Atlanta Parent April 2020

AtlantaParent April 2020 / atlantaparent.com

Plant Something!

And Watch Your Child Grow

Staying Positive in Uncertain Times

50

Ways to Celebrate Earth Day Summer Day Camps

SUMMER CAMP Planning Starts Here!

HighMeadowsCamp.org 770-993-7975

WESLEYANSCHOOL.ORG /SUMMERCAMPS

InTheCityCamps.com multiple locations

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TrinityATL.org 404-231-8117

ATLANTAJUNIORS.COM

TheSpanishAcademy.com

770-835-5769

770-751-3646

STEVEANDKATESCAMP.COM

EasyGoingSewing.com 404-914-0618

404-220-7211

circuscamp.org

EATONACADEMY.ORG 770-645-2673

MovingintheSpirit.org 404-624-5295

404-370-0001

KinderCare.com

McGinnisWoods.org 770-664-7764

mtparanschool.com/

SummerPrograms / mtparanschool.com SummerPrograms

Ballethnic.org 404-762-1416

Sandy Springs / Lawrenceville-Suwanee Total Immersion Spanish Summer Camps: June 1st-July 31st

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Lawrenceville-Suwanee

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

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Comprehensive services include: early education nutrition disability medical dental social services

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Inside 36 April

YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT

Publisher’s Note / 8

Digital/ 10

Good Stuff / 12

For the Fridge / 54

14

A World Adjustment

16

The New 9 to 5

18

Make Learning Fun

22

Go Green

30

Can You Dig It?

It’s a complicated time in all our lives.

Here are some ways to help you stay positive.

Stuck at home working and parenting?

Learn how to navigate this new work space.

Our ideas will help you make each day an adventure and create a lifetime love of learning.

50 ways to celebrate Earth Day, and cultivating these habits protect the Earth all year long.

Get children outside and enjoying the weather with these gardening tips.

32 Get Ready for Camp Start planning for summer with our Day Camp Guide. Also, learn what you need to know for both day and overnight camps with our helpful tips.

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

April 2020 Atlanta Parent 5

PUBLISHER Liz White

lwhite@atlantaparent.com ASSOCIATE Laura Powell

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

ACCOUNT Melinda McGuire

EXECUTIVE mmcguire@atlantaparent.com STAFF Emily Webb

WRITER ewebb@atlantaparent.com

COPY Mary Williams

EDITOR

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

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

PRODUCTION Robin Mintz

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

ASSISTANT MARKETING Felicia Barman MOM

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Atlanta Parent magazine is published monthly by

Atlanta Parent, Inc., 2346 Perimeter Park Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30341. Telephone 770-454-7599, Fax 770-454-7699.

Morgan Nicholls 404.785.2958 morgan.nicholls@choa.org

Atlanta Parent magazine is available free of charge

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© Atlanta Parent, Inc. 2020

6 Atlanta Parent April 2020

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Publisher’s Note

Save the Date

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Mercer University Atlanta Campus

More than 50 family-friendly activities

Email lpowell@atlantaparent.com for sponsorship or exhibitor information. atlantaparent.com/ familyfestival 8 Atlanta Parent April 2020

Time at Home When we first began putting together Atlanta Parent’s April issue, I had no idea that things would change so much in a matter of weeks. Our Family Fun Guide was filled with all the great things happening throughout Atlanta.

Now parents and kids are home together as we deal with the COVID-19 outbreak. We are getting used to the CDC recommendations of social distancing, more thorough hand washing and adjusting our usual routines to stay-at-home mindsets.

We know these are stressful days. You now have to educate and entertain your kids almost 24/7. We at Atlanta Parent are here to help.

We have expanded our digital reach with a daily email, more online stories and Facebook posts. We’re sharing everything from boredom busters to strategies for working from home. Many of your favorite places to visit now have great virtual experiences. See a puppet show courtesy of the Center for Puppetry Arts, do at-home activities with the Children’s Museum of Atlanta and many more. Our list of free online resources for kids is being updated regularly. Technology sure is our friend.

In my neighborhood, I’ve spotted signs that say “everything’s going to be OK.” As parents, I think it’s important to convey a positive message to our kids. Neighbors are coming together to support one another from dropping off supplies to checking on elderly neighbors.

Your kids can add a little joy to the neighborhood. Have them create colorful artwork and tape it to your doors or window. Imagine walking through a neighborhood and seeing all the household art – sure to bring a smile to faces. Also, families are bringing out the Christmas lights for a special glow at night. What a great way to send out a little cheer.

You can depend on Atlanta Parent for ideas to help make a difficult situation a little better. We want to hear from you – please tell us what’s working for you and your family.

We hope you are well and stay safe, as we forge through these uncertain times together.

How to Reach us: Telephone 770.454.7599

Email lwhite@atlantaparent.com

Fax 770.454.7699

Website www.atlantaparent.com

Snail Mail 2346 Perimeter Park Drive Atlanta, Georgia 30341

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

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At atlantaparent.com Free Online Learning Resources Make online school fun with these websites and podcasts.

Virtual Field Trips Take an armchair tour of some of Atlanta’s best kid-friendly attractions, such as the Center for Puppetry Arts, Alliance Theatre and more.

Kid-Friendly Take Out and Delivery These area restaurants have kid-friendly menu items, so your whole family will be happy. Pickup and delivery options make it easy.

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DIY Craft recipes “Eggciting “ Easter Ideas

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Campout in Your Backyard Live Storytelling, plays and more 10 Atlanta Parent April 2020

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April 2020    Atlanta Parent 11

Good StUff

by Emily Webb

EARTH DAY N EDITIO

THINGS WE LIKE

Clean Cleaning If you’re searching for truly eco-friendly cleaning products, check out Ecover. They use low heat, renewable plant sources, responsibly obtain minerals when possible, and don’t test on animals. Instead of using plastic bottles, they use a plant-sourced plastic made from sugarcane and recycled materials. Product lines include laundry, home care, dish and fragrance-free and range from $3.59-$66.48 at amazon.com. Find out more at ecover.com.

Save the Ocean Recycled plastic can keep your feet warm with swaggr socks, which contain at least two recycled plastic bottles in every pair.

The plastic is converted to beads that are melted into synthetic fibers, woven into a yarn and made into socks. With their new kid line, the socks fit size 2 to men’s size 16.

The company encourages you to send back discarded pairs for recycling.

Available in multiple sizes and cuts at swaggr.com from $8-$168.

Compostable Diapers

Sustainable Style The Leaf Leather Tote by Ecomended is made by hand from Teak leaves. The sustainable, vegan material is a renewable resource, and the patterns, textures and colors are created by Teak leaves, tamarind fruit and all-natural dyes. The medium tote is available in four colors and is $54.99 at ecomended.com.

You can compost diapers for a better planet with Dyper, a subscription service of diapers made with degradable materials.

Compost them at home or mail them for centralized composting.

Diapers are free from chlorine, latex, alcohol, perfumes, PVC, lotions, TBT or Phthalates. Each delivery benefits reforestation efforts. Starts at $68 at dyper.com.

Kitchen Care Replace your single-use plastic cutlery and utensils with wheat straw fiber from Ecomended. These products are lightweight, dishwasher-safe and durable and incorporate sustainable material that reduces the amount of polypropylene used in traditional plastics.

Products include a lunchbox, travel cutlery set, dishes, cups and more. Available at ecomended.com from $1.99-$14.99.

12 Atlanta Parent April 2020

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April 2020 Atlanta Parent 13

How to Keep Your Family Positive During the

Coronavirus Outbreak

by Sandi Schwartz

Many of us are struggling as we adjust our lives during this COVID-19 scare. Our world is upside down and we don’t know how long this period of cancellations, social distancing and food runs will last. Like any serious event, we must process the emotions we are experiencing and try to find something positive in these challenging times.

Psychology points to several ways that we can focus our energy in a more constructive way.

Here are 5 activities that you can do with your children to feel calmer and more optimistic:

Be Playful It is so hard to stop reading all the news stories right now, but we will all certainly feel better if we take a break to play and laugh with our children: dress up in goofy costumes, read a joke book, play a fun game like charades, watch a comedy on television, or sing silly songs.

According to the Mayo Clinic, laughing improves our body and mind, and is one of the simplest tools we have for reducing stress and anxiety. When we laugh, the ventromedial prefrontal cortex of our brain is activated, resulting in the release of the feel-good hormones called endorphins. These chemicals create feelings of pleasure and satisfaction, and also relieve pain. In addition, the level of stress hormones like cortisol, epinephrine (adrenaline), and dopamine are lowered. Laughing also relaxes our muscles, which soothes tension from stress, and engages the limbic system, the part of the brain that manages our mood and emotions.

Laughing offers a healthy distraction from negative emotions like anger and stress, giving us a more lighthearted perspective when faced with challenges.

When you enjoy a good laugh with your kids, you create a happier, more positive atmosphere.

Get Creative

Art has been scientifically proven to reduce stress levels, so much so, that an entire discipline of art therapy has been developed. Art is a way of tapping into the right side of the brain where creativity, intuition, visualization, emotions and daydreaming stem from. Creativity distracts us from what is tormenting our minds, giving us a great way to focus on something more positive, productive and inspiring. When we are creative, we experience a sense of flow and become completely absorbed in what we are doing to the point of being in a near meditative state. When we are in a state of flow, we forget about all of our thoughts and lose track of time. Additionally, working with certain colors can boost our mood.

14 Atlanta Parent April 2020

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There are endless ways to share creative time with your children, such as:

n Sing or play music together n Write a story or poem n Paint, draw or mold a sculpture n Dance to some lively music n Cook or bake together in the kitchen

Give Thanks When times are tough, that is when we really need to stop and express gratitude for the good in our lives. Dr. Robert Emmons, the world’s leading scientific expert on gratitude, encourages people to practice gratitude because it has been proven to make us feel more optimistic, and helps us cope with stress more effectively and recover more quickly from traumatic situations.

Focusing on the positive in our lives boosts our body, mind and spirit. It gives us energy, inspires us, transforms us and helps us think about life as a gift. Spend some time with your children these next few weeks pointing out the parts of life you are grateful for. There are many creative ways to

encourage your children to express gratitude, such as by keeping a gratitude journal or adding a gratitude moment or prayer to their bedtime routine.

Exercise

Exercise is so critical to calming our bodies and minds. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, aerobic exercise is a vital tool for reducing stress. It decreases overall levels of tension, elevates and stabilizes mood, improves sleep, and lifts self-esteem. Even just five minutes of physical activity can help relax us. This happens because exercise produces endorphins, the chemicals in our brain that act as natural painkillers and make us feel happier and less anxious.

During stressful times, look for ways to be active with your children such as going on a family hike or bike ride; playing catch in your backyard; swimming; or playing fun games like hopscotch, jumping rope, tag or freeze dance.

Help Others

All the experts tell us that one of the best things you can do when you feel down is to help someone else. When we make

others happy, we experience an amazing biological phenomenon called a helper’s high.

According to Psychology Today, the helper’s high is a literal “high,” similar to a druginduced high. Doing good deeds triggers the reward center in our brain that is responsible for releasing endorphins that make us feel elated and excited naturally.

One way that my family will create

positive energy is by reaching out to those who need help during this crisis. Here are some ideas:

n Write letters to the elderly in assisted living facilities to cheer them up. n Send thank you notes to health care workers and first responders. n Call friends and neighbors to ask if they need anything like groceries. n Reach out to loved ones through phone calls and online to stay in touch and lift each other’s spirits. You can play games or read books together using your screens. n Make donations as a family to charitable organizations on the front lines of fighting this disease.

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April 2020 Atlanta Parent 15

Suddenly, You’re Working at Home with Kids

10 Tips from a Mom Who’s Been There

by Janeen Lewis

When my children were small, I was a freelance writer and homeschooling mom. When they were older, I went back to teaching and they went to school.

Now that we’re on an indefinite hiatus, it feels like slipping into a familiar pair of worn jeans. But what about parents who didn’t sign up for child care duty and homeschooling? How do they keep sane in uncharted waters? Here’s some wisdom I gleaned from my stint as a work-from-home parent.

16 Atlanta Parent April 2020

1 2

Designate a quiet work zone.

Once you envision your work space, it will help you fill in the blanks. Create a work area with access to electronics and a door you can shut so you can concentrate for a specified, uninterrupted amount of time while your spouse is in charge or kids are napping. This space is for work that needs your most focused attention. Do not feel guilty about shutting the door. These are unprecedented times.

A tip for parents of babies through five-year-olds: You’re an exception to the closed door. Your children may have to play next to your desk. Still, keep a designated quiet zone for those times when you can work alone.

Move around with a laptop desk.

Purchase a lap desk online and have it delivered. This has been crucial in allowing me to work in any room in the house.

When my kids were little I answered emails, made work to-do lists, researched on the web and jotted notes while they played on the living room floor or watched “Sesame Street.” I wrote on my laptop at the kitchen table while they ate.

A tip for parents of tweens and teens: You may still need a mobile work system because they may need the office or community living space to do school work. atlantaparent.com

3 4 5 6

Plan realistic schedules.

Make a schedule that is different than it would’ve been two weeks ago. If you’ve limited screen time in the past, give more now.

Make time for reading, academics, physical exercise, unstructured play and chores. Don’t introduce any activity that you can’t live with indefinitely or that is too rowdy while you work. Give the schedule time. Kids are suckers for routine.

Work at Weird Hours Get up as early as you can, but tiptoe because, no lie, kids hear every creak and cough and they will get up with you at 5 a.m.! Stay up late if you’re a night owl. If your spouse can care for kids in the afternoon, make those your new office hours. When I’ve done this, it allowed me to separate work time and kid time, and they got to have all of me instead of me on a computer.

Create busy bags or boxes.

Every evening make sure your children have bags or boxes with items to keep them busy the next day. Include books, coloring books, crayons, markers, colored pencils, worksheets, educational games, arts and crafts. Include kids in choosing, so they have lots of items they’re interested in.

Pull out that old fridge box.

Grab empty Amazon boxes, or if you saved that refrigerator box, now’s the time to reveal it to your kids. When my son Andrew was 6 and my daughter Gracie was 3, they built an elaborate “cave” system from old moving boxes in our den. It kept them busy for hours, and I got lots of work done.

atlantaparent.com

7 8 9 10

Reward them.

If your kids let you work for a specified amount of time during the week, reward them with a special activity like a game night or cooking or baking lesson.

Admit you need help.

There is no shame in saying “I can’t do this alone.” But how can you get help with social distancing? Why not let a relative or friend FaceTime with your kids for chunks of time while you work?

It might be the next best thing to an inperson nanny.

Be kind to yourself.

At some point everything will derail while you’re on an important conference call. Keep doing the best you can. That’s all you can do.

Embrace the positive.

None of us were expecting to work and parent at home indefinitely, but there is a bright side. I’m getting to enjoy more time with my kids. My 13-year-old and I played a kiddie board game yesterday and laughed the entire time. Treat this time as an unexpected gift and make memories.

April 2020 Atlanta Parent 17

Simple Ways to Infuse Each Day with Learning

by Rebecca Hastings

Teaching your child how to do double digit addition or about World War II is important.

But those are limited skills and facts. Teaching your child to love learning offers them a lifetime of discovery, far outside the classroom.

Here are some easy ways to foster a love of learning. n Read to Them Reading not only has physical and emotional benefits, there is concrete evidence that it helps brain development and academic growth. With so much possibility, reading is the perfect way to help kids fall in love with learning.

n Let Them See You Read While reading to your children has many benefits, letting them see you read shows kids that reading is forever. It’s not just for babies. It’s not just for school. Read in front of them (and Facebook doesn’t count).

n Get Outdoors You don’t have to stay quarantined at home. Time outside provides opportunities for fine and gross motor development, risk-taking, and exploring, all of which prove beneficial to learning. There is also a direct correlation between time outside and reduction of stress, confidence building and exposure to different stimulation.

n Sing, Play and Listen to Music The brain benefits of music are numerous. Plus, music has the ability to bring joy, relaxation and express ideas.

n Relax True learning goes far beyond grades in a classroom. Show them you believe that.

18 Atlanta Parent April 2020

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n Embrace What They Love Give kids the opportunity to explore the things they love. If your child is into trains right now: find books about trains, build a train, draw a train, watch trains at the train station. Allow your child to guide their learning through their passions.

n Talk About Learning Let them know when you discover something new. “Wow, I never knew that popcorn could burn so quickly. I wonder why.” Kids need to see that we are always learning, even in the ordinary.

n Ask Questions I know, as a parent, it feels like all we do is answer questions.

So start asking. “How did that bird know I just put birdseed out?” or “Why are there police officers guarding the construction workers?” Questions are the foundation of learning.

n Give Them Money An allowance will help them understand how money works and is real life learning. And if you use plastic for all your payments, talk about how that works too.

n Wonder Encourage them to think freely about things, without boundaries. Some of the best ideas started with wild wondering!

n Play Giving kids the opportunity to play with no agenda allows them to be better thinkers.

n Ask Random Math Questions Math facts are foundational for good mental math, but kids don’t always want more schoolwork. Make math facts fun by asking them when you’re doing something else like driving, hiking, making dinner. Make it easy, fun and short!

n Keep Reading Picture Books Even as kids get older, picture books can provide unique opportunities for learning. Increased connection with the text, vocabulary and a more sensory approach to reading helps the experience be enjoyable and beneficial.

n Go Places Virtually Visit the sea or a mountain. Check out virtual tours of art museums or historical houses. Experiences make learning part of life and create schema, a personal framework for learning.

n Create Giving kids the chance to create through art, music, science or any imaginative play helps them develop better thinking skills that translate far outside the classroom.

n Enlist Help Helping with adult tasks gives kids new skills and shows them the need to learn throughout life. Cooking, taking pictures, changing the oil or doing laundry all show kids that there is always something new they can do.

n Did I Mention Read?

It’s one of the simplest things you can do with endless possibilities. Read to learn, for fun and for life.

atlantaparent.com

April 2020 Atlanta Parent 19

20 Boredom Busters

n Make a snack. Try instant

pudding, chips and dip, or celery with peanut butter. Remember to clean up!

n Write and perform a play based on a book you’re reading.

n Make sock puppets. Put on a play with your newly created characters.

Blast the I’m Bored Blues in a fun way. Fill a “boredom buster” jar with fun ideas.

Selecting a project can be a quick diversion for any child.

Just make sure you have all the supplies needed. n Celebrate “Backwards Day.” Eat, wear and say everything backwards!

(Until it gets too hard, at least).

n Make sugar cookies. Make creative faces out of frosting.

n Make placemats out of construction paper. Decorate with pictures of food you hate!

n Start a scrapbook. Fill pages

with old art projects, pictures and school awards.

n Project your shadow on the wall. Have someone trace it. Then cut it out and glue onto black paper for a unique piece of silhouette art.

n Write a family newsletter

to send to relatives who live out of state.

n Make a treasure hunt. Use

plastic Easter eggs, Legos, anything easy to spot will work. The creator can draw a treasure map to lead pirates to the treasure.

n Take a bubble bath! n Eat saltine crackers, then

hold a whistling contest immediately after.

n Gather unused toys and clothing for a donation center.

n Make your own word search

and then give it to a friend to complete.

n Have a “Princess Night.”

Watch a princess movie (“Cinderella,” “Princess and the Frog,” “Snow White,” etc.). Host a tea party and dress up while you watch the movie!

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n Play “spot the difference.”

Have someone study how you look for a few minutes. Then go in the other room and make a small adjustment (take out an earring, put in a bobby pin, etc.). See if they can spot the difference.

n Make and name pet rocks.

You’ll need paint, glue and some googly eyes.

n Play musical chairs.

Just be sure to clear breakables out of the room!

n Hold a bubble gum blowing contest. Biggest bubble wins! Don’t forget to take pictures.

n Play a board game that’s made

its way to the top of the closet. Monopoly, Sorry, the Barbie Game – chances are kids have forgotten how fun these classics are!

– Melanie Wagner

atlantaparent.com

April 2020 Atlanta Parent 21

5O Ways to Celebrate

Earth Day was first celebrated April 22, 1970.

For the 50th anniversary, here are 50 ideas to help you go green and protect the earth 365 days a year.

22 Atlanta Parent April 2020

House Hacks

1

Non-toxic cleaning supplies are widely available but can be costly. Instead, do it yourself. You can make your own products with essential oils, baking soda, castile soap, vinegar and more. Find instructions online.

2

Try a shampoo bar instead of a liquid shampoo for less plastic packaging.

3

Check the personal and environmental safety of items you use every day from skincare to cleaning products at ewg.org.

4

In your bathroom, put a can next to your trash can for recyclable materials – like toilet paper rolls – so you’ll recycle them instead of throwing them away.

5

Plant a tree in your backyard. See instructions at treesaregood.org. Donate or volunteer with Trees Atlanta, which is committed to replacing trees lost to development and protecting green space areas in metro Atlanta.

They also offer Family Fun activities. See more at treesatlanta.org.

6

Buy large-sized products or in bulk to reduce plastic packaging.

7

Beware of greenwashing, when a product is marketed as environmentally friendly but actually isn’t. Look for products with established, thirdparty emblems like Fair Trade Certified, Ecocert, Energy Star and others. Learn more with Federal Trade Commission’s Green Guides.

8

Listen to these podcasts for inspiration on green living: The Minimalists, Conscious Chatter, Low Tox Life and The Green Divas.

9

Too much mail? Stop receiving junk mail by signing up at DMAchoice.org. Also, opt for online paperless billing.

10

Houseplants that are easy to take care of, like English ivy, mother-in-law’s tongue, mums and other plants, can naturally help remove indoor air pollutants such as formaldehyde and benzene.

11

Calculate the carbon footprint of your household at nature.org.

12

Check out The Good Trade for sustainable ideas on fashion, beauty, home and more.

atlantaparent.com

Food

Recycle

13

Start composting your food scraps, coffee grounds, leaves, paper towels, newspapers and other materials to turn them into soil for your yard.

Learn how to compost with Georgia Recycling Coalition.

21

14

Stop preheating your oven, unless you’re baking bread or pastries.

22

15

Shop local farmers markets for fresh produce or join a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) to buy local, seasonal food directly from a farmer.

Find one at localharvest.org/csa.

Properly dispose of batteries. Most single-use batteries can be recycled, although a fee may apply.

Where you can, switch to rechargeable batteries, which can also be recycled.

23

Do not put your recyclables in a plastic bag. Put them loose into the recycling bin.

16

Match your pots and pans to the burner. A sixinch pan on an eight-inch electric burner will waste more than 40% of the heat produced, and food will take longer to cook.

17

Cooking your own meals cuts back on the waste produced by takeout bags, containers and plastic cutlery when you order from a restaurant.

18

Americans waste 422 grams of food per person daily, which is almost a pound of food. Reduce waste by planning your meals, buying what you realistically need and take leftovers for lunch.

Water off the 19 Turn water when brushing your teeth. rainwater 20 Collect for watering plants.

24 25

Take hard to recycle items to CHaRM’s permanent or pop-up locations. The group will take electronics, glass, home goods, light bulbs and more. For a full list of items as well as material processing fees, go to livethrive.org/ charm. Find recycling solutions near you at earth911.com.

Don’t forget to recycle paper. Paper makes up about 28% of solid trash in landfills. By recycling one ton, it saves about 7,000 gallons of water during manufacturing.

Buy more products made from recycled materials. Look for these labels: recycled content, post-consumer and pre-consumer. Find a directory at recyclemoreplastic.org, and the EPA has a Buy-Recycled Series by products.

Reuse

30

Add reusable wool dryer balls to your laundry instead of single-use dryer sheets.

Switch to microfiber cloths or reusable towels to clean up messes instead of paper towels.

31

Use reusable silicone bags when packing lunch instead of plastic bags.

Stop using single-use water bottles. Buy a reusable water bottle, and it’ll keep your water cold longer, too!

32

Store food with reusable beeswax wrap instead of cling wrap.

33

Take your make-up off with a cleanser and a reusable cloth instead of a single-use wipe.

26

Bring your own reusable bags and leave a few in your car, so they’re easy to grab when you need them.

27 28 29

Buy pre-owned clothing. Shop local thrift stores or check out online sites like Depop and ThredUP to find items that are new to you.

Appreciate Nature

34

35

Participate in the City Nature Challenge, as cities around the world compete to see who can make the most nature observations, find the most species and engage the most people. Visit iNaturalist.org to download the app and share your observations.

Spend time in nature. Head to a wide, open green space to explore.

guided nature hikes, programs about geology, hydrology 36 Enjoy and biology and earth-based recreation programs with the state parks’ D.I.R.T. See a full list of events at gastateparks.org/DIRT.

the Phinizy Center for Water Sciences to learn more 37 Visit about sustainable watersheds. The Center has trails, wetlands, rivers, ponds, woods and an outdoor classroom. on a stewardship trip with the Georgia Conservancy.

38 Go Go hiking, paddling, camping or on a service trip to celebrate conservation and the diversity of Georgia – from our riverbanks to our mountains to our saltwater-marsh and barrier islands.

Find out more at georgiaconservancy.org/trips.

Atlanta Audubon Society for education and to support 39 Join conservation and advocacy efforts protecting Georgia’s birds and their habitats. Start birdwatching in your own backyard by visiting audubon.org/birding/backyard for activities.

Cont’d on next page

atlantaparent.com

April 2020 Atlanta Parent 23

Electronics

46 Appliances

40 41 42 43 44 45

Lower your home’s energy use. You can purchase a home energy monitor to find which appliances are using the most electricity.

47

Light emitting diodes (LEDs) use 25%-80% less energy and can last 3-25 times longer than compact fluorescent lamps.

Turn off the lights when you leave a room.

Turn off your monitor if you aren’t going to use your computer for more than 20 minutes, and turn off both the CPU and monitor if you’re not going to use your computer for more than two hours.

When you upgrade to the latest cell phone, recycle your old one. To be safe, factory reset the device so all your data is removed, and if you can, remove the battery before recycling the phone.

48

Unplug electronics and chargers when not in use.

In the summer, use fans instead of turning up the air conditioning unit. Turn off fans when you leave the room. The Department of Energy recommends setting the thermostat to 78 degrees when you’re home and need cooling.

49

Buying a new computer? Laptops are often more energy-efficient, as they can run off battery power, unlike desktop computers which are always plugged in.

In the winter, wear layers instead of turning up the heat. The Department of Energy recommends setting the thermostat to 68 degrees while you’re awake and setting it lower when you’re asleep or away from home.

50

Plug your devices into a UL-certified power strip and switch it off for the night to prevent phantom electrical draw.

Use the dishwasher or washing machine only for full loads.

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Buy Online @ MargaritavilleAtLanierIslands.com Discount Expires 4/30/2020. *Excludes Alcohol & Retail Shops

24 Atlanta Parent April 2020

atlantaparent.com

Diagnosis: Nature-Deficit Disorder

R

ichard Louv, a journalist and author, has published multiple books on nature and its importance in children’s development. He coined the term “nature deficit-disorder,” and in 2005, published “Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder.” His most recent work, “Our Wild Calling: How Connecting with Animals Can Transform Our Lives – and Save Theirs” examines the human-animal relationship.

Despite Atlanta being a huge city, we are lucky to have a lot of green space to enjoy. Here are some of Louv’s tips for how to get outdoors: n Balance your time indoors

with time spent outdoors.

“I’m not anti-technology. I believe in a formula: the more high tech our lives become, the more nature we need. This will help us keep ahead of the time we spend on technology, and we have to increase our exposure to the natural world to compensate for the bad influences of technology.”

Cont’d on next page

Blue Heron Nature Preserve

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Call our vacation planners today and let them help you find your home away from home at what will soon be your favorite place to get away from it all Fripp Island Resort. atlantaparent.com

844-546-2586 FrippIslandResort.com April 2020 Atlanta Parent 25

AN EXCEPTIONAL SCHOOL FOR EXCEPTIONAL STUDENTS WE’RE EXCEPTIONAL . . .

Diagnosis: Nature-Deficit Disorder n Reimagine your description

of nature and be generous with what it means.

“At Cumberland, we study college prep academics or prepare for a vocational career, try a sport or a club for the first time – ever.

We learn we’re not so different after all.”

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

“Nature is both plants and animals.

Wild animals, particularly birds, are just about everywhere. Even in the densest neighborhoods, you can find nature.”

n Don’t just stick to areas you

know.

Be courageous and explore new places.

“Nature is larger than us. We experience awe when we get out of our comfort zone.”

n Set the example of being a

nature lover for your kids.

“Even when parents are afraid, that doesn’t mean kids will be. We don’t have to be perfect to be parents. We don’t have to know the name of every plant or every bird to appreciate plants or birds. We don’t have to be totally comfortable in nature to set an example for our kids and their exploration and awe of nature.”

n Support conservation efforts

and help preserve nature.

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Since 1970, North America has lost about 3 billion birds, according to a study in “Science.”

“We need to give back to the birds what they’ve given to us, or we will continue to lose them, and then, who will be left to sing to us? Wild animals give us a sense of not being alone in the world, a sense of awe and wonder and biodiversity that supports the longevity of our species. We need to recognize that and give back, and in the giving, we gain a great deal too.”

n Take the time to learn new

skills as a family.

“Find people who will teach you how to connect your family to nature.” Children & Nature Network, of which Louv is co-founder and chair emeritus, offers free toolkits for parents on how to get started exploring the outdoors.

n Involve other families.

“Create family nature clubs – multiple families that ban together to create a pool of people to explore nature with. It increases the chances that you’ll actually follow through on taking your kids outdoors. Also, put it on the calendar. You put soccer on the calendar, why not put nature?”

– Emily Webb

atlantaparent.com

t u o b a l al

aily Post

P

tD y Gwinnet b d e t n e s e r

expo

FrEE FAMily FuN

brought to you by

SAturdAy, April 25

Gwinnett County Fairgrounds 2405 Sugarloaf Pkwy, Lawrenceville

10am - 3pm

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atlantaparent.com

April 2020 Atlanta Parent 27

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

Color your summer with fun!

Registration is now open!

Visit high.org/camp for details.

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

28 Atlanta Parent    April 2020

atlantaparent.com

Ways to Introduce Bird Watching to Kids

by Sara Barry

Get to know the birds in your backyard or around your neighborhood with these ideas. n Getting Started

n Watch from Afar

Begin noticing birds wherever you are.

Name the ones you know and use a small notebook to track the birds you see.

Encourage your kids to draw pictures or take notes about birds. The best time for bird sighting is usually early morning or late afternoon.

If your backyard isn’t teeming with birds or if you’re curious about specific birds, perhaps ones not native to your area, check out the web. Bird cams are a great way to get close ups on birds.

Check out Avibase – The World Bird Database for a list of web cams all over the world.

n Look and Listen to Identify Birds Pay attention to the details (color, shape, beak, etc.) that will help you figure out what kind of bird it is. In Georgia, common birds you might see are Carolina wren, Georgia bluebird, song sparrows, thrushes, cardinals, blue jays and the state bird of Georgia, the Brown Thrasher, according to the Atlanta Audubon Society.

n Use Your Ears Experienced birders can identify birds by sound as well as sight. You can listen to the calls of various birds at All About Birds.org, an online bird guide from Cornell University.

n Feed Birds If you want to see a lot of birds, try feeding them. Buy a bird feeder, build your own from scratch or a kit, or make simple ones from materials you have on hand. A suet feeder is inexpensive, $6-$7, and blocks of suet (buy the hot pepper variety to keeps squirrels away) cost $2-$3 a piece. The National Audubon Society suggests this simple bird feeder: Mix peanut butter with cornmeal and spread on a large pinecone.

atlantaparent.com

n Need Binoculars?

Binoculars are essential for detailed views of birds. Volunteers for the Audubon Society tested and ranked current models so you don’t have to.

To get younger kids excited about bird-spotting, buy inexpensive kid-sized binoculars. Some recommended brands: Discovery Binoculars; Learning Resources Primary Science Binoculars and Celestron UpClose G2 Roof Binoculars.

n Field Guides Younger Kids: “About Birds: A Guide for Children” by Cathryn Sill and John Sill; “Birds, Nests, and Eggs (Take Along Guide)” by Mel Boring.

Older Kids: “Backyard Birds by Jonathan Latimer, Karen Stray Nolting, and Roger Tory Peterson; Stokes Beginner’s Guide to Birds (Eastern and Western regions), by Donald and Lillian Stokes.

n Make Birds Feel at Home The home you offer should be made of untreated wood, be appropriately sized (an entrance hole that is too small keeps out the birds you hope to attract, while one too large lets in aggressive birds and predators), have ventilation and include a baffle to keep away predators.

n Get to Know the Brown Thrasher The thrasher became Georgia’s official state bird in 1970, designated by the Legislature at the suggestion of the Garden Clubs of Georgia. The bird gets its name from its brownish-red color and the sound it makes as it searches for insects and nuts.

The brown thrasher sings a wide repertory of songs, more than 1,100, one of the largest of any North American bird, and it sometimes mimics other birds.

Can you name the official Georgia state game bird?

Now you can: The Bobwhite Quail.

n Make Your Yard Bird-Friendly Plant native plants, like American Holly, Azaleas and Redbuds, to attract birds, hummingbirds and other pollinators. Don’t forget water, as birds need this resource year round. Don’t use a lot of pesticides, as a bird-friendly garden is also bug-friendly. If you’re hoping to attract birds with a feeder, keep your pet cats inside.

n Join the Club Become a member of Atlanta Audubon Society and support conservation, education and advocacy efforts. Check out their digital resources and activities for kids to help them learn more about bird watching.

April 2020 Atlanta Parent 29

DIG THIS!

by Janeen Lewis

Gardening is a great way to get children to get outside away from phones, TV and video games. However, recent research shows that there are other reasons to dig in the dirt. The benefits range from making kids smarter to making them healthier. Here are 10 great reasons to get kids gardening: Kids who garden score higher on science tests. Gardening is full of science. Children learn about plant classification, weather, soil, plant pests and disease. They are introduced to botany in a natural, hands-on way, and recent research shows that students who had gardening experiences as part of their school curriculum did better on standardized science tests than students who were not exposed to gardening in school.

If they grow it, they will eat it.

As a teacher, I’ve taught STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) and have served as a Junior Master Garden club leader. In these roles I witnessed the “if they grow it, they will eat it” phenomenon.

Students love to dig up what they have grown, and then curiosity gets the better of them – they want to taste it.

30 Atlanta Parent April 2020

Master Gardener Beth Tovi volunteered to mentor students in the garden for eight years at the elementary school where she served as a media specialist. She sees the nutritional and health benefits children gain from gardening.

“With the growing concerns about obesity, diabetes, and even high blood pressure in children, gardening gets them physically active and outdoors. And children will eat anything they grow – even if it’s green.”

Digging in the dirt can make kids healthier. Several studies show that children who were raised on farms don’t have as many respiratory allergies, asthma or autoimmune disorders as children who were raised in urban areas because children who live on farms are exposed to more microbes and fungi in the dirt.

Letting children get outside and get in the dirt may actually make them healthier than keeping them tidy, clean and inside.

Gardening strengthens emotional and interpersonal skills. Children who garden learn responsibility, patience, perseverance and how to deal with disappointment if the garden doesn’t grow the way they expected. How do they collaborate with other siblings, friends or school mates to get the garden work done? These are character-building skills that research shows children reap in the garden.

I witnessed this one year at a school garden when we had a drought.

Watering the plants and trying to keep them healthy was an arduous task, and the students and I learned about perseverance and team work.

Gardening connects children with nature. When children garden, they gain ownership in what they are cultivating. I have seen my own children grow “attached” to the plants in the containers on our patio garden. As children become more knowledgeable about all the living things in the garden, they are less likely to be afraid of touching the plants, getting soil on their hands or being near bugs. They are no longer afraid of the unknown when they become familiar with what is in the garden. atlantaparent.com

GARDENING INVOLVES STRETCHING, BENDING, DIGGING, LIFTING, PULLING AND RAKING. GROSS AND FINE MOTOR SKILLS ARE USED, AND EVEN THE YOUNGEST GARDENER WITH SIMPLE TASKS GETS PHYSICAL ACTIVITY. Gardening helps relieve stress for the whole family. A garden can be therapeutic. Not that your fourth grader is battling traffic, raising children and feeling the demands of a pressure-ridden job, but even kids can feel stress, and the garden is good for eliminating it. In fact, a study in the Netherlands showed that after 30 minutes of gardening, subjects who had shown stress before they gardened had a “fully restored” positive mood.

And if the adults in the family are feeling stressed, and they garden with their children, it can help the whole family feel more harmonious.

Gardening teaches kids to problemsolve. “When they garden, children learn problem-solving skills,” Tovi says. “They say ‘This trellis doesn’t work very well. How can we make one that will better support this kind of plant?’”

In a garden, children ask questions like “What is eating this plant?” or “Is this tree dying?”

Once children become absorbed in solving the problems in a garden, they want to research to find the best answers.

“They become sleuths, starting in the garden and heading into the computers,” Tovi says.

Gardening is a good workout.

Gardening is good physical labor involving muscles that don’t always get a workout. Even the most seasoned gym-goer may admit to being sore the day after working in a garden. Gardening involves stretching, bending, digging, lifting, pulling and raking. Gross and fine motor skills are used, and even the youngest gardener with simple tasks gets physical activity.

Gardening helps children become environmental stewards. When children start reaping the food and flowers that come from a garden, they realize a garden’s impact on them and their impact on the garden. Once they have this tangible experience, it is much easier to teach them to care for the environment.

Gardening can lead to a longer life. Studies show that adults who garden in their later years live longer. Instead of living a sedentary life, gardeners get off the couch and are active in nature. Teaching children good habits when they are young will make them more likely to follow them through life. atlantaparent.com

CREATIVE THEME GARDENS TO GROW WITH KIDS These interesting themes are a great way inspire children to garden. n Pizza Garden Grow all the herbs to add to a pizza. For an extra touch, make the garden round like a pizza. n Fairy Garden This garden includes both plants and miniature structures and is a great place for your child’s imagination to grow. n Pollinator Garden Build a garden that attracts butterflies, bees, birds, bats and other insects and animals that will help pollinate plants.

Try planting milkweed, zinnias and snapdragons. n Art Garden Grow flowers and plants that can be used to make art, or grow a garden of plants for kids to sketch. n Salsa Garden Grow tomatoes, peppers, and onions to make a delicious salsa.

n Herb Garden Herb gardens are a great way to foray into the world of gardening. They can be grown inside or outside and include plants such as basil, oregano, sage, thyme, parsley and many more. n Peter Rabbit Garden Grow the vegetables found in Mr. McGregor’s garden. The great thing about this garden is that you can grow some of the vegetables – carrots, lettuce, radishes and cabbage – in cool weather, so you could continue to garden into fall. n Wildflower Garden Visit a nature preserve to discover the native wildflower plants in your area.

Then build a garden with those flowers. n Three Sisters Garden Teach children about plants that grow well together, like corn, beans, and squash by cultivating the three in one mound.

April 2020 Atlanta Parent 31

Summer Camps

Day camps are a summer staple for Atlanta families. Start making your summer day camp plans with our April featured camps. Make sure to pick up our May issue for Atlanta’s largest list of day camps.

2O2O

TUMBLETOTS

Preschool & Parties

SUMMER CAMPS

for ages 2.5 -16 years

FALL SEASON begins August 10

Ages 1-7

Art

Music

Stories

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404-877-0005

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atlantadanceandmusic.com

FUN INDOOR PLAYGROUND

524 Plasters Avenue NE, Atlanta 30324 Sharing the Joys of Dance & Music since 1998

32 Atlanta Parent April 2020

SUMMER CAMP

Camp 2020

770-729-9660

atlantaparent.com

Ages 8 Weeks - 12 Years

Ages 13 Months - 12 Years

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For more information, call or visit us today!

Montessori Summer Camp 2020 Full-Day and Half-Day Camp Sessions Fun, Educational, Themed Camp and STEM Camp Sessions from 6/1 to 7/31

For more information, call or visit us today!

Summertime at

Atlanta Montessori International School Full-Day Summer Camp for Ages 3-12 Years

Fun, Educational Themed Camps from 6/1 to 7/24 STEM Camps and Spanish Immersion Camps Field Trips at the Elementary Level Cliff Valley Campus 1970 Cliff Valley Way NE Atlanta, GA 30329 404-602-0553

amischool.com

Druid Hills Campus* 1215 South Ponce de Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-531-2067 *Ages 3-6

C

is for Camping Everything you need to know about the camp experience, from A to Z.

A

B C D

Age. Day camps may split campers into different

age groups, or they may group the campers together, especially if they’re focused on an activity. Which experience will be better for your child? Some overnight camps will take children as young as 6, but are they ready to go? Your child should have had successful overnight visits with family and friends and should be able to take care of his hygiene.

Bags. For overnight camps, kids may need duffels or

bags that specifically fit into an assigned space or fulfill a certain task, like laundry! Day camps may provide lunch, or you may want to pack one for your child in his bag.

Costs. Overnight camps are more affordable than you

E

might think. Many camps offer discounts for more than one child and some scholarships are available for lowincome families. Day camps, especially those run by local Parks and Recreation, are an affordable option for helping your child obtain the camp experience.

Distance. With both day and overnight, how far the

F

camp is from your home is an important consideration. Do you want to be able to drive there within two hours? Does your older child want the independence of being 1,000 miles away? Metro Atlanta offers a lot of different camp options. Are you willing to drive a distance for a certain camp, or is there a similar experience closer to home?

G H 34 Atlanta Parent April 2020

Camp 2020

Electronics. Many overnight camps restrict or ban the use of cell phones, tablets and laptops.

What devices should your child leave behind, and how will you communicate with your camper or check out what’s happening at the camp? Make sure you know the camp’s policies in advance.

Friends. Should your first-time camper go

with a friend? It’s a possibility if it makes your child more comfortable, but it’s not necessary – your child will make friends within the first day or two.

Have your camper prepared with a calling card or stickers with their contact information to pass out so they can stay connected once camp ends.

General or Specialty. Does the

camp focus on one area, such as dance, music or computer programming, or does it offer a variety of experiences, from archery and swimming to painting and horseback riding?

Homesickness. It’s the No. 1 concern

of the parents of first-time overnight campers, but most kids are just fine. They’re too busy with new friends and activities to notice (though many parents experience separation anxiety).

atlantaparent.com

Q I J K L M N O P

Interests. Make sure the camp’s activities

match some of your child’s interests. A sedentary book reader might hate an all-sports camp, but a camp that combines storytelling and some physical activities might expand his views on the outdoors and exercise.

Joke books. Jokes, Mad Libs and small games

help children get to know each other better and provide entertainment during downtimes or rainy days.

Kids. The mix is important. How many kids will be at each camp session? Is the camp single gender or coed, are the campers mostly in-state or are some international?

Letters. Overnight camps encourage parents

to write letters (some allow emails as well) and send packages. Send a letter or package a few days before your child begins camp so she’ll get mail on the first day. Letting your child know you’re thinking of her helps you both feel connected.

Mini Sessions. Unsure if your child is ready for weeks away? Some overnight camps offer short sessions for a taste of the experience. Younger kids may be better prepared for a half-day camp, rather than a full-day experience.

Nutrition. Find out what meals are offered and what options are available for picky eaters, and with a day camp, does it offer meals or snacks? Or do you bring your own?

Atlanta Parent’s Obstacles.

How does the camp handle problems?Camp What’s its policy on discipline? If your child Expo has a medical issue, how will the camp respond? Make Dates sure your child knows where to go if he needs help.

Packing. Most overnight camps offer a

suggested packing list. Use it! And be sure to label everything. Pay attention to shoes – having the right ones can be the difference between a great time and a so-so experience.

atlantaparent.com

R S T U V W X Y Z

Camp 2020

Qualifications. Is the overnight camp

accredited by an organization such as the American Camping Association? How are camp counselors screened? What is the ratio of campers to counselors?

Research. Use Atlanta Parent Magazine’s online camp guides, April and May issues and Camp Expo to explore camp options. Check websites, ask family and friends, and talk with former campers.

Special Needs Camps. The camp

experience is great for kids of all abilities. Special needs camps welcome kids with physical or mental disabilities or medical conditions such as cancer.

Things to Do. What activities and

opportunities for learning does the camp offer?

What is a typical day like, and does the pace fit your child’s personality?

Urban or Rustic. What is the physical

setting for the camp? Will campers be in tents or cabins, or housed in a university dorm for technology camp? How many campers will share the space? Is the day camp in an area your child knows, and will she have the option to explore or go on field trips?

Vacation. Check the schedules of your top choice for camp before you plan your family’s annual getaway. Some programs are only offered once a summer, and day camps may last anywhere from a few days to three weeks.

Water. Hydration is key,

so make sure your child knows they have to keep drinking throughout the day and not just at mealtime. Make sure to send a water bottle.

Xtra. Double up on

necessities when packing for overnight camp – extra underwear, socks, shoes, bug spray and glasses.

Yippee! That’s what your kid will exclaim when it’s time for camp next year.

Zero. Most kids have zero regrets after their first camp experience.

– Dalia Faupel, Amanda Allen and Emily Webb

April 2020 Atlanta Parent 35

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

$

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

@ @

ART Camp includes 1 hour daily PE class in the Gym

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

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

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

Vinings School of Art

WESLEYAN

SUMMER CAMPS

O

ARTNE-Ho C ur $1 lass 5

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REGISTRATION NOW OPEN WWW.WESLEYANSCHOOL.ORG/SUMMERCAMPS

SUMMER AT GALLOWAY!

May 26–July 31

36 Atlanta Parent April 2020

Register online at gallowayschool.org/summer

Camp 2020

atlantaparent.com

atlantaparent.com

Camp 2020

April 2020    Atlanta Parent 37

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

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

Atlanta Parent’s CAMP PREVIEW THE BEDFORD SCHOOL/SQUIRREL HOLLOW CAMP 770-774-8001 | thebedfordschool.org

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

June 15-26 and June 29-July 12.

Spotlight on DAY CAMPS CIRCUS CAMP

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

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

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

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

2 Atlanta Parent

<ISSUE> <DATE>

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CLUB SCIKIDZ SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY CAMPS 678-294-9504 | clubscikidz.com | 7 metro Atlanta locations

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

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

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

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

Spotlight on DAY CAMPS ECLECTIC MUSIC

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

Spotlight on DAY CAMPS FOREFRONT ARTS

770-864-3316 | forefrontarts.com Unlock your child’s talent this summer at Drama Camp! Ages 4-18 will sing, dance, act, & create each day -- while also boosting confidence & creativity, skill-building in problem solving, collaboration, & empathy, and rehearsing for the big show! Learn from professional theatre instructors! Camp shows include Musical Theatre Camps with “Annie”, “Frozen” and “Descendants” themes, Acting Camps with “Harry Potter” and “Star Wars” themes, Improv, and a 2-week “Godspell” summer stock production for teens!

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atlantaparent.com GEORGIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY/ COLLEGE OF COMPUTING

404-894-2769 | oecoutreachevents@gmail.com

The College of Computing brings educational computer science camps to students across the metro Atlanta area! Led by certified teachers offering 10-weeks of hands-on learning and experiences with the latest technologies, all students will have the opportunity to interact with Georgia Tech undergrads and experience campus life. It culminates in a showcase where your child’s creations will be spotlighted for all to see. One-and two-week sessions are available with after care. atlantaparent.com 2 Atlanta Parent

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Spotlight on DAY CAMPS HIGH MEADOWS CAMP

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

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

Spotlight on DAY CAMPS

HIGH MUSEUM SUMMER ART CAMP

404-800-0547 | high.org/camp

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

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INTOWN STARS GYMNASTICS

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

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LOCKHEED MARTIN AVIATION CAMP

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678-874-7102 | fsc.fernbank.edu

A week-long STEM based aviation camp for students in rising 4th through 6th grades. Students will be exposed to careers in aviation through several field trips, component testing and assembly. The camp concludes with a team build-off, in which students will be challenged to build and fly an aircraft of their own design. Engineers from Lockheed Martin Aviation will mentor the teams. Activities will be held in the state-of the-art facilities at Fernbank Science Center and taught by expert instructors. Registration Deadline - May 29 2 Atlanta Atlanta Parent Parent April <ISSUE> 40 2020 <DATE>

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Spotlight on DAY CAMPS MOVING IN THE SPIRIT

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

Spotlight on DAY CAMPS

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

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

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

Spotlight on DAY CAMPS

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

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

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ZONE OF LIGHT STUDIO

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

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X-Treme Science/STEM Camps

by High Touch High Tech

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

ScienceMadeFunAtl.net 770-667-9443

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

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

Brookhaven, Decatur, and Roswell locations

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

Camp 2020

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Montessori Summer Camp 2020 Summertime at Endeavor Montessori!

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

48 Perimeter Center East, Atlanta, GA 30346

770-637-1242 endeavormontessori.com

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Camp 2020

April 2020â&#x20AC;&#x192; â&#x20AC;&#x192; Atlanta Parent 43

Atlanta’s Best Summer Camps

Club

SciKidz Where Sc ience & Te chnology Co nnect!

$25 OFF

Early Bird Registration

Code: CLUB20. See our website for details!

Multiple Camps To Choose From!

Including: NEW

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

• LEGO Robotics • Veterinary Medicine • Coding • Harry Potter

2020 CAMPS! Virtual Reality Robotic Car

Complete registration online!

www.ClubSciKidz.com

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

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Porter Academy

Enabling Children with Learning Differences to Succeed

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

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

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Camp 2020

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Summer Day Camps 2O2O On the look out for the perfect day camp?

Your search starts here with Atlanta Parent’s advertising partners.

Many camps offer extended hours for an additional fee.

Start Code Summer Coding Camps.

Multiple locations. Ages 8-18. June 1-July 24.

One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Make games, apps and create with technology. $445-475/week.

404-507-2772.

Dance/Music Camps Atlanta Ballet’s Summer Programs. Buckhead and Virginia-Highland. Ages 2-17. June 8-July 17. One-week sessions. Times vary. A variety of dance classes for beginner and intermediate levels. $150-475/week. 404-873-5811, ext. 1316.

Atlanta Dance & Music Academy Summer Camps. Atlanta Dance & Music Academy. 524 Plasters Ave., Atlanta. Ages 2.5-17. June 1-July 17. One- and two-week sessions. 9 a.m.-noon or 3 p.m. Preschool Camps, Beginner Ballet, Dance & Music Camp, Young Dancer’s Intensive. $245-350/ week. 404-877-0005.

Ballethnic Academy of Dance. 2587 Cheney St., East Point. Ages 6-21. June 22-July 17. Sessions vary. Times vary. Pre-professional intensive, precamp, dance diversity. $250-900/session.

404-762-1416.

Community Music Centers of Atlanta. Multiple locations. Ages 5-18. May 26-Aug. 7. One-week sessions. Full- and half-day. Themed camps for grades K-5; performance workshops. $225-380/ week. 404-614-0466.

Eclectic Music Summer Camp. Inman Park. 1015 Edgewood Ave. NE, Atlanta. Ages 3-12. May 26July 31. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. or 3 p.m. Specialty camps feature instruments, singing, musical theatre and more. $55-315/ session. 404-537-1382.

Moving in the Spirit. 1458 LaFrance St. NE, Atlanta. Ages 8-13. July 13-24. Two-week session.

9 a.m.-5 p.m. Modern dance and hip-hop, field trips and performances. 404-624-5295.

Art Camp at the High

Academic Camps Eaton Academy High School Summer Camp.

Eaton Academy. 1000 Old Roswell Lakes Pkwy., Roswell. Ages 13-21. June 8-July 24. Three-week sessions. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Enhance social skills and maintain academic performance. $1,800/session.

770-645-2673.

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

Junior Achievement of Georgia. Multiple locations.

Ages 10-14. June 1-19. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Develop an understanding of basic business principles. $250/session. 404-257-1932.

Art Camps Art Camp at the High. High Museum of Art. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. Ages 6-14. June 8-July 31.

One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Young artists will explore the Museum’s galleries and showcase art. $300-400/week. 404-800-0547.

ART Station Performance and Arts Camps. 5384 Manor Dr., Stone Mountain. Ages 5-13. June 1-July 24. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Explore creativity through performing, literary and visual arts. $150-175/session. 770-469-1105.

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Museum of Design Atlanta Summer Camp.

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

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

404-979-6455.

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

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

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

Zone of Light Studios. 1202 Zonolite Rd., Atlanta. Ages 5-15. May 26-Aug. 9. One-day to one-week sessions. Full- and half-day. Focus on holistic learning through enrichment in the arts. $288-385/session. 678-948-8059.

Computer Camps Georgia Tech College of Computing Summer Camp. 801 Atlantic Dr. NW, Atlanta.

Ages 8-18. May 26-July 31. One-week sessions. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Exposing young minds to the creative side of computing. $450800/week. 404-894-2769.

Camp 2020

Project Slide Dance Studio. 122 New St., Decatur. Ages 4-18. June 8-26. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Genres include hip hop, jazz, modern, musical theatre and more. $350/ session. 404-228-2974.

Sinfo-Nia Youth Orchestra Summer Academy.

First Congregational Church Commons. 105 Courtland St. NE, Atlanta. Ages 7-18. June 1526. Two-week session. 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Quality instruction on violin, viola, cello and double bass.

Performance tour to Jamaica. $380/session.

404-328-0840.

Summer Dance Program. Academy of Ballet.

6470 Spalding Dr., Atlanta. Ages 3-18. June 8-Aug. 5. Four-day or three-, four-, or six-week sessions.

Times vary. Programs ages 3-teens (no dance experience); 12-adult (dance experience required). $35-255/session. 404-754-4412.

Drama Camps Alliance Theatre Summer Day Drama Camps.

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

One- and two-week sessions. Times vary.

Work as an ensemble to create, rehearse and present short productions. $200-799/session.

404-733-4700.

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

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April 2020 Atlanta Parent 45

Summer Day Camps 2O2O Shakespeare Superheroes Day Camp.

Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse. Decatur and Midtown. Ages 4-13. May 26-July 31.

One- and two-week sessions. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. or 3 p.m. Creative play, acting, stage combat, musical theatre and a final performance. $325-595/session. 404-874-5299.

General Camps

Endeavor Montessori. Dunwoody. Ages 3-12. June 1-July 24. One-week sessions. Full- and half-day. Fun educational themes, STEM and Spanish immersion camps. $288-355/session. endeavormontessori.com.

Galloway Summer Programs. The Galloway School. 215 Chastain Park Ave. NW, Atlanta.

Ages 3-16. June 1-July 31. One-week sessions.

9 a.m.-4 p.m. Academic, athletic, and artistic camps open to Atlanta community. $325-425/ session. 678-923-1418.

Atlanta Montessori International School.

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

June 1-July 24. One-week sessions. 8:15 a.m.-3 p.m. Offerings include art, Spanish immersion, Irish dancing and more. $310380/session. 404-325-6777.

Girl Scouts Day Camps. Camp Timber Ridge. 5540 N. Allen Rd. SE, Mableton. Ages 5-15. May 31-July 31. One-week sessions. 8:45 a.m.-5:15 p.m. Coding, engineering, kayaking, swimming, hiking and more. $155-450/session. 770-702-9070.

Camp Adventure. Adventure Air Sports. 425 Ernest W. Barrett Pkwy. NW, Kennesaw. June 1-Aug. 7. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Early morning access, challenging group initiatives, ninja training and more. $160/ week. 678-203-1152.

High Meadows Summer Day Camp. 1055 Willeo Rd., Roswell. Ages 4-14. June 1-July 31. Threeweek sessions. 9:15 a.m.-4 p.m. Outdoor activities directed at self-improvement, environmental awareness and non-competitive achievement. $975-1290/session. 770-993-7975.

Camp Arrowhead. 13540 Hwy. 9 N, Milton.

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

770-754-7900.

In The City Jewish Day Camp. Multiple locations.

Ages 5-14. June 1-July 6. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sports, water play, art, ropes course, music, weekly field trips, cooking and more. $250435/week. 404-698-1134.

Camp Explorations at Bright Horizons.

Multiple locations. Ages 3-12. June 1-Aug. 7. One-week sessions. Times vary. Program features sessions offering flexible scheduling and convenient hours. Cost varies. brighthorizons.com.

Kidcam Camps. Kennesaw State University.

3220 Busbee Dr. NW, Kennesaw. Ages 5-13. June 1-July 31. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Summer camp experience with a mix of sports, arts, movement and swimming. $225/session.

877-4KIDCAM.

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Camp 2020

MJCCA Day Camp

KinderCare Summer. Multiple locations. Ages 5-12. May-Aug. One-week sessions. Full- and half-day. Weekly themes, sports, drama, art and more. $150 and up/week. kindercare.com.

Landmark Christian School Summer Camp. 50 SE Broad St., Fairburn. Ages 5-12. June 1-July 30.

One-day and one-week sessions. Full- and halfday. Athletics, STEM, academics, art, drama and more. $50-250/session. 770-441-4238.

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McGinnis Woods Country Day School. 5380 Faircroft Dr., Alpharetta. Ages 4-13. May 26-Aug. 7. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Weekly themes, STEM, arts and crafts, weekly field trips. $225/week. 770-664-7764.

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

Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs.

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

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

770-205-6277.

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

770-777-9131.

Steve and Kate’s Camp. The Galloway School.

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

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

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

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

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

404-231-8117.

Tumbletots. 6375 Spalding Dr., Norcross.

Ages 1-7. Starts May 26. One-day to one-week sessions. 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; 2-5:30 p.m. Indoor playground, themes, art, music, storytelling and more. $45-135/session. 770-729-9660.

The Walker School. 700 Cobb Pkwy. N., Marietta. Ages 3-18. May 26-July 24. One-week sessions. Full- and half-day. Wide variety of camps for ages 3-12. $175-425/week. 770-4272689, ext. 8502.

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

J u n e 8 _ 26

Every week is a different fun-filled themed camp!

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

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

All dance levels welcome!

Register TODAY online – space is limited.

Contact Dr. Betsy Box

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

www.projectslide.com

122 New Street, Decatur │404-228-2974

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Camp 2020

April 2020 Atlanta Parent 47

Summer Day Camps 2O2O Wesleyan Summer Camp. 5405 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners. Ages 4-14. June 1-July 17. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Camps are offered in sports, arts, enrichment and academics. $175-300/week. 678-223-2178.

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

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

404-367-7868.

Woodward Academy. College Park and Johns Creek. Ages 5-18. May 26-July 24. Oneweek sessions. Full- and half-day. Technology, arts and crafts, sports, outdoor activities and more. $200-400/week. 404-765-4401.

Language Camps Tabula Rasa. The Language Academy. Sandy Springs and Lawrenceville. Ages 3-12. June 1-July 31. Two- and four-week sessions. Fulland half-day. Learn the culture and language of different countries. $750-1400/session.

404-847-0829.

The Spanish Academy. Multiple locations.

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

770-751-3646.

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

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

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

Summer Safari Camp. Zoo Atlanta.

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

May 26-July 31. One-week sessions.

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

Sunsational Summer May 26 - August 7

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

An amazing summer filled with great learning opportunities and fun.

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

5380 Faircroft Drive, Alpharetta, GA 30005

770-664-7764 www.mcginniswoods.org

48 Atlanta Parent April 2020

July 13 - 24, 2020 Ages 8-13

4 YEAR OLDS -13 YEAR OLDS

A Spectacular Time

SAC, GAC and NAEYC Accredited

SUMMER DANCE CAMP

Camp 2020

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

www.movinginthespirit.org Financial aid available.

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Zoo Atlanta Summer Safari Camp

Parks and Recreation Camps City of Sandy Springs Recreation and Parks.

Multiple locations. Ages 6-14. June 1-July 24. Oneweek sessions. Times vary. Themed camps, sports, STEAM, Broadway, jazz and more. $35-350/week.

770-730-5600.

Science / STEM Camps Camp Invention. Multiple locations. Ages 5-12.

June 1-July 3. One-week sessions. Times vary.

Hands-on STEM activities. $235-260/session.

800-968-4332.

Club SciKidz Summer Camps. Multiple locations.

Ages 4-15. June 1-Aug. 2. One-week sessions.

9 a.m.-4 p.m. Computer, Lego, robotics, science, space camps and more. $295-322/week.

678-493-5651.

Science/STEM Camp. High Touch High Tech, Inc. Multiple locations. Ages 5-11. June 1-July 31.

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

The Science of Fun STEM Camp. North Decatur Presbyterian Church and Academe of the Oaks.

Ages 5-9. June 1-July 31. One-week sessions.

9 a.m.-3 p.m. Weekly themes including construction, STEAM, reactions and food. $349/ week. 404-969-2161.

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

June 1-July 17. One-week sessions. 8:30 a.m.3:30 p.m. All-girls classes in science, technology, performing arts and entrepreneurship. $425/week.

404-845-0900.

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April 2020 Atlanta Parent 49

Summer Day Camps 2O2O Special Needs Camps Porter Academy. 200 Cox Rd., Roswell.

Ages 4-10. June 8-July 10. One-week sessions.

Full- and half-day. A camp for children with learning differences that integrates academics into a fun relaxed atmosphere. $250-375/week.

770-594-1313.

Sensory Affective Play Camp. 2877 Cressington Bend NW, Kennesaw. Ages 5-10. July 13-30. Oneweek sessions. 9 a.m.-noon. Themed social skills and sensory enriched program. Sensory-motor gym, social skills games, handwriting, drama and crafts. $285/week. 770-499-1950.

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CAMPUSES

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

678-640-2489.

MAIN CAMPUS • College Park WOODWARD NORTH • Johns Creek

Register Today!

WOODWARD.EDU/CAMPS

Squirrel Hollow Camp. The Bedford School. 5665 Milam Rd., Fairburn. Ages 6-14. June 15-July 10.

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

Summer Camp. Cumberland Academy of Georgia. 650 Mount Vernon Hwy. NE, Atlanta. Ages 9-19. May 31-July 31. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Enjoy a blend of fun adventurous and academic camps. $380/week.

404-835-9000.

Sports Camps Baseball All Skills Camp. D-BAT. Multiple locations. Ages 5-14. May 26-Aug. 1. One-day to one-week sessions. Times vary. Baseball camp focusing on all skill levels. $75-250/session.

678-496-7777.

Concourse Athletic Club Sports Camp.

8 Concourse Pkwy., Sandy Springs. Ages 3-14.

May 27-Aug. 7. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. or 3 p.m. Tennis, soccer, baseball, basketball, squash, swimming, fencing, rock climbing and more. $140-195/week. 770-698-2017.

Intown Stars Gymnastics. Grant Park and Decatur. Ages 4 and older. May 26-Aug. 7.

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

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

Learn-to-Row Camps. Atlanta Junior Rowing Association. 245 Azalea Dr., Roswell. Ages 12-18. June 1-July 31. One-week sessions. 7:309:30 a.m.; 10 a.m.-noon. Weekly camps teaching the fundamentals of rowing. No experience necessary. $150-165/week. 770-835-5769.

Cont’d on next page

Squirrel Hollow Camp

50 Atlanta Parent April 2020

Camp 2020

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Linking Sensory to Behavior

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

SUMMER CAMPS

Dr. Jule Kagan

CAM

Outstanding Occupational Therapy Practitioner 2019 Kennesaw 770-499-1950 See you on FB

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STARTI NG

PER WEE

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

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

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

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Camp 2020

April 2020 Atlanta Parent 51

Sinfo-Nia’s Summer Orchestra Camp

Summer Day Camps 2O2O

David Robinson, Director & Alycia Robinson, Operations Director

June 15-26 • Ages 7-18

(College students are also welcomed) Monday – Friday • 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

ALL LEVELS OF INSTRUCTION FOR STRINGS: Violin, viola, cello & double bass ADVANCED: Woodwind, brass & percussion REGISTER BY MAY 31 FOR EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT

www.sinfo-nia.com • 404-428-3804

1st Congregational Church Commons 125 Ellis Street • Atlanta 30303 Our camp will be making an audio and video recording for a recording artist.

Young Black Filmmakers Summer Program is focused

Circus Camp

on individual themes centered around filmmaking that provides kids the freedom to explore and learn.

Theme Camps Circus Camp. Multiple locations. Ages 5-18.

June 1-July 31. One- and two-week sessions.

Times vary. Trapeze, juggling, clowning, magic, unicycling and miming. Performance each Friday. $275-625/week. 404-370-0001.

Ages: 8-14 • 7:30am-1:30pm • $215/week June 15-19: Public Service Announcement June 22-26: Commercial Branding and Ad July 13-17: Film Production

Easy Going Sewing Camp. Easy Going Sewing Studio. 4046 Chamblee Tucker Rd., Atlanta. Ages 8-17. June 1-July 31. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.4 p.m. Students will make items to use and wear. $389/week. 404-914-0618.

South Fulton location For more information contact: Antonia Washington at youngblackfilmmakers@gmail.com

Lockheed Martin Aviation Camp. Fernbank Science Center. 156 Heaton Park Dr., Atlanta. Ages 9-12. June 15-26. One-week sessions. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Practice and history of flight. $200/week.

678-874-7113.

Katherine Lois Merritt School of the Arts Inc. mission is inspiring young girls to dream, write and create while also engaging in art education while closing the word gap through art literacy.

PLEASE

RECYCLE

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

Young Chefs Academy Culinary Camps.

Multiple locations. Ages 5-17. May 26-July 27.

Three- to four-day sessions. 9 a.m.-noon. Fullyimmersive culinary camp experience. $150-200/ session. youngchefsacademy.com/georgia.

School Break Programs

for Children with Special Needs • Ages 4-Young Adult SPRING BREAK CAMP

April 6, 7 & 8

Waller Park Gym 250 Oak Street, Roswell

SUMMER DAY CAMP

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

More information available at www.socialskillstoday.com 52 Atlanta Parent April 2020

Camp 2020

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LET KIDS BE KIDS

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

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

Thank You For Your Support

4

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

Camp 2020

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April 2020 Atlanta Parent 53

for thee fridg

Raise your words not your voice.

It is rain that grows flowers, not thunder.

– Rumi

54 Atlanta Parent April 2020

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Your race registration provides a t-shirt and entry into Atlantaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ultimate day of family fun - the CURE Picnic! Complete with face painting, games, inflatables, princesses, delicious food, music, and tons more!

PLEASE JOIN US: LAURENSRUN.COM

50 FLOOR ALLIANT KELLER KNAPP PwC THE DAKER TEAM