Atlanta Parent_October 2022

Twilight Trek

Ever wonder what the animals are up to after the sun goes down? Tour the Zoo at dusk, use night-vision technology, search for animals that you wouldn’t normally see during the daylight hours, and enjoy special activities that vary from season to season.

Parents/guardians with children of all ages.

Adventure Cubs

Spend time in the Zoo observing animals and enjoying engaging activities. This is a great opportunity to make friends, connect to wildlife, and spend time with your little explorers

Parents/guardiansoutside.withchildren ages 0-5.

Safari Camp

When school’s out, Camp is in! These mind-on programs allow campers to visit animals on grounds, explore biofacts, and take part in science experiments and Childrendemonstrations!ages5-11.

NightCrawler Overnights

Spend the night at Zoo Atlanta and embark on a nocturnal adventure! Gain a deeper understanding of how the zoo takes are of its animals, utilize research technology and learn about ways zoos contribute to conservation efforts.

Parents/guardians with children ages 6+.

Private non-parochial education for infants through 8th grade Nurturing environment featuring teachers, small class 1-to 1-iPad environment, hands-on academics, STEM, frequent eld trips and after-school programs. Offering after-school sports, robotics, Science Olympiad and Drama.

PUBLISHER Liz White lwhite@atlantaparent.com

ASSOCIATE Laura Powell PUBLISHER lpowell@atlantaparent.com

ACCOUNT Carolyn Haushalter EXECUTIVE chaushalter@atlantaparent.com

ACCOUNT Genie Lockeretz EXECUTIVE glockeretz@atlantaparent.com

ACCOUNT Christy Craig EXECUTIVE ccraig@atlantaparent.com

STAFF WRITER Emily Webb and DIGITAL ewebb@atlantaparent.com

CONTENTCREATORCOPY

EDITORIALEDITOR

Sheri Taylor-Emery creative@atlantaparent.com

PRODUCTION Robin Mintz

ADMINISTRATIVE Amanda Allen

MARKETINGASSISTANT Barman

Atlanta Parent magazine is published monthly by Atlanta Parent, Inc., 2346 Perimeter Park Drive, Atlanta, GA 30341. Telephone 770-454-7599, Fax 770-454-7699. Atlanta Parent magazine is available free of charge throughout the metro area and as a digital issue at atlantaparent.com. 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.

© Atlanta Parent, Inc. 2022

CATCHIT EARLYCARE

When it comes to diagnosing breast cancer, time is of the essence. That’s why Wellstar uses state-of-the-art imaging technology to help spot cancer sooner so we can treat it faster. If you are diagnosed, our medical experts will spring into action, creating a tailored treatment plan just for you.

Getting a mammogram can save your life, so don’t delay. With Wellstar’s expert medical providers close to home, it’s easy to find the care you need. wellstar.org/catchitearlycare

Schedule Your Mammogram Today. (678) 581-5900

Publisher’s

It’s October, and that means Halloween! In my neighborhood, I’ve noticed that decorations are already starting to appear. I love seeing the over-the-top houses with their 12-foot skeletons, graveyards and spooky décor. Whether you go all out at your house, or keep things smaller with a few spiders and colorful pumpkins, it’s a great way to celebrate Halloween and the fun it brings.

I hope you’re as excited about fall as we are! Our Family Fun Guide is loaded with things for families to do – exhibits, fairs and festivals, Halloween activities, corn mazes, pumpkin patches and the best places to go zip lining. Use it to plan your outings – and enjoy the cooler weather.

Now that kids are settled back into a school routine, it’s a good time to remember the importance of reading. Over the years, studies have consistently shown the value of reading outside school – just 20 minutes a day can help develop a lifelong love of reading, and it has so manyForbenefits.thosewith dyslexia, reading can be truly frustrating. More than 14% of school-age kids have dyslexia; untreated, it can have lifelong effects. Read our story to learn about the latest information available, including early diagnosis and the wide variety of tools and resources for managing it.

This month also marks the 39th anniversary of Atlanta Parent. When our first issue was published (at my kitchen table!) in 1983, our goal was to be parents’ go-to source for family events around Atlanta throughout the year. Keeping you informed continues to be a priority for us, and it’s amazing that we reach more than 300,000 parents each month, in print and online.

In addition to the fun stuff, Atlanta Parent also covers topics that are important to parents, such as screen time and technology, health and education. Now more than ever, it’s so important to find the right school for your kids. Our guide to private school tours and open houses is a great way to explore the many options in Atlanta.

Atlanta Parent appreciates our readers as well as our advertisers! Community magazines thrive because of the support readers give to its advertisers. We always appreciate feedback – let us know topics you’d like to read about in the upcoming year.

StUff Good LIKE BREAKFASTBESTOF

Flippin’ Out

Who doesn’t love pancakes? Try Atlantabased and woman-owned Barlow’s Foods’ Original Pancake Mix. The mix can create pancakes or waffles and contains no additives, artificial flavors or preservatives. Barlow’s founder, Tiffani Neal, named the company after her grandfather Arthur “Barlow” Harris in order to honor his passion for agriculture and food. With each purchase, 2% is donated for Feed Our Vets to assist with closing the hunger gap. A 16 oz. bag is available for $10 at barlowsfoods.com.

PresentationPlate

Make your meals even more exciting with the new Peanuts Stoneware Collection from Pottery Barn. The set of four salad plates are perfect for serving up a delightful breakfast of eggs, waffles or pancakes. Each plate has a different scene featuring Snoopy, Charlie Brown and his friends celebrating the fall season. Other items in the collection include mugs and a cookie serving platter, and you can find other Peanuts-inspired items for a fun fall party. Available at potterybarn.com for $59.

Cruisin’

Cuisine

It’s okay to play with your food with the Construction Trucks Mini Waffle Maker from the Waffle Wow! Store on Amazon. This electric non-stick waffle iron creates seven automobiles, including a log hauler, bulldozer, dump truck, forklift, steam roller, loader and grader. Pour in the batter and cover to create the cute cars, and the non-stick coating makes it easy to clean. Available at amazon.com for $39.95.

Cooking in the Kitchen

Explore nutrition in a new way with The Super Crew’s Breakfast Cookbook for Kids. Work together in the kitchen to discover a variety of colorful and yummy foods with 50 kid-friendly recipes. Allergen identifiers are included for glutenfree, nut-free and peanut-free meals. Fun and educational activities include drawing, coloring, food facts, riddles and more. Available at superkidsnutrition.com for $17.95.

Mini Chef

Serve up a delicious breakfast with the Life-Size Pretend Play Breakfast Meal Set from Kaplan Early Learning Company. Young chefs can play in the kitchen by preparing eggs, waffles, bacon, toast, sandwiches, fruit, a croissant, a bagel, cereal and coffee. Recommended for ages 3 and older. Available at kaplanco.com for $39.95, or you can purchase the full set with breakfast, lunch and dinner sets for $99.95.

UpCloseandPersonalCOMMUNITYSPOTLIGHTS

Caring for Parents and Students

APS is caring

Do you know a child who resides within the city of Atlanta in need of special education services? APS Department of Special Education services can open a window of hope for a brighter future for children and young adults identified with a disability or developmental delay.

Quality Education

Founded on the belief that students with disabilities will receive a quality education leading to meaningful academic, social, emotional and behavioral outcomes.

Partnering

APS Department of Special Education partners with parents to work together and ensure all children with disabilities achieve and are provided a continuum of appropriate, specialized services and supports.

In 2014 Chan Blue noticed most children’s books were animals and hardly any characters were African American or had diverse representation. Therefore, she developed her own.

As author Chan was eating one of her favorite foods, macaroni and cheese, she had a light bulb moment that resulted in Mac as the brother and Roni as his twin sister. As an early educator for 18 years at that time she was accustomed to the use of phonics in early learning and Mac and Roni Read had that phonological appeal she was looking for in characters names. And, it didn’t hurt that macaroni and cheese is a popular food with children.

Mac and Roni Read Books strategically strives to incorporate education and entertainment – combined that equals EDUtainment. A variety of topics will capture the reader’s attention with a focus on language arts infused with (STEM) science, technology, engineering and math.

Book an author reading engagement today for a Mac and Roni-TASTIC time! Ask about the FREE books! chan@macandroniread.com

Atlanta Public Schools Dept. of Special Education Ages 3-5: 404-802-1690 | Ages 6-21: 404-802-2636

Mac and Roni Read are short books for early readers Pre-k through 3rd grade that come to life with diverse characters Mac and his twin sister Roni.

Have fun with fizzy baking science-sparks.com.

Decorate with spooky paper lanterns: Embellish orange, black and white paper lanterns (find online or at your local party store) with eyes, noses and mouths cut from black paper to create pumpkins, witches and ghosts.

Create a charcuteriekid-friendlyboard:Use cookie cutters to create deli meat and cheese bats and ghosts. Add crackers, a few sweets and “pumpkins” – press a small piece of celery into the tops of peeled clementines.

Make a platter of “bones” snacks: Use melted white chocolate to stick two minimarshmallows on the ends of a pretzel stick, then dip in the white chocolate to coat. Kellyleighcreates.com has full instructions.

Go “bobbing” for doughnuts – use ribbon or string to hang doughnuts from tree branches, and challenge kids to snag one without using their hands. First to finish theirs wins!

Easy mummy trick-or-treat carrier: Wrap a plastic sand pail with strips cut from an old sheet and glue in place, then add oversize googly eyes.

Cut “headstones” from cardboard or Styrofoam and decorate with paint to make your yard extra-creepy.

The candy guessing game never goes out of style: Fill a clear container with candy corn, Halloween M&Ms or other small candies, and challenge kids or party guests to guess the quantity.

Make handprint spiders by having kids dip their hand into a shallow tray of washable black paint and pressing it on a paper plate. Press another handprint in the opposite direction to make eight legs. Glue on two (or more!) googly eyes.

Light up your porch with painted jar luminaries lightsAddao-lanternletlayermasonPaintcraftsbyamanda.com.fromtheoutsideofjarswithalightofacrylicpaint;dryandaddjack-featureswithpermanentmarker.battery-operatedandenjoy!

Set up a spider race using straws and plastic spiders. Kids compete to be the first to blow their spider to the finish line.

For a tasty Witches’ Brew, mix orange soda, ginger ale and pineapple juice, pour into cups and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream – find the recipe at thegingeredwhisk.com.

Add a bit of spooky décor to your house by cutting ghostly shapes from frosted window film and placing in the windows. Or cut pieces of contact paper with jagged edges to resemble broken windows.

Replace your porch light bulb with an orange or red one and play spooky music from a hidden speaker to create a creepy welcome for trick-or-treaters. Find great playlists on Spotify or your favorite music app.

Swap scary stories. Read an age-appropriate spooky book together, or challenge your kids to create their own tales, then read them aloud to the family.

Get in the fall spirit by visiting a pumpkin farm, where you can choose the perfect pumpkin to carve, or get lost in a corn maze. Find lists of our favorites on atlantaparent.com.

Make pumpkins!fingerprintpainted

Cut a pumpkin shape from contact paper and press it onto a canvas. Let your young artist fill in the space with fingerprints, then peel away the contact paper. Find full instructions onelittleproject.com.at

Play a ghostly game of bean bag toss: Cut a large ghost shape from white foamcore or heavy cardboard. Cut out eyes, nose and mouth shapes; players compete to score the most points.

Bring on the board games! Solve a whodunnit with a game of Clue Junior, 5-Minute Mystery or Crack the Code. Available on amazon.com for $14.99+.

Don’t throw out the pumpkin seeds after carving – rinse well and toss them with two tbs. melted butter or oil and salt to taste. Roast on a baking sheet at 350 degrees for 10-15 minutes.

Go reverse trick-or-treating by taking candy or treats to a local retirement home (ask permission first) or have the kids make cards to give to older neighbors or relatives.

Make easy monster cupcakes by icing chocolate cupcakes with green frosting, flattening the top with a spatula. Add chocolate sprinkles for hair. Place candy eyes and chocolate chip “bolts” on the side of each one. Find directions on hersheyland.com.

Create a mini ghost brigade by tying tissues or cheesecloth squares over Styrofoam balls; add eyes and a string for hanging. Find directions at jennakateathome.com.

Replace candy giveaways with these treats kids love: balloons, rubber creepycrawlies, sidewalk chalk, mini yo-yos or puzzles.

For a Halloween treasure hunt, hide small toys or candy throughout your house or outdoors. Give kids a map or a list of clues for finding the location of each one.

Time for Trick or Treating! How to Dress to Impress

by Emily

Embrace Pop Culture

Punch a ticket from this year’s biggest movies and shows for Halloween costume inspiration. From blasts from the past,“Hocus Pocus” to the new Georgia-centric “Stranger Things,” what you love to watch makes for a great outfit.

n “Top Gun: Maverick:” Pick up a jumpsuit and some aviators to replicate the Navy pilots.

n Dress up as Thor, Doctor Strange or She-Hulk to celebrate the latest hits of the expanding Marvel universe. Or look to the future with a Black Panther costume in honor of “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” premiering on November 11.

n Excited for the “Hocus Pocus” sequel and have three daughters? Dress them as the Sanderson sisters for a spooky good time.

n Travel to the Upside Down as one of the heroic friends from “Stranger Things,” or make it creepy by buying a Demogorgon costume.

n What side are you on? With this year’s release of “Obi-Wan Kenobi,” choose the light or dark side of the force.

n Return to the terrifying world of dinosaurs with “Jurassic World: Dominion” by dressing as one of the famous scientists or dangerous dinosaurs. Vary the roles, so everyone in the family has a different part to play.

n Although “Encanto” was a 2021 release, the movie came out after Halloween, meaning no one in your family got to show their appreciation for the Madrigal family – now’s your chance!

We’veWebbgot some creative ideas to inspire your costume choices this Halloween. And, if you want to keep it classic, we have some easy DIY costume suggestions.

Make It a Family Affair

Cute costumes are easy when the whole family dresses up! Take your inspiration from famous families, games, TV shows or movies to make sure everyone in your family has a role that suits them best.

n Solve mysteries when you dress up as the Scooby-Doo Gang. Bonus points if you can get your cute dog to dress as Scooby!

n Travel somewhere over the rainbow with “Wizard of Oz” costumes. The withdedicatedwizardofozcostumes.com,website,istothebelovedmovieoutfitsforadultsandkids.

n Whodunit?! Clue is a classic with six different suspects to choose from. Dress as Professor Plum, Colonel Mustard or Miss Scarlet, and use the possible weapons as props.

Where to Shop

n halloweencostumes.com

n zulily.com

n shopdisney.com

n Spirit Halloween. Multiple metro Atlanta locations. spirithalloween.com

n PartyCity. Multiple metro Atlanta locations. partycity.com

n America’s Thrift Store. 2949 Canton Rd., Marietta. americasthrift.com

n Goodwill. Multiple metro Atlanta locations. goodwill.org

n Need an adaptive costume? Check out Disney (shopdisney.com) and Target’s (target.com) lines.

n It’s a super sweet time with Candy Landinspired looks. Plus, you can DIY them for a fun pre-Halloween project!

n Go over-the-top as the Rose family from “Schitt’s Creek,” keep it classic with “The Flintstones,” be heroic with “The Incredibles,” or make it creepy and kooky with “The Addams Family.” target.com shopdisney.com

Suspecting Dyslexia:

What are the Next Steps?

by Emily Webb

Is your child having a hard time sequencing directions or parts of a story? Have you noticed he is having trouble learning letter names or their sounds? Is she confusing letters that look or sound similar? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you should consider that your child might be dyslexic.

So, what do you do now? The good news is that there is a clear roadmap for families – the first thing to do is get tested. Once you have a diagnosis, which also provides in-depth knowledge about how your child learns, what differences he may have, and an understanding of his overall level of intelligence, it will be easier for you to find the right school environment and become an advocate for your child.

GET TESTED

In 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic caused schools to turn to virtual education, Jen Schreckengost’s family formed a learning pod. Her daughter, Gia, was in second grade, and Schreckengost was able to witness how she was learning. “I had the opportunity to see her in that setting and compare her to her peers,” she says. “I suspected dyslexia, and it prompted me to get her tested.”

They went to a psychologist who tested Gia. “We met with the psychologist to get the results, and from explaining it, I knew the path of the diagnosis we were heading down was going to be dyslexia,” she says. “It was a silver lining of the pandemic that we could get her Inhelp.”order to receive a diagnosis, your child must be tested. Tests for dyslexia look at different skills related to reading, such as phonological awareness, decoding, reading fluency, comprehension and naming. If the testing shows dyslexia, your child may be eligible for services or accommodations.

Signs of Dyslexia

Dyslexia can cause trouble with spelling, speaking and writing, not just reading. Signs of dyslexia may manifest differently depending on a child’s age.

In preschool:

n Mispronouncing words

n Struggling to name familiar objects and using general words, like thing and stuff

n Having a hard time learning nursery rhymes or song lyrics

n Having trouble remembering sequences

n Telling stories that are hard to follow or having trouble talking about an event in a logical order

n Having difficulty remembering and following directions with multiple steps

In grades K-2:

n Having trouble learning letter names and remembering the sounds they make

n Confusing letters that look similar or sound similar

n Struggling to read familiar pictures, especially if there aren’t pictures

n Substituting words when reading aloud

n Having trouble separating the individual sounds in words and blending sounds to make a word

n Having trouble remembering how words are spelled and applying spelling rules in writing

In grades 3-5:

n Confusing or skipping small words, like “for” and “of,” when reading aloud

n Having trouble sounding out new words

n Having trouble quickly recognizing common or sight words

n Struggling to explain what happened in a story or answer questions about key details

n Frequently making the same kinds of mistakes, like reversing letters

n Having poor spelling, like spelling the same word correctly and incorrectly in the same exercise

n Avoid reading whenever possible or getting frustrated or upset when reading

If you or your child’s teacher suspect dyslexia, your first step in understanding may be a Google search. While an online screening tool or checklist may reveal if your child has the characteristics of dyslexia, it is not an official diagnosis.

Source: understood.org

Serving Students with Dyslexia

Dr. Leslie Stuart runs a private practice in Atlanta, where she performs psychological evaluations, which includes testing for dyslexia. “It’s a comprehensive test battery. It’s as important to rule out problems as it is to diagnose,” she says. Dyslexia often has a comorbidity with other conditions, so Stuart tests for additional learning differences, attentional issues and IQ as well.

Some insurance policies can cover testing, or you may be able to obtain out-of-network benefits. These evaluations may be tax deductible as a medical expense, or HSA and FSA accounts may be able to help pay for expenses. Research and ask questions to find the right psychologist for your family.

ADVOCATE FOR YOUR CHILD

Unfortunately, it may be difficult to find supports and services, as some parents have found. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. What has your child’s teacher noticed? Does your pediatrician have a recommendation for a psychologist?

As a teacher, Robin Daugherty was at a professional development workshop with Brenda Fitzgerald, a curriculum specialist who is currently the Executive Director for Georgia Educational Training Agency. “They don’t teach you about dyslexia in teacher training,” she says. “Brenda said, ‘I’m going to describe a child, and I want you to think of your classroom.’ As she spoke, I started crying, and she said, ‘You just thought of a student in your class.’ But I said, ‘No, you just described my son.’”

At the time, Daugherty’s son, Eli, was in the second grade. Although there was a family history of dyslexia, she didn’t realize the connection until that meeting.

An effective evaluation develops a focused remedial program and provides documentation to help the child’s eligibility for special services. At a feedback session with parents, Stuart goes over the test results. “I describe laying out the road map. What do we do now – specialized tutoring, strategies for the classroom, a specialized school?” she says. “It’s a detailed written report with test results and recommendations. Testing is a way to take a deep dive into a child’s whole learning profile to lay out road map.” Cont’d on next page

A unique

SuspectingDyslexia

Despite getting a diagnosis from a psychologist quickly, Daugherty struggled to get the public school her son was attending to accept the diagnosis. To receive services, the school psychologist had to do testing, but because he wasn’t failing, he couldn’t get services. She created an agreement with his school to check him out early two days a week to attend tutoring, so he could learn to read and write.

In kindergarten, Eli had an IEP for speech, but the plan didn’t follow him. Daugherty didn’t learn about 504 plans until one of his fourth-grade teachers mentioned them. From then on, his schooling included a 504 plan.

In order to receive support for her daughter, Brittany Wheelus had to consult a special education attorney who helped them navigate the sometimes complicated public school support services system. Wheelus’ daughter now has an IEP that includes 45 minutes every day of the Wilson Reading Program.Forother parents, Wheelus recommends knowing as much as you can about dyslexia. “Once you have a diagnosis, research all you can on what dyslexia is and how to accommodate your child’s academic needs. You will be able to be your child’s best advocate when you are well informed. Nobody will fight for them like you will. Many teachers have good intentions, but if they don’t have all the information on the best way to teach dyslexic students, they won’t be able to teach them well. Be the person that provides teachers and administrators with all the information they need and point them in the right direction, so they can find more resources to help them support all students.”

Make sure your child also knows they are not alone or weird for learning differently. “There’s a lot of tremendous resources out there,” Schreckengost says. “It’s helpful to get them the help they need sooner rather than later. Their confidence can take a hit, and sometimes, that can be harder to rebound from than education. They’re going to be okay, and they’re going to thrive.”

You will be able to be your child’s best advocate when you are well informed. Nobody will fight for them like you will.

SCREENING DYSLEXIA IN GEORGIA PUBLIC SCHOOLS:

An Introduction to Senate Bill 48

Public school systems in Georgia are working to help more students with dyslexia with the upcoming implementation of Senate Bill 48, which requires all Georgia elementary schools to screen every kindergartener for dyslexia. Pilot programs started in the 2020-21 school year.

“SB 48 requires the State Board of Education, State Superintendent, Georgia Department of Education and Georgia Professional Standards Commission to develop policies for referring certain elementary students for dyslexia screening, create a dyslexia informational handbook to assist school districts, provide professional development opportunities on dyslexia for teachers, create a dyslexia endorsement for teachers and add instruction on dyslexia and response to intervention to existing standards for teacher preparation programs,” explains Jennifer Lindstrom, the Statewide Dyslexia Coordinator.Beginning in 2024-25, local school systems will begin screening all kindergarten students and certain students in grades 1-3 for characteristics of dyslexia. “Universal screening for dyslexia risk is designed to reliably indicate each student’s unique risk for experiencing later difficulties with accuracy and/or fluency in word reading,” Lindstrom says.

Cont’d on next page

SuspectingDyslexia

Seven districts have a pilot program: Charlton County School District, City Schools of Decatur, DeKalb County School District, Jackson County School District, Marietta City Schools, Muscogee County School District and Ware County School District. Districts are able to determine their own goals and implementation strategies.

“Prior to the pilot, we did not have any formal process for identifying dyslexia,” says Chelsea Bargallo, the District Administrator in the Office of Academic Achievement at Marietta City Schools. “Internal multi-tiered systems of support would identify any person at risk in reading, math or behavior, and it was supposed that a student with dyslexia would manifest in one of those areas. As we learned more about dyslexia, we found that a lot of times, those students are successful early on and can be missed. Early intervention helps, and we need to expedite that process to identify students

Beforeearly.”implementing the pilot program, Marietta City Schools talked to industry professionals. “As a district, everyone went through a very intensive training in the science of reading strategies from the top-down,” Bargallo says. “We do a lot of research and work ourselves for what we’re looking for and what’s best for kids to ensure our students are getting the best intervention and support.”

Before the pilot program, students at the City Schools of Decatur were assessed with a normal battery of universal screeners. “Specific dyslexia screening did not happen the way it does now, which created the issue of under-identifying students with dyslexia,” says superintendent Dr. Maggie Fehrman. “These students often are not easy to identify, even by experienced teachers, until they are older and their inability to read more advanced texts becomes evident.”

A common misconception with the 48implementationupcomingofSBisthatit’lldiagnosedyslexia.Studentswillstillhavetogotoaprivatepsychologistforadiagnosis.

SPECIALIZED EDUCATION IN METRO ATLANTA

Full Immersion Dyslexia Schools:

n Atlanta Speech School’s Wardlaw School

n GRACEPOINT School

n Sage School

n The Swift School

n The Schenck School

n Brookwood Christian School Schools Specializing in Learning Differences, Including Dyslexia:

n The Bedford School

n The Cottage School

n Mill Springs Academy

n The Howard School

“Schools Within a School” – Schools with Dyslexia Support Programs:

n Mt. Paran Christian School

n The Walker School

n St. Martin’s Episcopal School

As established by the bill, CSD’s pilot program consists of infrastructure created to collaborate across literacy, multi-tiered system of supports, equity and student support; universal screening for all students in grades kindergarten through third; designing and implementing intervention based on student needs; monitoring their growth; making decisions based on data and reporting pilot data to the GaDOE.

A common misconception with the upcoming implementation of SB 48 is that it’ll diagnose dyslexia. “The purpose of the pilot is to identify students who have characteristics of dyslexia,” Bargallo says. “Students will still have to go to a private psychologist for a diagnosis.”

Bargallo is excited about SB 48. “I believe it will bring equity to students across the state,” she says. “Traditionally, this is an area where parents with means can help their child through private services or specialized schools. This will allow us to identify more students and do more to help them and have students graduating at greater rates.”

For more information, you can find a four-part video series explaining dyslexia, services offered under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and structured literacy at gadoe.org.

2022-23 Guide to Private School Admissions and Tours

Be sure to check websites for the most up-to-date registration information. Many schools also offer virtual tour options.

n Annunciation Day School

2500404-565-2850annunciationdayschool.orgClairmontRd.,Atlanta 30329

Preschool-Grade 8

Open House: Nov. 6, 2-4 p.m. Call or register online for a tour.

n Athens Academy 1281706-549-9225athensacademy.orgSpartanLn.,Athens 30606

K3-Grade 12

Open House: Preschool (K3-1st grade), Nov. 9 Call to schedule a tour.

n Atlanta Academy 2000678-461-6102atlantaacademy.comHolcombWoods Pkwy., Roswell RegisterPreK-Grade300768online for a tour.

n Atlanta International School 2890404-841-3840aischool.orgNorthFulton Dr., Atlanta 30305

K3-Grade 12

Weekly Tours: 3K-4K, K, alternate Weds.; Grades 1-5, Tues.; Grades 6-12, Thurs.

Information Sessions: Grades 1-5, Oct. 11, Nov. 8; Grades 6-12, Oct. 13, Nov. 17 Register online.

n Atlanta Speech School 3160404-233-5332atlantaspeechschool.orgNorthsidePkwy.NW, Atlanta 30327

Preschool-Grade 6 Register online to schedule a tour of Wardlaw School, Katherine Hamm Center or Stepping Stones.

n Brookwood Christian School CallGrades4728678-401-5855brookwoodchristian.comWoodSt.,Acworth301011-12toscheduleatour.

n Capstone Academy 1934404-458-5160capstoneacademy.comCliffValleyWay,Atlanta 30329

Grades Register5-12online for a tour.

n The Cottage School 700770-641-8688cottageschool.orgGrimesBridge Rd., Roswell 30075 Grades Register3-12online for a tour.

n The Davis Academy 8105770-671-0085davisacademy.organd7901Roberts Dr., Atlanta 30350

PreK-Grade 8 Register online for a tour.

n The Galloway School 215404-252-8389gallowayschool.orgChastainParkAve. NW, Atlanta 30342

PK3-Grade 12 Community Connections: Nov. 8 Register online.

n GRACEPOINT School 570678-756-8897gracepointschool.orgPiedmontRd.,Marietta 30066

Grades 1-8 Call to schedule a tour.

n High Meadows School 1055770-993-2940highmeadows.orgWilleoRd.,Roswell 30075

PreK-Grade 8

Open House: Nov. 13, 2-4 p.m. Tours available weekly; register online.

n Holy EpiscopalInnocents’School

805404-255-4026hies.orgMountVernon Hwy. NW, Atlanta RegisterPK3-Grade3032712online for an open house or tour.

n Holy PreparatorySpirit School

4465Preschool:678-761-7992holyspiritprep.orgNorthsideDr., Atlanta 30327

Lower/Middle School: 4820 Long Island Dr., Atlanta 30342

Upper School: 4449 Northside Dr., Atlanta 30327

Preschool-Grade 12 Tours available daily; register online.

n Intown Community School

2059404-633-8081intownschool.orgLavistaRd., Atlanta 30329

K-Grade 8

Open House: Nov. 3, 6:30 p.m. Call or register online for an open house or tour.

n The Lovett School 4075404-262-3022lovett.orgPacesFerry Rd. NW, Atlanta RegisterNov.RoamK-Grade3032712theRiverbank:13,noon-3p.m.online.

n McGinnis Woods School

5380770-664-7764mcginniswoods.orgFaircroftDr.,Alpharetta 30005

PreK3-Grade 8 Register online for a tour.

Cont’d

2022-23 Guide to Private School Admissions and Tours

n Mill Springs Academy 13660770-360-1336millsprings.orgNewProvidence Rd., Alpharetta 30004

K-Grade 12

Open Houses: Oct. 12, Nov. 9, 9:30 a.m. Register online.

n Mount Paran Christian School 1275678-359-6104mtparanschool.comStanleyRd.NW, Kennesaw 30152

PreK3-Grade 12

Tuesday Tours, 9 a.m. Preschool Peek: Nov. 14 Register online.

n The Mount Vernon School 471PreK-Grade404-252-3448mountvernonschool.org12and510MountVernon Hwy. NE, Atlanta 30328

Open Houses: Preschool, Nov. 3 Lower School, Oct. 4, Nov. 17 Middle School, Oct. 20, Nov. 10 Upper School, Oct. 13, Nov. 15 Register online.

n North Cobb Christian School 4500770-975-0252ncchristian.orgEagleDr., Kennesaw 30144

PK3-Grade 12

Preview Day: Nov. 5, 9:30-11 a.m. Register online for a Preview Day or tour.

n Pace Academy 966404-262-1345paceacademy.orgWestPacesFerry Rd., Atlanta 30327

PreK-Grade 12 Tours available Oct.-Dec. Register online.

n Sage School 800678-318-3588sageschool.netSatelliteBlvd. NE, Suwanee 30024

K-Grade 6 Register online for a tour.

n The Schenck School 282404-252-2591schenck.orgMt.Paran Rd. NW, Atlanta 30327

K-Grade 6. Register online for a tour.

n The Spanish Academy

PreK-K.Four770-751-3646thespanishacademy.commetroAtlantalocationsRegisteronlinefora tour.

n Springmont School 5750404-252-3910springmont.comLongIsland Dr. NW, Atlanta 30327

18 Months-Grade 8 Register online for an open house or tour.

n St. EpiscopalMartin’sSchool 3110-A404-228-0709stmartinschool.orgAshfordDunwoody Rd., Atlanta 30319

Infant-Grade 8 Open House: Early childhood-8th, Nov. 6, 1-3 p.m. Register online.

n Swift School 300678-205-4988theswiftschool.orgGrimesBridge Rd., Roswell 30076 Grades Register1-8for an appointment online.

n Trinity School 4301404-231-8118trinityatl.orgNorthside Pkwy., Atlanta 30327

3 Years-Grade 6

Open Houses: Oct. 19 and 26, Nov. 10, 9:30- 11 a.m. Register online.

n The Walker School 700770-427-2689thewalkerschool.orgCobbPkwy.North, Marietta 30062

PreK3-Grade 12

Call or register online for a tour.

n Wesleyan School

K-4K-GradePeachtree5405770-448-7640wesleyanschool.orgSpaldingDr.,Corners3009212Shadowing:Nov.3,9:45 a.m.

Parent Preview (grades 5-12): Nov. 8, 9:45 a.m. Register online.

n Westminster 1424404-355-8673westminster.netW.PacesFerry Rd. NW, Atlanta Pre-First-Grade30327 12

Wildcat Experience: Nov. 12, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Register online.

n Whitefield Academy 1678-305-3000whitefieldacademy.comWhitefieldDr.,Smyrna 30126

PreK-Grade 12

Student Visit Day (Lower School): Nov. 12, 10 a.m.-noon Tours available Oct.-Jan. Register online.

n Wood Acres School

CallPreschool-GradeMarietta1772770-971-1880woodacresschool.orgJohnsonFerryRd.,300628orregisteronlinefor a tour.

n Woodward Academy

ToursCollege1662PreK-Grade404-765-4000woodward.edu12RugbyAve.,Park30337availableweekly. Register online.

n Woodward Academy North Campus

Tours6565PreK-Grade404-765-4490woodward.edu/woodward-north6BolesRd.,JohnsCreek30097availableweekly.Registeronline.

Centered in Christ, Children & Community

Annunciation Day School (ADS) serves a diverse community of students in Preschool through 8th grade. Their mission is to provide an education grounded in respect, compassion and academic excellence within an Orthodox Christian environment. Teachers are highly trained; 70% of faculty hold a master’s degree or higher and participate in professional development throughout the year. The core curriculum is supplemented with enrichment classes in art, music, P.E., Greek, Spanish, and Religion. Morning and after school activities include STEM/robotics, ballet/dance, chess, and competitive sports in soccer, basketball & volleyball in the MAAC league. The 16:1 student to teacher ratio offers one-on-one learning time and provides opportunities for students to become confident and successful learners. ADS is conveniently located near Emory and the CDC. Register for their Open House and become part of their school family, celebrating 20 years of academic excellence.

2500 Clairmont Rd., Atlanta 30329 404-565-2850 | annunciationdayschool.org

Instilling Confidence and Character

Atlanta Academy, located in Roswell, serves 385 private preschool-8th grade students in North Fulton. Small classes allow teachers to understand students’ individual strengths and help them discover their unique talents. The nurturing culture fosters good character in students alongside academic success, well-being and happiness – a belief in educating the whole child results in students experiencing excitement and joy in the classroom.

The forward-thinking curriculum focuses on building confidence and skills while providing students with various opportunities to succeed at prestigious private high schools and top-ranking public

High-performingschools.student

achievement is nurtured in a nondenominational, family-engaged atmosphere. Teachers model and instill values such as empathy, integrity, resiliency, and honesty. Together, all are fully invested in helping children grow into welleducated, independent problem-solvers prepared to excel in high school and beyond.

2000 Holcomb Woods Pkwy., Roswell 30076 678-461-6102 atlantaacademy.com

A World-Class Education

Atlanta International School (AIS) offers the esteemed International Baccalaureate (IB) program to all 1,300+ students, from three-year-old Kindergarten through to Grade 12. Families come from the Atlanta area, the wider US and countries all over the world. Rigorous academics are enriched by a world-class language acquisition program, which begins with full immersion in French, German, Chinese and Spanish at Preschool and continues with dual (French, German and Spanish) and partial (Chinese) immersion from 5K to Grade 5. The Middle Years Program offers choice and agency for students. For High School students, AIS offers STEM/STEAM-endorsed and bilingual diplomas, and the prestigious IB diploma.

Beyond the classroom, AIS students participate in award-winning performing and arts opportunities, competitive athletics, and global experiential learning.

Grades K3-12 2890 North Fulton Drive, Atlanta aischool.org | 404-841-3840

Life-balance, family-time and strong academics matters here.

Capstone Academy is a private school serving grades 5-12 with an innovative, successful model changing young lives since 2008. College-prep academics are at the honors level and above in high school and advanced levels in the middle grades. Capstone is a school whose structure works best for students who desire the camaraderie of a classroom setting but require a flexible schedule to pursue outside interests and quality family time. This is accomplished without sacrificing learning and eliminates the wasted time and stress of a traditional school schedule. The core belief at Capstone Academy is that students who are balanced and understand their own power, can explore their education, and pursue their passions with authenticity. To schedule a tour please visit capstoneacademy.com or call 404-458-5160.

Grades 5-12 1934 Cliff Valley Way, Atlanta 30329 capstoneacademy.com404-458-5160

Achievement, Social Skills and Emotional Wellness

The Cottage School (TCS) is a 501c3 non-profit school with small class sizes, and work-based model for students grades 4-12 with mild to moderate learning differences. For 38 years, The Cottage School has focused on the three pillars of success; academic achievement, social skills and emotional wellness. The unique business-based model guides students to advocate for themselves, build self-confidence, and develop leadership skills while learning to appreciate their own strengths. By encouraging a variety of team sports such as soccer, volleyball, basketball and track, students are introduced to the fundamental life skills of teamwork and respect. The beautiful 23 acre campus with outdoor learning spaces and trails, inspires the students to spend time outside in discovery. The Cottage School – developing confident, independent and productive adults. For more information or campus tour please visit: cottageschool.org.

Be Amazed by the Davis Experience

From Kindergarten Prep - Eighth Grade, The Davis Academy teaches to the whole child, creating compassionate leaders and equipping them with skills they will use for the entirety of their academic careers and beyond. They teach life skills, instill Jewish values, and provide diverse experiences so that their students become well-rounded and self-confident individuals. Students learn amongst a warm and supportive community that shares common values and visions. They celebrate both the ways their diversity makes the school vibrant and the individual differences that make the school community so unique.

With a retention rate of 97%, The Davis Academy community is comprised of families from across the globe, nation, and 31 metro Atlanta zip codes. Davis graduates attend the most prestigious public and private high schools in Atlanta, they know who they are and continuously make a difference in their communities and the world.

Grades Kindergarten Prep-8 8105 Roberts Drive, Atlanta 30350 770-671-0085 | davisacademy.org

Our solution is simple … we simply teach differently!

Schedule your tour today to learn more about what makes us different.

High Expectations. Low Anxiety.

Located in historic Chastain Park, The Galloway School is a community where learning is joyful, individuals are valued, and self-discovery is encouraged. Galloway students in Pre-K3 - 12th grade confidently embrace challenges while developing the knowledge, skills, and cultural competence to thrive as enlightened contributors in their chosen pathways.

Galloway provides students with an innovative symbiotic learning experience that defies traditional, transactional learning. For over 50 years, they have been committed to providing a rigorous program that fosters creativity, collaboration, and cultural competency. The philosophy of engaged and experiential learning encourages students to be ever curious about the world around them and to develop a critical mind.

With an environment that both challenges and supports the students, Galloway encourages each student to grow at their own pace while developing a sense of personal agency.

Grades PreK3-12

215 Chastain Park Ave. NW, Atlanta 30342 404-252-8389 | gallowayschool.org

Bringing out the Brilliance

GRACEPOINT, a private, Christian school, proudly celebrates ten years of equipping dyslexic students in grades 1-8 with the skills needed to become independent, confident learners. Since opening its doors in 2012 with four students, GRACEPOINT has restored hope to over 230 dyslexic learners by identifying its students’ strengths while remediating their academic weaknesses.

GRACEPOINT understands that dyslexia is not a disability but a learning difference viewing dyslexia as a gift to embrace and celebrate. The teaching style meets academic and spiritual needs while bringing out their students’ God-glorifying brilliance.

As an accredited program through the Academy of Orton Gillingham Practitioners and Educators, GRACEPOINT provides an explicit, systematic, and multisensory approach to learning woven into all subject areas. Once remediated, students transition to traditional public and private schools.

To further meet the immense need for specialized education for dyslexic learners in our community, GRACEPOINT will relocate to a larger facility located at 1407 Cobb Parkway in the Fall of 2023.

Grades 1-8 570 Piedmont Rd., Marietta 30066 678-709-6634 | gracepointschool.org

This is The 805

Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School is one of the nation’s largest Episcopal schools, enrolling 1,365 students in grades PK3-12. Here, in a uniquely vibrant learning community, filled with encouragement and every imaginable opportunity, students are able to pursue their passions and are challenged to reach their full potential.

HIES offers an educational program encompassing academics, arts, athletics and spiritual formation. Through opportunities to grow intellectually, spiritually, physically and emotionally, students develop their individual worth and dignity. The challenging academic program prepares students for higher education and emphasizes learning as a pathway toward ethical leadership and a commitment to the commonSchedulegood.your

visit to HIES today, and discover why they proudly say, “This is The 805!”

Grades PK3-12

805 Mount Vernon Highway NW Atlanta 404-255-402630327| hies.org

Focusing on the Future

Holy Spirit Preparatory School is a nationally recognized, award-winning independent Catholic school serving children 6 months old -12th grade by providing a classical, Catholic, and complete education with a focus on forming their students in virtue.

Faith is at the core of every part of the school. A classical curriculum based on grammar, logic, and rhetoric, along with a classical approach which provides academic excellence with a moral framework is offered. The curriculum encourages students to pursue the why, how and who of ideas and decisions in addition to the what, and helps develop young people who are empowered to enrich their lives and the lives of others.

Smaller class sizes allow for more individualized attention from teachers, and students develop more authentic relationships with their peers. The opportunities to participate in multiple extracurricular activities are not only available, but are encouraged.

Holy Innocents’ Episcopal PK3-12 - hies.org

6 months old-Grade 12 4820 Long Island Dr., Atlanta 30342 Northside Dr., Atlanta 30327 678-761-7992 holyspiritprep.org

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SPOTLIGHTUpCloseandPersonalONPRIVATESCHOOLS

Discover your Place at Lovett

Founded in 1926, The Lovett School is an independent, coeducational day school in Atlanta for children in kindergarten through 12th grade. At Lovett, students find joy and purpose in learning by doing. Guided by the distinctive approach to whole child education, Lovett faculty immerse students in intellectually rigorous, hands-on learning environments that spark character development, individual passions, and social awareness. By design, students are offered experiences that deepen their cognitive, emotional, and social skills while inspiring an enduring enthusiasm for learning.

Lovett’s rigorous academic offerings are complemented by dynamic arts offerings taught by working artists, a competitive athletics program fielding 65 teams in 16 sports, and purposeful civic engagement opportunities to foster responsible global citizens. With a student body composed of 1,640 students from more than 70 different zip codes, Lovett is a community of belonging that develops students of honor, faith, and wisdom with the character and intellect to thrive in learning and in life.

Faith and Intellect Grow as One

Mount Paran Christian School exists to provide a stellar academic experience in a Christian environment. It’s crucial to guarantee a moral and faith foundation through everything your child learns at school. Through curricular Bible classes, weekly chapel, discipleship groups, and service, faith becomes integrated into who they are. Within small class sizes, MPCS offers 56 AP/ honors courses, instructional support, robotics, Spanish and STEAM starting in PK3, and a 1:1 device program. MPCS prepares servant-leaders – in the classroom, on the ball field, on the stage, and ultimately in the community.

MPCS is committed to excellence in academics, awardwinning arts, and championship athletics. Founded in 1976, MPCS is fully accredited (SAIS/Cognia) and located in the shadow of Kennesaw Mountain on a 68-acre collegiate-like campus. MPCS unites with home and church to prepare servant-leaders to honor God, love others, and walk in Truth.

Preschool-Grade 12 1275 Stanley Rd. NW, Kennesaw 30152 770-578-0182 | mtparanschool.com

Innovating Impact

The Mount Vernon School empowers students to discover, explore, learn, design, create and effect change.Building

on a foundation of core educational methodologies, an Inquiry-based learning approach is paired with a design thinking process to guide students to be solution seekers and problem solvers through work that directly applies to an actual challenge.

As a co-educational day school for more than 1,230 students in Preschool through Grade 12, Mount Vernon is a destination for students who want to design a better world.

The ideas Mount Vernon students have today will change the world and impact tomorrow.

Grades PK2-12

471 Mt. Vernon Hwy. NE, Atlanta mountvernonschool.org404-252-3448

NCCS Protects What Matters Most

At North Cobb Christian School, children are free to be children. With a curriculum grounded in biblical truth and programs that foster authentic discipleship, students glean an identity firmly rooted in Christ. Four full-time school counselors, a peer-mentoring program, weekly chapel, daily Bible class, and faculty-led discipleship groups provide students with a scaffolding of spiritual and social support.

Plus, North Cobb Christian School is immensely proud to be the first school in the nation to earn Guardian SafeSchool® certification, which requires a best-practice approach to managing safety and security in schools, while reinforcing a positive, collaborative school culture.

At NCCS, it is known that when students are safe and supported, they’re free to become all God created them to be.

Grades K3-12

4500 Eagle Dr., Kennesaw 770-975-0252 | ncchristian.org

Atlanta’s First Montessori School

As the oldest Montessori school in the Southeast, Springmont offers students 18 months through Middle school an authentic Montessori education. Individualized, hands-on learning is balanced with social/emotional well-being, inspiring the diverse and inclusive community of learners to become creative, independent, and globally minded.Multi-aged classes and specially designed materials are complemented by highly experienced and caring teachers who guide students’ curiosity towards meaningful, collaborative discoveries. Large, light-filled classrooms and a beautiful campus with natural areas, class gardens, and farm animals afford rich outdoor experiences.

Springmont’s Middle School prepares students for success in Atlanta’s premier high schools and life beyond academics. Opportunities to hone time-management skills, experience active leadership roles, and work both independently and in diverse groups allow students to become engaged learners. Springmont School –Extraordinary by Design.

Love. Challenge. Lead. Change.

Westminster is a coeducational Christian, independent school serving bright and motivated students, who are curious by nature and nurtured by challenge. The School was founded in 1951 to develop leaders of conscience who will be a positive force in the world. With an enrollment of 1,900 students in grades Pre-First through 12, Westminster fulfills its mission through a curriculum that engages children across the key dimensions of their growth –academic, physical, and spiritual.

The School’s extensive curricular offerings are complemented by unique civic engagement projects; a dynamic arts program including music, visual arts, and drama; a nationally recognized athletic program with more than 84 teams; and interdisciplinary global programs. Students are encouraged to deeply investigate and explore their passions under the guidance of gifted faculty members. 1424 West Paces Ferry Road NW, Atlanta 30327 | 404-355-8673

Tomorrow calls for a new kind of leader.

SPOTLIGHT ON PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Instilling a Passion for Learning

At Whitefield Academy, students grow intellectually, spiritually, emotionally, and physically. From PreK to 12th grade, students take chances, dig deep, and pursue excellence in all areas because they are known, challenged, andWhitefieldloved. Academy’s college preparatory education is built on Christ-centered values and beliefs, enabling students to succeed in both college and life. Whitefield teachers engage deeply with their students in the pursuit of knowledge and Truth with shared experiences, grace, and accountability.Togetherwith families, teachers, and classmates, students are inspired to find ways to serve the community and around the world.

Grades PreK-12

1 Whitefield Dr SE, Smyrna 30126 678-305-3000 | whitefieldacademy.com

Shared Purpose

With renowned college-preparatory academics and a community defined by its geographic, racial, spiritual, economic, and cognitive diversity, Woodward Academy is Atlanta at its best. From pre-K through 12th grade, Woodward is a place where your child can study Gauguin and golf, Copernicus and coding, rhetoric and robotics – all in one day.

With 2,500 students across two campuses spanning 133-acres, complemented by the intimacy of a 6:1 student-teacher ratio, Woodward offers the vast resources and opportunities of a college or university coupled with the intimacy and attention of home. Students learn how to think about and engage in the world outside of themselves, making a commitment to do their best, and gaining the confidence to make a difference. This shared purpose is something called The Woodward Way.

A typical Woodward Academy graduating class attends more than 100 different colleges and universities, devotes 5,000 hours to community service, and earns more than $15 million in scholarship awards. Learn more at woodward.edu.

Grades Pre-K-12

College Park & Johns Creek 404-765-4000 | woodward.edu

Tips for School Tours and Open Houses

If you’re considering a private school, connecting with the school’s students and professionals by attending a school tour or an open house are wonderful ways to see if the school is the right fit for your child. Many metro Atlanta schools offer private tours, virtual tours, live video conferences, phone meetings and smaller open houses.

n Start by doing your research. Narrow down the options until you have a short list of schools that seem the best for your child by looking at websites, FAQs, pre-recorded videos and social media pages.

n Create a list of questions you plan to ask each school. What questions do you or your child have that you can’t find answers to on the website? Responses can help you narrow down or rank the school options that you’re interested in.

n Schools may have different options that you can register to attend, with each session being important for different reasons. Pay attention to the options offered, so you can decide what makes the most sense for you to attend. Signing up for a phone conference may be a better fit before registering for a campus tour, if you decide your family is still interested in the school.

n At a tour, expect to tour the school, learn more about the community, talk to school professionals, and ask questions.

n At an open house, expect to hear words of welcome from administrators and a plug from the PTA. Schools usually include a brief school history, an educational philosophy, a mission statement and a list of extracurricular activities or clubs. This overview period is a good time for parents to ask about the bus schedule, school lunches, physical education requirements, dress code and more.

n After the school session, look at SAT scores, attendance records and gradepoint averages. Follow up with phone calls and emails if you have questions.

n If it’s not part of the tour, schedule a time to observe a class in session. This will give you a good idea of the teaching style and classroom setting. Are the desks arranged in groups or in rows facing the teacher? What materials does the classroom have for the students? Are the students enthusiastic about learning?

n Talk to other parents about the school. Most parents are happy to share their thoughts.

n Some schools offer programs that allow you and your child to learn more from a student’s perspective. If not, ask administrators if they can connect your child with a student at the school.

n Look at the big picture. You may be hoping to stay with the system through high school, so research graduation and college placement rates. This information is usually found on the school’s website.

Emily Webb and Alexi Wilbourn

An Introduction to IB LEARNING

Metro Atlanta boasts a variety of educational options for families, allowing you to choose the right fit based on your child’s learning style, where you live, academic priorities, and finances. knowledge.othersrisks,allowsprivate.state,schoolsthatanBaccalaureateInternational(IB)iseducationalprogramisofferedin98acrossthebothpublicandThecurriculumchildrentotakecollaboratewithandacquiredeep

IB learning began in 1968 in Switzerland, and the focus cultivates students who own their learning. Children have a say in what they learn and how they learn it. They also explore how the subject applies to their lives now and how it relates to history and the globe. IB programs empower students to be curious, open-minded and reflective. If IB sounds like a good fit for your family, you can learn more and find the list of schools in Georgia at ibo.org.

THE 411 ON IB International Baccalaureate programs vary from school to school but are all built on the same core elements. Here is a quick look at some of the elements of IB.

n Four stages of IB learning: Primary Years Programme (PYP): Ages 3-11; Middle Years Programme (MYP): Ages 11-16; Diploma Programme (DP): Ages 16-19; Careerrelated Programme (CP): Ages 16-19 with a focus on career-specific learning

n IB can be taught in English, French or Spanish.

n Each Program of Inquiry (POI) and Unit of Inquiry (UOI) IB students tackle are examined through a transdisciplinary model. For example, if students are exploring the concept of animal habitats, they would gain information from books, create models of various habitats, and discuss how the world around the animals effects culture.

FIVE IBELEMENTSESSENTIALOFLEARNING

Concepts

What ideas do students want to explore?

Knowledge

What specific information are students trying to collect and understand?

Skills

What do students need to able to be successful?

Attitudes

What values and beliefs do students have toward what they are learning?

Action

What behaviors do students have and how are they modeled by teachers and peers?

SPOTLIGHT ON

International Baccalaureate Schools

Atlanta International School

Grades K3-12

2890 North Fulton Drive, Atlanta aischool.org | 404-841-3840

Atlanta International School (AIS) is one of the few schools in the United States to offer Primary, Middle and Diploma level International Baccalaureate (IB) programs to all of their 1,325 students – from 3K to Grade 12. The IB curriculum is not reserved for an elite few of these globally minded individuals, it is for the entireAlongsidecommunity.adiverse and inclusive community, the world-class language acquisition IB programs are taught in Chinese, English, French, German andAIS,Spanish.setin its beautiful historic campus, attracts best-in-class teaching talent from around the Theworld.school offers an impressive 53 subject choices at Diploma Program level, over 80 CAS (Community Action and Service) choices as well as bilingual and STEAM-endorsed IB Diplomas. About half of the families at AIS are from the US, but together some 90 nationalities are represented, with over 60 languages spoken.

High Meadows School

High Meadows School, founded in 1973, became an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School in 2007. The cross-disciplinary curricular framework of the IB model allows High Meadows students to learn about the interconnectedness across traditional subject areas while encouraging them to take action with their knowledge through projects, advocacy and service. The PYP places a powerful emphasis on inquiry which makes it a perfect companion to the school model.

Age 3 - 8th Grade

1055 Willeo Road, Roswell 30075 highmeadows.org | 770-993-2940

With a 42-acre campus, dynamic classroom spaces, and a barnyard, the thematic units of inquiry in IB come alive at High Meadows. In a recent study on genetics and DNA, second and third graders made beaded bracelets with colored beads representing unique biological traits. Each student’s bracelet represented their unique “code” of traits and served as a tangible connection to how genes and DNA create a world full of distinctly unique individuals.

Pastry pastryaddict.comAddict

Pastry Addict is the perfect combination of taste, style, and service. Cakes and desserts will be the show-stopping centerpiece of your event. Wow your party guests with a custom dessert! Call today. 404-500-9760.

remember. Latina owned and Eco-Friendly. @Celebrar_Events. 770-715-6166.

Jason’s Music jasonsmusicparty.comParty

A Birthday Concert for Your Child. Interactive live kids music for all occasions. Performing classics and new favorites, percussion jams, singing, dancing and more. Options for every budget. Easy set-up, best for ages 1-8.

Altitude Trampoline Park

Altitude Trampoline Park is the place for kids to freeplay! Parties are indoor adventures that will have guests bouncing, soaring, tumbling and battling their way to a one-of-kind experience. Call today! 770-693-7627.

The BEST place to have a birthday party fit for a princess. Choose between a spa, dance, or art party. We can customize any birthday package. Pick a theme and leave the rest to SPECIALus. SECTION BIRTHDAYPARTYPLANNER

Ms. Jennifer’s Music Birthday MusicBirthdayParty.comParty

Celebrate your baby’s special day with live music! Circle-dances and sing-alongs, our music birthday parties are perfect for 1-4 year olds and guests of all ages. 404-618-1475.

Pretty Princess By JACI Kidz prettyprincesskidz.com

specialty entertainment at your location. Let us bring your Dream Event to life! Atlanta Based Since 2001.

Zone of Light ZoneofLightStudio.comStudio

Zone of Light is THE place for any kind of party, you tell us what you want – we’ll make it a party! Plus, we have the coolest Black Light room. Check us out – we put the ART in parties!

Topplin’ topplintots.comTots

Book your next event with Topplin’ Tots, Atlanta’s #1 Soft Play Rental Company. Specializing in soft play activities, ball pits and bounce castles for your toddler. Call Today! 470-851-7131.

KB Fun KBFunZone.comZone

Step foot into the KB Fun Zone. A mobile gaming truck party offering a top-of the-line gaming experience. Equipped with the latest and greatest video games. Book your party today! 404-916-0703.

Bucks Sports and Circus Barn BucksSportBarn.com

We are located in Buckhead. With our private parties you get the entire facility. We have more than 300 costumes and 30 performers. Circus, Sports, Superheros, Princesses, Ninja Warrior and much, much more.

Cirque du Soleil’s Kurios: Cabinet of Curiosities

Journey to Space

Chattahoochee Nature Center

North Georgia State Fair

LakeFest

Howl on the Green

OCTOBER TOP EVENTS

Events may be cancelled or changed after our deadline. Please check before visiting to confirm. Full calendar online at atlantaparent.com

Animal Amigos

Center for Puppetry Arts

Oct. 6-16. See website for Listenshowtimes.toretellings of delightful Mexican folktales with this puppet show told in English and Spanish. 1404 Spring St. NW at 18th, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $22. puppet.org

Cirque du Soleil’s Kurios: Cabinet of Curiosities

Under the Big Top, Atlantic Station

Oct. 6-Dec. 24. See website for showtimes. Step into the curio cabinet of an ambitious inventor who defies the laws of time, space and dimension to reinvent everything around him. 241 20th St. NW, Atlanta. 877-924-7783. $49-$59+. cirquedusoleil.com

Frances McGahee Youth Day Parade and Celebration

Roswell / Oct. 8, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Celebrate Roswell’s youngest residents with a themed “Love Your Parks” parade and fun activities, including food trucks, touch-a-truck and more. Canton St., Roswell. 770-641-3727. Free admission. roswellgov.com

Heavy Metal in Motion Tellus Science Museum

Oct. 8, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. See helicopters land, hear the roar of engines, climb on construction equipment and more with tons of different machines. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. $17; ages 3-17, $13; ages 2 and younger, free. tellusmuseum.org

TsangMatthewbyPhoto

Cirque du Soleil’s Kurios: Cabinet of Curiosities

Animal Amigos

Frances McGahee

Youth Day Parade and Celebration

WWII Heritage Days

Atlanta Regional Airport – Falcon Field / Oct. 8, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Focused on the “Dawn of the Space Age,” this living history event features aircraft, displays, military vehicles, a vintage car show, warbird rides, swing dancing and more. 7 Falcon Dr., Peachtree City. 678-364-1110. $10; ages 11-17, $5; ages 10 and younger, free. wwiidays.org

UPS Second Sunday

High Museum of Art / Oct. 9, noon-5 p.m.

Enjoy music from a local DJ, create with drop-in art making, and view the permanent and special exhibitions. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 0404-733-4400. Free admission. high.org

Fly Day

Atlanta Regional Airport – Falcon Field / Oct. 15, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Children and youth with special needs can enjoy a day of face painting, a 30-minute flight, aircraft, clowns and more. Registration required. 7 Falcon Dr., Peachtree City. 214-351-3353. Free admission. challengeair.com

Autumn at the Cabin

Pickett’s Mill Battlefield Historic Site / Oct. 15, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Celebrate the October harvest with old-time demonstrations, tasks, games and more. 4432 Mount Tabor Church Rd., Dallas. 770-443-7850. $3-$6. gastateparks.org

HomecomingHarvest

McDaniel Farm Park

Oct. 15, noon-4 p.m.

Take a special trip to this farm for games, crafts, farm tours, hayrides and more. 3251 McDaniel Rd., Duluth. 770-8228000. Free gwinnettcounty.comadmission.

ChallengeFitnessKIDFITSTRONG

Piedmont Park

SPACE EXPLORATION

Head to the Fernbank Museum of Natural History to experience life in space with a special event and educational exhibits.

Space Explorer Day

Oct. 8, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Explore the solar system with science demonstrations, cosmic crafts, intergalactic exhibits and more.

Journey to Space

Oct. 8-Jan. 1 Get a hands-on look at experiencing what it takes to travel to, work in and live surrounded by space by climbing aboard an orbiting space station.

Sun, UniverseEarth,

Oct. 8-Jan. 1

Journey to Space

Learn about the stars, planets and the universe in this interactive exhibit from the National Informal STEM Educational Network.

n Details: 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. $24.95; ages 3-12, $22.95; ages 2 and younger, free. fernbankmuseum.org

Harvest Homecoming

Oct. 16, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Kids can flex their physical fitness with a completion-based obstacle course designed to challenge speed, strength and agility. 400 Park Dr. NE, Atlanta. Free admission. kidfitstrong.com

Sun, Earth, Universe

DON’T MISS: SPACE

Illuminarium Atlanta / Through Nov. 20

This out-of-this-world immersive experience takes you across the galaxy as you travel the stars from the moon to Pluto. 550 Somerset Terrace NE, Atlanta. 404-341-1000. $30-$45; ages 3-12, $25-$40; ages 2 and younger, free. illuminarium.com

Cont’d on next

Heavy Metal in Motion

Twilight Trek Zoo Atlanta

Oct. 21 and 28, 6:30-9 p.m.

Take a tour of the Zoo after-hours to learn how animals survive and thrive with engaging activities. 800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-624-9453. $25; ages 3 and younger, free. zooatlanta.org

Touch a Truck Blackburn Park

Oct. 22, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Get behind the wheel of police cars, fire trucks and more. 3501 Ashford Dunwoody Rd., Brookhaven. 678-879-4570. Free admission. explorebrookhaven.com

Roob and Noob

Alliance Theatre

Oct. 26-Nov. 6. See website for showtimes. Roob and Noob are two curious scientists who love discovering new things as they build machines and explore the wonders of the four seasons. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4600. $15; ages 6-17, $10; ages 3-5, $5; ages 2 and younger, free. alliancetheatre.org

Fall ClassicDowntownCarCruise

Downtown Acworth / Oct. 29, 4-9 p.m.

See classic cars and vehicles at this fundraiser for the Horizon Field. 4405 Cherokee St., Acworth. 770-917-1234. Free admission. acworth.org

BEYOND ATLANTA

Wings Over North Georgia Airshow

Russell Regional Airport

Oct. 15-16, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

See performers and teams fly in the sky at this drive-in airshow, and you can pay for a UH-1 Huey ride. 304 Russell Field Rd. NE, Rome. 706-291-0030. $25; ages 5 and younger, free. wingsovernorthgeorgia.com

Wings Over North Georgia Airshow

Touch a Truck

CELEBRATE

This Spanish holiday reunites the living and the dead.

Día de los Muertos

Best Friend Park / Oct. 29, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

Traditions involving music, food, crafts and a walking parade will help you honor your loved ones who are no longer here. 6224 Jimmy Carter Blvd., Norcross. 678-277-0222. Free admission. gwinnettcounty.com

Día de los Muertos Festival

Roswell City Hall / Oct. 29, 2-8 p.m.

Join in celebrating this traditional Mexican holiday with fun, food vendors remembrance and community spirit. 38 Hill St., Roswell. 770-641-3727. Free admission. roswellgov.com

Annual Día de Muertos Celebration

Jess Lucas Park / Oct. 29, 5-9 p.m.

Celebrate this holiday with a parade, live music, art, authentic food and more. 680 S. Central Ave., Hapeville. 404-669-2116. Free admission. hapeville.org

Día de los Muertos

Thrasher Park / Nov. 5, 5-9 p.m.

Remember your ancestors with a night of dance, authentic entertainment and a parade. 93 Park Dr., Norcross. 770-448-2122. Free admission. norcrossga.net

Día de Muertos Festival

Historic Oakland Cemetery / Nov. 6, noon-5 p.m.

Experience this holiday with traditional dancing, crafts, authentic Mexican food and entertainment. 248 Oakland Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-314-4147. Free admission. instituteofmexicanculture.org

Dia de los Muertos, Thrasher Park

OCTOBER FESTIVALS

Appreciate the cooler weather of autumn at these outdoor events.

Crabapple Fest

Downtown Milton / Oct. 1, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Shop more than 100 local antique and art vendors, enjoy delicious food, and watch football on the big screen. Crabapple Rd., Milton. 678-242-2500. Free admission. miltonga.gov

Old Fourth Ward Arts Festival

Historic Fourth Ward Park / Oct. 1, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Oct. 2, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

This festival features fine arts and crafts, a children’s play area, local food and live acoustic entertainment on the lawn. 680 Dallas St. NE, Atlanta. Free admission. oldfourthwardparkartsfestival.com

AuburnFest

Auburn / Oct. 1, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Enjoy arts, food, live music, demonstrations, contests, inflatables and kids’ activities. 1369 4th Ave., Auburn. 770-963-4002. Free admission. cityofauburn-ga.org

Oktoberfest

Smithgall Art Center / Oct. 1, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Enjoy music, food trucks, kids’ activities and a community art project, and adults can taste beer from more than 20 different vendors. 331 Spring St., Gainesville. 770-534-2787. Free admission. theartscouncil.net

Taste of Acworth

Downtown Acworth / Oct. 8, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Taste foods from different restaurants, and stop by two entertainment stages with local musicians, a dog show, fashion show and more. Main St., Acworth. 770-423-1330. Free admission. jrmmanagement.com

Suwanee Taste of BBQ & Music Festival

Town Center Park / Oct. 8, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Sample bites of BBQ, listen to live music, shop an artist market, and play in a family fun zone. 330 Town Center Ave., Suwanee. 770-806-7492. Free admission. aliveexpo.com

Festival on Ponce

Olmsted Linear Park / Oct. 8, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Oct. 9, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Peruse more than 125 displays of fine arts and crafts, play in the children’s area and enjoy local food and beverages. 1451 Ponce De Leon Ave. NE, Atlanta. Free admission. festivalonponce.com

Stone Mountain Highland Games and Scottish Festival

Stone Mountain Park / Oct. 14-16. See website for times.

Participate in games and competitions, listen to pipes and drum performances, watch Highland dancers and more. 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain. 770-521-0228. $25; ages 12 and younger, free; parking, $20. smhg.org

Autumn Fest

Loganville / Oct. 15, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Celebrate the local community with booths, entertainment from local dance academies and a Battle of the Bands concert and more. 235 Main St., Loganville. 770-466-1165. Free admission. loganville-ga.gov

LakeFest

Pine Lake / Oct. 15-16, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

This lakeside festival features art, music, food and fun. Lakeshore Dr., Pine Lake. Free admission. pinelakefest.com

Cowboy Festival and Symposium

The Booth Museum / Oct. 20-22. See website for times. Watch reenactments of the gunfight at O.K. Corral, listen to Western music, shop for jewelry, create art, try your hand at hay bale calf roping and more. 501 Museum Dr., Cartersville. 770-387-1300. $13; ages 12 and younger, free. boothmuseum.org

Fall Festival

Oakland Community Garden at New Hope Christian Church Oct. 22, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

This garden fundraiser features shopping, good food and kids’ activities. 1982 Old Norcross Rd. NW, Lawrenceville. 770-963-1176. Free admission. nhcclga.com

Crafts & Drafts

Downtown Smyrna / Oct. 29, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Oct. 30, noon-5 p.m.

Browse arts and crafts booths, taste delicious food, sip cold beer, watch football on the big screen, and play with kids’ activities. W. Spring St., Smyrna. 770-423-1330. Free admission. jrmmanagement.com

Cowboy Festival and Symposium LakeFest

Old Fourth Ward Arts Festival

FALL FAIRS

Entertainment abounds at these fairs with carnival rides, live shows, delicious food and more.

North Georgia State Fair

Jim R. Miller Park / Through Oct. 2. See website for showtimes. Entertainment includes a comedic dog show, pig racing, a magic show, a petting zoo, live music and more. 2245 Callaway Rd., Marietta. 770-423-1330. $10; ages 10 and younger, free; ride tickets, extra; parking, $5. northgeorgiastatefair.com

Cumming Country Fair & Festival

Cumming Fairgrounds / Oct. 6-16. See website for showtimes. This exciting fair includes live music, attractions, shows, local entertainment, carnival eats, amusement rides and more. 235 Castleberry Rd., Cumming. 770-781-3491. $7-$10; ages 10 and younger, free; ride tickets, extra. cummingfair.squarespace.com

Georgia State Fair

Atlanta Motor Speedway / Through Oct. 9. See website for showtimes. Watch entertaining shows, such as a magic show and Ben Jackson Comedy Hypnotist, play in Jurassic Kingdom, go on carnival or kiddie rides, visit the petting zoo, and more. 1500 Tara Pl., Hampton. $10; ages 5-12, $5; ages 4 and younger, free; ride wristbands, $25-$30. georgiastatefair.com

Atlanta Fair

Grey Lot Turner Field / Through Nov. 6. See website for showtimes. Enjoy delicious fair food and entertaining rides. 688 Central Ave. SW, Atlanta. 772-266-9885. $5-$8; 42” and under, $2; ride tickets, extra. atlantafair.net

North Georgia State Fair

l Totally HalloweenAwesomeScience

Tellus Science Museum

Oct. 29, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Creepy-crawly activities include making your own spider web rubbings, watching the Super Awesome Science Squad, exploring the life cycle of stars and more. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. $17; ages 3-17, $13; ages 2 and younger, free. tellusmuseum.org

Music of the Night

l Halloween Spooktacular

Atlanta Symphony Hall / Oct. 16, 3 p.m. Show off Halloween costumes as you listen to the theme music of superheroes, villains, princes, princesses and more. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4900. $15-$20. aso.org

Party with the Animals

l Boo at the Zoo Zoo Atlanta / Oct. 22-23 and 29-30, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Visit Trick-or-Treat Lane, make Halloween-themed crafts, play carnival games, help catch the Candy Thief and more at this special festival. 800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-624-9453. $27.45-$28.30; ages 3-11, $17.95-$23.45; ages 2 and younger, free. zooatlanta.org

100+ TO CELEBRATE HALLOWEEN

A Scarecrow Show

l Scarecrows in the Garden

Atlanta Botanical Garden

Oct. 1-30. Tues.-Sun. 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

Search for your favorite scarecrow from dozens of creations by local artists, youth groups, businesses and more. 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta. atlantabg.org$24.95;$24.95-$27.95;404-876-5859.ages3-12,$21.95-ages2andyounger,free.

Pump-kin It Up

l Pumpkin Festival

Stone Mountain Park / Through Oct. 30. See website for times.

During the day, enjoy attractions and special fall entertainment with classic storybook characters, and at night, watch a nighttime parade and other glowing experiences. 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain. 800-401-2407. $39.95; ages 3-11, $34.95; ages 2 and younger, free. stonemountainpark.com

Night Chills and Thrills

l Halloween Hikes

Chattahoochee

Nature Center / Oct. 21-22 and 28-29, 6-10 p.m.

Explore the forest to meet woodland creatures and hear about how they live, along with music, crafts and a campfire. Tickets must be purchased in advance. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. $20; ages 2 and younger, free. chattnaturecenter.org

Terror-ific Treats

l Kids Boo Fest

Six Flags Over Georgia / Through Oct. 30. See website for times. This new festival for younger kids will include dressing up for fall themed activities, trick-or-treating, pumpkin decorating and more. 275 Riverside Pkwy. SW, Austell. 770-739-3400. $39.99+; parking, $30. sixflags.com

EncountersGhostly

Get Goosebumps

l Little 5 &HalloweenPointsFestivalParade

Little 5 Points / Oct. 22-23.

See website for times. Parade: Oct. 23, 2 p.m. Hunt for monsters, shop the Haunted Market with goods from locals, see an Old-School Freakshow, and watch the parade on its new route. Moreland and Euclid Ave., Atlanta. Freakshow, $5; ages 5 and younger, free. l5phalloween.com

l SpiritsWoodland

Fernbank Museum of Natural History

Through Nov. 6. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Drawing inspiration from literature’s many dark forests, search for spirits as you walk through WildWoods. Reservation required. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. $24.95; ages 3-12, $22.95; ages 2 and younger, fernbankmuseum.orgfree.

Cont’d

Halloween Happenings

l Happy Hauntings. Malibu Norcross. Weekends in Oct. See website for times. This family-friendly Halloween event occurs every Saturday and Sunday. 5400 Brook Hollow Pkwy., Norcross. 470-955-5485. $15.99-$34.99. malibunorcross.com

l Mother/Son Halloween Dance. Bill Johnson Community Activity Building. Oct. 14, 7-9 p.m. Music, prizes, refreshments, pictures and fun as you dance the night away. Reservation required. 10495 Woodstock Rd., Roswell. 770-641-3727. $14; non-residents, $21. roswellgov.com

l Pop-in for Family Fun. Marietta History Center. Oct. 15, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Enjoy themed crafts and activities featuring Ghosts & Ghouls. 1 Depot St., Marietta. 770-794-5710. Free admission. mariettahistory.org

l Spooky Mill. Autrey Mill. Oct. 22, noon-6 p.m. Walk your way through a series of stations, including a bounce house, carnival games, campfire s’mores and a serpent house. 9770 Autrey Mill Rd., Johns Creek. 678-366-3511. $15; carnival tickets, $1 each. autreymill.org

l Halloween Jambooree. Logan Farm Park. Oct. 22, 3-7 p.m. Come dressed up for a spooky good time with games, rides, food, music, costume contests and more. 4405 Cherokee St., Acworth. 770-917-1234. Free admission. acworthtourism.org

l Boo Bash. Wills Park. Oct. 22, 5-9 p.m. Wear family-friendly costumes for a dance party, carnival games, treat bags, a movie after sundown and more. 175 Roswell St., Alpharetta. 678-297-6100. Free admission. awesomealpharetta.com

l Goblins in the Garden. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Oct. 23, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Show off kids’ costumes with the Goblin’s Runway, enjoy fall activities, go on a train ride and more. 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404-876-5859. $27.95; ages 3-12, $24.95; ages 2 and younger, free. atlantabg.org

Cont’d on next page

Halloween Jambooree

100+ EVENTS TO CELEBRATE HALLOWEEN

l Mother Son Halloween Dance. Gainesville Civic Center Ballroom. Oct. 25-26, 6-8:30 p.m. Enjoy dancing, a costume contest, catered dinner, raffles and more with separate dances for preschool to second grade and third grade and up. Reservation required. 830 Green St. NE, Gainesville. 770-531-2680. $50-$60; additional siblings, $17.50-$21. gainesville.org

l Halloween Fun House. East Roswell Recreation Center. Oct. 28, 4:30-7 p.m. Kids ages 8 and younger can come dressed in costumes for face painting, carnival games, inflatables, hayrides, concessions and more. 9000 Fouts Rd., Roswell. 770-594-6134. Free admission. roswellgov.com

l Tales from the Rails Ghost Tours. The Southern Museum of Civil War & Locomotive History. Oct. 29, 11 a.m. and 1, 3 p.m. Learn ghostly Civil War tales and railroad folklore on these special guided tours. 2829 Cherokee St. NW, Kennesaw. 770-427-2117. $10; ages 3-17, $5; ages 2 and younger, free. southernmuseum.org

l Howl on the Green. Duluth. Oct. 29, 5-9 p.m. This familyfriendly event includes sweet treats, great food, mystical creatures, aerialists, iconic characters and entertainment. Main St., Duluth. 678475-3512. Free admission. duluthga.net

l Halloween – Día de los Muertos. Plaza Fiesta. Oct. 30, 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Enjoy candy, costume contests, music and prizes. 4166 Buford Hwy. NE, Atlanta. 404-982-9138. Free admission. plazafiesta.net

l Day of the Dead Haints & Saints Halloween Parade. Decatur Cemetery. Oct. 30, 6 p.m. This Halloween and Días de los Muertosthemed parade will feature skeleton puppets, ghouls, zombies, superheroes, marching bands and more. The parade starts at Decatur Cemetery and ends at Decatur Square. 229 Bell St., Decatur. 678-615-0915. Free admission. visitdecaturgeorgia.com

l Monster Mash. Center for Puppetry Arts. Oct. 29, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Put on your silliest, scariest costumes to celebrate Halloween with decorations, a dance party and more. Reservation required. 1404 Spring St. NW at 18th, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $25. puppet.org

Howl on the Green

Festivals for Frights

l Easterseals North Georgia Trick or Treat Trot Family Fall Festival & 5K. Thrasher Park. Oct. 15, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. After the race, enjoy a festival with food, activities, games and prizes. 93 Park Dr., Norcross. $30; Spooky Sprint for ages 9 and younger, free. trickortreattrot.com

l HarvestFest. Glover Park. Oct. 15, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. This festival includes an arts and crafts show, pie eating contest, touch-a-truck, Halloween Happenings for kids and more. 50 N. Park Square NW, Marietta. 770-794-5606. Free admission. mariettaga.gov

l Olde Town Fall Festival. Olde Town Conyers Pavilion. Oct. 15, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Enjoy a day of arts and crafts vendors, food, kids’ activities, live entertainment, costume contests, a scarecrow showcase and more. 901 Railroad St., Conyers. 770-602-2606. Free admission. conyersga.com

l Fall Glow Festival. Lucky Shoals Park Community Recreation Center. Oct. 21, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Bring your bag for a fun night of trunk-ortreating, a hayride and glowing games for ages 5 and older. 4651 Britt Rd., Norcross. 678-277-0860. $10. gwinnettcounty.com

l Halloween Fest. Bogan Park Community Recreation Center. Oct. 22, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Go trick-or-treating, have a blast in the kid’s zone, experience touch-a-truck, enjoy concessions and more. 2723 N. Bogan Rd. NE, Buford. 678-277-0850. Free admission. gwinnettcounty.com

l The Great Pumpkin Fest. Cherokee Veterans Park. Oct. 22, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Celebrate fall with a DJ, craft vendors, food, hayrides, axe throwing, a costume contest, trick-or-treating and more. 7345 Cumming Hwy., Canton. 770-924-7768. Free admission. playcherokee.org

l Snellville Fall Festival. Snellville Towne Green. Oct. 22, noon6 p.m. Play with inflatables, climb a rock wall, ride the train, participate in costume and dog costume contests and more. 2342 Oak Rd. SW, Snellville. 770-310-0429. $15; pumpkin decorating, $2. experiencesnellville.com

l Spirits & Spice Festival. Downtown Newnan. Oct. 22, 2-7 p.m. Eat, drink and get spooky. Main St., Newnan. 770-253-8283. Free admission. mainstreetnewnan.com

l Annual Pumpkin Fest. Courthouse Square. Oct. 22, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Enjoy fall festivities with a DJ, an inflatable corn maze, petting zoo, a Trick or Treat Village, pumpkin displays and more. 200 Courthouse Square, Fayetteville. 770-461-6029. Free admission. fayetteville-ga.gov

l Peachtree City Fall Festival & Movie Night. Drake Field. Oct. 29, 5-9 p.m. Celebrate fall with delicious food, costume contests, games, entertainment and more. 155 Willowbend Rd., Peachtree City. 770-631-2525. Free admission. peachtree-city.org

Cont’d on next page

100+ TO CELEBRATE HALLOWEEN

For Toddlers

l Toddler Storytime: Pumpkin Palooza. Atlanta History Center. Oct. 5, 1011:40 a.m. Learn all about pumpkins with arts and crafts projects, music and a storytime for ages 1-5. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-814-4000. $15; ages 5 and younger, free. atlantahistorycenter.com

Scarecrows Galore

l Scarecrow Invasion. Downtown Woodstock. Oct. 1-31. View inventive scarecrows from local businesses and groups, and vote for your favorite. Main St., Woodstock. 770-924-0406. Free admission; votes, $1 each. visitwoodstockga.com

l Scarecrows In The Square. Historic Marietta Square. Oct. 1-Nov. 3. The square will be filled with creative, fun and colorful scarecrows from businesses, schools and groups from Marietta. 50 N. Park Square NE, Marietta. 770-794-5606. Free admission. mariettaga.gov

l SquareCrow Village. McDonough Square. Oct. 3-Nov. 3. Tons of different scarecrows will come alive with fun designs, and you can vote for your favorite. McDonough Square, McDonough. 770-957-3915. Free admission. mcdonoughga.org

l Scarecrow Harvest. Downtown Alpharetta. Oct. 3-Nov. 1. The downtown area features more than 150 scarecrows from tons of local groups. Main St., Alpharetta. 678-297-6000. Free admission. alpharetta.ga.us

l Scaredy Cat Soiree. George Pierce Park Community Recreation Center. Oct. 7, 10-11:30 a.m. Dress up for a notso-scary celebration with themed crafts, activities, characters and treats for ages 3-4. 55 Buford Hwy., Suwanee. 678-277-0910. $8. gwinnettcounty.com

l Tot Spot. Atlantic Station. Oct. 11, 10 a.m.noon. Designed for kids ages 5 and younger, enjoy a playtime with a Spooky Station. 1380 Atlantic Dr. NW, Atlanta. 404-410-4010. Free admission. atlanticstation.com

l Munchkin Masquerade. Main Street Newnan. Oct. 31, 10 a.m.-noon. This downtown trick-or-treat event is specifically for little ones. First Ave., Newnan. 770-253-8283. Free admission. mainstreetnewnan.com

ORRoswell, Georgia knows events Boasting a calendar chock full of annual festivals, artisan markets, nature based happenings, river activities, food focused promotions and more, VisitRoswellGA.com is your resource to keep you in the know about what's taking place in this fun loving, family friendly community, just 20 minutes north of Atlanta Whether you seek out all the action or want something a little more low key, we've got you covered. Visit Roswell, Georgia At Your Natural Pace

Scarecrow Harvest, Alpharetta

Trick-or-Treating

l Fall-O-Ween. Swift-Cantrell Park. Oct. 15, 3-9 p.m. Enjoy an evening of costume contests, a scavenger hunt, crafts, field games and music. 3140 Old 41 Hwy., Kennesaw. 770-422-9714. Free admission. kennesaw-ga.gov

l Trunk or Treat. Johns Creek City Hall. Oct. 19, 6-8 p.m. Presented by the Johns Creek Recreation & Parks and Johns Creek Police, wear your best costume to enjoy candy, treats and kids’ activities. 11360 Lakefield Dr., Johns Creek. 678-474-1551. Free admission. johnscreekga.gov

l Train or Treat. Southeastern Railway Museum. Oct. 22, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Head to different decorated stations around the museum for trick-or-treating, join a costume contest, listen to live music and more. Advance ticket purchase recommended. 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth. 770476-2013. $18; ages 2-12, $12; ages 1 and younger, free. train-museum.org

l Spooky Springs. Abernathy Greenway Park. Oct. 22, 5-7 p.m. Halloween fun includes trick-or-treating candy stations, a face painting station, photo op stations and food trucks. 70 Abernathy Rd. NE, Sandy Springs. 770-730-5600. Free admission. sandyspringsga.gov

l Truck or Treat. Brook Run Park. Oct. 27, 5-9 p.m. Dunwoody Parks and Recreation, Dunwoody Police and the Dunwoody Homeowners Association present this event with food trucks, live entertainment and trick-or-treating. 4770 N. Peachtree Rd., Dunwoody. 678-382-6700. Free admission. dunwoodyga.gov

l Kids Hallowink. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids. Oct. 28, 4-7 p.m. Celebrate with trick-or-treating, games, food and more. Reservation required. 999 Chestnut St., Gainesville. 770-536-1900. $8-$15. inkfun.org

l BOO Fest. Lawrenceville Lawn. Oct. 28, 7-10 p.m. Collect goodies along the Treat Trail at this evening of thrills and adventure. 210 Luckie St., Lawrenceville. 678-407-6653. Free admission. downtownlawrencevillega.com

l Trick or Treating at Avalon. Avalon. Oct. 29, 10 a.m.-noon. Pick up a trick-or-treating map to stop by participating retailers for candy and treats. 400 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta. 770-765-2000. Free admission. experienceavalon.com

l Trunk or Treat. Dunwoody Baptist Church. Oct. 29, 10 a.m.-noon. Enjoy inflatables, candy and fun at this community-wide event. 1445 Mount Vernon Rd., Dunwoody. 770-280-1200. Free admission. dbc.org

l Halloween at Halcyon. Halcyon Forsyth. Oct. 29, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Trick-or-treat at participating businesses, groom farm animals, meet characters from “Encanto,” have your face painted, dance to the DJ and more. Reservations required. 6365 Halcyon Way, Alpharetta. 470-223-3665. $15; ages 11 months and younger, free. visithalcyon.com

l Trunk-or-Treat. Shallowford Presbyterian Church. Oct. 29, 2:30-4 p.m. Stop by different cars for sweet treats. 2375 Shallowford Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-321-1844. Free admission. shallowford.org

l Sprayberry Trunk or Treat. Sprayberry High School. Oct. 29, 3-7 p.m. Celebrate Halloween with festival food, activities for kids, spooky exhibits, costume contests, candy and more. 2525 Sandy Plains Rd., Marietta. Free admission. marietta.com

l Trick or Treat on the Square. Historic Gainesville Square. Oct. 31, 3-6 p.m. Trick-or-treat at downtown businesses with costume contests for four different categories. 301 Main St., Gainesville. 770-535-6860. Free admission. gainesville.org

l Hapeville Community Trick-or-Treat Map. Hapeville. Oct. 31, 6-8 p.m. Locations across Hapeville will be participating in a trick-or-treat; see locations using the map. 404-669-2116. Free admission. hapeville.org

l Halloween Trail of Tricks & Treats. Rubes Creek Trail. Oct. 31, 5-9 p.m. Walk along the trail to enjoy music, characters, fun displays and trick-or-treating, and participate in costume contests. 232 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock. 770-517-6788. Free admission. woodstockparksandrec.com

l Trunk or Treat. Cobb Vineyard Church. Oct. 31, 6-8 p.m. Enjoy a night of trick-or-treating and fall fun. 3206 Old 41 Hwy., Kennesaw. 678-574-0005. Free admission. cobbvineyard.com

Cont’d

Trick or Treating at Avalon

Petrifying Performances

l Ms. Holmes & Ms. Watson - #2B. Synchronicity Theatre. Sept. 30-Oct. 23. Wed.-Sat. 8 p.m. and Sun. 5 p.m. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic duo is reimagined in this murder mystery comedy. 1545 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-484-8636. $25-$45. synchrotheatre.com

l Little Shop of Horrors. Marietta’s New Theatre in the Square. Oct. 14-31. See website for showtimes. This sci-fi musical depicts floral assistant Seymour Krelborn who finds a new, out-of-this-world breed of plant. 11 Whitlock Ave. NW, Marietta. 770-426-4800. $20-$50. theatreinthesquare.net

l How to Snag a Sea Monster! Center for Puppetry Arts. Oct. 20-23. See website for showtimes. A monstrous wave washes a baby sea monster ashore, as the people of a small town try to figure out what to do with it. 1404 Spring St. NW at 18th, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $22; ages 1 and younger, free. puppet.org

l Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap. Newnan Theatre Company. Oct. 20-23 and 27-30. Thur.-Sat 8 p.m. and Sun. 3 p.m. Guests and staff at Monkswell Manor find themselves stranded during a snowstorm, and when a local woman is murdered, it becomes clear the killer is among them. 24 First Ave., Newnan. 770-683-6282. $15-$25. newnantheatre.org

l Halloween Magic Show. Aurora Theatre. Oct. 22, 10 and 11:30 a.m. Watch magician Arthur Atsma perform in this Halloween-themed special. 128 E. Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. $7. auroratheatre.com

l Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics. The Chapel on Sycamore. Oct. 22, 29 and 31, 6:30 and 9 p.m. This multi-sensory musical experience features “Thriller,” the theme from “The Addams Family” and more as performed by the Edgewood String Quartet. For ages 8 and older. 318 Sycamore St., Decatur. $35-$50. feverup.com

l The Turn of the Screw. Georgia Ensemble Theatre. Oct. 27-Nov. 14. See website for showtimes. A new governess arrives to take care of two children, and when strange occurrences befall them, she must discover if it’s ghosts, a joke or her mind playing tricks on her. 950 Forrest St., Roswell. 770-641-1260. $39-$58. get.org

l Zombie Prom: Atomic Edition. Stage Door Theatre. Oct. 28-29, 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 30, 2:30 p.m. Set in the 1950s, the class bad boy returns from a nuclear waste dump to reclaim pretty Toffee’s heart and take her to prom. 5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd., Dunwoody. 770-396-1726. $13.95-$18.95. stagedoortheatrega.org

l Murder Mystery Lunch and Dinner. Gwinnett Historic Courthouse. Oct. 29, noon-2:30 p.m. and 6:30-8:30 p.m. Test your sleuthing skills while watching this crime unfold. Register by Oct. 19. 185 Crogan St., Lawrenceville. 770-822-5450. $25-$30. gwinnettcounty.com

l Coco in Concert. Atlanta Symphony Hall. Oct. 29, 7 p.m. and Oct. 30, 3 p.m. Watch “Coco” with the musical score performed live by the orchestra. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4900. $39.50-$69+. aso.org

How to Snag a Sea Monster!

Halloween Magic Show

YoungTravisbyPhoto

Beyond Atlanta

l Halloween Eerie Express. Tennessee Valley Railroad. Oct. 7-8, 14-15, 21-22 and 28-29. Fri. 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. Sat. 3:30, 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. Experience a spooky vintage train ride with an Eerie Fun House, storytelling, hot cider, blacklight mini golf, games, a bag of treats and more. 4119 Cromwell Rd., Chattanooga, Tenn. 423-894-8028. $25. tvrail.com

l Voices of the Past – Lantern Light Tour. Jarrell Plantation Historic Site. Oct. 14-15, 21-22, 7:30-10:30 p.m. Take a tour under the moonlight for stories of history and mystery. Reservation required. 711 Jarrell Plantation Rd., Juliette. 478-986-5172. Call for fee information. gastateparks.org/jarrellplantation

l A Spooky Evening. Victoria Bryant State Park. Oct. 29, 7-10 p.m. Participate in the campsite decoration and costume contests, play games, watch a fall movie, and enjoy delicious food. 1105 Bryant Park Rd., Royston. 706-245-6270. $1-$3; parking, $5. gastateparks.org

l Ghost Train. Tweetsie Railroad. Through Oct. 29. Fri.-Sat. 7:30-11 p.m. Go on a nighttime ride on the Ghost Train, trick-or-treat on Main Street, watch the Spooktacular Palace Show, enjoy frights in the Haunted House and more. Advance tickets are recommended. 300 Tweetsie Railroad Ln., Blowing Rock, N.C. 800-526-5740. $52; ages 3-12, $35; ages 2 and younger, free. tweetsie.com

l BOO at the Zoo. North Georgia Wildlife & Safari Park. Oct. 30-31. Fri. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Come dressed in your costume to receive a free feed cup as you see animals in costume. 2912 Paradise Valley Rd., Cleveland. 706-348-7279. $24.99; ages 2-11, $22.99; ages 1 and younger, free. northgeorgiazoo.com

l Pumpkins at Callaway.

Callaway Gardens. Through Oct. 30. Explore 2,500 acres of pumpkins, sunflowers, fall topiaries and a corn maze, and at night, walk through a transformed garden with illuminating experiences, including a Pumpkin Tree. 17617 US-27, Pine Mountain. 844-512-3826. $24.95-$29.95; ages 3-11, $19.95-$24.95; ages 2 and younger, free. callawaygardens.com

Spend the Night

l Howl-o-Ween. Great Wolf Lodge. Sept. 30-Oct. 31. See website for schedule. All month long, enjoy spooktacular events and treats, such as Boo Bingo, arts and crafts, an immersive trick-or-treat trail and more. 150 Tom Hall Pkwy., LaGrange. 844-473-9653. Room prices vary; events included with stay. greatwolf.com

l Goblins & Giggles. Gaylord Opryland Resort. Through Oct. 31. Seasonal activities include an interactive show, a scavenger hunt with Spookley the Square Pumpkin, trick-or-treating, an escape room and more. 2800 Opryland Dr., Nashville, Tenn. 615-889-1000. Room prices vary; activities, $0-$17. marriott.com

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Pumpkins at Callaway

100+ EVENTS TO HALLOWEEN

Haunts for Older Kids and Teens

l Folklore Haunted House. Acworth. Sept. 24-Nov. 5. See website for schedule. Three different scary experiences include “The Manor,” “Maximum Overload” and “Midway of Mayhem.” Recommended for ages 13 and older. 5389 N. Main St., Acworth. $27-$30. folklorehauntedhouse.com

l Fearopolis. Funopolis Family Fun Center. Sept. 30-Oct. 31. Fri.-Sat. 7-10 p.m. Special Halloween attractions include a haunted house experience and a haunted maze. 40155 Hwy. 441 S, Commerce. 706-335-3866. $15-$32. thehauntzone.com

l The Village Haunted Experience. Fairburn. Sept. 30-Oct. 31. Fri.-Sat. 6:30-11 p.m. This outdoor haunt features a cursed village, and The Courtyard is a carnival-style midway with games, food and music. Recommended for ages 13 and older. 6905 Virlyn B. Smith Rd., Fairburn. 770-964-8575. $25-$30. 13storieshauntedhouse.com/village

l Paranoia Haunted House. Canton. Sept. 30-Nov. 5. See website for schedule. This haunted house features two terrifying experiences for the brave to try to conquer. Recommended for ages 13 and older. 2075 Marietta Hwy., Canton. 404-387-3203. $28-$35. paranoiahaunt.com

l The Dark Rows: Haunted Corn Trail. Uncle Shuck’s Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch. Oct. 1-29. Fri.-Sat., dark-10 p.m. This nighttime adventure is only lit by the light of the moon for a spooky, haunted trail through the cornfield. Ages 12 and younger must be accompanied by a parent. 125 Bannister Rd., Dawsonville. 770-772-6223. $20. uncleshucks.com

l Haunted Village at HLC. Hard Labor Creek State Park. Oct. 22, 1:30-4:30 and 6:30-9:30 p.m. Walk through the village filled with scenes of Halloween scares with a PG and a PG-13 tour. 5 Hard Labor Creek Rd., Rutledge. 706-557-3001. $10; parking, $5. gastateparks.org

l 13 Stories Haunted House. Newnan. Through Oct. 31. See website for schedule. This walk-through attraction includes a haunted house themed after human phobias, a psych ward, clowns and a zombie apocalypse wasteland. 320 Temple Ave., Newnan. 770-251-9911. $25. 13storieshauntedhouse.com

l Fright Fest. Six Flags Over Georgia. Through Oct. 31. See website for schedule. Watch your back in the Scare Zones, walk through a haunted house, listen to a spooky sing-a-long and more featuring the scariest frights by night. Recommended for ages 13 and older. 275 Riverside Pkwy. SW, Austell. 770-739-3400. $39.99+; parking, $30. sixflags.com

l Containment Haunted House. Lithia Springs. Through Nov. 5. See website for schedule. This haunted house experience includes interactive scenes, intense scares, amazing actors and more in themed “The Awakening” and “Annihilation” experiences. Recommended for ages 13 and older. 1320 Blairs Bridge Rd., Lithia Springs. 770-765-5334. $25-$30; Annihilation, $10 extra. containmenthauntedhouse.com

l Netherworld Haunted House. Stone Mountain. Through Nov. 12. See website for schedule. Explore two thrilling haunted houses, “The Undying Horror” and “Parasitic,” before enjoying the midway with classic Halloween delights. Minimum age is 5. 1313 Netherworld Way, Stone Mountain. 404-999-3327. $25-$65. fearworld.com

l Georgia Tour Company. Senoia. See website for schedule. Explore the filming sites for “The Walking Dead” or “Stranger Things,” or go a 90-minute stroll to see Senoia’s spirits. Reservation required. 53 Main St., Senoia. 770-599-0091. $20-$175. georgiatourcompany.com

l Escape Woods. Sleepy Hollow Farm. See website for schedule. This outdoor escape room adventure includes a themed “Stranger Things” game, navigating a cursed forest, discovering an antidote to a terrible virus or outsmarting hunters who are trying to find your group. Age recommendation varies depending on adventure experience booked; reservation required. 628 Sleepy Hollow Rd., Powder Springs. 770-880-8846. $28-$33. escapewoods.com

Netherworld Haunted House

Escape Woods

See Spirits

l Lawrenceville Ghost Tours. Aurora Theatre. Through Oct. 31. See website for times. Walk through historic Lawrenceville as you learn about local legends and paranormal investigations from a professional storyteller. 128 E. Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. $20; ages 11 and younger, $15. auroratheeatre.com

l Decatur Ghost Tour. Historic Town Square. See website for schedule. This walking tour is led by professional psychic medium and paranormal investigator, Boo Newell. Reservation required. 101 E. Court Square, Decatur. 404296-7771. $20; ages 10 and younger, $12. decaturghosttour.com

l Roswell Ghost Tour. Roswell Town Square. See website for schedule. Learn about the paranormal phenomena experienced by Roswell residents, businesses and tour-goers with this walking tour. Reservation required. 617 Atlanta St., Roswell. $20; ages 12 and younger, $10. roswellghosttour.com

l Haunted Walking Tour. Downtown Marietta. See website for schedule. Enjoy a lantern-led walk through Marietta listening to stories about the dead who still patronize the shops and restaurants. Reservation required. N. Marietta Pkwy. and Polk St., Marietta. 770-425-5755. $20; ages 12 and younger, $15. mariettafoodtours.com

l Covington Ghost Tours. Covington. See website for schedule. Walk around the historic sites of Covington to learn about the town’s haunted history, and get a taste of the “Hollywood of the South.” Reservation required. 1105 Washington St. SW, Covington. 404-455-1594. $30. covingonghosttours.com

For Grown ups

l Sleepy Hollow: An Immersive Cocktail Experience. Underground Atlanta. Sept. 22-Oct. 16. See website for times. On the night of the harvest festival in 1799, spirits will be raised during this comedy-horror event. 50 Upper Alabama St., Atlanta. $65. feverup.com

l The Ghastly Dreadfuls. Center for Puppetry Arts. Oct. 12-29. See website for showtimes. This show is a combination of ghost stories, catchy music, gothic aesthetic and grim humor featuring talented performers, live music, storytelling and different styles of puppetry. 1404 Spring St. NW at 18th, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $22. puppet.org

l Fernbank After Dark: Science & Spirits. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Oct. 14, 7-11 p.m. Enjoy a ghoulishly good time with live music by Villain Family. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. $21.95. fernbankmuseum.org

l The Rocky Horror Show. Woodstock Arts. Oct. 14-30. See website for showtimes. A suburban couple get stranded with a group of misfit cinephiles and a creepy castle. 8534 Main St., Woodstock. 678-494-4251. $18-$23. woodstockarts.org

l History After Hours: Swan House of Horrors. Atlanta History Center. Oct. 20, 7 p.m. Explore the haunted mansion, the Swan House of Horrors, grab a spooky signature cocktail, go dancing, participate in a costume contest and more. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-814-4000. $25. atlantahistorycenter.com

l Trick or Drink at Avalon. Avalon. Oct. 28, 6-9 p.m. Halloween festivities include costumes, specialty cocktails and dancing to a live band. 400 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta. 770-765-2000. Free admission. experienceavalon.com

l Sips Under the Sea: Halloween. Georgia Aquarium. Oct. 28, 7-10 p.m. Wear a Halloween costume to peruse the galleries, grab a drink and dance at this themed cocktail party. 225 Baker St. NW, Atlanta. 404-581-4000. $46.95-$154.85. georgiaaquarium.org

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100+ EVENTS TO CELEBRATE HALLOWEEN

A-maze-ing Adventures

l Carlton Farms. Oct. 1-30. This fiveacre corn maze is filled with two miles of trails, along with a pumpkin patch, hayrides, a baby animal farm, kiddie play area and more. 1276 Cartersville Hwy., Rockmart. 770-655-1503. $15; ages 3-12, $12; ages 2 and younger, free. carltonfarm.com

l Yule Forest. Oct. 2-31. Pick a pumpkin straight off the vine, stroll through sunflowers and zinnias, solve the corn maze or hay maze, go on a hayride, meet farm animals, play in the Fun Zone, see puppet shows, and more. 3565 Hwy. 155 N., Stockbridge. 770-954-9356. $14.95; ages 1 and younger, free. yuleforest.com

l Cagle’s Farm. Through Oct. 30. Get lost in a corn maze or mini maze, play yard games, visit the animal barn, swing on the octagon swings, and more. 362 Stringer Rd., Holly Springs. 470-533-9388. $12-$17; ages 2 and younger, free. caglesfarm.com

l Big Springs Farms. Through Oct. 30. Fri. noon-6 p.m. and Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Head to North Georgia for pumpkins, hayrides, a corn maze, face painting, farm animals, gem mining and a jumping pillow. 2100 Sugar Pike Rd., Woodstock. 678-899-3900. Free admission; activities, $4. bigspringsfarms.net

l Pettit Creek Farms. Through Oct. 30. This annual fall festival features a corn maze, hayrides, a petting zoo, ring toss, corn hole, scarecrow building and more. Extra admission includes camel rides, pony rides, swings, feeding the animals, Euro Bungy or the Aerial Course. 337 Cassville Rd., Cartersville. 770-386-8688. $15; ages 2-12, $12; ages 1 and younger, free. pettitcreekfarms.com

l Warbington Farms. Through Nov. 5. Wander the pumpkin patch and corn maze, along with a flashlight corn maze at night for a spookier adventure. At the Fun Park, explore the barnyard, play on the slides and swings and more. 5555 Crow Rd., Cumming. 770-889-1515. $13.50; ages 2 and younger, free. warbingtonfarms.com

l Yahoo Farm. Through Oct. 31. Wander the corn maze, shoot the corn cannon, search for fossils and gems, go on a hayride or pony ride, race rubber ducks, and more. 4729 Waleska Hwy. 108, Jasper. 770-735-3638. Activities, $3-$13; Activity Pass, $25. yahoofarm.com

l Sleepy Hollow Farm. Through Nov. 5. Take a tractor ride around the farm, explore the corn maze, walk through the pumpkin patch, play games in the farm playground, see farm animals, and more. Tickets must be purchased in advance. 628 Sleepy Hollow Rd., Powder Springs. 770880-8846. $11-$13; ages 2 and younger, free. sleepyhollowtrees.com

l Southern Belle Farm. Through Nov. 6.

Play in the corn maze, pick pumpkins, ride the cow train, shoot corn cannons, watch pigs race, and more. 1658 Turner Church Rd., McDonough. 770-288-2582. $11.95-$19.95; ages 2 and younger, free. southernbellefarm.com

l Washington Farms. Through Nov. 6. Pick your own pumpkins and flowers, get lost in the corn maze, stroll through the petting zoo, jump on the jumping pillows, shoot a corn cannon, ride a wagon around the farm and more. 5691 Hog Mountain Rd., Bogart. 706-7690627. $13.95-$21.95; ages 1 and younger, free. washingtonfarms.net

l Jaemor Farms. Through Nov. 6. This full farm experience includes hayrides, farm slides, a petting zoo, farm skeeball, a pumpkin train, duck races, tricycle races, apple cannons and treats. Wander the corn maze, and visit the pumpkin patch. 5340 Cornelia Hwy. 365, Alto. 770-869-3999. $15; ages 2 and younger, free. jaemorfarms.com

l Buford Corn Maze. Through Nov. 13. Along with a fantastic corn maze, enjoy slides, duck racing, jumping pillows, hayrides, a corn box, pony rides, pumpkins and barn animals. 4470 Bennett Rd., Buford. $16; Combo Ticket, $28. bufordcornmaze.com

l Uncle Shuck’s Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch. Through Nov. 13. Walk the pumpkin patch, solve the 15-acre corn maze, play on Tire Mountain, launch the corn cannon and more. 125 Bannister Rd., Dawsonville. 770-7726223. Corn maze, $15; Haunted Trail, $20; combo, $25; ages 4 and younger, free. uncleshucks.com

l Mitcham Farm. Through Oct. 30. Try the seven-acre corn maze and search for the games inside. Take a hayride, see the farm animals, race pedal karts, chug along on the cow train and more at this farm. 797 Macedonia Church Rd., Oxford. 770-855-1530. $15; ages 2 and younger, free; extras available. mitchamfarm.com

Buford Corn Maze

Pettit Creek Farms

At the Pumpkin Patch

l Pumpkin Patch at Oakland Cemetery. Oakland Cemetery. Oct. 8-9, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Enjoy the autumn season and Halloween activities with a variety of pumpkins, a seasonal photo booth, a kids’ area, a miniscavenger hunt and more. 248 Oakland Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-688-2107. Free admission. oaklandcemetery.com

l Randy’s Pumpkin Patch. Through Oct. 31. Explore this pumpkin patch with an inflatable obstacle course, train rides, kiddie jump, bunny petting zoo, face painting, an inflatable haunted house and more. 1460 Lawrenceville Hwy., Lawrenceville. 770-822-0676. $5; ages 16 and younger, free; activity tickets, extra. randyspumpkinpatch.com

l Burt’s Pumpkin Farm. Through. Nov. 10. Enjoy the cool mountain air of North Georgia as you shop more than 20 varieties of pumpkins, go on a hayride around the property as animated pumpkins Autumn and Gordy tell you a story, and shop the country store for vegetables, pumpkin rolls, pumpkin pies and more. 5 Burts Pumpkin Farm Rd., Dawsonville. 800-600-2878. Free admission; hayride, $6.50; ages 2 and younger, free. burtsfarm.com

l Wargo’s Pumpkin Patch. Through Nov. 6. Shop pumpkins, go on a hayride, take fall pictures, create crafts, and snack on boiled peanuts. Donations accepted for the Coweta Pregnancy Center. Johnson Rd., Grantville. 770-377-8635. $12; ages 3 and younger, free. facebook. com/wargospumpkinpatch

Pumpkin Patch at Oakland Cemetery

Know Before You Go:

Be prepared! Most places require reservations; check websites for details. Keep in mind that you’ll be asked to sign a waiver before participating. Many operations require closed-toe shoes – no flip-flops or sandals – and may have restrictions on carrying a camera. Age and weight requirements apply and vary by company. Make sure you secure any loose items; long hair should be tied back.

INADVENTURESZIPLINING!

Take to the skies and enjoy a mid-air adventure at one of these great zip lining parks.

Treetop Quest

Treetop Quest has four zip line courses for a variety of ages and abilities. The Chickpea is designed for kids ages 4-6, with more challenging levels for ages 7 and older. Navigate ladders, suspension bridges and other obstacles as you travel from one zip line to another. Swing through each course as many times as you want during your visit. Treetop Quest Gwinnett has one additional level and Spider Quest, a harness-free obstacle course. Dunwoody: 2341 Peeler Rd.; 770-365-0356. Buford: 2020 Clean Water Dr.; 404-277-6113. $19-$57. treetopquest.com

Treetop Trail at Zoo Atlanta

Experience the Zoo from the perspective of a tree-dweller! Navigate a series of rope ladders, bridges, nets and tightrope lines on a two-level challenge and learn about tree-dwelling animals’ lifestyles and adaptations. Kids under 48" can visit the Treetop Tykes Trail, a scaled down course. 800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-624-9453. $9.95-$14.95; zoo admission, $17.95-$29.95. zooatlanta.org

TreeTop Adventure at Callaway Gardens

This course spans more than 3,000 feet and soars up to 70 feet above the ground. Zip lines are interspersed with challenges like suspension bridges, swinging beams and netting. The Base Course features five zip lines and 20 challenges; the add-on Lake Course has additional zip lines and challenges. The Sapling Course is designed for kids ages four and older and between 36"-60" tall. 17800 U.S. Hwy 27, Pine Mountain. 800-225-5292. $15-$65; garden admission, $24.95. callawaygardens.com

Screaming Eagle Adventures

Screaming Eagle Adventures operates four zip line parks in Georgia. Here are details:

n Chattahoochee Nature Center

Two courses are available here: Aerial Adventure, for ages 4 and older, features four zip lines, suspension bridges, ropes and more. For ages 8 and older, the Canopy Tour features seven zip lines and 12 challenge elements. Combine the two courses and enjoy a 3-hour adventure. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. $49-$59; park admission, $9-$15. cncziplines.com

n Historic Banning Mills

Choose from four levels at this park. Forest and Woodland have nine zip lines, sky bridges and a tower. The difficulty increases with the Flight Pattern and Flight Pattern Plus levels. The Extreme Tour has sky bridges that traverse the gorge at heights over 100 feet; book the All Day Rush tour for eight hours of adventure. 205 Horseshoe Dam Rd., Whitesburg. 770-462-9799. $59-$279. historicbanningmills.com

n Unicoi State Park

Get an amazing view of the North Georgia mountains! The Level 1 tour includes 11 zip lines, seven skywalk bridges and two towers. Move on to the Level 2 and 3 tours to enjoy views over and around the Lake at Unicoi, with more zip lines, bridges and challenges. 1788 Highway 356, Helen. $49-$139. unicoizipline.com

n Amicalola Falls State Park

Find beautiful lake views, wildlife and more at this park. Designed for beginners, Level 1 has a suspension bridge and four zip lines. Level 2 takes riders on 9 zip lines that range from 20-100 feet in the air, and several suspension bridges. On Level 3, see areas of the park that aren’t open to the public and soar over 250 feet in the air. 418 Amicalola Falls Lodge Rd., Dawsonville. 706-265-1233. $29-$129. amicalolazipline.com

Historic Banning Mills

Chattahoochee Nature Center

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OPEN HOUSE DATES

Preschool (PK2 - PK5) 9:15 AM Nov 3 Dec 2 Jan 31

Lower School (K - Grade 5) 9:15 AM Oct 4 Nov 17 Dec 13 Jan 19

Middle School (Grades 6 - 8) 9:15 AM Oct 20 Nov 10 Dec 6 Jan 12

Upper School (Grades 9 - 12) 9:30 AM Oct 13 Nov 15 Dec 8 Jan 24