September 2013 by Atlanta Parent

Parent Atlantaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s No. 1 Parenting Magazine

atlanta

September 2013

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Happy Trails:

Places to Ride with Your Family

Babies and

TEEN POW ER

Screen Time Like Us on FACEBOOK

Meet Madisyn and Four More Top Talents

81st annuaL

nOrth GeOrGia state fair

LeGends

LiOns

GeOrG COnCeia LOttery rt ser ies

freeery C Orn LOtt GiaC ies err GeOn rt se ts CO Ce e fre rts COnCe

& Lifts

with p aid

aid with p

admiss ion

sion admis

DISCOUNT TIC Discount Tick KETS

et at all Metro A s will be available tlanta Aug. 19 - Sep Walgreens t. Adults $3.50 20 21 Ride Ticke ts $11.00

september 19-29, 2013 Jim r miller park | marietta, Ga

friday september 20 The Fish 104.7 FM 13th Annual Birthday Bash phillips, crAig And deAn in concert 8:00pm saturday september 21 lAuren AlAinA in concert 8:00pm presented By:

wednesday september 25 lee Brice in concert 8:00pm

friday september 27 colT Ford in concert 8:00pm

thursday september 26 loreTTA lynn in concert 8:00pm

saturday september 28 jerrod nieMAnn in concert 8:00 pm

sponsored By:

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More than 50 family-friendly activities! ENTERTAINMENT • TODDLER-ONLY PLAY AREA STORYTELLING • CRAFT ACTIVITIES TRICK-OR-TREAT STREET • EXHIBITORS • FOOD BENEFICIARIES: Autism Speaks / The Center for Children and Young Adults Georgia Center for Child Advocacy / Safe Kids Georgia SPONSORS:

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4 Atlanta Parentâ&#x20AC;&#x192; â&#x20AC;&#x192; September 2013

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Inside 3 O September YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT

Vol. 30 / Number 9

Features 16

Standout Teens

When it comes to singing, dancing, acting, wrestling and volunteering, these metro-Atlanta teens are outstanding.

Page

Departments 8 Publisher’s Note

10 News You Can Use 14 The Frugal Family

Visit Often, Save a Lot with Memberships

F is for Football and Fun Score points with your family by organizing an outing to root for your favorite team.

74 Humor in the House Potluck? I’ll Bring the Paper Products

PAGE

Atlanta Baby

Milestones to Middle School

Cover Kids , rs Winne50

Is technology rewiring your baby’s brain? Take our quiz to find out. Plus, bond with baby and tone your body with stroller walks, and check out products every baby needs.

From elementary school to middle school, kids do a lot of learning and growing up. Our guide helps you know when all is well, and when to step in.

Happy Trails to You

There’s nothing like a trail ride to get in touch with nature, and these five stables have rides for the whole family.

Party Time! Plan the perfect birthday on a budget, and start the day off right with a silly, smiley fruit face. Plus you’ll love these goody bag ideas that will make kids say “Wow.!”

Magazine Association of the Southeast

2013 Award Winner

Don’t Miss Our

GUIDE TO FIELD TRIPS

Family Fun Guide 53

Not-to-Miss Events

Eating Out:

Green Ginger Asian Fusion

Labor Day Weekend Events

Free Fun: Farmers Markets

SkyView Ferris Wheel

Fall Festivals & Fairs

September Calendar

On the Cover: Madisyn Kenner, 13, of College Park is the winner of McDonald’s The Gift singing contest. Photography by Eric Petersen.

Like us on Facebook; facebook.com/ AtlantaParentMagazine

HELPING FAMILIES

THROUGH CRISIS

SHIVER HAMILTON – SERIOUS INJURY ATTORNEYS, WITH A PARTICULAR FOCUS ON PEDIATRIC INJURIES. Atlanta’s Award-Winning Parenting Publication

PUBLISHER Liz White

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

BUSINESS Amy Smith DEVELOPMENT asmith@atlantaparent.com MANAGER ACCOUNT Julia Sparks EXECUTIVES jsparks@atlantaparent.com

Helping put your family back together drives everything we do. When facing a life-changing injury or death caused by the negligence or fault of another, you need a skilled and compassionate advocate. Recognized as “Legal Elite” by Georgia Trend Georgia Super Lawyers “Rising Stars” Recognized as Top 40 Under 40 Trial Lawyers

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Jennifer Fogel jfogel@atlantaparent.com SPECIAL EVENTS & Jordan Lisvosky DIGITAL SALES jlisvosky@atlantaparent.com COORDINATOR ASSOCIATE Dalia Faupel EDITOR

CONTRIBUTING Amanda Miller Allen EDITOR

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

EDITORIAL Robin Mintz PRODUCTION rmintz@atlantaparent.com ARTIST

OPERATIONS Caroline Ward MANAGER cward@atlantaparent.com MARKETING MOM Felicia Barman

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

6 Atlanta Parent September 2013

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ItFigures by Cynthia Washam

Dinner Digits 93

Percent of Americans who’ve eaten pizza in the last month

350

Number of slices consumed in the U.S. per second

$125

Cost at Nino’s Bellissima restaurant in New York for a slice of the “world’s most extravagant pizza,” topped with caviar, fresh lobster and crème fraîche

Percent of food services that offer tortillas

Percent drop in frying over the past five years

Percent increase in the use of slow cookers

Percent of preschool children who are sensitive to bitter foods, such as broccoli

Percent more vegetables bitter-sensitive children will eat if the veggies are served with dip

Bits and Pieces 10-11

Recommended hours of sleep per night for elementary-school children

Years a snail can sleep

Percent of U.S. families that didn’t buy or read a book in the past year

Age Barney Flaherty, on Sept. 10, 1833, was hired by The New York Sun to become the country’s first newspaper carrier Sources: Pizza.com, Snack Food & Wholesale Bakery, Feedstuffs, Good Housekeeping, Reason, Time, Stunning-stuff.com, Hotforwords.com, Holidayinsights.com

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September 2013 Atlanta Parent 7

Publisher’s Note When It Comes to Working, What Works for You? Working moms often feel like they’re in the middle of a precarious balancing act, trying to fulfill the demands of a full-time job and the needs of their family. Stay-athome moms sometimes miss the outside contact and stimulation a job provides. In an ideal world, recent surveys have found, most of us would rather work part-time, at least while our kids are young. One survey involved more than 2,000 moms (see Page 10). It found that while 45 percent of moms work full-time, only 9 percent say that’s ideal. Other surveys recently in the news have reached similar conclusions. I felt the same way when my daughter was young. When I started Atlanta Parent I had the opportunity to work from home and spend more time with Laura. Like other working moms, I was concerned about missing out on the special moments in her life. Over the years, Atlanta Parent has hired many working mothers and our happiest employees often seem to be those who are able to find that balance between work and home. A few of our moms work part-time, giving up luxuries in exchange for more time with their families. A couple of them tele-work, coming into the office only a few days a month. Others on our team work full-time, but appreciate the flexibility to duck out for a child’s pediatrician appointment or to pick up a sick child from school. They occasionally work from home or bring their child to the office. We know it’s not easy being a full-time mom and full-time employee and we try to be as flexible as we can. Other businesses also will make accommodations to keep a good employee happy, from flex-time to tele-working to four-day work weeks. If a five-day, 40-hour (or more) work week isn’t working for you right now, it’s time to explore you options. Talk honestly with your employer – you may not be able to work out the ideal situation, but you may be able to get a little more balance in your life. And it’s reassuring to remember that as long as your children know they’re loved, they will be just fine, whether you’re working full-time, part-time or staying at home. Look for stories in our upcoming issues about this important topic, and email us at editor@atlantaparent.com to share what strategies have worked for you.

How to Reach us: Telephone 770.454.7599

Email lwhite@atlantaparent.com

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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.

8 Atlanta Parent September 2013

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n Boundaries Establish personal rights to specific clothing, games, toys and other items that specifically belong to one child or the other. Set rules regarding the use, care, trading and return of personal items.

n Encouragement

Sister Peace & Brotherly Love

by Dr. Valerie Allen

How do you get your children to share, cooperate, and enjoy each other, instead of bickering and arguing? Impossible you say? If you are eager to take off your “referee badge” and willing to stop “collecting evidence”, and “searching for clues,” here are some tips to help establish a positive relationship between siblings and free yourself of the responsibility of being the peace keeper.

n Respect

n Separate

Treat all children equally. Some consideration should be given for the youngster’s age and size. Children should be responsible for resolving their own arguments. Refrain from assigning more responsibility to the one who is “older and shouldn’t do a thing like that” or the one is “smarter and should know better.” Mutual respect is the key.

If the argument is getting verbally abusive or turning physical, separate them. Send each child to a different room and set a timer. When the timer rings, if they have cooled down, give them an opportunity to talk the issue over with each other, while you monitor the discussion.

n Confiscate If they are fighting over a toy or game, take it away and put it in “lay away.” If the quarrel is over use of the computer, television, radio or similar item, turn it off. Explain when they cooperate on finding a solution the item will be returned or access allowed with a mutually agreed upon sharing plan. atlantaparent.com

n Intervention Have zero tolerance for physical fights, pushing, shoving, hitting, etc. Get on their level, make eye contact, touch them lovingly, request the item of conflict, ask them to settle the dispute, separate them if necessary and leave the room. Do not allow aggression: mental, verbal, or physical. Ever!

Teach children to use words to express their needs, rather than fighting with each other or calling you to take sides. Have them practice speaking in a calm voice using this pattern: “I feel _________ because _____. What I want is ______.

n Winning Offer them guidance to resolve the conflict. Ask “How could you have a win-win solution to this?” Help them figure out how each of them could have something they want from the situation by working out a compromise.

n Alternatives Do not provide solutions. This will discourage thinking and avoid responsibility on their part. Explore options which will promote mutual problem solving. Whether it’s with family members, teachers, employers or coworkers we must all learn how to adapt and get along. Children need to learn how to handle frustration when things don’t go their way. Parents can set a good example and use monitoring and guidance to teach youngsters how to compromise and get along in a positive manner. c Valerie Allen, mother of six, is a child psychologist and author of two children’s books, Summer School for Smarties and Bad Hair, Good Hat, New Friends. September 2013 Atlanta Parent 9

News You Can Use

by Amanda Allen

Family Meal Still Possible

An evening with everyone gathered around the table for a nutritious and inexpensive meal is the American ideal. Even with today’s busy schedules, many families still manage. In a BabyCenter.com survey of more than 1,000 moms, 90 percent said their family has dinner together several nights a week – a dinner that’s prepared at home or sometimes brought in. They use the time to catch up as a family and also to teach table manners.

Beautiful Baby Contest! She’s a Beauty, and So Is He Atlanta Parent has never seen an ugly baby, but we’ve seen real beauties over the years as sponsor of the annual Beautiful Baby Contest at the North Georgia State Fair. Enter your beautiful baby Sept. 24 at the fair in Marietta. Contest entry is free, but you’ll need to pay admission to the fairgrounds. Sign up begins at 5:30 p.m. and competition starts at 6:30 p.m. with babies ages 0-6 months. Competition continues in 6-month increments to age 36 months. Winners in each category receive a plaque or a second- or third-place ribbon. Judging is informal and contestants may dress any way they want; previous contestants have worn cowboy outfits or come as cheerleaders, or simply dressed in their Sunday best. If your girl is older than 3, she’s eligible for the North Georgia State Fair Pageant on opening night, Sept. 19. More information at northgeorgiastatefair.com. 10 Atlanta Parent September 2013

Source: Hulafrog.com

Stop Childhood Obesity Finally some good news about childhood obesity rates: They’ve fallen in some states, including Georgia, for the first time in decades. Research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found a decline of about 1 percent in obesity among low-income preschoolers in 18 states. Don’t break out the confetti, though, because one in eight preschoolers is obese, and obese children are five times more likely to become obese adults. That’s sobering news for National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, observed in September each year. For strategies to prevent obesity, visit healthierkidsbrighterfutures.org.

Celebrating Grandparents Do something to make Grandma and Grandpa feel like the special people they are on National Grandparents Day, Sept. 8. Instead of dinner out, how about getting together as a family and letting the grandchildren interview Granny about her life? What about going through old photos with Granddad and identifying ancestors and photo-worthy events in his life? For other ideas to celebrate the day, visit grandparents-day.org.

atlantaparent.com

Calling All Bakers

Bike for a Cure

Get your booty on a bicycle and support cancer charities when 24 Hours of Booty rolls into Atlanta starting at 2 p.m. Oct. 5 and continuing through 2 p.m. Oct. 6. The event, in its fourth year, will be at Mount Vernon Presbyterian School in Sandy Springs. Proceeds benefit Livestrong and the Aflac Cancer Center of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Last year, more than 500 bicyclists participated and the event raised more than $350,000. Entry fee is $55 before Sept. 15, or $65 from Sept. 16 to event day, and riders must pledge to raise at least $200 more. Non-riders are welcome at the event to cheer on friends and family, and of course, to contribute to the fund-raising. More information at 24hoursof booty.org.

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If baking is your hobby, now’s the time to see just how good you are. Baking for Babies, a fund-raiser to benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, will be held 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sept. 14 at Killian Hall, 908 Killian Hill Road, in Lilburn. A contest will be held for adult bakers and junior bakers, ages 18 and younger. Entry fee for adults is $50; junior bakers pay $25. Food will be catered by Edible Endeavors, and the event includes vendors, prize drawings and a silent auction. Cakes will be judged on taste and presentation. Tickets to attend the event are $5 for adults and $2 for children age 18 and younger. More information at bakingforbabies2013. eventbrite.com.

September 2013 Atlanta Parent 11

The Compassion Experience:

Change a Life, Maybe Even Yours

T Does your child have Asthma???

Consider volunteering for a clinical research study conducted at Emory University. This clinical trial is for children 1- 5 years of age, who suffer from wheezing. We are trying to see which asthma medication works best for preschool children. You may be asked to participate for as long as 12 months in this study. The study will also determine the best pain reliever/fever reducer for preschool children with asthma symptoms.

he statistics on world poverty are grim, but Americans often look the other way. An exhibit coming to the North Georgia State Fair may change that attitude. Visitors to “Change the Story: The Compassion Experience,” a free interactive tour at the fair Sept. 20-24, will see poverty through the eyes of three children who invite you into their limited world. Each 20-minute, self-guided tour immerses visitors into the lives of a child in India, Uganda or Bolivia, including exact replicas of the homes and environments the children live in. The exhibit is being staged by Compassion International, which provides aid to more than 6,000 Christian churches in 26 countries to lift children out of poverty. More than 1.4 billion people live on less than $1.25 per day, and in the areas Compassion serves, one in five children dies before age 5. Tour visitors will learn what they can do to “change the story” of children in poverty and sponsor a child. One of the stories visitors will experience is that of a 10-year-old child living in Uganda. The child, now 29, will be at the North Georgia State Fair to share her journey from poverty in Uganda to becoming a college graduate with a master’s degree in social work, thanks to Compassion’s help. For more information, visit compassion. com/change. Tour visitors are encouraged to make a reservation on the website, but walk-ins are welcome. Groups of 20 or more should email changetour@compassion.com to reserve their space. c

Qualified participants will receive at no charge:

• Asthma medications • Pulmonary Evaluation • Physical Exam • Compensation for time and travel Contact Emory AsthmaNet Study Coordinators for more information:

Jennifer Dodds 404-727-5176 • jcdodds@emory.edu Denise Whitlock 404-712-1773 • drwhitl@emory.edu 12 Atlanta Parent September 2013

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10 Low-Tech Ways to Entertain Kids by Heidi Smith Luedtke

Keeping kids happy during long car rides, airport layovers and doctor’s office delays isn’t easy. Yes, you could give them your smart phone and let them play video games until the battery dies, but then you’d be incommunicado. And your kids wouldn’t build patience, creativity or social skills. Next time, use one of these old-fashioned games to pass the time:

1 2 3 4 5

Twenty Questions. Challenge your child to guess which person, place or animal is on your mind. He’s allowed to ask 20 yes-or-no questions and you have to answer them truthfully. Choose real, visible objects when playing with preschoolers and more abstract objects for older kids. Feel a Word. Tune kids in to tactile information and challenge their spatial skills with this hands-on activity. One person sits behind the other and draws letters with her finger, one at a time, on her companion’s back. The guesser must decode each letter and put them together to find out what word is formed. Spell out names of familiar faces or places for extra appeal. I Spy. Choose a nearby object or magazine image and encourage your child to find it. Give a single hint, starting with the phrase “I spy with my little eye…” Increase the challenge by choosing hard-to-see objects or using symbolic clues. A piece of pie could be called an “edible triangle,” for instance. “I Spy” is especially fun to play on airplanes, where the in-flight shopping catalog includes odd objects like self-heating socks and automated cat feeders. Alphabet Memory Game. Name something that begins with A, like the dinosaur “Allosaurus.” Take turns adding items from B to Z, requiring each person to repeat the list from A before adding to it. If you have genius kids or way too much time on your hands, start at Z and work backward. Tell a Tale. Choose a title, such as “The Monster Under the Stairs,” then take turns adding sentences to create a collaborative story. Need inspiration? Roll a handful of Rory’s Story Cubes dice ($7; Amazon.com) and weave the pictures into your story. These little gems spark big creativity and they’re small enough to fit in your pocket.

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6 7 8 9 10

Flip a Coin. Play a numbers game to see how many times you can toss “heads” or “tails” in a row. Keep track on a scrap of paper to see how long your lucky streak lasts. Your kid statistician can calculate the odds of this outcome with some simple math. For example, 3 heads in a row has a .5 x .5 x .5 = .125 probability. Sticker Pics. Pack a small notebook and an assortment of sticker sheets. Let kids create their own books using stickers as staring characters or background scenery. Preschoolers can add details by drawing; school-age kids can write captions, too. Play Favorites. Use your phone or camera to record a series of family interviews. Ask each person to describe favorite foods, colors or story books. Older kids can describe movie characters, vacation memories or famous people. Combine clips to create a family montage or glean factoids to spruce up your family’s holiday letter. It’s never too early to start on that. Memory Detective. Grab some objects from your purse or backpack and arrange them where everyone can see them. Give kids a short time to study the objects and memorize what they see. Then remove one object while the kids cover their eyes. The first kid to name the missing item gets to run the next round. Start a Bucket List. Individually or as a family, put your dreams on paper. Include the African safari you’re dying to take and adventures closer to home. Not sure where to start? The questions and exercises in Family Bucket Lists by Lara Krupika will inspire your whole family to think big. Dreams of diving off the high board or climbing a mountain are a delightful distractions during any unhappy delay. c Luedtke, a psychologist and mom, is the author of Detachment Parenting (eBooks 2013, $9.99).

September 2013 Atlanta Parent 13

the

frugalfamily Visit Often, Save a Lot

with Memberships Visits to museums and popular family attractions are exciting, educational, and many times, expensive. Memberships are a great way to save, especially if your kids can’t wait to visit again. Here are some of the best membership bargains in Atlanta. Each of these attraction memberships pays for itself in two visits. September is an ideal time to join, with many institutions participating in the Swaptember promotion, offering discounts on family membership or general admission tickets. Check individual attraction websites for details. (Note: For calculations, we assume each child requires a paid ticket. Sales tax not included.)

Zoo Atlanta

zooatlanta.org Includes unlimited admission for two adults and four children, 10 percent discounted admission for guests of members, and discounts for gift shop, rides, programs, birthday parties, and camps. Family Membership: $109 Regular Admission (Two Adults, Two Kids): $78

Atlanta History Center

atlantahistorycenter.com Includes unlimited admission for two adults and up to four children, and discounts on camps and homeschool days. Family Membership: $75 Regular Admission (Two Adults, Two Kids): $55

High Museum of Art

highmuseum.org Includes admission for two adults and all children, in the household, members-only events, and discounts on programs, shopping and dining on site. Family Membership: $95 Regular Admission (Two Adults, Two Kids): $63

Atlanta Botanical Garden

atlantabotanicalgarden.org Includes unlimited admission for two adults and all children in the household, members-only events and previews, discounts on programs and the gift shop, and four guest passes. Family Membership: $99 Regular Admission (Two Adults, Two Kids): $64

Zoo Atlanta

Gwinnett Environmental Heritage Center

gwinnettehc.org Family membership includes unlimited access for two adults and up to two children for a year, 10 percent discounts at the gift shop and for facility rentals, and memberonly events. Family Membership: $65 Regular Admission (Two Adults, Two Kids): $34 Legoland Discovery Center

14 Atlanta Parent September 2013

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Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Legoland Discovery Center

legolanddiscoverycenter.com/Atlanta Annual family pass includes unlimited admission for four family members, discounts in the on-site LEGO shop (10 percent) and café (20 percent), 10 percent off birthday parties, and a Club LEGO Magazine subscription. Family Membership: $180 (online purchase) Regular Admission (Two Adults, Two Kids): $62 (online purchase)

Fernbank Museum of Natural History

fernbankmuseum.org Family membership includes advance summer camps registration, 10 percent discount in museum store and café, up to 40 percent discount on IMAX passes, plus reciprocal membership at more than 300 museums. Family Membership: $120 Regular Admission (Two Adults, Two Kids): $64

Children’s Museum of Atlanta

childrensmuseumatlanta.org/parents/ membership Includes unlimited admission for two adults and up to four children, plus two guest passes, discounts on parties, camps and museum store, and members-only events. Family Membership: $100 Regular Admission (Two Adults, Two Kids): $51

Tellus Science Museum

tellusmuseum.org Includes unlimited admission for two adults and all children in household, members-only events, four free passes for planetarium programs, and discounts on program tickets. Family Membership: $95 Regular Admission (Two Adults, Two Kids): $48

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Georgia Aquarium

georgiaaquarium.org Includes unlimited admission to exhibits, Dolphin Show and 3D Wondershow, 50 percent discount on Behind the Scenes Tours, and 10 percent discount on guest tickets. Family Membership (two adult and two child annual passes): $226 Regular Admission (Two Adults, Two Kids): $128 Other kids-love-them attractions with membership programs or annual passes to consider include Interactive Neighborhood for Kids (INK), the Chattahoochee Nature Center and the Booth Museum.

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September 2013 Atlanta Parent 15

In Singing, Dancing and Acting, in Sports and in Volunteering, These Kids Will Go Far

t u o d n a t S o h W s n e e T

When an unknown actress finally gets her name in lights, they say she’s an “overnight success.” Superb athletes are said to “come out of nowhere” to claim first place. Humanitarian heroes who organize relief efforts for the world’s less fortunate are in the spotlight only after years of quietly doing the work they feel called to do. All of them will tell you there was no “overnight” to it – they were dedicated to their profession or their sport, and they set and achieved goals from a young age. These five teens are on their way, following their passion and determined to succeed.

Madisyn Kenner:

A Genuine Original You could say that Madisyn Kenner’s first ever fan was her dog, Monroe. This 13-year-old has come a long way from the days of singing in the shower and performing for her pooch: She was chosen as the 2013 winner of The Gift, an Atlanta-area youth singing competition sponsored by McDonald’s. Madisyn is an eighth-grader at Landmark Christian School. Her parents discovered her vocal talent several years ago. “She had a little microphone, and I remember her singing a Mariah Carey song,” said mom Nakia Shaw of College Park. “The fact that she could stay on key let me know that she has a talent.” “She’s amazingly talented,” her father Robert Kenner Jr. of Stockbridge adds. “She’s also very serious about honing her skills as a musician and an artist and writer. I’m very proud of her.” Auditioning for The Gift was the first time Madisyn performed in front of an audience, other than at her school talent show (which, by the way, she won last year). And although she said she was nervous when she approached the microphone in front of the judges, “I was really excited to get out there. I genuinely enjoy performing and sharing what God has given me with the world.” Not only did she make it through two rounds to win the 16 Atlanta Parent September 2013

competition, but she did it singing songs she wrote herself. The song she performed to clinch the title, Fire, Storm and Rain, was inspired by a cranky baby. “I wrote it when I was baby-sitting. I told her not to cry and you’ll make it through the fire, the storm and the rain. It is a feel-good song.” And Madisyn is feeling pretty good herself these days after earning $20,000 in cash and prizes as the winner of The Gift. “I feel humbled, amazed and stunned that I was chosen. It makes me want to continue to do what I’m doing.” Her mom couldn’t agree more. “She is a kind person, and that’s the best a mother can ask for. My continued hope for her is that she is happy and that she does something she loves.” – Sherry V. Crawley atlantaparent.com

Photo courtesy of Rooker Photography

Katie Hollenshead: A Passion for Acting

For her 10th birthday, Katie Hollenshead knew exactly what she wanted. “All I want for my birthday is to sign me up for voice lessons,” she told her mother Jacqui Willey. Willey and her husband, Richard Hollenshead, of East Cobb weren’t sure then that their daughter was as talented as they suspected she might be. After Katie’s second lesson, though, voice teacher Carrie Bell of Marietta told them Katie was a natural, with a lovely voice and perfect pitch. Katie, 17, and a senior at Walton High School, has been singing all her life, from her first solo appearance at age 3, for grandparents’ day at her preschool. “I’ve always wanted to do musical theater,” Katie says, “but when I definitely knew I would be doing this all my life was the final performance of Grey Gardens.” That was her first role with a professional theater company, Actor’s Express, at age 14. Since then, she’s had parts in school musicals and other theater productions in metro Atlanta, most recently Spring Awakening with Fabrefaction Theatre Company, in which she played Wendla, a difficult role and her favorite so far. “It’s a

Garland Jones:

Sharing With the World Garland Jones is from Marietta, but his dreams are much bigger than that small city can hold. In little more than a year, Back-NPack, the organization Garland founded to help alleviate childhood hunger, has given backpacks filled with food to more than 2,000 children in the Atlanta area. And it all started while holding a video camera at a cousin’s dance recital. “I saw teachers from a local school there helping refugee children,” Garland said. “I told my mom I wanted to help out.” This 17-year-old hasn’t just helped out; he has raised $4,500 and provided 15,000 pounds of food to feed families from more than 60 countries. Garland’s parents were supportive from the beginning. “My wife is the ultimate organizer,” Eddie Jones says. “She sat with him and came up with a plan.” “We have donation sites like churches and businesses where we collect the food,” Garland says. “We also use those places as distribution centers. Those centers know the people who need the items.” atlantaparent.com

modern show with rock music set in the late 19th Century Germany,” she says. “And it’s about what could happen if parents don’t talk with their children about sex. … It’s really dark.” Toward the end of the show, her character dies. Next up is the role of Cinderella in Walton High’s Into the Woods, Nov. 14-16. When’s she’s not rehearsing, Katie loves teaching children. This summer she helped with a one-week theater camp for kids. She’s participated in three summer workshops with the Broadway Dreams Foundation, and

she’s auditioned and auditioned. “She’s had her heartaches when she didn’t get a part she really wanted, but then she moves on and goes to the next audition,” Willey says. Soon Katie will be starting an intense round of auditions, at colleges that offer a Bachelor of Fine Arts in musical theater and a path to Broadway and beyond. Right now, her mom says, “Katie would rather be in theater than anywhere else. She loves the intensity of rehearsals, she loves the shows.” – Amanda Allen

To acknowledge his commitment and success, his mother, Carlia Jones, nominated him for the Build-A-Bear Workshop Huggable Heroes, an award program that recognizes young people who are making a difference. Garland was one of 10 winners in 2013, chosen from more than 1,000 nominations. He received $10,000, which included an educational scholarship, a donation to a charity of his choice and a trip to St. Louis where he learned leadership skills. Garland wants to increase the reach of Back-N-Pack, taking it outside of Atlanta and maybe even to the entire United States. Heading off to college next year to study film, he knows that no matter where he goes, his connection to home and family is what matters. “My father taught me that you have to take care of your house. I have a heart for my city, and I will always want to give back to my community and remember where I am from.” – Sherry V. Crawley Cont’d on page 18

September 2013 Atlanta Parent 17

Teens Who Standout!

Jewanda Lanier: ‘Fabulous Feet’

Dancing is Jewanda Lanier’s passion, and she has a “Fabulous Feet” award to prove it. Jewanda, 16, of Dallas, began dancing at age 5, and does it all: tap, ballet, jazz, hip-hop, and more. This year she was a “Fabulous Feet” and platinum winner at the Stage One National Dance Competition in Gatlinburg, Tenn., with a tap dance that wowed the judges. And that was not her favorite performance. As a high school freshman, she went to Washington, D.C., for a performance honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Jewanda and three other teens portrayed the four little girls who died in a church bombing in Birmingham, Ala., in 1963. “It was an educational and wonderful experience for me,” she says. “I met so many people and grew so much professionally.” A junior at Paulding County High School, Jewanda practices dance two to three hours a day at Georgia Metropolitan Dance Theatre and is a student teacher at 18 Atlanta Parent September 2013

Nu Star Maker Performing Arts, but she still maintains a 4.0 academic average. She also finds time to volunteer at her brother’s school library and for Special Olympics, and to perform for church groups and in musicals such as “Footloose,” recently at the Earl Smith Strand Theatre in Marietta. She and her 11-year-old brother, Khalil Jackson, also donated their own backpacks and helped collect and fill other backpacks as part of a project for their church, Power of God International. Jewanda plans to attend college at a strong performing arts school such as Point Park University in Pittsburg, Pa., or the Julliard School in New York, majoring in dance and sports medicine. “My hope for her is that she achieves every goal she sets and that she moves with God with those goals,” says her mother, LaWanda Jackson. “She’s such a capable young lady. I expect excellence from her, but I don’t push her to do what’s not in her heart to do. She wants to sing, dance and be a great actress, and I hope and expect she will get everything in life she works hard for.” – Amanda Allen atlantaparent.com

George Gavalas: Going for the Gold

Ranking in the Top 10 in a national wrestling competition? Check. Taking all Advanced Placement classes? Check. What’s next on the to-do list for George Gavalas? A law degree and an Olympic medal. That’s all. This determined 16-year-old from Dunwoody started wrestling in middle school. Now in 11th grade at Mount Vernon Presbyterian School, George has consistently performed well at state and regional competitions. “I enjoy being under a lot of pressure,” he says. “Wrestling wears me down mentally and physically. I love that feeling of fighting through adversity and pain.” His training routine is intense. “When preparing for major competitions, I wrestle once or twice a day,” George says. “I wrestle hard and don’t take anything easy.” He applies this same rigor to his academics. “I think of my classes and my homework as practice, and I think of tests and big exams as a game.” Katerina Gavalas, George’s mother, is proud of her son for his work ethic. But early on, watching her son wrestle was

atlantaparent.com

tough. “I got so overwhelmed at the first statewide competition,” she admits. “He was 13 or 14, and I lost myself in the moment. I found myself on the mat screaming for him. The referee had to ask me to move!” George credits his parents with teaching him to value physical fitness. “I always go to work out thinking it is going to make me happier and give me a better outlook on school and spending time with my family.”

“He has always been the kind of person who sets his mind on something and goes after it with everything he’s got,” Katerina says. “My goal is to be an Olympic champion,” George said. “I’m just waiting for it to click with me and I feel like my time is coming.” – Sherry V. Crawley Know a talented kid? Let us know; email editor@atlantaparent.com

September 2013 Atlanta Parent 19

Score Points With Your Family – And Cheer On a Football Team by Dawn Montgomery-Greene

or some families, the start of the school year is all about hoping for plenty of opportunities for F’s: Fall Football and Family Fun. Whether it’s a high school or college game, the atmosphere for fall football feels like a festival, with families dressed in school colors, cheering on their team and highfiving after touchdowns. Football is more exciting when you’re watching it surrounded by fans in a stadium, instead of camped in front of the TV. You don’t have to be a big football fan to make game day a family affair and create some wonderful memories. In the process, you’ll win points with Dad and the kids. Here’s how to get started.

20 Atlanta Parent September 2013

Choose Your Team

For college football, many families choose the team from the school they attended. If you don’t have a college alma mater, consider attending games at Georgia State University or Clark Atlanta University. You can attend a game at the Georgia Dome when Georgia State plays home games or go to Clark Atlanta’s stadium and get the ultimate Historically Black College Football experience. Check their athletic department websites for their schedules: georgiastatesports.com or clarkatlantasports.com. General admission tickets for GSU are $15-$30 per person; for Clark Atlanta, $10 per person (homecoming game is $25 per person). High school games are your most inexpensive option. Expect to pay $5$15 per person, depending on the high school you choose. Check with the high school in your child’s school district or check the Atlanta Journal-Constitution for weekly updates on which high school football teams are playing in your area. Games where rival teams are playing are more exciting.

Plan Ahead

Some college football tickets may be hard to come by, especially at universities with a huge number of fans, such as Georgia Tech, the University of Georgia and the University of Alabama. If you’re set on having the ultimate college football experience, it will cost you: A recent Internet search for the Georgia Bulldogs’ game against Louisiana State University Tigers at Athens turned up tickets costing $165 or more. Whatever game you decide to attend, purchase your tickets in advance, to make sure that you have a seat for you and your family. You can purchase online at a university’s athletic website or you try these three websites: ticketliquidator. com, cheaptickets.com or stubhub.com. If you are attending a college football game in metro Atlanta, plan to drive and enjoy tailgating at the game or take MARTA and avoid the traffic hassle. Georgia State and Clark Atlanta games are on the MARTA train lines. If you travel outside of metro Atlanta, remember to factor in game day traffic, which can add 30 minutes to an hour in travel time, if not longer. Make sure that your children have their favorite travel items and technological devices for the ride. atlantaparent.com

Pre-Game Preparation

Get your children prepared – and excited – about the game day experience. There will be tailgating and loud fans. Buy some noise-makers and confetti for the kids so they can join in. And try these three ways to maximize your children’s participation: n Family Fashion Show: Purchase team fan gear, then get your children to create their favorite two outfits. Or go through your closets and pull out clothing in your team’s colors. Once everyone has selected their clothing, play some music, gather everyone in the living room and strut your stuff! n Fan Game Day Signs: All you need is posters, crayons, markers, glue and construction paper. Let your children create signs that have the team’s name and mascot on them. This will familiarize the family with the team’s colors and mascot, and even educate your children on the university’s background. Bonus: Your child may get excited about attending college. n Sing a Song: Learn the university’s fight song! This is one of the most exciting things that you will experience with thousands of other fans on game day. You can also learn the team’s chants.

Team Spirit

No matter where you celebrate, at the stadium or at home, make it fun:

Throw confetti or execute a high-five after each touchdown. Desserts are a must-have. Two easy ideas: Help the children decorate sugar cookies in team colors or make a football-shaped cake (find directions at pillsburybaking.com/ recipes/details/2295). Wear your team’s colors. Stock up on mini-mega phones and noise-makers (and maybe a few earplugs). If at home, plan a fun half-time activity – try a water balloon toss or cut a couple of holes in an old sheet and see who can toss a football through the holes. Photo by Gregory Molette Jr.

On Game Day

Get on your team colors and head off for fun. If you plan to tailgate, arrive early for a good spot and bring picnic food. Though some families grill an elaborate feast, you don’t have to – sandwiches and chips or a bucket of fried chicken will do. But consider adding a special touch. How about Team Pretzel Rods – pretzel sticks dipped in chocolate and decorated with sprinkles in your team’s colors? When the action starts, make each touchdown a cause for celebration – throw confetti, blow or rattle noise-makers or execute a highfive. Bring new small toys from the dollar store to keep young children occupied between big plays. College football games are all about tradition and passion for the sport. If Dad or Mom already loves the sport, it’s easy to create enthusiasm and start a family tradition around that passion. atlantaparent.com

Dawn Montgomery-Greene with her sons Sean, 8, and Christopher, 2, at home on their patio where they watch games on Game Day Saturday.

September 2013 Atlanta Parent 21

Is Technology Rewiring Your Baby’s Brain? No Need to Worry If You Answer ‘Yes’ to These Six Questions by Carolyn Jabs

It’s a rule nearly every parent breaks. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children younger than age 2 have no exposure to screens. l That guideline was hard enough to follow when it applied to background TV and baby videos. Now, very young children are reaching for smartphones and tablets. Some experts argue that these screens are different because they are interactive, but no one knows because there’s been no research. l What scientists do know is that baby brains grow dramatically. At birth, each baby brain cell has about 2,500 synapses or connections to other brain cells. Around age 3, each brain cell has 15,000 connections. The AAP argues that there’s no reason to take chances with that development. l The AAP’s study examined the effect of children younger than age 2 being placed near a television. Those children had delayed speech development, and for every hour spent with a TV, the children spent 11 percent less time in creative play. l Since you can’t see what’s happening in your baby’s brain, you’ll need other indicators to be sure development is on track. Here are a few questions worth asking: 22 Atlanta Parent September 2013

YES

Is your child excited to play with you? Experts agree that a deep connection with parents is crucial during the first two years of life. Early interactions in which children learn to make and break eye contact or to take turns making sounds become the foundation for emotional intelligence. Having face-toface fun with your baby sets up a lifelong assumption that interacting with people is rewarding.

YES

Do people talk to your child – a lot? Research done in the 1990s demonstrated that babies who hear around 2,000 words per hour do better in school and have higher IQ’s. That’s because the language centers of the brain are especially absorbent during the first three years. Recorded words don’t make much of an impression. Language needs to be tailored to the child, responsive both to what she is doing and her emotions. Parents, of course, aren’t the only ones who should be talking to babies. Be sure other caregivers are aware of how important it is to use language with children who seem like they are too young to understand.

atlanta baby

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YES

Does your child enjoy three dimensional play? Babies and toddlers figure out the world by picking things up, chewing on them, poking, throwing, rolling and stacking them. Not only is this fun, but it gives your child the basis for concepts like round and flat, fuzzy and smooth. A touch screen may reference these ideas but it takes lots of real life experience to get them fixed firmly in the brain. Healthy babies are always reaching and exploring. Most of the things they find should stimulate multiple senses.

YES

Can your child detach from the screen? Some parents report that little ones become fixated on smartphones and tablets, whining for them when they could be doing other things and melting down when parents take them away. According

atlantaparent.com

to Michael Rich, director of Boston’s Center on Media and Child Health, this occurs because the visual stimuli of many apps gives children a regular squirt of dopamine, a brain chemical that creates sensations of pleasure. Too much of this can create cravings that babies – and sometimes older people – can’t resist.

YES

Is your child able to settle down for quiet time and sleeping? Because baby brains are growing so rapidly, they can easily become overstimulated. Being able to settle and sleep peacefully is a lifelong skill, and most parents intuitively help little children calm down by gentle rocking, singing and stroking. Research indicates that the light emitted by screens stimulates brain waves in ways that interfere with sleep, so screentime should never be part of a baby’s bedtime routine.

atlanta baby

YES

Can you focus on your child? No matter what you say, young children will mimic what you do. If you are tethered to your devices – checking e-mail during diaper changes, texting during playtime, talking on the phone during walks with your baby – your behavior will imprint on your child. More important, your distraction will keep you from playing what Uri Bronfenbrenner, co-founder of Head Start, called “ping pong” with your child: Your baby giggles and you repeat whatever you did to make her laugh. Your toddler says something that sounds like Mama and you respond with delight. As Bronfenbrenner famously put it, healthy development occurs “through the process of progressively more complex exchange between a child and somebody else – especially somebody who’s crazy about that child.” If you can answer “yes” to all these questions, you can be confident that your baby’s brain is getting what it needs. Under those circumstances, handing over the smartphone to secure a moment of quiet isn’t any more harmful than offering a cookie for the same reason. Neither is likely to undermine healthy development for your baby, unless you turn it into a habit. c

September 2013 Atlanta Parent 23

REVEALED...

The secrets banks, credit card companies & the IRS aren’t telling you and are afraid you’ll find out!

Baby Bits

A Bargain, Baby Raising a baby is expensive, but a little less so in Atlanta. A cost-analysis by Redfin, an online real estate brokerage, puts an $18,500 price tag on providing for baby in his first year of life in Atlanta, the lowest cost of 40 cities nationwide. The company factored in housing, child care, health care, baby necessities and utilities. The average cost of baby’s first year is $26,000 nationwide. San Jose, Calif., is the most expensive major metro area with a cost $41,600. For more, visit redfin.com and click on the blog.

DISCOVER…

The incredible power behind common sense and accumulating wealth Call Today about our next Workshop or for your Free Workbook.

678-973-8853

Dance & Arts Showcase Ages Two-Adult

Ballet • Tap • Jazz • Movement • Karate Piano • Voice • Guitar • Ballroom • Hip Hop

770-934-5010 www.danceandarts.com

Chamblee/Tucker - 2861 Henderson Mill Rd.

by Amanda Miller Allen

Diaper Rash Remedy Moms and babies have a reason to celebrate as Dr. Smith’s® Diaper Rash Ointment enters the Atlanta market and marks its 50th anniversary this year. Many moms swear by the diaper rash ointment, developed by a San Antonio, Texas, pediatrician in 1963. A two-ounce jar of ointment costs $8.99. Available at Walgreens and Kroger. For more information, visit missionpharmacal.com

BabyGanics’ New Eco-friendly Diaper A new disposable diaper has some features mom and baby will love. BabyGanics’ Rear Gear Ultra Absorbent Diapers are made from environmentally-friendly materials that contain no harsh chemicals, chlorine, latex, petroleum-based lotions or fragrance. Our mom and baby testers found them soft and that they contained leaks well. The diapers, which degrade in landfills faster than typical disposable diapers, are available at Babies R Us and Target stores, and cost $11.99 per package. For more information, visit babyganics.com.

10 OFF

REGISTRATION FEE Must mention this ad. Expires 11/1/13

How do children learn?

We’d like to ﬁnd out – and you and your child can help!

A Unique Nanny Agency

Serving the Atlanta metro area since 2007. We specialize in placing fantastic part-time, full-time, and temporary nannies! Call 404.403.9773 or visit www.oliveyounanny.com to start your search. 24 Atlanta Parent September 2013

Currently seeking families with babies to school-age children to participate in fun, game-like studies. Each study is usually a brief, one-time visit and you are with your child at all times. We study language, learning, memory and how children understand space and numbers. Children receive a small gift as thanks for participating.

For more information, call 404-727-7432 or visit: www.psychology.emory.edu/childstudycenter

atlanta baby

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Healthy Meals and Snacks Every baby needs a meal, and every mom wants one that’s nutritious and tasty. NurturMe has expanded its organic NurturMeals dry meal pouches to offer more selection and versatility for infants to toddlers. New to the product line are bite-size Yum-aRoo’s dried fruit and veggie snacks for toddlers; NuturMeals Singles with protein-packed quinoa, a healthier alternative to rice cereal, and NuturMeals Blends, which brings together superfoods in a convenient pouch. The Blends pouches come in four blends: squash, bananas and green kale; sweet potatoes, oatmeal and bananas; peas, quinoa and apples, and carrots, raisins and sweet potatoes. Prices are $1.19 per pouch for Singles and $1.49 per pouch for Blends. The Yum-a-Roo’s snacks are $2.99 per each .75 oz. resealable pouch. The products are available at Whole Foods, Kroger, Target and Babies R Us stores. For more information, visit nurturme.com.

Healthy Meals, Part II When baby is ready for cereal, Post Sesame Street Cereal may be on the menu. The cereal, which features Sesame Street characters on the front of each box, has just one gram of sugar and provides two-thirds of a baby’s daily whole grain needs. It comes in apple, banana and strawberry flavors. Another plus: This finger food melts in baby’s mouth for safe consumption. Available for $2.99 per box at Walmart. For more information, visit postfoods.com.

call 770-454-7599 to place Your ad on this page. atlantaparent.com

atlanta baby

September 2013 Atlanta Parent 25

September is HEALTH AWARENESS Month All ONE HOUR Massages are $59 in September

Stroller Walks for Baby You

FIT4MOM Stroller Strides

What

Cost

Details

FIT4MOM Stroller Strides: Fitness Program

404-465-3391

1300 Upper Hembree Rd., Roswell Tara@natlantapregnancy.com $2 from every massage will be donated to Mitochondrial Disease Research.

Stroller Strides offers power walking and interval weight training during a one-hour session. Stroller Stride workouts are available at Piedmont Park, Chastain Park and Perimeter Mall. Also offers playdates, mom’s nights out and a book club.

$15/class or various multipleclass packages

404-721-2205 atlanta.fit4mom.com

$60-90/4-6 week sessions

678-528-1390 ohbabyfitness.com

Oh Baby! Fitness: Stroller Workout Each class offers the ability to get a great workout, enjoy the outside, and spend time with your baby. The stroller workout incorporates muscle conditioning, strengthening and stretching. There is also an abs portion at the end of each class where mom tones while baby plays in the grass next to her. Classes are offered once a week at several locations. Pre-register.

Zoo Atlanta Stroller Cubs: Slower Stroll Stroll through Zoo Atlanta on a guided experience with your child up to the age of 2. Each month has different themes and the tours take place twice a month. Advance registration is required.

Top Six Places To Walk On Your Own 26 Atlanta Parent September 2013

$24 for one adult with one child (includes Zoo admission)

404-624-9453 zooatlanta.org

n Arabia Mountain Trail. Johnson St. in Lithonia. pathfoundation.org. n Chastain Park. Corner of West Wieuca, Lake Forrest and Paces

Ferry in Buckhead. chastainpark.org.

n Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Off Johnson

Ferry Rd. on Columns Dr. in Marietta. nps.gov/chat/planyourvisit/ columnsdrive.htm. n Piedmont Park. 10th Street and Piedmont Ave. in Midtown.

piedmontpark.org.

n Silver Comet Trail. Begins at South Cobb Dr. and the East-West

Connector in Smyrna. pathfoundation.org

n The Atlanta Beltline. Includes a network of public parks and

multi-use trails re-using 22 miles of historic railroad corridors circling downtown Atlanta. beltline.org

atlanta baby

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Spotlight on

Baby Resources Northside Pediatrics

360

CareTM For Your Kids – Infants To Teens. When you’re choosing a pediatric practice for your baby, look for 360CareTM. At Northside Pediatrics, we really love kids. They come first for us, and we believe the care we deliver – we call it 360CareTM – is the best and most consistent in Atlanta. When it comes to your children, we will not compromise on quality. We follow the American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines. We adhere to the vaccination schedule because it’s better for your children. We spend more time with each child. It’s a higher standard, and many families in Atlanta are looking for that. Comprehensive Care: Our evaluations are thorough. We’re always on the lookout for anything that could impact your child’s long-term health and well-being, and that determination can’t always be made quickly. We commit to spending the time that is needed with your child. Personal Care: From birth through age 21, our patients receive the individualized care they deserve. As children grow to adolescence, we create an environment that’s safe for them to talk to their physician about sensitive issues

and begin to learn how to manage their own health as they grow into adulthood. Team-based Care: With Northside Pediatrics, you have access to our full team of expertly trained, compassionate physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, medical assistants, lab technicians, and office staff. Consistent Care: Our program of care is consistent across the practice and across the spectrum of your child’s development. We are closely aligned with the American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines and recognize that there are no shortcuts to quality care. Supportive Care: 360CareTM means you and your family never have to face healthcare issues for your child alone. We provide resources and support for the entire family to keep your kids healthy, and as those tough patches arrive in the healthy development of your kids, we’ll be there. Call 404-256-2688 (Sandy Springs) or 770-9280016 (Woodstock) to schedule an appointment at Northside Pediatrics. For more information, visit www. northsidepediatrics.com.

Special Advertising Section

Dance and Arts Showcase

ance and Arts Showcase offers an exciting array of classes including Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Piano, Guitar, Middle Eastern, Karate, Hip Hop and Ballroom. Classes are offered for ages 2-adult. They offer an outstanding Broadway Dance Recital at the Gwinnett Civic Center. Jean Shapiro, director and owner, is a native Atlantan and has been teaching dance and gym classes for 44 years. She was the principal dancer of The Atlanta Playhouse Theatre, and produceddirected her own original T.V. show called “Exercise And Health” which won a cable award. Winner of The Golden Peach Award for Best Teacher-Director of The Georgia Tech Ballet Club and listed in the World Of Who’s Who Of Women, she has dedicated her life to helping children and adults learn beauty through the art of dance. Dance and Arts Showcase teachers are experienced, wellqualified and share a wonderful teacher-student relationship. Dance and Arts Showcase can come to your daycare center and teach there.To sign up for fall classes, register online at www.danceandarts.com or call 770-934-5010. 2861 Henderson Mill Rd., near Northlake Mall. atlantaparent.com

Emory University Child Study Center

ow do children learn and grow? How do they think and remember? How do they change as they grow older? These are some of the questions that Emory University Child Study Center is constantly asking...and you and your child can be part of uncovering new answers! The center invites Atlanta area families to participate in studies focused on language, learning, memory. It also investigates the role that brain development plays. Emory faculty, graduate students, and undergraduate students conduct research studies on each of these fascinating areas. The Child Study Center studies how children learn and develop by watching and interacting with them and their parents. Each study is carefully planned to be fun and interesting. It usually involves one or two sessions, and typically takes place at the Emory University campus in a comfortable setting. Parents with newborns through schoolage children are encouraged to participate. Parents may stay during the session and play with their children and observe the study sessions. Parking is free and convenient. If you are interested in participating please, visit www. psychology.emory.edu/childstudycenter or contact the center at childstudies@emory.edu or 404-727-7432. The center will contact you when an appropriate study becomes available.

Special Advertising Section

September 2013 Atlanta Parent 27

FROM GOODY TO GREAT

First, the Bag “I don’t care about the bag, just what’s inside,” Blake’s son once told her when they were discussing party favors for his birthday celebration. How you package the goodies may not matter to the kids, but it matters to you. Try these ideas: n Make

cellophane bags lined with tissue paper and fasten them with curly

ribbons. n Find

pretty paper bags with handles and tie them with ribbons.

n If

you’re handy with a sewing machine, make cloth bags with handles from scrap fabrics and line them with tissue paper. n Put

goodies in a plastic beach pail for an outdoor-themed party.

n Shop

at dollar stores or discount stores for these materials; you’ll pay a third the cost for the same items at specialty stores.

What’s in the Bag It’s harder to put together goody bags for older kids, Blake says. Younger kids might be happy witha a bath toy, book or a collection of inexpensive toys. Here are some ideas, from Blake and Atlanta Parent readers: Ages 7 and younger

Not Sure What to Put in That Party Favors Bag? These Ideas Can’t Miss

kids like animal toys. Buy Beanie Babies on eBay in large, cheap lots – most will be well-preserved and still have their tags. n Buy

chunky bath toys in multipacks, and give one per child.

n Kids

love animal washcloth puppets. Blake’s son still has one he received at a birthday party years ago. n Glow-in-the-dark

sticks in the shape of wands, swords and sunglasses were a big hit, says mom Stephanie Dupree Seaman.

A great birthday party has to include a “Wow, look what I got!” goody bag. Bite-size candy and a bottle of bubbles are easy, but a lot of moms aren’t so keen on sugary treats and definitely not fans of the sticky residue bubbles can leave behind. n We turned to Cordelia Blake, owner of Oh, Goody! Party Favors, and Atlanta Parent readers for clever ideas to wow a party girl or boy. n Blake’s research shows parents spend about $3-$8 per bag, depending on the age of the child and the number of kids invited to the party. n Lots of parents are getting away from multiple cheap toys in a goody bag in favor of one nice toy, T-shirt or craft in the $5-$10 range, or gift cards, Blake says. That’s all you need to do, though some parents add other inexpensive goodies to the bag. For instance, you might include a bottle of nail polish and a nail file in a bag with a DYI jewelry kit for older girls. n One thing you might want to reconsider is candy. “Parents are frustrated with candy in goody bags,” Blake says. “Their child was just a party where he ate a lot of junk, then the child winds up eating more on the way home in the car.”

n Kohl’s

sells book/plush toy combinations for $5, at stores and at kohls.com, through Kohl’s Cares (proceeds benefit kids in need). n Find

age-appropriate crafts to do at the party and take home. Crafts for younger children should take no longer than 30 minutes, Blake says. n Other

moms and dads mentioned temporary tattoos, Matchbox cars, plastic dinosaurs, action figures, squirt guns and pinwheels. w.crazyforcrust.com Photo courtesy of ww

by Amanda Allen

28 Atlanta Parent September 2013

n Younger

ze plastic quart or gallon-si Use an ordinary th the wi k some card stoc bag, and decorate my party!,” to g in m for co hanks child’s name or “T fold and s in the bag and ie od go then put the bag. ock to close the staple the card st

Party Planner

atlantaparent.com

Photo courtesy of Stacie Stermole Kershner

Ages 8 and older n Active

toys such as jump ropes, hula hoops or balls are kid-pleasers. n Treasure

boxes come in unfinished kits the kids can paint and decorate at a party, then take home. Unfinished wooden cars or train engine kits appeal to young boys. (A tip from Blake: Write every child’s name on the bottom of his craft so you can hand each one to the child as he leaves.) n Personalized

T-shirts are a hit with boys and girls.

n Water n Kim

Miller Curnutt says her child loved a cool new toothbrush received at one birthday party. n Moms

Elisa Velez and Sheila Boyd scored $1 Frosty Jr. booklets from Wendy’s for party favors (booklets are sold in October each year to benefit the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption). n Dad

Joe Manus suggested switchblade combs and whoopee cushions for “$2 worth of forever cool.”

A party craft idea for older kids: Line up the

ingredients for a batch of cookies, along with measuring spoons and cups, and give each partygoer a Mason jar, as mom Stacie Sermole Kershner did. The guests measured their own ingredients to go to into the jar, a mini-lesson in math, then sealed and decorated their jars.

Photo courtesy of www.poshtoteven ts.com

bottles personalized with the party-goers’ names in Cricut Vinyl were a hit at a party thrown by mom Erin Williams Wallis.

n Mom

Jill Landis took pictures of each guest, made iron-on reprints and had the kids use them to decorate a tote bag to bring home from the party. n Other

moms and dads mentioned puzzles, books, flashlights, pencil boxes filled with pencils, erasers and school supplies, and gift cards to a nearby ice cream store.

Goodies for Themed Parties n Allyson

Mixon did a detective party that included paper badges and a “sack lunch” for the detective on stakeout; partygoers also got a kit with a whistle, note pad, mechanical pencil, chalk, rubber gloves and an empty baggie for “evidence.” n For

a Lego party, mom Stacie Stermole Kershner helped kids build and race Lego cars, and each partygoer took one home.

Buy bo

ok sets, such as six animal book Golden Books, s or tie with ribbon and give one or two to each ch ild.

n For

a Spongebob-themed party, mom Mary Lee Greer gave out favors of picture frames that the kids decorated and took the children’s photos with Spongebob to go in the frame. n For

a horse-themed party, one mom handed out trail mix in mason jars decorated with bandanas and a tiny horse. n Mom

Melissa Sutulovich gave each child an apron and chef’s hat during a cooking-themed party, and ironed the child’s initial on the apron. n For

a Harry Potter party, mom Katie Nicole Burt made wands, painted golf balls gold, used dollar store salsa bowls as cauldrons and made Gak (pond slime) out of Borax; guests took home Venus flytrap plants. n For

a princess party, Caryn Jai Muhammad purchased mirrors and monogrammed them with stickers, paint and bubble ink, so each princess left with her personalized gift. Mom Angel Brown Touwsma’s princess party included monogrammed princess felt crowns. c

atlantaparent.com

For an art-themed party, buy small or large

canvases for the kids to paint and take home, say moms Jessica Conroy and Alexis Whitehead; Michaels has packs with as many as 10.

Party Planner

September 2013 Atlanta Parent 29

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FaceTime Redefined by Mary Helen Berg

Birthdays mean cake and ice cream, and maybe a piñata full of candy? Sometimes birthdays can mean one big sugar rush. To get the next birthday off to a healthy start, try this idea using bananas, melons, grapes and more to start the day with a giggle. It may even launch a new tradition in your house.

 Birthday Beginnings

 Make’em Laugh

At our house we spoil the birthday boy or girl, even if it’s mom or dad. We start the day by bringing breakfast in bed to the honoree so they can blow out some candles and make a wish before their feet even hit the floor. Breakfast ranges from Belgian waffles with whipped cream for the youngest to a veggie omelet for our vegetarian son. But everyone’s favorite part of the meal is a silly, edible portrait that we create using the birthday person’s favorite fruits: The Fruit Face.

Start with a large round platter as a canvas and then let your imagination run wild. Cut the fruit into chunks, strips, stars or other shapes to become the features of the face. A face might include strips of cantaloupe for hair, kiwi eyes fringed with strawberry leaf eyelashes, apple slice ears with a raspberry earring and a banana button nose. Some faces feature fangs, hair ribbons, bow ties, mustaches or perhaps a Carmen Miranda-style pineapple top hat. The sillier, the better. The only rule is that all the features need to be made of fruit.

 Plan Ahead

 Why Try It

Serving someone breakfast in bed means waking up early, especially if the birthday falls on a weekday when everyone needs to get ready for work and school. Schedule enough time to cook a favorite breakfast, create the fruit face and also leave time to eat the meal you have carefully prepared. Shop for all the ingredients ahead of time and take care to buy a variety of favorite fruits that you may not usually stock. Think about using fruits that offer a variety of shapes and colors, such as kiwi, star fruit, pineapple and raspberries. Each fruit face can feature 5-10 fruits (and occasionally vegetables) and takes thought and lots of imagination. Everyone can have input in the creation, but you may find that one of you is a particularly gifted fruit-face designer.

Our family has created about 75 fruit faces over the past 15 years and we try never to repeat a design. We use new fruits, add fruit accessories and create plates full of expression. It can be a challenge to be original and creative early in the morning and equally challenging to complete the work before the birthday celebrant wakes up. But the smile on their faces when they see a crazy face on a plate is worth the effort. Creating a fruit face can become a way to show that you put thought and time into making something just for them. Don’t be surprised when your kids eagerly pluck a grape “eye” off the platter and pop it in their mouths. The fruit faces guarantee that every birthday starts with a smile and of course, they encourage everyone to eat a combination of healthy fruits along with their Belgian waffles.

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Party Planner

September 2013

• • Bea • Red Atlanta Parent 31 Car

Tips to Reduce

Birthday Drama

Lessen the Chance of a Party Meltdown by Tailoring the Event to Your Child

Prevent your party from becoming a tear fest with these nine easy steps: n When setting your guest list, follow the classic rule of your child’s age plus one for the number of invitations. Not many 3-year-olds can handle the thrill of a huge party. How does your child do with other large, family events such as Thanksgiving? Use lessons you have learned from other celebrations to help you develop this party. n Schedule the festivities when your child is at his natural peak. If they still nap, do not schedule at the time of day when they are usually sleepy. If your child is an early bird, plan a morning event. If your tween or teen is lobbying for a sleepover party but you know they turn into a nightmare without enough sleep, steer them in another direction. n Look at a variety of options for the party location. For some children, a party held at home will reduce the potential for emotional overload. However, this is not always the case. A friend’s daughter had meltdowns at a few home parties before her mom recognized that she was stirred up even by the preparations. Having the party offsite allowed the family to have a real start and finish time, which was easier for their daughter. n Think about the timing of gift opening. Who says the gifts must be opened at the end of the party? My son pushed back at this concept one year and we let him open the gifts as guests arrived. This freed him to enjoy the planned activities instead of coming over every two minutes to ask when we were opening all those presents. It also allowed the giver to have some one-on-one attention on their gift. n Gift giving can be a source of potential anxiety for the guests. Children are usually excited about showing off the present they brought and wrangle to have theirs opened first. Manage this process by giving each child a square with a number on it. The child sits until their number is drawn randomly and then they offer their gift to the guest of honor. n Talk with your child about expectations and presents to prevent an embarrassing or hurtful response to an unwanted gift. To avoid a random “I hate it” or “I already have that,” you can role-play before the party. Rehearse several times by putting silly things, such as a can of peas, in a box. Have the child open it and teach them to respond with the requisite thank you. n Think about the games or activities you are offering. Even simple, seemingly age-appropriate activities can backfire if they are not suited to your child.

by Sue LeBreton

Expectations of parents and children run high to have the perfect birthday party. Despite your best efforts, if you have a young or sensitive child, it is possible that your child or a guest may end up in tears at the exciting, stimulating event in which you have invested considerable time and money. 32 Atlanta Parent September 2013

Party Planner

n Be organized with the games or activities so that the guests are too busy to misbehave. Plan for extra activities planned in case things go faster than expected. n As your guest list grows along with your child, many parents drop their children off and no longer stay for the party. Now’s the time to recruit extra hands to help you manage. n Most importantly, tailor the party to your child’s personality and temperament. If tears occur, take heart and remember that you’ll laugh about it several years down the road.c

atlantaparent.com

Party on a Budget: No Need to Spend a Fortune Celebrating the Big Day

n Don’t

have the party at home. You will have to decorate, purchase supplies and be stuck with clean up. Host it at a public place instead. Consider a bowling alley or public pool. You will likely be surprised at the value. My daughter’s birthday party at a skating rink was $99 for two hours of skating, arcade tokens, soda, popcorn and pizza for 10 kids. They provided the decorations and paper products; we brought the cake. And I didn’t have to worry about kids destroying my house. n For

a cheaper option, have the party at a park with a cool playground.

by Rachael Moshman

Most children want to celebrate their birthdays with a party every year. Parents want to create a special day, but often become overwhelmed at the expense and work involved to throw a party. Celebrating your child’s big day doesn’t need to cost a fortune or wear you out. Try these cheap and easy ideas for a fun party:

The kids will keep themselves entertained without organized games, which also eliminates the need for prizes. Grab a pavilion with a picnic table under it and tape some streamers around it. Serve cupcakes and juice boxes. Cont’d on page 34

Terms & Conditions – This offer is valid for one (1) adult ticket at the price of a child’s $15 ticket plus tax. Coupon must be surrendered at admissions when purchasing tickets. This discount is not valid with other discounts, coupons or offers and cannot be used with online or prebooked tickets. Duplication, photocopying or sale of this offer is prohibited. No cash value. Not redeemable for cash or credit. Valid until 12/31/2013 (Code: 1003) LEGO, the LEGO logo, the Brick and Knob Configuration, the Minifigure and LEGOLAND are trademarks of the LEGO Group. ©2013 The LEGO Group.

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Party Planner

September 2013 Atlanta Parent 33

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Low-key parties allow your child to be in the spotlight without you stressing about the cost or work involved. My favorite birthday party as a child involved a scavenger hunt in a park followed by hot dogs. You may be surprised to find that the simple parties are the ones your child has the best memories of as well. c

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34 Atlanta Parent September 2013

a sleepover.

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Party Planner

September 2013 Atlanta Parent 35

Head for the High Country Plan a ‘Fall Fling’ to North Carolina for Mountain Views and Kid-Friendly Attractions

Climb a Mountain You don’t have to climb steep trails or backpack with a Sherpa to take in incredible mountain-top views. While there are numerous hiking trails, you can drive right up to a couple of beautiful vistas. Grandfather Mountain is one of the top tourist attractions in the area, and it’s no wonder. The park offers a nature museum, enclosed wildlife habitats and 11 hiking trails. However, the star of the show is at the very top. Suspended one mile above sea level is the Mile High Swinging Bridge that connects two of Grandfather Mountain’s peaks. A moderate climb up a few stairs (or take the elevator) takes you to the bridge where the views are breathtaking. After crossing the bridge, you can climb on rocky ledges to the mountain’s highest point. Admission to Grandfather Mountain is $18 for adults, $8 for children 4 and older and free for children younger than 4. Bring a camera and a picnic lunch and make a day of it. Concessions are also available in the park.

Mine for Gems

by Rachel Quartarone

Fall makes people want to head to hills. Maybe it’s because colorful leaves and sweeping mountainous landscapes are having their finest moment. About a 4½ hour drive from Atlanta, Boone is at the heart of the North Carolina High Country. Yes, there are mountain destinations closer by – but it’s worth driving a little farther north to take in some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in the Southeast. You’ll also find plenty of indoor and outdoor fun for the whole family, from hiking trails to screaming zip lines to the quiet beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

36 Atlanta Parent September 2013

The mountains of North Carolina are a hot spot for gem mining. Several commercial gem mining operations are in the area, but Doc’s Rocks in Blowing Rock is the only one recognized by the North Carolina Board of Education for its educational benefits. The founder, Randy “Doc” McCoy is a geologist. His staff is trained to teach you about the rocks and geological properties of the gems you discover. The ore, which you purchase by the bucket, is not presorted and comes directly from Southeastern U.S. gem mines. My kids were convinced that they were going to strike it rich. They had a blast sifting through buckets of dirt for precious stones. We found sapphires, garnets, quartz and a nice aquamarine that Doc’s cut and polished for us. Doc’s Rocks is open daily, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. until May 23, 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m. May 23-Aug. 11, and offers outdoor and indoor heated plumes, making it the perfect rainy or chilly day activity. More information at docsrocks.net.

atlantaparent.com

Zip Through the Trees One of the coolest ways to take in mountain scenery is while whizzing over the treetops. Hawksnest Zipline is on the grounds of a former ski resort. As you can imagine, the hills are plentiful and the views are gorgeous. Hawksnest features an impressive 20 zip lines, including four “mega zip” lines more than 1,500 feet long. The Hawk Tour, which features 11 cables and two swinging bridges, is a favorite of families. Children as young as 5 may participate. Each trip includes at least two guides, and safety is top priority. Younger children usually ride tandem with a guide on the longer lines. For my 7-year-old, ziplining for the first time was a highlight of the trip. Hawksnest is in Seven Devils, 14 miles from Boone. Tours last about two hours and start at $75 per person. Reservations are recommended. More information at hawksnestzipline.com.

Make Time for Trains No family trip to the Boone or Blowing Rock would be complete without a stop at Tweetsie Railroad, especially if you have a train enthusiast in the bunch. The Wild West-themed amusement park has been an area fixture for more than 50 years. Tweetie’s main attractions are its two authentic narrowatlantaparent.com

gauge steam locomotives that take you on a coal-powered train ride through the park. While on board, you’ll make several stops to watch live performances of cowboy-and-Indian battles. Other attractions are rides, a sky lift, live music and dance shows, arcade games and a petting zoo. Don’t expect state-ofthe-art amusement park thrill rides – the old-fashioned county fair feel is part of Tweetsie’s charm. Most rides are aimed at a younger crowd. On fall weekends beginning Sept. 27, Tweetsie is open at night for the Ghost Train Halloween Festival. Tweetie’s engines are transformed into the spooky “Ghost Train.” There’s also a haunted house and “Freaky Forest.” While the train ride and haunted house are recommended for children 8 and older, the park has activities for all ages such as trick-or-treating, carnival games and a 3D maze. Admission to Tweetsie is $37 for adults, $23 for children ages 3-12, free for children 2 and younger. If you purchase your ticket after 3 p.m., you may return the next day for free (a nice feature for families with small children who may tire out after a couple of hours). The Ghost Train event, offered on selected dates, is $28 per person (children younger than 2 are free). More information at tweetsie.com.

Where to Stay There are many lodging options in the Boone/Blowing Rock area – from national chain hotels to quaint log cabins. Here are a few to check out, depending on your budget and needs: n Cabin Rentals Boone Cabin Rentals: 800-282-2507; boonecabins.com Blue Ridge Mountain Rentals: 800-237-7975; blueridgerentals.com Jenkins Rentals: 800-438-7803; jenkinsrentals.com Valle Crucis Log Cabin Rentals: 828-963-7774; logcabinrentals.com n Resorts and Lodges Yonahlossee Resort: 800-962-1986; yonahlossee.com Smoketree Lodge: 800-422-1880; smoketree-lodge.com n Hotels Courtyard by Marriott: 828-265-7676; marriott.com Fairfield Inn & Suites: 866-576-5693; marriott.com Holiday Inn Express: 877-859-5095; ihg.com LaQuinta Inn & Suites: 828-263-4979; laquinta.com

Plan Your Trip n For an overview of area attractions and links to lodging, restaurants and more: exploreboonearea.com and blowingrock.com. n For trip ideas and travel itineraries for families visiting the North Carolina High Country: highcountryhost.com/ journey-itineraries/kid-stuff/ n For information on the historic Blue Ridge Parkway, which weaves through the High Country and offers a beautiful scenic route between Asheville and Boone, plus attractions, lodging and restaurants: blueridgeparkway.org

September 2013 Atlanta Parent 37

FIELD TRIP! Exploring a Subject up Close, on a Family or School Outing, Sparks Curiosity and Learning Fernbank Museum of Natural History

Anyone will tell you that viewing a whale shark as it glides above your head in the giant tank at the Georgia Aquarium is far more engaging than seeing that shark on the pages of a book. Climbing up Kennesaw Mountain in sweltering heat offers a vivid lesson in what soldiers in the Civil War experienced (even without dodging cannon balls and wearing scratchy woolen uniforms). Sometimes you just have to be there to get excited about a subject. From marine life or the Battle of Atlanta, a field trip is the best way to rev up a child’s interest. Whether it’s a family outing or a scheduled school trip, your family can make the most of the opportunity for learning, before, during and after the experience. Here’s how. Plan Ahead n Pick a destination that fits the area of interest you plan to explore. Zoo Atlanta, for instance, would be perfect for a lesson on pandas, with mom Lun Lun recently giving birth of a rare set of twins. n Schedule the trip as far in advance as you can. Some venues offer group discounts, so ask how many you need in a group to qualify. For popular destinations, visits made early in the week will be less crowded. n If you’re taking a group, talk with your guide in advance to tailor the visit to your group’s interests. For instance, young children visiting the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site might be more interested in Dr. King’s life as a young boy than in his time in a Birmingham, Ala., jail. 38 Atlanta Parent September 2013

n Make sure you have enough chaperones for your group – a good ratio is one adult per five children – and make sure the chaperones know the itinerary, have a list of each child’s name and a list of the items each child should see, and they know where and when to meet if the group splits up. n If taking a large group, outfitting the kids in fluorescent T-shirts will help chaperones keep track. n Before the field trip, gather information from the destination’s website, read books, watch videos or take virtual field trips. Make sure the kids have a good basic knowledge of the place they’ll be visiting and why they’ll be there.

n One week ahead: Call the location and confirm the trip. Make sure of the directions, and ask if there are directions that will avoid traffic snarls. Be sure you know where to park, particularly if you’ll be arriving by bus. Set some ground rules for behavior for your group, and make sure everyone knows them – and the consequences of acting out. Decide how you’ll do lunch – you’ll need to make reservations in advance with the venue or a restaurant for a large group, or you might ask each child to pack a sack lunch. atlantaparent.com

Fun and Free If your budget is tight, try one of these free options, but remember to call ahead if the destination is a business or involves a guided tour. Cultural festivals Farms and feed stores Garden nurseries High Museum of Art

Atlanta Botanical Garden

The Big Day

The Days After

n Be prepared for the weather and pack appropriately, whether its an umbrella, sunscreen and towels, or gloves and a warm coat. Be sure each child has comfortable walking shoes. n Bring extra cash and stash it separately from purse or wallet, in case either is lost or stolen. n Make sure each child eats breakfast, but bring portable healthy snacks for later in the day, such as boxes of raisins. n Add a little fun – and educational value – to the trip by asking each child to complete an activity during the visit. At the zoo, for instance, they could keep track of how many newborn animals they see.

n “What was your favorite part?” is a conversation starter, but not the best one. Instead, discuss what you’ve seen and how it relates to your community or how an event in history shaped the children’s lives today. n If your group had its own guide or got other special treatment, be sure to thank the venue that provided it. Writing a thank-you note to your guide or the organization teaches children etiquette. Kids often get more interested in a subject after a field trip. Be sure to follow up with more information and activities related to the trip. – Sue Price and Amanda Allen

atlantaparent.com

Veterinary clinics or pet stores (some offer field trips that focus on animal care; see fieldtripfactory.com to find one near you) Libraries Airports Fire and police stations Cemeteries Wildlife and nature preserves Grocery stores or farmers markets

September 2013 Atlanta Parent 39

FIELD TRIP PLANNER

Great field trips start here! Look through our planner for field trips at a variety of destinations – museums, farms, historical sites, nature centers and more. Atlanta Parent advertisers in this issue are listed in color.

Museum of Design

ADVENTURE

ANIMALS AND FARMS

Atlanta Motor Speedway. Hampton. 770-946-4211, atlantamotorspeedway.com

The Art Barn At Morning Glory Farm. Canton. 678-319-0286, theartbarn.com

Yellow River Game Ranch. Lilburn. 770-972-6643, yellowrivergameranch.com

Malibu Grand Prix. Norcross. 770-416-7630, malibugrandprix.com/site/norcross Buccaneer Cove water play area, batting cages, Go-Karts, state-of-the-art game room, golf and more will make your field trip fun for everyone!

Cagle’s Dairy Farm. Canton. 770-345-5591, caglesfamilyfarm.com

Zoo Atlanta. Atlanta. 404-624-9453, zooatlanta.org Roam the globe with over 800 animals from around the world. Don’t miss the Zoo train, carousel and new splash pad. Keeper talks, interactive shows, special events, camps and education programs run year-round.

Monster Mini Golf. Marietta. 770-423-2212, monsterminigolf.com Monster Mini Golf is 18 holes of indoor, monster themed, Glow-in-the-Dark Mini Golf. Experience cool special effects, great music, arcade, redemption tickets and two private party rooms. 2505 Chastain Meadow Parkway.

Georgia Aquarium. Atlanta. 404-581-4121, georgiaaquarium.org Visit the world’s largest aquarium with more than 100,000 animals from 500 species. 225 Baker Street NW Atlanta, GA 30313 Pettit Creek Farms. Cartersville. 770-386-8688, pettitcreekfarms.com

HISTORIC SITES AND HOUSES Bulloch Hall. Roswell. 770-992-1731, bullochhall.org

Mountasia Family Fun Center. Marietta. 770-422-7227, mountasia.com/site/marietta Go-Karts, state-of-the-art game room, golf and more will make your field trip fun for everyone!

The Pumpkin Patch at Yule Forest. Stockbridge. 770-954-9356, aboutyule.com Farm Fun Opens Oct. 1. School Tours, Hayrides, Petting Zoo, Fun Zone, Puppet Shows, Science Center, Bee House. On Hwy 155.

Six Flags Theme Park. Austell. 770-948-9290, sixflags.com

Tanglewood Farm. Canton. 770-667-6464, tanglewoodfarmminiatures.com

Stone Mountain Park. Stone Mountain. 70-498-5690, stonemountainpark.com

Historic Mable House. Mableton. 770-819-3285, mablehouse.org

Uncle Shuck’s Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch. Dawsonville. 770-772-6223, uncleshucks.com Have family fun getting lost! Uncle Shuck’s Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch in Dawsonville offers hayrides, maze trails, bonfires, fresh food. Open weekends Sept, Nov, and every day in October. 520 Hwy 53 East.

Treetop Quest. Buford. 770-904-3547, treetopquest.com Treetop Obstacle Course & Zip-lining – Outdoor Family Adventure with 70 obstacles, 20 zip-lines, 6 levels! Courses for everyone, starting at 4 years old! In Buford, near the Mall of Georgia.

Open Saturdays, Beginning Sept. 28th 10am-8pm CHECK OUR WEBSITE FOR COMPLETE DETAILS!

Governor’s Mansion. Atlanta. 404-656-1776, mansion.georgia.gov The Herndon Home. Atlanta. 404-581-9813, theherndonhome.org

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Site. Atlanta. 404-331-5190 or 404-331-6922 (visitor recorded message), nps.gov/malu Oakland Cemetery. Atlanta. 404-688-2107, oaklandcemetery.com Root House Museum. Marietta. 770-426-4982, cobblandmarks.com/root-house

Papermaking Paper Arts History—Science—Culture School tours and workshops Family activities 500 10th St. NW Atlanta, GA 30332 404.894.5726 ipst.gatech.edu/amp

therockranch.com 40 Atlanta Parent September 2013

atlantaparent.com

Smith Plantation. Roswell. 770-641-3978, archibaldsmithplantation.org The Wren’s Nest. Atlanta. 404-753-7735, wrensnest.org

MUSEUMS Atlanta Cyclorama and Civil War Museum. Atlanta. 404-658-7625 or 404-624-1071, atlantacyclorama.org Atlanta History Center. Atlanta. 404-814-4000, atlhist.org On 33 acres in historic Buckhead, the history center houses the Atlanta History Museum, Centennial Olympic Games Museum, Swan House, Smith Family Farm, six historic gardens, and the Kenan Research Center. Atlanta Preservation Center. Atlanta. 404-688-3353, preserveatlanta.com Atlanta Titanic Exhibition. Atlanta. 404-496-4274, titanicatlanta.com The galleries in this fascinating Exhibition feature real artifacts recovered from the ocean floor along with room re-creations and personal stories; each highlighting a different chapter in the compelling story of Titanic’s maiden voyage. To Book, Please Email sales@ticketsforgroups. com or call 1-888-507-6909. Atlantic Station Level 2 Escalator 5. 265 18th Street. APEX Museum. Atlanta. 404-523-2739, apexmuseum.org Bartow History Center. Cartersville. 770-382-3818, bartowhistorycenter.org Bodies The Exhibition. Atlanta. 404-496-4274, BodiesAtlanta.com The Exhibition will enlighten, empower and inspire. This striking Exhibition showcases real human bodies, dissected and preserved through a revolutionary process allowing visitors to see themselves in a fascinating way like never before. To Book, Please Email sales@ticketsforgroups. com or call 1-888-507-6909. Atlantic Station Level 2 Escalator 5. 265 18th Street. Booth Western Art Museum. Cartersville. 770-387-1300, boothmuseum.org Cont’d on page 42

Center for Natural Urban Agriculture

• Opportunity to promote environmental stewardship • Learn about healthy eating • Children can learn to explore their own eco-system • Have fun doing farm based activities

Visit our new website: www.TrulyLivingWell.com atlantaparent.com

Parent Atlanta’s No. 1 Parenting Magazine

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• Family and School Field Trips

Call 770-454-7599 for advertising information September 2013 Atlanta Parent 41

FIELD TRIP PLANNER Braves Museum & Hall of Fame/ Turner Field Tours. Atlanta. 404-614-2311, braves.com or braves.mlb.com/atl/ballpark/tours/ The museum offers specialized tours tailored to elementary, middle and high school students. Tours take visitors to many areas off limits during games, including the press box, broadcast booth, clubhouse and dugout. 755 Hank Aaron Drive. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. 404-659-5437, childrensmuseumatlanta.org Play and learn about art, science, creative problem-solving, reading, nutrition and culture. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Atlanta. 404-929-6300, fernbankmuseum.org See dinosaurs, children’s discovery rooms and Georgia history. Enjoy monthly activities and see IMAX films. Fernbank Science Center. Atlanta. 678-874-7102, fernbank.edu Funk Heritage Center. Waleska. 770-720-5970, reinhardt.edu/funkheritage High Museum of Art. Atlanta. 404-733-4444, high.org Georgia Capitol Museum. Atlanta. 404-656-2846, libs.uga.edu/capitolmuseum Hudgens Center for the Arts and Children’s Art Museum. Duluth. 770-623-6002, thehudgens.org Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, Inc. Gainesville. 770-536-1900, inkfun.org Jimmy Carter Library and Museum. Atlanta. 404-865-7100, jimmycarterlibrary.gov LEGOLAND. Atlanta. 404-848-9252, legolanddiscoverycenter.com Jump inside the world’s biggest box of LEGO® bricks ever! Special pricing for Title 1 schools. Complimentary educational workshops! Book now. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta at Phipps Plaza in Buckhead 3500 Peachtree Rd., Suite G-1. Margaret Mitchell House. Atlanta. 404-249-7015, margaretmitchellhouse.com

Telephone Museum. Atlanta. 404-223-3661, attpioneervolunteers.org Tellus Science Museum. Cartersville. 770-6065700, tellusmuseum.org William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum. Atlanta. 678-222-3700, thebreman.org World of Coca-Cola. Atlanta. 404-676-5151, worldofcoca-cola.com Educate and inspire your class with a visit to World of Coca-Cola! Our Teacher Toolkit gives you the tools to ensure field trips are educational as well as entertaining. 121 Baker St. NW.

NATURE AND SCIENCE Atlanta Botanical Garden. Atlanta. 404-876-5859, atlantabotanicalgarden.org Autrey Mill Nature Preserve. Johns Creek. 678-366-3511, autreymill.org Big Trees Urban Forest Preserve. Atlanta. bigtreesforest.com Chattahoochee Nature Center. Roswell. 770-992-2055, chattnaturecenter.org Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Atlanta. 678-538-1200, nps.gov/chat

PERFORMING ARTS Alliance Theatre. Atlanta. 404-733-5000, alliancetheatre.org

Dunwoody Nature Center. Dunwoody. 770-394-3322, dunwoodynature.org Elachee Nature Science Center. Gainesville. 770-535-1976, elachee.org

Medieval Times. Lawrenceville. 770-225-0230, medievaltimes.com

Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Buford. 770-904-3500, gwinnettehc.org Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. Kennesaw. 770-427-4686, nps.gov/kemo McDaniel Farm Park. Duluth. 770-814-4920, gwinnettcounty.com Panola Mountain State Park. Stockbridge. 770-389-7801, gastateparks.org/panolamountain Reynolds Nature Preserve. Morrow. 770-6034188, reynoldsnaturepreserve.org

BEYOND ATLANTA Foxfire Museum and Heritage Center. Mountain City. 706-746-5828, foxfire.org A 22-log-cabin village that showcases early Appalachian life with exhibits and artifacts and a gift shop full of handmade pottery, crafts and books. Guided and self-guided tours available. Mon.-Sat. 8:30-4:30.98 Foxfire Lane, Mountain City, GA 30562. Great Smoky Mountain Railroad. Bryson City, N.C. 828-586-8811, gsmr.com Hop aboard for a fun family ride all year long. In October, enjoy rides themed to the Peanuts gang, the cartoon characters created by Charles M. Schulz. Just in time for the holidays, ride the Polar Express™ for a quick trip to the North Pole.

Museum of Design. Atlanta. 404-979-6455, museumofdesign.org Robert C. Williams Museum of Papermaking. Atlanta. 404-894-5726, ipst.gatech.edu/amp Explore the global history and science of papermaking at the paper museum. Perfect for families. Tours and workshops available for groups of 10 or more. Open Mon-Fri. Free parking. 500 10th St. NW (The Institute of Paper Science and Technology at Georgia Tech) .

North Georgia Zoo and Petting Farm. Cleveland. 706-348-7279, northgeorgiazoo.com The Rock Ranch. The Rock. 706-647-6374, therockranch.com A 1500-acre ranch owned by Chick-fil-A founder S. Truett Cathy and dedicated to Growing Healthy Families. American history, farm, nature and corn maze themed guided field trips. Educational Family Fun. 5020 Barnesville Hwy. The Rock. www.facebook.com/therockranch.

Southeastern Railway Museum. Duluth. 770-476-2013, srmduluth.org Southern Museum of Civil War & Locomotive History. Kennesaw. 770-427-2117, southernmuseum.org Stately Oaks Plantation. Jonesboro. 770-473-0197, historicaljonesboro.org

42 Atlanta Parent September 2013

Truly Living Well Center for Natural Urban Agriculture. Atlanta. 678-662-9225, trulylivingwell.com Field trips are a year-round adventure at our Wheat Street Gardens! Youths explore the farm to learn how food grows and how they can be good Earth stewards. 73 Hilliard St. NE.

Center for Puppetry Arts. Atlanta. 404-873-3391, puppet.org Since 1978, the center has introduced visitors to the art of puppetry with performances, workshops and puppetry museum.

Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve. Lithonia. 770-484-3060, arabiaalliance.org

Michael C. Carlos Museum. Atlanta. 404-727-4282, carlos.emory.edu

Teaching Museum North. Roswell. 770-552-6339. And Teaching Museum South. Hapeville. 404-669-8015, teachingmuseumnorth.org

Telephone Museum

Southeastern Railway Museum

Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. Chattanooga, Tenn. 423-894-8028, tvrail.com Sit back, relax and let our trains take you away for an hour or a day. Perfect for families. Check the website for all ride offerings and dates. Group rates are available for groups of 20 or more in season, 50 or more off season. 4119 Cromwell Road. Chattanooga, TN 37421. c

atlantaparent.com

Spotlight on

Field Trips

Treetop Quest

ew outdoor family adventure! Treetop Quest offers a treetop obstacle course & zip-lining field trip for the whole family. Its self-guided activity allows participants to soar, zip, climb, crawl, and swing between trees while learning about nature. 70 obstacles, 17 zip-lines, divided into 6 levels. This healthy outdoor activity is geared towards families looking to do something different on weekends. The minimum age is 4 years old, as their Chick’ Pea Course is adapted to kids aged 4 to 6, with equipment that is impossible to detach from the safety line. Starting at 7 years old, participants attend a detailed briefing and practice session by Treetop Quest operators, then they navigate through different levels at their own pace, wearing safety gear that is impossible to detach without a guide. The level of challenge depends on the course: From Level 1 “easy” for kids to Level 5 “very challenging” for teenagers and adults. Picnic tables are available, so do not hesitate to bring a picnic (there is no extra fee for bringing your own food!). They are located in Buford (2 minutes away from the Mall of Georgia). For information, visit www.treetopquest.com, call 770904-3547 or email info@treetopquest.com

Truly Living Well Center for Natural Urban Agriculture

ruly Living Well Center for Natural Urban Agriculture offers exciting adventures at our Wheat Street Gardens for your family or school field trips! The Wheat Street Gardens are located in the Old Fourth Ward historic district of Downtown Atlanta with exciting garden experiences where youth will explore the ecosystem including “good” bugs, butterflies and more; see veggies in their natural state and learn how they grow; make dirt from natural materials; plant seeds to watch plants spout and grow;make art and crafts from natural materials; and have fun doing a variety of farm based activities. Field trips to the garden are an affordable way to promote environmental stewardship and to help make healthy eating exciting for children and adolescents. Youth learn elements of organic farming while engaging in critical thinking, physical exercise and team building activities. Schedule a fun field trip to Wheat Street Gardens today! Group rates for five or more children are available. Truly Living Well also offers unique Birthday Party experiences! Contact: 678-662-9225. www.trulylivingwell.com.

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September 2013 Atlanta Parent 43

Ages&Stages What to expect in elementary and middle school by Sandra Gordon

rom crawling, walking and babbling to the angst and rebellion of the tween and teen years, children constantly go through a predictable set of developmental stages in four domains: physical, cognitive, emotional and social. “Along the way, any of these areas can be ahead or behind the others in their timing, then switch, which can be confusing for parents,” says Vivian Seltzer, Ph.D., professor emerita of human development and behavior at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. You can start out with a kid who is really smart and seemingly ahead of everyone else in school, for example, only to find out two years later that his classmates have caught up and they’re speeding ahead. Not to worry. It’s all just part of growing up. Most kids don’t need a lot of help navigating the landscape, especially the older they get. But it helps to be aware of what’s normal so you can know when to step in, if necessary. Use our guide to tune your radar and help your child make the most of every age and stage in elementary and middle school. 44 Atlanta Parent September 2013

Elementary School: Milestone Mania What’s happening now From kindergarten through the fifth grade, kids make major strides, from initially learning how to transition to school and being comfortable with a classroom routine to learning how to read (kindergarten and first grade) to reading to learn (the third grade and beyond) in all subject areas. Emotionally, they begin to develop their academic self-esteem based on feedback from you and their teachers. By the fourth and fifth grade, they’re moving from concrete to abstract thinking. “When a concrete thinker sees the Statute of Liberty, they see it as a lady with a torch. An abstract thinker also sees it as a symbol of freedom and democracy,” says Rebecca Branstetter, an educational and clinical psychologist. By the 5th grade, they’re also beginning to set goals, work independently, work better in groups, make more complex decisions and become organized with their school and homework. atlantaparent.com

Success Rx n Extend learning beyond school. Work activities into your child’s day that use concepts she’s learning at school. For example, let your second grader count change at the checkout and measure the ingredients while you’re baking cookies together (fractions). Have her tell time. Talk about numbers while you’re driving, such as how fast you’re going and how long it will take to get there. On the weekends, consider family outings to museums and zoos to visit exhibits that coincide with school subjects. “If your child is learning about Egypt, take a trip to a local museum with an Egyptian exhibit,” says Branstetter. “It reinforces curiosity, sends the subtle message that school is important and shows your child that school and home are connected.” n Develop a homework habit. Make doing homework automatic by coming up with a routine that fits your child’s personality. Some kids like doing homework right after school. Others need to burn off steam by playing for half an hour (set a timer) before getting down to business. Whatever you choose,

Make doing homework automatic by coming up with a routine that fits your child’s personality. Some kids like doing homework right after school. Others need to burn off steam by playing for half an hour (set a timer) before getting down to business.

stick to the schedule you establish for your kids as much as possible. To minimize distractions, keep the TV off during homework time. For younger kids, begin each homework session by asking your child to explain what she’s supposed to do then gauge if she can do it alone of if she needs your help. If you’re not around when your child does his homework, let him know you’ll look at it when you get home and be sure to follow through. Praise him when he completes him homework by emphasizing the process, such as “You worked really hard to learn your math facts” rather than the product “Good job on learning your math facts.” “Praising the process teaches persistence, which is a skill kids need for school success,” Branstetter says.

Middle School: Hormone Havoc What’s happening now In middle school – the sixth through eighth grade, kids are starting to go through puberty and the physical changes can make them feel like they’re not in good control of their bodies. “It’s a very complicated time physically, socially and emotionally,” says Vicki Panaccione, a licensed psychologist and founder of the Better Parenting Institute (betterparentinginstitute.com). During this difficult age and stage, their sense of self is also developing. “There’s a lot of exclusion in middle school,” says Panaccione. Cliques can provide a safe haven as kids try to figure themselves out.

Cont’d on page 46

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September 2013 Atlanta Parent 45

Ages&Stages

Success Rx n Expect turmoil. The mood swings and over-reactions, such total hysteria over whether a boy or girl looked at your child or not in the hallway, are a normal part of this phase of development. “Don’t take it personally. Just understand that your child is going through a lot,” says Panaccione. Be supportive but don’t minimize the problem or try to fix it either. “Middle schoolers don’t want you to solve anything,” Panaccione says. Instead, use phrases like: “I’m sorry you feel that way” or “Gosh, that must have been embarrassing for you,” rather than “Just ignore it” or “Just get over it. It’s not a big deal.” It is to your child. Comments like that don’t help and can be harmful. “They can push your child away because she’ll feel like you just don’t get it,” she says. n Don’t be too concerned if your child starts to hang with the wrong crowd. As kids develop and decide who they want to be, they also need to decide who they don’t want to be. They may try on various cliques, including one that’s not your favorite, to see what feels right. All kids have friends their parents don’t like. But kids are good self-barometers. “Don’t butt in unless you think their friends are dangerous,” Dr. Seltzer cautions. n Empathize academically. In middle school, the work load gets more difficult because kids have to meet the demands of up to seven different teachers instead of one. “It’s a big challenge. The best thing you can do is allow your child to vent without buying in,” says Panaccione. If your child complains that one of his teachers gives too much homework, for example, you might say, “Well, what do you think you might need to do, given that he gives lots of homework?” rather than “He’s only trying to teach you.” The idea is to help your child solve the problem, find his own way and keep the lines of communication open so he’ll continue to feel comfortable talking to you about even bigger problems that might come his way. c

46 Atlanta Parent September 2013

atlantaparent.com

Teacher Trouble

How to Manage Child-Teacher Conflict by Christa Melnyk Hines

“I hate my teacher,” *Elora, 9, declared to her mother. But, when pressed for details, her mom says Elora buried her head in her knees. So she tried a different approach. “I engaged her in a fun activity,” she says. “Then I light-heartedly asked questions like who she likes the most at school, who she likes the least, followed by, ‘oh, how come?’ What I found out was that ... she felt like the teacher yelled at her.”

atlantaparent.com

Why the grumbling? An elementary school child’s disdain for her teacher may grow out of a variety of factors, like adjusting from a beloved former teacher’s management style to a new teacher’s approach. Other influences on a child’s attitude toward his teacher include class size, peer competition, increased homework, more demanding, independent school work, as well as, differences between home and school environments.

Do some digging.

Allow your child time to adjust to his teacher’s expectations and rules. If his complaints persist, ask objective questions, like: “How is the work for you? How are you getting along with the other kids?” Cont’d on page 48

September 2013 Atlanta Parent 47

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Teacher Trouble “By doing that you can get a flavor of the environment rather than the situation,” says Dr. Stephanie Mihalas, a child psychologist and a nationally certified school psychologist, who frequently helps students and parents manage and resolve school conflicts. “You may get an idea that something else is happening that’s triggering the ‘meanness’ and then at that point, you have more information to call or email the teacher.”

Review class work.

Notice patterns like red marks and notes from the teacher on classwork. If your student struggles and seems afraid to ask questions, discuss appropriate times for her to talk to her teacher about the work and what types of questions she should ask.

Make real-world connections.

A child may grow disenchanted with school and her teacher if she doesn’t understand how the subject matter relates to real life. Due to increased pressure to focus on testing and assessments, teachers devote less classroom time for experiential learning opportunities or class projects. That’s where a parent can help. “Engaging in the learning piece is key,” says Ashley Norris, Ph.D., assistant dean, University of Phoenix College of Education. On the weekends, integrate classwork into your daily errands. For example, if your child is learning about the soil and the climate in science, take him to the Saturday morning farmers market. Practice multiplication skills to tally up the tip at a restaurant.

Questions to ask the teacher: n Have you noticed my child

struggling with a particular subject? n Does she participate in

classroom discussions? n How does she seem to get

along with her peers? n How can we work together

to help my child better adjust?

“Parents (then) become a partner with the teacher. Once that engagement starts to happen, the perception of the studentteacher relationship changes,” Norris says.

Signs of a child-teacher conflict.

“The single biggest factor is a change in grades. If grades are starting to slip, that’s a huge indicator,” Norris says. Behavior changes can also indicate a problem, including disengagement at school, forgetting homework and lack of effort.

Resolving a personality conflict.

Rather than getting angry or defensive, take a calm, diplomatic approach when conferencing with the teacher. “The last thing you want to do is instigate more conflict between the teacher and your child and if you start to pit sides, that’s what ends up happening,” Norris says. Also, ask if you can sit in during class one day. “Your presence might change the nature of how your child acts, but it will give you a flavor of how the teacher teaches,” Mihalas says.

♥ Infant through PreK ♥ Enrichment Programs in: Ballet ▲ Gymnastics ▲ Music Monday – Friday 7AM – 6PM

DULE A TOUR TODA Y SCHE 404-843-8375 550 Mt. Paran Rd., Sandy Springs LeslieRose@StJohnChildren.org www.stjohnchildren.org 48 Atlanta Parent September 2013

atlantaparent.com

When to contact administration. Go over a teacher’s head only as a last resort. “One of the only times to bring in administration is if your child is covered by special education law and the teacher isn’t following special ed law,” Mihalas says. Other times you might seek help from administration: n The teacher agreed on a set of interventions, but isn’t following those strategies. n Your child comes home crying every day. n You talk with the teacher and are unable to resolve the issue.

Request a different teacher? Sometimes a child’s personality and a teacher’s personality simply clashes. Unless the teacher is abusive, help your child understand that she’s not always going to like everyone, stressing the importance of remaining respectful and learning how to manage personality differences. “In my humble opinion, I don’t think it’s a good idea to show children that because there’s a problem then they need to move from that classroom,” Mihalas says. Instead teach flexibility by creating a link between friendships and getting along with others. For a younger child, you might say: “Everyone is different. Just as mommy and daddy do things differently, this is how your teacher is. It’s really good to learn how to work with all different kinds of people.”

Seek professional help. If interventions at school are unsuccessful, seek help from a child psychologist to rule out learning disabilities and anxiety. c *Name changed.

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September 2013 Atlanta Parent 49

2013

Cover Kids winners!

Each spring, Atlanta Parent goes on a metro-wide search for bubbly, photogenic kids. We invite you to say hello to our 2013 Cover Kids winners! With the help of our friends at Presence Models, HOP Models, and Studio 7, the impossible task of picking Atlanta’s cutest kids is now complete. Be sure to look for them on future covers of Atlanta Parent. Thank you to all the families that submitted photos to the Cover Kids Contest!

Christian Murray Atlanta

Ian Hayes-Gibbs Stone Mountain

Megan Chang Stone Mountain

Quin O’Keeffe Atlanta

Lily Padanilam Atlanta

Lucy Thomas Alpharetta

Kamryn Washington Marietta

50 Atlanta Parent September 2013

atlantaparent.com

finalists Blake Baldwin Kennesaw

Samantha Bean Douglasville

Aurora Bolte Sandy Springs

McKenna Calvo Marietta

Pablo Gomez-Gonzalez Alpharetta

August Haverty Decatur

Hendrix Holmes Marietta

Luna James Atlanta

Pranav Kolluri Smyrna

Megan Morrison Woodstock

Elaina Pickett Stockbridge

Olivia Laine Welch McDonough

Caleb Yohannes Smyrna

semifinalists Payne Baker Smyra

Rihanna Benavides Norcross

Jenna Carter Sandy Springs

Jahmaya Chaitan Newnan

Mitchel Chang Stone Mountain

Olivia Chavous Stockbridge

Graylan Edmonds Smyrna

Andrew Fleming Fayetteville

Chorie Green Atlanta

Zion Hall Snellville

Jake Han Alpharetta

Valery Crayton Powder Springs

Jordan Dixon Rex

Kelly Doyle Cumming

Omarion Harris Marietta

Kennedy Hefner Atlanta

Payton Karacalidis Atlanta

Cari Leason Mableton

Alexa Maslia Dunwoody

John Persichetti Atlanta

Russell Pugh Marietta

Anthony Queen Decatur

Thomas Padanilam Atlanta

Camila Regalado Atlanta

Aaron Schwei Woodstock

Lana Spraley Peachtree City

atlantaparent.com

Ansley Persichetti Atlanta

Ava Stein Powder Springs

Mia Pistone Atlanta

Boston VanBelle Atlanta

September 2013â&#x20AC;&#x192; â&#x20AC;&#x192; Atlanta Parent 51

52 Atlanta Parentâ&#x20AC;&#x192; â&#x20AC;&#x192; September 2013

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Family Fun Guide * Eating Out

Free Fun

Festivals & Fairs

Not-to-miss events for September

Calendar

Fall ls a Festinvd a Fairs

61 Page

Sesame Street Live Presents Can’t Stop Singing Philips Arena / Sept. 13-15. Fri., 10:30 a.m. & 6:30 p.m.; Sat., 10:30 a.m., 2 & 5:30 p.m.; Sun., 1 & 4:30 p.m. When Elmo gets his furry fingers on Abby Cadabby’s magic wand, Sesame Street becomes a nonstop, all-singing, all-dancing musical montage! Grover and Baby Bear sing their highs and lows, Cookie Monster sings fast and slow, Bert and Ernie converse in song and Murray makes mouth music for all to sing along! 1 Philips Dr., Atlanta. 800-745-3000. Tickets $20-$90.

2 atlantaparent.com

Decatur Book Festival Decatur Square Aug. 31-Sept. 1. Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun. noon-6 p.m. Meet authors, search for Waldo, visit the Diary of a Wimpy Kid van, view book-based performances by local theater groups, and dress up to parade with five-time Caldecott medalist illustrator/writer Jerry Pinkney on Saturday or with Strange Case of Origami Yoda author Tom Angleberger on Sunday. W. Ponce de Leon Ave. and Church St., Decatur. 404-471-5769. Free.

Japan Fest Gwinnett Convention Center Sept. 21-22. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Join this annual celebration of Japanese culture that features interactive fun and educational activities for adults and kids alike. The fest will have taiko drum concerts and dance performances, martial arts demonstrations, children’s games popular in Japan and traditional foods. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 404-842-0736. $8/person; children 6 and younger, free.

Family Fun Guide

September 2013 Atlanta Parent 53

Family Fun Guide Green Ginger Asian Fusion

Peachtree City: 200 Market Place Connector, Peachtree City. 770-487-9982. greengingersushi.com Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m; Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun. 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Decatur: 265 Ponce De Leon Pl., Decatur. 404-373-2788. greengingerdecatur.com Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Sun. noon-10 p.m.

EATING OUT

The Peachtree City location of Green Ginger modern and cozy, and a lovely place to celebrate the beginning of a new school year.

including soup or salad) and a kids’ menu offers American and Asian options ($2-$6). A separate Hibachi menu is available for adults and kids.

n What’s on the menu: There’s a huge selection of sushi, sashimi, tempura, teriyaki and curry dishes (most entrees are $13,

n Why kids will like it: There’s an iPad on every table! Our six-year-old and two-year-old daughters enjoyed viewing the menu on it so they could see pictures of dishes they were considering, which is especially helpful for younger diners. They were also able to play with it while our food was prepared, which was a treat. The girls also liked the very large aquarium and water fountain inside the restaurant. n Why parents will like it: Portions are large, fresh and very good. My husband and I ordered the five-course meal which includes: two salads or soups, one appetizer, and two entrees for $30. We were impressed with how quickly the kids’ food arrived at the table. Our girls enjoyed the hot, fresh meal of chicken fingers and French fries, and while they didn’t go for an Asian meal this time, there are plenty of choices

Photo by Rendy Tendean

LABORDAYWEEKENDEVENTS n Art in the Park. Glover Park. A weekend celebrating fine arts includes an artist market, children’s art alley, and ChalkFest, featuring 20 professional chalk artists creating their masterpieces along the sidewalk, and a chalk drawing competition open to all ages. Aug. 31- Sept. 2. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Historic Marietta Square. 404-966-8497. Free.

n Dragon Con Parade. Downtown Atlanta. The largest pop culture convention featuring comics, film, TV and gaming boasts a colorful parade down Peachtree Street. Aug. 31, 10 a.m. Parade begins at West Peachtree Place near West Peachtree Street and ends in front of the Atlanta Marriott Marquis. 404-669-0773. Free. Dragoncon.org.

54 Atlanta Parent September 2013

– Raechelle Gaffney n If you are interested in having a family reporter visit your restaurant for possible inclusion in the Atlanta Parent Family Fun Guide, please email editor@atlantaparent.com with your restaurant overview and contact information.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR Atlanta Parent’s Family Block Party Turns 10

Oct. 12, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Mercer University, Atlanta Campus

n Powers Festival. Powers Pavilion. Enjoy arts, crafts, food vendors, roving entertainers, carnivalstyle rides, a petting zoo and more. A portion of proceeds go to local charities. Aug. 31- Sept. 2. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 4766 W. Hwy 34, Newnan. 770-2532011. Adults, $7; children 12 and younger, free. Powerspavilion.com. n Pioneer Day Festival. Sam Smith Park. Celebrate Labor Day with carnival rides and games, arts and crafts shows, live entertainment and fireworks. Aug. 30 -Sept. 2. Fri., 4-11 p.m., Sat.-Sun., noon-11 p.m., Mon., noon-10 p.m. 1155 Douthit Ferry Rd., Cartersville. 770-974-9033. Adults, $5; ages 12 and younger, free. Unlimited rides each day, $20 wristbands.

when they are feeling more adventurous! I loved the toilet cleaner dispenser in each bathroom stall to ensure everybody has a clean seat! Service was attentive and speedy, and we all agreed this is a great place for future family dinners out. You can find coupons online for savings, and the website has a specials tab for weekly discounts.

Dragon Con Parade

n Callaway’s Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival. Callaway Gardens. Watch the skies light up with a balloon glow on Friday evening and stick around for balloon launches Sat. and Sun. in the mornings and evenings. Between balloon launches, experience a Kids Zone, classic car show, or disc dog demonstration. Aug. 30-Sept. 1. Visit callawaygardens.com for scheduled events and times. Hwy 27, Pine Mountain. 706-663-2281. Adults, $25; ages 6-12, $12.50; children 5 and younger, free.

Family Fun Guide

Celebrate the 10th anniversary of Atlanta Parent’s family festival, featuring more than 50 activities, live entertainment, and tons of giveaways for kids and parents. New this year: camel rides for all ages, pony hop races and mechanical surfboard rides! 3001 Mercer University Dr., Atlanta. 770-454-7599. $5/person; ages 2 and younger, free.

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FREE FUN atlantaparent.com

Farmers Markets If window shopping is fun for your family, strolling through an outdoor market filled with stuff to stimulate the senses is a great way to spend a Saturday morning ... or a Thursday evening. There are plenty to choose from throughout the metro area. Several readers shared their fave farmers markets in the metro area where their families touch, taste, learn and explore!

Peachtree Road Farmers Market

Marietta Square Farmers Market

Aug.-Sept.: Saturdays, 8:30 a.m.-noon Oct.-Dec. 14: Saturdays, 9 a.m.-noon 2744 Peachtree Road, NW Atlanta peachtreeroadfarmersmarket.com Produce, breads, condiments and artworks are on display. Live music or chef demos are scheduled weekly, while hands-on monthly programs teach kids about the environment and how food grows. It’s also a mecca for moms groups!

Saturdays year round 9 a.m-noon, Sundays through November, noon-3 p.m. 65 Church St., Marietta mariettasquarefarmersmarket.net In-season fruits and veggies, meats, cheese, pastries and more line the stalls on the square. Kids enjoy tasting new flavors and the easy access to “The General” playground, green space and fountain.

Family Fun Guide

Alpharetta Farmers Market Saturdays through October 12, 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Old Canton St., Alpharetta alpharettafarmersmarket.com Herbs and flowers, dairy items, local produce, breads and sweets, live music, chef demos and special events keep families heading to downtown Alpharetta each weekend. Kids’ activities take place monthly, and the adjacent Art in the Park outdoor artist market is the last weekend of each month. Cont’d on page 56

September 2013 Atlanta Parent 55

FREE FUN Farmers Markets

Sandy Springs Farmers Market

Sandy Springs Farmers Market Saturdays through November 2, 8:30 a.m.-noon 235 Sandy Springs Circle NW, Sandy Springs sandyspringsfarmersmarket.com Live music and children’s activities are generally on tap at this market, where more than 45 vendors display locally grown produce or locally made specialty foods. Dogs are welcome!

Piedmont Park Green Market Saturdays through mid-December, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 400 Park Dr. NE, Atlanta (12th Street entrance) piedmontpark.org/programs/green_market.html A beautiful park environment, dozens of vendors, live music, chef demos, playground structures and plentiful people/dog-watching make this market popular with kids. Children’s cooking programs are available (fees and preregistration are required).

East Atlanta Village Farmers Market Thursdays through December. 12, 4-8 p.m. 561 Flat Shoals Ave., Atlanta. farmeav.com This colorful market offers produce, artisan foods, handmade soaps, and local artist works alongside live music, kids’ activities and weekly cooking demos. – Dalia Faupel

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Visit atlantaparent.com/event/submit or email calendar@atlantaparent.com Family Fun Guide

Why Families Love Farmers Markets: n “My kids learn a lot from the bee keeper and the man who sharpens knives.”

– Anne Abahazi

n “For my preschooler, there are interesting new foods to identify and count, new shapes and colors to check out, and there is always some form of entertainment for kids.”

– Kate Berwind

n “We always watch a chef demo, and enjoy trying new tastes together. My children and I all tried muscadine juice for the first time at the Piedmont Green Market. Now whenever we are up in the mountains and see anything muscadine, we get it and start talking about the first time we tried it together!” – Lori Bonicelli

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HIGH VIEW S

kyView, the newest Atlanta attraction puts you high above downtown – 200 feet in the air! – on a ferris wheel with 42 air-conditioned glass-enclosed gondolas. We rode SkyView on a recent weekday evening and found many families lining up to catch a ride. The gondolas are spacious enough for two adults and two kids. When it was our turn, the attendant helped us board, secured the doors, and off we went! Almost. The first rotation stops several times to let people board their gondolas (like an elevator stopping at other floors) but then you get three full revolutions without interruption. Bliss! The entire ride lasts for about 15 minutes; plenty of time to get some pretty pics of the view. The views are primarily westfacing, so on a clear day, you can see all the way to Kennesaw Mountain. We had a cloudy s k y, b u t o u r group was just as excited to see the Centennial Olympic Park activities from on high, from the kids splashing in the Fountain of Rings to the crowd dancing to live music.

Every party has a gondola to themselves, although single riders may have to share. Of course, every child needs to be accompanied by an adult. The ride was smooth, whether going up or down, and we found it easy to move around to see from all sides. For those always in need of a restroom or a snack, SkyView has you covered. Concessions by Proof of the Pudding will be available soon, and a three-potty restroom trailer is located behind the ride. Stroller parking is near the base of the ride, and umbrella-shaded seating areas are on site for those who want to watch the wheel turn. We imagine the nighttime views of the skyline would be spectacular if the kids can hang past bedtime! Lines can be longest on weekend evenings, so weekday mornings until about 4 p.m. are the best times to step right into a gondola.

If You Go SkyView Atlanta 168 Luckie Street NW, Atlanta. Skyviewatlanta.com n Hours: Mon.-Wed., 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Thu.Sat., 10 a.m.-midnight; Sun., noon-10 p.m. n Cost: Adult: $14.45, child $9.10; ages 2 and younger ride for free.

For an extra special experience, the VIP gondola ($50 per person) is super swanky, with leather seats, a glass floor, tinted windows and a place to keep your juiceboxes chillin’. SkyView can host events like birthday parties in a VIP area with on-site catering. If you’re headed downtown for an attraction visit or special event, a ride would be an exciting add-on to the day. – Dalia Faupel

Blue Springs Farm

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Family Fun Guide

September 2013 Atlanta Parent 57

Happy Trails Five stables for first-timers to try trail riding. Atlanta Parent sent families out on beginner trail rides at five fantastic stables around Atlanta and North Georgia. For kids who say they love horses, a onetime horseback riding experience is a great way to find out whether the reality of riding lives up to their fantasy. The families enjoyed learning about horse care and commands and taking the reins all while enjoying some beautiful scenery. Our junior reporters hated to leave their new equine friends, and can’t wait to get back in the saddle again! Sunburst Stables

3181 Hwy 255, Clarkesville 706-947-7433; sunburststables.com Sunburst Stables offers guided trail rides into the Chattahoochee National Forest on mountain trails for any experience level. We took the twohour mountain ride, which accesses the same trails as the shorter rides but delves deeper into the forest for several miles. This ride can be customized to allow trotting and cantering for the more comfortable riders, but everyone must feel good about changing the pace as the group has to stay together. Helmets are strongly recommended for everyone. Our group included two teens, one who had ridden before in a ring, but had never been on a trail, and one who had not ever been on a horse. The trails are clearly marked and were occasionally muddy, which added some fun as the horses’ hooves made squish sounds. I was reminded that this was the only means of transportation long ago and as we winded down our tour, we approached one of the oldest “working mills” on the property. Along the way, we saw deer, snakes, pot-belly pigs, peacocks, goats on roofs, rabbits, donkeys and a dozen other animals in the barn, miniature petting farm and forest. n What parents like: The horses are welltrained and obey commands, and safety helmets are provided. n What kids like: Both teens liked how friendly and easy to ride the horses are. Even our first-time rider was comfortable after about 20 minutes. The forest trail is beautiful. n Costs: Ages 3 and older. One-hour trail ride, $45. Two-hour family adventure ride, $65. n Tips: Riders age 7 and older ride their own horse. Riders younger than 7 ride double with a parent. Custom rides are available which include trotting and cantering. – Amy Smith 58 Atlanta Parent September 2013

If You Go Trail Riding n Plan ahead! Fall is a busy season for riding, so make reservations in advance, and arrive before your scheduled ride time to fill out waivers and get safety equipment. n Cover up! Wear jeans or long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and comfortable closed-toe shoes. Sunscreen and bug spray are also good ideas to wear. n Be prepared! Most rides are about an hour long. Snack, drink and go potty before climbing into the saddle. n Remember your guide! Pay attention to instructions that are meant to keep you safe. Be sure to thank your guide with a tip at the end of your ride.

Family Fun Guide

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Lake Lanier Islands Equestrian Center 7000 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford 678-318-7886; lakelanierislands.com/activities/equestrian

We ventured out to Lake Lanier Islands in search of the equestrian center, which is easy to find and a pretty drive through the resort. It was a rainy day, but while we waited for the storm to pass, my 7-year-old daughter was able to feed and brush the ponies that walked the stables are freely. When it was time to mount up, we were given some basic riding, leading, and safety directions, along with a helmet to wear on the trail ride. Our trail ride lasted about 45 minutes and we enjoyed every second! The trail is a peaceful, shaded loop around Lake Lanier, and the horses needed little direction; they knew the way almost all by themselves! My daughter had no problem managing her horse and we agreed all of them were very sweet animals. After the horses were placed back into the stables my little rider was able to give her pony a special treat. Before we left, we learned more about the riding lessons offered. The staff is kind and highly knowledgeable, and we plan to go back very soon. n What parents like: The sweet horses and helpful staff helped us feel comfortable during our new adventure. n What kids like: Interacting with the horses before and after the ride. n Costs: Trail rides for ages 7 and older, $40; Child pony rides, $20 – Jody Bailey

High Country Stables

5508 Dallas Acworth Highway, Dallas 404-597-6000; highcountrystables.com My 7 and 5 year old girls and I took the High Country Stables beginner trail ride on a recent weekend. The girls got an introduction to horses from the owner, and they got to brush the horses down, clean their shoes and put on the saddles. Once the horses were ready, we each led our horse to an arena where we mounted them and got a brief lesson on how to hold the reins to make the horses go, how to “steer” them and how to make them stop. We went around the ring a couple of times and then we were off to the trail. The trail was a 30-minute ride around 10 acres of land. Along the way, our guide shared background on the types of horses and their jobs, along with the battlefield history of the land. My girls had a blast riding and bonding with their horses. The owner was fun, thoughtful, easy-going and really seemed to love what he was doing. When we returned to the barn, we brushed down the horses and gave them a couple of special treats for treating us to such a smooth ride! n What parents like: The lessons kids learn while having fun, being outdoors and constantly moving. I loved seeing my girls live their dreams. n What kids like: They loved playing cowgirl/farmer getting their horses ready to ride. They didn’t want to leave! n Costs: Ages 5 and older. Trail ride/fun day for two riders, $90 – Krissy Williams Cont’d on page 60

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Family Fun Guide

September 2013 Atlanta Parent 59

Happy Trails

Fort Mountain Stables 548 Cliffmine Road, Chatsworth 706-517-4906; fortmountainstables.vpweb.com

My friends and I rounded up our elementary school-age cowboy wannabees and headed up I-75 for a horseback riding adventure. As suggested, we arrived about 30 minutes in advance of our reserved ride time which gave us plenty of time to get geared up (jackets, sunglasses, riding helmets and cameras), sign our waivers and make a trip to the restroom. Our guides gave our group an overview of the horses we would be riding and what to expect on our trip. Within a few minutes we were all seated atop our trusty steeds and ready to enter Fort Mountain State Park. We saw old talc mine shafts, beautiful scenic overlooks and waterfalls. Our guides also provided us with information about the Fort Mountain area which made our ride even more interesting. The hour seemed to fly by and we found ourselves back at the stables where the guides helped us easily dismount. The experience was smooth, and all members of our group enjoyed connecting with their horses and navigating the trail. n What parents like: The guides. They instruct for top safety, pointed out interesting spots on our ride, and took our photos. n What kids like: Getting to know the horses before riding. n Costs: Ages 6 and older. Trail rides, $30 and up – Dana diLorenzo

Linda’s Riding School

3475 Daniel Bridge Rd. SW, Conyers 770-922-0184; lindasridingschool.com Recently, I took my seven-year-old twin boys to visit Linda’s Riding School, where the owner and president (Linda!), tailored a riding program to meet our needs and skills level. We participated in the Saturday camp, a three-hour program that includes bridling, saddling and grooming, a riding lesson, and a trail ride. This takes place each weekend, and helmets are provided for all participants. My children were excited to be in the saddle for a second time, and felt comfortable with their horses. But when it was time to head out on the ride, we decided to hold off on the trail ride in favor of more riding lesson time in the ring. Linda was easygoing about our choice; she highly recommends that new riders take a few lessons to build up skills necessary to go out on the trails. In the lesson, the boys learned to mount and dismount, basic commands, and how to control the horse. They got so comfortable with their horses Foxy and Annie and the tranquil ranch environment that when it was time to leave they both asked, “Mom, can we come back tomorrow?” n What parents like: Usually I’m multi-tasking, but here you slow down. Your only goal is to connect with your horse, your family, and nature. n What kids like: They loved everything about the stables. They want their next birthday party there with all their friends horseback riding. n Costs: Ages 7 and older. Trail rides, $40 and up – Marteeta Spradling 60 Atlanta Parent September 2013

Family Fun Guide

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fallfestivals&fairs Old-fashioned fairs are the perfect way to enjoy an autumn adventure with the family. Try your luck at a midway game, ride a pony, taste something delish and climb onto a carnival ride!

Charges may apply for some festival activities, such as inflatables and activity stations in addition to entrance fees.

Gwinnett County Fair

Johns Creek Fall Festival. Newton Park. Crafts, carnival games, moonwalks, a giant slide, obstacle courses, food and live music. Sept. 7. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 3150 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek. 678-512-3200. Free.

This more than 50-year-old fair features thrill rides, live musical performances, carnival games, craft and produce competitions, pageants and livestock displays. 2405 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Lawrenceville. 770-963-6522. Adults, $5; children 6-12, $2; younger than 6, free. Parking, free.

Pine Log Arts and Crafts Fair. Pine Log UMC Campground. Live entertainment, barbecue, and arts and crafts. Sept. 7-8. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Off Highway 411, Rydal. 770-607-5350. $3/person; children younger than 12, free.

Gwinnett County Fairgrounds Sept. 12-22. Mon.-Fri., 5-11 p.m.: Sat., 11 a.m.-midnight; Sun., 1-10 p.m.

Taste of Kennesaw. Downtown Kennesaw. Taste food from local restaurants, enjoy live entertainment, and take the kids to the children’s zone with inflatables, a trackless train and more. Sept. 7. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. 770-423-1330. Free admission, tickets for samples, $1-$4. Atlanta Arts Festival. Piedmont Park. Fine arts exhibit showcasing 200 artists, entertainment, children’s activities and food. Sept. 14-15. Sat., 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 400 Park Dr. NE, Atlanta. 770-9419660. Free.

North Georgia State Fair

Jim R. Miller Park Sept. 19-29. Mon.-Thurs., 4-11 p.m.; Fri. 4 p.m.-midnight; Sat., 10 a.m.midnight; Sun., 12:30-10 p.m.

Taste of Smyrna Festival of Delectable. Downtown Smyrna. Taste food from local restaurants, enjoy live music and take the kids to the enormous, interactive Kids Zone. Sept. 14. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. 2800 King St., Smyrna. 770-423-1330. Free, tickets for samples range from $1-$4.

A petting zoo, pony rides, carnival rides, fairway games, and car and flower shows are main attractions at the fair. New live entertainment this year includes a sea lion show, tiger encounter and rooster puppet program. 2245 Callaway Rd., Marietta. 770-528-8989. Adults, $7; children 10 and younger, free. Ride tickets, $1.25 each. Parking, $3.

Hapeville Happy Days Festival. Jess Lucas Downtown Park. Live music Friday; games, rides, and arts and crafts Saturday. Sept. 20-21. Fri., 7-11 p.m.; Sat., Parade at 10 a.m., Festival 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Corner of S. Central Ave. and Atlanta Ave., Hapeville. 404-669-8269. Free. Art in the Square. Downtown Gainesville. Live entertainment, including belly dancing and music, food from local restaurants and more. Sept. 21-22. Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 11 am.-5 p.m. Downtown Gainesville. 770535-6860. Free.

Inman Farm Heritage Days Minter’s Farms Sept. 20-22. Fri.-Sat., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sun, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

East Cobber Parade & Festival. Fountains of Olde Towne shopping center. Live entertainment, arts and crafts, carnival games and parade. Sept. 21. Parade starts at 10 a.m., festival 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 736 Johnson Ferry Rd., Marietta. 770-640-7070. Free.

Antique machines, including a printing press, steam engine, cotton gin, are on display at the 17th annual fair that recalls a simpler time and celebrates the farming community. Live music, crafts for sale and festival foods are also planned. 283 Hills Bridge Road Fayetteville. 770-4612840. Free. atlantaparent.com

Honeybee Festival. Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Come and celebrate this crucial part of Georgia Agriculture. Don’t miss the bee costume contest, games and crafts. Sept. 21. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 2020 Clean Water Dr. Buford. 770-904-3500. Adults 13 and older, $10.50; ages 3-12, $6.50. Cont’d on page 62

Family Fun Guide

September 2013 Atlanta Parent 61

fallfestivals&fairs

Yellow Daisy Festival

JapanFest. Gwinnett Center. Experience Japanese culture with musical and dance performances, martial arts demos, a tea ceremony, workshops about Japanese kimonos, kids area with crafts and games and much more. Sept. 21-22. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 404842-0736. Adults, $8; children 6 and younger, free.

Stone Mountain Park Sept. 5-8. Thurs, Fri., Sun, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m. More than 400 artists and craftspeople will be displaying and selling their works, plus you’ll find fun in the Children’s Corner, craft demonstrations, festival food and live entertainment. Highway 78, Stone Mountain. 770-4985633. Free; parking, $10.

Roswell Arts Festival. Roswell Town Square. Live performances and arts and crafts for purchase. Children’s activities and food vendors. Sept. 21-22. Sat.,10 a.m.- 6 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Downtown Roswell. 770-641-3705. Free.

Marietta Streetfest

Sandy Springs Festival. Heritage Green. Children’s park, live entertainment and more than 600 artists, crafters, vendors and entertainers. Lightning 10K and 5K races and pet parade. Sept. 21-22. Sat., 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 6075 Sandy Springs Cir., Sandy Springs. 404-851-9111. Adults, $5; children 6-17, $2; younger than 5, free.

Marietta Square Sept. 21. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Classic cars, live bluegrass music, an artist market and a children’s zone featuring inflatables and make-andtake crafts make for a fun-filled day. A fireworks finale closes this year’s festival at dark. Marietta. 770-7945710. Free.

Shakerag Arts and Crafts Festival. Shakerag Knoll. More than 100 art vendors selling handmade jewelry, pottery, candles and more; children’s activities, live entertainment and food. Sept. 21-22. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 191 McIntosh Tr., Peachtree City. 770-631-2542. Free. Suwanee Day. Town Center Park. Celebrate the City of Suwannee with games, kids activities, all-day on-stage entertainment, a parade and more. Sept. 21. Parade at 9 a.m. Festival, 9 a.m.10 p.m. 370 Buford Hwy., Suwannee. 770-9458996. Free.

62 Atlanta Parent September 2013

Fiesta Georgia. Georgia International Horse Park. Celebrate Mexican Independence with live music, Latino culture, authentic food, helicopter rides, and arts and crafts. Sept. 22. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. 1996 Centennial Olympic Pkwy., Conyers. 404-350-0200. Free.

Family Fun Guide

Candler Park Fall Fest. Candler Park. Familyfriendly neighborhood festival with live music, artists, kids’ area, food vendors and 5K road race. Sept. 28-29. Sat., noon-10 p.m., Sun., noon-8 p.m. Corner of McLendon Ave. and Candler Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-895-9276. Free.

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Riverfest Arts and Crafts Festival. Boling Park. Arts and crafts, children’s area, antiques and live entertainment. Sept. 28-29. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1200 Marietta Hwy., Canton. 770-704-5991. Adults, $5; children 10 and younger, free. Crossroads in Crabapple Antique and Arts Festival. American Country Antique Dealers and local artists are featured at this one day show in Historic Crabapple. Food vendors, children’s activities and roaming musicians. Oct. 5. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 12650 Crabapple Rd., Milton 770-241-1115. Free.

Beyond Atlanta Callaway’s Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival. Callaway Gardens. Watch the skies light up with a balloon glow on Friday evening and stick around for balloon launches Sat. and Sun. in the mornings and evenings. Between balloon launches, experience all the food, music, Kid Zone and entertainment Robin Lake has to offer on its last weekend of operation for the year. Aug. 30-Sept. 1. Visit callawaygardens. com for scheduled events and times. Hwy 27, Pine Mountain. 706-663-2281. Adults, $25; ages 6-12, $12.50; ages 5 and younger, free.

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Do you love to experience Atlanta with your kids? Are you a strong writer? Atlanta Parent is looking for you! If you’re interested in joining our Family Reporter Pool, please send an email to editor@atlantaparent.com with your contact information, availability and a review of your kids’ favorite Atlanta attraction (300 words or less).

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Fall Folklife Festival. Smith Family Farm at the Atlanta History Center. Enjoy a variety of farm demonstrations, music and kid-friendly activities representing traditions of the Southeast. Sept. 28. 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Adults, $16.50; ages 4-12, $11; 3 and younger, free.

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Duluth Fall Festival. Taylor Miller Park. Live entertainment, arts and crafts, parade, 5K road race and silent auction. Sept. 28-29. Sat., 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. W. Lawrence St. and Main St., Duluth. 855-385-8841. Free.

Apple Pickin’ Jubilee. Hillcrest Orchards. Apple picking, cow milking, mule-drawn wagon rides, pig racing, giant jumping pillow, live entertainment and more. Sept. 7-8, Sept. 1415, Sept. 21-22, Sept. 28-29 and weekends in Oct. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 9696 Hwy. 52 E., Ellijay. 706-273-3838. $6/person; petting farm $3. Railroad Heritage Weekend. Tweetsie Railroad. Celebrate Tweetsie’s historic coalfilled steam locomotives. Includes special attractions, Cherokee dancers and crafts. Sept. 7-8. 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 300 Tweetsie Railroad Ln., Blowing Rock, NC. 800526-5740. Requires special Heritage Railway pass. Adults, $42-$50; ages 3-12, $23-$34; 2 and younger, free. Railfest. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. Offers railroad food, memorabilia, storytelling, dancers, music and special excursions. Sept. 13-15. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 226 Everett St., Bryson City, NC. 800-872-4681. Festival is free. Mountain Music and Arts & Crafts Festival. Vogel State Park. Bluegrass and gospel music and arts and crafts booths. Sept. 14. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 405 Vogel State Park Rd., Blairsville. 706-745-2628. $2-5 plus $5 parking. Arts in the Heart of Augusta. Augusta Commons. Over 35 different cultures will be featured, international cuisine, live entertainment, and a children’s area. Sept. 20-22. Fri., 5 p.m.-9 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., noon-7 p.m. Historic Downtown Augusta. 706-826-4702. Adults, $10, $5 in advance; younger than 10, free. c

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Family Fun Guide

September 2013 Atlanta Parent 63

Calendar

September

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

Events may be canceled or changed after our deadline.

Submit your Family-Friendly Calendar Event at least 8 weeks prior to the event by visiting atlantaparent.com/event/submit.

classes Mommy and Me Preschool Program. Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History. Sept. 5, 12, 19, 26. 10 and 11:30 a.m. 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. 770-427-2117. Ages 3-5. Free with museum admission. Adults, $7.50; children 4-12, $5.50; 3 and younger, free. Basic Archery. Panola Mountain State Park. Take aim! Join a certified instructor to learn archery basics and take aim at the bull’s eye. Basic equipment is provided. Sept. 7, 8, 13 and 14. Times vary; pre-registration required. 2600 Highway 155 SW, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. Adults and children ages 9 and older, $10. Parking $5. Home Depot Kids’ Workshop. All locations. Learn tool safety while building a craft and receive a kid-sized orange apron. First Saturday of each month. Sept 7. 9 a.m.-noon. Visit homedepot. com for locations. Ages 5-12. Free. American Girl Crafts. American Girl Boutique and Bistro. Have fun making crafts inspired by the stories of American Girl. Sept. 8, Grandparents Day Card Craft, Noon-2 p.m.; Saige’s Horse Collage Craft, Sept. 15, 29, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Ages 8 and older. 1202 North Point Circle, Alpharetta. 877-247-5223. Free. Magic Monday. Atlanta History Center. Storytime, sing-a-longs and crafts. Sept. 9. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4110. Adults, $6.50; ages 5 and younger, $5.50. Mom’s Morning Out. North Georgia Zoo and Petting Farm. Bring the kids for a morning out and enjoy special rates. Sept. 10. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. 706-348-7279. 2912 Paradise Valley Rd., Cleveland. Petting zoo and hayride, $6 or add in a wildlife walk for $15. Second Thursday Program. Southeastern Railway Museum. Parents and tots program includes circle time, an activity and craft. Ages 1-4. Sept.12. 10:30 a.m.-noon. 3595 Buford Hwy, Duluth. 770-495-0253. $7 per child, one adult free, additional adult, $8. Build and Grow Clinics. Lowes. Clinics teach kids to build wooden crafts. Free apron, goggles and merit patch. Visit lowesbuildandgrow.com for times and locations. 800-445-6937. Pre-register. Free. INK Craft Weeks. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids. Dragon craft, Sept. 2-6; 9/11 craft, Sept. 9-13; Elephant craft, Sept. 16-20; Fall craft, Sept. 23-27. $1 with museum admission. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun., 1-5 p.m. 999 Chestnut St., Gainesville. 770-536-1900. Adults, $8; children, $6. Weekends in the Naturalist Center. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Activities include animal encounters, science explorations and more. Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6400. Activities included with price of admission. Adults, $17.50; ages 3-12, $15.50; younger than 3, free.

64 Atlanta Parent September 2013

Please call the event beforehand to confirm dates and times.

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2013 ATLANTA BELTLINE LANTERN PARADE Eastside Trail SEPT. 7, 8:30 P.M. Light up the BeltLine! Bring a lantern to join in the glowing nighttime parade that kicks off Art on the Atlanta BeltLine, Atlanta’s largest temporary public art exhibition. Lanterns can be any size or shape; the parade now includes six giant lantern creatures each over ten feet tall! Wasted Potential Brass Band leads the way with the Seed & Feed Marching Abominables bringing up the rear. Line up at Irwin Street and Krog Street; the parade concludes at Piedmont Park’s lawn adjacent to Park Tavern. 404-477-3636. Free.

Lil’ Bean Heads Crafts. Bean Head Toys. Create an art project twice a month. All ages welcome, but smaller children may need assistance. First and third Wednesday of every month. 3-4 p.m. 220 Johnson Ferry Rd., Sandy Springs. 404-851-2980. Free. Toddler Thursdays. High Museum of Art. Create masterpieces to compliment the museum’s current exhibits. Ages 2-4. Thursdays from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-4400. Free with admission. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; 5 and younger, free. Art Workshops. Vinings School of Art. Take a drawing, painting or pottery class. Supplies included. Ages 2-13. Saturdays, 10 and 11 a.m. 1675 Cumberland Pkwy., Smyrna. 678-213-4278. Pre-register. $15 for one-hour workshop. Crafts for Kids. Lakeshore Learning Store. Make a different craft each week. Saturdays from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 4287 Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770-578-3100. 3 and older. Free.

exhibits Imaginary Worlds: Plants Larger than Life. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Tour the garden and view giant sculptures made of living plants. Through Oct. 31. Tues.-Sun., 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Thurs., 9 a.m.-10 p.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404-876-5859. Adults, $18.95; ages 3-12, $12.95. 3 and younger, free.

Family Fun Guide

Turtle Travels. Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Find out firsthand what it’s like to be a turtle. Watch a swimming loggerhead sea turtle, explore turtle anatomy and get nose to beak with turtles in a crawl-under aquatic tank. Through Jan. 3. Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-904-3500. Adults, $10.50; ages 3-12, $6.50; 2 and younger, free. Bodies: The Exhibition. Atlantic Station. This exhibition provides an intimate and informative view into the human body. Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Fri.- Sun. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Last ticket sold 1 hour before closing. 265 18th St., Atlanta. 404496-4274. Adult, $24; ages 4-12, $16. Marco Polo: Man & Myth. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Experience the story of the ultimate adventure traveler, Marco Polo. Follow Polo’s adventures and view a collection of more than 80 objects representing an epic journey that spanned 24 years and thousands of miles. Opens Sept. 28. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun., noon-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Adults, $17.50; ages 3-12, $15.50; 2 and younger, free. Dolphin Tales. Georgia Aquarium. The live show incorporates dolphins, live human actors, dramatic costuming, and special effects. Multiple shows per day, times vary. Reservations recommended. Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 225 Baker St., Atlanta. 404-581-4000. Adults, $34.95; ages 3-12, $28.95. Titanic: The Artifact Exhibit. Atlantic Station. Travel back in time and experience the wonder and tragedy of this ill-fated ship. Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Fri.- Sun. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Last ticket sold 1 hour before closing. 265 18th St. (second floor), Atlanta. 404-496-4274. Adults, $24; ages 4-12, $16.

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Calendar

HEALTHY LIVING DAY

Anne Frank in the World: 1929-1945. Parkside Shopping Center. Learn about the life of the Frank family and others who lived in the secret annex in Amsterdam; includes replica of Anne’s room. Tues.-Thurs., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., noon-4 p.m. 5920 Roswell Rd., Sandy Springs. 770-206-1558. Free.

Michael C. Carlos Dance Centre SEPT. 8, NOON- 6 P.M. A day of dance classes (hip hop, modern, ballet, jazz), food demos, nutrition workshops and more are presented by the Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education. Performances by Atlanta Ballet’s Wabi Sabi and other arts organizations close the event. 1695 Marietta Blvd. NW, Atlanta. 404.873.5811. Free; classes are filled first-come, first-served.

Turtle Tours. Heritage Sandy Springs Museum. Through stories, hands-on exhibits and crafts, museum mascots Sandy the chipmunk and Spring the turtle introduce the youngest visitors to history. Second Saturday of each month. 11 a.m. 6075 Sandy Springs Circle, Sandy Springs. 404-851-9111. Donations encouraged. Weebles Coast to Coast. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Prepare to be whisked away on a 50-state adventure on this educational traveling exhibit. Through Sept. 8. Museum closed Wednesdays. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr. NW, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. Adults and ages 1 and older, $12.75; younger than 1, free. Free admission starting at 1 p.m. on the second Tuesday of every month brought to you by Target Free Second Tuesday. Frogs: A Chorus of Colors. Georgia Aquarium. Features 15 species of frogs in more than 3,000 square feet of habitats, with hands-on and interactive activities. Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 225 Baker St., Atlanta. 404-5814000. Adults, $34.95; ages 3-12, $28.95. LEGOLAND Discovery Center. Phipps Plaza. Come play, build and look at a variety of spectacular LEGO exhibits that will have all LEGO lovers amazed. Sun.-Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Sat.,10 a.m.-9 p.m. (Last admission 2 hrs. before closing.) 3500 Peachtree Rd., Atlanta. 404-848-9252. Adult, $19; ages 3-12, $15, 2 and younger, free.

Jim Henson Special Exhibitions. Center for Puppetry Arts. These exhibits profile the life of Jim Henson and his most famous puppet, Kermit the Frog. Through Sept. Tues.-Fri., 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Sat.; 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 1404 Spring St., Atlanta. 404873-3391. Museum admission, $8.25. Free admission Thursdays from 1-3 p.m.

FALL FAMILY FUN

Quarry Exhibit at Stone Mountain. Stone Mountain Park. This outdoor display was developed to tell the story of an industry that played a significant part in the history of Stone Mountain. Mon.Sun., dawn to dusk. 770-498-5690. U.S. Hwy 78 E., Stone Mountain. Free. Parking, $10.

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Family Fun Guide

September 2013 Atlanta Parent 65

CORN MAZES Have an Ahh-MAZE-ing Time Amid the Corn Stalks.

n Cagle’s Family Farm Corn Maze. Canton. Explore the 10-acre corn maze, enjoy tasty concessions and gather around the bonfire. Aug. 30-Nov. 10. Fri., 5-11 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 355 Stringer Rd., Canton. 770-345-5591. Corn maze: $10/ person; younger than 3, free. Farm tour, $7/ person; hayride and bonfire, $7/person. n Buck’s Corn Maze. Dawsonville. Explore this 12-acre corn maze with a beautiful view of the Appalachian Mountains. Aug. 31-Nov. 3. Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 1923 New Hope Rd., Dawsonville. 706-344-8834. Adults, $8; 10 and younger, $7; 4 and younger, free with paid adult.

Buck’s Corn Maze

n Buford Corn Maze. Buford. Corn maze, hayride, Haunted Forest, corn box, old time farm demonstrations. Aug. 31- Nov. 3. Fri., 6-10 p.m (midnight starting Sept. 20); Sat., 10 a.m.- 10 p.m. (midnight starting Sept. 21); Sun., noon-10 p.m. 4470 Bennett Rd., Buford. 678-835-7198. Corn maze and hayride or Haunted Forest and hayride: $13/person; combo corn maze/ Haunted Forest, $20/person.

n North Georgia Corn Maze. Cleveland. Find your way through the 7-acre maze, relax on the hayride, enjoy a movie at dark or venture into the haunted “House of Burm” and take the elevator down to the “Dungeon of Fear”! Aug.31-Nov.24. Fri., 6-11:30 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-11:30 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-9 p.m. 550 Tom Bell Rd., Cleveland. 706-348-7634. Adults, $10; children, $9; hayride and Barn of Fear, extra. n Uncle Shuck’s Corn Maze. Dawsonville. A 12-acre maze, pumpkin patch, “Great Goat Trek” attraction, hayride and bonfire. Aug. 31- Nov. 24. Fri., 4-10 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.6 p.m. 4520 Highway 53 E, Dawsonville. 1-888-674-8257. Maze, $10; combo hayride/ maze, $13. n Burt’s Farm. Dawsonville. Thousands of pumpkins, stop by the store or take a hayride pulled by a tractor! Sept. 1- Nov. 10. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 5 Burt’s Farm Rd., Dawsonville. 706-265-3701. Adults, $5; ages 2-12, $4; 1 and younger, free.

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66 Atlanta Parent September 2013

Family Fun Guide

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Buford Corn Maze

n Jaemor Farms. Alto. Experience a quest through 8 acres of corn; features a pumpkin train, hayrides, apple cannons, duck races, farm slide and more. Sept. 14-Nov. 3. Fri., 3-10 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., 1-6 p.m. 5340 Cornelia Hwy., Alto. 770-869-3999. Corn maze, $9 (ages 4-9), $10 (ages 10 and older); mini maze, $3 (ages 4 and older); hayrides, $4 (ages 4 and older); Pumpkin Train, $3 (ages 3 and older); “value access pass” includes maze, hayride plus three attractions, $12. Ages 3 and younger, free with paying adult. n Enchanted MAiZE. Blowing Springs Farm. Find your way through this year’s maze. Sept. 19-Oct. 27. Thurs., 9 a.m.6:30 p.m.; Fri., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., noon-6:30 p.m. 271 Chattanooga Valley Rd., Flintstone. 706820-2531. Adults, $9; ages 4-12, $7. n Colonel Cob’s Corn Maze. Oxford. Admission to corn maze includes attractions such as a petting zoo, giant mountain slide, inflatable cow jumper and pumpkin patch. Sept. 20- Nov. 3. Fri.Sat., noon-10 p.m.; Sun., 1-5 p.m. 797 Macedonia Church Rd., Oxford. 770-7868805. Corn maze and hayride, $10/person; 3 and younger, free. hayride, $4; hayride to bonfire and corn maze, $14 (no bonfires on Sun.). n Uncle Bob’s Pumpkin Patch and Tricky Crop Maze. Redwine Farms. See farm animals, try the crop maze, listen to storytelling, take a hayride, see puppet shows and choose a pumpkin. Sept. 22Nov.10. Fri. and Sun., 1:30-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 3781 E. Happy Valley Cir., Newnan. 770-253-8100. $14/person; ages 3 and younger, free. n Washington Farms. Eight and a half acres of ears to explore, with new jumping pillows. Ride on the cow train, see pig races, take a romp in the corn box or a hayride, then choose a pumpkin. Sept. 28-Nov. 3. Tues., 6-10 p.m.; Fri., 3-11 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun., 1-6 p.m. 5691 Hog Mountain Rd., Bogart. 706-769-0627. Ages 5 and older, $12/person for farm fun and corn maze; Ages 2-4, $8/person for farm activities and corn maze; under 2, free.

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Family Fun Guide

September 2013 Atlanta Parent 67

KENNESAW’S WORLDWIDE DAY OF PLAY Swift-Cantrell Park SEPT. 28, 9 A.M.-NOON A morning devoted to play includes an obstacle course, playground games, relay challenges, inflatables, a rock climbing wall and more. Refreshments are provided. 3140 Old 41 Hwy., Kennesaw. 770-422-9714. Free.

Centennial Olympic Games Exhibit. Atlanta History Center. Learn about the exciting 1996 Olympic Games that were held in Atlanta. Permanent exhibit. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Sun, noon-5:30 p.m. 130 West Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Adults, $16.50; ages 4-12, $11; 3 and younger, free. Dairies in DeKalb. DeKalb History Center. This exhibit focuses on the history of dairy farming in DeKalb County in the 20th century. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 101 East Court Sq., Decatur. 404-373-1088. Free. Covering America. Booth Western Art Museum. An exhibit displaying the Saturday Evening Post covers in the 1950’s and 1960’s. Through Sept. 29. Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun., 1-5 p.m. and Thurs., 10 a.m.-8 p.m. 501 Museum Dr., Cartersville. 770-387-1300. Adults, $10; ages 12 and younger, free.

Hidden Universe. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Take a breathtaking tour of deep space through images captured by Hubble and the world’s most powerful telescopes. Opens Sept. 6. See fernbankmuseum.org for show times. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404929-6300. IMAX tickets: adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; 2 and younger, free.

Wit in Wood. Heritage Sandy Springs Museum. See the whittle work of Moses Robinson, from animals to dancing couples. Through April 2014. Open Wed. and Sat., 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 6075 Sandy Springs Cir., Sandy Springs. 404-8519111. Adults, $3; ages 6-12, $1; 5 and younger, free.

Carl Rhodenizer Recreation Center: Movies Under the Stars. Each movie is at a different park. Movies begin at dusk. Sept. 14, Oz: The Great and Powerful at Gerald Matthews Sports Complex. See claytonparks.com. 770477-3766. Free.

ghost tours Decatur Ghost Tours. Decatur. Come meet some of Decatur’s ghosts on this historical, paranormal walking tour of downtown Decatur. Fridays and Saturdays, 8 p.m. 101 East Court Sq., Decatur. 404-296-7771. Adults, $15; 10 and younger, $12. Ghost Tours. Lawrenceville. Listen to vivid stories of the strange and supernatural as guides lead groups on a 90-minute adventure. Every Fri. and Sat. through Sept., 8:30 p.m. 128 East Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. Adults $12, 16 and younger, $9. Roswell Georgia Paranormal Investigations. Roswell. Take a walking ghost tour led by paranormal investigators. Every Fri., Sat. and every other Sun. 8:30 p.m. 617 Atlanta St., Roswell. 770-649-9922. Adults, $15; children 12 and younger, $10. Ghosts of Marietta. Marietta. A 90-minute lantern led walk through historic Marietta. Thurs.-Sat. 8:30 p.m. 131 Church St., Marietta. 770-4251006 . Adults, $17; ages 12 and younger, $12.

68 Atlanta Parent September 2013

movies Penguins. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Follow a brave king penguin on the journey of a lifetime. Opens Sept. 6. See fernbankmuseum.org for show times. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. IMAX tickets: adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; 2 and younger, free.

Family Fun Guide

Taylor-Brawner Park: Movies by Moonlight. Features family friendly movies and activities. Movies begin at dark. Movies TBA. Sept. 21, 28. 3180 Atlanta Rd., Smyrna. 770-431-2842. Free.

music Concerts on the Square. Downtown Decatur Square. Various bands perform every Saturday night in Sept. Sept. 7, 14, 21 and 28. 7 p.m. Downtown Decatur. 404-371-8386. Free. Bluesky Concerts. Downtown Decatur Square. Bring your lunch and enjoy music on the square. Every Wednesday in September from noon-1 p.m. Downtown Decatur. 404-371-8386. Free. Pickin’ on the Square. Newnan. Acoustic musicians of all genres and skill levels are welcome to join in on the first and third Saturday of every month. 11 a.m. on Sept. 7 and 21. Historic Downtown Newnan Courthouse Square at LaGrange St. and E. Broad St. 770-253-8283. Free.

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FALL FOLKLIFE FESTIVAL Riverside Sounds. Riverside Park. Outdoor concert series in the park. The Revivalists, Sept. 7. Concerts from 7-9 p.m. Free shuttle available from Azalea Park and Don White Park. 575 Riverside Rd., Roswell. 770641-3705. Free.

Atlanta History Center SEPT. 28, 10:30 A.M.-4:30 P.M.

Concerts by the Springs. Heritage Green. Kinchafoonee Cowboys, Sept. 8. Bring picnic baskets, coolers and blankets. Smoking and pets prohibited. Lawn opens at 5 p.m., concerts from 7-8:30 p.m. 6110 Bluestone Rd., Sandy Springs. 404-851-9111. Free.

Demonstrations of blacksmithing, woodworking, and other traditional crafts, local live music, a petting zoo and great local foods are planned for the annual Folklife Festival, celebrating all things Southern. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-8144000. Adults, $16.50; ages 4-12, $11; 3 and younger, free.

Music at Noon. Centennial Olympic Park. Enjoy lunch and live music performed by local artists. Tues. and Thurs. through Oct. Concerts from noon-1 p.m., 265 Park Ave. West, Atlanta. 404-223-4412. Free. Wednesday Wind Down. Centennial Olympic Park. Concert series includes jazz, R&B and blues performed by local and national touring acts. Wednesdays through Sept. Concerts from 5:30-8 p.m., 265 Park Ave. West, Atlanta. 404-223-4412. Free. Friday Night Live. Atlantic Station. Up-and-coming artists perform on the stage in Central Park; genres range from country to rock, jazz to blues. Last Friday of the month. Sept. 27. Concerts begin around 7 p.m. 18th St. NW., Atlanta. 404-733-1221. Free. Glover Park Concert Series. Glover Park, Marietta. The 911 Band, Sept. 27. Concerts begin at 8 p.m. Blankets and lawn chairs may be set up after 4 p.m. Picnics permitted. 50 Park Sq., Marietta. 770-7945601. Free. Moonlight and Music Concert Series. Gwinnett Historic Courthouse Lawn. Electric Avenue, Sept. 27. Concerts begin at 8 p.m. Bring chairs, blankets and food. Alcohol is prohibited. 185 Crogan St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-2639. Free.

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nature Butterfly and Dragon Safari. Panola Mountain State Park. Join a park ranger for a trip into a “wild” grassland habitat filled with butterflies and dragonflies. Bring a camera to record the adventure. Ages 10 and older. Sept. 7 and 15. 6 p.m. 2600 Hwy. 155 SW, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. Pre-register. $5/person. Parking, $5.

Family Fun Guide

Trail Hikes. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Journey through the CNC trails using biofacts and activities to spark your curiosity. Saturdays and Sundays at 1 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free. Native Ectotherm Exhibit. Autrey Mill Nature Preserve. Visit local reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 9770 Autrey Mill Rd., Johns Creek. 678-366-3511. Donations encouraged.

September 2013 Atlanta Parent 69

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Calendar Full Moon Hike. Panola Mountain State Park. Hike to the mountaintop under the full moon. Bring flashlights, hiking boots and water. Sept. 14. 7 p.m. 2600 Hwy. 155 SW, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. Pre-register. $7/person. Parking, $5. Harvest Moon Night Hike. Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Watch the forest come alive during this easy hike that is perfect for families with kids ages 8 and older. Sept. 21. 7:30-9 p.m. 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-904-3500. Pre-register. Adults, $11; children, $8. Feeding Time. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Join a naturalist for an in-depth look at one of the resident animals as the Wildlife Dept. feeds them. Tuesdays and Saturdays, 4 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free.

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Teen Arts Night. City Center. Teens can bring instruments, poetry, artwork and short stories to share. Includes a slice of pizza and a soda. Sept. 6. 6-8 p.m. 8534 Main St., Woodstock. 678-494-4251. $5. Brain Tumor Foundation for Children “Tumor Trooper Run/Walk”. Mansell Crossing Shopping Center. Help children with brain tumors by participating in a 5-K run or 1-mile walk. Sept. 7. 1-mile walk starts at 7:30 a.m., 5-K run starts at 8 a.m. 7730 North Point Pkwy., Alpharetta. $30. Fulton County Free Saturday. High Museum of Art. Admission is free for Fulton County residents with I.D. on the first Saturday of each month until 1 p.m. Sept. 7. Regular hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-5000. Free. Grandparents’ Day Ice Cream Social. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Honor grandparents with an old fashioned ice cream social. Sat. Sept. 8. 1-3 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Grandparents eat for free, everyone else $4 plus admission. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free. Sunday Funday. East Cobb Park. Enjoy live entertainment and family fun. Visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic dinner. Sept. 8, 29. 4-7 p.m. 3322 Roswell Rd. Marietta. 770591-3160. Free. History Tours. Piedmont Park. Learn about Piedmont Park’s history and the city of Atlanta. Saturdays through Dec. 11 a.m. Meet at the Green Market Info booth near 12th St. park entrance. Piedmont Park. 404-875-7275. Free. Alive After Five. Downtown Roswell. Enjoy a break from the busy workweek with live music, outside vendors, late hours at retailers, face painting and more. Bring your family, a date, your dog or your friends, and be sure to hop on the free trolley. Every third Thursday of the month, through Oct. 5-9 p.m. Downtown Roswell. 770-640-3253. Free. Sesame Street Live. Philips Arena. Catch the “Can’t Stop Singing” Tour and see what happens when Elmo learns the power of musical magic. Sept. 13-15. Fri., 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.; Sat. 10:30 a.m., 2 and 5:30 p.m.; Sun. 1 and 4:30 p.m. 1 Philips Dr., Atlanta. 404-878-3000. Tickets $20-$80.

70 Atlanta Parent September 2013

Family Fun Guide

Project Discovery. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Enjoy a two-hour science extravaganza and learn answers to what keeps a paper airplane in the air, how to make the biggest soap bubble, what is in slime and more burning science questions. Sept. 14. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive NW, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. Adults and ages 1 and older, $12.75; younger than 1, free. Outdoor Movie & Backyard Campout. SwiftCantrell Park. Features family friendly movie and activities. “Brave” begins at dark but arrive early for inflatables and attractions. Also explore a model campsite, observe camping equipment demonstrations, enjoy nature crafts, recreational games, campfire songs and storytelling activities. Backyard Campout begins at 6 p.m. Sept. 14, 3140 Old 41 Hwy., Kennesaw. 770-422-9714. Free. Stellar Astronomy Workshop. Tellus Science Museum. Learn how to observe the planets, stars and constellations. Everyone will receive a rotary star chart with hands-on instructions on how to use it. Sept. 27. 8:30-11 p.m. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. Ages 8 and older. Pre-register. $25. City of Kennesaw’s Worldwide Day of Play. Swift-Cantrell Park. Celebrate all things active in this entire morning devoted to play. Activities include obstacle course, playground games, relay challenges, inflatables, rock climbing wall and more. Refreshments provided. Sept. 28. 9 a.m.-noon. 3140 Old 41 Hwy., Kennesaw. 770422-9714. Free. Play the Animal Way. Zoo Atlanta. Entertain your inner wild thing in the wacky world of animal enrichment. Enjoy music, crafts and demonstrations for kids. Sept. 28. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 800 Cherokee Ave. Atlanta. 404-624-9453. Adults, $21.99; children ages 3-11, $16.99; 2 and younger, free.

storytelling Story Time by the River. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Join the librarian as she uses books, puppets and songs to share stories about nature. Sept. 4. 10:30 a.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free. Family Storytelling. Callanwolde Fine Arts Center. Join the Southern Order of Storytellers’ Father Goose Brigade as they share exciting cultural stories. Sept. 13. 7 p.m. 980 Briarcliff Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-872-5338. Adults, $3; Children 12 and younger, $1. Children’s Story Time. FoxTale Book Shoppe. Age-appropriate stories followed by dance and song. Mondays and Saturdays. 11 a.m. 105 East Main St., #138, Woodstock. 770-516-9989. Free. Next Chapter JV Book Club. FoxTale Book Shoppe. This book club is for ages 6-12 and includes a snack, discussion and an activity. Second Friday of every month. 4:30 p.m. 105 East Main St., #138, Woodstock. 770-516-9989. Free. Tales for Tots by Once and Again Books. Marietta Whole Foods. Enjoy a storytelling session every Tuesday at 10 a.m. 1311 Johnson Ferry Rd., Marietta. 770-726-9170. Free.

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NEW EXHIBITS OPENING THIS MONTH Storytime with Miss Cynthia. Perimeter Barnes & Noble. Join Miss Cynthia every Wednesday for some wacky fun and crafts with a new story each week. 10 a.m. 120 Perimeter Center West, Atlanta. 770-3961200. Free. Storytime at Little Shop. Little Shop of Stories. Storytelling three times a week; Thursday nights, milk and cookies provided and kids can come in pajamas. Sundays, 3 p.m.; Tuesdays, 11 a.m.; Thursdays, 7 p.m. 133A East Court Sq., Decatur. 404-373-6300. Free. Tales for Toddlers. Bean Head Toys. Stories read in the indoor tree house, then kids make a craft to take home. Every Thursday. 10:30 a.m. 220 Johnson Ferry Rd., Sandy Springs. 404-851-2980. Free. Wren’s Nest Storytelling. The Wren’s Nest. Wren’s Nest Ramblers host storytelling sessions every Saturday. 1 p.m. 1050 Ralph D. Abernathy Blvd., Atlanta. 404-753-7735. Adults, $8; children $5, 4 and younger, free.

theater Rumpelstiltskin. Center for Puppetry Arts. Based on the fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm, this marionette musical will spin grins onto the faces of kids and adults alike. Through Sept. 8. See puppet.org for show times. 1404 Spring St. NW, Atlanta. 404-8733391. $16.50; younger than 2, free.

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Children’s Museum of Atlanta Moneyville OPENS SEPT. 28. The interactive exhibit engages families in a city environment, where visitors build math and problemsolving skills and learn the basics of economics at an anti-counterfeiting lab, a bank, a shopping district, a stock market, and an international shipping dock. The exhibit is open through Jan. 12, 2014. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive NW, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. Included with admission. $12.75; 1 and younger, free. Fernbank Museum of Natural History Marco Polo: Man & Myth OPENS SEPT. 28. Families can follow the trail of history’s ultimate adventurer on his 24-year journey from Venice to China along the Silk Road. More than 80 objects including coins, ceramics, and navigational tools are on display. The exhibit is open through Jan. 5, 2014. 767 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta. 404-929- 6400. Included with admission. Adults, $17.50; ages 3-12, $15.50; 2 and younger, free.

Family Fun Guide

September 2013 Atlanta Parent 71

Photo courtesy of Chattanooga Convention & Vistors Bureau

BATTLE OF CHICKAMAUGA

Mountain Cove Farms SEPT. 20-22, TIMES VARY.

2013 Atlanta 5k

The Blue Gray Alliance and Walker County, Georgia present the 150th Anniversary of the Battle of Chickamauga, recreating events of the historic battle on a working farm. Bring blankets for seating. 838 Dougherty Gap Rd., Chickamauga. civilwar150th.org. General admission, $10-$15.

5k run 1mile walk Saturday, November 9, 2013

Peter Rabbit. Center for Puppetry Arts. Based on Beatrix Potter’s tales, Peter ventures into Mr. McGregor’s garden for some tasty vegetables and loses his clean blue jacket. How will he get it back? Sept. 11-22. See puppet.org for show times. 1404 Spring St. NW, Atlanta. 404873-3391. $16.50; younger than 2, free.

Piedmont Park Atlanta, GA Sign Up and Register Today http://events.autismspeaks.org /georgia5k

Everybody Loves Pirates. Center for Puppetry Arts. Treasure map in hand, Lucy and Little Chucky set off on the adventure of a lifetime only to find themselves walking the plank at the hands of some pesky (but lovable) pirates! Sept. 25-Oct. 6. See puppet.org for show times. 1404 Spring St. NW, Atlanta. 404-8733391. $16.50; younger than 2, free.

for more information contact georgia@autismspeaks.org or 770.451.0570

Winnie the Pooh. Dancing Goat Theatre and the Kudzu Players. Christopher Robin’s favorite little bear gets involved in frantic adventures, assisted by Eeyore, Piglet and Rabbit. Sept. 7-29. See performingartsnorth.org/schedule for show times. 10700 State Bridge Rd., Suite 6, Johns Creek. 770-772-0762. $12.

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72 Atlanta Parent September 2013

beyond atlanta Jr. Ranger Mini-Camp. Tugaloo State park. All 6-12 year olds are invited to learn how to become a Jr. Ranger. Receive a Jr. Ranger activity book and complete two activities towards earning the first badge. Sept. 1. 1-3 p.m. 1763 Tugaloo State Park Rd., Livonia. 706-356-4362. Pre-register. $5/person. Parking, $5. First Friday Night Concert Series. Hancock Park, Dahlonega. Bring friends, family lawn chairs and listen to entertaining bands. Sept. 6. 6:30 p.m. North Park and Warwick Streets, Dahlonega. 706-864-6133. Free.

Family Fun Guide

Railroad Heritage Weekend. Tweetsie Railroad. Celebrate Tweetsie’s historic coal-filled steam locomotives. Includes special attractions, Cherokee dancers and crafts. Sept. 7-8. Sat., 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 300 Tweetsie Railroad Ln., Blowing Rock, NC. 800-526-5740. Requires special Heritage Railway pass. Adults, $42-$50; ages 3-12, $23-$34; 2 and younger, free. Saturday Market on the River. Augusta Riverwalk. Browse local produce, baked goods, art and more on the banks of the Savannah River. Saturdays through November. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. 8th St. Plaza, Augusta. 800-726-0243. Free. Historic Trolley Tour. Downtown Augusta. Take the Lady Libby Trolley for a kid-friendly ride to see some of Augusta’s most famous homes and the Augusta Canal. Hear a historical story and head to the James Brown exhibit at the Augusta History Museum. Saturdays. 1:30 p.m. 560 Reynolds St., Augusta. 706-724-4067. Preregister. $12 per person, includes admission to the museum. Pumpkin Fest and Scarecrow Trail. North Georgia Zoo. Take a look at some unique scarecrows or enter one of your own. Enjoy the wool jump, hayrides and more. Sept. 21-Oct . 31. Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 2912 Paradise Valley Rd., Cleveland. 706-348-7279. Adults, $7; 10 and younger, $5; infants, free. Family Fun Days. The Rock Ranch. Enjoy farming attractions and kids activities at the Rock Ranch. Sept. 28. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. 5020 Barnesville Hwy., The Rock. 706-647-6374. Admission, $15; ages 3 and younger, free. River Giants Exhibit. Tennessee Aquarium. A collection of freshwater fish at legendary sizes, the “goliaths” of freshwater. Open daily 10 a.m.6 p.m. One Broad St., Chattanooga, Tenn. 800262-0695. Adults, $24.95; ages 3-12 $14.95. c

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678-222-1912 September 2013 Atlanta Parent 73

Humor

by Ashley Talmadge

Potluck?

I’ll Bring the Paper Products! Spicy Quinoa Stuffed Avocado! Peach Ice Cubes for Iced Tea! Pretzel Bottom Snickers Blondies! Given the frenzy of food postings on Facebook and Pinterest these days, it’s clear the Joy-of-CookingAll-Day Club does not lack for members. (Nor does the Joy-of-Looking-atBeautifully-PhotographedFood Club.)

But I’d rather clean a toilet bowl than prepare a meal. Scrubbing the porcelain to a blinding shine takes me less than five minutes, once a week. If anyone notices my efforts, they express appreciation. Not so with my ongoing attempts at meal preparation. I don’t have much “flair” in the kitchen – unless you include the countless flaring menu items, charred beyond recognition. I believe I am genetically predisposed. My mother owned the original I Hate to Cook Book. The greasy sauce-stained pages are a testament to how much my mother used that volume. I truly admire my friends who, with apparent enjoyment, can assemble a delicious meal for 16 without a culinary catastrophe. But their source of inspiration confounds me. They become dreamy-eyed envisioning the ingredients required for this or that dish. I dread meal planning as if I’d been asked to conjure creative ways to jumpstart the national economy. They swoon at the thought of acquiring new kitchenware; my pots and pans often double as collection vessels for creepy crawly things in the backyard. They nod their heads knowingly while discussing 74 Atlanta Parent September 2013

(Confessions of a “Hate to Cook”)

the subtleties of seasoning with saffron. I’m thrilled when I remember to add a little salt to the mashed potatoes. And while they compete for “Best Dish in Potluck,” I sign up for “paper products.” (I’ll settle for “beverages” if another “Hate to Cook takes my coveted slot.) My foodie friends have tried to convince me that with the proper training or equipment, I too will enjoy membership in the Joy-ofCooking-All-Day Club. “You should take the ‘Cooking for Cretins’ class with Chef

I believe I am genetically predisposed. My mother owned the original I Hate to Cook Book. The greasy sauce-stained pages are a testament to how much my mother used that volume.

Bertrand – he’s amazing!” Or “All you need is a really good set of knives!” (Well yes, but maybe not for cooking.) Their well-intentioned counsel inevitably falls flat. Why? I like to eat well enough, but I don’t care so much what I eat. For some people, food ranks highest among life’s necessities. A college friend on a road trip spent his limited cash on an exquisitely prepared meal, rather than on shelter. As he described a mostly sleepless and cold night in his car, I began to wonder if I should call the local mental health facility. Giving up a warm bed and cable TV for fancy food? Downright nuts. But while I might be able to survive on a hard-boiled egg and a candy bar (and my husband thankfully possesses the stomach of a survivalist) my children must be fed properly. Admittedly, they have probably suffered irreparable damage. I overuse my crock pot, underuse my whisk, and regularly change the batteries in my smoke detector. And when you plan the next potluck? Please leave the “paper products” to me. c atlantaparent.com

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