42 minute read
Parents Who Make a Difference
MM: It doesn’t have to be dinner. Dinner’s easy, since most people are together for that meal, but if that doesn’t work for you, make sure that setting some time away from devices is a priority. Use the calendar to set time limits.
n What’s your advice for dealing with
parental guilt when you break your tech rules?
TJ: When you go take a shower, and you give your child the iPad for 10 minutes, and it turns into two hours, don’t beat yourself up about it. Try to rein it in. It’s never too late to get started, but it will get harder. Don’t ever give up hope. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, alone, confused, reach out to a therapist or talk to other parents to get feedback. Trust your gut. As a parent, you have an innate superpower to know what’s right for your child. MM: The promise of tech and the practice of tech are different. With the promise of tech, you can do things – you can connect with your grandparents, you can learn from anywhere. But with the practice of it, how are you actually using it? You can say, “I don’t like how I’m using it,” and you can change that.
n How has the pandemic changed
your family’s technology usage?
TJ: At the beginning, it was very easy for the screen to be the new sibling, babysitter, parent. For a few weeks, then a month, we thought this was temporary. But it has not been, and my child’s mental health was being adversely affected. I reached out to a therapist who told me to make sure he was taking a break. We make sure he takes breaks, whether that’s voluntarily, using parental controls or a combination. Do what you can to protect your kids, and give yourself grace.
n What advice would you give
parents who want to implement these strategies for their kids without following the new rules themselves?
TJ: Think about the future narrative of your child’s life. When they’re 18 and on their own, do you want them to be constantly in front of a screen and prioritizing screen relationships over personal and human connection? If you don’t want them to live like that, you don’t have a choice. You have to lead by example. Own up to the fact that these devices are addictive. Be transparent and reiterate what’s important through words and actions to support the long-term goal of who you want your child to become. MM: It comes down to what you celebrate as a family. You get to celebrate a lot of things, and those memories last a lifetime. It’s rare that you celebrate something that you consumed, or say to your family, “Do you remember that YouTube video we saw as a family in 2014?” But when you create something as a family, that’s what you remember and frame and put on the walls.
n How do you talk to your children
about what they see on social media that might affect them emotionally?
TJ: As a young teenager struggling with body image, confidence, wanting to feel included, social media can compound these issues. Build their confidence outside of social media. Compliment their intellect, kindness, contributions to society, humor. Remind them that devices and profiles are curated. It’s like how everybody puts on their Sunday best to go to church or synagogue. What you’re seeing has been filtered or edited, so it’s not real life. It also comes down to what you’re modeling. When you post content, are you celebrating the likes and comments as wins? That’ll become what’s important for them. MM: No matter how messy your family is, we’re the safest place for our kids. As a parent and a guardian, you want your kids to always feel safe and loved. Have a conversation about mental health and stability, and build their confidence and let them know this is a place that you are loved and accepted, and we’re fighting for you, which will lessen the blow of being left out.
Online Safety Tune-up Not sure where to start? Use these tips to check your family’s technology usage.
Create a technology contract
A technology contract is a great way for your family to collaborate on rules for using devices and accessing the internet. It can help make sure the whole family is on the same page about how to get the most out of technology, and – most importantly – how to stay safer online. bark.us/blog/tech-accountability-createtechnology-contract-family
Make use of apps to connect with other parents
While you’re probably not arranging for carpool pickups and dropoffs right now, communicating with the guardians of your children’s friends can be a good source of support, information, and even humor while you navigate online schooling.
Encourage healthy digital habits
Kids look to their parents to learn how the world works, and it’s up to us to make sure we’re passing on good digital habits – from setting good examples to establishing digital boundaries. bark.us/blog/parents-good-digitalhabits
Host a virtual tech night
This Tech Night Resources page is filled with everything you’d need to help educate families in your communities about technology and social media, including free videos, downloadable PDFs, and more. bark.us/ technight
Learn more about your kid’s school-issued tech
Many students get access to digital technologies like cloud storage for the first time at school, and parents may not be familiar with them – or their risks. From bark.us/blog/ultimate-back-to-school-guide
SPECIAL PARENTS Who Make a Difference
by Emily Webb
As parents of children with special needs, these three business owners saw a need in the metro Atlanta community. They were inspired by their children to find solutions and provide special opportunities to help others. Learn what they can offer your family.
n Time to Play
Angela Erisman and her husband, Jeff, moved to metro Atlanta a year and a half ago from Tampa, Florida. Both of Erisman’s children, Grant and Coop, are on the autism spectrum. In Florida, they had access to We Rock the Spectrum gyms and were surprised to find there wasn’t anything for their kids that was safe and fun for them in Atlanta. “We wanted a concept that would be good for our kids and all kids, regardless of abilities, and that was safe and fun for kids with special needs and neurotypical kids,” she says. They became the first owners of a We Rock the Spectrum franchise in Georgia.
At the gym, there are sensory swings, and some equipment has been designed to help children selfregulate, develop motor skills or build muscle. The gym has a respite program called We Rock Care, where children can be dropped off. “Many families don’t have the ability to go anywhere without their kids, or they don’t have someone trained to watch them. We offer that service here,” she says. It’s also a service she knows is needed as the parent of children with special needs. “I can’t go into Target with both of my kids. Parents don’t always have options, but we change that.”
In the future, they hope to add classes, as well as open another gym in the Atlanta city limits.
The gym prides itself on being inclusive. “We’re combined in the world. It gives an earlier start for children with special needs and neurotypical children to learn to work together, grow together,” Erisman says. Families also have both neurotypical and children with special needs, and they can’t go somewhere together and have to separate them. You don’t have to do that here.”
With the pandemic, it has been difficult for Erisman to get the word out about the opening. Right now, families sign up for a time to play, and the gym is fully sanitized in between appointments. All adults and employees wear masks.
n A Place to Learn
This school year, Alysa Armstrong-Gibbs’ son, Kashiim, was set to attend public high school, which would have been his first time back in a traditional brick-and-mortar school after five years of homeschool. But when reading Facebook posts and talking to families convinced her virtual learning was not a fit for her son with special needs, she stepped up to create the AG Educational Group Learning Café.
As an educator, Armstrong-Gibbs has created a multipurpose space for kids of all abilities with tutoring services, classes and workshops. If a child needs therapeutic services, the therapist can come into the space to use it. “We’re a small space, but we have the freedom and flexibility to cater to children’s needs,” she says.
Soon, she hopes to start homeschool classes. As a former classroom teacher and Master IEP Coach, Armstrong-Gibbs would assess each student and design a curriculum specific to them. “It would be different for each child, as no one size fits all,” she says. “Being the parent of a child with special needs is the driving force of what I do.” When designing the center, children’s needs were considered. They don’t use overhead lighting, they have soft surfaces, and children can sit on the floor, on rugs or on beanbags. “It’s not a traditional classroom, and we’re not trying to recreate the classroom,” she says.
The center is fully inclusive, so kids with special needs and neurotypical children interact. “Everybody helps everybody. Children with a label can still help the gifted child. Helping each other and inclusion naturally happens here,” she says.
The center started as crisis schooling to fill a need, but COVID-19 has also been the biggest challenge to its success. “Parents are desperately asking for it, but they’re also afraid to put their child in a situation where they may contract COVID. We have very strict guidelines, and kids know and follow the guidelines,” she says. It’s a safe space, not only health-wise, but also emotionally for their cognitive and academic development.”
Starting in mid-November, they plan to offer free reading services. Cont’d on next page
What Parents of Children with Special Needs Want You to Know
Children with special needs are capable.
Armstrong-Gibbs: There is a misconception that children with special needs are not capable. This is not true. They will let you know what they need, and they can make accommodations for themselves. If you overly provide for them, you’re robbing them of the opportunity to learn and self-advocate. Presume competence 100% of the time, and if they need it, then provide them help.
Children with special needs want to be included.
Armstrong-Gibbs: Our kids are underestimated time and time again. They’re undervalued. The way the school system is set up – that’s not true inclusion. Neurotypical children learn these children are very different, because they only belong in this classroom or on this hallway. When they see each other at the park or library, they don’t interact. Everybody needs to have a sense of belonging on every level. Erisman: Parents or kids think that kids with autism don’t want any friends, because they’re nonverbal or they’re in their own world. That’s not true – they just don’t know how to make friends. They want to be included, not just present in the same place. Kids with special needs have a lot to offer; they just have a unique way of showing it.
Be understanding.
Erisman: Parents think, “I don’t have kids with special needs, so I don’t need to know much about it.” Many children are affected by some condition or another, so it helps to be understanding or accepting of it. These journeys aren’t easy for parents or kids, which makes kindness, understanding and acceptance so important. Perkins: When something happens to someone in the community, people jump in to help and bring casseroles or food. As a special needs family, we’re always close to a crisis. People don’t recognize that. What would matter a lot is having a friend drop off a casserole out of the blue or take the special needs child out, not because someone has asked. You just do it.
Be open to meeting people with special needs.
Perkins: If you hang around kids with special needs, you’re going to love the experience. It can be difficult, but it offers a glimpse into a world people don’t get to experience, and you’ll never forget it. Jennifer has behavioral challenges, and she can be violent. But that’s only about 10% of her world. I hope people see the 90% of her that’s loving, caring, intuitive – she’s got a great sense of humor. People stare at her, and she knows when they are. I want people to take the next step with greeting her by a smile or a wave.
OUR MISSION.
Easterseals Easterseals North North Georgia Georgia is is dedicated dedicated to to strengthening strengthening children children and and families families at the most critical times in a child's development. We We do do this this by by providing providing early early intervention, intervention, inclusive high quality early education, family support, support, emergency emergency resources, resources, and and local and statewide advocacy. We believe that through these comprehensive approaches we are empowering children, their families, and the community to thrive.
OUR VISION.
We We believe believe that that every every child child is is born born with with unlimited unlimited potential potential but but it it is is critical critical that they they have have opport opportunities unities to to nurture nurture their their gifts gifts in in an environment that responds to their specific specific needs needs if if they they are are going going to to actualize actualize their their abilities abilitie to to their their full full capacity. capacity. That's That's why ESNG exists. The very heart of our work work is is to to build build a a more more inclusive inclusive world, world, one one that ensures all children no matter their ability, ethnicity, income, gender, or background background that that they they are are welcomed welcomed and provided provided with with every every oppo opportunity rtunity to to succeed. succeed. We We are are dedicated dedicated to to ensuring ensuring that that they they receive the support necessary to participate fully fully in in life. life. To To be be 100% 100% empowered, empowered, 100% 100% included, included, and and 100% 100% capable capable of of realizing realizing their dreams. n Feel at Home
Jay Perkins designs and installs sensory rooms in schools, churches and homes with his company, Sensory Room Solutions. These rooms help children with special needs calm down, self-regulate and relieve anxiety.
Perkins’ daughter, Jennifer, now 19, has been affected by sensory experiences from a young age. “Her needs very early on were sensory driven. Anything that could trigger her senses – smell, sights, temperature, texture – could trigger her negative behavior, which could manifest itself in aggression or self-injuries,” he says. “She was introduced to sensory rooms at Atlanta Speech School, and I saw firsthand how much that affected Jennifer from a positive aspect.”
Most of the work Perkins does is in schools. Schools budget for these rooms, which can take six to nine months to complete. For most schools, budgets are an issue. “If there’s anything left over, it’s spent on kids with special needs. Right now, there’s nothing left over, so they are left behind,” he says.Perkins was also the founder of Sensations TheraFun, so he has seen the special needs industry change in Atlanta. “We were on the forefront of these sensory-based gyms and rooms, which have become more accepted,” he says. “Ten years ago, it was not as well known. Now, a lot of the educators know what they are and know the benefits.
As the parent of a child with special needs, Perkins brings his own experience to designing a sensory room. Schools might be concerned with the safety of the room, or they think the items will easily be destroyed. “I can say, ‘My daughter has given it her all and has not been able to destroy this stuff,’” he says. “My experience has taken me to the manufacturers who build industrial strength materials that will withstand a child’s destructive tendencies.”
Perkins also installs sensory rooms in churches. Because of Jennifer’s challenges, they couldn’t go together as a family. Instead, one parent would stay at home, while the other would take their other two kids to church. When you offer services to a child with special needs, the whole family comes together to worship and build community,” he says.
If you’re interested in creating a sensory room or area for your child at home, Perkins suggests installing a bubble tube, a fish tank, color-changing fiber optics or shag carpet. “Get creative thinking about sensory input,” he says. “There’s tactile stuff out there. You don’t have to buy a $2,000 object when you can get the $200 object off of Amazon. I don’t have to do your room to have a conversation.”
Resources
n AG Educational Group 235 E. Ponce de Leon Ave., Decatur. 404549-2897. facebook.com/AGEducational
n We Rock The Spectrum Kid’s Gym 614 W. Crossville Rd., Roswell. 770-6802535. werockthespectrumatlanta.com
n Sensory Room Solutions 404-307-5790. sensoryroomsolutions.com
AN EXCEPTIONAL SCHOOL FOR EXCEPTIONAL STUDENTS
WE’RE EXCEPTIONAL . . .
“At Cumberland, we study college prep academics or prepare for a vocational career, try a sport or a club for the first time – ever. We learn we’re not so different after all.”
650-A Mt. Vernon Hwy NE • Atlanta 30328 cumberlandacademy.org • 404-835-9000
Porter Academy
Enabling Children with Learning Differences to Succeed
• Pre-K–8th • Small Groups • Individualized programs • Hands-on learning activities
770-594-1313 | www.porteracademy.org | 200 Cox Rd., Roswell
770-234-9111 www.focus-ga.org
CHILDREN USE THE LANGUAGE
OF PLAY TO EXPRESS AND
RESOLVE THEIR PROBLEMS. Trudy Post Spunk
www.gapt.org 770.491.7423
AtlantaParent.com
NOVEMBER: Things to do this month
Toddler Fun l Get Arty at the High l Holiday Calendar Snow and Ice l Cut Your Own Tree l and more
NOVEMBER TOP EVENTS
Events may be cancelled or changed before our deadline. Please check before visiting to confirm. Full calendar online at atlantaparent.com
Day of the Dead
Children’s Museum of Atlanta / Nov. 1, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Celebrate this holiday with a storytime, tissue paper flower craft and flower dissections at the Science Bar. Reservation required. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-659-5437. $18.95; ages 11 months and younger, free. childrensmuseumatlanta.org
Sunday Socials
Autrey Mill Nature Preserve / Nov. 1 and 15, 1-3 p.m. Share in a vintage activity in one of the historic buildings. On Nov. 1, participate in corn milling, and on Nov. 15, make corn husk dolls. 9770 Autrey Mill Rd., Johns Creek. 678-366-3511. $5. autreymill.org
Big Shanty Festival
Downtown Kennesaw Nov. 7, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Nov. 8, noon-5 p.m. This large arts and crafts show has food booths, two entertainment stages with live acoustic music, a kid’s area and more. 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. 770-423-1330. Free admission. jrmmanagement.com
Big Shanty Festival
Chastain Park Arts Festival
Chastain Park Nov. 7, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Nov. 8, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Enjoy fine art and crafts, a children’s area, gourmet food trucks, music and more. 4469 Stella Dr. NW, Atlanta. Free admission. chastainparkartsfestival.com
Drive-In Movie: “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory”
Depot District / Nov. 20, 8 p.m. Watch the movie on the big screen from the comfort of your car and enjoy treats from The Red Popcorn Wagon. Registration opens Nov. 16. 394 N. Clayton St., Lawrenceville. 678-407-6653. Free admission. lawrencevillega.org
Twilight Trek
Alice in Wonderland Jr.
Elm Street Cultural Arts Nov. 13-14, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 15, 2:30 p.m. Alice’s adventures in the magical world of Wonderland allow her to meet the White Rabbit, Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum, the Mad Hatter and more. Doors open 30 minutes prior. 8534 Main St., Woodstock. 678-494-4251. $13.50-$16. elmstreetarts.org
Twilight Trek
Zoo Atlanta / Nov. 14, 6:30-9 p.m. Bone up on your knowledge of animal bones at “Bone to be Wild” and observe animals at dusk. 800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-624-9453. $20; ages 3 and younger, free. zooatlanta.org
Pop-in for Family Fun
Marietta Museum of History Nov. 21, 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Explore the theme of aviation with crafts and activities to take home. 1 Depot St., Marietta. 770-794-5710. $5; family max of $20. mariettahistory.org
Chattahoochee Nature Center
Fall Break Guided Hikes – Creek and Cherokee
Chattahoochee Nature Center Nov. 23-27, 11-11:30 a.m. Closed Nov. 26. Walk along part of the historic Etowah Trail and learn more about the Creek and Cherokee peoples. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. $10; ages 13-18, $7; ages 3-12, $6; ages 2 and younger, free. chattnaturecenter.org
ART EXPLORATION AT THE HIGH Get inspired and explore your creative abilities at these family-friendly experiences.
Family Art Escapes
Nov. 7 and 21, 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Three sessions allow you and your family to explore a monthly theme with an art-making activity and scavenger hunt. Reservation required. $14.50; ages 5 and younger, free.
Second Sunday
Nov. 8, noon-5 p.m. Enjoy free admission to view exhibits and galleries. Reservation required. Free admission.
Picture the Dream: The Story of the Civil Rights Movement through Children’s Books
Through Nov. 8 See this exhibit reflecting on history, activism and race through the illustrations from children’s books. Reservation required. $14.50; ages 5 and younger, free.
Murmuration
Woodruff Art Center’s Sifly Piazza / Through Nov. 29 This 2,350-square-foot mesh canopy evokes the environment of neighboring trees and was inspired by Atlanta’s reputation as “a city in the forest.” Free.
Family Art Escapes
The Details:
The High Museum of Art.1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4400. high.org
Picture the Dream
Schedule Fall & Holiday Portraits Now
Go to AtlantaParent.com for the best education resources
Visit Imagesbynneka.com/atlantaparent
n n n n Charter Schools Homeschooling Montessori Schools School Tours Directory
n n n n Preschools Private and Public Schools Special Needs Schools Boarding Schools
GET OUT OF THE HOUSE
TAKE A SCENIC DRIVE Go leaf peeping on these drives in and around Georgia.
Afternoon Drives
South Fulton Scenic Byway
Travel along the South Fulton Scenic Byway to see historic communities and farmhouses, hills, forests, pastures, Cochran Mill Park, Chattahoochee River and more. dot.ga.gov/DS/Travel/Scenic n
Drive: 29 miles n Worth a Stop: Cochran Mill Park has 18 miles of multiple-use trails for hikers, horseback riders, mountain bikers and trail runners.
Cohutta Chattahoochee Scenic Byway
Featuring amazing views of the Cohutta Mountains, this route travels up State Route 52 for views of Chatsworth, Fort Mountain State Park, Prater’s Mill Site and the Chattahoochee National Forest. dot.ga.gov/DS/Travel/Scenic n
Drive: 54 miles n Worth a Stop: Ending with a Scenic Overlook, enjoy the sights of the northwest Georgia mountains.
Historic Piedmont Scenic Byway
Following State Highways 15, 16 and 77, this byway shows the natural beauty of the Piedmont with the Oconee National Forest, a 60-acre forest with 1.5 miles of trails, the Oconee River and the Ogeechee River. dot.ga.gov/DS/Travel/Scenic n
Drive: 82 miles n Worth a Stop: See the Rock Hawk Effigy, built by Native Americans more than 5,000 years ago.
Meriwether Pike Scenic Byway
This scenic byway travels from Gay to Warm Springs to celebrate the legacy of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, who would travel to Georgia in the 1920s to 1940s to improve his polio-stricken legs. dot.ga.gov/DS/Travel/Scenic n
Drive: 55 miles n Worth a Stop: Tour the Little White House, a state historic site, which was built by FDR.
Monticello Crossroads Scenic Byway
Running through Jasper County and following State Highways 11 and 83, this drive features the rural and historic parts of the area, such as the Seven Island Stage Coach Road that ran from Augusta to New Orleans and the Natchez Trace. dot.ga.gov/DS/Travel/Scenic n
Drive: 29 miles n Worth a Stop: Drop by the 6,400-acre Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center for public fishing and beautiful woods.
Ridge & Valley Scenic Byway
Experience the varied terrain of northwest Georgia with this drive with mountain overlooks, farmlands, wildlife, farmhouses and the history of the Cherokee Indian Nation. dot.ga.gov/DS/Travel/Scenic n
Drive: 51 miles n Worth a Stop: Enjoy Keown Falls Scenic Area for a hike atop Johns Mountain.
Russell Brasstown Scenic Byway
This route includes the Bavarian-themed town of Helen, Wildlife Management Areas, the Chattahoochee River and a section of the Appalachian Trail. dot.ga.gov/DS/Travel/Scenic n
Drive: 41 miles n Worth a Stop: Check out Brasstown Bald, the highest point in Georgia, rising 4,784 feet above sea level.
Scenic Highway 197
Enjoy the mountains and lakes of northeast Georgia on this highway with views of Lake Burton, Lake Rabun, Lake Seed and Alpine Helen. Stop to experience fine dining, go trout fishing, shop for regional arts and crafts, see flowers and native plants and more. scenic197.com n
Drive: 33 miles n Worth a Stop: Blackhawk Fly Fishing provides private fly fishing along two miles of the Soque River.
Georgia Mountain Parkway
Enjoy the views of the North Georgia Mountains from Gilmer, Fannin, Union and Towns Counties, along with outdoor activities and gorgeous scenery. The North Georgia Farm Trail is also part of the drive, and the map features arts and crafts, farm foods, farm-to-table dining, farmers markets, lodging, history and heritage and more. georgiamountainparkway.com n
Drive: 76 miles n Worth a Stop: Take a ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway alongside the Toccoa River for a roundtrip journey through the North Georgia countryside.
Blue Ridge Parkway
Spanning the southern and central Appalachians, this gorgeous parkway has overlooks, outdoor adventures, wildflowers, waterfalls and more. See Mount Mitchell, the highest mountain peak in the eastern U.S.; New River, the oldest river in North America; Linville Gorge, the deepest gorge east of the Grand Canyon; and Whitewater Falls, the highest waterfall east of the Rockies. Check out the site’s interactive map for drive times and places to spend the night. blueridgeparkway.org Starting Point: Cherokee, North Carolina n
Drive: 469 miles n Worth a Stop: If you want to stay close to home, attractions in North Carolina include Oconaluftee Indian Village, Biltmore Estate, North Carolina Arboretum, Linville Caverns and Grandfather Mountain.
Southern Highroads Trail
This scenic route covers 13 counties in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee with antique shops, arts, entertainment, dining, lodging, outdoor activities and more. Attractions and stops include Dry Falls in North Carolina and Lake Jocassee and Licklog and Pigpen Falls in South Carolina. southernhighroads.org Starting Point: Alto, Georgia or Ellijay, Georgia n
Drive: 364 miles n Worth a Stop: If you want to stay in Georgia, stop at Falls Branch Falls in Blue Ridge for a series of cascades that lead of a single drop of 30 feet.
The Music Class
BABIES AND TODDLERS JUST WANT TO HAVE FUN!
Spend time with your baby or toddler in a fun and educational environment! Make music, jump and play, see the animals, visit a museum, create art and more.
Some activities are offered virtually or may have limited admission to help prevent the spread of coronavirus. Check the website to verify schedules, mask requirements and safety protocols.
Make Music Bach to Rock
Designed just for toddlers, the Rock n Roll class is a weekly highenergy music and movement class, with sing-alongs, instruments and group activities. Classes are offered in-person and virtually. Marietta, 404-380-1706, Alpharetta, 470-375-3960 and Suwanee, 678-771-8228. See website for schedule and pricing. b2rmusic.com
The Music Class
The popular Music Pups class for ages 4 and younger is packed with singing, dancing, movement and instrument play. Virtual and inperson options vary by location. Dunwoody, 770-645-5578 and Atlanta, 770-645-5578. See website for schedule and pricing. themusicclass.com
Kindermusik
Children will learn about music and movement, storytelling and imaginative play through virtual classes for infants-age 7. Multiple Atlanta locations; see website for schedule and pricing. kindermusik.com
The Learning Groove
Virtual parent and child classes and CDs for singing, dancing, playing and making music, perfect for ages 4 and younger. thelearninggroove.com
Museums and More Children’s Museum of Atlanta
This hands-on museum has plenty of places to explore and play. Just for toddlers, TiNY Club (offered virtually) includes a story, videos and art activities. Messy Thursdays occur weekly from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; kids can play and get messy with materials like slime and finger paints. Toddler Jam Fridays has music, instruments and dance from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Advance ticket purchase is required, 2-hour timed visits. Atlanta. 404-659-5437. $18.95; ages 11 months and younger, free. childrensmuseumatlanta.org
Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, Inc.
Toddlers will love pretending to fly in an airplane, checking out x-rays on a light board, playing dentist or learning how to handle money at this museum in Gainesville. INK offers plenty of role-playing experiences. Limited admission with 2-hour timed visits. Gainesville. 770-536-1900. $9; ages 1 and younger, free. inkfun.org
Southeastern Railway Museum
Trains, trains and more trains – nearly 90 of them – are on display at the Southeastern Railway Museum. Take a ride on the miniature train (check the museum’s schedule). The museum’s Thursday toddler events are currently on hold. Duluth. 770-476-2013. $18; ages 2-12, $12; ages 1 and younger, free. southeasternrailwaymuseum.org
LEGOLAND Discovery Center
This fun LEGO playground has a special Duplo Village just for toddlers ages 2-5, with oversized bricks for stacking, building and sorting, as well as a slide and oversized animal models. Purchase timed entry tickets online. Atlanta. 404-848-9252. $19.99; ages 2 and younger, free. atlanta.legolanddiscoverycenter.com
Jump and Play HippoHop
This indoor play place in Atlanta has an eco-friendly indoor play area, a café with healthy choices and a large toddler area. Atlanta, 404-634-4964 and Peachtree Corners, 678682-9866. Ages 3-10, $11; ages 1-2, $7; 11 months and younger and parents, free. hippohopp.com
Ready Set Fun!
This modern indoor playground has lots of toddler spaces, including a Soft Play Adventure area for kids 6 months and older. Ages 2 and older can play in the Imagination Sandbox, create art that comes alive, and play in the Just Dance! playroom. Reserve 90-minute playtime sessions online. Sandy Springs. 404-596-5566. $15. readysetfun.com
Buddy’s Indoor Playhouse
Kids 6 months to 6 years will love this indoor activity center. A soft play zone is designed just for toddlers; they can also play on the toddler driving track, explore the climbing areas, role play and experience exploration stations. Smyrna. 770-989-1312. Ages 1-7, $12; 6-11 months, $7.99; parents and ages 8 and older, $5.99; 6 months and younger, free. buddysplayandparties.com
Jack N’ Elle Playhouse
Designed for ages 9 months to 8 years, Jack N’ Elle has a playground, toys, art and yoga classes. There are plenty of places to climb, explore and slide, plus role-playing areas – a kitchen, grocery store and more. Currently offering private playtimes only; reserve online. Decatur. 404-975-3767. $40 (private 90-minute playdate for 4). jacknelleplayhouse.com
Kids Land
A town village, art studio, toys, magnetic table, train tables and more offer toddlers plenty of options for play at Kids Land. Climb, jump and explore on the play structures or role play in the home living area. Jonesboro. 770-615-0000. Ages 3-12, $8-10; ages 1-2, $5; parents, free. kidslandga.com
Jumping World
Toddlers will burn off plenty of energy at this entertainment center. The park offers a safe and monitored space just for them, with foam blocks, balls, trampolines and more. Kennesaw. 770-672-7616. $6-$12 for first hour; $3-$8 for each additional hour; attractions, extra. jwentertainment.com/location/kennesaw
Jack N’ Elle Playhouse
Splash in the Pool Aqua-Tots Swim Schools
From infant safety classes to swimming technique classes, children can begin swim lessons as young as 4 months. Multiple Atlanta locations. aqua-tots.com
Dynamo Swim Club
Dynababies introductory classes for ages 6 months-2 years help get baby comfortable in the water. Preschool classes for ages 3-5 help build basic swim skills. Multiple Atlanta locations. dynamoswimschool.com
Goldfish Swim School
Goldfish offers year-round swim lessons for children 4 months-12 years and for swimmers of all abilities. Sandy Springs, 770-766-0237, Roswell, 770-691-1776 and Johns Creek, 770-637-0707. goldfishswimschool.com
SeaVentures
This swim school in Alpharetta offers lessons for 10 months and older (with parents in the water through age 3). A free Baby Splash Class is also available for babies ages 3 to 9 months old. Alpharetta. 770-992-3772. seaventures.com
SafeSplash Swim School
SafeSplash offers private and semi-private lessons for all ages, including infant and toddler swim classes for kids 6 months-3 years. Multiple Atlanta locations. safesplash.com
British Swim School
British Swim School’s Tadpole class is designed for kids 3 months-3 years and introduces them to the water for the first time, reducing fear and the potential for tears. Marietta and Woodstock. 844-586-2796. britishswimschool.com
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BABIES AND TODDLERS
See the Animals Zoo Atlanta
Get up-close and personal with hundreds of animals, including giraffes, pandas, reptiles, gorillas and more; take a ride on the Zoo Train and Endangered Species Carousel. The petting zoo is open for viewing only; the Adventure Cubs program for ages 5 and younger is not offered at this time. Timed entry; online ticket purchase is recommended. Atlanta. 404-624-9453. $24.99$27.99; ages 3-11, $18.99-$19.99; ages 2 and younger, free. zooatlanta.org
The Art Barn at Morning Glory Farm
Open by reservation only, this farm in Canton mixes art and farm animals. Children can take a hayride, pet the animals and then head over to the barn to do arts and crafts. Canton. $16; ages 1 and younger, free. 678-319-0286. theartbarn.com
Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary
This 25-acre attraction has plenty of wildlife, including bison, peacocks, pigs, wallabies, sheep and lemurs. Visit the petting zoo or purchase a bag of lettuce and carrots to feed the deer, goats, bunnies and alpaca. Lilburn. 678-395-3453. $18; ages 12 and younger, $12; ages 2 and younger, free. yellowriverwildlifesanctuary.com
North Georgia Wildlife Park
This Cleveland park has a drive-through safari experience as well as a petting zoo, where kids can interact with miniature farm animals. Take a guided wildlife walk and see kangaroos, lemurs, foxes, alligators, a giant tortoise and more. Cleveland. 706-348-7279. $24.99; ages 2-11, $22.99; ages 1 and younger, free. northgeorgiazoo.com
YOU’RE VIRTUALLY THERE! Enjoy these events without leaving your house.
Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed
Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience
Through Nov. 3 This virtual musical brings Wilbur, a clothes-loving mole rat with exceptional style, to life as he navigates the pressure to be like everyone else. 404-733-4650. $10. alliancetheatre.org
Georgia Veterans Day Parade
Nov. 7, noon This virtual parade shows support for Georgia’s veterans. 770-480-8822. Free. georgiaveteransday.org
Book Festival of the MJCCA
Nov. 8-Dec. 2. See website for full schedule and pricing. Listen to authors talk about books of all genres, including John Grisham, Michael J. Fox, Ina Garten and more. atlantajcc.org
Atlanta Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Nov. 16-Dec. 27 Watch an on-demand presentation and 30 days of free content to celebrate the holidays. 404-892-3303. On-demand access available in mid-November. atlantaballet.com
Growing Vegetable Soup
Nov. 17, 2 p.m. With a focus on health and nutrition, this workshop focuses on gardening by exploring the book “Growing Vegetable Soup” to learn about where vegetables come from and how to grow a plant from a seed. 404-659-5437. $10. childrensmuseumatlanta.org
Angelica Hale
Tower of Talent Nov. 28, 7 p.m. Nov. 29 and Dec. 1, 11 a.m.
Tune in to Tower of Talent’s seventh-annual fundraiser to benefit the Musical Therapy program at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. This celebrityhosted show will feature inspirational stories of current and former patients and show how music has made a significant different in their lives. Watch for appearances from Ryan Seacrest along with Angelica Hale and more of Atlanta’s most outstanding youth performers. Celebrate “Music Is Life - Why Hearts Have A Beat.” Watch on 11Alive TV. choa.org/toweroftalent
Long Ago & Only Once
Through Nov. 21 This digital production represents the idea of waiting through modern dance. 470-733-8274. $15-$50. terminus-serenbe.com
Art Lessons with Mrs. Lynnette
Nov. 21, 10-11 a.m. Mrs. Lynette teaches participants to draw autumn leaves, inspired by John Moyers’ “The Suitor’s Song” and Robert Griffing’s “Autumn Journey.” Watch on Booth Western Art Museum’s Facebook or YouTube pages. Free. boothmuseum.org
Puppetry Programs
The Center for Puppetry Arts offers digital puppet shows for educators and families, including “Aesop’s Fantastical Fables,” “Camp Whachyawannado,” “Captain Healthy and Safety Dog,” “The Little Red Hen & the Grain of Wheat,” “Mr. Kolache’s Long List,” “Anansi the Spider: A West African Folktale” and more. Price varies. puppet.org
LET THE H LIDAYS BEGIN Many of Atlanta’s holiday happenings start in November. Reserve your tickets in advance to celebrate the seasonal spirit with ice skating, light displays, performances and visiting with Santa at these events happening all month long.
Stone Mountain Christmas Stone Mountain Park Nov. 14-Jan. 3. See website for hours. Enjoy holiday magic with the Musical Frosted Forest with lights, sights and sounds, Snow Angel’s Christmas Parade, holiday performances, The Polar Express 4-D Experience, and visits from your favorite holiday characters and Santa. Advance Attractions Pass purchase recommended; reservations required for Mountain Members.1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain. 800-4012407. $29.95; ages 2 and younger, free. stonemountainpark.com
Candy Rush Six Flags White Water Nov. 13-Jan. 3, 6-10 p.m. Drive through a milelong display of nearly 2 million lights, featuring a gingerbread village, animated characters and more. Online tickets only. 250 Cobb Pkwy. N., Marietta. 855-5540005. $35-$45 per car. worldofillumination.com/ candy-rush-2
Garden Lights, Holiday Nights Atlanta Botanical Garden / Nov. 14-Jan. 16, 5-11 p.m. Countless bulbs light up the garden with lighted sculptures, Nature’s Wonders, Orchestral Orbs, the Ice Goddess and model trains. Online tickets only. 1345 Piedmont Ave., NE, Atlanta. 404-876-5859. $24.95$44.95; ages 3-12, $21.95-$41.95; ages 2 and younger, free; parking, $5-$15. atlantabg.org
A Very Grinchy Christmas Infinite Energy Center Nov. 21, 1, 4 and 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 22, 1 and 4 p.m. Presented by Southern Ballet Theatre, this performance is inspired by Dr. Seuss’ classic children’s story about the ultimate holiday hater, The Grinch. Advance ticket purchase recommended. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 678-682-9238. $17-$20; ages 1 and younger, free. southernballettheatre.com l Tree Lightings and Santa’s Arrival Light Up Dunwoody. Cheek-Spruill Farmhouse. Meet Santa, enjoy treats and watch the lighting of the tree and menorah at 5:45 p.m. Nov. 22, 3-5:45 p.m. 5455 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd., Dunwoody. 770-354-7653. Free. discoverdunwoody.com
The Lighting of Avalon. Avalon. Nightly light and fireworks show around the 40-foot Christmas tree, plus pop-up concerts and activities. Nov. 22-Dec. 3., 7 p.m. 2200 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta. 770-765-1000. Free. experienceavalon.com
Lighting of the Great Tree. Gwinnett Historic Courthouse. The tradition continues as the Great Tree is lit on the lawn. Nov. 26, 5:30 p.m. 185 Crogan St., Lawrenceville. 770-963-2414. Free. downtownlawrencevillega.com
Santa on the Square. Downtown Newnan. See Santa light the Christmas tree, and kids are invited to discuss their Christmas list and take photos. Nov. 27, 6-8 p.m. 1st Ave., Newnan. 770-253-8283. Free admission. mainstreetnewnan.com
Santa in Decatur. Children can greet Santa as he rides through neighborhood streets on a fire truck. Nov. 28. See website for locations. Free. decaturga.com
Lakeside Lights Spectacular Margaritaville at Lanier Islands Nov. 20-Jan. 5; select dates Jan. 9-Feb. 21. See website for hours. Stroll through a lighted extravaganza with traditional displays, high-tech images and music. 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford. 470-323-3440. $19.99-$24.99; ages 2 and younger, free. parking, $20. margaritavillelanierislands.com
The Lighting of Avalon
l The Nutcracker The Nutcracker. Tolbert Yilmaz School of Dance. Students from the Roswell Dance Theatre and Tolbert Yilmaz School of Dance present the story of Clara falling into a dream world. Nov. 23-Dec. 6. See website for showtimes and pricing. 601 Houze Way, Roswell. 770-998-0259. tysod.com
The Nutcracker. Infinite Energy Center. The Northeast Atlanta Ballet performs this holiday favorite following Clara and her Nutcracker prince through a magical land. Nov. 27, 2 and 7:30 p.m.; Nov. 28, 10 a.m., 2 and 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 29, 2 and 6 p.m. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 770-921-7277. $19-$25. northeastatlantaballet.org
The Nutcracker. Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Watch a movie of Atlanta Ballet’s performance from the comfort of your car. Dec. 2-6, 7 p.m. Advance tickets required. 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta. 404-892-3303. $100-$150 per car. atlantaballet.com
l Holly, Jolly Critters A Country Christmas. Pettit Creek Farms. Take a drive or hayride through lights, take photos with Santa and his reindeer (select days), visit the petting zoo and more. Nov. 26-Dec. 30. Sun.-Thurs., 6-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 6-10 p.m. 337 Cassville Rd., Cartersville. 770-386-8688. $10-$35. pettitcreekfarms.com
Holiday Celebration & Live Nativity. North Georgia Wildlife Park. Take photos with the nativity backdrop and animals, listen to Christmas music, and drink hot chocolate. Starry Night Tours are available for a price on Nov. 28. Nov. 27-28, 5-7 p.m. 2912 Paradise Valley Rd., Cleveland. 706-348-7279. Free; zoo admission, extra. northgeorgiazoo.com
l License to Chill Snow Island Margaritaville at Lanier Islands Nov. 6-Feb. 21. See website for full schedule. Go snow tubing and ice skating, challenge your family to a snowball fight, and make snow angels. Visit with Santa to tell him what you want for Christmas, and shop in Santa’s Workshop. Hop on the carnival rides, including a carousel, Ferris wheel and bumper cars. Warm up with s’mores and hot cocoa, or grab a bite at Glacier Café or Jack Frost’s Shark Shack. Adults – grab your favorite brew or cocktail at the Tipsy Snowman. 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford. 470-323-3440. $39.99$44.99; ages 2 and younger, free. margaritavilleresorts.com/ margaritaville-at-lanier-islands
SNOW AND ICE
l The Ice Rink. Sugar Hill. Practice your ice skating moves on this real ice outdoor rink. Nov. 12-Feb. 21. See website for full schedule. 5039 West Broad St., Sugar Hill. 770-554-7506. $10; ages 8 and younger, $8. haidrink.com
l Avalon on Ice. Avalon. Lace up your skates and glide on the ice. Nov. 22-Jan. 18. See website for full schedule. 2200 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta. 770-765-1000. $18; ages 9 and younger, $14; Includes skate rental. awesomealpharetta.com l The Rink. Park Tavern. Heated tent, state-of-the-art sound system and rink-side dining. Nov. 26-Jan. 18. 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. 404-249-0001. $15-$20, all day skate. parktavern.com
l SKATE. Atlantic Station. A large, open-air ice skating rink. Nov. 16-Jan. 18. 1380 Atlantic Dr., Atlanta. 404-410-4010. $15; Skate rental included. atlanticstation.com
Before You Hit the Ice: Wear protective gear. Falling down is inevitable, but littles ones might recover more quickly if wrist, elbow and kneepads are absorbing the brunt of it. Consider a helmet. March before your glide. Marching on the ice allows skaters to become more comfortable and balanced with the feeling of being on the slick surface. Know how to fall. Practice a “good way” to fall. Remind your kids to extend their arms out to break a face-forward fall. Keep heads and chins up so they won’t hit the ice.
Know how to get back up.
Get on all fours and use your claws (the front ends of your skate blades) to help push you up. Try to be quick to avoid collisions with other skaters. Learn how to stop. One of the most basic movies is the “snowplow” stop. Point your toes together in a “V” to slow down until you stop. Beginners may find a one-foot snowplow easier than a twofoot snowplow.
CUT-YOUR-OWN CHRISTMAS TREE FARMS NEAR ATLANTA Start a family tradition with a trip to one of these Christmas tree farms. Most also offer pre-cut trees, wreaths and garland; look for kid-friendly activities like hayrides and petting farms. Call to verify hours, tree availability and safety protocols before heading out.
l Berry’s Tree Farm: Train rides, concessions, goat farm and more. Take pictures of the kids with Santa (select dates). Opens Nov. 21. Daily, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. 70 Mt. Tabor Rd., Covington. 770-786-5833. berrystreefarm.com
l Bottoms Tree Farm: Take a hayride, enjoy roasted marshmallows, and pet the farm animals. Nov. 21-Dec. 19. See website for hours. 5880 John Burruss Rd., Cumming. 706-429-3173. bottomstreefarm.com
l Coker Tree Farm: Choose from a variety of evergreens, including Frasier Fir, Murray Cypress and Carolina Sapphire. Opens Nov. 27, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon.-Fri. 4 p.m.-6 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 2280 Macland Rd. SW, Marietta. 770-424-8047. cokertreefarm.com
l Hunter’s Christmas Tree Farm: Cut your own Leyland Cypress and enjoy a hayride, hot chocolate and cookies. Opens Nov. 21. Mon.-Fri. 4 p.m.-dusk; Sat. 9 a.m.-dusk. Closed Sundays. 14680 Wood Rd., Milton. 770-475-0713. hunterschristmastreefarm.com
l Kinsey Family Farm: Take a wagon ride to choose your tree, then warm up with marshmallow roasting and hot cocoa. Opens Nov. 21. Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 7170 Jot-em Down Rd., Gainesville. 770-887-6028. kinseyfamilyfarm.com
l Minter’s Farm: Choose from Leyland Cypress, Murry Cypress, Carolina Sapphire and more. Take a hayride and enjoy cider from the Christmas Shoppe. Opens Nov. 26. Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 283 Hill’s Bridge Rd., Fayetteville. 770-461-2840. mintersfarm.com
l Sleepy Hollow Farm: Cut your tree, then visit the country store for handmade wreaths, hot chocolate, cider and snacks. Opens Nov. 21. Tues.-Sun. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Closed Mondays. 628 Sleepy Hollow Rd., Powder Springs. 770-880-8846. sleepyhollowtrees.com
l Sugarland Tree Farm: Choose from Virginia Pine, Blue Ice, Leyland Cypress and more, then shop for decorations and wreaths at the Sugarhaus. Opens Nov. 27. Mon.-Fri. noon-dark; Sat-Sun. 9 a.m.-dark. 3933 Hwy. 155, Stockbridge. 770-957-6438. sugarlandtreefarm.com
l Thompson’s Tree Farm: Bring bread to feed to the farm’s goats or browse the gift shop. By appointment only, register online. Nov. 21-Dec. 22. See website for hours. 1829 Prospect Rd., Lawrenceville. 770-513-2552. thompsonstreefarm.com l Yule Forest: Stay warm with homemade apple cider and take a winter hayride before choosing the perfect tree. Opens Nov. 21. Daily, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 3565 Hwy. 155 N., Stockbridge. 770-954-9356. yuleforest.com
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