Atlanta Parent_September 2022 by Atlanta Parent

Atlanta Parent September 2022 / atlantaparent.com PartiesBirthdayJust-RightintoFallAtlantaBabyGuideFun n Fairs and Festivals n Corn Mazes n Pumpkin Patches n Easy Day Trips

Superior Plumbing Presents 90th Annual North Georgia State Fair September 22October 2, 2022 Jim R Miller Park, Marietta, GA Voted Best Festival and Best Family Amusement 2021WINNER Presented By: Sponsored By: Thursday, September 29 @ 8 PM Corey Smith Friday, September 30 @ 8 PMMichael Ray Sat, Oct. 1 & Sun, Oct. 2 Bull Riding BullRidersAmericanTour Friday, September 23 @ 8 PMThe Afters Saturday, September 24 @ 8 PM LOCASH Wednesday, September 28 @ 8 PMJosh Turner 2022 Carriage Kia Concert Series Youth Attendance Policy- After 6:00 pm each day no person under the age of 17 will be allowed entry without a parent. Clear Bag Policy- Clear Bag may not exceed 12”x6”x12” -storage bag- one-gallon resealable clear plastic freezer bag. Small clutch purse no larger than 4.5”x 6.5” permitted. Gate Entry Policy- No Entry Sun-Thurs 9:00pm, Fri-Sat 10:00pm. FREE!&KIDS10UNDERADMISSIONEVERYDAY

KINDERGARTEN HERE WE COME We challenge you to read 1,000 books with your child before they start kindergarten. It is a great start to your child’s learning adventure. STORYTIMES Build early literacy skills like letter recognition, rhyming, counting, colors and shapes. MUSIC AND MOVEMENT Teaches motor skills, coordination, rhyming, vocabulary, and spatial awareness. LETTER CAMPS Explore a different letter every week. Help your child learn print awareness, sharing, taking turns, and motor skills. WE HELP YOU BE YOUR CHILD’S FIRST, TEACHER.BEST gwinnettpl.org

September 2022 Atlanta Parent 5atlantaparent.com 38 YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT Inside 5437 Publisher’s Note / 8 Good Stuff / 10 For the Fridge / 62 Meet the Head of School / 12 The Boarding School Choice / 16 Atlanta’s Top Party Places / 42 It’s Time to Party! Everything you need to plan a successful birthday bash! Party themes, decorating ideas, fun food and more. Easy Day Trips Visit one of these 11 destinations to pick apples, enjoy a hay ride, race a duck or play games. SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTIONS September 19 Special Section: Atlanta Baby n I don’t want to share my baby n High-tech baby products we love n Mom-approved OB/GYNS n Baby hacks for new parents –tricks for making life easier n Where will you have your baby? A guide to Atlanta hospitals Like us on AtlantaParentMagazinefacebook.com/Facebook; Family Fun Guide: Top September events and shows, exhibits and not-to-miss festivals. Plus, corn mazes, pumpkins and scarecrows! Page 45

6 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.com 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 Sign Up For Our e-Newsletter at LikeAtlantaParent.comUsonFACEBOOK 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 Mary Williams EDITORIALEDITOR Sheri Taylor-Emery ART DIRECTOR creative@atlantaparent.com PRODUCTION Robin Mintz MARKETING Felicia Barman MOM EXPLORE • BALANCE • BELONG • SUCCEED OUR CAPSTONEACADEMY.COMFOUNDATION APS is caring Caring for parents and students. Do you know a child who resides within the city of Atlanta in need of special education services? Atlanta Public Schools Child Find services can open a window of hope for a brighter future for infants, children and young adults identiﬁed with a disability or developmental delay. For more information, call the Dept. of Special Education. Ages 3-5: 404-802-1690 Ages 6-21: 404-802-2636

September is here! Families everywhere are settling into their fall routines. The kids are back in school and schedules are getting busier. Now that my kids are getting older, we have to work harder to find the right balance of school, music lessons, sports and family time. Some days I feel like most of my time is spent sitting in the car, taking them from one activity to the next. One of my goals is to make sure we don’t become overscheduled, and that we always have time set aside to be together as a family. This month, we’re looking forward to picking apples, seeing a show or two and checking out one of the many festivals happening around Atlanta. Use our Family Fun Guide to find activities your family will love, from a day trip to a farm to an immersive journey through space. We’re excited about the Atlanta Baby section in this month’s issue. You’ll find lots of information for new parents and parents-to-be, including the latest gadgets, strategies for making life with your baby easier, and our list of momapproved obstetricians.

8 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.com Publisher’s Note How to Reach us: Telephone 770.454.7599 Fax 770.454.7699 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. Email lwhite@atlantaparent.com Website www.atlantaparent.com Associate Publisher

Kid-Friendly Guides 75+ Playgrounds Baby/Toddler Classes Atlanta PARENT Must-Read Stories Fun Things to Do This Week Kids EatCONTESTSFree Keep an eye out every#AtlantaParentContestforweekonFacebookandoure-newsletter.

It’s also time to plan fall birthday parties! Our Party Planner in print and online has everything you need to get started, whether you’re putting together a special celebration at home or heading out to a fun party venue. I love the ideas for making your party earth-friendly – it’s something we all need to think about more. No matter what activities you choose, enjoy the time together as a family.

“According to the CDC, more than half (52%) of children have experienced a cavity by age 8.”

The Healthy Schools Campaign reports that children ages 5 to 17 miss nearly two million school days per year because of dental health issues, including 30% of kids age 6 to 12. Parents can’t foresee every school year disruption, but being proactive about oral health can mean one less worry.

“That’s why I recommend adding ProBiora probiotics for the mouth to both kids and adults daily oral-care routine. ProBiora is the original oralcare probiotic that is backed by more than 30 years of clinical research.”

Brush. Floss. ProBioraKids. With one easy step, parents optimize their kids’, and their own oral-care routine. Find more information at www.probiorahealth.com/kids. ProBiora Health’s full line of oralcare probiotics can be purchased at www.probiorahealth.com or Amazon. Take 10% off your order with the promo code ATLANTA22.

Back-to-school means photos of kids smiling widely as they begin a new grade.

“We have an epidemic of kids with cavities in the U.S, causing too many kids pain and missed school days, as well as compromising their oral health,” Dr. Poteet says.

Finally, worrying about bad breath can make the back-to-school transition tougher. Halitosis – often caused by poor oral health – can put a damper on fun social interactions, affect the child’s self esteem, and even lead to a change in speech patterns – and fewer smiles.

“At home, brushing and ﬂossing twice a day are important steps in a good daily oral-care routine,” says Dr. Poteet. “Many kids are not very adept at brushing, so monitoring your kids brushing as much as possible also is helpful. But brushing and ﬂossing is only half the battle.”

ProBioraKids is specially formulated for children and comes in an orange creamsicle flavor kids love. It’s easy to use, too. Simply dissolve or chew one or more ProBiora at bedtime after brushing and flossing. It’s gluten-free and sugar-free with no artificial colors or flavors.

“Back-to-school is a great time to establish healthy habits and routines that can reduce school days missed and last a lifetime,” says Dr. Sarah Poteet, a dentist and owner of Dallas Functional Dentistry in Dallas, Texas.

For a truly healthy mouth, Dr. Poteet says, it’s essential to also support good bacteria that is native to the mouth using oral-care probiotics. Oralcare probiotics work the same as those that promote and repopulate good bacteria in the gut.

A healthy mouth supports better overall health, too.

September 2022 Atlanta Parent 9atlantaparent.com2AtlantaParent <ISSUE> <DATE> atlantaparent.com S P O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

How ThisOverallChildren’sCanProbioticsOral-CareImproveHealthSchoolYear

Research shows that bad bacteria in the mouth can gradually affect kidneys, lungs, the heart and even brain development.

Oral-Care ProBiotics: The One Step Parents Can Take

To keep those smiles bright, make sure back-to-school preparations include your child’s oral and dental health. Establishing good oral hygiene habits now can help kids avoid missing school for dentist appointments, improve their overall health, and even boost their self-esteem.

Cavities among young children are on the rise, she points out in a recent interview.

“Poor oral health doesn’t just impact your kid’s mouth, it affects their whole body,” says Dr. Poteet.

StUff Good WebbEmilyby CELEBRATE GRANDPARENTSTHE

The scrapbook goes digital with a digital photo frame, with several different options.

Puzzle It Out

Listen to the Wind Blow

n The Skylight uses email to connect your photos from your phone or computer to the touch-screen photo frame; available for $159.99-$299.99 at skylightframe.com.

A Family Affair

Atatat Digital Photo Frame

n Using a USB or SD card, the Atatat Digital Photo Frame doesn’t need Wi-Fi; available at amazon.com for $69.59.

10 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.com

Give the gift of entertainment and family with a puzzle from Shutterfly. Choose from tons of different designs – circular, bordered, gallery, collage and more – for a special puzzle that could feature one or multiple family photos. You can also choose from 60, 252, 520 or 1014 pieces for beginner to advanced puzzle lovers, and the puzzle arrives in a matching photo box for a pretty keepsake item. Available at shutterfly.com for $19.99-$39.99.

The Around the Table Games Grandparent Talk makes it easy to connect as a family. With 100 different questions, grandparents and grandkids can engage in both silly and thought-provoking discussions to learn about each other in a new way. The stack also comes with a card ring, so you can travel with the deck for conversations in the car, around the table or wherever you go as a family. Available at amazon.com for $9.22.

On the Screen

It’s Lit Light up loved ones’ lives no matter the distance with the Long Distance Friendship Lamp created by John Harrison and Vanessa Whalen on Uncommon Goods. Turn your lamp on with a touch, and its pair will emit the same glow, and with each touch, the lamp cycles through a colorful rainbow. Or assign each loved one a special color, so that when they tap the lamp, you’ll know who is on the other end. Lamps are connected via Wi-Fi and have a default fade setting. Available at uncommongoods.com for $99-$198.

n Nixplay has tons of different frames if you’re trying to match the interior design, and photos can be uploaded via an app; available for $139.99-$299.99 at nixplay.com.

Make the grandparents’ porch or patio special by adding your family as a decoration. Personalization Mall has a Floral Love for Grandma Personalized Photo Wind Chimes you can customize with a title, two lines of text and a photo. Grandma can listen to beautiful music as she admires her favorite family members, and the chimes feature a pretty crystal windcatcher. Available at personalizationmall.com for $47.99.

Go fishing. Boys and girls alike are always up for a short bout of fishing with a grandparent. They not only learn how to bait a hook and cast the line, but their faces light up when they actually catch a fish.

Even if nobody catches anything, at least the kids and grandparent get to spend some quality time together.

Share a skill or hobby. Does grandma scrapbook, garden, paint pictures or cook a favorite dish? Your child can join in and learn how to do it, too. Grandma Tutu (my mom) got my kids interested in rocks when she gave them some quartz crystal chunks.

September 2022 Atlanta Parent 11atlantaparent.com

n Make something. The possibilities for your kids to interact with their grandparents are endless: They can bake cookies, build a birdhouse or plant a pot of marigolds. My husband’s grandma made wooden stick horses for all of her grandchildren, and they still have them. Now my kids play with them – 40 years later.

Plan a special activity. Keep the grandparents involved in your child’s latest interests. For instance, if your daughter develops a love for ballet, have grandma take her to see “The Nutcracker.” If your son is crazy about trains, grandpa could treat him to an excursion on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway or take him to the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History in Kennesaw.

n Have a sleepover. My sons love shrimp, so when they visit their grandparents, their grandfather makes them a dinner of shrimp, potatoes and green beans and tops it off with a big bowl of sherbet while they watch a movie before going to bed. In the morning, they wake up to eggs, hash browns, bacon and a day full of fun.

Explore the grandparents’ “stuff.” Take the kids on a tour of grandma’s attic, basement and special treasures. Kids can learn so much about their family roots through collections of baseball cards, vintage music, classic books, old photos, special autographs, antique toys, personal diaries and other mementoes.

n Go exploring. A nature walk or a trip to a petting zoo or nature center is an ideal activity for grandparents and grandchildren. Even just a stroll through the park or around the block can be a rewarding and memorable experience.

Get a makeover. Girls love to accompany grandma to the beauty salon or get a makeover at grandma’s house. My girls adore how Grandma Mac brushes their hair, because she is patient and gentle and talks to them so lovingly while doing it. A simple session of nail painting can be very relaxing and the perfect time for a girl-to-girl chat.

n Volunteer together. My father-in-law takes my 10-year-old son to a food bank every few weeks for three hours of sorting donated food, then they go out to lunch. Head to volunteermatch.org to find all sorts of volunteer opportunities that grandparents and kids can do together.

Memory Makers for Kids and Grandparents

by Kerrie McLoughlin If your children are lucky enough to live close to their grandparents, here are some great ideas the kids and grandparents can do together to help bridge the generation gap.

n Cheer them on. Invite the grandparents to as many sports competitions, scouting events, dance recitals and other special occasions as you can, so they can lend their support to your children’s achievements. Their presence at these important milestones will be remembered and appreciated.

Here is a personal look at the educational leaders who set the tone at their schools to ensure superb curriculum, effective teaching and student success. Learn more about the philosophy on which some of Atlanta’s top schools are built, and how their leaders implement these ideas.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION12 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.com [ SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION ]

Angela Naples, Head of School Atlanta Academy atlantaacademy.comRoswell678-461-6102

Atlanta Parent recognizes these administrative leaders’ dedication to students, teachers and parents.

Atlanta Academy was founded in 2000 by Head of School Angela Naples and a team of passionate educators. Together, they established a vibrant community of dedicated faculty, engaged students, and involved parents, which still holds today. Throughout her career, Angela has served with numerous community and academic organizations, including the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, National Association of Elementary School Principals, National Association of Independent Schools, Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, and the Atlanta Area Association of Independent Schools.

SCHOOLOFHEADTHEMEET

Additionally, she served as a past board member for the Georgia Independent School“WeAssociation.believeingiving every student the individual attention they need to succeed. My favorite part each day is walking our halls and feeling the spirit and enthusiasm of our students engaged in their learning. I can see ﬁrst-hand the remarkable job our teachers do to prepare our students to be good citizens and set them on a path to reach their full potential in high school and beyond.”

Atlanta Academy serves 390 private preschool-8th grade students in North Fulton. For more information, visit atlantaacademy.com.

The mission of GRACEPOINT is to equip dyslexic students with the skills needed to develop into independent and conﬁdent learners, through sequential, systematic and multisensory instruction.

GRACEPOINT serves students in grades 1-8 using the Orton-Gillingham teaching method.The goal for each student is to instill a lifelong desire for growing in wisdom and gaining knowledge of the Lord so that each may fulﬁll God’s purposes and bring glory to Him.

Capstone Academy is a community of teachers and administrators investing into our students who become their own capstone project, representing a culmination of their academic and intellectual experience. Students who are balanced, who understand their own power of belonging in school, friendships, family, and the world, can then explore their education with a sense of wonder and pursue their own passions with an ultimate potential for theirRicksuccess.Betts brings a wealth of school experience in Atlanta independent schools to his position as Head of School. Betts came to Capstone Academy, his third Head of School Position, with prior experience including 16 years at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School, in Atlanta, where he served as Assistant Lower School Principal, Lower School Principal, Associate Head of School and, one year as Acting Head of School. His professional experience also includes time as a classroom teacher at Pace Academy and Fulton County School System. Betts has been involved in growing new schools, improving established schools, and living out his passion as an Educational Leader. capstoneacademy.comAtlanta404-458-5160

Joy Wood, Head of School GRACEPOINT gracepointschool.orgMarietta678-709-6634

MEET THE HEAD OF SCHOOL SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION September 2022 Atlanta Parent 13atlantaparent.com

Rick Betts, Head of School Capstone Academy

Joy Wood joined GRACEPOINT in 2015, bringing with her more than 35 years of experience as an educator. Prior to coming to GRACEPOINT, Mrs. Wood served as the Director of Curriculum at Christ the King Catholic School and Elementary Principal at Wesleyan School. Since 1995, Mrs. Wood has represented the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Southern Association of Independent Schools as an Accreditation Team Member. She currently serves on the Executive Board of the Georgia Independent School Association. During the summer of 2016, Mrs. Wood oversaw the relocation of GRACEPOINT to the campus of Piedmont Church in Marietta. Six years later, enrollment is now at 134 students. Having reached full capacity at the current facility, GRACEPOINT will move to a building located at 1407 Cobb Parkway once renovations are complete in the Fall of 2023.

Kristy is a strong advocate for students, an inspiring mentor for faculty and staff, and a strategic visionary for the School. With 25 years of experience in the United States and Europe, Kristy is an innovative educator with a depth of unmatched applied leadership coupled with a high level of emotional intelligence. Prior to coming to Mount Vernon, she held a variety of leadership positions, including the Executive Director of the Viktor Rydberg Schools (7 independent bilingual schools) in Stockholm, Sweden and the Head of School for the Scandinavian School of Brussels.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION MEET THE HEAD OF SCHOOL 14 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.com SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

As a co-educational day school with more than 1,200 students in Preschool through Grade 12, Mount Vernon sets the conditions for learners to excel in college, career, and citizenship. Thriving in a constantly changing environment with complex challenges, students engage in real-world problem solving throughout their experience, partnering with major corporations, non-proﬁts, and civic environments and ultimately, making a positive impact in the local community. Graduating to top-tier universities, they are impactKristyready.Lundstrom is Mount Vernon’s new Head of School for the 22-23 academic year. Reﬂected in her personal and professional motto, “Kids Go First”

“From the moment I set foot on The Howard School campus, I was aware of the passion and joy of this community. Since its founding in 1950, Howard has been a school marked by courage, creativity, and a deep belief in the potential of students with language-based learning disabilities. Howard has pioneered education of young people who learn differently and has maintained a commitment to partnership with parents and a focus on empowering students to be their own advocates in their journey. I am honored to join this vibrant place and to partner with Howard faculty, staff, parents, students and alumni as Howard continues its legacy of leadership and service to students.”

The Howard School howardschool.org404-377-7436

Dr. Anna Bacon Moore was welcomed by The Howard School Community last spring to serve as the next Head of School. Dr. Moore brings deep experience and proven leadership to Howard. She served as Director of Student Support, Director of Summer School (grades 6-12), and Grade Level Dean for 9th grade girls at The Westminster Schools. Dr. Moore also served as an Assistant Professor in the Dept. of Rehabilitation Medicine, Division of Neuropsychology at the Emory University School of Medicine. Dr. Moore shared her excitement at joining The Howard School team.

Kristy Lundstrom, Head of School

The Mount Vernon School Mount Vernon is a school of inquiry, innovation, and impact. The School is committed to creating and sustaining a school culture where all members feel valued and safe, sharing their authentic selves to design a better world…together.

Sandy mountvernonschool.orgSprings404-252-3448

Dr. Anna Bacon Moore, Head of School

Carl C. Carlson, Head of School

thewalkerschool.orgMarietta770-427-2689

The Walker School

v v EXPLORE WESLEYAN AT WWW.WESLEYANSCHOOL.ORG/ADMISSIONS Where Christianauthenticmission and mutuallyexcellenceacademicaren’texclusiveWHYWESLEYAN? Scan to learn more!

The Walker School ushers in the 2022-23 school year with a new Head of School – Carl C. Carlson. He comes to The Walker School with a distinguished career as an educator. Carlson previously worked at Tampa Preparatory School as its Head of High School for the past eight years. Prior to his tenure in Florida, he spent 23 years in traditional New England Boarding Schools where he taught math and economics, coached basketball and soccer, lived in dorms and served in a variety of administrative roles. Carlson also grew up in a family of educators and was a “faculty child” on three different boarding school campuses in New England. He and his wife, Alison, who also works in independent school education, have three children: Cameron, age 23; Owen, age 20; and Zachary, age 17. His personal interests include travel, basketball, music, gardening, reading, cooking and the Red Sox (and the Braves, when they’re not playing Boston).Carlson attended Wesleyan University and holds a master’s degree in education from Harvard University. He brings extensive and versatile experience in all aspects of an independent school and considers independent school education his life’s work, personal purpose and an extension of his core values.

MEET THE HEAD OF SCHOOL SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION September 2022 Atlanta Parent 15atlantaparent.com SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Spark a Brilliant Future Interlochen Arts Academy is the nation’s premier boarding arts high school, where students unlock their potential, gain confidence, and develop as an artist and as an individual. Students pursue pre-professional training in music, dance, theatre, visual arts, creative writing and film alongside a robust academic curriculum, preparing them to excel in the arts and beyond. In-person open house events are held at Interlochen’s scenic campus on Sept. 26, Oct. 10 and 21, and Nov. 14; virtual open house events are Nov. 1-4. Meet with arts division directors, current students and parents, and residential life staff to discover the full Interlochen experience. interlochen.org/arts-boarding-school

Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School Interlochen Arts Academy Riverside Military Academy

Riverside Military Academy is an all-male private boarding school for grades 6-12 in Gainesville, Georgia. Through signature programs like Cyber Security and Aerospace Engineering, nationally recognized video production and Raider teams, and a Civil Air Patrol program, leaders of character emerge ready for whatever comes next. Riverside is a journey from brotherhood to manhood where cadets are immersed – in and out of the classroom – in a handson approach to success in college and beyond. Riverside graduates were recently offered $3.5 million in academic scholarships and $350,000 in ROTC scholarships and were accepted to 161 different colleges, universities, and service academies nationwide. riversidemilitary.com

16 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.com SPONSORED CONTENT

Plan Your Boarding School Tour Now!

Lead the Way Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School is one of the top 50 boarding schools in the U.S., located 90 miles from Atlanta in the beautiful North Georgia mountains. Rabun Gap is a global community of 680 students in grades PreK-12. Boarding begins in grade 7. Rabun Gap’s applied learning curriculum prepares students for college, career, and a lifetime of leadership and service. 100% of students are accepted to premier colleges and universities across the globe. Rabun Gap offers elite programs in the arts – with one of the nation’s only school Cirque programs – as well as championship-level athletics. Open house November 6. rabungap.org Building LeadershipExcellence,andCharacter

An on-campus visit is the best way to experience

and learn about the benefits of a school. Schedule a tour and take the first step to your boarding school journey.

n Interlochen Arts Academy Interlochen, interlochen.org/arts-boarding-schoolMich.

PREPARED and to become EXTRAORDINARY. Here, girls are accepted and empowered in their learning; to grow spiritually and socially. They are recognized for their unique talents, passions, and interests – and those yet to be discovered. They also grow in confidence, amplify their voices, and discover who they want to become while in a safe and supportive learning and living environment.

Creating Voices That Matter

September 2022 Atlanta Parent 17atlantaparent.com Be Bold. Be Inspired. Be Prepared. Be Extraordinary.

Saint Mary’s School is an all-girls, college preparatory, Episcopal high school for girls in grades 9-12 located in the vibrant capitol city of Raleigh, N.C. Founded in 1842, girls are challenged academically – to be BOLD, to be INSPIRED, to be

The Knox School

Saint Mary’s School

For More Information:

n Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School Rabun Gap, rabungap.orgGa. Riverside Military Academy Gainesville, riversidemilitary.comGa. Saint Mary’s School Raleigh, N.C. sms.edu

Unlock Your Potential

sms.edu

Founded in 1870, The Webb School is a boarding and day school offering challenging academics with an emphasis on personal integrity for students in grades 6-12. Boarding begins in grade 7. A family-like setting provides personal attention for each student with an average class size of 13. The 150-acre campus is located south of Nashville in historic Bell Buckle. In fall 2022, the school will offer Dual Enrollment courses through Lipscomb University featuring electives in psychology, business and communications. Students have the opportunity to start their college careers with credits already obtained. Schedule a visit or attend an official Visit Day. thewebbschool.com/admissions/visit-campus

The Webb School Bell Buckle, thewebbschool.comTenn. The Knox School St. James, knoxschool.orgN.Y.

The Webb School

The Knox School is Long Island’s oldest established, co-educational boarding and day school. An inclusive environment serves grades 6-12 and Post-Graduate, providing students with a broad world perspective and a wide range of skills to prepare them for the next phase of their journeys. At Knox everyone knows your name and each student’s potential is unlocked and maximized because of the boundless experiences a Knox education provides. Knox is proud of its 100% graduate acceptance rate to top fouryear universities. Whether you are an aspiring engineer or equestrian, artist or architect, performer or physicist, a Knox education unlocks every student’s potential and prepares them for success after high school. knoxschool.org

From the moment you walk in our doors, it’s apparent that The Women’s Center at Southern Regional and our Level III NICU were created with you and your baby’s comfort in mind. Our dedicated team partners with you and your doctor to provide a caring, safe, and comforting environment to welcome your little one. It’s true that the best pre-natal care is critical to you and your baby. If you do not already have an OB/Gyn, you can find a highly-qualified, caring doctor who delivers at Southern Regional. 11 Upper Riverdale Road, SW Riverdale, GA 770-991-800030274 southernregional.org Member of Prime Healthcare dreamlittleadream... The Women’ s Center at Just For You Women’s Healthcare Locust Grove Dr. Robinette King Life Cycle OB/GYN at Southern Regional Riverdale Lodestar Obsetetrics & Gynecology Riverdale My OB/GYN Riverdale and Stockbridge Premier Women’s OB/GYN Riverdale Southside Medical Center Riverdale

September 2022 Atlanta Parent 19atlantaparent.com atlanta baby BABYatlanta MotherhoodthetheDiscoveringJOYnotJOBof “A baby fills a place in your heart that you never knew was empty.” UNKNOWN “The positionmother,motherhoodstatenaturalofisunselfishness.Whenyoubecomeayouarenolongerthecenterofyourownuniverse.Yourelinquishthattoyourchildren.” JESSICA LANGE “Mother is a verb. do,somethingIt’syounotjustwhoyouare.” DOROTHYFISHERCANFIELD “May your coffee be stronger than your toddler.” UNKNOWN

I Don’t Want to Share My Baby

supportofandtheUnderstandingchallengesbenefitspostpartumsystems

And then, the bubble popped.

I had just delivered my first baby, Sahana, and was blissfully numb from the waist down thanks to an epidural that had worked gloriously well. Now, I was soaking up every peach-fuzz-covered inch of her.

Amritha Alladi Joseph

20 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.comatlanta baby

She slept, undisturbed in the hospital’s bassinet, so soundly that as a naïve first-time parent, I let her snooze through feeding times. Apart from glaring hospital lighting and a sensation gradually returning to my lower body, this pristine bubble that surrounded us was my nirvana.

How brusquely I was lurched into reality that day three years ago when I realized just how much I would have to fend for alone time with my little one.

Before I became a mother, I figured that the sanctity of mother-baby bonding that followed was not only well known but well-respected across cultures and generations. I looked forward to scooping up my baby, cuddling her and absorbing the new responsibilities of motherhood – on my own.

by Amritha Alladi Joseph

Cont’d on next page Marta Himmelreich

September 2022 Atlanta Parent 21atlantaparent.com atlanta baby

n Generously cite your medical professional’s guidance to justify your approach.

To my relief, it’s also not uncommon for moms to feel overwhelmed or territorial during this time. Luisa Martinez of Sandy Springs also felt inundated –and guilty of her reaction in hindsight – by the immediate presence of family at the time of her son’s birth. The popping of champagne bottles and toasts that took place upon the birth of her son made her feel frustrated as she felt exhausted after“Idelivery.feltlike they were invading my privacy,” she says. “I wouldn’t let my son leave my sight.”

Let your social circle, including potential caregivers, know your boundaries (immunizations/health checks required before handling baby, use of pacifier/bottle feeding, etc.).

Be polite but firm in discussing your anticipated parenting approach, and request they respect it.

Today, she, too, acknowledges that the outpouring of jubilation and love was “a beautiful gesture,” but at the time, she couldn’t help feeling like the rest of her family was being insensitive. The revelry only continued through the holidays, as she got home from the hospital on Christmas Day and her family threw a New Year’s Eve bash without consulting her first.

Understand that bonding is a biological need Apparently not, according to Tijana Sefic Eby, a pediatric and family chiropractor and birth and postpartum doula. There is a physiological rationale for giving new mothers space to bond with their newborns.

n Inform loved ones of the type(s) of help you will need (watching the older kids, meal requests, errands, etc.).

But then our families descended, gushing loudly, eager to snatch my newborn from my arms and jolting her awake. By this point I was barking – perhaps from the combined whiplash of postpartum hormones, a fading anesthetic and my own frustration with nursing setbacks. Either way, I wanted privacy and time to bond with my baby without interference or unsolicited advice. Call me possessive, but I wasn’t ready to play hot potato just yet. Eventually, we all made it home together, and my family’s presence proved to be an immense help for which I am grateful: they offered words of encouragement for my nursing journey, cooked meals (including lactogenic foods), watched over Sahana so I could take some time for personal care. Yet for the few days and weeks that followed the birth, I retreated early in the evenings to my bedroom with Sahana, under the guise of postpartum exhaustion and attempted nursing, to create some space.

For the next 24 to 48 hours, nurses and technicians alternated in what seemed like visits every 30 minutes: first to check on baby’s vitals, next to poke and prod at me to ensure I was recovering; sometimes they whisked my little one away for additional testing and observation. They were healthcare workers, so I let them do their jobs.

“The time spent together during the initial postpartum period is necessary for both mom and baby. This is how both of them regulate their bodily functions,” she says. “For babies, skin-toskin contact helps regulate body temperature and breathing; and for moms, skin-to-skin contact helps promote and regulate the breast milk production and feeding patterns, as well as reducing the stress hormones.”

Prior to the due date, clearly decide with your partner the environment you want for your newborn, but be ready to anticipate changes if needed (When will you allow visitors? If so, who?).

n Be honest about your bandwidth to sit and chat, as you will likely not have time to entertain guests.

How to Establish an Effective Support System

From my perspective, this was prime time with my daughter, moments I would not get back. Was it unreasonable or selfish of me to want uninterrupted snuggles and space to navigate the new groove of parenthood with my husband independently?

We PediatricsDo Differently THIS IS SHOULDMEDICINEANDINTEGRATIVECHILDREN’SHOWFAMILYBE. Brookhaven/Buckhead 1401 DRESDEN DR. ATLANTA, GA 30319 Johns Creek 10220 MEDLOCK BRIDGE RD JOHNS CREEK, GA 30097 4 centrespringmd.com/integrative-pediatrics 4 404-814-9808 4 Whole system treatment that focus on nutrition, genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors. 4 Advanced, innovative, and non-invasive diagnostic tools 4 Integrative team — Holistic MD, Nutritionist, Acupuncturist, CranioSacral 4 Our team addresses the root cause of issues, not just the symptoms. 4 Treating ADHD, Pans/Pandas, asthma, allergies, anxiety, depression, digestive disorders and inﬂammation. 4 Unhurried appointments

“It was so amazing. I was so happy to have them there,” Himmelreich says. Her in-laws stayed for one week to help the couple get adjusted to the new demands of parenthood. After that, Himmelreich and her husband were able to settle into the new routine on their own, but it was not without challenges. Once her in-laws left and her husband resumed work, Himmelreich found it hard to find a window of time for herself. There were days she’d end up in tears for not having even 20 minutes to take a shower in peace. Now, as she and her husband plan for their second child, Himmelreich is confident in the community of friends –including other moms – that she has built in Atlanta to make the experience less lonely the second time around. “It’s important to have the right people around you who know the boundaries and went through the experience, so they know what you might need and also what you might not want to see, hear or do,” she says.

Understanding the challenges and benefits of postpartum support systems

Such non-intrusive help came as a blessing for East Cobb resident Marta Himmelreich, who feels lucky to have had her in-laws fly in from Texas to help when her son was born in February 2020. As an immigrant, Himmelreich was not able to rely on the support of her own family, who live in Poland and were reluctant to travel. However, her in-laws were able to assist with grocery shopping, house cleaning, cooking and dog walking.

She felt alone, despite being surrounded by the merriment of her husband’s family, who had helped deep clean the house and had shown up in full form.

– Marta Himmelreich

22 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.comatlanta baby

“I was so embarrassed because his family was doing everything to make this experience easy. I regret not embracing the excitement and accepting them with open arms,” Martinez says. Make the support system work for you

Perhaps embracing support – in some forms – isn’t a bad idea as a mother is still recovering, according to Eby. The “fourth trimester,” the 90 days following the birth, is just as tender as the first three for moms, who should prioritize rest in the early postpartum period, she says. Having a support system to help the with cooking, chores or even bolstering mom’s mood with conversation around topics other than the baby can be a significant benefit at this time.

“Most moms don’t need the support with the baby. They need help around the house,” she says. “None of the moms want to give their baby up.” (Phew, so it wasn’t just me!)

“It’s important to have the right people around you who know the boundaries and went through the experience, so they know what you might need and also what you might not want to see, hear or do.”

Set limitexpectations,exposure

Focus on uplifting mom. Give her the opportunity to talk about what she’s going through or talk about something that has nothing to do with babies. Remind her of how she is an individual with interests of her own. Offer (and follow through) to help with the baby’s laundry, do the dishes or household chores. Bring over a nutritious meal, or offer to spend time with the other children/pets in the house. Ask and listen for specific needs, rather than your perception of the family’s needs. Do not expect new parents to entertain you if you visit. Be mindful of their time.

September 2022 Atlanta Parent 23atlantaparent.com atlanta baby MusicLessonsATL.com  EuroSchoolMusic.org SANDY SPRINGS  404-255-8382 Private Lessons: Music & Chess  4 years– adult Piano  Violin  Guitar  Drums Flute  Clarinet  Voice  Chess Our unique instructional method develops both musical and intellectual abilities, memory focus, creativity and critical thinking which help students reach their full potential. Now you can become one with the musicMOMMY&ME0-3 Scholarships for Needy Students. Multi-Lingual Instruction Available Please Recycle How Friends and Family Can Actually Help n Respect the new parents’ wishes, regardless of how you feel about them. Withhold judgment. n

“In the first couple weeks, the baby is going to sleep. Having a lot of family doesn’t help,” Smith says. “If people are upset or question what the parents say, put it on the doctor. I know exactly what the risks are.” That’s precisely what I did the second time around. Since my son was born during the pandemic, hospital restrictions prohibited visitors, and there was only a skeletal hospital staff who were preoccupied with more urgent cases. I basked in the solitude. For those quiet hours in the hospital with my son, our bubble remained our own. Sign up for our newsletter atlantaparent.com

Selecting and screening visitors is especially important from a medical perspective, too, especially for the baby’s development, according to pediatrician Dr. Shayna Smith of Flourish Pediatrics. Even prior to the pandemic, the first month of life has always been considered a crucial period for keeping the baby’s contact with others minimal, as there is always a risk of infection while the infant’s immunity is starting to build up. She advises parents to enforce frequent hand washing by visitors. If prospective visitors have been sick, have had a runny nose or have been exposed to any kind of virus recently, have them visit after a month.

ARE YOU ON THE LIST?

The CYBEX Sirona S 360 Rotational Convertible Car Seat with SensorSafe is the perfect car seat for baby. It can grow with your child since it’s safe for newborns through 65 lbs. The convertible car seat features a 360-degree rotatable seat for rear-facing or forward-facing positions, depending on your child’s age. The EasyLock bar makes for quick, simple and secure installation. Pair the SensorSafe 4-in-1 Safety Kit to your smartphone to be alerted in critical conditions, such as if car temperatures get too hot or cold or if the child unbuckles. Available in four colors at cybex-online.com for $549.95.

Use these high-tech gadgets to make parenting easier.

n Growing Like a Weed Want to accurately measure your baby’s milestones and have this info handy when visiting the doctor? Check out the Hubble Grow + Smart Bluetooth Baby Scale. Download the HubbleClub app to track and graph weight, height and head and compare those measurements against World Health Organization percentiles, as well as tracking sleep, reading parenting tips and more. Available at hubbleconnected.com for $79.99.

n Beep, Beep Get a backseat baby reminder with the Ride N Remind Car Alarm. Although this service must be professionally installed, the car alarm will be automatically activated upon the rear door opening and closing. Your car horn will alert you to check the back seat and can give you peace of mind when traveling with your child. The reminder system doesn’t require an app and can work for any number of passengers (or your pet). Available at ridenremind.com for $149.99.

Baby Tracking Talli makes keeping track of everything easier. Using buttons with icons, you can log bottle feeding, solid food, diapers, sleep, nursing, pumping and more to track data related to taking care of your infant. The small device connects to your Wi-Fi and sends the event to the corresponding app, so you can see everything in one place. The device makes it easier for multiple caretakers to log information. This company is also an Atlanta startup! Available at talli.me for $99.99.

n Sit in Style

24 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.comatlanta baby BABY PRODUCTS FOR 21STTHECENTURY

by Emily Webb

The Miku Pro Smart Baby Monitor with Wall Mount Kit allows you to keep track of your baby’s breathing and sleeping in real-time. Monitoring technology allows you to track breathing and understand sleeping habits contact-free, week-by-week on the app. With the two-way microphone, you can hear if your baby starts to cry and talk back immediately to start soothing them. It also plays original sleep sounds and lullabies to lull baby easily. Available at mikucare.com for $399.

n Somebody’s Watching You

According to Nameberry, the largest top five baby names chose last year start with A: Adeline, cool Atlanta baby name Elizabeth, Josephine, Lucy, Lochlan, Ace and Ambrose made the Top other

world’s

Ava, Atticus, Ace and Ambrose. Another

10 List only in Atlanta. So, what

names made the cut? Top Atlanta Girl Names 10987654321 Such a cute baby! What’s the name? IvyHazelElizabethAvaAdelineLunaLucyJosephineMaeveIsla AmbroseAceLochlanJamesFinnCalvinBennettAtticusGrahamCaleb10987654321

September 2022 Atlanta Parent 25atlantaparent.com atlanta baby While swim lessons for your baby may not be top of mind, getting your infant confident and comfortable in the water can start as early as 3 months. Research has shown that attending swim lessons with your baby helps deepen the parent-child bond. Register for Mini Lessons TODAY! JOHNS CREEK | SANDY SPRINGS | ROSWELL goldfishswimschool.com | • Flexible Class Times • Small Class Sizes • Trained & Certified Instructors • 30-Minute Weekly Lessons Top Atlanta Boy Names Some people call our city “Hotlanta” while others prefer “The ATL,” but what do Atlantans prefer for naming their babies?

website devoted to baby names, we have a special place in our hearts for “A” names. In fact, the

Atlantans

fact:

Life Cycle OB/GYN at Southern Regional 29 Upper Riverdale Road, SW, Suite 230, Riverdale 30274 770-693-2800 • southernregionalpmg.org Life ObstetricsCycle and Gynecology

Life Cycle Obstetrics and Gynecology at Southern Regional is committed personalized high-quality women’s health care. The practice, located just off Southern Regional Medical Center’s campus in Building 29, was formerly Life Cycle OB/GYN of Riverdale and East Point which has served the communities of the southern crescent of metro Atlanta since 2001. The diverse and dedicated team is honored to continue to provide all aspects of women’s health for all women in the community.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION 26 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.comMOM-APPROVED DOCTORS Atlanta Parent 1atlantaparent.com MOM-APPROVED DOCTORS SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

The Best Care for You and Your Baby Bringing a baby into the world is one of life’s great joys. At Southern Regional, they work with you and your Obstetrician/Gynecologist (OB/Gyn) to provide a caring and comforting environment to welcome your baby. Whether you’re having a high-risk pregnancy or planning for natural childbirth, Southern Regional will provide the best possible care for you and your baby. They offer a full range of services and state-of-the-art technology – from comfortable labor and delivery suites to their Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) for newborns who need special care. Let Southern Regional be your hospital of choice when you are expecting.

Dr. King received her medical degree from Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, where she also completed her Residency and an Internship in Obstetrics and Gynecology. She also completed a Fellowship in Clinical and Translational Research in Healthcare for Community Providers at Morehouse School of Medicine/Institute for Healthcare Improvement. She earned her undergraduate degree from Albany State University, Albany, Georgia. BoardCertiﬁed by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology, she is a member of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

For Dr. King and staff, it’s all about comfort, conﬁdence, and communication with every patient.

Dr. Robinette King is dedicated to providing exceptional, compassionate care to women at every stage of their lives. As the lead physician at Life Cycle Obstetrics and Gynecology at Southern Regional, she prides herself on spending time with each patient ensuring that she and her team develops a personalized partnership focused on each patients’ healthcare journey.

Robinette King, MD

Harrison, Sabrina, MD Sovereign Women’s Healthcare, Roswell Holloway, Keri, MD Peachtree Women’s Clinic Obstetrics & Gynecology, five metro Atlanta locations Honoré, Marin M., MD Women’s Health Associates Group, Atlanta Howard, H. Kit, MD Peachtree Women’s Clinic Obstetrics & Gynecology, five metro Atlanta locations

Atlanta Parent asked readers to recommend obstetricians and midwives they trust for excellent medical care.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION September 2022 Atlanta Parent 27atlantaparent.com MOM-APPROVED DOCTORS OB/GYNS Anderson, Keisa, MD North Atlanta Ob/Gyn, Atlanta, Marietta and Alpharetta Aspuru, E.J., MD Northside/Northpoint OB-GYN, Atlanta and Alpharetta Barratt, Peter J., MD Atlanta Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates, Atlanta Bassil, Christopher E., MD Obstetrics and Gynecology of Atlanta, four metro Atlanta locations Bowen, Genesis, MD Gynecology & Obstetrics of DeKalb, Decatur and Stone Mountain Bryant, Zuri H., MD Piedmont Women’s Heathcare, Atlanta Bukkapatnam, Jayasri, MD Atlanta Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates, Atlanta Collins, Betsy M., MD Emory University Hospital Midtown, Atlanta Curtis, Elisabeth, MD Piedmont Physicians Obstetrics and Gynecology, Newnan Dabney, Andrea, MD Emory at Kirkwood Obstetrics & Gynecology, Atlanta Davis-Williams, Camille, MD Greater Atlanta Women’s Healthcare, Atlanta DuBose, Tracy Bland, MD Kaiser Permanente Cumberland Medical Center, Atlanta Eaccarino, Mary E., MD Roswell OB/GYN, four metro Atlanta locations Eaton, Lakisha, MD Greater Atlanta Women’s Healthcare, Atlanta Espinosa, Lauren R., MD Piedmont OB-GYN, Atlanta Evors, Laura Jane, MD Piedmont Physicians Obstetrics and Gynecology, Newnan Fairbrother, Genevieve L., MD Obstetrics and Gynecology of Atlanta, four metro Atlanta locations

Khan, Kathleen S., MD Piedmont Women’s Healthcare, Atlanta Kim, Annie, MD Modern Obstetrics & Gynecology of North Atlanta, PC, Johns Creek, Alpharetta and Cumming King, Robinette, MD Life Cycle OB/GYN at Southern Regional Medical Center, Riverdale Lankford, Whitney, MD Greater Atlanta Women’s Healthcare, Atlanta Litrel, Michael, MD Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC, Woodstock and Canton Long, Parker, DO Northeast Georgia Physicians Group OB/GYN, Gainesville McLeod, Lisa, DO Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC, Woodstock and Canton Mekonnen, Sitra, MD North Atlanta Ob/Gyn, Atlanta, Marietta and Alpharetta Mmbaga, Natu, MD Modern Obstetrics & Gynecology of North Atlanta, PC, Johns Creek, Alpharetta and Cumming Morgigno, Laura, MD Maternal Gynerations, Lawrenceville Nix, Angela, MD Roswell OB/GYN, four metro Atlanta locations Phillips, Pushpa Liseli, MD Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC, Woodstock and Canton Phillips, Joe, MD Wellstar Kennestone OB/GYN, Marietta Price, Lisa, MD Dunwoody OBGYN, Dunwoody Prosper, Rachel, MD Modern Obstetrics & Gynecology of North Atlanta, PC, Johns Creek, Alpharetta and Cumming Cont’d

Hsiao, Clement C., MD Alliance Ob/Gyn, Sandy Springs and Alpharetta Ibezue, Ijeoma, MD Greater Atlanta Women’s Healthcare, Atlanta Johns, Charity, MD Peachtree Women’s Clinic Obstetrics & Gynecology, five metro Atlanta locations

Fapohunda, Tope, MD Every Woman’s ObGyn, Stockbridge Fisch, Jacqui, MD Atlanta Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates, Atlanta Frederick, Hughan, MD Nile Women’s Health Care, Roswell and Suwanee Garrett, Veronica E., MD New Beginnings Comprehensive Women’s Healthcare, Conyers and Lithonia Ghandi, Peahen, MD Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC, Woodstock and Canton Guthrie, Deanna E., MD Peachtree City Obstetrics & Gynecology, PC, Peachtree City and Newnan Haley, James, MD Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC, Woodstock and Canton Harmon, Sheena, MD Peachtree Women’s Specialists, three Atlanta locations

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AOG congratulates Dr. Peter Barratt, Dr. Jayasri Bukkapatnam and Dr. Jacqui Fisch on their nominations as mom-approved doctors. For highly skilled patient care from a team of experienced OB/GYNs, call Atlanta Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates or book an appointment online today.

Hipp, Heather, MD Emory Reproductive Center, Atlanta Spencer, Jessica, MD Emory Reproductive Center, Atlanta Brahma, Pavna, MD Shady Grove Fertility, Atlanta

Terrill, Crystal, DO Longstreet Clinic, Gainesville Turner, Heather S., MD Southern Crescent Women’s Healthcare, Fayetteville and Newnan Walters, Jacqueline, MD Comprehensive Women’s OB/GYN, Dunwoody and Duluth Woods, Kalinda, MD Emory Gynecology and Obstetrics, Atlanta Wootten, Charles D., MD Obstetrics and Gynecology of Atlanta, four metro Atlanta locations Zertuche, Adrienne D., MD Piedmont Women’s Healthcare, Atlanta Zhukova, Mariya, MD Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC, Woodstock and Canton MIDWIVES Battaglia, Taylor, CNM Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC, Woodstock and Canton Carr, Margery McMichael, CNM Women’s Medical Center, Tyrone Cleveland, Kwajalein, CNM Gifted Hands Midwifery, Loganville

Dr. Bataille graduated from New York University in 2000 with a degree in Anthropology and Biology. Following graduation he received a grant from the National Institutes of Health to do scientiﬁc research at Columbia University for three year. He then went on to receive his medical degree from the Morehouse School of Medicine in 2007, where he also completed his Pediatric residency in 2010, training at the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta hospitals/facilities. During his residency Dr. Bataille became well acquainted with the staff and patients at Intown Pediatrics, and in July of 2010 he ofﬁcially joined the practice. . He is committed to IPAM’s mission of partnering with families to foster the healthy growth and development of Atlanta’s children.

Atlanta Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates

Atlanta Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates has been serving Atlanta for over 50 years. The practice’s mission is to improve the individual quality of life for the women under its care, supporting patients’ needs throughout each stage of life with adolescent gynecology, birth control counseling, prenatal care and delivery, and menopause management.

Denney, Rachelle, CNM Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC, Woodstock and Canton Fischels, Susan, CNM Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC, Woodstock and Canton Harrison-Wyatt, Kia, CNM Atlanta Gynecology & Obstetrics, Decatur and Lilburn Ware, Bethany, CNM Wellstar Northwest Women’s Care, Marietta Whitworth, Natalie, CNM Obstetrics and Gynecology of Atlanta, four metro Atlanta locations

Dr. Bataille strives to be an easily approachable, communicative Pediatrician dedicated to providing comprehensive and informative care of the whole patient. He is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Medical Association.

Buckhead 275 Collier Rd., Suite 100-C, Atlanta 404-237-6887 Brookhaven 3925 Peachtree Rd., Suite 240, Atlanta 404-448-2843 atlobgyn.com

The experienced team at AOG understands the unique health needs of women and specializes in diagnosing and treating common gynecological problems such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), ﬁbroids, urinary incontinence, infertility and pelvic pain. The practice also performs procedures to diagnose and treat various health concerns and conditions, including colposcopy, hysteroscopy, ultrasounds and minimally invasive surgery.

Reyes, Ingrid, MD Modern Obstetrics & Gynecology of North Atlanta, PC, Johns Creek, Alpharetta and Cumming Reyes, John, MD Modern Obstetrics & Gynecology of North Atlanta, PC, Johns Creek, Alpharetta and Cumming Scott-Miller, Yvonne, MD Dr. Yvonne Scott-Miller, Snellville Sermons, Alvin, MD Dunwoody OBGYN, Dunwoody Singh, Archana, MD Women’s Health Specialists, Stockbridge Smith-Winfield, Christina Marie, MD Emory Women’s Center at Decatur, Decatur Soufi, Winifred Lin, MD Women’s Health Associates Group, Atlanta Stafford, Jade, MD Emory University Hospital Midtown, Atlanta Sun, Phoebe, MD Women’s Health Associates Group, Atlanta Tackitt II, Bobby, MD OB-GYN Associates of Marietta, Marietta and Woodstock

Visit IntownPediatrics.com today and learn more about their entire team and all they can offer your family as they develop a “provider-parent” partnership with you

Zimmerman, Amanda, CNM Wellstar Northwest Women’s Care, Marietta

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION 28 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.comMOM-APPROVED DOCTORS

FERTILITY SPECIALISTS

Atlanta/Sandy Springs: 5780 P’tree-Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta, 30342. 404-255-0621 East Cobb/Marietta: 1523 Johnson Ferry Rd., Marietta 30062. 770-977-3513 Alpharetta/Avalon: 3905 Brookside Pkwy., Alpharetta 30022. 770-752-0824 naobgyn.com

Drs. Anderson and Mekonnen are part of a team of eight providers at North Atlanta Ob/Gyn who provide the most current, highest quality of care to patients of all ages. With three convenient metro Atlanta locations, you are sure to ﬁnd the right care for all of you

MOM-APPROVED DOCTORS

Tell us about your favorites for our 2023 lists:

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION September 2022 Atlanta Parent 29atlantaparent.com

Keisa Anderson, MD; Sitra Mekonnen, MD

North Atlanta Ob/Gyn congratulates Dr. Keisa Anderson and Dr. Sitra Mekonnen on being selected as Atlanta Mom-Approved Doctors! It is no secret that these two physicians create a comfortable, supportive, and individualized environment for every patient, every time.

Dr. Keisa Anderson is an Atlanta-native who has been providing personalized care for nearly 20 years. She attended Medical College of Georgia then completed her residency at Washington Hospital Center in Washington D.C. Dr. Anderson ﬁnds all aspects of women’s health rewarding. Her passion lies in helping women ﬁnd their optimal health through education, nutrition, and more customized treatments like hormone optimization through Biote and laser rejuvenation with MonaLisa Touch.

ATLANTA PARENT’S MOM-APPROVEDDENTISTS Pediatrician, Dentist and Orthodontist. Fapohunda, MD

OB/GYN,

Visit atlantaparent.com/nominate Tope

Dr. Sitra Mekonnen joined North Atlanta Ob/Gyn after completing her residency training at Orlando Regional Medical Center in Florida. She strives to create a nurturing experience for each of her patients. She is particularly skilled in obstetrics – including high-risk, contraceptive management, and minimally-invasive, robotic surgery. Dr. Mekonnen is grateful to be an integral part of so many women’s life milestones.

Dr. Tope Fapohunda is the CEO and co-founder of Every Woman’s ObGyn, LLC. Board certified and a fellow in the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Dr. Tope” has been treating patients for almost 20 years. Dr. Tope and her team provide the highest-quality care for women, from adolescence through menopause. The practice specializes in low- and high-risk pregnancies, abnormal bleeding and NovaSure ablation, fibroid therapy, abnormal pap smears and weight loss management. Every Woman’s ObGyn is currently welcoming new patients. Call today for an appointment at their Stockbridge office. 115 North Park Trail Suite Stockbridge11930281678-881-0020 everywomansob.com

l Interested in using cloth diapers to reduce waste? Dry the wet diapers in the sun for natural whitening. Spray lemon water on them while they’re still wet to increase whitening.

l Wash a few of your baby’s next size clothing items, so they’re ready for use when your baby starts growing. Pack them in a separate drawer or use drawer dividers to keep them organized.

by Emily Webb

l If your dryer is turning off before baby’s clothes are dry, the load might be too light for the dryer to recognize. Speed up the cycle by adding a clean dry towel to the dryer, which will help to absorb excess Catch Some Z’s

l Get stains out fast with the OxiClean Baby Stain Remover, which easily removes dried-on formula and baby food, juice spills or diaper stains. For a DIY solution, try dabbing white vinegar on the stain, or soak items in a combination of hydrogen peroxide and dish soap.

30 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.comatlanta baby

l Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Organize a meal train where family members and friends bring you meals on certain days as you heal, and your family adjusts to your new addition.

Before Baby Is Born

l Get rewarded. “Take a look at your local grocery stores, big box stores and online retailers to see if they offer a baby rewards program,” suggests Siobhán Alvarez, blogger at Mimosas & Motherhood. “For example, Target will give you an additional discount off diapers, and Amazon offers a large Subscribe & Save program that can be combined with their Baby Registry Diaper Discount to help you save even more.”

l Get onesies with zippers – no buttons, advises Adam Duvall of the Atlanta Braves. This’ll save you the pain of trying to line up snaps in the dark in the middle of the night.

Save yourself the hassle of extra laundry by getting a simple changing pad that can easily be wiped down. The Bumbo Changing Pad is easy to wipe down and doesn’t require any covers.

Babies are fully relaxed when they are sleeping (or feeding), making it a great time to cut their nails without them squirming.

Make a lot of freezer meals, so there’s one less thing for you to worry about when baby arrives.

Laundry Hacks

Parentsfor30+GreatBabyHacksNew

Being a parent doesn’t come with a manual! Check out these tips and tricks for making the early days with your little one easier.

For baby boys: “If your little boy isn’t staying dry throughout the night, and you see wetness on their tummy, flip the diaper,” suggests Kimberly Stroh, writer for Savvy Mama Lifestyle. “Putting the diaper on backwards helps that area stay dry, because the diaper placement is higher.”

A stroller hook will hold your diaper bag or shopping bag when you’re out about. Or get your steps in around the neighborhood on a walk with your dog by clipping the leash to the hook.

“Those first few weeks of changing diapers is such a learning curve. You do get faster and much more proficient the more diapers you change,” says Laura Hunter, the co-founder of Moms On Call. “With newborns, they have such a startle reflex, and they do not like being without clothes! Unsnap the onesie, pull it up over their arms and snap it over one of the shoulders. This keeps those hands from flinging about and keeps them feeling nice and warm. As they get older, giving them a toy that only comes out while on the changing table may also help.”

Keep Baby Healthy l “If you’re struggling to administer liquid medication to your baby, try using a nipple that’s not attached to a bottle,” Stroh says. “Place the measured medicine amount in the nipple. Start your feeding and let them relax. Switch out from your breast or bottle to the nipple with medication. They’re into the rhythm of sucking, and usually take of all the medication instead.”

l Use a makeup brush or mini spatula to place diaper cream to avoid getting the stuff on your hands. Bumco’s Baby Bum Brush was created for this purpose, if you’d prefer to buy the silicone brush. withBondingBaby

Around the House

l Set up a serving tray that’s within reach with remotes, water or snacks for long nursing sessions.

“Have all your items you need in the bathroom within arm’s reach. The three-tier cart on wheels is wonderful for this,” says Hunter. “Place a large, warm washcloth over the arms and chest to keep them warm during bath time.”

Keep an extra onesie or outfit for baby in your diaper bag or car, but also pack a change of clothes for you in case of an accident.

September 2022 Atlanta Parent 31atlantaparent.com atlanta baby

Plastic condiment cups will make pacifiers and other smaller items easy to find inside your bag.

Out and About

l Repurpose a hanging or over-the-door shoe organizer to keep items for baby –swaddles, burp cloths, blankets.

l “Once you’ve introduced solids, place 2-3 pieces of 2-3 food groups on the tray at a time. Too much food can overwhelm them. Keep it to very small portions,” Hunter says. “Have two long-handled spoons available and load the spoon with a bite. Let them grab that one, and while they chew on that one, you can load the second spoon, and swap them out.”

l Buy wipes in bulk to keep them stashed all over the house and in your car.

“When you’ve got a newborn baby, your diaper bag can get really heavy,” Stroh says. “Instead of storing everything inside your diaper bag, convert your car’s trunk space to a changing area. Use a small diaper caddy to keep the extra things you need. Diapers, wipes and travel-sized cream are smart to have on-the-go. It’ll save your diaper bag from being too heavy, and many moms appreciate their trunk space over a public changing table.”

Atlanta Braves’ Austin Riley suggests creating a routine for your baby as soon as possible and reading to the baby as much as you can. Babies respond to noises and familiar voices from birth, and they’ll start responding to words in the first year of life!

l Set up a Pack ‘n Play in a room you frequent or in a room where you need your hands, like the kitchen, so you have an area to put baby.

l Buy a bouncy seat or lounger for the bathroom for baby while you brush your teeth or wash your hands. And, use it early on, so your baby doesn’t grow accustomed to being held all the time.

Restock your diaper bag when you get home or before you go to bed, so you won’t have to stock items at the last minute before you need to leave.

Time to Feed l Invest in a good water bottle to ensure you have enough liquids on hand to keep you hydrated if you’re breastfeeding.

Lighten your load. “I keep a multicolor retractable pen in my diaper bag instead of a whole bunch of crayons or colored pencils,” says Amritha A. Joseph, the blogger behind In Transit. “It has all the colors, makes no mess in the bag, it’s less stuff to carry and keep track of, and since it’s a pen, even mom or dad can use it when they need something to write with on-the-go.”

Wear your baby around with a baby wrap. It’ll promote bonding and keep your hands free, so you can do chores while taking care of your baby. It can be tempting to catch up on household chores while your baby is asleep, but try to sleep when baby sleeps.

Practice tummy time with your baby on your chest.

Diaper Duty l If you live in a multi-level home, keep a small babychanging station or bin with a changing pad, diapers, wipes and creams on each floor, so you don’t have to go upstairs or downstairs every time you need to change a diaper.

n Expecting Better: Why the Conventional Pregnancy Wisdom Is Wrong – and What You Really Need to Know by Emily Oster

32 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.comatlanta baby Read All About It

The Gentle Sleep Book: Gentle, No-Tears, Sleep Solutions for Parents of Newborns to Five-Year-Olds by Sarah Ockwell-Smith This book offers gentle, effective prescriptions for addressing the common sleep challenges encountered by new parents. The first five years of a child’s life can be filled with concerns and challenges about sleep, and with suggestions for each developmental stage, readers will learn how to create a consistent bedtime routine, use comfort objects, assign naps and more. Available at amazon.com for $16.99.

by Emily Webb

Heading Home With Your Newborn: From Birth to Reality by Laura A. Jana and Jennifer Shu The fourth edition of this guide for new parents offers advice from two pediatrician-moms. With tips on feeding, dressing, diapering, bathing and more, you’ll be prepared to do the best by your baby. Serving as a reference guide for the first year, updated sections include postpartum depression, breastfeeding, insurance benefits, SIDS and car seats, along with the latest AAP guidelines. Available at publications.app.org for $16.95.

The Bottom Line for Baby: From Sleep Training to Screens, Thumb Sucking to Tummy Time – What the Science Says by Tina Payne Bryson No need to Google! This book covers every babyand toddler-care decision a parent might struggle with, including breastfeeding, food allergies, pacifier use and more for help during the first year of life. Using reliable research and sifting through old wives’ tales, Bryson has information and answers to more than 60 common concerns and dilemmas. If the information is inconclusive, she helps you think through how to apply it to fit your family. Available at penguinrandomhouse.com for $17.

These books will help you think through the aspects of parenting with pregnancy wisdom and tips after bringing baby home.

Fully revised and updated for 2021, this book helps answer the questions pregnant moms have, such as why coffee is forbidden. Using data, Oster shows the reasons behind the accepted rules of pregnancy, as well as why some of them are wrong by debunking myths and explaining the available information. Available at penguinrandomhouse.com for $18.

Atlanta Parent Atlanta Parent Be The ParentInformedMostOnThePlayground! FOLLOW us @AtlantaParent EMAIL To sign up for our weekly e-newsletter atlantaparent.comvisit LIKE us Stayfacebook.com/atlantaparentconnectedwith us for upcoming events, great giveaways, reader input and more!

September 2022 Atlanta Parent 33atlantaparent.com atlanta baby Baby Bits

forSelf-CareMomThenewbornyears are a glorious and challenging time, and for some women, having a baby may be very different than they were expecting. New mothers may face physical challenges or struggle with feelings. “Return to You: A Postpartum Plan for New Moms” by Natasha K. Sriraman features practical and professional advice to help new moms cope with unexpected difficulties, so they can rest, recover and heal. Available at amazon. com for $16.95.

by Emily Baby Contest at the Fair

For the Socialite

A Time to Learn Head to Valdosta, Ga. for the 48th annual meeting and conference of the Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition of Georgia. This informative gathering of parents, caregivers, nurses, social workers and educators will discuss increasing maternal and infant health outcomes in Georgia. Participants will engage in interactive panel discussions, learn about new innovations, participate in trainings and meet people and experts. Learn more at hmhbga.org.

BeautifulWebb

The Bunny Hive is a social club for little ones and their grown-ups. Designed for ages two weeks to four years, kids can enjoy a lot of different classes, including music, sensory, art, ballet and more. The blend of learning, playtime and experiences will stimulate baby, create opportunities to practice social engagement and develop their bond with you. You also have the opportunity to socialize and spend time with other parents. Learn more at thebunnyhive.com.

All babies are beautiful, but Atlanta Parent has seen some really cute babies and toddlers at the annual Beautiful Baby Contest at the North Georgia State Fair in Marietta. Show off your infant and toddler, ages 0-36 months, on Sept. 25. Sign-up begins at 2 p.m., and the contest starts at 3 p.m. with babies 0-6 months and continues in 6-month increments up to age 36 months. There is no cost to enter, but fair admission is required: $10; ages 10 and younger, free. Visit northgeorgiastatefair.com for more information.

Baby?HaveWillWhereYouYour

n Emory Johns Creek Hospital Births per month: 115-130 Private maternity beds: 11-P Birthing rooms: 12 LDR/LDRP

Emory University Hospital Midtown Births per month: 485 Private maternity beds: 51-P Birthing rooms: 18 LDR

n Emory Decatur Hospital Births per month: 260 Private maternity beds: 52-P Birthing rooms: 18 LDR/LDRP

Check websites for more information, including how to schedule a maternity tour. Only 5% of duearebabiesbornontheirdate.

n Northeast Georgia Medical Center Gainesville Births per month: 293 Private maternity beds: 30-P Birthing rooms: 18 LDR B efore baby is born, there is a long checklist of things to do! One of your first decisions as a parent is where to deliver your infant. The metro Atlanta area has many different healthcare and hospital options, so you can discover the best fit for your family. This list includes the major metro-area hospitals to help you learn more about their services, birthing rooms, birth rates and more.

comprehensive, high-quality maternity services at three locations, including certified breastfeeding specialists, childbirth classes, overnight accommodations, oncall baby photography and more. The Johns Creek and Decatur hospitals have Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Units, and the Midtown location features a Special Care Nursery.

n Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton Births per month: 105 Private maternity beds: 20-P Birthing rooms: 10 LDR

34 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.comatlanta baby

Grady Memorial Hospital

OnMayaverage,babiesaretheheaviest.

HOSPITALSEmoryHealthcare Emoryemoryhealthcare.orgHealthcareoffers

Births per month: 200 Private maternity beds: 26-PP Birthing rooms: 12 LDR

Specialgradyhealth.orgprograms at Grady’s Women’s Health Center include Centering Pregnancy, a prenatal program that creates support groups of women whose babies are due on similar schedules; Baby Friendly, which encourages breastfeeding; and Talk With Me Baby, a program encouraging mothers and caregivers to spend time talking to newborns. Grady’s Perinatal and Neonatal Intensive Care Unite serves more than 40 counties in North Georgia.

Northeast Georgia Health System Northeastnghs.com Georgia Medical Center specializes in Mother/Baby Care, allowing moms to actively participate in caring for your newborn during the hospital visit with special time to bond. They use the CUDDLES infant security system, a soft, selfadjusting band that attaches to the infant’s ankle for assured rest. The Gainesville location includes a new Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

Piedmont Healthcare Piedmontpiedmont.orgHealthcare has helped welcome more than 100,000 babies in the last century. They offer a variety of classes, including childbirth preparation, breastfeeding, baby care and more. Piedmont Healthcare has also launched the first neonatal nutritional program in Georgia allowing breastfeeding moms to help premature infants by donating their excess breast milk. The Athens, Atlanta, Fayette, Henry, Newnan and Rockdale locations have a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and Piedmont Newton has a Level II Special Care Nursery. n Piedmont Atlanta Hospital Births per month: 200-250 Private maternity beds: 29-P Birthing rooms: 13 LDR n Piedmont Eastside Medical Center Births per month: 110-135 Private maternity beds: 24-P Birthing rooms: 13 LDR n Piedmont Fayette Hospital Births per month: 215 Private maternity beds: 24-P with 12 overflow Birthing rooms: 12 LDR n Piedmont Henry Hospital Births per month: 159 Private maternity beds: 18-P Birthing rooms: 12 LDR n Piedmont Newnan Hospital Births per month: 150 Private maternity beds: 18-P Birthing rooms: 6 LDR/LDRP n Piedmont Rockdale Hospital Births per month: 140-160 Private maternity beds: 19-P Birthing rooms: 16 LDR

Southern Regional Medical Center

Wellstar Kennestone Hospital Births per month: 465 Private maternity beds: 69-P Birthing rooms: 20 LDR/LDRP

BIRTH CENTER Atlanta Birth Center

Wellstar Cobb Hospital Births per month: 230 Private maternity beds: 38-P Birthing rooms: 20 LDR/LDRP

September 2022 Atlanta Parent 35atlantaparent.com atlanta baby

Wellstar Health System

Wellstar North Fulton Hospital Births per month: 105 Private maternity beds: 20-P Birthing rooms: 6 LDR/LDRP

Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center Births per month: 60 Private maternity beds: 15-P Birthing rooms: 10 LDR/LDRP

Northsidenorthside.comHospital offers in-person maternity classes, as well as self-paced online courses with an interactive Q&A session with an experienced nurse. Northside offers multiple high-risk maternity services with their Center for Perinatal Medicine, High-Risk Perinatal Unit, Maternal Heart Health Clinic, Special Care Nursery, Gestational Diabetes, H.E.A.R.T.strings Perinatal Palliative Care Program and Miracle Babies programs.

Sources: smithsonianmag.com; uniqueultrasound.com; marchofdimes.org Only 1 in watermothers’10breaksbeforelaborbegins.

Eachwellstar.orgyear,10,000 babies are born at Wellstar hospitals. The Wellstar Atlanta Medical Center offers water birth. The Atlanta, Cobb, Kennestone, North Fulton and Spalding locations feature a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and the West Georgia Medical Center has a Special Care Nursery for babies born prematurely.

Wellstar Douglas Hospital Births per month: 55 Private maternity beds: 10-P Birthing rooms: 10 LDR/LDRP

n Wellstar Spalding Regional Hospital Births per month: 85 Private maternity beds: 21-P Birthing rooms: 4 LDR/LDRP

Theatlantabirthcenter.orgAtlantaBirthCenter provides a holistic program with comprehensive midwifery care, childbirth services and free women’s support groups. Birth services include labor, birth and postpartum care in a birth suite, hydrotherapy, immediate skin-to-skin care and more, and other services include family planning, pap smears, anxiety and more.

Births per month: 170 Private maternity beds: 40-P Birthing rooms: 14 LDR/LDRP

Northside Hospital

Wellstar Atlanta Medical Center Births per month: 165 Private maternity beds: 30-P Birthing rooms: 13 LDR/LDRP

n Northside Hospital Atlanta Births per month: 1,347 Private maternity beds: 200-P Birthing rooms: 42 LDR n Northside Hospital Cherokee Births per month: 224 Private maternity beds: 24-P Birthing rooms: 8 LDR n Northside Hospital Forsyth Births per month: 337 Private maternity beds: 40-P Birthing rooms: 12 LDR n

Southernsouthernregional.orgRegionalMedical Center will work with you and your OB/Gyn to welcome your baby, or you can find a highly qualified doctor at Southern Regional. The Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit is led by a board-certified neonatologist and is available 24 hours-a-day.

lastsusuallyActivelaborabout4-8hours.Ababy’sbraindoublesinfirstyearoflife.

Northside Hospital Gwinnett Births per month: 413 Private maternity beds: 37-P Birthing rooms: 19 LDR

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

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION BIRTHDAYPARTYPLANNER

Instagram: atlantabubbleshow

Anastasia’s Atlanta Bubble Show

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!

Ms. Jennifer’s Music Birthday MusicBirthdayParty.comParty

36 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.comPARTY

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.

SeaQuest at Stonecrest Mall Stonecrest.VisitSeaQuest.com

The Ultimate Birthday Party Package includes time to explore sea and land habitats and animal interactions. Save 20% when you book Monday-Thursday. Use code:BDAY20, not to be combined with any other offer.

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

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.

IT’S ALWAYS SOMEONE’S BIRTHDAY!

Make sure party-planning parents know about your business. Be a part of our Birthday Party Planner. In print, 24/7 and online for a full year. For more info, contact Genie Lockeretz at 678-938-8116 or glockeretz@atlantaparent.com

Topplin’ topplintots.comTots

AtlantaBubbleShow.com Make your party POP with a magic bubble performance from Georgia’s BEST Bubble Artist! Indoor and outdoor shows. New BLACK LIGHT GLOW Bubble Show! 404-547-3867.

Jason’s Music jasonsmusicparty.comParty

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 us.

Kids love getting a “real” invitation in the mail. Look for printable themed invitations on websites like etsy.com, create your own or purchase fill-in invitation cards. Online invitations are quick and easy and make it easy to keep track of who’s coming.

Set up well ahead of party time, keep it short and stick to a schedule. Enlist the help of an older sibling or hire a neighborhood teen.

Parties are back in full swing.

l Be a considerate guest! Try to respond as soon as possible to a party invitation so the host can plan accordingly. Don’t bring siblings to the party, unless they’re specifically included.

If you’re like a lot of families, this year’s birthday party may be the first one you’ve hosted in a while. Feeling rusty with your party planning skills? Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered, starting with these “Smart Mom” tips and tricks.

l Invitations can be as simple or elaborate as you like.

l Make a budget and stick to it. It’s easy for party expenses to get out of hand when you’re shopping for food, decorations and favors.

l Get the kids involved – they can help plan food and decor, choose the music and put together favor bags.

l Shop smart – visit your local dollar store for great deals on paper goods, decoration, prizes and favors.

PLANNINGPARTY101

September 2022 Atlanta Parent 37atlantaparent.com PARTY

The perfect spot for a party, seasonal fairs and festivals have rides, food, entertainment and more. Gwinnett County Fair, Sept. 15-25; North Georgia State Fair, Sept. 22-Oct. 2; Pioneer Days Festival, Sept. 2-5; Cowboy Festival and Symposium, Oct. 20-22. gwinnettcountyfair.com, northgeorgiastatefair.com, pioneerdaysga.com, boothmuseum.org.

BRING

Parks we love: Elizabeth Porter Park in Marietta, Swift-Cantrell Park in Kennesaw, and Historic Fourth Ward Park in Atlanta. Find a complete list on atlantaparent.com.

FUN!123l

For the girly girl: Host a spa party or a fancy-dress tea

For the art lover: Set up stations with paints and canvas, tie-dye sets or collage materials

Party at the Park

For the scientist: Host a STEM party with fun experiments and science-themed games Take it Outside Autumn is a great time for an outdoor party. Try these easy ideas!

Celebrate your child’s passions with a themed party!

For the outdoorsy kid: Plan a green party with nature-themed scavenger hunt and games

Go for a hike in a state park, take a picnic and make s’mores over a campfire. Find out about the amenities like pavilions and grills of nearby parks at gastateparks.org. The Chattahoochee National Recreation area (nps.gov/chat), with trails along the river, also offers great spots for hiking.

Here are some tips and ideas on party themes, easy hacks, decor and other ways to make your child’s birthday party extra special! by Mary Williams ON THE

For the young chef: Host an at-home cupcake or cookie decorating party

Time for a Fair

38 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.comPARTY

For the sports fan: Take in a game or have a backyard sports competition

A Party for Every Interest

Take the party to one of Atlanta’s many local playgrounds, where kids can climb, swing and play for free. Many parks have a pavilion or picnic areas that can be reserved in advance or rented for larger groups.

For the animal lover: Create an athome safari party or bring in a petting zoo

Hike Into Fall

For tweens: Plan an “after dark” party with glow-in-the-dark games and activities

NoPlease!Gifts, Avoid toy overload with a giftfree party. Have your child pick a charity and ask guests bring donations for a food pantry, toys for a children’s hospital or supplies for an animal shelter. Older children could invite their friends to a service day to benefit their charity.

Three Easy Themes

Lawn Twister: Use spray chalk and a circle template to create a twister board on the grass. Use a spinner or call out random combinations for players. Last kid standing wins!

l Décor: Tents and teepees (real or DIY), lanterns, blankets and pillows for picnicking.

l Game: Beanbag can toss. Cover large cans with colorful paper and stack in a pyramid. Kids take turns tossing a beanbag to see who can knock over the most cans.

l Food: Hot dogs and topping bar, s’more-making station, “campfire” chocolate cupcakes topped with pretzel “logs” and orange and yellow frosting.

l HulaGames:hoop croquet. Cut hula hoops in half and insert cut ends in the ground to create a course. Kids take turns kicking a beach ball through the course. Fastest time wins a prize!

l Favor: Popcorn bucket with boxed animal crackers, clown nose and a set of jacks.

l Favor: Mini flashlight, compass and a bag of trail mix, tied up in a bandana.

l Creatology Model Pirate Ship Kit, ages 8 and older, $4.49 each at michaels.com.

l Party favor: A pack of markers and rainbow-colored paper, tied together with rainbow yarn. Top each with a bag of colorful candy or a rainbow lollipop. It’s a Circus!

l Décor: Colorful balloons, red-and-white striped tablecloths and paper goods, “step right up” banners.

l Craftikit Animal Crafts, ages 3 and older, $29.99 for 20 at amazon.com.

Ice ConeCreamCakes

Send kids home with a favor they’ll love – a craft they can make themselves. Packs of individual craft kids are available online or at local craft stores. A few of our favorites: l DIY Squishy Party Pack paintable keychains, ages 6 and older, $24.99 for 12 at amazon.com.

l Game: Rainbow bucket ball. Line up buckets of different colors; each guest gets a colored ball and has to throw their ball into the matching bucket to get a point.

For a twist on the classic party treat, make your favorite cake batter and fill paper-lined muffin cups two-thirds full. Top each with an ice cream cone. Bake 16-22 minutes and cool completely. Remove the paper liner and frost, then decorate as desired. Find full instructions at bettycrocker.com.

Over the Rainbow

Food: Fruit skewers in every color of the rainbow, rainbow layered cake and veggies on trays grouped by color.

l Décor: Rainbow striped tablecloths, party hats in every color and jars with layers of colorful M&Ms and Skittles.

September 2022 Atlanta Parent 39atlantaparent.com PARTY

Birthday Yard Decor

Party Like a Pro: Easy Hacks

Use these fun and easy hacks to make the party special while keeping your workload light!

l Food: Chicken fingers, popcorn, cotton candy, cupcakes topped with circus animals.

Make an affordable birthday greeting for the yard with colorful cardstock. Cut and adhere letters to cardboard squares, then glue or tape wood dowels to the back of each letter for display. Don’t forget the decorative fringe! Find the complete how-to at studiocity.com

Backyard Bash

Party Favors Made Easy

l Serve up cake and snacks on paper products made from recycled materials, or invest in party-friendly reusable cups and plates.

Chill Out with Ice Cream

l Choose eco-friendly games and activities, like a nature scavenger hunt, sidewalk chalk or board games.

l Set up a make-your-own-sundae bar with ice cream and a variety of fun toppings, like mini Oreos, sprinkles, jimmies, brownie bits, chocolate syrup and whipped cream.

l Say no to straws! Use biodegradable paper straws, or skip them altogether.

BRING ON THE FUN!

Go green! Be an environmental hero and plan your next party with these earth-friendly ideas.

l Make your own piñata using newspaper and recycled tissue.

Throw an Eco-Friendly Party

40 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.comPARTY

l Skip the plastic tablecloths and use a roll of kraft paper to cover tables. Scatter crayons so kids can color or doodle.

l Let kids shake up their own ice cream in a bag, or make coffee can ice cream – find directions online.

l Go for reusable party decorations like strings of lights, fabric banners and colorful pinwheels.

l Swap out the plastic toys in your goodie bags for seed balls guests can plant and enjoy. Seed-balls.com has native wildflowers and more pollinator-friendly options.

l Bring the ice cream to you! Rent a King of Pops cart (kingofpops.com), or go retro with classic treats with a visit from an Atlanta Ice Cream (atlantaicecreamtruck.com).Truck

l Save wrapping paper to use another time, or toss it in the recycling bin after the party.

l Make serving easier by pre-scooping ice cream into muffin tins and freeze until you need them.

l Send paperless invites via Evite or Paperless Post, or print invites on recycled cardstock.

S’mores Kit

Gather solid-colored flashlights, patterned tape and paint. Let guests have fun painting and decorating their flashlights. Each child can take home their flashlight to use for camping, reading or playing outside.

Bug Catcher

a Pet

Fill bug catchers with gummy worms for a snack and give to guests. Kids can use them later to catch caterpillars or other critters.

Party Favor Bar

Set up a table with bowls or bins filled with a selection of candies, art supplies, nail polish, mini dinosaurs, toy cars, and other fun items. Give each guest a small bag and let them choose the items they want to take home.

Make stacks of graham crackers, marshmallows and chocolate bars and place each stack in a clear bag. Tie with ribbon and add a thank you note.

September 2022 Atlanta Parent 41atlantaparent.com PARTY PICCADILLY PUPPETS Birthday child always gets a puppet! piccadillypuppets@gmail.comwww.piccadillypuppets.org404-636-0022 Let our puppets entertain you indoors or outdoors! Where The Fun Begins and Never Ends for All Ages! Book Now for aGreat Birthday Party! www.FunopolisFamilyFunCenter.com Buy One 3-HOUR Wristband & get another for Half Price! INCLUDES UNLIMITED: Go Karts • Mini Go Karts • Mini Golf Tornado Ride • Pirate Ship • Rock Wall • Bumper Cars Spider Zone • Bumper Boats • 1 Session of Laser Tag 10 Water Balloons • 2 Down Pour Derby Recommended for 44” or over. Cannot be combined with other offers. 706-335-FUNN 40155 Hwy 441 • Commerce, GA • Interstate 85@ Exit 149 Challenge your mind and figure out the mystery of the Egyptians and escape the tomb! $25/person • 6 max. / session Reservations must be made in advance at 706-335-3866 $20 off a Birthday Party Expires Dec. 31, 2022 (see website for party details) Can book online Cool DIY Party Favor Ideas Goodie bags full of candy and stickers are a thing of the past – try these ideas for fun party favors. FingerHomemadePaint Mix 3 tbs. sugar, ½ tsp. salt, ½ cup cornstarch and 2 cups water in a saucepan and heat until thick. Pour into small glass jars. Add a few drops of food coloring to each jar to make desired colors. Attach a note and a paintbrush with string and let guests pick a color to take home.

Adopt Box

Fill a child’s sand bucket with items to match the party theme: pool or beach toys, action figures, gardening supplies, art materials, glow sticks. Attach a note to the handle or personalize each bucket by writing the child’s name on it with a paint pen.

Give each guest a clay pot, packet of seeds and soil. Kids can plant the flowers when they get home and wait for the seeds to grow. At the party, decorate the pots with paint pens.

Potted Plants

Purchase small stuffed animals, such as puppies and kittens, and place inside a wooden crate or basket. Make an “Adopt a Pet” sign for each. Kids will love getting to adopt their very own stuffed animal when leaving the party.

Beach Pail

Decorated Flashlights

Sparkles Family Fun Centers

Georgia Aquarium Bucks Sport and Circus Barn

Georgia Aquarium’s event staff can help you every step of the way. Atlanta. 404-581-4000; georgiaaquarium.org

sparklesfamilyfuncenters.com

Private Buckhead Parties and Events for Every Age Bucks Sport and Circus Barn. With more than 300 costumes and circus performers, Bucks can offer just about any theme. The Barn looks like the inside of a circus tent. The Castle Cave looks like a Hogwarts dining room. Sports, princess, Nerf guns, superhero, Star Wars, Sesame Street, Cocomelon, Pokemon, Sonic, circus, jugglers, aerialists, stilt walkers, face painting, balloonist twisting, balloon drops, a certified American Ninja Warrior Junior obstacle course, adult parties with bands and dancing, and much more.

SPONSORED CONTENT

Make your child’s birthday special with these seven great party places.

So Many Ways to Party Epic parties happen at Sparkles! Planning a birthday party has never been so easy. Let Sparkles do all the work while you have all the fun. They offer a variety of birthday packages from Glow Parties to VIP Parties. Activities for all ages – roller skating, laser tag, playground and arcade, plus a full-service café that has a large variety of hot food and cool drinks for any occasion, large or small. Two convenient locations; No. 1 in affordable family fun for more than 63 years. Check out Sparkles for your next birthday party today! Hiram and Kennesaw.

42 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.comPARTY

n Have a Whale of a Party Make a splash with a birthday party at Georgia Aquarium! With different party options to choose from, your party is guaranteed to be turtle-y awesome. Package options include all day admission to Georgia Aquarium, an hour and a half of party time, a birthday invitation template, decorations, the dolphin presentation and more. Reach out today to find out about standard and premium birthday party availability.

Parties are just $325 Monday-Thursday and $425 Friday-Sunday. Buckhead. 404-869-8003; buckssportbarn.com

Atlanta’s Top Party Places

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. Enjoy all of the attractions during your party time with full access to fun. Whether you’re a dodgeball dynamo, wipe-out wonder, summit jumper or airbag ace, there’s fun and laughter in every corner of Altitude. Stress-free parties for all ages include jump time, celebration table options, food, drinks and more. A dedicated events team takes the stress of party planning off your hands. From set up to clean up and everything in between, they handle it all. Marietta. 770-693-7627; altitudeeastcobb.com

Throw a Perfect Strike

Stars and Strikes Altitude Trampoline Park East Cobb

September 2022 Atlanta Parent 43atlantaparent.com PARTY

Dream Friends Entertainment

Sky Zone Roswell

At Stars and Strikes, they understand parents, because they are parents and that means birthday parties are kid-pleasing and easy to book! Parties include bowling, arcade games, laser tag and bumper cars to keep everyone entertained. Packages include everything from set up to clean up. The most popular package, the MVP, is a party on the lanes with a host, a session of bumper cars, laser tag, arcade time and a choice of food and drink. Balloons and paper products provided. At the end, the party parent gets a Grown Up Play Date Voucher for another visit. Seven metro Atlanta locations. 678-965-5707; starsandstrikes.com

Bring Your Dream Event to Life Dream Friends Entertainment offers costumed and themed birthday party characters, magicians, DJs, foam and bubble parties, face-painting, balloon twisting, caricatures, circus acts, dance shows, fire spinners, seasonal characters and more. Atlanta-based since 2001, they’ve done over 7,500 private and corporate events, festivals and parties. They have zero complaints on Yelp and the BBB, and all 5-star reviews on Google. With more than 275 entertainment options to choose from, let them bring your dream event to life! 404-319-0180; dreamfriendsentertainment.com

n Make it the Best Party Ever

Let Sky Zone Roswell help you plan a birthday party they’ll never forget! Sky Zone offers a variety of party packages that can be customized to meet your needs. Parties include jumping, dodgeball, Warrior Course, Sky Slam, Wipe Out, Sky Tower, Warped Wall and more. Plus, party space, pizza and beverage. Add on Megaverse VR games to make it the best party ever! Call to book your party today. Roswell. 678-745-9900; skyzone.com/roswell

Embark on an Epic Adventure

44 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.com

September 2022 Atlanta Parent 45atlantaparent.com Family Fun Guide Duluth Fall Festival Still Family Farm Buford Corn Maze Family Fun Guide SeptemberTopEvents!Page46 It’s Festival Time Metro Atlanta has tons of festivals and fairs for a variety of fun with games, rides, markets, animals and food. Fall is here! Your guide to festive fun! On RoadtheAgain Take a day trip to these destinationsnearbyfor fall amusements, apple picking and more! AdventuresA-maze-ing Get lost in stalks of corn as you try to find your way out of these corn mazes.

deadline.

46 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.comFamily Fun Guide SEPTEMBER TOP EVENTS

Pup-a-Palooza Newtown Park Sept. 17, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Bring your best dressed dog to this event to participate in contests, learn about pet care and see demonstrations of new products. Enjoy live music, an animal balloon twister and food trucks. 3150 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek. 678-5123200. Free admission. johnscreekga.gov

MeetTyrannosaurs:theFamily Fernbank Museum of Natural History / Through Sept. 5 Explore the diverse species and life span of the Tyrannosaurs family tree with real fossils and skeletons. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. $24.95; ages 3-12, $22.95; ages 2 and younger, free. fernbankmuseum.org

changed

UPS Second Sunday High Museum of Art Sept. 11, noon-5 p.m. Enjoy drop-in art-making activities, music by a DJ and permanent and special exhibitions. Due to high volume, access to special exhibitions is not guaranteed. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4400. Free admission. high.org

may

Back to Your Roots Farm Fair

Dragon Con Back to Your Roots Farm Fair

Georgia Cool Cruisers Car Show Southeastern Railway Museum Sept. 3, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. See many cool makes and models of cars, ride a real train, enter a raffle and taste delicious hot dogs or burgers. 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth. 770-476-2013. $18; ages 2-12, $12; ages 1 and younger, free. train-museum.org

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

Chattahoochee Nature Center Sept. 18, noon-4 p.m. Join in the fall harvest with live farm animals, the unity garden, booths, activities and lawn games. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. $15; ages 13-18, $11; ages 3-12, $9; ages 2 and younger, free. chattnaturecenter.org

Monster Jam Dragon Con Downtown Atlanta Sept. 1-5. See website for schedule. Parade: Sept. 3, 10 a.m. The highlight of this popular culture convention is the parade, where you’ll see tons of your favorite costumed characters from movies, shows and more. Throughout the weekend, celebrate science fiction and fantasy, gaming, comics, literature, music, art and film with featured guests, performances, games and more. Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-669-0773. 5-day membership, $160; ages 6 and younger, free; parade, free. dragoncon.org

Butterfly Experience Dunwoody Nature Center Sept. 10-11, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Get an up-close look at the beautiful and delicate butterfly species with educator-led programs and activities, live animal shows, music performances, crafts and more. Tickets are available in 20-minute time slots. 5343 Roberts Dr., Dunwoody. 770-394-3322. $12; ages 3 and younger, free. dunwoodynature.org

cancelled

Monster Jam Gas South Arena Sept. 10, 1 and 7 p.m. and Sept. 11, 2 p.m. This action-packed motorsport shows athletes compete in speed and skill with 12,000-pound monster trucks. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 770-813-7500. $63.50+. gassouthdistrict.com

September 2022 Atlanta Parent 47atlantaparent.com Family Fun Guide

PAW AdventurePatrol:Play

Disney On Ice Presents Frozen & Encanto State Farm Arena Sept. 21-25. See website for times. Step into the magical worlds of “Frozen” and “Encanto” with ice skating, aerial acrobatics, and your favorite characters, Anna, Elsa, Maribel and more. 1 State Farm Dr., Atlanta. 404-878-3000. $25-$110+. statefarmarena.com

Children’s Museum of Atlanta Sept. 24-Jan. 8 Help Marshall, Chase, Skye, Rubble, Everest, Rocky, Zuma and Tracker as you adventure together to explore your abilities, overcome challenges and help friends. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr. NW, childrensmuseumatlanta.org404-659-5437.Atlanta.$17.95-$20.95.

Sunday in the Park Oakland Cemetery / Sept. 25, noon-7 p.m. Celebrating the history of Victorians bringing blankets and musical instruments to picnic in cemeteries, this event feature pop-up performances, Tunes from the Tombs music festival, an artist market, food trucks and more. 248 Oakland Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-6882107. $20-$25; ages 11 and younger, free. oaklandcemetery.com

EntertainmentFeld

Disney On Ice Presents Frozen & Encanto

PAW Patrol: Adventure Play

n Paquita and Mixed Repertory Gas South Theater Sept. 10, 3 and 7:30 p.m. Presented by the Northeast Atlanta Ballet, this performance showcases the works of award-winning and emerging choreographers. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 770-813-7500. $25. gassouthdistrict.com

n Mary Poppins Aurora ThroughTheatreSept.11. See website for showtimes. Magical nanny Mary Poppins takes the Banks children on adventures and teaches the family to love each other. 128 E. Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. $11-$89. auroratheatre.com

CoComelon Live: JJ’s Journey

Alliance Theatre

n Cole Porter’s Anything Goes Byers Theater Sept. 9-25. See website for times. This fun musical depicts singer Reno Sweeney’s adventures aboard the “SS American.” 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs. 404-477-4365. $37-$120. cityspringstheatre.com

Painter Georges Seurat and his future descendant are struggling artistically when their paths magically cross in this musical. 111 Elm St., Woodstock. 678-494-4251. $10-$13. woodstockarts.org

Experience a live musical or play at these amazing productions around town.

n Paw Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure Fox Sept.Theatre10,10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and Sept. 11, noon and 4 p.m. Ryder and his team of pirate pups must rescues Cap’n Turbot from a mysterious cavern in time for the Pirate Day celebration. 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-881-2100. $19+. foxtheatre.org

n Do You Love the Dark?

n Sunday in the Park with George Woodstock Arts Sept. 30-Oct. 1, 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 2, 2:30 p.m.

n Roob and Noob Alliance Theatre Oct. 26-Nov. 6. See website for showtimes. Roob and Noob are two overly curious scientists who love discovering something new 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

The Tortoise, the Hare & Other Aesop’s Fables

MontegueGregorybyPhoto

n La Cucarachita Martina Center for Puppetry Arts Sept. 22-Oct. 2. See website for showtimes. Based on the popular Cuban and Puerto Rican children’s tale, this Latin rock-n-roll musical follows a roach on her journey for true love. 1404 Spring St. NW at 18th, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $22. puppet.org

n CoComelon Live: JJ’s Journey

48 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.com ON STAGE

A young girl tries to conquer her fear of the dark in this play inspired by Maya Lawrence and R. Gregory Christie’s book. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4600. $10; ages 6-17, $5; ages 5 and younger, free. alliancetheatre.org

Elephant and Piggie’s “We Are in a Play” OnStage Atlanta Sept. 9-24. Fri. 8 p.m.; Sat. 1 p.m. and Sun. 3 p.m. Watch these beloved book characters come to life as they put on an amusing performance. 3041 N. Decatur Rd., Scottdale. 404-897-1802. $13-$18. onstageatlanta.com

Sept. 28-Oct 30. See website for showtimes.

The Tortoise, the Hare & Other Aesop’s Fables Center for Puppetry Arts Through Sept. 18. See website for showtimes. Aesop’s circus is in town and features a stilt-walking crane, a fullbody puppet lion and more animals from Aesop’s fables and the big race as the finale. 1404 Spring St. NW at 18th, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $22. puppet.org

Fox JJSept.Theatre24,3p.m.andhisfamily are putting on a show, and JJ is writing his own song. He needs a little help from an interactive audience in this musical that encourages kids to sing and dance along. 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-881-2100. $37+. foxtheatre.org

the bank!

n Artful Stories Carlos Museum / Sept. 17, 10-11:30 a.m. Listen to “Round Is a Tortilla: A Book of Shapes” by Roseanne Thong before exploring the galleries, making and eating tortillas and creating collages of different shapes. For ages 3-6. Registration required. 571 S. Kilgo Cir., Atlanta. 404-727-2163. Free admission. carlos.emory.edu n Pop-in for Family Fun Marietta History Center / Sept. 17, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Explore family-friendly activities and crafts around the theme of “Natural Wonders.” 1 Depot St., Marietta. 770-794-5710. Free admission. mariettahistory.org n Reels and Wheels East Roswell Park / Sept. 30, 5-9 p.m. Grab a bite from a food truck, and watch “Space Jam: A New Legacy,” as LeBron James and his son must escape the digital space with the Looney Tunes. Movie starts at 7 p.m. 9000 Fouts Rd., Roswell. 770-594-6134. Free admission. roswellgov.com n North Georgia Live Steamers Georgia International Horse Park Oct. 1, 1-4:30 p.m. Ages 18 months and older can ride this mini train. 1632 Centennial Olympic Pkwy., Conyers. 470-207-5025. $2. northgeorgialivesteamers.org UPS Second Sunday North Georgia Live Steamers Call 770-454-7599 for more information. Make sure our readers know about your fun fall ADVERTISEevent.IN

September 2022 Atlanta Parent 49atlantaparent.com Family Fun Guide Still Family Farm Free and Cheap Fun

n Movies On The Square Colony Square / Sept. 1, 7 p.m. Enjoy a movie night watching “Ratatouille.” 1197 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-879-2250. Free admission. colonysquare.com n Flicks on the Bricks Duluth Town Green / Sept. 2, 8 p.m. Watch “Charlie & the Chocolate Factory” after enjoying Food Truck Friday. 3167 Main St., Duluth. 770-476-3434. Free admission. duluthga.net n Free First Saturday Dunwoody Nature Center / Sept. 3, 1-2 p.m. Learn more about incredible butterflies, including their color combinations, cool adaptations and migration patterns, with a hike and an activity. Registration required. 5343 Roberts Dr., Dunwoody. 770-394-3322. Free admission. dunwoodynature.org n Flicks on the Green Peachtree Corners Town Green / Sept. 3, 7 p.m. Watch “Captain America” under the stars, and purchase popcorn, sweet treats or a beverage. 5140 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners. 678-691-1200. Free admission. peachtreecornersga.gov

Entertaining your family doesn’t have to break

n Sunday FUNdays Carlos Museum / Sept. 4, 1-4 p.m. Observe how cultures around the world learned to make the color blue before heading to the studio to paint your own shades of blue. 571 S. Kilgo Cir., Atlanta.404-727-2163. Free admission. carlos.emory.edu n UPS Second Sunday High Museum of Art / Sept. 11, noon-5 p.m. Enjoy drop-in art making, music by DJ Salah, creating with a smARTbox and viewing the permanent and special collections. Registration required. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4400. Free admission. high.org

Atlanta Fair North Georgia State Fair

n The Carrollton Fair Carrollton Fairgrounds / Sept. 16-24. Watch Lady Houdini escape, visit the petting zoo, see a fireworks display on Saturday nights, taste funnel cake, and more. 1625 Bankhead Hwy., Carrollton. $8-$10; ages 5-11, $4-$5; ages 4 and younger, free; ride tickets, extra. carrolltonfair.com

Jim R. Miller Park / Sept. 22-Oct. 2. 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

n Gwinnett County Fair

n North Georgia State Fair

n Kiwanis Coweta County Fair Coweta County Fairgrounds / Sept. 15-25. Enjoy amusement rides, arts and crafts exhibits, live animals, competitions and more. 275 Pine Rd., Newnan. 770-254-2620. $5; ages 5 and younger, free; ride armbands, $30-$35. cowetacountyfair.net

Atlanta Fair Grey Lot Turner Field / Sept. 30-Nov. 6. 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

Cumming Country Fair & Festival Cumming Fairgrounds / Oct. 6-16. 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 National Fair Georgia National Fairgrounds / Oct. 6-16. Watch live concerts, ride carnival rides, and see competitions in home arts, fine arts and livestock. 401 Larry Walker Pkwy., Perry. 478-987-3247. $15; ages 10 and younger, free; ride tickets, $1.25 each. georgianationalfair.com

50 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.comFamily Fun Guide WORTH THE DRIVE A FAIR AMOUNT OF ENTERTAINMENT

Habersham County Fairgrounds / Sept. 9-17. Watch a rodeo, enjoy the carnival rides, see competitions, participate in kid’s contests, and more. 4235 Toccoa Hwy., Clarkesville. 706-969-1866. $5-$10; ages 5-12, $3-$5; ages 4 and younger, free; ride tickets, extra. chattahoocheemountainfair.org

Gwinnett County Fairgrounds / Sept. 15-25. Ride carnival rides, see themed stunt shows, watch puppet performances, listen to live concerts and more. 2405 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Lawrenceville. 770-963-6522. $10; ages 6-11, $5; ages 5 and younger, free; ride tickets, $1.25 each. gwinnettcountyfair.com

n Chattahoochee Mountain Fair

Enjoy carnival rides, midway games, live concerts, delicious food and tons of activities at these fairs. See website for times.

n Georgia State Fair Atlanta Motor Speedway / Sept. 30-Oct. 9. Watch entertaining shows, such as a magic show and Ben Jackson Comedy Hypnotist, play in Jurrassic 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

Sam Smith Park

Sept. 2-5. Fri. 4-11 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. noon-11 p.m. and Mon. noon-10 p.m. Festival entertainment includes arts and crafts vendors, a carnival with modern rides, food and games. 1155 Douthit Ferry Rd., Cartersville. 678-739-8515. $5; ages 10 and younger, free. pioneerdaysga.com

n Autumn Fest

Cont’d on next page

AuburnFest

n Pizza, Pints & Pigskins Logan Farm Park / Sept. 10, noon-10 p.m. Taste pizza from pizzerias from all over Cobb County, play in the Kid’s Zone, listen to music, enjoy pizza contests and more. 4405 Cherokee St., Acworth. 770-917-1234. Free admission. acworth.org

Barrett Park / Oct. 1, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Browse more than 80 arts and crafts vendors, sample from food trucks, and play in the kids’ zone. 120 Park Ln., Holly Springs. 770-345-5536. Free admission. hollyspringsga.us

n Taste of Smyrna Smyrna Village Green / Sept. 17, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sample food from more than 30 restaurants, listen to entertainment, and play kid’s activities. 400 Village Green Cir., Smyrna. 770-423-1330. Free admission. jrmmanagement.com n Suwanee Fest Town Center Park Sept. 17, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sept. 18, noon-5 p.m. This festival features nearly 200 vendors and exhibitors, 15 entertainment acts and a parade, along with a Fun Zone for kids. 330 Town Center Ave., Suwanee. 770-945-8996. Free admission; ride tickets, $1 each. suwaneefest.com

Duluth FallLoganvilleFestivalAutumn Fest

n Duluth Fall Festival Downtown Duluth / Sept. 24, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sept. 25, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Enjoy two days of fun with more than 20 performance acts, a parade, booths and fair foods. 3142 Hill St. NW, Duluth. 855-385-8841. Free admission. duluthfallfestival.org

n 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

n Pioneer Days Festival

Auburn / Oct. 1, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Enjoy arts, food, live music, demonstrations, contests, inflatables and activities for the kids. 1369 4th Ave., Auburn. 770-963-4002. Free admission. cityofauburn-ga.org

n Taste of Acworth

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

FALL FESTIVALS

FALLFAMILY-FRIENDLYFESTIVALS

Explore the cooler weather of autumn by attending an outdoor festival with live performances, delicious food, kid’s activities, marketplaces, arts and crafts and more.

n Happy Days Weekend Jess Lucas Park Sept. 16, 7-11 p.m. and Sept. 17, 7-10 p.m. Listen to live, family-friendly concerts with food trucks and other vendors. 680 S. Central Ave., Hapeville. 404-669-2116. Free admission. hapeville.org

September 2022 Atlanta Parent 51atlantaparent.com Family Fun Guide

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 and more, while kids will love the art projects, hay bale calf roping and bouncy house. 501 Museum Dr., Cartersville. 770-387-1300. $13; ages 12 and younger, free. boothmuseum.org

Atlanta British Car Fayre Atlanta Greek Festival

n JapanFest Atlanta Gas South Convention Center Sept. 17, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sept. 18, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Celebrate Japanese culture with an anime village, food vendors, performers, workshops, games and more. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 404-842-0736. $15-$20; ages 6 and younger, free, parking, $5. japanfest.org

Stone Mountain Highland Games and Scottish Festival Stone Mountain Park Oct. 14-16. See website for times. Participate in games and competitions, enjoy 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

FALL FESTIVALS

Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral Sept. 23, 5-11 p.m.; Sept. 24, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. and Sept. 25, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. This experience showcases Greek history and culture and serves delicious, authentic Greek food. 2500 Clairmont Rd., Atlanta. 404-633-5870. $5; Menu prices vary. atlantagreekfestival.org

A TASTE OF CULTURE

52 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.comFamily Fun Guide

Cowboy Festival and Symposium n Taste of Kennesaw Downtown Kennesaw / Nov. 5, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Enjoy 30 food booths, a beer garden, children’s activities and two entertainment stages. S. Main St., Kennesaw. 770-423-1330. Free admission. jrmmanagement.com

Thrasher Park / Oct. 15, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. This family festival is filled with games, prizes, raffles, snow cones, face painting and more, and sign up for the 5K run/walk. 93 Park Dr., Norcross. 404-943-1070. Race, $30; Spooky Sprint for ages 9 and younger, free. runsignup.com n Autumn Fest Loganville / Oct. 15, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Celebrate the local community with booths, entertainment from local dance academies and Battle of the Bands, food and more. 235 Main St., Loganville. 770-466-1165. Free admission. loganville-ga.gov

n Atlanta Greek Festival

n Easterseals North Georgia – Trick or Trot 5K Race & Fall Festival

n 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, kid’s activities, live entertainment, costume contests and more. 901 Railroad St., Conyers. 770-602-26026. Free admission. conyersga.com n 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 n Snellville Fall Festival Snellville Towne Green / Oct. 22, noon-6 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. $10; pumpkin decorating, $2. experiencesnellville.com n Cowboy Festival and Symposium

Atlanta British Car Fayre Historic Downtown Norcross / Sept. 10, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. See more than 400 distinctive British automobiles and motorcycles to support the Amanda Riley Foundation. S. Peachtree St., Norcross. Free admission. atlantabritishcarfayre.com

n Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival

Barnesville Buggy Days Barnesville / Sept. 17-18. See website for times. Celebrate Barnesville’s historic heritage as the “Buggy Capital of the South” with hog calling, wagon pulling, a fiddle contest and more. Commerce Pl., Barnesville. 770-358-5884. Free admission. barnesville.org

Oktoberfest 2022 Helen Festhalle Sept. 8-11, 15-18, 22-25 and Sept. 29-Oct. 30. See website for times. Enjoy German-style entertainment with food, music and dance. 1074 Edelweiss Strasse, Helen. 706-878-1619. $0-$10; ages 6-12, $0-$5; ages 5 and younger, free. helenchamber.com

Georgia Mountain Fall Festival

Sept. 2-4. See website for schedule. During the day, enjoy beach access, putt putt, a floating obstacle course, nature and more, and at night, see lit hot air balloons and fireworks. 17617 US-27, Pine Mountain. 844-512-3826. $35.95; ages 3-11, $26.95; 2-day ticket, $49.95; 2-day ticket for ages 3-11, $39.95; ages 2 and younger, free. callawaygardens.com

Downton Augusta

C a m p i n g s E v e n t s Hwy 76 West | Hiawassee, Ga | 706 896 4191 G e o r g i a M o u n t a i n F a i r g r o u n d s . c o m For more information and a list of our other events, visit our website! Fall Events lachian Brew, & Que Festival October 22nd Other Fun Events! Saturday, October 22nd 38 Special September 15th 17th The BEST of award winning traditional Country, Bluegrass, & Gospel music! Two days of Country, Bluegrass, Gospel & all the Christmas music you can handle! December 2nd & 3rd GeorgiaMountainFairgrounds com Coming This CWinter: oming This Winter: Dailey & Vincent An American Bluegrass music group Arts & Craft s, Carnival Rides, Fun Demonstrations, and Music Performances! Georgia Mountain Fall Festival The Oak Ridge Boys Saturday October 8th Ashley McBryde Saturday, October 15th Featuring October 7th 15th Brings you great craft breweries from Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina & Alabama!

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n Ocmulgee Indigenous Celebration

CHILDREN’SKIDSENTERTAINMENTACTIVITIESBUSINESSFAIRCOSTUMECONTEST

FestivalFall

Callaway Resort & Gardens

OCTOBER 2022 LIVE Free Parking & Admission

Sept. 17-18, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. This celebration features traditional cultural crafts, storytelling, educational programs, live demonstrations, music and dance. 1207 Emery Hwy., Macon. 478-752-8257. $8; ages 6-12, $4; ages 5 and younger, free. ocmulgeemounds.org

BEYOND ATLANTA

Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds

Oct. 7-15, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Enjoy beautiful fall scenery as you shop arts and crafts vendors, watch educational demonstrations, listen to live music, and play on the midway rides. 1311 Music Hall Rd., Hiawassee. 706-896-4191. $12. View handmade exhibitor items, and taste delicious Southern cooking. 5845 Hwy. 2, Dalton. 706-694-6455. $10; ages 12 and younger, free. Mountain Fairgrounds

Atlanta Parent 53 901 RAILROAD STREET • CONYERS, GA OLDETOWNFALLFESTIVAL.COM30012

Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival

Georgia

15,

ARTS & CRAFT VENDORS FOOD TRUCKS

FREE MOBILE APP GUIDE TO CONYERS

Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park

Take a short road trip to enjoy an autumn adventure at one of these destinations with apple picking, farm animals or fall foliage.

n Still Family Farm Powder Springs, Ga. This 128-acre farm features a five-acre zinnia maze of orange, pink, yellow and green flowers, along with a pumpkin patch, an heirloom tractor display, hayrides and a market with fall décor, T-shirts, wreaths and more. Kids will love the human-sized hamster wheel Roly Poly, climbing the hay bales, racing ducks, riding the little train and painting a pumpkin. Sept. 24-Oct. 30. Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m.-dusk. 10 a.m.-dusk. 5682 Macland Rd., Powder Springs. 678-283-6951. $16; ages 4 and younger, free. stillfamilyfarm.com

HIT THE ROAD: TRIPS FOR FALL FUN

n OrchardsMercier Blue Ridge, Ga. This 300+ acre orchard has seasonal fruits and veggies, with new apple varieties coming in monthly. Listen to live music on the deck on Saturdays and Sundays, and grab jams, jellies, preserves, apple butter and more in the market.

Opening Sept. 7. See website for hours. 8660 Blue Ridge Dr., Blue Ridge. 706-6323411. Free mercier-orchards.comadmission.

54 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.comFamily Fun Guide

n Denver Downs Farm Anderson, S.C. Along with a corn maze and pumpkin patch, this farm has more than 35 family activities, including a jumping pillow, zip line, spider web, arcade, climbing wall, farm animals and more. The new Slide Mountain features two 250-foot slides with inner tubes. On Friday and Saturday nights, enjoy the bonfire with live music and s’mores, and after dark, bring glowing items and flashlights to conquer the 10-acre Flashlite Maze. Sept. 24-Nov. 13. Wed.-Thur. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sun. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 1515 Denver Rd., Anderson, S.C. 864-515-4554. $15-$25; ages 2 and younger, free. denverdownsfarm.com

n Red Apple Barn Ellijay, Ga. Ride a tractor to the orchard to pick a fresh apple and three flowers. See animals at the barn, play on the playground and tractor tire swings, enjoy a cup of apple cider and a doughnut, paint rocks and pumpkins and play games. Stop in the farm market for apples, muscadine and blackberry cider, fritters and more. Through Dec. 23; U-pick starting Aug. 27. Mon.Sat. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sun. 1-5:30 p.m. 3379 Tails Creek Rd., Ellijay. 706-635-5898. $10; ages 2 and younger, free; u-pick, extra. redapplebarn.com

n Yahoo Farm Jasper, WanderGa.the corn maze, shoot the corn cannon, search for fossils and gems, go on a hayride or pony ride, race rubber ducks and more. For free, see farm animals, hunt pumpkins and walk through the butterfly and flower garden. Sept. 17-Oct. 31. Daily, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays in Oct., 10 a.m.10 p.m. 4729 Waleska Hwy. 108, Jasper. 770735-3638. Activities, $3-$13; Activity Pass, $25. yahoofarm.com

n Copper Creek Farm Calhoun, Ga. Head to this farm for tons of activities, including a wagon hayride, a zip line, two corn mazes, gem mining, a petting barn, talking pumpkins and more. Solve the mystery of Bigfoot for a chance to win a reward. Taste delicious concessions, and see fireworks every Friday and Saturday night in October. Sept. 24-Oct. 29. See website for hours. 1514 Reeves Station Rd. SW, Calhoun. 706-280-5592. $14.02-$20.56; ages 2 and younger, free. coppercreekfarm.com

n Hillcrest Orchards

September 2022 Atlanta Parent 55atlantaparent.com Family Fun Guide

Ellijay, Ga. The orchard’s Apple Pickin’ Jubilee events occur on weekends, where you can pick your own apples, milk a cow, watch swimming pig races, listen to live music, venture through the apple tree maze and more. Weekday admission includes the petting farm, wagon rides and access to the playgrounds. The bakery offers yummy goodies, and the farm market has apples, cider, canned goods, honey, toys and more. Sept. 3-Nov. 30. See website for hours. 9696 Hwy. 52 E., Ellijay. 706-273-3838. $12$18; u-pick, extra. hillcrestorchards.net n Jaemor Farms Alto, Ga. 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 – or try the mini maze with younger kids – and visit the pumpkin patch. Sept. 10-Nov. 6. See website for hours. 5340 Cornelia Hwy. 365, Alto. 770-869-3999. $15; ages 2 and younger, free. jaemorfarms.com

n Fausett Farms Dawsonville, Ga. Experience farm life for a day as you wander the rows and rows of 900,000 sunflowers. Horse riders can bring their own horses to try the miles of trails. Opening mid-Sept. See website for hours. 11336 Hwy. 136 W., 706-265-9661.Dawsonville.$5;ages4 and younger, free; horse riding, fausettfarmssunflowers.com$10.

n B.J. Reece Orchards Ellijay, Ga. U-pick varieties include Golden Delicious, Red Delicious, Gala, Honey Crisp and more. Family fun activities include farm slides, corn box, duck races, petting farm, wagon rides, cow train, jumping pillows and more. Stop by the Market & Bakery for a delicious apple cider donut or fried pie. Aug. 27-Oct. 30. Sat. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sun. 1-6 p.m. 9131 Hwy. 52 E., Ellijay. 706-276-3048. $8-$26; u-pick, extra. reeceorchards.com

56 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.comFamily Fun Guide HIT THE ROAD: TRIPS FOR FALL FUN

Lane OrchardsSouthern Fort Valley, Ga. Get lost in this six-acre corn maze, play MaizeO-Poly, go on a hayride, and browse the roadside market. Oct. 1-31. Wed.-Fri. noon-6 p.m. and Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 50 Lane Rd., Fort Valley. 478-221-7358. $5-$14; ages 4-12, $3-$10; ages 3 and younger, lanesouthernorchards.comfree.

Adventure Adventure Fall in Dawsonville, FGeorgia all in Dawsonville, Georgia Create your Cown reate your own Get your FREE visitors guide at DestinationDawsonville.com or call 1 877 302 9271 #Dawsonville Burt's Pumpkin Farm | Fausett Farms Sunflowers | Uncle Shuck's Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch

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; pumpkins, extra. caglesfarm.com

Walking through a corn maze or a pumpkin patch is an autumn tradition. Besides corn and pumpkins, these places are packed with tons of farm fun activities, including petting zoos, hayrides, playgrounds and more. Make sure to visit one – or multiple! –this season. Days and hours vary during the season; check website for details.

n Southern Belle Farm Sept. 17-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-$18.95; ages 2 and younger, free. southernbellefarm.com

Sept. 10-Nov. 13

Sept. 16-Oct. 30

CORN MAZES AND PUMPKIN PATCHES

n Uncle Shuck’s Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch

Buford Corn Maze Pettit Creek Farms

n Cagle’s Farm

n Buford Corn Maze

Pumpkins at Callaway

n Sleepy Hollow Farm Sept. 23-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. 770-880-8846. $13; ages 2 and younger, free. sleepyhollowtrees.com

n Pettit Creek Farms Sept. 17-Oct. 31 This farms’ 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 1-12, $12. pettitcreekfarms.com

Walk the pumpkin patch, solve the 15-acre corn maze, play on Tire Mountain, launch the corn cannon and more. For extra, grab some festival food, search for gemstones, and have your face painted. 125 Bannister Rd., Dawsonville. 770-772-6223. Corn maze, $15; Haunted Trail, $20; combo, $25; ages 4 and younger, free. uncleshucks.com

n Warbington Farms Sept. 20-Oct. 31 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, jump on the jumping pillow and more. 5555 Crow Rd., Cumming. 770-889-1515. $13.50; ages 2 and younger, free. warbingtonfarms.com

Sept. 16-Oct. 30

58 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.comFamily Fun Guide

Sept. 3-Nov. 13

By day, 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 and an Enchanted Pumpkin Forest. 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

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

n PumpkinBurt’s Farm

Opening Sept. 24 Shop pumpkins, go on a hayride, take fall pictures, create crafts, and snack on boiled peanuts at this pumpkin patch. Donations accepted for the Coweta Pregnancy Center. Johnson Rd., Grantville. 770-377-8635. $12; ages 3 and younger, free. facebook.com/wargospumpkinpatch Randy’s Pumpkin Patch

Sept. 17-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. Free admission; activity tickets, $1 each or 25 for $20. randyspumpkinpatch.com

n Wargo’s Pumpkin Patch

n PumpkinRandy’sPatch

PUMPKIN PICKIN’

Sept. 1-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

n Mitcham Farm Opening Sept. 24 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. Activities that don’t require an admission fee include the pumpkin patch, walking along the sunflowers and shopping the farm market. 797 Macedonia Church Rd., Oxford. 770-855-1530. $12; ages 3 and younger, free; extras available. mitchamfarm.com n Washington Farms Sept. 24-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. 706-769-0627. $12.95-$21; ages 2 and younger, free. washingtonfarms.net n Yule Forest Oct. 2-31 Pick a pumpkin straight off the vine in the giant fields, stroll through sunflowers and zinnias in the garden, solve the corn maze or hay maze, go on a hayride, meet farm animals, play in the Fun Zone for kids, see puppet shows and more. 3565 Hwy. 155 N., Stockbridge. 770-954-9356. $14; ages 1 and younger, free. yuleforest.com

atlantaparent.com Family Fun Guide ACRES and ACRES with NO INFLATION! OPENS SEPT 3RD LABOR DAY BUFORDCORNMAZE.COMWEEKEND

This exhibit features 18 installations of metal sculptures inspired by origami, the art of folding paper. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. $24.95-$27.95; ages 3-12, $21.95-$24.95; ages 2 and younger, free. atlantabg.org

n PAW Patrol: Adventure Play

60 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.comFamily Fun Guide MAKE LEARNING AN ADVENTURE

ThroughIlluminariumDec. 31 Take an extraordinary journey across the galaxy, fly though a nebula, kick up dust on the moon, see Saturn’s rings and travel through an asteroid belt. 550 Somerset Terrace NE, Atlanta. 404-341-1000. $30-$45; ages 3-12, $25-$40; ages 2 and younger, free. illuminarium.com

Immerse yourself in a world of candy with art installations, sensory experiences and samples of candy. 3330 Piedmont Rd. NE, Buckhead. $28; ages 4-12, $20; ages 3 and younger, free. candytopia.com

n Origami in the Garden Atlanta Botanical Garden Through Oct. 16

n Naturally Artistic

Sept. 18-Nov. 30 Celebrate the connection between art and nature with works from local artists and art-making activities. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. $15; ages 13-18, $11; ages 3-12, $9; ages 2 and younger, free. chattnaturecenter.org

Chattahoochee Nature Center

n SPACE: A Journey To The Moon & Beyond

Candytopia Atlanta Buckhead Disco Kroger

Children’s Museum of Atlanta Sept. 24-Jan. 8 Help Marshall, Chase, Skye, Rubble, Everest, Rocky, Zuma and Tracker as you adventure together to overcome challenges and help friends. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr. NW, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. $17.95$20.95; ages 11 months and younger, free. childrensmuseumatlanta.org

These special exhibits in metro Atlanta combine fun and education.

Through Oct. 2

younger,$21.95-$24.95;$24.95-$27.95;404-876-5859.ages3-12,ages2andfree.atlantabg.org

Extra Help n to-make-a-scarecrowthebudgetdecorator.com/diy-decor-how-

You will need wood that is about two meters long, such as a wooden tomato stake, a broom or a rake handle. Take your wooden stakes and create a cross; then, nail, screw or tie the pieces together. When the wood is secure, start adding the clothing and stuffing.

Whether you choose to make him scary or goofy, building one can be a fun learning process for your family.

Stuffing

September 2022 Atlanta Parent 61atlantaparent.com

Tips n Avoid using newspaper to stuff your scarecrow, because rain will cause the body to become soft and shapeless.

Gather some old pantyhose, straw, leaves, grass clippings, wood chips or rags to stuff your pieces. You will also need wire or twine to tie the ends of the pants, arms or head to secure the stuffing inside.

wikihow.com/make-a-scarecrow

Face A burlap sack, used to protect trees, is perfect for making the head. An old pair of pantyhose or an old pillow case also works. Use plastic grocery bags to stuff inside, or some of the same stuffing you use to fill the body. Decorate the face with permanent markers, acrylic paint or cutout felt shapes, and glue on with a glue gun.

See a Scarecrow for Free Scarecrows on Main Kennesaw. Oct. 1-31. kennesaw-ga.gov Scarecrows In The Square Glover Park at Historic Marietta Square. Oct. 1-Nov. 3. mariettaga.gov

Armature/Support

Atlanta Botanical Garden. Oct. 1-30 See dozens of creations from local artists, crafters, youth groups and more. 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta.

A scarecrow can be a great addition to your yard during the autumn season.

SquareCrow Village McDonough Square. Oct. 3-31. mcdonoughga.org Scarecrow Harvest Downtown Alpharetta. Oct. 3-Nov. 1. alpharetta.ga.us

Clothing Visit your local thrift store, look in the back of your closet, or ask your relatives if they have any plaid shirts, jeans or overalls they were planning to get rid of. Collect these items, as well as gloves, old shoes or boots and socks for the hands and feet. Feel free to accessorize with hats, bandanas or overalls.

How to Build a Scarecrow

n Before adding the head, find where you want to position your scarecrow in the garden; don’t add until your scarecrow can support itself.

inScarecrowstheGarden

62 Atlanta Parent September 2022 atlantaparent.com forfridgethe I would just like to thank the person who told my daughter that when she lies her eyes turn a different color. Now squeezesshehereyesshuteverytimeshelies…andmyjobjustbecameawholeloteasier.MommyOwl@lhlodder

Are you ready? Visit JoinGirlScoutsATL.com to learn more. All Fun. No lter. Imagine it—you and your forever friends. Dreaming up adventures. Making the whole world sparkle with your own personal brand of magic. Be a Girl Scout. Or, scan me! Our 12th Annual Family Fall Festival & 5K unites hundreds of children, families, and runners to fundraise and increase awareness for young children with disabilities in the Atlanta and North Georgia communities. jump house | trackless train | video game truck | costumes | live DJ | arts and crafts | food | fun | face painting | games | prizes | and more! 50+ FREE activities! Scan for 5K Registration:

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