February 2013

Don’t Miss Our Camp Expo on Saturday, February 23

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atlantaparent.com February 2013

You Gotta Have Heart!

Three Little Words A Perfect Daddy-Daughter Date

Get Ready for Summer Camp!

Sweet! Bakeries We L ove

Storytime, Crafts and More

McDonald’s® Black History Month NUGGETS Of Knowledge

Go To McDonald’s • Get The Booklet • Enter For A Chance To WIN! Here’s how to enter to win FREE Chicken McNuggets® for 365 days and other cash prizes!

Visit your Atlanta area McDonald’s and pick up a Nuggets of Knowledge booklet to learn how McDonald’s Black owner-operators and corporate leadership continue to make history 365 days a year! Log on to www.NuggetsofKnowledgeATL.com or scan the QR code to the right.

Message and data rates may apply.

©2013 McDonald’s.

McDonald’s® Black History Month NUGGETS Of Knowledge

$1.99 10 pc. Chicken McNuggets® CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER COUPON OFFER Expires 2/28/13. Valid only at participating Greater Atlanta McDonald’s Owner/Operator Association Restaurants. Prices may vary. Not valid with any other offer, discount coupon or combo meal.

Cash value 1/20 of 1 cent. Limit one coupon per person per visit. Tax may apply. Price of required purchase posted on menu board. Coupon may not be transferred, auctioned, sold, copied or duplicated in any way or transmitted via electronic media. Valid when product served. May not be valid for custom orders. ©2013 McDonald’s.

VALID ONLY FROM FEBRUARY 11, 2013 THROUGH FEBRUARY 28, 2013

“I’ve been to London

to visit the Queen.”

Through the magic of imagination, our children travel the world every day. Our copyrighted curriculum, Framework for their Future®, was designed by child care experts for the exclusive use of Legacy Academy and is consistent with the standards of excellence set by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. We incorporate language, art, math, science, and brain power activities into a fun-filled experience that nurtures children to fulfill their individual potential.

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2 013 Atlanta Parent – the trusted source for day & overnight camp information for 30 years

February 23

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4 Atlanta Parent February 2013

Inside 3 O February YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT

Vol. 30 Number 2

Features

16

Departments 8 Publisher’s Note

Words of Love The three little words “I love you” are great to hear, but other three-word sentences show love and acceptance with actions.

20

Our favorite bakeries invite you to stop in and stay awhile with your child, to enjoy lunch or a delicious indulgence.

24

46

Time for a Treat

Lessons in Diversity Learn ways to help your children expand their circle of friends and come to appreciate different religious, ethnic and racial backgrounds.

Just Kids: Keeping Spirits High

12 Dollars & Sense

Tips for Frugal Families

82 Humor in the House Puppy Love

Family Fun Guide 61

Not-to-Miss Events

62

Eating Out: Twisted Kitchen

63 Free Fun: Take in a Story

Three caring programs are helping special needs families with dream trips to Walt Disney World, beauty makeovers for the kids and pampering for their moms. Meet the individuals who are making a difference.

29

10 News You Can Use

64 Exhibit: Space Spinoffs

at Tellus Science Museum

65 The Circus Comes to Town 66

Playground: Aviation Park at PDK Airport

67 Try It!: ‘Glamping’ In A Yurt

Overnight Camp Guide

Camping experts weigh in on when your child is ready for camp and answer other questions you might have wondered about but didn’t ask. Plus, our extensive list of overnight camps will help you pick a great one.

68 February Calendar 70 Valentine’s Day Events 73

Black History Month Events

78 Consignment Sales

Don’t Miss Atlanta Parent’s Camp Expo, February 23 at Town Center Mall

Parent atlanta

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2012 Award Winner

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Atlanta’s Award-Winning Parenting Publication

PUBLISHER Liz White

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

EDITOR Julie Bookman

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

Jennifer Fogel jfogel@atlantaparent.com DIGITAL SALES Jordan Lisvosky ASSOCIATE jlisvosky@atlantaparent.com

EDITORIAL Sheri Taylor-Emery

ART DIRECTOR creative@atlantaparent.com

PRODUCTION Natalie Thavenot MANAGER production@atlantaparent.com

EDITORIAL Robin Mintz PRODUCTION rmintz@atlantaparent.com

ARTIST CALENDAR EDITOR Kate Wallace

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OFFICE Caroline Ward COORDINATOR cward@atlantaparent.com

SPECIAL EVENTS Kaitlyn Morris COORDINATOR kmorris@atlantaparent.com

ADMINISTRATIVE Kirsten Gromatzky

ASSISTANT kgromatzky@atlantaparent.com

MARKETING MOM Felicia Barman

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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.

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6 Atlanta Parent February 2013

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Publisher’s Note So Many Camps, So Little Time

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When it’s freezing outside, it’s hard to believe it’s time to start looking at summer camps, let alone get that application in while space is still available.

My family has always favored rustic camps with traditional experiences – hiking, swimming, canoeing and other outdoor recreation, with limited or no access to television, cellphones, iPads, laptops and the other electronics that rule our lives the other months of the year. I’ve always thought it helps children make friendships and appreciate nature when they aren’t distracted by the latest high-tech innovation.

I do understand that some kids love technology and would be happiest in a specialized computer camp, writing code or mastering programs such as Dreamweaver, or developing their own phone app. Still others would rather be in the company of horses, learning English, Western or dressage riding. Some kids want to dance every day in an intensive program for ballet or jazz. Specialty camps let your child test how much interest and skill he has in an activity.

My daughter Laura’s first experience was at Girl Scout camp. She was 8 years old, and though she’d spent the night away from home before with grandma and friends, it was the first time she was away a whole week. I fretted needlessly in the weeks before camp. Laura loved being with the other kids, swimming and hiking and sipping a drink labeled “bug juice,” a.k.a. punch.

She went back each year until she turned 12, then she was off for two weeks to Camp Merri-Mac in North Carolina, where she fell in love with archery. She couldn’t wait to return the next few summers.

This month’s issue will help you find the right camp for your child. You’ll find an extensive list of overnight camps and a description of the programs they offer. Plus, you’ll get information on upcoming camp expos where you’ll be able to talk with camp owners, counselors and former campers.

Life at overnight camp builds independence, confidence and leadership, introduces new skills, and helps children forge strong friendships. If your child is ready for camp, but you’re a little jittery as a parent, put aside your fears and go for it. Laura tells me overnight camp was among the best memories of her childhood.

How to Reach us: Telephone 770.454.7599

E-Mail lwhite@atlantaparent.com

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The Old Fashioned Way 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.

atlantaparent.com

ItFigures

by Cynthia Washam

When

Exercise Parties and Pigskins 2

Number of times the “AFL-NFL World Championship Game” was played before the name was officially changed to the “Super Bowl,” named after the toy Super Ball

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Value of Super Bowl “champions” clothing, preprinted with the losing team’s name, which the NFL donates to children in developing countries

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Amount Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes allegedly spent in July 2008 on daughter Suri’s second birthday party

in February code AP

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Percent of parents who would spend no more than $100 on a child’s birthday party

29

Percent who would spend more than $250

Feats and Fetes Feb. 1

Date of National Freedom Day, when President Abraham Lincoln in 1865 signed the 13th amendment, outlawing slavery

1948

Year President Harry Truman made it an official holiday

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Percent membership drop in the last decade in the Boy Scouts of America, which celebrates its 101st anniversary Feb. 8

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Percent chance of success for a marriage between one-time teenage lovers who rekindle their romance at least five years later

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Percent chance of success for the average marriage Sources: Yahoo.com, Worldvision.org, Babble.com, Moneycentral.msn.com, About.com, Holidaysmart.com, Wired.com, Independent.co.uk, msnbc.com

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Big or Small Save Them All February 2013 Atlanta Parent 9

News You Can Use

by Kate Wallace

180 Million Valentine’s Day cards are exchanged annually.

Take the Polar Plunge Feb. 16 marks the fourth annual Polar Plunge at Lake Lanier Islands Beach and Water Park, to benefit the Special Olympics.

Participants collect pledges in exchange for the opportunity “plunge” into icy water. Prizes are awarded for best costume, highest fundraiser and more. Visit specialolympicsga.org to learn more and sign up.

The Children’s Museum Launches Toddler Book Club Beginning February 4, toddlers can gather at The Children’s Museum of Atlanta for a weekly book club accompanied by songs and art activities. The 10-week series will teach caregivers techniques for reading to their little ones and provide books for kids to keep.

Cost is $100 per child plus admission and will meet every Monday at 10:30 a.m. until April 15. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta.

404-527-3693. Ages 1 and older, $12.75. Visit childrensmuseumatlanta.org/parents/toddler_book_club_2013.

Source: Retail Advertising Marketing Association

Be a Part of Team Lego Legoland Atlanta is on the hunt for Junior Construction Panel members for 2013. The specialized team will work with a Legoland Master Model Builder to help plan activities and participate in model builds. Lego lovers ages 5-10 can apply by submitting a letter detailing why they would like to be a part of the Junior Construction Panel. Kids selected for the team will receive a oneyear pass to Legoland. Entries must be dropped off or mailed to Legoland Discover Center, Phipps Plaza, 3500 Peachtree Rd. NE Ste. G-1, Atlanta, GA 30326 by Feb. 16.

Show Off Those Pearly Whites

10 Atlanta Parent February 2013

Brush up on oral hygiene skills because February is National Children’s Dental Health Month.

The American Dental Association hopes kids will “get a gold medal smile” with the help of website offerings that include brushing and flossing tips and printable games and puzzles.

Visit ada.org for more information and kids’ activities.

atlantaparent.com

Dive Into Adventure!

Special Event

February 18th at 9:00am pbskids.org

The PBS KIDS logo is a registered mark of the Public Broadcasting Service and is used by permission. All Rights Reserved. TM & Š 2013 The Jim Henson Company. All Rights Reserved.

Dollars&Sense TIPS FOR FRUGAL FAMILIES

by Kate Wallace

The average American spent

$2,620

eating restaurant food in 2011.

Source: U.S. Dept. of Labor

Do you

Frugal Read The Good Life for Less

?

“Freecycling” is when someone gives (not sells) something she doesn’t need to another person more likely to use that item.

Freecycle.org is a nationwide network made up of more than 5,000 groups that helps folks give and find great stuff. Anthony Le, a member of Atlanta Parent’s advisory board, praises the idea of recycling still-usable items to keep things out of a landfill. Le has turned to a freecycle Yahoo group in his Cobb County area to acquire household items, such as a mattress for his son’s bed. He also freecyled a refrigerator his family outgrew.

To find a group near you, visit freecycle.org.

Ways to

Save

n Turn to the Library Libraries have a wealth of resources – all for free.

E-books, DVDs, audio books and CDs are available for checkout. Before you spend money on a movie rental, check the no-cost offerings at your library. Most libraries let you keep a DVD for about a week. n Buy in Bulk Load up on household items that have no expiration date.

Staples such as trash bags, laundry detergent and paper towels are less expensive when purchased in quantities. Even better, you save time by not having to buy them as often.

12 Atlanta Parent February 2013

by Amy Allen Clark (Perigee-Penguin, $15) Clark aims to help your family make a little money go a long way – something her family had to learn unexpectedly. With tips on smart budgeting, low-cost meal planning and organizing, this book offers creativity and inspiration for the family in a pinch.

Hot Spots where Kids EAT FREE! n Bone Lick BBQ. On Wednesdays, kids 12 and younger can eat free off the kids’ menu. Choose from a variety of items including pulled pork sliders, grilled cheese and more. One meal per paying adult. 1133 Huff Rd., Atlanta. 404-343-6574. n Gary’s Bistro. For dinner on Tuesdays, kids 12 and younger can enjoy a free kids meal with a paid adult meal. 1250 Scenic Hwy., Suite 1240, Lawrenceville. 770-978-1800. n Folks Southern Kitchen. On Tuesdays, kids 12 and younger can choose from a limited kids’ menu. Two kids meals are free with a paid adult entrée. Deal is available throughout the metro area. Visit folkskitchen.com for locations.

App to Download: Ibotta is a new “cash back” iPhone and Android application. Shoppers provide information on products by taking polls and watching videos, then download coupons on products they want, purchase them at participating stores, take a photo of the product, scan the barcode and the coupon amount is loaded into their PayPal account.

Target, Walmart, CVS and Publix are among the growing list of stores participating in the coupon offers. Learn more about this free app at ibotta.com.

atlantaparent.com

Spread Love All Year

Baking goods: Score red and pink spatulas and oven mitts or heart shaped silicone pans for cheap. Also look for cake mixes, icing, sprinkles, food coloring and cupcake liners.

by Rachael Moshman

Toiletries: Look for body wash, lip gloss, lotion,

alentine’s Day is by the far V the best holiday clearance.

Christmas stuff has Santas and

Paper products: Pick up napkins, paper

trees all over it; Halloween has bats, pumpkins, ghosts and witches. These items scream “holiday leftovers!”

Most Valentine’s items – with hearts, love birds and cute animals – can be used all year. They will make friends, coworkers and family members feel special any day. Slip some conversation hearts into your significant other’s pocket or sneak a stuffed toy in your child’s bed before you turn out the lights.

nail polish, soap, toothbrushes and toothpaste in holiday packaging.

Stock Up During Valentine’s Clearance

plates, paper cups and plastic utensils. Pull them out when you’re too tired to deal with washing dishes.

Linens: You can really score big on linens after Valentine’s Day. I’ve come across sheet sets, blankets, throw pillows, towels and washcloths.

My daughter loves the pink heart bedding set I snagged for 70 percent off.

Photo frames:

Here are the clearance items that are easiest to use all year.

Food: Foods with Valentine’s packaging are usually on clearance after the holiday. I’ve scored Oreos, graham crackers, fruit snacks, popcorn and granola bars – all great snacks for my daughter’s lunchbox. I’ve even used coupons with some of these items, making them free or close to it.

I bought several pink frames after Valentine’s Day for a baby shower gift. They were less than a dollar each and looked adorable in the nursery for my friend’s baby girl.

You also can repaint the frames or use them for a craft project.

Cont’d on page 14

atlantaparent.com

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 13

Does your child have Asthma???

Spread Love All Year Clothing: Adorable

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.

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

tights, T-shirts, pajamas, leggings, socks and tutus are often available after V-Day. I bought love-themed underwear for my husband one year. A selection of costume jewelry is also usually on clearance.

Valentine’s cards: I once bought 10 boxes of Valentine’s cards for a dime each. However, I wasn’t interested in the cards. Each box contained 24 pencils. That was 240 pencils for a buck. Other boxes contained candy, rubber bracelets, temporary tattoos and seed packets.

Toys: Stock up on coloring books, die cast cars, small dolls and action figures. Use them as stocking stuffers next Christmas, to supplement birthday gifts or to fill Easter baskets.

Candy: Funsize bags of candy are great for school parties. The candy can also be used in birthday party treat bags or Easter baskets. If you can’t get past the love-inspired wrappers, use the chocolate to bake cookies, brownies and other treats.

Start checking stores that sell Valentine’s items on Feb. 15. Ask the store manager for the markdown schedule. Some stores offer discounts as much as 90 percent off the week after Valentine’s Day. Think how loved your kids will feel on the first day of summer when they wake up to a heart-shaped muffins served on paper plates of the same shape. Valentine’s clearance lets you add an extra dose of love everyday all year long, for pennies on the dollar. c

14 Atlanta Parent February 2013

atlantaparent.com

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V

by Ellen Notbohm

alentine’s Day will come and go this year, and will make 20-something times I will not have received a Valentine from my husband.

He has a long-standing allergy to what he calls “commercially mandated” holidays, declaring that he doesn’t “need Hallmark to tell me how and when to love my wife.” And I really don’t care because 365 days a year, he shows his love in dozens of ways.

It isn’t that I don’t care about hearing those “three little words.” Who doesn’t? My son Bryce has autism, and when he was young and only minimally verbal, I had my blue moments wondering if I might never hear “I love you” from him. But when the day finally did come – oh my! Those

three little words were not whispered in my ear or crayoned on a card, but announced at a school assembly. The students were supposed to describe themselves as a dictionary entry with three definitions. The typical definitions were along the lines of soccer player, math whiz, love to draw, etc. Bryce’s definition of himself was “someone who loves my parents.” It was, of course, a moment that completely redefined the word “unforgettable.”

When a child struggles with verbal language, social communication or emotional issues as many children do, it gives new meaning to old clichés like “actions speak louder than words” and “a picture is worth a thousand words.” We may shower our kids daily – hourly! – with the words “I love you,” but after all, the glory of love is its infinite abstraction.

We can’t assume that children will ascribe the same meaning to the word as we do, no matter how often they hear it.

The good thing about growing older is that your kids grow older too. One day they emerge from childhood and pre-adolescence (“pukey pubes” as one friend good-naturedly calls them) and, rather than telling you all that you do wrong, they begin to tell you everything that you did right. My son Connor is 20 now and Bryce is nearing 16, and they tell me that although they certainly heard those three little words “I love you” from me on an ad nauseum basis, it was a number of other three-word phrases and the actions that accompanied them that really imprinted the I-love-you message on their hearts.

“I’ll be there.”

At the hoary age of 11, Connor got up at his grandfather’s funeral and told 200 people that his “Grandpa was all about devotion. He was at every baseball game, every birthday party.” He’ll be able to say the same thing about us when the time comes. To us it was the most natural thing in the world, not an imposition at all, that we would be at every ball game, every swim meet, every Halloween parade, every

3

Little Words

16 Atlanta Parent February 2013

. . .and not just “I love you” atlantaparent.com

school performance, art show and parent conference.

Also for every nasty doctor appointment, call from the principal, broken window and broken heart. I’m sure we put in thousands upon thousands of hours being there, but those years flew by and what we are left with now is kids who may not remember their bygone teammates or birthday presents or illnesses, but do remember that their parents were always, always there for them.

frequently), my children learned that, not only will the world not come to an end with such an admission, but that trying again and/or making amends can feel great.

“I was wrong.”

“I am sorry.”

So many people find it terribly difficult to say these three little words, and yet nothing is more loving than giving your children the gift of being content with their own humanity. By freely admitting when you are wrong, you are modeling strength, grace and humility. These are learned skills that we cannot assume will come naturally to our children. For some children, all errors come in only one size: colossal! By freely admitting when I was wrong (which was

This cousin of “I was wrong” has been immortalized in music, film and print.

Elton John got it right with his song Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word and the movie Love Story got it wrong with its idiotic premise that “love means never having to say you’re sorry.” I recently read a magazine article entitled 50 Things You Need to Know by 50. One of them was, how to say you’re sorry. OHMIGOSH!! Pardon me, but in an ideal world, this is something

 The good thing about growing older is that your kids grow older too. 

everyone would know how to do by age 5, not 50! This skill most certainly will not drop out of the sky for your child.

Teach him through your own actions and words that love means learning to say you are sorry when you have honestly wronged someone, intentionally or not.

“Let’s read together.”

We all parent from our own experience, whether we (for better or worse) emulate our own parents or consciously choose a different way. My parents read to me every night and so I did the same with my kids; it was like breathing to me. In my naivety, I assumed all parents read to their kids every night and, in my naivety, was mightily stunned to find it was not so. But it’s one thing my kids refer back to almost daily, endlessly quoting favorite lines from the books we read all those years. And how fondly they remember that good-nights were always said at bedside – never, ever called up the stairs from the phone or the TV room.

Cont’d on page 18

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February 2013 Atlanta Parent 17

3

Little Words

“I’m Connor’s mom.”

Connor swam varsity at Wilson High School for four years. Each year the kids and parents ordered team sweatshirts with customized printing on the back. Most chose clever nicknames, but I chose the three little words, I’M CONNOR’S MOM. I could never have imagined the response this would bring.

People would (and still do) walk up to me and say, “Hi! And how is Connor these days?” It took me a while to figure out that these were strangers; they didn’t know Connor or me.

But they all told me they adored the walking “I love you” billboard that was my sweatshirt.

Even now, my son warns people not to mess with me because “she’s Connor’s mom!”

 My boys remember that

good-nights were always said at bedside – never, ever called up the stairs.



“Just be yourself.”

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Three little words. We say them, we hear them, we live them, we re-live them. Writing this column has been a joy for me, recalling a lifetime of love expressed so many threelittle-word ways. But I saved the best for last, the three little words I whispered – and still whisper -- in my boys’ little ears at the end of each and every day.

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18 Atlanta Parent February 2013

Connor and Bryce have both told me that these three little words were the most important ones of all. As children grow older, they mingle with more and different kinds of families, and they begin to be able to place themselves in the context of the larger world. My kids heard “just be yourself” enough to ultimately learn that whatever their doubts about themselves and their various limitations, they have the power to decide whether to be their own best friend or their own worst enemy. That’s a power no superhero can touch.

Ellen Notbohm is author of the best-selling Ten Things Every Child with Autism Wishes You Knew and three other award-winning books on autism. www.ellennotbohm.com . atlantaparent.com

Will You Be My

Valentine?

A Fool-Proof Guide to Planning a DaddyDaughter Date That She’ll Remember Forever

by Greg Wright

W

ith Valentine’s Day right around the corner, men across the country are starting to sweat over how to impress the special lady in their lives. If you think this sounds like a challenge, try having four special ladies to impress.

In my house, I make sure to set aside time on Valentine’s Day to show each of my four teenage daughters how much they mean to me.

My girls and I have an understanding: no dating until college. I think a lot of girls can get wrapped up in the idea that Valentine’s Day is all about having a boyfriend. I try to show my daughters that it isn’t just about boyfriends; Valentine’s Day is about love, and showing the family and friends you love that you care about them.

If you’re a dad looking for a way to connect with your daughter, my advice is to seize the opportunity of this Valentine’s Day to remind her how special she is to you. If you’re feeling clueless as to how to pull off an awesome “date with Dad” that she’ll remember forever, here are a few tips to help make your outing a success. By the way: Don’t neglect to give her flowers.

Get to Know Her

Get Crafty

Connect

Spend a little time doing homework in the time leading up to your date. Bear in mind your daughter’s interests. What does she like to do? When she goes out with friends, try to find out not only what activities she’s engaged in (this should be a no-brainer) but why she likes those activities. Then, plan a date that caters to her interests. It’s important that you plan something that she actually wants to do!

Nothing can replace the time you spend with your daughter, but you can definitely score some extra points by giving her a thoughtful, homemade card. Don’t be afraid to let out your inner artist (even if it’s just a simple drawing).

Show her that you put some effort into making the card and include a nice note describing what you admire about her and how proud of her you are. She might tease you for being dorky, but chances are she’ll hold on to it and remember those words in the future. If nothing else, the time and effort you put into making the card will show her that you truly care.

While on your date, give your daughter your undivided attention. This means a date with no cellphone use for either of you. Focus on her face and soak up every word. During your date, strive for your daughter to do about 80 percent of the talking. You should ask open-ended, non-confrontational questions. Make sure that she doesn’t feel like you’re probing or overstepping your boundaries; just let her know that you have a genuine, vested interest in finding out what makes her tick.

Make it formal Call your daughter, and ask if she’d like to be your valentine and accompany you on a special night out. Dress up for your date, pick her up on time and knock on your own front door, even if that’s a little cheesy. Bring her a rose, and open the car door for her. All of these seemingly small gestures teach your daughter that this is what they should expect from other boys down the road. If you set the standard high, she’ll be more likely to stay away from the losers who show up late and honk the horn from the street.

Be a Man with a Plan If you’re planning on going out to dinner on Valentine’s Day, definitely make a reservation.

The last thing you want is for your daughter to think this was some last-minute, thrown-together shindig. Have a plan; let your daughter know where you’re going and what you’ll be doing so she’ll know what to wear. I always bring along a sweater in the car for my girls too, just in case.

Young women feel special when effort has been made on their behalf.

The important thing to remember on a daddy-daughter Valentine’s Day date is that the goal is to show your girl what it feels like when a fella truly has her best interests at heart. You, as a Dad, can set the standard for how your daughter will expect men to treat her later on down the road. Special, quality time spent with your daughter on days like this will help her grow into a strong, confident woman, one that will demand the respect she deserves for the rest of her life. c

– Greg Wright is the author of Daddy Dates: A Road Map for Any Dad to Raise a Strong and Confident Daughter. atlantaparent.com

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 19

How

Yummy!

It’s the season to be a little sweet, especially to the ones you love. Consider popping into a bakery with your child for a chance to sit and linger over a muffin, brownie or pastry – and maybe a cup of tea or cocoa.

Bakeries come in many styles. Our roundup features five places to go with your kids that promise an array of specialty baked goods.

Alon’s Intown: 1394 N. Highland Ave., Atlanta; 404-872-6000 Dunwoody: 4505 Ashford Dunwoody Rd. NE, Atlanta; 678-397-1781 alons.com Mon.-Fri., 7 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat., 8 a.m.-9 p.m.

Close your eyes when you walk into Alon’s. Breathe in the smell of freshly baked bread, artisan cheeses and burnt sugar. But don’t leave them closed for long – someone will run into you. This place is busy. And if you’ve ever eaten here, you know why. The food, especially the desserts and pastries, is incredible.

Alon’s is a bakery, restaurant, coffee shop and specialty market all rolled into one. The original Virginia-Highland location has limited indoor seating and is smaller than the Dunwoody location, which offers an expanded menu including gelato. Both stores have many gluten-free and vegetarian options.

Alon’s is just the place for a foodie family’s Valentine’s Day celebration.

Valentine’s Day at Alon’s is all about chocolate, says assistant manager Mitch Morrow. Here’s where you can pick up a box of decadent, handmade chocolates in beautiful packaging for anyone on your list, including little ones.

Specialties like raspberry rose chocolates are sure to be a hit, but if chocolate isn’t your sweetie’s favorite, there are buttery cookies, luscious desserts and flaky pastries. Colorful French macaroons in elegant boxes are almost too beautiful to eat.

If you want to celebrate Valentine’s Day at home, pick up a roll of Alon’s ready-made cookie dough, which also makes a great teacher or co-worker gift. – Sherry Crawley.

20 Atlanta Parent February 2013

Henri’s Bakery Buckhead: 61 Irby Ave. NW, Atlanta; 404-237-0202 Sandy Springs: 6289 Roswell Rd. NE, Atlanta; 404-256-7934 henrisbakery.com; Mon.-Sat., 7 a.m.-6 p.m No matter what part of the ATL you’re in, you’re never too far from the iconic Henri’s Bakery located in Buckhead and Sandy Springs. Atlanta party planners have called upon the exquisite taste temptations of Henri’s for over a century. Henri’s is French flair infused with Southern style. One taste and you’ll be ready to plan a party yourself!

The special “trip to the bakery” tradition lives on at Henri’s and seasonal treats abound. Remember how much fun it was to be rewarded with a treat from the bakery case as Mom or Dad stopped by for that special loaf of onion bread or chocolate babka? Valentine’s Day decadence doesn’t get any better than Henri’s original French desserts such as the seven-layer pyramid, crème puffs, perfect petit fours or chocolate dipped strawberries.

But it’s the shimmering sugar cookies that are a hit with the kiddies that visit Henri’s. Besides an array of French pastries, you’ll find all sorts of breads, cakes, tarts, and treats ranging from cinnamon twists and macaroons to an array of Mediterranean cookies.

Henri’s also serves breakfast and lunch sandwiches – don’t miss the classic pimento cheese! – on freshly baked bread.

Parents can enjoy a hot beverage from the espresso bar. Seating is available both indoors and out. Breakfast, lunch or afternoon treat, Henri’s is an Atlanta tradition! – Dana diLorenzo

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Southern Sweets Bakery 186 Rio Circle, Decatur; 404-373-8752; facebook.com/mysouthernsweetsbakery Mon., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Tues.-Fri., 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat.-Sun.,10 a.m.-4 p.m.

No, you are not lost. Tucked away in the corner of an industrial-looking brick building not far from the DeKalb Farmer’s Market is Southern Sweets Bakery. It can be a little hard to find, but trust the locals – it’s well worth the hunt.

You’ve likely eaten a treat from the Southern Sweets kitchen and didn’t even know it. Opened in 1992, owner Nancy Cole’s bakery supplies dozens of area restaurants with decadent cakes, pies and goodies made from high-quality ingredients. It’s hard to nail down just one specialty – ask anyone in the line at the counter and they’ll probably each have a different favorite. From dense, creamy cheesecake and apple pie so good there aren’t words to describe it, to spicy-sweet gingerbread pound cake, each trip to Southern Sweets can make

you change your answer. The “just a slice” portions are so generous that you’ll wonder how in the world you’ll ever eat it all – but trust me, you will.

Weekend manager Sanja Filipovic says the old-fashioned chocolate cake, which happens to be vegan is a standout. For Valentine’s Day, a heart-shaped version of this luscious, dark confection (just the right size for two), is coated in chocolate ganache and drizzled with white chocolate.

Serving breakfast and lunch along with treats in a laid-back atmosphere, Southern Sweets is a perfect place for a family-friendly Valentine’s Day. Gluten-free options and vegan treats are so good you won’t know the difference. – S.C.

Sugar Cakes Patisserie 101 North Park Square, Marietta; 770-218-9994; sugarcakespatisserie.com Tues.-Thurs., 7 a.m.-5 p.m.; Fri., 7 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat., 8 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

Located on the Marietta Square and surrounded by quaint and quirky shops, Sugar Cakes Patisserie is an ideal spot to celebrate Valentine’s Day, family style. Snag a sunny window seat in this bright and bustling bakery and try not to drool as you peer into the glass cases filled with tempting treats. Owner and pastry chef Ted Arpon has three kids of his own, so he knows how to please younger patrons. He says kids love the giant cookies that are always available – oatmeal raisin is his favorite. Strawberry cupcakes made with fresh berries taste, well, fresh; éclairs with a beautifully generous coating of rich chocolate are decadent; and buttery tarts adorned with

colorful fruit are creamy and bright.

For an extra-special Valentine’s treat to share, try the velvety Mirage Cake, a house specialty of not-too-sweet hazelnut and chocolate goodness smothered in glossy, gooey ganache. This year, trendy French macaroons will also be available for your Valentine.

Open since 2006, Sugar Cakes offers a full breakfast and lunch menu (think crème brulee French toast and chicken salad on a fresh croissant) including gluten-free confections and options for vegetarians, all at reasonable prices and with friendly service.

– S.C.

McEntyre’s Bakery 1184 Concord Road, Ste. 1, Smyrna; 770-434-3115; mcentyresbakery.com Tues.-Fri., 6:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 6:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

A favorite in the Smyrna-Vinings area since the 1940s, family-owned and operated McEntyre’s Bakery is a surefire pleaser of palates. A trio of McEntyre men (Steve plus sons Brandon and Ryan) mix, bake and decorate five days a week to fill several expansive bakery cases with made-from-scratch cakes, pies, cupcakes, donuts, pastries, cookies and breads. Yep, those almost-too-beautiful-to-eat wedding cakes, birthday cakes, and intricately decorated cookies are the handiwork of some of the nicest guys you’ll ever meet!

The hand-decorated shortbread cookies featuring fun, seasonal designs are not only beautiful; they are melt-in-your-mouth delicious. The most popular kiddie treat is the “dough boy,” a decorated donut in the shape of a gingerbread man.

The Strawberry Dream Cake (or cupcake) is a Valentine’s Day (or any time) tradition for many families. Be sure to peruse the “ready to take home” case, where you will find McEntyre’s original butterice rolls. McEntyre’s also offers homemade soups, sandwiches and party trays. The picture (and specials) posted on McEntyre’s Bakery Facebook page has resulted in my family piling into the car to make an unplanned visit. Put McEntyre’s on your “must-visit” list! – D.D.

atlantaparent.com

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 21

For the Season of

Sweetness & Hearts There’s lots of ways to say I Love You. You could bake up some “I Love You” cookies, for example.

Celebrate the season of Cupid with this simple recipe and fun crafts to make for your Valentines.

♥ Recipe

Chocolate-Cherry Layered Cupcakes 1 box devil’s food cake mix Water, vegetable oil and eggs called for on cake mix box 1/2 tsp. almond extract, if desired 1 can (21 oz.) cherry pie filling 2 containers (4 oz. each) vanilla pudding 1 container chocolate frosting Heat oven to 350°F (325°F for dark or nonstick pans). Make and bake cake mix as directed on box for 24 cupcakes, adding almond extract to batter. Cool in pans 10 minutes; remove from pans to cooling racks. Cool completely, about 30 minutes.

Just before serving, remove paper baking cups. Cut cupcake in half horizontally with serrated knife. On bottom half of cupcake, spoon 1 tablespoon cherry pie filling; top with 2 teaspoons vanilla pudding. Replace top of cupcake.

Spoon frosting into small microwavable bowl. Microwave uncovered on high 30 seconds. Stir thoroughly until very soft and smooth, microwaving 5 to 15 seconds longer if necessary. Spoon 1 tablespoon frosting over top of cupcake. Top with 1 cherry from pie filling.

Repeat steps 2 and 3 with remaining cupcakes. Serve immediately.

Source: pillsbury.com

22 Atlanta Parent February 2013

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♥ Crafts

Lollipop Butterfly

This is a easy craft to make with a young child, who will be proud to give the finished product to her friends.

All you need is construction paper in red or pink and white, scissors, tape, glue and lollipops. Cut out two hearts of the same size from red/pink paper and four decorative smaller hearts out of white paper. Glue or tape the two big hearts together with the tips overlapping to make the butterfly wings. Add the smaller decorative hearts to the wings. Tape the wings to the lollipop and you have a cute Valentine for your child and classmates.

Valentine’s Day: It’s in the bag Have some “wordplay” fun with this simple craft that combines a note and a treat inside.

Here are just a few ideas to get you started, but try being “punny” yourself. For example, buy small plastic shovel (such as one for the beach), and put it in a clear plastic goodie bag, along with some Valentine’s candies, such as red and pink M&Ms, and a note that says “I Dig You!”. There are no rules here; just have some fun with this project. It’s always wise to be sure your child’s school does not have any treat restrictions.

Some Favorites (just to get you thinking): n “Wishing you an o-fish-al Valentine’s Day” (put Goldfish or Swedish Fish in the bag) n “Glad we’re in the same school” (Goldfish or Swedish Fish) n “I Wheelie Like You” (add a Hot Wheels car) What you need: Clear plastic treat bag Filler candy Ties (ribbons or baggie ties work great) Your imagination – Compiled by Kirsten Gromatzky and Jordan Lisvosky

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Our primary purpose is to show how much “We Care”in a pleasant surrounding with courtesy and understanding.

Cheryl Jones Kendall, MD, FAAP

• New Patients Welcome • Accepting Most Insurance Plans • Medical care for children Birth to 21 1422 E. Cleveland Ave. East Point, 30344

Terrie Dixon, PA-C

404-766-3337

www.WeCarePediatric.com February 2013 Atlanta Parent 23

by Janet Penn

ACROSS THE GREAT DIVERSITY DIVIDE Help Your Kids Connect with Those Who Are Different

24 Atlanta Parent February 2013

W

e live in a rapidly globalizing world. Chances are your kids go to school with and will one day work with people from a wide array of races, beliefs and backgrounds. If they can connect across these cultural differences, they’ll be far more likely to lead successful lives. You can’t collaborate and innovate if you can’t get beyond surface relationships. These are tough skills that are typically not taught in school.

Most of us know that cross-cultural acceptance is necessary and desirable. But that sentiment does little to cause real change in behavior. Kids need exposure and practice – exposure to people from other cultures and practice in discussing sensitive issues in a level-headed manner.

Youth LEAD provides both. This nonprofit organization based in Sharon, Mass., engages a diverse group of area high school students to inspire them to reflect upon their cultural values and beliefs, connect with others across differences, and act together to address local and global challenges. These young people – teens from diverse religious, ethnic and racial backgrounds – form friendships while learning valuable skills on civil dialogue, leadership, cooperation and more.

How can we parents foster these traits in our own kids? It’s about seizing “teachable moments” and creating more of those opportunities for our kids. For example:

Strive to Get Out of Your Own “Comfort Zone” When kids see that you socialize only with others just like you, they will question your credibility. You don’t have to go to absurd lengths to create your own “rainbow” of friends – that will seem fake and contrived – but your kids need to see that you’re not “rigid.”

Reach out and introduce yourself to someone new. You might make an effort to befriend the Muslim parent of your child’s classmate or the Jewish parent of his soccer teammate. Let the relationship unfold naturally and accept any invitations, especially those that include the kids.

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Don’t Avoid Controversial Topics

Connecting Across Cultures

When a subject that makes you uncomfortable comes up in conversation, especially with someone who holds a different viewpoint, don’t do the subject-change tango. Instead, model the “healthy” way to disagree.

Here are a few techniques Youth LEAD uses in its dialogue training classes: n Use “I” statements to personalize thoughts and feelings. Let’s say, for example, that you get pulled into a discussion with someone who adamantly opposes homosexuals serving in the military: “I find it upsetting when I hear inflammatory statements about gay people joining the military. I have great respect for anyone who puts his or her life on the line for our country.” Using “I” statements prevents the conversation from becoming accusatory. n Ask the right questions. This will help you get to the heart of others’ principles and beliefs.

You might ask, “What about your life experience has influenced your beliefs?” n Remain silent long enough to listen.

The other person will see that you do care about what they have to say. You might not be able to reach agreement, but you can attain mutual respect. c For more information, visit youthleadonline.org.

Use these tips to help your kids understand different races, cultures, beliefs and religions:

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n Watch the news with your children. When you see a story that centers on a cultural issue, discuss it. n If you witness an episode of cultural or racial insensitivity, take a stand. You might gently say to the perpetrator, “Perhaps you don’t know how hurtful your words can be.” n Seek out opportunities to take kids on a “faith” field trip. Attending a worship service of a faith different from your own can be an educational and enriching experience. n If finances allow, make plans to vacation in another country. Visiting an ethnic section of a nearby city can be a good substitute. n Host a foreign exchange student. This is a good way to expose kids to the customs, traditions, languages and culture of another country. n Encourage kids to join organizations that bring different cultures together to interact and learn from each other. n Scan Atlanta Parent, and newspapers and community calendars for cultural and multicultural events. Many communities, nonprofit organizations, worship centers and schools host events that are free or open to families at low cost.

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 25

Black History Reads Larger than Life: Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela Atlanta Parent interviews award-winning artist Kadir Nelson, who honors the civil rights heroes in two new children’s books

by Julie Bookman

Photo by David Harrison

M

ichael Jackson, Michael Jordon, Harriet Tubman, Coretta Scott King, Jackie Robinson, Duke Ellington, the Negro League Baseball, the Underground Railroad . . .

Those are just some of the individuals and subjects that have been brought to dramatic life by Kadir Nelson. An oil painter, Nelson has been awarded two Caldecott Honors.

His body of work in children’s literature provides an overview of the African-American experience.

This season brings us two titles: I Have a Dream: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (Schwartz & Wade Books/ Random House, $18.99), and Nelson Mandela (Katherine Tegen Books/HarperCollins, $17.99). The text for the first title is comprised of excerpts from Dr. King’s famous 1963 speech; the book includes a CD recording of the speech, and the full speech appears at the back of the book.

Nelson wrote the text for the Mandela book, taking the long and exceptional life story of the South African who spent more than 65 years struggling for social justice and trimming it into small bits of poetic, compelling text.

Atlanta Parent had the opportunity to speak with artist Nelson by phone from his home in San Diego. Here are highlights of our conversation: AP: Why did you decide to do a children’s picture book based on King’s “I Have a Dream” speech?

KN: I wanted to bring this magnificent speech to life in a way that had not been done before. It had been done before as a collaborative thing with multiple artists, but I wanted to bring it to life in my own way to pay homage to Dr. King and help celebrate the 50th anniversary of his speech.

AP: Both new books feature incredibly dramatic paintings of your subjects; King’s and Mandela’s faces sometimes fill an entire page – and

these pages are big. Was that a decision from the start, to make them appear larger than life?

KN: With any project of mine, there’s no predetermination that it is going to look this way or that. I just go off of what I feel and see and read and hear. The magnitude of [Dr. King’s] speech is so powerful, there wasn’t any choice but to create paintings that had the same impact and spirit. Like Dr. King, Nelson Mandela was a bold and beautiful figure in our history, so that’s what the art needed to be for both subjects.

AP: What’s your reaction to hearing that you have been called a Norman Rockwell of modern times, or a Norman Rockwell for the African-American audience?

KN: I’ve heard that said before and I consider it an honor, because he was a great artist and illustrator. Some people would say his images were focused on an idealized version of American life, but later in his career he became more edgy. But I think we’ve been compared because he was a great visual storyteller and I also tell stories with my art. I just happened to have different parents.

AP: So, with the Mandela book, did you enjoy the process of being both artist and writer?

KN: Defintitely, definitely. That is the route I will take from here, most likely.

I enjoy having control over both sides of it. It’s a more cohesive process and I don’t have to worry about how can I get the author to trim the text so there’s more space for the art. I can do that myself, trim it down to its barest bones.

More New Children’s Titles for Black History Month n Tea Cakes for Tosh

n Fifty Cents and a Dream: Young

by Kelly Starling Lyons (Penguin Young Readers Group, $16.99) Ages 5-8 Go back in time with a young boy named Tosh and his grandmother, Honey, who tells captivating stories from the slavery era as she bakes the Southern delicacy called tea cakes for him. These edible delights brought hope to youngsters, symbolizing the “taste of sweet freedom.” A simple tea cake recipe is included.

Booker T. Washington

by Jabari Asim (Little, Brown and Company, $16.99) Ages 5-8 We embark on an inspirational journey in this true story of Booker T. Washington and his quest for higher education. Witness Washington’s thirst for knowledge as a youngster during slavery, his perseverance in learning to read after emancipation and his fulfillment of his lifelong dream of obtaining a college degree.

26 Atlanta Parent February 2013

Three more books your child will love: n Brick by Brick by Charles

R. Smith Jr. (Amistad, $17.99); slaves build the White House and change their future. n In the Land of Milk

and Honey by Joyce Carol Thomas (Amistad, $16.99); a family moves west in 1948, for opportunity. n You Never Heard of Willie

Mays?! by Jonah Winter and Terry Widener (Schwartz & Wade Books, $17.99); the first black major league baseball star changes the game.

atlantaparent.com

Reader Essay

My Child’s First Lesson in Civil Rights

I

recently took my four-year-old daughter Micah to visit the Martin Luther King Jr. district in the Sweet Auburn neighborhood.

While waiting for the next guided tour of Dr. King’s Birth Home, we strolled over to the reflecting pool and the eternal flame near his gravesite. As we gazed into the pool, I was inspired to share with my daughter just some of the great things Dr. King accomplished during his lifetime.

Many years ago when Dr. King was a child, I told her, he could not play with little kids who did not look like him. I added that because of Dr. King, today you are able to have lots of different friends, and you can be anything you want to be in this world!

As we continued our exploration, my toddler was excited to see the eternal flame, which symbolizes the need to keep Dr. King’s dream alive for all people.

Some 700,000 visitors come to the historic district each year to draw inspiration from his life. There were many people from all over the world visiting the day we were there, and we stood with them to share a moment at the flame. They too had come to learn about Dr. King and his non-violent work for social justice.

When it came time for our home tour, we checked in at Historic Fire Station No. 6.

This firehouse was not integrated when Dr. King was a young Fun Fact child, but like most kids, he Dr. King attended would visit the firehouse to Booker T. Washington High School, but see the fire engines. There’s never graduated. He a restored 1934 fire engine entered Morehouse inside it today – the same College at age 15 engine that Dr. King would and graduated have seen as a young child. in 1948.

Now part of the King Historic Site, the old fire station is just down the street from the King Birth Home. All the homes in this section of Auburn Avenue have been restored to the 1930s era. It’s an amazing experience: to be walking here with your child, knowing that the neighborhood looks very much like it did when Dr. King lived on the street.

You cannot help but be struck by the charm and beauty of the King family’s Victorian-era home. On Jan. 15, 1929, young Martin King was born in this house. He lived here with his parents, grandmother,

Micah was fascinated by a tour of the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, particularly with the eternal flame near his gravesite and his boyhood home.

older sister Willie Christine King and younger brother Alfred Daniel Williams King until he was 12.

This was a happy home, with lots of family and visitors from the local Ebenezer Baptist church congregation, where young Martin’s grandfather and father preached. It was easy to feel the warmth and happiness that radiated from the home. The tour includes the formal areas of the home, which holds the original piano that the King children played – complete with one broken key. Upstairs, you can see the bedrooms, including the room young Martin shared with his brother – a typical boys’ room with wooden race cars on the floor and even a Monopoly game.

One thing that my daughter pointed out on the tour was the white doll on the bed in the room that had belonged to Dr. King’s sister Christine. During that time there were no black dolls, but today my daughter is able to have dolls that look like her, something we were reminded of as she carried her new Doc McStuffins doll on the tour.

Dr. King and the life he lived are so very different from today, but because of his work, dedication and leadership, we are still reaping the rewards of his labor.

The light of his work continues to shine. I encourage you to take some time to visit the King Birth Home.

My daughter and I are already looking forward to our next visit. c – Caren Davis Lightfoot is a member of Atlanta Parent’s parent advisory board. Follow Caren on Twitter @dailytoddler.

Many years ago when Dr. King was a child he could not play with little kids who did not look like him. Because of Dr. King, today you are able to have lots of different friends, and you can be anything you want to be in this world!

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site 459 Auburn Avenue, NE, Atlanta 404-331-5190; nps.gov/malu

To submit a personal essay for consideration in Atlanta Parent, send your essay to editor@atlantaparent.com. atlantaparent.com

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 27

It’s time to find a summer camp

2 O OVERNIGHT 1 3 CAMP GUIDE

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February 2013 Atlanta Parent 29

Is My Child Ready for

Overnight Camp?

To help parents determine whether their child is ready for an overnight camp experience, Atlanta Parent turned to the experts: directors of overnight camps in this region.

by Julie Bookman

Q: A:

When are most kids “ready” for an overnight camp – and why?

Kids who say they want to go to camp and who have already spent overnight time away from home (such as at a friend’s or grandmother’s house), are more likely to enjoy the camping experience and engage more readily, our experts agree. Camp Thunderbird, for example, accepts campers as young as 6 for one-week sessions. Camp Westminster, says Rogers, has developed a three-night “mini session” for first-time campers who have never been away from home for more than a night. “It introduces them to a similar, though shorter version of the full overnight camp experience,” says Rogers, “but with a higher counselor to camper ratio.”

“Most parents can tell when their child is ready for sleep away camp when they ask to go to camp,” says Lori Waldman of Blue Ridge Camp. Besides having some experience spending a night away from parents, she adds that kids “should absolutely be able to care for their hygiene on their own.”

Camp Thunderbird

Q: A:

How can parents help ensure that a camp is the right fit for a child?

Parents should gather as much information as they can, Rogers says. There’s lots to learn by going online and by attending open house tours at prospective camps.

Lori and Joey Waldman of Blue Ridge Camp suggest that parents make a list of what they are looking for in a camp and then prioritize.

For example: Are you looking for a small camp where the owners are on site and available, or do the specific activities matter most? Parents should speak or meet with camp directors and ask for references from other families that have attempted the camp.

The “most valuable indicator of a camp’s quality,” Rogers says, “is often the word-of-mouth testimony of campers and parents” who have already experienced a particular camp. “Try to find others from your church or community who have attended a camp you’re interested in.”

Hats off to these friendly sources for helping us with this story:

Andy Rogers, director, Camp Wesminster in Conyers, Ga.

Kappy Kelly and Nancy Brim, co-directors of Camp Juliette Low in Cloudland, Ga.

30 Atlanta Parent February 2013

Fred Reyes, camps and recreation director of Deer Run Camps and Retreats in Thompson’s Station, Tenn.

Lori and Joey Waldman, co-directors of Blue Ridge Camp in Mountain City, Ga.

Kaye Carraway, associate resident camp director for YMCA Camp Thunderbird in Lake Wylie, S.C.

atlantaparent.com

Q: A:

Why is going away from home good for a child?

It’s “the ultimate destiny of the great majority of children,” Rogers says.

Kids “seek and need to exercise a growing independence from their parents.” Overnight camp provides “great opportunity to practice those elements of independence that parents have been teaching, while in a safe, structured environment and in the care of a well-trained and helpful counseling staff.” To boot, camp provides “challenging activities designed to encourage and develop young minds and bodies.”

Carraway of Camp Thunderbird points out several ways overnight camps benefit kids; these include “developing a sense of independence, developing and practicing decision-making skills, learning to work cooperatively with others, learning to make friends, and developing responsibility.

Q: A:

How does a camp experience help a youngster develop character and responsibility?

An excellent staff exemplifies good character and behavior traits, says Reyes. “Campers will be taught to care for themselves and their belongings as well as look out for others in their group.”

Attending a sleep-away camp, says Kelly, “helps children learn how to form positive relationships with one another – often through trial and error. While attending a camp, children are forced to problem-solve while sharing a living space.”

Camp encourages kids to interact well and work together to accomplish tasks, adds Rogers. “Children need to witness and be a part of sound social interaction. They not only experience the differences and similarities of other individuals, but also have an opportunity to practice the life skills they’ve been taught in a real-world environment.”

Q:

Can you discuss a common concern that parents have when they are deciding whether their youngster is ready to be away from home for a week or two – or longer?

A:

One of the more common concerns, says Brim of Camp Juliette Low, is whether a camper should bring a friend with her “and if she does not bring a friend, will she meet anyone nice?” Brim says that she and Kelly always tell parents that while coming to camp with a friend may help a camper’s comfort level, if a camper does not come with a friend, “she will have one by lunch on the first day” and likely will “have a different one by dinner! If she wants to make friends, she will, because opportunities abound.” atlantaparent.com

Camp Wesminster

Q: A:

What advice do you find your self giving parents most often?

“Let them go . . . let them have fun,” Brim says. Yes, they will miss you, “but they are also having a whole lot of fun, meeting a lot of new people, and learning new things. Being the person left at home is not nearly as fun as being the person at camp!”

Indeed, the parent is often more homesick than their child away at camp, adds Kelly.

“Many parents want to call and talk with the child while their child is attending camp,” she says. But when the parent talks to a camper on the phone, it can bring on homesickness.

She and Brim advise parents to “shower their children with letters or emails instead of interrupting their fun with a phone call.”

Advice that Rogers gives most often: “Children are usually much more ready for a week at camp than we think they are, and often far more ready for the experience than the parent is.”

Adds Reyes of Deer Run Camps: If parents believe their child is ready, they should do everything in their power to affirm, encourage, and support their child’s camp experience.

Q: A:

How do you deal with a first- time camper who has a tough case of homesickness at camp?

Homesickness, says Rogers, is viewed as “a great opportunity for one-onone interaction and relationship development.

Our staff is trained in various ways of helping campers communicate and work through their concerns while lovingly keeping them occupied and moving toward an end to their

homesickness.” Camp directors report that most cases of homesickness last only until the camper gets into his daily activity time, and rarely last past the second night of a camp week.

Counselors, Brim says, are constantly engaging campers to talk about their day, their favorite things, what books they are reading, etc. Homesick campers are encouraged to write down all the fun things they have done in a letter home so that their parents can share in the fun. Brim says that on occasion camp directors have called a camper’s home to get a parent’s advice for any techniques to use with the child who’s feeling blue. “Every now and then, all the camper needs is to hear from Mom that everything at home is fine and that Mom and Dad hope she is having a great time.”

Q: A:

Any suggestions for parents to help prevent their child from being a homesick camper?

Help your kids practice making some of the decisions at home that will also be making when at camp, says Carraway. “For instance, parents can allow their children to practice selecting clothing to wear from one day to the next” Parents can help prevent homesickness, she says, by familiarizing their kids with camp routines.

“Children who know what to expect often feel more secure, even when experiencing camp for the first time.” Also, parents should email and/or write letters to children while they are at camp. “Parents are encouraged to express excitement about the experience Cont’d on page 32

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 31

Established 1922

CAMP JULIETTE LOW A to p L o o k o u t M o u n t ai n i n C l o u d land, G A

Outdoor Adventure for Girls ages 7-17 1 & 2 week sessions available June 9 - August 3, 2013 Horseback

Canoeing

Swimming

Dramatics

Ropes Course

Hiking

Crafts

Climbing Wall

Archery

Overnight Camp? being enjoyed by their children.”

Set up the experience well, says Rogers.

“Let your child know you’re excited for them, that you know they will have a great time and that you trust their counselors and the camp. Don’t make promises to them like, ‘If you feel bad, just call me and I’ll come and get you.’ And, don’t send emails loaded with worrisome comments or questions. If your child feels you’re worried or fearful, they’ll look for the reasons you’re concerned and lack confidence in their camp experience.”

Encourage your kids “to be independent and to learn how to lean on themselves,” advises Joey Waldman of Blue Ridge Camp.

Remind your kids that “camp is not forever but it is to have a good time.”

Q: A:

Do you allow campers to use their cellphones, their iPods, their computers, or other electronics?

Sailing Call or E-mail for a Free Brochure or DVD

770-428-1062

Is My Child Ready for

info@cjl.org

www.CJL.org

No, says Rogers. “We focus on relationship in our activities and cabin life. The distractions caused by tech items usually detract from the relationships developed during the campers’ time at camp.” Likewise, Kelly of Camp Juliette Low says that they ask that all electronics be left at home: “Our focus is educating campers about the importance of relationships with nature and other campers.”

At this time, Deer Run Camps does not allow allow phones and other electronic items at camp. The camp does not offer a computer lab nor does it implement electronics into camp programs. Even the staff goes without cell phones at camp. Says Reyes: “We feel it is important, specifically in today’s culture, to disconnect from all distractions for a short period of time. We have seen the benefits and the campers realize they can live a few days without social media.”

Q: A:

How do you deal with the hurt feelings of campers who do not get mail or email from their parents?

“We encourage all parents to make sure their camper receives mail of some type,” says Kelly. “We also encourage the different units at camp to have secret pals.

The different campers write each other and sometimes even give gifts to each other.”

Adds Rogers: “We do our best not to highlight the camper who gets mail or email over those who do not,” Rogers says, “but when we see a camper is greatly concerned about a lack of communication, we may send an email home reminding parents that emails, letters and gift boxes are great ways to enhance the camper experience.” c 32 Atlanta Parent February 2013

atlantaparent.com

CAMP: Start Your Search Now With more than 8,000 overnight camps across the nation to choose from, how do you know which one is right for your child?

Here are some guidelines to help you make the right choice and to get your child ready to have the time of his young life.

10 questions to ask n What is the main focus of the

camp? Is it accredited? n Who owns and manages the camp?

What are his qualifications and how long has he been in charge? Ask for references and call them. n What is the cost of camp per

week or month? Is financial assistance available? n How are the staff screened and

5 research tools

chosen? Is there a medical person on staff? n What is the staff-to-camper ratio?

roof. You can talk with representatives of the camps you’re interested in and gather brochures. (Atlanta Parent’s next expos are 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Feb. 23 at Town Center Mall and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. March 16 at Perimeter Mall.)

A 1:6 ratio is recommended for children ages 7-8; 1:8 for ages 9-14; 1:10 for ages 15-18. Many activities, such as swimming, need ratios of 1:5.

n Research online. Most camps have extensive information and photos

n How many campers are in each

n Go to a camp expo. You’ll find lots of camp information under one

to give you a picture of what camp life is like.

session?

n Ask your family, friends and neighbors. Many of them were

n How are discipline problems

campers themselves or can tell you about their child’s experience at camp.

handled?

n Visit the finalists. If you’re unsure which camp is best, take your child

n What is a typical day at camp

and go for a tour. Some camps have open houses, and you’ll get a good sense of how your kid will spend his week or weeks at camp. Consider starting your search a year in advance and visiting a summer camp in progress to see what goes on.

like? Do campers follow a set schedule, or get to choose activities?

n Get the names of former campers. Camps you’re interested in

n How is homesickness handled?

should be able to help you contact former campers who can tell you what your child can expect.

n What percentage of campers are

return campers?

How do parents stay in touch with their children?

CAMPS & RETREATS PSALM 42:1

Overnight

EARLY N

IO REGISTRAT

DISCOUNT END

S

th

FEB. 28

CAMPS

DEVELOPING

CHARACTER, CONFIDENCE, & INTEGRITY

OVER 100 WOODED ACRES

888.794.2918

Camps.DeerRunRetreat.org

JUST 4 HOURS NORTHWEST OF ATLANTA, NEAR FRANKLIN TENN.

OPEN HOUSE

for CAMPER FAMILIES MARCH 17 • APRIL 14 • MAY 5 2-4 p.m. CST • Come & Go

No Reservations. Walking Tour.

Meet the camp director and some of the 2013 summer staff.

atlantaparent.com

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 33

Special Advertising Section

Atlanta Parent’s Camp Preview Camp Cherokee

Camp Magnolia

ar from everything, yet in your own backyard you will discover Cherokee Retreat Center.

Located on 100 acres of beautifully forested land with more than two miles of Lake Allatoona shoreline, Cherokee Retreat Center is Cherokee Presbytery of Northwest Georgia’s Summer Camp and year round retreating facility.

Cherokee Retreat Center and its entire staff seek to create opportunities for Christian growth while living in a caring, safe, fun Christian community and environment.

With God’s guidance, Cherokee Retreat Center seeks to play a positive role in nurturing children, youth and adult’s faith in Jesus Christ, through creative Bible study, worship, interacting with creation, encouraging self-awareness and sensitivity towards others.

As a member of the American Camp Association, they are a part of the community of camp professionals who, for nearly 100 years, have joined together to share knowledge and experience to ensure the quality of their camp programs. Visit www.cherokeeretreatcenter.com or call 877-647-8542.

C

amp Magnolia is planning several exciting weeks of Overnight Adventure Camp for summer 2013 for Girls and Boys age 8 to 15 with single gender sessions. Activities may include archery, chess, creative writing, digital photography, drama, fishing, folk art, gardening, gem mining, goal setting, jewelery making, kayaking, leather work, outdoor living skills, sports, summer reading program, team building, whitewater rafting, zip line and many more!

Camp Magnolia strives to foster each camper’s mental, physical, social and spiritual (Judeo-Christian) growth while providing caring, well trained staff and small staff to camper ratios. Camp Magnolia helps campers feel a sense of physical and emotional security in a nurturing community; experience progression and growth; and get satisfaction from building many skills through a choice of engaging and challenging activities. Campers learn to do more independently and connect with nature and grow spiritually.

Camp Magnolia’s Adventure Overnight Camp is located in a beautiful, cool mountain setting, 120 miles northeast of Atlanta. Exciting adventure day camp is also available and is located in Atlanta, on a picturesque 100 acre farm, just six miles from I-285 and I-75, for children age 5 to 15.

Visit www.campmagnolia.com for more details!

Camp Thunderbird

Camp Woodmont

F

C

amp Thunderbird continues its legacy of innovation with the addition of four new or expanded activities and adventures in 2013.

Rounding out their nationally recognized water program, they now offer Rowing. Qualified rowing instructors will teach basic rowing techniques and allow campers to work together on rhythm, power, focus, endurance, harmony and balance. Also new in 2013 is outdoor laser tag – a high-tech team adventure played in a natural environment and featuring man-made obstacles.

And as part of their two dozen land activities, they now offer golf under the direction of the TGA Junior Golf Program.

Each session includes three golf lessons and an outing to a local golf course. And finally, their new Paintball Slingshot adds to the fun in the Target Sports area.

Located on a beautiful 100-acre campus with 1.7 miles of shoreline along South Carolina’s pristine Lake Wylie, Camp Thunderbird offers co-ed water and land adventures for children ages seven to sixteen. Find out more about Camp Thunderbird at the Open House on April 14 or online at www.campthunderbird.org. Or, come visit during special Camp Tour Days on March 24 and May 5.

34 Atlanta Parent February 2013

A

top cool, breezy Lookout Mountain in Northwest Georgia is an ACA accredited camp where your child will feel secure, welcome, and reassured. The limited enrollment, warm Christian atmosphere, caring counselors, and convenient camp lay-out give your camper a feeling of acceptance, belonging and appreciation.

The Bennett family gets to know each and every camper on a close personal basis; their two generations of family management and over 60 years combined experience makes for a highly supervised program and an intimate, meaningful experience for campers. “The Camp Woodmont program strives to provide a family-type atmosphere within the camp group where each child feels a sense of belonging as a valued member of our camp’s community”, says director Alyson Gondek, “most parents want their child to learn self-reliance, responsibility, independence, and how to get along with others in a close-knit group; our program is designed to provide children with those type of learning experiences.”

The 2013 season offers one and two-week sessions for boys and girls ages 6-14 starting June 2nd. Call 706-398-0833 or visit www.campwoodmont.com for dates, rates, pictures and more information. Come to the Open House Sunday, May 19th, 2-5 pm to tour the facilities and meet the staff.

Camp 2013

atlantaparent.com

Special Advertising Section

Atlanta Parent’s Camp Preview Deer Run Camps

Girl Scout Camp

eer Run is a premier camp in the south east, just 4 hours northwest of Atlanta, near Franklin, Tennessee on 100 acres of wooded property. Sixnight camps start Sunday afternoon and end Saturday mid-morning. Agegraded camps include Preteen (grades 3-5), Middle School (grades 6-8), and High School (grades 9-12). New for 2013 is a 13-night, 2-week Middle School Camp in June.

Campers enjoy outdoor activities including horseback riding, waterfront fun (swimming, zip line, 100’ waterslide, aqua park, kayaks), climbing tower, low and high ropes courses, paintball, crazy sports and high-energy group games, wiffle ball, small group Bible study, plus a dynamic speaker each night and great worship bands. Campers build lifetime friendships while developing character, confidence, and integrity in a Christ-centered environment. Deer Run’s camp meals are rated among the best in the country!

Deer Run staff can assist with accommodations for parents who stay in the area or personal airport shuttle service for campers. Visit during one of three spring pen house dates to see the facilities and meet the camp directors and some of the 2013 summer staff - committed, mature, servant-hearted college-age students.Visit Camps.

DeerRunRetreat.org or call 888-794-2918 for information or registration.

ou don’t have to be a Girl Scout to experience Girl Scout Camp, it’s for all girls grades K-12 who want to join in on the fun! With five properties located throughout Greater Atlanta, there’s a camp near you with a wide variety of programs available for a first time camper or a bold adventurer including watersports, crafts, horseback riding –even challenge courses and rock wall climbing! Each camp offers a unique picturesque setting with hardwood or pine forests, natural streams, wildflowers, bamboo forests, and water features. Two-night, three-night, week-long, and 7-10 day sessions are available for overnight and day campers. Special sessions are offered for moms and daughters, adventure travel, field trips, overnight trail rides and more! A Girl Scout Summer gives each camper the opportunity to build her courage, confidence and character through creative activities in a welcoming camp community that is staffed with caring adults. As Girl Scouts celebrates its 100th Anniversary, there’s no better time to give your daughter a Girl Scout experience with a summer of memories that lasts a lifetime. The Girl Scouts invite you to visit www.girlscoutsummer.com or call 770-702-9136 or 770-702-9140 to learn about all the sessions, activities and magic that Girl Scout Camp has to offer each and every girl!

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Y

iD Tech Camps & iD Teen Academies

Riverview Camp

ake hobbies further and gain a competitive edge at iD Tech Camps!

Since 1999 over 150,000 students worldwide have immersed in hands-on learning to create iPhone and Android apps, video games, programs with C++ and Java, websites, movies, 3D models, robots, and more.

Beginner to advanced students ages 7-17 enroll in these fun and challenging, weeklong, day & overnight summer camps held at 60+ prestigious universities nationwide including Emory, Vanderbilt, Princeton, Stanford, and others.

Students engage in personalized curriculum with a small group of peers (guaranteed 8:1 ratio) to optimize learning and social experiences. Learn firsthand how you can develop hobbies and interests into so much more. Accredited Continuing Education Units are available to help build a portfolio for college.

Also, for 2-weeks ages 13-18 immerse in specialized, pre-college, overnight summer programs at iD Gaming Academy (held at Emory), iD Programming Academy (held at UNC-Chapel Hill), and iD Visual Arts Academy (filmmaking and photography).

Visit internalDrive.com for more information & to register online. Or call 1-888-709-TECH (8324) to speak to a Program Advisor who can recommend a customized summer schedule to develop a student’s interests.

top breathtaking Lookout Mountain, only 2 hours from Atlanta, find a paradise of fun, friends and adventure for girls ages 6 to 16. With over 15 activity choices and recreational opportunities, campers and parents alike will be pleased with the choices and quality of the programs. Enjoy Riverview’s exceptional riding program, directed by equestrians from Auburn University Equestrian Team, with no additional fees! There is something for everyone including: swimming, heated pool, ropes course, tennis, canoeing, golf, archery, rifle range, sports, basketball, climbing tower, CIT program, Chorus, Drama, Voice and Music. Riverview offers both one and two-week sessions, or longer stays are available. Each cabin includes its own bathrooms and showers. The Staff of Riverview is comprised of many college-age counselors who have camped with Riverview and who understand the importance of nurturing and caring for each camper! Owners, Susan and Dr. Larry Hooks have been Camp Directors since 1983. Assistant Director Donna Bares has been on staff with the Hooks since 1987. The full-summer staff is certified in Red Cross First Aid and CPR, with two or more nurses and a physician on staff.

Riverview is a member of Christian Camping International & is accredited by American Camping Assoc. 1-800-882-0722 for a free DVD or visit www.riverviewcamp.com to view DVD’s on line!

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atlantaparent.com

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Camp 2013

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 35

Overnight camp guide The search for the perfect summer camp adventure for your child starts here. Our sampling of overnight camps features programs across the South and beyond. There’s a camp for all interests, including everything from the traditional camp experience to academic and outdoor adventure programs.

2O13

Adamah Adventures

Alabama Camp Chandler. Montgomery. Co-ed, ages 5-15. Three- and four-day sessions. One-week and multiple-week sessions. Water skiing, horseback riding, swimming, archery, sports and more. 334-229-0035.

Camp Cosby-YMCA. Alpine. Co-ed, ages 6-16. Three day and one-week sessions. Over 20 activities: horseback riding, minibikes, archery, tubing, wake boarding, the blob, and Alpine tower. Expedition adventure trips. ACA accredited. 800-852-6729. www.campcosby.org.

Camp Laney for Boys. Mentone. Boys, ages 8-14. One(2nd-3rd grade only) and two-week sessions. Ropes course, horseback riding, canoeing, riflery, archery, tennis, mountain biking, and team sports. ACA accredited. 256634-4066. www.camplaney.com.

Camp Skyline. Mentone. Girls, ages 6-16.

One- and two-week sessions. Located on top of Lookout Mountain. Campers select six from more than 20 different activities. Founded 1947.

800-448-9279. www.campskyline.com.

Camp Winnataska. Pell City. Co-ed, ages 6-15.

One-week sessions. Sailing, kayaking, paintball courses, arts and crafts, archery, The Blob, riflery, ropes courses and so much more. 205640-6741. www.winnataska.org.

Lookout Mountain Camp for Boys. Mentone.

Boys, ages 7-15. Two-, four-, six- and eightweek sessions. Traditional camp with activities such as: water sports, fly fishing, canoeing, zip line, archery. 256-634-4758. www. lookoutmountaincamp.com.

36 Atlanta Parent February 2013

Lyman Ward Summer School Program. Camp Hill. Boys, grades 9-12 academic program ages 10-18 adventure camp. Four-week session academic program and 3 one-week adventure camp sessions.

Academic program includes on-campus and evening activities and weekend outings. Adventure Camp includes rafting, caving, repelling, swimming, hiking and more. 800-798-9151. www.lwma.org.

Riverview Camp for Girls. Mentone. Ages 6-16.

One-and two-week sessions. Enjoy Extraordinary Experiences Everyday! Located atop Lookout Mountain. Traditional program offering more than 25 activities including horseback riding, ropes course, tennis, gymnastics, canoeing, and more. 800-8820722.

Space Camp. Huntsville. Co-ed, ages 9-18. Six sessions and family weekend camps for ages 7-14.

Way beyond fun at Space Camp, Aviation Challenge or the Robotics Camp. 800-637-7223. www.spacecamp. com.

Florida Camp Dovewood. O’Brien. Girls, ages 7-16.

One- and two-week sessions. Combination 3 week sessions. Christian bases, horse-focused, English, Western and dressage riding, overnight trips, swimming, dance and over 24 activities. 386-9350863. www.campdovewood.org.

Camp Indian Springs. Crawfordville. Co-ed, ages 7-16.

One, two and four-week sessions. Traditional camp with scuba, ATV, high-ropes, riding, archery, extreme skateboarding, paintball and more. ACA Accredited.

850-933-5959. www.campindiansprings.com.

Camp 2013

Camp Kulaqua. High Springs. Coed, ages 7-17. One-week sessions.

Bible adventure, archery, canoeing, gymnastics, horsemanship, go-carts and zoo management. 386-454-1351. www. campkulaqua.com.

Camp Winona-YMCA. Deleon Springs.

Co-ed, ages 7-17. One- and two-week sessions(14-17) CIT 3 Week. Archery, canoeing, ropes course, sailing, paintball and more. 386-985-4544. www.campwinona.org.

Circle “F” Dude Ranch Camp. Lake Wales.

Co-ed, ages 6-18. One, two- and three-week, 7-day sessions. Horseback riding, sailing, paintball, waterfront double zip line with rock climbing wall and more. 863-676-4113. www. circle-f-duderanch.com.

Everglades Youth Conservation Camp.

West Palm Beach. Co-ed, ages 8-14. Oneweek sessions. Operated by Florida Atlantic University. Outdoor skills, ecology, wildlife encounters, fishing, archery, mud hikes, canoeing and more. 561-686-6600. www. pinejog.fau.edu.

IMG Academies. Bradenton. Co-ed, ages 8-18. Weekly sessions. Instructional programs offered in tennis, golf, soccer, baseball, basketball, hockey and performance training. 941-755-1000. www. imgacademies.com.

Seacamp. Big Pine Key. Co-ed, ages 12-17.

18-day sessions. Marine science, scuba, sailing, wind surfing and more. 877-732-2267. www.seacamp.org.

atlantaparent.com

SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Adventure Camps.

Orlando and Tampa Bay. Co-ed, grades 5-College.

One-week sessions. Amazing up-close animal encounters from belugas to giraffes, plus everything the parks have to offer. 866-468-6226. www.seaworld. org/camps.

Blue Ridge Camp. Mountain City. Co-ed, ages 7-16. One, two, four, six and eightweek sessions. 48 elective style activities in the areas of athletics, aquatics, outdoor adventure and cultural arts. 954-665-8686. www.blueridgecamp.com.

Wellspring Florida Melbourne. Three-to nine-week sessions. Fun, scientific weight loss camps for teens. Beach and Disney World visits along with individualized therapy sessions. 1-866-364-0808. www.wellspringcamps.com/florida

Calvin Center. Hampton. Co-ed, grades 1-12. One-week. Christian camping since 1960. Residential camping, adventure and horse camps. High School Leadership. ACA accredited. 770-946-4276. www.calvincenter. org.

Camp Barney Medintz. Cleveland. Co-ed, ages 8-16. Two- and four-week sessions.

Activities include water skiing, horseback riding, mountain biking, theater and more. Jewish values. 678-812-3844. www. campbarney.org.

Georgia Adamah Adventures. Atlanta. Co-ed, ages 11-17.

18-day sessions 7-11th grade. 1 week session 5th-6th grade. Outdoor adventure treks for Jewish teens.

Hiking, rock climbing, caving, rafting and more in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Utah or Pacific Northwest.

404-297-4914. www.adamahadventures.org.

Athens “Y” Camp for Boys/Camp Chattooga for Girls. Tallulah Falls. Ages 7-16. One-week sessions. All sports, zip line, lake activities and more. Horseback riding for girls. Outdoor adventure program for older campers. Boys: 706-754-6912; girls: 706-754-3329. www.athensycamps.org.

Athens YWCO Camp. Clarkesville. Girls, ages 6-16.

One- and two-week sessions. Horseback riding, swimming, dance, sports, crafts, drama and more in a Christian atmosphere. Horseback Specialty and leadership program. ACA accredited. 706-754-8528. www.athensywcocamp.com.

Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education. Atlanta.

Co-ed, ages 8 and up. One-, two- three- and fiveweek sessions. Intensive resident courses available to

atlantaparent.com

Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education

intermediate and advance students in ballet, jazz, and modern, nutrition, musical theatre and dance history.

Audition required. 404-873-5811, ext 310. www. atlantaballet.com.

Atlanta Resident Camp. Lake Allatoona. Co-ed, ages 8-12. One-week sessions. Canoeing, team building and hiking and environmental education through the City of Atlanta. Open to Atlanta residents and nonresidents. 404-392-3366.

Atlanta Workshop Players “Destiny” Performing Arts Camp. Brenau University. Co-ed, ages 7-18.

One- week sessions. TV/film acting, theatre, dance, musical theatre and performances, audition for top agents and casting directors. Produce a full show.

770-998-8111. www.atlantaworkshopplayers.com.

Camp 2013

Camp Cherokee. Cartersville. Co-ed, ages 6-18. Three day, and five-day sessions.

Christian camp on Lake Allatoona with canoeing, arts and crafts, Bible study, white water rafting and more. Also offers day camp. 877-647-8542. www. cherokeeretreatcenter.com.

Camp Juliette Low. Lookout Mountain.

Girls, ages 7-17. One- and two-week sessions. Traditional camping and outdoor adventure, fun and friends since 1922. On beautiful Lookout Mountain in Northwest Georgia. 770-428-1062. www.cjl.org.

Camp Kaleo. Forsyth. Boys, ages 6-18.

Three-day (grades completed 1-3) and oneweek sessions (grades 4-12). A Christian camp in a rustic setting. 478-994-5333 www. campkaleo.org.

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 37

A Great Summer Camp Experience Kids Love The Sports, Horseback Riding, Aquatics, Nature Study, Climbing Wall, Crafts, Hiking, Archery, Drama, Challenge Course, Campouts, and Much More!

Camp Magnolia. Atlanta. Co-ed, ages 5-15.

Activities include archery, CIT. drama, farm animal care, leather work, outdoor living, sports and more! Also offers day camp. 770-337-4785. www.campmagnolia.com.

Camp New Dawn. Chickamauga. Co-ed, ages 6-18. One-week sessions. Traditional camp activities such as crafts, photography, swimming, sports and animal care. Adventure outdoor camp, civil war camp and multi-sports camp available. 706-539-2235. www.campnewdawnga. org.

• Limited Enrollment • Close Family-Like Atmosphere • Campers feel secure, welcome, and grow in confidence • 2 generations of family management 50+ years experience

Located in Cloudland, GA on cool, breezy Lookout Mountain just two hours north of Atlanta One/Two Week Sessions Boys/Girls 6-14

CALL: (706) 398-0833 www.campwoodmont.com Our Web Site has over 1000 pictures!

Feb13-CampWoodmont- 6thVspot.indd 1

Overnight Camp Guide 2O13

1/9/2013 2:29:41 PM

CAMP CHEROKEE 2013 · High quality Christian coed resident camping · Canoeing, Arts & Crafts, Games, Archery, S’mores & Much More · Top notch summer staff · On Lake Allatoona, just off I-75 minutes from Cartersville · Sessions for rising 1st-12th graders · 56 Years of camping excellence

Camp Pine Valley. Meansville. Open to all girls, ages 5-17. Half-week, one-week and weekend sessions. Traditional camping and outdoor summer program. Girl Scouts of Pine Valley.

770-227-2524. www.girlscoutsofgreateratlanta. org.

Camp Toccoa. Toccoa. Co-ed, grades 2-12.

One- and multi-week sessions. Campers reconnect with nature in a fn, noncompetitive environment. Horseback, ropes, canoeing, archery and more. ACA accredited. 706-8862457. www.camptoccoa.org.

Camp Westminster. Conyers. Co-ed, ages 6-17. Weekly overnight and day camp sessions.

Horseback riding, sports, crafts, outdoor skills, climbing tower, paintball and more with a Christian perspective. 770-483-2225. www. campwestminster.org.

Camp Woodmont. Lookout Mountain. Co-ed, ages 6-14. One- and two-week sessions. Deepseeded traditions and close family atmosphere.

High ropes, horseback, sports, dance, crafts, archery and more! ACA accredited. 423-4726070. www.campwoodmont.com.

Space Camp

Cohutta Springs Youth Camp. Crandall. Co-ed, ages 7-18. One-week sessions and family camp.

Archery, basketball, biking, canoeing, creative arts, drama, golf, gymnastics, horsemanship, nature, rock climbing, sports, videography, water sports.

706-602-7346. www.cs-yc.com.

Cousin Trips. Ghana, West Africa. Co-ed, ages 1216. Two-week and one month session. A unique summer experience for young travelers with Interactive, educational and life enhancing fun.

678-549-4775. www.CousinTrips.com.

Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center Summer Camps. Mansfield. Co-ed, and all girls, ages 10-16. Choose from the many camp programs including outdoor adventure, gardening, animal care and shooting sports. Also offers day camp.

770-784-3059. www.georgiawildlife.com.

Creation Encounters Camp. Cleveland. Co-ed, ages 12-15. One-week session. Christ-centered learning experience through hands on animal interaction. Learn about animal diet, vet care, and enrichment for animals at the zoo. 706-348-7279. www.creationencounters.homestead.com.

Chuck Kriese Total Tennis Training Camp.

Lawrenceville. Co-ed, ages 7-17. One-week sessions. For beginner, intermediate, advanced and tournament players. 1-888-983-2267. www. totaltennistraining.com.

Darlington Summer Camps. Rome. Co-ed and single gender, ages 2-18. Sessions vary by camp. Summer Scholars Program. Specialty Sports Camps include soccer, tennis, lacrosse, fencing and more. 800-368-4437. www. darlingtonschool.org

Clayton State University PEI Summer Entrepreneurship & Business Academy.

Morrow. Co-ed, high school students. Oneweek session. A summer academy for high school students. June 16-21. 678-466-4528 www.clayton.edu/business/seba.

Digital Media Academy. Georgia Tech. Co-ed, ages 6-18. One-week session. Create apps, animation, web development, final, music, game design and more. 866-656-3342. www. digitalmediaacademy.org.

Day ps Cam le b a l i Ava

Or register online at:

cherokeeretreatcenter.com 38 Atlanta Parent February 2013

Camp 2013

atlantaparent.com

athletics, arts and outdoor activities, as well as communal worship and individual free time.

706-746-7467/800-543-7467. www.rabungap. org/camp.

Dixie Camps for Boys and Girls. Clayton. For boys and girls ages 6-16. One-, two-, three-, fourand seven-week sessions. Traditional camp with sports, water activities, arts and more. 706-7823717. www.campdixie.org.

Riverside Military Academy. Gainesville.

Boys, ages 12-18. Four-week sessions.

High Adventure Camp. Test physical endurance, explore area rivers, hike in Blue Ridge Mountains, learn rafting, rappelling, marksmanship and leadership skills. 800-4622338. www.riversidemilitary.com.

Emagination Computer Camp. Atlanta. Co-ed, ages 8-17. One and two-week sessions. Video Game Design, Web Design, 3-D Animation. Build robots and RC Cars. Explore programming.

Sports and recreation. 877-248-0206. www. computercamps.com.

Encore Music Camps. Atlanta and Milledgeville.

Co-ed, ages 10-16. Orchestra Camp, Emory University, July 7-11. Band Camp, Georgia College, Milledgeville, July 7-11. Choir Camp, Emory University, July 7-11. A musical experience with rehearsals and master classes, with a blend of recreational activities. Camp closes with concert performances. Band: 770-914-8866; Orchestra: 404-988-1245. Choir Camp: 404-9881245. www.encoremusiccamps.com.

ID Tech Camps. Emory University. Co-ed, ages 7-17. Exclusive teen academies 13-18. Oneweek sessions. Two week session for exclusive academies. Build apps, programs in C++/Java, create movies, video games, websites, robots and more. Exclusive-programming, game design, visual arts 888-709-8324. www.internaldrive.com.

Joe Machnik No.1 Goalkeeper Camp & Striker Camp Rome. Co-ed, ages 8-18. Four- to twelveday sessions. July 14-19:Darlington School, Rome. July 20-24: Darlington School, Rome. June 23-27: Baylor, Tenn. Nationwide soccer camp with over 35 years experience. 706-378-3706. www. no1soccercamps.com.

atlantaparent.com

Valley View Ranch

Linda’s Riding School. Conyers. Co-ed, ages 7 and up. Overnight and one-week sessions.

Each camper has their own horse for the entire session, covered arena, trails and lessons daily. Show at the end of the week for parents.

Day camp also offered. 770-922-0184. www. lindasridingschool.com.

National Computer Camps. Atlanta-Oglethorpe.

Co-ed, ages 7-18. One- and two-week sessions.

Video game design, computer programming, networking, software applications and web design.

Optional sports program. 203-710-5771. www. nccamp.com.

Rabun Gap-Noochee School. Rabun Gap. Co-ed, ages 5-13. Weekend parent-child camp for parents/ grandparents to share a real camp experience over a summer weekend (Fri-Sun, July19-21). Share

Camp 2013

Sports Broadcasting Camp. Atlanta. Coed, ages 10-18. July 15-19. Overnight or day. Learn from the pros. Make reporting, play-by-play and sports anchor tapes. Meet celebrities and more. 800-319-0884. www. playbyplaycamps.com.

Strong Rock Camp. Cleveland. Co-ed, grades 1-10. One- and two-week sessions.

Horseback riding, canoeing, archery, riflery, climbing, art, drama and more.

Christian family values. 706-348-1533. www. strongrockcamp.com.

Sunburst Stables. Clarksville. All girls and all boys, ages 8-15. One-week sessions.

Horseback riding, swimming, The Blob, boating, ropes course, zip line and more.

800-806-1953. www.sunburststables.com.

University of Georgia Pre-College Programs. Athens. Co-ed, ages 11-17.

Two-week session. Academically focused teens will take college-level courses, enjoy extracurricular activities, and live in UGA residence halls. 706-542-3537. www. georgiacenter.uga.edu/youth.

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 39

Overnight Camp Guide 2O13 Valley View Ranch Equestrian Camp. Cloudland.

Girls, ages 8-17. One to nine weeks. 600 acres, English and Western, vaulting, barrels and trails. CHA instructors. 706-862-2231. www. valleyviewranch.com.

Camp Hollymont for Girls. Asheville. Ages 6-15. One-, two-,three- and four-week sessions.

Recreational adventure and program activities.

Christian. ACA accredited. 828-686-5343. www. hollymont.com.

WinShape Camps. Rome. Co-ed, Completed 1st- completed 11th grade. One- and two-week sessions. A Christian recreation program. Separate programs for girls and boys. 800-448-6955, ext 1120. www.winshape.org.

Camp Kanata-YMCA. Wake Forest. Co-ed, ages 6-15. One-week sessions. Multi-week sessions available Traditional YMCA camp setting. ACA accredited. 919-556-2661. www.campkanata.org.

Camp Kanuga. Hendersonville. Co-ed, ages 7-17.

4-,9- and 13 day sessions. Trailblazer adventure camp for ages 15-17. Christian setting. ACA accredited. 828-692-9136. www.kanuga.org.

Mississippi Camp Stanislaus. Bay St. Louis. All Boys, ages 8-15. One-, two-, three- and four-week sessions.

Traditional camp that provides a non-competitive environment. Activities include: skiing, sailing, basketball, soccer, football and more. 228-4679057x277. www.campstanislaus.com.

Camp Lurecrest. Lake Lure. Co-ed, rising grades 3rd-12th. One-week sessions. Canoeing, high ropes activities, swimming, fishing, paintball and more. Christian setting. 704-841-2701. www. camplurecrest.org.

Camp Merri-Mac for Girls. Black Mountain.

Ages 6-16. One-, two-, three-, four- or five-week sessions. Sister camp to Camp Timberlake.

Riding, diving, gymnastics, climbing, cheerleading, tennis, dance and more. 828-669-8766. www. merri-mac.com.

Camp Windhover. Crystal Springs. Co-ed, ages 7-14. One-, two- and three-week sessions. Activities include archery, cooking, canoeing, crafts, creative writing, dance, sports and more. ACA accredited 601-892-3282. www.campwindhover.com.

North Carolina Blue Star Camps. Hendersonville. Co-ed, ages 6-16. Four-, six- and eight-week sessions. ACA accredited. Jewish values. 954-963-4494. www. bluestarcamps.com.

Camp Arrowhead. Tuxedo. Boys, ages 6-16. Oneand six-week sessions. Christian high-adventure summer camp. Backpacking, rock climbing, mountain biking, kayaking, waterskiing, paintball and more. CCCA Accredited. 828-692-1123. www. camparrowhead.org.

Camp Cedar Cliff. Asheville. Co-ed, rising 2nd-rising 12th graders. Four-day and one-week sessions. Christ-centered camp with traditional summer camp activities. 828-450-3331. www. campcedarcliff.org.

Camp Cheerio-YMCA. Glade Valley. Separate co-ed and all girls camp offered, ages 7-15. Oneand two-week sessions. Two programs: traditional overnight camp and adventure tripping program.

800-226-7496. www.campcheerio.org.

Camp Thunderbird

Camp Greystone. Tuxedo. Girls, grades K-11th.

One- to five-week sessions. More than 80 activities, Christ-centered. 828-693-3182. www. campgreystone.com.

Camp Hanes. Sauratown Mountain. Co-ed, ages 6-15. Six one-week sessions. Canoeing, hiking, rappelling, arts and crafts, sports and more. 336-983-3131. www.camphanes.org.

Camp High Rocks. Cedar Mountain. Boys, ages 7-16. One -, two-, three- and four-week sessions.

Traditional camp focusing on adventure in a noncompetitive atmosphere. 828-885-2153. www. highrocks.com.

Camp Highlander. Mills River. Co-ed, ages 5-16.

One-, two-, and three-week sessions.Multisessions available. Traditional in-camp activities and challenging off-camp excursions. Features Wilderness Program. ACA accredited. 828-8917721. www.camphighlander.com.

Great News! iD Tech Camps

Weeklong, day & overnight summer camps for ages 7-17

---

iD Teen Academies 2-week, pre-college summer programs for ages 13-18: iD Gaming Academy (held at Emory) iD Programming Academy (held at UNC-Chapel Hill) iD Visual Arts Academy

40 Atlanta Parent    February 2013

Camp 2013

Camp Mondamin for Boys/Green Cove for Girls.

Tuxedo. Boys and girls, ages 6-17. One-, two-, three- and five-week sessions. Rock-climbing, whitewater canoeing, kayaking, mountain biking, horseback, swimming, sailing, tennis, wilderness trips and more. 800-688-5789. www.mondamin. com; www.greencove.com.

Camp Pinewood. Hendersonville. Co-ed, ages 7-15. Four- and eight-week sessions. Offers more than 35 different sports and activities. Extensive waterfront program. Two and a half hours from Atlanta. 828-692-6239. www.camppinewood.net.

Camp Ridgecrest for Boys and Camp Crestridge for Girls. Ridgecrest. Ages 7-16.

One, two-, four-, six- and eight-week sessions.

Traditional camp activities, archery, riflery, horseback riding, sports and more. 800-968-1630. www.ridgecrestcamps.com.

Camp Rockmont for Boys. Black Mountain.

Boys, ages 7-16. One-, two-, three- and four-week sessions. Variety of recreational adventures and program activities. Christian boys camp. ACA accredited. 828-686-3885. www.rockmont.com.

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Camp Sea Gull for Boys/Seafarer for GirlsYMCA. Arapahoe. Ages 6-16. One-, two- and fourweek sessions. Seamanship programs for all skill levels. ACA and US Sailing Accredited. Sea Gull: 252-249-1111; Seafarer: 252-249-1212. 919-7199622. www.seagull-seafarer.org.

Camp Timberlake for Boys. Black Mountain.

Ages 7-16. One-, two-, three-, four- or five-week sessions. Brother camp to Camp Merri-Mac. Backpacking, riflery, swimming, canoeing, wrestling, riding, fencing, ropes course and more.

828-669-8766. www.camptimberlake.com.

Camp Wayfarer. Flat Rock. Co-ed, ages 6-16. One and a half-, three- and five-week sessions. Outdoor sports, arts, water sports, outdoor adventures and Christian life. ACA accredited. 828-696-9000. www. campwayfarer.com.

Camp Weaver-YMCA. Greensboro. Co-ed, rising grades 2-10. One-week sessions- up to 10 weeks.

Horseback riding, skateboard park, canoeing, iceberg, the blob, hiking, crafts and more. 336-6970525. www.campweaver.org.

Deep Woods Camp. Brevard. Boys, ages 10-14.

Four-, five-, nine- and 10-week sessions. Outdoor wilderness adventure program. 828-885-2268. www.deepwoodscamp.com.

Duke Summer Camps. Durham. Co-ed, 5th-11th.

One- and two-week sessions. Drama workshop.

Co-ed, grades 9-11. Action Science Camp for Young Women. Girls, grades 5-7; Young Writers Camp. Co-ed, grades 6-11. Bio-sciences and engineering camp, middle and high school. 919684-6259. www.learnmore.duke.edu/youth.

DAY CAMPS | OVERNIGHT CAMPS SUMMER PROGRAMS Presented by

Parent atlanta

2 013 Atlanta Parent – the trusted source for day & overnight camp information for 30 years

February 23

Saturday, 11 am - 4 pm Town Center Mall, Kennesaw

March 16

Saturday, 11 am - 4 pm Perimeter Mall, Atlanta

To exhibit or for info call Kaitlyn Morris at 678-222-1911 or Kmorris@atlantaparent.com

Eagle’s Nest Camp. Pisgah Forest. Co-ed, 6-17.

One-, two- and three-week sessions. Activities include: art, music, drama, whitewater paddling, rock climbing, wilderness activities, horseback riding, athletics and swimming. 828-877-4349. 336761-1040-off season www.enf.org.

Falling Creek Camp. Tuxedo. Boys, ages 6-16.

One- to four-week sessions. Canoeing, rock climbing, tennis, horseback riding and more. 828692-0262. www.fallingcreek.com.

The Green River Preserve. Cedar Mountain.

Co-ed, grades rising 2-9. Expedition trips grades rising 9-12. Trailblazers grades 12-college freshman. One-, two- and three-week sessions.

Non-competitive, co-ed summer camp connecting children to nature. Hiking trips, mountain biking, canoeing, fly fishing, visual arts, theater, fencing and more . ACA accredited. 828-698-8828. www. greenriverpreserve.org.

Gwynn Valley Camp. Brevard. Co-ed, grades K-8.

One-, two- and three-week sessions. A traditional, farm and wilderness camp with horseback riding, rock climbing and more. ACA accredited. 828-8852900. www.gwynnvalley.com.

Rockbrook Camp for Girls. Brevard. Girls, ages 6-16. Two, three and four-week sessions. Traditional camp offering horseback riding, adventure, crafts and more. Est. 1921. ACA accredited. 828-8846151. www.rockbrookcamp.com.

Skyland Camp for Girls. Clyde. Girls, ages 6-15.

Seven, 17- and 35 day sessions. Horseback riding, musical theater, tennis, archery, crafts and more. Skyland campers learn sportsmanship and the importance of teamwork, confidence, selfexpression and leadership skills. 828-627-2470. www.skylandcamp.com.

The Vineyard. Westfield. Co-ed, ages 6-16. Oneweek sessions. Multi-week sessions available Christian sports camp with 40 activities including body building, lacrosse, golf, crafts and dance.

877-226-7532. www.vineyardcamp.com.

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Camp 2013

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 41

Overnight Camp Guide 2O13 South Carolina Camden Military Adventure Camp. Camden.

Boys, 6-9th grade. One- week sessions. White water rafting, water skiing, scuba diving, hiking and aviation. 800-948-6291. www.camdenmilitary.com.

Camp Chatuga. Mountain Rest. Co-ed, ages 6-16. One-, two-, three- and four-week sessions.

Traditional recreational camp. ACA accredited.

864-638-3728. www.campchatuga.com.

Camp Thunderbird-YMCA. Lake Wylie. Co-ed, ages 7-16. One- and two-week sessions. Activities include: skiing, sailing, swimming, horseback riding, sports, crafts and more. ACA accredited.

800-732-3855. www.campthunderbird.org.

Clemson University’s Youth Learning Institute.

Five South Carolina Locations. Co-ed, ages 7-15. One- and two-week sessions. Six camps including traditional, marine science, wildlife, adventure expeditions and excursions and technology. 864-878-1103. www.ylicamps.com.

International Junior Golf Academy. Hilton Head Island. Co-ed, ages 10-19. One- to multi-week sessions. Daily instruction with PGA professionals, which includes full swing, chipping, putting, sand play, mental training and video analysis. 843-686-1504 www.IJGA.com.

International Riding Academy Hilton Head Island. Ages 8-18. Intensive riding camp on beautiful Hilton Head Island. Hunters and jumpers, junior equestrians. Day or overnight.

843-671-2586 www.iridingacademy.com

Tennessee

SPORTS BROADCASTING CAMP is back for our 6th year in Atlanta

July 15-19, 2013 • Boys and Girls 10-18 will have an opportunity to learn from the Pros • Meet Sports Celebrities • Make Sports Anchor Tapes • Make Play-By-Play Tapes of the Super Bowl & NBA Finals • Make Reporting Tapes from a Pro Stadium • Participate in Sports Talk Radio and Pardon The Interruption (PTI) shows and much more

Baylor Summer Camp. Chattanooga. Coed, ages 8-18. One- and two-week sessions.

Sports based camp featuring soccer, baseball, football, basketball, swimming with specialty weeks in long distance running, boys lacrosse and developmental rowing. 423-757-2616 www. baylorschool.org Camp Ocoee-YMCA. Lake Ocoee. Co-ed, ages 7-17. One- week sessions. Traditional Wilderness program ages 7-15, Teen Leadership Program ages 16-17. Staff to camper ratio of 1:4. 423-3385588. www.campocoee.com.

Camp Widjiwagan. Nashville. Co-ed, 3rd-9th graders. One- and two-week sessions. A wide variety of land and water sports. Camper will gain confidence, forge friendships and sharpen character. 615-360-2267. www.campwidjii.org.

Deer Run Camps and Retreats Thompsons Station. Co-ed, grades 3-12. One-week sessions. Two-week middle school camp in June. Traditional camp with Christian emphasis: horseback riding, lake activities, high and low ropes, paintball, crazy sports and high-energy group games, nightly worship and speaker, small group Bible study. 888-794-2918 www. camps.deerrunretreat.org Doe River Gorge. Elizabethton Co-ed, rising 8-18. One-week sessions. Adventure, worship and Bible teaching. Wilderness, equestrian, water sports and outdoor sportsman emphasis.

423-725-4010. www.doerivergorge.com McCallie Sports Camp. Chattanooga. Boys, ages 9-15. Two-week sessions. Twenty-five sports and activities including football, lacrosse, water polo, soccer, track, swimming and more.

800-672-2267. www.mccallie.org.

Beyond The South Animal Camp- Cub Creek Science Camp.

Rolla, Mo. Co-ed, ages 7-17. One-six week sessions. Amazing Animal Encounters! A Junior Vet program + 100 more activtity choices, including zip-lines, climbing walls, pottery, archery, riflery, crime science, arts and crafts and survival skills. 573-458-2125. www.myanimalcamp.com Camp Atwater. North Brookfield, Mass. Ages 8-15. All-boy and all-girl camps. Two- and fourweek sessions. Afro-centric setting focusing on leadership development, recreation, education and culture. 413-739-7211,ext 102. www. campatwater.org.

Camp Awosting for Boys/Camp Chinqueka for Girls. Litchfield, Conn. Ages 6-16. One-, two, four-, six- and eight-week sessions. Traditional camp with activities such as: go-karts, minibikes, river tubing, waterskiing, arts & crafts, archery, fencing, climbing tower and zip line.

860-567-4924. www.mysummerfamily.com.

Day/Overnight options available.

For more info: 800.319.0884

facebook.com/sportsbroadcastingcamps youtube.com/sportsbroadcastcamp

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42 Atlanta Parent February 2013

Camp 2013

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Camp Ocoee-YMCA

Camp Carysbrook. Riner, Va. Girls, ages 6-16.

One-, two-, three-, four-, and seven-week sessions.

Traditional camp with individual instruction in 18 activities. ACA accredited. 540-382-1670. www. campcarysbrook.com.

Camp Cayuga. Honesdale, Pa. Co-ed, ages 5-15.

Two-, four-, six- and eight-week sessions. More than 60 activities including horseback riding, flying trapeze, circus and more. ACA accredited. 908-4701224. www.campcayuga.com.

Camp Cody. Freedom, NH. Co-ed, ages 7-16.

Two-, four-,six- and eight-week sessions. Traditional New England camp experience offering sports, arts, swimming, boating, trips and more. 800-399-4436. www.campcody.com Camp Friendship. Palmyra, Va. Co-ed, ages 7-16.

One- and two-week sessions. Traditional program with over 40 elective activities such as: equestrian, tennis and gymnastic programs. 800-873-3223. www.campfriendship.com.

Camp Horizons. Harrisonburg, Va. Co-ed, ages 6-17. One- and two-week sessions. Traditional and adventure programs including outdoors, visual arts, horses, sports, aquatics and performing arts. ACA accredited. 540-896-7600. www. camphorizonsva.com.

Camp Jump Start. St.Louis, Mo. Co-ed, ages 9-17.

Four- and eight-week sessions. Traditional camp specializing in weight loss for kids. 636-287-5004. www.campjumpstart.com.

Camp North Star. Poland Spring, Maine. Co-ed, ages 7-16. Two-, three-, four-, five- and seven- week sessions. Visual/performing arts, sports, trips, banana boat rides, horseback riding and more. 207998-4777. www.campnorthstarmaine.com.

Camp O-AT-KA. Sebago, Maine. Boys, ages 8-16.

Two-, three-, four- and seven-week sessions. Water sports, land sports, outdoor skills and adventure, arts, music and drama. 800-818-8455. www. campoatka.com Camp Ozark. Mount Ida, Ark. Co-ed, ages 7-17.

One-, two-, and three-week sessions. Christian sports and adventure camps. Over 120 activities.

870-867-4131. www.campozark.com.

Camp Piomingo-YMCA. Brandenburg, Ky. Co-ed, ages 6-16. One- and two-week sessions. Traditional, equestrian and adventure activities include swimming, climbing, archery, horseback riding and more. 800-411-5822. www.camppiomingo.org.

Camp Regis-Applejack. St. Regis Lake, N.Y. Co-ed, ages 6-16. Four- and eight-week sessions, two-week program for first-time campers. More than 50 activities. Teen adventure camp, ages 13-16.

ACA accredited. 609-688-0368. www.campregisapplejack.com.

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Camp 2013

February 2013    Atlanta Parent 43

Overnight Camp Guide 2O13 Camp Rim Rock. Yellow Spring, W.Va. Girls, ages 6-16. Multiple week sessions. Horseback riding, performing arts, fine arts & crafts, sports, aquatics. Specialty camps in riding. ACA accredited. Less than 2 hours from D.C. on 600 acres. 347-746-7625. www.camprimrock.com.

Camp Silver Beach-YMCA. Jamesville, Va. Coed, ages 8-16. One- and three-week sessions.

Three-week teen camp, rising 9th-11th grade.

Three-week counselor in training leadership development program rising 10th & 11th.

Traditional camp with nature trails, challenge courses, rifle range, swimming, sailing and water skiing. 757-442-4634. www.campsilverbeach.org.

Camp Tall Timbers. High View, W.Va. Co-ed, ages 7-16. One-, two-, three-, five-, six- and eight-week sessions. Horseback riding, water skiing, challenge course, 2 climbing walls. ACA accredited. 800-8622678. www.camptalltimbers.com.

Cheley Colorado Camp. Estes Park, Colo. Coed, ages 9-17. Four- and eight-week sessions.

Day hikes, horseback riding, rafting, crafts, mountain biking, out camping, target sports, and more. 303-377-3616. www.cheley.com.

Cheshire Academy Access Cheshire Summer Program. Cheshire, Conn. Co-ed, grades 7-10. Four-week session. Academic work with a variety of enrichment and athletic activities.

Application process. 203-272-5396. www. cheshireacademy.org.

Concordia Language Villages. Morehead, Minn. Co-ed, ages 7-18. One-, two- and fourweek sessions and family camp. Residential language immersion camps. Available in 15 languages. 800-222-4750 ext 3699. www. concordialanguagevillages.org.

French Woods Festival of the Performing Arts.

Hancock, N.Y. Co-ed, ages 7-17. Three-, six-, nine- and twelve-week sessions. Over 45 program activities including cooking, dance, theater, music, circus, magic, visual arts, sport and horseback riding. 800-634-1703. www.frenchwoods.com.

Kamp Kohut. Oxford, Maine. Co-ed, ages 7-15.

Two- to four-week sessions. Waterfront, land sports, drama and more. 888-465-6488. www. kampkohut.com.

Kenmont Camp for Boys and Kenwood Camp for Girls. Kent, Conn. Ages 7-14. Four-week sessions. Athletics, water sports, extreme sports, adventure, creative arts and theater. Separate and equal facilities for boys and girls on 200-acre lakefront property. ACA Accredited. 845-262-1090. www.kenmontkenwood.com.

Deer Run Camps

Lake Greeley Camp. Greeley, Pa. Co-ed, ages 6-15. Two-, four-, six- and eight-week sessions. Traditional camp including more than 60 activities. Winter: 570-842-3739; Summer: 570-685-7196. www.lakegreeley.com.

New Meadow Farm Camp. Steeles Tavern, Va. Girls, ages 9-17. One-, three-, four- and seven- week sessions. Horseback riding, horsemanship, swimming, arts and crafts, biking, and more. 610-825-9838. www. newmeadowcamp.com.

Night Eagle Wilderness Adventures.

Cuttingsville, Vt. Boys, ages 10-14. Two-, three-, four- and six-week sessions. Primitive summer camp with tipi living, canoeing, backpacking, archery and tracking.

ACA accredited. 802-446-6100. www. nighteaglewilderness.com.

Sanborn Western Camps. Florissant, Colo.

Separate camps for girls and boys, ages 7-16.

Two- and four-week sessions. Adventurous, non-competitive programs in Western riding, mountaineering, water sports, fishing. 719748-3341. www.sanbornwesterncamps.com.

Shane (Trim-Down) Camp. Ferndale, N.Y. Co-ed, ages 7-19. Three-, six- and nine-week sessions. Portion controlled meals, classes in nutrition, dieting and cooking. 914-271-4141. www.campshane.com.

Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing. New Castle, Va. Ages 8-18. One-, two- and four-week courses. Rock climbing, kayaking, mountain biking, backpacking and more. 800-782-0779. www. wilderness-adventure.com.

Windsor Mountain. Windsor, N.H. Co-ed, ages 8-16. Two- and three and a half-week sessions.

Free choice program with traditional camp activities and specialty programs including sailing, film, performing arts, visual arts and wilderness. 603478-3166. www.windsormountain.org

Camp Advisors American Camp Association. The American Camp Association (ACA) works to preserve, promote and enhance the camp experience for children and adults. 765-342-8456. www.campparents.org.

National Camp Association. Free service matches your child to the right camp. Online services available. Recommends a broad spectrum of camps. All programs fully licensed. 800-966-2267. www.summercamp.org.

Student Camp and Trip Advisors. Atlanta.

Free service. Select from more than 700 residential camps, teen travel, wilderness trips, community service and campus programs worldwide. Joan Weiner, 404-237-0603. www. campandteentravelconsultants.com

Westminster SUMMER

PROGRAMS

2013

www.westminster.net/summer

Camps for 4-18 Years • June 3– July 12 9 am – 4 pm 1424 West Paces Ferry Road Atlanta, Georgia 30327 • 404-367-7868 44 Atlanta Parent February 2013

Camp 2013

Atlanta Parent is your go-to resource for finding that perfect camp!

VISIT

atlantaparent.com atlantaparent.com

Camp Twin Lakes has developed partnerships with more than 58 organizations, which recruit campers and provide volunteer counselors and medical staff for their groups while at camp. Camp Twin Lakes, located on 500 acres in Rutledge, provides the facilities, programming, staff and medical supervision, and subsidizes 70 percent of the costs. For this year’s camp partners, visit camptwinlakes. org for a complete list.

Special Needs BlazeSports Georgia Blaze Camps. Several locations. Ages 8-18. Two-day and one-week sessions. Sports summer camps for youth with physical disabilities. 404-270-2000 www. blazesports.org.

Camp ASCCA - Easter Seals. Jackson Gap, Ala. Co-ed, ages 6 and up. One-week sessions for people with disabilities. Aquatic activities, arts and crafts, canoeing, ropes course, horseback riding and more. 256-825-9226. www.campascca.org.

Camp Barney Medintz. Cleveland, Ga. Co-ed, grades 2-10 Two- and four-week sessions. An overnight camp celebrating Jewish culture that features the Chalutzim (Pioneers) Program for children with developmental disabilities. 678-8123844. www.campbarney.org.

Camp Lee Mar. Lackawaxen, Pa. Co-ed, ages 5-21. Mild to moderate developmental challenges, features traditional camp activities, plus academics, vocational preparation, speech and language therapy. 215-658-1708. www. leemar.com.

Camp Sparrowood. Dahlonega, Ga. Co-ed, ages 8 and up. One-week sessions for the high functioning, special needs individual. Nature activities, cookouts, crafts, games, overnight campout, swimming. 1:2 counselor-camper ratio.

706-864-6181. www.campglisson.org.

Camp Sunshine. Camp Twin Lakes, Rutledge, GA. Ages 7-18. One-week sessions. Overnight camp for children who have or have had cancer.

404-325-7979. www.mycampsunshine.com.

Camp Twin Lakes

Camp Twin Lakes. Rutledge, Winder & Warm Springs, Ga. Co-ed, ages 7 and up. 5 day sessions. Traditional camp with swimming, sports, nature activities, canoeing, archery for campers with a variety of medical disabilities. 404-231-9887. www.camptwinlakes.org.

Florida Diabetes Camp. Several locations. Coed, ages 6-18. One-week sessions. Traditional camp with swimming, sports, arts and crafts and diabetes education. Medical care provided. 352334-1321. www.floridadiabetescamp.org.

Georgia Lions Camp for the Blind. Waycross, Ga. Co-ed, ages 4 and up. One- and two-week sessions. Campers must have a visual loss of 20/70 or greater. Indoor/outdoor activities, field trips and swimming. 888-297-1775. www.glcb.org.

Landmark School Summer Programs. Prides Crossing, Mass. Co-ed, grades 8-12. Four-week session. Offers academic skill development and activities for students with language-based learning disabilities. 978-236-3000. www. landmarkschool.org.

Soar’s Summer Adventures. North Carolina, Florida Keys, Wyoming, California and Costa Rica.

Co-ed, ages 8-18. Post grad course 19-25. 10-28 day program sessions. High-adventure camps for LD and ADHD youth. 828-456-3435. www.soarnc.org.

Talisman Programs. Zirconia, N.C. Ages 8-22.

Two- and three-week sessions. Adventure camp for youth with ADHD, LD, high-functioning autism or Aspergers. Builds social competence in a wilderness setting. 855-588-8254. www. talismancamps.com. c

CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF SUNSHINE

&

Embracing Strengthening

Metro Atlanta Families since 1983

Camp Sunshine provides year round recreational, educational and support programs for children with cancer and their families throughout Georgia.

Registration for our two week summer camp for kids ages 7 - 18 who have had or are currently on treatment for cancer is available now!

770-234-9111 www.focus-ga.org atlantaparent.com

Camp 2013

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 45

just kids

A quarterly focus on Special Needs

A magical all-expenses-paid “dream trip” to Walt Disney World . . . a day of free salon services for students with special needs . . . a bag full of beauty products for moms with children in the hospital.

By starting programs that serve special needs kids and their families, these Atlantans are

SHINING EXAMPLES

n Families or friends can nominate a child this April for Bert’s Big Adventure of 2014 at bertsbigadventure.org. The nonprofit is always looking for support, whether financial or in-kind donations. Needed: everything from books and backpacks to iPods and jackets.

For the BBA “wish list,” visit bit.ly/BBAWishList

46 Atlanta Parent February 2013

Bert’s Big Adventure: Bert and Stacey Weiss Bert Weiss was a sidekick on a radio show in Washington, D.C. when a fan named Stacey showed up at one of his promotional events. He married her 15 years ago and his next radio job brought them to Dallas, where Weiss worked on a show with Kidd Kraddick, who takes specialneeds kids to Walt Disney World each year.

“Bert went on that Kidd’s Kids trip and was so energized,” recalls Stacey. “He said: ‘As soon as we have our own show, we are doing this – it’s so impactful!’ ” By 2002, Bert was hosting Atlanta’s “The Bert Show” on Q 100 (99.7 FM). He told listeners he wanted to start a program to take sick children on a “dream trip” to Disney World “and the community helped us build it right from the start,” he says.

The couple started a nonprofit for Bert’s Big Adventure (BBA); so far, 110 chronically or terminally ill kids ages 5-12 have gone on the five-day Orlando trip. Stacey is the unpaid executive director of the organization.

“I know this is my purpose,” she says. She and Bert have boys ages 10 and 5, “but these are my other 110 children who teach me every day and give me perspective about everything in life.”

Thirteen kids and their families are set for the 11th “V.I.P.” trip Feb. 21-25. They’ll leave home in limos and everyone will walk – or roll – a red carpet to board the private plane. There’ll be no waiting in Disney lines. Last year’s group had a dance party with Mickey Mouse and a special tour of Cinderella’s guest suite in the top of her Magic Kingdom castle. “We never say no to anything,” is the ongoing theme, Bert says.

“The friendships and bonds that form between our kids and families are amazing,” he says, “and that continues long after the trips.” Four times a year there are BBA “reunion” parties.

Six of the 110 children who have gone on Bert’s Big Adventure are no longer living.

“People often comment that what we do must be so hard or so sad,” Stacey says, “but the truth is, we get to go to the most magical place on earth and it’s all about being happy and joyful. The kids forget about doctors and focus on happy time.”

Bert always asks parents to “give up control, because we are going to take care of everything and you don’t have to worry about a thing.” That alone is huge, he says. “Parents of special needs kids rarely get to feel that. There’s such a pressure lifted off of them that we get tears even before we leave for the trip.”

“It’s all about making magic happen for families who need it more than anyone,” says Stacey.

– Julie Bookman atlantaparent.com

Pampering with a Purpose: Jen Dicello Knowing firsthand what it’s like to be in and out of the hospital with a medically fragile child, Jen Dicello wanted to bring comfort to other moms in similar situations.

As an independent beauty consultant for Mary Kay cosmetics, Dicello teamed up with the organization FOCUS (Families of Children Under Stress) to start the Pampering with a Purpose campaign in spring of 2012.

Pampering with a Purpose delivers Mary Kay rollup toiletry bags filled with products to mothers who have children in the hospital.

The program is in honor of Dicello’s late daughter Jordan, who was born with epilepsy, cortical blindness and cerebral palsy.

“It took me four years to find something I was passionate about after my daughter passed away,” DiCello says. “I realized that as moms, we take care of everyone but ourselves – especially moms who have children with special needs.”

Dicello and fellow Mary Kay colleagues Kristin Rogers and Deb Herota organized two “Party with a Purpose” events last summer in Buford and Cumming. Sales generated

n Anyone can host a “Party with a Purpose” event to help meet the current goal of 3,000 bags for FOCUS moms.

See facebook.com/ MKpamperingwithapurpose for more information.

from those parties were matched and funds raised went toward filling bags with beauty products – more than $200 worth of products per bag. The first delivery to FOCUS took three car loads. FOCUS then delivered the special goodie bags to the intensive care and rehabilitation units of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Pediatric Hospitals.

“So far we’ve raised over $70,000, which fills about 330 rollup bags,” Herota says. She’s proud of her Mary Kay sales group (called the “Yes! Unit”), for the great relationship

it has developed with FOCUS. Aside from the Pampering with a Purpose campaign, the women have donated makeovers for the FOCUS kids’ fashion show and hosted a “Mom’s Day Out” houseboat party on Lake Lanier for 50 moms with medically fragile children.

“These bags are just our way of saying, ‘We love you and we’re thinking of you,’ to these moms,” Herota says.

– Kate Wallace Cont’d on page 48

The Georgia Department of Education and local school systems have a mission to locate, identify and evaluate each child--birth through 21 years of age--with a suspected disability, and to provide appropriate educational services to these children throughout Georgia.

Metro East GLRS: 1-678-676-2400 DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett and Rockdale Counties; Buford and Decatur Cities.

Metro West GLRS: 1-770-432-2404 Clayton, Cobb, Douglas and Forsyth Counties; Atlanta and Marietta Cities.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Atlanta Cities: 404-802-1695; Buford City: 770-945-5035; City of Decatur: 404-370-4400 ext.940; Clayton County: 678-610-1268; Cobb County: 770-426-3320; DeKalb County: 678-676-1800; Douglas County: 770-651-2000; Forsyth County: 770-887-2461; Fulton County: 404-763-5600; Gwinnett County: 678-301-7110; Marietta City: 770-427-4631; Rockdale County: 770-860-4331

CHILDREN USE THE LANGUAGE OF PLAY TO EXPRESS AND RESOLVE THEIR PROBLEMS. Trudy Post Sprunk

www.gapt.org 770.491.7423 atlantaparent.com

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 47

just kids

SHINING EXAMPLES My Day of Beauty: Gloria Owczarski Gloria Owczarski has spent many hours as a volunteer swim team coach for Special Olympics. “Her girls,” as she fondly refers to the team, have taught her a lot more than she will ever teach them.

Owczarski created an event called My Day of Beauty as a way to say “thank you” to her team, as well as to her sister Kimberly, who has Down syndrome.

Her job in a hair salon led her to notice a lack of emphasis on beauty care for people with special needs. This gave Owczarski the idea to create a day of free salon services for teens and adults with special needs.

“I’d look around at my students and I saw that some had dirty nails, unibrows and facial hair. There just wasn’t a lot of attention put toward these kids’ looks,” explains Owczarski, “at least not like the emphasis on the looks of their siblings without special needs.”

In its first year, My Day of Beauty gave makeovers to 22 students.

The event took place at a small salon in Atlanta where Owczarski found herself scrambling to secure manicurists, stylists and makeup artists willing to volunteer their time and materials. Now as the event enters its 10th year, Owczarski is gearing up to provide salon services, massages and entertainment to more than 350 students with special needs at the Paul Mitchell School Atlanta. Her husband Greg happily takes over the job of “grill master,” and cooks lunch for everyone.

It takes hundreds of volunteers to put on My Day of Beauty, Owczarski says, adding that some salon owners bring their full staff.

The smiles on so many faces after they look in the mirror make it all worth it, she says. “These kids have such great energy and it doesn’t take much to make them happy. It really puts things in perspective.”

Currently, My Day of Beauty is an invitation-only event.

Invitations go out to high school-age special education students in

48 Atlanta Parent February 2013

DeKalb County Schools and Atlanta Public Schools and their teachers; Owczarski also includes her Special Olympics athletes and hopes to continue to expand the program to more special-needs kids.

“This event gives those who normally wouldn’t work with special needs kids a chance to experience it,” Owczarski adds. “They get to see how they can touch their lives. People end up thanking me for letting them volunteer.”

– Kate Wallace n This year’s Day of Beauty event is scheduled for April 29, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., at the Paul Mitchell School Atlanta. Owczarski is always looking for volunteers and food donations. For more information visit mydayofbeauty.net c

atlantaparent.com

just kids f.y.i Mark Your Calendar Dimensions of Dyslexia Conference Spend two days networking and learning about overcoming dyslexia. Visit exhibitor tables, browse the bookstore for the best books on dyslexia, attend guest speaker sessions and watch a screening of “Dislecksia: The Movie.”

Feb. 1-2. Fri., 2-6:30 p.m.; Sat., 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Cobb Galleria Centre. Two Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta. 404-256-1232. Pre-register. $120-$200.

Abilities Expo Gain knowledge and empowerment among people with disabilities, their families, caregiers and healthcare professionals at this annual gathering. Learn about and speak with representatives of companies that offer disability products and services. Feb. 8-10. Fri. & Sat., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Georgia World Congress Center, Hall C4. 285 Andrew Young International Blvd., Atlanta. 717-244-3623. Free.

“Across the Spectrum” Autism/Asperger Conference and Expo Get connected with companies, organizations and parents striving to meet the needs of kids with autism spectrum disorders.

Attendees will receive two days of presentations from national experts. Feb. 27-28.

8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Gwinnett Convention Center.

6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 770-776-7472. $79-$175.

– Kate Wallace

The Adaptive Learning Center

The Bedford School accepts students in grades one through nine. Students receive proper academic remediation in a small class setting, as well as specific help with physical skills, peer interaction and self-esteem. The Bedford School also offers Squirrel Hollow Camp, a remedial summer camp program.

Building Communities Through The Inclusion of Children With Special Needs & Their Families

Inclusive Preschool

ALC offers an inclusive preschool program in partnership with Peachtree Presbyterian Preschool, The Preschool at Peachtree Road, United Methodist Church, First Presbyterian of Atlanta Preschool, and the 2 preschools of the Marcus Jewish Community Centers of Atlanta (MJCCA).

Atlanta • Buckhead • Dunwoody • Marietta

www.adaptivelearningcenter.org

770.509.3909

atlantaparent.com

For Children With Learning Differences

770-774-8001

Open Houses

5665 Milam Rd. Fairburn, Georgia 30213

Wednesday, March 13th, 9am Sunday, April 28th 2-4pm

www.thebedfordschool.org

The Bedford School maintains a non-discriminatory policy concerning admissions, scholarships, use of facilities and employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex or creed.

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 49

Children’s Special Services, LLC Now teaming with l Learning on Log cal about our Preschoolg Group Now Formin

just kids

A quarterly focus on Special Needs

Summer Camp Registrations are now open!

ADD, ADHD, ASD, Autism, Sensory Integration, Dyslexia, Dyspraphia, LD ...and more

Individual & Group therapy sessions available

Comprehensive Evaluations Addressing Sensory Motor • Visual Motor • Coordination Visual Processing • Handwriting • Autism Organizational Skills • ADD • ADHD • PDD OCD • Behavior Disorders • Sensory Integration

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• Over 35 years experience • 2006 Georgia OT of the Year

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www.childrens-services.com Planning for life. Planning wisely.

Compassionate lawyers specializing in Wills. Special Needs Trusts. Probate. Guardianships.

Attorneys & Counselors at Law 1815 Lockeway Drive, Suite 106 Alpharetta, Georgia 30004

770.475.8041 www.bhvlegal.com

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50 Atlanta Parent February 2013

Toys for Fun – and Therapy

Melissa Henry of Momo’s Special Toys

Play Teaches Important Concepts for All Kids Playing with toys gives all young children a good start on some of life’s basics – grouping and sorting, colors, textures, cause and effect, problem solving, socialization, and so much more. For kids with special needs, toys are a fun way to introduce concepts that they otherwise might find difficult to grasp.

But how do you find the toys that would most benefit your child? Sometimes it helps to touch and play with the toy, or talk with an expert. Metro Atlanta is fortunate to have many special needs therapists and organizations to offer guidance – and its first toy store specializing in special needs toys.

Momo’s Special Toys, which opened in Marietta in October, is owned by Melissa Henry, whose child Aydan has been diagnosed with apraxia, coordination delays and hearing loss. Henry, a former preschool teacher for 10 years, started her business online in 2011 after Aydan’s therapist asked her to buy a chewy tube for him.

“I went to all sorts of stores looking for it, and finally had to buy it online,” she says.

Her online store soon evolved into a retail store at 2323 Shallowford Road. The compact space has chewy tubes and other therapeutic products, and lots and lots of toys, from aroma therapy stuffed animals to puzzles with sounds.

Momo’s also has some demo toys out for kids and parents to try, and Henry frequently

partners with schools or organizations for toy demonstrations and sales. More information at the store’s website, momospecialtoys.com Another resource is Lekotek of Georgia (lekotekga.org), a nonprofit with six locations across metro Atlanta. One of Lekotek’s programs is a monthly play session with toys and computer games. It also has a lending library of toys and games.

Here are more online resources for information about toys: n abilitystation.com has therapistapproved toys. n specialneedstoys.com and especialneeds.com have toys for a range of special needs. n playabilitytoys.com and difflearn.com and also have a range of toys, but some especially for autism spectrum. n gummylump.com has toys specifically designed for preschoolers and toddlers.

Some major retailers, including amazon. com, target.com and toysrus.com, let you search their online toy sections for special needs toys. Toys R Us also has a “Toy Guide for Differently-Abled Kids.” A digital version of the toy guide and toys featured in the guide are available at toysrus.com/differentlyabled.

– Amanda Allen atlantaparent.com

Spotlight on Special Needs Resources Brain Balance Achievement Centers of Atlanta Help Children Overcome ADHD, Asperger’s, Dyslexia and Autism

B

rain Balance is an after school program that utilizes the latest brain research to help children with neurobehavioral problems such as ADHD, Asperger’s Syndrome, OCD, ODD, NVLD, Dyslexia, Learning Disabilities, RAD, and even Autism to function better academically, socially and behaviorally. Brain Balance founder, Dr. Robert Melillo is the author of the groundbreaking book Disconnected Kids.

When you look at what is actually happening in the brains of children with ADHD, Asperger’s Syndrome, Dyslexia, OCD, Autism, Social Issues, Language Issues or Learning Disabilities, you see a similar problem: Namely, that there are areas in the brain, especially between the two hemispheres, that are not connected the way they should be. As a result, one of the two hemispheres of the brain becomes STRONGER AND FASTER and the other becomes WEAKER AND SLOWER. When this happens the two hemispheres become functionally disconnected and are unable to communicate effectively.

It’s as if one hemisphere is using a high speed DSL connection and the other is using an old dial-up modem. The characteristics of the stronger, faster hemisphere naturally become

amplified while the characteristics of the weaker, slower hemisphere are muted.

This lack of balance translates into the noticeable academic, social and behavioral issues that these children exhibit.

Generally, the Right Hemisphere sees the Big Picture, the whole but not the parts. It controls and moves the big muscles of the body, posture and gait. It is also the spatial hemisphere. The Right Hemisphere houses the centers for non verbal communication and is therefore the social side of the brain; it also likes novelty and becomes bored very easily, it is the creative brain. The Left Hemisphere ignores the whole and concentrates on the details. It is good at pattern recognition and likes routine and repetition. The Left Hemisphere controls the small muscles, likes to systematize things and is linear and logical.

Brain Balance can help you child succeed academically, behaviorally and socially.

Brain Balance of Atlanta centers offer free educational seminars for parents on Tuesdays. Visit their web site at www.brainbalancecenters.com.

For more information call 770-631-3033 in Peachtree City, 770-614-4790 in Suwanee or 770-650-8010 in Roswell.

Families Of Children Under Stress (FOCUS)

Porter Academy

W

hen a child is diagnosed with a lifelong disability or serious medical condition, parents just want to kiss and make it better. This can be a scary and emotional time, and some parents may be so overwhelmed by the medical terms and by their emotions that they really do not understand; they might not even know the questions to ask! Parents often feel relieved to know that they are not alone, that another parent has walked the road they are on.

Families Of Children Under Stress (FOCUS) offer comfort and encouragement and is there to help – to listen and cry, to inform and educate, and to offer programs for the families and the child with special needs through our support groups and programs. Seek support so you can have the information and tools to help your child and to help meet your emotional needs.

FOCUS offers support groups all over metro Atlanta; a newsletter with stories by families about their experiences and information about equipment and resources; an education conference; community respite programs; and several annual activities for the entire family. FOCUS believes that if your child has special needs, then your family has special needs – FOCUS cares. If your child has a physical, cognitive or developmental disability, please call FOCUS at 770-234-9111 or go to our website at www.focus-ga.org.

atlantaparent.com

P

orter Academy is dedicated to educating children Pre-K through 8th grade by utilizing individualized programs that are appropriate to each student’s developmental level and learning style. If one technique is not proving effective for a particular child, then the teachers will try alternative techniques until they find one that works. The team of teachers, therapists, and administrators work together to develop academic abilities, foundational abilities (e.g, processing skills, attention, motor skills), and self-esteem.

To accomplish the above goals, Porter Academy utilizes 1)small homerooms grouped by social-developmental level, 2)assessments to determine academic and developmental level, 3)individualized academic programs, 4)small group instruction of core academics to ensure comprehension, 5) use of physical movement and multi-sensory techniques to enhance learning efficiency, 6)social guidance and intentional character development, and 7)therapeutic support (speech/language therapy, occupational therapy, and music therapy within a group setting).

Porter Academy fosters lifelong success through the development of cognitive, academic, social, and psychological abilities that provide a strong foundation upon which the child can build. Visit www.porteracademy.org or call 770-594-1313.

Special Advertising Section

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 51

Educational Video Games and TV Shows

Help Young Kids Learn

by Malia Jacobson

S

arah Stetner is proudly raising two young techies. Her sons Gabriel, 3, and Isaiah, 6, are media mavens who know their way around an iPad – and almost every other device on

the market.

“Leapster, iPad, Wii, Xbox, computer, they do it all,” she says.

The Stetners set media limits for “noneduational” media and TV shows but not for learning-oriented video games and devices. “Those, they can play all they like,” Stetner says.

Just how educational those devices are is the subject of debate. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends no screen use for babies and toddlers and strict limits for older children, based on the belief that so-called “educational” video games and television shows have no proven learning benefits.

But that claim is controversial – some experts insist that certain media can and do boost learning for young children. Elizabeth Vandewater, associate professor of health promotion and behavioral science at The University of Texas Health Science Center, led a study that showed slight vocabulary gains in infants exposed to a “Baby Wordsworth” language-oriented DVD. “The idea that media have no educational benefits is a common misconception,” she says.

52 Atlanta Parent February 2013

n Learning Debate

As families snap up smartphones, tablets, and educational techno-toys, the debate over their educational value is heating up. Many modern kids live in homes where media devices outnumber people – the average home has almost 10 screens, according to one study. Common Sense Media reports 40 percent of 2- to 4-year-olds use smartphones, tablet computers, or similar devices. Nearly half (44 percent) of preschoolers have a television in their bedroom. Younger tots see plenty of screens, too: the AAP reports that 90 percent of children under 2 use some form of electronic media daily.

One thing researchers and the AAP agree on: A child’s potential for technology-aided learning depends largely on age. For babies and toddlers, the AAP says educational programming and media devices don’t boost learning. That’s because most babies and toddlers lack the critical contextual knowledge that enables them to learn from a television program.

Many modern kids live in homes where media devices outnumber people – the average home has almost 10 screens.

For preschoolers, the hubbub about media overexposure isn’t because most media is harmful in and of itself, notes Sarah Roseberry, a researcher with the Institute for Learning and Brain Sciences (I-LABS) at the University of Washington. Instead, the concern centers on what kids miss out on when they’re parked in front of a screen.

According to one study, kids lose 50 minutes of face-to-face interaction and 10 minutes of play for every hour they spend in front of a screen. “Right now, we’re concerned with displacement, and the idea that the screen time is replacing the type of face-to-face interactions that we know promote language development and other types of learning,” she says. n Screen Awareness

Video games and other educational devices are not necessarily devoid of benefits, says Seeta Pai, managing director of education and research at Common Sense Media. “Some media may help young kids develop certain 21st century skills that aren’t available through other means,” Pai says “But we’re talking about well-designed products used in the right circumstances with the right adults.”

That means that devices that take the place of parental interaction – or serve as a babysitter for busy parents – won’t have much learning value, no matter how great the content. Co-viewing and playing video games together allows parents to connect what’s atlantaparent.com

happening on screen to real life, providing the vital context that fuels learning, Pai says.

“So after a trip to the zoo, you might play a computer game or use an iPad app about animals, and see if you can find animals that your child saw at the zoo.” Young kids need parents to help bridge the gap between the screen and real life, she says.

Definitive answers on the educational value of media use for young kids may be years away. In the meantime, Common Sense Media offers Learning Ratings, a program that offers “best for learning” ratings and reviews for video games and apps. The ratings (in BETA testing) are designed to help parents navigate the confusing world of kids’ media and help kids make better media choices, Pai says.

For the Stetners, though, the lesson is clear: electronics can teach, but they can’t replace life experience. From learning basics like letters and numbers to life skills like coordination and sportsmanship, Stetner says video games and computers have made her kids smarter. But when the weather’s nice, she sends the boys outside to race, wrestle, and tumble in real-life dirt and grass – an experience no computer game could ever replicate. c

Media Guidelines n Think outside the box: Don’t choose games based on the marketing content written on the box – look online for independent reviews or ratings to gauge a game’s learning value. n All in the family: Co-viewing or playing video games with children allows parents to monitor the content and provide contextual cues that boost learning – and have fun! n Expansive reading: When using interactive reading devices with young children, ask kids to talk about what they see on the page and ask open-ended questions that connect the content to real life. n Know when to say when: Use common sense to set media limits for toddlers and preschoolers. If kids resist playing outside, shun non-electronic pursuits, and lose interest in other activities they once enjoyed, it may be time to scale back.

imagine Your Child?

What do you want for

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770-205-6773

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Now enrolling children ages 15 months – 12 years • www.MontessoriSchoolsofGeorgia.com atlantaparent.com

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 53

How to Overcome Study Obstacles for

Kids with ADD

54 Atlanta Parent    February 2013

by Heather Campeau

W

hether I am visiting with friends or family, talking with colleagues, or meeting with parents, I have heard the frustration of many parents who have a child with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). Repeatedly they hear that their child has potential, yet the student continues to miss homework assignments. Students often have a negative attitude toward school, and home becomes a battleground as parents want students to finish homework, and children procrastinate. As a teacher, I have learned a few techniques to help my students with ADD be more successful in school. Here are some techniques for parents and students to incorporate to overcome doubt and discouragement when dealing with overwhelming homework.

atlantaparent.com

n Doubt and Discouragement

Your child may dislike school, be frustrated by low grades and have difficulty concentrating in class. Remember that children and adults with ADD are unique, creative people. Be sure to encourage your child to pursue extracurricular activities in her gifted area, whether that’s sports, music, art or something else. When your child can express himself, it makes him confident. Such positive feelings and situations can offset the negative feelings and situations your child may encounter..

Inspiring students from Toddler through Middle School

wonder what I’ll learn today?

n The Homework Hassle

Many parents demand that children remove all distractions and create a silent atmosphere for finishing homework. However, this creates a dilemma for children with ADD as the quiet may heighten their sensitivity to sounds. It’s OK for kids to have background noise of television or music. Since children with ADD have trouble with focusing, the background noise helps one part of their brain to be aware of the stimulus, freeing another part to focus on homework. My son completes his homework in front of the computer while listening to music.

An extraordinary, curious, open mind.

A sense of wonder nurtured and inspired.

Lessons experienced, not just taught.

Collective engagement and personal success. Gifts of knowledge and wisdom extending far beyond the classroom.

Welcome to Springmont.

springmont.com (404) 252-3910

ATLANTA’S FIRST MONTESSORI SCHOOL

Many parents demand that children remove all distractions and create a silent atmosphere for finishing homework. However,

this creates a dilemma for children with ADD

as the quiet may heighten their sensitivity to sounds.

Working in focused, brief stints with frequent breaks or rewards is helpful. The drawback is that assignments may take a few hours to complete. Parents should sit alongside their child to redirect attention as needed.

Here are more ideas for how to break down homework into manageable chunks. n Bottomless Backpack

The backpack needs to be sorted weekly, if not daily. Children with ADD have trouble organizing and filing, recording information and retaining papers. Elaborate systems don’t work. Purchase one colorful folder and put all worksheets into it. If there is more than one folder, this increases the chance that something will be left behind at school or at home. Expanding folders can hold quite a bit and even have a closure so things don’t fall out.

Cont’d on page 56

atlantaparent.com

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 55

How to Overcome Study Obstacles for Kids with ADD Keep a folder or binder at home with all of the informational letters teachers send home. Teachers can be quickly reached via email, and sometimes a website can confirm assignment requirements and deadlines.

Teachers are encouraged to be in contact with parents and will often have systems in place to increase parent communication. Be sure to take advantage of school open houses and parent-teacher conferences to build rapport with your child’s teacher.

Many schools issue an agenda book with places for assignments. Some schools require parents to sign these books on a regular basis.

As a child grows, his responsibility to keep track of assignments should increase.

For younger children, getting

a handle on multiplication is key. Get some flashcards and keep them handy for down time.

n English Essay

The blank page incites fear in the hearts of many students. Sometimes, children simply give up and turn in nothing. As an English teacher, I would rather receive something rather than nothing. One technique that is helpful is to ask your child to recite what he already knows. As he dictates, write or type his response. Now the page is not blank! However, many children think they are done at this point.

Now is the time to edit the essay to complete it. Allow a quick break after completing the rough draft, then get back to work.

Essays vary according to grade level, but regardless of a child’s age, essays always need correct spelling, capitalization, punctuation and grammar. Often papers need a quote – exact words from a work of literature or

Free the child’s potential, and you will transform him into the world.

– Dr. Maria Montessori

Infant Community

Toddler Community

Starting at 8 weeks: Open Enrollment

14 mos.–3 yrs: Open Enrollment

Lower Elementary

Upper Elementary

6 years – 9 years

Atlanta Montessori International School nurtures the potential of the whole child and cultivates the growth of a diverse international community. In multi-age classrooms, children learn together in respectful, peaceful Montessori environments specifically designed to follow the child’s needs from 8 weeks to 15 years. Our programs promote independence, initiative, confidence, responsibility, strong academics, leadership, self discipline, and a lifetime love of learning.

text – in quotation marks. Use any notes, prompts, or graphic organizers the teacher has provided to check the work. The teacher may want a specific number of facts, sentences, paragraphs, or examples.

If your child runs out of ideas, prompt her with questions that can be turned into statements such as: What is a cause of the

9 years – 12 years

Primary Environment

3 – 6 yrs: Open Enrollment 3 yr olds

Junior High

12 years – 15 years

• AMI Accredited Teachers and AdvancEd (SACS) Accredited School • Year-Round School for Infant and Toddler Communities • Multi-Cultural, Multi-Language Montessori Learning Atmosphere • Diverse School Community with over 40 Cultures Represented • AMIS Orchestra, AMIS Music, AMIS Voice & AMIS Visual Arts Programs • Upper Elementary and Jr. High Annual International Travels • After School Programs: Ballet, Gymnastics, Chess, Yoga, Piano, & Guitar • Extended Day Option and Summer Program

Now AcceptiNg ApplicAtioNs for 2013-2014 toUrs: weekly from November ~ March Main Campus: 1970 Cliff Valley Way, Atlanta 30329 Candler Park Campus: 1240 Euclid Avenue, Atlanta 30307

(rsVp requested for tour days and times to info@amischool.com or by calling 404-325-6777)

liKe Us oN fAceBooK: www.facebook.com/amischool

404-325-6777 • info@amischool.com • www.amischool.com 56 Atlanta Parent February 2013

atlantaparent.com

Revolutionary War? Or, what happens next in the cycle? Finally, make sure the essay is turned in as a final draft – usually in ink or typed. Always be sure your child’s name is on the assignment.

Inspiring students from Toddler through Middle School

wonder what I’ll master today?

n Mountains of Math

Students often receive multiple problems to complete each night. The key to math problems is to break down the assignment into manageable chunks. Have your child complete three to five problems at a time and then take a break. Graph paper is helpful so that students can use the boxes to line up figures and decimal points to avoid careless errors.

For younger children, getting a handle on multiplication is key. Get some flashcards and keep them handy for down time. I used to drill my daughter during her nighttime bath or shower. Car rides and dinner time offer some opportunities to run through tables.

Children with ADD usually benefit from movement or music associated with learning.

Help your student create a sing-song voice or use British accents to recite facts. Use manipulatives or move from place to place.

Snap fingers or clap to create rhythm. Move the math mountain piece by piece and keep it fun.

An extraordinary, curious, open mind.

A sense of wonder nurtured and inspired.

Lessons experienced, not just taught.

Collective engagement and personal success. Gifts of knowledge and wisdom extending far beyond the classroom.

Welcome to Springmont.

springmont.com (404) 252-3910

ATLANTA’S FIRST MONTESSORI SCHOOL

n Persevere

Children with ADD need extra help and reminders from parents, teachers, and peers. Helping your child is not cheating!

Many classrooms implement cooperative learning. By creating structure, breaking down assignments, staying in touch with teachers, and assisting with organization, you can help your child be successful and less discouraged about school. c

Advertise in Big Book of Info

COMING SUMMER 2013 Call: 770-454-7599 atlantaparent.com

Parent atlanta

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 57

Ask a Teacher

Q: A:

How do I best help my fifth-grader with social challenges?

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Parent atlanta

A SCHOOL LIKE NO OTHER - CHRISTIAN EDUCATION WITH CRITICALLY DEMANDED S.T.E.M. EMPHASIS

The future in your child’s education is here today • Summer Camps 2013 • Grades K-5th Opening Fall 2013 • Middle School Grades Opening Fall 2014 / Now Accepting Wait List Students For Grades 6-8

Come to a 2013 Open House and School Tour 11:30 a.m. ~ 7:30 p.m. (Or by scheduled appointment)

• Friday, February 8 • Friday, February 22 • Friday, March 8 • Friday, March 22 epiphanyocs.org • facebook.com/epiphanyocs • info@epiphanyocs.org 58 Atlanta Parent February 2013

I have been teaching for 10 years, but I spent most of that time teaching fourth grade.

Last year, I was able to “loop” with my fourth graders, which means the class stuck together and we all moved up to fifth grade. I quickly learned that the fifth grade years have some real challenges.

I call fifth grade the “hormones grade.”

Students begin developing crushes, and they can display some unusual behaviors when it comes to their friendships and other social issues. I support my students by being empathetic and aware of their struggles and Liz Wood growing pains.

Peer pressure is a huge challenge in fifth grade. Suddenly, students want to please their friends more than please their teachers. Peer pressure can affect a whole lot – everything from what a student wears and eats to his interests and behavior.

When a student acts out, I am understanding, never condescending. No matter how small the matter seems, I treat the student with respect. It’s important to remember that to the student, the situation does not seem small or silly. Whether a friendship quarrel or other issue, it’s important to your child, listen to them whenever given the opportunity. Listen with care and respect – don’t snicker or laugh off the worry by saying “Oh, that’s nothing,” because to your youngster, it is something.

Your child is going through the natural process of growing up – just like you and I did. Whenever I sense odd behavior from a student, I quietly investigate so I can get to the bottom of the behavior. It’s important to find out why students are doing what they are doing. Just as I do, parents can strive to help their children see different points of view so they can be more aware of their actions and learn from their choices.

Respect, awareness, and empathy are key to providing a fifth-grader with the support he needs. c – Liz Wood teaches fifth grade at Eastside Elementary School in East Cobb County. atlantaparent.com

FREEHess TrialAcademy for new families

Provide your child with A Competitive Advantage By learning Chinese Mandarin with us!

Summer Camp Infant/Toddler Program Chinese Immersion PM Program Saturday Morning Program LittleBusyBee

770-380-8638 Located in Fountain Oaks Plaza • Upstairs next to Kroger 4920 Roswell Road, Suite 44, Sandy Springs

www.LittleBusyBeeMandarin.com

atlantaparent.com

A collaborative adventure in learning Rolling admission Prek through 8th grade

678-308-6380 611 Medlock Road, Decatur GA 30033

www.hessacademy.com

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 59

A Day of Discovery, Learning & Entertainment Presented by

Parent atlanta

A free family resource expo!

Stroll through the neighborhoods of: Activity Avenue, Camp Court, Destination Vacation, The Green Way, Healthy Highway, Learning Lane, Party Place, Baby Block and Main Street

Saturday, April 20 11 AM - 4 PM Northlake Mall • 4800 Briarcliff Rd. NE • Atlanta, GA 30345

For more info please contact: Kaitlyn Morris 678-222-1911 • Kmorris@atlantaparent.com

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide * Eating Out

n Free

Fun

n Exhibits

n

Playground

Not-to-miss events for February

1

n

Tr y It!

n Calendar

Chechkis out tth’s mongment Consiales S 78 Page

Clifford the Big Red Dog

Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre Feb. 2, 11 a.m.

Everyone’s favorite big red dog is turning 50 this month! Wish him well at this live musical performance.

Clifford and Emily Elizabeth embark on a journey to Birdwell Island to meet up with their friends and learn to share Clifford’s BE BIG! ideas (which include helping others and sharing). This big show is all about music, laughter and learning. 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy., 770-916-2800. $15.50-$30.50.

3 2

Clifford the Big Red Dog

Atlanta Parent Magazine’s Camp Expo

Town Center Mall at Kennesaw / Feb. 23, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Browse the best camp offerings in metro Atlanta at this comprehensive exhibition. Gather information on scores of day and overnight camps for kids ages preschool to 18. Don’t miss the last of Atlanta Parent’s three camp expos coming up on March 16 at Perimeter Mall in Dunwoody. Town Center Mall is at 400 Barrett Pkwy., Kennesaw. Visit atlantaparent.com for a complete list of camps that will be on hand. Admission is free.

Dragons: Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey

Philips Arena, Feb. 13-18 The Arena at Gwinnett Center, Feb. 21-March 3 The Greatest Show on Earth is coming to downtown Atlanta (12 performances), and then to Gwinnett County (18 performances). Don’t miss this year’s traveling spectacle, “Dragons,” featuring acrobats, trapeze artists, elephants, lions, flane throwers and more displaying their breathtaking skills. Check ringling.com for show times at each venue. 800-745-3000. $14-$90.

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 61

Family Fun Guide Twisted Kitchen

EATING OUT

125 Barrett Pkwy., Marietta 770-675-3721; www.twistedkitchen.net Mon.-Sun. 11 a.m.- 9 p.m.

If your family is looking for a detour from the same old fast food fare, look no further than Twisted Kitchen. This unique, energetic familyfriendly eatery demonstrates the “fast casual” concept of dining where you can build your own pasta, noodle, or wrap dishes on the fly.

It’s instant gratification. Instead of serving food that has been sitting under heat lamps for hours, you watch cooks expertly sautee each fresh ingredient in the pan while carefully controlling the consistency and temperature of your dish.

It’s ready by the time you pay at the end of the counter. n What’s on the menu: Twisted Kitchen prides itself on variety. It took my family a minute to take in all the possible combinations of pastas, salads, and wraps available. My kids are picky, and we easily found something for everyone.

The customized menu includes fresh ingredients prepared daily for everything including meats, cheeses, sauces and veggies.

n Why kids will like it: As soon as we got in line, my kids loved seeing the display of all of the pasta and the chance to make their own independent choices. “Mmmm!” was the first sound my son made as he dug into his bowl of buttered noodles with parmesan cheese. I had to see what all the fuss was about, and with one bite, I couldn’t believe how tasty and flavorful this simple dish was. He finished it in no time! My other son stuck with his old standby of mac and cheese, and it was no surprise that it tasted amazing as well.

At $3.99 for a “Kid Twist” pasta bowl, this is a reasonably priced entrée, especially if you have several young mouths to feed. Of course, my kids saved room for the delectable assortment of freshly baked cookies. The sugar cookie tasted like birthday cake. n Why parents will like it: Parents will appreciate the variety of entrées and the ability to customize each dish to their liking or dietary needs. Watching your waistline? Then opt for the low-carb pasta.

There are also gluten-free pasta choices.

As much as I love pasta, I went out on a limb and ordered the Chicken Caesar Wrap. It was so savory, I was actually sad when I was finished.

Unlike our children, my husband decided to go with a pasta dish on the “Twisted Suggestion” menu – a compilation of the most popular pasta creations that customers request. He, too, was extremely satisfied with his choice. At $6.49-$7.99 per adult entrée, you can’t beat the gourmet quality for the price.

My whole family agreed that even though we don’t live in Marietta, Twisted Kitchen is certainly worth the journey for a delicious, affordable family meal that is prepared fast but doesn’t even come close to being fast food!

– Felicia Barman

Learn to Juggle!

Opening!

Frida and Diego Catch the newest exhibit opening at the High Museum of Art, featuring renowned Mexican artists Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera.

The exhibition includes more than 75 works by this husband and wife, who are central figures of Mexican Modernism. Feb.14-May 12. Tues.Wed, Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs., 10 a.m.8 p.m., Sun., noon-5 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-5000. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; 5 and younger, free.

Body Carnival The human body is a complicated structure. The newest Children’s Museum of Atlanta exhibit, “Body Carnival” aims to help kids understand how the body functions. The exhibit incorporates a variety of “learning zones” with engaging activities that focus on balance, motion, strength, and more. Feb. 9-May 27. 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. Ages 1-100, $12.75.

62 Atlanta Parent February 2013

Bring your kid to watch some seriously impressive juggling at the Groundhog Day Jugglers Festival February 1-3. This three-day extravaganza features the finest jugglers in the Southeast with an opening performance by the Seed and Feed Marching Abominable Band. Kids and adults can learn from the pros when it comes to juggling, unicycling and stilt walking.

Fri., 5-10 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Juggling competition, Sat., 2 p.m. Yaarb Shrine Center. 400 Ponce de Leon Ave., Atlanta. See atlantajugglers.org for more information. Free.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Family Fun Guide

Extreme Mammals: The Biggest, Smallest and Most Amazing Mammals of All Time Fernbank Museum of Natural History Opens March 2 Stand in the shadow of the largest land mammal that ever lived, the Indricotherium, or come eye to eye with a bumblebee bat the size of a dime.

Extreme Mammals offers insight on how a mammal’s life and behavior evolved. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta.

404-929-6300. Adults, $17.50; ages 3-12, $15.50; 2 and younger, free.

atlantaparent.com

FREE FUN

Take in a Story Ignite a love of reading in kids by attending one of these local storytelling events.

Foxtale Book Shoppe Every Saturday and Monday at 11 a.m.

105 East Main St., #138, Woodstock Foxtale has Valentine-themed activities all month long.

Kids start off singing and dancing then transition to storytime.

Look forward to temporary tattoos and stickers. 770-516-9989.

Foxtalebookshoppe.com.

Bean Head Toys Every Thursday at 10:30 a.m.

220 Johnson Ferry Rd., Sandy Springs Enjoy storytelling inside an indoor tree house. Afterward kids are invited to make a craft to take home. 404-851-2980.

Beanheadtoysonline.com.

Little Shop of Stories Every Sunday at 3 p.m., Tuesday at 11 a.m. and Thursday at 7 p.m.; 133A East Court Sq., Decatur Thursday nights kids can come in their pajamas and snack on milk and cookies. Plus look forward to themed events on Sundays – including Chinese New Year and President’s Day celebrations. 404-373-6300. Littleshopofstories.com.

Barnes and Noble

Once Again Books Storytime held at Marietta Whole Foods Every Tuesday at 10 a.m.; 1311 Johnson Ferry Rd., Marietta This storytelling adventure includes a fun activity that is sure to entertain. 770-973-1864. Onceagainbooks.com.

45 South Café Every Wednesday at 10 a.m.; 45 S. Peachtree St., Norcross Kids can enjoy interactive storytime in a quaint café in downtown Norcross. 770-409-4009. 45southcafe.com

Barnes and Noble Times vary by store.

Most Barnes & Noble stores through metro Atlanta offer a storytime followed by an activity. 800-843-2665.

Barnesandnoble.com – Sarah Egan

“Big Apple Circus - a Top Ten pick for the New Year”

-Atlanta Journal Constitution

tick starteat s t

The BigTop ! is Back

$20

Only 2 Weeks!

Feb. 1st thru Feb. 18th

at

Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre

at

Encore Park

Special 7pm Valentine’s Day Celebration for the whole family. Dessert in the ring with The Big Apple Circus Performers!

(Limited Availability)

atlantaparent.com

bigapplecircus.org or 888-541-3750 Family Fun Guide

#BigAppleCircus

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 63

Exhibit

Jan 31 - Mar 17 Written and directed by Jon Ludwig

Illustration by Jeffrey Zwartjes

Can the superhero Mighty Bug defeat the evil Scorpiana and save Bugville? Find out in this comic book style adventure!

AGES

4+

Feb 12 - Mar 3

© Center for Puppetry Arts

Adapted by Bobby Box in collaboration with Jon Ludwig Directed by Michael Haverty

‘Space Spinoffs’ is a New Arrival at Tellus

H

aving lived in Georgia for almost a decade, I thought I knew of all the great places to take kids. Boy, was I wrong!

Although I had heard friends rave about the Tellus Science Museum in Cartersville, I had never ventured in that direction to check it out for myself. On a recent Saturday, I loaded up the SUV with my 7-year-old, two 4-year-olds and an 8-month-old, as as well as a fellow Tellus newbie (another mom), and we made the short trek to the museum.

Upon pulling in, my 7-year-old son immediately noticed the three massive vehicles located in the parking lot that had once been used for mining minerals. Before we even made into the museum, he exclaimed that this was “the best place ever!” Our first stop was the Science in Motion gallery. Here, you explore examples of the evolution of transportation – from ground to space. Along with the mainstays of the exhibit, this gallery currently features a special section titled

Weaving Poe’s macabre tales into a tapestry of terror, this performance will leave your heart pounding, evermore!

AGES

12+

404.873.3391

puppet.org 1404 Spring Street NW Atlanta, GA 30309 Limited FREE Parking • MARTA Accessible Advance purchase is highly recommended as many shows sell out quickly.

Season supported in part by: Fulton County Arts Council, City of Atlanta Office of Cultural Affairs, Georgia Council for the Arts.

64 Atlanta Parent February 2013

Family Fun Guide

If You Go Tellus Science Museum 100 Tellus Drive, Cartersville (Exit 293 off I-75; about 45 minutes north of Atlanta) 770-606-5700; tellusmuseum.org n Hours: Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. n Cost: $14 adults; $10 ages 3-17; free for ages 2 and younger; $3.50 tickets to planetarium shows/movies (plus paid admission).

‘Space Spinoffs.’ This additional section, which can be viewed through April 7, is dedicated to products that we use in everyday life that were developed as a result of our journeys to space. Did you know that we can thank space travel for everything from the Super Soakers to sunglasses?

The remainder of the museum was equally impressive. The kids loved the Collins Family My Big Backyard exhibit that allowed them to experience firsthand how science works. The Fossil Gallery and Weinman Mineral Gallery were also big hits; both include interactive areas so that kids can touch and feel and really immerse themselves in science. There’s also a hands-on fossil dig and mining experience – everyone was so excited to explore and make their own discoveries! After a quick stop at the Tellus Café for a snack, we made our way to the Planetarium to catch the show entitled “Big.” The experience was well suited for young and old alike and the 30-minute show was a perfect amount of time to keep the kids interested.

We spent four hours at the museum, which most parents can attest is a long time for a child of any age! All the kids can’t wait to go back.

They spent the car ride home chattering away about their favorite sections. I would definitely recommend the Tellus Museum as a must-do for all families!

– Christy Buechler atlantaparent.com

Acrobats, Tigers and Clowns – Oh, My! February in Atlanta means circus time.These three shows are sure to provide wide-eyed wonder for kids both big and small.

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus Atlanta & Gwinnett / ringling.com

Big Apple Circus Alpharetta / bigapplecircus.org After a three-year hiatus, the Big Apple Circus returns to Atlanta with its 35th season production, “Legendarium.” You’re in for an intimate experience reminiscent of the circus of yesteryear, as no spectator seat is more than 50 feet away from the action and the show is focuses on the art of performance. Look forward to clowns and a trapeze artists, stunt bicyclists, dogs doing amazing tricks and much more. There are more than two dozen performances.

Feb. 1-18. Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, Alpharetta. 2200 Encore Pkwy., Alpharetta.1-888-541-3750. $20-$60.

The “Greatest Show on Earth” is back in full force, this time honoring the Year of the Dragon. In this year’s high-tech, three-ring “Dragons” spectacle, be amazed by aerial displays, impressive acrobatics and motorcyclists who reach 65 mph speeds within a 16-foot-wide globe while zipping about within inches of each other. The animal menagerie includes powerful Asian elephants, tigers, domestic felines and rescue dogs.

Come an hour early to meet performers and see an elephant up close. There are 30 performance times, including some morning shows. Feb. 13-18 at Philips Arena, 1 Philips Dr., Atlanta; Feb. 21-March 3 at the Arena at Gwinnett Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth.1-800-745-3000. $14-$130, depending on venue and package.

UniverSoul Circus Turner Field – Green Lot / universoulcircus.com This multicultural circus experience returns to Turner Field’s Green parking lot to entertain under the big top. Rated as one of the top three circuses in America, this show incorporates theater, music and circus arts.

Feb. 14-March 3, with two or three showtimes most days. 755 Hank Aaron Dr., Atlanta. 1-800-745-3000. $16-$35.

– Sarah Egan

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 65

Playground: Aviation Park at PDK Airport

Atlanta Parent presents Camp Expo 2013 Do your kids get excited for summer camp?

Do you find them flipping tirelessly through catalogs and brochures? Fuel your kid’s excitement and attend one our free Camp Expo events. Parents and kids can meet with camp directors, watch camp videos and load up on information. Representatives from day and overnight camps from all over the Southeast – and beyond – will be on hand to help you find the best fit for your child. Let Atlanta Parent be your guide to a fun-filled summer. Grab the 2013 issue of Big Book of Camps and see the Atlanta Parent Overnight Camp listings in this issue and look for the Atlanta Parent Day Camp issue in April.

Camp Expo Dates: n Feb. 23, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Town Center Mall, Kennesaw. n March 16, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Perimeter Mall, Dunwoody

n Features: Location, location, location. This playground has an exciting location at Georgia’s secondbusiest airport, especially for kids – and their folks – who are fascinated by airplanes. Kids might choose the swings to start their adventure; from their position swinging, they can watch planes take off right in front of them.

Recycled tires line the playground surface where you’ll find swings, monkey and parallel bars and a twostory play structure.

Kids can have lots of fun with their imaginations by choosing one of the rocking airplanes. Sorry, parents, but these are not equipped to handle extra baggage. There’s also a grassy area where visitors can toss a Frisbee, fly kites or just run around pretending

Photo by AJ Brustein

Please put your seats in their upright position, because it’s time to take off to one of the best-kept secrets in the metro area’s land of playgrounds: Aviation Park at Peachtree-DeKalb Airport (also known as PDK). This airport-themed playground is so close to the PDK runway, you may almost feel like you are about to take flight.

to be more airplanes. Besides the roar of the engines at this public-use airport, visitors also get to hear some of the chatter between pilots and the air control tower, thanks to an aboveground speaker. Another favorite feature with kids: an intercom system that lets them talk to each other from different areas of the playground. There’s also an observation deck that lets all ages enjoy an even closer look at planes arriving and departing. n Amenities: Shade is limited to a metal pavilion and some trees positioned next to picnic tables, making this a great place to enjoy your packed lunch or snack. Bathrooms are at the playground, as well as in the airport buildings. n Directions: Aviation Park is located at 2000 Airport Road, just northeast of Atlanta. Once inside the main entrance off Clairmont Road, the playground is at the end of the road.

– Jordan Lisvosky

Atlanta History Center Commemorate

BlaCk History montH Enjoy special exhibitions, performances, and family programs throughout the month of February.

For a complete schedule of activites or to purchase advance tickets and save, visit AtlantaHistortyCenter.com/Family

AtlantaHistoryCenter.com/Tickets 66 Atlanta Parent February 2013

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

‘Glamping’ In A Yurt

TRY IT!

Four Georgia State Parks offer alternative to camping in a tent or RV

“Camping? Surely you jest,” says my wife.

“My idea of camping is the Days Inn!” OK, so camping in a tent, sleeping on the hard ground and braving a cold winter’s night is not exactly her cup of tea. She’s not the only one; tent is not for everyone. Maybe she has a point – good tents don’t come cheap, most are cramped for space, and there’s lots of extras you have to bring – sleeping pads or cots, lamps, sleeping bags – just to name a few. And cabins? Yes they are fully equipped with all the comforts of home – but what kind of outdoor adventure is that?

Georgia State Parks has found a new middle ground, referred to by some as “glamping,” between the inconveniences of tent camping, and the not as outdoors cabins - yurts! Wait a minute, aren’t yurts tents? Well in sense, yes, but they are much sturdier and larger than your regular camping tent, and much more comfortable that the old canvas platform camp tent – and in select Georgia State Parks they are permanent cylindrical structures that provide many comforts and conveniences, without the hassle of tents or the expense of cabins.

Our family has a very busy schedule, but the four of us were able to recently get away to spend one winter’s night in a yurt at Fort Yargo State Park, just outside of Winder and less than 45 minutes northeast of the Perimeter. These yurts, over 20 feet in diameter and 10 feet tall, and made of thick synthetic fabric, have a fixed wood structure on a wood deck platform. At Fort Yargo (and the other parks) the yurts are arranged into a self-contained “yurt village.”

All six of the yurts at Fort Yargo are lakefront

If You Go n Yurts are located in these Georgia State Parks: Fort Yargo, Winder (1 hr. NE of Atlanta) – six yurts.

Red Top Mountain, Cartersville (45 mins. NW of Atlanta) – one yurt.

High Falls, Jackson (45 mins. south of Atlanta) – six yurts.

Cloudland Canyon, Rising Fawn (2 hrs. NW of Atlanta) – 10 yurts.

and come with their own canoes, at no extra charge. Inside is an expansive round room with comfortable and stylish futon sofa (that converts to a double bed), plus bunk beds, a table with chairs, and plenty of elbow and head room – unlike a cramped tent. The skylight at the roof peak, and several windows, allow ample natural light and outdoor views. Other amenities include electricity and lighting, a space heater and ceiling fan. We were comfortable on a cold January night. Just outside our yurt: a spigot with running well water, an outdoor picnic table, and a fire pit with barbeque grate.

n Reserve yurts through gastateparks. org/yurts or call 800-864-7275. Minimum 2-night stay. Yurts are $70-$75/night and sleep up to six people. Pets are not allowed. A parking fee may also apply. n You will need to bring sleeping bags or linens, all cooking-related items and food. n For more info: gastateparks.org/yurts

Our yurt also had a deck with Adirondack chairs fronting the lake – a wonderful spot to relax while our kids (who are old enough) explored the lake in the canoe; life vests are provided. Most state parks also have playgrounds and trails to provide additional opportunities for children to explore. After a sunset hike along the lake, we built a robust fire and enjoyed a traditional camp meal of Silver Turtles, Banana Boats, and S’mores – all recipes we found on the Georgia State Parks website (http://gastateparks.org/item/67965). We gazed at the brilliant stars of a crisp winter night and too soon, it was time for bed. A nearby “comfort station” with flush toilets, sinks and hot showers made bedtime preparation much easier than fumbling around in the dark woods with a flashlight. The sun rose much too early to remind us it would soon be time to get back to our busy work and school lives.

So how was our “glamping,” as they call it? It must have had some appeal to my wife, because she is already scheming for our next yurt adventure!

– Dan Ward

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 67

Calendar

February S M T W TH F S

n

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

n

Events may be canceled or changed after our deadline.

n

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

n

Please call the event beforehand to confirm dates and times.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

BUTTERFLY BASH

classes 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. Feb. 2. 9 a.m.-noon. homedepot.com. Ages 5-12. 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.

Saige’s Crafts. American Girl Store. Make crafts inspired by the stories of the newest contemporary girl doll. Ages 8 and older. Feb. 1 & 15. 4-6 p.m.; Feb. 3, noon-2 p.m.; Feb. 18.

11 a.m.-1 p.m. 1202 North Point Circle. 877247-5223. Free.

Kid’s Yoga. Cross Life Christian Montessori School. A free “parent and me” yoga class open to the public. First Wednesday each month. Feb. 6. 9:30-10 a.m. 1000 Hembree Rd., Roswell. Pre-register, 770-475-3812. Free.

Mommy and Me Preschool Program. Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History.

Feb. 7, Be Mine!; Feb. 14, Owney the Postal Dog; Feb. 21, Young Abe Lincoln; Feb. 28, I’ve Been Working on the Railroad: 10 a.m. 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.

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. 404733-4550. Free with admission. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; 5 and younger, free.

Basic Archery. Panola Mountain State Park. Join a certified instructor to learn archery basics.

All equipment provided. Ages 9 and older, pre-register. Feb. 2. 3 p.m. 2600 Hwy. 155 SW, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. Pre-register. $10/ person; parking, $5.

Homeschool Day: Empires. Atlanta History Center. Learn how each of our states evolved and how they got their shapes. Feb. 5. 1-4 p.m. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-8144000. $8.50.

Homeschool Science Monday. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Learn over lunch about solar footprings. Afterward, head to the Nature Exchange for the nature project of the month.

Feb. 11. 12:30-3 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free.

Magic Monday. Atlanta History Center. Storytime, sing-a-longs and crafts. Feb. 11. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404814-4000. Adults, $6.50; ages 5 and younger, $5.50.

68 Atlanta Parent February 2013

Fernbank Museum of Natural History FEB. 9. 10 A.M.-2 P.M. Have a butterfly-inspired adventure day at Fernbank in celebration of the new Imax film “Flight of the Butterflies.” Stand among thousands of live butterflies in the butterfly tent, learn about the stages of a butterfly’s life and create butterfly crafts.

Seed plantings from the Atlanta Botanical Garden will be available to take home so you can start a butterfly sanctuary in your backyard. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta.

404-929-6300. Adults, $17.50; ages 3-12, $15.50; 2 and younger, free.

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.

INK Craft Weeks. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids. Valentine’s Day Craft, Feb. 4-8; Giraffe Craft, Feb.11-15; President craft, Feb. 18-22; Dental craft, Feb. 25-28; $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.

Build and Grow Clinics. Lowes. Clinics teach kids to build wooden crafts. Free apron, goggles and merit patch. Saturday, Feb. 9 & 23. 10 a.m. Visit lowesbuildandgrow.com for locations. 800-4456937. Pre-register. Free.

Second Thursday Program. Southeastern Railway Museum. Parents and tots program includes circle time, an activity and craft. Ages 1-4. Feb. 14. 10:30 a.m.-noon. 3595 Buford Hwy, Duluth. 770-4950253. $7 per child, one adult free, additional adult, $8.

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.

Family Fun Guide

Drop-In Family Class. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Sculpt with vanilla play dough, dissect a vanilla bean and make a vanilla sundae during this interactive class praising the vanilla orchid. Feb. 16. 2-3 p.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta.

404-876-5859. Adults, $18.95; ages 3-12, $12.95; 2 and younger, free.

In the Garden. Wylde Center. Children can attend an hour-long class all about feeding birds. Feb. 20. 4:15-5:15 p.m.

435 Oakview Rd., Decatur. 404-371-1920. $12/person, preregister.

Introductory Parenting Classes. Babies R Us: Dunwoody, Gwinnett, Alpharetta locations. Attend free classes covering baby basics like car seats, breastfeeding and infant CPR. Alpharetta: Breastfeeding, Feb. 5, 6:30 p.m., Car Seat Safety, Feb. 13, 6 p.m., Baby Basics, Feb. 20, 7 p.m. Gwinnett: Baby Basics, Feb. 13, 7 p.m., Breastfeeding, Feb. 18, 7 p.m.; Dunwoody: Breastfeeding & Baby Basics, Feb. 21, 6:30 p.m., Infant CPR and Home Safety, Feb. 26, 6:30 p.m. Babies R Us locations: 6380 North Point Pkwy., Alpharetta; 3925 Venture Dr., Duluth; 1155 Mt. Vernon Hwy., Dunwoody. 678-628-3281. Free.

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Calendar exhibits 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. 2685 18th St., Atlanta. 404-4964274. Adult, $24; ages 4-12, $16.

National Geographic Greatest Photographs of the American West.

Booth Western Art Museum. View more than 125 rare photographs that capture the pictorial history of Western expansion.

Through March 10. 501 Museum Dr., Cartersville. 770-387-1300. Adults, $10; ages 12 and younger, free.

Space Spinoffs. Tellus Science Museum.

Explore ways and devices that were ”accidentally invented” from space-age technology. Through April 7. Mon.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville.

770-606-5700. Adults, $14; ages 3-17, $10.

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. Sun.Mon., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Tues.-Sat., 9 a.m.-9 p.m. 225 Baker St., Atlanta. 404-5814000. Admission price depends on date of visit; Adults, $34.95; ages 3-12, $28.95.

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ATLANTA PARENT MAGAZINE’S CAMP EXPO Town Center Mall FEB. 23. 11 A.M.-4 P.M. Atlanta Parent wants to help you choose the right summer camp for your child. Visit our camp expo this month or next (March 16 at Perimeter Mall) to collect brochures, meet with camp representatives and find answers to all your important camp questions. Local and regional day and overnight camps will be present at the expo. 400 Ernest Barrett Pkwy., Kennesaw.

770-454-7599. Free.

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. 866-866-8265. Adults, $24; ages 4-12, $16.

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. Feb. 9. 11 a.m.

6075 Sandy Springs Circle, Sandy Springs. 404851-9111. Donations encouraged.

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. 770-2061558. Free.

Frida and Diego: Pasion, Politics and Painting.

The High Museum of Art. Review more than 75 works of renowned Mexican painters Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. Feb. 14-May 12. Tues.-Wed., 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs., 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun., noon-5 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-4550. Free with admission. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; 5 and younger, free.

Family Fun Guide

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 69

Valentine’s Day Events ♥ Daddy-Daughter Valentine Dance.

George Pierce Park Community Rec. Center.

Dancing and light refreshments. Ages 4 and older. Feb. 8. 7-9 p.m. 55 Buford Hwy., Suwanee.

678-277-0910. Pre-register. $11 per person.

♥ Daddy-Daughter Valentine Dance.

Pinckneyville Park Community Rec. Center.

Dancing and light refreshments. Ages 4 and older. Feb. 8. 7-9 p.m. 4650 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Norcross. 678-277-0920. Pre-register. $11 per person.

♥ Family Valentine Dance. Rhodes Jordan

Park Community Rec. Center. Music, dancing, games and light refreshments. Feb. 8.

7-10 p.m. 100 East Crogan St., Lawrenceville.

770-822-5414. Pre-register. $11 per person.

♥ Father-Daughter Valentine Dance.

Lucky Shoals Park Community Rec. Center.

Dancing, games, a keepsake photo and light refreshments. Feb. 9. 5-8 p.m. 4651 Britt Rd., Norcross. 678-277-0860. Pre-register. $5 per person.

70 Atlanta Parent February 2013

♥ Date with My Dad. American Girl Boutique and

Bistro. Enjoy a father-daughter meal and receive a book, photo and frame and keepsakes. Ages 8 and older. Feb. 8 &10. Fri., 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 1202 North Point Circle, Alpharetta.

877-247-5223. Preregister. $38 per person.

♥ Valentine’s Day Activities. Pottery Barn Kids Stores. Valentine’s Day Doll Tea Party; Feb. 9, 3 & 4 p.m. $10. Valentine’s Day Letter-Writing Station.

Feb. 9-14. Lenox Square Mall, Atlanta. 404-4429122; North Point Mall, Alpharetta. 678-624-0149.

Free.

♥ Magic Mondays. Atlanta History Center.

Toddlers and preschoolers do an activity and take a guided tour of the museum. This month’s theme is “I Heart Art.” Feb. 11. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 130 West Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-814-4110. Adults, $6.50; children, $5.50.

♥ Make a Valentine Craft. Sandy Springs

Library. Materials are provided to make a craft.

Ages 3 and older. Feb. 12. 2:30-5 p.m. 395 Mt. Vernon Hwy., Atlanta. 404-303-6130. Free.

Family Fun Guide

♥ Valentine Craft and Storytime. Ocee

Library. Make a card. Ages 5 and older. Feb. 13.

4:45-5:45 p.m. 5090 Abbotts Bridge Rd., Johns Creek. 770-360-8897. Free.

♥ Hearts Filled with Books Storytime.

Washington Park Library. Stories, songs and rhymes. Ages 3-6. Feb. 13. 10 a.m. 1116 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr., Atlanta. 404-752-8760. Free.

♥ I Give You My Heart. Washington Park

Library. Enjoy a Valentine’s craft. Ages 7-12.

Feb. 13. 3:30-4:30 p.m. 1116 Martin Luther King Jr., Dr., Atlanta. 404-752-8760. Free.

♥ Valentine’s Drop-In Craft. Buckhead

Library. Drop in and make a craft after school.

Ages 4-12. Feb. 14. 3-5 p.m. 269 Buckhead Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404-814-3500. Free.

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STONE SOUP

The Atlanta Opera FEB. 16 AND 24. 11 A.M. This heartwarming story is about a community that comes together to feed a lost and lonely soldier.

• February 16: Porter Sanford Performing Arts and Community Center, 3181 Rainbow Dr., Decatur, • February 24: Decatur High School, 310 N. McDonough St., Decatur.

404-881-8885. $7/person.

Body Carnival: The Science and Fun of Being You. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Kids can explore the physical science of the human body.

Feb. 9- May 27. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat.Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive NW, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. Adults and ages 2 and older, $12.75; younger than 2, 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. Sun.-Mon., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Tues.-Sat., 9 a.m.-9 p.m. 225 Baker St., Atlanta.

404-581-4000. Admission price depends on date of visit; 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. 404-8489252. Adult, $20.52; ages 3-12, $16.20, 2 and younger, free.

Jim Henson Special Exhibitions. Center for Puppetry Arts. This long term exhibit profiles the life of Jim Henson and his most famous puppet, Kermit the Frog. Tues.-Fri., 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Sat.; 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 1404 Spring St., Atlanta. 404-873-3391. Museum admission, $8.25. Free admission Thursdays from 1-3 p.m.

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. 770-4985690. U.S. Hwy 78 E., Stone Mountain. Free.

Parking, $10.

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.

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Family Fun Guide

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 71

Child Models We’ve booked kids for $2,000 per day and more, others at $50 - $60 per hour.

CHARLOTTE AND THE MUSIC MAKER FAMILY CONCERT Atlanta Symphony Hall FEB. 17.

1:30 AND 3:30 P.M.

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Join the musical genius Charlotte on her journey as she runs away from home and straight into trouble.

She is swept away by the Music-Maker and thrown into a world of orchestra.

This family concert series performance is filled with exciting sounds and an original score. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta.

404-733-5000. $15-$20.

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• Replace income lost due to your illness.Send your info prior fernbankmuseum.org to your event to: for show times. 767 • Provide in-home or facility care.

Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. IMAX calendar@atlantaparent.com tickets: adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; 2 and • Benefit value not used as a living benefit OR: visit younger, free. goes to your loved ones. atlantaparent.com/event/submit Alaska: Spirit of the Wild. Fernbank Museum • Create life-memories with your loved ones. of Natural History. Watch the ultimate story Protecting Families & Preserving Wealth Ronnetta S. Coker

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of survival in the majesty and uniqueness of wild Alaska. Through March 14. 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.

music Pajama Concert. Michael C. Carlos Museum.

Enjoy hot chocolate with marshmallows while listening to Musical Bedtime Stories, wear your pajamas and bring a pillow. Feb. 1. 7:30 p.m. 571 South Kilgo Circle, Atlanta.

404-727-5050. $4/person.

Gustafer Yellowgold. Eddie’s Attic. Groove to live pop music from the popular kid’s musician, Gustafer. Feb. 2. 11 a.m. 515 N. McDonough St., Decatur. 404-377-4976.

Adults, $10; ages 12 and younger, $8.

Friday Jazz. High Museum of Art. Listen to jazz performer Ike Stubblefield. Feb. 15. 5-10 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-7335000. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17; $12; 5 and younger, free.

nature Exotic Ectotherm Exhibit. Autrey Mill Nature Preserve. Visit reptiles and amphibians from the far corners of the globe. Open most visitor center hours. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 9770 Autrey Mill Rd., Johns Creek. 678-366-3511. $4/person; $10/family.

High Falls Historic Walk. High Falls State Park.

Join the park’s naturalist on a 1.5-mile walk and learn about the history of the once-prosperous town of High Falls. First Saturday each month.

Feb. 2. 10-11 a.m. 76 High Falls Park Dr., Jackson. 478-993-3053. $5/person; parking, $5.

Back Country Geology Hike. Sweetwater Creek State Park. Three-mile guided hike; learn about rock types and how they formed. Feb. 3. 1-4 p.m. 1750 Mount Vernon Rd., Lithia Springs.

770-732-5871. $5 per person; parking, $5.

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.

Tuesday Tunes. North DeKalb Mall. Enjoy great music and company every Tuesday. Noon.

2050 Lawrenceville Hwy., Decatur. 404-3207960. Free.

Atlanta Audubon Society Bird Walk. Panola Mountain State Park. Bring your binoculars for a gentle hike through the Park’s Power of Flight area. Birdseed donations appreciated. Feb. 10, 8-11 a.m. 2600 Hwy. 155 SW, Stockbridge. 770389-7801. Pre-register. Free. Parking, $5.

Pickin’ on the Square. Newnan Courthouse Square. 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.

LaGrange St. and E. Broad St., Newnan.

770-253-8283. Free.

Candlelight Hike to the Mill. Sweetwater Creek State Park. A mile-long night hike leads to the five-story ruins of the Civil-War era New Manchester textile mill. Feb. 16. 6-8 p.m. 1750 Mt. Vernon Rd., Lithia Springs. 770-732-5871. $5/person; parking, $5.

Family Fun Guide

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Black History Month Events n Emerging Voices.

Callanwolde Mansion.

Listen to Southern stories and African-American tales from the Kuumba Storytellers of Georgia.

Feb. 15. 7 p.m. 980 Briarcliff Rd. NE, Atlanta.

404-872-5338. Adults, $3; kids, $1.

Roswell Roots Festival Various Venues in Roswell Feb. 1-28.

I

n honor of Black History Month, join this comprehensive celebration that features a variety of musical performances, exhibits, storytelling and cultural events. Children’s highlights for this year’s festival include the Unity Concert with choirs from several area churches on Feb. 1 at 7 p.m. and Br’er Rabbit stories during “Tales Told in the Cabin” on Feb. 9 at 2 p.m.

Check out the Cornbread Cook-Off, Feb. 23 at 1 p.m.

For a full listing of events visit roswellroots.com or call 770-641-3705. Most events are free.

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n Black History Month at The Children’s Museum. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Enjoy events like crafts and storytime about historical AfricanAmericans throughout February. For times see childrensmuseumofatlanta.org. Regular hours: Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive NW, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. Adults and ages 2 and older, $12.75; younger than 2, free. Free admission starting at 1 p.m. on the second Tuesday of every month brought to you by Target Free Second Tuesday. n Black History Month Parade. Enjoy a parade celebrating Black History Month.

Parade route starts near the King Memorial and ends at Underground Atlanta. Feb. 23.

Noon-2 p.m. 866-551-5666. Baker St. at Peachtree St., Atlanta. Free.

Family Fun Guide

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 73

Calendar STARLAB. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Take a naturalist-led journey through the night sky.

Feb. 18. 1-2 p.m. Ages 5 and up. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free.

Full Moon Night Hike. Panola Mountain State Park. Take a hike as the sun sets and the moon begins to rise, wildlife is seen often. Bring a flashlight and hiking boots. Feb. 23. 5:30 p.m.

2600 Hwy. 155 SW, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801.

Pre-register. $7/person; parking, $5.

special events Groundhog Day Jugglers Festival. Yaarb Shrine Center. Kids and adults can learn from the pros when it comes to juggling, unicycling and stilt-walking. Feb. 1-3. Fri., 5-10 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Juggling competition, Sat., 2 p.m. 400 Ponce de Leon Ave., Atlanta. See atlantajugglers.org for more information. Free.

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival. Metro Atlanta area. Explore Jewish life, culture and history through over 70 films. Through Feb. 20.

Locations and times at ajff.org. 404-806-9913. $9-$11 per film.

THE MAD HATTER Woodruff Arts Center Memorial Arts Building FEB. 23. 10 A.M.NOON. Enjoy a morning filled with whimsical flair, art-making, wacky costumes, vibrant artists and more. Join the fun for the 2013 Mad Hatter Unbirthday celebrating Young Audiences’ 30th year anniversary. Kids can learn the basics of art and design as they create art projects and watch an interactive puppet show. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-5236. Tickets, $15; younger than 2, free.

Big Apple Circus. Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre.

“Legendarium” is the newest traveling show in honor of the Big Apple Circus’ 35th season.

Feb. 1-18. See bigapplecircus.org for show times. 2200 Encore Pkwy., Alpharetta. 800-9223772. $20-$60.

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. Feb. 2. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-5000. Free.

Snow Mountain. Stone Mountain Park. Enjoy tubing and games in real snow. Through Feb. 18. Visit stonemountainpark.com/event/ snowmountain for times. U.S. 78, Stone Mountain. 770-498-5690. $27/person.

Parking, $10.

Family Science Night. Tellus Museum. Enjoy a construction-themed family science night with the Tellus Can Do Crew. Look forward to a visit to the solar house. Feb. 8. 5-9 p.m. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. Adults, $14; ages 3-17, $10.

Teen Arts Night. City Center. Teens can bring instruments, poetry, artwork and short stories to share. Includes a slice of pizza and a soda.

Feb. 1. 6-8 p.m. 8534 Main St., Woodstock.

678-494-4251. $5.

Butterfly Bash. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Have a soaring good time and celebrate the new film “Flight of the Butterflies.” Visit the live butterfly tent and create beautiful butterfly crafts. Feb. 9. 10

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Family Fun Guide

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404-929-6300. Adults, $17.50; ages 3-12, $15.50; 2 and younger, free.

Saige’s Scavenger Hunt. American Girl Store. Go on a scavenger hunt and get a free American Girl poster. For ages 8 and older. Feb. 1, 7, 14, 15, 21, 28 at 4-6 p.m.; Feb. 3, noon-2 p.m.; Feb. 18, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 1202 North Point Circle. 877-2475223. Free.

Second Sunday Funday. High Museum of Art. Enjoy art demonstrations, art-making workshops and live performances. Feb. 10.

1-4 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404733-4550. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; 5 and younger, free.

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Calendar Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey. Don’t miss the “Greatest Show on Earth” as it makes its way to downtown Atlanta Feb. 13-18, and to Gwinnett Feb. 21-March 3. See ringling.com for show times. Philips Arena: 1 Philips Dr., Atlanta. 800745-3000. The Arena at Gwinnett Center: 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 800-745-3000. $14-$90.

Prices vary depending on time and venue.

Universoul Circus. Turner Field, Green Lot. Be amazed by aerialists, pretzel twisting contortionists, tigers and more. Feb. 14-March 3. See universoulcircus.com for show times. 755 Hank Aaron Dr., Atlanta. 800-316-7439. $16-$45.

Monster Jam. Georgia Dome. Watch 16 tough trucks race on a custom-designed track full of obstacles to smash into or soar over. Feb. 16. 7 p.m. 1 Georgia Dome Dr. NW, Atlanta. 800-7453000. $20-$50.

Rhythm, Rock and Roots. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Spend the day learning about the creation of noise and discovering natural instruments.

Enjoy a musical scavenger hunt, storytelling session, a campfire and more. Feb. 23. 1-4 p.m.

9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free.

Struggles and Strides. Atlanta History Center.

Guests can explore struggles and strides from the Great Migration to the Civil Rights Movement.

Feb. 23. 11-4 p.m. 130 West Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Adults, $16.50; ages 4-12, $11; 3 and younger, free.

Camp Expo. Town Center Mall Kennesaw. Attend Atlanta Parent’s Camp Expo 2013 and get your summer camp plans figured out. Feb. 23. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 400 Ernest W Barrett Pkwy NW, Kennesaw. 770-454-7599. Free.

Mad Hatter Unbirthday. Enjoy a morning filled with whimsical flair, art-making, wacky costumes, vibrant artists and more. Kids can create art projects and view an interactive puppet show. Feb. 23. 10 a.m.-noon. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta.

404-733-5236. Tickets, $15; younger than 2, free.

Mardi Gras Celebration for Kids. Lawrenceville Presbyterian Church. Enjoy a celebration with pastries and a book discussion with Evelyn Coleman, author of several American Girl Doll books. The event benefits the Gwinnett County Public Library. Tickets include crafts, dessert and an autographed copy of one of her books.

Seatings are 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Feb. 23. 800 Lawrenceville Hwy., Lawrenceville. 770-8225326. Tickets for one adult and one child are $19, additional guests are $12.

Domingos de Aventuras en Arte (Sunday Art Adventures). High Museum of Art. Families are invited to explore Frida & Diego: Passion, Politics and Painting with the High’s bilingual college ambassadors. Sundays, Feb. 27-May 12. 1-4 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-4550.

Free with admission. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; 5 and younger, free.

storytelling Children’s Story Time. FoxTale Book Shoppe. Ageappropriate 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.

Storytelling 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.

Athletes On The Rise, Inc. “Fighting Childhood Obesity, One Girl at a Time, Change a Girl, Change the World”

athletesontherise.com @AthOnTheRise /AthletesOnTheRise

678-391-2450 Now Enrolling Summer Camp 2013

Storytime with Miss Cynthia. Perimeter Barnes and 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.

770-396-1200. Free.

YO GABBA GABBA LIVE!

Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre FEB. 21. 3 AND 6 P.M. Kids can sing and dance along as characters Muno, Foofa, Brobee and more gear up for the live show, “Get the Sillies Out!” Based on the wildly popular television show, the touring performance of Yo Gabba Gabba is sure to ignite smiles and giggles in your child. 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta. 800-745-3000. $16-$46. atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 75

Calendar 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. 404-7537735. Adults, $8; children $5, 4 and younger, free.

Fiddler on the Roof. Marcus Jewish Community Center. Enjoy colorful characters and a score that includes favorites like “If I Were a Rich Man” and “Matchmaker.” Through Feb. 3. Visit atlantajcc.org for show times. 5342 Tilly Mill Rd., Dunwoody. 678-812-4000. $15$28.

Tales of Edgar Allen Poe. Center for Puppetry Arts. Gothic designs, shadowy figures and haunting music complete this production that uses ”table-top” puppetry style.

Recommended for ages 12 and older.

Feb.12- March 3. Tues.-Fri., 11 a.m.; Thurs.Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 5 p.m. 1404 Spring St. NW, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $16.50

Clifford the Big Red Dog. Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center. Watch the beloved dog come to life on stage. Feb. 2. 11 a.m. 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta. 800-745-3000. $15.50-$30.50.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Fox Theatre. Experience African-American cultural expression and witness American modern dance on stage. Feb. 14-17. Thurs.Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat., 2 and 8 p.m.; Sun., 3 p.m.

660 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-881-2100. $34-$70.

Storytime by the River. Chattahoochee Nature Center.

Listen to storytellers read about the night sky as they use books and crafts. First Wed. of the month. 10:30 a.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Free with admission. Adults, $10; ages 3-12, $6; 2 and younger, free.

Adventures of the Gingerbread Man. Aurora Children’s Playhouse. Follow the Gingerbread man as he makes narrow escapes from unsuspecting cookie lovers. Feb. 2. 10 a.m. 128 East Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. $7/person.

Family Storytelling. Callanwolde Fine Arts Center.

Celebrate the power of storytelling with some of the South’s best stories. Feb. 15. 7 p.m. 980 Briarcliff Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-872-5338. Adults, $3; 12 and younger, $1.

Butterfly Balad / Balada de las Mariposas. Aurora Children’s Playhouse. Follow Katy and Kevin Caterpillar through the stages of their lives. Narrated by Mother Nature in both English and Spanish. Feb. 9. 10 a.m.

128 East Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678226-6222. $7/person.

theater Uncle Grampa’s Super Enjoyable Story Castle. Dad’s Garage. Enjoy an improved puppet show with a loveable cast of characters. Saturdays through March 23. 11 a.m. 280 Elizabeth St., Atlanta. 404-523-3141.

Adults, $7; ages 2-8, $5; younger than 2, free.

Dracula. Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Enjoy a professional performance by the Atlanta Ballet of the classic gothic horror story.

Recommended for kids 13 and older.

Feb. 8-16. Thurs.-Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat., 2 & 8 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m. 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta. $20-$120.

Parent atlanta

Your Opinions Matter!

We’re Looking for a Few Good Parents for our

2013 Parent Advisory Board

Cinderella. Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Enjoy an hour-long family ballet performance of the classic fairy tale. Feb. 16-17. 2 p.m. 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta. 404-892-3303. $10-$30.

Once Upon A Mattress. City Center Auditorium.

Princess Winnifred of the Samplands meets Prince Dauntless but she has to pass the Queen’s ridiculous test in order to get married. Feb. 14-16, 22-24. Thurs.-Sat., 7:30 p.m., Sun., 2 p.m. 8534 Main St., Woodstock.

678-494-4251. $10-$15.

Charlotte’s Web. Alliance Theatre. A heart-warming tale of Wilbur the pig and Charlotte, the spider whose clever planning saves him from becoming bacon.

Feb. 23, 24 and March 2, 3, 9 & 10. See alliancetheatre.org for show times. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-4650. $35, adults; $20 ages 12 and younger.

Atlanta Parent magazine is on the hunt for moms and dads who would like to serve on our Parent Advisory Board.

As a member you’ll offer advice for articles and columns, take part in our special events and help to increase the quality of our award-winning magazine.

Share your ideas and talents with us Help us better serve our readers Volunteer for special events and projects Applications must be received by February 18th.

Visit atlantaparent.com to apply.

76 Atlanta Parent February 2013

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

CHARLOTTE’S WEB Alliance Theatre FEB. 23-MARCH 10.

(SATURDAYS - SUNDAYS) See everyone’s favorite friendship come to life on stage.

Join Charlotte the spider and Wilbur the pig as they steal your heart in this production directed by Rosemary Newcott. This version of “Charlotte’s Web” incorporates imaginative costumes, circus stunts and acrobatics. See alliancetheatre.org/ charlotte for show times. 1280 Peachtree Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-5000. $20$35.

The Adventures of Mighty Bug. Center for Puppetry Arts. Watch Mighty Bug protect Bugville from the evil arachnid Scorpiana in this puppetry performance. Jan. 31-March 17.

Tues.-Fri., 10 and 11:30 a.m.; Sat., noon and 2 p.m.; Sun., 1 and 3 p.m. 1404 Spring St. NW, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $16.50.

beyond atlanta Georgia National Rodeo. Georgia National Fairground and Agricenter. Features specialty acts plus cowboys competing in saddle bronco riding, bareback riding, barrel racing and more.

Feb. 21-23. 7:30 p.m. See gnfa.com for tickets.

401 Larry Walker Pkwy., Perry. 478-987-3247. $8-$21.50.

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. 800-262-0695. Adults, $24.95; ages 3-12 $14.95.

IMAX Movies. Tennessee Aquarium. Take your pick between three 3D films: Flight of the Butterflies, To the Arctic and The Last Reef until Feb. 28. See tennis.org for show times. One Broad St., Chattanooga.

800-262-0695. Adults, $9.95; Ages 3-12, $8.50.

Historic Trolley Tour. Augusta. Take the Lady Liberty 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.

Pre-register. $12 per person, includes admission to the museum.

Valentine Sweetheart Train. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. Partake in special Valentine’s activities during the Peanuts Be My Valentine, Charlie Brown Excursion.

Charlie Brown, Lucy and Snoopy will be passengers aboard the train. Feb. 9. Train departs at 11 a.m. 226 Everett St., Bryson City, N.C. 800-872-4681. Adults, $51; ages 2-12, $29; younger than 2, free. c

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Get Ready for Summer Camp!

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Sweet! Bakeries We Love

Atlanta Parent’s Camp Expo Dates:

Storytime, Crafts and More

The Tools of Technology January 26 Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

North Point Mall Alpharetta

February 23 Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

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Family Fun Guide

2013 Fillers / Family-of-Pubs 5th.indd

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 77

consignment

SALES

Even with a chill in the air February is the time to start checking out this season’s consignment sales. Look for a large selection of gently used clothing, shoes, books, toys and more at bargain prices. Call or check the website of the sale before you go. Some sales do have restrictions. Look for more sales in the March issue and visit atlantaparent.com for the most updated list.

Cherokee The Blessing Line Kids’ Consignment Sale. First Baptist Church Woodstock. Feb. 15-16. Fri. 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-noon. 11905 Hwy. 92, Woodstock. 770-591-2509. www.fbcw.org/ blessingline All 4 Kids. Old Walmart Building. Feb. 28-March 2.

Thurs. 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m. (No strollers before 11 a.m.), Fri. 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 10029 Hwy. 92, Woodstock. www.all4kids.com

Cobb The Divine Children’s Show. The Mansour Center. Feb. 6-7. Wed. 9:30 a.m.-9 p.m., Thurs.

9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. 995 Roswell St., Marietta. 678984-5654 or 770-367-3152. www.dcskids.com All 4 Kids West Cobb Sale. Cobb County Fairgrounds. Feb. 21-23. Thurs. 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m. (No strollers before 11 a.m.), Fri. 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 2245 Callaway Rd., Marietta. www. all4kids.com Born Again Blessings Children’s Consignment Sale. Cobb County Civic Center. Feb. 22-23. Fri. 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-noon.

548 Marietta Pkwy., Marietta. 404-936-2983. www.bornagainblessings.com Kids Kingdom Consignment Sale. Orange Hill Baptist Church. Feb. 28-March 2. Thurs. 6-9 p.m., Fri. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. and 4-6 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.noon. 4293 Austell Rd., Austell.

770-948-9388 ext. 53. www.orangehill.org

Fulton Second Childhood Consignment. Kings Market Shopping Center. Feb. 28-Mar. 3.

Thurs. 5-9 p.m. (No strollers before 8 p.m.).

Fri. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m-3 p.m., Sun. 1-5 p.m. 1425 Market Blvd., Roswell. 770-713-6628. www.secondchildhoodconsignment.com

Jack & Jill Kids Sale/Kids-N-Moms Consignment Sale. The Village Shoppes at Creekside. Feb. 7-9. Thurs.-Fri. 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

860 Duluth Hwy. 120, Lawrenceville.

770-312-7528. www.JackandJillKidsSale.com Kidsignments. Gwinnett County Fairgrounds.

Feb. 12-16. Tues. 9 a.m.-7 p.m. (No children, infants, strollers, carriers, etc. until after 2 p.m.), Wed.-Thurs. 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

2405 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Lawrenceville.

770-381-5938. www.kidsignments.com Fancy Finds Kids Consignment Sale. Dacula Family Village. Feb. 28-March 2. Thurs. 6-9 p.m., Fri. 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. 1152 Auburn Road, Ste. 105, Dacula. 678-227-8471. www.fancyfindskids.com

Hall Toads & Teacups Children’s Consignment Sale.

Faith Industrial Park. Feb. 7-9. Thurs. 8 a.m.-7 p.m., Fri. 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. 2731 Faith Industrial Dr., Buford. 770-375-7569. toadsandteacups.com Fairy Dust Baby and Kids Consignment Sale.

New Liberty Methodist Church. Feb. 13-16.

Wed.-Fri. 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat. 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

59 Charlie Smith Rd., Braselton. 404-414-7158. www.fairydustconsignment.com

Lil Angels Consignment Sale. March 1-2. Fri. 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. Sat. 9 a.m.12 p.m. 69 North Main St., Alpharetta. www. lilangelsconsignmentsale.com

WeeCycle Consignment Children’s Sale.

Kroger Shopping Plaza. Feb. 20-24. Wed. 8 a.m.8 p.m., Thurs. 8 a.m.-7 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. 7380 Spout Springs Rd., Flowery Branch. 404-569-0285. http://weecycleconsignment.com

Gwinnett

Henry

3 Savvy Sisters Kids Consignment Sale. Jan. 30-Feb. 2. Wed. 4-8 p.m.,Thurs.-Fri. 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. 4300 Buford Dr./ Hwy. 20, Ste. 3, Buford. www.3savvysisters. com

Kellytown Kids and Jrs. Consignment Sale.

Southern Crescent Baptist Church. Feb. 21-23.

Thurs. 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Fri. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5-9 p.m., Sat. 7-10 a.m. 334 Lake Dow Rd., McDonough. 678-777-4919. kellytownkids.com

Cannon Church Preschool Spring & Summer Consignment Sale. Cannon United Methodist Church. Feb. 1-2. Fri. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. and 5-8 p.m, Sat. 9 a.m.-noon. 2424 Webb Gin House Rd., Snellville. 678-501-6442. http://www.cannonchurch.org/pre-school/ kids-spring-summer-consignment-sale

Houston

Babies, Kids and Teens plus Furniture and Home Decor Consignment Sale. Christ the King Lutheran Church. Feb. 6-9. Wed.-Thurs.

9:30 a.m.-6 p.m., Fri. 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. 5575 Peachtree Pkwy., Norcross. www.IConsignMine.com

Jackson

Tykes, Tots, & Teens Consignment Sale. GA National Fairgrounds, Heritage Hall Building. Feb. 22-24. Fri.-Sat. 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.-6 p.m (Closed from 1-2 p.m.). 401 Larry Walker Pkwy., Perry. 678-984-2909. www.TTTsale.com

Lollipop Kids Consignment Sale. Jefferson Civic Center. Feb. 14-16. Thurs.- Fri. 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 8-11 a.m. 65 Kissam St., Jefferson. www.lpkidssale.com

DeKalb Kid ReSales Consignment Sale. Cross and Crown Lutheran Church. Feb. 7-9. Thurs. 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

(No children before noon), Fri. 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 4276 Chamblee-Dunwoody Rd., Chamblee. 404-661-4949. www.kidresales. com Rhea Lana’s of North Atlanta. Chamblee Plaza Shopping Center. Feb.24-28. Sun. Noon-7 p.m., Mon. 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Tues.10 a.m.-3 p.m., Wed. 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Thurs.10 a.m.-2 p.m. 5508 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Chamblee. www. northatlanta.rhealana.com

Forsyth Green with Envy Kids Consignment Sale.

Lakewood 400 Antiques Market. Feb. 8-9. Fri. 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 1321 Atlanta Hwy. (Hwy. 9), Cumming. 678-938-2680. www.greenwithenvykids.com

78 Atlanta Parent February 2013

Rhea Lana’s of North Atlanta

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

Classified Pages

Marketplace

C L A SSE S

PAR T Y

QUALITY LESSONS TO ENRICH YOUR CHILD’S LIFE

Liza Bean Designs. Face Painting for any occasion: Parties, School, or Church Events and Festivals. Also, custom murals, artwork, belly casting and painting.

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www.UCanWahu.com February 2013 Atlanta Parent 79

Classified Pages

Party Planner

Kid’s Party

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www.AuntieReneeStoryteller.com 80 Atlanta Parent February 2013

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atlantaparent.com

Classified Pages

Party Planner

Glow-In-The-Dark Play Area Features:  minigolf  football  soccer  basketball  air cannons  glow-in-the-dark inflatables  lighted interactive game floor

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March is our annual party issue Call Jennifer at 770-454-7599 to advertise atlantaparent.com

February 2013 Atlanta Parent 81

Humor

by Lela Davidson

Puppy Love

♥

I’m no dog person. I never wanted the responsibility of a puppy, certainly not a male dog. So you can imagine my surprise when I brought home a male puppy.

♥

♥

It all started with an Italian Greyhound I met while waiting in line for my latte at Barnes & Noble. This dog was my soul mate, but the owner would not take a child in trade, so the search was on.

After being denied by a rescue shelter because my children were too young for this supposedly fragile breed, I was nearly talked into a Chihuahua by a smooth pet store operator. Then I spied the ad for an IG puppy – and at only a hundred bucks, a mere pittance of his worth. The kids and I made the forty-five minute trek deep into the country in search of Dog. On the drive out there I reminded them we might not take him home.

“Not if he’s not nice,” I said. “Or if he I know my d smells.” You know, like a dog. og best becaus is The moment we saw him, I had no trouble e handing over the five crisp twenties. My precious he loves me skinny puppy, my miniature racing-dog peered into the most. me with deep, blue eyes and I took in his gorgeous dogginess. We dubbed him Simon and rushed straight to the pet super store. Everything was cute and fresh, and smelled nice, like school clothes in September.

Nothing is that easy. A week later I lived with a reeking dog bed, hair everywhere, and yellow designs in my carpet.

He was worth it, though. We babied our new family member, but I set boundaries. No pet nannies, organic dog food, or doggy cashmere sweaters. No Juicy Couture track suits for this pup. And no dog was licking my face. Never-ever-ever. I would feed him, alter him, and immunize him, but no licking.

There was competition, too. About ten minutes after I brought Simon home, two of my neighbors appeared with puppies. The cul-de-sac became a dog park.

Now I’ve got to keep up with the Dog Joneses.

“My dog never pees inside.”

“My dog’s poops are small.”

“My dog doesn’t chew the carpet – did I tell you about my new carpet?”

They can brag all they want, but I know my dog is best because he loves me the most. I know this because when I let him, he snuggles in my lap, arches his visible spine, and places his long snout on my chest.

A supposed watchdog, he barks for only one reason – when he wants me to come to the back door to play psych. It goes like this: “Bark-bark, please let me in, oh please won’t you let me in, open the door pleeeeeze.” And then when I open the door he prances back on the deck and I swear he smiles. Psych!

He smells bad, has no manners, and he’s expensive. I just spent nearly twice his asking price to ensure he doesn’t bless anyone else with a puppy. My dog is a complete pain. But it doesn’t matter because he’s part of our family now. I’m committed. And that reminds me of all the people in my life I am bound to love, too, despite their occasionally annoying habits. Face licking is still out, but my dog has found a way to express affection. He looks at me with those puppy dog eyes and gently places one paw on my cheek, where I let it stay for half a breath before I brush it away.

Surely that doesn’t make me a dog person. c

♥

Lela Davidson is a freelance writer and the author of two collections of humorous essays, Blacklisted from the PTA and Who Peed on My Yoga Mat? 82 Atlanta Parent February 2013

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