnight in this fun city just two hours from Atlanta. For a chance to be featured on our social media, let us know about your Chattanooga holiday vacation by posting pictures and using #TrailofLightsCHA. chattanoogafun.com/winter; 800-322-3344.

Holidays in the Mountains Celebrate the holidays as only a mountain destination can! At Brasstown Valley Resort, go for Christmas dinner or to see the dozens of decorated Christmas trees, take a horseback ride or relax at Equani Spa. Be sure to watch the Sheriff’s Empty Stocking Christmas Parade Nov. 24 in Hiawassee and take in the Mountain Country Christmas Light Show, Nov. 22-Dec. 31. The planetarium at Young Harris College has a great light show Nov. 30 and Dec. 7 (get tickets early; it sells out!). Don’t miss the Brasstown Ringers Holiday Concert Dec. 7 and a Winter Solstice event at Crane Creek Vineyards Dec. 21. golakechatuge.com; 800-984-1543.

Rock City: Enchanted Garden of Lights

Kick Off the Season The tradition of Christmas is alive in Oxford, Mississippi and begins Thanksgiving weekend. Start by attending the Egg Bowl Nov. 22, and watch the Ole Miss Rebels play the Mississippi State Bulldogs at The University of Mississippi. Usher in the holiday season the following day at the Oxford Square Alliance Christmas Open House in the Historic Downtown Square. Take a selfie in the sleigh (all day), meet Santa (11 a.m.-6 p.m.) and take a horse drawn carriage ride around the Square (2-6 p.m.). Enjoy Christmas carolers beginning at 4:30 p.m. and watch the dazzling Christmas tree lighting at 6 p.m. visitoxfordms.com; 662-232-2477.

Brasstown Valley Resort

A Family New Year’s Eve Kick off 2019 in seaside style at this special St. Augustine Beach event! Beach Blast Off has been voted the No. 1 Family New Year’s Event in Florida. You’ll have a blast with great food and beverages, live music, a Kids’ Zone, a photo booth and a spectacular fireworks show. And it’s all FREE – free admission, free satellite parking and free transportation shuttle. 5-10 p.m. Dec. 31; fireworks show at 8:30 p.m. See you at the beach, 350 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach. sabevents.com; 904-471-2122.

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Oxford, Mississippi

St. Augustine Beach

November 2018 Atlanta Parent 13

Give Your Kids a Dose of Vitamin G:

Practice Gratitude by Sandi Schwartz

Only recently have scientists begun to study the benefits of gratitude. Vitamin G, as some like to call it, plays a critical role in happiness. Focusing on the positive boosts body, mind, and spirit. It gives us energy, inspires us, and transforms us. In a nutshell, it provides life with meaning by thinking of life as a gift. Don’t you want to give this gift to your children?

How To Teach Children Gratitude

Benefits of Gratitude

In her book “10 Mindful Minutes,” Goldie Hawn explains that being thankful is not a natural instinct; children need to be taught how to do it. She asks parents to be a good example to their children by thanking them often. It is important to explain to our children why they are being praised. Another important tip is to be careful not to judge how our children express gratitude. Young children younger than age seven may not fully grasp the concept. It is not what they are thankful for, but that they are learning how to express gratitude that matters. If they want to be thankful for a toy, that is okay. Keeping a gratitude journal is the backbone of gratitude scientific research. I tried this traditional journal approach when I first learned about gratitude and it did not work for me. This is why I started my nightly ritual of the gratitude prayer with my children. That works for us, but each family needs to discover what is most effective for them. Plus, you don’t want it to become an annoying chore – it is supposed to make you happier after all!

Dr. Robert Emmons is the world’s leading scientific expert on gratitude. He conducted studies involving gratitude journals and found that when people regularly engage in gratitude, they experience measurable psychological, physical, and interpersonal benefits: n Feel better about their lives overall n Experience higher levels of positive emotions like optimism, enthusiasm, love and happiness n Are kinder and more generous to others n Have fewer physical problems including pain n Exercise more regularly and eat healthier n Sleep better n Visit the doctor more regularly for checkups n Feel less stressed n Able to cope with stress more effectively and recover more quickly from stressful situations n Live longer – on average, being thankful adds 7 years to our lives!

How It Works Why does saying thank you have so many benefits for us? When we count our blessings, we interrupt the cycle of negative and fearful thoughts, which allows the stress system in our bodies to recover. Research shows that when we are thankful, we love our lives and want to make sure we stick around long enough to enjoy them. Also, when we receive praise from others, our brain releases the chemical dopamine, which encourages us to do more to receive such praise. This makes us want to thank others and make them feel good as well. 14 Atlanta Parent November 2018

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Gratitude Journals: 5 Ways Here are some creative ideas for gratitude journals using a variety of media. As technology changes, we should show them how to use these tools for something positive.

Blog: My son just starting getting writing assignments in second grade using a student blog site. He loves seeing his words online and gets so excited when classmates comment on his posts. Why not set up a family gratitude journal blog (password protected, of course). You can even involve grandparents and cousins, no matter how far they live. You could introduce this idea at the Thanksgiving table and challenge everyone to submit a post each week throughout the year. Audio Recording: Children love to hear their own voices. You can have them record their journal on a phone or iPad. Once you have the recordings, you can get really creative by posting them online for others to listen to or you can even put it to music and create a song or rap using highlights of what they said. Videos: Children also love watching videos of themselves. My daughter can spend hours watching herself on my phone. They will have a blast talking about what they are thankful for and watching it over and over. Maybe have them pretend to be reporters and their gratitude is the news of the day. Or they can act out scenes from the wonderful moments they had.

Nominate today! Have you found the perfect dentist, orthodontist or oral surgeon for your family? Nominate them today. ATL ANTA PARENT’S

MOM-APPROVED

DENTISTS

Tell us about your favorite dentist, orthodontist or oral surgeon by Dec. 14. Go to www.atlantaparent.com/nominatedentist

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A MERCER BEAR? Mercer Bears don’t just learn. They master. They don’t just accomplish. They thrive. They don’t just compete. They dominate. Mercer Bears command respect and walk with confidence. They are distinguished leaders. Movers and shakers. Real-life difference makers.

Drawings: For children who are more visual or artistic, ask them to draw or paint what they are thankful for at the time. You can then put the artwork together in a book organized by month or year. Create your own handmade journal or take pictures and use Snapfish or an online slideshow to present the images. Collage: Looking for pictures in magazines or online to build a gratitude collage is a fun family project. And no artistic talent required! All that cutting is also a great way for your child to build fine motor skills.

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To learn more, visit mercer.edu. November 2018 Atlanta Parent 15

2018 Holiday

TOY GUIDE

Atlanta Parent’s Favorites n Toddlers who go for a spin on Radio Flyer’s Busy Buggy will love the 17 plus interactive activities including interlocking gears, a fun horn, folding side view mirrors and clicking spare tire. Plus kids learning to walk can push it around. Ages 1-3. At radioflyer.com. $34.99.

n Build the K’nex Thrill Rides: Twisted Lizard Roller Coaster Building Set (403 pieces and a motor and coaster car!), then download the free K’nex Ride It! app for a virtual reality experience. Our tester really had fun building the set and playing with the VR app. Ages 7 and older. At knex.com. $44.99.

n Real Cooking Mini Tarts, a DIY baking kit, allows kids to make and decorate (and eat!) real tarts, with all food ingredients except milk and sugar. Ages 5 and older. At realcookingkids.com. $19.99.

n Where do you want to go

We found the coolest gifts for your kids this holiday season. Here are our top picks for each age. 16 Atlanta Parent November 2018

today? Brio Smart Engine Set with Action Tunnels lets kids decide, using interactive smart technology. Depending on where tunnels are placed, the engine will stop, back up, honk or blink its lights. Ages 3 and older. At brio.us. $89.99.

Reviewed by Felicia Barman, Cindy Ford and Laura Powell. Shop early and check with stores on availability. Prices listed are MSRP.

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n Dimpl by Fat Brain

n Snack time takes on a new form with the Hasbro Chow Crown game. Players take turns wearing a musical spinning crown while trying to eat all the snack foods off of attached forks before the music stops. What a creative way to get your fruit and veggies in! Ages 8 and older. At hasbrotoyshop.com. $24.99

Toys is a colorful sensory adventure for toddlers. Press on one of five vibrant silicone bubbles in the plastic frame and pop it to the other side for giggly fun. The toy is quiet, but our baby tester was not when playing with it. Ages 10 months and older. At fatbraintoys. com. $12.95.

n Maxflex RC 300 Combo Race Track from Skullduggery combines flex track and straight track racing for beginner to advanced racers. Our testers loved racing the two Tracer Racers RC cars and rebuilding the tracks. Plus it glows in the dark. Ages 6 and older. At skullduggery.com. $99.99.

n Turn out the lights to play

n Prepare to be amazed at all the tricks furReal Ricky, the Trick Lovin’ Pup from Hasbro can perform. He can balance a bone toy on his nose then flip it into his mouth; he’ll shower you with doggie kisses; he’ll give you a handshake when you reach for his paw. You can even feed him and he digests the food. Then you can feed him again. Ages 4 and older. At hasbrotoyshop.com. $129.99.

the Shadows in the Forest game from ThinkFun. One player moves an LED light around the game board while the other players try to hide their Shadowlings, mysterious creatures who avoid the light. Ages 8 and older. At thinkfun.com. $24.99.

n Kids can experiment with color using Crayola’s Color Chemistry Lab Set. Try 16 playful experiments devised by real Crayola scientists. An easy-to-read instruction book helps kids learn as they have fun. Ages 7 and older. At crayola.com. $24.99. Cont’d on page 18

Win these Toys! Go to atlantaparent.com/contests for a chance to win prize packs for each age group valued at $150-$250 each. atlantaparent.com

November 2018 Atlanta Parent 17

2018 Holiday TOY GUIDE / BABY & TODDLER n VTech’s Touch and Discover Sensory Turtle is cute and cuddly, with textures, colors and patterns; a sensor triggers playful sounds and music. Tuck in his head and legs and he becomes a rolling ball. Ages 3 months and older. At vtechkids.com. $19.99.

n It’s fun to learn about colors and puzzle problem solving with the Chugga Choo! Game from Peaceable Kingdom. Toddlers match boxcar puzzle cards by color and choose wooden cargo tiles to fit in them. Ages 2 and older. At mindware.com. $17.95.

n Mindware’s BABU Roller is a modular wooden car set with three bases and six tops for mixing and matching and creating one-of-a-kind vehicles. Our toddler tester loved building and playing with these cars. Ages 6 months and older. At mindware.com. $24.95.

n Learn about helping others with Green Toys’ Ambulance and Doctors Kit. The set includes everything kids need to play doctor, including stethoscope, reflex hammer and thermometer, and more. Plus, store it all in the ambulance and kids can give teddy a ride to the hospital. Ages 2-6. At greentoys.com. $39.99.

n Build a tower with Fat Brain Toys’ seven Spoolz, and create a colorful work or art – or roll them or race them in the playroom. Ages 10 months and older. At fatbraintoys.com. $24.95.

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2018 Holiday TOY GUIDE / BABY & TODDLER n Bright Basics Bath Blocks from Educational Insights lets toddlers build floating castles in the bathtub or underwater scenes. The 20 foam pieces include four sea creatures. Ages 2-5. At educationalinsights.com. $19.99.

n Tilt the Kid O Hudson

n Spin the puppy’s nose and find the right shaped block to “feed” him with FIRST PLAY Spin & Feed Shape Sorter by Melissa and Doug. The wooden blocks are also fun to sort and stack, and they store in a tray behind the puppy. Ages 12 months and older. melissaanddoug.com. $16.99.

Glow Rattle forward or back and Hudson’s spots light up red or green. The rattle’s textured surface makes it a perfect teether. Ages 6 months and older. At playmonster.com. $24.99.

Cont’d on page 20

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2018 Holiday TOY GUIDE / PRESCHOOL n Watch and help Thomas, Percy and Terence pick up and deliver their deliveries on time throughout Sodor. This remake of Thomas and Friends Big Loader by TOMY set features multiple loading areas and a fully automated engine that transforms between Thomas to Percy and Terence, and back again. Ages 3 and older. At tomy.com. $39.99

n Melissa and Doug Fill and Roll Grocery Basket Play Set has everything kids need to shop at the grocery store. The plastic basket can be carried or rolled and is stocked with grocery boxes, and play food cans with pop-off lids. Plus an erasable shopping list. Ages 3 and older. At melissaanddoug.com. $24.99.

n Leapfrog’s Go-with-Me ABC Backpack is a fun way for kids to learn their ABCs. Letter games introduce the alphabet and music games help develop hearing and listening skills. Our tester liked drawing animal letters and playing with all 26 alphabet letters. Ages 3 and older. At leapfrog.com. $29.99.

n Pick a Pomsie, by Skyrocket, by Skyrocket can be worn as an accessory or carried around. The toy makes cute sounds and the eyes light up to communicate. Ages 4 and older. At pomsies. com. $14.99.

n Klutz Jr.: My Simple

n Pass the Pup Game by Playmonster is a fun version of hot potato with a cute puppy, but instead of being out when the music ends, kids pick a card and act like a dog by barking, rolling over or scratching. Ages 3 and older. At playmonster.com. $17.99.

n Kids work as a team while playing the Lemonade Shake Up! game from Peaceable Kingdom. Our testers had fun trying to sell enough cups of lemonade to fill a money jar. Be careful – a roll of the dice could mean sour lemons! Ages 4 and older. At mindware.com. $15.95.

Sewing arts and craft kit teaches kids the basics of sewing using a plastic needle safe for small hands. Create a pizza pouch, cookie key chain and a cupcake plushy using pre-punched felt. Look for other Jr. kits like My Egg Carton Animals. Ages 4-8. At shop.scholastic.com. $14.99.

n Kids love dress up! My First Game: Critter’s Closet from Educational Insights is a matching and memory game where kids get to dress up animals, see what changes other players have made and more. This game can be played multiple ways, so it never gets old. Ages 3-6. educationalinsights.com. $16.99.

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2018 Holiday TOY GUIDE / AGES 5-8 n Help Olivia give her friends a tow with Lego Friends Service and Care Truck. Our tester enjoyed playing with this set because it includes many parts and it was easy to put together. Play with an Olivia mini-doll figure, Zobo the robot and Rumble the hamster, a go-kart launcher and winch function. Ages 6-12. At shop.lego.com. $19.99.

n Teamwork is a must in Gnomes at Night, where players go on a treasure hunt through challenging mazes. Teams give verbal cues to direct which way to move magnetic gnomes on each side of the game board without peeking. Ages 6 and older. At mindware.com. $19.95.

n Thames & Kosmos Ooze n OOZ-O’s are sensory fun for all ages. Mix ingredients to create OOZ-O’s base and activator, then mold, squish and pop colorful oozing spheres. Our testers had a blast making their own spheres and squishing them. Ages 6 and older. At horizongroupusa.com. $5.

Labs Chemistry Station Science Experiment Kit introduces kids to the basics of chemistry with about 20 different experiments. These include glowing slime, colorchanging slime, fizzing reactions, oozing bubbles, rainbow in a test tube, an underwater volcano and more. Younger kids may need help from a parent. Ages 6 and older. thamesandkosmos.com. $39.95. Cont’d on page 22

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2018 Holiday TOY GUIDE / AGES 5-8 n Ribbon Ninja from Fat Brain Toys gets kids up and moving. Each kid gets three ribbons on a wristband, and the object of the game is to lunge quickly and grab your opponent’s ribbons before he grabs yours. Ages 6 and older. At fatbraintoys.com. $19.99.

n Create and build a track with twists, turns, seesaws and more with Magformers 64-piece Sky Track Adventure Set. The track has magnets that click in place when the track is put together. The elevator and spin accessories were a hit with our testers. Ages 3 and older. At magformers.com. $129.99.

n Botley the Coding Robot by Learning Resources, offers screen-free coding to kids using active play (no phone or tablet required). Botley can detect objects and move around them, follow looping commands, navigate obstacle courses, follow black lines and more. Our testers liked making paths for Botley to follow. Ages 5 and older. At learningresources.com. $79.99.

22 Atlanta Parent November 2018

n Water plus pretend play with sea animals makes the PLAYMOBIL Aquarium Building Set a hit with kids. This set can be filled with real water or not. It includes lots of sea animals, figurines and accessories to play with. Ages 5 and older. At playmboil.us. $59.99.

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AGES 5-8

2018 Holiday TOY GUIDE / TWEENS n Laser Chess from ThinkFun combines the strategic maneuvers of chess with the fun of laser beams. Players move mirrored pieces around the board, and at the end of each turn, they use a laser to bounce off the mirrors; if the laser hits a nonmirrored surface, that piece is removed. Illuminate the king to win! Ages 8 and older. At thinkfun.com. $39.99.

n ThinkFun’s Cat Crimes logic game lets players think through and solve a crime – which of six cats is involved in the case of the missing bird? The game can be played with one or multiple players. Ages 8 and older. At thinkfun.com. $12.99.

n Crafty kids will love the Kid Made Modern Charm Chest Jewelry Kit. The kit has everything you need to create your own unique charms and transform them into delightful jewelry. Make necklaces, bracelets or backpack clips. Ages 6 and older. Available at kidsmademodern.com. $24.99.

n KiiPix from Tomy is a portable instant photo printer that can be used with any smartphone, printing pictures from your phone’s screen from the camera roll or Instagram to share with friends. Ages 14 and older. At tomy.com. $39.99.

n Build 11

n Throw a football up to 100 feet with the Helix Power Swing by Yulu. A wire attached to the football lets you wind up for a long-distance toss. Ages 6 and older. At playhelix.com. $9.99

cool machines that whirl, flip, punch and cruise with Lego Gadgets by Klutz. Our tester stayed busy building machines like the gravity drop coaster and spin-o-vision. Ages 8 and older. At klutz.com. $24.99.

n Create a fizzing reaction, then use a hammer and chisel to excavate six gemstones with Discovery Galactic Fizzing Dig. With an included magnifying glass, you can see the stones’ patterns up close. Ages 12 and older. At horizongroupusa.com. $14.99.

n Galaxy Sneaker

n With smARTsketcher Projector,

n Gravitrax Starter Set from

small or large hands can learn some of the basics of drawing. Use pre-loaded themed activity packs, or download photos from a smart device and start drawing and coloring. Ages 5 and older. At smartsketcher.com. $59.95.

Ravensburger is a marble run track system that allows users to experiment with gravity, magnetism and kinetics and see how their marble’s journey is affected by curves, freefalls and a canon. Ages 8 and older. At ravensburger.us. $59.99.

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3D Puzzle from Ravensburger is 108 pieces of challenge. Follow the numbered pieces to put together a galaxy-themed hightop sneaker that can be used as a pencil holder. Ages 8 and older. At ravensburger.com. $19.99.

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COUNTDOWN to the Holidays

When the mischievous Elf on the Shelf was busy watching boys and girls and snitching to Santa if they misbehaved, the shelf got a little crowded with reindeer, a Do-Good Elf, the Mensch on a Bench and … about 20 crazy dinosaurs.

Start your own family tradition this year with the original Elf or one of his competitors. Here’s what’s on the shelf:

Do-Good Elf He’s a plush doll kids can play with all year long. Buy him, or Karamelli, Santa’s Sweetest Reindeer and kids receive a customized video from Santa. Elf $14.99; reindeer $12.99. portablenorthpole.com

The Mensch on a Bench

An adorable mensch and his book teach the lessons of Hanukkah and help families celebrate with a new tradition. $29.99. themenschonabench.com

Reindeer in Here A cute book and plush reindeer arrive in early December so kids can explore true Christmas wishes. On Christmas Eve, the reindeer returns to the North Pole. $29.99. reindeerinhere.com

The Elf on the Shelf The boy who started it all now comes as a boy or girl, with light or dark skin, or choose an accessory for your elf. $29.95. elfontheshelf.com

Let the Dinosaurs – and Your Imagination – Run Wild

ou won’t find these 20 dinosaurs in a toy store or online, but you can copy Atlanta Parent staffer Cindy Ford’s idea. She created a dinosaur tradition for her four children when the original Elf began visiting the homes of her kids’ friends. Plastic dinosaurs break out of their toy box every night in December and start doing all kinds of nutty stuff – staging a snowball fight using cotton balls, using ribbons to climb the Christmas tree and hide ornaments, breaking into the pantry to steal mini-marshmallows, playing a Monopoly game. On Christmas Eve, her kids get to eat the gingerbread houses they’ve made, but the dinosaurs get the first bite on the night before. “I read once that the more traditions your family has, the more kids fondly remember their childhoods,” Ford says. When she runs out of ideas for dinosaur antics, she’s not above stealing one from Elf on the Shelf. So steal her idea, or call in some Superheroes, Star Wars characters or Minions. 24 Atlanta Parent November 2018

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Big answers come in cute little packages. We’re looking for expecting moms and newborns to participate in simple research studies – like playing, watching kid-friendly videos, or even blowing bubbles – so we can learn more about autism. To help us find big answers, visit marcus.org/research or call 404.785.7600.

November 2018 Atlanta Parent 25

Fun on the Slopes (and off)

Park City, Utah is a Great Family Destination by Laura Powell

“Mommy, don’t look down at your skis, and do a big pizza at the end!” With no fear and a huge grin on her face, my 5-year-old daughter became quite the happy little ski instructor as she swooshed down the mountain with ease. Our trip to Park City, Utah, gave our family plenty of bonding opportunities, from learning to ski in a picturesque setting to fun things off the slopes, and a new definition for pizza (a snowplow or wedge turn for braking). Here are our tips for planning the perfect ski trip to Park City:

Beginners Will Love It Deer Valley Ski Resort in Park City is an easy and inviting place for beginning skiers. On our first day, my husband and I split from the kids for private lessons. At Snow Park Village at the base of the mountain, there are a variety of slopes with magic carpets (conveyor belts so you don’t have to lug up the hill) and fun little obstacle courses for kids (and adults) to practice their skills. Classes at Deer Valley are often smaller, about 3-5 kids per instructor, so kids get the most out of the experience. deervalley.com On our second day, we skied together as a family. Our kids showed us all they learned in their favorite skiing area at Deer Valley, Candyland. We loved witnessing their giddy excitement on their first lift run. A great lunch place is The Royal Street Cafe at the top of the mountain, with its award-winning cuisine and stellar views. The turkey chili and tacos were delicious. After a full day of skiing, the kids devoured frozen yogurt at Quincy’s, the cafe at the base of the mountain. 26 Atlanta Parent November 2018

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Fun on Main Street

Great Place to Relax

Main Street, with its more than 60 local restaurants (and no chains), is a lively place to spend time after the skis come off. Family favorites include Wasatch Brew Pub and Main Street Pizza & Noodle. After dinner, we couldn’t resist grabbing dessert and sitting on the cow at Java Cow Coffee & Ice Cream. Browse big name outfitter stores like North Face and Patagonia, ski shops and other clothing stores on Main Street, too. Hop on the trolley for a free ride around town and to Utah Olympic Park where kids can bobsled, zipline, and test their problemsolving skills on adventure courses. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about the history of Park City at The Park City Museum, located among the shops and restaurants downtown. Kids can blow up dynamite, learn about Park City mining history, ride on the ski train, and learn about the city’s history as a ski destination. Ask for the scavenger hunt at the front desk for even more fun. parkcityhistory.org

During our stay at Park City, we rejuvenated and enjoyed the mountain life at Montage Deer Valley, a luxury resort steps from the slopes. The beautifully appointed room at Montage had a fireplace, a huge shower and tub, heated floor and knock-out views from the balcony. Plus, the room included a large closet perfect for storing our ski and winter gear. The amenities on site at Montage Deer Valley were just as top-notch. The impressive lodge, restaurants, cafe, amazing wellness spa, and easy ski rental store were among the perks. After fun days of skiing, we went tubing at Montage and snacked on s’mores by the fire overlooking the mountain. Daly’s, the on-site pub, has casual dining with an arcade and bowling. Drop your kids off at Paintbox Kids Club for a night out at Montage or nearby in Park City. Additionally, if your kids aren’t interested in skiing, Paintbox offers activities during the day.

We come to you! Miniature farm animals & a pony to ride.

• Birthdays • Field Trips • Church Productions • Pony Carousels

TEXT TO SCHEDULE YOUR EVENT!

678-493-5860 LittleRedBarn.us

WINTER BREAK CAMPS Be sure our readers know about your winter camps in our December issue.

The Details n Montage Deer Valley: The resort is less than five minutes from Park City’s Main Street, and an easy 40-minute drive from Salt Lake City International Airport. It offers ski-in/ski-out access to Deer Valley Ski Resort, the largest spa in Utah, five dining options and year-round activities. Rooms range from a $345$1,200 per night. 435-604-1300. montagehotels.com/deervalley/ atlantaparent.com

n Deer Valley Ski Resort: Kids ski free and save 20 percent on lodging, lift tickets and kids’ ski rentals in the early and late seasons. See deervalley.com for details. n More Information: For more on accommodations, attractions and dining visit the Park City Convention & Visitors Bureau website, visitparkcity.com

Call us to be included in our print and online camp directory. Deadline: Thursday, Nov. 8

To reserve your space call: 770-454-7599 November 2018 Atlanta Parent 27

Why We Our School Families weigh many factors when choosing the right school for their child. They look at curriculum, teachers, values, culture, academic focus and much more. n

Find out from a parent’s perspective why these families love their school and are confident with their school choice.

28 Atlanta Parent November 2018

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Why We Love Our School ATLANTA ACADEMY / THE AXT FAMILY Academic Focus: With three children who were very different learners, we needed an educational environment that could not only keep our family together, but also give each child the resources to succeed. After touring many private schools, we were immediately drawn to Atlanta Academy because of its willingness to tailor the approach to each student. Strengths were applauded and pushed, and weaknesses were met with effective action plans.

About the School: Established 2000 350 students Preschool-Grade 8 Roswell atlantaacademy.com About the Family: Michael and Kerrieann Axt Twins: Owen and Eliot, 10 and Townesend, 8 Lives in Dunwoody. A part of the Atlanta Academy family for three years.

Values: children receive; but there is Atlanta Academy believes that comfort in knowing that the children aren’t just learners faculty is dedicated to helping of math and reading, but also kids be good, kind people. of character. There is time for Daily school-wide mindfulness, smart, progressive education open dialogue SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION between – which we feel strongly our teachers and students, and

Why We Love Our School

opportunities for selfexpression are part of what differentiates this school. Education of the “whole child” is top priority, and our kids are happy and thriving.

GRACEPOINT SCHOOL / THE ODOM FAMILY Values: Our prayers were answered when we found GRACEPOINT for our two children with dyslexia. This is where our daughters Katie and Anna Brooke belong – we saw their confidence soar. We know they are being nourished to reach their fullest potential.

About the School: Established 2012 114 Students Grades 1-8 Marietta gracepointschool.org About the Family: Stephen and Kendra Odom; Katie, 12; Tyler, 9; Anna Brooke, 8. Lives in Cobb County. A part of the GRACEPOINT family for five years.

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Academic Focus: It was important for us to find a school using the OrtonGillingham method which is proven to be successful in children with dyslexia. Every reading teacher at GRACEPOINT is OG certified. GRACEPOINT makes learning fun for students with lots of visual and hands on learning. They recently started bringing in dogs for a special needs reading program that has really been a hit with the kids.

Community Outreach: There is an amazing spirit of giving at GRACEPOINT! Students collect food for MUST Ministries and diapers for the needy.

As an ongoing project, students have adopted four students at Brighton Academy in Ethiopia, helping them with tuition, uniforms, food and clean water. November 2018 atlantaparent.com Atlanta Parent 29

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Why We Love Our School KILLIAN HILL CHRISTIAN SCHOOL / THE DAVIDSON FAMILY School Culture: Killian Hill Christian School has a strong family environment. Teachers know your kids by name even when they are not assigned to their class, and older kids look out for younger ones. The school has teachers with tenures of 15 years and more – these teachers care about KHCS and want to be a part of your child’s spiritual and academic advancement. Our favorite part of the school is the small classrooms and student-to-teacher ratio. We like the fact that there are rules when it comes to attire. Children must wear uniforms and the child is more focused on curriculum instead of fashion.

Curriculum: The curriculum at Killian Hill Christian School stands out because it educates the whole child academically as well as spiritually. College Preparedness: Killian Hill Christian School’s ACT and SAT scores are above average compared to the public schools. Our favorite part of the school is the small classrooms and student-to-teacher ratio. This gives us confidence that our child will be prepared for higher education. About the School: Established 1972 400 students. K4-Grade 12 Lilburn khcs.org

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About the Family: John Davidson & Nicole Hinds-Davidson; Brandon, 13; Sydney, 8. Lives in Lawrenceville. A part of the Killian Hill Christian School family for eight years.

Why We Love Our School MOUNT PARAN CHRISTIAN SCHOOL / THE BOLIVAR FAMILY

About the School: Established 1976 1087 students PreK3-Grade 12 Kennesaw mtparanschool.com About the Family: Andres and Vanessa Bolivar; Daniel, 15; Sebastian, 10, Sarah, 7. Lives in Kennesaw. A part of the Mount Paran Christian School family for eight years.

Curriculum: We are very pleased with the way the curriculum balances all the traditional subject areas with the performing arts and STEAM for a well-rounded education. The school is also constantly striving to provide the latest in innovative technology. Lastly, the school is intentional about teaching subjects in a way that is aligned with biblical principles. Values: Providing a solid Christian education is a high priority for us. We believe the school’s Christian focus is intentional and genuine, and MPCS curriculum is aligned with biblical principles. The school nurtures our kids desire to grow in their Christian faith. A few examples of this are the high school retreats, mission trips, weekly chapel, the prayer before every event and the daily devotional led by the students.

30 AtlantaParent Parent <ISSUE> November<DATE> 2018 2 Atlanta

Extracurricular Activities: Mount Paran allows our children to choose from a wide range of high quality

extracurricular activities, where they get the opportunity for fellowship with other students. atlantaparent.com atlantaparent.com

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Why We Love Our School MOUNT VERNON PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL / THE NORMAN FAMILY College Preparedness: Mount Vernon has rigorous academic courses and numerous AP classes. But perhaps the best thing our sons will carry with them are soft skills important in professional careers and life. These include working collaboratively on goals, having a growth mindset and learning from your mistakes. Campus: Mount Vernon has overhauled the Lower School spaces; classrooms are filled with technology and different seating options such as bean bag chairs and easily movable furniture to allow for

classroom flexibility. One of the most exciting results was creation of a Maker space filled with computers and 3D printers. The Lower School playground has been re-imagined for creative play. A new Upper School building is under construction. Values: We wanted to send our boys to a Christian school where their faith could be nurtured. At Mount Vernon, the Lower School students praise together at weekly chapel. The Middle and Upper School have biweekly chapel and small groups to discuss the messages. About the School: Established 1972 students.SECTION PreK-Grade 12 SPECIAL957 ADVERTISING Sandy Springs mountvernonschool.org

About the Family: Anayi and Dennis Norman; Dennis, 12; Spencer, 8. Lives in Roswell. A part of the Mount Vernon Presbyterian School family for six years.

Why We Love Our School MT. BETHEL CHRISTIAN ACADEMY / THE ALARCON FAMILY

About the School: Established 1998 626 students Junior K-Grade 12 Marietta (East Cobb) mtbethelchristian.org About the Family: Dr. and Mrs. Carlos Alarcon; Samuel, 15; Ellie, 12; Henry, 8. Lives in East Cobb. A part of the Mt. Bethel Christian Academy family for 11 years.

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Curriculum: From the exposure to foreign languages, STEM activities, and of course, reading, writing and arithmetic, our children are educated in a state-of-the-art school with excellent educators who love and nurture them. Community Outreach: Our children earn money to support children in other parts of the world so that they, too, can receive an education. Additionally, our students pack over 200,000 meals each year to feed hungry families across the world, and the senior class works with 7 Bridges to Recovery to pray with and provide meals for Atlanta’s homeless population. <ISSUE> <DATE>

Values: We choose MBCA for the Christcentered education that nurtures and grows a Biblical world view from the mathematics, science, and English books to the physical education curriculum. Our students are held accountable to what they learn, say and believe.

Extracurricular Activities: MBCA places importance on everything from the fine arts to athletics, including chorus, drama programming, individual and team sports, and clubs and activities.

November 2018 atlantaparent.com Atlanta Parent 31

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Why We Love Our School WESLEYAN SCHOOL / THE SYKES FAMILY

About the School: Established 1963 1,178 students Peachtree Corners wesleyanschool.org About the Family: Darien and Natasha Sykes; Kelsey, 11; Chase, 10. Lives in Peachtree Corners. A new member of the Wesleyan School family since August 2018.

New Family Experience: Our experience at Wesleyan has truly exceeded our expectations. Wesleyan has been intentional about understanding the individual needs of our children, then partnering with us to help them develop spiritually, emotionally, and intellectually. Wesleyan embraced our entire family from the very beginning. We are truly blessed to be a part of such a wonderful community. School Choice: We chose Wesleyan for its Christcentered environment, strong leadership, excellent academics, New Student Experience: nice facilities and extracurricular Our children are thriving at opportunities. The administration, Wesleyan. They have found faculty and staff at Wesleyan a new love for learning that demonstrate an authentic love for is evident from the time Christ and for the families, creating they wake up. They have an ideal learning environment forADVERTISING our SPECIAL SECTION embraced new levels of children.

Why We Love Our School

responsibility and being challenged academically, because of the excellent teachers and available resources.

WOODWARD ACADEMY / THE COUCH FAMILY

About the School: Established 1900 2,635 students Pre-K-Grade 12 Two campuses: Main Campus, College Park (Pre-K-12); Woodward North, Johns Creek (Pre-K-6) woodward.edu About the Family: Julie and Chuck Couch; Jackson, 17; Sarah Beth, 14: and Henry, 12. Lives in Historic College Park. The Couch family is a third generation Woodward Academy family.

College Preparedness: Woodward Academy is preparing all three of my children to succeed. My oldest, Jack, is graduating this spring, and Woodward has provided the perfect blend of class choice, knowledgeable teachers and resources. The faculty supports each student individually to help them to mature into the people they are meant to be. School Culture: Kids can be challenged academically or get extra help with classes when needed. Our school is the most diverse in Atlanta, so our kids have friends from many backgrounds, preparing them for the world after Woodward.

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Extracurricular Activities: My kids have been able to follow their passions in athletics, the arts, clubs, service activities and more. Our oldest traveled to Europe and sang at Notre Dame with a Woodward choir!

Campus: Woodward has innovative programs and updated facilities, from a planetarium in the Upper School to 3D printing in the Middle School art building and robotics in the Primary School. atlantaparent.com atlantaparent.com

Creativity Apps For Kids by Tanni Haas

Here are some great creativity-boosting apps for kids, and the best part is that they’re all free.

Let’s Create: Pottery (At Apple App store, Google Play; ages 9-18) This app lets kids sculpt pottery and make beautiful pieces of artwork without the messiness of real clay. They can copy pieces from different cultures around the world, or create their own pottery. While the virtual clay is spinning on the pottery wheel, kids mold the clay by tapping or pressing lightly on the screen. They fire their pottery in the kiln and then decorate with colors and patterns. If you have a 3D printer, you can make real pieces.

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Story Dice – Story Telling (At Apple App store, Google Play; ages 5-18) This app features 40 virtual dice, each with six different images in different categories, for a total of 240 images. Kids shake their devices to roll the dice and create stories that connect all the images that emerge. Encourage your kids to use this app with friends to see who comes up with the most suspenseful or fun stories and encourage them to write down their stories.

TeleStory (At Apple App store; ages 5-12) Kids can pretend that they are television producers, directors and writers who star in their own shows. They get to plan their shows, write the scripts, rehearse, record and perform in them, and then edit the completed shows. It features general templates for different kinds of shows that they can use of if they need some inspiration. It also has theme music, sound effects, animation and digital costumes that kids can wear.

Toontastic 3D (At Apple App store, Google Play; ages 5-12) Few things are more fun than making your own cartoons. Toontastic 3D includes various story outlines, scenes and dozens of colorful characters. Kids can use those characters or create their own with simple drawing tools, press “record” and then move characters around and narrate the story with their own voice recording. They can add a musical score, and put all the pieces together in a single 3D cartoon. The app also has useful storytelling tips.

November 2018 Atlanta Parent 33

Make Your Child a Reader

in Six Easy Steps

by Meagan Ruffing

One of the best things about being a mom is sitting next to my children, reading with them. Reading is one of the best, most encouraging, educational, and loving things you can do. Try these tips to fuel your reading time as a family. Grab books celebrating the month you’re in. November is a great time to gather all your books about Thanksgiving, volunteering, family time and even turkeys! It’s fun for kids to go on a “hunt” for books with a specific theme. Head to your local library – it’s a never-ending free-for-all for a child’s imagination.

a school where your child learns • By Individual Instruction • A Love of Learning An • To Think Outside the Box Authentic AMI Accredited • Independence Montessori • Respect for Others School • A Solid Foundation • Foreign Language, Music, Cooking, Gardening and More

HALF OR FULL DAY, YEAR ROUND PROGRAMS

Montessori School at Emory

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

Accredited Toddler Through Middle School Programs 34 Atlanta Parent November 2018

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Let your kids pick out books they want to read. If your son likes Pokémon, let him get a Pokémon book. If it’s something he needs to read for school, maybe you compromise? Tell him he can read 10 minutes in his Pokémon book and then 10 minutes in his school book. You may just end up learning a thing or two about what he likes while your son becomes an avid reader.

Make time in your day to sit down as a family. This might not be realistic every day but aim for a few times a week to sit down together where you’re all reading your own books or you’re reading one book together. Depending on your kids’ ages, you can pick a book that is suitable for everyone. A book like “Madeline” is great for kids, not too long or too short and it has a few French words you can talk about together.

Have a Read-Off this month! There’s no better time to start a fun game of who can read the most during November, National Literacy Month. Make sure you keep it friendly and be mindful of your younger kids who might not be able to read as much or as fast as your older kids. Have each kid write down how many minutes they’ve read each night and tally up the totals at the end of the week. Whoever read the most amount of time receives a prize (a Dollar store item). To keep everyone in good spirits, have little prizes for runners-ups and be sure to praise each kid for a job well done.

BEYOND EXPECTATIONS Discover Galloway

Sunday, December 2nd 1-3 p.m.

Let your kids pick out an armful of books on the cheap. Your kids will think it’s the best day ever when you tell them there’s no limit to the number of books they can get. Resale or thrift stores usually have them for a dollar or less, or try your library’s used book sales.

Pick a special spot at home or in your backyard. If it’s nice outside, grab a blanket, a few stuffed animals, and a couple of great books, or find a comfy and quiet place in your home. Make it a pseudo-picnic with little snacks and lots of reading together. Take turns reading aloud to shake things up a bit. atlantaparent.com

At Galloway, students (age 3-grade 12) are inspired to be fearless learners, to embrace challenges, and to discover more about themselves and the world around them.

Get the Most Up-To-Date List of SCHOOL OPEN HOUSES atlantaparent.com TO BE INCLUDED CALL: 770-454-7599 November 2018 Atlanta Parent 35

just kids

Help with Sensory Processing Issues

Occupational Therapy Helps Kids Struggling with This Often Misunderstood Disorder

by Sarah Lyons

typical morning in my home begins with the words “My clothes hurt me. They are too loose. I need new clothes.” My 4-year-old daughter Grace and I begin the search for the “right” clothes. After much time, many tears, lots of tight hugs and a good dose of frustration, she begins her day in the same dress she wore the day prior. Getting dressed, which seems simple to most, is one of the biggest challenges my child faces daily.

36 Atlanta Parent November 2018

This situation is one example of living with a child with Sensory Processing Disorder. These children cannot escape their symptoms – the noise around them might seem amplified to the highest level, the temperature is colder or hotter than they’ve ever felt, they’re wearing the most uncomfortable clothing that has ever touched their skin, and they might be nauseated by a repulsive smell, all at the same time. They may respond with anger or frustration or try to avoid those situations altogether. Sensory processing refers to the way the nervous system receives messages from the senses and turns them into appropriate motor and behavioral responses. The disorder can be hard to diagnose because it affects each person differently; their five senses might be hypersensitive or under stimulated (hyposensitive) or a combination of both. A hypersensitive response to sensory input may include being distracted by noises that sound normal to others (flushing toilets, clanking silverware), afraid of surprise touch, being unable to balance. atlantaparent.com

APS is caring Caring for parents and students.

How Occupational Therapists Can Help Occupational therapists can improve the functioning of a child’s (or an adult’s) sensory systems, which play an important role in social-emotional, physical and motor skills development, communication, self-care and cognitive ability. All therapists are trained to help with the immediate impact of sensory processing dysfunction on daily activities and behavior while therapists with advanced training in sensory integration provide intervention that targets the underlying neurobiological processes to affect long-term outcomes, the American Occupational Therapy Association says. Among the functions occupational therapists perform: n Collaborate with families, physicians, nurses, speech-language pathologists, physical therapists, psychologists, teachers and other professionals to determine the need for specialized evaluation and intervention. n Identify and modify sensory and environmental barriers that limit performance and participation in everyday activities, as well as individual strengths and supports. n Teach and model activities to support sensory, motor and behavioral needs.

Do you know a child who resides within the city of Atlanta in need of special education services? Atlanta Public Schools Child Find services can open a window of hope for a brighter future for infants, children and young adults identified with a disability or developmental delay. For more information, call the Dept. of Special Education at 404-802-1609 or 404-802-2665.

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

n Identify and provide adaptive sensory and motor strategies and interventions using a variety of sensory approaches to facilitate full participation in daily routines and social interactions. n Help raise self-awareness of the impact of sensory and motor factors on everyday activities and real life situations, and provide ways to counter sensory processing challenges. Source: American Occupational Therapy Association

A hyposensitive response may include a constant need to touch people or textures, an extremely high tolerance to pain or being fidgety and unable to sit still. Children can have one or many of these characteristics as well as some from each category and in varying degrees of severity. Sensory disorders may cause motor clumsiness, behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, cognitive or memory problems or other issues if not treated effectivity, but occupational therapists with special training can help kids who struggle with it, says Susan Orloff, executive director of Children’s Special Services and an occupational therapist for 43 years. “If you think of physical therapy as teaching you to get up and walk, occupational therapists teach you to dance,” Orloff says. “And everybody is on the dance floor when it comes to life, whether you know how to dance or not.”

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

Enabling children with learning differences to succeed

How we process sensory input affects everything we do in life, she says, and if our processing is malfunctioning, therapy can gradually change those patterns. Occupational therapists first do a thorough assessment of where the child is developmentally, then “we get them to the next level, and the next,” Orloff says. Cont’d on page XX

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November 2018 Atlanta Parent 37

Children’s SPECIAL SERVICES, LLC.

A Comprehensive Therapy Service for Children from Toddler to Teens

Evaluations and Treatments: Sensory Motor ● Visual Motor Coordination ● Visual Processing Handwriting ● Autism Organizational Skills ADD ● ADHD ● PDD ● OCD Behavior Disorders Sensory Integration (and more) 770-394-9791

Susan Orloﬀ OTR/L, FAOTA CEO/EXEC Director

www.childrens-services.com

CHILDREN USE THE LANGUAGE OF PLAY TO EXPRESS AND RESOLVE THEIR PROBLEMS.

Trudy Post Spunk

www.gapt.org 770.491.7423 38 Atlanta Parent November 2018

just kids “We had a fabulous occupational therapist that helped my son,” says Joy Alsup, a mom of four. “She gave us tools and gave him permission to figure out what worked for him and what didn’t. He has a high need for tight, long hugs and we understand that this is what helps him. It’s a huge priority for us.” Some activities a therapist might try to help kids balance sensory input include swinging, wearing a weighted vest, pushing or pulling heavy objects across the room or jumping on a trampoline. Many of these activities are fun for the child and can be integrated into playtime at home. (sensorysmarts.com) “The therapy helps more than just their physical strengths but also their emotional strengths,” says Stephanie Beaudry, whose son and daughter both have sensory processing issues. “When my daughter first started therapy, she was extremely shy. She wouldn’t even talk to children her own age when they approached her. Now, four months later, she is a social butterfly.” An occupational therapist’s main goal is to educate parents about sensory disorders and give families tools they can use to help the child progress at home. Many parents find hope in their child’s progress and support from other parents dealing with this disorder. “One thing I have learned after experiencing our journey is that I am not alone. There are so many others that understand what I am going through and we are there to support each other in many ways,” Beaudry says.

Some activities a therapist might try to help kids balance sensory input include swinging, wearing a weighted vest, pushing or pulling heavy objects across the room or jumping on a trampoline. As a mother of a child with Sensory Processing Disorder myself, I would encourage others to educate themselves about SPD and begin to approach the situation from the child’s perspective. Parents can then begin to use the tools needed to adjust their environment and celebrate as their child meets goals and overcome challenges. Alsup says her son has worked hard to manage his sensory challenges. “When my son was diagnosed, I felt like he would be limited in his future,” she says. “He has worked through many of his issues and I see his SPD as part of what makes him unique. I wouldn’t have him any other way.” It takes a lot of patience and love to parent a child with Sensory Processing Disorder, but when a child feels acceptance and support, he can work through struggles, and thrive.

AN EXCEPTIONAL SCHOOL FOR EXCEPTIONAL STUDENTS

I’M EXCEPTIONAL . . .

“At Cumberland, I’ll study college prep academics or prepare for a vocational career, try a sport or a club for the first time – ever. I’ll learn I’m not so different after all.”

650-A Mt. Vernon Hwy NE • Atlanta 30328 cumberlandacademy.org • 404-835-9000 atlantaparent.com

Spotlight on Special Needs The Atlanta Public Schools

Porter Academy

he Atlanta Public Schools Department of Special Education offers comprehensive special education services for children from birth through age 21 years through Child Find. Child Find is a component of Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) that requires all states to identify, locate, evaluate and refer all children with disabilities. Children from birth to age three with disabilities will be referred to the appropriate agencies for services. All referrals are considered confidential, and services are provided at no cost to the family. Atlanta Public Schools Child Find services can open a window of hope for a brighter future for infants and toddlers who are at risk of developmental delay. A free, appropriate, public education with a full continuum of services is available to all eligible children. If you know a child who may have a problem with learning, speech, vision, hearing, or who has physical, cognitive or health impairments, please encourage his or her parents and/or guardians to contact the Department of Special Education at 404-802-1690 or 404-802-2665 for more information.

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

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November 2018 Atlanta Parent 39

Family Fun Guide * Eating Out

Free Fun

Exhibits

Playground

Calendar

Not-to-miss events for November

Grealtf Wo Lodge

46 Page

Model Railroad Days Southeastern Railway Museum Nov. 3 and 4. Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sun. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. The museum is a stop on the annual tour of model railroads. Layouts featuring a variety of trains will be on display, plus take a ride on historic miniature trains. 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth. 770-476-2013. Adults, $10; ages 2-12, $7; ages 1 and younger, free; train rides, extra. train-museum.org

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Sesame Street Live! Make Your Magic Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center Nov. 16-18. Fri. 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Sun. 2 p.m.

Sesame Street Live!

The Sound of Music Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center Nov. 23-24. Fri. 7:30 p.m. Sat. 2 and 7:30 p.m. See the beloved musical story of Maria and the von Trapp Family and hear favorites like “Do-Re-Mi” and “Edelweiss.” 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta. 770-916-2800. $49 and up. cobbenergycentre.com

When a magician visits Sesame Street to put on a magic show, Elmo wants to be part of the big event. Features Elmo, Abby, Cookie Monster, Big Bird and more. 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta. 770-916-2800. $20 and up. cobbenergycentre.com

Family Fun Guide

November 2018 Atlanta Parent 41

Family Fun Guide 4THINGSTODOTHANKSGIVINGWEEKEND

Follow Clues Historic Oakland Cemetery hosts The Harvest Hunt, a scavenger hunt to complete by following a map and packet of riddles. This year, pick up the kids’ junior version and hunt through Oakland Cemetery to discover Atlanta history. Purchase a Junior Harvest Hunt packet (one per team) at the Visitors Center at Oakland Cemetery starting Nov. 19 (9 a.m.5 p.m.) and follow clues to solve riddles. Return the packet or email it to mbreffle@oaklandcemetery.com by 5 p.m. on Nov. 25 to win prizes. Packets are $20. oaklandcemetery.com

Get Creative

Families can line up under Atlanta’s Olympic rings Nov. 22 at 7:30 a.m. for the Thanksgiving Day Half Marathon, 5K, One Mile and 50 Meter Dash hosted by the Atlanta Track Club. Stick around for a post-race celebration outside Georgia State Stadium (formerly known as Turner Field). The 50 Meter Dash is specially designed for ages 6 and younger and the One Mile run is for ages 6-14 and 15 and older, perfect for the whole family. See atlantatrackclub.org for prices.

Go Hiking

The High Museum of Art is hosting the Day After Thanksgiving event with activities for all ages, including artmaking workshops, story time, gallery tours, scavenger hunts, and a photo booth on Nov. 23, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Programs from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Don’t miss exploring the newly renovated Greene Family Learning Gallery, with a brand new area for families to learn and play. The redesign includes CREATE, a bright and open studio and EXPERIENCE, an immersive gallery, which enables visitors to explore what art means and how it feels. $14.50; ages 5 and younger, free. high.org

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Race to the Finish Line

Atlanta is surrounded with places to go hiking, some easier, and some more challenging. Sweetwater Creek State Park: This park offers a wooded trail along a stream leading to ruins of the New Manchester Manufacturing Company, a textile mill burned during the Civil War. Panola Mountain State Park: Hikers can explore this National Heritage Area or make reservations to join park rangers for guided hikes. Big Trees Forest Preserve: This urban forest has three hiking routes, including a one-mile loop trail beneath white oak trees. gastateparks.org and bigtreesforest.com. Parking is $5 at state parks; free at Big Trees Forest Preserve.

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Grr-ific Exhibit! It’s Easy to Love Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood

oddlers and preschoolers have another reason to love the Children’s Museum of Atlanta – “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: a Grrr-ific Exhibit!,” based on the popular animated television series on PBS

Kids. The exhibit transforms a section of the museum into Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood. Children are invited to explore the area, and engage, interact and perhaps pretend they live in the 4-year-old tiger’s neighborhood. The show’s theme songs play in that area, and Daniel himself visits the museum (at designated times). In the “neighborhood,” kids can mail letters at the post office, climb in cars and drive around the town, play with the clock tower, build their own neighborhood in a block area, dress up as characters in the show, play instruments, read books and create stories, among many other activities. “They love all of it,” said Karen Kelly, director of education and exhibits for the museum. “We have seen children happily sitting on the floor building their own neighborhood with neighborhood blocks, dancing and singing to the radio songs and making clocks. Not only does the museum play songs from the show in the exhibit area, but the museum’s live theatre performances focus on themes familiar to the show, such as working together, friendship and kindness. These are all key learning goals for the Daniel Tiger show, Kelly said. “The songs from the show … are great catchy tunes that also help children create coping skills for challenges,” she said. The lessons learned in the exhibition have staying power and will be with the children and their families after the exhibition leaves.” – Kristy MacKaben

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Family Fun Guide

The Details Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: a Grrr-ific Exhibit! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta childrensmuseumatlanta.org; 404-659-5437. n Admission: $15.95-$18.95 per person (discounts for online purchase); exhibit through Jan. 6 included in admission. n Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon., Tue., Thu. and Fri.; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat. and Sun.; closed Wed.

November 2018 Atlanta Parent 43

PLAY IN SNOW!

Get into the winter spirit with these locations for lots of cold fun.

License to Chill Snow Island Margaritaville at Lanier Islands Snow tubing hill, winter-themed carnival rides, an ice skating rink, a fire pit with s’mores and photos with Santa. Nov. 16-Feb. 24. Nov. hours: Nov. 16, 2630, 5-10 p.m.; Nov. 17-25, 11 a.m.10 p.m. 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford. 678-304-3120. $24.99 and up. margaritavilleatlanierislands.com

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Stone Mountain Park Stone Mountain transforms into a Winter Wonderland, and brings lots of snow to Atlanta. Tube down snow-covered hills, build a snowman, throw snowballs, and more. Galactic Snow Tubing with lights and lasers after 5:30 p.m. Select dates Nov. 17Feb. 24. 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain. 800-401-2407. $34.95 and up. Visit stonemountainpark.com for times.

WHOLE HOUSE ULTRA DEEP CLEAN

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Family Fun Guide

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Second Sundays

5 FREE Things

To Do This Month Take advantage of these special events in November.

First Saturdays at Dunwoody Nature Center: Different nature-

The Battery Atlanta Movie Series: Family-friendly movies

Atlanta Veterans Day Parade: Honor those who served

4 5

themed program the first Sat. of each month. Nov. 3 from 11 a.m.-noon. The theme is mushrooms. Pre-register. dunwoodynature.org

including “Jurassic World,” “Minions” and more Friday nights through Nov. 30 at 7 p.m. in the Plaza outside. Parking is free the first four hours in The Battery Atlanta’s Red Deck. batteryatl.com

our country, with this year’s theme, “The Battles Between the Wars.” Nov. 10. 11:11 am. Begins on Peachtree Street south of Ralph McGill and Ivan Allen Boulevards. georgiaveteransday.org Second Sundays at the High Museum of Art: The second Sunday of each month enjoy special family programs from 1-4 p.m. including art making, storytimes and more. Free Museum admission from noon-5 p.m. Nov. 11. high.org

Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA): Family Free Day is the second Sunday of each month. Nov. 11 from noon-5 p.m. The theme is Your Vote Matters! Take part in a writing activity to express your vision of a better Georgia as it relates to schools, housing, and transportation. museumofdesign.org

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Family Fun Guide

November 2018 Atlanta Parent 45

Reasons to Visit Great Wolf Lodge

Staying at Great Wolf Lodge, about an hour west of Atlanta in LaGrange, is a special treat for everyone. Twisting waterslides, lily pads, magic wands, treats, games and crafts will keep your kids excited and having fun. Parents will love the waterpark, outdoor pool, accommodations and dining options. We’ve compiled our best tips for enjoying Great Wolf Lodge:

Great Wolf Lodge Waterpark The waterpark is what Great Wolf Lodge is all about! Our 5- and 7-year-old kids loved the waterslides and Fort Mackenzie. I was surprised that my 7-year-old was brave enough to go down Otter Run (a real waterslide). Adventurous parents and bigger kids have to try out the Wolf Tail slide at least once. Let’s just say that the bottom drops out. The toddler water park area is huge, with three toddler-size waterslides plus an elaborate play area. Both kids loved trying to move across the lily pads. The outdoor pool is a nice, relaxing break from the indoor park – plus, it’s all so clean with attentive lifeguards and friendly staff throughout.

Indoor Activities Wake up and stretch with Yoga Tails in the morning before the water park opens, or visit the arcade in the early hours. Once your kids get the hang of Great Wolf Lodge’s magical game experience, Magi-Quest, they may not want to stop. Purchase a wand and a game to find gems, crystals and other clues around the resort. It’s a magical scavenger hunt with fun, special effects. Great Wolf’s Kids Club, Camp H.O.W.L., offers arts and crafts, a playground, magnetic wall, playhouse and more for parents and kids. Plus there are more activities throughout the day, like face painting, games and cartoon drawing. At night, Camp H.O.W.L. offers parent-free programming for an additional fee. Take a Wolf Walk around the grand lobby, learn about animals and make an origami wolf souvenir. Lots of these events offer a chance to get your picture taken with Violet, Sammy or Wiley, the Great Wolf characters. Put on your PJs and head to the storytime that best fits your kids’ bedtime. The lodge also has lots of activities for tweens and teens, including rock climbing and a ropes course. 46 Atlanta Parent November 2018

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A Wolf Pass Saves Money For $59.99, the pass includes one Magi-Quest Game and wand or accessory, an arcade game card, bowling at Ten Paw Alley, Howl in One Mini Golf, Howler’s Peak Ropes Course, Climbing Wall, a scoop from Ben & Jerry’s, and a candy cup. A toddler version for $49.99 includes more ageappropriate items like a Creation Station animal and T-shirt or pillowcase. Our kids loved doing all of it! It was nice not to have to say no.

Food Our favorite was Timbers Tacos. The kids were excited to eat in the water park, but the clever design allows you to eat in the quieter food court as well. You’ll find quick and easy breakfast options like Dunkin Donuts on site, as well as Barnwood, Great Wolf’s locally sourced, farm-to-table restaurant. The lodge is allergy friendly and will work with families on dining options if you let them know in advance of your trip.

Accommodations The standard Deluxe Queen Suite includes two queen beds or you can upgrade to a Deluxe KidCabin Suite for a little separation from the kids. Kids will love having their own bunk-bed suite and their own TV.

Proximity to Atlanta

The Details

It’s an easy one-night or weekend getaway, or a fun overnight when kids have those one-day school breaks for teacher training. Guests can enjoy the water park starting at 1 p.m. on the day of check in. If your room is not ready, nice changing facilities and lockers are available in the water park. On checkout day, you can stay until the park closes. – Laura Powell

Great Wolf Lodge 150 Tom Hall Pkwy., LaGrange. 844-473-9653 Rooms start at $250. Look for discounts at greatwolf. com/Georgia. Experience Snowland Nov. 24-Jan. 4, with Santa visits, snow showers, North Pole University and lots of winter-themed activities. greatwolf.com

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Family Fun Guide

November 2018 Atlanta Parent 47

Calendar

November S M T W TH F S

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

Events may be canceled or changed after our deadline.

Submit your family-friendly Calendar event at least 8 weeks prior to the event by visiting atlantaparent.com/event/submit.

Please call the event beforehand to confirm dates and times.

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

NATIVE AMERICAN FESTIVAL AND POW WOW

classes Toddler Time. Georgia Aquarium. Children will meet an approachable animal during an introduction to marine life, enjoy a costumed character appearance, storytime, craft and a small snack. Ages infant-3 yrs. Advance registration required. Nov. 5. 10-11:30 a.m. 225 Baker St. NW, Atlanta. 404-581-4000. $10 per person, does not include Aquarium admission. Toddler Tuesdays. Center for Puppetry Arts. Puppet-led storytelling, songs, movement, a craft, and a hands-on toddler tour in the Worlds of Puppetry Museum. Ages 2-4. First Tues. of each month, 10 and 11:30 a.m. 1404 Spring St. at 18th, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $8.50 each. Mommy and Me Preschool Program. The Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History. Learn through play with hands-on activities. Recommended for ages 3-5. Every Thurs. 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with storytime at 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and noon. 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. 770-427-2117. Included with admission. Adults, $7.50; ages 4-12, $5.50; ages 3 and younger, free. Toddler Thursdays. High Museum of Art. Create masterpieces to complement the museum’s current exhibits. Recommended for ages 2-4. Every Thurs. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4400. Included with admission: Ages 6 and older, $14.50; ages 5 and younger, free. Drop-In Art Classes. Treehouse Kid & Craft. Enjoy weekly activities including painting, drawing and sculpting. Every Sat. 10 a.m. (ages 2-4) and 11 a.m. (ages 5-10). 533 W. Howard Ave. Ste. A, Decatur. 470-355-8305. $12. Crafts at Lakeshore Learning. Lakeshore Learning. Make a different craft each week. Every Sat. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Ages 3 and older. 4287 Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770-578-3100. Free. Saturday Morning Art Classes. Vinings School of Art. Piano, guitar or art classes. Select Sat. Times vary, see viningsschoolofart.com for schedule and to register. 1675 Cumberland Pkwy. SE #102, Smyrna. 678-213-4278. $10.62-$15 per hour. Drop-In and Draw. GAS-ART Gifts at North DeKalb Mall. Create a different project each week. Every Sat. and Sun. Between noon-3 p.m. 2050 Lawrenceville Hwy. #C-30, Decatur. 404-801-4926. $5. Beginner/Intermediate Skateboarding. The BeltLine. One-hour skateboarding class led by expert instructors. Every Sat. Beginner: 10-11 a.m. Intermediate: 11:10 a.m.-12:10 p.m. and 12:30-1:30 p.m. Register online at beltline. org/events. 1614 Arthur Langford Jr. Pl. SW, Atlanta. 404-477-3003. Free.

48 Atlanta Parent November 2018

Stone Mountain Park NOV. 1-4. THURS. AND FRI. 9 A.M.-3 P.M. SAT. 10 A.M.-6 P.M. SUN. 10 A.M.-5 P.M. Native American dance, music, craft demos, cooking, storytelling and wildlife presentations. 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain. 800401-2407. Included with an Adventure Pass Ticket, prices vary. stonemountainpark.com

Magic Monday: Farm Fun. Atlanta History Center. Visit the farm animals at Smith Family Farm and learn about farm chores like wool washing, blacksmithing, and open hearth cooking. Nov. 12. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4000. $5.50-$6.50. Mice Tours. Marietta Museum of History. Mascots Murray and Etta mouse introduce history through tours, storytime and crafts for ages 3-5. Reservations required. Second Wed. of each month. 10:30 a.m. 1 Depot St. Ste. 200, Marietta. 770-794-5710. $5 per family (one adult and up to three children). Second Thursday Program. Southeastern Railway Museum. Parents and preschool program includes storytime, an activity, game and craft. Ages 2-4. Second Thurs. of each month. 10:30 a.m.-12:05 p.m. Checkin before 10:20 a.m. 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth. 770-495-0253. $10 per child, one adult free, additional adult, $12.

exhibits Naturally Artistic Interactive Exhibits. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Visit four outdoor art stations to create your own art. This year, explore wind, water, earth and fire. Through Nov. 30. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. Noon-5 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; ages 2 and younger, free.

Family Fun Guide

Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: A Grr-ific Exhibit. Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Step into Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, where Daniel and his friends help children navigate their world. Play, sing, explore and pretend in some favorite and familiar places from the Neighborhood. Through Jan. 6. Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; closed Wed.; Sat.- Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr. NW, Atlanta. 404659-5437. $15.95-$18.95; younger than 1, free. Brain Teasers 2. Tellus Science Museum. Sharpen your problem-solving skills with 20 different challenges that range from conundrums to mind-boggling block puzzles. Through Jan. 6. Daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. Adults, $15.95; ages 3-17, $11.95; ages 2 and younger, free. Nature’s Superheroes: Life at the Limits. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Explore the diversity of life as you discover the extreme adaptations that allow organisms to thrive all over the world. Through Jan 1. Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-9296300. Adults, $20; ages 3-12, $18; ages 2 and younger. Free. Meteorite Headlines. Tellus Science Museum. At the center of this exhibit is a 1980 Chevrolet Malibu struck by the Peekskill Meteorite in 1992. Other featured casualties include a mailbox, a window, a radio and more headliners. Through March 24. Daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. Adults, $15.95; ages 3-17, $11.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

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Calendar movies Planetarium Shows. Fernbank Science Center. Various shows per month about the solar system in the planetarium. See fernbank.edu/planetarium for full schedule. 156 Heaton Park Dr., Atlanta. 678-874-7102. Adults, $7; ages 3-18, $5; ages 2 and younger, free. Oceans: Our Blue Planet 3D. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Embark on a global odyssey, from coastal shallows to the freezing shores of Antarctica to discover oceans. Through Nov. 1. See fernbankmuseum.org for showtimes. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Giant Screen Theater: Adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; ages 2 and younger, free. Earthflight 3D. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Embark on a flight across the world on the wings of birds. Through Dec. 13. See fernbankmuseum.org for showtimes. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Giant Screen Theater: Adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; ages 2 and younger, free. Flight of the Butterflies. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Soar alongside as half a billion Monarch butterflies head south on a 3,000-mile journey. Nov. 2-Jan. 10. See fernbankmuseum.org for showtimes. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Giant Screen Theater: Adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; ages 2 and younger, free.

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The Battery Atlanta Movie Series. The Battery Atlanta. Family-friendly movies including “Coraline,” “Jurassic World,” “Minions” and more. Concessions available. See batteryatl.com for schedule. Parking is free the first four hours in The Battery Atlanta’s Red Deck. 800 Battery Ave. #130 Atlanta. 404-494-1150. Free.

music Music for the Very Young: Peter & Friends. Atlanta Symphony Hall. Inspired by Sergei Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf, this version developed specifically for toddlers will have them playing like ducks, catching a dastardly wolf, and engaging with music. Nov. 3-4 and 17-18. Sat. 9:30, 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. Sun. 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-5000. $15; ages 6-17, $8; ages 5 and younger, free. Music, Nature and Us. European School of Music. Nature-themed songs performed by European School of Music vocal students and teachers, accompanied on piano and guitar. Also features a talk about the connection between nature and music. Nov. 4. 4:30 p.m. 5187 Roswell Rd., Atlanta. 404-255-8382. Free.

Family Fun Guide

nature Wildlife Feeding Time. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Join a naturalist for an in-depth look at one of the resident animals as the Wildlife Department feeds them. Every Tues. and Sat. 4 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Included with admission: Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; ages 2 and younger, free. First Saturdays. Dunwoody Nature Center. Different nature theme the first Sat. of each month. This month’s theme is mushrooms. Pre-register. Nov. 3. 11 a.m.-noon. 5343 Roberts Dr., Dunwoody. 770-3943322. Free. Fall Colors Canoe Trip. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Paddle quietly along the Chattahoochee River, taking in the sounds of the river and gaze at fall leaves. Nov. 3-4 and 10-11. 3-6 p.m. Ages 6 and older. Registration required. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770992-2055 x237. $35. Guided Mountain Hike. Panola Mountain State Park. Take a close look at unique ecology and see how outcrop plants scrape out a living in this environment. Wear hiking shoes and bring water. Register in advance. Nov. 4, 10, 11, 17 and 23. 9 a.m.-noon or 1-4 p.m. See explore.gastateparks.org for schedule. Ages 10 and older. 2620 Hwy. 155 SW, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. $10; parking, $5. Intro to Tree Climbing. Panola Mountain State Park. Introductory program to recreational tree climbing. Participants will use rope and harness to climb, swing and scramble. Nov. 17 and 18. Climbs begin 1 and 3 p.m. Ages 8 and older. 2620 Hwy. 115 SW, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. $15; parking, $5.

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Calendar

DISNEY IN CONCERT: A SILLY SYMPHONY CELEBRATION

special events Adventures in Science Day. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Investigate what it’s like to be a scientist and explore scientific fields. Talk one-on-one with scientists and community volunteers, learn more about sciences through hands-on activities and more. Nov. 3. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Included with admission: Adults, $20; ages 3-12, $18; ages 2 and younger, free. World Lemur Day. Zoo Atlanta. Learn more about the three lemur species at Zoo Atlanta – black-and-whiteruffed lemurs, crowned lemurs and ring-tailed lemurs. Family activities highlighting these animals. Nov. 3. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404624-9453. Included with admission: Adults, $25.99; ages 3-11, $17.99; ages 2 and younger, free. Celebrate Day of the Dead. Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Join Alma Mexicana for a special celebration of the Day of the Dead. Crafts, skeleton family dance and more. Nov. 3. 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-659-5437. $15.95$18.95; ages 1 and younger, free. Taste of Kennesaw. Downtown Kennesaw. Taste bites from over 40 restaurants and enjoy the children’s area. Nov. 3. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. 770-423-1330. Free admission, tickets for samples, $1-$4. Chastain Park Arts Festival. Chastain Park. Fine art and crafts vendors, a children’s area and local food concessions. Nov. 3-4. Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 4469 Stella Dr., Atlanta. chastainparkartsfestival.com. Free.

Atlanta Symphony Hall NOV. 25. 1:30 AND 3:30 P.M. Features classic Disney cartoons with Atlanta Symphony Orchestra performing the score live. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-5000. $29.50 and up. atlantasymphony.org Ruby Mundell at the Book Festival of the MJCCA. Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta. In an effort to promote a message of kindness and resilience and help others going through hard times, Ruby a 4th grader, was inspired to write a book. She will present Nov. 8. 10 a.m. 5342 Tilly Mill Rd., Dunwoody. 678-812-4000. Free.

The Super Run. Historic Fourth Ward Park. 10K, 5K and kids’ run in superhero costumes. Nov. 10. 8-11 a.m. 680 Dallas St. NE, Atlanta. thesuperrun.com. $34.99 and up.

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Family Fun Guide

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Calendar Atlanta Veterans Day Parade. Honor those who served our country, with this year’s theme, “The Battles Between the Wars.” Nov. 10. 11:11 am. Begins on Peachtree Street south of Ralph McGill and Ivan Allen Boulevards. 678-6879919. Free. Second Sunday. High Museum of Art. Free admission to the Museum the second Sunday of each month, and family programs from 1-4 p.m. include art making, storytimes and more. November’s theme is “Meet the New High.” Nov. 11. noon-5 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4400. Free. Family Fun. Woodruff Arts Center. Families can enjoy activities including interactive storytimes, art making workshops, drop-in acting classes and more. Nov. 11. 1:00 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NW, Atlanta. 404-733-4200. Free. American Girl and Boy Club. Williams-Payne House. Monthly program to travel through the history of American Girl stories by Heritage Sandy Springs. Craft, activity and snack. Ages 5-12; coed. Registration required. Bring a doll or stuffed animal. Nov. 17. 10-11:30 a.m. 6075 Sandy Springs Cir., Sandy Springs. 404-8519111. $15. Pop-In for Family Fun. Marietta Museum of History. Families can interact with the Museum through themed activities and crafts. November’s theme is Native American History. Nov. 17. 10:30 a.m.3:30 p.m. 1 Depot St., Marietta. 770-794-5710. $5 per person ($20 family cap). The Harvest Hunt. Historic Oakland Cemetery. Gather a group of friends for sleuthing on this self-guided scavenger hunt through the cemetery. Nov. 19-25. Daily. Purchase your Harvest Hunt packet (one per team) at the Visitors Center (open 9 a.m.-5 p.m.) and follow cryptic clues to solve riddles. Return packet by Nov. 26, 5 p.m. to win prizes. 248 Oakland Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-688-2107. Packets, $20. Thanksgiving Day Half Marathon and 5K. Georgia State Stadium. Celebrate Thanksgiving Day with the Atlanta Track Club and earn the right to eat your turkey dinner. Nov. 22. 7:30 a.m. See atlantatrackclub.org for ages and prices. 755 Hank Aaron Dr., Atlanta. 404-2319064. Prices vary.

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Day After Thanksgiving. High Museum of Art. Art-making workshops, storytime, gallery tours, scavenger hunts, and a photo booth. Nov. 23. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Programs from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4400. Included with admission: $14.50; ages 5 and younger, free.

storytelling Grandma Snazzy’s Storytime. Crabapple Kroger. Grandma Snazzy reads every Mon., Thurs. and Fri. 10 a.m. Call before visiting to confirm. 12460 Crabapple Rd., Alpharetta. 770-740-2050. Free. Storytime at Little Shop. Little Shop of Stories. Storytime each week with different stories read aloud. Tues., Thurs. and Fri. 11 a.m. Sun. 2 p.m. 133A East Court Sq., Decatur. 404-373- 6300. Free. Storytime by the River. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Storytellers will encourage participation by acting out the movements and sounds of storybook characters. Nov. 7. 10:30 a.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-9922055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; ages 2 and younger, free. Children’s Storytime. FoxTale Book Shoppe. Storytimes are followed by dance and songs. Each Sat. 11 a.m. 105 E. Main Ste. 138, Woodstock. 770-516-9989. Free. Tadpole Tales/Treetop Tales. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Preschoolers can enjoy a story and special activity with a Fernbank educator. Nov. 17, 11:30 a.m. and 24, 11:45 a.m. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Adults, $20; ages 3-12, $18; ages 2 and younger, free.

theater Little Raindrop Songs. Black Box Theatre, Woodruff Arts Center. Puppetry, a two-dimensional set, comic performances and the pajama-pop of Lullatone by The Theatre for the Very Young. Through Nov. 10. See alliancetheatre.org for showtimes. Limited tickets available. Designed for children ages 5 and younger. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-5000. $10; ages 6-17, $5; ages 5 and younger, free.

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Brother Coyote and Sister Fox. Center for Puppetry Arts. Quick-witted Sister Fox stays one step ahead of Brother Coyote in this delightful Mexican folktale with English, Spanish and plenty of chickens. Through Nov. 11. See puppet.org for showtimes. Ages 4 and older. 1404 Spring St. NW at 18th, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $19.50. Junie B. Jones Is Not a Crook. Roswell Cultural Arts Center. Junie B. is on a mission to prove she’s not a nutball, avenge her black furry mitten and get a new colorful pen, too. Nov. 3 and 10. 11 a.m. 950 Forrest St., Roswell. 770-594-6232. $10. Morning Stars. Infinite Energy Center. Atlanta Asian Culture and Arts Center will host the classical ballet, “Coppèlia,” with a combination of classical ballet, contemporary, Chinese folk and character dances. Nov. 3-4. Sat. Noon and 7 p.m. Sun. Noon and 5 p.m. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 770-626-2464. $10-$20. So You Think You Can Dance Live! Fox Theatre. See the hit TV show performed live with the top 10 finalists and the season 15 winner. Nov. 7. 7 p.m. 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 855-285-8499. $41.25 and up.

beyond atlanta National Pumpkin Destruction Day. The Rock Ranch. Bring your pumpkin and watch all the ways it can be destroyed with monster trucks or even airplanes. Nov. 3. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. 5020 Barnesville Hwy., The Rock. 706- 647-6374. $15. Hello From Japan. Creative Discovery Museum. Families will be transported to two distinct areas of Tokyo that exist side by side: a kawaii streetscape and a peaceful Shinto shrine park area to learn about Japanese culture. Through Jan. 6. See cdmfun.org for hours. 321 Chestnut St., Chattanooga, Tenn. 423-756-2738. $14.95; younger than 1, free.

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HOLIDAY CALENDAR

Atlanta has it all for the holidays! Strap on a pair of ice skates, dance under the twinkling lights displays, warm up with a cup of hot chocolate and share your wish list with Santa. Holiday Events Christmas in Roswell. Roswell. Enjoy a variety of holiday celebrations in various locations. Festivities include decorated historic homes, music, dance, art, theatre and more. Nov. 1-Dec. 30. Visit visitroswell.com for schedule and prices. Roswell. 770-640-3253. Prices vary. Macy’s Pink Pig. Lenox Square Mall. Atlanta’s famous pig train takes families for a life-sized storybook ride. Nov. 3-Jan. 6. Nov. hours: Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun., noon-6 p.m. Closed Nov. 18, 22 and Dec. 25. Upper Level Parking Deck. 3393 Peachtree Rd., Atlanta. 404-231-2796. $3 per ride. Stone Mountain Christmas. Stone Mountain Park. More than two million lights and an abundance of performances and activities. Nov. 10-Jan. 6. Visit stonemountainpark.com for schedule and prices. 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain. 800-401-2407.

Holiday in the Park. Six Flags. More than one million LED lights, tons of Christmas trees and live shows with holiday themed attractions. Nov. 17-Jan 6. Visit sixflags.com for schedule. 275 Riverside Pkwy., Austell. $69.99; children under 48", $49.99; ages 2 and younger, free.

A Christmas at Callanwolde Designer Show House. Callanwolde Fine Arts Center. Tour the historic mansion decorated for the holidays. Enjoy the artists’ market and themed events. Nov. 23-Dec. 9. Daily, noon-8 p.m. 980 Briarcliff Rd., Atlanta. 404-872-5338. $20; ages 3 and younger, free.

Snow Shows. Atlantic Station. Take a walk through Central Park and watch snow fall from above. Begins Nov. 17. Sun.-Thurs. 7 p.m. Fri. and Sat. every hour from 6-9 p.m. 1380 Atlantic Dr., Atlanta. 404-410-4010. Free.

Holiday Celebration & Live Nativity. North Georgia Zoo. Nativity animals, Starry Night tours, hot chocolate and Christmas carols. Nov. 23-25. 5-7 p.m. 2912 Paradise Valley Rd., Cleveland. 706-348-7279. Free; Starry Night tours and zoo admission, extra.

Illuminate Chinese Lantern Festival & Acrobat Show. Sugarloaf Mills. Experience a maze of illuminated sculptures scaling nearly 30 feet tall, watch performances of Beijing Acrobats and visit Santa in Christmas Village. Nov. 21-Jan. 1. Wed., Thurs., Sun. 5-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 5-11 p.m. 5900 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Lawrenceville. $16.95-$22.95; ages 3 and younger, free.

Ice Skating The Ice Rink at Sugar Hill. Practice your ice skating moves on this real ice outdoor rink. Nov. 12-Feb. 10. Visit haveanicedayrinks.com for full schedule. 5039 West Broad St., Sugar Hill. 770554-7506. Adults, $12; 8 and younger, $10.

Santa’s Fantastical. Perimeter Pointe. Visit 12 whimsical worlds in this indoor family-friendly interactive experience, merging timeless traditions with innovative technology. See Santa. Nov. 16-Dec. 11. Tues.-Sun. and Dec. 12-24. Daily. 1155 Mt. Vernon Hwy., Ste. 300, Atlanta. Reservations required. santasfantastical.com. Adults, $36; ages 3-12, $32; ages 2 and younger, free. Winter Wonderland. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. An exhibit showcasing different holiday displays from cultures across the globe. Nov. 16-Jan. 6. Daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Included with museum admission. Adults, $20; ages 3-12, $18; ages 2 and younger, free. Festival of the Season. Georgia Aquarium. Galleries and exhibits turn into a winter wonderland, incorporating light and music shows, appearances by Santa and SCUBA Claus, holiday entertainment, daily treelighting ceremonies and more. Nov. 17-Dec. 31. Daily. 225 Baker St., Atlanta. 404-5814000. Adults, $35.95; ages 3-12, $29.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

52 Atlanta Parent November 2018

Macy’s Pink Pig

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

Ice Days Ice Skating Rink. Olde Town Conyers Pavilion. Indoor/outdoor rink in a botanical setting with real ice. Nov. 16-Feb. 24. Visit icedays.com for hours; some days closed for events. 949 S. Main St., Conyers. 678-374-7655. $10; Skate rental included. The Rink. Mall of Georgia. Skate on a faux-ice rink in the Village. Through Jan. 6. Closed Nov. 1-2. Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Fri.-Sat. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun. Noon-8 p.m. 3333 Buford Dr., Buford. 770-271-9458. $5; ages 12 and younger, $3; includes skate rental. SKATE Atlantic Station. A large, open-air ice skating rink. Opens Nov. 17. Mon.-Thurs. 4-10 p.m. Fri. and Sat. noon-11 p.m. Sun. Noon-9 p.m. Holidays, 3-11 p.m. 1380 Atlantic Dr., Atlanta. 404-410-4010. Adults, $15; ages 12 and younger, $12. Skate rental included. Avalon on Ice. Lace up your skates and glide on the ice. Nov. 18-Jan. 21. Mon.-Fri. 3-10 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sun. Noon-7 p.m. Dec. 21-Jan. 5, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. 2200 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta. 770-765-1000. Adults, $18; 9 and younger, $14. Includes skate rental. Astor Holiday Ice Skating Rink. St. Regis Atlanta. Twinkling lights, holiday melodies, hot cocoa and s’mores. Nov. 23-Jan. 6. See stregisatlanta.com for hours. 88 West Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-563-2799. Reservations recommended. Adults, $30/ hr.; ages 12 and younger, $18/hr.

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The Rink at Park Tavern. Heated tent, stateof-the-art sound system and rink-side dining. Nov. 23-Feb. 19. Mon.-Fri. 4:30 p.m.-midnight. Sat. and Sun., 11:30 a.m.midnight. Ages 16 and older starting at 8:30 p.m. 500 10th St., Atlanta. 404-2490001. $15-$20, all day skate.

Light and Tree Displays Magical Nights of Lights. Lanier Islands. Celebrate 25 years of magical holiday lights by driving through this large display. See set ups such as the North Pole Express, Wizard of Oz and back this year, The 12 Days of Christmas. Also visit Santa in the Holiday Village. Nov. 16-Dec. 24. 5-10 p.m. Admission begins 4:30 p.m. 7000 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford. 770945-8787. $49 per vehicle. Garden Lights, Holiday Nights. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Countless bulbs light up the garden with Nature’s Wonders, Orchestral Orbs Glittering Galaxy, Radiant Rainforest and Model Trains. Nov. 17-Jan. 6. Sun.-Sat.. 5-11 p.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. See atlantabg.org for tickets and pricing. Varies by date. Lighting of Atlantic Station. Atlantic Station. Holiday lights, Santa visits, kids’ activities and musical entertainment. Nov. 17. 1-9:30 p.m. Activities during the day, followed by the tree lighting at 8:30 p.m. 1380 Atlantic Dr., Atlanta. 404-410-4010. Free.

Family Fun Guide

Festival of the Trees. Southeastern Railway Museum. See trees of all types displayed throughout the museum. Nov. 16-Dec. 29. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth. 770-476-2013. $10; ages 2-12, $8; ages 1 and younger, free. Light Up Dunwoody. Cheek Spruill Farm House. Meet Santa and watch the lighting of the tree and menorah at 5:45 p.m. Nov. 18. 3-6 p.m. 5455 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd., Dunwoody. 770-354-7653. Free. The Lighting of Avalon. Avalon. Christmas tree lighting, opening of Avalon on Ice and the arrival of Santa Claus. Nov. 18. 1-8 p.m. 2200 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta. 770-7651000. Free. Macy’s Great Tree Lighting. Lenox Square Mall. Lighting of the large tree, concerts and fireworks show set to holiday music. Nov. 18. 7 p.m. 3393 Peachtree Rd., Atlanta. 404-231-2800. Free. Lighting of the Great Tree. Gwinnett Historic Courthouse. Live entertainment, food vendors, photos with Santa and kids’ activities. Nov. 22. 5:30 p.m.-8 p.m. 185 West Crogan St., Lawrenceville. 770-822-5450. Free; some activities and food for purchase. Lights of Life. Life University. Tons of holiday lights on display around the campus. Pony rides, train rides and petting zoo. Nov. 22Dec. 31. Sun.-Thurs. 6-9 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 6-10 p.m. 1269 Barclay Cir., Marietta. 678-3314342. $5-$10 per car. Cont’d on page 54

November 2018 Atlanta Parent 53

HOLIDAY CALENDAR Christmas Tree Lighting. Marietta Square. Live music and choirs, tree lighting, Santa arrives and more. Nov. 29. 4-8 p.m. 50 N. Park Sq., Marietta. 770-794-4456. Free. Tree Lighting at The Battery. The Battery. Special guests include Santa and a few Braves players. Festivities include new light show and “The Polar Express” shown on the plaza screen. batteryatl.com. Nov. 30. 4-9:30 p.m. 800 Battery Ave., Atlanta. Free.

Holiday Crafts and Markets Holiday Craft Classes. Area Michaels stores. Make a different craft weekly during the holiday season. Nov. 3, 10, 17. 30-minute sessions, every half hour. Visit michaels.com for times and locations. Ages 3 and older, $2; includes supplies. Holiday Fair. Waldorf School of Atlanta. Shop in the artist market, candle dipping, jump rope making and face painting. Nov. 3. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 827 Kirk Rd., Decatur. 404-377-1315. Free admission; activities extra. Holiday Market. Due West United Methodist Church. More than 40 vendors sell holiday creations, children’s gifts, jewelry and gift baskets. Nov. 3. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. 3956 Due West Rd., Marietta. 770-427-3835. Free.

54 Atlanta Parent November 2018

Fernbank Museum of Natural History

GiftMart. Smyrna First United Methodist Church. Annual handmade food, crafts and homegoods festival. Featured items include hand-crafted baby items, children’s toys and dolls, Christmas décor, clothing and more. Nov. 7-10. Wed. Noon-9 p.m.; Thurs.-Fri. 9 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 1315 Concord Rd., Smyrna. 770-436-4108. Free.

Family Fun Guide

Holiday Gift Show. Northside Methodist Preschool. More than 75 vendors with holiday items for all ages. Ladies preview: Nov. 8, 6-8 p.m. Show: Nov. 9, 9 a.m.- 4 p.m., Nov. 10, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 2799 Northside Dr., Atlanta. 404-3556475. $5; 13 and younger, free.

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Elegant Elf Marketplace. City Springs. More than 100 vendors with crafts, home decor, children’s goods, artistic creations, food and more. Nov. 9-10. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 1 Galambos Way., Sandy Springs. sandyspringssociety.org. Adults, $5; ages 10 and younger, free. UMW Craft Show. Mt. Zion United Methodist Church. Over 50 arts and crafts vendors, silent auction, door prize, bake sale and meet and greet with Santa. Nov. 9, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Nov. 10, 9-4 p.m. 1770 Johnson Ferry Road, Marietta. 770-971-1465. Free. Holiday Craft Market. Pinckneyville Park Community Rec Center. Handmade gifts, pottery and décor, plus activities for kids and raffle prizes. Nov. 10. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 4650 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Norcross. 678-277-0920. Free. Holiday Festival. Dunwoody United Methodist Church. More than 120 artisans, kids’ zone and photos with Santa. Nov. 10. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. 1548 Mt. Vernon Rd., Dunwoody. 770394-0675. Free admission; activities extra. Holiday Artists Market. Spruill Gallery. Locally-crafted gifts and holiday decor. Nov. 13-Dec. 23. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sun. Noon-5 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving. 4681 Ashford Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta. 770394-4019. Products for purchase. Holiday Marketplace. St. Pius X High School. More than 150 artisans featuring jewelry, pottery, paintings and other handmade items. Nov. 17. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 2674 Johnson Rd., Atlanta. 404-636-3023. Admission, $3. Ice Holiday Shopping Spectacular. Georgia Freight Depot. 175 craft and vintage vendors, food for purchase and swag bag for the first 250 attendees. Nov. 17-18, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 65 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. SE, Atlanta. ice-atlanta.com. $5 cash only; 12 and younger, free. Christkindl Market. Atlantic Station. Walk through and shop in a traditional German market. Music, live entertainment and more. Nov. 30-Dec. 23. Wed.-Sat. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sun. Noon-7 p.m. 1380 Atlantic Dr., Atlanta. 404-410-4010. Free admission; products for purchase. German Christmas Market & AIS Admission Open House. Atlanta International School. Christmas craft activities, food, traditional beeswax candle dipping and live entertainment. Dec. 1. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. 2890 North Fulton Dr., Atlanta. 404-8413840. Free.

Dance and Theater The Nutcracker. Infinite Energy Center. North Atlanta Dance Theatre performs the classic story. Nov. 9-11. Fri. 7:30 p.m. Sat. 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Sun. 2:30 p.m. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 770-626-2464. $18-$28. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Center for Puppetry Arts. Rudolph is back with this faithful adaptation of the holiday story. Nov. 13-Dec. 30. See puppet.org for showtimes. 1404 Spring St., Atlanta. 404-873-3391. Ages 2 and older, $19.50 and up.

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Family Fun Guide

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Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. The Fox Theatre. This production tells the story of a song-anddance team putting on a show in a magical Vermont inn and falling for a stunning sister act in the process. Nov. 27-Dec. 2. See foxtheatre. org for showtimes. 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-881-2100. $36-$116.

HOLIDAY CALENDAR

Black Nativity Atlanta. Ferst Center. Retelling of the Nativity story from an AfricanAmerican perspective. Dance, anthems, and gospel numbers. Nov. 28-Dec. 9. See blacknativityatlanta.com for schedule. 349 Ferst Dr., Atlanta. 404-894-9600. $27-$52.

Gift of the Magi. Marietta Theatre in the Square. This adaptation centers around a local streetcar driver who doesn’t have the money for Christmas presents. Magi tells the story of love and sacrifice. Kids will also enjoy snacks, crafts and holiday characters. Nov. 16-26. See theatreinthesquare.net for showtimes. 11 Whitlock Ave., Marietta. 770426-4800. $15-$30. The Waffle Palace Christmas. Horizon Theatre. Features heartfelt southern humor, scattered, smothered and covered in a spicy holiday sauce. Nov. 16-Dec. 30. See horizontheatre.com for showtimes. 1083 Austin Ave., Atlanta. 404-523-1477. $25-$35. A Very Grinchy Christmas. Infinite Energy Center. Southern Ballet Theatre performs this production where the Grinch meets “The Nutcracker”. Nov. 17-18. Sat. 2:30 and 7 p.m. Sun. 2:30 p.m. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 770-626-2464. $13.50-$20.50. Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley. Theatrical Outfit. The Christmas-themed sequel to “Pride and Prejudice” will delight Jane Austen fans. Nov. 21-Dec. 23. See theatricaloutfit.org for schedule. 84 Luckie St., Atlanta. 678-528-1500. Prices vary by date $18-$49.

56 Atlanta Parent November 2018

The Snow Queen. Serenbe Playhouse. From the classic tale that inspired “Frozen,” this version lights up the wintry woods with a story of love’s sovereign power over evil. Nov. 28-Jan. 6. See serenbe.com for showtimes. 10640 Serenbe Ln., Chattahoochee Hills. 770-463-1110. $13-$25.

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The Nutcracker. Infinite Energy Center. Northeast Atlanta Ballet performs this version of the classic. Nov. 23-25. Fri. 2 and 7:30 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m., 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Sun. 2 and 6 p.m. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 770-626-2464. $19-$25. The Nutcracker. Jennie T. Anderson Theatre. Georgia Metropolitan Dance Theatre presents the beloved story. Nov. 23-25. Fri. 7:30 p.m. Sat. 2 and 7:30 p.m. Sun. 2 p.m. 548 S. Marietta Pkwy., Marietta. 678-2879020. $10-$30.

Family Fun Guide

Santa’s Arrival. Southeastern Railway Museum. Santa arrives at the museum by train. Take photos with Santa and enjoy refreshments and entertainment. Nov. 17. 1 p.m. 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth. 770-476-2013. Free with admission to the museum. Adults, $10; ages 2-12, $7; ages 1 and younger, free. Wake up Santa. Georgia Aquarium. Help wake up Santa Claus to ring in the holidays. Interactive activities and Santa meet and greet. Nov. 17. 9-10:30 a.m. 225 Baker St., Atlanta. 404-5814000. $9.95-$14.95 per person, plus aquarium admission: Adults, $35.95; ages 3-12, $29.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

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Classified Marketplace Storytime with Santa. Avalon. Visit with St. Nick as he reads holiday classics. Preregister. Nov. 19-Dec. 17. Mondays 6 and 6:30 p.m. Third St., Alpharetta. 770-7651000. $10 per child. Santa on the Square. Downtown Newnan. See Santa light the Christmas tree. Kids bring your wish list and parents bring a camera for photos. Nov. 23. 6-8 p.m. N. Court Sq., Newnan. 770-253-8283. Free. Botanical St. Nick. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Bring your camera and come tell all of your holiday wishes to St. Nick in his botanical head wreath. Nov. 24; Dec. 1, 8 and 15. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. Included with admission. Adults, $21.95; ages 3-12, $18.95; ages 2 and younger, free.

Beyond Atlanta Christmas at Biltmore. Biltmore Estate. Holiday décor, over 55 Christmas trees, thousands of ornaments and evening candlelight tours. Nov. 3-Jan. 6. 1 Lodge St., Asheville N.C. Dates and pricing vary. Visit biltmore.com for details. A Country Christmas. Gaylord Opryland Resort. Enjoy lavish holiday displays, snow tubing, performances and more. Nov. 9-Jan. 1. 2800 Opryland Dr., Nashville, Tenn. 615-889-1000. Schedule and prices vary. The Polar Express Train Ride. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. A round-trip train ride with a Santa visit. Includes warm cocoa, carols and a treat while the story is narrated. Select dates Nov. 9-Dec. 31. Departure times at gsmr.com. 45 Mitchell St. Bryson City, N.C. 800-872-4681. Prices vary: Adults, $42-91; ages 2-12, $28-$67; ages 23 months and younger, complimentary up to $24. Enchanted Garden of Lights. Rock City. Make your way through one million holiday lights with over 30 different scenes from the North Pole to Magic Forest and Yule Town. Decorate cookies and meet Santa. Nov. 16-Dec. 31. Daily 6-9 p.m. Closed Dec. 24. 1400 Patten Rd., Lookout Mountain. 706-820-2531. Adults, $16.95-$24.95; ages 3-12, $8.95-$12.95. Fantasy in Lights. Callaway Gardens. Drive through more than eight million twinkling lights and a garden decorated for the season. Nov. 16-Jan. 5. Opens at 6 p.m. 17800 US Hwy. 27, Pine Mountain. 800852-3810. Adults, $21-$28; ages 6-12, $10.50-$14; ages 5 and younger, free. Appalachian Christmas Celebration. BabyLand General Hospital. Santa visits, holiday decorations, costumed characters, carolers and milk and cookies with Mrs. Claus. Nov. 17. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 300 N.O.K. Dr., Cleveland. 706-865-2171. Free. North Pole Limited. Tennessee Valley Railroad. A round-trip journey to the “North Pole”, featuring storytelling, light refreshments and an appearance by Santa. Select dates Nov. 17-Dec. 30. See tvrail.com for departure times and prices. 4119 Cromwell Rd., Chattanooga, Tenn. 423-894-8028. Prices vary by trip.

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Dream a little dream...

...Southern Regional Medical Center is helping make those sweet dreams come true. Bringing a baby into the world is one of life’s great joys. At Southern Regional, we provide a caring and comforting environment for you to welcome your baby. • 40 beautiful private Mother/Baby suites • Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) • Education and support services to prepare you and your family for your new bundle of joy To find one of our dedicated physicians to help guide you on your journey go to:

www.southernregional.org/FindOB

11 Upper Riverdale Road, SW Riverdale, GA 30274 Member of Prime Healthcare

770-991-8000