August 2012

Parent Atlanta’s No. 1 Parenting Magazine

atlanta

August 2012

atlantaparent.com

When To Go to the ER Avoid the Chores Battle

Like Us on FACEBOOK

Back to the Books!

Sleep Boosts Learning n Lunchbox 101 n Interview Your Child’s Teacher n

Don’t Miss Atlanta’s BEST Block Party!

Saturday, October 13 Mercer University Atlanta Campus

10 am - 4 pm

More than 50 family-friendly activities!

ENTERTAINMENT TODDLER ONLY PLAY AREA STORYTELLING • CRAFT ACTIVITIES TRICK-OR-TREAT STREET • EXHIBITORS • FOOD Brought to you by Atlanta Parent Magazine www.atlantaparent.com

2012 beneficiaries: Admission: $5 per person (cash only at gate)

Children 2 and under FREE

Admission includes 3 activity tickets

www.famil y b l o c k p a r t y. c o m

Present this ad for $1 OFF each admission! (up to 4 people)

APAUG

Join the Fun!

Volunteer, exhibit, entertain, donate or sponsor Call about opportunities: 770-454-7599 or kmorris@atlantaparent.com

Buy Tickets ONLINE!

1

$

OFF with code fbpearlybird

WHAT ARE YOU DOING THE NEXT 10 SATURDAYS? Become a Dental Assistant in your spare time!

• Led by a team of working dental professionals in a professional environment with modern digital radiology.

• 10 Consecutive Saturdays Instruction times make it easy to learn on “off time” • Licensed by GA, TN and AL Higher Education Commission.

• National accreditation by NACS • Tuition loans Available The Dental Staff School is now offering cross training courses that include Front Office Administration and Orthodontic assisting in order to better train tomorrow’s leading dental assistants. Please visit our website for more information.

4 Atlanta Parent August 2012

Our Dental Assistant Course is the right choice for you: • are looking for a new career direction...

• aren’t satisfied in your present entry level job...

• need flexible working hours while you finish school...

(678) 819-3919

3020 Roswell Rd. Ste 100 Marietta GA 30062

dentalstaffschool.com

atlantaparent.com

Inside August On the Cover: Cover Kid Tayden Ware, 5, of Gainesville.

Photo by Liz Blount, Studio 7 Photography.

Vol. 29 / Number 8

Departments

Features 14

8 Publisher’s Note

Make Play While the Sun Shines

20 fun things to do before summer slips away.

16

When Your Kid Gets Hurt

When is a trip to the ER necessary? And learn how you can keep your cool when your child gets injured.

20 52 68

25

10 News You Can Use 12 Dollars & Sense

Tips for Frugal Families

New!

45 Kids Activity Guide Special Advertising Section

82 Humor in the House

Let the (Children’s) Games Begin

Kids & Chores:

A little responsibility goes a long way. Chores can promote healthy work habits.

just kids:

Fun That Works Well

Family Fun Guide

Recreational activities for special needs children.

61 62

Not-to-Miss Events

Consignment Sales

63

Free Fun: Bring History to Life

64

Three Shows Worth Singing About

65

Catch Olympic Fever

66

Exhibit:

It’s that time again! Don’t miss our roundup of consignment sales across the metro area.

School Days!

Discover how schools have changed and overcome back-to-school jitters. Find out how sleep boosts learning, get your child ready with new school products and lunchboxes, and much more.

Magazine Association of the Southeast

2012 Award Winner

Eating Out: This Is It! BBQ and Seafood

Skate it or Hang it?

67

Review: The Scoop on Poop

70

July Calendar

Like us on Facebook; facebook.com/ AtlantaParentMagazine

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

Andi Levine alevine@atlantaparent.com

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

PRODUCTION Natalie Thavenot MANAGER apads@atlantaparent.com

EDITORIAL Robin Mintz PRODUCTION rmintz@atlantaparent.com ARTIST

CALENDAR EDITOR Kate Wallace

calendar@atlantaparent.com

D L I H C R YOU G? N I Z E E WH

TIRED OF

TAKE PART IN A CLINICAL RESEARCH STUDY!

If YES then 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 if giving an antibiotic (azithromycin) for upper respiratory infections will help improve asthma symptoms and lower the incidence of more serious lower respiratory infections in preschoolers. You may be asked to participate for as long as one year (52 weeks) in this study.

Contact:

Jennifer Dodds 404-727-5176 jcdodds@emory.edu or Denise Whitlock 404-712-1773 drwhitl@emory.edu

Study Includes: • Pulmonary evaluation • Physical exam (by a MD) • Study drug • Compensation for time and travel 6 Atlanta Parent August 2012

COPY EDITOR Glenn Emery

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

SUMMER INTERNS

Sara Doogan Sarah Egan Allie Fogel Carolyn Williams

Sign Up For Our e-Newsletter at AtlantaParent.com Like Us on FACEBOOK

Atlanta Parent magazine is published monthly by Atlanta Parent, Inc., 2346 Perimeter Park Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30341.

Telephone 770-454-7599, Fax 770-454-7699.

Atlanta Parent magazine is available free of charge at more than 1,000 locations throughout the metro Atlanta area. First class subscription only $30 per year. Subscription orders must include check or money order made out to Atlanta Parent magazine.

Atlanta Parent magazine welcomes letters, articles, artwork and photographs from its readers and the community. Atlanta Parent magazine is not responsible for the return of unsolicited materials.

All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part, is prohibited without written permission.

© Atlanta Parent, Inc. 2012

atlantaparent.com

WE TREAT MORE KIDS WITH

BROKEN BONES

THAN ANYONE IN GEORGIA. Childhood is a non-stop adventure. So when accidents happen, trust the doctors with the expertise to treat growing bones and growth plates the right way. choa.org/fracture.

©2012 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Inc. All rights reserved.

Dedicated to All Better

Publisher’s Note Thrifty, but by no means deprived

Stadium Childcare Providers for the Atlanta Braves

People who know me would never call me extravagant. They’re more likely to describe me as thrifty. It’s not that I’m unwilling to spend – I do, but only if the purchase is a good value.

It’s a philosophy that shaped my young family, of necessity, and one that many young families also have adopted in these tough economic times. These families have become experts at finding ways to keep their budgets under control. And they’ve learned that the choices they make to save money often have unexpected rewards: more time with their families, better quality food, children who’ve learned the basics of budgeting and the value of saving.

Everyone wants to have money for the fun things in life – a movie matinee, an evening bowling, an occasional dinner out, a family vacation. With a little planning, all those things are possible, even while raising three kids on a moderate income.

How do some families do that, while others drown in credit card debt or live paycheck to paycheck? It’s simple – and complicated: We make choices every day that directly affect whether we have “fun” money at the end of the month or we’re afraid we can’t make the mortgage or rent or car payment.

The families that win the budget battle are disciplined and aware, and Atlanta Parent is going to help you learn their secrets. With this issue, we’re launching a new feature, Frugal Families.

We’ll help you find deals on the basics – clothing and food – and tell you how to save money in other areas, without feeling like your family is suffering. Your kids still can wear designer clothes, if you buy them at a third of the price at a consignment sale. You can still have a beautifully decorated home: One of my sisters-in-law achieved a designer look buying 80 percent of her family’s furniture and accessories at Goodwill or thrift and consignment stores.

We’ll share tips from metro Atlanta families and our own staff on ways to cut corners painlessly. For instance, I never buy my usual breakfast food – cereal – unless it’s on sale or two-for-one. But the other evening, when I hadn’t planned ahead, a takeout Chinese meal for three rang up at $50, and that got my attention.

Packing a lunch for work every day, instead of grabbing a sandwich or eating in a restaurant, can amount to hundreds of dollars saved in a year.

And with the money you’ll save, you can take that family vacation you’ve dreamed about.

How to Reach us: Telephone 770.454.7599

E-Mail lwhite@atlantaparent.com

Fax 770.454.7699

Website www.atlantaparent.com

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.

8 Atlanta Parent August 2012

atlantaparent.com

ItFigures

by Cynthia Washam

School’s

Back ...

Time to Get

Back in

Odds and Trends 62

Shape

Percent of school-age children who consider swimming their favorite summer pastime

6

Number of weeks students in Japan have for summer vacation, which always involves homework

Mommy

10

Extra hours of learning per week students in rural Pope County, Arkansas, get watching math and science lessons on five ceiling-mounted screens in their school bus

Makeover Special visit website for details code AP

$35,915

Annual preschool tuition at New York’s exclusive Ethical Cultural Fieldston School

9½

Hours per day children in China typically spend at school, including a two-hour lunch break

62

Percent of American school children who say their favorite recess game is kickball

20 million

Number of children every year who register for football, baseball, soccer or another competitive youth sport

www.perimeterplasticsurgery.com

ACTUAL PATIENT

• Read Dr. Mark Deutsch’s Credentials • See Before and After Pictures • Mommy Makeover Details • Liposuction, Tummy Tucks • Breast Implants • Injectables • Facial Plastic Surgery

Patient - Before

Patient - After

70

Percent who quit by age 13 and never return

52

Percent of students from kindergarten through second grade who would include laptop computers for every student if they could create their own school

Mark F. Deutsch, MD, FACS

$0

Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery

Tuition San Francisco’s wealthiest parents pay for their toddlers to attend Ann and Gordon Getty’s invitation-only Playgroup preschool Sources: Scholastic.com, Factmonster.com, eschoolnews. com, ecfs.org, The New York Times, Familyeducation.com, Brokensecrets.com

atlantaparent.com

(770) 461-4824 Atlanta/Fayetteville

www.perimeterplasticsurgery.com “Like” us on August 2012 Atlanta Parent 9

News You Can Use

by Kate Wallace

Atlanta Not Tops in Parks WHEN IT COMES TO THE OVERALL QUALITY and availability of parks, the city of Atlanta ranks 26 among the 40 largest U.S. cities. This ranking is from ParkScore, a rating system developed by the nonprofit Trust for Public Land.

A city’s ParkScore ranking is determined by several factors, including park access, the percentage of residents living within a 10-minute walk of a park; park size; percentage of total city area dedicated to parks; and services and investment, which considers the number of playgrounds per 10,000 residents and how much money is spent on them.

The top three cities on the ParkScore list: San Francisco, Sacramento and Boston. Atlanta came out ahead of El Paso, Columbus and Nashville.

According to Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed, the city is working to improve its ParkScore with the completion of the Atlanta Beltline, which aims to increase Atlanta’s greenspace by 40 percent.

For more on ParkScore, visit parkscore.tpl.org.

Mothers Gather ’Round for Health WORLD BREASTFEEDING WEEK is Aug. 1-7. In celebration of breastfeeding awareness, thousands of women will join together for the Big Latch On, an event that encourages simultaneous breastfeeding for one minute worldwide on Aug. 3-4 at 10:30 a.m. local time. Various Big Latch On events will provide educational resources to support ongoing breastfeeding promotion. The Women’s Health Action and Big Latch On provide the resources and coordination for communities to hold their own Big Latch On events. To find an event near you, visit biglatchon.org.

Win Free Tickets!

DOES YOUR CHILD AND THEIR BEST FRIEND remind everyone of Bert and Ernie? Tell us why and you could win free tickets to Sesame Street Live: “Elmo Makes Music” at Philips Arena Sept. 13-16. Send submissions to contest@atlantaparent.com by Aug. 31.

Child Care Programs Face Stricter Penalties THE GEORGIA DEPARTMENT of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) has imposed stricter penalties on child care centers that leave children unattended in vans and buses. Leading the charge is Commissioner Bobby Cagle, who recently held a news conference discussing the policy changes and increased fines that child centers will face.

Twenty-one incidents in Georgia last year and the recent record heat waves prompted the stricter penalties.

ABC’s ‘Wife Swap’ Seeks Families PRODUCERS OF THE HIT TV SHOW “Wife Swap” are searching for families from the Atlanta area to demonstrate how they live to families in other regions. “Wife Swap” switches just the wives of two families who don’t know each other and films them as they operate in the other woman’s life and household for one week. Producers are looking for a family unit of two parents and at least one child 6 years or older. To apply, contact patrice.starnes@zodiakusa.com. The deadline is Sept. 3.

Websites Worth Visiting n Sugarsync.com Get online cloud storage for all of your files with SugarSync. com. The website allows you to backup and access music, photo, video and document files from anywhere. SugarSync works for both Mac and PC computers, and right now users can store up to 5 GB for free. IPhone and Android apps are also available, visit sugarsync.com.

10 Atlanta Parent August 2012

n Doughmain.com Organize family chaos with the help of this all-in-one family planner site. The site offers a chore tracker, a family calendar and financial savings tools for parents and kids.

Teachers designed the site to help families and to promote responsibility among kids. Visit doughmain.com to create your free account.

atlantaparent.com

atlantaparent.com

August 2012    Atlanta Parent 11

Dollars Sense

&

TIPS FOR FRUGAL FAMILIES

Hot Spots where Kids EAT FREE!

Tax Free,

for Two Days Anyway Mark Aug. 10-11 on your calendars as Georgia’s next sales tax holiday.

Shop tax free on each clothing item under $100, school supplies under $20 and computers under $1,000.

Offer is valid until midnight Aug. 11.

Wing Factory Kids 12 and younger eat free, dine-in only, with the purchase of an entree on Sundays at both metro locations: Chamblee and Buckhead. wingfactory.com

Shane’s Rib Shack There are two dozen locations in and around Atlanta and many have one day when kids 12 and younger eat free, dinein only, with the purchase of an adult’s entrée. Kids eat free on Saturdays, for example, at the Alpharetta and Roswell locations. Be sure to call the location near you to ask if they’ve got a “free” night for kids. shanesribshack.com

Atlanta Ribs Kids eat free on Thursday with each adult meal purchased. Offer valid after 4 p.m. Dine in only. 4624 Camp Highland Dr., Smyrna. 770-438-2886.

Deal of the Month!

For just $5, pick up a topselling storybook or a plush toy. The deal is available through September from Kohl’s department stores’ Kohl’s Cares, which benefits kids’ health and education. Your $5 options include a Skippyjon Jones title by Judy Schachner, a set of illustrated note cards, a kids’ backpack or any of three forthe-family books: Crock-Pot Busy Family Recipes; Eat This Not That! For Kids!; and Campbell’s Best-Loved Recipes. Available at Kohl’s stores and at kohls.com.

Five Below This new chain of discount stores is taking the dollar store concept to a new level. Here are some buys available at one of their six locations in the metro Atlanta area. fivebelow.com.

Beanie Babies, $4.99

Storage bins, styles and colors vary. $1-5.

12 Atlanta Parent August 2012

Kids’ Consignment! It’s that time again – time for kids’ consignment sales across the metro area. During August and September, churches, schools and other organizations have great sales on clothing, shoes, toys and more.

Turn to Page 68 for our excellent metro-wide roundup.

Special for Atlanta Parent readers: Bring this page and one friend to shop Rhea Lana’s Private Pre-Sale Event, Sat., Aug. 4, 6 to 9 p.m. at 1425 Market Blvd., Roswell. 404-889-4173.

Worthy websites Free! Free at last!

Bargains! Bargains galore! Here are two websites devoted to freebies.

Heyitsfree.net Heyitsfree.net offers insider tips on how to score some great freebies from some of your favorite brand-named products.

Ericsfreesites.com Eric’s Free Site is the ultimate resource guide for all things free.

This website provides an extensive list of free sample sites, coupon offers and freebie-hunting tips. You can also provide your email to receive daily updates on the best offers around.

– Allie Fogel

Crayola Paint Brush Pens, $5

USB Cable, $5 Girls’ flip flops, 2/$5

atlantaparent.com

Three Ways to Save The economy is changing attitudes about saving money. According to a survey by Fidelity Investments, a financial services company, 46 percent of respondents say saving money is a top priority, and another 21 percent said they aimed to spend less.

Here are three ideas to reach that goal:

1 2 3

Cut back on electronics.

If you buy an unlimited data and text plan for your smartphone, the instrument is brainier than you are; put your family on a data budget.

And check your cable TV bill – you can save there with a basic plan and supplement with free streaming videos, sports, movies and TV shows (or cut cable all-together and put up an antenna).

Plan ahead and cook. The price of restaurant meals is up 26 percent over the past five years.

Make eating out a treat, not an everyday occurrence.

Find free entertainment.

Your public library has books, DVDs, CDs and video games, and you don’t have to pay a penny. Project Gutenberg, gutenberg.org, has 36,000 free e-books to download to a PC, Kindle, phone or other devices.

Atlanta Parent’s STAFF TIP: “Turn off the lights!” That’s our constant refrain when we see the kids exit a room in our house. And for good reason. We embarked on an effort to be more conscious of our energy consumption. The result: We paid $500 less for electricity than we had the previous year. We continue to keep our monthly bill low by making sure lights and all electronics are turned off when not in use, and we’re smart about setting our programmable thermostat (available at Home Depot for less than $20). In the summer, our air conditioner is set at 78. We also know that LCD TVs are power hogs, so we only turn on one at a time – which promotes family time. Happy Savings!

– Julia Sparks, Senior Acccount Executive

atlantaparent.com

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 13

20

Fun Things To Do Before

Summer Disappears

14 Atlanta Parent    August 2012

atlantaparent.com

Get to Know the

ER Just in case, prepare your child for a medical emergency.

by Lynn Pribus

If your child were to enter a hospital for a planned stay, you’d spend time sticking bandages on teddy bears and reading Curious George Goes to the Hospital. Perhaps you’d even visit the hospital ahead of time for an orientation.

On the other hand, an unexpected trip to a crowded emergency room (ER) when your youngster is in pain and you’re anxious and overwhelmed – well, that can be troubling, even terrifying.

Be Prepared n Become informed. Be ready to help

your child by taking a class in first aid, which can help you assess injuries and decide when to seek emergency medical attention. First-aid kits are a must for every family – one in the home and one in each vehicle. The Red Cross cardiopulmonary resuscitation course (CPR) is only four hours and it could be a lifesaver when minutes count. n Describe an ER. Reading about a hospital or seeing an ambulance can offer an opportunity to discuss an ER with children. Stories of friends who have been treated for an emergency will also help. Kids should be prepared that an ER is often hectic or noisy or chilly and that there could be a long wait before seeing a doctor.

There might be X-rays and strange technology, or there could be blood tests and strange smells.

Talk about the ER experience more than once, so it becomes less intimidating.

16 Atlanta Parent August 2012

When Disaster Strikes Kedra, 10, was hit by a car in front of her house. Her mother was ready to rush her to the hospital when a neighbor stopped her, saying, “My son is calling for help.” n 9-1-1 is the quickest access to help. Give concise information on your location and the patient’s condition. Example: “A 10-year-old girl was struck by a car in front of 222 Elm Street. She is conscious, but in a lot of pain. There is blood on her face and her arm is bleeding profusely but I do not see any bone.” Remember that while a home landline usually displays your address for 9-1-1 dispatchers, most cellphones don’t show your location, so don’t hang up until the dispatcher tells you to.

n Wait for the emergency unit. Help is often on the scene in a matter of minutes.

Racing to an ER, especially if you must drive alone, could be risky if the youngster should vomit, go into shock or have a seizure. Besides, arrivals by ambulance go to the head of the line at the ER. n Don’t move the child if there is any chance of serious injury. If the patient absolutely must be moved – if there is a danger of fire, for example – support the head and neck and move in a straight line by pulling with your hands under both armpits.

If there is bleeding, apply direct pressure with the cleanest item around, which could be an unread newspaper or female sanitary supplies. Concentrate your energies on immediate life-saving maneuvers from your first-aid class. n Stay calm. Easy to say, but it’s important to cloak obvious anxiety, which can feed a child’s fear. Everyone is tense when a child is hurt, and a distraught or hysterical parent escalates the stress for everyone. n Provide clear information. The first responders will need to know the child’s age, weight, allergies and any medications being taken. You may need to repeat this several times, since each person along the route to treatment needs to know what’s going on.

Cont’d on page 18

atlantaparent.com

Urgent Care or the ER? For plenty of kids, summer may mean bike riding all day, perfecting those skateboard tricks and horsing around at the pool.

But for parents, summer is the height of injury season for kids. A lot of unstructured play and activity can lead to scraped knees, broken bones and even worse. How do you know when to head to a hospital emergency room, and when a mishap can be treated instead at an urgent-care facility?

Urgent-care facilities are often overlooked when kids get hurt.

But for such things as minor cuts that could require stitches, or bone fractures that need a splint, urgent care may be the best bet.

An urgent-care clinic is good for easily treated situations where you need prompt, inexpensive diagnosis and treatment, and it can mean a shorter wait and a less expensive bill. And it is usually less Leneed more information frightening and intimidating for a child than the ER. contact Atlanta Parent spoke with Dr. Deirdre Stewart, lead physician at Forsyth Urgent Care, part of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. We wanted some advice on how to determine when your child needs a trip to the ER, and when an urgent-care center is the better option.

Stewart says typical summer injuries include sprains, head injuries and a lot of fractures. Cuts can be a big question mark for parents. Knowing whether a cut needs stitches or not is probably the most common dilemma among worried parents.

“If the cut is deep and less than one inch, bringing the child to urgent care is recommended,” says Stewart. “Only about four times per month do we need to redirect parents to the ER.

“If there is ever any loss of consciousness when it comes to a head injury, parents should always go straight to the ER,” Stewart says, while urgent care is OK for mild head injuries if there has been no loss of consciousness.

In any situation requiring medical attention, Stewart says that “the No. 1 thing a parent can do to help their child is to stay calm and reassuring. If the parent is calm, the child is more likely to be brave. It really makes a world of difference.”

It’s also a good idea for parents to take a first-aid or CPR class, which would help them better assess injuries. Stewart also advises parents to talk with their child’s pediatrician, who can provide helpful tips for avoiding and treating common childhood injuries.

– Kate Wallace

Events & Things to Do

Fun Events River Rafting Backstage Broadway Museum Sleepovers Self Defense

Anniversary Celebration November 4 Six Flags Over Georgia

Fashion Design

Friends For Life Wildlife Rescue Learn a Language

September 9 Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center

Sports Clinics Explore Europe Space Camp Habitat Homes Robotics Advocate for Change

Contact Us 770-702-9100 atlantaparent.com

Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta offers more choices - and more reasons than ever to join or volunteer!

September 21-23, 28-30; October 5-6, 12-14 Father/Daughter Weekend

Visit www.gsgatl.org to learn more.

October 12-14, 19-21, 26-28 Mother/Daughter Getaway

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 17

Get to Know the ER

provide written information or instructions.

Still, in the rush and anxiety of the moment, you may not remember things clearly. Be sure to jot down the doctor’s name, and ask that the medical record be sent to your family’s healthcare provider.

n Be there for your child. Generally, a parent may ride in an emergency vehicle.

If you can’t go along, assure your youngster you will be at the ER very soon. Have a friend or relative meet you at the hospital to make phone calls, stay with your child if you are needed elsewhere, and offer any support necessary.

After the Fact

At the ER Within 15 minutes, Kedra was tentatively diagnosed with a mild concussion, abrasions on her arm, a cracked collarbone and a broken wrist. X-rays were done, but some patients who arrived later were cared for first. Kedra’s sense of fairness was outraged when it was nearly four hours before she was treated. n Explain. Tell your child that unlike most places, ERs aren’t first-come, firstserved. Life-threatening and critical cases are given priority. n Be honest. Say it’s understandable to be frightened, but that you won’t lie about anything. Explain things as well as you can.

Minimize fears, but be straightforward if the wait will be lengthy or treatment “uncomfortable.”

18 Atlanta Parent August 2012

Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta

n “Do people die here?” Don’t be surprised at such a question. Simply say that sometimes people are so sick or injured that they do die, but emphasize it is unusual and that your child is not in danger of dying. n Your child counts on you. The combination of injury and apprehension may unnerve you as well as your youngster. Strive to remain calm. If you are agitated or loud, the doctor will probably insist on seeing your child without you. n Be sure you understand. Although minutes count in an ER, you and your child are entitled to a clear explanation of any diagnosis or recommended treatment. Most ERs

When Carmen, 7, gashed her leg on a rusty nail, she received 11 carefully counted stitches and a tetanus shot. While she was being treated, a man who was bloodied and disoriented from a head injury stumbled through the privacy curtain and collapsed on the floor at her feet. The scene only lasted a moment before medics lifted him and led him away, but weeks later Carmen still resisted going to bed. When she tried to talk about the “bloody man,” her mother dismissed the subject, not wanting to remind her daughter of it. n Talk about it. Discuss the medical emergency during the following days and weeks. Children need to feel they have permission to deal with a frightening ordeal by reliving it. Talking about a recent traumatic experience gives a person (of any age) power over it. This is why people often repeat stories about everything from an auto accident to an operation.

atlantaparent.com

NOW SHOWING

n Play it through. Especially with

young children, giving a doll an IV or recreating other painful events with something tangible, gives them some control over a scary memory. For example, after he was fully recovered and healed, one boy who had fallen from a tree later spent several weeks displaying his 22 stitches (which had been taped to a tongue depressor as a souvenir when they were removed from his arm). n Schedule a follow-up. Depending on the situation, you may need to see your own family doctor.

Remember, when you are prepared, calm and encouraging, a visit to an ER can be handled as just another incident in the adventure of growing up.

Informed Consent Is Essential When Ethan, 4, broke his wrist at his grandparents’ house, they took him to the nearest ER. The hospital insisted on cash because they didn’t know what sort of medical coverage Ethan’s parents had.

As they waited, a panicky Ethan watched a progression of patients, including a screaming infant and a woman crying out profanities. Even more upsetting, a doctor immobilized the entire arm and dictated that Ethan should have no food or drink in case surgery was needed, but would provide no further treatment without “informed consent” from Ethan’s parents – who were hiking the Appalachian Trail for four days.

It was nearly 12 hours before Ethan’s parents came into an area with cellphone service and were able to give oral permission for treatment.

You can forestall such a worrisome situation for your youngster. Laws may vary from state to state, but in most cases only a parent may consent to treatment for a minor. A grandparent or in some cases even a stepparent may not. The law leans toward treatment in cases of injuries threatening life, limb or the nervous system. Still, in our litigious society, a doctor who does not know you may be reluctant to treat your child.

Therefore, if there are times you cannot be reached, give a medical power of attorney to a relative, friend or childcare provider. You may also leave a signed and dated consent for treatment with your family physician or medical facility.

Write down for babysitters or other care providers exactly what you want done in an emergency; include phone numbers for a trusted relative or friends in case you can’t be reached.

Prepare a brief medical history, including allergies, regularly taken medications, immunizations (especially tetanus) and blood type, if known. Make a photocopy along with health insurance information and give a copy to anyone who looks after your child.

Know the closest location where you can obtain emergency services. This may be dictated by your medical insurance. c

atlantaparent.com

Visit fernbankmuseum.org for tickets and details.

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 August 2012 Atlanta Parent 19

MOM’SLITTLEHELPER DOING CHORES TEACHES RESPONSIBILITY AND MORE.

by Lela Davidson

B

alancing good parenting and an orderly house can be tricky, but requiring children to do chores around the house is a great way to teach them responsibility and a healthy work ethic.

Susan Tordella, author of Raising Able, encourages parents to involve children, making the work fun so that kids feel good about themselves and more connected to the family. “Family chores teach kids life skills, self-discipline, responsibility and teamwork while nurturing their self-esteem,” says Tordella. Follow these tips and your kids will be pitching in around the house before you can say, “Clean up this mess!”

START THEM YOUNG Your young ones are often enthusiastic about housework. They don’t yet know it’s not supposed to be fun. Kids’ natural curiosity and desire to do the things adults do make the preschool years a perfect time for introducing chores. When children want to copy you, let them. No child is too young to wipe down the baseboards, and toddlers are just the right height. Shannon Bieda, a mom of two, quickly capitalized on her children’s desire to be like Mommy.

“When my kids asked for a toy vacuum, I bought a lightweight working version and let them play house all they wanted.” Tordella uses a Triple E system: expect, encourage and empower. As young kids master simple chores, support them to stretch for tasks beyond their years.

This nurtures self-esteem and self-confidence. “They start to believe in themselves as capable contributors,” says Tordella. This pays off in the teenage years. “The chores might seem insignificant, but they impact children’s psyches on a very deep level.”

20 Atlanta Parent August 2012

BANISH PERFECTIONISM Don’t expect kids to live up to your standards of “clean.” Once you start handing over the rags and spray bottles to children, you relinquish control over the results. Instead of the ideal result, remember the primary objective is teaching kids to enjoy (or at least endure) household chores.

Anna Eastland is a mother of three who believes the process is more important than the end product. “Demonstrate a positive work ethic,” she says. “Work is a way to grow in virtue and contribute to the good of society and of the family.” Work alongside your children, and remember that when children help with chores, their efforts reduce the workload for the grownups, but not right away. Invest the time to model the right way to do the task and work with the child until he is able to complete it on his own.

START SMALL

For Allen Woody, a morning radio personality, children’s chores are part of a routine that keeps his household running smoothly despite an unconventional schedule. His 5- and 7-year-old sons do chores like clearing the table, taking out the trash, and caring for pets every day.

“It really isn’t hard to do,” he says. “Just be consistent.” Many self-care tasks can be expanded gradually into full-blown chores. For example, a child who is taught to take his plate from the table will soon atlantaparent.com

be ready to clear the entire table. Incrementally add on other after-dinner duties like rinsing the dishes and loading the dishwasher. Tordella believes in letting kids try everything, and even investing in mini-tools for house and garden maintenance. “Miniaturize everything you do that they’re interested in. ”

LET KIDS CHOOSE In addition to daily chores, start making a list of other tasks around the house that need to be done on a weekly or monthly basis. These chores should be age-appropriate and the type a child can do adequately. (And, of course, the cleaning products kids use should be nontoxic.)

Once you have an inventory of chores your child is capable of doing independently, pick a time each week and let him choose a few chores to do.

Completing chores on his own gives him a sense of accomplishment, and the ability to choose which chores to complete offers him some control over the process. Tordella emphasizes creating a system that makes life easier for everyone involved. “My kids would do one job all year, such as [collecting the] recycling or feeding the dog, because I couldn’t keep track of four kids’ chores. Any system works as long as everyone agrees.”

Cont’d on page 22

Never Say Chore?

Some people bristle at the word chore with its negative connotations.

According to at least one expert, it’s all in the presentation. Child Psychiatrist Joseph Shrand teaches at the Harvard Medical School and works with at-risk teens. He’d like to see more kids helping out around the house from an early age, but prefers the word contribution. “Chore sounds like an onerous task.” Shrand encourages parents to focus on the positive. “What the kid is really doing is contributing to the family by taking on a responsibility and completing it to the best of their ability.”

More Helpers

n Raising Able, by Susan Tordella. She also maintains a blog of the same name that includes helpful tips for getting kids contributing even before they can talk. n Melissa & Doug Deluxe Magnetic Responsibility Chart (above) – Colorful and engaging, this chore chart makes housework into a game. Amazon.com n Also, stock up on fun timers that kids can set themselves, CDs with motivating music, and colorful cleaning supplies!

Create a Solid Foundation Lori Bremer’s parents were raised by farmers to have a strong work ethic. To instill the same work ethic in their own children, they sent the girls to work on neighboring farm.

Bremer learned quickly what hard work really was, including the fact that there is no quitting time. “You can only stop once all the irrigation pipe is laid or all the hay is baled or all the cows are fed.” Those early experiences motivated Bremer to pursue a higher education so she wouldn’t have to earn a living through hard labor, but they also taught her the value of doing things right. “On a farm, you can’t do jobs halfway.”

Even though Bremer’s current work as a retail executive does not remotely resemble farming, her early years still influence her work product. “I carry all those lessons through each day. My coworkers and bosses know, I will get the job done no matter what.”

Dr. Debbie King and daughter Elyse

Healthy Smiles Are Contagious “One of the greatest responsibilities we are given as parents is to establish and maintain healthy routines to ensure the best for our children. Often, the demands of our hectic schedules overshadow the necessary time to establish or maintain a good oral health routine for ourselves. In order for you to care for those who count on you most, we at Buckhead Dental Care remind you to schedule routine time for your oral health. I invite you to contact me and my talented dental team to assist you in establishing, or re-establishing a regular oral health routine you wish your children will adopt”

(404) 239-9566

- Dr. Deborah King

2964 Peachtree NW Suite 340

(next to Barnes and Noble, just behind Brio Italian Restaurant)

www.buckheaddentalcare.com atlantaparent.com

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 21

Intitiative to inspire and Mentor Physics And Chemistry Teachers

Discovering interesting ways to do what you love is easier than you think.

Selected applicants will receive annual $10,000 stipends during the ve year program.

EXPLORE CAREER CHANGE EXP For more information and to apply, complete the online application at

www.GANoyceScholars.org.

Be a friend of Atlanta Parent!

AtlantaParent.com CalendarEducationPartyBabyCampsResourcesJustKids EducationPartyBabyCampsResourcesJustKidsCalendar PartyBabyCampsResourcesJustKidsCalendarEducation 22 Atlanta Parent August 2012

atlantaparent.com

• LIMITED TIME OFFER •

month $

199 down

TRADITIONAL BRACES Metal brackets / 24-month treatment program

SAVE $3,769!

Ask us for details!*

CONNECT WITH SAVINGS ON BRACES! Dr. JiMiesh Green, Orthodontist, is currently accepting new patients at these locations: Cascade 3660 Cascade Rd S, #B Atlanta, GA 30331 (678) 891-0069

Marietta Trade 270 Cobb Pkwy S, #180 Marietta, GA 30060 (770) 425-6333

Stone Mountain 1147 S Hairston Rd Stone Mountain, GA 30088 (404) 297-6635

Douglasville 3308 Georgia Hwy 5, #E Douglasville, GA 30135 (770) 947-0006

Pleasant Hill 1630 Pleasant Hill Rd, #200 Duluth, GA 30096 (770) 381-7878

Woodstock 12195 Highway 92, #148 Woodstock, GA 30188 (770) 517-2772

Fayetteville 805 S Glynn St, #131 Fayetteville, GA 30214 (770) 460-6651

Sprayberry 2550 Sandy Plains Rd, #145 Marietta, GA 30066 (770) 321-2755

• We coordinate care with your general dentist • Most insurance accepted • Financing available to qualified applicants

CoastDentalOrtho.com

Schedule your appointment today! *(ADA D8080/D8090. PRADO/PRADT. $6,344 value.) Offer may be withdrawn at any time. Offer valid only in select locations offering orthodontic services; restrictions apply. Minimum fee only. Fee may vary with complexity of case. ADDITIONAL CHARGES MAY BE INCURRED FOR RELATED SERVICES WHICH MAY BE REQUIRED IN INDIVIDUAL CASES. Offer may be combined with other offers for which the patient is eligible. Offer valid for non-covered/non-insured patients. Offer good in absence of gum disease. Standard 24-month treatment program; appliances not included. Ask office for promotional pricing on cases extending beyond 24 months. Down payment and monthly payments available to qualified applicants. Actual amounts may vary. Alternative financing may be available to non-qualified applicants. See office for details. The dentists and hygienists are employees or independent contractors of Coast Dental of Georgia, P.C., (Adam Diasti, DDS, DN11634). © 2012 Coast Dental. All rights reserved. CD-101349-1

atlantaparent.com

Back to School

August 2012    Atlanta Parent 25

5

Questions To Ask Your Child’s New Teacher Some metro Atlanta educators weigh in.

by Stephanie Vozza

The start of a new school year can be overwhelming. Sure, there are new folders, new lockers and new shoes. But one of the most exciting changes is a new teacher.

Parents can start the year off on the right foot by getting to know the new teacher. Here are five questions you should ask at your school’s open house or at your first parent/teacher conference:

1

How can we support at home what you’re doing in the classroom?

This sets the tone and tells the teacher that you know you’re in this together. The best education for your child comes from a partnership between parent and teacher.

Teachers appreciate parents who do their part, and parents appreciate teachers who consider them part of the learning team.

“Parents need to become familiar with the way their child’s teacher communicates,” says Liz Wood, who teaches fifth grade at East Side Elementary in Cobb County. “This is usually discussed at the school’s open house event, so parents should attend that to begin with. Each teacher or grade level has a way to communicate grades, behavior, progress and class news with parents. It’s important for parents to stay informed in order to help support what is going on in the classroom.

26 Atlanta Parent August 2012

“I have a folder that goes home weekly and is usually full of information,” Wood adds. “The folder also notifies parents if there are any issues with weekly behavior and/or work or study habits. I also utilize a class webpage for communication. Parents can look at their children’s grades online, see the daily homework, and read the class news for updates.”

“Know your child’s full curriculum,” adds Erica McDonald, a former elementary teacher in Cobb. She also urges parents to regularly visit gastandards.org. “Complete some of the activities on the site,” she says, “[and] your child will come to school prepared.”

2

What are your goals – not just academic – for your students for this school year?

Some teachers have goals to make students better problem solvers.

Sometimes they want to teach children how to collaborate on projects.

And sometimes they want to show students how to build a community inside the classroom. By asking this question, you will get some insight into their teaching style.

“My goal for my students is to develop a love for learning,” says McKenzie Currie, a kindergarten teacher at Kipp Strive Primary within Atlanta Public Schools. “For many students, kindergarten is their first formal school experience. For me, it is imperative that my scholars enjoy and yearn for learning. I want them to become diligent and proud in all that they do!”

Back to School

atlantaparent.com

3

What is the best way to contact you?

Ongoing communication is key. Parents can usually reach a teacher through notes, phone calls, emails or in person. Your child’s teacher will probably have a preferred method. Some check email several times a day, and some only once a week. Some teachers prefer phone calls after school, and some will allow you to call them at home in the evening. Adhering to the preferred method of contact will keep open the communication lines.

“The best way to contact me is through email,” says Currie. “Email allows me to fully process and prepare for the best response. I am an avid user of my laptop and check email regularly.”

Adds Adam Bursch, a music teacher at Kipp Strive: “Emails are great, but there’s nothing like hearing the voice of a concerned parent. If you are a busy parent, send an email to set up a time to conference with your child’s teacher.”

“I have a website that I update weekly,” notes Jacqueline Keeler, an English teacher at Atlanta’s Maynard Jackson High. “My cellphone number and two email addresses are listed on the syllabus. I also have a teacher Twitter account. I encourage students to text or tweet me because that is the easiest way to communicate. I also text them to remind them of upcoming due dates.”

4

What would you like to know about my child that would help you as a teacher?

As a parent, you know your child better than anyone. The more a teacher knows a child, the better they will be at addressing the child’s needs. Share with the teacher your child’s personality traits, strengths and weaknesses, as well as study habits. It’s also good to share family situations that may affect school performance, such as a divorce or a family member with an illness.

Says Keeler: “I would like to know about your child’s learning style, interests, strengths and weaknesses. Actually, I would like to know everything about them so that I know how to best push them to succeed.”

Notes Bursch: “Knowing my students’ stories enables me to help them to write their next pages. Where did they grow up? What do they like to do? Answers to questions like these play a key role in building a strong relationship with students, which supports the learning process.”

5

What is your homework policy?

If you talk to parents with children in other classrooms, you’ll learn that all homework is not created equal. Some teachers are notorious for assigning large workloads, and some teachers rarely give any homework.

Some have homework assignments due each day, while others prefer to have an entire week’s homework handed in at the end of the week.

When you find out your teacher’s homework policy, be sure to understand the role you will play. Does the teacher want the parent to identify and offer help on wrong answers? Or does the teacher prefer that you just check to see if homework is completed, but let mistakes come in so they can be addressed in class?

Cont’d on page 28

imagine Your Child?

What do you want for

IMAGINE A SCHOOL WHERE YOUR CHILD LEARNS…

• By Individual Instruction • A Love of Learning An Authentic • To Think Outside the Box AMI Accredited • Independence Montessori School • Respect for Others • A Solid Foundation • Foreign Language, Music, Cooking, Gardening and More HALF OR FULL DAY, YEAR ROUND PROGRAMS

Montessori School at Emory

Montessori School of Cumming 4601 Post Rd., Cumming 30040

3290 Old Alabama Rd., Alpharetta 30022

404-634-5777

770-205-6773

770-667-1277

3021 N. Decatur Rd., Decatur 30033

Montessori School of Alpharetta

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

Back to School

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 27

5

Questions to Ask Your Child’s New Teacher

Atlanta’s Premier Christian School Since 1949 Two Years through 8th Grade 3260 Northside Drive NW, Atlanta, Georgia 30305

404-262-2233

Educating Christian families since 1975

www.heiskell.net

OPEN HOUSE December 13th January 24th February 7th March 7th • BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW, STRONG ACADEMICS IN THE CLASSICAL TRADITION • K4-8TH GRADE • LOW STUDENT/TEACHER RATIO • POSITIVE, NURTURING ENVIRONMENT CCS is fully accredited by the Georgia Accrediting Commission (GAC) and is a member of the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), the Association of Classical and Christian Schools (ACCS), and the Atlanta Christian School Association (ACSA).

3130 ATLANTA ROAD

NEAR SMYRNA MARKET VILLAGE

770.435.1596 • WWW.CCSSMYRNA.ORG 28 Atlanta Parent August 2012

Back to School

Homework, reminds Wood, cannot be “graded” in elementary school, but it can be in middle and high school. Therefore, as a fifth-grade teacher, she thinks it’s important to prepare students and parents for this.

Homework completion is reflected in part of the work/study habits portion of the report card. Some students make wonderful grades in elementary school but they do not complete homework regularly. Their grades will be impacted in middle and high school, so parents need to see the good habits being formed in elementary school.

“I assign a few assignments regularly each Monday, and it is all due the following Monday,” says Wood. “This helps my students learn about time management and prioritizing things during the week. I also assign homework during the week that is due the following day. The homework I assign helps support what is going on in the classroom and it helps prepare them for what is to come in the upper grades.”

After nine years of teaching, Wood says she has learned a thing or two about kids doing significant projects. She prefers to give parents ample notice so that parents have time to send in supplies. Wood prefers that her students complete such activities at school.

“This way I know the student did all of the work,” she says. c – Julie Bookman contributed to this story atlantaparent.com

atlantaparent.com

August 2012    Atlanta Parent 29

Then and Now: 1O Ways School Has Changed

by Lara Krupicka

These days we marvel at the technological innovations being used in the classroom. And indeed, with so many new devices available, our kids’ experiences at school are beginning to look quite different from our own. But beyond technology there are other differences too. Here are 10 things you probably had in school that your child may not: Overhead projectors and filmstrips Remember those? Most of us jumped at the chance to be the one to manually move the strip forward at the sound of the tone. And we all wished we could be the one writing with squeaky markers on the overhead sheets.

Plus, who among us didn’t try at least once to sneak a quick nap in the darkened classroom?

Now computers have taken the place of many of the old audio-visual devices. PowerPoint presentations, digital projectors and videos do the job in our kids’ classrooms.

PB&J sandwiches With the prevalence of nut allergies and the severity of risks, many schools now ban any peanut or tree nut products within their walls. This means no more peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for hungry kids (although alternatives, such as sunflower seed spread are beginning to fill the gap).

Tag at recess

Unlocked doors

You heard that right. Some schools have placed restrictions on any contact games during the school day (except in gym) due to the risk of injury.

Gone are the days when you could walk right into an elementary school.

Because of the potential for violence, many schools have installed security systems that require being buzzed into the building. Along with these measures have come “lock-down drills” where students and teachers practice what to do in the event that school security is breached.

Lunch money With the advent of scanners, schools have been phasing in the use of swipe cards to pay for school lunches. Parents send a check or go online to load the cards. Then students use the card to buy lunch. No more chances of stolen or lost coins on the way to school.

Typewriters OK, so none of us used these in elementary school. But not only are students no longer using typewriters, they’re also being taught the skill of “keyboarding” (formerly known as typing) at younger and younger ages. With computer labs in the majority of schools, kids now have time set aside each week for learning both typing skills and how to use common computer programs.

Birthday treats No more bringing in smiley-face cookies to celebrate a child’s special day. In an effort to do their part in the battle against childhood obesity, schools have begun forbidding treats aside from sanctioned school celebrations. This means no homemade cupcakes or even store-bought doughnuts. And in some cases, teachers are no longer allowed to use sweets or food as incentives.

Chalkboards Some classrooms still have one, but most aren’t used for writing anymore. Instead, dry-erase boards and computerized SMART boards (interactive white boards) take that role.

No more staying after to help clap erasers for our kids!

Fluoride rinse Some states still conduct regular fluoride rinse programs in schools.

Others have ceased their programs.

With municipalities adding fluoride to their water supplies, the need isn’t as great. But schools still take dental health seriously. In a quarter of the states, laws require proof of a dental exam for school admission. c

Mimeographed papers Remember that smell? The days of duplicating via mimeograph machine are a thing of the past. Now teachers use photocopiers and printers for printing multiple copies for classes.

30 Atlanta Parent August 2012

Back to School

atlantaparent.com

Spotlight on

Back to School

Covenant Christian School

The Duluth Montessori School

stablished in 1975, Covenant Christian School (CCS) in Smyrna celebrates 36 years of Christian education.

CCS is committed to partnering with Christian families in the nurture and education of their children by providing a classical academic program in a distinctly Christ-centered environment. CCS students are taught to think biblically and analytically, to articulate fluently, and to embrace a life-long love of learning in order to influence our culture for Christ. The distinctive classical approach to learning draws upon proven methods which are structured around three traditional stages of development in children: Grammar, Logic, and Rhetoric. These are also teaching methods implemented throughout each subject and grade level Pre-K 4-8th.

The experienced faculty and staff bring many years of committed Christian teaching to our students each day.

They are personally devoted to applying sound biblical principles in all areas of teaching as they lead students to seek knowledge, understanding and wisdom.

CCS also enables students to broaden their interests outside the classroom including athletics, chess, Communicators for Christ, ballet, Girl Scouts, piano, etiquette, fencing, and others. Come see the benefits of a Covenant education by attending an Open House on Dec 13, Jan 24, Feb 7 and March 7. For more information, call 770-435-1596 or visit www.ccssmyrna.org.

he Duluth Montessori School is committed to providing an environment in which children have the opportunity to grow physically, emotionally, academically and in spirit. Accredited by Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), Duluth Montessori School provides an environment for instructors and children where the Montessori principles can be applied.

Multi-age classrooms allow children to develop long-term relationships with peers and teachers in a caring community that fosters self-esteem, independence, respect for others, self-discipline, cooperation and the love of learning. Children are grouped together in the Toddler Community from ages 14-months to 36-months, in the Primary Community from ages three to six, and in the Elementary Community from ages six to nine and ages nine to twelve. In this way, every child experiences a cycle of introduction, familiarity and leadership.

Near the historic area of downtown Duluth and the Sugarloaf community, the school offers a nurturing environment for its students. Beautiful, spacious houses with hardwood floors, large windows and sweeping vistas of rolling green hills and woodlands provide a home-like setting where teachers guide the child to curiosity and meaningful work. To schedule a tour visit www.duluthmontessori.com.

E

McGinnis Woods Country Day School

M

cGinnis Woods Country Day School is a private, non-parochial school offering a challenging Preschool, Elementary and Middle Grades Education. The school is located in Alpharetta on the border of Forsyth and North Fulton counties. The Preschool accepts children as young as 6 weeks and the Elementary School teaches students in PreK 4 through 8th grade. McGinnis Woods Country Day School has top accreditations, including GAC, SACS and NAEYC. It is also a member of the Georgia Independent School Association.

The mission of McGinnis Woods is to inspire students with the Passion to excel. This goal is accomplished by providing superior hands-on academics fostering self-confidence, self-esteem, and inspiring a love of learning. Classes with low student-teacher ratios, provide for frequent one-on-one learning. Superior educational resources are implemented to maximize the classroom experience of our diverse student population. Frequent guest speakers, monthly field trips and community service round out the curriculum. Integrated use of Interactive Whiteboards, a school wide broadcast system, computer labs and laptops support the rigorous curriculum.

Competitive Sports and Robotics teams train year round. After school programs and clubs are also available.

Please visit www.mcginniswoods.org to learn more. Tours are available upon request. atlantaparent.com

T

Mill Springs Academy

M

ill Springs Academy is an SACS/SAIS accredited college preparatory, independent school community dedicated to the academic, physical and social growth of those students who have not realized their full potential in the traditional classroom setting. Since 1981 Mill Springs has been supporting student learning by raising expectations and developing self motivation, while providing skills and values for life. Every student in grades 4-12, has a laptop to be used for school and homework. Students in grades 1-3 learn computer readiness skills on desktop computers.

The school enrolls boys and girls of average to superior ability in grades 1-12. Small classes and an individualized curriculum help students capitalize on their strengths while learning compensatory strategies. The school offers fine arts instruction in art, band, chorus, and drama as well as a competitive athletic program. Extended day, summer school and summer camps are available.

The 85-acre campus is nestled in the beautiful rolling hills and pasture land of North Atlanta. Mill Springs Academy is located at 13660 New Providence Road, Alpharetta. For information, please visit their website at www.millsprings.org or call 770-360-1336. Mill Springs is a participant of the Georgia Special Needs Scholarship Program.

Special Advertising Section

August 2012    Atlanta Parent 31

COOLFORBACKTOSCHOOL! Over 35 years of nurturing your children as they naturally develop.

Accredited by AMI, the most prestigious Montessori organization. Leadership, respect and academic excellence are cultivated in a peaceful environment.

Kids may not mind hitting the school hallways when they have something brand spanking new to help them start a new grade level. Here are a few products that we really fell for. n Skip Hop Zoo Packs ($20.00) Send your child to school with one of these adorable little back packs. Zoo packs are available in a variety of animals such as a zebra, elephant or fox. These fun back packs are roomy and durable, allowing your children to carry all of the school supplies that they will need during the school day with ease. These packs are easy to clean in case of a spill, making it the perfect choice for both you and your child.

Also available as a lunchbox.

“Give them Roots and Wings!”

AGES 14 MONTHS - 12 YEARS

2997 Main St., Duluth, GA 30096 1768 Old Peachtree Rd., Duluth, GA 30097

www.duluthmontessori.com

n Melissa & Doug Triangular Crayons ($5.99) Kids can get creative with these large, funky-shaped crayons. They are stronger than most crayons and have a pointed tip for drawing plus flat sides for shading.

An essential for any little artist’s school supply box.

The handy package offers a dozen bright colors.

770-476-9307

n Mabel’s Labels Tween Pack ($18.95) It’s easy to lose school supplies when your child has so many and is always letting classmates borrow them. Mabel’s Labels kit features a variety of personalized nametags that will stick onto most any sort of item. They also come in various colors and motifs to match a youngster’s personality.

Dentistry for Infants, Children & Teens

• Laughing Gas • Low Dose X-Rays • Free School Screening Elyse M. Morceau, D.D.S., P.C.

770.926.3400 www.MyKidsDentists.com 205 Hawkins Store Rd., NW • Suite 100 Kennesaw, GA 30144 (Just off of Bells Ferry Road, North of I-575)

32 Atlanta Parent August 2012

n Pilot Bottle 2 Pen ($2.49) These simple ballpoint pens are ecofriendly – made from recycled plastic bottles.

The B2P has G2 gel ink that allows kids to write more smoothly and clearly. The pens are easy to refill once they run out of ink.

Back to School

n Mead Letters & Numbers Dry Erase Boards with Time and Money Flashcards ($6.99) Help your child practice writing letters and numbers with this fun dry-erase set. You can teach your young one when and how to use lowercase and uppercase letters as well as how to write sentences with the interactive boards that show shape formation for each letter and number. Comes with “time” and “money” flashcards. c

atlantaparent.com

Spotlight on

Back to School

Mt. Bethel Christian Academy

Mount Pisgah Christian School

onfidence. It’s one of the traits we most hope for in our children.

But, developing it requires more than hope; it requires a choice. Since 1998, hundreds of families have chosen Mt. Bethel Christian Academy to build a foundation of confidence and character in their children. What sets Mt. Bethel apart is uncomplicated and uncommon - an expert and seasoned faculty who excel at nurturing each child to their fullest potential in an environment of Christian love and acceptance.

Students are encouraged to think critically about their world and their role in it They are engaged in meaningful acts of service both in and out of our community. Additionally, their lives are enriched by a championship athletic program, vibrant programs in the arts and the most technologically advanced school campus in our area.

A strong foundation makes all the difference. How far our children go, how much they will achieve and how much they will give back to a world in need - all depend on the strength of their foundation. To learn how your child can benefit from a Mt. Bethel education, please visit www.mtbethelchristian.org or contact Rhea Adkins, Director of Admission, at 770-9710245, or by e-mail at rhea.adkins@mtbethelchristian.org.

Mt. Bethel Christian Academy.

A Lifetime of Learning; A Foundation of Faith.

C

ollege Prep. Life Ready.

Since 1986, Mount Pisgah Christian School has provided an engaging and nurturing environment where children are challenged and inspired to discover, explore, and pursue their God-given talents and abilities. Exciting new additions to the school include the Lower School Culinary Lab, the hands-on Inventions and Discovery Centers, the American History Museum, and enhanced South Hall Theatre. From exceptional academics, athletics, arts, mission, and leadership programs to the unique Life Ready advisement program, Pisgah helps each child reach his or her maximum potential.

Pisgah serves children six weeks of age through twelfth grade with innovative programs and outstanding teachers.

Tours are offered daily. Call the Office of Admissions for information on the application process and availability by grade: 678-336-3443. Tours are also available of Pisgah Preschool, which offers both full and half day programs.

Experience Pisgah and discover why it was voted the Best Private School in North Metro. Pisgah believes there is a difference when students are prepared for college and ready for life. Visit experiencepisgah.org or call 678-336-3443.

The Prime School of Mathematics

The Walker School

C

T

he Prime School specializes in helping pre-K to 9th grade students excel in math. They use the U.S. editions of workbooks developed in Singapore, the world’s leader in elementary math education. Their program instills a deep, conceptual understanding of math and strong problem solving and mental calculation skills.

Children are placed into classes based on their abilities, not by age or grade. Classes meet once per week, are offered in regular and accelerated formats, and never exceed eight students per class. Their professional instructors have a minimum of eight years of classroom teaching experience.

The Prime School teaches after-school and weekend classes in Alpharetta-Johns Creek and Dunwoody. Tuition ranges from $22.50 to $27.50 per hour. There are no longterm contracts. Satisfaction is guaranteed.

Prospective students may try a lesson for free. Those who register by August 15 will receive 25% off their next four lessons. To request a free trial lesson, schedule a free placement evaluation, or register for a class, please visit www.theprimeschool.com or call 678-240-9200. atlantaparent.com

T

he Walker School is Cobb County’s college-preparatory independent school for families seeking an engaging, perspectivewidening academic program within an intimately scaled, caring environment where meaningful relationships engender transformative learning.

Walker’s dedicated teachers exude contagious intellectual energy, demonstrate authentic interest in the life of the mind that extends beyond their core subject areas, and model genuine respect for students and one another.

Through their actions and interactions, Walker teachers cultivate students’ spirit of wanting to know in every setting— the classroom and the hallway, the laboratory and the library, the art studio and the stage, the court and the playing field.

Walker students, feeling known and encouraged by their teachers and classmates, come to value the experience over the applause, developing along the way the confidence to explore new avenues of thinking, the wisdom to articulate meaningful insights, and the fortitude to act with integrity and honor.

At the culmination of this carefully guided, increasingly independent journey from pre-K through grade 12, Walker graduates have evolved from curious young learners into young adults thoroughly prepared for the challenges of college and life. Please visit walkerwonders.org or call 678-581-6891.

Special Advertising Section

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 33

Dynamic

DUO

Teachers and Parents Working Together

by Jennifer Bonn

M

any parents don’t know the best way to team up with teachers to ensure the success of their children. The best scenario is when teachers and parents communicate effectively and form a united front to be the child’s and each other’s advocate. The teacher needs the parent’s support and the parent needs the support of the teacher.

Parents need to teach children to be accountable for the choices their children make.

Nancy Anderson is a parent of two children in Cobb County public schools.

She says that she is frustrated when she hears stories of parents who make excuses for their children instead of teaching them that choices have consequences.

An example of this might be when a child forgets that day’s homework; the child should have a consequence without the parent stepping in to find an excuse for the child. This helps kids learn accountability.

As a teacher at Kennesaw State, I am surprised by the feeling of entitlement among some students. There is sometimes an attitude that a grade should just be given to them without their having to work for it. Teachers need parents to reinforce the idea that our specific actions and choices have consequences.

34 Atlanta Parent August 2012

Teachers want the best for your children.

Jillian Cosgrove recently worked as a counselor at Mount Paran Christian School, a private school in Marietta. She wishes parents realized that teachers and parents are on the same team. Both groups want the student to succeed, so it makes sense to work together to make that happen.

Amanda McCray Jones, who previously taught 1- to 4-year-olds, wants parents to know that teachers want to be the child’s educational warrior. She also wants parents to know that when a teacher says that there is a concern about a child, the teacher is not trying to find fault with the child, but instead is trying to improve something that may be keeping a student from learning.

The more we know about the child’s situation at home, the more we can serve the child.

This does not mean that teachers want to intrude on your family’s privacy. Rather, they want to know anything that will help them best serve and understand your child.

For example, let them know when your child is going through a difficult time. Let them know if you suspect your child has a learning difference that has thus far not been documented. Let them know if someone in the family is going through trauma, such as if a close relative is having surgery; that student may not be able to perform well on a test.

“Students spend seven hours a day in the classroom, but it is often the other 17 hours away from school that can serve as a hindrance to a student’s readiness to learn,”

Back to School

says Joseph Yurchak, who teaches fifth grade at Atlanta Public School’s Cook Elementary.

“It is so helpful, as a teacher of fifth-grade students in a low socioeconomic community, when parents inform me of factors outside of school – whether financial difficulties, family relations, or any of the other many issues that surface. That knowledge allows me to facilitate relationships of both academic and social support for my students and their families, as well as operate as a leader in the classroom who is understanding of my students’ lives outside of school.”

Teachers love to hear “thank you” when they deserve it.

Most teachers arrive early, leave late and continue to work after they arrive home.

Teachers often take on a second job in the summer while also preparing for the next school year and attending professionaldevelopment sessions. We often expend so much energy on our students that when we arrive home to our own children, we might not have much energy left for them.

An occasional “thanks” can make a huge difference. We are like everyone else, we just want to be appreciated.

We need your help.

Teachers appreciate help in several ways.

Most teachers use part of their own money to purchase supplies, so donations to a teacher’s wish list are always appreciated.

Parents volunteering in the classroom are always welcome. Assisting with special events is also a great way to help.

Do you have a special talent that your atlantaparent.com

child’s classmates might enjoy? Or perhaps a special connection that could allow students to enjoy something special? Your time will be valuable to them.

We also need you to back us up when we tell you about issues that surface. If there are behavioral problems, they can sometimes be solved when the parent speaks to the child and lets the child know that the behavior is not acceptable.

We need parents to be teachers too.

You are teaching by example in everything that you do, but we also need you to practice what we have done in the classroom. Check agendas and see if there are papers to fill out. Help to organize and establish regular routines. Read with your child. You can teach vocabulary, grammar, and develop listening and early literacy skills. Talk about the plot as well as the sound of words. Go to the library and share books or do the same thing at the local bookstore.

Being absent from school is a problem when it is not for illness.

We need to have our students in class consistently to teach them well. We understand

atlantaparent.com

You are teaching by example in

everything that you do, but we also need you to practice what we have done in the classroom. that illness is going to keep them out on occasion, but please do not take them out if it is not for a good reason.

Remember you are just one of many parents.

Teachers need to serve many children, so although your child is super special, understand that teachers don’t always have a lot of extra time. They appreciate it when parents are reasonable with requests. If you send a 10-page email with a dozen items and requests and the teacher tends to all of them, do not send another email three days later with the same questions and requests just because you deleted the email and forgot the answers.

It’s not always about the A. We can become too focused on the A grade as an assessment for success, but teachers would like students to focus on learning for learning’s sake. It is an amazing thing to see a passion for learning ignite within a child.

Back to School

It is not nearly as wonderful when a student is chiefly consumed with the grade they will get, and it’s sad when a student expects to be given an A without much effort.

Let your child make mistakes.

Homework gives teachers a chance to see where students are struggling. Parents can guide and explain concepts, but they should never do the homework for their child.

Sometimes children learn more from their mistakes.

We appreciate you.

Teachers know what a hard job you have as a parent. Teachers appreciate the work that you do with your child. If we can find a way to work together toward the common goal of student success, we will become an unbeatable team and everyone’s life becomes easier, and the overall school experience becomes more positive. c

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 35

Sleep, Science and Smarts: How Sleep Boosts Learning in Kids

W

by Malia Jacobson

Early School Years: ages 3-8

Want kids to bring home A’s? Start with more ZZZs. According to sleep experts and numerous new studies, lost sleep hurts learning and hinders school success. That’s bad news, because today’s kids get about an hour less sleep each night than they did 30 years ago, says author Po Bronson in his book NurtureShock: New Thinking About Children. This lost sleep comes with a steep price tag – both learning and academic success will be impaired.

How does sleep boost learning? Researchers believe it has to do with the way the brain processes information during sleep. In fact, Michigan State University researchers found that children can even learn while they’re asleep as the brain integrates new information and memories.

Researchers from the University of Florida discovered that newborns learn in their sleep, and new research from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine shows that sleep helps students perform better on tests.

Read on for age-specific information on how sleep impacts learning – and how to help kids get a better night’s rest.

36 Atlanta Parent August 2012

For sleep-deprived kids, school trouble starts early: 10 percent of kids in early education suffer from sleep disturbances that disrupt learning, according to a German study. The American Professional Sleep Society reports that sleep deprivation significantly worsens inattentiveness and hyperactivity in young children, leading to ADHDlike symptoms (known as “faux” ADHD).

Even modest sleep deprivation is enough to hinder learning.

According to a study published in the journal SLEEP, a mere hour of lost slumber is enough to bring on inattentiveness and hyperactivity in young children. A 2011 study of 6- and 7-year-olds shows that language skills, grammar, spelling and reading comprehension suffer when kids get less than nine hours of sleep per night. n How to help: Sleep-deprived children may not appear sleepy, says Shelby F. Harris, director of the Behavioral Sleep Medicine Program at Montefiore Medical Center in New York. In fact, they may act hyper and goofy. But preschoolers and school-age children don’t outgrow the need for a consistent bedtime and bedtime routine.

Establish an age-appropriate bedtime that allows your child to rest for 10 to 11 hours each night.

Tween Years: ages 9-13 During the late elementary and middle school years, academics become more challenging and sports more competitive. But when increasingly busy schedules start cutting into sleep, kids retain less of what they learn, says Dr. Mark Splaingard, director of the Sleep Disorders Center at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. “Long hours spent on sports practice or math problems are counterproductive if these activities keep kids up late at night,” he notes. Kids will learn more and perform better – whether on the field or in the classroom – with sufficient shuteye.

Back to School

Cont’d on page 38

atlantaparent.com

On Bedtime: “I think the key to getting kids to bed is routine. We have a regular bedtime routine. Around 7 p.m., we head downstairs to start baths. After their baths, my daughters brush their teeth and then each picks out a book to read. They are tucked in bed by 8 p.m.”

– Krissy Williams, two daughters ages 5 and 6

“The key to getting children up in the morning is enough sleep at night. That means getting to bed early at my house. And that’s not always easy since some of our neighbors are home-schooled and are frequently still playing in the evenings while we are getting ready for bed. We have a regular bedtime routine that starts at 7 p.m.”

– Leigh Middleton, twin daughters age 6, and a daughter age 8

Early to Bed, Early to Rise Sleep plays a vital role in how a child performs throughout the day. Some parents struggle with getting their kids into bed at a decent hour, while others have a tough time getting their kids out of bed in time to have breakfast and catch the school bus. Atlanta Parent asked some local moms to share their strategies for getting the kids both into and out of bed at the desired time. Here are some of the best comments we received.

          us at  Or visit   www.eastcobbpeds.com Or visit  us at  Or visit us  at www.eastcobbpeds.com

 www.eastcobbpeds.com  



     To Better Meet 

 

 the Demand for    Quality Care in Pediatrics and To Better Meet the Demand for Adolescent please To BetterCare Meet the Demand for Quality inMedicine Pediatrics and To Better MeetCare the Demand for and Quality Care Quality in Pediatrics welcome ourplease Adolescent Medicine

in Pediatrics andMedicine Adolescent Medicine Adolescent welcome our please please welcome  our our welcome

 

     

           ♦ Marisa Gadea MD Eric  B. Karlen, MD Eric B. Karlen, MD ♦ Marisa Gadea MD MD Elizabeth Kemp, ♦Tracy Barr,MD MD  Eric B. Karlen, MD ♦ Elizabeth Kemp, MD Marisa ♦Tracy Gadea Barr, MD Barbara Cossman, CPNP, IBCLC Elizabeth MD MD  ♦Tracy BarbaraKemp, Cossman, CPNP, Barr, IBCLC  CPNP, Darlene Coyne, CPNP, IBCLC Barbara Cossman, IBCLC  CPNP, Darlene Coyne, IBCLC DeannaM. M.Fetsch, Fetsch, RN, CPNP  CPNP, Darlene Coyne, IBCLC Deanna RN, CPNP Sharon Lebedin, RN, CNP Deanna M. Fetsch,RN, RN, CPNP Sharon Lebedin, CNP Sharon Lebedin, RN, CNP

atlantaparent.com

On Waking Up: “I may be a bit extreme, but I got my daughter a cat. Having the responsibility of feeding a pet and someone else depending on her has made a huge difference. I go in to tell her it’s time to wake up, knowing she needs an extra five minutes.”

– Erica McDonald, a daughter, 13, and son 20

“I have one early riser and one late riser! I have my older early riser wake up the younger one to get him going. I ease into the mornings by having as much prepped as possible: coffee maker set up, cereal bowls on the table, outfits on the chairs. It all saves time.”

– Mara Maddox, a son, 6, and a daughter 8

– Kate Wallace

Success In School Success In Life

OPEN HOUSE

2012: Sept. 12 • Oct. 10 • Nov. 14 2013: Jan. 23 • Feb. 13 • March 13 • April 10 • May 15 For Reservations for our OPEN HOUSE please call 770-360-1336 • 1-12 Coed • Small Classes • Structured, Supportive Environment • College Prepatory • SACS/SAIS Accredited

• Laptop Program • Athletic Programs • Extended Day Program • Art, Band, Chorus, Drama • Summer Programs

13660 New Providence Road Alpharetta, GA 30004-3413

Visit our website: www.millsprings.org

Mill Springs Academy is a non-profit school which does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, athletic programs and other school-administered programs.

Back to School

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 37

Sleep, Science, and Smarter Kids n How to help: Parents need to understand sleep’s importance and guard kids’ sleep hours zealously, says Splaingard. That means maintaining firm school-year bedtimes and choosing after-school and evening activities that end at least an hour before kids need to wind down for bed.

How much sleep does your child need?

Is your child getting enough rest? Check these guidelines to be sure.

Teen Years: ages 14-18 Teenagers are Splaingard’s most sleepdeprived patients, a fact that doesn’t surprise him. During high school, after-school jobs, extracurricular activities, sports, socializing, and homework simply don’t leave enough time for sleep. Most teens need more sleep than parents think – over 9 hours a night – and chronic sleep deprivation hurts learning at a time when kids need lots of mental energy for tough subjects from chemistry to calculus.

But teens’ busy schedules deserve only part of the blame for teens’ sleep deficits: cell phones and laptops keep teens up late, often into the wee hours. When teens finally power off their computers and go to bed, round-the-clock access to cell phones disrupts sleep. A new study reports that sleeping near cell phones puts teens at risk for so-called “sleep texting:” waking up and firing off text messages during the night without any

38 Atlanta Parent August 2012

n 3-6 years old: 10-12 hours per day n 7-12 years old: 10-11 hours per day n 13-18 years old: 8-9 hours per day

recollection of having sent the texts the next morning. All this sleep disruption adds up to bleary mornings and bleak report cards. n How to help: Protect teens’ precious sleep hours with a media curfew – shut down all electronics an hour before bed and establish a “charging station” outside the bedroom where teens leave their electronics overnight.

This important step keeps bedrooms free of sleep-disrupting cell phones and computers, says Harris. “The bedroom should be a place for sleep,” she notes. “It’s not a spot

Back to School

for homework, watching TV, or surfing the Internet.”

When it comes to learning, tutors, cuttingedge gadgets, and hours of homework can’t compensate for hours of lost sleep. When parents prioritize kids’ sleep needs, learning comes more naturally, says Splaingard. “We think we’re helping make kids more successful with more activities and more homework. But what they really need is more sleep.” c – Malia Jacobson is a nationally published health writer specializing in sleep.

atlantaparent.com

4385 Lower Roswell Rd • Marietta, GA www.mtbethelchristian.org (770) 971-0245 A Lifetime of LeArning; A foundAtion of fAith

Transform Your Child!

Pre-K through High School • Personalized, faith-based education • Follows Common Core • 90% of students exceed their individualized goals • Orton-Gillingham • Specialists on staff • Plans to be Catholic as a Marist-sponsored school

Transforming opportunities.

Transforming lives.

2880 Dresden Dr., Atlanta 404.303.8722 | sophiaacademy.org

atlantaparent.com

Back to School

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 39

JustPackIt!

Dabbawalla Lunch Bag, $30, dabbawallabags.com

Bright and colorful, this insulated lunch bag comes in several different designs such as “Flower Power II” and “Out of this World.” The Dabbawalla is made of a recyclable and degradable wetsuit-like material.

It’s light and easy to carry, with a built-in handle. There’s ample room inside for a sandwich, a couple of sides and a beverage. n Pros: Very durable and can go through the washing machine; promotes sustainability while also stylish and fun. n Cons: Larger than most other lunch boxes.

Atlanta Parent tested some of our favorite cool new lunchboxes long before anyone muttered the phrase “back to school.” These fun lunch bags and accessories will brighten any youngster’s first day.

More cool lunchboxes can be found online by visiting atlantaparent.com.

Pottery Barn Kids Mackenzie Classic Lunch Bag, $22.50, potterybarnkids.com

This water-resistant and easy-to-clean bag is a must-have for boys and girls in the lunchroom. The square, insulated shape will keep the lunch intact and ready to eat, and the interior lining is free of toxic chemicals. Straps are included so the lunch bag can easily attach to book bags. The various designs range from a butterfly print to a snake print. These bags can also be personalized. n Pros: Durable enough to last for years. n Cons: Heavy for smaller children.

Insulated lunch packs by Arctic Zone, $9.99-$13.99, Target stores

Kids will love eating lunch out of these cute and cuddly insulated bags in the shape of animals. The totes have handles for carrying, and are a good size for fitting all the basics in your kid’s lunch. They come as Owls, Pandas, Cows and more. n Pros: These bags are budget-friendly and cute! n Cons: Can be spot cleaned only.

Bento Laptop Lunch Box,

$23.99, laptoplunches.com No worries if your child’s lunch takes a beating on its way to school. This lunch container provides an organized way to pack lunches with labeled containers for vegetables, fruit, dipping sauce and more. The bento box features five containers (three with lids) of various sizes and a compartment for utensils. This eco-friendly lunch box is stylish and fits easily into a backpack. n Pros: Save money by not buying plastic baggies; good choice for the picky eater who needs his food items separated. n Cons: Somewhat difficult to open; there could be leakage if liquids are not sealed.

40 Atlanta Parent August 2012

Lunch tote

by Embark,

$9.99, Target stores These lunch totes come in a variety of prints and patterns. The long strap makes for easy carrying, and the zipper-close top keeps you leak free. n Pros: The bright colors are simple yet stylish. n Cons: The size may be a tad small for those extra hungry kids.

Back to School

atlantaparent.com

BUILT Rolltop Expandable Lunch Bag, $29.99, builtny.com This expandable lunch tote folds down to create more room in your child’s backpack while keeping food safe and insulated. A variety of lunch items will fit into this bag. If your child prefers to carry the bag, it has a handle with a buckle. This lunch can also be carried over a child’s shoulder or clasped to a backpack. Parents and kids will appreciate this tote for a number of reasons: It’s great for a picnic, easy to use, fashionable, and can also attach to backpacks and strollers. n Pros: Roomy and easy to tote. n Cons: The size may not be ideal for all; might stain easily.

+ n Lunchskins Reusable Bags, $7.85-$8.95, lunchskins.com or at Bright Green Market, Sandy Springs These eco-friendly bags, in both snack and sandwich sizes, come in a variety of bright patterns.

The Velcro closure minimizes leaking and keeps food fresh. Wash and reuse these pouches. n IceHuggy, pack of two for $6.99, icehuggy.com

Insulated Lunch Sack, $6.99, The Container Store

This durable bag with a foldover clasp keeps food items fresh and protected. Its moisture-resistant vinyl wipes clean. At just $6.99, the price will appeal to parents everywhere. n Pros: Ups the cool factor on the brown bag lunch. n Cons: A little on the small side.

Keep your Otter Pops, GoGurts and other long-ish refrigerated items colder longer with these insulated sleeves. The IceHuggy is easy to store in a purse or bag. In the end, the IceHuggy may also help save money on paper towels because enjoying the treat will be less messy.

– Compiled by Sarah Egan and Carolyn Williams

atlantaparent.com

Back to School

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 41

Lunch Bag Alert: KEEP IT COOL

Control of the temperature of food is an important way to prevent bacteria from growing and making kids sick. Some tips for parents: n Start with an insulated lunch bag or box. Soft, insulated lunch bags or boxes are the best choice. Avoid paper lunch bags.

by KiKi Bochi Packing school lunches can be a pain for parents, but at least you gain some peace of mind about what your kids are eating. It’s a great way to help children maintain healthy, balanced diets – and to save money, too.

But if parents don’t take certain precautions, even the most well-meaning moms and dads could make their children sick.

A survey published last year by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that more than 90 percent of sack lunches were kept at unsafe temperatures, exposing children to foodborne illnesses. Even lunches that included ice packs reached unsafe temperatures if too few were included or if too much time passed before lunchtime.

In the study, sack lunches of more than 700 preschoolers were measured 1.5 hours before the food was served. About 45 percent of the 700 lunches tested had at least one ice pack.

But despite parents’ best efforts, more than 90 percent of the lunches were at dangerously warm temperatures. Of the 1,631 perishable

42 Atlanta Parent August 2012

n Include small, frozen gel packs.

Have extras in the freezer in case you forgot to put yesterday’s in the icebox to refreeze.

food items in the lunches, only 22 items were found to be in an acceptable temperature range.

For parents, this study should serve as a wake-up call. Children are at particular risk for foodborne illnesses. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says children younger than 4 years have quadruple the number of bacterial infection incidents transmitted through food compared with adults.

Symptoms of foodborne illness are unpleasant and debilitating. Severe cases, especially in young children whose immune systems are not fully developed, can lead to serious medical issues such as kidney problems, malnutrition, and even death, the CDC noted.

Back to School

n Consider freezing a juicebox or water bottle and including it in the lunch.

By lunchtime it will melt, providing a cool refreshing drink. n Be aware that leftovers, cold cuts, tuna salads, chicken salads and egg salads all must be kept cold to avoid the growth of bacteria that can make kids sick. Even store-bought, packaged lunch combos containing lunch meats, crackers and cheese need to be kept cold. n Don’t re-use foil, plastic wrap or Baggies even if it seems environmentally friendly to recycle. After a day in a lunch bag, they have become incubators for bacteria. The safest thing to do it to discard them. n If you have reusable containers, be sure to wash them out thoroughly with soap and hot water.

atlantaparent.com

The mission of The Bedford School is to maximize the potential of students with learning differences and develop foundations for success.

770-774-8001

5665 Milam Rd. Fairburn www.thebedfordschool.org

Cont’d on page 44

atlantaparent.com

Back to School

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 43

10 Ways to Go Greener, Healthier, and Cheaper

Inspiring students with the passion to excel MIDDLE GRADES 6th – 8th grades ELEMENTARY GRADES Kindergarten – 5th grades PRESCHOOL Infants – Pre-Kindergarten

Private Non-Parochial Education • GAC, SACS & NAEYC Accredited • Challenging Curriculum • Low Student/Teacher Ratios • Computers/Media Center • In House Broadcasting Network, Interactive White Boards • Foreign Language, Fine Arts • Outdoor Café, Classroom and Trails

• Monthly Field Trips • Physical Education • RN on Staff/Health Education • Uniforms • Involved Parent Association • Afterschool Clubs • Competitive Sports and Robotics Teams

Tours welcome by appointment: 5368 McGinnis Ferry Road, Alpharetta, Georgia 30005

770-664-7764

www.mcginniswoods.org

“Creating Smiles with Caring Hands” Hours: Mon 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Tues-Thurs 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

NEW

PATIENTS • Ages 1 - 18 WELCOM E! • Digital X-ray • TV’s in all exam rooms • Video game area • Calm caring environment for kids

Most insurance plans accepted including Peachcare & Medicaid

CareCredit Patient Payment Plans

Dr. Sonya Windham

8052 Mall Parkway, Suite 102 • Lithonia • 770-484-4994 • www.ChildrensDentistryAtStonecrest.com

44 Atlanta Parent August 2012

Back to School

atlantaparent.com

kids

French Classes

For Adults & Children

activity guide

Saturday

Paris?

in

Enrich your child’s mind and life with extracurricular activities. Art, dance, foreign language or sports classes can be the outlets your child needs for after-school enrichment.

In our Kids Activity Guide, you’ll find listings for a variety of programs including art, dance, music and sports activities.

Before you make your final decision, be sure to get some input from your child. You can ensure a better experience when you find a program that meets your child’s needs and interests.

REGISTER

for Classes Online NOW! Saturday Program

18 months - 12 yrs. • Buckhead location at the Atlanta International School

Bébé et Moi (Baby and Me) ages 18 - 36 months

Open House: Aug 25 9:30 - noon

Dance The Bush Centre for Ballet www.bushballetcentre.com

Pre-ballet, classical ballet, contemporary, jazz, prepointe, and pointe. Ages 3-Adult. Open House and Pre-registration August 18 from 2 p.m.-5 p.m. Sandy Springs. Summer Dance Camp July 9-13. Ages 1017. For more information call 404-256-5542.

Art The Artistic Place

www.theartisticplace.com

The Artistic Place where we offer everything artistic. Afterschool, Parties, Summer Camp, Babysitting. Ages K-8th. 3275 Snapfinger Rd., Suite C, Lithonia. 404-438-8261 or 866714-0109.

Aviation Centennial Aviation Academy

www.centennialaviationacademy.com

Flight school for Kids! Weekly aviation classes at the Dekalb Peachtree Airport, Ages 11+. Kids can learn to fly in real airplanes!

1915 Airport Rd., Atlanta GA. 404-775-8299.

Register Online at:

www.frenchschoolatlanta.org or call

770-634-6228

Dance and Arts Showcase www.danceandarts.com

42 years in Dance Excellence. Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Piano, & Guitar. Ages 2 to Adult. Two locations: Henderson Mill Open House August 4th & 5th 10am-4pm. Windward August 11th 10am4pm. 2861 Henderson Mill Rd & 4855 Windward Parkway. Call 770-934-5010.

Dance Theatre

www.DanceTheatre.net

Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Contemporary, Lyrical and Acrobatics. Ages 2-Adult. Newly opened Sandy Springs location. Registration July 23- Aug 11.

Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sat. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

678-705-8421.

Cont’d on page 46

LEE HARPER STUDIOS

NOW ENROLLING for the Fall

Year-round springboard diving lessons for ages 6-18 Beginner to National Levels Multiple Practice Locations GA Tech Aquatic Center & Marist High School

Home of

Lee Harper & Dancers and

Lee Harper & Dancers II, a children’s dance company

Now Registering for the 2012-2013 School Year

Ages 3 - Adult Creative Movement • Modern Ballet •Pointe • Tap 3080 E. Shadowlawn • Buckhead between Peachtree & E. Paces Ferry

atlantaparent.com

Lee Harper named a 2002 Lexus Leader of the Arts.

33 Years of Teaching and Performing in Atlanta Call for class schedule & registration package 404-364-9555 • leeharperanddancers.com

[Special Education Guide ] Advertising Section

Let your child experience the fun!

1 day a week practices, up to 4 days a week practices.

www.AtlantaDiving.com 770-844-7710 August 2012 Atlanta Parent 45

kids activity guide

Lee Harper Studios

www.leeharperanddancers.com

Excellent dance instruction. Ages 3 and up.

Creative movement, Pre-Ballet, Modern, Ballet, Pointe, Jazz and Tap. Over 33 years experience. “Lexus Leader of the Arts.”

3080 East Shadowlane Ave., Atlanta. 404364-9555.

Moving in the Spirit

www.movinginthespirit.org

Educational Enrichment Accelerated Learning Educational Services

www.acceleratedlearningservices.com

Delivering quality and affordable tutoring to your doorstep. We offer in-home and online oneon-one personalized instruction. K-12, College and Adult. All subjects. Offering online SAT prep course. 404-933-2235. www.buildnblocks.com

Build ‘n Blocks provides fun hands-on interactive classes in S.T.E.M. (science, technology, engineering and math). Our classes are for children ages 3-12. Ask for us at your local school. Now registering for the fall session.

1-888-959-2562.

www.ForefrontArts.com

Performing Arts training and productions for ages 3+. Acting, Improvisation, Musical Theatre, Creative Dramatics, and Hip-Hop Dance. Locations in Buckhead, Brookhaven, Morningside/VA Highlands, Decatur and Johns Creek.770-864-3316.

Science Creations

We come to you! After school programs, school workshops only $5/ per child, birthday parties only $150 science experiments, horseback riding, bee keeper, health workshop, art instructor. Call 678-531-2357 today!

The Tutoring Center, Powder Springs www.tutoringcenter.com

Tutor Wise LLC

www.tutorwisellc.com

www.onceuponaballetatl.com

Forefront Arts

Children 5 to 17 develop engineering skills using LEGO in our lab, located near North Point Mall. Programs offered Monday through Saturday. 715 Hembree Place, Suite A, Roswell.

770-772-6622.

Delivers individualized, one-to-one instruction to improve academic skills in Reading, Writing, Math and improves concentration and focus. Free Diagnostic Assessment: call 770-222-7133.

Once Upon a Ballet

Drama

www.ryre.org

www.sciencecreations.com

Build ‘n Blocks

Dynamic classes focused on Modern and Ballet technique, Creative Movement, Choreography and Leadership Training.

Ages 3-18. Open House August 25, 11am-1pm at 750 Glenwood Ave., Atlanta.

404-624-5295.

Unique dance and performing arts programs for children ages 2-14 in multiple locations around Atlanta. Ballet! Tap! Jazz!

Musical Theater! Acting! Performance Troupes! OUAB has it all. 404-964-0529.

RY Robotics Explorers

McMaster Tutoring

www.PreschoolReadingandMath.com

Creative and stimulating reading and math classes available for children ages three and four. Here children love to learn through exciting games and activities! Register today online or call Daniel at 678-640-2214.

Private tutoring based on each individual student's learning styles, interests and academic objectives. Student's understanding is fostered while building confidence. All elementary subject areas. Georgia certified instructors.

Orton Gillingham certified. 404-955-2872.

Language

The Prime School of Mathematics

Ecole Du Samedi

We specialize in helping PreK-9th grade students excel in math. Our enrichment classes instill a deep, conceptual understanding of math.

For class schedules and free trial lessons, please visit online or call 678-240-9200.

French classes for children 18 months - 12 years every Saturday, on the campus of the Atlanta International School in Buckhead.

For information visit the website or call Marc Mallet 770-634-6228.

www.theprimeschool.com

www.frenchschoolatlanta.org

Dance & Arts Showcase Ages Two-Adult Ballet • Tap • Jazz • Movement • Karate Piano • Voice • Guitar • Ballroom • Hip Hop

Centennial Aviation Academy

The Flight Academy for Young Aviators

Sign Up Now for Fall Classes!

770-934-5010 www.danceandarts.com

Flight Training for ages 11-17

OPEN HOUSES

Peachtree DeKalb Airport

Chamblee/Tucker - 2861 Henderson Mill Rd. Alpharetta - 4855 Windward Pkwy.

404-775-8299

10 OFF REGISTRATION FEE

$

CentennialAviationAcademy.com 46 Atlanta Parent August 2012

Aug. 4-5: Henderson Mill, 10am-4pm August 11: Alpharetta

Must mention this ad. Expires 10/1/12

[Special Education Guide ] Advertising Section

atlantaparent.com

Little Busy Bee Mandarin Play & Learn

www.littlebusybeemandarin.com

Join our developmentally appropriate programs now! Summer Camp, Chinese Immersion PM Program, Saturday Morning Program, Infant/ Toddler Program. 4920 Roswell Road, Suite 44, Sandy Springs, GA 30342. 770-380-8638.

Music The Music Class

www.themusicclass.com/atlanta

Rob Sayer’s fun filled classes of singing, dancing, movement and instrument play.

Parents learn how to enrich their child’s music environment, increase music potential and understand music development. Ages birth - six years. Over 150 classes offered metrowide. Buckhead, Crabapple, Dunwoody, East Cobb, Intown Atlanta, Johns Creek, Sandy Springs, Smyrna, Suwanee, Toco Hills, Woodstock. 770-645-5578.

Scouting Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta www.gsgatl.org

Turn boring days into days you’ll remember all your life with Girl Scouts – now with more choices – and more reasons than ever to join.

Call 770-702-9100.

Sports Atlanta Diving Association www.atlantadiving.com

Offering springboard diving lessons to kids age 6-18 from beginner to advanced. Two Atlanta locations: Georgia Tech University and Marist High school. New sessions start Sept 2012. 770-844-7710.

Cont’d on page 48

Be a Tennis Explorer

SM

ATTENTION

Parents, Educators, & Childcare Directors:

“Build N Blocks Mobile Stem Academy” Provides Hands On Educational Fun For Ages 3 to 12 In Science & Technology.

Our monthly mobile classes are available to Schools, After School Programs, Daycares, Scout Programs, Homeschoolers, & Parents

1-888-959-2562 www.BuildNBlocks.com Cont’d on page xx atlantaparent.com

A preschool tennis program for children 3 and 4 years old and their parents Tennis Explorers delivers a fun and creative approach to giving children a great start in tennis and a boost in developing their fundamental motor skills – the foundation of all athletics.

9 Weekly Sessions • Starts August 28 Membership not required

135 Interstate North Parkway NW • Atlanta 770.953.1100 • midtown.com

[Special Education Guide ] Advertising Section

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 47

kids activity guide

Jump Start Gym

www.jumpstartgym.com

Summer gymnastics classes for 3months -5th grade+. Weeks of Jun 4-Aug 31, you can choose individual dates for classes. 404-2525867.

Midtown Athletic Club at Windy Hill Midtown.com

Functional athletic sports training (FAST) for kids’ sports-specific skill development to aquatics program with flexible, private, semiprivate and group lessons – we keep kids fit!

135 Interstate Parkway Northwest, Atlanta.

770-953-1100.

Tennis Midtown Athletic Club at Windy Hill Midtown.com

Tennis Explorers is a preschool tennis program designed to inspire children through play and imagination. 135 Interstate Parkway Northwest, Atlanta. 770-953-1100. c

48 Atlanta Parent August 2012

[Special Education Guide ] Advertising Section

atlantaparent.com

Spotlight: Activity Guide Centennial Aviation Academy

Dance and Arts Showcase

Ecole du Samedi

Forefront Arts

T

he Centennial Aviation Academy is a flight school designed exclusively for students ages 11-17. The academy specializes in providing group and individual pilot training classes as well as actual flights for students interested in becoming certified pilots. Interactive ground school classes are typically held three to four times per month on Saturdays and last about an hour.

During the class, students learn about mathematical and scientific principles such as Bernoulli’s Principle, Newton’s Laws, basic trigonometry, algebra, computing performance data, weight and balance, aircraft systems and more! Students participating in the flight academy also tend to do better in school - having a real world application, which reinforces concepts and promotes higher-level thinking.

Each month students will take at least one real flight to a local airport such as Athens and experience everything from the pre-flight performance and navigation planning to actually flying the airplane! All flight and ground time actually counts towards obtaining a Private Pilot’s License. After proper certification, students can even solo at the age of 16!

Now accepting enrollments. Please visit www.centennialaviationacademy.com or call 404-775-8299 for more information, to schedule a tour and to sign up.

A

t Ecole du Samedi, children and adults benefit from a French-speaking environment and an enriching French immersion program. Literally a ‘School on Saturday’, classes are held Saturday mornings 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. for children ages 18 months - 12 years.

The new Bébé at Moi class is for ages 18-36 months. All classes are taught by experienced teachers, and the school year lasts 30 Saturdays. Ecole du Samedi offers a native and a nonnative track. The following classes are offered for non-native speakers: Preschool, Kindergarten, Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced. The native track follows the curriculum of the French “Education Nationale.” French language is taught through games, rhymes, arts and crafts, songs and stories.

Children also acquire foundations in vocabulary and grammar.

Creative writing skills are developed at the advanced levels.

Ecole du Samedi also offers classes for adults.

You are invited to an Open House on August 25, 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. You can also register for classes on the web site www.frenchschoolatlanta.org. Pricing for classes varies by program, and discounts are available for enrolling multiple children. Ecole du Samedi is located in Buckhead on the campus of the Atlanta International School, 2890 North Fulton Dr., Atlanta, GA 30305. For more information, call 770-634-6228 or e-mail claire@ecoledusamedi.org. atlantaparent.com

D

ance and Arts Showcase offers an exciting array of classes including Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Piano, Guitar, Middle Eastern, Karate, Hip Hop and Ballroom. Classes are offered for ages 2-adult. They offer an outstanding Broadway Dance Recital at the Gwinnett Civic Center. There are two locations: Chamblee-Tucker and Alpharetta.

Jean Shapiro, director and owner, is a native Atlantan and has been teaching dance and gym classes for 44 years. She was the principal dancer of The Atlanta Playhouse Theatre, and produceddirected her own original T.V. show called “Exercise And Health” which won a cable award. Winner of The Golden Peach Award for Best Teacher-Director of The Georgia Tech Ballet Club and listed in the World Of Who’s Who Of Women, she has dedicated her life to helping children and adults learn beauty through the art of dance.

Dance and Arts Showcase teachers are experienced, well-qualified and share a wonderful teacher-student relationship. To sign up for fall classes, register online at www.danceandarts.com or call 770-934-5010.

Open houses: Aug. 4 & 5, Chamblee; Aug. 11, Alpharetta.

F

orefront Arts offers classes in Acting, Improvisation, Musical Theatre, Creative Dramatics, and Hip-Hop Dance for ages 3-14 at locations in Buckhead, Brookhaven, Morningside/VA Highlands, Decatur, and Johns Creek.

With professional theatre artists as instructors, small class sizes, and competitive class tuition, Forefront Arts offers the highest level of performing arts training while maintaining a positive, low-pressure environment where every child is encouraged to thrive creatively. Every class culminates in a showcase performance in December and May. The Creative Dramatics and Jr Hip-Hop classes for ages 3+ are a great way for little performers to get their feet wet and experience being a star while playing drama games, acting out stories, dancing, and expressing themselves creatively.

For those looking for more in-depth training and production experience, their children’s theatre company based in Johns Creek, the Young Actors Ensemble, will produce “The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley, Jr” this season. Every YAE member will experience time in the spotlight during the performances in addition to excellent training in acting, singing, and dancing throughout the year.

Registration for classes and the Young Actors Ensemble is open and spaces will fill quickly. Online registration is at www.

ForefrontArts.com or call 770-864-3316.

[Special Education Guide ] Advertising Section

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 49

Choosing the Right Activity for Your Child

RY Robotics Explorers LEGO and Robotics Engineering Exploration Labs Monday through Saturday Ages 5-17 Ask about our Archytas Society for serious engineers in training

770-772-6622 Register online at

WWW.RYRE.ORG

LOCATIONS:

Kennesaw, East Cobb/Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, Buckhead & Brookhaven Creative Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Musical Theater, Acting & Performance Troupes

REGISTERING FOR FALL www.onceuponaballetatl.com 404-964-0529 AGES 2-16

It seems like there’s a class or workshop available for every interest imaginable How do you know which one is right for your child? Consider these tips: n Know

Your Child’s Interests: If your child is young (2-5 years old), she should be exposed to a variety of activities to find an appropriate class. If she’s older, ask her whether she likes sports, dance, music or art best, and use her answer to gauge her interests. n Start

the Search: After you narrow your child’s interest, explore available classes in your area. Ask yourself: What are the instructor’s qualifications? How long has he been teaching? How long has this program been running? How many children are in each class?

PERFORMING ARTS CLASSES

ages 3-14

Acting • Improv • Musical Theatre • Creative Dramatics • Hip Hop • Theatre Productions

n Investigate Cost:

Ask the following: What is the length and cost of each class? What is covered in the cost? Do you have to sign a contract? Are you required to pay for a missed class? Also consider whether you’ll have added expenses like costumes and equipment.

Do you have to buy them or can you rent?

Register NOW!

Buckhead Brookhaven Decatur Johns Creek Morningside/ VA Highlands

n Attend

a Class: One of the best ways to determine whether a program is right for your child is to attend a class. Ask yourself: Is the teacher patient and supportive of each student’s goals and abilities? Does he use imaginative, varied and interesting approaches?

770-864-3316

www.ForefrontArts.com

n Ask

WE COME TO YOU!!!

After School Programs & School Workshops only $5 per Child.

Birthday Parties only $150 Science Experiments, Horseback Riding, Bee Keeper, Health Workshop, Art Instructor

Call 678-531-2357 for Details Today

www.ScienceCreations.com 50 Atlanta Parent August 2012

About Student Evaluation: Find out whether the teacher will give your child a free lesson or evaluation before classes begin to ensure that she is properly placed.

Ask whether students are required to audition before enrollment and whether they will receive extra instruction, if necessary. n Request

References: Ask for references and call them. Find out what the parent and child liked best and least about the program and instructor. n Find

the Best Match: Be thorough when choosing your child’s activity. Don’t settle for a teacher or program just because they are in close proximity to you. Interview several instructors and visit many programs before making a final selection. c atlantaparent.com

Spotlight: Activity Guide LittleBusyBee Mandarin Play & Learn

Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta

W

hat did your daughter do today? Did she have an amazing experience, an endless adventure, or enjoy nonstop fun? If you want more for your daughter – check out Girl Scouts!

Girl Scouting offers endless ways to turn boring days into days she’ll remember all her life. And these days, Girl Scouts offers even more choices- and more reasons than ever to join or volunteer. Locally, Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta is the largest, all-female serving organization in Georgia - and the premier leadership development program for girls in grades K-12.

Through Girl Scout programs, girls develop courage, confidence and character – then take action to make the world a better place. All experiences in Girl Scouting incorporate the Discover, Connect, and Take Action keys to leadership – with events and activities that are girl-led, experiential and all promote cooperative learning. Girl Scouts opens the doors to truly enriching experiences: Great adventures, community service and through hundreds of activities where she can develop values and skills to help her discover her own potential.

Choose from camp, events, series, travel, troop, even virtual – your daughter’s experience can be as individual as she is. Learn more about Girl Scouting in Greater Atlanta at www.gsgatl.org or call 770.702.9100.

W

hy Chinese Mandarine?

It is the only official language of China and is quickly becoming one of the most valuable languages in the world to speak and understand.

Why Start Early?

Learning a second language is best in childhood when learning is effortless, especially when it is fun! Learning a second language at a young age prepares speech organs for future Mandarin speaking - essential for an increased chance of having a native accent and reaching a native level of fluency. Research shows learning a new language will give your child more confidence, make them more tolerant of other cultures and will improve their social skills.

Why LittleBusyBee Mandarin Play & Learn?

Because your children will be taught by highly qualified teachers who care about them. And all programs are professionally designed by an experienced early childhood educator. Their programs are unique and effective due to very small classes. They constantly re-evaluate and improve based on new research and experience gained from their teachers. To learn more about class registration, call or visit their website. 770-380-8638. Fountain Oaks Plaza, upstairs next to Kroger, 4920 Roswell Road, Suite 44, Sandy Springs. www.LittleBusyBeeMandarin.com.

Moving in the Spirit

The Tutoring Center

oving in the Spirit is an awardwinning youth development program that uses dance to transform the lives of children and teens. Through dynamic classes that combine Modern Dance, Ballet, Choreography and Leadership Training, Moving in the Spirit inspires young people to become creative artists and compassionate leaders.

Moving in the Spirit Teaching Artists are carefully selected for their outstanding credentials and dedication to the wellbeing and success of their students. Dancers can meet their teacher, tour Moving in the Spirit’s facility and enroll in classes during Open House on August 25, 2012 from 11am-1pm.

Experienced students are encouraged to audition for Moving in the Spirit’s intermediate and advanced performance programs.

Auditions for The Apprentice Corporation (ages 13-18) will be held on August 25 at 2pm, while auditions for The Junior Company (girls ages 9-12) and Men in Motion (boys ages 8-13) will be held at 2:30pm. Moving in the Spirit accepts all students regardless of their ability to pay, offering need-based scholarships to those committed to succeed.

Open House and Auditions take place at Moving in the Spirit’s home theater, located at 750 Glenwood Ave Atlanta, GA 30316. For more information, call 404-624-5295, or visit www.movinginthespirit.org.

he Tutoring Center, Powder Springs has a clear four-part mission for every child who studies with them: First, your child will develop stronger academic skills in Reading, Math, and Writing; Second, your child will develop better concentration, focus, and attention span; Third, your child will gain more confidence and motivation; Fourth, your child will develop stronger Test-Taking and Study Skills.

The Tutoring Center specializes in individualized, one-to-one instruction to improve academic skills for children from kindergarten through 12th grade. Subjects include Reading, Writing, Math, Algebra, Geometry and more. The Tutoring Center has sessions available 3:30pm – 6:30pm Monday through Thursday. Children may attend two or three sessions per week.

More information on the academic programs offered can be obtained from their website at www.tutoringcenter.com or call 770-222-7133 for more information or to schedule a free Diagnostic Assessment and Consultation.

The Tutoring Center, Powder Springs. 3721 New Macland Road, Suite 230 (in the Publix Shopping Plaza), Powder Springs, GA 30127.

M

atlantaparent.com

T

[Special Education Guide ] Advertising Section

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 51

just kids

A quarterly focus on Special Needs

Fun That Works Well Glen and a friend try out the Triple Trapeze.

A parent with a special needs child may find it challenging when searching for recreational activities. For Jennifer and Scott Sheppard of Decatur, circus arts has been the highly successful go-to activity for 9-year-old twins Glen and Madeline (Maddy).

Glen has Asperger’s syndrome, so it’s been especially trying to find an activity that both siblings fully enjoy. For about two years now, Glen and Maddy have each been working on skills ranging from balancing on the tight wire to trapeze acts and juggling.

In addition to circus skills, our roundup of activities that are fun and beneficial include karate and therapeutic horseback riding.

Circus Arts: Fitness, Focus and Fun

Maddy in the hammock at Circus Arts

52 Atlanta Parent August 2012

It’s tough enough when boy-girl twins don’t want to do the same things, such as attend the same summer camp or play the same sports. But when one twin has Asperger’s syndrome, it’s even harder for a parent to schedule both kids in activities that satisfy each well.

Except when it comes to circus arts.

“We’ve tried multiple activities, from gymnastics to soccer,” says mom Jennifer Sheppard, “and circus arts is the only activity that I never have to argue about.

They both can’t wait to go. It’s also the only activity they both love.” Twice a year, Jennifer and Scott Sheppard get to come watch Glen and Maddy show off what they’ve learned.

Circus skills help a wide array of special needs kids, from children with sensory and processing challenges, ADD, ADHD, PDD and Asperger’s to kids who have anxiety, self-esteem, emotional, physical and behavioral challenges.

Says Carrie Heller, executive director of Atlanta’s Circus Arts Institute: “I feel like I have hit the jackpot as a therapist, because in teaching circus skills we are able to work on the mental, the physical and the emotional – all at the same time.” Working on circus skills, Heller notes, helps kids with balance, flexibility, coordination, muscle strengthening and more.

Heller is a professional trapeze artist and a licensed clinical social worker. The Circus Arts Institute she founded offers summer camps for kids of all skill levels, plus classes and workshops throughout the year. Heller directs a year-round program for special needs kids using circus tricks and skills as both therapy and recreation.

Most special needs youngsters participate for one or two hours each week. There’s a 2-to-1 child-staff ratio to ensure children are carefully monitored.

– Julie Bookman n Circus Arts Institute is located at 206 Rogers Street NE, Suite 214, Atlanta, (close to the Candler Park and Kirkwood neighborhoods.) For more information call 404-549-3000; circusartsinstitute.com.

atlantaparent.com

Martial Arts: Discipline and Body Awareness Hiyah! Martial arts takes a systematic approach to teaching ancient combat traditions while stressing selfconfidence, discipline and respect.

This exciting activity benefits a wide range of special needs mostly associated with neurological-based disorders, such as autism, Down syndrome, ADD and sensoryprocessing disorder. Noticeable improvements are found in balance, coordination, discipline, focus, attention, physical fitness and social skill development.

While defending themselves on the mat, participants develop a mind-body connection that maximizes focus and concentration. Ryan Mitchell, owner and founder of Ameri-Kan Karate, says his classes generally start out with some kids running off the mat, but by the end of the session, discipline kicks in and the youngsters are performing specific and precise skills. “Overall, I have noticed a dramatic shift in body awareness, self-control and sociality among the students I work with,” Mitchell says.

After engaging in classes, kids gain a new level of social behavior and start conforming to the rules and expectations of the group. Self-confidence also skyrockets. “I worked with one student in particular who especially thrived and rose to the occasion when I introduced him to group classes,” says Noel Plaugher, shun shifu (headmaster) at Moore’s of Atlanta Chinese Martial Arts. “These kids are capable of a lot. They really can do anything they put their minds to. Nothing is impossible.”

– Allie Fogel

Ameri-Kan Karate

Martial Arts Instruction in Metro Atlanta n Ameri-Kan Karate at WorldClass American Karate, Conyers. 770-7221347; wcakarate.com

n Tucker Taekwondo Center, Atlanta. 770-630-2995; tuckertaekwondo.com

n Moore’s of Atlanta, Smyrna.

678-602-2908; mooresofatlanta.com

n Other martial arts centers in your area may have programs that would benefit your child.

Call your local martial arts center to inquire

n Therapy Solutions of Georgia Inc., Dacula. 678-377-9634; tsg-inc. net/dacula_staff.php

Horses Help Kids Thrive Riding on the back of a horse can be a thrilling experience for young and old alike. In therapeutic horseback riding, gentle giants and excited kids work together to reach unprecedented heights.

This exciting recreational activity combines the positive and powerful movement of the horse with a rider’s ability to take control. Along the way, kids learn riding skills and horsemanship. The experience can help children with a variety of physical, psychological and social disabilities.

“Therapeutic riding has so many benefits,” says Gretchen Ahrens, Calvin Center Therapeutic Riding Program equestrian director at the Calvin Center in Hampton, Ga. “The horse works wonders in ways horseback. I’ve watched riders physically change their that we, as humans, can’t even imagine. I’ve seen muscle tone and body movement while riding. Most children who are anxious and upset become calm importantly, I’ve seen the smiles and the looks of pride and focused because of a horse. I’ve seen children and accomplishment on riders’ faces. It’s amazing and who can’t complete a task or follow directions on I feel privileged to be a part of it all!” the ground able to follow three-step directions on Cont’d on page 54 atlantaparent.com

What Parents Need to Know: n Therapeutic horseback riding is more for recreational enjoyment and relaxation.

It can help children with special needs gain confidence and a sense of accomplishment. n Hippotherapy is a treatment program prescribed by a doctor that uses the horse’s movements to help the rider gain better balance, control and increase motor skills. It is a combination of physical, occupational and speech therapy that can help improve the neurological and sensory processing systems of the patient.

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 53

just kids

A quarterly focus on Special Needs

Fun That Works Well

Therapeutic Horseback Riding Services in metro Atlanta n Angels on Horseback, Jasper. 770-893-1992; angelsonhorseback.org

Joyce Ahrens, an occupational therapist and a member of the board of directors at McKenna Farms Therapy Services, says that another desirable result of any horse interaction program is the bond built between the child and horse. The positive effect that horses have on the children is apparent.

“The kids beam and glow,” she says.

“Everything we do feels less like work and more like play. They are just having fun and the horses love it too.”

Robert Fousch has been taking his son Collin to Chastain Horse Park’s Therapeutic Riding Program for the last four years. His son, who has nonverbal autism, is thriving under the direction of the devoted and caring staff at the program. “The riding program is the highlight of my son’s week,” Fousch says. “Each week the night before his session, he signs to me that he wants to go horseback riding.”

– Allie Fogel

n Chastain Horse Park, Atlanta.

404-252-4244; chastainhorsepark.org n McKenna Farms Therapy Services, Dallas. 770-443-9672; mckennafarmstherapy.org n Calvin Center Therapeutic Riding Program, Hampton.

770-946-4276; calvincenter.org n Horse Time, Covington.

770-784-9777; horsetime.org n Reece Center for Handicapped Horsemanship, Palmetto.

678-423-1734; reececenter.org n Sonora Creek, Canton.

678-614-5636; sonoracreek.com

Collin Fousch at Chastain Horse Park

n The Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) is a great resource for therapeutic horseback riding information and listings. pathintl.org.

Greater Atlanta Speech & Language Clinics, Inc.

LOVE COMPASSION POSITIVE REGARD PROCESS COMMITMENT PERSEVERANCE

H O P E

TM

Specializing with Children for over 30 years

Speech & Language Therapy Occupational & Physical Therapy

• Comprehensive Evaluations • Earobics™ • Early Intervention Specialists • Myofunctional Therapy • Sensory Integration Dysfunction • Handwriting • Oral Motor • Preschool & Private School Screenings

Call for information.

pre-k - 12 sb-10 approved

MDE School

RESIDES.

Where everyone is special Enrolling Now for the 2012/2013 School Year SB1O & GASSO Accepted

SAIS-SACS ACCREDITED PRIVATE SCHOOL AND THERAPY CENTER

Cobb location. Enrolling Now. See our website for a complete listing.

COME SEE AND FEEL WHERE HOPE

Moving Directions Through Education

Fall Programs

We offer a unique educational setting for students facing issues related to Autism, PDD, Processing Disorders, Dyslexia, ADHD, Behavioral Disorders and other Learning Delays. Students may qualify for our intensive 1:1 teaching model or for our innovative small group instruction.

Tours available Every Wednesday at 10 a.m.

Please join us for a free seminar! Registration required. “e Brain’s Ability to Change: Building a Foundation for Learning.”

AMY O’DELL, M.ED., LPC, TRS, CNC

September 13, 2012 • October 25, 2012 • December 6. 2012 407 HARDSCRABBLE RD. | ROSWELL, GA 30075 | 770-998-1017 | WWW.JACOBSLADDERCENTER.COM

54 Atlanta Parent August 2012

Speech Aerobics

Exercise & language combine to make the body-mind connection. Small groups.

GASLC: 770-977-9457 www.greateratlantaspeech.com MDE: 770-971-4633 www.greateratlantaspeech.com www.mdeschool.com atlantaparent.com

just kids

Choosing a Recreation Program Find a recreational program for your child with these tips: What type of program does your child need? Ask your child what interests him – leisure, scouting or a particular sport? A good place to start is your child and your child’s developmental pediatrician. This will give you insight into what your child wants and needs.

Once you’ve narrowed down the type of program you’re looking for, begin your detective work. While you are researching specific programs, always ask questions. Verify the instructor’s qualifications, including how long he or she has been teaching children with disabilities and if her or she is licensed or certified. Make sure you understand all of the costs and fees.

There may be additional equipment or supplies to purchase and fees for missed classes or withdrawing from the program.

Before signing on the dotted line, attend a class with your child. You’ll be able to observe how the instructor interacts with the children.

You’ll also see how the children respond to the program and you’ll gain a better understanding of what happens during a session.

Be sure to ask for references: Any reputable program should be able to put you in touch with participating parents. Once you’ve selected a program, talk with the instructor about your child’s special needs, strengths and weaknesses.

All of your hard work will pay off – thorough research will help you find the best match for your child. c

Therapy Groups year-round Group Classes

Group classes meet: Tuesdays 3:25pm and 4:35pm

atlantaparent.com

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 55

just kids Bookshelf n The Common Sense Guide to Your Child’s Special Needs by Dr. Louis Pellegrino (Brooks Publishing, $24.95)

n Raising Boys with ADHD: Secrets for Parenting Healthy, Happy Sons by James W. Forgan, Ph.D., and Mary Anne Richey (Prufrock Press, Inc, $16.95)

Common sense? We always appreciate that. The subtitle here is When to Worry, When to Wait, What to Do. Pellegrino presents research-based information to help successfully guide parents in discovering what their child’s developmental challenges mean, what actions to take next, and how to support their child through their adolescent years. A pediatrician, Pellegrino also takes a new approach to helping parents search for signs of disability as a child matures by breaking down medical jargon.

– Sarah Egan

Understanding the developmental disorder ADHD – attention deficit hyperactivity disorder – is one thing. Raising a child with ADHD is another. An estimated 16 percent of school-age children suffer from ADHD, and there are at least twice as many boys as girls in that pool.

Parents of ADHD youngsters continue to seek answers and advice, and that’s just what co-authors James Forgan and Mary Anne Richey set out to provide in their new book, Raising Boys with ADHD. The book provides examples of each author’s own experiences and strategies that helped them raise sons with ADHD. While the book will surely assist any parent who has an ADHD son or daughter, these authors have personally “been there and done that” with their respective sons. “We understand the challenges and want to encourage parents to take full advantage of the support available,” Richey says.

The book encourages parents to focus on the strengths of their child. Not every child will excel at all subjects, but the individual child’s own strengths and interests should be celebrated in order to stay on the right track toward behavioral success.

n 1000 Best Tips for ADHD by Susan Ashley (Sourcebooks, $10.99) This lively resource offers expert advice, quick tips and easy solutions for parents who face challenges raising a child with ADHD. Child psychologist Susan Ashley understands that every child is unique and offers a variety of solutions on how to tackle some of the toughest problems and frustrating situations. She invites readers to use her tips to manage their child’s symptoms rather than looking for quick-fix solutions. Through Ashley’s tips, parents are sure to find ways to improve behavior, increase school success and strengthen social interactions.

– Sarah Egan

“Your Child Can Succeed in the Right Environment” n

We help students with Sensory Processing, Auditory Processing, Language, Speech, Reading & Math

n

Serving Students PreK - 8th Grade

n

Music, Art and Daily Physical Education

n

Group OT & Speech Therapy for All

Estate Planning

n

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

EXTENSIVE EXPERIENCE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS PLANNING

Preserve eligibility through Special Needs Trusts.

FREE

initial consultation

Inclusive Preschool

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

LAW OFFICES OF

MARK E. BIERNATH,

A PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION

Also Offered: n

– Kate Wallace

iLs - Integrated Listening Systems Before and After School Programs

7 Locations to serve you

• Kennesaw • Alpharetta • Duluth • Buckhead • Cobb/Galleria • Dunwoody • Doraville

770-594-1313

Atlanta • Buckhead • Dunwoody • Marietta

www.adaptivelearningcenter.org

770-455-0535 • www.biernathlaw.com

www.porteracademy.org

770.509.3909

The Atlanta Parent Family of Publications

Parent Atlanta’s No. 1 Parenting Magazine

atlanta

August 2012

atlantaparent.com

When To Go to the ER Avoid the Chores Battle

Atlanta Parent Magazine’s

BIG BOOK

of Schools

Theate Ultimation Educ ide Gu 12 20

Back to the Books!

Atlanta’s Family Guide to Special Needs

Ready, Set, Play!

Places to Zip, Scale and Soar

Sleep Boosts Learning Lunchbox 101 n Interview Your Child’s Teacher

n

n

justkids

Meet Some Amazing Kids Strategies for Handling Meltdowns Experimental Therapies Offer New Hope for Pediatric Brain Tumors

Like Us on FACEBOOK

Early Education

Private

Public

Charter

Boarding

Special Needs

Brought to you by Atlanta Parent Magazine Current through July 2012

Call for advertising information • 56 Atlanta Parent August 2012

Atlanta Parent Magazine’s

Big Book of info [411]

My kids are screaming for ice cream. How can I find a good private school? Where’s a nearby family restaurant?

What should I look for in a childcare center? Where can my family go on a hike?

I need advice on how to baby-proof my home. My kid needs to get a learner’s permit. Help me find a place for my child’s birthday party.

Where can my special needs child play? I need to find a good nearby kids dentist.

Where are some places that I can take children to fish?

Atlanta Parent Magazine’s

2012 urce Reso ide gu

Day s Campight s Overn Camp er ms Summ gra Pro

BIG BOOK of Camps2012

Atlanta Parent’s Camp Expo Dates:

January 21 Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

North Point Mall Alpharetta

February 12 Sunday, 1 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

Town Center Mall Kennesaw

Atlanta Parent Magazine’s

BIG Baby 2011 BOOK Guide for New Expectand Parentant s

March 17 Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Perimeter Mall Atlanta

770-454-7599 • www.atlantaparent.com 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

Jacob’s Ladder

J

acob’s Ladder Neurodevelopmental School and Therapy Center, founded in 1998, is an SAIS-SACS Accredited, SB-10 school, Pre-K – 12. Following a Neurodevelopmental Evaluation, their team of specialists develop tailored programs designed to optimize strengths and address weaknesses for children with Autism, ADHD, Brain Injury, CP, Down Syndrome, Processing Disorders, Behavioral Disorders and other developmental delays.

Their brain-based methodology is used to strengthen a foundation for learning. Placement options include: intensive individualized instruction, small transitional groups, summer programming, in-home implementation and home-schooling programs.

As their individual model continues, the Jacob’s Ladder Elementary, Middle and High School, opening Fall 2011, will provide a Neurodevelopmental classroom model.

Classes will serve up to eight students at a 3:1 ratio. All core subjects are covered while incorporating the Jacob’s Ladder philosophy and methodology. The Jacob’s Ladder Therapy Center offers hourly intervention, group and individual Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Brain Mapping, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Tutoring and more. Their cutting edge Neurofeedback lab is one of five in the world!

All are encouraged to attend a free educational seminar and tour the campus in Roswell, Georgia. Call 770-998-1017 or visit www.jacobsladdercenter.com. atlantaparent.com

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.

Porter Academy

P

orter Academy is dedicated to educating children by utilizing individualized programs that are appropriate to each student’s developmental level and learning style. They serve students PreK through 8th grade and administer regular assessments in order to determine the most effective interventions for each child.

Porter Academy believes that children can reach untapped potential when provided with appropriate small group instruction, social guidance, and therapeutic support.

They also believe that children are best able to succeed both academically and socially when the school utilizes a wholechild approach that simultaneously develops academics and foundational abilities (e.g., processing skills, attention, motor skills), while also promoting selfesteem and intrinsic motivation. Students take on their own learning and become active participants rather than passive recipients in the learning process.

Porter Academy fosters lifelong success through the development of cognitive, academic, social, and psychological skills and abilities. The 2012-2013 school year starts on August 9th. To take a tour of the school, call: 770-594-1313. Check their website: www.porteracademy. org for more information and see how “Your Child Can Succeed in the Right Environment.”

Special Advertising Section

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 57

just kids f.y.i Workshop for Mother’s of Children with Special Needs

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

www.gapt.org 770.491.7423

Children’s Special Services, LLC

Camps Summer ill open s st some slot DAY! TO

Social S k Handw ills riting Groups

CALL 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

Susan N. Schriber Orloff, OTR/L

ALL MOMS EXPERIENCE BURN OUT but it can be even more intense for moms with special needs kids. This interactive workshop with Savannah psychologist, Dr. Tamara Grosz, popularly known as Special Needs Mama, is Aug. 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Learn helpful strategies to stay balanced and promote positive energy that will encourage a happy and healthy home. This is a great opportunity to connect with other moms raising special needs children. The Self-Discovery Center, Atlanta. Registration costs $65 and includes lunch. For information visit mamatime.net or call 912-655-5055.

Worthy Website n MotherKnows.com $9.95 per month FOR MOMS EVERYWHERE, this website offers solutions to keep track of “all things medical.” For less than $10 per month, parents can have online access to their children’s medical information – even via an iPhone app. Electronic medical release forms can be sent to your pediatrician’s office, giving permission for MotherKnows to collect medical information. The medical records, milestones and appointments are converted into easy-to-read documents and graphic displays.

Director, Occupational Therapy

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

770-394-9791

www.childrens-services.com

http://slpai.com

Planning for life. Planning wisely.

SPECIAL EDUCATION ATTORNEY Providing strong legal representation to help you obtain appropriate special education and related services for your child.

Committed to one thing:

RESULTS

The Calbos Law Firm, LLC Christy E. Calbos, Esq. calboslaw.com

404-667-3794

Go to the Movies with your Special Needs Child 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

Share Atlanta Parent with a friend!

58 Atlanta Parent August 2012

MANY THEATERS ARE MAKING IT EASIER to take special needs kids to a flick. Once a month, Studio Movie Grill and select AMC theatres create a safe and comfortable place to be entertained. n At AMC Theatres, kids are free to shout, dance, sing, and walk during the monthly movie.

Aug. 11 features Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days.

Showtime is 10 a.m. Discover Mills, Lawrenceville; Parkway Pointe, Atlanta; Southlake, Morrow. $6.

For information: Autism Society of America-Greater Georgia Chapter. 770-904-4474. n Studio Movie Grill on Holcomb Bridge Road usually holds special needs screenings the third Saturday of each month. For specific movie and show times visit studiomoviegrill.com or call 770-992-8411. Special needs children and their siblings are free. All other tickets are $5.

– Sarah Egan

atlantaparent.com

Spotlight on

Special Needs Resources

Bettis, Hill & Vann, LLC - Attorneys at Law

Circus Arts Therapy®

ife is full of uncertainties, but seizing the opportunity to wisely plan for your family’s security can bring calm to life’s storms. It is simply impractical to leave your family’s future to the courts.

Bettis, Hill & Vann’s attorneys specialize in professionally and respectfully guiding clients through the often murky legal and emotional waters of estate planning, including preparation of wills, trusts, special needs trusts, guardianships/conservatorships, powers of attorney, health directives, and probate and estate administration.

Through a properly implemented plan, you can give your child or grandchild the best of both worlds—access to public benefits and their share of your assets. Special needs trusts keep beneficiaries eligible for government programs like SSI and Medicaid, while preserving availability of inherited assets. Without such a plan, an inheritance can cause forfeiture of public benefits.

Take the reins on behalf of your family and plan for life—plan wisely. Call the attorneys of Bettis, Hill & Vann at 770-475-8041 to design your plan. Their attorneys are also available for in-home or out-of-the-office consultations. Visit them online at www.bhvlegal.com.

arrie Heller, MSW, LCSW, invites you to the Circus Arts Institute where she conducts Circus Arts Therapy (CAT) sessions for individuals, families and groups. CAT is a unique experiential therapy utilizing Low Trapeze, soft rope climbing with tricks, Low tight wire walking, Balance Boards, Juggling and other ground and aerial equipment in a safe, enthusiastic environment.

This therapy is designed for children and teens with learning differences, attention difficulties, sensory challenges, behavioral and emotional issues, physical challenges and more. This includes children diagnosed with ADD, ADHD, Aspergers Syndrome and PDD. Each summer, Carrie offers the CIRCUS ARTS SOCIAL SUMMER (CASS) for three weeks in July.

Circus Arts Therapy® as well as the Circus Arts Social Summer program include specific activities to encourage and enhance: Bilateral coordination skills; Muscle strength, including core muscles; Crossing the midline abilities; Brain and body balancing; Self esteem; Ability to overcome fears; Communication with peers; Balance, flexibility & coordination; Focus and attention; Teamwork and Social Skill development (CAT group) Please go to www.circusartsinstitute.com or call 404-5493000 for more information and registration.

L

C

Special Advertising Section

atlantaparent.com

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 59

summer fun for the whole family.

this is why we ChoP.

join chipper for his final playoff race Summer Giveaway aug chipper jones Bobblehead Night 16 Presented by

and

ChIpper joNes 4-game pLaN aND CommemoratIve prINt set as LoW as $71 • 4 great Friday Night matchups, including “Chipper Jones Night” on September 28 • 1 set of 4 limited edition Chipper Jones commemorative prints • Available in Terrace Infield, Outfield Pavilion, Club Pavilion & Upper Box • Discounted parking is available for $10 per game

/tickets

1.800.745.3000

ChevroN famILy vaLUe pLaN: starting at $69 – Save over $50 • 4 Tickets • 4 Hotdogs • 4 Soft drinks

• Parking pass • Game program • $10 Chevron promo card

eNjoy the perks of every home game kids run the Bases Children ages 4 – 14 are invited to run the bases after Sunday home games at Turner Field publix friday Night fireworks Every Friday night enjoy a spectacular fireworks display after the game Braves alumni sunday Braves legends will be in the Fan Plaza before the game for autograph signings, Q&As and more Braves museum & hall of fame/turner field tours The museum is open year-round and is the starting point for tours at Turner Field. For more information call 404.614.2311

Family Fun Guide * Eating Out

n

Free Fun

n

Exhibits

n

Reviews

Not-to-miss events for August

1

Trains, Trucks and Tractors Southeastern Railway Museum Aug. 4-5, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

n

Calendar

nt gnme e i s n o C esal and Reals St als e n a dD 8 6 Page

Wide-eyed youngsters will adore getting up close and personal with the giant tires, buttons, levers and buckets on a variety of tractor equipment. Kids of all ages can explore and crawl around old trucks and interesting locomotives. After a hayride, they can create their own souvenir to take home. 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth. 770-476-2013. Adults, $8; ages 2-12, $5; younger than 2, free.

2 3

Big Haynes Creek Wildlife Festival Georgia International Horse Park Aug. 25-26, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Take a gander at wildlife big and small during this sixth annual festival packed full of learning opportunities and family fun! Watch four-legged friends do amazing tricks during the Georgia State Frisbee Dog Show, get crafty with art activities, bounce around on moonwalks, hang for a bit in the Beach Zone, pet some slithery friends and expand your avian knowledge during a Birds of Prey Show.

Of course, there will be music, dancing and food too.

1996 Centennial Olympic Pkwy., Conyers. 770-860-4190. $5 per person; children 4 and younger, free.

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

Miss Mary’s Ice Cream Crankin’ Historic Roswell Square Aug. 26, 2-4 p.m.

Scream your heart out at this eighth annual ice cream festival featuring more than 100 flavors of homemade ice cream to taste.

The many flavors of fun include an ice cream eating contest, recipe judging, live music, face painting, snow cones, games and more.

All proceeds benefit The Drake House. 616 Atlanta St., Roswell.

770-587-4712. Families up to six, $20; individuals, $5.

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 61

Family Fun Guide This Is It! BBQ and Seafood

thisisitbbq.com Seven locations in the metro area: Camp Creek/East Point; Memorial Drive/Decatur; both Panola and Stonecrest in Lithonia; College Park; Smyrna; Fayetteville.

Decatur and Smyrna locations open seven days a week, all others six days (closed Sundays).

Check website for hours and phone numbers.

If your family is in the mood for some soul food, This Is It! – the 2011 Hoodie award winner for America’s best barbecue – is your best bet. As a mother, I’m always on the hunt for kid-friendly restaurants with delicious food. My search has ended here. With seven locations around Atlanta, you only need to drive a short distance to satisfy your craving for soul food and genuine barbecue.

EATING OUT

n What’s on the menu: This Is It! caters to our guilty “home cooked” pleasures, and definitely hits a home run with its menu items – served buffet/cafeteria style. You can indulge in such dishes as sweet potato soufflé, collard greens, hickory-smoked chicken, ribs, oxtails and many more Southern specialties. As you assemble your plate, choose from entrées, then add side items.

For lunch, I chose a fully loaded veggie plate (just $5), and thoroughly enjoyed the green beans, macaroni and cheese, sweet potatoes, baked beans and more. I washed it all down with some of the best lemonade in all of Georgia! If your sweet tooth is tingling, consider the peach cobbler (amazing) or banana pudding (also yummy). If you visit for either lunch or dinner, ordering off the menu is an option instead of the buffet. n Why parents will like it: Great lunch specials range from $5-$7, and portions are generous.

For both lunch and dinner, items are served a la carte, so you can spend more if you don’t go

MARK YOUR CALENDAR North Georgia State Fair September 20-30 The 80th annual North Georgia State Fair is your ticket to family fun! Jim R. Miller Park in Marietta hosts exciting concerts including Sara Evans. Watch live shows, meet Oscar the Robot, stop by the petting zoo, ride the midway, eat fair food and more! northgeorgiastatefair.com.

for the specials. Dinner for adults will be about $10-$15 – depending on number of items; kids cost less, especially if they only want two or three selections from the buffet. I’ve been here several times and always found the food to be fresh. Also, if you don’t see an item offered, you can always ask; This Is It! goes out of its way to accommodate your desires. Parents feeding a family on a budget will feel they are getting a good value here. n Why kids will like it: So many food items should satisfy even the pickiest eaters. My niece, 5, loved her chicken wings, baked beans, and mac and cheese. If ordering from the menu, kids have three entrée choices: fish, wings or rib tips, then they add two sides, cornbread and a beverage – all for $5.99. If your child is fond of downhome cuisine, This Is It! is at the ready to cater his next birthday party. (The restaurant has a big catering operation as well.)

– Alika Turner

A Fun Way to KEEP YOUR COOL

Spraygrounds are a great place to let little ones chill off during summer’s unbearable heat.

I

took 4-year-old Sarah and 6-year-old Adam to Roswell’s Splash ’N’ Play sprayground at Riverside Park one particularly hot day. Entry is just $1 for children ages 1 and up. Adults may enter free if they do not plan on entering the water – or they can pay $1 to get in on the splashing action. The ticket window doubles as a concession stand with chips, candy, soda, etc.

Children are given a wristband as they enter the fenced-in sprayground, which makes re-entry a breeze if a child needs a potty break or you leave to have a picnic. Restrooms are located next to the ticket window. There is even an attendant to make sure no little ones wander away from the area.

Kids of all ages – from toddlers to pre-teens – romped in the sprayground on the day we visited. Adults can take refuge under two large canopies while they watch the kids splashing, but plenty of adults chose to cool off among the fountains of various kinds

62 Atlanta Parent August 2012

(such as the mushroom or dome styles). At one point, we took a break to eat lunch under the shade of nearby trees. Besides finding the water a little cold at first, the kids loved playing in the fountains. Adam was entertained by chasing the ever-disappearing upand-down fountain, while Sarah just enjoyed running around and getting wet. Once they were tired of the water,

Family Fun Guide

it was nice to have other play options at Riverside Park, where there’s two playgrounds and walking/biking trails.

The park is located in the heart of Roswell, at 575 Riverside Rd. 770-5946158.

– Amanda Newman n Find more spraygrounds at atlantaparent.com

atlantaparent.com

FREE FUN

Bring History to Life Explore Georgia’s past by viewing the exhibits in public buildings such as historic courthouses and the state capitol. Self-guided tours are available free of charge, although donations are always welcome.

The DeKalb History Center Museum Hours: Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 101 East Court Square, Decatur.

404-373-1088.

Visit the main floor of the historic DeKalb County Courthouse (Old Courthouse on the Square) for three different exhibitions.

Throughout August you can see “Dairies in DeKalb,” a history of dairy farming in the area; “Highlights from the Guy Hayes Collection,” a collection of more than 30 black-and-white photos – many taken in the 1950s and 1960s – by a prominent photojournalist; and “Scottdale Mills,” a look back at the textile mill that operated in DeKalb (1901-1982). These are all temporary exhibits; watch for other free exhibits at this same location.

The Georgia Capitol Museum Hours: Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-5 p.m. 206 Washington St., Atlanta.

404-656-2846.

Have you ever seen a two-headed cow? How about a two-headed snake? Kids will be amazed when they see these preserved animals on display in our state capitol. A museum was started here in 1890 as one way to illustrate Georgia’s resources. Today, the entire fourth floor of the capitol houses various exhibitions and artifacts from Georgia’s earliest populations. Visitors can try the self-guided “Fun with Miss Freedom” activity tour; pick up materials at the tour desk.

atlantaparent.com

The DeKalb History Center

Gwinnett Veterans Memorial Museum Hours: Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sat., 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

185 Crogan St., Rm. 118, Lawrenceville. 770-921-1326.

Pay tribute to veterans everywhere by learning about their years of service and their varied experiences. This permanent collection includes uniforms, artifacts and other memorabilia that pay tribute to the men and women who have defended our land from the Revolutionary War to the present. The Gwinnett Veterans Council assembled each exhibit.

Douglas County Museum of History and Art Hours: Tues.and Thurs., 1-5 p.m. 6754 West Broad St., Douglasville. 770-949-4090.

The old Douglas County courthouse was once for sale and disposal, but now you will find rotating exhibits from the mid-20th century here, as well as artifacts from private collections. Enjoy glimpsing everything from old lunch containers and cocktail shakers to phonographs and Coca-Cola collectibles.

– Sarah Egan

Family Fun Guide

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 63

Three Shows Worth Singing About If You Go Three Family Musicals at the Fox Theatre 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta “Peter Pan” – Aug. 7-12 “The Addams Family” – Aug. 14-19 “The King and I” – Sept. 5-11 n Performances: Tues., Weds., Thurs., Fri at 8 p.m.; Sat. at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.; Sun. at 1:30 p.m; dark on Mondays. n Tickets: $25-$65; call 855-285-8499, or visit foxatltix.com. Get half-off tickets for Tues. and Wed. shows using the code “AJC.” Photo by Michael Lamont

ater for

1

the

The

PRESENTS

Now is the ideal time to introduce your kids to the magic of musical theater. Three witty and delightful music-and-dance productions suitable for family audiences will occupy the Fox Theatre in coming weeks. Best of all: Tickets are available at a 50 percent discount on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

Tony Award-nominated Cathy Rigby, former Olympic gymnast, flies into the Fox on Aug. 7-12 to play the title role in “Peter Pan.” This humorous show with wonderful music is about the boy who refuses to grow up. Now 59, Rigby has performed as Peter some 3,000 times.

All ages are sure to be mesmerized by the exhilarating flying sequences, a captivating story line and a little bit of pixie dust.

Ages 2+

V

ery oung Y

Adapted and directed

by Michael Haverty

2

Next, step into the spooky home of Gomez and Morticia as the story of “The Addams Family” springs to life Aug. 14-19 at the Fox. The 2010 award-winning musical played on Broadway for almost two years. It was based on the kooky mid-1960’s TV series of the same name, which was inspired by the cartoons of Charles Addams. The show’s story revolves around daughter Wednesday Addams, who has fallen madly in love with a “normal” man whom her parents have never met. And watch out when they do meet him!

Aug 2 - Sept 9

Engaging audiences ages 2 years and older, this Theater for the Very Young production features fun interaction for kids and adults alike. Children will be bouncing, clapping, and singing along when the carnival comes to town and presents five stories from Aesop’s timeless fables.

404.873.3391 www.puppet.org 1404 Spring Street NW Atlanta, GA 30309 Limited FREE Parking • MARTA Accessible Advance purchase is highly recommended.

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

64 Atlanta Parent August 2012

3

Just a couple of weeks later, families can travel back in time to Siam (now Thailand) when a touring production of the classic 1951 Rodgers and Hammerstein musical “The King and I” moves into the Fox. Based on the 1944 novel Anna and the King of Siam by Margaret Landon, this charming love story features a number of favorite melodies and a host of children in the cast. In the story, the British governess Anna is brought to Siam to tutor the king’s children. In the palace, Anna and the king develop a unique relationship as they grow to understand each other and their distinct cultures. Featuring beloved songs of the past such as “Getting to Know You” and “Shall We Dance,” you and your children will surely be singing and whistling tunes out of the theater.

Family Fun Guide

Musical lovers should also mark their calendars for April 2-7, 2013, when the magical “Mary Poppins,” guided by her umbrella, floats into the Fox Theatre. – Allie Fogel

atlantaparent.com

Catch Olympic Fever at Atlanta History Center

A

re you and the kids experiencing Olympic fever this summer?

With the London Games underway, it’s a perfect time to take a family trip to the Atlanta History Center to see the permanent Centennial Olympic Games exhibit. As you enter, you walk on the very maple flooring from the 1996 Atlanta Olympic basketball court where the U.S men’s and women’s teams both took the gold. As you venture farther into the exhibit, you’ll gaze upon medals and posters from previous Olympics. Most impressive: the extensive collection of Olympic torches that go back as far as the 1936 Berlin Games.

The first level of the museum briefly explores the history of the Olympic movement that began in ancient Greece, then tells the story of our community leaders and volunteers who worked hard to make the dream of an Atlanta-hosted Olympics a reality. You’ll learn that the 17-day Centennial Olympic Games in and around Atlanta in ’96 remains the single largest gathering of

Go For the Gold!

Aug. 11, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

AtlantaHistoryCenter.com/family The Atlanta History Center has planned a special family program linked to the Olympic Games.

Enjoy lively tours of the Centennial Olympic Games Museum, meet Olympic medalists and take part in some Olympic sporting activities – both ancient and modern. Included with general admission ticket purchace.

If You Go

Olympic teams the world has ever seen.

Kids who visit this exhibit are instantly intrigued by the interactive “Olympic Mania” trivia game. To play, just sign up at the first of 12 kiosk stations where visitors get to test their Olympic knowledge. As you take your “Olympic Mania” journey, the last five stations are aligned along a model of a running track so kids can feel immersed into the world of Olympic sports. At the end of the game, kids can climb onto a victory platform from the 1996 Centennial Olympics – a great way to feel like an Olympic medalist.

Upstairs in the Sports Lab, all ages can

Centennial Olympic Games Museum A permanent exhibit at Atlanta History Center 130 West Paces Ferry Road, Atlanta; 404-814-4000; AtlantaHistoryCenter.com n Hours: Mon.-Sat, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Sun, noon-5:30 p.m. n Cost: $16.50 adults, $13 students, $11 ages 4-12, free for ages 3 and younger.

put their physical endurance to the test – and compare it to Olympic athletes. There are tests in rowing, on bikes, and even on the assisted long jump. These interactive displays will surely help get your kids into the Olympic spirit.

– Sarah Egan

770-755-5100 atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 65

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

Join our developmentally appropriate programs now!

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

LittleBusyBee

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

www.LittleBusyBeeMandarin.com

Child Models We’ve booked kids for $2,000 per day and more, others at $50 - $60 per hour.

Could your baby, toddler or kid be one?

Atlanta, New York, LA

404-636-1974

www.williamreynoldsagency.com

Natural Nursing Covers Extra large for complete coverage Inside Pocket Adjustable strap Top opening for viewing

Phone: 770-380-6364

NaturalNursingCovers.com 66 Atlanta Parent August 2012

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

Gross Anatomy: The Scoop on Poop

T

his summer’s exhibit at Fernbank is completely gross. It’s also educational – in a disgusting sort of way that will fascinate children.

We have a rule in our house: We don’t talk about bodily functions at the dinner table. I made an exception one recent night, because that very day we toured the fun and scientific “Scoop on Poop” exhibit at Fernbank Museum of Natural History. The kids were thrilled to tell their dad what they learned about excrement in the animal world.

Based on wildlife specialist Michael Payne’s best-selling book by the same name, “The Scoop on Poop” banks on kids’ affinity for disgusting stuff. Parents may recoil from the factoids – elephants poop enough every day to fill the trunk of a car – but kids get so caught up in the “ick” factor that they don’t even realize they are learning.

While we flush away poop without a second thought, many animals use it for communication, nutrition and just plain survival. In this exhibit, kids will discover that some wild animals eat their dung, others use it to send messages or mark their territory, and some even squirt it on themselves to cool off!

The exhibit helps kids to become “nature detectives” by examining pictures and models of different kinds of animal droppings – even fossilized poop – for clues about the animals that left them. Inferring what happened from the clues is fun. Games, such as the dung beetle race, will entertain them.

And the facts are so gross, they are truly memorable: Rabbits eat their own scat to maximize nutrition by digesting their food twice; bull hippos use their tails to scatter smelly dung in all directions; and termites use their own poop to help build nests as tall as a house. Great topics for the next family reunion!

When you’ve seen all the poop you can handle, you can take in an IMAX film or visit Fernbank’s “Nature Quest,” a new, immersive experience that enables kids to discover the many wonders of

If You Go “The Scoop on Poop” Fernbank Museum of Natural History 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta 404-929-6300; fernbankmuseum.org n Hours: Through Sept. 3. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. n Admission: Adults, $17.50; children 3-12, $15.50; 2 and younger, free

the natural world through hundreds of hands-on activities, live animal displays and engaging encounters.

– Beth Balga

Stay up to speed on the latest events.

atlantaparent.com

COMPLETE EVENT LISTINGS atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 67

Fall 2012

KiDS’

Consignment Sales

It’s back-to-school time! Get ready to check out this season’s consignment sales. These sales have 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. Visit atlantaparent.com for the most updated list of sales. Good luck!

Cherokee Clothing Kids for the Kingdom Fall Consignment Sale. Summit Baptist Church. Aug. 3-4. Fri. 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-noon. 4310 Moon Station Ln., Acworth.

678-409-2197. www.clothingkids.org.

The Glen at Kingsgate Kids Sale. The Glen Subdivsion. Aug. 4-5. Sat 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Cash only. 158 Nocatee Trail, Woodstock. 770-367-3532.

All 4 Kids – Woodstock. At rear of Woodstock Market. Aug. 9-11. 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. 5500 Bells Ferry Rd., Acworth. www.all4kids.com.

First Baptist Canton Kids Consignment Sale. First Baptist Church of Canton.

Aug. 10-11. Fri. 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.2 p.m. One Mission Point, Canton.

678-525-6239. www.fbckidssale.com.

Cobb Born Again Blessings Children’s Consignment Sale. Cobb County Civic Center. Aug. 3-4. Fri. 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-noon. 548 Marietta Pkwy., Marietta. www.bornagainblessings.com.

All 4 Kids - Marietta. Mt. Paran North Church of God. Aug. 17-18. Fri. 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m.

(No strollers before 11 a.m.), Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

1700 Allgood Rd., Marietta. www.all4kids.com.

Rhea Lana’s Children’s Consignment Event

Tots to Tweens Consignment Sale. Sandy Plains Baptist Church. Aug. 25. Sat. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. 2825 Sandy Plains Rd., Marietta. 678-404-0034. www.NOWAMOM.org.

Decatur Consignment Sale. First Baptist Church of Decatur. Sept. 21-22. Fri. 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 308 Clairemont Ave., Decatur.

770-414-6099. www.decaturconsignment.com.

Lil’ Lambs Closet. First United Methodist Church of Marietta. Sept. 7-8. Fri. 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat., 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

No strollers. 56 Whitlock Ave., Marietta. 770-429-7850, ext. 7858. www.lil-lambs.org.

Kids’ Used Clothes n’ Stuff. Decatur First United Methodist Church. Sept. 21- 22. Fri. 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. 300 East Ponce de Leon Avenue, Decatur. 404-378-4541. www.kidsusedclothesnstuff.com.

Due West Treasure Chest. Due West United Methodist Church. Sept. 13-15. Thurs. 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m., Fri. 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-noon. 3956 Due West Rd., Marietta. 678-318-1908.

Twice Blessed Children’s Consignment Sale.

McEachern United Methodist Church. Sept. 13-15.

Thurs. 5-9 p.m., Fri. 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

4075 Macland Rd., Powder Springs. 770-943-3008, ext.

1212. www.twice-blessed.org.

CCC MOPS Fall Consignment Sale. Cumberland Community Church. Sept. 28-29. Fri. 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 3110 Sports Ave., Smyrna.

678-941-9197. www.cccmopssale.com.

Coweta Consigning Closets Consignment Sale. SonRise Baptist Church. Aug. 24-25. Fri.-Sat. 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

6 Shenandoah Blvd., Newnan. 678-485-8708. www.ConsigningClosets.com.

DeKalb

Divine Children’s Show. The Mansour Center.

Aug. 22-23. Wed. 9:30 a.m.-9 p.m., Thurs. 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. 995 Roswell St., Marietta. 678-9845654 or 770-367-3152. www.dcskids.com.

Dunwoody United Methodist Church Kids Consignment Sale. Dunwoody UMC. Aug. 23-25.

Thurs. 5-8 p.m. (No children), Fri. 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 1548 Mt. Vernon Rd., Dunwoody.

770-394-0675, ext. 248. www.dunwoodyumc.org.

Kids Kingdom Consignment Ministry.

Orange Hill Baptist Church. Aug. 23-25. Thurs.

6-9 p.m., Fri. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. and 4-7 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 4293 Austell Rd., Austell. 770948-9388 ext.53. www.orangehill.org.

Kid ReSales Consignment Sale. Cross and Crown Lutheran Church. Aug. 23-25. Thurs. 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

(No children until noon), Fri.-Sat. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 4276 Chamblee-Dunwoody Rd., Chamblee. 404-661-4949. www.kidresales.com.

Lil Blessings Consignment Sale. Kennesaw First Baptist Church. Aug. 24-25. Fri. 9 a.m.7 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-1p.m. 2958 North Main St., Kennesaw. 770-427-3109. www.kfbc.org.

Five and Dime Kids Consignment Sale. Epworth UMC (across street from Candler Park). Sept. 7-8. Fri. 9 a.m.3 p.m. and 5-8 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 1561 McLendon Ave. NE, Atlanta. www.fiveanddimekids.com.

68 Atlanta Parent August 2012

Family Fun Guide

KidStuff Consignment Sale. Kingswood United Methodist Church. Sept. 27-29. Thurs. 5-9 p.m.

(No children allowed), Fri. 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m-1 p.m. 5015 Tilly Mill Rd., Dunwoody.

770-457-1317.

Grow! Baby, Kids, & Teens Consignment Sale.

Atlanta Montessori International School, Candler Park Campus. Sept 28-29. Fri. 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 1240 Euclid Ave., Atlanta. www.thriveconsignments.com.

Oak Grove Young Children’s School Consignment Sale. Oak Grove Methodist Church. Sept. 28-29. Fri. 9:15 a.m.-1:30 p.m. and 6-8 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 1722 Oak Grove Rd., Decatur. 404-636-7951, ext. 404. www.ogycsconsign.org.

Fayette Peachtree Kids Market Consignment and Overstock Sale. MacDuff Crossing Shopping Center. Sept. 7-8. Fri. 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.1p.m. 2860 W. Hwy 54, Suite 202, Peachtree City, 404-931-4243 or www.peachtreekidsmarket.com.

Forsyth NFMOMC Babies & Kids’ Consignment Sale.

Lanier Technical College-Forsyth Conference Center. Aug. 4. Sat. 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. No strollers or bags. 7745 Majors Rd., Cumming. www.nfmomc.org.

The Northside Consignment Sale. The Village at Creekstone Shopping Center. Aug. 7-11. Tues. 7-9 p.m., Wed.-Thurs. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.7 p.m. 1810 Peachtree Parkway, Cumming. 770789-4454. www.northsideconsignmentsale.com.

atlantaparent.com

Green With Envy Kids. Lakewood 400 Antiques Market. Aug. 10-11. Fri. 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.5 p.m. 1321 Atlanta Hwy., Cumming. 678-938-2680. www.greenwithenvykids.com.

Creekside MOPS Fall Consignment Sale.

Creekside UMC. Aug. 24-25. Fri. 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. 673 Peachtree Pkwy., Cumming.

770-888-8449. www.creekside.net.

Kid’s Consignment Sale. Cumming First United Methodist Church. Aug. 23-25. Thurs. 8:30 a.m.1 p.m. (No strollers allowed) and 5-8 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. 770 Canton Hwy., Cumming.

678-873-2963. www.cfumcga.com.

Fulton All 4 Kids - Roswell. Behind Hobby Lobby. Aug. 2-4. 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. 5000 Commerce Pkwy., Roswell. www.all4kids.com.

Rhea Lana’s Children’s Consignment Event. King’s Plaza. (Former CompUSA). Aug. 5-9. Sun.-Mon. 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Tues. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Wed. 10 a.m.8 p.m., Thurs. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 1425 Market Blvd., Roswell. 404-889-4173. www.rhealana.com.

The Northside Consignment Sale; The Village at Creekstone Shopping Center. Aug 7-11; Tues. 7-9 p.m., Wed.-Thurs. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Fri. 11a.m.-7p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-noon. 1810 Peachtree Pkwy., Cumming.

770-789-4454. www.northsideconsignmentsale.com.

RCOG Kids’s Consignment Sale. Restoration Church of God. Aug. 17-19. Fri. 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Sat. 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Sun. 1-4 p.m.

410 Rucker Rd., Alpharetta. 404-277-6650. www.restorationchurchna.org North Metro Mothers of Multiples Fall/Winter Children’s Consignment Sale. Roswell Area Park (Bill Johnson Community Activity Building). Aug. 18.

Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 10495 Woodstock Rd., Roswell. www.northmetromultiples.org/consignment.html.

Second Childhood Consignment. Kings Market Shopping Center. Sept.13-16. 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.

Roswell United Methodist Church Preschool and Kindergarten Consignment Sale. Roswell United Methodist Church. Sept. 14-15. Fri. 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

(No strollers before noon), Sat. 8 a.m.-noon.

814 Mimosa Blvd., Roswell. 770-993-6218. www.rumc.com/rumck.

Gwinnett WeeCycle Consignment Sale. Clearwater Crossing Shopping Center. Aug. 1-5. Wed. 8 a.m.-8 p.m., Thurs.-Sat. 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. 7380 Spout Springs Rd., Flowery Branch. 678-549-8707. www.weecycleconsignment.com.

3 Savvy Sisters Kids Consignment Sale. Aug. 9-11. Thurs.-Fri. 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. 4300 Buford Dr., Ste. 3, Buford. www.3savvysisters.com.

Cannon Kids Fall & Winter Consignment Sale.

Cannon UMC. Aug. 10-11. 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.

Kidsignments. Gwinnett County Fairgrounds. Aug. 14-18. Tues. 9 a.m.-7 p.m. (No children, infants, strollers, carriers, etc. until after 2 p.m.), Wed.-Thurs.

9 am.-7 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 2405 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Lawrenceville. 770-381-5938. www.kidsignments.com.

atlantaparent.com

What to Know Before You Go Consignment sales are a rich source of back-to-school bargains. You’ll find everything from designer labels to basic duds, from never-worn clothing and shoes to gently-worn. Many also offer toys, from bicycles to board games, and books. Expect to pay 50-75 percent less than retail for your treasures.

Some tips to make your shopping smoother: n Carry cash: Many sales do not accept credit cards or checks. n Go with a budget and a clothing list: Bargains will temp you to spend more than you intended or buy items you or your children don’t need. Take a list of their needs and clothing sizes. n BYOB: That’s Bring Your Own Bags, boxes or even a laundry basket to carry purchases home. Bags are in short supply at consignment sales. n Inspect your items: Some used clothing might have flaws, such as holes or stains or missing buttons; books might have missing pages. Most sales won’t take returned merchandise. n Leave the children with a sitter: Consignment sales are packed with merchandise and people, and navigating with children is difficult; some sales don’t allow children, or allow them only at certain times. n Go on half-price day: Even if you go earlier during the sale, return on the last day, often a Saturday; items are usually deeply discounted. n Plan in advance: Call or check the sale’s website in advance so you’re aware of restrictions.

MOPS Consignment Sale. North Metro First Baptist Church. Aug. 17-18. Fri. 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-noon. 1026 Old Peachtree Rd. NE, Lawrenceville. 770-995-9055. www.northmetro.net/ mops.

Jack & Jill Kids Sale / Kids-N-Moms Consignment Sale. Cornerstone Church. Aug. 23-25. Thurs.-Fri. 9 a.m.-7 pm., Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

2458 Duluth Hwy., Duluth. 770-312-7528. www.jackandjillkidssale.com.

Mountain Park UMC MOPS Fall Consignment Sale. Mountain Park UMC. Sept. 7-8. Fri. 9 a.m.2 p.m. and 4-8 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. 1405 Rockbridge Rd., Stone Mountain. 404-229-3968. http://mtnparkmops.bravehost.com.

Henry Second Time Around Kids Consignment Sale. McDonough First United Methodist Church Gym. Aug. 17-18. Fri. 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat. 8:30 a.m-noon. 151 Macon St., McDonough. 770-312-8962 or 770-312-1086. www.secondtimearoundkids.com.

Twice is Nice Consignment Sale. Hampton First Baptist Church. Aug.24-25. Fri. 9 a.m.6 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.- 1p.m. 85 McDonough St., Hampton. 770-946-4804. www.HamptonFirstBaptist.org.

Houston

Fancy Finds Kids Upscale Consignment Sale.

Dacula Family Village. Sept. 13-15. Thurs. 6-9 p.m., Fri. 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. 1152 Auburn Rd., Ste. 105, Dacula. 404-786-7605 or 404-3726500. www.FancyFindsKids.com.

Tykes, Tots & Teens Consignment Sale. GA National Fairgrounds. Aug. 10-12. Fri. 9 a.m.8 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-8 pm., Sun. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. (closed from 1-2 p.m.). 401 Larry Walker Pkwy., Perry. 678-978-9127. www.TTTsale.com.

3 Savvy Sisters Adult/Home Consignment Sale. Sept. 13-15. Thurs.-Fri. 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. 4300 Buford Dr., Ste. 3, Buford. www.3savvysisters.com.

Paulding

McKendree Kids Clothes Closet. McKendree UMC. Sept. 15. Sat. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 1570 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Rd., Lawrenceville.

770-339-9801.

Babies, Kids and Teens Consignment Sale.

Christ the King Lutheran Church. Sept. 19-22.

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.

St. Matthew’s Preschool & Kindergarten Consignment Sale. St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church. Sept. 28- 29. Fri. 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-noon. 1520 Oak Rd., Snellville. 770-978-1323. www.stmatthewspreschool.org.

Hall Kidz Consignment Sale. Clermont Gym. Aug. 17-18. Fri. 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-noon and 12:30-2 p.m. 639 Main St., Clermont.

706-865-7389. www.consignmentkidz.com.

Family Fun Guide

My Kidz Closet Children’s Consignment Sale. Community Fellowship Church. Aug. 30-Sept. 1. Thurs.-Fri. 8:30 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 8:30 a.m.- 1 p.m. 612 Cohran Store Rd., Douglasville. www.mykidzclosetgeorgia.com.

Rockdale Tykes, Tots & Teens Consignment Sale. GA International Horse Park. Oct. 13-20. Sat. Oct. 13. 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Sun.-Fri. 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-11 p.m (closed from 6-7 p.m). 1996 Centennial Olympic Pkwy. Conyers. 678-9842909. www.TTTsale.com.

Walton Bright Beginnings Preschool Kids Fall Consignment Sale. First Baptist Church of Loganville Gym. Sept. 6-8. Thurs. 9 a.m.12:30 p.m. and 4-8 p.m., Fri. 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 680 Tom Brewer Rd., Loganville. 770-466-2770. http://www.brightbeginningsatfbcl.org/. c

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 69

Calendar n Visit

August

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

n Events

may be cancelled or changed after our deadline. n Please call the event beforehand to confirm dates and times.

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 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. 404-8512980. Free.

Mommy and Me Preschool Program. Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History.

Aug. 2, School Days, School Days; Aug. 9, Rainbows All Around Us; Aug. 16, All About Me; Aug. 23, Way to Go!; Aug. 30, I Spy Shapes; 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.

Drop-In Family Class: A Honeybee’s Life. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Learn about honeybees that live in the garden. Kids make art projects. Aug. 11. 11 a.m.-noon. 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404876-5859. $6 plus admission; Adults, $18.95; ages 3-12, $12.95; 2 and younger, free.

The Gardener is In! Chattahoochee Nature Center.

Take a tour of the Unity Garden, chat with the garden coordinator, learn some gardening tips. All ages. Sat. Aug. 4. 10 a.m.-noon. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Class is free with admission. Adults, $8; ages 3-12, $5; 2 and younger, free.

Toddler Thursdays. High Museum of Art. Create masterpieces to complement the museum’s current exhibits. Aug. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30. 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-4550. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; 5 and younger, free.

Art Workshops. Vinings School of Art. Take a drawing, painting or pottery class. Supplies included.

Ages 2-13. Saturdays, 10 and 11 a.m. 1675 Cumberland Pkwy., Smyrna. 678-213-4278. Preregister. $15 for one-hour workshop.

Crafts for Kids. Lakeshore Learning Store. Make a different craft each week. Aug. 4, 11, 18, 25. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 4287 Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770-5783100. 3 and older. Free.

INK Craft Weeks. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids.

Wiggle Your Toes, August 1-3; Friendship Craft, Aug. 6-10; Home School Craft, Aug. 7; Aviation Craft, Aug 13-17; Tooth Fairy Craft, Aug. 20-24; Happy Birthday INK, Aug. 27-31; $1 with paid admission to museum. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Sun., 1-5 p.m. 999 Chestnut St., Gainesville. 770536-1900. Adults, $8; children, $6.

Build and Grow Clinics. Lowes. Clinics teach kids to build wooden crafts. Kids receive a free apron, goggles and merit patch. Sat. and Sun., Aug. 11, 12, 25, 26. Saturdays 10 a.m., Sundays 2 p.m. Visit lowesbuildandgrow.com for locations. 800-4456937. Pre-register. Free.

70 Atlanta Parent August 2012

S

M

T

5 6 7 12 13 14 19 20 21 26 27 28

W

TH

F

S

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

OLD SOLDIER’S DAY RACE AND PARADE Alpharetta City Hall AUG. 4. RACE, 7 A.M.; BAND AND MEMORIAL SERVICE, 9:15 A.M., PARADE, 10:30 A.M. Celebrate history and honor veterans at this annual event featuring floats, bands, live entertainment, kids’ activities and a great old-fashioned parade with free hot dogs and drinks. Race starts at the Alpharetta City Pool.

2 South Main St., Alpharetta.

678-297-6000. Parade and memorial service, free; race, $20-$25.

EnviroVentures Saturday Drop-By. Piedmont Park.

Hula-hooping and crafts while parents shop at the Green Market. Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 1320 Monroe Drive, Atlanta. 404-875-7275. Free.

Second Thursday Program. Southeastern Railway Museum. Parents and tots program includes circle time, an activity, and craft. Ages 1-4. Aug. 9. 10:30 a.m.-noon. 3595 Buford Hwy, Duluth. 770-4950253. $7 per child, one adult free, additional adult, $8.

Artscape! East Cobb Park. Sign up for art history and art sessions for children ages 5-10 years old.

Aug. 8. 9-10 a.m. Register now. 3322 Roswell Rd. Marietta. 770-591-3160. $15 per class.

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; children 3-12, $15.50; younger than 3, free.

Garden Art!. Okhurst Garden. Kids will get a chance to turn plain rocks into garden treasures. Wear clothes that can get dirty, fresh apples provided for snacks. Great for ages 6-12. Pre-register. Wed., Aug. 22, 4:15-5:30 p.m. 435 Oakview Rd., Decatur.

404-371-1920. $15.

exhibits Hubble Exhibit. Tellus Science Museum. See huge images from space thanks to the Hubble space telescope. Includes images of galaxies, exploding stars, stars being born, even some planets.

Through Nov.11. Mon.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. Adults, $12; ages 3-17, $8.

Family Fun Guide

Crime Lab Detective Exhibit. Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Visitors can be the real Sherlock Holmes as they examine clues such as DNA. Through Oct. 15, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 2020 Clean Water Dr. Buford. 770-904-3500. Adults 13 and older, $10.50; ages 3-12, $6.50.

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. 404-581-4000. Admission price depends on date of visit; Adults, $34.95; ages 3-12, $28.95.

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibit. Atlantic Station. Travel back in time and experience the wonder and tragedy of this ill-fated ship. Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-6 p.m.(last ticket sold at 5 p.m.); Fri.-Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m. (last ticket sold at 6 p.m.). 265 18th St. (second floor), Atlanta. 866-866-8265. Adults, $24; Ages 4-12, $16.

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 in the annex. Tues.-Thurs., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 12-4 p.m. 5920 Roswell Rd., Sandy Springs. 770-206-1558. 10 and older. Free.

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. Through Dec. Second Saturday of each month. 11 a.m. 6075 Sandy Springs Circle, Sandy Springs. 404-851-9111.

Donations encouraged.

The Scoop on Poop. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Fish do it, frogs do it, pythons, turtles and humans do it. A hands-on, humorous exhibit about dung, poop and scat. Through Sept. 3. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Adults, $17.50; ages 3-12, $15.50; 2 and younger, free.

atlantaparent.com

Calendar The Big Adventure. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Kids climb a rock wall and move through dark tunnels in this new exhibit that’s like a 3-D game board. Through Sept. 9.

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. Through Jan. 2013.

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.

Skate It or Hang It!? The Evolution of Skateboard Art. Museum of Design Atlanta. An exhibit that examines the visual expression in skateboard art. Through Sept. 16. Tues.- Fri. 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. noon-5 p.m. 1315 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404979-6455. Adults, $10; ages 6-17, $5; 5 and younger, free.

Troublesome Times: Impact of the Civil War in Roswell. Barrington Hall. Through the use of letters, official documents and photographs, this exhibit explores the effect of the Civil War on the lives of those with connections to the Roswell area. Through Oct. 31. Tours start on the hour from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 535 Barrington Dr., Roswell. 770-640-3855. Adults, $8; ages 6-13, $6.

atlantaparent.com

LADY BEETLES: OUR FAVORITE INSECT AND RAVENOUS GARDEN PEST PROTECTOR Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center SATURDAYS IN AUGUST, 10 A.M.-4 P.M. Learn about the Lady Beetle, better known as the Lady Bug. Discover how these beneficial insects live in an ecosystem, and then release beetles into the gardens to protect the plants from nasty pests. Participate in arts and crafts too.

2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. 770-9043500. Adults and kids ages 13 and older, $10.50; children ages 3-12, $6.50; Gwinnett County residents get $3 discount.

Doodle 4 Google Exhibition. Museum of Design Atlanta. This exhibit showcases the designs of ten state finalists who are competing in Google’s student contest for the chance to redesign the homepage logo. Through Aug. 9. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. noon-5 p.m. 1315 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-979-6455. Adults, $10; ages 6-17, $5; 5 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.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center. Phipps Plaza. Come play, build and look at a variety of spectacular LEGO exhibits that will have all LEGO lovers amazed.

Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.- 9 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Last admission is 2 hours before closing. 3500 Peachtree Rd., Atlanta. 404-848-9252. Adult, $20.52; ages 3-12, $16.20, 2 and younger, free.

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.

Family Fun Guide

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 71

Calendar Permanent Exhibit. Jimmy Carter Library and Museum.

View photographs and historic memorabilia from the Carter presidency. An exact replica of the Oval Office and gifts received by the Carters are featured.

Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m.-4:45 p.m., Sun. noon-4:45 p.m. 441 Freedom Pkwy., Atlanta. 404-865-7100. Adults, $8; 16 and younger, free.

movies Dream Big Wednesday Movies. Morrow Branch Library.

Enjoy a family movie every Wednesday on a big screen as part of our “Dream Big, Read” Summer Reading Program. Bring snacks and drinks. Pre-register. Movies begin at 3 p.m. Aug. 1, Up; Aug. 8, Rango.

16225 Maddox Rd., Morrow. 404-366-7749. Free.

Atlantic Station: Movies in Central Park. Movies start at sundown every Thursday. Aug, 2, The Notebook; Aug. 9, Ferris Bueller; Aug. 16, The Blind Side; Aug. 23, HUgo. 1380 Atlantic Dr., Atlanta; 404-733-1221. Free.

Carmike Cinemas Movies 400. Movies begin at 10 a.m. every Tues. and Thurs. through Aug. 9. Aug 2, Monsters vs. Aliens; Aug. 7 and 9, Megamind. 415 Atlanta Rd., Cumming. 678-513-4400.

B at the Movies. Hobgood Park. Bring blankets and lawn chairs to watch a movie under the stars. Aug. 4, Mirror, Mirror. 6680 Bells Ferry Rd., Woodstock.

Johns Creek: Newton Park. Movie lineup to be announced one week before each show. Shows start at dusk with pre-show activities that start two hours before the movie. Activities include giant slide, face painting, giveaways and entertainment. Aug. 4. 3150 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek. 678-512-3200. Free.

72 Atlanta Parent August 2012

GO FOR THE GOLD: THE OLYMPIC GAMES Atlanta History Center AUG. 11, 11 A.M.-4 P.M. Bring the family to celebrate the Olympics one more time as the closing ceremonies approach. Check out judo and fencing demonstrations. Plus, meet track and fencing Olympic medalists.

Visit the interactive Sports Lab where you can test your endurance in rowing, cycling and the long jump. To wrap up the fun take a guided tour of the Centennial Olympic Games Museum exhibit, which has the largest collection of Olympic torches in the United States.130 West Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Adults, $16.50; Children 4-12, $11.

Milton: Movies in the Park. Activities include face painting, inflatables, children’s activities, “Loveys FunTastic Kids Show,” local vendors and concessions at 7:30 p.m. Movie begins at sundown. Aug. 4, Movie TBA. 12805 Birmingham Highway, Alpharetta. 678-242-2530. Free.

Duluth: Flicks on the Bricks. Movie begins at dusk. Pre show activities start at 7 p.m. Aug. 11, Mama Mia. 3142 Hill Street, Duluth. 770-4763434. Free Stone Mountain: Movies on Main. Movies begin at sundown. Pre festivities start at 7:30 p.m. Aug 11, Mr. Popper’s Penguins. 922 Main Street, Stone Mountain. 770-498-7334. Free.

Family Fun Guide

Movies at Riverside Park. Bring a picnic along with your lawn chairs and blankets, enjoy great music, play on the playgrounds, then settle in for movie fun. Food and drinks may be purchased at the concession stand.

Movies begin at dark. Aug. 11, Dr, Seuss’ The Lorax. 575 Riverside Rd., Roswell. 770641-3705. Free.

Carl Rhodenizer Recreation Center: Movies Under the Stars. During the summer each movie is at a different park in Clayton County. Movie starts at 9:00 p.m. Aug. 11, Toy Story 3. 2300 Highway 138 SE, Jonesboro. 770-472-7623. Free.

atlantaparent.com

Calendar B at the Movies. Candler Park. Get situated with blankets, lawn chairs and prepare to watch a movie on the giant inflatable movie screen. Aug, 25, Hugo. 1500 McLendon Ave., Atlanta.

Born to be Wild. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Venture to the rainforests of Borneo and watch extraordinary people save and raise orphaned and endangered orangutans and elephants.

Through Sept. 3. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m., 4, p.m.; Sun., noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m.; Fri. 7 p.m., 9 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300.

IMAX tickets: adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; 2 and younger, free.

To the Arctic. Fernbank Museum of Natural History.

Discover a world beneath the ice. Through Sept.

3. Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m.; Sun., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta.

404-929-6300. IMAX tickets: adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; 2 and younger, free.

music Pickin’ on the Square. Newnan. Acoustic musicians of all genres and skill levels are welcome to join in on the first and third Saturday of every month.

11 a.m. on Aug. 4 and 18. Newnan Courthouse Square at LaGrange St. and E. Broad St. 770-2538283. Free.

Riverside Sounds. Riverside Park. Outdoor concert series in the park.; Brandon Giles Band, Aug. 4; The Black Lillies, Sept. 1. Concerts from 7-9 p.m.

Free shuttle available from Azalea Park and Don White Park. 575 Riverside Rd., Roswell. 770-6413705. Free.

Get closer than ever before with all-NEW behind-the-scenes adventures.

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

Free.

Book your adventure today!

Music at Noon. Centennial Olympic Park. Enjoy lunch and live music performed by local artists.

Tues. and Thurs. through Oct. Concerts from noon-1 p.m., 265 Park Avenue West, Atlanta. 404223-4412. Free.

zooatlanta.org 800 Cherokee Ave. Atlanta, GA 30315 MJCC_SRV_FRC_AtlantaParent_Ad_OL.pdf 1 6/8/12 11:38 AM

Wednesday Wind Down. Centennial Olympic Park.

Concert series includes jazz, R&B and blues performed by local and national touring acts. Ronnie Garrett Band, Aug. 1; The 6:30 Band, Aug. 8; Shayla, Shamora, Aug. 15; Marcus Johnson, Aug. 22; Daniel Moore, Seven, Aug. 29. Wednesdays through Sept. Concerts from 5:30-8 p.m., 265 Park Ave. West, Atlanta. 404-223-4412. Free.

C Wednesday Wind Down. Douglasville. Concert series with various types of jazz and blues music.

Bring lawn chairs and picnics. Wednesdays, through Aug. 8. Concerts at 7 p.m. O’Neal Plaza 6695 Church St., Douglasville. 770-947-5920.

Free.

M

Y

CM

Mountain Music Series. Red Top Mountain State Park. Various artists perform bluegrass and moun-CY tain music on Saturdays through Sept. 1. Bring your own instrument or just come to listen. Open CMY jam runs from 2-5 p.m. Bluegrass concerts begin at 8 p.m. 50 Lodge Rd., Cartersville. 770-975-0055.K Parking, $5.

MY

Friday Night Live. Atlantic Station. Up-and-coming artists perform on the stage in Central Park; genres range from country to rock, jazz to blues.

Through Nov. 23. Concerts are from 7-9 p.m. 18th St. NW., Atlanta. 404-733-1221. Free.

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 73

Calendar IT’S ALL ABOUT MUSIC TOUR Center Stage Theater AUGUST 15, 7 P.M. It’s all about kids performing for kids! Get ready to jump on your feet and use your stellar dance moves at this family-friendly concert by 11-yearold music standout Ethan Bortnick, with an opening act from KIDZ Bop Kids.

Bortnick will perform his own music as well as pop and rock classics.

KIDZ Bop, the No. 1 music band for kids in the U.S, will sing and dance to the most popular songs on the radio. 1374 W. Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-885-1365.

Tickets are $34-$59.

Brown Bag Concert Series. Gwinnett Historic Courthouse. Scott Douglas Steel Drum, Aug. 3. Includes crafts and face painting. Pack a lunch and bring a picnic blanket. Concerts 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 185 East Crogan St., Lawrenceville. 770-822-5450. Free.

Glover Park Concert Series. Glover Park, Marietta.

Yacht Rock Schooner, Aug 24. Concerts begin at 8 p.m. Picnics, blankets and lawn chairs may be set up after 4 p.m. 50 Park Sq., Marietta. 770-7945601. Free.

Moonlight and Music Concert Series. Gwinnett Historic Courthouse Lawn. Abbey Road Live (Beatles tribute band) Aug 24. Concerts at 8 p.m. Bring chairs, blankets and food. Alcohol is prohibited.

185 Crogan St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-2639. Free.

Concerts in the Park. Thrasher Park. Moby Dick, Aug 3; A-town, A-List, Aug 17; A1A (Jimmy Buffett Tribute Band), Aug 31. Concerts every other Friday from 7:30-9:30 p.m.. Playground adjacent to concert area. Picnic dinners permitted. Corner of Buchanan St. and Park Dr., Norcross. 678-4212025. Free.

Summer Concert Series. Village Green in Smyrna.

Aug. 4. 7 p.m. Bring friends, chairs and blankets.

200 Village Green Circle. Smyrna. 770-434-6600.

Free.

nature Canoeing 101. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Learn the basics of canoeing on the CNC’s ponds. Ages 5 and older. Aug. 5. 10-11:30 a.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055 ext. 237 to pre-register. $15 per person.

Ranger-led Mountain Hike. Panola Mountain State Park. See wildlife and learn about this important ecosystem. Saturdays at 10 a.m. 2600 Ga. Hwy. 155, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. Pre-register. $7/ person; parking, $5.

Saturday Afternoon Fly Fishing. Panola Mountain State Park. This clinic focuses on casting and all safety issues. Bring snacks, sunscreen, and water.

A Georgia fishing license is required for children 16 and older. Aug. 11. 9-11 a.m. 2600 Hwy. 155, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. Pre-register. $15 or $12 with own gear. parking, $5.

74 Atlanta Parent August 2012

Family Fun Guide

Frog Slog. Panola Mountain Park. Search for salamanders and frogs in the streams and wetlands.

Bring a flashlight, headlamp, net and bucket.

Prepare for a wet and muddy adventure. Aug. 4.

5:30 p.m. 2600 Hwy. 155, Stockbridge. 770-3897801. Pre-register. $5 per person; parking, $5.

Kiddie Gardener Series. Smith-Gilbert Gardens.

Kids can walk through the gardens, listen to storytelling, sing and dance at this special nature event for families. Ages 5 and younger. Aug. 10 and 24. 10 a.m. 2382 Pine Mountain Rd., Kennesaw. 770-919-0248. Kids, $5; adults, free.

Night Hike. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Explore the woodlands and wetlands by moonlight, then roast marshmallows by the campfire. Ages 5 and older. Aug. 25. 8-10 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. $10/person plus admission. Adults, $8; ages 3-12, $5; 2 and younger, free.

The Sky Tonight. Fernbank Science Center. An astronomer leads the tour through the constellations, planets and events of the evening sky.

Saturdays, 11 a.m. 156 Heaton Park Dr., Atlanta.

678-874-7102. Adults, $4; ages 3-18, $3; 2 and younger, free.

New Manchester History Hike. Sweetwater Creek State Park. A mile hike leads to the five-story ruins of the Civil-War era New Manchester textile mill. Climb inside the ruins and view the whitewater rapids. Saturdays in Aug. 10 a.m11:30 p.m. 1750 Mt. Vernon Rd., Lithia Springs.

770-732-5817. $5/person; parking, $5.

special events Teen Arts Night. City Center. Teens can bring instruments, poetry, artwork and short stories to share. Includes a slice of pizza and a soda. Aug. 3. 6-8 p.m. 8534 Main St., Woodstock. 678-4944251. $5.

Trains, Trucks and Tractors. Southeastern Railway Museum. The museum hosts vehicles that kids can explore. Event also includes a craft corner and wagon rides. Aug. 4-5, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth. 770-476-2013. Adults, $8; children 2-12, $5; younger than 2, free.

atlantaparent.com

Calendar Back to School Bash. Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Inspire learning in your kids with a fun back to school program featuring a special school bus, backpack activities and more. Sat., Aug. 4. 1 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive NW, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. Adults and ages 2 and older, $12.75; younger than 2, free.

Lady Beetles. Gwinnett Environmental Heritage Center. Learn about lady beetles, (fondly known as ladybugs). Explore their world with crafts, and release a few to help protect gardens from pests. Aug., 4, 11, 18, 25. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 2020 Clean Water Dr. Buford. 770-904-3500. Adults 13 and older, $10.50; ages 3-12, $6.50.

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. Aug. 4, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., NE, Atlanta. 404-733-5000. Free.

Second Sunday Funday. High Museum of Art. Enjoy art demonstrations, art-making workshops and live performances. Aug. 12. 1-4 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-4550.

Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; 5 and younger, free.

Taste of Johns Creek at the Hooch. Chattahoochee High School. Fifth annual tasting event includes live entertainment, visual arts, and food from Johns Creek exclusive restaurants. Aug 19. 4 p.m.-7 p.m. 5320 Taylor Rd., Johns Creek. 678-333-4159. Advance tickets, $15. Gate tickets, $20.

Grant Park AUG. 25-26, SAT., 10 A.M.-10 P.M., SUN., 11 A.M.-7:30 P.M. Bid farewell to summer with the 10th annual Summer Shade Fest.

Kids can enjoy the “Kid Zone” area with storytellers, puppet shows, art activities, climbing wall and bungee jumping. Parents will find the festival packed with food, live music and art. This is always a fine time for the whole family, adjacent to Zoo Atlanta in historic Grant Park. 753-B Cherokee Ave., Atlanta. 404-5210938. Free. atlantaparent.com

TM/©2012 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. 58614 7/12

SUMMER SHADE FESTIVAL

On Sale September 13 – 16 nOw! Tickets: Philips Arena Box Office 800-745-3000 www.ticketmaster.com

sesamestreetlive.com • Follow us on Family Fun Guide

and

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 75

Calendar

DINOSAUR BIRTHDAY BASH

Decatur Ghost Tours. Decatur. Come meet some of Decatur’s ghosts on this historical, paranormal walking tour of downtown Decatur. Fridays and Saturdays, 8 p.m. 101 East Court Sq., Decatur. 404296-7771. Adults, $15; 10 and younger, $12.

Fernbank Museum of Natural History AUG. 25, 10 A.M.-2 P.M. Is your child’s favorite dinosaur the Elaphrosaurus? How about the Spinosaurur? Or maybe the more common Triceratops? Whichever it may be, let them celebrate all things dinosaur at the annual “Dinosaur Birthday Bash” at Fernbank. Kids will learn interesting facts about the prehistoric greats, enjoy puppet shows and other interactive activities. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300.

Adults, $17.50; children 3-12, $15.50.

Alive After Five. Downtown Roswell. Enjoy a break from the busy workweek with live music, outside vendors, late hours at retailers, face painting and more. Bring your family, a date, your dog or your friends, and be sure to hop on the free trolley. Every third Thursday of the month, through Oct. 5-9 p.m.

Downtown Roswell. 770-640-3253. Free.

Ghost Tours. Lawrenceville. Listen to vivid stories of the strange and supernatural as guides lead groups on a 90-minute adventure. Every Fri. and Sat. through Sept., 8:30 p.m. 128 East Pike St., Lawrenceville.

678-226-6222. Adults $12, 16 and younger, $9.

My Reptile Guys. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta.

Kids have the opportunity to touch or hold many different animals. Aug. 11, 25 at noon. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive NW, Atlanta. 404-6595437. Adults and ages 2 and older, $12.75; younger than 2, free.

Third Sundaes. Barrington Hall. Tour Roswell’s historic museum and receive a free ice cream sundae afterward. Aug. 19. 1, 2 and 3 p.m. 535 Barrington Dr., Roswell. 770-648-3855. Adults, $8; children 6-12, $6; under 6, free.

Arts and Crafts Festival. Piedmont Park. Have fun at this 2-day outdoor festival featuring arts and family fun. Enjoy live music and browse work from more than 200 painters, photographers, jewelers and crafters. Aug. 18-19. Sat., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 1320 Monroe Dr., NE Atlanta. 404-845-0793. Free.

Pigs and Peaches BBQ Festival. Adams Park.

A barbecue cook-off with a cash prize, plus a peach dessert contest. Kids’ Zone, live music, firework show. Aug. 24-25. Fri., 6-11 p.m. Sat., 10 a.m.-10 p.m. 2753 Watts Dr., Kennesaw. 770422-9714. Free.

Intergalactic Bead and Jewelry Show. Gwinnett Convention Center. Exhibitors will present a wide range of precious and semi-precious gemstone beads, sterling silver, delicate beads and more.

Aug. 18-19, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy, Duluth. 678-924-0819. $5 for Sat., $4 for Sun. 12 and younger, free.

Fayette County Fair. Kiwanis Fairground Complex.

Rides, live entertainment including the Texaco Country Showdown, various vendors and a Twilight Run. Aug. 23- Sept. 3. Mon.-Thurs., 5-10 p.m.; Fri., 5.-11 p.m.; Sat., 1-11 p.m.; Sun., 1-10 p.m; Labor Day, 1-10 p.m. 939 Goza Rd., Fayetteville. 404-913-3247.

Tickets start at $3.

Big Haynes Creek Wildlife Festival. Georgia International Horse Park. Festival includes animal exhibits, hands-on demonstrations, arts, crafts, stage performances and more. Aug. 25-26.10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1996 Centennial Olympic Pkwy., Conyers. 770-860-4188. Adults, $5; children ages 4 and younger, free.

76 Atlanta Parent August 2012

Family Fun Guide

atlantaparent.com

Calendar Cirque Motion: Awaken. 14th Street Playhouse.

Contemporary circus show featuring high-flying acrobatics, dynamic juggling and aerial choreography.

Suitable for all ages. Aug. 24-26. Fri., 8 p.m., Sat., 2 and 8 p.m., Sun., 1 and 6 p.m. 173 14th St., Atlanta.

404-733-4738. $39-68.

Classified Pages

Resale

Celebrating over 30 years!

Fourth Saturday Family Fun Day. Centennial Olympic Park. “Games and Gadgets.” Aug. 25. Noon-4 p.m.

265 Park Avenue West, Atlanta. 404-543-7407. Free.

Mary’s Ice Cream Crankin. Historic Roswell Square.

Taste more than 100 flavors of ice cream and enjoy live music all for a good cause. “Kid’s korner” activity zone. Aug. 26, 2-4 p.m. 600 Atlanta St., Roswell.

770-587-4712. $5 per individual, $20 per family up to six.

NASCAR Camping World Truck Series. Atlanta Motor Speedway. Catch three nights of racing with some of NASCAR’s top stars. Aug. 31-Sept. 2. Fri., 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat., 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sun., 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m. 1500 Tara Pl, Hampton. 770-707-7904. Tickets start at $25 for adults; kids 12 and younger, free.

Fall & Winter Clothes Arriving Every Day JUST VISIT OUR NEW LARGER SPACE 800 Miami Circle • Buckhead 404•261•7519 POLLED AS BEST PRICED CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE!

Infant ~ Tween, plus Maternity & Equipment SUMMER CLEARANCE SALE!!

All clothing & shoes now starting at 50% OFF

storytelling Children’s Story Time. FoxTale Book Shoppe. Ageappropriate stories followed by dance and song period. Mondays and Saturdays. 11 a.m. 105 East Main St., #138, Woodstock. 770-516-9989. Free.

404-459-0307 in Sandy Springs

www.cckconsignment.com

Tales for Toddlers. Bean Head Toys. Stories read in the indoor tree house, then kids make a small craft to take home. Every Thursday. 10:30 a.m. 220 Johnson Ferry Road, Sandy Springs. 404-851-2980.

Free.

Wren’s Nest Storytelling. The Wren’s Nest. Wren’s Nest Ramblers host storytelling sessions every Saturday. 1 p.m. 1050 Ralph D. Abernathy Blvd., Atlanta. 404-753-7735. Adults, $8; children $5, 4 and younger, free.

Storybook Time. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Listen to stories about bees, butterflies, frogs and flowers. Wednesdays through Oct., 10:30 a.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404-876-5859. Adults, $18.95; ages 3-12, $12.95; 2 and younger, free.

Like us on

Godspell JR. Act 3 Productions. This junior version of the hit Broadway play presents a reflection on the life of Jesus, boasting many well-known and upbeat songs. Through Aug 5. Fri-Sun., 7:30 p.m., Also Sat., 2:30 p.m. 6385-R Roswell Rd., Sandy Springs.

770-241-1905. Free.

atlantaparent.com

Upscale Children’s and Maternity Boutique and Consignment www.mymyscloset.com www.facebook.com/mymyscloset

770-781-0263

1746 Market Place Blvd, Cumming

www.kidsgogreen1.com To Advertise your resale shop Call Andi at 678-222-1917

No Time To Clean?

since 1988

AMERICAN HOME CLEANING • A CHRIST-centered Home Cleaning Ministry • Licensed, Bonded, Insured, over 85,000 homes cleaned • Distributed to fine homes in litter free protective bags under 6/18/2002 federal supreme court ruling.

#1 Home Cleaning Special

$39.95

1 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom, Kitchen and Breakfast Room, Living Room, Halls and Foyer.

All work 100% guaranteed!

#2 Home Cleaning Special

theater The Emperor and the Nightingale. Performing Arts Center at Oglethorpe University. Georgia Shakespeare encourages everyone to travel back in time to ancient China, where the Nightingale’s beautiful song transforms a troubled emperor into a wise ruler. Through Aug. 3. Wed.-Sat. 10 a.m. 4484 Peachtree Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-504-1473. $13.

770 410 1137

Atlanta’s premier high-end children’s clothing, toys, and furniture boutique

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.

Storytime. Yawn’s Books. Enjoy a story for all ages.

Every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. 210 East Main St., Canton. 678-880-1922. Free.

11585 Jones Bridge Rd. Ste 610 ∑ Johns Creek, GA 30022

$74.95

3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 Bathrooms, Kitchen and Breakfast Room, Living Room, Dining Room, 1 Stairs, Halls and Foyer.

(770) 795-8399 Sponsor of www.TheWageRevolution.com We are a non-profit that employs low income single Moms and allows then to earn a livable wage. Proverbs 3:5,6.

Family Fun Guide

#3 Home Cleaning Special

$149.95

Includes #2 Special plus we deep clean by hand all baseboards, easy-off inside oven, inside fridge and up to 3 Ceiling Fans.

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 77

Classified Pages

Marketplace

B A BY

Calendar

DANCE The Bush Centre for Ballet: Classical ballet, contemporary and modern ballet, and jazz classes for children 4+, adults 18+. Annual recital, Field Trips, Summer Camp, Private and Pointe Lessons, community service participation. Sandy Springs. www.bushballetcentre.com. 404-256-5542.

Dance and Arts Showcase: Offering Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Piano, Guitar, Math, Reading, Middle Eastern, Yoga, Hip Hop, Ballroom. Chamblee, Alpharetta, 770-934-5010. www.danceandarts.com.

PA R T Y Liza Bean Designs. Face Painting for any occasion: Parties, School, or Church Events and Festivals. Also, custom murals, artwork, belly casting and painting.

404-247-4783. www.LizaBeanDesigns.com.

The Tortoise, the Hare and other Aesop’s Fables.

Center for Puppetry Arts. Children will be bouncing, clapping, and singing along when the carnival comes to town and presents five stories from Aesop’s timeless fables. Aug. 2- Sept. 9.

Thur.-Fri., 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., Sat. 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., Sun. 1 p.m., 3 p.m. 1404 Spring St., Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $16.50.

Smoke on the Mountain. Atlanta Lyric Theater. The bluegrass revival stars members of the original Theatre in the Square cast. Through Aug. 5.

Thurs.-Sat. 8 p.m.; Sun., Tues., Wed., 2 p.m.

Closed Monday. 117 N. Park Sq., Marietta. 404377-9948. $30-45.

CHILDCARE

The Wind in the Willows. Act1 Theatre. This familyfriendly musical tells the story of the friendship of the good-hearted Water Rat, the shy and curious Mole, and the sensible Badger. Through Aug. 5.

Fri.-Sat., 7:30 p.m., Sun., 2 p.m. 180 Academy St., Alpharetta. 770-663-8989. Adults, $18; children, $15.

TLC Sitters of Atlanta Inc. Providing in home childcare since 1986 to the Atlanta Metro area. Call us at 770-410-4774 to customize a program to meet your needs. www.TLCSittersofAtlanta.com.

Children’s Playhouse. Aurora Theatre. Puppeteers, magicians, storytellers, jugglers and more. Weds.

Aug. 11, 18, 25. 10 a.m. 128 Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. $7.

SERVICES

Terry’s Daycare: A licensed in-home daycare in Alpharetta offering a clean, loving and nurturing environment for infants to 3 years. Ratio 1 to 4. 404-932-6940.

Peter Pan. Fox Theatre. Discover the magic all over again with this new production of Peter Pan, featuring Tony Award nominee Cathy Rigby. August 9-12. Tues.-Sat., 8 p.m., Sun. 1:30 p.m., 7 p.m., Also Sat., 2 p.m. 660 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404881-2100. $25-65.

CL ASSES

Legally Blonde the Musical. Jennie T. Anderson Theatre at The Cobb Civic Center. This hilarious MGM film and Broadway smash hit follows sorority star Elle Woods, an underestimated blonde who doesn’t take “no” for an answer. Aug. 10-26.

Thurs.-Sat., 8 p.m., Sun., 2 p.m. 548 S. Marietta Pkwy., Marietta. 404-377-9948. Tickets, $35-45.

CLASSES • • • • •

Just You & Me Kid (3mos-3yrs) Preschool Gymnastics (3-5yrs) Recreation Gymnastics (K+) Tumbling (2nd Grade +) Mighty Mites (2-8 yrs)

404-252-JUMP (5867) 5920 Roswell Rd. Sandy Springs

www.jumpstartgym.com

Blackmon Art Henry M. Blackmon III - Artist

Specializing in oil, acrylics & watercolor paintings: IGF Virtual Christian Academy. Non-traditional Christian school. A Beka accredited curriculum. Small school/big results. Reading & writing workshops. Virtual teachers/instructional coaches. www.igf-k12.org 404919-9212.

Family portraits Murals Illustrations

The Fresh Beat Band. Fox Theatre. Come sing and dance with Nickelodeon’s popular preschool music group and stars of the hit TV series. August 26, 6 p.m. 660 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404- 8812100. Tickets, $29-$39.

beyond atlanta

blackmonart@att.net P.O. Box 360878 Decatur, GA 30036

First Friday Night Concert Series. Hancock Park, Dahlonega. Bring friends, family, lawn chairs and listen to Kurt Thomas. First Friday of each month through Oct. 6:30-8:30 p.m. North Park and Warwick Streets, Dahlonega. 706-864-6133. Free.

Blackmonart.com

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. 800-2620695. $24.95 per adult; $14.95 per child ages 3-12.

678-863-1266

To Advertise Call Andi at 678-222-1917 78 Atlanta Parent August 2012

The Addams Family. Fox Theatre. Come meet the Addams Family in this smash-hit musical comedy. Aug. 14-19. Tues.-Sat., 8 p.m., Sun., 1:30 p.m., 7 p.m., Also Sat., 2 p.m. 660 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404- 881-2100. Tickets, $25-65.

Riders in the Sky. Tweetsie Railroad. Come hear America’s Favorite Cowboys as they sing and entertain audiences, “the cowboy way.” Seating is first come first served. Aug. 18-19 at noon and 3 p.m. 300 Tweetsie Railroad Ln., Blowing Rock, NC. 800-526-5740. Show included with park admission. Adults, $35; ages 3-12, $22; 2 and younger, free.

atlantaparent.com

Labor Day Weekend Events

Decatur Book Festival

Beyond Atlanta n Decatur Book Festival. Decatur Square. Browse through hundreds of books, meet with best-selling authors, enjoy poetry and novel readings, music and live theatrics, visit the interactive children’s area. Aug. 31Sept. 2. Parade at 9:45 a.m. on Sat. and 11:45 a.m. on Sun. Visit decaturbookfestival.com for scheduled events and times. 556 N. McDonough St., Decatur. 404-471-5769. Free. n Art in the Park. Glover Park. Come celebrate fine arts from all over the country. Kids can join the juried sidewalk chalk art competition or help build the Cityscape, a 3D model of Marietta made of recycled materials. Be sure to check out the inflatables and artist stations.

Sept. 1-3. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Historic Marietta Square. 770-592-7180. Free. n Powers’ Festival. Power’s Pavilion. For over 40 years, this charity event has been raising money through its wide selection of entertainment. Enjoy arts, crafts, food vendors, face painting, inflatable slides, live entertainment and much more. Sept. 1-3. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 4766 W. Hwy 34, Newnan. 770-253-2011. Adults, $7; children 12 and younger, free.

n Callaway’s Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival. Callaway Gardens.

Watch the skies light up with a balloon glow on Friday evening and stick around for balloon launches Sat. and Sun. in the mornings and evenings. Between balloon launches, experience all the food, music and entertainment that Robin Lake has to offer on its last weekend of operation for the year.

Aug. 31-Sept. 3. Visit callawaygardens.com for scheduled events and times. Hwy 27, Pine Mountain. 706-663-2281. Adults, $25; ages 6-12, $12.50; children 5 and younger, free. n Labor Day Beach Bash. Tybee Island. Enjoy free live entertainment and fireworks at the Tybee Island Pier and Pavilion. There will be an oceanfront beach party with music by the Swingin’ Medallions and fireworks will be set off 30 minutes after dark over the Atlantic Ocean. Sept. 2, 7-11 p.m.

Stand Ave., Tybee Island. 912-652-6780. Free.

Combined Services, Inc. 404-373-4100 ELECTRICAL SERVICES

We also offer: Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning Services $15 OFF Service Call with this ad

For parenting resources you can actually use.

n Pioneer Day Festival. Sam Smith Park.

Celebrate Labor Day with carnival rides and games, arts and crafts vendors, festival foods, live entertainment and handcraft demos. Aug. 31-Sept. 3. Fri., 4-11 p.m., Sat.-Sun., noon-11 p.m., Mon., noon-10 p.m. 1155 Douthit Ferry Rd., Cartersville. 770-974-9033. Adults, $5; ages 12 and younger, free. Unlimited rides each day, $20 wristbands.

Point.

Click.

You’re There. atlantaparent.com

n Love the Lake Festival. Lake Acworth at Cauble Park. Over 150 arts & crafts vendors as well as food, live entertainment, ski demonstrations and a large Kids Zone. Festival kicks off with the parade on Sat. Sept. 1-2. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sun., noon-6 p.m. 770-423-1330.

Admission and shuttles, free.

Don’t forget to sign up for our weekly e-newsletter while you’re there.

Callaway’s Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival

atlantaparent.com

Family Fun Guide

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 79

Party Planner A MA -R

FUN-

O

Classified Pages

S med Parties PARFTullISE ervice The Glow-In-The-Dark Play Area Features:  minigolf  football  soccer  basketball  air cannons  glow-in-the-dark inflatables  lighted interactive game floor

PRIVATE PARTIES

Party Rooms with glow & regular lighting

6527 JIMMY CARTER BLVD. NORCROSS ❖ 770-368-3008

WWW.GLOWGALAXY.COM

Open Play Times (See website for times)

Inflatables & Party Rentals •Face Painting Creative Balloon Art • Characters & Mascots Puppets, Magic & MORE!

770-572-1737 www.funoramaparties.com

rties! Ages Science Pa 3-12

We come to YOU!

 Bubbling Potions!  Rockets!  Cotton Candy!  Much More!

678-392-1500

★ Princess ★ Fairy Pixie ★ Banquets ★ Idol Karaoke ★ Pajama Jam ★ Hollywood Diva ★ Girls Day Out ★ Summer Camps

1-800-388-2810 www.DollsAndDivas.com

MENTION THIS AD FOR 10% DISCOUNT!

LOCATED ON THE SOUTHSIDE OF ATLANTA

• Trackless Train • Snow Cones • Popcorn • Cotton Candy

678-900-3035

www.LeapNBounce.net

A Party Paradise for girls 3-14

Big-Thinkers.com

Leap N Bounce Party Rentals High Quality Themed Moonwalks, Wet/Dry Slides, Jumper/Slide Combos, & Concession Machines

& DIVAS

DOLLS

✷

Auntie Renee Storyteller

24’ Climbing Rock Wall

✷

CHILDREN’S PARTIES

guests with Impress your party rience. pe ex rty pa e a uniqu ✷ Storytelling ✷ Puppets Arts & Crafts ✷ Face Painting ✷

✷

770-422-7200

770-402-0564

www.obrienproductions.com

www.AuntieReneeStoryteller.com

Trackless Train Rides Conce ssio Game ns s Much Much More

walks Moon lides S r e Wat os Comb

Alligators, Monkeys, Farm Friends and more!

Live animals of all kinds!

Hands-on, Fun, Educational

24ft Rock Climbing Wall J&S Funtastic Entertainment 770-973-2633

www.jsfuntastic.com

Events by Noelle kidz

Unique! Creative! Budget Friendly!

•Themes •SpaJama •Glitz & Glamour •Angry Birds •The Game Truck •Nerf Wars •Super Hero Parties & More!

Ages 3-18

404-234-5675 www.ebnkidz.com 80 Atlanta Parent August 2012

www.azootoyou.com

The

Fun

50

Most

FREE TOKENS!

For Everyone!

770-416-7630

WHEN YOU BOOK YOUR NEXT BIRTHDAY PARTY OR GROUP OUTING

770-422-7227

All restrictions apply. One coupon per person per visit.

Cannot be combined with any other discounts or promotions.

atlantaparent.com

Classified Pages

Party Planner

Kid’s Party

The

POLO CLUB

of ATLANTA

Entertainment

5% O

Party PackFF ages ex p 12/31/12

atlpoloclub@yahoo.com 770-344-0274 • 770-317-7546

• Great Costumes • Cartoon Characters • Princesses • Superheroes • Face Painting • Balloon Tying • Clowns • Magic

www.poloclubofatlanta.com

Parties include: • Pony Rides • Petting Zoo • Play Area • Picnic Area

(770)

424-2287

*reservations required

Atl Parent 8-12_Layout 1 8/16/11 12:16 PM Page 1Day Care, Mother’s Morning Out, Church WWW.COPYCATSFORKIDS.COM Groups & Day Camp outings available

TM

Bean Head Toys

ol! o scho zzles, Back t in teasing pu a toys. br es and Books, m a g l iona 5$ OreFFpurchase educat

Buckhead

il mo $35 oudres Lego and Playmob Excl

2

31/201 Exp. 8/

3497 Northside Pkwy, NW Atlanta, GA 30327

404-841-0826

Sandy Springs

220 Johnson Ferry Rd, NE Sandy Springs, GA 30328

404-851-2980 beanheadtoysonline.com

rubytheclown.com

A One of a Kind SPA’rty They’ll Never Forget Mobile SPA’rties Glitz, Gloss, & Glam TuTus & Tiaras B.Y.O.P (Bring Your Own Pajamas) Creative Crafts & Keepsakes Unique Party Décor Party Treats Dress-up SPA-tastic Party Fun!

Kids Spa at Stonecrest

Sugar & Spice Girls Glam Spa 888.557.5254 or 404.590.5308

SugarAndSpiceGirlsGlamSpa.com

EVERYBODY has a birthday!

Make your next family celebration extra special by hiring one of our Atlanta Parent Advertisers!

And be sure to let them know you saw their ad in the Atlanta Parent magazine!

Call Andi at 678-222-1917 for information.

Pony Up PONY RIDES FOR ALL OCCASSIONS Contact Cowboy Jim and they'll giddy up to your 678-378-1889 next Party or Event.

Licensed & Insured Happy Trails

www.PonyUpPonies.com atlantaparent.com

August 2012 Atlanta Parent 81

Humor

by Cynthia Bombach Helzel

The 20-Minute Delay: The oldest and most frequently performed event in the Children’s Olympics, this contest usually takes place right before the family departs for an important appointment. The child begins by playing in his room when he’s told to get ready to go.

Then he hides under the bed when his parent attempts to dress him. He cries and fidgets while getting his hair combed, then insists on eating a snack, which he spills on his clothes.

He changes clothes, and after he is finally buckled into his car seat, he announces he has to go to the bathroom. Just as in the Olympics’ relay race, siblings competing in the Delay competition can pass the baton, so to speak, and take turns causing the delay.

Extra points are awarded for each minute of delay after the first 20.

Hurdles: This event is performed by both children and adults. It takes place every time someone tries to walk through any room in which the children are playing. The winner is the first person to cross the room without tripping on Thomas the Tank Engine or knocking down the Lego skyscraper.

(Extra points for clearing the Barbie Dream House in a single bound!)

Shot Put: For children under age 2. The child, seated in a high chair, attempts to throw a biscuit, cookie or other food item at the parent. Points are awarded as follows: hitting the parent in the face, 10 points; back of head, nine points; any other part of the body, five points. Bonus points are given for hitting the parent in the rear while he or she is bent over picking up previously thrown food items.

82 Atlanta Parent August 2012

Let the (Children’s) Games Begin While the official 2012 Summer Olympics in London lasts just two weeks, parents know that children have their own unending version of the games. To help us make sense of the unofficial Children’s Olympics, here is a partial list of events:

High Jump: The child jumps up and down to see what the parent has hidden on top of the bookcase, entertainment center or refrigerator. The bronze medal goes to the child who finds the candy stash, the silver to the child who sees the “lost” toy his parents hid three weeks ago, and the gold goes to the kid who discovers Mom and Dad’s R-rated DVD collection.

Platform Diving: The child jumps off a bed, couch or table onto the floor, which may or may not be cushioned with pillows, blankets or the family dog. The child who comes closest to disaster without injuring himself or the dog wins.

Skating on Thin Ice: Every child participates in this event at some point. The winner is chosen at the discretion of the parents, who are the only ones who know just how close their child is to being grounded for life.

The Buy-Athlon: Also known as Back-to-School Shopping, this annual event is the grand finale of the Children’s Olympics. Held in late summer, the event is divided into two sections.

The first is the Try-Athlon, in which the parent attempts to have two children try on a total of 50 backto-school outfits in less than two hours. This is immediately followed by the Cry-Athlon. Parents often participate discreetly in this segment of the Buy-Athlon when they get to checkout and receive the bill for those new clothes and shoes. Sadly, despite the best efforts of children and parents, the winner in this event is always the store.

atlantaparent.com

F

R 18 0 A Pre EE ca -K de /K mi cD ay s

Instead of ordinary daycare Why not the extraordinary?

• Full Service Childcare • Fully Equipped Montessori Classrooms • Accepting Infants -12 Years • M-F 6:30 AM - 6:30 PM, Year Round Program • Certified and Experienced Teachers • Full & Part Time, Mother’s Morning Out • Summer Camp, Field Trips, ASP • Ballet, Karate, Music, Piano, Spanish, Chinese

* GAC ACCREDITED Free Pre-K/K 180 days!

Scholarships Available!

HB 325 Education Tax Credit!

Donation Incentive Rewards!

Call Us Today for Details!

at

Franchising Opportunity Available

www.CrescoMontessori.com *

Give your child the gift of bilingualism!

Infants to Age 10 * Details Online

404.409.0827 | www.trlanguages.com 5855 Riverside Drive (Sandy Springs)

*

So Hot...It’s Cool!

new

Spicy Chicken Mcbites®

new

TRy THE TENdER, PERfECTLy SEASONEd, MAdE wITH ALL wHITE MEAT CHICkEN ANd A bIT Of HEAT, ANd yOUR fAvORITE dIPPINg SAUCE…ITS CALIENTE!

McCafe Cherry berry Chiller ®

ENJOy A COOL bLENd Of ICE, MAdE wITH 100% fRUIT JUICE ANd NATURAL fLAvORS...

ANd SATISfy THE COOL IN yOU! ®

MOST LOCATIONS OPEN 24 HOURS

Limited time only. At participating McDonald’s. © 2012 McDonald’s.